France

Spain is hot! No, not temperature-wise (unless you travel in July or August), but as a new/old destination. When we think of travelling to Spain, we often think of Madrid, Barcelona, Catalonia, Andalusia, the many ‘Costa’ and beaches, and – to a lesser degree - Galicia. However, Navarra and Rioja are often ignored as vacation spots, even though they have a lot to offer.

Navarra, in northeastern Spain, was for many centuries a small independent kingdom, and an important player in history. As a semi-autonomous province, it now preserves plenty of that independent feeling. It is stuffed with things to see, from the awe-inspiring Pyrenees to castled plains and sun-drenched wine-country. The principal route of the pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela – the Camino Francés – crosses Navarra from east to west and has left some of Spain’s finest religious architecture.

In the midst of it all is Pamplona, a pleasant town which goes crazy for nine days in July for the Fiesta de los Sanfermines, of which the most famous event is the daily Running of the Bulls (Encierro), made famous by Hemingway. It is difficult to describe just how big this party is! The eating options in Pamplona are plentiful, yet I can definitely recommend an evening of Tapas (here called Pintxo: pronounced as Pinchos) as you hop from bar to bar.

Puente La Reina is a small town along the Way of St. James (i.e. the Camino), and a good place to stop for lunch. Not only does it have a couple of interesting pilgrim churches and many restaurants (BTW, often you will first need to wrestle your way through the bar in order to make it to the restaurant, so you may as well have a drink on your way in), but it also has a remarkably well-preserved Romanesque hump-backed bridge spanning the Rio Arga. It was built in the late 11^th century by orders of the queen to ensure the safe river crossing of the pilgrims.

The wines of Navarra are centered on the town of Olite. One of the oldest towns in Navarra, it was founded and fortified by the Romans. It wasn’t until the 12^th century that the town began to rise to prominence. Olite became a favorite of the Navarrese monarchs and a palace was built, incorporating what remained of the Roman fortifications. This palace is now a Parador, which means it has been turned into a historical hotel. Various bodegas (wineries) are located in and around the town, such as Ochoa (my favorite), Piedemonte and Marco Real.

Rioja, just south-east of Navarra, is known above all for its red wines (even though part of the wine denomination falls in Basque Country). Also Rioja was given semi-autonomous status. The name of this province is derived from the Río Oja, a tributary of the Ebro River. The Ebro runs down a shallow valley of enormous fertility, which also produces top quality cereal, fruits and vegetables, especially in the Rioja Baja. Riojan dishes include giant asparagus, hearty stews of white beans, large roasts of goat and lamb, perfected with a bottle of local red. 

The provincial town of Haro (in the Rioja Alta) is the effective grape capital. If you are a wine aficionado, you will want to visit the wine museum. The family-owned Muga winery accepts visitors on a daily basis.

To end this blog on a spiritual note of a different dimension, let me mention the town of Santo Domingo de la Calzada. Born in 1019, Domingo dedicated his life to the pilgrims who were passing through the area. Here he built a hospital, a bridge and a road, around which a town then grew which would eventually bear his name. The cathedral is the town’s centerpiece. The most curious ‘object’ in the cathedral is a live rooster and hen which are kept in a cage in memory of a miracle said to have occurred in Santo Domingo, when a roasted chicken stood up from a platter, and, fully feathered, crowed aloud to testify the innocence of a pilgrim who had been unjustly accused of theft and had been hung. He too was found to be alive, and was immediately released. Pilgrims still collect the bird’s white feathers!

The Dordogne flows between castles, From Souillac to Beynac, many of which date to the Hundred Year War between the French and the English. No doubt, this is mainly because the river was the route of passage, in the days of bad roads over the uplands, or no roads at all. The cliffs that border the valley might have been created to please warriors who sought a high rock to build on and a wide view from their towers. Castelnaud is a fantastic castle with an even more fantastic view…, overlooking its adversary: the castle of Beynac. They are not the palaces of the Loire, raised for princes to visit in the hunting season; but, they are better situated, and they have a human air of habitation.

Nearby is La Roque-Gageac, a strange village built up a perpendicular cliff, its houses clamped against the rock on a few terraces. A bit further up the river is Domme, reached by a zig-zag road from Cénac. Domme is a bastide. It was built in the 13^th century, when fortress-towns were being set up all over this country. It was the custom to give the people privileges in order to induces them to build the places and inhabit them…, as well as fight on the right side if this were necessary. Domme still has two gates, and a good deal of its walls; streets of honey-colored houses, and the terrace overlooking the Dordogne far below. Beaumont is another good example of a bastide. It has the typical central market square, surrounded by the arcades called the ‘cornières’. The streets form a grid within the walls and the little town was purely built for defence. Once the town gates were shut, the enemy would have to scale the double line of walls. And if he got through that, the people took refuge in the church and defended it like a castle. Its towers still bear traces of the battlement from which the defenders shot arrows at the invaders, and the windows are set too high to be accessible without ladders.

