Although just 22 miles off the Southern California coast,
remains a world apart from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. The town of Avalon, founded in 1887 as a seaside resort, evokes a charm that is undeniably unique and captivating. It's no surprise that it was a favorite stomping ground for the rich and famous over the decades. View a SLIDE SHOW to see this magical island through my eyes (and camera lens)!
The picturesque harbor in Avalon, Catalina Island © Joanne DiBona
The quaint city of Paso Robles, with its picturesque historic downtown and renowned wine region, delights the visitor with its share of Central Coast charm. But it also offers something very special: an authentic taste of Bella Italia at the Il Cortile Ristorante in the heart of downtown.
While the restaurant's hip, chic décor evokes California cool more than rustic Tuscan, the spirit of Italian cuisine definitely is reflected in the innovative and extensive menu. Having traveled many times to Italy, the birthplace of our parents, my husband Tony and I pride ourselves on our knowledge of the authentic cuisine of our heritage.
Our culinary tour of the Old Country began with our “antipasti” a masterfully seasoned plate of grilled octopus in a spicy vinaigrette, followed by carpaccio di anatra, thinly slice duck blanketed with gorgonzola sauce, balsamic reduction and caramelized onions.
Il Cortile's pastas are all homemade, which was clearly evident after our first bite of our secondi piatti, second course. Tony claimed that his selection (ravioli stuffed with lobster and served in a shrimp-infused tomato sauce) competed nicely with his Sicilian grandmother's similar family recipe. I, in turn, savored ravioli stuffed with ricotta and tossed with asparagus in a light white wine sauce. To be honest, my grandmother never came close to creating such a wonderful dish.
Magnifico.
Our main course featured the restaurant's signature osso bucco which, as it should, melted off the bone to be enjoyed in its rich sauce. Paired with 2011 Halter Ranch Syrah, it was indeed a culinary match made in heaven.
We ended the meal with Il Cortile's Panna Cotta, a light creamy dessert topped with fresh Central Coast berries. Once again,Tony declared it was every bit as delicious as his grandmother's version and as he admitted later, may have been even better!
Il Cortile offers an impressive wine list, but if you wish to bring your own special vintage, there is a $20 corkage fee with a limit of two bottles.
So, when in Paso Robles, do as the Romans do (or visitors who love incredible Italian cuisine) and enjoy an authentic taste of Italy at the Il Cortile Ristorante in the heart of downtown.
The Kennebunkport Festival is an annual celebration of the best food, wine and art that Maine has to offer. Now in its 13th year, this classic event takes place in early June in the picturesque seaside village of Kennebunkport, Maine. The festival is packed full of prominent chefs, bartenders, sommeliers, musicians, and artists that will make appearances in some 40 events, including cocktail parties, intimate gourmet dinners hosted in private homes, a gala party, a grand tasting event, art shows, after-parties, and an outdoor concert.
View the SLIDE SHOW below for some highlights of the festival.
All photos ©Joanne DiBona unless otherwise noted
One of the premiere events at the festival is Pop the Kennebunks presented by Cellardoor Winery, one of Maine's signature wineries. This year's event features six chefs who have been recognized as "Maine Chef of the Year", each preparing a taste of the best food coastal Maine has to offer.
© CA Smith Photography
CLICK ON ARROW ABOVE TO VIEW NEXT SLIDES
The Kennebunkport Festival is an annual celebration of the best food, wine and art that Maine has to offer. At the festival, you will taste some of the freshest seafood you’ve ever had in your life, giving new meaning to surf to table cuisine.
Wine tasting is a favorite activity at this popular festival. Not only are varietals from around the world featured here, but also those of Maine vintners who have mastered the art of fine wine production. Did you know Maine features a Wine Trail comprised of 24 wineries across the state?
© Tony DiBona
All dressed up, this antique barn at Wells Reserve, Laudholm, Maine is just awaiting guests. Imagine if you only had a wood fire to prepare a gourmet dinner! That’s all some of Maine's premier chefs used to create an amazing culinary experience inspired by wood elements at this elegant, yet definitely rustic, event.
The Kennebunkport Festival is not your lobster roll and bib kind of event. While every dish prepared uses the best ingredients Maine has to offer, you’ll find yourself looking at lobster and other Maine sea food in a whole new light.
