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Thursday, February 9, 2012

The Latest from the FlipKey Blog

Get your drink on in New Orleans with craft brewery and distillery tours

Posted: 08 Feb 2012 10:41 AM PST

Today we are featuring Glen Abbott, a freelance travel writer/photographer based in New Orleans. He covers motorcycle touring for Harley-Davidson's HOG magazine, and writes a weekly column on New Orleans life and culture for www.nolavie.com. You can follow Glen on his blog at www.TravelinGringo.com.

You might not realize it from a stroll down Bourbon Street, but there's more to New Orleans' drinking scene than just Hurricanes, Hand Grenades, and Huge Ass Beers.

Locals and insiders know the city offers some high-quality alternatives to the mass-produced swill offered by mega-brewers and distillers – unless that's what you're looking for, of course (and lots of people must be, judging from the staggering amount – pardon the pun – of such beverages consumed here).

But if you're looking for a break from the craziness, cacophony, and chaos of the French Quarter, here are a couple of suggestions, each just a short cab ride away: one is a microbrewery tour, the other a craft rum distillery. Both are places you can still get your drink on – through generous sampling opportunities – and you just may learn something in the process, if you haven't already destroyed too many valuable brain cells.

NOLA Brewing Co.

Before NOLA Brewing started production several years ago, opportunities to find a locally brewed beer in the Big Easy were limited. By 2005, local stalwarts like Jax, Regal, Dixie, and Falstaff had either closed their doors or moved production elsewhere.

Brewer and entrepreneur Kirk Coco was determined to change that. "I said, somebody needs to open a brewery in the city again," says Coco. "It's not right that I'm drinking a beer made in Wisconsin. On the bottle it says 'Dixie New Orleans, Brewed and Bottled in Wisconsin.' Ugh!"

By 2009, Coco's NOLA Brewing Co. was up and running, filling a niche for Crescent City beer lovers with its outstanding local craft brews.

"We're brewing beers of a complexity and taste that can be paired with those wonderful foods that we have in New Orleans," Coco says.

NOLA produces four flagship brews, and four seasonal varieties. My favorite is the hoppy and flavorful Hopitoulas IPA, but you can decide for yourself with ample sampling opportunities on NOLA's once-a-week Friday afternoon tour.

The free – let me repeat: "FREE" – tour is offered only at 2:00 pm each Friday.

Make sure you arrive before 2:15, though, because due to the brewery's limited space, that's when the doors close, and you'll be shut out until the next week's tour.

So get there early, and enjoy!

NOLA Brewing Co.

3001 Tchoupitoulas St.

New Orleans, LA 70130

Phone: 504-613-7727

http://www.nolabrewing.com/

Public Tours: Fridays 2:00 pm (free, no reservations required)

Celebration Distillation: Old New Orleans Rum

If you like the harder stuff, N'Awlins also is home to a small batch, artisan rum distillery. Who knew?

Celebration Distillation – better known as the makers of Old New Orleans Rum – is tucked away in a warehouse in the city's Gentilly neighborhood, and offers public tours six days a week.

Founded in 1995 by local artist James Michalopoulos, Celebration has the distinction of being the oldest continually operating premium rum distillery in the continental United States.

In addition to traditional rum varieties, the company is known for its signature Cajun Spice Rum.

"There's chicory in there, there's cayenne pepper, there's dried ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and a couple other spices that we…throw into the infusion tank," General Manager Parker Schonekas says. "There's nothing artificial about it, you can taste almost like an earthy taste to it, but there's a spiciness and then a sweetness from the rum."

Tours are offered Mondays through Fridays at 12:00, 2:00, and 4:00 pm, and on Saturdays at 2:00 and 4:00 pm. You can save a few bucks on cab fare by calling 'em in advance to reserve complimentary van pickup at designated times and locations in the Quarter.

Please note, Celebration's tours are NOT free – the cost is $10 per person – but that cost includes a rum drink at the beginning of the tour and rum sampling at the end.

"It's a very reasonable price, it takes about an hour, and you get a good amount of booze while you're on it!" says Schonekas with a hearty laugh.

Sounds like a no-brainer, right?

