Babalu, An Upscale Experience Sharing Tapas

21 April 20243 May 2025

Before browsing the Farmer’s Market in Knoxville, we stopped at a tapas restaurant called Babalu. I loved the décor and the idea of sharing a few plates instead of having a full meal for lunch. Tapas are a Spanish-style way of eating where “small plates” are the perfect size portions for sharing among family and friends.

Selecting an outdoor table along the sidewalk patio, we had plenty of opportunities for people watching and taking in the urban scenery. We started out with a bowl of Babalu’s fabulous, tableside guacamole. As we watched our server combine the ingredients, we learned their secret ingredient was sun-dried tomatoes, which enhanced the guacamole’s chunky texture. This is one of Babalu’s signature, upscale avocado dip served with homemade chips and I highly recommend it.

Other starters that looked just as amazing were the flash-fried-calamari and yellowfin tuna ceviche.

Choosing three tapas was difficult because there were so many from which to choose. We ordered the beef empanadas, a selection of three tacos and the filet on a stick which came with a grilled tenderloin covered in a teriyaki glaze, rosti potatoes, broccolini and pico de gallo.

The food was spectacular and the service was fabulous. The small plates were the perfect sized portions and we were ready to tackle the Knoxville Farmer’s Market.

Have you had the opportunity to eat at Babalu? What was your favorite item on the menu and how was the service? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reviewing my post about Babalu in Knoxville, Tennessee and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Ijam’s Nature Center
2915 Island Home Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37920
Telephone: 865 577 4717

Market Square Farmer’s Market
Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee

Where to Eat:

Babalu’s
412 S. Gay Street
Knoxville, TN 37902
Telephone: 865 329 1002

Where to Stay:

Four Points Sheraton Knoxville Cumberland House
1109 White Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37916
Telephone: 865 971 4663

Pacific Coast Highway Roadtrip

8 July 202319 April 2025

Having just returned from New Year’s in Las Vegas, Peter and I spent a relaxing week in San Francisco and made time to celebrate a friend’s birthday with a day of hiking and dinner in La Jolla. I was scheduled to go back to Ohio, but Peter suggested I extend my stay to include the weekend so that we could plan a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. We would start with a drive through the scenic towns of Santa Cruz, pass the scenic sanctuary of Big Sur and relax on our final night in Morro Bay before driving back up to San Francisco.

The charming town of Santa Cruz, translated as Holy Cross, is only 75 miles south of San Francisco and was the first stop on our PCH tour. Attracting surfers and artists, this laid-back beach community is known for its liberal activism and is home to the Resource Center for Nonviolence. We strolled along the boardwalk taking in the picturesque lagoon with its small sailboats stopping by for an afternoon lunch. Nearby attractions include the redwood forests and Monterey Bay, which is a protected marine sanctuary.

Visiting the casual coastal town of Monterey, we parked close to the pier where we enjoyed exploring the harbor, Cannery Row, San Carlos Beach Park and the world renowned aquarium. This seaside community has hosted a notable list of artists and writers who have made Monterey their muse. One of the most famous of these writers was John Steinbeck who celebrated the area of Monterey with his novels Cannery Row, East of Eden and Tortilla Flat.

Deciding at the last minute, we booked a room at the Monterey Bay Lodge realizing we needed more time to take in the fascinating attractions of this seaside village. Cannery Row is full of shops and restaurants and of course, I can’t miss a stop at Carmel Ridge Winery. The world renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, was also a must see on our list before traveling south.

Awaking early, we found the entrance to Monterey’s 17-mile drive on this overcast day. We paid the $10 entrance fee to enter the gated community of Pebble Beach with its glorious mansions and well-manicured golf courses. Driving through the scenic loop that passes through some of the most beautiful vistas, we made a few stops to photograph the gorgeous seascapes along the California coast. Originally known as the 18-mile drive, this section of roadway was opened in 1892 to horse and carriage traffic for scenic tours and remains a major attraction for visitors to Monterey.

The relaxing trek winds through rocky outcrops with a list of interesting sites that were identified on our map. Among the several notable overlooks are the Inn at Spanish Bay, Point Joe, Bird Rock, Seal Rock and Fanshell Beach, the Lone Cypress and Pescadaro Point. We traveled the full loop route which brought us back to the Pacific Grove Gate at Sunset Drive. From there we caught the PCH, passing through Carmel-by-the-Sea.

