Southern Byways

Do you need a jump start to get into that holiday mood? I just might know something that’ll have you feeling that holiday spirit in no time -  lights and a lot of them.
Not only does the days soon after Thanksgiving bring sales, but also large configurations of lights as well. From now until New Years, many towns and cities across the South will glow with different colors.

Prepare to be dazzled from the Holiday Trail of Lights that includes Kilgore, Texas‘ “Christmas in the Oil Patch” to Fantasy of Lights in Sumter, S.C., to Zoolights at the …read more

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The Grinch has taken over Gaylord Opryland in Nashville, Tenn., during ICE! featuring the How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, happening through January 4, 2009. But don’t worry, this Grinch isn’t going to take anyone’s Christmas away, because it’s all a part of the property’s 25th annual A Country Christmas.
Around 1.5 million pounds of ice were sculpted by 35 artisans from Harbin, China. Working in shifts, starting around mid-October, the team created a one-of-a-kind icy wonderland with larger-than -life scenes from the story. Food color is then added to bring “life” to the sculptures.
Amanda Taylor, ICE! coordinator at Gaylord Opryland, …read more

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Hotels…

All eyes will be on Washington, D.C., on January 20, 2009, as the 44th president is sworn into office. While that may seem a little while off; however, in the travel, it really isn’t. Therefore, if you are interested in attending, you need to plan now. Now, some packages may be out of reach, don’t despair, because you can find deals in other places.
Why not bring a little romance back for the holidays? Romantic Inns & Hotels has highlighted a few deals. Stay three nights at Virginia Beach’s Beach Spa Bed and Breakfast and receive a free Swedish …read more

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Why stay at home this weekend when there is so much fun things going on in the South? Get out! Take time to enjoy the good weather and good times that are waiting to be had.
Unsure what to do this weekend? Here’s a sampling of the events that await you.
 
In the mood for food festivals? Bring sure to bring your appetite, because there are plenty to choose from.
In Texas, there’s the…

4th Annual Chuck Wagon Cook-off in Llano, Texas on October 17-19.
Shrimp & Wine Festival on October 18 in Wichita Falls.
14th Annual Chili Cook-Off in Dripping …read more

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 Does the economy stress you out? Are you ready to pull your hair out? Why not spend time next week pampering yourself? Now is the time to indulge in Spa Week 2008. Taking place from October 13-19, participating spas will offer spa treatments for only $50. Whether you are in Washington D.C., Florida or Georgia, you will be sure to find a new treatment that will brush your worries away.
Take a look at some of the options:
In Florida:

The Contour Day Spa at the Seminole Hard Rock in Fort Lauderdale, Florida offers a 50-minute Loofah Salt Glow and Seaweed Body Masque.
The …read more

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 I did a post a few days ago titled Think Globally, Eat Locally stressing the importance of supporting local farmers and thus, resulting in better nutrition. Therefore, I thought it was a perfect follow up to introduce you to a new restaurant in Washington D.C. called Founding Farmers.
Founding Farmers highlights the importance of The American Family Farmer. Their goal is to celebrate the land and the farmers by promoting sustainable agriculture. You can be assured that everything you eat at the restaurant is prepared from fine, high quality farm food that is local, organic and is sustainably farmed. In a …read more

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 While we may be used to rushing day-in and day-out, it is always nice to break away for a relaxing and revitalizing vacation. Whether it be a day trip, a weekend getaway or a trek cross country, escaping to one of the country’s national parks is a perfect choice, and your options are endless.
Let’s start in the north and make our way south:

Constitution Gardens in Washington DC: Do you need an escape from the bustling lifestyle of D.C.? Plan a visit to the Consitution Gardens. This memorial island (dedicated in 1976) is located in the middle of an artificial lake …read more

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The James Beard Foundation Awards were developed in 1990. This 501c3 works to celebrate, nurture and preserve America’s culinary heritage and celebrates our appreciation in the culinary arts. Of course you can find fabulous cuisine in New York, but do you know where else you can find some of America’s top chefs? Let’s take a tour of the south, those recognized this year by the James Beard Foundation, and its epicurean delights.

Minibar by Jose Andres in Washington D.C. – This 6 seat restaurant is situated  on the 2nd floor of Cafe Atlantico. They feature a tasting menu of Jose’s …read more

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Not too much longer until the holiday weekend will be upon us! Now this begs the question, have you made any plans yet? Well, you still have time and if you happen to be in the Maryland and D.C. area, there are a number of events you can choose from.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
In Maryland

It’s all about the crabs, that is hard crabs during the 61st Annual National Hard Crab Derby and Fair in Crisfield, Md., on August 29-31. So, just what can one expect? There’s a crab cooking contest, a hard crab derby race and a …read more

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 As the summer wraps up and Labor Day approaches, many people are looking for that last outdoor adventure. One perfect option for enjoying those summer rays is to spend the day at the zoo. But, how do you know which ones are worth visiting and which ones you need to go out of your way for? Here is my opinion on those “must see” zoos in the south:

The Audobon Zoo in New Orleans is considered one of the top zoos in the country. It is home to over 1,800 animals, lush vegetations, an impressive swamp filled with alligators, a jaguar …read more

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