Guests are treated to a variety of tastes and flavors at the Grand Tapas Party. Under a beautiful white tent along the Kennebunk River, over 25 chefs and wineries are on hand to offer samples. You will not leave this event hungry!
When you've had your fill of food and drink, there's nothing like watching surfers at dusk to remind you that you're in a little paradise on earth!
Imagine having an intimate dinner in an 18th Century barn-turned-art gallery. At last year's event, not only did guests enjoy a culinary feast of multiple courses paired with exquisite wines (prepared by Aurora Provisions in Portland), they were able to savor the fine art, photography, and ambiance of the Maushart Gallery while they dined.
Guests at the festival's Wood Fired Grand Cru Event enjoy a spectacular view of Maine's rural charm from the Barn at the historic Wells Reserve at Laudholm during cocktail hour.
While seafood is definitely king at the festival, visitors will find a wide array of food to sample.....from vegetarian to hearty meat dishes. Wine is paired with each dish to round out the culinary experience.
One of the highlights of the festival is The Art of Dining, a series of intimate dinners prepared by Maine's top chefs and featuring seasoned sommeliers, hosted in Kennebunkport's most exquisite homes. Chef Chris Gould of Central Provisions restaurant in Portland, Maine, whips up a culinary masterpiece in the kitchen of a private residence, to the delight of all.
This festival not only features incredible food and wine, but top musical entertainment from some of the nation's hottest bands. Last year's Moroccan-themed event under the tent, which offered culinary delights such as swordfish and lamb kabobs, chickpea fritters, grilled shrimp, and calamari and orzo salad (not to speak of a harem of belly dancers), inspired guests to work off their dinner by dancing the night away.
After indulging in some of Maine's premiere food and wine, there's nothing like a moonlight stroll on Kennebunk Beach to digest the day's happenings.
View from Santa Cruz Island Toward Anacapa Island © Joanne DiBona
Those of you residing in--or visiting--Southern California might want to add a trip to the Channel Islands to your travel itinerary. This chain of islands, which includes the popular and historic Catalina Island, is often referred to as the "Galapagos of North America." This article highlights a day trip to the ruggedly beautiful and pristine Santa Cruz Island, located just 35 miles from Ventura, California.
Beauty in Our Backyard, San Diego Union Tribune
published May 17, 2015,
San Diego Union Tribune
There is no better way to discover the beauty of Japan than by seeing it on foot.
Walk Japan a pioneer of off-the-beaten-path walking tours of the country, offers a wide variety of excursions for every fitness level in key locations throughout Japan. Check out my photo essay, recently published on
which details a magical Walk Japan trip that took us from the modern city of Nagoya to the historic old city of Matsumoto via the ancient Kiso Road and Nakasendo Way.
IF YOU GO: TRAVEL ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR A TRIP TO JAPAN
Everyone worries about staying connected while traveling abroad—and about racking up hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in roaming charges with your local provider if you aren’t careful.
One solution many opt for is to purchase a roaming data bundle from your U.S. provider. But I found a less expensive and extremely effective solution through CellHire. The company offers super fast 4G-LTE coverage with unlimited data (and that is the key here, as you will need it to access maps, information, Skype and your favorite social networks) for $14.95 a day-$79 a week-$159 a month. They also allow five users to connect to the MIFI, so this is a no brainer for families or people traveling in groups.
The connectivity was flawless. Whether I was in a train speeding through the Japanese Alps, overnighting in a remote mountain inn, or walking through city streets, this device was a lifesaver. Very simple to use, it also boasts hours of battery life. Sweet!
Cellhire also offers a variety of other connectivity options, so check them out before your next trip abroad.
Powering Up
My internet connectivity issue being solved, my next worry was how to power my phone and laptop while I was traveling on foot over hiking trails and by train from town to town. This is when my Apelpi external battery charger came to my rescue.
In addition to packing a hefty 6400 mAh capacity via two USB ports (and robust enough to charge multiple devices throughout the day), this charger doubles as a fashion statement. Who can resist a red (or pink or green) apple doing its thing next to your phone or tablet? Light-weight and extremely durable (it was dropped by mistake a few times and survived the abuse), this will definitely be my favorite tech accessory on my future trips.
Keeping Healthy
Sure, keeping connected on international trips is important…..but so is keeping healthy.
I had heard about the importance of wearing compression socks on lengthy international flights for people with deep vein thrombosis and other circulatory disorders, but I never considered them for myself—until I ran across the stylish RejuvaHealth line!
