Tagged With "Swiss wine"
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Re: Tickets: Check before you cancel!
British Airways are trying their best to hold on to their customers' money. We have had 4 flights from Frankfurt to London cancelled by them (on two separate bookings). Whilst by law they should simply refund the money to the credit card, they send you links involving only 'travel vouchers' and phone numbers with automated messages directing you to the same vouchers. It is extremely difficult to find anything to do with actual refunds, but I am persisting. I also am pursuing claims under EU...
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Re: July in France: More than Bastille Day
Great photo of the lavender field. I remember all the years living in Germany, seemed there were weekly fests going on in our village or in one of the neighboring villages. Any excuse for outdoor music and to gather with current and new friends to drink local wines and beers along with plentiful grilled meats. I truly miss that part of European living. Fests all year long and never a rain date ... they just put up tents and partied in the rain. Photo of my wife Diane with two musicians at a...
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Re: Is Porto worth the trip?
Much as I loved my time in Porto...it's NOT a day trip. Much too much to do there, including evening stroll along the Douro, port-wine tasting across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia and more. I'd say take the advice above and save Porto for another trip. Of the recommended day trips above, I'd vote for Sintra. It's an easy trip--trains run about every 30 minutes, more frequently in rush hours, The town itself is interesting, the Moorish Castle up on the mountain and the Pena Palace above that...
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Re: Renting an apartment in Europe
Of course, you don't have to cook. But it is nice to make a pot of coffee in the morning and eat nice warm croissants fetched from the bakery down the street, before you venture out into the city. It's also pleasant once in a while when you are tired at day's end to pick up something to heat in the microwave and maybe a bottle of decent wine for only a few euro, and sit with feet up and watch TV. Ahhh....
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Re: Happy Thanksgiving, from all of us at TravelGumbo!
Yes DrF.... Those Ozzies have some strange habits ! First time in Coogee Bay Hotel Sydney I ordered Steak and Chips (Fries) Guy showed me a Tupperware Picnic Box full of raw steak. You choose, then he puts it on a plate for you. You take it outside to the "Barbee" (BBQ). You cook it how you like it. Then come back in for your Chips and salad ! I stopped at a Restaurant in Bondi Beach and the waiter asked me if I would like a bottle of wine with the meal. "Yes please" I said. "Well git ya...
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Re: Capital of Culture Series: Liverpool
In a way, most of the places in the world worth visiting have some history of being "dirty, industrial" places--that's where people cluster and societies are forged. The ancient cities of the Middle East and Greece, and Rome itself were like that! We recently visited the excavated Roman city under central Barcelona, and were surprised to see how much of the area in the center of the ancient city was given over to commercial laundry, large-scale dye works and industrial-scale wine-making. The...
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Re: June 20, 2018: Beer in a Carton
What an odd origin ! Things once embedded seem to take a long time to change, even when it's obvious ! I've always hated drinking straight from a carton anyway. In south India I had a surprise when I heard there was some Indian 'Port' at the store and got a small plastic pouch full of something that bore more resemblance to red wine vinegar.
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Re: Swiss wine-growers look for good news in climate change
"The NASA Earth Observatory notes three particularly cold intervals: one beginning about 1650, another about 1770, and the last in 1850, each separated by intervals of slight warming" Swiss Farms and Villages were destroyed by the advancing glaciers during the mini-ice ages. 1.6C is not a great recovery in 100 years.
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Re: A Culinary Adventure in Portugal
Sagres and Superbock Beer are a Portuguese favourite. I always have a supply in the fridge. For drinks after dinner I prefer a Mateus Rose Wine. Strong in alcohol content - sparkling and not dry. Portugal has an all year warm climate as the prevailing winds come up from North Africa and the Sahara Desert.
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Re: Krumlov Castle, Český Krumlov, Czech Republic. Where Gumbo was #68
I first visited Cesky Krumlov in 1995, when it was still being restored and the tower repainted, as it had deteriorated during the communist period. I would also advise anyone visiting the area also to see nearby Rozmberk, which is a pretty village with a quite impressive castle, but with far fewer tourists (First 2 pictures). Prague is rightly considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but there is much more to see in the Czech Republic including Cesky Krumlov and South Bohemia.
