tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62460491427611034682024-03-14T01:15:04.675-03:00Art de vivre in Southern EuropeAuthentic places - Hotels - Food - WinesBenoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-70825797506002963322010-11-20T08:21:00.000-03:002010-11-20T08:21:10.901-03:00Art de vivre moving to wordpress<div style="text-align: justify;">Dear readers and friends,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">That's it ! I'm done with Blogger. Fed up waiting for google to fix bugs and invest in developing the platform. Any day passing the gap becomes bigger with wordpress. So i've exported my blogger blog to the following URL <a href="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.wordpress.com/">http://artdevivresoutherneurope.wordpress.com/</a> and already started to post new cool stuff. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">With such a powerful tool in hands i hope to be able to publish more often and more importantly propose significantly higher quality. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Find you on wordpress. Share the link as much as you can. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I also take this opportunity to thank you all for reading me. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Best,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Benoît</div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-10761284698017917462010-11-13T05:34:00.000-03:002010-11-13T05:34:51.246-03:001st secret : buying cheese when visiting Paris<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S8YWTJ_Xd-I/AAAAAAAAAWY/vICOGNhzN60/s1600/P1010902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="322" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S8YWTJ_Xd-I/AAAAAAAAAWY/vICOGNhzN60/s400/P1010902.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">We know quite a lot about cheese ! We just can't conceive a meal without it. But that place called "Barthélémy" just knows all about. Plus it's located in one of the nicest area and street of our beloved Paris. The staff could appear to be a bit arrogant sometimes. Which unfortunately is kind of a parisian trademark.<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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TN5L-NRfTkI/AAAAAAAAAlo/ryoZAhmZ8uY/s1600/cheese.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TN5L-NRfTkI/AAAAAAAAAlo/ryoZAhmZ8uY/s400/cheese.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Which one shall i pick ?</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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TN5L6n9bL4I/AAAAAAAAAlk/FDpj3tzFIe8/s1600/cheese+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TN5L6n9bL4I/AAAAAAAAAlk/FDpj3tzFIe8/s400/cheese+2.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't life beautiful ?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Yesterday evening we bought some "raclette" cheese. The swiss one. Very smelly and unctuous. A perfect fit with the terrible weather currently hitting Paris. Count 200 gr per person.<br />
<br />
Barthélemy : 51 rue de grenelle, 75007 Paris. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Another excellent "crémerie" close by is "Quatrehomme", located 62 rue de Sèvres.</div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com051 Rue de Grenelle, 75007 Paris, France48.8545131 2.325696648.8509836 2.3184011 48.8580426 2.3329921000000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-22293010226032423202010-11-05T04:32:00.000-03:002010-11-05T04:32:25.179-03:00Azabu , fine Japanese cuisine in Paris<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Dear Art de vivre readers !</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We only write here when we have something really worth sharing. Yesterday evening we were at <a href="http://maps.google.fr/maps/place?client=safari&rls=en&oe=UTF-8&redir_esc=&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=azabu+paris&fb=1&gl=fr&hq=azabu&hnear=Paris&cid=16063709854747132896">AZABU</a> restaurant, recommended to us lately by a Japanese tea and massage institute. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TNOwrT9PhgI/AAAAAAAAAlY/XCoRKJTRtWU/s1600/Paris+By+night+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TNOwrT9PhgI/AAAAAAAAAlY/XCoRKJTRtWU/s320/Paris+By+night+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paris by night - November 4th 2010</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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TNOws35dfhI/AAAAAAAAAlc/MyFTRYj-qeU/s1600/Paris+by+night+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TNOws35dfhI/AAAAAAAAAlc/MyFTRYj-qeU/s320/Paris+by+night+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What else ?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Azabu's speciality is <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teppanyaki">Teppan Yaki</a>. Thus my first recommendation : book a table at the bar and enjoy looking at the chef cooking ! This is extremely impressive and full of learnings for those of you passionate about technique.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The staff is absolutely wonderful, extremely patient to explain the menu, very delicate and humble. You feel that the client is king at Azabu. For those of you living in Paris, this might be something you've not felt for long ! ;-) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TNOwhnxvySI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/QmwOYHaRJLw/s1600/Comtoir+azabu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TNOwhnxvySI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/QmwOYHaRJLw/s640/Comtoir+azabu.jpg" width="379" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The restaurant is located in the very heart of Saint Germain des près. Once passed the frontdoor, you feel well immediately. A minimalist but warm design. Quiet and peaceful place which extracts you from the everyday rush within seconds. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We both opted for the 39€ menu which is composed of two "mises en bouche", one starter, one main dish and the dessert. Which is given the quality an excellent price/quality ratio in Paris for fine Japanese cuisine.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In disorder we've had Zensay Bento, salmon tartar, Saint-Jacques shells, Filet of turbot, green tea ice cream with red beans purée. An explosion of flavors served by the impeccable freshness of the products used there.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TNOxQdZwlOI/AAAAAAAAAlg/XJLu4Q5xkXk/s1600/Salmon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TNOxQdZwlOI/AAAAAAAAAlg/XJLu4Q5xkXk/s320/Salmon.jpg" width="262" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salmon Tartar<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TNOwkDKaepI/AAAAAAAAAlU/hL9ZRC0rQTs/s1600/Gren+tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TNOwkDKaepI/AAAAAAAAAlU/hL9ZRC0rQTs/s320/Gren+tea.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gren Tea ice cream with red beans</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">All in all a wonderful moment we can only recommend. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>AZABU</u> , 3 rue André-Mazet, 75006 Paris. Tel : 0146337205.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">ENJOY !</div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com03 Rue André Mazet, 75006 Paris, France48.8540193 2.33918548.8504898 2.3318895 48.857548799999996 2.3464805tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-90491107133355164032010-10-21T09:41:00.000-03:002010-10-21T09:41:45.929-03:00Make good things happen : Ulule.com<div style="text-align: justify;">Hello to all of you following us for a couple of months. I normally do not deviate from the "Art de vivre" editorial guideline. But today i would like to let you know about a recently born company and internet crowdfunding platform called <a href="http://www.ulule.com/">Ulule</a>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Better then a long email and pitch explaining what ulule is about, i invite you to take a look at the following video.</div><br />
<object height="225" width="400"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=10257539&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=1&color=&fullscreen=1&autoplay=0&loop=0" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=10257539&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=1&color=&fullscreen=1&autoplay=0&loop=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="225"></embed></object><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">From wherever you are in the world you can post your project and pitch for people to donate and give birth to your ideas. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In those times when the access to micro lending can be very complex and time consuming, Ulule does offer and represent a great alternative to the traditional banking system. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And last but not least, this is not about money or return on investment. This is about helping individuals live their dreams, sharing richness and knowledge. This is the internet i personally like and find useful.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Find below one of the nice projects you can find those days on ulule. If you can not support financially, then just share with your own network. </div><br />
<object height="250" width="300"><param name="movie" value="http://ulule.me/site/img/widget.swf"></param><param name="flashvars" value="src=http://www.ulule.com/green-smoothie-revolution/widget.xml"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://ulule.me/site/img/widget.swf" flashvars="src=http://www.ulule.com/green-smoothie-revolution/widget.xml" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" width="300" height="250"></embed></object><br />