About twenty minutes outside of Carmel, we arrived at the Bixby Bridge, a familiar landmark along the scenic highway providing entrance into Big Sur. The steel structure seemed to sprout out from the craggy rocks overlooking the Pacific Ocean standing 280 feet high. Recognized as one of the tallest single-span bridges in the world, we carefully crossed the impending concrete structure continuing south on State Route 1.

Stepping out of the car at one of the many overlooks along the route, we took a moment to enjoy the silence of our surroundings. I felt a sense of solace watching the waves crest over the scattered boulders along the coast. The air had a smell of salt and earth.

Before us was a stretch of protected seashore boasting some of the most scenic landscapes of the western coast, making it one of the most popular vacation destinations in California.

Big Sur is credited for the emergence of the “New Age” era and is the location of the first Zen monastery built outside of Asia, the Tassajara. The inspirational scenery of this location was so beautiful that it attracted movie stars and millionaires. John Kerouac immortalized Big Sur in his writings and a variety of movies were filmed here to include the 1965 film “The Sandpiper” starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, “Zandy’s Bride” and “The Stranger in Big Sur”.

In 1944, Orson Welles and Rita Hayworth purchased a cabin here, which is now the Nepenthe, a popular restaurant clinging to the coast about 800 feet above the coastline.

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that within Big Sur are nine state parks. Detouring off of the main byway, we entered Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. We noticed a short hike that led to a secluded waterfall that claimed to offer another unforgettable scenic overlook. The well-marked waterfall trail wove back under the roadway and opened up to an endless view of the Pacific. Soon thereafter, the waterfall eked out between two monoliths resulting in a steady stream deposited onto the light sandy beach below.

The sun was beginning to set as we passed Hearst Castle. We agreed that we would continue our drive to Morro Bay where we would be staying the last night of our weekend and would come back to the castle the next day. This would allow us a full day to explore the residence instead of a couple of hours.

Upon arriving in the immaculate seaside location of Cambria, I felt as though we were entering a quaint little town in Germany. A charming stop along the Pacific coast, we took the opportunity to walk along Moonstone Beach were we spent about an hour before departing for our final stop of the evening.

We watched the sun as it sank beneath the western sky, leaving its beautiful trademark of kaleidoscope color behind. By the time we had reached Morro, it was nightfall, so we found our hotel and turned in for the night.

Looking over the map, I noticed a couple of places we could fit in before visiting Hearst Castle and making our final departure back to San Francisco. We packed up the SUV and soon learned it was not difficult to find Morro Bay with its large rock-like formation dominating the harbor.

A sandy roadway reached the base of the monolith so we decided to check it out. Morro is the Spanish word for rock, so the naming of this “rock” would seem appropriate until we learned that this megalith is actually a volcanic plug and is one of a series known as the Nine Sisters.

One of my work colleagues overheard that I would be exploring the Pacific Coast Highway and suggested that I book a night at The Madonna Inn in the college town of San Luis Obispo. He had attended Cal Poly College of Engineering and fell in love with the town. So when we read the description of rooms at the Madonna Inn, we were intimidated by the customized themes of Love Nest, Caveman Room, Safari Room and Jungle Rock and decided that if we had time to visit, we would at least stop for a look.

Pismo Beach’s uncanny quietness seemed more like a ghost town than a vibrant beachside tourist attraction, but it may have been because we had arrived so early in the morning. Known as one of the Five Cities it had once laid claim as the “Clam Capitol of the World” because the clams were so abundant it drew thousands of clammers to the area. To commemorate this designation, Pismo hosts their yearly Clam Festival in October.

It would have been a couple of hours until the shops opened, so we agreed to make our way towards San Simeon, with our last stop at Hearst Castle. Experiencing the Pacific Coast Highway removed us from the hustle and bustle of our city lives and brought us to a place where we could once again enjoy the pure nature of coastal crags and prickly pines. I can’t wait to do it all over again.

