tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-476738083889004412024-03-12T21:12:09.535-07:00Oui, pass the wineHannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-91201688510146192692013-03-09T00:32:00.005-08:002013-03-09T00:32:53.633-08:00Madrid - Tapas Anyone?<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
@page Section1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.Section1
{page:Section1;}
</style>
-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l58KsKTou_s/UTXekRHq6TI/AAAAAAAAApk/Do8ZmMYWKVE/s1600/IMG_5183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l58KsKTou_s/UTXekRHq6TI/AAAAAAAAApk/Do8ZmMYWKVE/s1600/IMG_5183.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PPNrpQQDhDU/UTXenIcq9VI/AAAAAAAAAps/pe-7dAsY02o/s1600/IMG_5190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PPNrpQQDhDU/UTXenIcq9VI/AAAAAAAAAps/pe-7dAsY02o/s1600/IMG_5190.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a>The first thing I observed upon arriving in Madrid was the
immaculate and gorgeous architecture of the city.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stunning. The city was full of tastefully colorful and
interesting buildings and of course charming European cobblestone and
tree-lined streets. Spain’s wealth and power of the past was immediately
evident and a stark contrast to that of Portugal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The feel of Madrid was interesting, sleek and fast paced
city yet at the same time easy going and relaxed – quite a different feel. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
So my good friend Molly had studied abroad in Spain for a
semester and gave me a fabulous list of things to eat and places to visit –
let’s just say this served as the official tour guide for Madrid. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NOqo5INCucg/UTrvT-xjgwI/AAAAAAAAAzs/z9-EzpRONts/s1600/IMG_5234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NOqo5INCucg/UTrvT-xjgwI/AAAAAAAAAzs/z9-EzpRONts/s1600/IMG_5234.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8OLCC6TwqSc/UTrvQAc0CcI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/UFKjlIYkJ1A/s1600/IMG_5232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8OLCC6TwqSc/UTrvQAc0CcI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/UFKjlIYkJ1A/s1600/IMG_5232.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nZwPqzxMQc8/UTrv03ntvcI/AAAAAAAAA1w/7Z_X15JASjU/s1600/IMG_5513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nZwPqzxMQc8/UTrv03ntvcI/AAAAAAAAA1w/7Z_X15JASjU/s1600/IMG_5513.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OybOm1cx7b0/UTXe1eeFZuI/AAAAAAAAAqI/4serRABMjl4/s1600/IMG_5228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OybOm1cx7b0/UTXe1eeFZuI/AAAAAAAAAqI/4serRABMjl4/s1600/IMG_5228.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
First up – the Gourmet Food Market San Miguel Market – aka a
foodie’s paradise.<span style="color: black;">It’s an all glass building covered in gorgeous ironwork – a
sight for the eyes as well the stomach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As you enter, you are immediately torn about which direction, which
stall to visit first – all the food looked incredible! There was a seafood
stand with actual octopus, sea urchins, and giant fish with huge teeth- so
cool! And of course, tons of tapas and wine bars – so incredibly hard for me to
settle upon some!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ultimately
settled upon 2 tapas on bread. One was a nice rustic white bread topped with
perfectly caramelized onions and goat cheese. The other was also on a toasted
piece of rustic bread topped with a slice of cooked eggplant, smoked salmon,
and a petit hard-boiled egg. And a glass of Spanish red wine to go – a Montalvo
Wilmot Syrah Roble from Finca Los Cerrillos. It was a delicious lunch! And for
dessert, (well one of my two desserts I had for lunch), I got a mixture of
fresh yogurt mixed with Amaretto cherries and caramel – mmm so good. Then, on
the way out of the market, I saw my absolute FAVORITE gelato place I had found
in Paris 2 years ago – AMORINO’S! I was so excited and being that gelato is my
downfall, I had to get a scoop or two. Oh it was delicious, coffee, hazelnut,
and amaretto.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DAwgmRf3t_M/UTrvUaXMm4I/AAAAAAAAAzw/1npb2MOxwlk/s1600/IMG_5240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DAwgmRf3t_M/UTrvUaXMm4I/AAAAAAAAAzw/1npb2MOxwlk/s1600/IMG_5240.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MY GELATO!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After lunch we went on a great free walking tour – 2 ½ hours
and lots of info and history about Madrid – and fantastic way to meet people
and that’s just what I did. I meet some other American girls who, like me, were
fellow foodies and traveling around Europe. We all went around together the
rest of the day and visited the gorgeous city of Madrid in the brilliant
sunshine! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p2nlEQ-omRY/UTrvvclQzbI/AAAAAAAAA1g/LwbRtbPcDCw/s1600/IMG_5495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p2nlEQ-omRY/UTrvvclQzbI/AAAAAAAAA1g/LwbRtbPcDCw/s1600/IMG_5495.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ellie et Kristen! Fantatic gals from the states!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qMSKwH8VdvQ/UTrvhEk62xI/AAAAAAAAA0c/-8ZBl-uKcmo/s1600/IMG_5359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qMSKwH8VdvQ/UTrvhEk62xI/AAAAAAAAA0c/-8ZBl-uKcmo/s1600/IMG_5359.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O3HVp8gAaQA/UTrvhln6y9I/AAAAAAAAA0g/RqLXYMyrvZs/s1600/IMG_5360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O3HVp8gAaQA/UTrvhln6y9I/AAAAAAAAA0g/RqLXYMyrvZs/s1600/IMG_5360.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a>First up after the tour, a stop at the famous San Gines
Chocolateria – open since 1894 – and open 24 hours a day. Basically the Café du
Monde of Spain and for the famous Spanish dessert of Churros and hot chocolate.
So basically the churro is a long piece of fried dough that you dip in a mug of
hot melted chocolate. Quite a tasty little afternoon snack if I say so. <br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YYptGda50Uk/UTrvuoV0FrI/AAAAAAAAA1c/8seUycpSCGs/s1600/IMG_5491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YYptGda50Uk/UTrvuoV0FrI/AAAAAAAAA1c/8seUycpSCGs/s1600/IMG_5491.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R-A0sXZetkU/UTrvoHe7i2I/AAAAAAAAA1A/L5FsE0DHhTw/s1600/IMG_5415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R-A0sXZetkU/UTrvoHe7i2I/AAAAAAAAA1A/L5FsE0DHhTw/s1600/IMG_5415.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-22y1b7NRpEE/UTrvl0lkBJI/AAAAAAAAA0w/5png1-Vw650/s1600/IMG_5421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-22y1b7NRpEE/UTrvl0lkBJI/AAAAAAAAA0w/5png1-Vw650/s1600/IMG_5421.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a>From there, we visited what I probably enjoyed the most
about Madrid<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- the incredibly
splendid Retiro Park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This park
belonged to the Spanish Monarchy until the 19<sup>th</sup> century when it
became a public park and man was it magnificent – 350 sprawling acres filled
with immense green space, a peaceful lake, immaculate flowers, sculptures,
musicians, and even a stunning glass building. There are two experiences from
this park that I will not forget. The first was sitting next to the lake,
basking in the sun, people watching, and listening to a Spaniard play peaceful
music on his guitar. It was a picturesque moment that was incredibly soothing
and like right out of a film. The second was watching the sun set behind the
immaculate glass building next to another lake. I could not have asked for a
better view of the sunset. Such a fantastic afternoon. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ID0M1qw8FNk/UTrwBjcqedI/AAAAAAAAA2c/0x8QrTkdNZ0/s1600/IMG_5546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ID0M1qw8FNk/UTrwBjcqedI/AAAAAAAAA2c/0x8QrTkdNZ0/s1600/IMG_5546.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oldest oven in World</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BXLrqdns_Bk/UTrv1FDnm4I/AAAAAAAAA10/8QcOQkNQiPc/s1600/IMG_5524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BXLrqdns_Bk/UTrv1FDnm4I/AAAAAAAAA10/8QcOQkNQiPc/s1600/IMG_5524.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oldest Restaurant in World</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-80Bj1S27Ga8/UTrv6zKMKxI/AAAAAAAAA2I/a6s2xkdDin0/s1600/IMG_5540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-80Bj1S27Ga8/UTrv6zKMKxI/AAAAAAAAA2I/a6s2xkdDin0/s1600/IMG_5540.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a>The weather the next day was not as favorable, but oh well,
c’est la vie! We decided to visit what is classified as the oldest restaurant
in the world – Restaurante BOTIN.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was founded in 1725 and has been in business ever since. I absolutely
loved the interior of this restaurant – exposed bricks, spiral staircase,
ambient lighting – fantastic atmosphere. Plus, the owner and workers were
incredibly hospitable to us! One offered to take our picture in 3 different
locations and the owner gave us free bread, hot from the oven, postcards, and
made sure that we saw the world’s oldest oven (still in use, mind you)! It was
an absolutely fabulous tour of the restaurant! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From there, we just meandered the streets of Madrid,
discovering little nooks and crannies full of charm. We even happened upon this
little unassuming outdoor market where I found some great items on the cheap!
Gorgeous sterling silver and amber stud earrings for only 5 euros and a darling
genuine leather purse for only 15 euros after a little haggling (love it)! <br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mIEki54CaO4/UTrwEciQWGI/AAAAAAAAA2s/W6wY8mkTYYk/s1600/IMG_5585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mIEki54CaO4/UTrwEciQWGI/AAAAAAAAA2s/W6wY8mkTYYk/s1600/IMG_5585.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zS5-AyxOFT8/UTrwCcD6jmI/AAAAAAAAA2g/Q4Di6e97icc/s1600/IMG_5584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zS5-AyxOFT8/UTrwCcD6jmI/AAAAAAAAA2g/Q4Di6e97icc/s1600/IMG_5584.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a>For lunch, we went back to the gourmet market – so many delicious options.This time I settled on two tapas again. One was toasted
bread topped with Spanish smoked ham, huge chuck of fresh mozzarella, roquette
lettuce, tomato, and a red pepper chutney. The other was a traditional Spanish
tapas of toasted bread topped with homemade salsa and a fried egg. Both were absolutely
delicious and quite fresh. For dessert, I had another traditional Spanish
dessert of a palmier dipped in chocolate.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Considering that all the museums are free from 6-8 every
night, we decided to visit the famous Prado Museum, which contains one of the
largest collections of European fine art – Goya, Rubens, Velaquez, Titian, and
the list goes on and on just like the museum. Not only was the artwork
stunning, the building itself was gorgeous as well!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All in all, I had a lovely time visiting cultures different
than that of America and of France. I love discovering European cities!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thanks for reading! <br />
<br />
Here are some more photos from Madrid:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t7M4Pc5PZ_s/UTrvLdpgU3I/AAAAAAAAAy8/9C9fJYnt_pI/s1600/IMG_5227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t7M4Pc5PZ_s/UTrvLdpgU3I/AAAAAAAAAy8/9C9fJYnt_pI/s1600/IMG_5227.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Empanadas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FsEe3tfYeZk/UTrvLVrT9OI/AAAAAAAAAzA/cS-6rawXJw4/s1600/IMG_5226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FsEe3tfYeZk/UTrvLVrT9OI/AAAAAAAAAzA/cS-6rawXJw4/s1600/IMG_5226.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Legumes at market</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UzBeVFXFo2s/UTrvQjpc1_I/AAAAAAAAAzY/4aCx9qZGISs/s1600/IMG_5230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UzBeVFXFo2s/UTrvQjpc1_I/AAAAAAAAAzY/4aCx9qZGISs/s1600/IMG_5230.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazing looking olives at market</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AOi4FLjxlsw/UTrvZdgsy1I/AAAAAAAAAz8/vWCMhAwwGNY/s1600/IMG_5289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AOi4FLjxlsw/UTrvZdgsy1I/AAAAAAAAAz8/vWCMhAwwGNY/s1600/IMG_5289.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q36UN9zTs44/UTrvbASHueI/AAAAAAAAA0I/zXkHx-kOSrM/s1600/IMG_5297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q36UN9zTs44/UTrvbASHueI/AAAAAAAAA0I/zXkHx-kOSrM/s1600/IMG_5297.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Street shaped like elbow and named elbow street</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WQ7zxQlhhoc/UTrvd4NOpoI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/vkpXhc3dzcY/s1600/IMG_5321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WQ7zxQlhhoc/UTrvd4NOpoI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/vkpXhc3dzcY/s1600/IMG_5321.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k7b_soU_VAI/UTrvpwWADgI/AAAAAAAAA1I/DjXV2_DuWmg/s1600/IMG_5457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k7b_soU_VAI/UTrvpwWADgI/AAAAAAAAA1I/DjXV2_DuWmg/s1600/IMG_5457.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake in the park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1lHLCDgNE6Q/UTrv1hngU0I/AAAAAAAAA14/HlJYTz8isio/s1600/IMG_5525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1lHLCDgNE6Q/UTrv1hngU0I/AAAAAAAAA14/HlJYTz8isio/s1600/IMG_5525.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Bodin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rcPMU4VOnFg/UTrwEbp2CdI/AAAAAAAAA2w/wgSdVr8s7r4/s1600/IMG_5549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rcPMU4VOnFg/UTrwEbp2CdI/AAAAAAAAA2w/wgSdVr8s7r4/s1600/IMG_5549.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-84098931186197153242013-02-28T03:39:00.002-08:002013-02-28T03:39:52.333-08:00Porto - An Unexpected Find <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:HyphenationZone>21</w:HyphenationZone>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>FR</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--> <span lang="EN-US">Never in my life did I think that I would
ever travel to Portugal, but man am I glad I did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, getting there was quite an
experience. I flew the budget airline, Ryan Air, and let me put emphasis on the
word BUDGET – the entire cabin clapped when we hit the tarmac – not even
kidding. </span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zx8h-6qzPds/US88JDmNAUI/AAAAAAAAAmA/fUNEBZsC6OE/s1600/IMG_4818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zx8h-6qzPds/US88JDmNAUI/AAAAAAAAAmA/fUNEBZsC6OE/s200/IMG_4818.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kKstjDWoYFQ/US88RilzIgI/AAAAAAAAAmg/ZuEXXPHeDOU/s1600/IMG_4853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kKstjDWoYFQ/US88RilzIgI/AAAAAAAAAmg/ZuEXXPHeDOU/s200/IMG_4853.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US">Anyway, I was so happy to have the
opportunity to explore Porto – the city of Port wine, sangria, and
codfish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MxDAqTL6OZU/US88BZY457I/AAAAAAAAAlc/SGONJz9Ivm4/s1600/IMG_0603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MxDAqTL6OZU/US88BZY457I/AAAAAAAAAlc/SGONJz9Ivm4/s200/IMG_0603.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US">The first thing I noticed was that Portugal
was definitely unlike any other European country I have visited. The best way I
have found to describe Porto is that it is a “lived-in” city, full of charm and
character of ages past.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The lack of
wealth is quite evident, but it was as though the city and the people did not
seem to mind and neither did I. I thoroughly enjoyed meandering along the
picturesque maze of little streets – so many darling little nooks and
crannies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And although a lot of the
buildings are run down, the orange roofs of all the buildings gave the city a
warm amber glow in the sunshine that was truly magnificent. </span></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cyot3w-_llg/US88XAmtmYI/AAAAAAAAAmo/lFT6qDoeF4o/s1600/IMG_4875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cyot3w-_llg/US88XAmtmYI/AAAAAAAAAmo/lFT6qDoeF4o/s200/IMG_4875.JPG" width="200" /></a> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5C10qDVhzn4/US88XR2XknI/AAAAAAAAAms/lWn00-X0aLo/s1600/IMG_4876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5C10qDVhzn4/US88XR2XknI/AAAAAAAAAms/lWn00-X0aLo/s200/IMG_4876.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US"></span><span lang="EN-US">So on my first full day in Porto, my 2
travel buddies and I thoroughly explored (aka walked) basically the entire city
– it was so fantastic getting to walk around not only in warmer weather but
also with SUNSHINE! I had missed it so much!!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j8L0D8X1WJg/US88AyQBOFI/AAAAAAAAAlY/LnOYJssjy4s/s1600/IMG_0606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j8L0D8X1WJg/US88AyQBOFI/AAAAAAAAAlY/LnOYJssjy4s/s200/IMG_0606.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">So my favorite activity that day was
visiting the SANDEMAN Port Wine cellar. It was hard to actually decide which
cellar to visit – the entire side across the river was just port wine cellars
and of course the river was lined with boats carrying barrels of Port Wine. So
cool! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1yp6_CcJfmE/US88waca0pI/AAAAAAAAAoI/ZGeLdlw5Pxs/s1600/IMG_5047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1yp6_CcJfmE/US88waca0pI/AAAAAAAAAoI/ZGeLdlw5Pxs/s200/IMG_5047.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m4ftGYJPS8I/US88q-Z90FI/AAAAAAAAAns/PunzpiHQt78/s1600/IMG_4975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m4ftGYJPS8I/US88q-Z90FI/AAAAAAAAAns/PunzpiHQt78/s200/IMG_4975.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NYj8adzmujU/US88v8uadYI/AAAAAAAAAoE/CaFgbH9NPZ4/s1600/IMG_5084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NYj8adzmujU/US88v8uadYI/AAAAAAAAAoE/CaFgbH9NPZ4/s200/IMG_5084.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US">For only 5 euros, I received a 30ish min
long tour of the cellar (in French, I might add) and a tasting of 2 port wines
– good deal!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First, I must emphasis the
immense size of this cellar – wow. It was a giant building all filled with
wine!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The guide was dressed up in the
Sandeman cape and hat – pretty amusing. The tour was rather interesting and she
even showed us vintage port dating back to 1904!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They gave us 2 rather good-sized Port wine
tastings – white and red. The white was the Sandeman Porto Apitiv White.