In Cadouin you will find the majestic austere abbey-church which for many centuries attracted hoards of pilgrims to the Holy Shroud of Christ, which had long been considered as the shroud to have enveloped the head of the Christ after his crucifixion.  In the 19^th century, a monk insisted on deciphering the inscription woven into its margin, which proved to be a Muslim text, and the pilgrimages ceased to continue.

French cookery is not only unsurpassed, it is supreme. Within her borders, the standard varies immensely. Every region has its specialties, but there are two which are generally outstanding: Burgundy and the South-West including the Dordogne. When visiting the Dordogne you will find yourself in a gastronomic paradise. Though the French were never famous for their breakfasts, the quality and quantitiy has greatly improved with the influx of foreign visitors. Naturally, a smaller breakfast allows you to drop into the patisserie to eat delicious pastries and cakes!

The food in the Dordogne is locally produced, and therein lies its great virtue. Nothing is imported, nothing is stale. The lettuces are straight out of the soil, the apricots off the trees. You eat the fruits of the earth in their season. The great local delicacies are truffles and cèpes, and various conserved meats. The potted Foie Gras, goose and duck, are marvelous and are rich beyond belief. In case you are worried about the welfare of the animals, farmers are no longer allowed to force feed the animals (as they did in the past). Nowadays, the geese and ducks just live on a ‘fattening’ diet.  

The preserves of goose and duck (called confit) are also great and should be tried at least one. Combine it with one of the local red wines from Cahors, and you will enjoy life like a King or Queen in France!

Best,

Ron

I can think of something special to say about every region where we offer our bicycle trips, because otherwise we would not be offering them at all. But the region which is most special to me is the Dordogne Valley. The Dordogne River rises in the Central Massif of France and runs westwards towards the Atlantic. This river region is a land where the towns have hardly spread beyond the limits of their ancient walls, and the countryside is untarnished.

Most foreigners visiting the continent of Europe make straight for Paris, and rightly so; no country, save France, could have made Paris. Yet Paris is not France, any more than New York is the United States. The real life of France is elsewhere, especially in the farms and the little country towns. It is only by observing them that one can understand the toughness, the vitality, the resilience of that manner of living and thinking.

The Middle Dordogne runs through the country called Périgord Noir, or Black Perigord. It is a land of delights. These can be summed up as beautiful form, color, and detail. The Dordogne itself is graceful. Here it is not a great river, but a wide and lively stream. It is entirely natural, flowing along with varied current between banks that usually are tree-fringed, curving to meet cliffs or steep slopes from one side of its bed to the other.

It is a colored country. In spring the flowers succeed each other so fast that the hillsides change their tint daily; in the fall the woods hang orange against the blue sky. But the basic color, revealed in the cliffs, in the soil, and in buildings, is that of the rock. Limestone is naturally white. More often, iron and other metals have dyed the stone with a multitude of colors. In some places it is amber, in others pink. In the rays of the setting sun a circle of cliffs will burn as though the rock is on fire.

There is constantly varying detail. Every bend of the river, every turn of the road alters the view. The river holds its trees growing up and down in reflection. A golden village pyramids up to the church tower in steeped red roofs. A castle shows its turrets coquettishly to the valley below, for it was carefully designed to do so.

The highlight, no doubt, is the prehistoric caves near Les Eyzies. I have probably visited the Grottes de Font de Gaume twenty times with our groups, and continue to get goose bumps each time when I have the privilege of admiring them once more. The walls are covered with outlines, bas-reliefs and paintings still faintly visible. There are mammoths, reindeer, horses and most of all bisons, dating from about 25,000 to 15,000 years BC! The techniques of drawing vary, and are peculiarly interesting because they employ many of the devices of stylization used by artists of the post-impressionist and later schools. Some of the beasts are outlined in a heavy black pigment, while the rest of their bodies are colored in red or ochre yellow. In some cases the softness of animal fur is rendered by what seems like blowing the paint on to the rock.

But there are other things to see in this district. Sarlat is one of my favorite little towns in Europe. During Napoleonic times the town was cut from north to south by the ‘Rue de la République’, which turns its shopfronts to the passer-by. But leave it on either hand and you will see why the whole of Sarlat is a “Monument Classé”. Both sides display Sarlat’s treasure of old streets, alleyways and medieval houses. One of the town churches has been turned into stores, with its gargoyles hanging over the market place. That must be one of the most decorative squares in the world, with its irregular shape and buildings of many dates pleasantly harmonized. To be continued...

Look for part 2 on Thursday!

Enjoy the delights of the past from ruins and medieval streets, historic churches, and famous artists, to the wonders of the present day from fashions, farms, and delectable wines.  If you cannot decide which style of vacation you want to enjoy, why choose?  With an Austin-Lehman France Bike Tour you get the story telling and time travel to ancient eras, along with the beauties and wonders that locals today enjoy on a daily basis.  The mix of learning about history, experiencing local tastes and drinks, enjoying strolls and bike rides from location to location, get your hands a little dirty at the farms and vineyards, to the luxurious accommodations and spa hotels that you are able to retreat to at the end of the night.  For the best mix of activities to suit all of your traveling needs, check out an Adventure tour today to the beautiful countryside of France. 