Celebration Distillation – Old New Orleans Rum

2815 Frenchmen St.

New Orleans, LA 70122

504-945-9400

http://www.neworleansrum.com/

Public tours: M-F 12:00, 2:00, and 4:00 pm./Sat. 2:00 and 4:00 pm ($10 per person)

No reservations necessary — show up at distillery or call in advance for free pickup in the French Quarter

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

The Latest from the FlipKey Blog

New Orleans With Kids

Posted: 07 Feb 2012 08:55 AM PST

by: Jenn and Hannah Miller

Rolling into NOLA during Mardi Gras, the day of the Saints’ Superbowl Parade with a van full of kids might not seem like the height of good family travel planning, and to tell the truth, it wasn’t. It was a complete accident! Nonetheless, it was one of the best travel experiences our family has had and one our kids are not likely to forget!

Where to Stay:
There are lots of options in NOLA and most of them are either booked solid or extremely pricey during Mardi Gras. Our favorite option, no matter where in the world we’re traveling is to rent a house or an apartment. When we discovered that fully furnished & equipped rentals were available anywhere in the world for far less than a hotel stay with our four kids, it revolutionized our travel experience. FlipKey has 24 rentals available in New Orleans, in case you were wondering! Whether you’re a family of two or ten, you’ll find one that fits! The ability to cook for yourself, is an added money saving bonus with kids!

Parades:
Perhaps you’re a better advance planner than I am and you’d like to scope out some parades that are “more beads, less boobies” for your children to enjoy. I can’t say I blame you. The big parades are a “culturally broadening experience,” to be sure, but not one every kid is ready for!

The Mardi Gras parade schedule will help you find one that’s just right. The outlying towns around New Orleans often have community parades that start earlier, are mercifully shorter, and still pack a “wow” punch for the younger set. We can personally recommend Metairie’s parades as family friendly and lots of fun! Even Mama caught some beads without embarrassing herself!

What to Eat:
There is no shortage of food, quantity or variety, in New Orleans and even more so during Mardi Gras. Be prepared to spend $40 for a family dinner of chicken-on-a-stick from street vendors downtown during the big parades. When you’re tired of eating on your feet, find yourself a good seafood shack and order a whole pile of crawfish. Do yourself a favor and befriend a local for a colorful lesson in how to “properly” eat them. The quote that will live forever in our family: “A real local isn’t afraid to suck the head.” I kid you not.

After a parade there’s nothing like a late night round of beignes. Cafe du Monde might be cliche, but it’s also famous for a reason. If your sweet tooth still isn’t satisfied, stop by any grocery store and buy an enormous King Cake and let the kids fight over who gets the baby Jesus.

What to See:
The parades are a big draw, but they happen after dark. What’s a family to do all day?

Don’t miss Mardi Gras World, a behind the scenes look at the art and craft that makes the magic of Mardi Gras. Your kids will love learning about how the floats are made and taking a peek “behind the curtain.”

Take a Streetcar ride! Only $1.25 a ticket, it’s a great way to see the town and travel kid style! Hop on on Saint Charles Street and ride through the garden district. You can get off at the Audubon Zoo!

The Riverwalk Marketplace is a great place to pick up some souvenirs, grab a quick bite, or just let the kids wander and burn off some steam when they need to. There are lots of family friendly shops, and perhaps you’ll even find the kids a Mardi Gras mask to wear to the parade that night!

Save Some Money:
Traveling with kids is never cheap! This site has all sorts of coupons for food, lodging and attractions in and around New Orleans to make your family visit kinder on the wallet. This one lists 16 separate deals or coupons that will save on everything from airport parking to zoo admission.

New Orleans during Mardi Gras with kids is a blast. True, a different kind of blast than when you were in college, but unforgettable, nonetheless. Watching my 14 year old daughter catch her first set of beads from the enormous floats (fully clothed) and then laughing hard with her as she learned how MOST girls got theirs was priceless. If you’ve got kids, why not take them to the biggest party America has to offer?

A dynamic mother-daughter duo of travel writers, Jenn & Hannah are in their fourth year of an open ended world tour. Their partners in crime are Dad & 3 brothers and together they are http://www.edventureproject.com

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

The Latest from the FlipKey Blog

Deals of the Week: Valentine’s Specials!

