• Home
  • About Us
  • COUPLEDOM
  • France
    • Paris
  • Italy
    • Venice
  • Morocco
    • Marrakech
  • Uncategorized
  • United Kingdom
    • London
    • Scotland
      • Edinburgh

Me and He Travel

~ follow us everywhere

Me and He Travel

Monthly Archives: December 2013

List of Things to Do – 2014

31 Tuesday Dec 2013

Posted by meandhetravel in COUPLEDOM

≈ Leave a comment

FIREWORKSGo someplace you love. Go someplace you’ve never been. Lick your plate. Make a stranger smile. Keep your promises. Laugh before breakfast. Aim higher. Know when to say “no.”  Don’t disappoint yourself.  Laugh over lunch. Wear what you want to. Listen with your heart. Edit your circle.  Enjoy today.  Ask questions. Have patience. Put the light in someone’s eyes. Sleep well and often.  Be brave. Think happy thoughts. Laugh after dinner. Welcome change. Most importantly, make your own list!

With all good wishes to you and yours for a wonderful, memorable year!

Me and He

Rate this:

Too Few Thumbs for Mark Greenaway

29 Sunday Dec 2013

Posted by meandhetravel in Edinburgh, RESTAURANTS, Scotland

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Edinburgh, Mark Greenaway, Restaurants, Scotland

P1000760“Tell me again why we haven’t been here before,” He said, as the final course of a proposterously brilliant lunch was nearing our table. Having eaten at most, if not all, of the highly touted fine dining establishments on our many visits to Edinburgh, there was no reasonable explanation. One of the less expected joys of this fairly “secret” city is the number and quality of restaurants on offer. You can eat very, very well in Edinburgh and Restaurant Mark Greenaway has moved to the top of our list.

Having had two completely different tasting menus with wine pairings on separate occasions in a single week (true we have no shame), we are now avid Mark Greenaway fans! Smart, modern, inventive cuisine that is equally respectful to ingredients and diners. While we’ve spent far more for tasting menus with wine pairings, we found these to be more successfully conceived, consistently executed, and better supported by the wines irrespective of country or cuisine. In fact, in every case, the wines not only complemented, but perhaps elevated many of the courses. Head Sommelier, Timothy Elliott gracefully cloaks his expertise with gracious affability as he directs attention to choices designed to delight rather than impress. (They do both.)

It’s rare to read a menu and want to order every selection for all of the courses, which explains  (not excuses) how we ended up having two completely different tasting menus just a few days apart. The room is lovely, service professional and knowledgeable.  “There’s just one problem with this restaurant,” He said.  “Two thumbs up just aren’t enough.”  Me said “Well, with mine, that makes four.” But he was right.  A dozen seemed more like it.  We have become happy, hopeful fans and look forward to experiencing the direction Mr. Greenaway’s cuisine takes over time. Favorite dish? Too hard to choose! But please do.

P1000759

Rate this:

IMI N IFRI

26 Thursday Dec 2013

Posted by meandhetravel in Morocco

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Imi N Ifri, Morocco, Sun Trails

IMI N IFRI (2)

“Are you sure about this?” He asked. “Well maybe,” Me replied. Miles from Marrakech, we stood at the entrances to Imi N Ifri a natural wonder created by water and wind some 200 million years ago.  Having met Boujemah, our driver and guide from Sun Trails for the first time that morning, we left the comfort of our air conditioned vehicle on our first venture outside of Marrakech.  To the left, Boujeamah explained was an easy descent using sturdy cement stairs leading to the ground basin on one side of Imi N Ifri.  To the right was an alternative approach. A steep, winding, longer, far less certain path of dirt, rock, scrub, gravel, shale, he described as “more interesting”.  The better experience, but more difficult, not one that everyone might choose. “Which do you recommend,” Me asked.  Boujemah shrugged, smiled and nodded to the right.  As was the case with all of our adventures in Morocco, Boujemah was always right. He presented us to a local man, wiry, grandfatherly, with no English. “You aren’t coming with us? Me asked Boujemah.  Oh no.  “I will wait for you here. Your guide, he is very good”