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, November 7, 2014: Deuce with Truck
This shot (not that you can see from my pic) was taken whilst staying at the most picturesque village of Rudesheim deep in the German wine region, south of Koblenz. A beautiful village to visit if rather 'touristy' these days. Also highly recommended is a Rhine day-cruise (or longer) out of lovely Cologne which will also pass by Rudesheim.
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Re: Following the European Beer Trail: Oktoberfest to Sorrento
My curiosity is also piqued about this Italian beer. Not sure if I tried beer in Italy. Wine seems to be flowing out of ever crack in every building, but I'll need to give it a try next time I'm there. Hi praise from a Canadian, I might add.
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, Feb 11, 2015: Fruit of the Vine
Hi Paul. Just curious. Would an outdoor wine tasting be permissible in the US? I always find events like this to be so civilised. Folks just mixing and tasting locally produced food and wine. No one over indulging and a beautiful way to enjoy a summers day making new friends.
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, Feb 11, 2015: Fruit of the Vine
We have a lot of different state and local laws, so, as they say, Your Mileage May Vary. Since New York is a significant wine-producer, it may be a bit easier here, and in summer there are several wine producers sampling at our local Greenmarket
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, Feb 11, 2015: Fruit of the Vine
I never knew that New York was a wine producer. I'll add that to my shopping list in August. Blossom Hill of California is a big seller here in the UK. Thank You !!
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, Feb 11, 2015: Fruit of the Vine
The Finger Lakes area in the center of the state has long been a big white-wine producer; Taylor is originally from there. There's been a growing industry on Long Island in recent years, where sandy soil in some areas has been good to the grapes. On the whole, NY wines range from extraordinary to oversweet. And, of course, it's home to one of my guilty favorites: Manishewitz Concord Grape wine, kosher for Passover!
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, Feb 11, 2015: Fruit of the Vine
Must look into this. I prefer sweet wines. Hate dry wines. Which I know is very unfashionable. But I do love asking guests to try my Italian "Martini. Asti Spumante. Sparkling Wine". I do enjoy converting people with an attitude to sweet wines !
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, June 29, 2014: Berlin's Fernsehturm
Very nice. My only time visiting Berlin was for the Christmas Markets and I was too focused on mulled wine! I need to go back during the year and actually explore these monuments.
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, June 29, 2014: Berlin's Fernsehturm
Originally Posted by MAD Travel Diaries: Very nice. My only time visiting Berlin was for the Christmas Markets and I was too focused on mulled wine! I need to go back during the year and actually explore these monuments. I also know the impact of mulled wine on a cool day
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, June 29, 2014: Berlin's Fernsehturm
I guess I'll need to explore the mulled wine when I get back...we were focused on beer and currywurst!
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Re: Six Reasons Why Lisbon Made Me Nostalgic for San Francisco
When I'm in San Francisco I love the Micro Breweries. The sampler tray is a must have in each bar. But when you're in Lisbon just try the Sagres Lager. Often named as the Best Beer in Europe you'll be pleasantly surprised ! Nothing like a "Lite" Beer, it has a wonderful taste and sparkle. Or try a sparkling Mateus Rose if wine is your preference.
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Re: Six Reasons Why Lisbon Made Me Nostalgic for San Francisco
@GarryRF - I'm more of a wine person but did enjoy a Sagres or two in Portugal. You can't beat the price. Love the microbreweries in San Francisco and agree that the tasting trays are definitely the way to go!
