Why Oaxaca City Is A Chocolate Lover’s Dream

Chocolate is one of the most popular flavors in the world, regarded by millions as the ultimate indulgence in every form, be it a candy bar, hot chocolate, or part of a dish like chicken mole. The cocoa tree originates in the rainforests of the Americas, and its scientific name, Theobroma cacao, translates into “food of the gods”. Because of its unique aroma, people considered it a sacred substance and treated it as one.

Though the cocoa tree grows wild in the rainforest, ancient societies, starting with the Olmec around 1500 B.C., cultivated it. Later, the Maya and the Aztecs used it not only as food and drink but for trading and even for currency.

When the Spanish first arrived in the Americas, they came into contact with chocolate through the Aztecs. And the descendants of the Aztecs, the modern indigenous people living in and around Central Mexico still use chocolate as a daily staple. They drink or eat cocoa in different forms for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It also plays a role in their ceremonies and rituals, including births, weddings, rites of passage, and funerals.

But nowhere else in Mexico is chocolate as prevalent as in Oaxaca City, where the rich aroma of fresh chocolate accompanies you everywhere you walk. Though they don’t grow cocoa trees here, Oaxaca is on an ancient trading route and has established itself as a center for chocolate use over the centuries.

Best Places To Try Oaxacan Chocolate

No matter where you are in Oaxaca, a chocolate shop is not far away, and more often than not, it offers a few varieties of hot chocolate. Keeping with ancient tradition, Oaxacans most often drink their chocolate either with water or milk. When you order, you need to specify with or without milk (con leche means “with milk” — sin leche means “without milk”). They always add cinnamon, and sometimes almonds.

The varieties of hot chocolate are only one way to drink cocoa in Oaxaca. Another chocolate drink to try is champurrado, a warm, thick drink made with milk, cornflour, sugar, and cinnamon.

But the oldest chocolate drink specific to Oaxaca is tejate, made by indigenous Zapotec and Mixteca people following the traditional recipes from centuries ago. They use both cocoa and cocoa flowers, plus corn and ground seeds of the mamey fruit to make it. To find it, look for indigenous women wearing traditional clothing selling it from street stands. They scoop it out of a large clay bowl into smaller wooden decorated bowls. You’ll notice that the surface of the tejate seems to have a snowy foam. This is the cocoa flower.

Oaxacans also eat their chocolate, though not as we are used to it, like candy bars or baked in pastries. Instead, they add it to their main meals in the form of a thick savory sauce called mole. Oaxaca is famous for its mole sauces, so when you visit, you need to try a dish made with it. Every restaurant in town features a few dishes with mole sauce. You’ll find at least seven different varieties of this thick sauce made with over 20 ingredients, but only the black mole features chocolate.

If you are wondering where to sample some of the best Oaxacan chocolate (or mole), try the following spots:

Chocolate from Mayordomo in Oaxaca. — ChocolateMayordomo.com.mx

Mayordomo Chocolate Shops

Mayordomo is the best-known and most popular chain of chocolate shops in Oaxaca, and you’ll find one of them on just about every corner, enticing you to go inside with the aroma of their fresh-made chocolate.

If you were wondering what cocoa beans look like, you’ll see them here, stored in large burlap bags at the entrance. Watch the chocolatiers grind these beans into a chocolate paste, adding unrefined sugar, cinnamon, and other ingredients to the mix, making the paste to the specifications of their customers. At the counter, try a few samples of different chocolate drinks or pieces of fresh chocolate paste that just came out of the grinding machine.

The larger Mayordomo stores also have a fast-food lunch counter, serving a few dishes topped with black mole sauce. If you want a larger selection of chocolate-based meals in a sit-down restaurant, you can also try Mayordomo’s full-fledged restaurant.

Casa Mayordomo Restaurante

You’ll find the Mayordomo Restaurant in the historic center of Oaxaca, on Macedonio Alcala. Although they offer a variety of traditional Oaxacan dishes, their focus is on chocolate; their black mole is the best I ever had. And for dessert, you must have a cup of fresh hot Majordomo chocolate.

Chocolate La Soledad

Chocolate Y Mole La Soledad has a similar setup to the Mayordomo stores, with the grinders, samples, a small cafe, and a store. You can find one on Mina Street in the center of town. Even if you had enough chocolate for the day and don’t need another sample, it’s worth walking into the store to see the intricate wood carvings on the counters and the walls.

Chocolate Guelaguetza

Another great stop for hot chocolate where you can also watch the process of chocolate making is the Chocolate Gualeguetza on 20 Noviembre street off Mina Street.

Other Chocolate Shops In Oaxaca City

Other than the three stores where you can see the process of chocolate making, you have plenty of options to stop for a cup of hot chocolate or buy already-made chocolate products or a mole paste.

Besides being a chocolate shop, La Autentica Chocolateria (owned by a small cooperative), is also a small vegetarian restaurant that displays local artwork.

Texier is more like a traditional small pastry shop/cafe/chocolatier. Besides the usual chocolate drinks, you’ll find chocolate pastries, something you won’t see in the other, more traditional chocolate stores in town.

You’ll find several chocolate shops in the Mercado, the market just one block from the Zocalo. One worth stopping at is the small chocolate store/cafe El Rito. They also produce their own chocolate, working with local cocoa farmers from Oaxaca and neighboring Tabasco and Chiapas for the past ten years.

