You are Looking for Ocean Adventures, I am Offering the Sea of Cortez!

August 28, 2017 By Tam Warner 25 Comments

sea of cortez, whale sharks — Researching Whale Sharks in Mexico

Red Travel Mexico and Travels with Tam (that’s me!) are offering an amazing adventure to Cabo Pulmo and La Paz in the Sea of Cortez! There is something for everyone: scuba or snorkel on a reef that is 20,000 years old, beautiful beaches, waterfalls, snorkeling with whale sharks and sea lions, kayaking, and of course, just relaxing! Where does all this wonderful activity happen? In Cabo Pulmo, Mexico and La Paz, Mexico, about two hours from Cabo San Lucas. The dates are December 3-9, 2017. Imagine being in Cabo Pulmo National Park where thousands of jacks school! Cabo Pulmo is an exciting example of what a marine park can be. Ten years ago Cabo Pulmo became a National Marine Park, allowing no fishing. In ten years the ocean life has multiplied 463%! This sleepy place has not yet become a tourist haven, and one can enjoy quiet, unspoiled beauty. We will visit beautiful, protected locations with expert guides. Want to stay longer? You can extend your trip in La Paz, or head two hours west to Cabo San Lucas!

You can learn all about the trip at Red Travel Mexico with Tam Warner Minton! Hurry and book, there are still spaces available and this is going to be AMAZING!

whale sharks, sea of cortez — Unspoiled beauty.

The Highlights of a Trip to South Africa

August 25, 2017 By Tam Warner 8 Comments

South Africa is a popular destination on travel bucket lists, and a quick glance at what the country has to offer can help you understand why. It’s a beautiful country combining the charm and adventure of rural Africa with bustling urban destinations and pristine coastline. There’s an international flavor to much of the country given that it attracts visitors from all over the world, and the truth is it’s pretty easy to enjoy yourself there. Even so, we’re going to point to some of the highlights you should be sure to check out if you’re fortunate enough to travel there.

cape town, south africa, travel tips — Nobel Square: founders of democracy in South Africa

A Resort In Cape Town

Cape Town tends to be the main draw for people who are traveling to South Africa, and it’s largely because of what the city looks like. Looking up images of the city, one gets the image of a cliff-side party town up against the water on the southern tip of Africa. It seems all at once impossibly exotic, wildly attractive, and intriguingly luxurious. It’s also the last point that you can really explore by staying at a resort, and you may recall that we’ve actually highlighted the best one before. The One & Only Cape Town suites are about as good as it gets, and are well worth their hefty price tags if you’re going all the way to South Africa for a vacation.

A Horseback Safari

When you look up fun activities to enjoy in South Africa, you don’t get your typical vacation checklist. There are a lot of wild things to try in the country, and one that you won’t find in a lot of other African destinations is a horseback safari. One list of awesome South African activities noted that you can try this at the Isimangaliso Wetlands, and the experience is like nothing else. You can ride horses alongside wild wildebeests and giraffes for an up close and personal view of African wildlife.

Kiteboarding Lessons

Kiteboarding is becoming one of the trendier watersports in the world, and some of the beaches near Cape Town are particularly well known for it. Destinations like Langebaan, Bloubergstrand, and Cannon Rocks are all noted as good spots to give it a try, though you may need to cough up a bit of cash to have some lessons if you’ve never tried this sport before. It’s tricky to get the hang of, but it’s a lot of fun once you get the hang of it. This is also a great opportunity to try one of the better spots in the world for the sport.

A Casino Visit

Casinos rarely pop up as factors in travel decisions anymore, and it’s easy to understand why. Online versions of casino games have become incredibly sophisticated, and offer a wide range of classic games to play. This includes everything from traditional slots and card games to games like roulette, which has been enjoyed by casino goers all over the world for generations. With so many options available at their fingertips, it’s no surprise that real life casinos have fallen by the wayside, but ignore visiting one at your own peril. Throughout the world there are still casinos worth seeing in person, and a few of them are located right in South Africa. The Sun City Resort outside of Johannesburg is truly a sight to behold, built like a palace sticking up in the middle of the bush, and filled with all the fun and amenities of a classic casino.

cape town, south africa, visit south africa — Cage Diving with Great Whites off Seal Island!