<br />
Long life to ulule and to its founders which i have been lucky enough to meet recently.Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-32880124301249125222010-10-13T06:03:00.000-03:002010-10-13T06:03:41.324-03:00A taste of Luberon at "Le Pavillon de Galon" B&B<div style="text-align: justify;">We've been silent the past weeks as we are working hard on our next professional adventure. But do not panic ! ;-) We still do have time for long week-ends and will continue to post our "Art de vivre" findings on a regular basis.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Just back from a short stay in "<a href="http://www.pavillondegalon.com/">Le Pavillon de Galon</a>" B&B, i just could not resist sharing this experience with you. The "pavillon" is located in the little village of Cucuron, South Luberon, Provence. We decided to take the <a href="http://www.tgv-europe.com/en/?rfrr=Homepage_footer_United%20Kingdom">TGV</a> train from Paris to Avignon (2h40mn). We then rented a car ( i do recommend Sixt which i booked through <a href="http://www.sixt.com/rental-services/mobile-reservation/iphone/">their iphone app</a> ) and thanks to my great t<a href="http://www.tomtom.com/en_gb/products/mobile-navigation/tomtom-iphone-ipod-touch/">omtom app</a> we reached Cucuron after an hour of relaxed driving.<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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TLV0dOW7JyI/AAAAAAAAAlI/mkoWXREbi6E/s1600/le+pavillon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TLV0dOW7JyI/AAAAAAAAAlI/mkoWXREbi6E/s640/le+pavillon.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 18th century mansion - Roman Pool</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The little village of Cucuron is nice and is a central spot to discover Luberon. "Le pavillon de galon" is located at the exit of the village along a small road. A "remarkable" garden will welcome you entering this multi acres domain, bought 12 years ago by Bibi and Guy, a parisian couple. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
Apart from an amazing restoration of the 18th century main house, they planted more then 10.000 fruit trees along the years. They also have a decent number of olive and truffle trees, as well as a small kitchen garden. All they will serve you for breakfast is home made except the fresh goat cheese coming from a neighbor. Be ready to re-discover the forgotten and genuine taste of apricot and fig. They even produce their wine called "Hocus Pocus".<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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TLVz7dIwUNI/AAAAAAAAAk4/MJ6kIAlTr6c/s1600/Arbre+fruitier.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TLVz7dIwUNI/AAAAAAAAAk4/MJ6kIAlTr6c/s400/Arbre+fruitier.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">10.000 fruit trees we did say !</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://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TLV0K-kPA4I/AAAAAAAAAlA/P2PuV6LZM4E/s1600/fromage+fermier.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TLV0K-kPA4I/AAAAAAAAAlA/P2PuV6LZM4E/s400/fromage+fermier.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh goat cheese from the neighbor at breakfast</td></tr>
</tbody></table>You got the point ! This place is designed by and for "Epicureans". The owners even propose cooking and wine tasting classes mainly during the summer. In their own wonderful kitchen, the largest room of the house !<br />
<br />
There is also a very nice minimalistic pool to refresh, as well as a couple of fountains and basins dating from the roman empire. So relax and feel the history, you're in good hands at Pavillon de Galon.<br />
<br />
For eating, wether at lunch or dinner time, we do recommend "La Closerie" in the very charming village of Ansouis, ran by Delphine and Olivier Alemany. Book long in advance for dinner at +33(0)490099054. We went for lunch and opted for the 23€ menu which was simply exceptional. In particular the starter "Cauliflower soup with local black truffle". "Un sans faute" as we like to say in French. They also strongly recommend "<a href="http://www.bartavelle.free.fr/">La bartavelle</a>" restaurant in Goult, 40 mn away from Cucuron. Should you try that one, let us have your feedback at <a href="mailto:bsimeray@gmail.com">bsimeray@gmail.com</a><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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TLV0ThdK8uI/AAAAAAAAAlE/J3CrDgTHu9E/s1600/la+closerie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TLV0ThdK8uI/AAAAAAAAAlE/J3CrDgTHu9E/s640/la+closerie.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Closerie - Ansouis - Luberon</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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TLV0D7iW7QI/AAAAAAAAAk8/ECFEL-9ri84/s1600/creme+dubarry+truffe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TLV0D7iW7QI/AAAAAAAAAk8/ECFEL-9ri84/s400/creme+dubarry+truffe.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cauliflower Cream - thin chips - black truffle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>In Cucuron you will also find a one star michelin called "<a href="http://www.lapetitemaisondecucuron.com/">La petite maison</a>", ran by chef Eric Sapet. We had diner there which i would qualify just average. Completely overrated and overpriced. Unless they had a bad day that night ! Which can always happen.<br />
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All in all another long week end we will keep for long in our memories. We wish you to discover this wonderful region and experience the flavours of Luberon.<br />
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Hasta pronto !<br />
Benoît</div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com084160 Cucuron, France43.7728644 5.439729643.710887400000004 5.3230001 43.8348414 5.5564591tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-61616530996545528492010-09-15T07:12:00.002-03:002010-09-16T04:10:04.145-03:00Folegandros - Cyclades - Greece<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">In our permanent search of unspoilt places, we decided mid August to discover further the Cycladic islands, which we already visited a couple of times the past years. In such a popular destination as the Greek islands, one could say this is an illusion. Or a lost battle. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> </span></span></span><br />
The very good news is that it's NOT ! You can still find very well preserved places. Authentic villages. And local people still living like centuries ago. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">The first one we would like to share with you is the very small island of Folegandros. Various options to reach the unique harbor called Karavostasis :</div><div><ol><li style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">You fly to athens and then take a boat from Piraeus port. ( Count on a minimum of 4 hours by speedboat and the double with regular ). You can check timelines and book tickets </span><a href="http://www.ferriesingreece.com/booking-ferries.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">here</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">You fly to Santorini ( direct flights from most European capitals ) and then take a fast boat from there ( 1 hour cruise with </span><a href="http://www.seajets.gr/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">seajet</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> )</span></li>
</ol><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">In terms of lodging, you can wether stay at the port or at the main town called Chora up in the hill. We did stay at the port in a boutique hotel called </span><a href="http://www.anemihotels.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Anemi</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> for which a dedicated post will follow. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TJCNSttzpaI/AAAAAAAAAkc/oNr8Hd_CZ7E/s1600/Pool+at+anemi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TJCNSttzpaI/AAAAAAAAAkc/oNr8Hd_CZ7E/s640/Pool+at+anemi.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pool at Anemi hotel - Folegandros</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Another 2 great lodging options we did visit and recommend are located in Chora ( old white washed village overlooking the Aegan and a great spot to admire sunset ) :</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><ul><li><a href="http://www.anemomilosapartments.com/anemomilos_home.html">Anemomilos apartments</a></li>
<li><a href="http://themonies.gr/en/contact.html">Themonies luxury suites</a></li>
</ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Wether you stay at the port or in Chora, you'll be just 10mn away by scooter to reach the beautiful beach of Agkali. From there you have a few trails to reach some other small ones. Or you can take small boats leaving every other hour dropping you along the south Coast should you look for empty spots.</div></div><div><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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TJCQ-5FgMSI/AAAAAAAAAkg/BJ3B-iMPpoY/s1600/Agali+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TJCQ-5FgMSI/AAAAAAAAAkg/BJ3B-iMPpoY/s640/Agali+beach.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Agkali beach - Folegandros</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">In agkali beach you have several options for lunch or dinner. We tested one and quality was very average. We would recommend you to drive 10mn to the little village of Anomeria and stop by the 3rd "Taverna" when on the main road. We just can't remember the name of this family owned restaurant. But it's damn easy to find. We've had lunch there a couple of times. They exclusively serve products from the island. All is fresh and delicious. Count on approximately 15€ per head wine included.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TJCTyLYKSzI/AAAAAAAAAkk/qKk2z09ngj4/s1600/Greek+salad.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TJCTyLYKSzI/AAAAAAAAAkk/qKk2z09ngj4/s400/Greek+salad.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greek salad with local cheese from Folegandros</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Folegandros, just like most of the other cycladic islands, has got churches at almost every corners ! They are all extremely well preserved and maintained. They absorb and captivate. We particularly recommend you to walk up from Chora to the top of the hill church. An hour before sunset. Just feel the peaceful atmosphere, breathe and dream ! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TJCW9CyNotI/AAAAAAAAAko/NDOjYBjvIcY/s1600/church+from+bottom.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TJCW9CyNotI/AAAAAAAAAko/NDOjYBjvIcY/s400/church+from+bottom.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White washed trail - Church up from Chora - Folegandros</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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TJCXM5cdBCI/AAAAAAAAAkw/ckZGc31WuAA/s1600/mylove+walking+down.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TJCXM5cdBCI/AAAAAAAAAkw/ckZGc31WuAA/s400/mylove+walking+down.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mi Amor</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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TJCXD8_JLsI/AAAAAAAAAks/xuT5mDOx6_Q/s1600/Church+sunset.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TJCXD8_JLsI/AAAAAAAAAks/xuT5mDOx6_Q/s400/Church+sunset.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magic sunset - View to Chora and Aegan - Folegandros</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope this island will bring you the peace of mind and happiness we felt. Or at least a parenthesis of it in the everyday life we are all up to. Next stop is Sifnos. So stay tuned and keep on sending your comments or sharing your own experiences.</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com1Folégandros 84011, Grèce36.628775 24.92021936.5598945 24.803489499999998 36.697655499999996 25.0369485tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-57659763556778981342010-09-09T12:58:00.000-03:002010-09-09T12:58:42.346-03:00Thank you Greece !We are just back from Greece where we spent 3 weeks visiting 4 islands : Santorini, Folegandros, Milos and Sifnos. This explaining why we kept silent on our blog for some time.<br />
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We had possibly our best holidays there. We could not have expected anything better : authentic places and people, excellent food, great small hotels and B&B's, fantastic weather, unspoilt nature, amazing sunsets, and all quite cheap.<br />
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Before to share more, here are a couple of pictures so that you can have a taste of Greece. Of our Greece.<br />
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Enjoy and stay tuned.<br />
<br />
Benoît and Carolina.<br />
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<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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TIkCCl23gsI/AAAAAAAAAkI/em-4HiOn_ls/s1600/Sifnos+paysage.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TIkCCl23gsI/AAAAAAAAAkI/em-4HiOn_ls/s320/Sifnos+paysage.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sifnos - Inlands</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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TIkCK3vUrUI/AAAAAAAAAkM/AxdS_hjRW5U/s1600/sunset+Milos.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TIkCK3vUrUI/AAAAAAAAAkM/AxdS_hjRW5U/s320/sunset+Milos.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from our terrace - Nefeli studios - Milos</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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TIkCTGEsi6I/AAAAAAAAAkQ/k6XIJC06N1E/s1600/Full+moon+Folegandros.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TIkCTGEsi6I/AAAAAAAAAkQ/k6XIJC06N1E/s320/Full+moon+Folegandros.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Full moon - Chora - Folegandros</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://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TIkB5oX1NdI/AAAAAAAAAkE/FWWaWkObOYw/s1600/Poulpe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TIkB5oX1NdI/AAAAAAAAAkE/FWWaWkObOYw/s320/Poulpe.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Octopus drying - Folegandros </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/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TIkBw-k0UwI/AAAAAAAAAkA/v2L9UG9F9g4/s1600/Pasta+langosta+Santorin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TIkBw-k0UwI/AAAAAAAAAkA/v2L9UG9F9g4/s320/Pasta+langosta+Santorin.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pasta alla langosta - Amoudi restaurant Santorini</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-81256262722660805552010-08-13T10:13:00.000-03:002010-08-13T10:13:40.664-03:00"Bedandbruges" lovely B&B in the charming Bruges<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"></span><br />
<div mce_style="text-align: justify;" style="text-align: justify;">We're just back from a long weekend in Bruges, Belgium. The best way to reach this UNESCO protected town is with no doubt by train. From Paris it took us around 2H30 mn and you can easily book your tickets on <a href="http://www.b-europe.com/Voyager" mce_href="http://www.b-europe.com/Voyager" target="_blank" title="SNCB international">SNCB</a> network. I will not here detail how beautiful and charming bruges is. You will find that on so many other blogs or websites. But it is indeed very true and a stop there when visiting Europe is a must.</div><div mce_style="text-align: justify;" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div mce_style="text-align: justify;" style="text-align: justify;">You will find dozens of boutique hotels, luxury ones or bead & breakfast. We did stay at <a href="http://www.bedandbruges.be/" mce_href="http://www.bedandbruges.be" target="_blank" title="Bed & Bruges">Bedandbruges</a> , a lovely B&B ran by Louise and Francis Hardy. Should you go there, stay in "La tour" which is a medieval tower completely restored in 2009. You will enjoy the entire place for you ( 2 people ) at a bargain of 95 € per night breakfast included. The owners do also offer to swap their personal home and that could be an option for large families and a week stay.</div><div mce_style="text-align: justify;" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div mce_style="text-align: justify;" style="text-align: justify;"><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://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0157.jpg" mce_href="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0157.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-181" height="300" mce_src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0157.jpg?w=199" src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0157.jpg?w=199" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title=""La tour" at Bedandbruges" width="199" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px;">"La tour" at Bedandbruges</span></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://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0036.jpg" mce_href="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0036.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-189" height="199" mce_src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0036.jpg?w=300" src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0036.jpg?w=300" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Peaceful Bruges" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 17px;">Peaceful Bruges</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">This B&B is situated slightly off the touristic heart of the city and you will need a 10mn walk to join the most visited monuments. Which for us was a plus as we could stay out of the crowd. Another possibility is to rent a bike at around 10€/day as this is the perfect way to discover the city and its surroundings. We would even suggest you to bike along the canal from Bruges to <a href="http://maps.google.fr/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=fr&geocode=&q=Damme,+R%C3%A9gion+Flamande,+Belgique&sll=48.840781,2.352097&sspn=0.008473,0.022724&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Damme,+Flandres+Occidentales,+R%C3%A9gion+Flamande,+Belgique&ll=51.253025,3.291864&spn=0.016116,0.045447&t=h&z=15&iwloc=A%3E" mce_href="http://maps.google.fr/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=fr&geocode=&q=Damme,+R%C3%A9gion+Flamande,+Belgique&sll=48.840781,2.352097&sspn=0.008473,0.022724&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Damme,+Flandres+Occidentales,+R%C3%A9gion+Flamande,+Belgique&ll=51.253025,3.291864&spn=0.016116,0.045447&t=h&z=15&iwloc=A>" title="Damme">Damme</a> ( 7km away, a lovely medieval village ) and then to <a href="http://maps.google.fr/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=fr&geocode=&q=Sluis,+Nederland&sll=51.253025,3.291864&sspn=0.016116,0.045447&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=L'%C3%89cluse,+Z%C3%A9lande,+Pays-Bas&ll=51.311972,3.389111&spn=0.016095,0.045447&t=h&z=15&iwloc=A%3E" mce_href="http://maps.google.fr/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=fr&geocode=&q=Sluis,+Nederland&sll=51.253025,3.291864&sspn=0.016116,0.045447&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=L'%C3%89cluse,+Z%C3%A9lande,+Pays-Bas&ll=51.311972,3.389111&spn=0.016095,0.045447&t=h&z=15&iwloc=A>" title="Sluis, Holland">Sluis</a> ( Holland, 18km from bruges ). You will need around 3H back and forth. We'd suggest to stop for lunch at Damme which offer various excellent options. We personally ate at "<a href="http://www.restaurantdezuidkant.be/" mce_href="http://www.restaurantdezuidkant.be" title="Restaurant ZuidKant">Restaurant ZuidKant</a>" whom the chef has been working quite some time with the famous <a href="http://www.thierrymarx.com/" mce_href="http://www.thierrymarx.com/">Thierry Marx</a> chef in <a href="http://www.cordeillanbages.com/homepage.asp?flash=0&nav=NS5" mce_href="http://www.cordeillanbages.com/homepage.asp?flash=0&nav=NS5">Cordeillan-bages</a>.