Taking Oaxacan Chocolate Home With You

If you are flying back home, the easiest way to take Oaxacan chocolate products home with you is to buy them prepackaged. You can buy different bars in any of the above-mentioned stores to melt and make your own delicious hot chocolate from, and mole sauce mixes either as a paste or powder. If you want to have your own mixture made, your best bet to bring it home is to pack it in a checked bag. If you travel with only a carry-on, stick to the prepackaged goods to avoid any problems with airport security. (They have a rule of allowing only commercially packaged food products.)

What Else Is There To Do In Oaxaca City?

Though best known for its chocolate, the center of Oaxaca City, officially known as Oaxaca de Juarez, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site worth a visit for its architecture and history. The center and heart of the city, the Zocalo, which is surrounded by colonial structures, is always busy, with dancers and musicians setting up shows there daily. Cathedrals, palaces, colorful buildings, and cobblestoned streets add to its charm. While at the Mercado, try some chapulines, or fried grasshoppers — another Oaxacan specialty.

Oaxaca City is also important from an ancient historical perspective, being the gateway to Monte Alban, one of the most important pre-Columbian ruins in Mexico.

Captivated? Read up on why chocolate travel will tantalize more than your taste buds, and prepare to jet set accordingly!

The 10 Cheapest Countries To Visit In 2021

Traveling on a budget isn’t especially difficult, provided that you’re willing to look at a variety of destinations — and take a great deal when you find one. Following the 2020 shutdown, the travel industry is pulling out all the stops to entice travelers back. In 2021, you can experience new cultures, lounge on exotic beaches, and sample the world’s finest culinary delicacies without breaking the bank. If you’re not sure where to start, this list should help you get your bearings.

We created this list by considering lodging, dining, and airfare prices for the destinations in question, using several major cities (Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York) as departure points. We also looked at other factors that might affect travelers, including safety and availability of public transportation.

Remember, you can save significantly on airfare by using websites like Google Flights and Flightscanner or apps like Hopper to monitor prospective flights (and no, we aren’t getting paid for any of those mentions). If you’re patient enough, you’ll eventually find a great deal. Be sure to check out our article on cheap flights for more airfare tips.

With that said, let’s dive in. If you’re traveling in 2021, here are some budget-friendly destinations you’ll want to consider.

Skyline of Mexico City, Mexico. — Suriel Ramzal / Shutterstock

1. Mexico

Airfare to Mexico should stay low throughout 2021, and given the American dollar’s strength relative to the peso, there’s never been a better time to head south.

Coastal cities like Cancun and Cozumel are always a safe bet for beachgoers, but don’t overlook Mexico City. Here, travelers can easily find accommodations for $100 per night and under, and gourmet restaurants like Pujol and Zanaya make Mexico City an essential bucket-list stop for foodies. While you’re here, stop by Museo Soumaya, a private museum with an extensive collection featuring the works of Auguste Rodin and Salvador Dali.

In general, travelers can safely spend time in major Mexican cities by taking basic precautions, but some states have elevated travel advisories; check the Department of State’s advisory page before booking your trip.

2. Vietnam

We’ve written about Vietnam in other articles, and it remains a tried-and-true option for budget-conscious travelers. Even in Ho Chi Minh City, travelers can find a plethora of hotel rooms for under $50, and if you stick with local restaurants, you can easily keep your food budget under $10 per day.

Airfare is also remarkably affordable; with a quick Google Flights search, we found fares from Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles for less than $700.

Consider heading to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking landscapes, or rent a bike in Hanoi to explore the capital’s many landmarks (Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Hoan Kiem Lake certainly deserve some time). Wherever you go, you’ll find cheap accommodations, great food, and friendly locals.

Editor’s Note: Vietnam was also named as one of the top 10 best places in the world to retire. Find out more about retiring in Vietnam here.

Skyline of Tallinn, Estonia. — Oleksiy Mark / Shutterstock

3. Estonia

While Baltic countries are generally affordable, Estonia is a perpetual entry on our budget travel lists. That’s partly because tourists don’t really know about it yet — Estonia attracted about 2.14 million foreign tourists in 2018, and that number wasn’t a significant increase from the previous year.

That generally means that you won’t have to fight the crowds, and you won’t spend too much of your budget on food or accommodations. You can find airfare to the country’s capital, Tallinn, for under $800 from most major American airports, and hotels are available from around $40 a night (less if you’re willing to book a private room in a hostel).

In Tallinn, be sure to take the free 2-hour walking tour of the Old Town district to gaze at the city’s enchanting architecture. You can also arrange brewery tours, enjoy remarkably affordable fine dining, or browse one of the city’s many art galleries. For more ideas, check out our guide to spending a day in Tallinn.

4. Armenia

This former Soviet state is one of the cheapest European countries to visit. In 2018, former president Serzh Sargsyan resigned peacefully after popular protests, and the Armenian government is currently going through a period of positive political change. Apart from the Nagorno-Karabakh region on the country’s eastern border, Armenia is a safe place to travel, and its major cities are delightful destinations for cultural explorers.

Spend some time in Yerevan, where you can pay your respects at the Armenian Genocide Memorial. The core of the city is Republic Square, where travelers can visit the History Museum and National Gallery, but architecture aficionados will want to travel out to the nearby Zvartnots Cathedral ruins, about a half-hour’s drive from the city.

The city of Odessa, Ukraine. — Murat An / Shutterstock

5. Ukraine

You’ll want to avoid Eastern Ukraine, where Russian-backed separatists are still engaged in a conflict with the Ukrainian government. Coastal cities like Odessa and Lviv are perfectly safe options for travel; we found airfare to Odessa for less than $600, and lodging is available in the city for around $30 per night and up.

