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Looking for the perfect cocktail to celebrate the season? Look no further than this Juicy Cocktail…It is the best tangerine cocktail you will ever have. Promise!
How To Make The Best Tangerine Cocktail
Well, the recipe is simple. To make the best tangerine cocktail, you need the best tangerines. And, I am hoping that by now you all know that those tangerines come from my friends at Noble Citrus. Right now, the sweetest, juiciest most amazing tangerine is in season…the Juicy Crunch tangerine.
So, since Juicy Crunch is in season and what better way to celebrate than with a cocktail? You all know that I love a good cocktail…This cocktail is made with just 3 simple ingredients, so it’s a must use only the best ingredients. And that’s exactly why I used Juicy Crunch Tangerines! Sweet, juicy, low-to-no seed and zipper peel make the Juicy Crunch Tangerine a must in this Juicy Tangerine Cocktail. I also recommend a good vodka 😉 You don’t need a low quality vodka messing up the taste of that incredible Juicy Crunch!
To make this cocktail, simply peel open your Juicy Crunch Tangerine, remove three of the segments and squeeze all that high-brix tangerine juice into your favorite cocktail glass. Add in chilled vodka and top with sparkling water. I have about 5 different flavors of sparkling water in my house at all times and my favorite so far in the tangerine cocktail is orange. But lime and plain are also delicious. The sweetness juice from the Juicy Crunch Tangerine is really what makes this cocktail!
As you can see, I also made Infused Ice Cubes. Not only are infused ice cubes pretty in cocktails, but as they melt, they add extra flavor. I simply added Juicy Crunch segments to some of the ice cubes sections, then I added Juicy Crunch and fresh mint leaves to some of the additional ice cube sections. Mint and citrus are a delicious pairing, plus, mint is pretty too 😉
Now, let’s make that Juicy Cocktail shall we? I originally made this cocktail for Noble Citrus last season and I loved it so much, I wanted to share it here for you all too!
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Celebrate your next anniversary at one of these romantic destinations! Before planning your anniversary trip, check out these 8 romantic destinations to help you decide where to go! This is a Guest post from Katelyn at Couples Travel.
An anniversary should be a time to not only mark your time together with your partner; it should be an opportunity to visit someplace new. Every couple has been told endlessly about the need to add spice and variety to their relationship to prevent it from becoming dull and uninteresting. The trouble is that, despite best intentions, life gets in the way.
Your upcoming anniversary will give you the perfect excuse to splurge and adventure to a faraway romantic destination. Here are some of the world’s most relaxing, rejuvenating, and romantic getaways.
1. Barbados, West Indies
A trip to this Caribbean Island can turn your anniversary into a Barbados honeymoon. Barbados is well known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, which are especially gorgeous on the island’s western side. If you and your partner want to do more than lay on the beach all day, you can go over to the island’s east coast, which contains rocky coves and deep caves. Romantic boat trips, delicious rum, and calypso music are also part of the Barbadian experience.
2. Bali, Indonesia
The island of Bali is a true gem of the Pacific. It is warm, sunny, and picturesque. You can enjoy the food, luxuriate on the beach resorts, and be thrilled by the nightlife. The last of these is especially good with music and dancing in Southeast Asia’s hottest open-air clubs.
During the day, you can take in the island’s culture and historical sites. You can visit temples that go back to the 15th century. The island’s spectacular waterfalls are not to be missed, and you should take the time to relax together and enjoy Bali’s breathtaking sunsets.
3. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Argentina is known as the home of the Tango. But this is not the country’s only cultural achievement. The influence of Germany in Argentina is almost as potent as that of Spain. This has created a wonderful blend of European and Native American culture that can be seen in everything from the diversity of cuisine to how Spanish is spoken in the country.
The nightlife is brilliant in Buenos Aires — more than enough for you and yours to dance the night away. You can spend your days watching ballet or opera and visiting the many beautiful parks in Palermo.
3. Cancun, Mexico
This city is best known as the Spring Break destination of high school and college students—much to the detriment of its reputation. However, it is a beautiful place to be and can be a great romantic destination outside the Spring Break season. You will still be able to enjoy Cancun’s energetic vibe, but you will do so without the noise and over-the-top partying.
4. Florida Keys, Florida
The Florida Keys is a perfect romantic getaway if, for whatever reason, you are not interested in leaving the country for your anniversary. The Florida Keys is billed as a resort area, but the hospitality industry is built on an old Spanish settlement. You and your partner can stroll hand-in-hand through the quaint old town section in the evening and enjoy the wonderful beaches in the afternoon. You can also indulge yourselves at world-class restaurants, atmospheric bars, and relaxing cafes.
5. Kerala, India
This is a great place to start if you have never been to India. Most of the Indian subcontinent stretches out into the Indian Ocean, which has given the country some of the most extraordinary beaches in the world. Kerala is one such place. You will find pristine beaches, tropical forests, rolling hills, and interesting wildlife.
Kerala is known for its spa and massage treatments. It is the one thing that everyone who visits the reason must do.
6. Maui, Hawaii
Maui has the best beaches in Hawaii and has always been known as an island paradise. But you can also enjoy the island’s great food and interesting sites. When you want a bit of a break from the beach, you can visit Haleakala National Park. This is the island’s highest lookout point, and it has a volcanic crater. You will have a 360-degree view of the latter from the top of the point.
If you take your anniversary trip in the winter, you will get to see humpback whales!
7. Paris, France
Paris as a romantic city is not a cliché. The reality matches the hype. Paris really is that atmospheric. Whether strolling along the Seine on a rainy afternoon, marveling at the Eiffel Tower on a clear night, or enjoying a candlelight dinner at an outdoor bistro, the ambiance of Paris will get you in the mood for love.