The company features a series of slimming, shaping and supportive stockings, leggings and socks that utilize graduated compression to relieve soreness, pain, and reduce the swelling that often occurs on long flights.
Figuring it was worth a try, I opted for a pair of Rejuva Knee High Coolmax compression socks for the flight as well as a pair of black footless compression leggings for the walking trails. I selected the 15-20 compression level, which was perfect for me.
To be honest, I didn’t expect much. But now I am convinced I will never fly again without a pair of compression socks nurturing my restricted circulation! I can’t believe what a difference they made in my comfort during that long flight, especially when I couldn’t move my legs except for under the seat for hours on end.
The leggings also made a significant difference on our trek--when we hiked more than 7 miles daily—in that I didn’t get the soreness in my calves as I expected. I’ll soon add more RejuvaHealth items to my travel wardrobe, to be sure.
The quaint town of Bayfield Wisconsin, on the shores of Lake Superior, is the gateway to the magnificent Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, a year-round visitor destination. Enjoy a slide show highlighting the culture and natural beauty of this area by logging on to 10BEST/USATODAY Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
Hearst Castle is a national and historical landmark located at San Simeon, on the central coast of California. It was designed by architect Julia Morgan between 1919 and 1947 for newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Its considerable collection of art and antiques spanning thousands of years is open for public tours. The castle is a part of the California State Park System and attracts millions of visitors from around the world annually.
For more photos and commentary on Hearst Castle, please visit my 10BEST/USA TODAY article, as well as my complete PHOTO GALLERY.
Just when I thought I'd fulfilled my "bucket list" requirement for 2014 with a magical trip to the Galapagos Islands, my husband Tony and I received the incredible opportunity to travel with the outfitter Baja AirVentures from San Diego to the Gulf of California for the truly once-in-a-lifetime experience of swimming with docile whale sharks, the largest "fish" in the sea.
Getting there was half the fun. Gliding over the massive terrain of the Baja California Peninsula and the coastline of the Gulf of California was almost a religious experience...it was so breathtakingly beautiful. Before we knew it, our plane gently descended onto the air strip at Bahia de los Angeles to begin our adventure.
A scenic boat ride from town brought us to Las Animas Eco-Lodge, where our expectations were again exceeded, as we really weren't expecting such comfort in such a remote location. As we pulled into the placid harbor and docked on the expansive, white sandy beach, we felt as if we were part of a “world’s most beautiful beaches” travel magazine spread. This is "glamping" at its finest (glamorous camping for those of you not familiar with this term).
The meals were lovingly-prepared and tasty and we often enjoyed fresh fish caught that day as well as ceviche and other local specialties.
The staff was exceptional in all aspects, genuinely eager to please us and cater to our every need. Our pilot guides Fred and Andy, in addition to being expert aviators, astounded us with the scope of their vast knowledge of the history, wildlife and fauna of the region. Their guidance did much to enhance our appreciation of this magnificent place, and their genuine love of Las Animas shone through in all their communications with our group.
Why did we choose this trip? A recent visit to the Galapagos Islands in March of this year whetted our appetites for more such soft travel adventures. We had heard from friends that the Midriff Islands in Baja California’s Gulf of California is known as “The Galapagos of North America” so we were intrigued. A quick internet search brought us to the Baja AirVentures web site, where (after reading all the glowing reviews) we booked the “Whale Shark” tour.
And YES, it is the Galapagos of North America! Topographically, the regions are very similar, although we enjoyed a rare occurrence: the greening of the otherwise arid desert landscape because of the heavy rains of September. As in the Galapagos, we viewed blue-footed (and even yellow-footed) booby birds, magnificent frigates, countless sea lions, Sally-Lightfoot crabs, manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins and many other species both regions share. And while giant tortoises don't roam the wetlands as in the Galapagos, the gentle, magnificent whale sharks more than make up for this omission.
The highlight of this voyage was to experience the proximity of these rare and elusive creatures. At one point, we counted 24 gentle giants swimming around us. Unbelievable! I must mention that even though you may not feel inclined or capable of jumping in the water to swim with the whale sharks, you will be able to admire them just as easily from the excursion boat that took us out daily.
I also must add that we were a group of 8 travelers from around the country (of various ages and walks of life) who started out as strangers and departed as friends, bonded by memories of a magical travel experience.