Diving Expeditions

Cape Town boasts a lot of great scuba diving activities, including both reef and wreck dives. But that’s not all you can find there. You can also find dives that put you in close proximity to friendly seals. If you really want to give yourself an adrenaline rush, you can sign up for a dive where you’ll be in an underwater cage swimming with the sharks. These activities aren’t necessarily unique to South Africa or Cape Town, but many find the diving at this destination to be particularly good.

A Tabletop Mountain Hike

Last but not least, you should also make time for a hike up Tabletop Mountain, which is the cliff-like plateau that looms over Cape Town. This is a manageable hike for those inclined to try it, and we’re not talking about monstrously high altitudes. It’s definitely something to try, if only to enjoy the view from the top. It’s truly a sight unlike anything you can see elsewhere in the world.

south africa, cape town — You meet interesting creatures on Table Mountain!

Guest blog by Philip White

Have You Ever Been to a Grape Stomp? Amazing fun!

August 22, 2017 By Tam Warner 8 Comments

The last Grape Stomp Event at Fall Creek Vineyards is on Saturday, August 26! Make plans and go!

grape stomp, Fall Creek Vineyards, hill country, texas hill country — Entryway to the charming Driftwood Vineyard location of Fall Creek Vineyards!

I grew up with one image in my mind when it came to Grape Stomps at Winery Harvests: I Love Lucy, going deeper and deeper into her barrel of grapes! Also, there is a video out there of a woman in a super small barrel/bowl who fell off of a platform while stomping, and you don’t want to do that, do you? Don’t worry, there is a perfectly safe way to do a grape stomp…go to the Hill Country of Texas and enjoy the Grape Stomp at Fall Creek Vineyards in Tow, Texas, west of Austin! I was thrilled to be invited to the Grape Stomp Events at Fall Creek Vineyards. First, luncheon with celebrity chef, Jay Hunter, from the Horseshoe Bay Resort, then stomping grapes, followed by a fabulous wine tasting with Sergio Cuadra, the Director of Winemaking!

Driving to Fall Creek Vineyards from Dallas, I decided to take the scenic route instead of the horrible rush of I-35. From Dallas I took 67 to 281, and drove down to Johnson City (hometown of President Lyndon Baines Johnson), then to Driftwood, Texas, where Fall Creek Vineyards has a lovely, small vineyard of young grapes with a beautiful tasting room and a bed and breakfast. The vineyard is directly across from the entrance to the famous Salt Lick BBQ! I enjoyed exploring the vineyard, and spending a comfortable and quiet night. The next morning I drove to Tow, Texas, to the main Vineyard of Fall Creek. Tow is northwest of Marble Falls, and is in the real Texas Hill Country! I loved the drive, it was so beautiful.

At the luncheon, I met Susan Auler, one of the owners of Fall Creek, and she was absolutely delightful. Her warmth toward every visitor is a perfect example of Texas Hill Country hospitality! I was seated with fellow journalists, Ed and Glynnis, and we spent a lovely hour being treated to a two course luncheon. First, a beautiful salad, followed by the tastiest salmon dish I have ever had. Both dishes were beautifully plated. We enjoyed a lovely Fall Creek Vineyards Rose and a Merlot with lunch.

Jay Hunter and assistant show off their plated salads!

As wonderful as lunch was, I couldn’t wait to go and stomp on some grapes! Now, don’t worry, the grapes you stomp on do not go into the wine making. Two barrels were on a platform, full of grapes, and children and adults were thoroughly enjoying stomping! You can even buy a t-shirt to make your purple footprints on, showing that you stomped grapes at Fall Creek Vineyards.

Everyone was enjoying the events!

As fun as stomping was, I did have to hose off and head for the wine tasting with the Director of Winemaking, Sergio Cuadra. He showed us the vats where they “make” the wine, and we tasted out of the vats. The unfinished wines were almost creamy in color and consistency. The bouquet wasn’t yet strong, and the taste was a bit weak, but I actually enjoyed the unfinished product.