France biking vacations are offered in four different locations including Provence, The Loire Valley, Burgundy, and of course Brittany/Normandy.  The Provence a Pied is a great tour that focuses on gourmet excursions and travelling by foot to see the lovely locations of Provence.  The vineyards will be enjoyed by strolling through lanes of grapes, breathing in the aromas, soaking up the sunshine, and indulging in the flavors and varieties of grapes that elaborate the millions of bottles of fantastic wines.  Travel across the engineering marvel, the famous three-tiered aqueduct-bridge, and The Pont du Gard aqueduct.  Gape at the impressive bridge spanning 275 meters over the Gardon Valley.  Trek through the Roman ruins and learn about the ancient remains of the historical heritage of the old Roman civilization in the most perfectly preserved Roman amphitheater in the world to the Maison Carre. 

If you choose to instead enjoy the city of Provence on a France bike tour rather then by foot you will not miss out on the Roman Ruins, will also walk the steps through history where six popes before had trekked, and of course view the aqueduct Pont du Gard.  Riding through the countryside with fields of lavender, sunflowers, vineyards, and olive groves you will soak in the landscape that inspired artists like Van Gogh, Cezanne, and Chagall.  Take a break from the bike ride and stop into the some of the local farms with ripe and delicious produce, local and savory products, and learn about the fascinating traditional way of farming in Provence.  If this tour didn’t already seem interesting enough throw in a visit to the nature reserve of The Camargue, a lovely wind-swept river delta bordering the Mediterranean Sea, where you can pass the time watching the grace and beauty of the pink flamingos.   If you are looking to visit other locations during your visit to France, book your flight out a week from when your tour ends.  Due to an excellent train network it is simple to pass from city to city. 

Perhaps Provence doesn’t strike a chord with you; nevertheless, there are many other locations of France to consider. Your Loire Valley French Bike Tour offers some beautiful architectural sites including Chateau Amboise, Chateau Chambord, and Chateau Chenoceau.  Loire Valley is known for being host to many important castles from history dating back to the 15^th and 17^th centuries.  Learn the fascinating histories of how all of these castles came about from their competitive nature, and walk in the footsteps of Joan of Arc.  Also ride along through the towns, cathedrals, and villages to view the beauty that the town still currently holds.  The countryside and Rivers are worth the ride to enjoy a bit of the scenery and try out some of the flavors of local wine and food. 

Another France bike tour location to consider is a Burgundy Bike Tour with Austin-Lehman Adventures.  Start your adventure with a visit to the university town of Dijon, explore the Musee des Beaux-Arts, and take a relaxing ride through the gargoyle-studded churches of Notre Dame.  What better wine to try then a classic glass of Burgundy while visiting the town of Beaune and try some of the astounding cuisines, and sweets that France has to offer, all in one of the oldest wine regions in France.  You will be able to enjoy great accommodations, staying true to some old fashioned charm and bask in some of the delights that Burgundy has to offer.  The pace of change in this vintage town is a bit slow to say the least, enjoy the personality and soak up some of the delicious products of this region. 

Check out our Pintrest account to see more France Adventure Trips

The final dog days of summer are holding strong here in "SOUTH DAKOTA VACATION" and I have the perfect remedy to beat the late season heat.  A few years ago I was introduced to this peculiar treat while living in the mountains of North Carolina.  This sweet and savory concoction explodes with flavor as it fizzes upon your taste buds. 

Picture of Nick Gulping down the coke

A country known for delectable wines, mouthwatering cuisine, cultural depths, and romantic locations, France is a great place to experience your next adventure vacation.  Can’t leave the kids home alone? Perfect, bring your family on a France Normandy Family Trip with Austin Lehman Adventure. They will love the impressive sceneries, the beautiful views on their bike rides, and the exciting histories and visits to the battlefields.  Delicious meals to impress a toddler to a grandparent, no family member will leave this vacation disappointed.

The tourist town of St-Malo has been a tourist hot spot for years. St-Malo citadel, or walled city, is an attractive visitor location with cobblestone streets lined with shops, bars, hotels, and restaurants.  The modern harbor connects the citadel to the mainland making travel a bit more simple and stress free.  Your adventure upon two wheels during your adventure tour will lead you along Brittany to the battlefields of Normandy.  Travelling along the shoreline form St-Malo to Bayeux you will taste the flavors of the harbors, experience a piece of history as you pass through historic sites from WWII, and view ancient stone farmhouses and experience the striking landscapes.

St-Vaast is a beautiful and very special marina surrounded by stunning fishing boats and quaint views of the shorelines and fishermen landing and selling their catches.  The bulk of French oysters come from this location so it is a must try on the menu for dinner or lunch during your visit.  The sheltered location provides a beautiful, almost tropical vegetation creating a gorgeous backdrop for you to ride along and visit.  Retreat to the lush Normandy countryside; enjoy a glass of fine wine, and flavorful cheeses and caviar.