8. Venice, Italy
This ancient Italian city’s slow and easy pace is perfect for couples who want to get away from it all. Venice is well-known for its watery parts comprised of a series of canals. Taking a gondola ride along the latter will give you quality time together and allow you to explore the city’s unique architecture and mysterious passageways.
As you can see, plenty of romantic spots exist in the world. Proper planning is the key to making your anniversary trip to any of them a success.
Where is one of your dream destinations for your next anniversary?
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Santa is coming! Santa is coming! And what does Santa want? Milk and cookies of course! And if you are looking for the same, these Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cookie cups are not only adorable, but they are yummy! While this post is sponsored by Florida Milk, my love of Christmas and cookies and this recipe are my own.
When I think of the holidays I think of all the food and desserts that are shared with family and friends. Cookies are the perfect example. Have you started your baking yet? Cookie swaps are on our Holiday To-Do List and we always bake dozens and dozens of cookies to share with the neighbors. It’s a tradition we have been doing for at least 10 years now. I used to do all the baking, but as of last year, the kids did it! We make at least 10 dozen cookies, plate them all pretty and then the kids put on their Santa hats, grab their favorite portable speaker to play Christmas tunes, then they walk the subdivision to spread holiday cheer. The rule is that they must always choose at least one house that isn’t someone they know well so that they are spreading that holiday cheer to new and old friends. I absolutely love this tradition 🙂
And this year, I am excited that we will have these fun Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cups to share. Seriously, how adorable are they?!
We always make our Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies, so this year we just switched up the peppermint frosting for a chocolate peppermint frosting and added our marshmallow hot cocoa cups.
As you can tell, we absolutely love the chocolate and peppermint combination, if you don’t (WHAT?! How is that possible??), it’s okay, just leave the peppermint extract out of the recipe. But seriously…how could you not like peppermint?!
The Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe and the Chocolate Peppermint Frosting recipe are made with pantry and household staples, so you probably already the ingredients on hand! I did have to go to the store for the marshmallows…it’s s’mores season here apparently and my kids are enjoying marshmallows and chocolate on the regular for a snack. Can’t say I blame em though.
The hardest part about making these Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cookies is not eating them all before they are decorated 😉 In all seriousness, grab the kiddos for the decoration part! One can put the frosting on the cookie, one can handle putting the frosting on the marshmallow and everyone can join in putting sprinkles everywhere. You can never have too many sprinkles…
Have you ever wondered why Santa loves milk and cookies? Come to find out, there is a deep-rooted history behind this snack. But, which legend do you believe? One is that during the 19th century in England, children would leave cakes or biscuits for Father Christmas as a reward for delivering their presents. Some believe it started in the Netherlands with Saint Nicholas who was known to give treats to children, while others say that it can be traced back to Germanic folklore. There are even tales of Scandinavian hard-working housewives leaving out mince pies and whisky for the jolly old man! Whatever the origin, one thing is certain – this delightful festive ritual has been bringing smiles to generations around the world. Let’s face it – who doesn’t love a sweet treat? After all this hard work delivering gifts around the world in one night, Santa deserves something special.
Alright, let’s make some cookies shall we?! And don’t forget the milk!
Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cookie Cups Additional Ingredients
Jumbo marshmallows
Mini candy canes
Holiday sprinkles
Get Recipe Ingredients
Instructions
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
In a large mixing bowl, combine butter, sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, milk, vanilla and peppermint extract using mixer.
Beat in the eggs one at a time.
Slowly add the flour 1/4 a cup at time.
Mix in the chocolate chips.
Prepare baking sheets with cooking spray or parchment paper.
Make small cookie dough balls, approximately 1 inch.
Place the cookie dough balls onto the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool completely before decorating.
Chocolate Peppermint Frosting Instructions
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter on low.
Add the cocoa powder and stir well.
Allow to cool slightly.
Add the milk, extracts and powdered sugar.
Stir well.
Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cookie Cups Assembly Instructions
Break your mini candy canes into smaller pieces and squeeze then into the side of the marshmallow. If you are having a hard time getting it to stay, push it in further or use vanilla/white frosting to get it to stay. We were able to just push it in further.
Once the frosting is cool, put it into a ziploc bag and push it to a corner, then clip the tip of the corner. This will make it easier to use the frosting.
Once the cookies are cooled, pipe a small amount of frosting onto each cookie.
Place a marshmallow on top of the frosting.
Pipe a small amount of frosting onto the top of the marshmallow.
Add sprinkles to the top of the frosting on the marshmallow.
Serve your Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cups with a cold glass of Florida Milk…and be sure to save some for Santa!
And while you are at it, check out all the recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for more FOOD WINE AND SUNSHINE.
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If you are looking for a tasty healthy soup that is guaranteed to warm you up, this Mexican Street Corn Soup is it! Made with minimal ingredients and ready in less than an hour, the whole family will love this soup recipe. While this post is sponsored by Florida Milk, my love of soup and this recipe are my own.
I have soup every single day for lunch. Every. Single. Day. Why? Well, the reasoning is actually pretty cool. My friend and I are both doing what we can to watch what we eat, so we alternate weeks on making each other lunch. We make a big batch of soup that is loaded with veggies and low in fat and we make enough for the two of us for a week. That means every other week I don’t have to think about what I am eating for lunch. Which is nice because I work at home. Now, we have been doing this for over a year now, so I will admit that we start remaking the same recipes over and over because well, how creative can you get when it comes to making soup? You can make this Mexican Corn on the Cob soup!
Not only because it’s absolutely delicious, but as an added benefit it’s actually pretty darn healthy for you…in fact, it’s really healthy! Loaded with corn (obviously, I know), then added vitamins and nutrients due to the Florida Milk.
I added a jalapeno to our Mexican Street Corn Soup because my family likes everything a bit spicy, feel free to leave that out, but I think it adds a nice punch of flavor.