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Re: United Economy to Offer 3 Course Meals, Free Beer & Wine on Some Flights
Alaska has been offering free microbrewery beer and local wine on its Horizon flights for years. So Kudos to United for expanding their economy services. We need to acknowledge their service improvements when they occur
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Re: Points to consider before visiting Tbilisi
Good points to know before travelling. The Wine sounds good.. need to check this out further. Thanks G
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Re: Possible second Viking site found in Newfoundland
History tells us that the first English settlers in North America would not have survived the first winter without food from the indigenous tribes. The winters in England and Europe are warmer than what was waiting for them in Newfoundland. There is a weather history from about the year 1150. If you look at records kept by French wine makers it notes the date the first shoots appear. The date when the grapes are set, then harvested and the quality and size of the fruit. All good indicators...
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Re: Apr. 7, 2016: Budget Vacation in France
We enjoy camping here. And we have our own equipment. And we can put it up in 10 minutes too. But going to an area of Europe and getting budget accommodation that's central to exploring Paris - Berlin - Munich - Marseilles - St Tropez - Brussels - the Spanish Costa's etc and all at a budget price. With toilets - showers - hairdryers - on site stores for wine and food - then even the Ladies can't complain. And a car park so you can be off touring the caves and vineyards. Staying in a Budget...
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Re: Hole-y cow! Swiss cheese 3000 years old?
3,000 years old? ? Would that make it extra mature or vintage ?
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Re: Visiting Erupting Mount Etna
My wife and I stayed a couple weeks at the seaside town of Naxos that was between Mount Etna and the sea. Our room faced the sea and in the middle of one night we heard some big booming noises and thinking and eruption was occurring I dashed into the hallway. Seeing flashing lights from the back side windows, I hustled to the big rear windows only to see fireworks being set off from the slopes of the volcano. Whew ! Had a great time there with a visit to Taormina and the fantastic wine and...
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, September 13, 2015: South of Naples
Did you discover any wines that you'd like to share ? I love trying a wine that's unknown to me. Like Gancia Asti came as a pleasant surprise.
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, September 13, 2015: South of Naples
Originally Posted by GarryRF: Did you discover any wines that you'd like to share ? I love trying a wine that's unknown to me. Like Gancia Asti came as a pleasant surprise. I love the Asti wines, and really enjoyed the Chianti wines, but I've forgotten the names of any specific wines I enjoyed in Italy I'm afraid. I do recommend the South African Durbanville Hills Chardonnay
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Re: easyJet's founder launches cut-rate food store
I really do like this idea because a lot of people are too proud to go to food banks if they are in need and at least they can get a few things there. Also , if it spreads its a good way for travelers to pick up a few snacks for the road. Here are the items for sale listed on the site : Tea Ground Coffee Chicken Curry Sugar Orangeade Pasta Mushroom Sauce Digestives Chick Peas Sardines and Sauce Cream Crackers Pasta Sauce Flour Tomato Ketchup Variety Pack Cereal Potatoes Jaffa Cakes Fruit...
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Re: French town reaffirms tourism ban: No space travelers allowed
Another example of what wine - in excess - does to your brain.
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Re: Walking Tours in Andalusia
Hi Pheymont I wouldn't worry about the wine and tapas portion. Things are really inexpensive her, and the tapas has been universally good. It's easy to get three or four tapas to share and a couple of glasses of wine for 15 Euro. As for the tours, we didn't take any, but I think for one day in Cordoba it would be a good idea because I think that day may feel really busy. For Sevilla, I have a mixed opinion, I really love to wonder around, get lost and then navigate my way out...but thats...
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Re: Walking Tours in Andalusia
Thanks so much! We're also the wanderers, but in a new city we sometimes find a walking tour is useful either for orientation upfront, or to clear up questions about things we've noticed. The wine and tapas tour is semi on the radar more for the opportunity to meet new people than to have a drink and a snack. Picking those things carefully, we've been able to have time with other travelers from other countries (not always English-speaking). I'm looking forward to our trip...your pictures are...
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Re: California road trip ideas
Mrs. Briggs - There are roads aplenty in California. Where you go depends on your family's interests. Pick a theme and the route will take care of itself. Would you say that your family more enjoys scenic routes or taking advantage of what cities have to offer ? Mountains or ocean ? Would you like to see gardens or maybe historical homes ? Maybe your crowd would go for a trip that strings together movie filming locations or old west towns ? What are your hobbies ? - shopping for antiques ?
