This blog is now located at http://greatfoodandtravel.blogspot.com/.
You will be automatically redirected in 30 seconds, or you may click here.

For feed subscribers, please update your feed subscriptions to
http://greatfoodandtravel.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default.

It's a perfect time for a getaway in Michigan to see the gorgeous spring blooms. Here are four stays that I highly recommend.

A really special place is The Wellington Inn in Traverse City. It is an old mansion, now b&b with nine beautiful rooms. The inn keepers are wonderful and the inn is a few blocks from downtown where many of Traverse City's best restaurants are located.

Another place I love is Crystal Mountain Resort and Spa. They have everything at the resort including a beautiful new "Green" Spa and an outdoor Art Park with sculpture. Although it's in between seasons, Crystal Mountain is in Benzie County and there are many cool biking trails in the area, great access to Lake Michigan where rock hunting is now big as the winter brings new petosky stones on shore, and forests for foraging wild mushrooms and wild leeks. The locals there will be good about helping you out with going to the right places to look for mushrooms. I've been told to check out the south side of a hill after a rain as well as forested places where ash trees are abundant. See the following website to learn more about how to find the rare and covetted morels! http://www.northerncountrymorels.com.

A third place for a relaxing stay is the Grey Hare Inn on Old Mission Peninsula. It sits within a vineyard up a private road from one of the cool wineries on Old Mission. You can do a wine tour during the day close to where you're staying and probably hit all seven of the wineries there if you're up to it! There are some nice restaurants on Old Mission, too.

And finally, for a more active cultural experience highlighted by a world class art museum and Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, soon to feature a spectacular Chihuly exhibition, stay at the historic, elegant Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids. My suggestion is to book a corner room in the historic part of the hotel, have cocktails and dinner at Cynus 27 overlooking the Grand River one night. Explore downtown Grand Rapids and the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the many art galleries, riverwalk and abundance of friendly sidewalk cafes, bars and coffee shops on day 1. Day 2 visit Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, just six miles east from downtown and splurge for dinner at the only 5-diamond restaurant in Michigan, the 1913 Room located at the Amway Grand Plaza.

These are my picks for this spring. Travel, Explore and best of all Dine at these places that dot the wonderful Lake Michigen coast of Michigan!

There's lots more at www.greatfoodandtravel.com

Savor Spring!....Sally

Grand Rapids, Mich. (April 17, 2010 10:00 p.m. EST)

The culinary team to represent the United States in the Lyon, France Coup de Monde de la Patisserie competition have now been decided.

The winners were announced at the World Pastry Cup U.S. tryouts which took place today in Grand Rapids, Michigan at the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education. The winners include:

1st Place: Jean-Francois Suteau, Executive Pastry Chef, The Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills, California

2nd Place: Bill Foltz, Executive Pastry Chef, L'Auberge du Lac - Casino and Resort, Lake Charles, New Orleans

3rd Place: Frania Mendivil, Executive Pastry Chef, The Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills, California

Alternate: Yoni Morales, Executive Pastry Chef, Ark at New York, New York Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada

Congratulations to you all! These people will represent the United States in the Coup de Monde de la Patisserie competition which will take place January 22 - 26, 2011 in Lyon, France during the SIRHA-International Hotel Catering & Food Trade Exhibition. SIRHA is the first specialized exhibition in France targeting professionals of the industry of hospitality and dining out.

For more coverage on the World Pastry Cup U.S. Tryouts in Grand Rapids stay connected to the GreatFoodandTravel.com blog.

It was perfect weather for creating precision pastries at the World Pastry Cup U.S. Competition held today in Grand Rapids, Michigan. In preparation for the upcoming Coup du Monde de la Patisserie in Lyon, France next January, eight vetted competitors met today at The Secchia Institute for Culinary Education who hosted the event. Sixty-five degree temperatures and dry conditions were the perfect setting for the coveted pastry event that happens every two years. Only four of the competitors, three finalists and one alternate, will go on to the finals in Lyon to be held January 22 - 26, 2011. Twenty-two nations will compete for the title which was last won in 2009 by the French team.

