Top Tips for Your First Visit to Portugal

If you've never visited Portugal, some times you should know.

This southern European country certainly doesn't lack in natural or architectural beauty. It's no wonder you have a desire to visit Portugal. There's a never-ending number of things to do and see. So, where should you even begin? Here are some top recommendations for visiting this magnificent nation for your first time.

What places should I check out?

Lisbon

As the capital of Portugal, Lisbon is full of vibrant culture, historical sights, and friendly natives. Also, Lisbon is an ideal place in the nation to take delight in authentic Portuguese cuisine and to enjoy live entertainment. Lisbon is known for its traditional Fado performances. Don't miss out on an opportunity to listen to some of the best Portuguese folk music!

Batalha

One of the most phenomenal Gothic churches in all of Europe. The church preserve is protected as a World Heritage Monument due to its significance. As you enter the grand doors of the church, you'll immediately take notice to all of its architectural details and picturesque 16th Century stained glass windows.

The Abbey of Santa Maria

As Europe's most significant building of the Cistercian order, wander through this historical site for hours if you wish. There certainly is a lot to see, including a monastery, seven dormitories, the library, the kitchen, and of course, the church.

The Beaches

The coastline of Portugal provides some of the most stunning beaches you'll ever see. Don't shy away, take a break from your explorations to relax on the shorelines of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf Stream. Some of the most popular beaches are in the Algarve region, Sagres, Aveiro, and the Praia da Adraga.

What are some of the most popular dishes and foods?

Arroz de Cabidela

It might seem daunting once you know what this dish derives from, but this chicken blood rice is a native favorite in Portugal. You can also get this dish made with rabbit and rabbit blood.

Alheira

This delightful lunch includes sausage, typically prepared with french fries and fried eggs.

Bacalhau A Bras

Cod is shredded and sauteed to perfection and served with onion, straw fried potatoes, eggs, parsley, and garlic.

Arroz Doce

As an authentic Portuguese dessert, this dish is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. This creamy rice pudding is topped with cinnamon and caramel custard to add to the burst of flavor.

Caldo Verde

On a chilly night, treat yourself with this fantastic soup. It's merely potato, onions, and shredded kale, cooked in garlic and olive oil, and yet it certainly doesn't lack in flavor!

Pastel de nata

Originating in Lisbon, this custard tart is an indigenous staple, and you certainly can't leave the country without giving it a try.

Now that you have some of our top tips for your first trip to Portugal, let's start planning your stay! You'll be amazed by the nation's delicious food options and breathtaking sights!

To book your Portugal vacation, contact us today: (909) 990-1124

TIPS FOR A TERRIFIC FIRST TRIP TO IRELAND

TIPS FOR A TERRIFIC FIRST TRIP TO IRELAND

Ireland should be be on your bucket list!

You've put off visiting the Cliffs of Moher, Killarney National Park, and Blarney Castle long enough. It's finally time to take that trip to Ireland! We applaud that decision, but before you book that brewery tour or get too excited about visiting Dublin's Grafton Street, here are a few tips to make for a more enjoyable trip.

Consider Car Travel

The best sites in the Emerald Isle are seen via public transportation or tour buses, but renting a car is not a bad idea to get to those obscure sites. Be sure the vehicle you rent is a small one, as rural roads in Ireland are narrow. Oh, and the Irish drive on the left side of the road and pass on the right.

Tax-Free Shopping!

All those goodies you'll find to buy on Grafton Street are tax-free! That's right, travelers who live outside the European Union can shop tax-free in Ireland. Make sure to apply for a Fexco Horizon Card prior to your trip so you can register and swipe it in affiliated stores in the country and claim sales tax back on the purchases.

Differing Currencies

And while we're on the topic of shopping, it's important to note that, as part of the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland uses pound sterling rather than the euro.

Dress Appropriately

Irish weather is not extreme, but the country does get a lot of rain, particularly along its west coast. And if you're traveling to Ireland during winter, know that the season's days are short. The sun rises at about 8 a.m. and sets at about 4 p.m., which means you have to cram a lot of sightseeing into a few hours. But during summer, the sunsets as late as 10 p.m. Be mindful of these seasonal changes, pack light layers of clothing and a pair of rain boots or waterproof shoes, and you should be just fine.

