Alcohol, for me, is an indulgence most often enjoyed in the context of travel. In Mexico, siesta and margaritas go hand-in-hand. Bermuda introduced me to the gingery delights of a Dark n’ Stormy. And, in Scotland, I discovered the soul-soothing effects of a wee dram of whisky.
But overall, I’m a light drinker without much of a history with hooch. That’s not the case with the women writers behind a new anthology “Drinking Diaries: Women Serve Their Stories Straight Up ” a collection of essays written and edited by ladies who drink: Some merrily. Others, not so much.
I caught up with Caren Osten Gerszberg, co-editor of the book and co-founder of a blog by the same name, in Switzerland recently to talk to her about the book and the role that travel and drinking play in her life.
THE WORLD, À LA CARTE
For those of us who can’t imagine experiencing a new place any way but food first, we’re in luck. Michelin, the bible of epicureans on the go for over 100 years, now offers foodies a new way to eat, drink and sleep their way around the planet. For travellers’ with twin appetites for great food and one-of-a-kind experiences, they’ve launched a new culinary travel series, Michelin Food and Travel.
© Ellen Barone.
Michelin Food & Travel experiences are wholly customizable, but here’s a few sample itinerary highlights to whet your appetite:
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Alaska Bear Viewing and Safari
Venture to the Alaska that most tourists don’t see as you fly by bush plane to Alaska’s Bear Camp for two days of bear viewing. Watch for humpbacks, Orcas, and sea lions while spending nights at an adventure camp in Resurrection Bay, whitewater raft through the scenic Kenai Fjords, enjoy luxury accommodation and much more. June 13-June 20, $4295
Hiking Big Sky and Yellowstone, Montana
Hike the stunning mountains and trails of Big Sky and Yellowstone as you are led by a professional naturalist guide while enjoying log cabin accommodations at a luxury guest ranch. Get a real taste for the ‘wild west’ with hayrides, barbecues, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and more. July 24-July 30. $2695
Rafting the Colorado River through Cataract Canyon, Utah
Explore Utah’s stunning Arches and Canyonlands National Parks with a guided private tour, then continue on for 5 days of rafting on the famous Mighty Colorado River. Enjoy “glamping” and gourmet fare riverside and a spectacular flightseeing tour over Cataract Canyon back to Moab.
Abercrombie & Kent Journeys for Women offer stress-free getaways
“An escape from day-to-day responsibilities.” “Learning something new in a fun and trusting environment.” “Reconnecting with those who know me best.” These are just some of the reasons more and more women are turning toward travel with friends, sisters and mothers as a remedy to life’s everyday pressures. But planning a “girlfriend getaway” that appeals to everyone can sometimes cause more stress than enjoyment. Abercrombie & Kent’s Journeys for Women offer opportunities to discover the world’s most remarkable destinations in the company of other women, experiencing sightseeing and activities presented from a woman’s perspective. And with ten different pre-planned travel experiences to choose from, the only anxiety comes from what to pack.
In destinations around the globe, these trips include inspiring cultural and educational experiences for women of all ages. Learn the secrets of French cuisine during a private cooking lesson at the École Ritz Escofier in Paris. Raft Cataract Canyon with a team of female rafting guides. Explore historic sites, from the Female Warriors at the Yangling excavation in Xian to the palace of Versailles, in the company of guides who illuminate these must-see destinations from a rewarding new point of view.