Quick disclaimer, I am in no way stating that this is an authentic recipe, but I did make some spins on recipes I saw and have had, but I am stating that it’s delicious and you should definitely make it 😉
You may have heard of Mexican Corn on the Cob or Elote, which is a popular street food in Mexico.
Mexican Corn on the Cob (Elote) is made from freshly grilled corn and smothered with a variety of toppings. This delicious, cheap, and easy-to-make snack has become an international favorite for its unique flavor and texture. I have seen it served in a variety of ways (on and off the cob) in restaurants.
The classic Elote recipe starts with a large ear of corn that is lightly grilled over charcoal or wood fire to give it its signature smoky flavor. Once cooked, it’s slathered with a creamy sauce made from mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, lime juice and spices. The final touch is a sprinkle of crumbled cheese on top!
I simplified some steps to make my Mexican Street Corn Soup, fresh corn wasn’t in season, so I did use frozen (gasp!, I know) but it was still delicious…hence the reason I warned you that this wasn’t a fully authentic recipe, but the flavors are there my friends, I PROMISE YOU!
In traditional Mexican Street Corn Soup and on Mexican Street Corn you use cotija cheese….I looked just about everywhere for it and I couldn’t find it. I used queso fresco cheese, which is not the same flavor profile, but it was delicious. If you can find cotija cheese, definitely use that!
I added a jalapeno to our soup because we love just about everything spicy, I also added cilantro because we love cilantro and when I think Mexican food, I automatically feel like cilantro should be in it.
The key to making your Mexican Street Corn Soup creamy is the Florida Milk and blending all the ingredients together. The blending adds a little extra time to the cook time, but it’s worth it. I used my blender, but you could use an immersion blender if you have one. In fact, the immersion blender may be easier!
Looking for another Mexican Street Corn inspired recipe? Check out my Mexican Street Corn Dip! It’s ready in under 30 minutes and is delish!
Ok, let’s make some Mexican Street Corn Soup shall we? Be sure to print and pin the recipe so you can make it again and again!
Healthy, delicious, and easy to make, this Mexican Street Corn Soup is perfect for an easy weeknight meal!
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time30 minutesmins
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Lunch/Dinner
Cuisine: American, Mexican, Tex-Mex
Keyword: corn, mexican, soup
Servings: 8
Calories: 169kcal
Author: Tracy
Equipment
Stovetop
Dutch Oven or Large Pot
Blender/Food Processor/Immersion Blender
Ingredients
1tbspolive oilextra virgin
6cupscorn kernelsI used frozen, you can also use canned or fresh
1cupsweet onionchopped
1jalapenochopped *optional
1/2teaspoonchili powder
1/2teaspooncumin
1/4tsppaprika
6garlic cloveschopped
4cupslow sodium chicken or vegetable brothone large carton
1cupFlorida Milk – I used 2%
1/2cupqueso fresco cheeseplus additional for garnish (if you can find Cotija use that!)
juice from one lime
2tablespoonscilantrochopped + more for garnish
Get Recipe Ingredients
Instructions
Heat oil in a large, nonstick pot or cast iron Dutch oven.
Add onion and jalapeno and saute until onions are translucent.
Add corn kernels and seasonings. Cook over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Remove 1-1/2 cups of corn mixture from the pot and set aside.
Stir broth, milk, and cheese and simmer for 20 minutes.
Transfer soup to a blender or food processor (in batches, depending on the size of your unit for safety) to puree until smooth. *You can also use an immersion blender
Return soup to pot and if needed, gently reheat to desired serving temperature. Stir in half (3/4 cup) of the reserved corn mixture, lime juice, and 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro. Season to taste with salt and pepper if needed.
Use the remaining corn as a garnish with cilantro and additional cheese.
Enjoy!
Notes
If fresh corn is in season, use that…Grill it so it’s charred!
And while you are at it, check out all the recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for more FOOD WINE AND SUNSHINE.
This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.
The holidays are coming! And what better way to celebrate family and friends than with the Ultimate Holiday Charcuterie Board. Find out what you need to make your snack board a huge success this holiday season.
How To Make An Holiday Charcuterie Board
Charcuterie Boards are one of the easiest (and fun-est) ways to make an appetizer. You get to put all of your favorite things on a board and bam…you’re done! You can get creative if you want, but no matter what you put on your holiday snack board, I promise you, your guests will love it. Charcuterie boards are the ultimate finger foods!
I originally shared this post on Noble Citrus last year, I am so thankful to have meet them on my Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association Tour! I have learned so much about Florida agriculture and I love that I have the ability to now share that with you all 🙂
The weather has officially started to cool down here in Florida and Fresh From Florida citrus is a plenty. I absolutely love walking into the grocery store and seeing the wide variety of oranges, tangerines, and more. The colors are just gorgeous and immediately make me think of charcuterie boards. Grazing boards. Snack boards. Appetizer board. No matter what you call it, the basics are all the same. You take a board (or even a plate will do!) and fill it with deliciousness for your family and friends to enjoy.
I love making charcuterie boards over the holiday season because the holidays are made for celebrating. Whether it be the football game on TV, the opportunity to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon at home, or entertaining a crowd, a charcuterie board is the perfect way to keep everyone snacking and happy.
What goes on charcuterie boards?
Well, it’s pretty flexible depending on your likes, but there are a few staples:
Meat
Cheese
Crackers
Fresh fruits – over the holiday season, I recommend Autumn Honey Tangerines. They are in season from Thanksgiving to Christmas and easy to peel, low acid, sweet and are incredible dipped in chocolate 😉
Fresh veggies – I used celery for that pop of green color, plus I love celery!
Chocolate – No holiday gathering is complete in my opinion without some chocolate
You can also add nuts for a crunchy option.