Public Transportation Pointers

The trains in Ireland carry you in comfort, but they are pricey. So if you intend to travel on one during your trip, make sure to book it in advance to take advantage of online discounts that the Irish Rail offers. If you choose to travel by bus, be aware that you must flag the bus to get it to stop.

Heritage Cards Are Helpful

If you plan to visit the country's many cultural attractions, picking up a Heritage Card from the Office of Public Works is a great idea. This card entitles you to free admission to all heritage sites managed by the state for an entire year. These sites include castles and national parks.

So now that you have the tips to a successful Ireland trip, be sure to call or email me to help you plan your vacation.

Call us today (909) 990-1124 to book your Ireland Vacation

8 Food Lover Tips For Visiting Budapest

8 Food Lover Tips For Visiting Budapest

Do Tell, Is Budapest On Your Bucket List?

Budapest is full of wonders. Regardless of your reason to visit, whether it's to take in the detailed architecture, soak in the history, or enjoy the natural sites.  Don't leave without indulging in the delicious authentic dishes served throughout the nation. Your palette will be dancing with all the rich flavors. To guide you to some of the best spots to grab food in Budapest, we've created a list of 8 food lover tips for your visit…

1. You most certainly can't leave Budapest without trying one it's most traditional foods, langos. Langos is a flatbread that is deep-fried in fat and can be served plain or smothered with cheese blends and other flavorful toppings. You can find langos nearly anywhere, but we recommend heading to the Central Market Hall. 

2. If you love cooking and eating, sign up for a Hungarian cooking course. These courses are easy to find online, and you will get to experience an authentic three-course meal that you helped create.

3. Every year from September 5th to 8th, you can catch the Budapest International Wine Festival. This festival has been running for many years and has become custom to the natives and tourists alike. 

4. If you're in the country in October, definitely make your way to the Budapest Palinka and Sausage Festival to try some of the fantastic European brandy paired with any of the many sausage varieties you will find throughout the stands. 

5. Hungarian Unicum is one of the most famous liquors in the country. It's in herbal bitter that aids in digestion, which you will find helps tremendously after delving into all of the spicy street foods. You can also head to the Zwack Museum to learn all about the miracle liquor. 

6. Make way to the Etyek-Buda Wine Region to experience one of the leading wine-producing villages that have been around since the 18th century. This winery makes for a great day trip. Just prepare yourself to try dozens of varieties.

7. Anyone who loves the age-old delicacy marzipan, visit Szamos Marzipan, a museum in honor of the artists Mátyás Szamos and Károly Szabó. These artists started shaping marzipan into the shapes of flowers and other beautiful creations back in the 1930s, and this museum intends to keep their spirit and tasty treats alive. 

8. If you have a fond love in your heart for delis, you are going to adore Mangalica & Társai Húspatika. This deli has everything from assorted salamis, cured hams, and more. This deli stands today in the dedication of the curly-haired Mangalica pig, which is a domesticated, extremely furry Hungarian swine.

Call (909) 990-1124 to book your Budapest vacation.

Barcelona: This One Is For The Foodies

Barcelona: This One Is For The Foodies

Is it on your bucket list? Have you been?

International travel allows people to gain a new appreciation for other cultures of the world, and a big part of any culture is the cuisine. The food of a region is a reflection of their history and their geographical location and the resources that they have available to them. Barcelona is a city on the northeastern coast of Spain on the Balearic Sea. The food fare that travelers will find there is reflective of the colorful history of Barcelona and its’ centralized location (in relation to northern Africa and all of the Mediterranean).

Here are some of the great foods (and a couple of drinks) that all travelers (and foodies) definitely need to indulge in.

Beverages

Let's kick this list off with a couple of great drinks that anyone who is traveling to Barcelona will need to try.

Sangria- Everyone knows that you have to try a great glass of Sangria. This is a great refreshment on a hot day. The great thing about Sangria is that every restaurant and Sangria maker has a different take on it, and some places will even offer up to 6 different varieties on their menu.

Cava- This is the sparkling wine of Spain. It usually is a drink that is on the sweeter type, but there is a variation. Brut Cava is a cava that is drier, and it tends to taste more like traditional champagne.

Traditional Meats

There are a couple of meats that are traditional to Spain, and they should be any everyone's list of foods to try.

Iberico Ham- Iberico ham is to Spain what prosciutto is to Italy. This ham has become a famous ingredient known well to world-class chefs as one of the best hams in the world. This ham can be served on its’ own or as an ingredient in a dish. It is cut thicker than prosciutto, so it is not as delicate and a little meatier.