Do you have any comments or suggestions regarding the Pacific Coast Highway and the small towns mentioned here? What was your experience taking this amazing scenic drive? I would love to hear about your favorite stops, restaurants, hotels, etc. if you would kindly leave your message in the comments section! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Pacific Coast Highway

Cannery Row
Monterey, CA

Carmel Ridge Winery Tasting Room
700 Cannery Row
Monterey, CA 93940
Telephone 831 324 0035

Monterey Bay Aquarium
886 Cannery Row
Monterey, CA 93940
Telephone: 831 648 4800

Admission Fee: Tickets for Adults are $49.95, Children (3 – 12, under the age of three are free): $29.95; Student (ages 13 – 17 or college ID): $39.95, and Seniors (ages 65+): $39.95
Hours: Open daily from 10AM to 5PM
Amenities: Animals & exhibits; café & restaurant, gift shops; interactive programs, daily shows and feedings, live cams and animal guides.
Scenic View: The large glass tanks provide amazing views of the fish and additional sea life.
Length of Visit: More than three hours
Tips for Your Visit: Allow yourself plenty of time to visit the aquarium. During the first month of December, the facility provides a reduced admission rate for locals, so the aquarium can be crowded at this time. Should you decide to go outside of the aquarium to explore Monterey, they will stamp your hand for re-entry. Knowledgeable docents provide additional information about the aquarium. You may want to check with AAA if you have a membership for discounted tickets.

17-Mile Drive
Pebble Beach, CA 93953

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
47555 Highway 1
Big Sur, CA 93920
Telephone: 831 667 0148

Admission Fee: $10 per day per car; camping fee is $30 per night
Hours: Open ½ hour before sunrise and ½ hour after sunset.
Amenities: Hiking trails, picnic areas, exhibits and programs, interpretive exhibits, nature & wildlife viewing.
Scenic View: An 80-foot waterfall that drops from granite cliffs into the ocean from the Overlook Trail. A panoramic view of the ocean and miles of rugged coastline is available from the higher elevations along the trails east of Highway 1.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Contact the park ahead of time to see which trails are open as recently there have been several closings. Cell phone service is extremely limited in the park. Motorized aircraft are prohibited from flying below 1000 feet on the coast of Big Sur. Campfires are only permitted in the provided metal fire rings within the State Parks’ campgrounds. Firewood is available for purchase at the Pfeiffer Big Sur entrance kiosk and camp host sites for $12 per bundle and includes a firestarter.

Hearst Castle
750 Hearst Castle Road
San Simeon, CA 83452
Telephone: 800 444 4445

Admission Fee: $25 per adult and $12 per child ages 5 – 12; children under 5 are free
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 4PM
Amenities: Several tour options available, movie theater, gardens and restaurant
Scenic View: Spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean from Hearst Castle.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours or more if you have booked multiple tours.
Tips for Your Visit: Booking a tour is one of the best ways to explore Hearst Castle. The location is magical during the Christmas season as the castle is decorated for the holidays.

Where to Stay:

The Madonna Inn
100 Madonna Road
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Telephone: 805 543 3000

Where to Eat:

Nepenthe Restaurant
48510 Highway One
Big Sur, CA
Telephone: 831 667 2345

I ordered the Rueben sandwich with thin-sliced pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on marbled rye.

What to Eat:

Calamari
Ceviche
Fish and Chips
Local Oysters
Oyster Shooters
Steamed Clams and Mussels

What to Read:

Big Sur, by Jack Kerouac
South on Pacific Coast Highway, by Gary Paul Corcoran
California, by Kevin Starr
L.A. Noir, by John Buntin

Photo Guide to the Pacific Coast Highway in California

Bixby Bridge
Carmel-by-the-Sea beach
Garrapata State Beach for its wild calla lily valley
Hearst Castle
McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Pfeiffer Beach shoreline
Point Sur Lighthouse

Entering the tunnel towards the overlook

More PCH scenery

Big Sur at Sunset

Restaurants and Raki

17 April 20233 May 2025

Wearing ourselves out in the sun and saltwater, we were excited to enjoy another day of lunch on the property. We couldn’t pass up an opportunity for their fabulous cheese pizza with its perfectly grilled crust and tasty blend of cheeses and fresh, juicy watermelon.

We had a full afternoon packed with sightseeing and wanted to explore some of the chic oceanside restaurants in the Turkbuku village of Bodrum. Our first stop was the Macakizi Hotel for happy hour. This boutique hotel, with a name that means intelligence and beauty, has a lively bar and seaside seating.

We ordered small plates and shared a couple of bottles of Chardonnay soaking up the views of the nearby islands. We reminisced about our time in Istanbul and Bodrum, the fabulous food we had eaten so far and our local trip to the supermarket.

This fabulous bar and restaurant draws celebrities from all over the world with its authentic Turkish comfort food. Macakizi has its own private beach and a yacht available for hire to island hop along the coast. With its smart interior and sleek interior design, the hotel was placed on The Conde Nast Gold List in 2021.