The World Pastry Cup U.S. Competition, was attended by enthusiastic supporters of the Secchia Culinary Institute. Many of the competition goers were younger - 9 years old and under - vying for a view and an autograph from one of the esteemed judges. Kerry Vincent, who is well-known for her appearances on the Food Network program "The Food Network Challenge", is one of the judges for today's competition. Vincent's legendary persona, which is revered and feared by talented pastry chefs who compete on the Food Network program, also has a group of young supporters who thinks she's "just great". Vincent, dressed in classic pearls and her signature braided headband, explained that her fans, "both love me and hate me - I'm sometimes called the Simon Cowall of cake." While having a wonderful time talking to the crowd who showed up for the competition, Vincent also explained that the purpose of her participation in the World Pastry Cup Competition is to "find a person who will represent the United States in a world class way."

Competitors include Francis Mendivil, Executive Pastry Chef of the Beverly Hills Hotel; Andrew Logan, Corporate Pastry Chef of Albert Uster Import, Gaethersburg, Maryland; Jean-Francois Suteau, Executive Pastry Chef, The Beverly Hills Hotel; Joseph Panepinto, Pastry Chef and Owner of Panardo Pasticceria in Middle Village, New York; Yoni Morales, Executive Pastry Chef, Ark at New York, New York Casino in Las Vegas; Bill Foltz, Executive Pastry Chef, L'Auberge du Lac Casino and Resort in New Orleans; Loan Co, Assistant Pastry Chef, San Francisco Marriott; and Thierry Auyjard, Pastry Chef of Jimmy Duffy Caterer in Downington, Pennsylvania.

The competition is judged on many aspects including decoration, construction, ongoing preparation, and show-personship throughout the grueling six hour preparation phase. The final plated desserts and entremet (tiny cakes) were also sampled by the judges who scored them for balance of sweetness, contrasting tastes, texture, temperature and originality among many other attributes. Ten internationally known pastry chefs participated in judging the competition. They looked for subtle outstanding details, flaws, and overall workmanship in the creations presented by each of the competitors.

The competitors who move on to the final competition in Lyon, France will create three pastry creations as a team in the categories of sugar, chocolate, and ice carving.

Look for the results of today's competition in Monday's blog.

Beautiful Benzie County, Michigan, has been on the receiving side for perfect winter weather this season. Cold temperatures and an abundance of snow in Northern Michigan have helped to launch another spectacular winter in a location where snow sports are top notch. Benzie County is the perfect escape for a week or weekend for those who like winter sports and outdoor adventure. New this season are snow mobile rentals to experience 135 miles of groomed natural trails, and dog sled excursions that the entire family can enjoy. These activities along with excellent downhill skiing and snowboarding at Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa, snowshoeing along the dunes on Lake Michigan's shore, and over 40 kilometers of groomed cross country skiing trails give those who seek winter adventure a chance to see Michigan's beautiful scenery along with their outdoor fun.

According to Mary Carroll, President of Benzie County Visitor's Bureau, "The temperatures and the significant amount of natural snowfall so far this season has contributed to the high quality of snow for such sports as downhill and cross country skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling." Brian Lawson, Director of Public Relations for Crystal Mountain adds, "We're skiing and snowboarding on nearly four feet of base and the lake effect snow has provided a nice blanket of powder for the last two weeks. We plan to have all of our downhill terrain open for Christmas weekend and all 40km of our cross-country trails are currently ready to go."

Downhill & Cross Country Skiing

One of Parents Magazine's Ten Best Snow Resorts for Families (2009) and rated #1 Resort in the Midwest by Ski Magazine, Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa's conditions for downhill skiing and snowboarding are prime. The resort features 45 downhill slopes and two terrain parks. Led by Ron Shepard, a former Professional Ski Instructors of America examiner from Park City, Utah, Crystal's snowsports school features programs for skiers and snowboarders of every age. Visitors can also experience cross-country skiing along 40 kilometers of groomed trails including those through Michigan Legacy Art Park, a 30-acre preserve featuring over 40 outdoor sculptures. The resort also takes pride in being a premier destination for healthy living with a first class fitness center, an extensive list of fitness classes, Peak Performance menu in its restaurants, and Crystal Spa, the Midwest's only LEED-certified spa awarded Favorite Hotel/Resort Spa: Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, & Midwest by Spa Magazine and Top Ten: Winter Sports Spa by SpaFinder. Packages can be reserved online at www.crystalmountain.com or by calling 800-968-7686, ext. 5100.