Chorizo- Chorizo is a spicy sausage that is eaten in many different ways, including sliced up like salami or used as an ingredient in many dishes.

Cheese

Manchego - This sheep's milk cheese pairs wonderfully with Iberico ham. It has a salty, earthy flavor to it, and it originated in the La Mancha region of Spain (hence the name). It is eaten throughout Spain with great popularity.

Dishes And Other Fare

Gazpacho- This is a chilled tomato soup that is incredibly satisfying on a hot Spanish summer day. It sometimes comes served with Pa amb tomàquet or with sides of croutons, red peppers, and onion. No matter how it is served, it's delicious.

Bocadillos- This is the Spanish version of a sandwich. They are made on baguettes that are soft and crusty all at the same time. You can choose the meat that you want on it, and then they are topped with multiple sauces and toppings that can include lentils, lettuce, corn, or cucumbers.

  

Seafood- Barcelona is located right on the Balearic Sea and just a stone's throw from the Mediterranean. This makes Barcelona a central place for fantastic seafood. One of the great dishes to try is the calamari and squid, which you can get either fried or grilled.

Bombas- Bombas are a combination of mashed potatoes and meat that are rolled in bread crumbs in the shape of a ball and fried. They usually come in two different sizes (like snack and meal size), and they are generally served with one aioli on top and another on the bottom.

Spanish Omelet- Not the breakfast omelet that is probably coming to your mind right now. This is an omelet that is eaten all day and can come in an individual size or larger and served in slices. It is filled with chunks of potatoes and onions and served with some type of aioli.

Pa Amb Tomaquet-  A bread that is served with many dishes in Barcelona. It is so popular that if you don't order it, many servers with ask you if you want it. It is a slice of bread topped with a rub of olive oil and tomato and a dash of salt. Everyone puts their own twist on the dish like some will toast the bread, and others will serve it with more chunks of tomato.

Croquettas- This is a dish that is a lot like the Bombas. Croquettas are filled with meat (usually chicken or Iberico ham) and cheese. They are a long, oval shape.

Spain can be a food lover's dream. Some fantastic restaurants and cafes line the streets, and all of the best Spanish fares are at a traveler's fingertips. They love to serve their food in the small-plate style, so the portions are great for eating all day long. One thing that you need to be aware of is that there are going to be different serving size options. A pintxos serving is a portion that is like a two-bite snack, and that is perfect for on the go. A tapas menu is going to be a bigger serving size that is meant for sharing amongst a couple of people.

Contact me today: jbennett@dreamvacations.com

Top 5 Things To Do In Amsterdam

Time to Enjoy the Simple Pleasures

It's no secret that Amsterdam is one of the most exciting places on this Earth to visit. With its

rich history, artistic legacy, intricate canal system, and abundance of museums, you will find that

there is so much to do and see in the time you are there to visit. To help you come up with

somewhat of an itinerary for your vacation, we've decided to write out a list of the top 5 things to

do while you're in Amsterdam.

1. Take a historical canal ride. The water tours of Amsterdam are some of the most desired.

Since there are hundreds of canals throughout the nation that were created just for travel,

there is no reason not to give this popular attraction a try. During your gentle water ride, you'll get to view some of the country's most detailed architecture and most beautiful

landscapes.

2. Take a walk through the wildflowers. Amsterdam takes great pride in its bulb flowers,

especially tulips. Visit the amazingly vibrant bulb flower park in Lisse if you wish to see

the tulips in all their glory. If you happen to miss the tulip season, don't worry. There are

plenty of bulbed flowers that grow year-round at the park.

3. Visit one of the many spectacular art museums or history museums. Check out paintings

by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, or other world-renowned artists or revisit history by walking into the Anne Frank House, where you can see the secret annex where Anne hid during World War II.

4. Walkthrough De Wallen, the nation's red-light district. Although it's famous for some

risky behavior, there is much more to the city. Try out one of the district's fine restaurants,

small boutiques, or find more responsible entertainment at any of the places not lit up

with red lights. For a faster way to venture through, rent a bicycle. You'll find that you

rent a bike nearly anywhere in the country.