Personally, the white was extremely too sweet and a tad difficult to drink –
perhaps if mixed or pair with something it would be better. The red was the
Sandeman Porto Twany, which is a lighter red porto wine and has the aroma of
vanilla and dried fruits. I much preferred this one to the white.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ultimately settled on purchasing the
Sandeman’s Founder’s Reserve Porto – can’t go wrong with a classic. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2AXoObf1BXk/US88lWJpscI/AAAAAAAAAng/nM0yvZV3C0w/s1600/IMG_4963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2AXoObf1BXk/US88lWJpscI/AAAAAAAAAng/nM0yvZV3C0w/s200/IMG_4963.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v3q3kjj9xjE/US88z7Ph1xI/AAAAAAAAAoY/8APbNvfpwzQ/s1600/IMG_5097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v3q3kjj9xjE/US88z7Ph1xI/AAAAAAAAAoY/8APbNvfpwzQ/s200/IMG_5097.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w2s69tQRv-s/US88v7J_5oI/AAAAAAAAAoA/6GZd9vevwNQ/s1600/IMG_5096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w2s69tQRv-s/US88v7J_5oI/AAAAAAAAAoA/6GZd9vevwNQ/s200/IMG_5096.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US">As I was told that I had to try the
traditional fish of Porto – Bacalhau – aka Codfish, I was determined to find a
restaurant that served this fish. Finally, I found a darling little place that
served several varieties of codfish. As a Southern at heart, I ordered the
codfish prepared with cornmeal and a variety of vegetables with a side of
puréed spinach. And man oh man was it tasty! The lightness of the fish paired
so nicely with the cornmeal texture. Mmmmm. For dessert, we headed to a cool
bakery with old wooden wine box planks for the floor. I ordered a traditional
Portuguese dessert called a Nata, which was kinda like a crème brûlee in the
flavor – but a completely different texture. Nothing extraordinary, but I love
discovering the food of a culture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2pTrvk8vB-M/US880nPJbWI/AAAAAAAAAoc/UL21tRsEv2Q/s1600/IMG_5104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2pTrvk8vB-M/US880nPJbWI/AAAAAAAAAoc/UL21tRsEv2Q/s200/IMG_5104.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coffee at Majestic Café</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FNumZsOzIdc/US88H-WY_kI/AAAAAAAAAl0/Y8QJvyYEZ9M/s1600/IMG_0611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FNumZsOzIdc/US88H-WY_kI/AAAAAAAAAl0/Y8QJvyYEZ9M/s200/IMG_0611.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dSqzUp2nsgw/US88Hb4Df6I/AAAAAAAAAlw/xrud6mcxobk/s1600/IMG_0607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dSqzUp2nsgw/US88Hb4Df6I/AAAAAAAAAlw/xrud6mcxobk/s200/IMG_0607.jpg" width="150" /></a><span lang="EN-US">The next day, we had a coffee at the famous
Majestic Café, which is a restaurant decorated in art nouveau style and has
been open since 1921.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even the chairs
were lovely – gorgeous leather booths and chairs. It was a nice atmosphere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then we headed to another “top tourist
activity,” visiting the Lello and Irmão bookshop, famous for its exquisite
staircase and ceiling! Plus, it is known that JK Rowling visited this bookshop
quite a bit when she was living and writing some of her Harry Potter books. It
was a beautiful store, filled with tons of charm and the smell of books!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V0nVZ_F1rNQ/US884yUBqYI/AAAAAAAAAos/kkpVCekMxHk/s1600/IMG_5140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V0nVZ_F1rNQ/US884yUBqYI/AAAAAAAAAos/kkpVCekMxHk/s200/IMG_5140.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gfxhj4rKO_g/US884Ud1YwI/AAAAAAAAAoo/7kSXT51_nG8/s1600/IMG_5153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gfxhj4rKO_g/US884Ud1YwI/AAAAAAAAAoo/7kSXT51_nG8/s200/IMG_5153.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US">After the bookshop, off to the beach! The
beach of Porto was unlike any beach I have ever visited. Huge rocks and waves,
violent water, and not much sand. It was quite a difference experience – cool,
but different. I greatly enjoyed getting to feel the ocean breeze, smell the
salt water, meander about 5 miles along the coastal boardwalk, and watch groups
of old men gathering to play their weekly card game. Although it was not sunny
at the time we visited the combination of the vivid grey skies with the white
spray of the waves was majestic, plus going to the beach is always a relaxing
and renewing experience! Then by the time we returned to the center of the city
(the beach was about 30 min bus ride away) the sun was out and why not
“profiter du soleil” and drink some sangria! For only 6 euros, we shared a
pitcher of freshly made sangria that even came with ice! It was a perfect cap
to the trip. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOOl7rHh2mw/US885RDbZDI/AAAAAAAAAo4/-rQcSbkuTE8/s1600/IMG_5181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOOl7rHh2mw/US885RDbZDI/AAAAAAAAAo4/-rQcSbkuTE8/s320/IMG_5181.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">One final experience I have to share about
Porto is the WILD bus ride I took from the hostel to the airport.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So our plan was at 6:30 that morning and it
was necessary to take the 4am night bus to the airport – about a 45 minute
ride. If you have ever seen the Harry Potter film with the scene of the wild
bus ride Harry takes I think in the 4<sup>th</sup> or 5<sup>th</sup> movie –
this was EXACTLY like that and I think JK Rowling was definitely inspired by
the buses in Porto! This bus driver was going about 100 mph on a one way
street, flying over speed bumps, and one time almost got hit by another car. It
was insane and I have personally never been so happy to get off a bus. Haha
whew! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Up next, my post about Madrid!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H-Kn8r2m6vI/US88hKKn7YI/AAAAAAAAAnM/-R07mUbVVLQ/s1600/IMG_4912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H-Kn8r2m6vI/US88hKKn7YI/AAAAAAAAAnM/-R07mUbVVLQ/s320/IMG_4912.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wonderful pottery shop I found right next to the water called SOL</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a_yi3Qr9feE/US88glJZY_I/AAAAAAAAAnI/Y5YuyfoxCc4/s1600/IMG_4930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a_yi3Qr9feE/US88glJZY_I/AAAAAAAAAnI/Y5YuyfoxCc4/s320/IMG_4930.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entire city is peppered with builidings covered in this blue and white tile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DYAYixA2USQ/US88rCoOk-I/AAAAAAAAAn0/WG70MTn5h64/s1600/IMG_5022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DYAYixA2USQ/US88rCoOk-I/AAAAAAAAAn0/WG70MTn5h64/s320/IMG_5022.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Porto Boats</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4_Lmi8HNQAw/US88Oh3oCPI/AAAAAAAAAmI/KCeMMV6_NyY/s1600/IMG_4827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4_Lmi8HNQAw/US88Oh3oCPI/AAAAAAAAAmI/KCeMMV6_NyY/s320/IMG_4827.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Darling little park area in main sqaure</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-47356949274655496052013-02-06T06:12:00.001-08:002013-02-06T06:12:16.651-08:00Sirha et Percée du Vin Jaune<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:HyphenationZone>21</w:HyphenationZone>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>FR</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BJgdO3XyhY0/URJhtX5QkQI/AAAAAAAAAkI/DLSE1Dp7M14/s1600/IMG_3820.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BJgdO3XyhY0/URJhtX5QkQI/AAAAAAAAAkI/DLSE1Dp7M14/s1600/IMG_3820.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christa and me in Lyon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">So first of all, sorry for the long hiatus
from blogging. Life has been a whirlwind ever since my wonderful friend Christa
came and visited me over the Christmas break and we travelled all over Europe
and France – Colmar France, Freiburg Germany, Basel Switzerland, Dole, Lyon,
Annecy, and little towns sprinkled here and there! We had the most marvelous
time and I hope to update y’all about those soon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3XiJ2bxTWyg/URJhv_pmEOI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/zgQ6UPbg0J4/s1600/IMG_4072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3XiJ2bxTWyg/URJhv_pmEOI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/zgQ6UPbg0J4/s1600/IMG_4072.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Visiting Annecy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">But for now, I have to discuss to major
food events I went to this past week – <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sirha</b>
in Lyon and the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Percée du Vin Jaune</b>
in Voiteur. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7QWMlR-1tjE/URJg_A3mDVI/AAAAAAAAAhA/acI_1xaBaF8/s1600/IMG_4340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7QWMlR-1tjE/URJg_A3mDVI/AAAAAAAAAhA/acI_1xaBaF8/s1600/IMG_4340.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">robot barman </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"> So Sirha is a 5 day food event that takes
place every 2 years in Lyon France aka the gourmet food capital of France. ( I
just went on Monday the 28<sup>th</sup>) Let’s just say this was like the
Olympics of food! There were people from all over the world and the expo hall
was beyond immense. I was there for about 5 hours and didn’t even see
everything – 6 grand halls filled with all products relating to food – we had
breads, pastries, cheeses, hams, kitchen uniforms, new kitchen products,
restaurants, wines, cheeses, sushi, blown sugar, sugar monuments, chocolates,
the list goes on and on and on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since I
went with my professors from my hotel and catering school they hooked us up
with some fabulous samples – I ate quite well at the event. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tried all sorts of different chocolates from
the well-known brands of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Barry</b> and <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Valrhona</b> and they even had these
fabulous chocolate sculptures up for show – simply remarkable. </span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zIpek4XxZv4/URJhFQmZP9I/AAAAAAAAAhY/78BTQdaiC8w/s1600/IMG_4366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zIpek4XxZv4/URJhFQmZP9I/AAAAAAAAAhY/78BTQdaiC8w/s1600/IMG_4366.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drink I had at Massenez</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EM8g5B3MlUw/URJhYWNhYYI/AAAAAAAAAiw/1rtPshQ5ZU8/s1600/IMG_4428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EM8g5B3MlUw/URJhYWNhYYI/AAAAAAAAAiw/1rtPshQ5ZU8/s1600/IMG_4428.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mont Blanc at Grand Marnier</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qlKPoRpDkOw/URJhCBlvCvI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/9sebwt8SbHc/s1600/IMG_4354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qlKPoRpDkOw/URJhCBlvCvI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/9sebwt8SbHc/s1600/IMG_4354.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US">Then we had a
little stop at <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">G.E. Massenez</b>, which
is a company that produces several types of l’eau de vies (strong liquors) like
cherry, blueberry, cassis, etc. But since we were with the bartender teacher,
we all received a delicious cocktail mixed with cranberry juice, cherry juice,
and several other fruit juices and topped with cherries soaked in Griottine
cherry liquor. Man, it was good! I picked up some recipes if anyone is
interested ;) Then we went and visited the booth of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Boiron</b>, which produces a lot of top quality fruit and veggie purees
– the school and Didier use them all the time. They actually sat down with us
at a bar table and served us several little tasties. I had a cucumber puree
topped with caviar and a petit egg and a tomato and bell pepper gazpacho soup
as well as tasting several fruit and veggie reductions and purees like grated
coconut – which was rather potent and good!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Next we headed over to <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Monin</b>,
which produces a lot of syrups for drinks and desserts or just for cooking. We
had this delicious little sandwich of curry, mayo, smoked salmon, and mango
puree- so good – we all snuck two! We were also served a refreshing iced tea
with an infusion of lemon and rosemary – mmmm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Along the way, I tried a white wine from Romania – quite sweet and would
be good as an appéro or dessert wine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Lastly, we went to the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Grand
Marnier</b> booth and I have to say I ate quite a bit here – I mean what can I
say, desserts infused with Grand Marnier – can’t go wrong can ya? I had a Mont
Blanc cookie with Grand Marnier, sable Breton cookie, confit of orange, almond
paste, vanilla cream, and chesnut cream – wow so good. I also had several dark
chocolates infused with Grand Marnier with cherry and orange. </span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oYP6zw414DQ/URJhJlZSMQI/AAAAAAAAAhw/kCjRiDz_hSM/s1600/IMG_4368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oYP6zw414DQ/URJhJlZSMQI/AAAAAAAAAhw/kCjRiDz_hSM/s1600/IMG_4368.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coupe de Monde</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Lastly, I have to mention probably the most important part of this event
– the competitions. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Coupe de Monde de la
Pâtisserie</b> (World Cup of Pastry) and the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bocuse d’Or </b>(really high honor for chefs named after the famed Paul
Bocuse). I was primarily interested in the Coupe de Monde seeing as I love the
art of pâtessierie and I actually got to see part of the competition the day I
went!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So basically teams from all the
world compete for spots to even compete. Unfortunately America didn’t make the
cut…but oh well. Anyway, the teams are composed of three members – one for
sugar, chocolate, and ice sculpture. They have 10 hours to create a masterpiece
and a presentation using sugar and chocolate and one ice sculpture. The work
these teams create is quite remarkable. Takes my breath away.</span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Idu0rWTZ70U/URJhXFDlD4I/AAAAAAAAAig/BL6MS_2qUmE/s1600/IMG_4407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Idu0rWTZ70U/URJhXFDlD4I/AAAAAAAAAig/BL6MS_2qUmE/s1600/IMG_4407.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate sculpture at Valrhona</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"> France won and
Didier’s cousin actually was the team member who created the ice sculpture!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plus, France was the first team ever to
combine sugar and chocolate for the final masterpiece – quite exquisite! France
has won for the past 7 years and for good reason. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As you can probably tell, I had a foodie heaven day – I saw everything a
foodie’s heart desires and ended the day on a good note with a free espresso
from <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Malongo</b> coffee and trying some
apple ice wine from Canada – the juice is extracted from frozen grapes!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m so glad that I came to France this
year<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- perfect timing! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kqOxKj3cWis/URJhiTP37TI/AAAAAAAAAjY/V13d39R434A/s1600/IMG_0524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kqOxKj3cWis/URJhiTP37TI/AAAAAAAAAjY/V13d39R434A/s1600/IMG_0524.JPG" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carolyn and Me at Percée</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Now onto food event number two – same
week<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- 5 days later – Saturday February
2 – the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Percée du Vin Jaune</b>! ( I
can’t resist saying that as I type this, there is lovely blanket of snow on the
ground and the snow is softly falling , I love France!) </span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DEExFVbDWy0/URJh2KIWCAI/AAAAAAAAAkw/kmpO8Uj0mdY/s1600/IMG_4457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DEExFVbDWy0/URJh2KIWCAI/AAAAAAAAAkw/kmpO8Uj0mdY/s1600/IMG_4457.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Percée when it was sunny</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">So the Percée is the major wine event of
the Jura and occurs every year to celebrate the piercing of the Vin Jaune.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So the Vin Jaune is the special and most well
known wine of the Jura - literally translated as yellow wine. It is derived
from the Savagnin grape variety and is a specialty of Château -Chalon, a small
village quite close to me and is on the list of the most beautiful villages in
France. The grapes are picked late and they undergo a very slow fermentation,
and age for exactly 6 years and 3 months – and as for us here in the Jura,
those 3 months are rather important haha. The vin jaune has a very strong nutty
flavor and is a gorgeous amber color. It is wonderful, especially when served
at a temperature a little less then room temperature and served with comté
cheese and walnuts or chicken or white fish. The vin jaune along with the vin
paille are most expensive wines in the Jura.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The vin jaune comes in a unique, square 620 ml bottle called a clavelin.
</span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gaY6ZjJv_u8/URJhv-GfzEI/AAAAAAAAAkU/pWo_v_EhvRk/s1600/IMG_4441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gaY6ZjJv_u8/URJhv-GfzEI/AAAAAAAAAkU/pWo_v_EhvRk/s1600/IMG_4441.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Voiteur</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GptMXwqEhYg/URJhqNSQcEI/AAAAAAAAAj0/0QECINYRSr8/s1600/IMG_0537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GptMXwqEhYg/URJhqNSQcEI/AAAAAAAAAj0/0QECINYRSr8/s1600/IMG_0537.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My portable wine glass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The percée is literally the piercing of the barrel of the vin jaune
after 6 years and 3 months. People from all over Europe come to this event –
this year about 40,000 people over 2 days. The percée takes places in a
different village in the Jura every year and this year was Voiteur (a village
right next to Château–Chalon).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wine
makers from all over the Jura are stationed in various garages and caves
(cellers) around the entire village.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After I pay my entry fee of 13 euros, I receive a real wine glass that I
wear around my neck – yes only in France would that be possible- and 10 tickets
for a dégustation (tasting) of wine at the various caves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition to the caves, there are booths
for food, music playing, and a spectacle of drunks – it is a fun atmosphere!
Carolyn, Pascal, Andrew (a fellow American living in France), and I went around
to different caves tasting several types of wines from the Jura – just hold up
your glass and the vendor pours. One of my favorite wines was the Vin Paille
from Château de L’Etoile (www.chateau-etoile.com). It’s a sweet wine, but full
of body and character – man it was good. I also really enjoyed the Vin Jaune
from Domaine de la Pinte in Arbois (www.lapinte.fr) – nutty, rich, and full
bodied. That day, I also tried a chardonnay, crémant, Savignon, and a MacVin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had a fantastic day! The only slightly
unpleasant part of the day was the wacky weather. So on the way to the event,
it was snowing. When we arrived, sunshine and blue skies. Then about 1 hour
later, sleet and ice. Then cleared up, and on the way, windy and ice. It was a
cataclysm of weather elements – whew! Nevertheless, fantastic time!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">One a final note, I tried frog’s legs!