IMI N IFRI (7)IMI N IFRI descent down

“I can do this,” Me said.  “Okay,” He replied. “Here’s the deal.” No stranger to my long list of physical limitations, weaknesses and history of injuries, “The minute you change your mind, we turn around and come back up.” The first five minutes on the narrow dirt path went reasonably well before things became more interesting. More challenging. Our guide was nimble and fleet of foot. Sandwiched between him and He, behind me, who was also moving easily undeterred by the narrow path, the incline or uneven footing, I did my best to appear nonchalant while I wondered if I might die here (always ready to embrace the dire and dramatic.) Then things became yet more challenging and my limitations apparent to both of them. Halfway down to the bottom I was not about to turn around.

IMI N IFRI climb thruIMI N IFRI  climb thru (6)

Our guide, now a local hero in my eyes, watched patiently as I sat in the dirt again and again to reach the next boulder down or as extended a hand so I could balance on one foot to lamely hop to the next round stone. They allowed me my dignity when I rejected any help from either of them and scooched along with crab like hands on my rear end, making a dust cloud to reach the next foothold. Every moment held a split screen focus of challenge and wonderment as we looked around us at the beauty and mystery of this extraordinary place.

IMI N IFRI (4)

It had taken us far longer than would have been expected to reach the left side of Imi N ifri.  Boujameh waved from the top of the cement steps happy to see us emerge from the cave into view. We waved back happy and tired. (He was happy.  I was happy and tired.)  In fact He had enjoyed himself immensely and looked ready to do it all over again.  See me perspiring, covered in dust, splashed with mud, Boujameh asked “It was okay?  You liked it?’  “Liked it?” Me said.  ‘it was wonderful.”  And yes, we would do it again. Another day.

IMI N IFRI left stairs (8)

Rate this:

Maison Kayser – Boulanger Extraordinaire

25 Wednesday Dec 2013

Posted by meandhetravel in New York City, RESTAURANTS, Uncategorized

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

#Boulanger, #Maison Kayser, #Patisserie, New York City

MAISON KAYSER

“Quiche this good could never be cliché!” He purred.  “I should have bought more,” Me said sadly.  A splendid morning made buttery-yum-special with individual quiches purchased at Maison Kayser in Midtown Manhattan. Warmed in our own oven with a smug nod to last year’s resolution to use at least one kitchen appliance per calendar year, freshly brewed coffee, flaky pastry, and an irresistible aroma were the perfect start to this Christmas Day.

Maison Kayser is quite literally a slice, if you will, of Paris bordering Bryant Park.  What to choose – that is the question.  Their vast array of croissant,  baguettes, pain au chocolat, pastries, tarts, eclairs, as well as full size and individual cakes are masterfully prepared and presented daily.

With tables and chairs at the back and quick,  charming counter service at the front, MK has become the favorite of Bryant Park area residents, commuters and tourists alike.  Certainly a favorite of ours! Bon appetit!

Maison Kayser    8 West 40th Street   New York City    212-364-2300

Rate this:

Say Cheese, Please!

22 Sunday Dec 2013

Posted by meandhetravel in New York City, RESTAURANTS

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

#Artisinal Bistro, #Cheese, #Wine, New York City

Artisinal“You’re home early,” He said pressing the mute button on the remote.  “Did you have fun?”  Hmmm. Yes. Out for dinner with a wonderful friend, we did have fun, but that had less to do with the restaurant and more to do with the company.

Artisinal Bistro and Fromagerie in midtown Manhattan holds pride of place in the small dining desert surrounding Madison and 32nd.  Usually full, bordering on cramped, privy to perhaps everyone’s conversation but your own, it can get loud.  Pace is definitely on the menu, Are you ready to order, can I take that away for you, will there be anything else. Not my choice for a relaxing or romantic meal.  But a weeknight after work near the office? Not a bad choice.