Posted: 06 Feb 2012 12:45 PM PST

Stuck on what to get your Valentine this year? How about a romantic weekend away with nothing but privacy, relaxation, and your loved one? Pack up your box of chocolates and allow these deals to warm your heart for Valentine’s Day.

15% off your total stay

Take a Scottish getaway with your significant other and relax in the Mount lodge log cabin. The red cedar bath, large walk in shower, and heart shaped wash basins will add the perfect touch for your romantic time away.

20% off your total stay

This Portuguese beach house has everything you need for a romantic weekend away. Enjoy candlelit dinners overlooking the ocean, take a quick dip in your private swimming pool just before bed, and let the relaxation sink in.

10% off your total stay

Head to the privacy of this Tuscan Villa le Capanne and be swept away by the beauty of the surrounding nature. Enjoy a glass of wine from your private pool as you and your loved one gaze at the magnificent sunset.

25% off your total stay

Cozy up at the base of the San Juan Mountains and enjoy an area perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. A hiker’s dream and skiier’s paradise, this country home will leave you charmed. After a day of adventure take advantage of the on site hot tub and massage.

20% off your total stay

This luxury condo is ideal for two ski-bunnies looking for a romantic and ski filled vacation. Delight in the convenience of being only a short walk away from the chair lift with two free ski passes.

Saturday, February 4, 2012

The Latest from the FlipKey Blog

Photo Friday: Traveler Photo-Big Bear Lake, CA

Posted: 03 Feb 2012 01:57 PM PST

Thanks to Brenda P, who submitted this great Big Bear Lake photo via Facebook. This photo was taken on a summer hike where travelers are able to take the chair lift to the summit where there is a BBQ and lots of cold drinks. If you are feeling up to it you can then hike down the mountain. Have a wonderful weekend!

Friday, February 3, 2012

The Latest from the FlipKey Blog

Valentine’s Day Getaways: Five Romantic Escapes

Posted: 02 Feb 2012 06:41 AM PST

If you’re like me you get the winter blues by mid-February. A mid-winter escape has long been part of my annual travel schedule and Valentine’s Day creates the perfect excuse (if you need one!) to grab the Love of your life and run away for a few days, or a few weeks! Here are five suggestions to put a little heat in your blood!

The Mayan Riviera, Mexico:
A quick search of “Mayan Riviera” on Flipkey will turn up hundreds of hideaways for you and your honey. Renting an apartment is often so much cheaper than a hotel, and much more private too! If you want to rent a hut on the beach, with the ocean lapping at your front door, you’ll love Paamul. Be sure to schedule a SCUBA trip with SCUBAMex for some of the very best diving on the entire coast. If you’re very lucky, you might even see a whale shark! When you’ve had enough hiding in your hut or wandering the beach head inland and visit some ruins. Chichen-Itza and Tulum are obvious and well touristed, but if you want a secluded, off the beaten track adventure, head for Coba, wander the jungle and climb to the top of the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan, Nohoc-Mul, one of the only pyramids you can still climb. It’s the perfect place to share a special kiss!

Tobacco Caye, Belize:
There are no vacation rentals on Tobacco Caye, it’s an entirely privately owned island. However, there are family run bed & breakfasts and cabanas overlooking the sea to be had for a song. For about $50 USD you’ll find lodging, including three meals a day. Spend your days hanging in a hammock, snorkeling in the sapphire blue sea (the island is situated in a marine preserve) or sipping a beer with the locals at the tiny thatched roofed bar at the end of the island. Would you like to catch an enormous barracuda, or snorkel with manatees, or tour the mangrove dotted islands and see the frigate birds mating? Look up “AC,” he and Julie run the fishing guide service on the Caye. Our favorite place to stay is Lana’s On The Reef. She’s the “Grandma” of the island, a phenomenal cook, her place is very clean and has a homey atmosphere.

Lago de Atitlan, Guatemala:
Finding a vacation rental on the Lago won’t be hard, and plane tickets in the winter are surprisingly affordable! A serious contender for my favorite place in the world, Lago de Atitlan is a sapphire jewel set in the top of the world. I dare you to be anything but bewitched by it. It’s listed as one of the top ten lakes to visit in the world and in my book, it’s solidly number one. Do you like to party? Stay in San Pedro. Make sure you catch the Sunday BBQ at La Piscina and order the Thai Green Curry at D’Noz, upstairs by the boat docks. Want to get away from it all? Stay in San Marcos. Catch some live music at Paco Real, order the Lentil Curry at Fe & be sure to go see Carlos at Blind Lemon’s for the best blues on the Lago.