DELICIOUS! Especially cooked in butter, garlic, and parsley. TRY IT!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A19jhj5JPl8/URJhgRGb9VI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/aadUwE4ei0c/s1600/IMG_0520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A19jhj5JPl8/URJhgRGb9VI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/aadUwE4ei0c/s1600/IMG_0520.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Other pictures from Sirha:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N-xE5N14Dzc/URJhBqteguI/AAAAAAAAAhI/YrHbQIp-wMc/s1600/IMG_4345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N-xE5N14Dzc/URJhBqteguI/AAAAAAAAAhI/YrHbQIp-wMc/s1600/IMG_4345.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ice sculpture</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZIBjOU4kOnc/URJhXPZfoBI/AAAAAAAAAik/T3EXtmhkd6E/s1600/IMG_4401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZIBjOU4kOnc/URJhXPZfoBI/AAAAAAAAAik/T3EXtmhkd6E/s1600/IMG_4401.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Automatic crêpe machine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v9dxMColyU0/URJhRXxQ0VI/AAAAAAAAAiE/7iH91NbBhE0/s1600/IMG_4390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v9dxMColyU0/URJhRXxQ0VI/AAAAAAAAAiE/7iH91NbBhE0/s1600/IMG_4390.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sculpture made of sugar by the best sugar craftsman in the world</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br /><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-15446535619678943312012-12-04T08:05:00.004-08:002012-12-04T08:05:52.981-08:00Thanksgiving in France - a 3 day event
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
@page Section1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.Section1
{page:Section1;}
-->
</style>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many of you may be wondering how did I celebrate the
uniquely American holiday of Thanksgiving in France; well, this turkey day was
definitely different than any I have experienced before. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For starters, I had to actually work on Thanksgiving – it
was just another ordinary day here – quite a strange feeling. But a lot of the
students wished me Happy Thanksgiving – it was so darling! I guess my
powerpoint presentation about Thanksgiving wasn’t half bad – they were amazed
at the amount and variety of food we eat and couldn’t believe that Black Friday
actually happens! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K8dxIoQUz40/UL4Y8ZdWeJI/AAAAAAAAAd4/jQNGredil6U/s1600/IMG_0216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K8dxIoQUz40/UL4Y8ZdWeJI/AAAAAAAAAd4/jQNGredil6U/s1600/IMG_0216.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside of my cooking box</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qSPe508s01w/UL4ZLHxuj2I/AAAAAAAAAeE/XKtj3z_Hic4/s1600/IMG_0217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qSPe508s01w/UL4ZLHxuj2I/AAAAAAAAAeE/XKtj3z_Hic4/s1600/IMG_0217.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cooking box</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Secondly, this Thanksgiving was like Christmas day for me. I
got a box of cooking utensils from the school that my chef prof/friend hooked me up with! I mean it’s on loan until I
leave, but still, I am now well equipped to cook! I’m so pleased!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then that
night, the school just so happened to organize a wine and chocolate tasting for
only 5 euros. Yes, my life is like a movie. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o70w9rlACxE/UL4Zt5dG6wI/AAAAAAAAAec/_t4hGkOcfCM/s1600/IMG_2483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o70w9rlACxE/UL4Zt5dG6wI/AAAAAAAAAec/_t4hGkOcfCM/s1600/IMG_2483.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Didier et moi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BHX_oReoXsI/UL4Z3xWU1gI/AAAAAAAAAek/oDIs8pbRn04/s1600/IMG_2487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BHX_oReoXsI/UL4Z3xWU1gI/AAAAAAAAAek/oDIs8pbRn04/s1600/IMG_2487.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pascal, me, Didier</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Didier provided the chocolates (some of which I helped
prepare) and a local vingnorion from Saint Lothain provided the wine. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iNuuW1XWx8o/UL4aNchdvAI/AAAAAAAAAes/-QzXTbu2XHM/s1600/IMG_2488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iNuuW1XWx8o/UL4aNchdvAI/AAAAAAAAAes/-QzXTbu2XHM/s1600/IMG_2488.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dark chocolate with caramel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UcqB7hUHzfU/UL4a4c0XFtI/AAAAAAAAAfI/MHsLoep5zZw/s1600/IMG_2491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UcqB7hUHzfU/UL4a4c0XFtI/AAAAAAAAAfI/MHsLoep5zZw/s1600/IMG_2491.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marron glace - ie the best!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SPEOIoARBR0/UL4arpogURI/AAAAAAAAAfA/cnzD82iFTBs/s1600/IMG_2490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SPEOIoARBR0/UL4arpogURI/AAAAAAAAAfA/cnzD82iFTBs/s1600/IMG_2490.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dark chocolate with dark chocolate ganach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The chocolates were divine –as usual. We had dark chocolate
with dark chocolate ganach, dark chocolate with caramel, dark chocolate with
fruit, dark chocolate with peanuts, and my absolute favorite – Marron glacé –
which are basically candied chestnuts. Absolutely divine and take 12 days to
make and quite expensive – but worth every single penny. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UiBmoLb69-A/UL4abgtmn1I/AAAAAAAAAe4/IU9pWZFL-JU/s1600/IMG_2489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UiBmoLb69-A/UL4abgtmn1I/AAAAAAAAAe4/IU9pWZFL-JU/s1600/IMG_2489.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dark chocolate with fruit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xTVmjzMSbgA/UL4Zh_Y4lkI/AAAAAAAAAeU/43HPU2AAwSg/s1600/IMG_2482.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xTVmjzMSbgA/UL4Zh_Y4lkI/AAAAAAAAAeU/43HPU2AAwSg/s1600/IMG_2482.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">We had a sampling of
the La Maison de Rose’s Novelin (Savagnin ouillé), which tasted somewhat like a
light Chardonnay. A Macvin du Jura, an Ecole Buissonnière and Vin Paille. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was very interesting to see how wine drastically affects
the taste of the chocolates<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- it
quite shocking. They paired each wine with a chocolate in order to bring out
the best flavor of both. It was a laid back and casual evening that I quite
enjoyed. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All in all, I have to say I had a pretty nice non-traditional
Thanksgiving Day!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Friday – Feast round 1</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After a week of mist and clouds, the sun finally came out
Friday and was a bit warmer! So naturally, good day for a motorbike ride.
Bernard took me on a quick ride to Dole, the village dating back to the Middle
Ages and were Louis Pasteur was born.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span> </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uP_w4rs_CmQ/UL4bLPg5N_I/AAAAAAAAAfQ/osU-3B_QQo4/s1600/IMG_2498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uP_w4rs_CmQ/UL4bLPg5N_I/AAAAAAAAAfQ/osU-3B_QQo4/s1600/IMG_2498.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medieval area of Dole</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was nice little town and actually had a stoplight! I haven’t seen one
of those in quite a while.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
cathedral was gorgeous and the architecture was so intricate and while we
toured the inside, the organist was practicing – fantastic acoustics. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We headed back to Bernard and Pauline’s home in <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Menetru</span></span>
for a delicious dinner. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yjKEUDyeM78/UL4ZU8TIxaI/AAAAAAAAAeM/NcQJ7x4YUlQ/s1600/IMG_0221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yjKEUDyeM78/UL4ZU8TIxaI/AAAAAAAAAeM/NcQJ7x4YUlQ/s1600/IMG_0221.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">appéro</b> we
had olive tapenade pinwheels, an assortment of olives and garlic, pistachios,
and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Cerdon by Earl Vucher Georges et fils
</i>to drink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cerdon is similar to
a Crémant but pink in color and lighter and less alcoholic content. It was very
nice and not too sweet. I highly recommend trying it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Entrée</b>: Wild
Alaskan smoked salmon, fresh shrimp, bellinis (like baby pancakes), and a
wonderful dill dip. It was quite a scrumptious assortment of food. Pauline
paired the entrée with a nice light and not too sweet Riesling from Alsace. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Plat de résistance</b>:
Turkey stuffed with a mixture of cream cheese, lemon, pistachios, onion, and
herbs topped with a rich demi-glace sauce. It was very tasty. Side of cubed
potatoes topped with Emmental cheese, and fresh green beans cooked in butter
and garlic – oh they were divine. Thank goodness for butter! We had a rich and
smooth red wine from the Burgundy region.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Cheese course</b>:
Assortment of various French cheeses – but my favorite was the soft Gorgonzola
cheese. I have never before had soft Gorgonzola, always had it semi dry and
crumbled. It was a new experience and one that I plan to repeat! We also had a
red wine from <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Montepulchiano</span></span> Italy, which was very nice but very different
than a French red wine. It was a bit drier in my opinion. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Dessert</b>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My favorite part of the meal! Pauline
made these wonderful stuffed peaches served with crème cru (a sinfully rich
whipped cream). She stuffed the peaches with cognac, peach, almonds, and almond
extract and then baked. They were divine. I had to have two!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As you can see, I had a feast before the planned
Thanksgiving planned for the next day. Let’s just say, thank goodness for
eating pants!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Saturday – Thanksgiving celebration aka Feast round 2 </div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5MFG6u3xjUI/UL4bkX9aiVI/AAAAAAAAAfg/5_Do66mnd54/s1600/IMG_2523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5MFG6u3xjUI/UL4bkX9aiVI/AAAAAAAAAfg/5_Do66mnd54/s1600/IMG_2523.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">feta with grapes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was invited to a Thanksgiving celebration in Besançon with
fellow Americans, Brits, and French living in France. It was definitely a food
soirée<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- the American concept of
eating a ton on Thanksgiving was not lost in translation. We had a bounty of
food. For the appetizer round we had a fruit juice and champagne punch complete
with a frozen ring of oranges and cranberries. There was also a goat cheese,
basil, onion dip, an olive and sundried tomato dip, little toasts topped with
cream cheese and roasted red peppers, as well as feta and grape sticks. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uyEVImtETA4/UL4bYvoH40I/AAAAAAAAAfY/d_hFITz3W30/s1600/IMG_2522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uyEVImtETA4/UL4bYvoH40I/AAAAAAAAAfY/d_hFITz3W30/s1600/IMG_2522.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">little toasts with roasted red pepper</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jr3G6U34Q7Q/UL4bwrlHlMI/AAAAAAAAAfs/fa-axOhU_Mw/s1600/IMG_2527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jr3G6U34Q7Q/UL4bwrlHlMI/AAAAAAAAAfs/fa-axOhU_Mw/s1600/IMG_2527.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">THE Turkey</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iz65xAgqzek/UL4cEQGlYJI/AAAAAAAAAf0/BqEGpVmpGsM/s1600/IMG_2533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iz65xAgqzek/UL4cEQGlYJI/AAAAAAAAAf0/BqEGpVmpGsM/s1600/IMG_2533.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Part of the group</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For the main course, Rachael (the wonderful host and fellow
American) actually found a 10 lb turkey! In France, turkey is eaten at
Christmas, and the availability of fresh turkey is extremely hard to find until
about 2 weeks from now. We had three types of stuffings, honey, orange, ginger
glazed carrots, green bean casserole, yeast biscuits, pecan and whiskey glazed
yams and apples, cranberry relish, mashed potatoes, and red wine of course! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was all delicious and so nice to get
a little reminder of home cooking!</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C_9LFIENYwg/UL4ceIZhc7I/AAAAAAAAAgE/CqiuZg32YfI/s1600/IMG_2535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C_9LFIENYwg/UL4ceIZhc7I/AAAAAAAAAgE/CqiuZg32YfI/s1600/IMG_2535.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apple pie by Rachael - divine buttery crust</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dessert, oh dessert. We had 6 desserts and 13 people – we were
definitely covered. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vOwW_qmy4WI/UL4cTIIUbvI/AAAAAAAAAf8/ObUfTQiWKfE/s1600/IMG_2534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vOwW_qmy4WI/UL4cTIIUbvI/AAAAAAAAAf8/ObUfTQiWKfE/s1600/IMG_2534.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red wine we drank</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We had my chocolate chess pie, pear walnut bread and then
there was a delicious pumpkin and sea salt pie, sweet potato pie, and 2 apple
pies plus this was served with a crémant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was an extremely successful and filling evening and thank
goodness for leftovers! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So as you can see, although I did not have a typically
American thanksgiving, I had quite a memorable one filled with wonderful people
and delicious food and drink. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-13691859744089460132012-11-25T04:43:00.003-08:002012-11-25T04:43:37.318-08:00A weekend in Lyon
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
@page Section1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.Section1
{page:Section1;}
-->
</style>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Last weekend, I went to visit the fabulous city of Lyon
France- aka the gourmet food capital of France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not only did I go to explore this foodie paradise, I had
been in contact with a fellow Memphian (Michelle) who I learned is now living
in France through her blog, <a href="http://www.memphistanista.com/">http://www.memphistanista.com/</a>, that my mom shared
with me. I emailed her about a month ago and we decided to meet up! Let me just
say now, this is a very very small world – we even found out this weekend that
we are both friends with Benito of <a href="http://wine-by-benito.blogspot.fr/" target="_blank">Bentio’s wine blog</a> and who is the son of my
family’s good friend Mr. Al and Susan!! So crazy and we discovered this
connection while in a wine shop. Let me just say, our meeting was meant to
happen! </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pITZQ4KtAxw/ULIMcx9VdCI/AAAAAAAAAZs/6XwTXOqLUzE/s1600/IMG_2316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pITZQ4KtAxw/ULIMcx9VdCI/AAAAAAAAAZs/6XwTXOqLUzE/s1600/IMG_2316.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Michelle and Me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I could not have chosen a better weekend to go, after a week
of grey, misty weather in Poligny, I arrived to Lyon welcomed by a sunny clear
sky paired with comfortable autumn weather! Perfect for sight seeing. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NG95EilYqME/ULIMpCYlTkI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/6Sy9vgjlaco/s1600/IMG_2340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NG95EilYqME/ULIMpCYlTkI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/6Sy9vgjlaco/s1600/IMG_2340.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coolest bookstore - love the entrance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We saw some of the main highlights of Lyon – starting with
passing through a traboule – very typical of Lyon. It’s basically a passageway
that allows you to pass from one side of the street to the other via the
building. It was originally used by the silk manufactures to transport their
products and later used during WWII to hide Jews. Pretty cool! You would never
know that a random door would be an entrance – you kinda have to know where
they are located if you want to go through. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then we wandered around Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon) – which is
probably the most touristy part of the city, but for good reason.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s quite quaint complete with
cobblestone streets, darling cafés on every corner, and little boutiques
peppering the streets. I really liked this area of town and we even ventured into
one of the most expensive and gorgeous hotels in the area – <a href="http://www.courdesloges.com/" target="_blank">Cour des Loges</a>
– to use the free restroom (very rare in France). The interior was gorgeous and
the architecture of the dining area was full of light and high ceilings –
definitely worth a trip inside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I return to Lyon, I will most certainly be exploring
this area more. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vOb9c5rzVOA/ULIMVoME0tI/AAAAAAAAAZk/HwfOK3nNmDM/s1600/IMG_2282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vOb9c5rzVOA/ULIMVoME0tI/AAAAAAAAAZk/HwfOK3nNmDM/s1600/IMG_2282.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvier</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After exploring Old Lyon, we headed up to see the famous Basilica
of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, which sits upon the top of the city and brilliantly
sparkles in the sunshine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We took
the funicular up to the top<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-
thank goodness, it would have been a rather steep walk! It’s an impressive
sight to behold – absolutely gorgeous! Unfortunately, the inside was covered in
scaffolding due to renovation – but despite the work, the intricate stain glass
windows were stunning and the light streaming through was lovely. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally, it was time for our lunch at one of Paul Bocuse’s
brasserie’s Le Nord. He has 4 brasseries around the city – Le Sud, L’Est,
L’Ouest, and Le Nord – each featuring food from the regions of France. I was
quite excited about eating here since Paul Bocuse is one of the most famous
chefs in France! Along with the 4 brasseries, which are affordable, he has The
Paul Bocuse restaurant, which has Michelin stars and is extremely pricey!</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p5_VNRGcWGM/ULINLTmrUMI/AAAAAAAAAak/dEWbmidrOms/s1600/IMG_2368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p5_VNRGcWGM/ULINLTmrUMI/AAAAAAAAAak/dEWbmidrOms/s1600/IMG_2368.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Paul Bocuse Restaurant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w2CkQOQ_QqE/ULINTRyQ2_I/AAAAAAAAAas/MhJzlqzBCBg/s1600/IMG_2378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w2CkQOQ_QqE/ULINTRyQ2_I/AAAAAAAAAas/MhJzlqzBCBg/s1600/IMG_2378.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painting of Julia Child on side of Paul Bocuse restaurant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, on to my Le Nord food experience. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Le Nord had a very cozy atmosphere that was very inviting
and warm and the food featured was heavier, which reflects the traditional
cuisine of the north of France. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I settled on the menu fixte, which included an entrée,
plat principal, and a dessert or cheese. You get a lot of food for a terrific
rate. We got 2 pots of wine<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- red
and white (pots a little smaller than bottles and more economical). Both were
very nice and from the Rhone valley. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For my entrée, I choose a typical Lyonnaise dish of
saucisson et pistache en brioche. Oh my was it good. The brioche bread was so
light and airy, yet full of rich flavor and that paired with the round of
sausage was just delightful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoSwGFpnnkY/ULIMvvGui9I/AAAAAAAAAaA/pq4Aqv_pQpI/s1600/IMG_2348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoSwGFpnnkY/ULIMvvGui9I/AAAAAAAAAaA/pq4Aqv_pQpI/s1600/IMG_2348.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For my plat principal, I chose the Truite de mer paired with
bacon, fava beans, and carrots. Okay, so truite means trout, so we all were
thinking a trout of the sea would be a light white fish, you know, like normal
trout! But were we in for a surprise! When I received my dish, the fish looked
and tasted like salmon!! I swear, never in my life have I even heard of trout
of the sea or salmon trout – but ladies and gentlemen, it does! Despite this
slight misunderstanding, it was quite scrumptious! The fish was perfectly
cooked and the bacon cooked with the fava beans and carrots was a brilliant
pairing. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5XZp8sAVetc/ULIM-h_-iTI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/9kx3XbGiXZE/s1600/IMG_2353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5XZp8sAVetc/ULIM-h_-iTI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/9kx3XbGiXZE/s1600/IMG_2353.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then for dessert (yes, I was stuffed by this point) I chose
the Fromage Blanc (White Yougurt) with raspberry sauce and applesauce. It was
delicious – so light and refreshing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DhXo2bR6qkY/ULINE1z7fPI/AAAAAAAAAaY/S5hbDkiHNMY/s1600/IMG_2355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DhXo2bR6qkY/ULINE1z7fPI/AAAAAAAAAaY/S5hbDkiHNMY/s1600/IMG_2355.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From Le Nord, Michelle and her boyfriend took me to see the
famous Paul Bocuse restaurant – it was quite a sight – especially watching the
people leave – you could just tell they were stuffed. The restaurant was
already decorated for Christmas – as is the rest of France! </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NeSGkoDAa1I/ULIM2ipDzAI/AAAAAAAAAaI/TsA2qJWm9j4/s1600/IMG_2352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NeSGkoDAa1I/ULIM2ipDzAI/AAAAAAAAAaI/TsA2qJWm9j4/s1600/IMG_2352.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Siavoche, Michelle, and Me at Le Nord</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the way back to their apartment, we stopped at an
overlook and I saw Mont Blanc – the largest mountain in Europe! It was over 300
km away, but I still could see it and it was breathtaking!! It was covered in
snow and dappled it pink from the sunset – what a sight! I definitely have to
take a trip to see the Alps. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HXDJvfceB24/ULINYDYJQuI/AAAAAAAAAa0/93ORIANGFec/s1600/IMG_2385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HXDJvfceB24/ULINYDYJQuI/AAAAAAAAAa0/93ORIANGFec/s1600/IMG_2385.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mont Blanc - way off in the distance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That night, Michelle and I had a Memphis girls’ night. It
was so wonderful to be able to converse over a glass of Rhone valley red wine
at a little brasserie about our experiences in France thus far and connect it
to Memphis – so rare to find. Plus, the wine was so smooth and warming –
perfect for an autumn night. We had a fabulous time. Plus, Lyon at night is
gorgeous. Everything is lit up and the basilica shines over the city. It’s as
though a different city comes alive at night. All the cafes are bustling with
people, the buildings take on a different appearance, and the city just shines. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2VzQh9jZCJc/ULINbTjIZgI/AAAAAAAAAa8/qtoWjFX0NmM/s1600/IMG_2407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2VzQh9jZCJc/ULINbTjIZgI/AAAAAAAAAa8/qtoWjFX0NmM/s1600/IMG_2407.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lyon at night</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h87a_1aHUfo/ULINeO23rNI/AAAAAAAAAbE/TEQvH2LEAdI/s1600/IMG_2438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h87a_1aHUfo/ULINeO23rNI/AAAAAAAAAbE/TEQvH2LEAdI/s1600/IMG_2438.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cafecomptoirabel.fr/" target="_blank">Le Cafe Comptoir Abel </a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although I had a late 3 course lunch, I was in Lyon and I
had to try out the local cuisine … so we reserved a table at a typical Lyon
type restaurant – a bouchon –<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ABEL
(Café Compotir Abel).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So a bouchon
is a type of restaurant native to Lyon that serves very traditional Lyonnaise
cuisine – like good ol’ home cooking mixed with a comfortable and jovial atmosphere.