On our final evening, several of us walked along the shore and watched the sparkles under our feet and the glowing fish in the waves, the bio-luminescence phenomenon of the ocean that I have read about but never experienced. And oh, the heavenly sky in this wilderness defies description. I’ll never forget the site of that jet black globe peppered with glowing stars and constellations, including a magnificent Milky Way the likes of which I’ve never seen and will never forget.
We may be physically back home in San Diego, but our hearts are still on the shores of Las Animas Wilderness Lodge. And I suspect they might remain there for quite a while…..
Since a picture is worth 1,000 words, please log onto my PHOTO WEBSITE for a gallery of photos of this incredible adventure.
The Southern California coastline is dotted with luxury resort properties ready to welcome leisure and business travelers-- such as the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point.
Residents and visitors to San Diego had the opportunity in 2014 to go back in time 3,000+ years to experience the discovery of the tomb of the legendary 18-year-old Egyptian King Tutankhamun, aka King Tut.
King Tut Death Mask, © Joanne DiBona
Making its West Coast debut, the breathtaking exhibition presents a recreation of the legendary boy king’s tomb and treasures exactly as they were discovered by Howard Carter in 1922.
Because the fragile originals are no longer permitted to tour outside of Egypt, this exhibit features 1,000 scientifically-produced replicas hand-crafted by Egyptian artisans.
For those who might hesitate to view less than the "real" thing, rest assured that this exhibit will definitely not disappoint, but vividly bring ancient history back to the 21st Century.
As pointed out by Mark Lach, creative director at Premier Exhibitions, Inc., presenter of the exhibition, "Because we are using recreations of the originals, we are able to stage the exhibit to replicate the astonishing discovery of the tomb by Howard Carter in every detail, something that wasn't possible up to now."
Sure enough, the visitor is taken through scenes that exactly replicate what Carter and his companions must have viewed in their initial entry into the tomb, in every detail, and through every chamber leading to the discovery of King Tut's magnificent, multi-level sarcophagus. Audio tour equipment augments the visitor experience.
For more information on upcoming exhibits, call 619.232.3821 or visit www.sdnat.org.
King Tut Royal Throne © Joanne DiBona
I am honored to be designated as USA Today/10 Best's "Travel Photography Expert." I only had 10 words to describe each tip in this list, and I hope these succinct tips can help budding travel photographers get the best shot.. I still use them myself on every shoot.
Photographers Getting Their Best Shot, Galapagos Islands ©Joanne DiBona
The state of Wisconsin is filled with charming, historical visitor destinations, such as Elkhart Lake.
Please enjoy my USA Today photo show on this delightful town. Visit my Elkhart Lake Photo Gallery for more images of this charming Wisconsin destination.
The historic Osthoff Resort, Elkhart Lake Wisconsin ©Joanne DiBona
I hope you enjoy this USA Today Travel photo tour of the glorious images of Maine. Please find more photos of this picturesque state on my MAINE PHOTO GALLERY.
If you are traveling to Maine, you must include Acadia National Park in your itinerary. My photo essay on the national park is featured on USA Today's 10Best.com.
ACADIA NATIONAL PARK, MAINE'S CROWN JEWEL
See more photos of this visit on my PHOTO GALLERY of our adventure at Acadia National Park.
Please click the link below to see an extensive article and photos on my recent Ecoventura Cruise Lines adventure through the Galapagos Islands, published Sunday, July 13, 2014-- feature article in the San Diego Union Tribune travel section. The article won First Place in the 42nd Annual San Diego Press Club Excellence in Journalism Awards.
NATURAL SELECTION....An Enchanting Cruise Through the Galapagos Islands
See all my photos of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure on my Galapagos Islands Photo Gallery.
View a PDF of the article:
Hello, World!
Ever dream about a trip to the Galapagos Islands? I have for years, and I finally was able to check it off my travel bucket list. Enjoy my photos of this enchanting archipelago as we follow in Darwin's footsteps.
If your travels find you in the charming seaside community of Del Mar, California, some twenty miles north of downtown San Diego, celebrate your good fortune. Not only will you be afforded majestic views of the California coast and the pleasure of meandering through the quaint and picturesque town of Del Mar, you are in the perfect location to enjoy a culinary experience at KITCHEN 1540, located in the historic seaside hotel, L'Auberge Del Mar.