On my holiday charcuterie board, I added some cranberries and a pomegranate because they are seasonal and give you that pop of red. Perfect for the holiday season.
When making your holiday charcuterie board, I recommend putting ingredients next to each other that people will want to eat together. For example: meat next to cheese, cheese next to crackers. The fresh fruits and vegetables are always good on their own, so just place on the board where you need that touch of color. I used the Autumn Honey Tangerine in various places on my board because I love the color! It stands out and looks beautiful next to everything.
I used Autumn Honey Tangerines in a few ways on my grazing board:
Dipped Autumn Honey Tangerine wedges in white chocolate (sprinkles optional)
Dipped Autumn Honey Tangerine wedges in dark chocolate
Autumn Honey Tangerine slices
Whole peeled Autumn Honey Tangerine dipped in white chocolate (sprinkles optional)
I used Ghirardelli melting chocolate for the dipping, it’s super easy to use and it’s Ghirardelli. Who doesn’t love Ghirardelli chocolate??
You can find Autumn Honey Tangerines at your local grocery store from Thanksgiving to Christmas, here locally I find them at Publix. You will also see them at HEB.
Why we love Autumn Honey Tangerines:
Amazing flavor
Deep orange..late in season moves to almost red. It’s beautiful – especially on those holiday grazing boards 😉
Since they are easy to peel, almost like a zipper…it keeps your (and the kids’!) hands cleans
Low acidity
High brix level – which just means they are sweet 🙂
Few seeds
What are some of your must haves on charcuterie boards?
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The Florida Starburst Pummelo is the largest citrus fruit, it’s only available for a limited time, so be sure to grab it at your favorite grocer now and read on to find out how to eat a pummelo and 10 delicious ways to enjoy this citrus fruit. While this post is sponsored by Noble Citrus, all opinions and my love of pummelo are my own!
How To Eat A Pummelo – 10 Ways To Enjoy This Giant Florida Citrus Fruit
Have you heard of Florida’s largest citrus fruit? Well, let me introduce you to the Florida Starbust Pummelo. They are big enough to where you need two hands to hold them, at first glance you may think of a grapefruit, but they are not grapefruit! A Florida Starburst Pummelo is sweeter and less tart than a grapefruit.
Pummelos are in season usually late September to the end of January. So,NOW is the time for you to head to your favorite grocer and grab some!
To make sure you are grabbing a Florida Starburst Pummelo look for that sticker, the sticker is nice and big…just like the fruit! So, if you don’t see the sticker – keep looking, you want a pummelo that was grown right here in Florida and hand-picked by the Noble Citrus team.
Alright now that you know what you are looking for and how pummelos taste, I wanted to share some ways I enjoy eating pummelo. If you have additional pummelo recipes or pummelo recipe inspiration, please share it in the comments so we can all enjoy!
Tossing some fruit and fresh herbs is one of the easiest ways to liven up your water. I know we are supposed to drink at least 8 cups a day…and I know that can be hard, so freshen up your water routine by adding some pummelo slices to it.
Healthy Smoothies
You all know that I love starting my day with a smoothie. I mean, there’s a reason why I have more than 50 smoothie recipes here on the blog. Smoothies are easy to make and a deliciously healthy way to start your day. Try this Florida Citrus Smoothie and this Tropical Citrus Smoothie, both feature pummelo.
Juice It
You can juice it like you would any other fruit and veggie, and I also recommend trying this Pummelo Wellness Shot.
Incredible Cocktails
It’s 5 o’clock somewhere! There are lot of grapefruit cocktails out there, like the paloma or even a margarita. When making these cocktail, grab a pummelo instead, you will love the less tart flavor that the pummelo gives over the grapefruit. I also made a martini using pummelo juice, that’s a Pink Diamond Martini and it’s sooooo good!
I have used pineapple and watermelon to make fresh salsa, so why not use pummelo?! I recommend using pummelo, fresh tomatoes, jalapenos, onions, peppers and then toss in some fresh cilantro for a salsa that will be delicious on chips or on top of your favorite seafood or chicken dishes.
Think of the cakes, pies, tarts and cupcakes that you would use citrus in…now use pummelo instead!
With a Spoon
Yep, just eat it. In fact, you don’t even need a spoon, just cut it up and enjoy with your fingers 🙂
Pair with Seafood or Chicken
Citrus is always a delicious addition to chicken and seafood. Think of adding pummelo to ceviche or tossing it in the pan when you are sauteing shrimp. And definitely try this Fancy Chicken recipe.
Broil It
Cut your pummelo in slices and sprinkle the slices with sugar, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, vanilla extract, or even some Grand Marnier and broil them! It will only take a few minutes, so watch them close!
What is one of your favorite ways to enjoys Florida Starburst Pummelo?
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If you are traveling to London, make sure to check out the best parks in London to explore. These parks in London will let you escape the crowds and relax. Add one (or more!) of these best parks in London to your London travel itinerary.
The Best Parks In London To Explore
Seeking out a decent park can, in fact, be like searching for diamonds in coal mines: especially if it is beautiful parks away from the crowds that you are looking for. Whatever area of London you are visiting or wandering through, there are some wonderful walking, picnicking, kick-around, and relaxing spots with greenery as a backdrop.
Similar to Green Park and Hyde Park that are nearby, open spaces here will get crowds regardless of size, and this is one of the Capital’s smallest central parks. You can’t, however, beat watching pelicans waddling around in the foreground whilst Buckingham Palace soars away in the background. On the eastern edge is the Winston Churchill Museum. A photogenic lake almost splits the park in half.