The scenery around Maki 29 Beach was laidback and oozing with solitude. Wooden boats were tied up to the dock while large sailboats and catamarans were anchored out in the cove. We found gravel stairways surrounded with colorful gardens where we took some fun photos and posed for silly pictures. The sun was beginning to set, so the dusk lighting made for some amazing memories.

It was time for us to find a restaurant for dinner and we all agreed we wanted to try the local seafood at a location along the water. We happened to find Onikon Beach and Restaurant that had plenty of seating for our party of six. Looking over the menu, we had so many questions and the staff was incredibly helpful.

They brought out plates of their specialty fish and we decided on the sea bass and bream. We also ordered chicken kebabs, vegetables with hummus and saved room for katmer which is a folded pie pastry.

After dinner, we strolled towards the shops for a final time and found some last minute souvenirs at a cute boutique called Le Kabbak. We met the owner of the store who was kind to offer us seats outside. She suggested that we try Raki, one of Turkey’s signature drinks. None of us had heard of it so she began to pour small amounts into shot glasses and encouraged us to try it. It reminded me of Greece’s Oozo with its licorice taste. We each had a couple of drinks and enjoyed talking with her for awhile. We had only one more day to explore Bodrum so we decided to leave and would arrive early the next morning. Cheers to Bodrum!

What to See and What to Do:

Shopping in Turkbuku
Check out the local restaurants

Where to Stay:

Macakizi
Göltürkbükü, Narçiçe?i Sokak,
48400 Göltürkbükü Bodrum/Bodrum/Mu?la, Turkey
Telephone: +90 252 311 2400

Where to Eat:

Macakizi
Göltürkbükü, Narçiçe?i Sokak
48400 Göltürkbükü Bodrum/Bodrum/Mu?la, Turkey
Telephone: +90 252 311 2400

Onikon Beach and Restaurant
Konac?k, Mercan Sk. 57/A D:1
48470 Bodrum/Mu?la, Turkey
Telephone: +90 252 377 60 03

What to Eat:

Fruit: pomegranates, figs, peaches
Kumpir: potato with toppings
Lokmasi: deep-fried dough drenched in honey syrup
Peynirli borek: similar to Greek spanikopita
Sebzeli doner: meat, potato and vegetable skewers
Simit: bread that is between a bagel and pretzel

Where to Shop:

Le Kabbak
Dereköy, Gümü?lük Yolu No:3
48960 Bodrum/Mu?la, Turkey
Telephone: +90 252 394 33 99

What to Read:

Turkey Street: Jack and Liam move to Bodrum, by Jack Scott
Turkish Reflections: A Biography of Place, by Mary Lee Settle
I Am Pilgrim, by Terry Hayes
Bodrum, Ancient Halicarnassus, by Oguz Alpozen

Photo Guide for Bodrum:

Akvaryum Koyu (Aquarium Cove)
Bardakci Cove – great snorkeling location
Bitez Bay – Take the nature walk along the coastline
Bodrum Beach
Bodrum Windmills – great hike; nice quiet place to visit
Castle of Saint Peter – remains of the mausoleum of Mausolus
Gumusluk Harbor – gorgeous setting and amazing lighting at night
Turgutreis Red Lighthouse – awesome place for the sunset
Yalikavak Marina – luxury yachts, restaurants and shopping

Carrying On Family Traditions at Young’s Jersey Dairy in Yellow Springs

15 July 20223 May 2025

I have been visiting Young’s Dairy in Yellow Springs, Ohio as a child as far as I can remember. It was always a special day when we would hop into the car and take a ride for some ice cream and to see the animals on the farm. The tradition continues for the 1.4 million visitors making their own fond memories of visiting Young’s Dairy and the little red barn that started it all.

The story begins in 1869 when the red barn was built on the track of land that once belonged to the relatives of the Young Family. After the second World War, Hap Young farmed the land raising both hogs and cows. By 1958, they were selling milk to local residents and in a couple of years they were serving homemade ice cream.

In 1960, they opened their first dairy store. Over the years the dairy has expanded to include a bakery and a restaurant.

What I love about Young’s Dairy is their focus on families making memories and having fun during their visit. Starting in 1993, a miniature golf course was added, followed by a driving range in 1995 and finally the batting cages just a year later.

Additional children’s activities were added for the smaller kids with the most recent addition including the Cowvin’s Kiddie Corral.

Open all year around, fall is one of the best times for family fun at Young’s. There is a corn maze, wagon rides and a pumpkin patch where visitors can select their own pumpkin. And of course, there is springtime, where the new addition of kids (baby goats) and calves are an exciting sight to see.