Odessa is famous for its beaches, but travelers should also check out the Odessa Catacombs, an enormous network of tunnels used by Soviet partisans during World War II. Aboveground, you’ll find an assortment of fine restaurants offering the best of Baltic fare; travelers can easily fill up for less than $10, though gourmet options like Sovremennik are certainly worth a little extra.

6. Argentina

Quite a few South American countries deserve a place on this list, but Argentina is our top pick. In cities like Mendoza, travelers can enjoy world-renowned wines at restaurants like Azafran, which we’ve covered in another piece on the city. Be sure to carry plenty of paper money, since regularly changing currency rates can make electronic payments a hassle.

Airfare to Argentina can be expensive compared to airfare to other cities on this list (flights from Chicago averaged around $1,000), so if you’re planning on visiting, use the aforementioned flight-tracking tools to find deals. Once you arrive, you’ll find affordable accommodations for $20 per night and up, and you’ll be able to eat like royalty on a fairly slim budget.

Skyline of Bucharest, Romania. — Alexandru Nika / Shutterstock

7. Romania

Travelers often say that visiting Romania is like traveling back in time. That’s fair, to a degree; the Transylvanian countryside is littered with pre-Industrial villages, and you’ll see medieval architecture in nearly every major city. If that sounds appealing, good news: The prices are also a throwback. For under $700, you can easily find a flight to Romania in summer, and most cities have accommodations for less than $70 per night.

Most travelers will want to spend at least a few days in Bucharest, the country’s capital. Known as the Little Paris of the East, Bucharest has charming Bohemian architecture, numerous historic sites of interest, and fantastic shopping districts. Check out our guide to Bucharest’s hidden gems here.

8. Cuba

Despite what you might have heard, American travelers can still visit Cuba — just not as tourists. The process for obtaining a travel visa is slightly more difficult than it was in 2018, but the United States government recognizes 11 authorized categories of travel, and dedicated adventurers can still find their way to Havana.

Of course, that could change at any time, so if you’re planning a Cuban vacation, you’ll want to go while it’s still possible. All U.S. flights must arrive in Havana, and the city is both affordable and beautiful. Excellent day-trip options from the capital are available as well.

Skyline of Sofia, Bulgaria, at sunset. — Boyan Georgiev Georgiev / Shutterstock

9. Bulgaria

A former Soviet satellite state, Bulgaria has developed its tourism industry substantially in recent years. Nearly nine million foreign tourists visited in 2017, and if you’ve always wanted to head to the Balkans, you’ll want to book your trip before that number grows.

Visit the capital city, Sofia, to see the Church of Saint George Rotunda, built by the Romans in the fourth century. The city also has numerous art galleries, bustling antique markets, and ancient Roman ruins. Our guide to Sofia can help you plan your trip to this often-overlooked capital.

If you’re looking for more of a traditional vacation experience, head to Varna, a seaside city with fantastic resorts, large public parks, and medieval cave monasteries.

Airfare to either city hovers around $700 from Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles, and accommodations are generally available for less than $60 per night (and yes, that includes seaside hotels in Varna).

10. Italy

We’re surprised to see Italy on this list, too — the country hosts record numbers of tourists year after year, but it’s still an affordable destination for American travelers, provided that you plan carefully. To avoid crowds and keep your expenses in check, consider traveling sometime between October and June.

Airfare to Rome, Venice, and Florence is fairly affordable year-round, with sub-$700 flights popping up from time to time. Unless you’re traveling for several weeks, pick one city and stick with it; many tourists overpack their itineraries, which can leave them fighting the crowds and overpaying for food and accommodations. Check out our guides to each of the cities (linked above), and don’t be afraid to explore.

For a less conventional vacation, consider heading to one of Italy’s beautiful small towns (and yes, we have a guide for that, too).

5 Off-The-Beaten-Path Arizona Towns And Why You Should Visit

These five truly small Arizona towns are interesting, each giving a visitor a distinct experience. We discovered them over several months while we were looking for a place to settle in Arizona, where there are about 300 sunshiny days a year. Just short side trips from the larger towns we were considering, we took a peek and were hugely rewarded.

These towns are, on average, about three hours apart from each other, except for the last two, which are closer together. A three day-road trip can be designed to string them together, starting in Lake Havasu City or Bullhead City in the northwest and ending south of Tucson in the southeast.

Burros on main street in Oatman. — Jon Chica / Shutterstock

1. The Burro Town Of Oatman, Arizona

Oatman, Arizona is a rugged former gold mining town in the Black Mountains at about 2,700 feet in elevation. It is only an hour from Lake Havasu City and just 40 minutes from Bullhead City. We went from Lake Havasu City. The access roads were old and poorly paved, but the wild chollas dotted the foothills, reminding us of a section of Joshua Tree National Park where they are also plentiful. The town’s current population is down to 128 from 3,500 during its mining heyday in 1915.

I found and purchased a unique little leather purse in Oatman, as I always do in these small towns, but what made the shopping most enjoyable were the many wild burros — white, grey, brown, or spotted — that walk all around town. Like most tourists, we fed them little bits of alfalfa which can be bought from any store. They usually gather at storefronts. We couldn’t enter a store when one went so far as blocking the door (to the consternation of the owner, who sprayed him with water to shoo him away, allowing us to enter).

The town of Jerome, Arizona. — FiledIMAGE / Shutterstock

2. The Mountain Town Of Jerome, Arizona

Jerome, Arizona is at the top of Cleopatra Hill between the cities of Prescott and Sedona. At 5,000 feet in elevation, it overlooks the beautiful Verde Valley. The view is breathtaking from many points in the town. An old mansion still stands tall, reminding locals and visitors of the town’s mining heyday. An old solitary jail still stands at the outskirts of town, too. A grand old wheel lords the middle of town, another reminder of its historic past. And, of course, there is a mining museum that tells Jerome’s story in detail.