The best thing to do there: Photo-snap Buckingham Palace, pelican-watch or picnic Nearest Station: Green Park underground (Victoria and Jubilee Lines), St James’ Park underground (Circle Line)
This is south-east England’s upper-middle-class playground of choice. There’s something glorious eccentric, as well as downright beautiful, about North London’s premier open space. The heath has pretty much everything from ancient wild woodland to one of the best views of London from Parliament Hill. There are open-air swimming pools (or ponds), tennis courts, a bowling green, and a petanque pitch. It attracts its fair share of notable city well-to-do’s too. It’s full of lofty Eton accents and surrounded by wonderful cafes, restaurants, and millionaires mansions: welcome to the England elite club.
The best thing to do there: Playing Bowls or taking a dip in Hampstead Ponds Nearest Station: Hampstead Heath Overground or Hampstead underground (Northern line)
You guessed it: even for crazy golf London has a solution. This park in North London is perfectly set up for, well, just that. There is a crazy golf course here as well as a pitch and putt and the main golf course.
The best thing to do there: play crazy golf Nearest Station: Harrow-on-the-Hill or Northwick Park Underground (Bakerloo and Metropolitan Lines)
Home of London’s best free festival, Stokefest, Clissold Park at the end of Stoke Newington Church Street, has the air of a country village park very much. There are ponds, an aviary, and an endearing animal enclosure with deer and goats in, as well as bowls, a tennis court, and a paddling pool. A bit further down Church Street is the eerie Abney Park Cemetery, full of tumbledown tombs amidst gnarled old trees.
The best thing to do at Clissold Park: Coo over the deer and stroll around the cemetery Nearest Station: Stoke Newington overground
This is no small, neat London park: it’s vast and centered around a series of reservoirs which form the early (or late) stages of the Lee Valley footpath. These are the only ancient wetlands still left within Greater London, and you’ll be able to spot rare butterflies and rare breed long-horned cattle.
The best thing to do at Walthamstow Marshes: Walking the Lee Valley Path Nearest Station: Clapton or Tottenham Hale (overground and underground, Victoria Line)
It’s hard to fault the place where the world works out its time from Greenwich Parks old Greenwich Observatory, with its famous meridian line, stands proudly at the top of a grassy hill dotted with copses of trees and open grassy slopes ideal for ball games. There are great views of London from the top, and there’s also a good café to sample. Open-air films in Greenwich Park are screened in the summer.
The best thing to do at Greenwich Park: Visit the Observatory Nearest Station: Greenwich or Cutty Sark DLR
Putney Heath’s stature as a park is helped by the proximity of some fine pubs (like the Green Man) just on its periphery. It’s one of London’s most sedate parks, hemmed by grand old trees that give the open green spaces the air of secret forest clearings. You can also wander south onto the wider Wimbledon Common, complete with its own windmill and a windmill museum.
The best thing to do at Putney Heath: Have a drink in one of the countrified old pubs nearby Nearest Station: Putney overground or East Putney underground, District Line
This park has a wonderful sense of decayed grandeur: the top half of it still has the elaborate statues and steps from when it was the site of the glamorous crystal palace, one of Victorian London’s greatest assets. These days, you’ll find the national sports center here with an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Also, here is one of the highlights of outdoor London, the Crystal Palace Dinosaur Park: Victorian models of all kinds of dinosaurs are secreted around an ornamental lake.
The best thing to do at Crystal Palace Park: Check out the dinosaurs Nearest Station: Crystal Palace Overground
This is the big daddy of London parks: almost everyone has heard of it, but few ever make the journey out here. In just half an hour from Central London on the overground, you’ll witness the landscape’s complete transformation into enchanting woodland and untamed open heath. At 2500 acres, a big draw is a wild deer that graze here. Besides the seemingly endless walks, in the center of the park is one of the best-loved London wedding venues, the glam Georgian Manor of Pembroke Lodge. One of London’s best places to have a game of golf, the Richmond Park Golf Club, is also here.
The best thing to do at Richard Park: Deer-Spotting Nearest Station: Richmond, on District Line and National Rail line to Reading
Whether you are visiting London for the first time or the tenth time, it’s always nice to know where you can go to relax and escape the crowds. There are many more beautiful parks in London, but these are some of the best parks in London to explore.
Have you been to London? What is one of your favorite parks to visit while traveling in London?
This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.
Working out at home just got a whole lot better! Find out why Jazzercise is One Of The Best Streaming Workouts. Today’s post is brought to you by Colleen Pedersen, Lutz Jazzercise Owner.
One Of The Best Streaming Workouts
We all know that exercise is an important part of staying healthy. It increases your metabolism, helps aid in weight loss, improves cardiovascular fitness and let’s face it, can be a form of therapy to reset and recharge to tackle life’s greatest obstacles. But we all know that going to the gym has changed dramatically. More people are working from home and find it hard to make it a part of their regular schedule, while others still have reservations about attending a gym or fitness class in person.
The fitness industry took a big hit during COVID. 17% of clubs closed permanently and 44% of the fitness industry workforce lost jobs according to iHRSA, the Global Health & Fitness Association. However, Jazzercise took the pandemic as an opportunity to give consumers another option, live stream workouts. Within just two weeks of the country going on lockdown, Jazzercise Lutz had seized the opportunity to continue to keep its customers engaged and moving even though the business thrives on in person group exercise classes.
Instructors would either come into the studio alone with a camera and their music to live stream a class or they would mimic it from home. In either situation, customers were able to continue the workout they fell in love with while keeping active during one of the most challenging times in history. Learning to teach to a camera was a little challenging at first but with time and knowing who was online taking the class, a whole new way of communication was born!
What do you want to look for with a fitness streaming program? Convenient class times where you can workout before/after work or during the day when the kids are in school. You want a variety of class formats with Aerobic activity, strength building, stretching, kick boxing, Core classes, etc. You want to choose a program where you feel the cost and quality of the service is a value. Another Key point is music that you enjoy and an instructor with a personality that motivates you.