The brainchild behind the taste sensations on the restaurant's new menu is Chef Brandon Fortune. Classically trained at the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Atlanta, Brandon's creations are modern American with a decidedly Southern influence based on his Southeastern roots.
©Joanne DiBona
KITCHEN 1540's sleek, modern décor is sophisticated and comfortable at the same time, and sets a perfect stage for a variety of innovative dishes sure to please the most discriminating palate.
So what can diners expect from Fortune's menu?
Start off your culinary adventure with a tastefully arranged platter of cold-smoked trout and organic beets. Cured steelhead saltwater trout and tender beets are embellished with a blood orange vinaigrette, black walnuts, and feathered horseradish, served with a side of chive-potato cakes.
Those who prefer a warm appetizer might elect a plate of asparagus and grilled wild ramps. Described by the chef as “spring on a plate,” this vegetarian dish features organic wild ramps and asparagus with parmesan and pecorino cheeses shaved on top. A delightful French-inspired cream sauce made with eggs and lemon and lightly toasted caraway seeds is the perfect dressing for this vegetable creation.
Shrimp and Grits, a Passionate Combination ©Joanne DiBona
Shrimp and grits, the Chef's signature entree, elevates grits to new heights, thanks to a roasted corn and chorizo cream and succulent fresh shrimp. A topping of popcorn adds a whimsical theme to the plate. Chef Fortune admits he used this dish to woo his wife, a testimony to the old adage, “The way to the heart is through the stomach.”
Seafood specialties include the popular “still smoking scallops,” presented sizzling hot surrounded by asparagus and coriander puree, wild chanterelles, and smoked almonds powdered with lemon-thyme buds. The flaky North Pacific Halibut is served with celery root puree, mushrooms, spring carrots, and garnished with crispy fiddlehead ferns.
Chocolate lovers will delight in the malted milk chocolate mousse, one of several excellent desserts available to satisfy your sweet tooth. Roasted almonds and chocolate crunch, topped with homemade coffee ice cream, provides a decadently delicious end to a perfect meal.
For a complete menu, visit www.laubergedelmar.com. For several of my images of Kitchen 1540 and Chef Fortune's culinary masterpieces, log onto the San Diego Scenic Photos site.
Try it out if you are in Del Mar-- and raise a glass to your good fortune.
Salad and Steinbeck may come to mind upon mention of the city of Salinas, California, but recent visitors to this diverse region know that it doesn't stop there. The destination has something for everyone: a picturesque and historic downtown; a scenic wine trail boasting award-winning wineries; superb farm-to-table cuisine and an eclectic mix of restaurants; water activities such as kayaking and whale watching; national park hiking trails, and the close proximity to other destinations on the Monterey Peninsula.
View the activities and attractions surrounding Salinas on my USA TODAY/10Best PHOTO SHOW.
© Joanne DiBona
California has quite a few "Saint" cities, locations prefaced by San or Santa, the Spanish word for saint. Many are as heavenly as their names, inviting lovers of all ages to nurture their love in destinations that are ripe for romance.
Enjoy a tour of 10 California "Saint" destinations ripe for romance on my site at 10Best.com/USA Today.
My husband Tony and I, who work together as a travel journalist team, were faced with a dilemma when we learned we would be traveling to the Galapagos Islands on a photo assignment.
It was time to make some changes.
We managed to ignore the frustration we’ve felt for years, annoyed at the “thump thump thump” of our Canon SLRs across our chests, as we hiked over rocks and crevices on our travels in search of the perfect scenic photos. Strapping our cameras around our necks was okay for city tours, but the moment we got out into nature, we were constantly frustrated by the discomfort our SLRs caused during strenuous hikes. We were also ever fearful of damaging our equipment in the event of a slip and fall on a treacherous path.
There had to be a better way.
A short internet search later, we found the perfect SLR carrier, HoldSLR.
This ingenious holder attaches onto a belt or backpack, giving you immediate access to your camera when that perfect shot comes along. No more fumbling through your photo bag or backpack to find your SLR. This camera holder allows you to access your SLR at a moment’s notice to capture those magical moments in photography that can truly disappear in an instant.
Our backpacks were not equipped with frontal straps, but we quickly determined that the HoldSLR worked beautifully strapped to the belts of our pants.
We can highly endorse this product! It is the perfect solution for field, landscape, wedding, adventure, and travel photographers who need to get to their camera quickly, and above all, comfortably.