Having ordered a St. Emilion Grand Cru and being presented a lesser vintage some $65 cheaper, the waiter appeared more confused than concerned.  The gougere were room temperature. Entrees arrived before the gougere could be eaten.  My duck was tasty but overly salted and overly sauced. My guest didn’t comment on her meal. I was afraid to ask. The wine, however late to the table, was great.

But for cheese lovers, mes amis, this is the place to be.  Order pretty much anything from their cheese menu you will have a wonderful time with the added bonus of being able to purchase any of their cheeses on the menu (and more) from the fromagerie before you leave.  Cheese is deservedly Artisinal’s hallmark and strength.  Given the smiles and happy faces with fondue forks in hand,  this is the raison d’etre for Artisinal. Given the range of selection and extensive wine selections on offer, it won’t be difficult to have great experience (and a little something to take home from the counter). Worth noting, catering and on-line delivery and shipping are also available, so their website is definitely worth checking out.

Rate this:

15 East (New York City – Japanese)

15 Sunday Dec 2013

Posted by meandhetravel in New York City, RESTAURANTS

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

#15 East, New York City, Restaurants

Fine dining, excellent service and superb experience. While not inexpensive, the exquisite tasting menu gracefully supported by an admirable wine list makes for a memorable and entertaining evening.  While the atmosphere is one of sophisticated calm, there is an energy of enthusiasm in the air. Diners with smiles, engaged, knowledgeable servers and not a disappointment to be found on the menu or plate. Me and He loved everything, again, at 15 East He said, “Japanese is never at the top of my list.  But 15 East certainly is.”  Me said, “I agree.”

15 EAST SUSHI

15 East on Urbanspoon

Rate this:

The Balmoral – Queen of Scots

08 Sunday Dec 2013

Posted by meandhetravel in Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

#The Balmoral, Edinburgh, Scotland

The Balmoral

“I want to go back to Edinburgh. “ He said. “Do you mean Edinburgh or The Balmoral?” Me said.  “Really sort of the same thing isn’t it?” He said. Well, yes, but not exactly – because the delights, sights and charm of Edinburgh are not limited to its leading lady of hotels. But the finest qualities of Edinburgh are certainly up front and center at The Balmoral.

Queen B’s enviable location at the divide between Edinburgh’s “Old and New Towns, overlooks Princes Street Garden and embraces the best of the old and new in hotel terms.  Old World tradition and standards are respectfully upheld but expressed with the energy, efficiency and expediency the modern traveler values so highly. There is nothing stuffy or fussy about the manner or pace of the service and comfort provided.

Repeat stays evoke the illusion of being a distant, but welcome relative to royalty. Queen B embraces her guests with an endearing wink and a discrete whisper that it would be quite alright to be on more familiar terms and perhaps call her “Edie B” in this grand but relaxed setting.

We love this hotel with its wonderful food, attentive well trained staff, splendid location and excellent spa services. There is an air of simplicity, good humor, and blend of practicality and grace that make Edinburgh and The Balmoral irresistible.  If you haven’t been, please go!  And if you do, please give Queen B our best.

Rate this:

Signs of Love

03 Tuesday Dec 2013

Posted by meandhetravel in France, Paris

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

#Bistro, #France, #Paris, Love

Winter ParisI’m hungry,” He said.  “Me too,” Me replied. Happy to be back in Paris, we dropped our bags off at the apartment we had rented in the Marais and made straight to a local bistro for lunch.  Grateful to find a table for two, we unwrapped our layers of wool and prepared to order.  En Francaise.  Badly, sil vous plait.

Wine poured, Me started to do what Me does most, if not best – talk.  There was so much to talk about.  The flight, the queue at the airport, what I forgot to pack, what I wished I had packed, how much we love Paris, how much we hate the snow at home but love the snow in Paris, how good the bread was, what we would order next time, how much Me loves He and how we really belong in Paris and should spend as much time here as we possibly can.