After three months of relearning how to service our customers, we were able to allow people in person in limited quantities. Some chose to come in person, and some continued to remain at home. While Jazzercise corporate had plans to add the online class option in the future, the pandemic just pushed the timeline up a few years. “We are family at Jazzercise, so we felt the need to take care of our family at a time they needed us the most” said co-owner of Jazzercise Lutz, Colleen Pedersen. “There was never a hesitation from any of us that this was the direction we needed to go”.
Now, almost 2 years later, the live stream option is here to stay. All 47 classes a week at the Jazzercise Premier Fitness Center in Lutz, are live streamed while being taught in person. “There’s no limit to how many people we can have attend online nor is there a location barrier” said Deb Goldman, co-owner of Jazzercise Lutz. “We even have a customer in Germany that dances with us weekly. How cool is that”?
It’s apparent that online classes are the wave of the future for the fitness industry. Time, convenience, and the ability to exercise from anywhere make it another choice to stay active and healthy! Join Lutz Jazzercise live streaming for $22 for your fist month, same price for streaming or in-studio whichever is more convenient.
I have actually been doing the live-streaming classes for a few months now and I love them! I move my office chair and get my workout on and then get back to work. It’s fantastic!
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Sedona sees about 5 million tourists a year, if you are planning on being one of them, read this first! Here is How To Plan The Perfect Trip To Sedona, including where to eat in Sedona, where to shop in Sedona, where to stay in Sedona and the best things to do while you are in Sedona.
How To Plan The Perfect Trip To Sedona
Once a year I try to schedule a getaway with my husband. Life is busy, work is hard, parenting is non-stop so I believe it’s important for us to take a break and spend some quality time together. One day the kids are going to be at college (insert crying mom here) and we are going to have to know how to still enjoy each other’s time, so these trips are not only fun…but I truly believe that they are an important part of our marriage.
The last two years we went to Tulum, Mexico. The first year we needed 100% relaxation. And we got it. We stayed at a secluded, small resort with an amazing staff and waited on us and brought us absolutely everything we asked for. We ate breakfast on our balcony, sipped margaritas on the beach during the day and got massages in our room while the sun set. It was heaven. So much so, we went back the following year. And while it was just as magical, we wanted something a bit different the next year.
I was set on Aruba…my friend, Harmony, at Paradise Travel found me an incredible villa over the water that looked…WOW. But, my husband wanted something besides the tropical vibe. And to be 100% truthful while I sit here typing this, I’m not sure how I picked Sedona…but man am I glad I did.
I will openly admit, that no matter were we go, we always bring wine with us. While we love sipping local wines, we never quite know what the areas will bring, so we bring 3 – 5 bottles with us depending on the length of our trip. Now, traveling with wine can be tricky…I mean, you can only wrap your wine bottles in so many pairs of jeans or sweatshirts! And what if you are traveling over the summer?! That tank top isn’t going to add much cushion to that Cabernet Sauvignon. So, what do we do? We Fly With Wine. Yes, I know, I already said I fly with our wine…But we use our Fly With Wine suitcase to make sure our wine stays safe and we can still pack our clothes! No wrapping in shirts or shoving that nice bottle of wine into your husband’s shoe 😉 Seriously, it is the absolute coolest suitcase EVER. A must for any wine-lover.
We flew into Phoenix, rented a car and then drove two hours to Sedona. It’s actually a really small town…I had no idea! The locals told us that only about 10,000 people live there but between 4-5 MILLION visit every year. So, you can image that their small roads can get pretty busy, but with all the outdoor adventures around you, it definitely doesn’t feel “crowded” or busy.
Sedona is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Spring (March to May) is one of the most popular seasons, with perfect hiking weather, blooming wildflowers, and pleasant temperatures in the 60s and 70s. Fall (September to November) is another great choice (which is what we went with), offering cooler temperatures, stunning foliage, and fewer crowds than spring. Winter (December to February) is magical if you don’t mind a little chill—there’s a chance you’ll see the red rocks dusted with snow, making for picture-perfect views. Summer (June to August) tends to be hot, with temperatures climbing above 90°F, but it’s also the best time for fewer crowds, budget-friendly hotel rates, and early morning hikes before the heat sets in. No matter when you visit, Sedona’s beauty never disappoints!
Because it is a small town filled with tourists, I strongly recommend making dinner reservations at your must-eat locations. One thing I didn’t think about was the timing of our dinner reservation…we almost never eat dinner before 7:30 P.M. so, that’s about the time I made reservations for…well, it’s dark by then…or at least close to it when we went in mid-September. Now, there’s nothing wrong with eating after the sun goes down, but many of restaurants have INCREDIBLE views of those famous red rocks…and since Sedona does not have street lights (they are actually also called the Dark Sky City because they don’t believe in light pollution) you can’t see those red rocks after it gets dark. SO, if you want that view, check to see when the sun sets when you are visiting Sedona and make your dinner reservations before that time…or at least around that time so you can experience the views.
When in Rome….I mean, Sedona….start with a Prickly Pear Margarita, a vibrant pink cocktail made from the fruit of the prickly pear cactus—refreshing and uniquely Southwestern.
Speaking of places to eat and drink in Sedona…here are the restaurants I recommend eating at while visiting Sedona. Remember, reservations are strongly recommended for dinner.
Where to Eat in Sedona
Best Breakfast in Sedona
We asked several locals where the best place was to have breakfast and every single one mentioned the Pump House Station and the Secret Garden. We ate at them both, both were delicious, but really loved the vibe at the Pump House Station.
Pump House Station Sedona
Pump House Stationis a modern restaurant in Tlaquepaque Village that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It was recommended to us for breakfast, so that’s when we went. I highly recommend the eggs benedict and the chilaquiles. Pump House Station serves cold sandwiches, hot sandwiches, and salads on their lunch menu. They also have a dog-friendly patio, full bar, and cozy atmosphere.