Continue your French Bike Tour to the town of Bayeux.   Visit the historic sites of the D-Day Beaches, guided tours of historical WWII sites, and visit the Bayeux Cathedral which towers over the entire town. Relive William the Conqueror’s conquest of England as you walk along the colorful 230-foot Bayeux Tapestry that retells the story scene by scene. 

Searching for an adventure that reaches beyond just amazing French food and beautiful landscapes.  Check out one of Austin Lehman Adventures newest France tour to Dordogne.  While this trip by no means will be lacking in mouthwatering savory cuisine, it is also an opportunity to step back through time and explore the Grotte Fond de Gaume, an ancient cave scattered with 15,000-year-old paintings of prehistoric bison, mammoths, and reindeer which once roamed the shores of the Dordogne during the last Ice Age.   With hundreds of caves open to the public to explore, as well as prehistoric paintings you can also marvel at rock formations, and explore beautiful underground taverns.

Check out all of Austin Lehman’s Brand new tours and book your family adventure vacation today!  See more photos of our France Adventure Trips on Pinterest.

As the Seat of Government for the Western Roman Empire, “holy city”, catholic stronghold, and university town, Trier has played many roles in its long history.  Dating back to 5000 BC, this small medieval village is located in the Mosel region of Germany, nestled in between the borders of Germany, France and Liechtenstein.  This area has suffered through wars and conquests, triumphed with modernization, survived bombings during its term as a Brown Shirt stronghold during both world wars, and has currently found its place as a central European university city.

This region is stacked to the brim with ruins from the Roman Empire, including cathedrals, roman baths, and the remnants of city walls, all of which are protected by UNESCO.  The best place for a new visitor to start is at the Porta Nigra, a gate into the city which dates back to about AD 180, and the Roman occupation of that area.  There are also impressive archaeological museums housing the most comprehensive exhibits about civilization, economy, religion, and art from the first 400 years of the Common Era in Germany.

Another point of interest is the Karl Marx House; the house contains a permanent exhibit “Karl Marx (1818-1883), Life – Work – Influence up to the Present”.   Here you will learn about the German philosopher/economist/ socialist, and his theories, beliefs, and influences as well as the effects he has had on our current global political/social movements.

For those who don’t have an itch for museums, Trier also boasts a wonderful main marker area, which acts as a gateway to the Cathedral and the Jewish Quarter.  This is also a great city to indulge in cycling tours before meeting the group!

 With so much history, Trier is the perfect place to explore before one of your German bike tours.

Your friendy travel expert,

Mindy Teini

France is such a diverse country from the chic metropolitan city of Paris to the windswept dunes of the Normandy beaches to the lavender fields of Provence to the wineries of Burgundy to the picturesque castles of the Loire Valley.  France truly has something to offer everyone and it is the perfect country for your European cycling tours.  There is no better way to experience all that this beautiful country has to offer than on the two wheels of a bicycle.  Not only do you feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face but you can truly take in all the sights and smells on a whole different level. 

History Rich Brittany/Normandy

Not only are the Brittany and Normandy regions of France phenomenally beautiful but they offer adventurers a bit of a history lesson.  This area is rich in history dating back to the Roman Empire and also played an important role in World War II.  There will be plenty of time to visit the museums, beaches, battlefields and cemeteries.  Rolling through the historic villages you will be amazed by the half-timbered buildings that have endured the test of time.  Stop along the way and enjoy a savory crepe and a locally distilled cider!  There is no better way to journey to the majestic abbey of Mont St Michel than by bicycle.  You will see it far off in the distance and arrive to marvel at its splendor.  A cycling vacation in the Brittany/Normandy region will leave you craving your next trip to France. 

Luscious Provence

Famous for its fragrant lavender fields, jagged Mediterranean coast, charming villages and superb cuisine, Provence is everything you are dreaming of in a French vacation.  There is endless exploring to do in this region.  It has an incredibly rich history dating back to the Stone Age when some of the earliest people to inhabit Europe chose Provence.  How can you blame them?  The Mediterranean coastline is exquisite, beautiful mountains tower in the distance, several rivers meander the countryside and this region has a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters.  Famous for delicious cuisine, Provence has a flavor distinctly different from some of the other regions in France.  Expect to dine on some incredible seafood, crusty breads with fresh olive tapenade and array of fresh fruits.  Relaxation and enjoying life is hallmark of Provence, so make sure you indulge.  Spend some time people watching at an outdoor café in before taking a laidback stroll through the amazing markets of St Remy.  You will settle right into this leisurely lifestyle and feel relaxed and rejuvenated in no time!