</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><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://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0193.jpg" mce_href="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0193.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-182" height="265" mce_src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0193.jpg?w=300" src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0193.jpg?w=300" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="ZuidKant terrace" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px;">"ZuidKant" restaurant terrace</span></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://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0214.jpg" mce_href="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0214.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-184" height="265" mce_src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0214.jpg?w=300" src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0214.jpg?w=300" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Langoustines marinées, crème d'avocat et fines herbes" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px;">Langoustines marinées, crème d'avocat et fines herbes</span></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://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0211.jpg" mce_href="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0211.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-187" height="400" mce_src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0211.jpg?w=199" src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0211.jpg?w=199" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Cappuccino et ravioli de Homard, parmesan et huile de basilic" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px;">Cappuccino et ravioli de Homard, parmesan et huile de basilic</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">One of the best and most creative cuisine we've experienced lately. By far above most of the 1 or 2 star michelin restaurants we were lucky to taste in France those past years. Count on 50€/person with 1 glass of wine. Another option when in Damme is to eat at "De Bonheur" which has been indicated to us by several locals. The next day we went to have lunch at the <a href="http://www.bistrorefter.com/flash.htm" mce_href="http://www.bistrorefter.com/flash.htm">Refter</a> which is ran by the son of the nextdoor 3 star michelin <a href="http://www.dekarmeliet.be/flash.htm" mce_href="http://www.dekarmeliet.be/flash.htm">"De Karmeliet"</a>. Should you have the choice, eat in the patio. We ate twice there for around 40€/person. Excellent products in general, succulent fish. I personally recommend the fish soup which beats easily many of the ones i could taste in sunny southern France.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><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://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0045.jpg" mce_href="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0045.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-190" height="400" mce_src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0045.jpg?w=199" src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0045.jpg?w=199" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="La carte du Refter" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px;">La carte, Refter Bistro</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0051.jpg" mce_href="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0051.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-191" height="400" mce_src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0051.jpg?w=199" src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0051.jpg?w=199" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Soupe de poisson et sa rouille" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px;">Soupe de poisson et sa rouille</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0055.jpg" mce_href="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0055.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-192" height="400" mce_src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0055.jpg?w=199" src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0055.jpg?w=199" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Velouté d'asperges, crème de brocolis" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px;">Velouté d'asperges, crème de brocolis</span></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://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0062.jpg" mce_href="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0062.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-193" height="265" mce_src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0062.jpg?w=300" src="http://artdevivresoutherneurope.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/dsc_0062.jpg?w=300" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="The kitchen , Refter Bistro" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px;">The kitchen , Refter Bistro</span></td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We also had excellent dinner at <a href="http://www.rock-fort.be/" mce_href="http://www.rock-fort.be">Rock Fort</a> ( likely to be rated soon 1 star michelin ). Really amazing quality and very good and affordable wine list. But quite disappointed by the atmosphere ( we were at the bar, not in the main dining area ) and more problematic by the time we had to wait between each plate ( around 30mn ).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div mce_style="text-align: justify;" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div mce_style="text-align: justify;" style="text-align: justify;">All in all we spent a wonderful time and discovered new flavors and tastes, met passionate and friendly people. Without a doubt, the belgian gastronomy is about to play a major role and taking over its French neighbour ( if not already the case ).</div><div mce_style="text-align: justify;" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div mce_style="text-align: justify;" style="text-align: justify;">Some other places where to SLEEP : <a href="http://www.maisondhote.com/fr/visit.php?id=489" mce_href="http://www.maisondhote.com/fr/visit.php?id=489">B&B Côté canal</a> and <a href="http://draft.blogger.com/www.number11.be" mce_href="www.number11.be">B&B number 11</a></div><div mce_style="text-align: justify;" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div mce_style="text-align: justify;" style="text-align: justify;">Enjoy bruges !</div><br />
<div mce_style="text-align: justify;" style="text-align: justify;"></div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0Bruges, Belgique51.2094345 3.225237751.101893 2.9917782 51.316976000000004 3.4586972tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-70818437428889783582010-08-05T05:12:00.000-03:002010-08-05T05:12:15.949-03:00Kitchen Galerie Bis - Haute cuisine in Saint Germain des près<div style="text-align: justify;">On the contrary to what still many French people tend or like to believe, our "cuisine" does not lead the way anymore. Worse, it became quite complex to eat well, especially in Paris and Côte d'azur ( aka "French Riviera"). That becomes even more true when you're lucky enough to travel and experience other tastes, culinary and service oriented cultures. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Italy is my number ONE. Still. You will eat well in 90% of the restaurants there. And quite cheap still. Spain has been catching up the past 10 years, mainly driven by Ferran adria and a young talented chef's generation. But they still have to improve the average quality and diversity of the offer.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">By combining creativity and simplicity, remarkable sea food products, and a great respect of the customers, the North of Europe has been shaking us up the past few years. You can now eat extremely well and for a very reasonable price in Belgium, Holland, Denmark and sweden. To a lesser extent in Norway and Finland.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TFpr_SIeXDI/AAAAAAAAAjA/neBIBI0HBV8/s1600/KGB+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TFpr_SIeXDI/AAAAAAAAAjA/neBIBI0HBV8/s320/KGB+2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rascasse grillée, Vinaigrette Sésame - Balsamique Blanc</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Hopefully a couple of people or restaurants in France did understand the need to react. And decided to put back the product and the client at the center of their approach. While avoiding astronomical prices.<br />