Secret Garden Cafe is also located in Tlaquepaque Village, in fact, it’s right across the street from Pump House Station. True to it’s name, it’s surrounded beautiful gardens and has a great breakfast menu. I had the french toast, as that’s what everyone told me to get and I don’t regret it 😉
Best Restaurants in Sedona
Jalapeno Margarita and a view at Mole Sedona
Mole’ Sedona has incredible views and quite possibly the best tacos I’ve ever had in my life. Oh…and the jalapeno margarita…I still dream about it. We actually grabbed lunch here on the day we flew into town, it was on the way into downtown and was the perfect first stop in Sedona.
The Hudson – The Hudson also came highly recommended. It is a fun spot with a ton of things to eat no matter what your taste is. Enjoy fine dining or have one of the best burgers. We got the chicken pot pie and split it…I will admit that it wasn’t my favorite meal in Sedona. We made our reservation here later in the evening, so we missed our chance at their killer views, but we did enjoy a few delicious cocktails.
Elote – Elote has outstanding Mexican food and it has a beautiful location with a great patio and views. Definitely get the Elote and a margarita!
View from The Vault Uptown Sedona
The Vault Uptown – Sit outside. Seriously, with their view it doesn’t matter what’s on the menu. However I am happy to report that the food is incredible. Get there early enough to enjoy the view though. Seriously, don’t miss the view.
Cress on Oak Creek Sedona
Cress On Oak Creek – Cress On Oak Creek is located at the famous L’Auberge De Sedona. We ate here the first night in Sedona and everything about the evening was absolutely perfect. It’s located right on the creek, so the sound of the flowing water is relaxing, then pair that with some of the most amazing food…you’ll be in heaven! We were!
Shorebird Sedona– We didn’t get a chance to eat here, but it was on the list…we just ran out of time! It did come highly recommended and it’s owned by the same folks at Mole…which we loved…so I would guess Shorebird is equally as delish.
I strongly recommend reservations for dinner for all locations!
Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village
Shopping In Sedona
If you are looking for a shopping experience that encompasses Sedona’s taste of Native American art and culture, Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is an excellent location to visit. The shops are filled with one-of-a-kind art, jewelry, and handmade clothing. We walked around here after breakfast at The Secret Garden Cafe.
Uptown Sedona offers a selection of affordable shopping options and souvenir shops including Red Rock Apothecary for handmade bath bombs and other beauty products.
Earthbound Trading Co. for trendy clothing and jewelry, along with the new-age vibe and incredible views!
Sedona is often recognized as being one of the best small cities in the country for the arts, and many of its galleries are within walking distance of one another (which you can see on this gallery map).
Alcantara Vineyard
Wine Tasting in Sedona
Sedona is considered a part of the Verde Valley Wine Trail, which also includes the nearby cities of Cornville, Cottonwood, and Jerome.
Alcantara Vineyard
Although Sedona has popular tasting rooms, like Decanter Tasting Room and Winery at 1912, if you want the real wine tasting experience, you should travel 15 miles west of Uptown Sedona to Cornville, where the spacious wineries and vineyards are.
Or Book a Private Sedona Wine Tour, that’s actually what we did, we didn’t want to have to worry about driving and sipping and having a guide tell you about the area is really worth it! On our Sedona Wine Tours we visited Page Springs Cellars, DA Ranch and Alcantara Vineyard. We had lunch at Page Springs Cellars and I highly recommend the stuffed peppers 🙂
Where to Stay in Sedona
I’m sure just about everywhere you stay in the small town of Sedona will have incredible views of those famous red rocks, but L’Auberge de Sedona was amazing. I would stay there again in a heartbeat. From the moment you turn down their driveway you are transported to a private luxury retreat. You hear the creek, you have the most beautiful views and there are so many things to do right at the resort. We were talking to one of the yoga instructors and she was telling us that the resorts goal is to let you experience all that Sedona has to offer without ever having to leave the property.
View from our room at L’Auberge de Sedona
You can learn about the vortexes, be immersed into the art culture with a local artist (and even go to a painting class!), do yoga (which we did every chance we could), make chakra bracelets (we did this too!), do stargazing, relax at the spa, sit poolside and so much more! Oh, and be sure to sit creek-side and watch the ducks cruise by.
We stayed in a cottage with a view of the red rocks and it even had an outdoor (private) shower – which I used every day because it was just so cool to be one with nature. If you are looking for the top luxury resort to stay in Sedona, L’Auberge de Sedona is it.
They also have a complimentary shuttle service that will take you just about anywhere (local) you want to go…which saves a ton on Uber rides if you get tired of walking 🙂
Along Oak Creek at L’Auberge de Sedona
Sedona is a beautiful town in Arizona that is known for its red rocks and those mystical vortexes. There are many things to do in Sedona, including hiking, biking, and exploring the many shops and restaurants. Now that we chatted about my favorite things to do in Sedona, where to eat in Sedona and where to stay in Sedona, here are the tops things to do while visiting Sedona.
Top Things to do in Sedona
1. Take a hike
There are soooo many incredible trails and places to hike in Sedona.We opted to take a guided tour. Since it was our first time in Sedona, I really wanted someone to show us the sites and tell us about the vortex, the area, the history and just about everything we could learn. We booked our guided hike with Sedona Mystical Tours, Anna was our guide and I will say that this hike was definitely one of the highlights of our trip. I can’t recommend it enough!
Bell Rock (and many others!) are in town and the view from the top is breathtaking and definitely worth the hike up! You can see for miles in every direction. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there is no water or food available once you start the hike. Also, wear sunscreen and a hat, as there is no shade on the trail.
The hike itself is about 2 miles round trip, but it can be challenging in places with loose rocks and steep sections. But take your time and enjoy the scenery!