Delectable Burgundy

The people who live in this region know the secrets of the “good life” start with amazing food and wine.  You will find no shortage of either on your cycling vacation to the Burgundy region of France.  It is a travelers dream!  The beautiful rolling hills of this region are dotted with picturesque small vineyards, magnificent chateaus and timeworn abbeys.    The quaint villages of Burgundy will invite you to linger and enjoy just one more glass of amazing pinot noir.  While vacationing in this area be sure to sample some of the famous regional cuisine like the Beef Bourguigon, Coq au Vin or the delicious Escagot in a white wine sauce.  This is an incredibly peaceful region of France that invites you to slow down, relax and stay awhile. 

The Enchanted Loire Valley

Spend just a few days cycling through the gorgeous Loire Valley and you will feel enlightened.  This region is famous for its extravagant chateaus and castles, gorgeous gardens and noble history.  Many of the impressive castles in the Loire Valley were once residences of the French Royalty.  They were built in this beautiful river valley because the close proximity to Paris, the pleasant climate, beautiful landscape and amazing growing season.  This region of the country is often called the Garden of France.  Not only will you find plenty of vineyards but you will also cycle past beautiful fruit orchards, fields of artichokes, asparagus and sunflowers.  Spend a few days pedaling through the charming villages, touring the picture perfect chateaus, sampling a few flakey pastries along the way and you will see why this region has been a haven for French royalty, poets, artists and travelers throughout history. 

With its impressive charm, food and wine, indulgent culture France will entice you time and time again.  It is the perfect place for your European cycling tours. 

Looking to plan your next dream vacation?  Perhaps you are one of those travelers that want nothing on the agenda for the day, just  a nice relaxing retreat on a white sandy beach with a piña colada in hand.  Maybe your sense of adventure is only perked up when you think about experiencing an adrenline pumping activity like rafting or mountain biking. On the other hand, maybe you are the type of traveller that interest spikes when you hear the words buttery, delectable, rich and flavorful. Austin-Lehman Adventures is not one to over look the span of delicious foods, wines, sweets and cuisine’s that differ around the world.  If you are a traveler who likes to experience culture through the different flavors of the world then Culinary and Gourmet Vacations may be the next must try experience for the foodie in you.  

Visit A Vineyard In France

What better place to sip on a glass of Burgundy wine then in the famous town itself in the heart of France.  As one of the most famous and influential wine growing regions in the world, Burgundy is a beautiful location for any wine enthusiast.  Whether you are a wine connoisseur or simply love the varieties of flavors, Burgundy is sure to impress. The wine will not be the only memorable part of your vacation however; the rich flavors of a lobster ravioli, foie gras, and homemade ice cream soufflé will all be the talk of the evening as you indulge in some of the most flavorful foods France has to offer. Whether you are up for a Burgundy cycling tour or prefer to explore the medieval castles of Loire Valley or the shorelines of Brittany and Normandy, with Austin Lehman you will be assured delicious wines, flavors, and gourmet adventures. 

Appreciate An Adventure In Austria

The Austrian Alps are a delight for not only the eyes but also for the pallet.  Austria tours offer snowcapped mountains, expansive lakes, and 14,000-year-old glacier carved gorges.  These should be reason enough to head to this visual paradise.  Austria has a delicious variety of local wines that pair fantastically with local Austrian cheeses and fruits.   You can anticipate savory flavors with creams, mustards, and delicious capers.  A great way to finish off a wonderful dinner is with a rich cup of traditional Austrian coffee, then unwind in your postcard-perfect accommodations.  

Delve Into Denmark

A Danish Isles adventure is sure to caress your taste buds with its famous flavors for local seafood and use of high quality local produce.  You will need to experience Smørrebrød (or a local open-faced sandwich) on a variety of different breads  accompanied by your choice of salmon, prawns or breaded fish. Denmark is not just a great place to experience delicious cuisine, but also it offers a backdrop of sheer cliffs, and dune-swept beaches.  Tour the country by island hopping through the rolling countryside with historic ruins, ancient castles, and colorful fishing villages.  From visiting historical museums to watching the changing of the guards, you will be entertained on every day of your trip.  Your Danish Isles Bike Tour is a fantastic way to enjoy the delicious taste of Denmark.

A Toast in Napa Valley

For the foodie Napa and Sonoma have become synonymous with award winning wines and elegant dining.   For the adventurer Napa and Sonoma are prime for hiking, kayaking, and biking California’s stunning grassland, mountain trails, and pristine bays. Something that both the foodie and the adventurer can enjoy is the regions wine. Napa’s first commercial winery was established in 1861 from which the industry quickly grew due to fantastic climate for grape vineyards.  Today Napa boasts more than 300 vineyards and is an ideal location for wine connoisseurs and fans alike. Napa Valley is located in the greater bay area of Northern California and enjoys a warm climate with mild winters. The perfect place to spend a summer vacation! No matter what your craving, this gourmet Wine Tour of California is everything you could imagine and more.  