I have to say that I am now officially a HUGE fan of this bouchon! So the
atmosphere of Abel was fantastic<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>- old wooden tables, cool photographs and prints on the walls, and close
tables. The only draw back was the temperature in this small bouchon – man it
was hot as a humid southern summer night – Michelle’s glasses even fogged up! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2gtELhuP94w/ULINguM5B-I/AAAAAAAAAbM/XGMMr0HxBkk/s1600/IMG_2442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2gtELhuP94w/ULINguM5B-I/AAAAAAAAAbM/XGMMr0HxBkk/s1600/IMG_2442.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quenelle...mmmm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nevertheless, I had a fantastic experience. I chose a
typical Lyonnaise dish of a Quenelle, which is basically aerated bread that
tastes like pasta but has the texture of an ebelskeiver – really light and
fluffy and full of flavor. So it takes a good 30 minutes to prepare and comes
out a lovely golden brown color and is smothered in this divine cream, cheese,
and mushroom sauce. I nearly licked my plate, but used some French bread
instead- more civilized that way… </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I return to Lyon, I will definitely be stopping by this
place again!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Lazy Sunday</b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qBAgbl9lf-o/ULINuVH0j_I/AAAAAAAAAbU/aUVp4Jc1Dmw/s1600/IMG_2449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qBAgbl9lf-o/ULINuVH0j_I/AAAAAAAAAbU/aUVp4Jc1Dmw/s1600/IMG_2449.JPG" height="240" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Park near her home in Lyon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--G6STzixn9w/ULIMGMaRf_I/AAAAAAAAAZU/IVosbUshwAc/s1600/IMG_2225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--G6STzixn9w/ULIMGMaRf_I/AAAAAAAAAZU/IVosbUshwAc/s1600/IMG_2225.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paella cooking in the market</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After strolling around a lovely park covered in brilliant
fall leaves, Michelle and I headed to the absolutely fantastic market that was
stationed along the Rhone river.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--1FTet6tQAY/ULIN4vbYm7I/AAAAAAAAAbg/gGEX-fDSp1s/s1600/IMG_2458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--1FTet6tQAY/ULIN4vbYm7I/AAAAAAAAAbg/gGEX-fDSp1s/s1600/IMG_2458.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I could not believe my eyes; this market was
open air and full of vendors selling extremely fresh and interesting foods and
flowers – it was a cook’s heaven. The smells were incredible, especially the
wafting aroma of freshly prepared shrimp paella or roasting chickens and
potatoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everywhere I looked, I
saw beautiful and vibrant produce, wide arrays of dried sausages and unique and
local cheeses, and even lovely selections of olives and herbs. I seriously wanted
to take it all home and whip up a brilliant meal. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Aedw7PSTQI/ULIL-Gm8Z1I/AAAAAAAAAZM/YHH_rO0I0VQ/s1600/IMG_2224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Aedw7PSTQI/ULIL-Gm8Z1I/AAAAAAAAAZM/YHH_rO0I0VQ/s1600/IMG_2224.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clementines from Corsica</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m quite jealous that
Michelle gets to experience this grand market on weekends and a smaller version
every single day – oh what a boon!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Considering Lyon is a quick train ride away from Poligny, I
was able to purchase some food goodies. I bought two typical Lyonnaise food
products: Saint Marcellin cheese – 2 for 1.80 euro as well as dried sausage – I
choose the Beaufort variety – it’s mixed with gruyere cheese. I have to say,
the cheese is quite good. It’s a type of goat cheese but has a more pungent
flavor but not too strong. I highly recommend </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YCiv4LVGpkg/ULIMOszmdtI/AAAAAAAAAZc/pAZ4PP6Pl_Q/s1600/IMG_2231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YCiv4LVGpkg/ULIMOszmdtI/AAAAAAAAAZc/pAZ4PP6Pl_Q/s1600/IMG_2231.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dried sausages</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
trying it. I also purchased some
homemade pasta – tagliatelle. Oh I prepared it last night, it was so good. I
cannot truly explain in words how much better homemade pasta is than store
bought pasta. I could taste the richness of the egg and flour, mmm. Finally, I
bought a large half loaf of rustic wheat bread – oh the flavor is fantastic and
so nice on the palette! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For lunch, Michelle fixed a delicious meal. But as an
appéro, we had garlic soaked in olive oil and herbs<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- it was actually quite good and not at all what I was
expecting. Not too pungent. We also snacked on some local green and purple
olives – both extremely fresh. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Fez9EyOmYs/ULIOArOhjuI/AAAAAAAAAbo/_QmnMwcM-vo/s1600/IMG_2471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Fez9EyOmYs/ULIOArOhjuI/AAAAAAAAAbo/_QmnMwcM-vo/s1600/IMG_2471.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then for the main course, we had a roasted
chicken, which had been raised in Bourgouge and man it was falling off the bone
tender! Then we had a purple cabbage slaw with walnuts and goat cheese – quite
easy to prepare, yet so good. Finally, ratatouille, which is a medley of
sautéed onion, zucchini, eggplant, tomato, and herbes de provence. It was my
first time to ever have ratatouille and I have to say, I am a fan. We had Côtes
de Rhône red wine with the meal. It is probably one of my favorite red wines I
have had since being in France. It is rich, warming, and very drinkable. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PPD8smxWLYM/ULIOJsnetuI/AAAAAAAAAbw/d3OxyTQIWnI/s1600/IMG_2472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PPD8smxWLYM/ULIOJsnetuI/AAAAAAAAAbw/d3OxyTQIWnI/s1600/IMG_2472.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cotes du Rhone Red Wine</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I can’t wait to go back to Lyon and explore this fabulous
city some more!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-49427312200533410882012-11-11T03:59:00.000-08:002012-11-11T03:59:11.863-08:00Prague – “these boots were made for walking”<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
@page Section1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.Section1
{page:Section1;}
-->
</style>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Day 1:</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FoXfHFGuDUw/UJ-OUDyQsmI/AAAAAAAAAWE/URioFmVtdJc/s1600/IMG_1594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FoXfHFGuDUw/UJ-OUDyQsmI/AAAAAAAAAWE/URioFmVtdJc/s1600/IMG_1594.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prawn Caesar Salad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So after my 5 ½ hour bus ride from Munich (a double decker
bus if I might add)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- Petrina and
I arrived in Prague! The sun was shining and the city was glowing. After we
checked in at the hostel – (keep in mind my first hostel experience…) - it was
definitely time to eat my first eastern European lunch! I settled on a prawn
Caesar salad and a refreshing glass of Pinot Grigio. It was a delightful salad
– the prawns were giant and perfectly seasoned, the lettuce crisp, strips of
freshly grated parm, and topped lightly with Caesar dressing – plus I got some
bread and a basil olive oil to dip it in! Even though the meal was great, the
service was less than okay! When we asked for a couple glasses of tap water –
the waiter rolled his eyes at us and proceeded to hahhh about it. That was the
beginning of our realization that Prague waiters were probably the rudest I
have ever experienced in my life!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M8exe5Q7OCA/UJ-OzKie-HI/AAAAAAAAAWc/szmbIsHArE0/s1600/IMG_1633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M8exe5Q7OCA/UJ-OzKie-HI/AAAAAAAAAWc/szmbIsHArE0/s1600/IMG_1633.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>After lunch we headed to the heart of Prague in order to see
it in the glorious sunshine. *Let me just preference my experience in Prague
with this: I quickly learned upon arrival that has become the 2<sup>nd</sup>
most popular tourist destination in Europe. I had NO idea of this fact, but
there were so many tourists there – people from all over the world! Oh my word
– every hostel and hotel was booked out! So crazy.*</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mLf40FlaRKo/UJ-OonjZssI/AAAAAAAAAWU/NFQ_sSofv7E/s1600/IMG_1618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mLf40FlaRKo/UJ-OonjZssI/AAAAAAAAAWU/NFQ_sSofv7E/s1600/IMG_1618.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a>Nevertheless, we decided we were going to enjoy this
fabulous opportunity to see Prague! It is a simply spectacular city – the
architecture is incredible – the colors, the meticulous details, the sculpting,
the impressive facades. Everywhere I looked, I was in awe. I was particularly
amazed when the golden afternoon sun illuminated the beauty of this old city. I
was so glad that Mr.Al (a family friend) told me that Prague was not bombed
during the war<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- it helped me
understand why and how this architecturally impressive city remains in such
pristine condition today. But it was rather amusing to see that giant
globalized stores like TGI Fridays, Starbucks, H&M, Nike, Zara, McDonald’s,
etc were occupying many of the most gorgeous buildings – quite bizarre. Another
random observation I found is that sheer number of shoe stores in this city!
They were everywhere – more than the Starbucks in Seattle! Haha these Czech
sure do love their shoes! For good reason, you walk everywhere in this city – I
mean it! I wish I had had my pedometer to see just how many miles I walked. But
man, by the end of the 4 days, I felt like an 80 year old woman haha but hey
the more you walk, the more you can eat right? And eat we did! So on our stroll
around Prague, we found a food vendor market! They were only going to be there
til Monday (our last full day)– can you say meant to be! Such a boon! Even
though I had just eaten, I needed dessert! My friend Molly told me about this
market food before I came – and thank goodness she did! Because the instant I
saw it, I knew exactly what she was talking about. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uw9-rw2ZEJI/UJ-OdMe_uoI/AAAAAAAAAWM/rq0AvjJe8nU/s1600/IMG_1608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uw9-rw2ZEJI/UJ-OdMe_uoI/AAAAAAAAAWM/rq0AvjJe8nU/s1600/IMG_1608.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trdelnik!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s called a Trdelnik – and
it is gooooddd. It’s basically pastry dough mixed with almond, vanilla, sugar,
and toffee. Then wrapped around a pipe like structure and then roasted over
charcoal until golden brown and then rolled in sugar! Oh it was good – I had
quite a few – gotta experience the culture of each country ;)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The food stalls were also selling kettle cooked potato
chips, sausages, old Prague Ham, mulled wine ( I got several of those – so
cheap and warming!), hot chocolate, “pizza” as in dough fried and then topped
with parm and ketchup – Petrina said it was rather tasty. Everything smelled
delicious – I couldn’t wait to be hungry again to partake in more goodies! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Day 2:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So the next day we went on a free walking tour by NewEurope
tours. I am so glad we did – it lasted about 3 ½ hours (including a break for
lunch)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- and it gave us a great
history and understanding of Prague. I really didn’t know much about the city
before I came. I highly recommend seeking out this tour in any European city
you visit – they are located in several. Our guide was a Scottish guy and was
really amusing and kept my attention. He even informed us that at one time in
Prague, beer was indeed cheaper than water! And it still holds true today. A
glass of good beer only cost me about 31 czh korunas, which is about 1,15
euros! Not bad at all – the price or the taste!</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y1PccxowYy4/UJ-Pfp0qYpI/AAAAAAAAAXI/LI2FbnHTE64/s1600/IMG_1928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y1PccxowYy4/UJ-Pfp0qYpI/AAAAAAAAAXI/LI2FbnHTE64/s1600/IMG_1928.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">views of Prague</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After the tour, the sun finally came out and Petrina and I
ventured up and up to Petrin Hill mostly because the name of the hill was
basically her name and it would give us a lovely view of the city. It definitely
did. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rx6h6BmrMLU/UJ-RyVob9qI/AAAAAAAAAYw/EpbRiVNtXUs/s1600/IMG_1925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rx6h6BmrMLU/UJ-RyVob9qI/AAAAAAAAAYw/EpbRiVNtXUs/s1600/IMG_1925.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our walk up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The path up to the top of the hill was covered in beautiful autumn colored
trees and you could see the golden city through pockets in the trees – so
beautiful and rather peaceful. The roofs in Prague are mostly in a rusty orange
color, so when the afternoon sun shines upon the city, it really does give off
a golden hue. Plus, the gorgeous Prague castle shines in the sun and looks
quite regal. The climb up was definitely worth it – the view of the city was
stunning and it we somewhat escaped some of the tourists – thankfully! </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yZcjduFePA4/UJ-PnVh3ScI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/mp03NwLSnNc/s1600/IMG_1939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yZcjduFePA4/UJ-PnVh3ScI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/mp03NwLSnNc/s1600/IMG_1939.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On our way down, the sun was beginning to set and the sky
was filled with lovely pinks, blues, and purples mixed with the last golden
rays on the sun. To really live up the Prague experience, we choose to walk
across the ever so popular Charles Bridge. The view of the city from the bridge
was stunning. The sunset of the river – the colors were both in the sky and the
water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Despite the fact that the
Charles Bridge was jammed with people, artists, beggars, vendors, it was definitely
worth the experience – we actually ended up passing on this bridge more than a
couple of times<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- I mean why not?!
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On our way back into the city on our search for a good
dinner joint, we ran across a shop selling scarves! One just simply caught my
eye and I had to stop! I haggled with the shop owner and got her to reduce the
price – I have to say, I rather enjoy haggling! So I bought a turquoise and
gold scarf claimed to be made of cashmere and silk – I mean the tag looks real,
I’ll just go with it haha – I rather like it!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We settled on a
rustic Italian restaurant called Tratoria by Giovanni. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">*Sidenote- in Prague
you could pretty much find any type of restaurant your heart desired –
especially a lot of Thai food and Thai massages – quite strange! But I suppose
it’s due to globalization and the massive influx of tourists in the recent
years!*</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zv8iAZeTWps/UJ-P2G5CDyI/AAAAAAAAAXo/WCbhmrg1nlM/s1600/IMG_2002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zv8iAZeTWps/UJ-P2G5CDyI/AAAAAAAAAXo/WCbhmrg1nlM/s1600/IMG_2002.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>It felt so good to sit down! We ordered a Caprese pizza and
they made it to order in the wood burning fireplace. And I can’t have pizza
without a good beer and I had to try this beer! Our tour guide told us that the
Czechs drink more beer per person than any other country in Europe – even
Germany!! Who knew! So I had to uphold their tradition right? Haha I ordered a
light beer – Staropramen Lezäk. It was quite good and very refreshing and so
cheap! The pizza was delish – lovely thin crust, and a good balance of
mozzarella to basil and tomatoes. It hit the spot. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RgyLEkqXt4Q/UJ-QAqrOAPI/AAAAAAAAAXw/FwW5FBy7GY8/s1600/IMG_2004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RgyLEkqXt4Q/UJ-QAqrOAPI/AAAAAAAAAXw/FwW5FBy7GY8/s1600/IMG_2004.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ceiling of the Municipal House</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So that night I had a ticket to see a classical concert in
the gorgeous Art Nouveau theater – Municipal House. I was definitely in for a
treat<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- both visually and audibly!