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Sister restaurant of the 2 michelin stars "<a href="http://www.zekitchengalerie.fr/">Ze Kitchen Galerie"</a>, Kitchen Galerie Bis does offer a "bistro" approach of haute cuisine. And a flavour of what is being served at the michelinized restaurant next door. As a starter i would recommend you to share the 6 tapas plate they offer. Then opt for fish for the main course as this is really their speciality and trademark.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TFpwX2Deb0I/AAAAAAAAAjM/gR6msOSlO9c/s1600/KGB+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TFpwX2Deb0I/AAAAAAAAAjM/gR6msOSlO9c/s320/KGB+3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled John Dory, "Sauce Vierge" & Orange</td></tr>
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You will notice a lot of flavours from Asia as the chef is passionate about it. Count on a budget of 60€ per head with the wine. Which is quite affordable for a taste of haute cuisine.<br />
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Enjoy the trip !<br />
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</div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com04 Rue des Grands Augustins, 75006 Paris, France48.8550071 2.341191848.8514776 2.3338962999999997 48.8585366 2.3484873tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-72537109972137121692010-08-03T05:50:00.000-03:002010-08-03T05:50:56.548-03:00Lagacio Mountain Resort - San cassiano in Badia<div style="text-align: justify;">What a trip ! After a couple of days spent in Verona ( a post on that city will soon follow ), we headed 200 km North to the Dolomites region. In san cassiano in badia to be precise. The first excellent surprise was the hotel we picked up called <a href="http://www.lagacio.com/">Lagacio Mountain resort</a>, recently opened in December 2009. They indeed do not offer rooms as a typical hotel but apartments. The smallest being 42sqm. We opted for the 47sqm one. Room 602 exactly. </div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TFfSvN_oIBI/AAAAAAAAAis/FJoRnPCL49Q/s1600/Lagacio+bar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TFfSvN_oIBI/AAAAAAAAAis/FJoRnPCL49Q/s400/Lagacio+bar.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bar at Lagacio</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TFfPHgGvgbI/AAAAAAAAAio/IC_yD0G-L_Y/s1600/vue+terasse+lagacio.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TFfPHgGvgbI/AAAAAAAAAio/IC_yD0G-L_Y/s400/vue+terasse+lagacio.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from room 602 terrace</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Their website is perfectly designed and really does reflect accurately the spirit and the architecture of the place. What i can add after 6 days spent there is that the staff is extremely well prepared and very friendly. Always with an "anything is possible" approach. The apartments do mix modernity and Alpine standards perfectly. The breakfast is amazing, serving exclusively products from the BIO farms around. The spa and massages ( from Evelyne ) are also of very high standard and affordable ( 65€ an hour ). Within the resort you will find a top end bike shop and rental, which turns into ski/snowboard from November onwards. This is very convenient and quite cheap actually. We've paid 23€ for the entire day for an excellent mountain bike + safety equipment.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TFfXes2UsOI/AAAAAAAAAiw/Xly6wVEgbHQ/s1600/panorama.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/TFfXes2UsOI/AAAAAAAAAiw/Xly6wVEgbHQ/s400/panorama.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1 hour walk up in the mountain from San Cassiano</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Lagacio is situated at the very heart of the beautiful village of San Cassiano. And is a great base for hiking, cycling or riding your car or bike. However you will decide to move yourself, you will be amazed by the majesty of the Alta Badia and Dolomites region. All in all a place and destination that we cannot recommend enough to escape the brutality of our world sometimes.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Just breath the fresh air and relax. </div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0Badia Bolzano, Italie46.5711248 11.934752246.5416223 11.8763872 46.6006273 11.9931172tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-20054728626257104702010-05-24T15:45:00.001-03:002010-05-24T15:46:52.654-03:00Hotel Ravesi - Malfa - Eolian islands<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We've seen many places in Southern Europe the past years. But this one is likely to be our best discovery so far. The Eolian islands are located North-East of Sicily. Approximately 2 hours cruise from Milazzo harbour. The archipel is composed of 7 islands. All being wether former volcanos or still very active ones. The most famous being Stromboli. </span></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_rBXaL-50I/AAAAAAAAAhs/OgJ3i-x-lL0/s1600/CIMG7342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_rBXaL-50I/AAAAAAAAAhs/OgJ3i-x-lL0/s400/CIMG7342.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We opted for Salina island. </span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/47487057@N03/sets/72157623987149155/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The pictures</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> will tell more then hundred words. But here is a non exhaustive list of adjectives i would use to describe it : suprising, impressive, wild, generous, authentic, beautiful, unknown, preserved, different.</span></span></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We ended in a boutique hotel named </span><a href="http://www.hotelravesi.it/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Ravesi"</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> in Malfa, a small village in the Northern Part of Salina. Also one of our best stay so far. The owner, Carolina, will welcome you very warmly. She is also personally cooking both breakfast and lunch. Do not expect any gastronomy there ! But we promiss you will eat fresh, simple and enjoy ! At the reception desk is Giuliana. She is absolutely perfect and will make sure your experience in Ravesi remains unforgetable. </span></span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_rB0RSFhUI/AAAAAAAAAh8/a45SvYhKIpc/s1600/CIMG7242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_rB0RSFhUI/AAAAAAAAAh8/a45SvYhKIpc/s320/CIMG7242.JPG" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_rBtcf8WeI/AAAAAAAAAh0/Zq1S-Yr5aDA/s1600/CIMG7256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_rBtcf8WeI/AAAAAAAAAh0/Zq1S-Yr5aDA/s320/CIMG7256.JPG" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Book in advance as Ravesi does only propose few rooms. The one we had and the others we've seen are very nice. Recently remodeled with simple furniture. Most have sea view. From the terrace you will enjoy clear view on the islands of Panarea and Stromboli.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><b>How to get there</b> : by speed ferry's from Milazzo harbour. Ustica line is one of the company's which will bring you there in around 2H for 17€/person.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><b>Where to eat</b> : by far the best restaurant is <b>Portobello</b> which is located in Santa Maria, the main island's harbour. 7KM's away from Malfa. The fish and sea food are simply amazing as they all come from around the island. Rather expensive at around 50€ per person. But worth especially at night on the terrace. Some other options in Malfa but nothing that spectacular worth more lines. Ah yes ! Avoid the restaurant of the hotel Signum which is clearly over rated and clearly targeting the few VIP's visiting the island.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_rGkcACeII/AAAAAAAAAiE/H1SSDtSYKIQ/s1600/CIMG7358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_rGkcACeII/AAAAAAAAAiE/H1SSDtSYKIQ/s320/CIMG7358.JPG" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></span></span></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_rGv6Zm6II/AAAAAAAAAiM/DolDk-5XC-A/s1600/CIMG7396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_rGv6Zm6II/AAAAAAAAAiM/DolDk-5XC-A/s320/CIMG7396.JPG" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;">We do have many other tips for you on what to do and see when in Salina. Just <a href="mailto:bsimeray@gmail.com">email us</a> and we will help the best we can. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;">Enjoy the Eolian islands !</span></span></div></div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-20250623608888712132010-05-19T03:57:00.000-03:002010-05-19T03:57:21.303-03:00Villa Carlotta - Boutique Hotel in Taormina<div style="text-align: justify;">We've picked up this hotel after having read many good reviews about it. After 5 nights spent there in various rooms we can confirm this is likely to be the best choice. Let me give you a couple of good reasons :<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_Jn4zSlhjI/AAAAAAAAAhY/AGn_JpslNIU/s1600/CIMG7179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_Jn4zSlhjI/AAAAAAAAAhY/AGn_JpslNIU/s320/CIMG7179.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_JoEBR76NI/AAAAAAAAAhc/v-V9A1AorJ8/s1600/CIMG7182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_JoEBR76NI/AAAAAAAAAhc/v-V9A1AorJ8/s320/CIMG7182.JPG" width="320" /></a></div></div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">the location is just perfect : 5mn walk up to the historical part of Taormina, 15mn down to Isola Bella beach ( worth out of peak season ).</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">the staff is very friendly and helpful. A special mention to Tea from the reception desk and Maria who works at the roof terrace restaurant.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_JnSDJjCmI/AAAAAAAAAhI/gjp4v0HYkGg/s1600/CIMG6944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_JnSDJjCmI/AAAAAAAAAhI/gjp4v0HYkGg/s320/CIMG6944.