5. Last but not least, you mustn't leave the country without trying some of its authentic Dutch cuisine or experiencing one of its cannabis coffeehouses. People travel all over the world

to Amsterdam to encounter these coffee shops in person. In Amsterdam, marijuana is

simply a way to unwind, and these coffeehouses are some of the most reputable and

reliable sources to enjoy a delicious bite to eat and a puff of smoke as you dine.

Call (909) 990-1124 today to book your Amsterdam Vacation.

5 Great Stops on Dubrovnik for Game of Thrones Fans

Are You a Fan?

The Game of Thrones has gained impressive popularity over the years. Dubrovnik, Croatia, is the lovely city where the production of the show takes place. The land has a rich culture, and these five places are top attractions for fan visitors.

The Jesuit Stairs – These famous Baroque stairs appeared in Season Five of the series during the infamous 'Walk of Shame' scene. The stairs extend from Gundulic Square to St. Ignatius Church and embrace Spanish architecture. The iconic scene catapulted the location's popularity and has become a frequently visited landmark. The view from the top is charming and gives you a great view of the city.

Fort Lovrijenac – This area is often referred to as St. Lawrence Fortress and is a theater located on the outskirts of the western walls of the Old Town in Dubrovnik. The interior of the fortress is used for filming the halls of the 'Red Keep' while the exterior captures Blackwater Bay. Visitors are welcome to navigate the fort and experience the ancient history that lies within.

City Walls – The amazing City Walls of Dubrovnik were a major deciding factor with producers when selecting Dubrovnik to shoot this beloved series. Countless scenes feature the Medieval style walls, including scenes near the Narrow Sea and many private walks taken on the show. You can take a tour of the walls for a small fee. There are three main entrances, and while taking the tour, you will get a chance to see Lovrijenac Fortress and capture beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea.

Tresteno Arboretum – This site is a major filming location, known as the Kings Landing and Red Keep's Garden on the show. It's located 10 miles from Dubrovnik. The park is stunning and encapsulates the privacy that's represented in the series. It's one of the oldest arboretums in the world, and the hedges combined with the floral selections are immaculate.

Island of Lokrum – This island is located 600 meters from the city and is home to the popular 'Iron Throne.' The throne is housed in the Visitors Center and is free for spectators. You are welcome to pose and snap a few pics sitting on the throne if you'd like. Other Game of Thrones points of interest in Lokrum include the botanical gardens (located off the coast) featured in the city of Quarth as well as the monastery.

The essence of the show is everywhere in Dubrovnik. As you walk the streets you will surely recognize details and signature scenes from the series.

Call (909) 990-1124 today to book your Croatia Vacation!

8 Top Greek Island Vacation Destinations

Greece is a Must Visit Destination!

Greece has always been an ideal Mediterranean vacation destination. With over 1,400 islands (230 inhabited), it can be hard to choose which one to visit first. Hopefully, these eight guidelines will assist with your decision.

Best nightlife: Mykonos, also known as 'The Island of the Winds,' is world-renowned for their vibrant nightlife. Little Venice and Paradise Beach are popular party destinations where clothing is optional, and the LGBT scene is major. There are male go-go dancers everywhere, and parties typically last all night. July and August are the primary months for tourism and the wildest parties.

Best traditional village life: The island, Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades and has a little over 6,500 inhabitants and a bit over 20 small villages. Naxos has ancient towers, paved streets, and has maintained its unique Venetian architecture.

Best kiteboarding and windsurfing: With gusty winds that can be seen from a mile away, Paros island is best known for kiteboarding and windsurfing sports goers. Santa Maria, Prassonisi, and Pounda are the main beaches where the sport is practiced. The Thalasea Sports Center is the bay of Mikli Vigla and is a popular hub for the sport.

Best beaches: Located in the Aegean Sea, Milos is a beautiful volcanic island that is rich in minerals as well as rich history. Firopotamos, Kastanas, and Paliorema are some top beach destinations in Milos. The white-washed Cycladic villages and black sands are picturesque backdrops. Although some may be only accessible by boat, there are over 80 mini beaches throughout Milos that you can explore.

Best for nature lovers: Ikaria has some of the World's most pristine and untouched nature territories. It has been identified as a place that promotes life longevity and better overall health.

Best Robinson Crusoe destination: Koufonisia is comprised of two islands, Pano (upper) and Kato (lower). The preferred way to navigate the area is by foot or cycling, as everything is within walking distance. The island has a museum and many sightseeing options.