This concert hall was absolutely stunning<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>- the ceiling and walls were spectacular – everything was so intricately
designed and a pleasure for the eyes. From the entry staircase to the stage.
But the concept of a single line is lost in this country – trying to get in the
concert was like a mosh pit – I survived despite my size! The concert lasted 2
hours long and was magnificent. I heard the Czech Radio Symphony Orchestra
perform 3 acts: Smeana’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">My Country</i>,
Beethovan’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Piano concerto No. 2 B flat
major,</i> and Dvorak’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Symphony No. 9 E
minor From the New World</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even
though I went by myself, it was one of the best nights I had in Prague. So glad
I was able to experience something so full of beauty for my senses! It only
cost me about 30 euros too and I bought it that day and had a good seat! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Day 3:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today, Petrina and I decided to check out some sights we
learned about on the tour. So we headed up to this giant metronome that looms
over the city. It was definitely not my favorite place at all. You could
definitely feel the Soviet and Communist presence that ruled Prague for many
years up there. It was really stark and lacked warmth. <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"></span></div>
<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B40v8JAnazY/UJ-QQuDHgXI/AAAAAAAAAYE/P8xu3GWQpqY/s1600/IMG_2063.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B40v8JAnazY/UJ-QQuDHgXI/AAAAAAAAAYE/P8xu3GWQpqY/s1600/IMG_2063.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Food at the BakeShop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B40v8JAnazY/UJ-QQuDHgXI/AAAAAAAAAYE/P8xu3GWQpqY/s1600/IMG_2063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>To escape the ugly part of the city, we headed towards the
Jewish Ghetto, where there are some gorgeous buildings and even a bizarre
statue of Kakfa – quite fitting. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DGwMX1RrTHA/UJ-PGF3V9HI/AAAAAAAAAWw/Az-Z93p78ls/s1600/IMG_1838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DGwMX1RrTHA/UJ-PGF3V9HI/AAAAAAAAAWw/Az-Z93p78ls/s1600/IMG_1838.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kakfa statue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We ate lunch at the BEST little restaurant – I
want it to be my bakery when I grow up! It was called BAKESHOP and man was it
cool! It was so cozy and inviting and the food was gorgeous!! I settled on a
trio of prepared salads – couscous mixed with butternut squash and goat cheese.
Mediterranean mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olives marinated in olive
oil and balsamic. Beet salad that was a vibrant magenta color. And for dessert
a massive apple croissant<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-
seriously it was huge! But I loved every morsel that I ate. Everything was full
of flavor and tangy. I was inspired. And that apple croissant – oh my – I
didn’t even get a picture because I ate it too fast. It was full of flakey
buttery layers and inside was a compote of cinnamon apples perfectly
caramelized. Oh it was good!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
loved this café and would so come there every week if I lived there. We
actually meet some fellow Americans who are studying in Prague and they said it
was their 3<sup>rd</sup> time that week haha. All the warm drinks looked divine
as did the breads – like rosemary and olive oil and cranberry pecan. Mmmm I am
a foodie!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eCCeSrW_n-0/UJ-QjEzmbJI/AAAAAAAAAYU/-SdqE-DtQ_g/s1600/IMG_2172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eCCeSrW_n-0/UJ-QjEzmbJI/AAAAAAAAAYU/-SdqE-DtQ_g/s1600/IMG_2172.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prague Castle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From there we visited the Prague Castle. Whew, it was definitely
a hike up there. It is situated at the top of the city and the street up was
very steep. But it was worth the hike – rather exhilarating! I got to see the
changing of the guards – very much like in England at Buckingham Palace – just
not as grand. But when I think of a palace/ castle I picture ones in England
and France, but this one was really different – lot of different buildings all
in one central area. Quite a different experience. But my favorite thing was
the Prague Cathedral – it was built in 820 and is still standing today. The
stained glass inside was stunning – such vibrant color. And the façade was so
full of intricate detail and lots of storytelling features. It’s amazing that
people could build things like that back then!</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MVeoHrQzDFg/UJ-QYP4FUVI/AAAAAAAAAYM/u_8JKbQJC0w/s1600/IMG_2113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MVeoHrQzDFg/UJ-QYP4FUVI/AAAAAAAAAYM/u_8JKbQJC0w/s1600/IMG_2113.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stained Glass inside Cathedral</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That night we went to go see a production of Swan Lake. When
we bought our tickets we got upgraded and so we were able to sit on the 3<sup>rd</sup>
row! Pretty cool! We sat next to a Canadian couple and Dutch couple. When they
found out I was American, the political questions fired away. It was the day
before the election and they wanted my opinion. Oh my, I was as diplomatic as
possible – I never gave them my direct answer – just described the situation –
seemed to placate their curiosity. But I found it amazing how much other countries
know about our politics – very knowledgeable! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The performance was decent – the main ballerina was
incredible, but let’s just say not the best performance I have seen. But still
glad I got to see it in Prague – pretty remarkable if I say so myself! And
afterwards, I enjoyed a Trdelnik – just so good!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Day 4:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shopping day! Petrina and I went to the giant mall –
Pallidium that was 5 stories high and had over 200 shops! It was huge!! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For a lunch break, we went back to the outdoor market and I
got some Old Prague Ham. It was tasty. They roast it over a wood-burning grill
and it was nice and tender. </div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gdayumeo4Co/UJ-QrgO9ofI/AAAAAAAAAYc/6Dg6D_Z3r5c/s1600/IMG_2206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gdayumeo4Co/UJ-QrgO9ofI/AAAAAAAAAYc/6Dg6D_Z3r5c/s1600/IMG_2206.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Petrina's luxurious hot chocolate</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DACLGNbLp8w/UJ-Q07vOZkI/AAAAAAAAAYk/U5F_ZtyV_4Y/s1600/IMG_2208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DACLGNbLp8w/UJ-Q07vOZkI/AAAAAAAAAYk/U5F_ZtyV_4Y/s1600/IMG_2208.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My beef goulash with dumpings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then for dinner, we went to the famous Café Louvre that was
established in 1902 and Albert Einstein and Franz Kafka ate there! It was
beautiful inside, however the wait staff was not. They were actually the rudest
I have experienced. First he wouldn’t give us any tap water, then when we
pulled out our water bottles, he told us no! So very different than America!
Nevertheless, I had a delicious meal! I ordered a Czech traditional food. Beef
Goulash with dumplings. Oh it was so good I wanted to lick the plate. The beef
was incredibly tender and the dumplings were perfect for soaking up the delish
goulash sauce. I am definitely going to have to make that when I return
home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Petrina had a luxurious hot
chocolate that was extremely rich and even came with a scoop of vanilla ice
cream in it! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For dessert, we ventured back towards Old Town and I found a
fabulous gelato place! I ordered 3 scoops thinking they would be normal size –
but no, Giant! I ate the Entire portion- haha it’s gelato –it’s lighter! I got
mixed berry, hazelnut, and dark chocolate. Oh it was good! Gelato is always my
downfall and I’m not complaining! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So this concludes the end of my travels for now! I’m
spending the last few days of my holiday in Poligny. I actually very much
missed France while I was gone, which I think is a very good sign! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So thanks for reading this long post! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Til next time!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-3667968191783097702012-11-11T03:31:00.000-08:002012-11-11T03:31:24.226-08:00Munich - A lovely Suprise
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:Wingdings;
panose-1:5 2 1 2 1 8 4 8 7 8;
mso-font-charset:2;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:0 0 65536 0 -2147483648 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
@page Section1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.Section1
{page:Section1;}
-->
</style>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
My two days in Munich were by far two of the most perfect
days on my holiday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved pretty
much everything about Munich. We had the most brilliant weather – crisp fall
temperatures, clear blue skies, and vivid autumn colors – striking. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I took a bus from Konstanz Germany to Munich and oddly
enough, my bus took a ferry – who knew that even occurred? But on the way
there, I saw the Alps! Oh my, I’m going to have to venture and visit them – so
gorgeous, even from afar. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Petrina and I stayed with one of Bianca’s friends- Nina. She
was absolutely the most gracious host – so very welcoming and generous! Bought
us a delicious fair of sandwich spreads – even peanut butter – oh how she knows
us Americans well <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">:)</span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fuecQa-GMA4/UJ-JO-tgU2I/AAAAAAAAAU8/UnZhpWC9Yps/s1600/IMG_1501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fuecQa-GMA4/UJ-JO-tgU2I/AAAAAAAAAU8/UnZhpWC9Yps/s1600/IMG_1501.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nina and me in one of her favorite parks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My first full day in Munich was actually Halloween – very
different experience if I say so myself – not as much hype here in Europe.
Petrina and I had the whole day to basically explore Munich – and explore we
did. First, we started the day with a little boutique shopping. The stores were
so darling. I wanted to buy everything I saw for my home, especially in the
shop Kadoh and Kare. Granted, I did buy a little something in each… From there,
we ventured down to the heart of Munich. It was bustling with people, but yet
not too touristy, which is always a bonus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qnzYlxHNLlo/UJ-Jxzw3IZI/AAAAAAAAAVM/top8luh4Yho/s1600/IMG_0988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qnzYlxHNLlo/UJ-Jxzw3IZI/AAAAAAAAAVM/top8luh4Yho/s1600/IMG_0988.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roasted Chesnuts!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mjjaWtM94wo/UJ-IMFgRQ9I/AAAAAAAAAUA/qa42tOL58As/s1600/IMG_1009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mjjaWtM94wo/UJ-IMFgRQ9I/AAAAAAAAAUA/qa42tOL58As/s1600/IMG_1009.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little figurines that dance</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And of course when I saw a roasted chestnut stand, I jumped
on the opportunity to partake – definitely one of my new favorite holiday
foods! It just so happened that we arrived at the GLOCKENSPEIL at just the
right time (I’m telling you, it was the perfect day) because at 11, the little
figurines dance around to music! I later came to find out that it is in the top
3 list of overrated European attractions, along with the Mona Lisa and the
astrological clock in Prague (yes, I can now say I’ve seen all 3 haha). But
nevertheless, it was still cool to see and the building, oh the building, so
incredibly gorgeous, such magnificent detail and its grey color and pink flower
boxes were striking against the clear blue sky. We then ventured up to the top
of the bell tower and saw a gorgeous view of the city – oh so worth the 2 euro
entrance fee! I highly recommend it. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-my_oCcL7Ybo/UJ-KA6H8MlI/AAAAAAAAAVY/AxdDGe5DeJQ/s1600/IMG_0987.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-my_oCcL7Ybo/UJ-KA6H8MlI/AAAAAAAAAVY/AxdDGe5DeJQ/s1600/IMG_0987.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glockenspeil</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
From there, we went to possibly the best open-air market I
have seen since upon my arrival. It’s called the Viktualienmarkt. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PlxdnfQfmQ8/UJ-IksTXOFI/AAAAAAAAAUY/1aukUsdT_QE/s1600/IMG_1190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PlxdnfQfmQ8/UJ-IksTXOFI/AAAAAAAAAUY/1aukUsdT_QE/s1600/IMG_1190.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olives at the market</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Oh my word –
I was in foodie heaven – everywhere I looked I wanted to have it! They had
glorious produce, spices, olives, cheeses, schnapps, wines, beers, breads,
chocolates, fresh meats and fishes, and desserts – oh the list could go on and
on. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KxBf4JNWcOE/UJ-ITmv7vzI/AAAAAAAAAUI/SRW67g-j1Sg/s1600/IMG_1141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KxBf4JNWcOE/UJ-ITmv7vzI/AAAAAAAAAUI/SRW67g-j1Sg/s1600/IMG_1141.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my first apple studel!! </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nevertheless, I had my first real German apple strudel. It was divine. Flakey buttery layers of crust with cooked cinnamon apples and raisins
perfectly nestled in between the layers. I was in dessert heaven. I also had my
first schnapps experience – definitely one I won’t forget any time soon. So I
ventured up to a schnapps stand and asked to try one. So the man poured me
about half a shot size amount of the pear and apple one. It wasn’t until after
I downed the drink that he told me it was 40% alcohol and man oh man could I
feel it all the way down! I don’t know how people drink it – he even said it’s
common to drink it after dinner, straight. Whew, I am definitely not cut out
for that hahaha</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-70fK5GkBEl4/UJ-IaJ_-JcI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/dLnq3Q2AK7g/s1600/IMG_1150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-70fK5GkBEl4/UJ-IaJ_-JcI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/dLnq3Q2AK7g/s1600/IMG_1150.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pear and apple schnapps</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But I redeemed my taste buds by partaking in a little red
pepper stuffed with cream cheese. Oh so good – the tang of the pepper mixed
with the creaminess of the cream cheese. Mmmm I want one now just thinking
about it!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then (I’m telling you, we did a lot) we went to yet another
Foodie Haven – a fancy smachy shop<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>- Dallmayr’s (Full title if want to check it out – Alois Dallmayr) It
was like a Harrods in London! So many good-looking foods – I seriously wanted
it all because as we all know, I have a champagne taste and a beer wallet! I
did manage to come away with one thing from there – a 1 euro Christmas card! Haha</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2twcM0SunmM/UJ-IzyazchI/AAAAAAAAAUg/xsV58w8Yj5g/s1600/IMG_1339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2twcM0SunmM/UJ-IzyazchI/AAAAAAAAAUg/xsV58w8Yj5g/s1600/IMG_1339.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love autumn - especially in Germany!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zONzMbgYsWM/UJ-JGfAHtdI/AAAAAAAAAUs/NBBtNkWWnYU/s1600/IMG_1390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zONzMbgYsWM/UJ-JGfAHtdI/AAAAAAAAAUs/NBBtNkWWnYU/s1600/IMG_1390.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">English Gardens - yes this is my picture!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Next up – English Gardens. Gardens they were – it is the
largest urban garden in the world! They were absolutely stunning, my words and
pictures simply cannot give the gardens justice. The vibrant autumn hues shone
magnificently against the vivid blue sky with whips of clouds. I felt like I
was walking in a picture – quite surreal and such a blessing. There were a ton
of beautiful dogs romping around the grounds and many strolling pedestrians –
it was just so picturesque. If I lived in Munich, I would be there quite a bit.
There was one area that really stood out to me - the picture.
The rush of water paired with the rocks and autumn trees. Breathtaking. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After all this walking and sheer happiness, we were getting
quite hungry. So dinnertime in the University district – good, quality food,
cheap prices! We went to a hole in the wall restaurant<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- Schall & Rauch. The minute
I walked in, I knew it was my kind of place. First off, I ordered my first
German beer. SUCH a fantastic decision. It was absolutely excellent and not
expensive at all because as we all know Beer is usually cheaper than water in
Germany! So I got a local Munich Beer<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>- Augustiner Hell vom Fass – a brewing company that’s been around since
1328. It was a light beer, not too hopsy – similar to a Stella Artois – but
different. I highly recommend it!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For dinner, I selected the housemade gnocchi pasta mixed
with a smooth tomato sauce, fresh basil, and Parmesan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted to lick my plate it was so
good! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b_1Bfwas61Q/UJ-JJaAhWHI/AAAAAAAAAU0/fX1YtmXjWkA/s1600/IMG_1492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b_1Bfwas61Q/UJ-JJaAhWHI/AAAAAAAAAU0/fX1YtmXjWkA/s1600/IMG_1492.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To top off this absolutely joy filled, perfect day, we
watched Pretty Woman. I have to say, top day, top day.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DAY 2 Munich</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This was yet another brilliant day in Munich. As of now, I
am officially a fan of Germany! I think everyone should definitely visit this
incredible country (after they visit France of course) if given the
opportunity!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So today, Nina acted as our official tour guide of the more
off the beaten track Munich. She took us to another fantastic park. Lovely fall
colors once again paired with a rushing river and lots of walking trails. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So today was also a great day because my college friend Liz,
whose been working at the US military base in Garmisch Germany for the past 13
months! It was a spur of the moment trip and so fantastic to catch up with her!