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">the rooms have been redesigned 2 years ago. They are quite large and with very good taste. Do not spend your money in a Junior suite. Better book a deluxe room with clear sea view. The 202 and 204 are just very nice. You'll pay around 200 to 270€ per night breakfast & taxes included.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">the roof top terrace is spectacular with amazing view on the sea and the Etna </li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_JnH_Ag5FI/AAAAAAAAAhE/dRln1GojAWo/s1600/CIMG6942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_JnH_Ag5FI/AAAAAAAAAhE/dRln1GojAWo/s320/CIMG6942.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">the breakfast is homemade 100% and offers a very wide range. Excellent products.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">We've had dinner twice at the hotel and were very happy with local specialties of the day. Cheap.</li>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_Jm8nkR8xI/AAAAAAAAAhA/X01GMH3PPBw/s1600/CIMG6929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_Jm8nkR8xI/AAAAAAAAAhA/X01GMH3PPBw/s320/CIMG6929.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">All details can be found on their website <a href="http://www.hotelvillacarlottataormina.com/">http://www.hotelvillacarlottataormina.com/</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A post is following soon with restaurant recommendation.</div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com1Taormina Hotel Villa Carlotta, Via Pirandello, 81, 98039 Taormina ME, Italie37.850679 15.29408437.833736 15.2649015 37.867622 15.323266499999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-25533312255700950912010-05-18T05:37:00.000-03:002010-05-18T05:37:29.220-03:00When fruits have colors !<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_FLSQGdW-I/AAAAAAAAAg4/zWuPlLQiuN0/s1600/CIMG6916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S_FLSQGdW-I/AAAAAAAAAg4/zWuPlLQiuN0/s640/CIMG6916.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">After our excellent lunch at "La cambusa del Capitano" ( see previous post ), we headed to Taormina which is an hour North East by the coast from Aci castello. We had an hotel booked, <a href="http://www.hotelvillacarlottataormina.com/">Villa Carlotta</a>. Soon i'll tell you more about that great place.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We checked in and 5mn later we were walking in the pittoresque and antique Taormina. Quite quickly we headed to a small store selling fresh fruits and vegetables. That was our first shock : the fruits and especially the lemon and oranges had colors we had not seen for a while ! </div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-63270751456871697872010-05-15T04:10:00.000-03:002010-05-15T04:10:48.215-03:00Restaurant "La Cambusa del Capitano", Aci Castello - Sicily<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>We flew from Paris to Catania with Easyjet ( east of Sicily ) which took us 2h30. We arrived late morning and the temperature was already around 22°C. Approximately 10 more then in Paris. So the trip was already worth it ! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We had our hotel booked in the famous "<a href="http://maps.google.fr/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=fr&geocode=&q=Taormine+ME,+Italie&sll=37.555533,15.146627&sspn=0.058789,0.137415&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Taormine+Messine,+Sicile,+Italie&z=13&iwloc=A%3E">Taormina</a>" which is around an hour drive from Catania Airport. As we were quite hungry we decided to have our lunch on the seaside and picked a restaurant recommended by the Michelin guide ( a modest one not awarded anything special ) in the little harbor town of <a href="http://maps.google.fr/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=fr&geocode=&q=Aci+Castello+Italie&sll=48.840781,2.352097&sspn=0.012202,0.034354&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Aci+Castello+Catane,+Sicile,+Italie&z=14&iwloc=A%3E">Aci castello</a>. The place is called La cambusa del Capitano and is ran by Chef Alfio. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-5Di_0xIGI/AAAAAAAAAgU/cuHlDl9APRU/s1600/CIMG6884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-5Di_0xIGI/AAAAAAAAAgU/cuHlDl9APRU/s320/CIMG6884.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As very often in Italy, the owner and the staff came to our table quite quickly to get to know eachother, talk about their beloved island and more importantly present us the fresh fish and sea food they had that day.<br />
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Seduced by the freshness of the Calamaretti we've ordered a plate to share. They came fried and were absolutely succulent. "Ottimo" as you would say in italian. We were promised to a great time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-5DB5BXA3I/AAAAAAAAAgE/F_3sVFS3TXA/s1600/CIMG6875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-5DB5BXA3I/AAAAAAAAAgE/F_3sVFS3TXA/s320/CIMG6875.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calamaretti fritti</td></tr>
</tbody></table>We then headed for the serious staff and the "primi piatti". And naturally chose pasta. My wife had spaghetti alle vongole ( sea food ). I had the "Gamberi e cozze" ones. Those were simply the best cooked pasta we had during our sicilian stay.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spaghetti Gamberi e Cozze</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-5DIhKreMI/AAAAAAAAAgI/BKUKdtIXG-4/s1600/CIMG6879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-5DIhKreMI/AAAAAAAAAgI/BKUKdtIXG-4/s320/CIMG6879.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spaghetti alle Vongole</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">We finished the lunch with the classic Tiramisu. It was so good that it directly went into our stomach. So no picture to illustrate what we here pretend. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">All in all an excellent first food experience in Sicily. All ingredients very fresh. Simply but perfectly cooked. Friendly chef. And quite cheap as we've spent all in all 25€/person with wine and coffee.</div><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I and Alfio !</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange;">La cambusal del capitano</span> : Via marina 65 , Aci castello, Sicily. Closed on wednesday. </div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com095021 Aci Castello CT, Italie37.5555615 15.146651937.52154 15.0882869 37.589583000000005 15.2050169tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-21747307395029902322010-05-14T14:01:00.000-03:002010-05-14T14:01:29.450-03:00A dream on earth called "Isola di Salina" - Eolian islands - SicilyWe're just back from 10 days in Sicily which explains why we've not been posting anything new for a while. And we'll still need some days to digest that fantastic trip and share any piece of it with you. We can already tell you we've discovered a preserved and authentic place. A little island part of the eolian Archipel. A place called "Salina". Here are a couple of pictures before we can tell you more. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pollara Beach & Cliff - Salina</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-1_05a7jAI/AAAAAAAAAfg/oJI_ntffeDI/s1600/CIMG7260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-1_05a7jAI/AAAAAAAAAfg/oJI_ntffeDI/s320/CIMG7260.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lounge bar to admire sunset - Malfa - Salina</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-2AAfKxO0I/AAAAAAAAAfk/HxJ9kKLBWPM/s1600/CIMG7261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-2AAfKxO0I/AAAAAAAAAfk/HxJ9kKLBWPM/s320/CIMG7261.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malfa's beach - Salina</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-2AKbx5gcI/AAAAAAAAAfo/XNxrfYFFXjY/s1600/CIMG7349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-2AKbx5gcI/AAAAAAAAAfo/XNxrfYFFXjY/s320/CIMG7349.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Portobello restaurant - Salina</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-2AUIavEVI/AAAAAAAAAfs/_pnGSr_cijQ/s1600/CIMG7358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S-2AUIavEVI/AAAAAAAAAfs/_pnGSr_cijQ/s320/CIMG7358.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mattone di tonno - Portobello restaurant- Salina</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Tons of tips on how to reach Salina, where to stay & eat, what to see....are coming soon. Thanks for your patience.Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-5691031195161252782010-04-30T04:25:00.000-03:002010-04-30T04:25:53.200-03:00A real boutique hotel in Saint Germain des près<div style="text-align: justify;">We did discover the hotel "<a href="http://hotelsaintvincentparis.com/">Saint Vincent</a>" close to where we live last year as we were looking for rooms where our wedding guests could stay. The hotel is situated in the very heart of Saint Germain des prés while being on a very charming and quiet road. Which is not that common in that district. So do not fear to book a room on the street side. The rooms are very well decorated and you will be able to enjoy in most of them very high ceiling, except on the 3rd floor which is just below the roof. Those latter will indeed offer you a small balcony. One main advice : book a couple of months in advance whatever the period. ( Small capacity + High demand ) * great location = Fully booked. </div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">They increased pricing last year but at 220/250€, this is an excellent choice you will not regret. Next door you will find their sister hotel "<a href="http://www.hotel-st-thomas-daquin.com/anglais/home2.htm">Saint thomas d'Aquin</a>" which is also a very good choice for around 150€ ( on promotion at 129€ for this summer ).