Best couples getaway: Folegandros does not get the crowded tourist scene as most Greek towns do. They have a broad selection of restaurants and cafes. Chora is the main village and has been preserved well, noting open landscapes and clifftop housing.

Best food: Cretan cuisine focuses on all-natural ingredients and can be enjoyed at any local tavern throughout the islands. Some dishes include Dakos, Gamopilafo, Mizithropita, and Apaki.

Now you're all set! With a myriad of beautiful architecture, scenic waterfronts, and rich history. There is much to enjoy.

Call (909) 990-1124 to book your Greece Vacation!

London, Just Like in the Movies... Well Sort Of!

London Should Be On Your Bucket List!

Have you ever watched a movie and fallen in love with where it took place? I remember the first time I saw Notting Hill with Julia Roberts and deciding for sure that I was going to live in London one day, right there in Notting Hill. And hopefully, meet my version of Hugh Grant in a bookstore. And then when I saw Under The Tuscan Sun, I decided for sure that I'd like to one day buy a farmhouse in Tuscany and convert it to a bed and breakfast.

Movies have such a powerful effect on our imagination, and no doubt, they have influenced many people by inspiring them to travel to their favorite movie or television locations.

If London is on your travel bucket list, be sure to check out these movies to get you and your travel companion in the mood. Are you trying to convince a group of friends to go with you? These movies will help!

What's your favorite movie set in London? Comment below.

Pst. Mine is a toss-up between James Bond and Bridget Jones Diary - so similar, I know!

Four Weddings and a Funeral

Floppy-haired Charles (Hugh Grant) is looking for The One in Richard Curtis's sweet, soppy movie. The capital provides a picture-perfect backdrop as Grant and his band of twenty-something aristo Londoners date, flirt, and consider settling for sub-standard partners in an effort to get down the aisle. Proof that spending every sunny Saturday at a friend's wedding is not a modern affliction.

London location Charles lives (and has that romantic, rainy reunion) on Highbury Terrace in Highbury Fields, the lucky sod. He also wanders along the South Bank and has a matrimonial meltdown at Smithfield's St Bartholomew the Great.

A Fish Called Wanda

John Cleese hauled Ealing comedy legend Charles Crichton out of retirement to co-write and direct this acid-tongued shout-out to the classic comedy crime caper. Cleese plays a barrister swept up in a robbery plot; Michael Palin outraged stutterers worldwide as an animal-loving getaway driver; and two Yanks, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Kevin Kline offer scathing observations on British life.

London location The iconic scene where Kline dangles Cleese out of a window was shot at New Concordia Wharf in Bermondsey. TH

Sherlock Holmes

Sir Conan Doyle's sleuth gets a post-modern update, with Robert Downey Jr playing a beefed-up version of Holmes.

London location Shot in and around London (as well as Liverpool and Manchester), Ritchie's London of yesteryear is a romantic place of heaving bosoms and ridiculously cool heroes.

Notting Hill

It's from the same makers as out Love Actually, but Notting Hill is a funny, light-hearted fantasy romance that has its tongue pressed enough into its cheek just about enough.

Only In London: Notting Hill is one of London's most multicultural hot spots, which means it's odd that Curtis' film doesn't reflect that. Still, the area looks the best it ever has – though Portobello Road is where you'll find Grant's bookshop.

Bridget Jones Diary

Renée Zellweger stars as the perpetually-single Bridget in this canny update of Pride & Prejudice.

Only In London: Visit Borough Market and you'll easily spot Bridget's little flat near the pub, not to mention the restaurant that's the setting for Firth and Grant's hilarious dust-up.

Bend It Like Beckham

Two 18-year-old girls aspire to become professional football players in Gurinder Chadha's gentle comedy.

Only In London: Chadha captures the city's cultural diversity beautifully as Parminder Nagra rebels against her orthodox Sikh upbringing – with Hounslow providing the perfect suburban backdrop.

Oliver!

Carol Reed's classic musical in which young orphan Oliver (Mark Lester) falls in with a gang of street urchins who've been trained as pickpockets.

Only In London: The city's a smoggy place filled with danger in this movie adaptation of Dickens' novel – you believe somebody like Fagin could live here.

28 Days Later

Sci-fi horror from Danny Boyle in which an incurable virus sweeps the UK, transforming people into ravenous zombies.