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7us287nurh4/UJ-JZjg2yjI/AAAAAAAAAVE/NnztSSzgmXE/s1600/IMG_1518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7us287nurh4/UJ-JZjg2yjI/AAAAAAAAAVE/NnztSSzgmXE/s1600/IMG_1518.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liz, Me, Petrina in English Gardens</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-78H-InC4Rq8/UJ-LvebKJuI/AAAAAAAAAVg/xpsewYxswhM/s1600/IMG_1524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-78H-InC4Rq8/UJ-LvebKJuI/AAAAAAAAAVg/xpsewYxswhM/s1600/IMG_1524.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st mulled wine with orange and cranberry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HWPcBgCZXrQ/UJ-L1kGKhII/AAAAAAAAAVo/QPLuU6PmMko/s1600/IMG_1525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HWPcBgCZXrQ/UJ-L1kGKhII/AAAAAAAAAVo/QPLuU6PmMko/s1600/IMG_1525.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pumpkin curry soup</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So for lunch, we all went to another Nina recommended
restaurants – Gartensalon – another my kind of places! It was so quaint – lots
of greenery growing on the building, strings of lights, darling patio tables
dotting the exterior! Plus, it’s located off the street in a courtyard! It was
a tad warmer that day, so we decided to sit outside! The café gave us warm
fuzzy blankets to wrap up in while we ate. Since I was in Germany and find it
imperative to experience a culture through its food – I of course got a hot
mulled wine! My first in fact, and will definitely not be my last! It was so
good. Hot mulled red wine mixed with orange slices and cranberries – how could
it not be divine! Plus, it was served in a darling teacup! Foodwise, I settled
on the soup of the day – Pumpkin curry soup. Mmmm it was scrumptious. They
served it with some hearty multigrain German bread and topped the soup with
sesame seeds and pumpkin oil. Then Nina treated us all to dessert – so I choose
the house made carrot cake with cream cheese frosting! They even warmed it up
for me. It was also very good – lots of texture and nuttiness – my fav. As you
can see, I appreciate food quite a bit haha</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After our long and leisurely lunch, we ventured off to see
the Nymphenburg Palace, located right outside the city. It was an immense
palace that dates back to 1623. The grounds kept going and going as did the
windows. The palace had some quite bizarre statues as you can see in the
picture below - an oddity that I won’t forget haha</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03MapY65h5c/UJ-L9ZO3X0I/AAAAAAAAAVw/vbyNvUxUbQg/s1600/IMG_1537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03MapY65h5c/UJ-L9ZO3X0I/AAAAAAAAAVw/vbyNvUxUbQg/s1600/IMG_1537.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Palace</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4jveMZDUlDE/UJ-MKtonTQI/AAAAAAAAAV4/5CrKtMdTQSs/s1600/IMG_1573.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4jveMZDUlDE/UJ-MKtonTQI/AAAAAAAAAV4/5CrKtMdTQSs/s1600/IMG_1573.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one creepy statue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So this concludes my 2 magnificent days in Munich! Thanks
for reading. Next stop, Prague. </div>
Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-77633851232705697322012-10-30T05:07:00.000-07:002012-10-30T05:07:09.179-07:00Germany in Snow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
So this past Friday - October 26 - my 2 weeks of vacation started!! One of the benefits of this program is I meet assistants from all over the world. It just so happens that I'm friends with assistants from Germany (Bianca) and New Zealand (Petrina) and Bianca invited us to come visit her home in Germany! So for this vacation - I'm going to Konstanz, Freiburg, Munich, and Prague!<br />
<br />
We left on Friday and drove about 5 hours to Konstanz - I got to pass through Switzerland to get here - so surreal to me that I can just casually pass through European countries and not even need to show my passport!<br />
<br />
On Saturday while we were out and about shopping it was so incredibly cold and was starting to snow! I couldn't believe it - SNOW in October! They said it hasn't snowed this early in over 70 years! Of course it would happen when I arrived haha<br />
<br />To escape the cold that night we made a traditional Black Forest Cake. Oh my goodness it was so tasty but so big!! It's 3 layers of chocolate cake, each covered in cherry schnapps and whipped cream and layer of cherries. Then the entire thing is covered in whipped cream and chocolate. Oh man, I ate my weight in it! haha<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2EpdB-hx7NQ/UI-3Yto5DeI/AAAAAAAAANY/BEfR7d6riNo/s1600/IMG_0496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2EpdB-hx7NQ/UI-3Yto5DeI/AAAAAAAAANY/BEfR7d6riNo/s1600/IMG_0496.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Forest Cake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QfNadSYTiSw/UI-5YGiYKMI/AAAAAAAAAOg/FWa6JaTaQPE/s1600/IMG_0517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QfNadSYTiSw/UI-5YGiYKMI/AAAAAAAAAOg/FWa6JaTaQPE/s1600/IMG_0517.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bianca and Me in front of the Harbor. SO cold!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2EpdB-hx7NQ/UI-3Yto5DeI/AAAAAAAAANY/BEfR7d6riNo/s1600/IMG_0496.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a> The next day when we woke up there was snow on the roofs and the trees - so beautiful and it was snowing! We had the best lazy Sunday. First we ventured down to the Harbor and walked around in the snow - quite picturesque!<br />
Then we went to this absolutely wonderful restaurant - Pano- it had a cozy atmosphere and the most delicious food! Think Panera bread but ten times better and European! Picture this: we were sitting a a large family style wooden table, watching the snow fall outside, sipping on my Chai tea latte and eating the most delicious and simple meal of a piece of toasted whole grain German bread topped half with rosemary apricot cream cheese and half with basil cream and bruchetta. Oh my word - divine!! Everything people were eating looked simple delectable! The atmosphere was brilliant - I could go to this place like everyday. Then for dessert we all three split some luscious gelato - oh it's my downfall! So we had 3 flavors - blueberry yogurt, banana and chocolate, and tirimisu! The tirimisu was my favorite. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IImvl8ZcJOI/UI-4Q9Qbr4I/AAAAAAAAANg/7xFSWL4beh0/s1600/IMG_0532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IImvl8ZcJOI/UI-4Q9Qbr4I/AAAAAAAAANg/7xFSWL4beh0/s1600/IMG_0532.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My lunch - oh my word</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G_NaNMT9H2A/UI-4XiLXIuI/AAAAAAAAANo/oj2j7c5m_MM/s1600/IMG_0533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G_NaNMT9H2A/UI-4XiLXIuI/AAAAAAAAANo/oj2j7c5m_MM/s1600/IMG_0533.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gelato we all shared</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xGfo9QqFbrg/UI-4gR_lykI/AAAAAAAAAN0/dCQzKYjS5mw/s1600/IMG_0534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xGfo9QqFbrg/UI-4gR_lykI/AAAAAAAAAN0/dCQzKYjS5mw/s1600/IMG_0534.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coffee bar and ice cream bar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then after that extremely satisfying lunch, we headed to the spa! I couldn't believe I was about to go swimming while it was snowing outside - but I did! I actually swam outside in really warm water while it was snowing - so bizarre yet cool! Never experienced such polarity in my life.<br />
<br />
For dinner that night, Bianca made us a very traditional and soul warming German meal - called Spatzle. She made the pasta herself and even had an Spatzle pasta maker! Then she topped it with this rich and onctuous mushroom sauce made out of cream, mushrooms, onion, salt, and pepper. And on the side we had a German style slaw- cabbage soaked in wine, sugar, vinegar but served warm. It was a very filling meal but incredibly delicious on a cold night!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tc5zqOIw9dk/UI-7ygmAW0I/AAAAAAAAAOw/Q8CvbZG7lmY/s1600/IMG_0554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tc5zqOIw9dk/UI-7ygmAW0I/AAAAAAAAAOw/Q8CvbZG7lmY/s1600/IMG_0554.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The spatzel pasta</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4h_5s-f0R28/UI-76T75FDI/AAAAAAAAAO4/0oOOINIlBHE/s1600/IMG_0555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4h_5s-f0R28/UI-76T75FDI/AAAAAAAAAO4/0oOOINIlBHE/s1600/IMG_0555.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The spatzel pasta maker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BL_xp_jC9SE/UI-7sdSWQkI/AAAAAAAAAOo/C694vzMBRqU/s1600/IMG_0569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BL_xp_jC9SE/UI-7sdSWQkI/AAAAAAAAAOo/C694vzMBRqU/s1600/IMG_0569.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The German style cabbage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Monday - My favorite day of the entire trip! We went to Freiburg Germany and the Black Forest! Oh my goodness. There are no words to describe the tremendous beauty that I saw. I feel so privileged that I got to see the Black Forest not only covered in snow, but in October! We drove through the Black Forest - oh my oh my - just simply gorgeous. Never in my life have I seen so much snow and for them, it was nothing! It was an absolutely gorgeous day - blue skies, crisp cold air, and snow glistening on the earth. Here are some pictures of the Black Forest - these are real!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K2wOoy8h_kE/UI-88L5khZI/AAAAAAAAAPA/JbxNW7pAx5I/s1600/IMG_0611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K2wOoy8h_kE/UI-88L5khZI/AAAAAAAAAPA/JbxNW7pAx5I/s1600/IMG_0611.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5XD6-fVbyr4/UI-9FIdhEwI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/Y8sLvaIYPn4/s1600/IMG_0612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5XD6-fVbyr4/UI-9FIdhEwI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/Y8sLvaIYPn4/s1600/IMG_0612.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PyRnhSAYuKw/UI-9P5zVBTI/AAAAAAAAAPY/0bLh5xMYuKI/s1600/IMG_0613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PyRnhSAYuKw/UI-9P5zVBTI/AAAAAAAAAPY/0bLh5xMYuKI/s1600/IMG_0613.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MP87C-iBxOc/UI-9XlodblI/AAAAAAAAAPg/stLEXYceYbU/s1600/IMG_0639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MP87C-iBxOc/UI-9XlodblI/AAAAAAAAAPg/stLEXYceYbU/s1600/IMG_0639.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vFqG425FIHc/UI-9h1ZE9cI/AAAAAAAAAPo/gZhPWPCMs9c/s1600/IMG_0706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vFqG425FIHc/UI-9h1ZE9cI/AAAAAAAAAPo/gZhPWPCMs9c/s1600/IMG_0706.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Yeah, pretty surreal. I have to keep reminding myself that this is my life!<br />
So from the Black Forest, we arrived in Freiburg, which is a very cool city and one that I highly recommend visiting!<br />
Everyday til about 1, there is an absolutely fabulous European market in front of the Cathedral no less. It was awesome and I wanted to buy everything in sight - I used great self restraint ;)<br />
They had flowers, fruits, vegetables, pumpkins, meats, honey, spices, the list goes on and on!<br />
I picked up some local Black Forest honey, Pizza spices, and of course some food to eat while wandering the market!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JcZYCB92a1M/UI-_G3PNO1I/AAAAAAAAAP0/q8FIwZfBUn4/s1600/IMG_0721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JcZYCB92a1M/UI-_G3PNO1I/AAAAAAAAAP0/q8FIwZfBUn4/s1600/IMG_0721.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The market:)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQaLMkqAJaY/UI-_OqCzfhI/AAAAAAAAAP8/kdmY0P160PQ/s1600/IMG_0724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQaLMkqAJaY/UI-_OqCzfhI/AAAAAAAAAP8/kdmY0P160PQ/s1600/IMG_0724.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yYw5U_hf1Ao/UI-_YSSJ8gI/AAAAAAAAAQE/C1bC2KQxUfY/s1600/IMG_0728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yYw5U_hf1Ao/UI-_YSSJ8gI/AAAAAAAAAQE/C1bC2KQxUfY/s1600/IMG_0728.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QqzivrHNlqo/UI-_kdtFNuI/AAAAAAAAAQM/lFi_JbQVKWs/s1600/IMG_0729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QqzivrHNlqo/UI-_kdtFNuI/AAAAAAAAAQM/lFi_JbQVKWs/s1600/IMG_0729.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AacA_sekCxA/UI-_tN4sw7I/AAAAAAAAAQY/d4XbSsqOn-Y/s1600/IMG_0747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AacA_sekCxA/UI-_tN4sw7I/AAAAAAAAAQY/d4XbSsqOn-Y/s1600/IMG_0747.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pEv8MmvsXlE/UI-_0k5nsHI/AAAAAAAAAQg/Qe10fWhMe5M/s1600/IMG_0752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pEv8MmvsXlE/UI-_0k5nsHI/AAAAAAAAAQg/Qe10fWhMe5M/s1600/IMG_0752.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
For the first time in my life I finally got to have some roasted chestnuts! I've heard about them in Christmas songs and movies all my life and there is a good reason they're mentioned. They are scrumptious! I can't wait to eat some more and various Christmas markets I plan on visiting! Then I had a very traditional German sandwich - German bratwurst and onions on a Kaiser roll. Oh my, it was tasty and so warming! I also got to taste to traditional Black Forest Ham - rather salty, but still quite tasty.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EIMP84LXTgY/UI-_6U-MMFI/AAAAAAAAAQo/UfNDvGbXC00/s1600/IMG_0754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EIMP84LXTgY/UI-_6U-MMFI/AAAAAAAAAQo/UfNDvGbXC00/s1600/IMG_0754.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chestnuts roasting</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fX6hSayeDZY/UI_ABeq7VBI/AAAAAAAAAQw/9SsjZQtVB48/s1600/IMG_0769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fX6hSayeDZY/UI_ABeq7VBI/AAAAAAAAAQw/9SsjZQtVB48/s1600/IMG_0769.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and my delicious German meal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So after lunch we ventured around the city and went up to a high point and were able to see some gorgeous views of Freiburg. It was stunning! Kept telling myself that this is my life! So completely surreal! Plus add the fact that there are autumn colored trees everywhere and it snowed. So mind boggling! I really enjoyed this day. Simply magical and gorgeous! <br /><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-avOm2vk7IlY/UI_BGuS6SCI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/aGv5dkq_z4M/s1600/IMG_0812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-avOm2vk7IlY/UI_BGuS6SCI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/aGv5dkq_z4M/s1600/IMG_0812.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bianca, Petrina, and I escaped the cold and enjoyed some lovely tea at a tea shop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KO7nTqKuSAg/UI_CTsjNI8I/AAAAAAAAAR8/H7ZxQYfin4U/s1600/IMG_0922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KO7nTqKuSAg/UI_CTsjNI8I/AAAAAAAAAR8/H7ZxQYfin4U/s1600/IMG_0922.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cool wine store </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VD47NV5-ZlQ/UI_B4O1N8bI/AAAAAAAAARg/M03Fu6ouRhc/s1600/IMG_0890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VD47NV5-ZlQ/UI_B4O1N8bI/AAAAAAAAARg/M03Fu6ouRhc/s1600/IMG_0890.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Freiburg</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HowWlphTvpg/UI_CCoME87I/AAAAAAAAARo/mDSW1q6xK9o/s1600/IMG_0902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HowWlphTvpg/UI_CCoME87I/AAAAAAAAARo/mDSW1q6xK9o/s1600/IMG_0902.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Freiburg</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vrGCXFvR1Z8/UI_CLNIwHwI/AAAAAAAAARw/nUWG5I-W8ks/s1600/IMG_0917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vrGCXFvR1Z8/UI_CLNIwHwI/AAAAAAAAARw/nUWG5I-W8ks/s1600/IMG_0917.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Worldly group</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1koRd7VgJ6Q/UI_Bumwop8I/AAAAAAAAARU/rbiRYjBQJK0/s1600/IMG_0881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1koRd7VgJ6Q/UI_Bumwop8I/AAAAAAAAARU/rbiRYjBQJK0/s1600/IMG_0881.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nDNXKY02wPI/UI_Bn6LRPhI/AAAAAAAAARM/I0PgEkQMiFc/s1600/IMG_0876.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nDNXKY02wPI/UI_Bn6LRPhI/AAAAAAAAARM/I0PgEkQMiFc/s1600/IMG_0876.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B3OLVYrLBw8/UI_BVCB7lyI/AAAAAAAAARE/Omh0QM9ro7M/s1600/IMG_0872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B3OLVYrLBw8/UI_BVCB7lyI/AAAAAAAAARE/Omh0QM9ro7M/s1600/IMG_0872.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">on the way up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Well, I'm off to Munich today and will update soon!!<br />
Carpe Diem!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-61768965556139558542012-10-22T03:06:00.001-07:002012-10-22T03:06:33.265-07:00Eating and Motorbiking!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UZdg4lH0BsY/UIUR60FZlyI/AAAAAAAAAMY/bq2zB8EE5JM/s1600/IMG_0332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UZdg4lH0BsY/UIUR60FZlyI/AAAAAAAAAMY/bq2zB8EE5JM/s1600/IMG_0332.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
This past weekend, beginning Thursday night, I have been eating, eating, and eating!! Don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed every morsel - but whew, eating is a great love here.<br />
<br />
So let me just begin describing the food fest:<br />
<br />
Thursday - I made dinner for Carolyn and Pascal - Salmon, brussel sprouts, rice, and bread. It was quite tasty and so great to be back in the kitchen! The wine we had with it was wondeful - a Savagnin from the Jura - the famous Aime Rodet's vineyard - oh it was amazing. It is so full of character and flavor - the walnut taste is just brilliant and so memorable. For dessert, they opened up a bottle of actual Champagne, not the cremant. It was much drier than a crement to me. We had it with dessert of delicious homemade salted caramel ice cream!<br />
<br />
Then Friday, after I worked with Didier, Pascal took me on a motorbike ride around the area! Once again, I could not believe it was my life! First time of a motor bike and I wasn't scarred at all - rather I had a fantastic time and the scenery was absolutely gorgeous!! They had me over for dinner and Carolyn fixed a tasty quiche of leeks, ham, and cheese! It was so delicious. And they opened up a wonderful bottle of red wine from the Provence region. Wine in that region is really dry and very tannic. It was unlike any wine I had ever had before - but I quite enjoyed it.And for dessert, Carolyn made a chocolate chip cookie bar - so delicious - forgot how much I miss chocolate chip cookies!!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9NznVCFqnFw/UIUONwC_C9I/AAAAAAAAALs/4VLUNQmyXHs/s1600/red+wine+provence.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9NznVCFqnFw/UIUONwC_C9I/AAAAAAAAALs/4VLUNQmyXHs/s1600/red+wine+provence.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wine from Provence - even had a gold label</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Saturday - My day of motorbiking around the Jura with Bernard - Pascal's father! One of the best days I've had thus far. I was outfitted for motorbiking - the shoes, coat, helmet - the works - I was looking good! So he picked me up at 10 and we headed around the area! It was an absolutely beautiful day - 75 degrees and sunny! I'm not going to list every place we went - just so many but we saw a lot - I saw a castle in <a href="http://www.chateaudefrontenay.com/" target="_blank">Frontenay</a> - absolutely gorgeous! Click on Frontenay to check it out! I saw the oldest crypt in France, the largest oak producer in all of Europe, the town were matches were created. I also saw 2 of the most beautfiul cities in France - there are 180 or so villages and I saw 2 two of them - Chateau Chalon and Baume-les-Messieurs. They were indeed stunning!!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F8Qc5Xtv8js/UIUR8sM3sfI/AAAAAAAAAMg/jah5l4I4-tI/s1600/IMG_0377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F8Qc5Xtv8js/UIUR8sM3sfI/AAAAAAAAAMg/jah5l4I4-tI/s1600/IMG_0377.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The motorbike I rode on!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BfB1lg6u0J0/UIUR3L45boI/AAAAAAAAAMA/f-r8aMwnJ3E/s1600/IMG_0211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BfB1lg6u0J0/UIUR3L45boI/AAAAAAAAAMA/f-r8aMwnJ3E/s1600/IMG_0211.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iiTyej9-PdQ/UIUR4Y5tzQI/AAAAAAAAAMI/a28pRt18KQ4/s1600/IMG_0212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iiTyej9-PdQ/UIUR4Y5tzQI/AAAAAAAAAMI/a28pRt18KQ4/s1600/IMG_0212.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rsr-_2hLcKI/UIUR5TfrIwI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/1VMUFBOC714/s1600/IMG_0254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rsr-_2hLcKI/UIUR5TfrIwI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/1VMUFBOC714/s1600/IMG_0254.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-24mxzdsByrQ/UIUSFUvgGGI/AAAAAAAAAMo/t4aGknOWzco/s1600/IMG_0246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-24mxzdsByrQ/UIUSFUvgGGI/AAAAAAAAAMo/t4aGknOWzco/s1600/IMG_0246.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Cheateau Chalon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We also visited the 2nd plateau of the Jura and visited a place called
Bonlieu - literally meaning "Good Place" and good place it was! The lake
and trees were stunning and the colors of autumn were striking.