</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I will dedicate my next post to eating out in Saint Germain des près. So stay tuned and enjoy that magical place for those visiting Paris soon.</div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-57513932802903048872010-04-28T13:07:00.002-03:002010-04-28T13:09:35.589-03:00Paris je t'aime !<div style="text-align: justify;">After more then 4 months spent in Buenos Aires and travelling around in Argentina and Uruguay, we're back home to enjoy the European summer. Paris welcomed us last Saturday the 24th with sun and 24°C ! Since then we do enjoy a fantastic weather and spend all our days riding our city with our Vespa. We found the city more beautiful and romantic then ever and we'de like to share some of those moments and places with you in the next couple of days. Starting with "Le Jardin du Luxembourg" and our preferred market to buy food.</div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">The market is situated on the Avenue du président Wilson ( crossing rue Freycinet ) and is held every Wednesday and Saturday morning. Go there very early to get the freshest stuff, around 8/9 am. Go there around 12Pm for the best bargains. At the very bottom of the Market you will find "Chez Lorenzo". Excellent fish. Very reasonable prices. Those days the "Saint Pierre" is spectacular ! The "Salmon label rouge" as well.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9hXKMCfWlI/AAAAAAAAAZM/i4lKVWmI0go/s1600/DSC_0438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9hXKMCfWlI/AAAAAAAAAZM/i4lKVWmI0go/s320/DSC_0438.jpg" width="211" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9hXRNMKmXI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/bU0EshgCXr0/s1600/DSC_0439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9hXRNMKmXI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/bU0EshgCXr0/s320/DSC_0439.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Going up mid way on the same side as "Lorenzo" you will find the best "cremerie" and wide selection of cheese. Those days "reblochon" and "Saint-Nectaire" are just perfect.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9hXasxuZ6I/AAAAAAAAAZU/YXfk6vmWcQc/s1600/DSC_0440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9hXasxuZ6I/AAAAAAAAAZU/YXfk6vmWcQc/s1600/DSC_0440.jpg" width="212" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9hXiEz1fPI/AAAAAAAAAZY/ldytx4R4_qk/s1600/DSC_0441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9hXiEz1fPI/AAAAAAAAAZY/ldytx4R4_qk/s320/DSC_0441.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"> Climbing up a bit on the opposite side, you will find potatoes, potatoes, potatoes ! And in season ( August to November ) the best mushrooms of the market. My favorites are of course the famous "Funghi porcini" which we call "cèpes" in French.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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More parisian places soon, so stay tuned and feel free to ask for help or advices at bsimeray@gmail.com should you visit Paris.Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-74293406907572433862010-04-26T18:00:00.000-03:002010-04-26T18:00:18.683-03:00The Top 50 Best Restaurants 1-50 | The World’s 50 Best Restaurants<a href="http://www.theworlds50best.com/awards/1-50-winners">The Top 50 Best Restaurants 1-50 | The World’s 50 Best Restaurants</a>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-73401319275770003492010-04-25T14:57:00.000-03:002010-04-25T14:57:45.273-03:00Week end in San Antonio de Areco, Provincia de Buenos Aires<div style="text-align: justify;">Before to grab our flight friday the 23rd of April to Paris, we spent 2 days in and around San Antonio de Areco, a small colonial town 130 Kms away from Buenos Aires. The old historical part is extremely nice. Try to visit all the "Platerias" where you will be able to buy handmade silver knives, plates....Silver IS the local speciality ! You will also find multiple options to eat well but modestly. We personally tested <a href="http://www.ramosgeneralesareco.com.ar/">"El almacen de Ramos"</a> . Excellent meat and fresh pasta. Nice Atmosphere and very friendly. Around 80 ARS ( 20 USD ) per person. We have also been recommended another restaurtant by several locals we had no time to experience. So we'll leave that one up to you : <a href="http://www.lapulperiadeareco.com.ar/">La pulperia de Areco</a>. Feel free to drop us your feedback.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9R5GV3_qZI/AAAAAAAAAWw/wfeEwS4qVrc/s1600/DSC_0339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9R5GV3_qZI/AAAAAAAAAWw/wfeEwS4qVrc/s320/DSC_0339.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9R5JCX7kTI/AAAAAAAAAW4/02sMXZUesPY/s1600/DSC_0327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9R5JCX7kTI/AAAAAAAAAW4/02sMXZUesPY/s320/DSC_0327.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9R5SkSqmEI/AAAAAAAAAXA/1MrDka_26S8/s1600/DSC_0315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9R5SkSqmEI/AAAAAAAAAXA/1MrDka_26S8/s320/DSC_0315.jpg" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SB4i1SR5I/AAAAAAAAAYY/XMRCR0HR7js/s1600/DSC_0342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SB4i1SR5I/AAAAAAAAAYY/XMRCR0HR7js/s320/DSC_0342.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We did spend the night at a very charming posada called "<a href="http://posadadelaplaza.com/">Posada de la plaza</a>" which again several locals pointed out as the best local option. This is a family run business and you will immediately feel at home there. The rooms are spacious, rustic but well decorated. We had an excellent breakfast in the vast garden. Again an excellent service which has proven to be part of the argentinian DNA ! Go there you will have a good rest for 300 ARS ( 75 USD ) breakfast included.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9R8fVj0uVI/AAAAAAAAAXI/0rqxNA8nSrg/s1600/DSC_0263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9R8fVj0uVI/AAAAAAAAAXI/0rqxNA8nSrg/s400/DSC_0263.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9R8m-1r9mI/AAAAAAAAAXY/J7qc-LwZXRw/s1600/DSC_0277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9R8m-1r9mI/AAAAAAAAAXY/J7qc-LwZXRw/s320/DSC_0277.jpg" width="212" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9R8ozzdmOI/AAAAAAAAAXg/32uu4srIgHM/s1600/DSC_0281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9R8ozzdmOI/AAAAAAAAAXg/32uu4srIgHM/s320/DSC_0281.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We spent the second day around San Antonio, in the Estancia's ( en el campo ). You will find many different options to experience the famous Gaucho lifestyle which is still very well preserved. We personally did visit <a href="http://www.la-bamba.com.ar/">Estancia la bamba</a> which has been recently entirely restored after it has been acquired by a rich French business man. Without a doubt, La bamba is the local luxury and ultimate retreat. Absolutely an amazing place but at 450 USD/night we decided to opt for a more modest and authentic one ! And we ended up by chance at <a href="http://www.estanciaelombu.com/">Estancia El Ombù</a>, another family run farm. The owner and the entire staff are very friendly and professional. We spent most of the day there enjoying an "asado", meeting with some gaucho's and passing by. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SAviGMGPI/AAAAAAAAAXo/8Frrat5PTbA/s1600/DSC_0349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SAviGMGPI/AAAAAAAAAXo/8Frrat5PTbA/s400/DSC_0349.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SBeMc3EcI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/Yzb37Vihdjs/s1600/estancia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SBeMc3EcI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/Yzb37Vihdjs/s400/estancia.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SAzYi57JI/AAAAAAAAAXw/5r_preE4SWw/s1600/DSC_0358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SAzYi57JI/AAAAAAAAAXw/5r_preE4SWw/s400/DSC_0358.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SA1hJ58NI/AAAAAAAAAX4/cF2I1uU3PGw/s1600/DSC_0375.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SA1hJ58NI/AAAAAAAAAX4/cF2I1uU3PGw/s400/DSC_0375.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SA5FHfopI/AAAAAAAAAYA/kofuDRdSDns/s1600/DSC_0387.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SA5FHfopI/AAAAAAAAAYA/kofuDRdSDns/s400/DSC_0387.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SA8ZN9K9I/AAAAAAAAAYI/TrSRGZYZ0Yg/s1600/DSC_0407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S9SA8ZN9K9I/AAAAAAAAAYI/TrSRGZYZ0Yg/s400/DSC_0407.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So Enjoy San Antonio and say Hello on our behalf to all those places should you ever visit them !</div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-2471375460784829372010-04-21T18:40:00.002-03:002010-04-21T18:41:48.325-03:00CHIPIRÓN ASADO A LA BRASA DE SARMIENTOS<div style="float: right; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"></span></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2038/3530953911_eef1c96527_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2038/3530953911_eef1c96527_m.jpg" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 2px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 2px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 2px; border-top-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 2px;" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br clear="all" /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Otra obra de Mugaritz. Click on the picture to review full Mugaritz Flickr gallery. Please note all those photos are their exclusive property.</div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-38719229069193967652010-04-21T18:35:00.002-03:002010-04-21T18:38:04.671-03:00Obra de Arte - Mugaritz<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mugaritz/3530934873/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="photo sharing"><br />