The historic copper mining town once thrived. In fact, it was the fourth largest city in the state with 15,000 people in the 1920s. Now, its population doesn’t even reach 450. But it has transformed itself into an artist and tourist hub. As a matter of fact, today it’s known as the largest ghost town in America and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1967. Jerome is dotted with retail and gift shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants, and many lodging options. I even found a Filipino (like me), who had married a Caucasian partner; she owned the flamboyant Lola Boutique.

The hanging man in Tortilla Flat, Arizona. — Carol Colborn

3. Tortilla Flat In The Middle Of Nowhere

For the nature lover, a drive down the Apache Trail — which starts in Apache Junction 40 minutes east of Phoenix — showcases the beauties of desert scenery. In spring, the hills even turn yellow. At the end of the trail lies Tortilla Flat, a small unincorporated community built on the last surviving stagecoach stop. With a population of just six, the Flat is the smallest community that has a U.S. Post Office and a voter’s precinct. It was once a camping ground for gold prospectors, but later it became a freight camp during the construction of the nearby Theodore Roosevelt Dam.

In 1942, a flood pushed many residents away, and in 1998, an Indiana farmer bought the town. Today, there is a small country store with great ice cream for sale — including the world-famous prickly pear cactus ice cream — a saloon serving good Southwest cuisine, and a souvenir shop where I found a lovely and unique top. Many Superstition Mountain-area hiking trails start in Tortilla Flat.

The middle-of-nowhere Superstition Restaurant and Saloon oozed Old West, from the hanging man and the saddle bar stools to an old jukebox. $1 bills covered every inch of the walls, so we followed suit and signed and stuck one to the first teeny weeny empty spot we could find. But the best experience was saved for last. When we told people we met that we were going to Tortilla Flat, each one advised us not to miss the restrooms of the saloon. Let me tell you that if you weren’t captivated by the end of your meal, you will be by a trip to the restrooms, where the stall art showed us how we could have looked as voluptuous saloon ladies of the West’s glorious past.

The town of Tombstone in Arizona. — Nick Fox / Shutterstock

4. The Gunfight At Tombstone, Arizona

Only a little over an hour from Tucson, Tombstone, Arizona receives approximately 450,000 visitors each year. It has been declared a National Heritage Site, best remembered for being the site of the famous gunfight at O.K. Corral. Since much of the fight occurred on Tombstone’s Fremont Street, daily reenactments are done there. Saloon ladies frequent Allen Street, along with the many incarnations of Wyatt Earp. The most famous graveyard of the Old West is Tombstone’s Boot Hill, where various victims of violence and disease — including those from the O.K. Corral gunfight — are buried.

A former silver-mining boomtown with a current population of 1,296, Tombstone has theaters, restaurants, gem shops, and lodging options galore. But what also fascinated us there was the world’s largest rosebush — according to Guinness — that was planted in Tombstone in 1885 and still flourishes today. Brought in from Scotland, the Lady Banksia rose now covers 5,000 square feet of the roof of the Arcade Boarding House, and its trunk has a 12 foot circumference. Unfortunately, the rose bush was not in bloom when we were there. One must go in April to see the spectacle.

5. The Art And History Of Tubac, Arizona

Only 45 minutes away from Tucson is Tubac, Arizona. With a population of nearly 1,200, the town has become famous for its Luminaria Nights, held in December of every year, and the Festival of the Arts in February. It is also known as an artist colony, as it’s home to 100 art galleries, home decor shops, jewelers, potters, and artists of all kinds. We spent a lot of time at the Sculpture Garden, which had many beautiful (but pricey) sculptures for desert homes. I was even able to find Southwestern cuisine cooking items at Tubac’s Tumacookery and Santa Cruz Spices.

It was also pure delight to dine at Elvira’s, the town’s fine dining Mexican restaurant since 1927. It is bedecked with thousands and thousands of colorful lights. And it is where we always order our favorite flank steak molcajete — Mexican beef stewed with cactus and served on a hot volcanic pot that keeps the dish simmering while one dines. It tastes even better than it looks.

Only seven minutes away is the oldest Spanish mission on American soil, founded by the Jesuit Eusebio Francisco Kino. It was in 1691 when he founded the San Cayetano de Tumacacori, and a day later, 15 miles away, Mission Los Santos Angeles. In 1756, San Cayetano de Calabazas was also founded nearby. Now, the three missions are all protected in an area called the Tumacacori National Historical Park. It is easy to see the Tumacacori Mission. The two others, however, have to be scheduled by appointment.

I hope you are able to take this road trip. If not, don’t forget that these places are relatively short drives away from Lake Havasu City or Bullhead City for Oatman; Prescott or Sedona for Jerome; Phoenix for Tortilla Flat; and Tucson for Tombstone and Tubac. You will get a unique experience, find something cool to bring home, and maybe even eat something unforgettable.

Want more on Arizona? Read up on

8 Reasons To Visit Lewisburg, West Virginia

I recently rode the Cardinal train through West Virginia, stopping in Huntington, Charleston, and White Sulphur Springs/Lewisburg. It was a spectacular ride, featuring fall foliage, mountains, the Shenandoah Valley, and views of West Virginia’s whitewater rivers only accessible by train. While I fell in love with the entire region, Lewisburg won a special place in my heart with its friendly people, beautiful main street, small-town charm, innovative dining scene, and unique lodging options.