Tantalize your Taste buds in Tuscany

Every fan of delicious food and wines, have once upon a time dreamed of the amazing aromas that Tuscan kitchens have to offer.  A region of Italy known for its delicious cuisine is a dream location for anyone who loves to experience great food while traveling.  Not only is the food and wine a treat for your senses but also a dream for cycling tours.  While the foodie in you can bask in the delicious authentic flavors of the finest extra virgin olive oil, the cyclist in you can charge the country side by bike. There is also the chance to marvel at the renaissance landmarks such as the breathtaking Dummo, Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio and the Pitti Palace.  No list of gourmet travel adventures would be complete without listing a Tuscany Bike Tour. 

Are you hungry now? If so, follow your senses and check out our Culinary and Gourmet Vacations. 

OR

Check out some photos from some our Gourmet and Culinary Vacations on Pinterest.

One of the great things about traveling to a new place is getting to try the local cuisine.  When visiting someplace new, one of the most memorable experiences you can have is to try out the local delicacies.  Combining new tastes with travel can be a great way to vividly remember your trip.  Here at the ALA office, we have sampled some pretty crazy dishes that many people would never even think of eating!

1. Smiley- One of the strangest food experiences that Dan had while visiting South Africa was trying a smiley. A smiley is a sheep’s head that is charred on a braai or grill.  The head is grilled until its lips are burned off which leaves the sheep’s head with a big smile!
2. Plátanos Maduros- While Christy was enjoying Costa Rica she also decided to try out this savory local dish also known as Costa Rican fried bananas.
3. Rocky Mountain Oysters- Melissa did not have to venture far from home to find a memorable meal.  Rocky Mountain Oysters are a Montana delicacy.  While eating cow testicles may sound crazy to you, many people in the area go crazy for them!  There are even festivals dedicated to this wild local favorite.
4. Tripe- While in Peru, Mindy decided she would enhance her experience in the country by trying one of the local dishes: Tripe.  For those of you who have not had the opportunity to sample tripe and may be wondering constitutes the meal, Tripe is animal intestines.
5. Horse Meat- In the U.S. horse is somewhat of a taboo food because of the role that they play as pets, but in many countries, this same taboo does not exist.  While visiting Holland, Jon discovered that horsemeat is a tasty, slightly sweet meat that is enjoyed by millions in Europe.
6. Pâté de Foie Gras- This delicacy enjoyed by Carol is a well-known and popular dish in France.  Foie Gras is specially fattened goose or duck liver made into a Pâté. (a spreadable paste) 
7. Alpaca Meat- Enjoyed by both the ancient Incans and Kasey, this dish is not one you can find just anywhere.  To sample this unusual meat Kasey traveled to Ecuador, one of the countries that Alpacas call home.  Alpaca meat is lean and high in protein.

As you can see, the Austin-Lehman office staff likes to indulge in the local cuisine wherever they are traveling. 

Would you ever try any of these unusual meals?  What’s the most unusual dish that you’ve been brave enough to try? Leave a comment and tell us!

Your friendly travel experts,

Austin-Lehman Adventures

For most people the first place they travel to holds a special place in their heart.  While Europe was not technically my first stop, for me, it feels like home!  There are so many reasons to love European vacations: The people, the food, the views, but here are my top reasons for going back again and again!

#5.  Returning to a familiar place.  If you have ever traveled to the same place twice, you know what I mean!  There is nothing like getting into Paris (or any city) and knowing where the Metro is (or, let’s be honest, the best bakeries!) Or knowing exactly where your favorite hotel is, the best walk along the river, the park where you want to read all day.  Each time I return somewhere I find new treasures to make me love the place!

#4. Bakeries on Every corner.  Seriously, you haven’t lived until you have divulged in European pastries.  I haven’t had a bad one yet (and I even ended up with a prune Danish on one side trip to Slovakia).  My favorites are anything with apples, or those cream filled croissants, or anything dusted in confectioners’ sugar.

#3. The Wine.  It doesn’t seem to matter if you are in France, Spain, or Austria, the wine selection in Europe is second to none!  The best part is there are great options at almost every price level; you can pick up a decent wine in the grocery store for 3 Euros or splurge on a couple hundred dollar bottle straight from your favorite vineyard.

#2. The History.  As American’s I believe we forget how young of a country we are!  In Europe, when you are walking down centuries old cobblestone streets, or sitting in a church from the 1400s, it is hard to miss that this place has a little more sole!  There is so much to take in, and there really is nothing like realizing that Leonardo de Vinci or Alexander the Great could have walked exactly where you are!

And the #1 reason I love Europe: The People.  You may have heard that the French dislike American’s, or that no one likes the American government. Well, that may be true in some cases, but in my experience, if you smile, and try, it goes a long, long way!  Just learn ‘hello’, ‘goodbye’, ‘please’, and ‘thank you’ in the language and you are pretty well set.  The people are warm, welcoming, and just as interested in you as you are in them.

I hope this gives you a little inspiration to hop across "The Pond" and visit our neighbors to the East!  With all the wonderful European vacations available you are sure to find somewhere that strikes your fancy!