One could spend a full day with all of the activities, food and sights to be explored at Young’s Dairy. Take time to visit the petting zoo to see the dairy cows and goats. And while you are enjoying a fun-packed day, don’t forget to save room for some ice cream.

Have you made memories at Young’s Jersey Dairy? What are some of your favorites? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading my blog!

What to See and What to Do:

Young’s Jersey Dairy
6880 Springfield-Xenia Road
Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
Telephone: 937 325 0629

Admission Fee: There are additional fees for the kids’ activities, so check the website for the most up-to-date rates.
Hours: The restaurants and activities are open at various times of the day, so refer to the website for the current hours of operation.
Amenities: The Dairy Store, The Golden Jersey Inn, Udders & Putters Miniature Golf, picnics, catering, batting cages, driving range, kiddie corral, birthday parties, food truck, petting area, various events
Length of Visit: Minimum of 1 hour depending on the activities
Tips for Your Visit: Check the website to confirm the hours and fees for the activities.

Where to Stay:

Mills Park Hotel
321 Xenia Avenue
Yellow Springs, OH 45387
Telephone: 937 319 0400

Where to Eat:

Young’s Jersey Dairy, The Golden Jersey Inn
6880 Springfield-Xenia Road
Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
Telephone: 937 325 0629

MaMa’s Homemade Chicken-n-Dumplin’s is my favorite item on the menu. Made with creamy chicken and dumplings, it is served over homemade lumpy mashed potatoes. During my visits to Young’s, I can’t pass up the opportunity to save room for ice cream and my favorite sundae is “The Buckeye”: Chocolate Peanut Butter and Peanut Butter Cup ice cream with peanut butter & hot fudge toppings, real whipped cream, Reese’s Pieces and a homemade Buckeye. So rich and extraordinary!

A Visit to Pinellas County, Florida and Busch Gardens

29 April 202219 April 2025

I woke early to make the four and a half hour journey to St. Petersburg, Florida. I was picking up my friend Shawna to take her back to Miami. In the meantime, I was excited to meet up with another friend of mine Bill for a visit to Busch Gardens and then karaoke.

The weather was absolutely beautiful as I crossed the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Years ago, working for the cruise lines, our ship would pass under the bridge on its way to Key West. Later, while living in Tampa, I always looked forward to driving over the bridge when visiting Sarasota, Fort Myers or Sanibel Island.

Arriving in Pinellas County, I made my pilgrimage to The Frog Pond, a breakfast restaurant where I worked with my friend Theresa. We would bus tables, arriving as early as 6AM but finish the day by 2PM. Our favorite days were when Hulk Hogan would stop by with Linda for breakfast, driving up on his Hulkster. We still laugh about it to this day.

The condo where Theresa and I lived was at Gull Harbor, conveniently close to the The Frog Pond. Her father had just met his girlfriend, so when he moved in with her, he allowed us to stay at his place paying a small monthly fee. The property was beautiful with a gorgeous pool and spectacular views of North Redington Beach. I had no idea how lucky we were to live here and love to stop by each time I visit.

I had made arrangements to meet my friend Bill at Busch Gardens. We had both worked together at the Tampa Airport and he was now taking tickets at the park. When I arrived, he had a couple of additional hours to work and then we would hang out at the park riding rides and visiting the animals.

One of my favorite rides at Busch Gardens is the Skyride where I can see many of the animals in the safari park.

I remember when the Kumba first opened in 1993. There was so much hype and press covering its opening and having friends who worked at the park was the best advantage.

The SheiKra climbs 200 that slowly reaches the top the stops. The pause seems endless as you wait before diving down at 70 miles per hour. There is an Immelmann loop, a second dive into an underground tunnel and the splashdown finale where those that are waiting in line are sure to be drenched.

The Cheetah Hunt was my favorite ride as it shoots immediately out of the gate at an incredible speed. The coaster makes its way to the top only to plunge down through a rocky gorge. It is the longest roller coaster at the park.

One of my favorite attractions at Busch Gardens was the Animal Care Center where I could watch the medical team work on an eagle’s wing.

Busch Gardens opened its animal care facility in 2012 at an estimated cost of $5 million. From nutrition to treatments, X-rays to surgeries, visitors are able to watch the animal care team take on some animal science’s major challenges in their state of the art facility while guests watch the team care for over 200 species of animals.

The day was amazing with so many rides, animals and incredible experiences, but it wouldn’t have been complete without a photo with Big Bird!