“Do you think you could maybe try to talk a little bit less with your hands?” He asked trying to remove some droplets of the sauce brunoise that had leapt across the table from my fork to his sweater.  “I don’t mean to,” Me said.  “It just happens.”  He smiled or sighed. Actually it was something in between. “I don’t talk with my hands,” Me explained.  “I gesture. It’s a kind of punctuation.  A form of expression, sort of.”  He ordered a second desert.

The two handsome Frenchmen who had been seated next to us rose to leave, continuing their animated conversation as they bundled up and exited out into the cinematic snowflakes continuing to fall outside.

“There!  There, did you see?” Me persisted.  “Did you notice the couple next to us?  Both of them! They never stopped using their hands the entire time they were talking!”

“I did see that,” He said. “But they, my love, were both deaf and using sign language.”  “Oh,” Me said. The only thing I had noticed were two people very much in love.

Rate this:

Ardanaiseig Hotel

01 Sunday Dec 2013

Posted by meandhetravel in Scotland, United Kingdom

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

#Ardanaiseig Hotel, #Loch Awe, Scotland

ARD TOP IMAGE

Me said, “Scotland.” He said, “What about it?”  Me said, “Well, we really should go.” He said, “When?  Me said, “I’m thinking soon.”  He said, “Okay. Let me know and I’ll book the air.”  Everything should be that easy.

We had a long holiday weekend coming up, so squeaking in a four night stay despite the prospect of  overseas connecting flights and few hours drive north and back from Edinburgh to Loch Awe didn’t seem out of the question.

It was time worth taking and money well spent. Despite jet lag and driving on the other side of the road, pulling into the gravel drive inspired happy smiles and relaxed sighs. “All things considered, you drove really well,” Me said. “I did, didn’t I?” He said. Hmmm. Peace restored, we went inside.

#2

With grace, charm and the casual appeal of a family country estate, the broad high windows of the drawing room and deep comfy sofas were a welcome sight. Over the coming days, this would be our “nest” for drinks before delicious dinners, an afternoon tea, a tray lunch and lazy loch viewing.

#3

Through higgly piggly corridors typical of a house this size and age,  we were shown to our very comfortable room with a view of Loch Awe and ample bathroom. The rooms vary in size and view www,ardanaiseig.com and we were very happy with ours.  Our meals were lovely, the staff unfailing attentive and helpful and the grounds were superb: rhodedendrons, daffodils, blue bells. We did a good bit of  walking (not by Scottish standards), particularly in what we named The Moss Forest.

Ardanaiseig

As we would later find out on return trips, Loch Awe was a wonderful introduction to the grand lochs of Scotland. We walked where we could around the perimeter, enjoying an agreeable degree of mud and discovering patches of daredevil daffodils that had wandered down to the loch’s edge. It was a peaceful, satisfying visit worth repeating. Me said, “I knew we’d love it here.”  He said, “Me too.”  But it was time to go home.

LAKE

Rate this:

Subscribe

  • Entries (RSS)
  • Comments (RSS)

Archives

  • August 2014
  • March 2014
  • February 2014
  • January 2014
  • December 2013
  • November 2013

Categories

  • COUPLEDOM
  • Czech Republic
    • Prague
  • France
    • Paris
  • Germany
    • Berlin
  • GOOD THINGS
  • HOTELS
  • India
    • Agra
    • Delhi
    • Ranthambore
  • Italy
    • Venice
  • Morocco
    • Marrakech
  • RESTAURANTS
    • New York City
  • Uncategorized
  • United Kingdom
    • Edinburgh
    • London
    • Scotland

Meta

  • Register
  • Log in

Blog at WordPress.com.

  • Follow Following
    • Me and He Travel
    • Join 37 other followers
    • Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
    • Me and He Travel
    • Customize
    • Follow Following
    • Sign up
    • Log in
    • Report this content
    • View site in Reader
    • Manage subscriptions
    • Collapse this bar
 

Loading Comments...