Next, we saw grapes that needed to be “pressed”. They are pressed three times a day, and I tried it, it is a little difficult!

What a day! I had so much fun, and met many people from all over Texas at the different events I attended. The luncheon and wine tasting require tickets, so be sure and get them here. I had no idea how much fun events at Fall Creek Vineyards could be! A band played, people had food, sodas, and seating available and brought their children, grandparents and dogs to the event. There are goodies for sale, especially fabulous Texas wine. I had a wonderful adventure and I urge you to head down to Tow on August 26! Enjoy!

hill country, wine, texas wine — You can shop!

My thanks to Fall Creek Vineyards for hosting me, you can be sure I will be back!

Why should you consider Bali for your wedding & honeymoon?

August 18, 2017 By Tam Warner 15 Comments

By Mario Alex, Guest Post

Sanur, Maya Sanur, Bali — Relaxing pool area.

Bali Paradise Island

One little island, one big paradise! Especially for the love birds among us flying over to Bali to refuge in love and romance. This exotic island of Indonesia is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations for those engaged to be married, newlyweds and honeymooners and we don’t have to wonder why. Gorgeous white sand beaches, magnificent sunsets, holy volcanoes, endless rice paddies, temples and amazing luxury stays at affordable prices. Imagine waking up to the sound of the sea and the gentle morning sun rising over the emerald rice paddies. You may have to pinch yourself in the arm before cuddling up in the bed with your loved once again before getting up to explore the island. Whether you are getting married, just got married or want to renew your vows, Bali is just the perfect place!

bali, honeymoon — Enjoy the hot springs in the mountains of Bali

Tons of romantic couples plan their wedding and honeymoon in Bali every year. Is it still really that special? Well, it all depends on the right wedding planner. Of course, you want your wedding to be unique, something truly special unlike any other. Hotel weddings would be a no go, if you ask me as it will be crowded with people you don’t know, there will be no privacy or sense of exclusivity and therefore, that ‘special spark’ is missing. But, with The Seven Agency, your wedding in Bali can and will indeed be one in a million. A unique, memorable location and wedding venue, away from the madding crowds, with stunning views and everything custom-designed to your dreams, needs and wishes to the very last detail. To do this, you need to find a professional, reliable wedding planner that listens and inspires.

maya sanur, bali, sanur — The Bali Flower Bath is exquisite.

The perfect honeymoon

The same goes for your honeymoon on The Island of the Gods. You will want more than flowers on your bed upon arrival, after all, it should be the most memorable and romantic holiday of your lifetime. The location needs to be truly special, the room needs to exude romance inside out and everything needs to be about you and your sweetheart celebrating your love for each other together on this beautiful island. Standard hotel packages are lacking that personal touch and they are too limited in their inclusions. A bit of help is needed to find special places and activities that make your honeymoon special and unique as can be.

Where to start?

Trying to plan the most romantic day and stay of your life can be quite stressing, especially if it is in a far away place like Bali. Where to find the right guidance without it costing you an arm and a leg and without you ending up with a standard wedding/honeymoon package in a hotel? No need to worry too much, there are some great and affordable wedding & honeymoon planners around on Bali Island. Agencies with plenty of excellent and trustable reviews to take you by the hand and guide you through the wonderland that Bali is to give inspiration and ideas for your big wedding day or your honeymoon. The Seven Holiday is one of these companies that adds that special touch with tailor-made packages to make your wedding day unique and special honeymoon activities you never would have thought of. How about a champagne picnic on a high ocean cliff, an exclusive photoshoot on a desolate beach, a spa treatment in the jungle or sunset dinner on a boat? No matter what you do, make it count! Bali has got all the romance you need, now all you need is to find is the right places and unique activities for the most magical time in Bali during these special times in your life.

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I Love that my Daughter took me on a Surprise, Peachy Excursion near Dallas!

August 15, 2017 By Tam Warner 3 Comments

peach, ham orchard — We can be a bit silly!

My lovely daughter, Alexandra, is a sweetheart. Last week she called me and told me to be ready at 745a on Saturday for a surprise excursion!