Only In London: Trust us, it's never this empty in London – not even at 4 am when the clubbers are all tucked up in bed. Which makes the sight of a deserted central London all the creepier…

The Bourne Ultimatum

Jason Bourne (Matt Damon) continues his hunt for answers while dodging the CIA.

Only In London: Waterloo Station is a battlefield at the best of times. Still, it becomes a hustle-bustle setting for a fantastically tense action scene in Damon's last Bourne film, as he attempts to protect Paddy Considine's journalist.

Mary Poppins (1964)

Joyous musical romp starring Julie Andrews as the titular nanny, who's hired to look after two very unhappy children.

Only In London: This is London as envisioned by Walt Disney Pictures, where everybody's smartly dressed, the townhouses are towering and gorgeous, and there's not so much as a single turd in the parks. Dare to dream, Disney…

Brick Lane

A Bangladeshi woman arrives in London, leaving behind her family and friends.

Only In London: Cultural diversity is all part of London's charm, and here we get a look at the East End's Bangladeshi community, where the aftershock of 9/11 is strongly felt.

Harry Potter

Eight films adapted from JK Rowling's bestselling book series, with Daniel Radcliffe as the lightning-scarred boy wizard.

Only In London: Sad to say, Diagon Alley doesn't exist in our beloved capital. That doesn't stop Columbus, Yates et al. from lavishing the city with adoring screen time, whether it's the Millennium Bridge getting destroyed in Half-Blood Prince or those gorgeous over-city shots in Phoenix. And, of course, there's King's Cross station…

The King's Speech

Oscar-nabbing historical drama starring Colin Firth as King George VI, who struggles with a debilitating stammer.

Only In London: Rush's Harley Street practice should look familiar – it's a Georgian townhouse 33 Portland Place, a popular location used in everything from Amy Winehouse's 'Rehab' video to some less-well-known gay porn films…

Sliding Doors

A 1998 British-American romantic drama film written and directed by Peter Howitt and starring Gwyneth Paltrow and John Hannah, while also featuring John Lynch, Jeanne Tripplehorn, and Virginia McKenna. The film alternates between two parallel universes, based on the two paths the central character's life could take depending on whether she catches a train and causing different outcomes in her life.

Only In London: The bridge featured is the Albert Bridge between Battersea and Chelsea. The late-night scene when Paltrow and Hannah walk down the street was filmed in Primrose Gardens (formerly Stanley Gardens) in Belsize Park.

Ready to head to London? I'd love to help you plan that trip for you and the people you care most about. Reach out and contact me today.

Call (909) 990-1124 today to book your London Vacation!

Ohh La La!

Have you Been?

Paris is sweet on the eye, sweet on the romance and sweet on the palette. It is a sugar lovers' dream, and the only problem you'll have when it comes to the delectable French deserts is which one to choose. To help you navigate that yummy last course, we've broken down the top 10 must-try desserts for your visit to France. And if you have to eat more than one a day to get through them? Well, c'est la vie!

10 Sweet Treats to Eat While Visiting Paris

The Tartes Aux Fruits – The tartes aux fruits are prepared with fresh fruit inside a buttery pastry. The fruit sits atop a heavenly Chantilly cream. You can enjoy these tartes in both miniature and pie sizes.

The Éclair – The éclair is a popular dessert in Paris. The long French choux pastry can be filled with either a rich custard or pastry cream and topped with a sweet fondant. By definition, the term éclair means lightning in French. Go figure!

The Paris Brest – This pastry was created to celebrate the Paris to Brest bicycle ride in 1891. Naturally, it's circular and contains praline flavored crème and choux pastry.

Macaron – Macarons are undeniably delectable. There are so many flavors to choose from. The base ingredients include meringue and almonds. Be sure to not confuse with coconut macaroons, in which the English added the -oon to the word in the 16th century.

The Tarte Au Citron – Tarte Au Citron, also known as the lemon tart, are also very popular. Donning a pastry crust and delicious lemon filling. The filling, however, is not made with fruit. The cream is a mixture containing lemon juice, lemon zest, and of course, eggs and sugar.

The Mille Feuille – This fluffy treat comes in a vanilla or custard slice and is comprised of several layers of puff pastry. Between the puff pastry lies an additional two layers of pastry crème. Another name for the Mille Feuille is the Napoleon.