This small town, with a population of about 4,000, boasts the arts and fine dining of a much larger city. It’s easy to see why Frommer’s Budget Travel named Lewisburg America’s coolest small town.

A quinoa bowl from The Local in Lewisburg. — The Local / Greenbrier County CVB

1. It’s Got A Vibrant Culinary Scene

Lewisburg is a foodie’s paradise, and it’s easy to find mouthwatering meals, from Southern comfort food to farm-to-table cuisine to fine French dining.

At The French Goat, I dined on hot and savory French onion soup and a main course of filet mignon with whipped potatoes and French beans topped with oh-so-rich foie gras butter. After dinner, we relaxed on the front porch with an aperitif apres le diner while chatting with locals.

At The Local, a grocery and deli, the menu changes daily, but if it’s available, try the smoked brisket chili. Or stop by Stardust Cafe, a farm-to-table favorite for locals and visitors, for the caper berry trout salad. At Draper’s, inside the Greenbrier Resort, you’ll want to try Mr. Justice’s Favorite Fried Chicken. If you stop by Food & Friends, a cozy American cafe, at lunchtime, order the Carolina crab croissant and be sure to pick up a piece (or three) of the delectable chocolate at the cash register. At Livery Tavern, you can enjoy American fare like steak and seafood or try one of the vegetarian or vegan options, all served in an 1800s-style dining room.

Carnegie Hall in Lewisburg. — Carnegie Hall / Greenbrier County CVB

2. It’s A Small Town That’s Big On The Arts

Though it’s a small town, Lewisburg is home to an outstanding arts scene.

The Greenbrier Valley Theatre, the state professional theater of West Virginia, offers plays, poetry, and live dance, plus special events like the GVT Play Fest, which features several 10-minute plays written by West Virginia playwrights.

Then there’s the Trillium Performing Arts, which for 36 years has encouraged artistic expression through education, participation, and performance. The organization’s Lewis Theatre opened in 1939. After nearly 70 years, the structure was in need of some TLC, so Trillium initiated a capital campaign to renovate it into a space suitable for both film and live performances. Today, you’ll find a variety of performance arts there, including Friday Night Alive, a family-friendly event showcasing local talent.

As if that weren’t enough, Lewisburg is home to a Carnegie Hall, one of four remaining in the world.

3. You Can Enjoy Lots Of Live Music

In any of Lewisburg’s bars or pubs, you might just hear your new favorite song.

Musical events you won’t want to miss include the West Virginia Winter Music Festival, a benefit for musicians in need; the State Fair of West Virginia Concert Series; and Healing Appalachia, an event intended to eradicate addiction in the greater Appalachian region.

Items for sale at Wolf Creek Gallery in Lewisburg. — Wolf Creek Gallery / Greenbrier County CVB

4. There Are Charming Boutiques And Galleries

West Virginia-made products, art, and even kitchen items can all be found in the downtown district. It would be easy to spend a day perusing the shops and taking home pieces you never knew you needed.

At Wolf Creek Gallery, you’ll discover carefully curated women’s clothing and jewelry. Lee Street Studios is a school-turned-artisan collective where artists create, display, and sell their work. Patina offers an eclectic mix of antiques, vintage decor, and art.

If you’re visiting on the first Friday of the month, check out the First Fridays After Five event, where you’ll find shops, galleries, and restaurants open through the evening and offering complimentary refreshments and entertainment. When I visited, I purchased some cheese for the train at Bella and enjoyed a wine sample (or two) at the boutique shops.

While you’re downtown, take a tour of the area to learn about the historic buildings and period architecture. You can use the online guided tour or pick up a printed version at the Greenbrier Valley Visitors Center.

5. The Local Brews Are Fantastic

Staying true to its Appalachian roots, Smooth Ambler utilizes local ingredients like mountain water and hand-selected grains to distill its bourbon. Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company brews up six flagship flavors, six seasonals, and an ever-changing selection of small batches for craft beer lovers. Hawk Knob is West Virginia’s first cidery, specializing in dry-aged meads and traditional dry ciders.

The Herns Mill Covered Bridge in Lewisburg. — Jill Dutton

6. You Can Take A Scenic Drive

The scenery surrounding Lewisburg is spectacular. Go for a drive to take in all the area’s scenic beauty, including rolling hills and expansive farmland. Along the way, stop to take photos of the Herns Mill Covered Bridge, one of only two covered bridges remaining in Greenbrier County. Follow the Lower Greenbrier River Byway that travels 27 miles along the railroad to view more of the scenic countryside and wooded areas, or head to the White Sulphur Springs National Fish Hatchery for a guided or self-guided tour. After touring the hatchery, enjoy the walking trails on the grounds or hike up one of the neighboring mountains.

7. There’s A Great Farmers Market

I love discovering what food is local to an area and where that food comes from, so I was like a kid in a candy store when I learned that Lewisburg has not one but two farmers markets. The two markets — the Greenbrier Valley Farmers Market and the Lewisburg Farmers Market — have since merged to form the Courthouse Farmers Market, open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

There’s traditional market fare — locally grown produce, grass-fed beef, honey, syrups, and jams, plus baked goods — but what really got me excited were the fresh-baked bagels from Blue Moon Bagels. The story I heard was that a New York film crew had been in town, and when they discovered these bagels, they ordered dozens to take home with them — to New York. That says a lot, considering that New York is known for its bagels. Whether the story is true or not, these were fantastic bagels — so soft and savory that they nearly melted in my mouth. We took a few dozen with us for the road, too.

The year-round market is located outdoors from May through October and indoors from November through April.

