The sunset view at The Landings

Whipping up a meal with a bunch of jerks may not sound like paradise to you but when you discover that “Cooking With Jerks” is actually a gourmet cooking class at The Landings Resort in St. Lucia, you realize that you’re about to experience a whole new level of  enjoyment.  Spicy jerk seasonings is an essential ingredient for many Caribbean dishes and expert  The Landings chefs will demonstrate exactly how it’s done. Read More »

Stonington Harbor at night

When planning my next vacation to the state of Maine, I am going to include a weekend on the Isle au Haut. Located off the coast of Stonington in eastern Penobscot Bay, visitors reach the Isle via a 45-minute mailboat cruise from Stonington Harbor (cars are not transported across, there is secure parking in Stonington). The Isle Au Haut (translation “High Island” and pronounced “i-la-HO” by the locals) is the most remote part of Acadia National Park, with half of the island dedicated to the park, and the other half inhabited by private landowners. Only about forty-five people live on the island year-round, which makes this a very private and quiet vacation destination.

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Chinese New Year noodle dish

It’s cold in Chicago but one way to heat things up is to stay in the kitchen. World Kitchen cooking classes supply a great opportunity to learn about Chicago’s diverse ethnic  communities and cuisines. Industry professionals demonstrate cooking techniques as well as explain cultural history in these innovative classes that are perfect for couples.

This may be the greatest travel contest prize I’ve had the pleasure of writing about. It comes to you from one of the top names in luxury travel and is valued at over $12,000.

And all you have to do to enter is put your name on the waiting list for a pair of designer shoes.

Intrigued? Here’s the prize:

• Seven days/six nights at Four Seasons Resort Nevis in the West Indies
• One round of golf
• One couple’s massage
• One-day cabana rental with butler service

Sound like a great honeymoon? It should. The Four Seasons contest is part of a promotion for the new INK Bridal Shoe from the Lisa for Donald J Pliner line. The idea is that brides-to-be will place their names on the waiting list for the INK Bridal Shoe and be entered to win the romantic vacation, but the official terms and conditions don’t say you have to be getting married. I mean, I could probably consider having another wedding in my backyard or something if I needed to qualify for a Caribbean vacation.

Not that I would do that.

If you would – or if you’re legitimately a bride-to-be – sign up for the INK Bridal Shoe waiting list and enter to win a vacation here. You have until the end of February to enter.

Graphic provided by Four Seasons Nevis