The Tarte Tatin – Named after the hotel that serves the dessert (Hotel Tatin), the tarte Tatin is a unique upside-down pastry. Its ingredients include caramelized fruit prepared with sugar and butter. It pairs famously with a bit of tart crème Fraiche.

The Choux à La Crème – These cream puffs are created using puff pastry as well. They swell while cooking and are hollow. The oozing center can be either whipped cream or custard. Interestingly enough, once you add chocolate as your topping, it then becomes a profiterole. There are various toppings you can add to this pastry, from ice cream to fruit and even spun caramel.

Croissant – This buttery, flaky wonder is a signature French pastry. There are so many ways to top it; you can use fruit, chocolate, fondant, or a compote of your choosing. You will not be disappointed.

The Petits Four – Translated, petit four means small oven, and are also known as mignardises. The fours are little bite-sized pastries that can also be savory if you choose. The sweet option includes a sugary glaze atop a crispy biscuit. These pastries are perfect for tea parties.

Call (909) 990-1124 today to book your Paris Vacation!

Guide to Seeing Rome in 3 Days

Is Rome on Your Bucket List? Why?

Rome is an extraordinary capital, and it can take weeks or more to get in all the sites, cuisine, and culture.  Travelling can often be stressful when visiting a place that has so much to offer.  This list will pinpoint the absolute best places to visit if time is of the essence.

Day 1 - Vatican, St. Peter’s, Trastevere

To get the most out of your day, start early!  You want to arrive at the Vatican in the morning to beat the crowds.  Be sure to dress humbly in reverence of the religious city-state.  Take an early walk and explore the global city streets.  You can sit on the gorgeous Spanish Steps and take in the ethos, and people-watch before beginning your adventure.  Next, head over to the Vatican museums.  There are over 54 Christian and art galleries within the city, and the collections are stunning.  Be sure to visit the Sistine Chapel, which holds the striking ceiling art done by legendary artist, Michelangelo.  Once you’ve gotten your fill of art, stop by Via delle Grazie and grab some lunch.  To top your day off, have some fun at the beautiful neighborhood Trastevere.  If possible, check out the award-winning La Gatta Buia, they have an unbelievable Fiori di Zucca!

Day 2 - Colosseum, Palatine Hill, Roman Forum

The best way to begin your second day is to hop aboard the Metropolitana (subway) and take a ride to the Colosseo station.  Once you've arrived, stop by the ticket counter and purchase your one ticket that will grant access to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum (If possible, avoid first Sundays)!  Be sure to do some research on this ancient wonder beforehand so that you understand what you’re exploring.  There are many spigots throughout the area with fresh water, grab a bottle before leaving.  Now, it’s time to hike up the Palatine Hill!  It may be wise to get a private tour if possible.  The views from the hill towers are stunning and overlook the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus.  On your way back, keep left to arrive at the Forum to take in even more majestic views.  Grab some dinner and get some rest for your final day!

Day 3 – Pantheon, Largo di Torre Argentina, Piazza Navona

Begin your last day with an espresso and head over to the Trevi fountain.  Keep with tradition and toss in a coin for good luck!  Next, head over to the Pantheon church.  While there, be sure to be respectful and keep your voice low.  After a good lunch, stroll over to Largo di Torre Argentina, which is also known as a cat sanctuary.  The cats are well taken care of by a local charity, and feeding them is prohibited.  Lastly, we have Piazza Navona to explore.  This elegant showcase Square in Rome is built on the Stadium of Domitian. If possible, visit at sunset as the sight of the Square is awe-inspiring. 

Now that you’ve accomplished an impressive three-day tour.  Enjoy a great glass of wine and rest up before heading back from this wonderous city.

Call (909) 990-1124 today to book your Rome Vacation!

Land or by Sea

By land or by sea, we have an exclusive offer to fit your adventure of choice! Receive an onboard credit of up to $350 on your next cruise or a resort credit of up to $150 on your next vacation. Find out more here: jbennett.dreamvacations.com/promo

Serenity of the Bliss

Experience the beauty of Alaska on the brand new Norwegian Bliss. This cruise will put the majesty of this land on full view. Now is the best time to plan your Alaskan adventure. Book today to experience pure Bliss.

Enter to Win!

There is still time to enter. The last day to enter is October 31, 2018. You have to be in it to win it.https://jbennett.dreamvacations.com/travel/cruises/Contest.html?SWEEPSTAKE_NAME=3Q05&PG=1