Couldn't believe that I was actually getting to see such tremendous
beauty in France! So surreal!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UZdg4lH0BsY/UIUR60FZlyI/AAAAAAAAAMY/bq2zB8EE5JM/s1600/IMG_0332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UZdg4lH0BsY/UIUR60FZlyI/AAAAAAAAAMY/bq2zB8EE5JM/s1600/IMG_0332.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake at Bonlieu</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g5l_GGxnGKA/UIUUk9s6L6I/AAAAAAAAAM8/oRntxfw0vjk/s1600/IMG_0296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g5l_GGxnGKA/UIUUk9s6L6I/AAAAAAAAAM8/oRntxfw0vjk/s1600/IMG_0296.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from our picnic - lac chalin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For lunch, Bernard and I had a little picnic at another lake- Lac Chalin - it was lovely! Like we had the place to ourselves. And at lunch, Pascal and Didier and his wife Coco joined us for the rest of the afternoon! We traveled around the forest areas - so breathtaking!! And we went fast - sooo fun! We stopped for a drink in a Clairvaux-les-Lacs- cute little town.<br />All in all, my first motorbiking experience was brilliant and I want to go again!! <br />
<br />
So that night for dinner, I ate at Bernard and Pauline's home in Menetru le Vignoble. They were having a grand dinner with Pauline's sister and Pascal and Carolyn. We had a grand feast!! My word. So we started with appetizers of various crackers and chips and Crement mixed with chesnut syrup - it was good, but a very sweet fizzy drink. Then for the entree we had a walnut and cheese tart with a simple salad of little spinach leaves paired with a traditional jura white wine - which is a mix between a savagnin and a chardonnay. Delicious once again. Then for the plat principal we had like a beef stew with dumplings and side of roasted potatoes and served a pinot noir from Burgundy. It was a light red wine and very nice. And paired very nicely with this heavy, hearty dish. Then we had a delicious cheese course with multigrain bread. There was the traditional goat cheese, comte, Camembert, and a new one to me- Picodon. It was brought by Pauline's sister who lives near Dieulefit - which translates at God Made it! haha what a great name of a village. The cheese is a type of goat cheese. so delicious, but can only be found in that region. I hope to have some more of it soon! Then, more food. We had a chocolate pecan pie served with a side of caramel ice cream. Whew I was so stuffed by the time I left and could barely move. But I enjoyed it all! The French sure do know how to host a tasty dinner party! I can't wait to visit Pauline and Bernard again and their sweet boarder collie Malize.<br />
<br />
Then I had one more day of eating! SUNDAY LUNCH! So Rachel, a former American English assistant who is now living in France and getting married to to Frenchman, invited Carolyn and I to lunch at her place in Besancon - only about a 40 minute drive away! So we arrived around 1:30 and we didn't leave until around 6:30! It was the longest lunch I have ever experienced, but the time passed so fast! It was delightful! So we started by dining on the terrace with an Alsace Reisling and almonds and olives. Then we moved inside for the entree course of cooked figs with a thin slice of ham - it was an interesting pairing - the contrast of sweet and salty was quite nice. Then she brought a a scrumptious pumpkin soup topped with dollop of creme fraiche and nutmeg - it was so perfect for fall! Then for the main course, Rachel had prepared a pork roast and goat cheese and leek stuffed cooked apples - oh my goodness - so incredibly delicious - I will defintely be making them myself. With the main course, we had a Pinot Noir from the Loire Valley, which was a nice and light red wine and quite drinkable. I recommend it! THEN, there was a cheese course! She had a morbier, comte, and a new goat cheese- it was covered in ash. I have forgotten the name, but it was very creamy and rich - I really enjoyed it! Thankfully, we took an hour walk around Besancon to let our food digest - man I was stuffed and very much needed a walk to makes some room for dessert! haha For dessert, we had a Crement from Aime Rodet in the Jura - very nice again. Rachel had prepared a lovely harvest tart of figs, apples, and raisins nestled in a flakey crust topped with a creme mixed with Calavdos - which is an apple liquor specific to France. Very very good!! I had a lovely time - great conversation and food!<br />
As you can see, it was definitely a weekend full of eating!! Hahaha Vive la France!<br />
<br />
Hope these entries weren't too long! But til next time!!<br />
Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-31678664701904860472012-10-22T02:04:00.001-07:002012-10-22T02:04:49.829-07:00An exchange of EnglishSo I began actually assisting this past Wednesday! My first day as an assistant went splendidly on so many levels! I will be working 12 hours a week and get every Monday and Friday off! Pretty nice, huh?! The kids seemed to like me a lot and the conversation went pretty well - I'm going to have to think of some fun teaching ideas for them. And I really like my professors I am working with, so generous and friendly.<br />
Remember how I mentioned Didier - the excellent pastry chef - in my previous posts. Well, he just so happens to be friends with my professor Pascal and told Pascal that I could come work in his kitchen and help him with his English! I could even use the back door - something reserved only for friends! I was so thrilled to hear this news!! So on Wednesday morning before I headed to school, I stopped by Didier's shop - He was so excited to see me and told me to come back that afternoon at 4:00 and begin working! It was a fantastic start to my day and added to the excitement of my first day!<br />
Plus, during the lunch hour one of the professors bought a galette au sugre for dessert from his shop! It was delicious - blonde in color and airy texture - mmmm I wish I had a piece now!<br />
<br />
So at 4:00 I skipped on over to Didier's and entered through the back door ;) We started off with a bang! He had two boy apprentices working with him - both really nice! But Didier is so eager to learn English - it is so much fun! He let me do stuff immediately - gave me an apron to wear and everything. So I got to spread a very thin layer of dark chocolate on the slab of praline (only hazelnut and almond) and help cut them into squares with a special machine! We were having great exchange of English and French! I keep thinking to myself: "who am I? I can't believe that I, Hanna Gordon, am working in a French pastry kitchen not only helping a Frenchman learn English, but I am improving my French and learning amazing things!" It was incredibly wonderful! I also got to roll lots and lots of chocolate balls. And then dip squares of pralines in chocolate and do a little design on the top - it was very cool! Didier and I set up that I will come by every Wednesday and Friday afternoon and go to his Macaroon class on November 13th and make lemon and chocolate Macaroons! I could not stop smiling after I left - so very happy! He even gave me a little goody bag of the chocolates I help to dip and do the design on top! He also made me taste everything - I definitely am not complaining about that! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNjb_bnSldQ/UIUKMBzxvPI/AAAAAAAAALU/gHNihuXHAPU/s1600/photo%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNjb_bnSldQ/UIUKMBzxvPI/AAAAAAAAALU/gHNihuXHAPU/s1600/photo%25285%2529.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Praline candies that I dipped in chocolate - they were DELICIOUS</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So on Friday I went back to Didier's again and this time he was making animals and figures out of almond paste! And yes, he even let me make my own! First I started out making a rose. You have to roll the center of the flower a certain way, and man oh man, was it difficult for me to get! He had to get behind me and help me roll it with my hands! I also made a little cat of out almond paste too - did the eyes and everything! Very precise work! He is quite a master- it was amazing watching him work. He made stuff for Halloween too - little ghost and a grave stone - just for kicks and giggles! It was so fun! He also let me spread the chocolate for the chocolate medallions that go on top of his cakes and such! It was brilliant!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_lbYJ6vOrng/UIUL5gI2TII/AAAAAAAAALc/V6lioLHudy0/s1600/cat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_lbYJ6vOrng/UIUL5gI2TII/AAAAAAAAALc/V6lioLHudy0/s1600/cat.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first cat out of almond paste</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jVuPVmqD14w/UIUL7oO_LkI/AAAAAAAAALk/FBrOuQevu2Y/s1600/rose.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jVuPVmqD14w/UIUL7oO_LkI/AAAAAAAAALk/FBrOuQevu2Y/s1600/rose.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my rose</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I cannot wait to go back every week and have fun!!! Oh it was so wonderful!Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-45569928396034144652012-10-22T01:36:00.001-07:002012-10-22T01:36:06.876-07:00A bit of travelingHello! So I have so much to catch y'all up on I don't even know where to begin!<br />
First of all, I have to say that I am absolutely in love with this country - I am so very happy right now! <br />
<br />
So I have been doing a lot since this past weekend! I visited a fellow assistant in Saint Claude, which is in the upper Jura region. It is the capital of pipe making and they had pipes everywhere - flower arrangements, murals, statues - it was amusing!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cj4_VhD1NK8/UIT-YV8-gGI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/mb-wYIsb-aA/s1600/IMG_9938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cj4_VhD1NK8/UIT-YV8-gGI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/mb-wYIsb-aA/s1600/IMG_9938.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pipe statue in the center of city</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8wgnuLF_xBM/UIT-d9alM1I/AAAAAAAAAKE/jNEXwBZMAm0/s1600/IMG_9966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8wgnuLF_xBM/UIT-d9alM1I/AAAAAAAAAKE/jNEXwBZMAm0/s1600/IMG_9966.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and a pipe quote </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
But unlike Poligny, which is in the first plateau of the Jura, Saint Claude is the in 2nd plateau and the terrain is quite different! Unlike Poligny, where I am surrounded by gorgeous vineyards and rolling hills (yes my life is like a movie right now), Saint Claude is a much more industrial city surrounded by huge mountains and lots and lots of uphill climbs - quite a workout!<br />
My visit was lovely - Saturday was a huge market day! In the morning, there was a giant food market both covered and uncovered - it had everything I could want - cheese, honey, meats, fish, fresh and vibrant fruits and veggies! I had to restrain myself from buying up the place! Then that afternoon, there was a huge clothing outdoor market that only happens once a month and I just happened to be there! Can you say perfect timing? :) I purchased a cute grey sweater for only 15 euros and it looks great if I say so myself... <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tZ6a0prvKLw/UIT_Im6rfpI/AAAAAAAAAKM/cC6DDbTpw14/s1600/IMG_9952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tZ6a0prvKLw/UIT_Im6rfpI/AAAAAAAAAKM/cC6DDbTpw14/s1600/IMG_9952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tZ6a0prvKLw/UIT_Im6rfpI/AAAAAAAAAKM/cC6DDbTpw14/s1600/IMG_9952.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The covered food market in Saint Cladue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For lunch that day we had a delicious and quite memorable meal! We went to a little local restaurant and got the menu fixe for the day. For 12 euros we got three courses. So the first course was a delightful salad of simple greens, tomato slices, hard boiled egg, and topped with simple dressing of olive oil and herbs. Then the main course was slices of roasted pork, thick steak fries, and this delectable mushroom sauce - I could have licked the bowl - so rich yet light. Then for dessert I chose the raspberry tart. Good decision. It was a sugar cookie like crust, but not as sweet. Topped with a light layer of vanilla custard, then topped with rows of fresh raspberries, and of course of side of fresh whipped cream! It was delicious and so fresh! <br />
<br />
So from Saint Claude we went to Besancon, which is the capital city of the Franche-comte region (the region I am in). We had our second day of training there on Monday and our medical examinations on Tuesday.<br />
So on Monday night we spent the night with one of my professor's brother and neighbor. They live in a little suburb outside of Besancon- a lovely area! So let me tell you about the fantastic dinner we had! Oh it was amazing!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
So he fixed us a traditional Franche-Comte meal - Cheese and bread fondue. So we chopped up a lot of cheese - comte, swiss, and a blue cheese. Then in a fondue pot he mixed together all the cheese and added wine. Then to make it more bubbly, he added baking soda and flour to a glass of wine and then added it to the fondue. So for dinner I literally ate just bread and cheese and a light salad. But the wine we had was fantastic, another typical Jura wine - called a Savagnin- once again has that nutty taste of walnuts. Really becoming my favorite! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7-Z-kvHDVM/UIUC1naV_yI/AAAAAAAAAKs/QFboH8F_MVc/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7-Z-kvHDVM/UIUC1naV_yI/AAAAAAAAAKs/QFboH8F_MVc/s1600/photo.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The savagnin wine</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So the next day, I explored Besancon a bit and we went to the Citadel, which is an old military fortress on the top of the city! And when I say on the top, I mean it! We walked all the way to the top and oh my goodness it was a trek! I had my 30 pound backpack on from my travels and there were A LOT of steps - whew I was so glad when I finally made it! The view was absolutely breathtaking - and definitely worth the trek! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X_4x8viFFsI/UIUEDi-nT5I/AAAAAAAAAK8/f8YKsawopVA/s1600/IMG_0091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X_4x8viFFsI/UIUEDi-nT5I/AAAAAAAAAK8/f8YKsawopVA/s1600/IMG_0091.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FVaJJu0YH-c/UIUD---TVSI/AAAAAAAAAK0/7XBmAZnCHmk/s1600/IMG_0089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FVaJJu0YH-c/UIUD---TVSI/AAAAAAAAAK0/7XBmAZnCHmk/s1600/IMG_0089.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the top - Queen's View</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I really enjoyed my visit to Besancon - it was a bigger city, but not too big and has some great shopping! I plan to visit again soon!!<br />
<br />
<br />Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-39573728781879254402012-10-05T03:33:00.003-07:002012-10-05T03:33:59.930-07:001st day of observation - ie best day so far!Yesterday was the first day of observation and I LOVED it! I went to several classes and interacted with the students! They asked me questions and I got to help out with their oral and writing skills! It was so fantastic! I had a full day and was so glad not to be lonely and board!<br />
<br />
Everything about yesterday was great! <br />
For lunch, I went to a local boulangerie and picked up a jambon cru sandwich. It was a baguette with butter, pickles, ham, tomatoes, lettuce, and cheese. Man oh man was it good! I have never had butter on a sandwich before, but I have to say, it was goooodddd! Oh and get this. In the salle de profs a crepe maker was there during lunch making free crepes and severing wine! Haha of course I didn't pass on that. I got a crepe with caramel. mmmmm sooo tasty and the first crepe I've had since I've been here!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yMzNsF4Ws4Q/UG60BUXMLiI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/1ACNjy7i_nE/s1600/IMG_9649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yMzNsF4Ws4Q/UG60BUXMLiI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/1ACNjy7i_nE/s320/IMG_9649.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crepe maker!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After school was over, Pascal, an English teacher, showed me around the school! I got to see the student kitchens and the American bar. It was great. <br />
<br />
He invited me to dinner with him and his girlfriend Carolyn who is a former American assistant and is now living in France. They are the nicest people and so glad to have met them - so generous and fun!<br />
But before we headed to their house, we stopped by his friend Dider's patisserie - which is probs the best in the city! And Dider gave me a tour of his kitchen!!! It was so awesome!! Dider is a wonderful, happy, and full of life kind of man and gave me a bag of chocolates and gave us macroons (chocolate and expresso)! Plus, he is having a cooking class at the first of November about macroons and yes, I definitely plan to go!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wGQylS-BxnA/UG61QQi-LBI/AAAAAAAAAJc/L3YiyzrIGGM/s1600/IMG_9651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wGQylS-BxnA/UG61QQi-LBI/AAAAAAAAAJc/L3YiyzrIGGM/s320/IMG_9651.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bag of chocolates - so divine!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For dinner, we made a traditional and very local meal of potatoes and morteau sausage (very large sausage) topped with Mont d'Or cheese. Now let me tell you a little about this cheese. First of all, it is like heaven. So it comes in a round wooden crate that is specially carved from the trunks of cheese. Then you wrap the base of it in aluminum, cut a hole out of the top of the cheese and pour in white wine. Then bake in oven on about 350 for about 20-25 minutes til golden brown on top. Then you pour the cheese on top of the potatoes and sausage. Oh my word. Can you say French Soul Food. It was so delicious. Plus, they said the cheese is also very good cold or served on bread!<br />
<br />Now to the alcohol we had. First I had a Belgium Beer - Leffe. It was a light beer and very good, I recommend trying it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E6IwJNw_NE4/UG62lwsKm5I/AAAAAAAAAJk/zUa4dNylsvs/s1600/leffe_beer_bottle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E6IwJNw_NE4/UG62lwsKm5I/AAAAAAAAAJk/zUa4dNylsvs/s200/leffe_beer_bottle.jpg" width="74" /></a></div>
Then for dinner we had a wonderful, local Chardonnay. A very good, full-bodied wine made by a 91 year old man named Aime Rodet who lives right down the road. This Chardonnary had more of a nutty taste, and man oh man, so fantastic! I hope to visit his vineyard soon.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lZxjI5ETLto/UG63IfNFEII/AAAAAAAAAJs/-R-Q3uVqjTk/s1600/IMG_9650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lZxjI5ETLto/UG63IfNFEII/AAAAAAAAAJs/-R-Q3uVqjTk/s320/IMG_9650.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Chardonnay I had for dinner</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This weekend, some assistants and I are going to visit Lons-le-Saunier and go to a wine and food fest in Arbois and may even do a bit of hiking! I can't wait!!Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-71619849919982830712012-10-05T03:13:00.001-07:002012-10-05T03:13:12.825-07:00<br />