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Re: California road trip ideas
Hi Mrs. Briggs! What sorta stuff do you like to see? Nature? Mountains? Desert? Wine areas? Big cities? California has it all. Would help to know this to give you better advice. Whatever you decide, its a great place to go. One of the best in the world. Look forward to hearing from you.
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Re: The Legend of Vlad the Impaler (Dracula)
Thank you so very much for this fascinating piece on Dracula!! I grew up scared of vampires as a small boy because I''d watched Bela Lugosi when I was a little to young to understand. But at least I knew I was safe in the day, as vampires could not come into the sunlight. Amazing what an industry Vampires have become, with hundreds of movies, television series and books written about them. You've give us yet another reason to visit Romania. The country moves further and further up my list of...
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Re: The Legend of Vlad the Impaler (Dracula)
Well first thank you for reading my post:d I just want to share what my country can offer I'll start with the wine cuz' you know we talk here about vampires and stuff. Our land can provide fine wines also, because we have a vast grapevine crops, the most in the land Dobrogea, which starts from the near field of Bucharest and goes all the way through the country and reach its fullest near the Constanta county (the county near the sea). Also we have a some wine tours, which you can follow if...
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Re: Vineyards, Burgundy, France
It`s a great story, PortMoresby! The kind of adventure that would appeal to me. A week of walking sounds just about right. And my knees are telling me to stop going into the mountains and seek flatter ground! I`m curious how you arranged the transportation of your gear as you were walking from one place to the next. Did you carry it all, or did you return to the same base every night? And, I hope, there was some cheese to go with that wonderful looking wine!
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Re: Vineyards, Burgundy, France
Thanks for that extra info, PM. But 10 pounds would just cover the water, bottle of wine and wheel of cheese I'd be carrying to sustain me on the journey. But Lite is definitely the way to go if at all possible. I look forward to reading the next piece! I may yet pick your brains again about these journeys....which genuinely appeal to me.
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Re: Vineyards, Burgundy, France
Definitely carry water, but wine and cheese are everywhere you turn, no need to haul your own. The key, of course, is not how much stuff you have with you, but how good the stuff is for the purpose. In reality one might do with less than 10 lbs as everything I have in the way of clothing dries overnight. But I like to change in the evening and get the rinsed out items hanging. As with everything, there are methods, obvious when you know them but it took years to get them down. And I continue...
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Re: When there are no more beaches, will we all head for the hills?
When the Vikings first discovered Greenland a thousand years ago they wrote of a "Green and pleasant land with pastures, cows and animals". Now its a frozen wasteland ! In 1817 the wine producers of North Yorkshire (England) abolished their trade association as summers were becoming too cold to grow grapes. They've never grown grapes since ! This time last year we were digging the snow out. Today is 68f and sunny. Climate change doesn't go away. Ever.
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Re: Guinness Storehouse, Dublin, Ireland. Where Gumbo was #44
A love for beverages is a personal and often acquired taste. Others share your feelings about beer. Others feel the same way about wine, hard spirits, coffee or tea. To each, their beverage of choice! I enjoy sampling whatever beverage is popular in a region. For example, when in the hills of Sri Lanka, there's nothing better than a cup of BOPF tea. In Italy, it makes sense to focus on the wine. When in Ireland, you need to try the Guinness and some of their triple distilled whiskey.
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Re: A visit to the Jack Daniel's distillery: Lynchburg, Tennessee
I've never been a serious whiskey fan, but the processes, as with wine, are fascinating!
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Re: Gallery: Les Halles, Dijon, France
Love the market!!! I'm a big fan of French wine and cheese. What time of year did you visit Dijon? Also curious about the Canal walk. Was that sort of a "room" to "room" walk? Did you carry a backpack? How did your gear travel with you? How far did you go every day and how many days was the walk? Thanks for this piece.
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Re: Gallery: Les Halles, Dijon, France
Thanks, TL. I was in Burgundy in May. Stay tuned for more, including French wine, coming soon.