You Friendly Travel Expert,

Mindy Vanderhoof-Teini

Why do you love Europe? Leave a comment and tell us, we love hearing from you!

We all know the famous gourmet regions of the world: France, Italy, Peru, New York City, Las Vegas, the Napa Valley… But, I am a firm believer that any vacation can be turned into a “gourmet vacation”.  Good food is all around and you can find it just about anywhere as long as you are willing to put a bit of effort into finding it.  My number one tip for finding the best food in any city is to ask a local.  Where do the locals eat?  Chances are it is a neighborhood café with an organic garden in the backyard or it is an Irish pub with no advertising and no sign out front or it is a food truck parked on the corner of Main and 8^th Street only on Tuesdays and Thursdays.   These are all local gems that could easily be overlooked.

So often in our regular lives we eat things that are quick, easy and we rarely take the time to slow down and really enjoy eating.  Vacation really should be the time to slow down, find a local bistro and really enjoy your food.  A gourmet vacation doesn’t always have to feature expensive meals or a 5 star restaurant with a celebrity chef.  It really should be about enjoying the company you are with and tasting all that an area has to offer. You know the old saying “when in Rome, do as the Romans do”.  Some of my most memorable meals while traveling have been in small town café’s served by an owner or at a tiny restaurant with few tables and a line out the door. 

I highly recommend skipping the famous restaurant chains.  Where’s the fun in eating something you can get around the corner at home?  Even if you are in the mood for a quick burger, I suggest giving the local drive-in a try and skipping the burger chain you can find in every city.  I bet you will find a great burger and maybe even that tasty shake you haven’t had in 20 years.  It is vacation! 

Every area has their specialty.  Every town has a café that makes the best omelet or has a bar and grill with the best happy hour.  If you don’t look, you are really missing out!  I promise the next time you are in Grand Forks, North Dakota you will find the best fried pickles you have ever tasted at a little restaurant called The Toasted Frog.  Ask anyone in town!

Your Friendly Travel Consultant,

Melissa Ladvala

A few years ago my family decided we should take a European vacation.  My cousin was living and studying in the Loire region of France and our family (3 generations!) decided we should go for a little visit.  I would never turn down an opportunity to travel, so off to France I went with the family!  The plan was to arrive in Paris, take the train to meet up with my cousin and then set out by car to tour the history rich Brittany/Normandy regions of France.  While we didn’t have a set daily agenda, we did have some hotel reservations and definitely had a list of places to visit.

This trip turned into nothing less than a disaster.  We spent more time getting lost, getting frustrated, finding attractions closed, arriving very late at night to our hotels and peering in the windows of closed restaurants.  We spent very little time actually relaxing and enjoying our time in France and enjoying our family vacation.  Looking back now I can find some humor in the whole thing, but that trip really got me thinking about guided vacations.  If we would have gone with a guide my grandmother would have actually had time to savor her coffee and a delicious dessert in the gorgeous villages we sped through.  My grandfather would have actually had time visit Utah Beach.  Our meals would have been filled with delicious food, smooth French Bordeaux’s and conversation rather than meals filled with zombie like stares and frustrated silence.  While we saw some amazing things on our comical European vacation, we wouldn’t have missed so many things and there would have been much more family harmony if we would have traveled with a guide.  We can finally look back on our family adventure vacation and laugh but it has taken years.  Years! 

So here are my top five reasons I highly recommend traveling with a guide.  These are lessons learned the hard way! 

Top 5 Reason’s You Should Go with a Guide

1. No Getting Lost.  We spent countless hours backtracking, looking at maps, attempting to read road signs in a foreign language and finally finding our way just in time to miss out on whatever we were trying to find.  When traveling with a guide all that is handled for you.  The guides are experts and not only do they speak the language but they know the best routes, the best coffee shops or attractions along the way. 
2. Insider Knowledge.  Whether it is pointing out some history of the area, telling a local story or simply knowing where the cleanest bathroom is located guides have the insider knowledge on local sights, culture and hours of operation. With years of experience there is no better way to travel than with an experienced guide.
3. Best Food.  While you are bound to stumble upon delicious food in many places, when traveling with a guide you know you are experiencing the best food the area has to offer.  In many cases the guide you are traveling with is a personal friend of the restaurant owner or has become friends over the years of doing business together.  You are going to get the best service, the best table, the best reservation time and the best food! 
4. More Relaxation, Less Stress. When traveling with a guide all of the details are handled for you.  You get to truly enjoy your vacation and the time with your loved ones.  It truly makes your vacation a time to relax and take it all in! 
5. New Friends.  Not only is your guide going to be your local expert, driver, daily planner but by the end of the trip they will be your friend.  Guides love what they do and they love getting to know people from all over the world.  Going with a guide will give you an experience like none other.   

You will never go at it alone again, trust me.

