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Archive for 2010

Condé Nast Traveler’s 2011 Gold List Places Uniworld Boutique River Cruises in the World’s Top Cruise Lines

Friday, December 31st, 2010

Uniworld's Countess River Cruise

During the 80s, I was fortunate to take a river cruise. However, I’ve not experienced a Uniworld Boutique River Cruise yet. It is certainly on my list. They sound wonderful. The photo is from the deck overlooking Budapest. Experiencing this enchanting city from both sides of the Rhine is wonderful. However, I’m sure a cruise when you see the charm of the entire area is enchanting. When I researched the Uniworld website, the ships looked outstanding. If I ever experience it first hand I’ll let you know. But, I wanted to share this press release as it is quite impressive. So, if you are considering a cruise for 2011, check this out. Thank you Arnelle Kendall for sharing.

Condé Nast Traveler just announced their prestigious 2011 Gold List winners for the world’s finest hotels, resorts, and cruise lines, and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises was included in the “World’s Top Cruise Lines” category. There is a total of thirteen cruise lines on the Gold List, with Uniworld being the only cruise line focusing 100% on river cruising. The Gold List is based on data collected from Condé Nast Traveler’s annual Readers’ Choice Survey by more than 25,000 of their readers.

“I am deeply honored that Uniworld has been recognized once again in Conde Nast Traveler’s prestigious Gold List. For the last several years, we have been consistently included on this list, and this reaffirms our commitment to delivering the best river cruise experience possible to our guests,” states Guy Young, president of Uniworld. “I am also very proud to be included in a list of well respected cruise lines such as Crystal, Silversea, Seabourn, and Regents,” furthers Young.

For more information, please contact your Preferred Travel Professional. Call Uniworld at 800-733-7820 or visit www.uniworld.com.

About Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Los Angeles-based Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, the world’s only authentic boutique cruise line, is recognized in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Top Small Ship Cruise Lines, Condé Nast Traveler’sprestigious Gold List and their Readers’ Poll for Top 25 Small Ships and their Readers’ Choice Awards for World’s Top Small Ship Cruise Lines, Cruise Critic’s Editors’ Pick for Best River Cruise Line and Best New River Ship for the River Beatrice, Top 3 cruise line ranking in Zagat Survey® in the categories of Top Cabins and Top Dining, and is the only river cruise line represented in their cruise survey with the best of the best in the cruise industry. Uniworld features luxuriously appointed boutique cruise ships with an average capacity of 130 guests; expertly planned itineraries with custom-blended, included shore excursions; world-class, gourmet cuisine; and award-winning hospitality from an all-English speaking staff. The company offers over 500 departures on 39 itineraries sailing on 12 rivers in 20 countries throughoutEuropeEgyptRussia and China.

Big Blend Magazine NoraLyn Ltd.
Member: Society of Professional Journalists

“Success” was Indie Finalist in the Writing and Publishing category of the 2009 Next Generation Indie Book Awards

Tomato Vidalia Gratin from Biltmore Estate’s Deer Park Restaurant by Ex Chef Angela Guiffrida

Thursday, December 30th, 2010

Since I interviewed Executive Chef Angela Guiffrida’s, her name has changed but not her looks.

Chef Angela Guiffrida

Instead of re-entering all the details of this recipe, I’ve scanned the recipe for the Tomato Vidalia Gratin Pie that was featured in my Dishing with Carolina Chef’s TV show and column for Time-Warner Cable.

This is such a delicious brunch or lunch dish, I wanted to share it.

Deepark Restaurant on Biltmore Estate is known for its wonderful seasonal luncheon buffet and private dinner functions. Virginia bor Executive Chef Angela is the one who brings everything together.

An Asian study major in college, Angela had no idea she would pursue cooking.  She said, ” I cooked for 10 years before I really went to culinary school. I received my degree in Culinaary Arts from Johnson & Wales University when it was located in Charleston, SC.”

Chef Angela Guiffrida’s Vidalia Gratin Pie - Photo & Layout by Jason Dumas

When this was originally featured, it had hits and comments from around the world. I wish I had a copy  of the videos to post with this. Unfortunately, they were not changed over as the internet went to new formatting.

For Biltmore Estate Information call 800-411-3812 or 828-225-1333.

Big Blend Magazine NoraLyn Ltd.
Member: Society of Professional Journalists

“Success” was Indie Finalist in the Writing and Publishing category of the 2009 Next Generation Indie Book Awards

Restaurant Review. Andrea’s in Sarasota, No Longer a Secret

Wednesday, December 29th, 2010

Nearly a year ago, a new little treasure near Siesta Key Beach was almost a secret. Food and Wine editor for Sarasota Magazine, John Bancroft, hesitated to write about it. I know how he feels.  I want to walk in without reservations or having to wait.

However, the word is out. Chef and food writer,Judi Gallagher highly recommended Andreas. We seem to have the similar tastes, especially when
it comes to pork belly. This summer the small cafe was full of local regulars. Now visitors and snowbirds flock to Andrea’s.

The Hill Team enjoyed  delicious veals chop at the Mountain House in the California bay area near San Francisco over a decade ago. Finally, I found one as good and as generous lovingly prepared by Chef Andrea. He paired the veal with roasted red potatoes and a subtle veal sauce with homemade pancetta. On my first visit he greeted me and treated me like a friend. The two wines I ordered by the glass, one French and one Italian, perfectly complimented the veal chop and cheeses I devoured for dessert.

This week is a special celebration for out family. This time I will make reservations for the popular Sarasota favorite. I may try his Prosecca bubbly and another veal dish, saltimbocca with sage. I am sure it will  “jump in my mouth.”
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Andrea’s
Chef-owner Andrea Bozzolo.
2085 Siesta  Key Drive, Sarasota

9941) 951-9200















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