Have you visited Busch Gardens in Tampa? What was your favorite activity at the park? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my amazing day on the west coast of Florida and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Busch Gardens Tampa
10165 N McKinley Dr
Tampa, FL 33612
Telephone: 1 813 884 4FUN (4386)

Admission Fee: There are several entrance pass options (i.e., single day, two-day pass, annual pass, any day ticket and four-park passes) ranging from $43.33 per day. The website outlines each option along pricing.
Hours: Open daily from 10AM but closing time may change throughout the season, so confirm with the park prior to visiting.
Amenities: Rides and Attractions, Entertainment, Restaurants, Baggage storage area, Gift Shop, Private Tours, Safaris, Kid-Friendly and Educational Events
Length of Visit: With so much to do at the park, try to arrive when the park opens and stay until it closes. Check the Busch Gardens website for additional activities.
Tips for Your Visit: Reservations are highly recommended especially during high season. Wear comfortable shoes for the park and book additional experiences in advance as they sell out quickly.

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge (I-275 South from St. Petersburg, Florida to Sarasota, Florida)

Where to Stay:

Don Cesar Hotel
3400 Gulf Beach Boulevard
St. Petersburg, FL 33706
Telephone: 884 338 1501

Where to Eat:

The Frog Pond
16909 Gulf Blvd.
North Redington Beach, FL
Telephone: 727 392 4117

What to Read:

The Florida Explorer’s Guide To Busch Gardens Tampa
Dreamland, by Nicholas Sparks
St. Petersburg Florida, by Sandra Rooks

Photo Guide:

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge
The Pinellas County Beaches
Busch Gardens
Don Cesar Hotel

Kuta Puri Bungalows, Bali

11 March 202222 September 2024

The Kuta Puri Bungalows is a jewel of a resort in Kuta, Bali that is quietly tucked away in the fast-paced streets of the city. I had been booked in the nearby Hard Rock Hotel, but they had overbooked and my friend, Wayan found this amazing place.

The front desk is an open air structure where the attendants are super friendly and helpful in arranging tours and drivers for the day.

The paved pathways are perfect for exploring the grounds and taking a leisurely stroll.

Towards the front of the resort are the smaller rooms that are perfect for an economical stay.

I opted for the bungalow which included a sunken in living room, raised bedroom and an upscale outdoor bathroom set up in a garden style environment.

The outdoor bench was the perfect location for watching the thunderstorms. The bungalow was set towards the back of the resort where it was very private and quiet.

A small back porch of flowers and fauna was located off of the living quarters of the bungalow.

Two swimming pools are one of the few wonderful amenities provided by the hotel.

An attendant provides guests with pool towels each day.

Kuta Puri offers daily massages in a simple secluded area of the hotel’s property.

A Hindu temple is located towards the back of the hotel.

The resident cat stands guard at the Hindu temple.

A complimentary breakfast is served each morning at the resort’s restaurant. Lunch and dinner can be purchased here throughout the day.

The grounds are impeccable which makes for a nice morning, afternoon or evening walk.

Thank you for exploring the grounds of the Kuta Puri Bungalows with me. It is a resort that I highly recommend during your stay in the Kuta area of Bali. The hotel is reasonably priced with great accommodations and is close to the beach.

Have you been pleasantly surprised by a hotel or accommodation that you booked? I would love to hear about your experience in the comments below! Happy Travels!

Where to Stay:

Kuta Puri Bungalows
Jalan Pantai Kuta
Poppies Lane 1
Kuta, Bali 80361 Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 751903

A Taste of Balinese Foods and Fruits

4 February 202222 September 2024

Experiencing the local food in another country is one of the highlights of my travels. During my visit to Bali, I was looking forward to trying the satay, the soups and to learn more about their exotic fruits. Prior to my trip, I decided to visit an Indonesian restaurant so I would have an idea of what to order and I was pleasantly surprised by all of the delicious options that would be available during my vacation.

From traditional, sit-down meals to the food stalls and roadside stands, there was no shortage of choices for experiencing an amazing meal in Bali. The fruit was incredibly fresh and deliciously unique from the Durian fruit to the Rambatan. There were a number of fruit stands throughout Bali where the generous merchants allowed me to try their produce before buying. There were pineapples, small bananas and mangoes which are popular in the United States, but they also had fresh tropical selections that tasted unlike anything I have tried back home.