Dog Sledding

Crystal Mountain Resort has partnered with Wiggins' Mountainside Huskies this season to offer a family experience you won't soon forget -- dog sledding. Sleds are pulled by four to six Siberian Huskies along Crystal Mountain's wooded trails. Rides are available on select evenings by advance reservation. 30-minute rides start at $70. For more information about dog sledding excursions, contact Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa at (800) 968-7686 ext. 7000.

Snow Mobile Rentals

Crystal Adventures, located on M-115, just two miles from Crystal Mountain, is offering snow mobile rentals by the day or weekend with prices ranging from $100 for four hours on a non-holiday weekday to $195 for an all day rental during the holidays. Advance reservations are required. Accessories such as helmets can also be rented. Guided snowmobile trips are offered on some dates as well as snowmobile delivery and pick-up for a modest cost. Contact Crystal Adventures at 231-651-9648 for more information.

Benzie County's 135 miles of groomed and challenging snowmobile trails are spread throughout the county in three locations: East of the village of Honor, in Thompsonville, and in Beulah. There are maps showing the trails, as well as, staging areas, available at the Benzie County Visitors Bureau located on US31 in the village of Benzonia. Contact Benzie Country Visitors Bureau at 800-882-5801 or see www.visitbenzie.com/winter-fun--14/

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is the fastest growing winter sport and one in which anyone can take part. Snowshoeing doesn't require a lot of advanced training and is a great group activity to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Some of the most majestic locations for snow shoeing in Benzie County are the Elberta Dunes and Arcadia Dunes along the Lake Michigan Shore.

Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore is nearby to the north and a wonderful destination in any season. Old Indian Trail at the National Park is one of the best places to snowshoe. They also offer guided snowshoeing excursions on the weekends during the winter season. Contact Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park at 231-326-5134 for snowshoe tour hours and other information. More information about snowshoeing at www.visitbenzie.com/winter-fun--14/

Ice Fishing

Benzie County has 57 inland lakes, which are perfect for ice fishermen and women. Make arrangements for your fishing shanty at Crystal Adventure at 231-651-9648. Five Corners Store in Beulah, 100 feet from Crystal Lake, offers bait and tackle for ice fishing. When you have to run back to shore for minnows or wigglers, you can walk instead of drive to Five Corners www.fivecornersstore.com . For more information about ice fishing locations, contact Benzie County Visitors Bureau at 800-882-5801.

Benzie County Winter Events

Benzie County Winterfest in Beulah

Beulah, Michigan

February 13, 2010

Wintertime Parade, Frozen Fish Toss & Snowmobile Poker Run

Fishing Contest on frozen Crystal Lake, Iceboat rides, Chili Cook-off and Fireworks at Dusk

Shiver By The River in Frankfort

Frankfort, Michigan

February 19, 20, & 21, 2010

Featuring SnoCross Competition, a Parade, Kids Snow World Play Area, Ice Bowling, and numerous Warming stations with beverages and food.

Benzie County, 30 minutes Southwest of Traverse City, has miles and miles of beaches and dunes, including over 24 miles along Lake Michigan and 57 inland lakes, quaint towns and villages, and is the gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It is one of the most desirable destinations in the state of Michigan for year round vacationing or second home purchases. Benzie County is the smallest county in Michigan and has only one stoplight in the entire county! Whether you're a nature seeker or more adventurous type, Benzie Country offers something for everyone. As you travel its winding roads from village to village, you'll discover natural beauty and abundant winter fun.

The memories of a standout bottle of wine are often associated not with the bottle itself, but the activities that are part of an exceptional wine experience. Memories include laughing with friends at a party, gazing across the room at a beautiful man, sipping wine while preparing a magnificent recipe, and lovemaking.

This brings to mind the 2009 Wine and Food Festival in Grand Rapids. I wasn't doing any of the above activities per se at this event - but somehow these activities all crossed my mind as I made my way across the sea of booths displaying what seemed to be an infinite number of wines from all parts of the world. Throughout the evening, as I strolled with a friend , I saw many people from my past who I hadn't seen in quite some time. Some I knew well and others were merely acquaintances. But they all had one thing in common - they all inspired those long ago memories that burst forth when a face is seen and the vivid snapshot of an experience together is recalled. The memories come alive in that brief moment as you meet, exchange cordial conversation, and wish each other well.