<img alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2256/3530934873_879a13d26f_m.jpg" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 2px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 2px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 2px; border-top-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 2px;" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div style="float: right; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is art to me ! Soon Mugaritz restaurant will re-open its doors ( planned for June 2010 ) close by the wonderful city of San Sebastian, Pais Vasco. By then you can visit their website at mugaritz.com or follow them on twitter @mugaritz. Better book your table now ! </div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-37284853099831703142010-04-15T11:57:00.002-03:002010-04-15T12:01:08.245-03:00Risotto Alle Gamberi e Capesante by ADV<div style="text-align: justify;">"Art de vivre" is today sharing with you one of its best recipe and more importantly one technique to prepare a good risotto for 4 people : </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S8cn3fEQKjI/AAAAAAAAAWg/Qm0m6BXYV_U/s1600/Risotto+Gamba+ST+JAK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S8cn3fEQKjI/AAAAAAAAAWg/Qm0m6BXYV_U/s640/Risotto+Gamba+ST+JAK.jpg" width="427" /></a></div><br />
<ol><li style="text-align: justify;">Start buying the proper rice. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carnaroli">Carnaroli</a> is our prefered one. But <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arborio_rice">arborio</a> can also be used. Both are now widely diffused and distributed. Should be an easy search</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Ideally you should have kept a chicken or vegetables based bouillon from previous meal in your frige. In most cases you will not have that. Just boil some water and use a simili of French "<a href="http://www.maggi.fr/">Maggi</a>" bouillon cube</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Mince an entire white onion</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Take a narrow but deep stove. Heat it with low fire. Add 50 gr of butter and half of the minced onion</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">As onions become translucid but not yet entirely cooked, add 150 gr of rice. Increase slightly fire. Melt onion and rice, keep on stiring with a spatula until the rice turns pearly. Spread the rice equally to cover all stove</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Throw 15cl of any dry white wine with again slightly increase fire so that the alcohol can evaporate. Should take no more then 30 sec</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Bring back fire to low and start adding your bouillon. Just enough to cover the rice. As soon as your bouillon gets consumed, add some more to cover. Repeat until the rice gets cooked. Just add what is needed. That is the secret.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">When you feel the rice becomes cooked but still a bit al dente, stop adding bouillon.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">When almost all bouillon got consumed, add another 50 gr of butter and very thin slices of premium parmeggiano cheese. Salt & pepper.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">With fire on, melt it all until you get a creamy risotto</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Serve and Enjoy ! </li>
</ol><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As on the picture above, you can serve risotto with sea food which will have to be cooked separately. You could also decide to have it as described above or also add any vegetable ( mushrooms and especially funghi porcini, zucchini, carrot, leek...). So let your creativity express and start enjoying what finally is a very easy dish to prepare.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Important to mention</span> : the picture above is from a risotto we prepared as any other recipe we did present and will.</div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-42953049788749756222010-04-12T18:03:00.000-03:002010-04-12T18:03:28.151-03:00Take “Action Against Hunger”…and dine in one of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants | The World’s 50 Best Restaurants<a href="http://www.theworlds50best.com/take-action-against-hunger-and-dine-in-one-of-the-worlds-50-best-restaurants/2641">Take “Action Against Hunger”…and dine in one of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants | The World’s 50 Best Restaurants</a>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-41493874745412354922010-04-12T13:26:00.000-03:002010-04-12T13:26:40.023-03:00"Art de vivre" moves to Europe....New senses, new flavours !<div style="text-align: justify;">In a week from today, we and "Art de vivre" will leave Buenos Aires and move back to Europe with a base in Paris. We will spend quite some time in "La ville des lumières" the next months and will obviously share with you our little secrets. We already have quite a lot in stock as we spent quite some years there already.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S8NGhIKXN8I/AAAAAAAAAWI/9nOKGadFBfA/s1600/P1010924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S8NGhIKXN8I/AAAAAAAAAWI/9nOKGadFBfA/s400/P1010924.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pont des Arts. Paris.</td></tr>
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We will also take the opportunity of the European spring and summer to travel extensively in the search of new places, new flavours, new senses and people ! The road trip is not completely finalized but we will likely travel to Bordeaux, Pais Vasco ( both French and Spanish ), Catalunia and Barcelona, Formentera and Mallorca, Montpellier and Aveyron ( France) for a bike trip, Piemonte and the Barollo wineries, Tuscany and Umbria, Verona and its famous opera season, Bologna, Modena and Parma...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S8NGlpMD_HI/AAAAAAAAAWM/Oe8eqos8J3w/s1600/IMG_0127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S8NGlpMD_HI/AAAAAAAAAWM/Oe8eqos8J3w/s320/IMG_0127.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our secret Place - Umbria</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S8NJcPXV2VI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/y46sme9BnKA/s1600/L1060301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S8NJcPXV2VI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/y46sme9BnKA/s320/L1060301.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bonifacio - Corsica island - France</td></tr>
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That's our gastronomic road trip for the next 3 months we will share with you all with great pleasures. Again thanks to you all for following us and sharing with your friends. </div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6246049142761103468.post-66559411319822098942010-04-08T12:35:00.001-03:002010-04-08T15:46:33.269-03:00A special wednesday evenning in Palermo Holywood, Buenos Aires<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;">We yesterday went out with my wife to celebrate our 5 years of knowing each other. It was early April 2005 in Barcelona. We are not really sure about which day. Indeed we are pretty sure we just can't remember the exact day. Anyway, we decided to celebrate those very good memories and experience a couple of good places in the Palermo Holywood district of Buenos Aires. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;">We started at <a href="http://bit.ly/dsQsPU">Olsen</a>, located in calle Gorriti 5870. As summer is still around here in BA, we decided to have a drink on the terrace. They have an extensive Vodka list. Indeed from all over the world. And very naturally we've ordered 2 vodka based cocktails ( 8 to 10 USD each ). And a little picada ( equivalent of tapas ) ! Just to warm up our senses....</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;">Then my wife had reserved a table close by at <a href="http://bit.ly/adFv7F">Tô restaurant</a>. Tô was opened 11 months ago by a French young guy we've met yesterday, full of energy and passion. The atmosphere is very friendly. The staff impecable. The design modern while convivial. And more importantly the food is succulent. The owner calls his cuisine FRAPANESE. A well distillated mix of French and Japanese. As I normally do not pay too much attention to those marketing words, i would use the following adjectives to describe what we had : extremely fresh, very well cooked, tasty, suprising, generous, inventive, audacious.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S733NlxRU6I/AAAAAAAAAV8/YYxX79-Liic/s1600/FRAPANESE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LUTM7KIK8Eo/S733NlxRU6I/AAAAAAAAAV8/YYxX79-Liic/s640/FRAPANESE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;">So all in all, a very good moment. Another one i should say. Thanks to my wife. Thanks to the incredible friendliness of the Argentinian people. This is a value they have not lost so far : the art of welcoming you and making all they can so that you can only enjoy. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><br />
Budget per head at Tô : 35USD with drinks.<br />
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</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;">Entonces, gracias a la gente de Argentina ! Que siguen asi !</div>Benoîthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14752094765365051907noreply@blogger.com0