One of the most colorful fruits I enjoyed was the pitaya, which is commonly known as the dragonfruit. Its external. layered skin is pink at the center turning green at its outer edges. It certainly looks like a dragon, but there is nothing scary about this fruit that comes in both sweet and sour flavors. This yummy fruit resembles the kiwi with small little seeds and a juicy flesh on the interior.

The mangosteen has a purple exterior which looks like an onion from afar. They grow on a tropical evergreen tree and have a juicy, sweet taste. Opening the fruit causes the rind to give off a purple sap which can stain clothes and skin. Inside they are segmented like the orange but the flesh of the fruit is white in color.

Finally, there is the Duran fruit. I had the opportunity to taste this spiny, thick skinned fruit on the first day of my arrival and it must be an acquired taste. The fruit has a strong odor which is sometimes described as kerosene, but it has a tender, runny-like pulp that is said to resemble an almond flavor with the thickness and texture of custard. I have to admit that I was not a big fan of the fruit, but I had later tried Durian ice cream which I found to be a bit more palatable.

Chicken Bakso was a staple of my diet during my visit to Bali. I absolutely love this dish!! Many of the locals refer to this as their Indonesian meatball soup and you can find it at the various food stalls throughout the island.

Some of the other snack foods that I enjoyed in Bali were bananas dipped in coconut, Krupuk (deep fried rice sugar) and the spinach fried with a peanut crust. There were so many options from which to choose, including other Asian snacks that included spring rolls, stuffed peppers and rice balls. Although some of the combinations seemed a bit interesting, I wanted to at least try them and was not disappointed.

Over the last couple of days in the south of Bali, the town of Kuta, I asked my driver to take me to a restaurant where I could have fish. He told me that there was a great place on the beach in Jimbaran, Bawang Merah Beachfront Restaurant and suggested that I try the red snapper. The dish was served with rice and it was absolutely phenomenal. The fish in Bali is a staple food for the locals and that is no surprise. There are a variety of dishes in Bali that include fish as the main ingredient and I planned to search for some of them to make once I traveled back home.

Have you traveled to a country where you fell in love with the food and wanted to replicate the foods you enjoyed? I would love to hear your story if you would kindly leave a message in the comments below! Many thanks for exploring the foods of Bali through my post! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

Where to Eat:

Road Side Stalls Throughout Bali

Bawang Merah Beachfront Restaurant
Kelan, Jimbaran Bay, Bali, 80361, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 770210

Beach Vibes at Kona Grill, Liberty Center

8 July 202022 September 2024

I decided to spend the day in Liberty Township shopping at Liberty Center shopping plaza. I found so many amazing boutiques with clothes and beautiful household items. Some of my favorite stops included Burlap & Birch, Celebrate Local, White House Black Market and Rookwood Pottery. (Please note that Rookwood Pottery is no longer located at Liberty Township.)

It was a fun day of strolling through all of the different shops and I was growing hungry for lunch. I had noticed Kona Grill. Besides loving sushi, I think I was more excited about the rooftop seating. As I entered the restaurant, I was so surprised by the beautiful interior design.

Escorted to the rooftop, I was transported out of Cincinnati and felt that I had arrived in Southern California. While there were only six booths, there was additional seating to the right to include couches, tables and bar style seating overlooking Liberty Center.

Searching the menu for that perfect drink, I found the Mai Tai. My server guaranteed that it would be strong and at my first sip I knew it was exactly what I had hoped.

I placed my lunch order for the sea bass roll and macadamia nut chicken while Miami techno played in the background. From here I could see the Cobb 15 Movie center and thought I may take in a movie if I have enough time.

It was a windy day, so the sails that provided shade over my booth were flopping about. Although it wasn’t a beach view, the vibe of the restaurant was perfect and I could have easily been enjoying a meal on Lincoln Road in Miami.

The restaurant had opened in October of 2015 and I would not have guessed it was such a new restaurant as the service was fantastic. James, a young twenty-something with a man bun brought me my sushi roll as a starter. I loved the crunch of the roll dipped in soy sauce and wasabi. The roll was made with Chilean sea bass, jalapeno, cilantro, rice, cream cheese, cucumber, peanuts and a tequila miso lime sauce.

Shortly after finishing my sushi roll, I was served a very large portion of Macademia chicken. For $16 this meal would easily feed two, so I immediately asked for a to-go box so I would not be tempted to finish the full meal. The chicken is served on garlic mashed potatoes and a pineapple jam with marmalade and sesame seeds. The mixed vegetables was a medley of zucchini and corn with the added flavor of bacon. Thick, juicy pieces of chicken were smothered in sauce and I was certainly tempted to eat more than I should.