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Hello again!<br />
I have so much to talk about since my last post! So I'm going to make 2 posts!<br />
So as I said, I went Besancon for my orientation. It was a very long and overwhelming day and I have to say my oh my do the French love their paperwork - I have so much to fill out! However, it was fantastic to finally meet other assistants in my region and also meet Bianca and Jess - 2 girls I had been talking to on facebook before I arrived! And Besancon was a much bigger city than Poligny, they actually had real stores and an actual museum - not just one for cheese like here haha. It's only about 1h30 minutes from Poligny and a cool city!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-moof27uNTA8/UG6tGCNTaxI/AAAAAAAAAIM/awpVYwPgNWo/s1600/IMG_9539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-moof27uNTA8/UG6tGCNTaxI/AAAAAAAAAIM/awpVYwPgNWo/s320/IMG_9539.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Besancon</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The next day was a free day for me and absolutely a gorgeous day in Poligny -finally a little warmer and sunny!! So naturally I had to go on a walk and soak up the sun! I had my roommate Lina go with me and we just meandered around Poligny for a while! The natural beauty of this area is absolutely breathtaking and I have to keep telling myself that this is real life - I am actually living in a quaint, movie like, French town!! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2_5EB_katrc/UG6uRFSs97I/AAAAAAAAAIY/KIaCHdwtznY/s1600/IMG_9552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2_5EB_katrc/UG6uRFSs97I/AAAAAAAAAIY/KIaCHdwtznY/s320/IMG_9552.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NKijVTlF_uA/UG6uXd8ujlI/AAAAAAAAAIg/vcopHmbCoJo/s1600/IMG_9588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NKijVTlF_uA/UG6uXd8ujlI/AAAAAAAAAIg/vcopHmbCoJo/s320/IMG_9588.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TMxCH39HoZA/UG6ueGFopII/AAAAAAAAAIo/rsMBHipWHNI/s1600/IMG_9589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TMxCH39HoZA/UG6ueGFopII/AAAAAAAAAIo/rsMBHipWHNI/s320/IMG_9589.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N46EhIICVmA/UG6umNnc2KI/AAAAAAAAAIw/JJXSgoImnMU/s1600/IMG_9609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N46EhIICVmA/UG6umNnc2KI/AAAAAAAAAIw/JJXSgoImnMU/s320/IMG_9609.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Gorgeous right?! I wish you could all be here with me!!<br />
<br />
But after this oh so tiring walk, Lina and I went to a wine tasting at the <a href="http://www.chateau-bethanie.fr/fr/index.php" target="_blank">Caveau des Jacobins</a>, which is a wine cave literally 1 minute from the apartment!<br />
This wine cave is inside an old church and there were giant barrels of wine along the corridor. It created a cool atmosphere honestly - highlighting the link between history and wine. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jr0nrp6PKvY/UG6v9aJnnOI/AAAAAAAAAI4/HB8oMHFh2LQ/s1600/IMG_9644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jr0nrp6PKvY/UG6v9aJnnOI/AAAAAAAAAI4/HB8oMHFh2LQ/s320/IMG_9644.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CM3YlExtTaA/UG6wDKp_E7I/AAAAAAAAAJA/JwyMWjP5i38/s1600/IMG_9645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CM3YlExtTaA/UG6wDKp_E7I/AAAAAAAAAJA/JwyMWjP5i38/s320/IMG_9645.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
So since I live so close, I decided just to try the white wine selection that afternoon.<br />
The Chardonnay - quite nice, very drinkable, and very light. It was one of my favorites from today. It is from the area - Arbois - which is the town over.<br />
Bethanie - a mix of chardonnay and sauvignon. It had a very odd taste to me. Can't quite describe it, more acidic maybe. Not my favorite but the lady said it went well with Comte cheese (the cheese of this area) - naturally hah<br />
Vin Jaune - a very specific wine only in this region! It has an intersting story behind it. So it stays in the barrel for 6 years and 3 months - yes 6 years. And on February 2 there have a festival called <span class="st">Percée du <em>Vin Jaune</em> - literally meaning to piece the barrel of the wine and many wine vendors from all over the area come and you get to tour around and try all the wine. Trust me, I will be attending. Anyways, the vin jaune is also in a different size bottle than normal wines. </span><br />
<span class="st">I liked that taste of this wine, it also had a bit of a nutty taste. Quite nice but a little heavier. Every bottle is different. I tried one from Arbois and one from Cotes du Jura and I preferred the Cote de Jura better... same year, just different land. </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wa6WT4NhmMI/UG6yWZQtPII/AAAAAAAAAJI/sTaBVLhsS8s/s1600/vin_jaune_img_9878.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wa6WT4NhmMI/UG6yWZQtPII/AAAAAAAAAJI/sTaBVLhsS8s/s1600/vin_jaune_img_9878.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vin Jaune - different type of bottle</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="st"> Anyways, I plan to make several more stops at the Cave! </span><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span>Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-80382599037309093272012-10-01T03:33:00.000-07:002012-10-01T03:33:00.682-07:00My birthday in FranceMy birthday (September 28) occurred on my 2nd day in France, my 2nd day in Poligny. It was definitely a different kind of birthday!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lSNrqy_tp2M/UGlssJ4TWMI/AAAAAAAAAHc/bnyojG7z9FY/s1600/IMG_9487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lSNrqy_tp2M/UGlssJ4TWMI/AAAAAAAAAHc/bnyojG7z9FY/s320/IMG_9487.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from my seat at the bar on my bday</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SLRdZYoo8Ys/UGls0qA1IVI/AAAAAAAAAHk/chf9_froTI4/s1600/IMG_9486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SLRdZYoo8Ys/UGls0qA1IVI/AAAAAAAAAHk/chf9_froTI4/s320/IMG_9486.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">another view - center of the city</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I woke up, it was a brilliant sunny day - not a cloud in the sky!! Thank goodness! I needed some sunshine!<br />
<br />
So my birthday happen to fall on a friday this year, and in Poligny, every Monday and Friday mornings they have a little fresh market in the center of the city. There are about 5 different vendors selling anything from organic oats, local breads, cheeses, and honey, to fresh fish. It is quite quaint. I bought myself an almond croissant - mmmm it was divine and a perfect start to the day.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mjw65inOTec/UGlwd66YT2I/AAAAAAAAAH8/2DIVPD3YHNE/s1600/photo%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mjw65inOTec/UGlwd66YT2I/AAAAAAAAAH8/2DIVPD3YHNE/s1600/photo%25284%2529.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almond croissant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
For lunch, Francoise took me out to lunch at a nearby restaurant and gave me a jar of her homemade Coing fruit - which is like a type of pear.<br />
<br />The lunch was delicious. We sat outside on the patio and dined.<br />
Let me begin with what I ate and then I shall discuss the wine...<br />
<br />
I had a Tortillas Jambon - which was basically ham and comte cheese (Poligny is the capital of comte cheese. ie divine) nestled between 2 warm crepes. It came with a simple salad of greens, cubs of ham and cheese, and topped with a light vinaigrette. Oh it was so good and my first real French meal since I had arrived.<br />
<br />
The wine, oh the wine. I let Francoise order it since I want to try everything unique to this area as possible. We got a pitcher of wine - enough for 2 glasses per person. The wine is called - <b>Sauterne</b>.<br />
It is a specialty of this area and is something not to miss out on here. It is a white wine, but has a very strong nutty flavor. And when I say nutty, I mean nutty. It is quite good and very different. I plan to drink several bottles while I am here. haha<br />
<br />
Then for dinner, I invited my roommate and her Asian friend to go out to dinner at the same restaurant. I mean it was good at lunch and there are not a lot of options here - it is a very very small town! Like think of Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls small.<br />
Let me preference my saying that this was a divine eating experience.<br />
<br />
I chose the Menu Terrain - which was a set menu and cost only 21 euros for 3 courses.<br />
It included:<br />
Salad Comtoise - which was a salad of green bib lettuce, topped with hard boiled egg slices, tomatoes, pecans, cubs on ham and comte cheese, and a light vinaigrette. C'est tres bon.<br />
<br />
Truite au vin jaune - which was the main course and amazing. It was trout cooked in vin jaune (a special wine of the area) accompanied with a medley of sauteed vegetables ( all in season of course) a roasted potato halve, and a roasted tomatoe topped with bread crumbs. I ate every single bite on that plate. And since it was my bday, the cook even made me a flower out of carrot :)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HiJUexemTaM/UGlwb5HoWVI/AAAAAAAAAH0/N0Rxah-Cus4/s1600/photo2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HiJUexemTaM/UGlwb5HoWVI/AAAAAAAAAH0/N0Rxah-Cus4/s1600/photo2.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The main dish of trout - notice my birthday flower</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Molton chocolate cake - the dessert. Oh my. So amazing. It was a warm chocolate moulton cake accompanied with 2 dollops of freshly whipped cream topped with nuts and a side of raspberry glaze. I wanted to lick my plate it was so good!!<br />
<br />
<br />
As for the wine, I asked the waiter for his best recommendations. So I had a glass of the house Chardonnay since it is a dry wine that goes best with fish. But he even brought me a second glass of the Sauterne wine since he wanted me just to try it out. Ah I love the French love of wine!<br />
<br />
I shall update again soon! Right now I am sitting outside the bar, sipping on a warm cup of tea,the sun is shining, and I'm watching the townspeople pursue the local market. <br />
I'm headed to Besancon this afternoon for training and can't wait to share about that experience!!<br />
<br />
Til then!<br />
<br />
<br />Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-23445953479550306062012-10-01T03:10:00.001-07:002012-10-01T03:10:38.954-07:00Yes, I am alive and finally here!Hello Everyone!<br />
<br />
Well today is my 6th day in France and what a whirlwind it has been. Today is the first day I have been able to access internet on my computer. Whew what an ordeal and man do I realize how much I need internet!!<br />
<br />
Anyways, I finally made it to France after 2 long and exhausting days of travel - especially the second day when I had to lug my 3 bags - 2 rollers and my backpack. Man I was quite a spectacle. One older gentleman even asked me if all the luggage was mine and in my response he says, you are quite strong, quite strong haha well I guess so...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oLzcUkxFkrs/UGlqPd4am6I/AAAAAAAAAHM/74PtO9gjhio/s1600/photo(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oLzcUkxFkrs/UGlqPd4am6I/AAAAAAAAAHM/74PtO9gjhio/s1600/photo(3).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All my luggage- I looked like a pack mule</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
When I arrived it was rainy and cold, but my contact at the school - the wonderful Francoise - came and picked me up at the train station. I couldn't have been happier to see a trustworthy and nice person!<br />
She let me stay at her apartment in Arbois, which is about 10 minutes away from Poligny and prepared a simple, but tasty dinner of a tuna, cheese and tomato quiche, a salad, an apple tart, and wine (of course) from Arbois! It was tasty!<br />
<br />
The next day, she took me to the school and I met a lot of people, all very nice, but let me be honest, it was quite a blur and a tad overwhelming! But never the less, it seems to be a wonderful place to be an assistant. I look forward to teaching soon!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rg7fHYfWNHY/UGlqziynOEI/AAAAAAAAAHU/DRR9wJAYKUo/s1600/IMG_9488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rg7fHYfWNHY/UGlqziynOEI/AAAAAAAAAHU/DRR9wJAYKUo/s320/IMG_9488.JPG" width="320" /> </a></td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The front of the school</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Then we went to go check out my living accomodations. Let me be honest, it's quite sparse, but it is big. I have a little bitty kitchen with a college size fridge, 2 burners, a toaster oven, and a hot water maker. And the school lent me kitchen stuff like cutlery, plates, etc..<br />
The heat isn't turned out yet, and I have been quite cold! I bundle up in a lot of blankets haha France is definitely colder than Memphis Tennessee - that's for sure!<br />
But hey, at least I have a place to stay for not an exorbitant amount of money!!<br />
There is also no wifi yet in the appartment (hope to get that soon) but I found wifi at the bar -<br />
I've become a regular customer. Haha <br />
<br />
Overall, it is a very charming city filled with lots of old time character and delicious food!<br />
My next post, which will be about my birthday, is basically dedicated to all the food I ate haha<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47673808388900441.post-50407566211289677472012-08-08T13:41:00.001-07:002012-08-08T13:41:36.260-07:00Eat Well. Travel Often.Bonjour mes amis! <br />
So here it goes. My first blog. I'm hoping to use this blog as a way to share with you about my musings, adventures, and of course, all the food I get to enjoy while I will be living in FRANCE for the next 7 months! <br />
<br />
So pour yourself a glass of wine and let me start by telling you how this journey all came about: <br />
Ever since I was little, I have been enamored with travel and other cultures. After my freshman year at Auburn, I got to study abroad to Italy, France, England, and Scotland. Let me just say, my fervor for travel only increased. I was addicted. Then I got the fabulous opportunity to study abroad in Paris for a month the following July. I knew from then on that I must get back to France. Not only was I in love with the culture, but the food, the lifestyle, the language, the history - everything. When my French professor suggested I apply to be an English Teaching Assistant in France, I thought, why not. I am young, unattached, and when else in my life would I be so free. With my professors, family, and friends' wonderful support, I applied both to the French program as well as the Fulbright program this past October. For the next 7 months, I took part in a long waiting game, just waiting to hear anything from the French. Finally, one day in late May on my way to work, I got the email. I was accepted to the program! I was so happy I started crying! It was such a huge wave of relief! My dream became a reality. Not only was I going to be a French Teaching Assistant, I was also a Fulbright Scholar for Auburn! My life was surreal. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LPCqqKkKhMQ/UCLIBewpTaI/AAAAAAAAAEk/uqdq4NOgv40/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-08-08+at+3.10.44+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LPCqqKkKhMQ/UCLIBewpTaI/AAAAAAAAAEk/uqdq4NOgv40/s320/Screen+shot+2012-08-08+at+3.10.44+PM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The school - Lycee Hyacinthe Friant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I got placed in Poligny France to be an English Teaching Assistant at the high school - Lycee Hyacinthe Fraint, which is an internationally renowned hotel and catering school!<br />
God is definitely smiling down on me and man oh man did He teach me a thing about being patient.<br />
Honestly, what could be more perfect?! I will get to help teach English at a culinary focused school and even get to take some classes there myself! I am so lucky and get to live on campus in a private apartment with my own kitchen and bathroom, whew such a relief!<br />
<br />
The town of Poligny is absolutely gorgeous, honestly like right out of a movie. It's a rural village surrounded by vineyards and mountains in the Franche-Comte region (which produces over 200,000 rounds of my favorite cheese a year and known for their Jura Mountain wines). Even have a<a href="http://www.maison-du-comte.com/" target="_blank"> house of Comte chees</a>e to visit - yes I will be going there. ps, y'all should try Comte cheese - it's divine. <br />
Poligny is very close to Geneva and Lyon - about 1 hour and 30 minutes away from each. Lyon is the gourmet food capital of France, let's just say I'm going to be on a whole other level of foodie heaven. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c7ngoMNo9gs/UCLKL7AK_hI/AAAAAAAAAE8/trwDiAfCPlM/s1600/800px-Poligny_%28Jura%29_Church.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c7ngoMNo9gs/UCLKL7AK_hI/AAAAAAAAAE8/trwDiAfCPlM/s320/800px-Poligny_%28Jura%29_Church.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Main church in Poligny</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gudnnFGX8yA/UCLK23YX9II/AAAAAAAAAFE/qeAwqqwy3tI/s1600/POLIGNY+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gudnnFGX8yA/UCLK23YX9II/AAAAAAAAAFE/qeAwqqwy3tI/s320/POLIGNY+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poligny, France. Can't wait to stroll around here!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J9TcWKLtrcw/UCLHhnTfbDI/AAAAAAAAAEc/FaNliZGgECs/s1600/carte_situation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J9TcWKLtrcw/UCLHhnTfbDI/AAAAAAAAAEc/FaNliZGgECs/s1600/carte_situation.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Click <a href="http://www.ville-poligny.fr/visites.php#" target="_blank">here</a> to see an awesome 360 tour of Poligny, worth it!<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J9TcWKLtrcw/UCLHhnTfbDI/AAAAAAAAAEc/FaNliZGgECs/s1600/carte_situation.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></a><br />
Back to the teaching part of my program... I will be an assistant to English teachers at the school. I will be sharing things about American culture, holidays, food, restaurants, basically anything about America. My students will be 14 to 23 year olds - keep in mind that I will be turning 23 the end of September and I look young for my age haha I sure do hope they like me! I work 12 hours a week and have 5 weeks of paid vacation! Pretty cool huh? Let's just say I plan to do a LOT of traveling around Europe! Please give me any suggestions of places to visit - I'd love that!<br />
<br />
So in about a month, I will be saying au revoir not only to my family and all my wonderful friends, but also to American food, lifestyle, and culture. I am nervous but thrilled beyond words. I know that this journey I am about to embark upon will be a wonderfully life changing opportunity.<br />
<br />
I promise all my posts won't be this long, probably will be mostly pictures of food and European discoveries!<br />
<br />
Til' next time :)<br />
<br />
<br />Hannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568980994180041679noreply@blogger.com3