And in the presence of wine, the old feelings bubble up again, fresh and new, making you realize that you are indeed very much alive. Here on this particular evening was a room full of wine lovers willing to experience the moment and let their guard down. Their emotions were high and full of the anticipation of a great wine tasting.

As we drank at this booth and the next, the wines blurred in our quest to find the very best. The experience was educational, while the appreciation of the wine was intuitive. "Where is that booth where the wines bring memories of great bottles and great memories."

As my friend and I strolled along the corridors of the winemakers, we paused to say hello to friends and to talk to the young apprentices who staffed the booths. Most had no clue about the wines that they were serving, but they did know what others had most enjoyed and they eagerly steered us to them.

One of the standout vineyard booths was the very last one we experienced. Having an abundance of wine tickets to use up before the evening ended, we wandered to the place where we had seen an engaging "15 ticket" pour, considered an extravangent amount when we first arrived, but now a must for our taste buds as we longed for that special wine that would rock our world. This exclusive wine was from a small vineyard out of Napa called Celani Family Vineyards. The $200 bottle of wine was called Ardore, a 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon which would cost us $7.50 for a small sip. We dug into our pockets without hesitation. Why not splurge when the moment was ripe? As we hoped, Ardore was outstanding and became our top wine pick of the night.

As the evening ended I was reminded that the experience of a good bottle or "taste" of wine is best remembered by the experience that one has with the people or situation that surrounds it. This was an event that included familiar faces, old forgotten memories, an enhanced awareness of feeling, and a bit of learning. Combine this with Ardore, the most noteworthy wine of the evening and the moment was complete.

It's not easy to express what the International Wine and Food Festival in Grand Rapids is like. But if you take a mixture of our favorite wine called Ardore and combine that with the dictionary term "ardor" this may give you a nice understanding: "A warmth of feeling or sentiment: Passion." That pretty much best sums up the pleasure that can be derived from this wine tasting experience.

A New International Film Festival Launches this Weekend in Frankfort.

The newly restored Garden Theater in Frankfort, Michigan, 30 minutes southwest of Traverse City will feature the best films from prestigious film festivals from around the world October 23 - 25.

Confirmed films in the inaugural festival include:

Adam, a comedy / drama film directed by Max Mayer: Winner of the Tribeca Film Festival’s Alfred P. Sloan Prize

Away We Go, directed by Sam Mendes, featuring Jeff Daniels, Allison Janey and Maya Rudolph.

Adventureland, a comedy film directed by Greg Mottola: Featured in the Sundance Film Festival 2009.

The Dinner, a comedy film directed by Karchi Pelrmann: Winner of the Palm Springs Film Festival Best of the Festival Award and Winner of the Venice Film Festival.

Man on Wire: Winner of 2008 British Independent Film Award for Best Documentary.

Trouble the Water, a documentary film directed by Carl Deal and Tia Lessin: Winner of the 2008 Sundance Film Festival’s Documentary Grand Jury Prize.

The Commandant, a 12 minute film directed by Stephen Pell: Winner of the Grand Rapids, MI Film Festival Audience Choice Award.

Seraphine, a French full length feature directed by Martin Provost, Winner of seven awards including Best Film at the 2008 Cesar Awards

Tickets to the Garden Theater Film Festival are $35 per person for the weekend or $8 per film. The Garden Theater is located at 301 Main Street, Frankfort, Michigan 49635. Seewww.frankfortgardentheater.com for films and showtimes. Films begin at 3 p.m. on Friday.

Weekend packages and specials include:

$35 off a two night room rate at Betsie Bay Inn when the all weekend film festival ticket is presented at check-in. See www.betsiebayinn.com;

$35 off a two night room rate at Harbor Lights Resort when the all weekend film festival ticket is shown at check-in. See www.harborlightsresort.net;

Dinner and a movie offers and specials will be featured at various Frankfort restaurants including Coho Cafe, Dinghy's, Betsy Bay Inn, Tali Bistro, Villa Marine, and A&W Drive-In.

The Garden Theater was recently purchased by a grassroots community based ownership group motivated to restore the theater to its original glory of the Art Deco period of the 1920s. It was built in 1923 and has been in continuous operation since that time.