By now, the rooftop is starting to fill up and I am eager to begin shopping the fabulous stores at Liberty Center. While the desserts look amazing, I opted to wrap up the second half of my meal and begin my shopping spree with thoughts of stopping by later for a cocktail.

Have you dined at Kona at Liberty Center? What did you order? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my dining experience at Kona in Liberty Center and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Where to Eat:

Kona Grill – Cincinnati
7524 Gibson Street
Liberty Township, OH 45069
Telephone: 513 322 5860

Guerra’s Crazy Tacos: Springfield, Ohio

13 May 202022 September 2024

Since Guerra’s Crazy Tacos first opened in Springfield, Ohio, it has drawn visitors from all over the state of Ohio and beyond. Known for its unique taco combinations, this brightly colored, boutique restaurant is the place for a unique twist on Mexican cuisine.

Drawing on recipes from his San Antonio roots, Felix Guerra III doesn’t shy away from fascinating culinary combos such as cabbage and candied ginger, teriyaki sauce and pineapple, or toppings to include BBQ sauce or jerk seasoning. Each taco creation is written on the black board and changes from time to time, leaving you wanting to return to Guerra’s to taste his next invention.

The Sugar Skull artwork makes for a beautiful interior. From the wall art to the tables and chairs, this symbol known for its remembrance of loved ones who have passed denoting the passing from the physical to the spiritual. It is also a reminder that our lives must be fully lived.

Starting with some chips and green salsa, it was the perfect distraction from my grumbling stomach anticipating the triple order of Sweet Lucy, Asian Ginger and the traditional taco. I also couldn’t resist their spicy margarita.

I savored each bite and slowly enjoyed my margarita, tempted to purchase a couple of additional combos. In the end, I decided it would not be the best idea and I could always return for more. Besides, since it has been named one of Business Insider’s top places to order tacos, let’s hope they will be here for a very long time.

Have you visited Guerra’s Krazy Taco? I would love to hear about your experience and what you ordered if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Guerra’s Krazy Taco and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Guerra’s Krazy Tacos
229 N. Belmont Avenue
Springfield, OH 45503
Telephone: 937 325 0799

Simon Kenton Inn
4690 Urbana Road
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone: 937 399 9950

Where to Eat:

Guerra’s Krazy Tacos
229 N. Belmont Avenue
Springfield, OH 45503
Telephone: 937 325 0799

What to Eat:

Tacos, Tacos and More Tacos!

More favorite Springfield eateries:

Schuler’s Donuts: Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
Simon Kenton Inn: This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue. With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
Salato Deli: I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
Le Torte Dolci Bakery; Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
Mike & Rosie’s Deli: This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.

What to Read:

The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
Springfield, Ohio: A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
Still Standing: A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:

Hartman Rock Garden
Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
Heritage Center of Clark County
Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs
Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio

Bodega Restaurant in Athens, OH

15 April 202022 September 2024

I arrived early for lunch at the Bodega in Athens, Ohio. A well-known restaurant located in Uptown, it is a perfect stop for local students attending Ohio University. The Bodega is a part of a co-operative, opened in 1986 under the Casa Nueva name as a restaurant. The business continued to grow to include a salsa and later expanded to add The Bodega with its own kitchen.

I found a place at the bar to place my order and was handed a polyethylene coated piece of paper with the number 13.

In the corner of the restaurant is an electrical, back-lit board which displays a number when an order has been completed. Once the number is displayed on the “Bingo Board”, there is a small pass-through to pick up the food.

Until my food was completed, I was happy to enjoy a Pineapple Hurricane made with orange juice, pineapple juice, grenadine and pineapple infused alcohol.

My grilled chicken burrito arrived with a side of chips and salsa, which was absolutely fresh with the perfect amount of heat. I met a couple of students who had just arrived to the restaurant preparing for their last test of the day. This was the last day of the semester for the students and many would be making the journey home.

As I finished the last of my burrito, the restaurant was filling up with students, so I grabbed my leftovers and headed back to The Plains to wait for my niece and nephew to return home.

Have you visited The Bodega inside of Casa Nueva? What did you order? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to one of Athens’ best restaurants and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Casa Nueva – The Bodega
4 West State Street
Athens, OH 45701
Telephone: 740 592 2016

What to Eat:

Each day the restaurant prepares fresh salsas and ingredients for their wraps and burritos. Each menu item is made to order and each selection comes highly recommended.