8. It’s Close To A World-Famous Resort

White Sulphur Springs, just down the road from Lewisburg, is where you’ll find The Greenbrier, a world-famous resort since 1778. One of the most luxurious resorts in the world, The Greenbrier has not only hosted celebrities, business leaders, and 27 U.S. presidents, but it also has a secret bunker! The space was carved into the mountainside beneath the resort to serve as a Cold War fallout shelter and as a government-relocation facility for Congress. Today, visitors can tour the bunker and see this piece of history.

Take a carriage ride around the property, swim in the mineral-water pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or shop to your heart’s content at this luxury resort with lavish decor by the famous Dorothy Draper & Company.

Planning a trip to West Virginia? Here are seven things to do in the state with the whole family.

Bellevue, Washington: The Best Things To See And Do

With world-class shopping, gorgeous natural spaces, and vibrant nightlife, Bellevue is one of Washington’s most engaging destinations. At one point in time, it was a suburb of Seattle; these days, Bellevue is more accurately described as a satellite city, given its fast growth and its established reputation as one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier technology hubs. The Seattle Times even referred to the city as the “new Brooklyn.”

If you’re visiting Bellevue, you’ll have no shortage of things to do and places to visit, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed while putting your travel schedule together, we can help. Here’s everything you need to know, including tips for dining, lodging, and exploring with confidence.

Bellevue Botanical Garden in Washington. — maybelleza2015 / Shutterstock

Stop By The Bellevue Botanical Garden

The Bellevue Botanical Garden (BBG to the locals) is a 53-acre park with woodlands, wetlands, and cultivated gardens, and it’s one of the city’s most popular destinations. More than 300,000 people visit each year.

The garden is made up of several smaller gardens, each with its own character. Stop by the Fuchsia Garden or Rhododendron Garden to see their namesakes in bloom, or walk the Ravine Experience, which features a 150-foot suspension bridge that allows visitors to observe the wildlife without disturbing the floor of the conifer forest.

Visit the garden’s website for hours and other information. Generally, the park is open from dawn to dusk, and there’s no fee for admission or parking — in other words, if you’re headed to Bellevue and you’re at all interested in spending time outdoors, there’s no reason to leave the botanical garden off of your itinerary.

Bellevue Square shopping center sign in Washington — David Tran Photo / Shutterstock.com

Browse The Shops Of Bellevue Square

While Seattle is famous for its high-end shops and boutiques, Bellevue has an even greater array of upscale shopping options. Bellevue Square is one of the best spots to dive into the town’s retail culture.

Here, shoppers can browse some of the more than 200 retail stores, then dine at one of more than 50 local-to-global restaurants. The shopping experience is largely focused on major brands and high-end fashion, but there’s something for everyone (you’ll even find a LEGO store on the mall’s first floor).

The nearby Lincoln Square and Bellevue Place expand the dining and shopping options considerably, and we strongly recommend taking advantage of the valet parking and concierge services to make the most of your trip. Check out the Bellevue Collection’s website to browse the area’s various attractions.

Street view of Bellevue Arts Museum in Washington — Colleen Michaels / Shutterstock.com

Visit The Bellevue Arts Museum

Just across the street from Bellevue Square, the Bellevue Arts Museum is an unconventional museum with no permanent collection. Instead, it features an ever-changing gallery of modern art pieces, focusing on artists from the Pacific Northwest. You’ll also find regular public workshops, lectures, and talks.

Since the experience changes regularly, you’ll want to check out the museum’s website prior to visiting.

A trail in the Mercer Slough Nature Park. — waterandwoodgallery.com / Shutterstock

Head Out For A Hike At Mercer Slough Nature Park

Hikers won’t want to miss Mercer Slough Nature Park, the largest remaining Lake Washington wetland. Three trails run through the 320-acre park, and an educational center at the entrance provides visitors with detailed information about the area’s diverse flora and fauna.

Walking the interconnected soft-surface trails, asphalt pathways, and boardwalks, you’ll take in gorgeous views of the wetlands and encounter some of the area’s 170 species of wildlife. Head to the nearby Blueberry Farm to pick blueberries (provided that they’re in season) or simply stroll by the hardhacks while enjoying the scenery.

The park is open all year, but trail accessibility can change with the seasons; check the city’s website for up-to-date info.

Eating In Bellevue

Bellevue offers a variety of enriching culinary experiences, and whether you want a five-star meal or a gourmet hot dog, you’ll be able to find something satisfying with enough effort. With that said, we reached out to locals to find Bellevue’s best dining spots, and these restaurants received the most resoundingly positive reviews.

Seastar Restaurant

Chef John Howie’s Seastar Restaurant is a stellar option in downtown Bellevue. The menu is wide ranging, though the sushi and sashimi are the clear favorites. If you prefer your food cooked, you’ll find delectable steaks, tuna, and lobster macaroni and cheese on the dinner menu. The restaurant also has a gluten-free menu, and while it’s fairly expensive, the carefully crafted dishes are well worth the expense for fine-dining connoisseurs.

Lil’ Jon Restaurant

In the mood for a simpler American plate? Lil’ Jon Restaurant is one of Bellevue’s oldest restaurants, as the Sjolander family has operated it continuously since 1967. Locals say that the prices are fair, the coffee is hot, and the service is friendly.

This is one of the best places in town to grab a roast beef sandwich or a patty melt, and if you’re visiting during breakfast hours, the homemade cinnamon rolls are unmatched (just head there early — once the cinnamon rolls are gone for the day, they’re gone).

Belle Pastry

Belle Pastry is a small bakery on Bellevue’s Main Street and a perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee while planning your day.