When you reach the top, there are some great spots to sit down and relax for a bit before heading back down. Just take in that incredible view!
2. Bike through Oak Creek Canyon
Oak Creek Canyon is one of the most scenic places in Sedona. There are plenty of places to stop and take in the views. The canyon is also home to many different kinds of plants and animals. Keep your eyes peeled for some of the more rare species. Biking through the canyon is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. There are plenty of trails to choose from, so you can find one that suits your level of fitness.
3. Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross
Sedona is a beautiful city in Arizona that is home to many amazing sights and activities. The Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of the most popular attractions in Sedona.
The chapel is located in a stunning area of Sedona with red rocks all around it. It was built in 1956 and is a beautiful example of modern architecture. It is a place of worship for many people and has been visited by celebrities and politicians over the years.
The chapel offers breathtaking views of Sedona from its observation deck. Visitors can take part in guided tours of the chapel or attend mass if they wish. It’s a breathtaking place all around.
4. Shop at Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience in Sedona, look no further than Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village. This quaint village is located in the heart of Sedona and is home to a variety of shops and galleries. Plus, there’s about a million Instagram-worthy picture spots. The village is beautifully landscaped and includes fountains, courtyards, and gardens.
5. Do a Wine Tasting
Sedona is well known for its stunning red rocks and it’s getting more and more known for it’s vineyards. Wine tasting is one of the many things to do in this beautiful city.
6. Go on a hot air balloon ride
Sedona is a beautiful place to visit and the hot air balloon rides are a must-see. To see Sedona from a different perspective – Most people come to Sedona and hike or drive around to see the sights. However, hot air ballooning will give you a unique perspective of the area as you float above it all. You’ll be able to see more of Sedona in one hour than you could in days spent walking or driving around. The experience is unlike any other – There’s something special about being up in a hot air balloon, gently floating along with the wind. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget and one that you’ll want to repeat.
7. Drive through the Red Rock Scenic Loop Road
If you’re looking for breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience, look no further than the Red Rock Scenic Loop Road in Sedona. This 12-mile loop takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the area, including towering red rock formations, canyons, and desert landscapes.
There’s no better way to appreciate the natural beauty of Sedona than by taking a drive through the scenic loop road. Not only will you get to see some of the most incredible views in the area, but you’ll also have the chance to stop at various lookout points along the way.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting Sedona for a short while, be sure to add the Red Rock Scenic Loop Road to your list of things to do. You won’t regret it!
8. Go Off-Roading in an ATV
Off-roading in an ATV is a great way to see Sedona. There are many trails to choose from, and the scenery is beautiful. There are many trails to choose from, so you can find one that is the right level of difficulty for you. The scenery in Sedona is beautiful, and off-roading is a great way to get some exercise.
9. Take in a Stargazing Tour
When visiting the beautiful city of Sedona, be sure to add a stargazing tour to your list of things to do.
Sedona is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. The clear, dark skies offer amazing views of the stars and planets. Second, a stargazing tour gives you the chance to learn about the night sky from an expert. You’ll be able to ask questions and get tips on how to best see the stars. Finally, a stargazing tour is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. There’s nothing like gazing up at the stars in Sedona!
We sat outside on our balcony every night at L’Auberge de Sedona and enjoyed the stars.
10. Take a Day Trip to See the Grand Canyon
If you have time in your schedule, you can head out to the Grand Canyon. We didn’t have the extra day….we felt that there was plenty to explore and enjoy right in Sedona while we were there. BUT, the Grand Canyon isn’t too terribly far if you want to get that in! The Grand Canyon is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. It is truly a sight to behold. If you are looking for a day trip from Sedona, taking a day trip to see the Grand Canyon should definitely be on your list. It is an experience that you will never forget.
When leaving Sedona, we left early and headed towards Flagstaff…it added another hour or so to our drive to the Phoenix airport, but it was 100% worth it! You will drive through the “mountains” and get more of those incredible views…then do the scenic pull off…100% worth it!
I hope these tips help you plan the perfect trip to Sedona!
Have you been to Sedona? What are some of your Sedona travel tips?
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Prepped in just 15 minutes, this Easy Beef Stew recipe is the perfect comforting meal to warm up on all these cool nights.
Easy Beef Stew
The weather is finally starting to cool down here in Florida and that means I get to make soup and stews. You know, the warm comforting foods that just make you feel good from the inside out…I realized that I have a bunch of homemade soup recipes here on the blog, but not one stew recipe! What?! How is that possible??
I did make an amazing beef stew for my friends over at RealSweetOnions, but I decided an easy beef stew was due here on Food Wine Sunshine. You all know that I am all about an easy dinner, and when you can toss everything into the Dutch Oven and let it cook, it doesn’t get much easier than that!
Oh, and I used canned vegetables in this beef stew recipe, feel free to use fresh vegetables if you want, I was just using what was in the pantry and what allowed me to not head out to the store 🙂
Beef Stew Key Ingredients
Chuck Roast Canned Green Beans Canned Corn Potatoes Onion Beef broth Flour, Salt, Pepper and Seasonings
Beef Stew Simple Substitutions or Additions
Add in carrots Toss in some sweetpotatoes Use fresh veggies instead of canned veggies Use refried beans as a thickener instead of flour If you can’t find chuck roast, try tri-tip roast, top round roast or bottom round roast
How long is Beef Stew good for in the refrigerator?
If you have leftover beef stew, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days.
Can you freeze leftover Beef Stew?
Sure can! Place the leftover beef stew in a freezer-safe container or a freezer bag and toss it in the freezer. I recommend putting a date on it so you remember when you put it in there. Leftover Beef Stew will be good in the freezer for about 3 months.
Alright, are you ready to warm up with my Easy Beef Stew? I know I am! Here’s my easy Beef Stew recipe, be sure to print it and pin it so that you can make it again and again.