Hawaii, USA:
Is there any better place to escape the cold with a Lover? I think not! Vacation rentals abound and February is high season! For a romantic getaway and escape, we prefer Maui’s gentle groove and the quite “back side” of the island is best. Make sure to see the humpback whales & spend an afternoon watching the surfers on ho’okipa beach. If you want to splurge on a weekend you’ll never forget, check yourselves into the Four Season’s Hualalai on the Big Island and lose yourself in the decadence. As a side note: do this last, moving from five star luxury to a self catering apartment on Oahu is a let down, trust me!

Big Bear, California, USA
It’s not warm, but it’s plenty cozy, and at least half of the fun is making your own heat! Big Bear, California is one of those places that begs a visit with a Lover. Whether you’re into skiing, adventure, or long massages and soaks in spa pools, you’ll find it here. Be sure to take advantage of the special “couples” packages over the holiday week. If you’re on the West Coast, it’s a short trip that will feel worlds away from your daily grind and be just the adventure you need to recharge your batteries and your love life!

Thursday, February 2, 2012

The Latest from the FlipKey Blog

Taste the Love with Organic and Fair Trade Chocolate

Posted: 01 Feb 2012 08:24 AM PST

This Valentine’s Day, celebrating couples (or anyone, really) can feed their love of chocolate the ethical way with fair trade and organic chocolate. For the uninitiated, “fair trade” refers to goods that are produced under fair labor standards and with workers receiving fair wages at all stages of the process. Since cacao only grows well in tropical climates, it’s important that standards are in place so that we can trust in the process from afar. “Organic” refers to the lack of harmful chemicals used in the growing process. Both standards are worth considering when selecting the best chocolatey gift for your loved one.

Consider taking your valentine on a tour of a socially responsible chocolate manufacturer. In Seattle, Theo Chocolate makes organic, fair trade treats. Take a tour any day of the week for $6, and learn about where the cacao comes from, the difference between milk chocolate and dark chocolate, how chocolate is tempered, how truffles are made, and more. Then taste test all the varieties of chocolate in the store, and buy your sweetie his or her favorite bar.

Based in San Francisco, TCHO is a socially responsible business dedicated to a “no slavery” policy in sourcing its cacao. This company offers free daily tours of its factory, where you can learn about TCHO’s partnerships with farmers and how the raw beans turn into chocolate bars. Afterwards, visit the factory store for chocolate drinks and samples.

In Boston (Somerville, to be exact), Taza Chocolate makes organic chocolate and is committed to other environmentally sustainable standards. Factory tours are offered five days a week for $5 per person, but note that you will only see chocolate being made during weekday tours. Compare tastes with the free samples in the store, and then buy your date some artisanal treats.

And in Brooklyn, New York, the Mast Brothers Chocolate factory gives tours for about $10. Mast Brothers partners with small, cooperative farms that produce organic cacao. The end result is artfully packaged bars that make beautiful gifts, as well other fresh treats that you can try at the tasting room, open six days a week.

Besides factory tours, you could also attend chocolate tastings in other settings. Look for events that pair beer and chocolate, or wine and chocolate, to bring bliss to your taste buds and minds during your Valentine’s Day date.

During San Francisco Beer Week this year, the schedule includes plenty of chocolate-themed events, especially since the festival overlaps with Valentine’s Day. Sign up for an event where you can make your own chocolates using ingredients brought from home, or pair TCHO chocolate with craft beer and artisanal cheese.

In New York City on February 9, d.b.a. and Mast Brothers are coming together for a craft beer and artisanal chocolate tasting event. The creative mixtures of bitter, sweet, salty, nutty, and fruity flavors on your palates will give you and your sweetheart something deep to discuss.

Or, if you can’t find a chocolate tasting near you, consider hosting your own chocolate tasting to educate yourself and friends about the most ethical ways to produce and buy chocolate. This guide from the Global Cocoa Project includes details on how to pair wine and chocolate and how to engage all of your sense while tasting chocolate.