You can’t go wrong with the bakery’s ever-changing seasonal options, but be sure to grab some croissants for the road. The Seattle Times named Belle Pastry’s croissant one of the two best options in the Seattle metropolitan area, and given the city’s French heritage, that’s saying something.

Where To Stay In Bellevue

Given Bellevue’s enchanting nightlife and numerous shopping districts, you might not want to spend much time cooped up in a hotel room. Then again, you might be surprised — the city has some truly outstanding accommodations. Here are a few of our favorites.

Bellevue Club Hotel

The Bellevue Club Hotel is an athletic club, spa, and hotel, and if you’re looking to treat yourself, it’s an outstanding place to spend a few days. The hotel has four dining options and 24-hour room service, and it’s located about a mile from Bellevue Square and 2 miles from downtown.

Guests also have access to a full-service spa with facial treatments and massage options. Be sure to check out the hotel’s website for spa/retreat packages.

The Woodmark Hotel

If you’re headed to Bellevue, chances are you’re planning on spending some time exploring the greater Seattle metropolitan area. The Woodmark is located in Kirkland, Washington, a short drive from Bellevue, and it offers easy access to Bellevue, Seattle, Redmond, and Woodinville Wine Country.

Set on the water of Lake Washington, the hotel offers an impressive array of amenities, including in-room couple’s massages, private boat tours, breathtaking waterfront views, and two dine-in restaurants.

A Few Travel Tips

Pay Attention To The Local Events

While tourists can easily spend their days shopping, dining, and exploring Bellevue’s green spaces, the town’s regular events also deserve some attention.

During the summer and fall, stop by the farmers markets. Bellevue also hosts an annual jazz and blues festival in May, a family-friendly Fourth of July celebration, and an arts fair toward the end of July. Until recently, the town held an annual strawberry festival, though that tradition ended — at least temporarily — in 2019.

Check the Bellevue Downtown Association’s calendar when scheduling your trip to make sure you don’t miss out.

You Probably Don’t Need To Rent A Car

For the most part, Bellevue is a walkable city, so your best bet is to stay on foot and use ridesharing services, buses, or taxis when you need to take a longer journey. Here’s a useful pedestrian map of downtown Bellevue. For getting from city to city, check out the King County Metro’s website, which has bus schedules and other info.

The city recently began accepting applications from bike-sharing companies, and you can rent bikes in nearby Seattle or Kirkland to explore the city in this manner. The city offers a color-coded bike map for cyclists.

With that said, if you do decide to drive to Bellevue or rent a car, free parking is plentiful in most parts of the city.

Hotels Are Often Cheaper On The Weekends

Bellevue’s a major player in the technology industry, and as such, its hotels often fill up during the week as businesspeople head to the city for conferences and meetings. For travelers, that means that accommodations are often slightly less expensive on weekends.

When contacting a hotel, be sure to ask about spa packages, dine-in discounts, and anything else that might reduce the overall cost of your trip. Bellevue isn’t an inexpensive city, per se, but it’s quite affordable when you plan early.

These days, a trip to Bellevue is a wholly different experience from a trip to Seattle. Both towns have plenty to offer, but Bellevue has come into its own as one of the Pacific Northwest’s hidden gems (or not-so-hidden gems, depending on the person you ask).

Plan your trip as early as possible and be ready to explore. There’s a reason that Bellevue is regularly ranked one of America’s best places to live — and for travelers, it’s certainly a wonderful place to spend a few days.

The Best Things To See And Do In Reno

Dubbed The Biggest Little City In the World, Reno is undergoing a revitalization that deserves a second look. Its emerging downtown area is surrounded by a plethora of outdoor adventures creating a vacation for everyone. Here are some of the best things to see, do, and enjoy in town.

Reno Riverwalk

At the epicenter of the city’s beautification is the Reno Riverwalk District. Situated along the Truckee River, this historical district is home to local shops, bars, and restaurants. The paved path next to the river is popular for bikers, runners, and walkers and is a scenic way to experience all the local flavor. In the summer you can wade in the water, or step up the adventure by visiting Reno’s Whitewater Park. There, you can rent kayaks, canoes, rafts, and inner tubes to float down the river.

You can learn a lot about Reno’s rich diversity by experiencing different art around the district. There are around 40 murals in the area, all hand-painted by local or nationally-known artists. On the first Saturday of every month, there’s a guided walking tour that will introduce you to these murals, along with sculptures and other art. Tickets are $10 and can be bought online.

The Riverwalk District hosts many events throughout the year, from concerts to Halloween parties. Two of the most popular are the Dine the District Food Tour and the monthly Wine Walk (hosted the third Saturday of every month). For $20, the food tour allows you to try samples from a variety of restaurants in the area. The wine walk leverages the same concept, but with wine (and also costs $20). It’s a fun way to try out the area before picking your favorite spots.

The Great Reno Balloon Race. — Min C. Chiu / Shutterstock

Festivals And Shows

Did you know Reno is home to the largest free hot air balloon race? Or that thousands of classic cars descend upon the city in the summer? Reno is home to a number of festivals happening year-round.

Hot August Nights is a car show celebrating classic cars from around the country over several days. Coming to Reno for more than 30 years, this festival includes a classic car parade, concerts, contests, and local vendors — all while raising money for underserved children.

In September, look to the sky for The Great Reno Balloon Race. The race organizers say it’s the country’s largest free hot air balloon event. Get there before dawn to see the magnificent Glow Show, during which more than 30 balloons light up the night sky. Or sleep in a tad and catch the mass ascension of nearly 100 balloons later in the morning. Whenever you go, make sure to allow plenty of time for parking, as this multi-day festival does get busy.