Your Friendly Travel Consultant,

Melissa Ladvala

I have to say, after traveling around 39 countries, and speaking very little of only a handful of languages, I have discovered that the way you say something is much more important than how you say it! Don’t get me wrong, you should always try to speak the language, it is only polite, (and louder English does not equal a foreign language). All you really need to know is how to say ‘please’, ‘thank you’, and ‘do you speak English?’ People will be happy that you are trying, and most of the time they will do everything they can to help you. When words don’t communicate the point you can always use gestures. I have played charades with many a foreigner, and it almost always gets me what I need.

On the flip side, I have been witness to the stereotypical American in Paris of all places, thinking that louder was better, and that the guy behind the counter of the kebab shop must be a fool to not understand his demand for water. This larger than life cowboy (hat and all), with a thick Texan accent was actually turning red with frustration as he fruitlessly demanded two waters. The guy behind the counter was trying to help, he was pointing at all the different beverages in the case, juice, soda, and on and on, with the Texan screaming, “Water, I want 2 WATERS!” I was embarrassed for him. I also wanted waters, so I pulled out my trusty French book and was practicing “les deux eaux, S'il vous plait.” I muttered it to myself until I reached the front of the line, and I very sheepishly said, “Bonjour monsieur, les deux eaux, s’il vous plait?” (Making it a question with inflection is also a good way to win someone’s favor.) He looked me in the eye, smiled coyly and said, in perfect English, “you in France, you speak French, no?” I just smiled, and walked out laughing with my waters.

Just a reminder that a smile goes along way...

Your Friendly Travel Expert,

MIndy Vanderhoof

While all of our adventure vacations are filled with some sort of physical activity such as biking, hiking and kayaking, we don’t want all the foodies out there to think we forgot them. In fact, as most anyone who has been on our trips will tell you, the food is incredible.

No matter which country or which adventure, our guests start out the day with a high energy breakfast to get them ready to go experience all the thrills of their destination. Each evening will find them back dining on deliciously prepared campfire vittles or five star gourmet fare. And many of our European vacations will also find adults sipping fine wines from the best regions of wine country.

Our gourmet adventures are combined with the best of our biking and hiking vacations. Our adventurers may choose the gourmet fare of wine regions in California, Chile/Argentina or the rich, delectable foods of Italy, France and Germany. Some of our adventures even include cooking classes to get you started making your own gourmet goodies.

Stop by our website to find out more about gourmet adventures to your choice of destination and get started planning your trip of a lifetime today.
 

Rural France has its fair share of pretty towns and dramatically breathtaking landscapes. Not only do stunning villages dot the countryside, but the area also features wonderful spots to sample wines and see the remains of Ancient Rome and the Ardèche and Auvergne gorges that define the region. For those interested in historical culture and stunning scenery along with some of the world’s best food and wine, this region puts the European vacation for singles, couples and families at the top of the list.

Burgundy is located in the Sens and Auxerre region, which lies southeast of Paris. The region is popular for adventure vacations because of the spectacular countryside as well as the many historical towns that all have their own stories to tell of wars, sieges and political intrigues down the ages.  There are countless local markets to visit, and of course, probably one of the best known wines in the world to enjoy, Burgundy. Well known vintages include Chablis and Beaune with almost all vineyards and cellars a fascinating and delicious visit.

Historically, the town of Dijon became well known for being the center of the mustard trade, and visiting these types of towns will offer a valuable lesson in the geography, culture and history of the area. Enjoy the day walking the streets to make a perfect break in our cycling tours holiday itinerary. Historic buildings from the 11th and 13th centuries are also plenteous in the area including St. Etienne Church, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Cathedral of Notre Dame. Stop by our online travel catalog to learn more about the wonders of vacationing in France.
 

Because many people dream of trips to the emerald green waters of exotic beaches, the country of Holland might not necessarily be at the top of the list for summer vacation destinations. Certainly, the land isn’t known for its beaches and sunshine. But for those couples and families looking to journey on their first European vacation, the flat and lovely Dutch countryside promises to be a dream destination for cycling tours. 

Biking through small fascinating villages while on cycling tour is the ultimate form of adventure and relaxation. While journeying throughout the country, the canals and windmills offer sights not well known anywhere else in the world. Amsterdam alone is home to over 100 kilometers of canals that wind their way through town and country.

For those who have adventured to the rolling hills of northern France or southern England, the famously flat landscape offers quite a contrast. Most of the land has been reclaimed by the sea with many small communities, well known for their windmills, doing all that is possible to shelter their towns behind dikes meant to protect from potential flood damage. Because the land is so flat, bicycles are a great way to travel while on holiday. In fact, the Dutch people and bicycles seem to go everywhere together, hand in hand.  There are many cycling paths around the canals that also cross into open land and countryside.

The country is more than just landscape and picturesque sites however. The cosmopolitan feel of the culture can most be experienced in their foods, which have integrated with other cultures to provide new treats not often associated with Holland. Indonesian food along with other famous Dutch treats prevails in many locales. The land of tulips, windmills and canals is a perfect destination for adventure vacation packages so contact us today to learn more about our European travel itineraries.