Joanna Eng is a New York-based writer and editor who covers travel, green living, food, careers, entrepreneurship, and more. Her travel experiences have ranged from hostel hopping in Mexico to staying with distant relatives in China to renting a beach apartment in New Jersey.

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

The Latest from the FlipKey Blog

Big Bear Lake – Southern California’s Getaway Destination

Posted: 31 Jan 2012 08:57 AM PST

Today we are featuring Tim Breunig, a Big Bear Lake expert. Tim Breunig, with his wife Tamara, is co-owner of the United Wood Craftsmen Gallery. Tim's blog, explorebigbearlake.com is a current and up-to-date look at shopping, dining, events for Big Bear Lake Getaway and Leisure Travel Visitors.

Big Bear Lake gets a lot of mention on southland TV news in the way of snow and ski conditions in the winter months but what you don't hear about, and that consistently surprises many visitors, is just how much there is to do here that is not related to winter sports. A virtual Getaway Paradise in your own backyard, perfect for families and couples looking for clean air and blue skies in a lakeside alpine forest environment less than 3 hours driving from San Diego or Los Angeles.

Getting to Big Bear Lake from anywhere in Southern California is easy by car on one of the 3 highways into the Bear Valley. For pilots, Big Bear Lake has a 5000 foot runway at its Municipal Airport. The drive from San Bernardino or Redlands is absolutely inspiring as you climb in altitude from the coastal desert landscape to the heavily treed alpine forest. Big Bear Lake is located in the Bear Valley of the San Bernardino Mountains and sits at more than 6,700 feet above sea level. More than 18,000 people call the Bear Valley home.

A great place for the outdoor enthusiast, Big Bear offers visitors great Boating, Fishing, Hiking, Biking, Kayaking and Standup Paddle Boarding. Think you can paddle with the best? Then don't miss the annual Big Bear Lake Paddlefest in late July. If you're looking for a little less demanding experience on the lake, try a paddlewheel boat tour or rent your own boat at Pine Knot Marina located on the lake's south shore, in the Village.

If you're considering when to visit Big Bear, you need to know that the busiest months are July and August for sure. However, the really great weather starts in early June and really runs well into late October and even early November. So if a little less stress and more choices and enjoyment are important, I would recommend booking your getaway in the off-peak months, June, September and October.

The Changing Face of Big Bear's Alpine Experience

Copper Q Shop

Shopping has really never been better than today in the Village, Big Bear Lake's retail shopping and dining district. With its many shops, galleries and restaurants, the Village offers something for everybody and there's always lots of free parking in the Bartlett and Indian Village public parking lots.

Big Bear Lake destination events start this year in May with the Amgen Tour of California Stage 6 Finish, The Big Bear Climb. June is the Big Bear Lake Summer Jazztrax Festival, a 2 day music event held on the beach at the Marina Resort in the Village. In July events include the Pine Knot Village Artwalk, Big Bear Lake Paddlefest and the Chili Cook Off.

August events are the Big Bear Lake Classic Car Show and the Cowboy Gathering. In September Big Bear Lake is home to Southern California's premiere International Film Festival and October is Big Bear's 42 annual Oktoberfest Celebration.

When it comes to dining out, Big Bear Lake has a number of fine restaurants to choose from. In the Village, Big Bear's Best includes the Peppercorn Grill, The Himalayan, El Jacalito and Sweet Basil Bistro.

Black Diamond Tavern

Big Bear Lake's newest and most exciting dining experience is the Black Diamond Tavern on Moonridge Rd. Proprietors Daniel and Jessica Miller have brought their considerable restaurant and food service skills and applied them well at their new restaurant. Redefining the Big Bear Lake dining experience, the Black Tavern's dining rooms have a comfortable, warm and relaxed décor and there is a sharp focus on service and detail. The seasonal comfort food menu and extensive wine list is perfect for Big Bear and the Cocktail Bar is maybe the best on the mountain. I recommend reservations at any restaurant on the weekends or if you are on a schedule.

Some of Big Bear's newer offerings include Wine Tasting at Le Dolce Vita Tasting Room and Cocktails at Club Bombay both in the Village and both offering live entertainment on the weekends. New for kids is the Big Bear Funplex with games, laser tag and rides for the little ones.