Perhaps the tastiest festival is over the 4th of July holiday. The Biggest Little City Wing Fest serves up more than 20,000 pounds of chicken wings in downtown Reno. Listen to free music while you sample wings from 20 different vendors during the two-day event. Expect traditional sauces, plus some unique ones like maple and cheesecake. Then, see which ones win the big awards at the end!

The festivals don’t stop there. Reno also hosts a rodeo, an art show, a jazz festival, and much more. Be sure to check out Reno’s special event website to review the complete calendar as you plan your trip.

Reno is also known to bring in some big-time acts and though they may not be full-on Vegas style, they are close. Attracting big names like the Eli Young Band, REO Speedwagon, and the Beach Boys, Reno is an easier (and often less expensive) place to see some of your favorite shows. You’ll find a lot of the shows at the local casinos. The Grand Sierra Resort, for instance, attracts Dancing With The Stars, Riverdance, and Bonnie Raitt. The Reno Events Center also brings in a variety of performance from music to comedy. And the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts is your stop for musicals right in the heart of downtown Reno.

Outdoor Adventure

Outdoor activities rule all year in and around Reno, starting with the rock climbing wall right smack in the middle of the city. Reno claims it as the tallest outdoor climbing wall in the world. Real rocks await you around the city, too, both for the novice and expert climbers. While the climbing is open year-round, the best time to climb is in the fall.

The Reno trail system is perfect for hikers and bikers alike. The 12-mile bike path along the Truckee River is a great place to start, or amp it up on the 40 miles of single track mountain biking trails just outside the city. The city also has a good system of bike lanes on highways, so road cyclists can get in their workouts, too.

Reno also offers fishing — both rod fishing and fly fishing — horseback riding, and golfing with a handful of courses within the city limits. There’s even more if you’re willing to travel less than an hour away to Lake Tahoe. Tahoe is also home to boating, mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding in the summer. In the winter, there are ski resorts, snowmobiling, tubing, and more!

Grand Sierra Resort. — BestStockFoto / Shutterstock.com

Casinos

A trip to Nevada wouldn’t feel complete without some casino time. Though they aren’t as flashy as the ones in Las Vegas, Reno does have a number of casinos. One of the biggest is the award-winning Grand Sierra Resort. Located near the Reno/Tahoe International Airport, the Grand Sierra has a casino, a nightclub, and plenty of restaurants ranging from an upscale wine bar to a family-friendly diner. There’s also a 50-lane bowling alley, a hotel-themed escape room, a movie theater, and a spa. Outside you’ll find Great Adventure Land — home to a race track that you can pay to drive on — and the Ultimate Rush, a sling shot-type ride that will launch you 180 feet in the air!

Or you can just relax outside by the pool. In the winter, there’s even an ice rink open to guests and locals. The Grand Sierra Resort has hotel rooms as well as an RV Park and offers both military and AARP discounts.

Head about three miles south and you’ll see the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa towering over the area. This resort is home to numerous restaurants, including the Atlantis Steakhouse — named one of the top 100 most romantic restaurants in America by OpenTable. The Bistro Napa is frequented by locals, especially for its happy hour. Be sure to get there early — it gets busy!!

You can also find casinos in downtown Reno. Some are smaller and older and just offer gaming, while others (like Harrah’s), do have hotels attached, making them a great hub for any downtown activities. The vast majority of casinos in Reno have both slot machines and table games.

Eating In Reno

As Reno grows, so does its food and drink scene. For a pre-dinner drink, head to one of the many new breweries and distilleries making Reno home. One great spot is Ole Bridge Pub located along the Riverwalk. It serves up brews and even some wine with great views of the Truckee River. With patio seating and games like shuffleboard and darts inside, it’s a great spot to unwind. Next door is Campo, a casual restaurant that uses locally-sourced food to make its delicious recipes. Both the indoor and outdoor dining areas are cozy places to enjoy dishes like bruschetta, lobster mac and cheese, or one of their specialty pizzas.

For a more romantic evening, head across the river to La Famiglia, a perfect spot to grab dinner before a show at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts. The authentic, homemade Italian dishes and expansive wine menu will have you thinking you’re in Italy.

For brunch, bring your appetite to Squeeze In. It has two locations in Reno — one on the northwest side, one on the south side — but started out in small town Truckee, California, just over the border. The family-owned restaurant started small with just a handful of seats forcing diners to “squeeze in” to eat breakfast. Now, the large omelets are legendary among locals for their funky names and unique ingredients. The food has even gained the attention of Food Network and national magazines.

Shopping In Reno

Reno has a number of shopping areas, from malls to smaller shops promoting local artists and vendors. The Basement is truly a unique shopping experience that’s worth a visit. Located in the historic Post Office Building in downtown Reno, the underground shopping center features only locally owned shops and eateries. It’s the perfect place to pick up a one-of-a-kind gift or souvenir.

Looking for antiques? Head over to Junkee, a 15,000-square-foot store filled with antique furniture, clothing, and more. Meadowood Mall is a large mall with all the staple chain stores and restaurants. On the south side of Reno is The Summit, an outdoor mall area with big-name stores, restaurants, and a movie theater surrounded by water fountains and open spaces for live music in the warmer months.

Fresh produce is available all year long at various farmers markets around the city. All of them offer local fruits and vegetables, and some even have local art, crafts, and products. Check online for the latest schedule of Reno farmers markets.

Pro Tip

The key to visiting Reno is to plan. Look at the calendar and find the events that interest you and plan your trip around them. It’s clear there’s plenty to do, but finding the right time for your Reno vacation is key.

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