I tend to be overly enthusiastic…well, I get very excited at certain things, events, animals, etc. My family loves to surprise me, or be with me on these occasions. Apparently I make sounds they find hilarious. The best examples I can think of are roasted corn, ostriches and giraffes. And deer. And Elk. If I saw a moose I would have trouble containing myself! Something else I get excited about and love? Peaches. Fresh, juicy, lovely peaches.

My daughter surprised me with a visit to Ham Orchard‘s in Terrell, Texas on their last day of the season. Yes, I squealed! Anything peach you can possibly imagine was at this peach farm! Peach salsa, peaches, preserved peaches, bottled peaches, peach jam, peach spread, peach pulled pork, peach cobbler, peach pie….I sound like Bubba in Forrest Gump about shrimp, don’t I? But they had as much available in peaches as Bubba could name about shrimp. By the way, the blackberries were huge and they are delicious!

Ham Orchard also has barbeque! And peach soft serve! Photo by Alexandra Minton

ham, peaches, peach, surprise — Ham Orchard’s BBQ! Photo by Alexandra Minton

The building is very small, and people were lined up to get in before opening! The cute little white building reminded me of a fruit farm we visited when I was growing up…Mumma’s Fruit Farm in Dayton, Ohio. The smell of fresh fruits and vegetables took me back! My daughter and I had to have peach ice cream. What is better than ice cream with peaches? Or peach soft serve? Not much. So we bought a cone and a cup, and Alexandra photographed the sweets, peaches, bottles and buildings. I am very proud of my little girl, she is a professional photographer at Alexandra Minton Photography. She shoots weddings, engagements, portraits, families, newborns, and food. She just started an Instagram account called Sweet, Sweet Dallas, and has been chosen for one of D Magazines food photos of the week! Sweet, Sweet Dallas is purely an account for desserts around and in Dallas, Tx. If you like food, you need to like Sweet Sweet Dallas on Instagram! All foodies, click that link!

ham orchard, alexandra minton, sweet sweet dallas — SWEET SWEET DALLAS! Photo by Alexandra Minton

ham orchard, bbq, peaches, sweet sweet dallas — I remember barrel tables and chairs from my childhood. Photo by Alexandra Minton

Ham’s Orchard will reopen on May 12, 2018! I know I will be there!

Spa Lovers! Look at the Cozumel Med Spa!

August 10, 2017 By Tam Warner 1 Comment

While in Cozumel over the summer, I paid a visit to the Cozumel Med Spa, and Michaela Velasco, spa manager extraordinaire! I am so glad I did! I knew, of course, that resorts had spas that offered massage, facials, nail care, the usual, but I honestly didn’t know that much more is available on the island. Then I came across Michaela Velasco and received quite an education!

Of course I had heard for years that Mexico is a medical tourist destination. From dentistry to plastic surgery, Mexico can offer first class doctors and facilities at half or less the price in the USA. Treatments that aren’t available in the USA because of FDA regulations, but are available in Europe, Canada and Mexico, are also sought after.

cozumel, med spa, mexico, spa — Lovely treatment rooms

The Cozumel Med Spa offers treatments like peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, dermaplaning, botox, fillers, and medical grade facials (need definitions? Here you go! http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/). Anyone who spends any amount of time at a dermatologist will recognize several of those treatments, and will know how expensive they are in the United States. At the Cozumel Med Spa they are less than half the cost! (You heard me!) There is also a doctor of esthetics on the premises to perform procedures. Dr Debra Santana did her training in Guadalajara.

The spa is not on the tourist drag, it is on 25th, a bit back from the tourist traps. It is quiet, and very clean and soothing, with cool air conditioning! Michaela is happy to recommend treatments for your skin, and has products onsite. I allowed her to give me a cooling, exfoliating facial, and I can tell you my skin felt luscious afterward!

We all know how much I love Cozumel, and now I have even more reason to! You can bet I will be heading to the spa every time I am on the island! I give it an A+++++!

TRAVEL

Bali Paradise Island

The perfect honeymoon

Where to start?

City Pass is the Best Way to Tour a City