USA Travel Magazine

Fordham and Dominion Brewing Presents R2Hop2 Festival

In late April from 12-7pm Fordham and Dominion Brewing, located at 1284 McD Dr. in Dover invites you to enjoy live music by four local bands: Community Center, Lower Case Blues, River, and Epstein’s Mother.

To help you make the most of your trip, Fordham and Dominion Brewing Co. Is partnering with Dover, Delaware’s MainStay Suites to make an R2Hop2 festival and Good Libations tour package available for a limited time only.

The special package includes a room at the MainStay Suites, plus receive tickets to R2Hop2, Fordham and Dominion’s beer and music festival, along with Good Libations Tour passes to Mispillion River Brewing, Harvest Ridge Winery, and Painted Stave Distilling, all members of the Kent County-based tour.

Activities will include a keg toss, cornhole, and homebrew demonstrations. Throughout the day, there will be firkin tappings, a collaboration beer with Mispillion River Brewing, and wine from Harvest Ridge Winery. Fordham Bier Dawgs, craft jerky, and oysters will be available, along with food stuffs from Lil Shuckers, Babci’s Potato Pancakes, Pigheaded BBQ, Hawg Nutz, Frankfurt Bakery and Deli, and Hot Stuff Paninis.

Plan Your Trip To The R2Hop2 Festival:

This is one of the many great packages available via the MainStay Suites. For current specials call (302) 678-8383.

For details on events and ticket information about the R2Hop2 Festival visit www.fordhamanddominion.com.

Photo Credits: R2Hop2 Festival

GIADA At The Cromwell Offers Signature Italian Dishes

Las Vegas welcomes the luxury boutique hotel and casino, The Cromwell. Blending traditional elements with Parisian flare and whimsical, modern details, the hotel will also feature the Giada De Laurentiis’ self-titled restaurant, GIADA.

The inviting atmosphere at GIADA offers an al fresco dining experience, and a beautiful exhibition kitchen showcasing fresh pastas being made daily by hand. A treat for guest will be the signature antipasto bar, which is a first for Italian eateries on the Strip.

The menu embraces De Laurentiis’ Roman heritage, mirroring her passion for Italian cooking with vibrant, Californian influences. GIADA will utilize the freshest ingredients to create a new take on the traditional Italian cuisine, while staying true to classic favorites.

“I’m so excited, not only to be opening my very first restaurant, but to be one of the first female chefs on the Las Vegas Strip,” says Giada De Laurentiis. “My goal for this restaurant is to be able to share a part of my life, my culture and my family with every guest. I want each person to feel like they’re entering my home, receiving a big welcoming hug and enjoying a fantastic Italian meal.”

Among the signature dishes to be offered will be Lemon Spaghetti, Eggplant Rollatini, Marsala Herb Chicken Meatballs and Lemon Ricotta Cookies. GIADA offers a new dining experience whether you want to enjoy a delicious breakfast, lunch, or evening meal. For those planning a get together or large gathering, GIADA will also have a private dining room space available.

Plan Your Culinary Experience At GIADA

To view current packages at The Cromwell use this link.

To explore menu items, and more about Giada De Laurentiis’ self-titled restaurant, GIADA visit www.GiadaDeLaurentiis.com.

Photo Credits: Giada De Laurentiis/The Cromwell

Meet Dr. Oakley, Northern Canada’s Yukon Vet

Showing on National Geographic Wild, Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet shares the encounters of veterinarian, Dr. Michelle Oakley as she makes house calls across thousands of square miles in the Yukon. This is Northern Canada’s wild country, and these are not your typical house calls.

In upcoming episode’s Dr. Oakley visits the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, where she tries to help a reindeer named Skippy, who has had two surgeries, but his umbilical hernia continues to reappear.

The challenges continue for Dr. Oakley on her home clinic visits, in which she faces with an angry cat that may have diabetes, a dog with an uncomfortable anal gland problem, and give a pedicure and beak trim to an exotic 38-year-old blue and gold parrot.

Often accompanied by her teenage daughters, Dr. Oakley and her daughter, Sierra, perform a checkup on an 8-month-old Leonberger puppy weighing in at more than 100 pounds. They’ll fight to keep a bighorn sheep alive, and check in on an orphaned bear with a raspy lung, who gets nervous around new people!

For Dr. Oakley this is just the start of her busy schedule across the frigid, remote landscapes of Northern Canada. What animal emergencies await today? Find out by following their adventures on the National Geographic Wild series, Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet.

Learn More About Dr. Oakley, The Yukon Vet:

To discover more about National Geographic Wild’s series Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet visit http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/wild/dr-oakley-yukon-vet/.

Author Patrick Kingsley Shares A Journey to the Cultural Heart of Denmark In How To Be Danish

In How To Be Danish we take a journey with Patrick Kingsley, who explores the happiest country on Earth; Denmark. Although, the mention in the 2013 World Happiness Report it was a surprise to locals (pg 165).

From the moment you begin reading, Patrick draws you deeper into the history of Denmark. We explore the country’s architecture and design, politics, food, and the everyday lives of the country’s people. When you travel the world it’s interesting to learn about the cultures. This is what is most enjoyable about Patrick’s book; learning about the Danish people and their views. He reveals that there is no word for “please” in Denmark, and the different views between the country folk and those who thrive in the cities like Copenhagen.

Winner of the 2013 Frontline award for print journalism, Patrick lives in Cario, and works as the Guardian’s Egypt correspondent. He was named new journalist of the year at the 2013 British Journalism Awards, and a finalist at the Foreign Press Awards. In How To Be Danish Patrick’s experience as a journalist helps him delve deeper into Denmark’s social issues, and what the future holds.

Whether planning a trip to Denmark or if you’re just interested in learning ore about the country’s history and culture; How To Be Danish is a revealing tale of a Denmark and it’s people.

Look for How To Be Danish in your local book store or visit http://www.patrickkingsley.co.uk/.

Get Ready To Race In The Pinewood Derby At The Indiana State Museum

Join the Indiana State Museum and the Boy Scouts of America Crossroads of America Council in early April 5 for the Pinewood Derby to race your derby cars down the two-story, 125-feet of track. Registration is before 1 p.m. for the official race. There is a low admission fee for Boy Scouts and their families.

Also, don’t forget to enter your Pinewood Derby car in the museum’s Best in Show competition. The Best in Show cars wil be awarded based on visual design, and must be registered by 2 p.m. for the Best in Show.

Dr. Joe Harder, Associate Professor Management Information Systems at ISU and Dr. Joyce Young, Professor of Marketing at ISU will be on hand to uncover the Science of Speed behind the Pinewood Derby.

While at the museum check out their current exhibit or catch a IMAX movie on the BIG screen, and watch for upcoming programs to join!

Plan Your Trip To The Indiana State Museum:

The Indiana State Museum is located in White River State Park in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. To explore more exhibits, events, catch an IMAX Movie, and for ticket prices call the Indiana State Museum at 317-232-1637 or visit www.indianamuseum.org.

Renew Your Senses On A Getaway To Atlantic City

Get away to the only destination on the East Coast where you can get relaxed, get revived and get turned on – Atlantic City. Head to Atlantic City that focuses on relaxation, revitalization and revelry, and is truly a one-of-a-kind destination where you can maximize the most out of any getaway. Wellness vacations are increasing in popularity and Atlantic City is a forerunner for both physical and emotional retreats.

Among the upcoming events to plan ahead for are the professional volleyball and surfing events, and every year Atlantic City hosts the Atlantic City Marathon in October attracting more than 2,000 runners from around the region every year. These are a handful of the annual events that make a vacation in Atlantic City even more exciting during your visit.

With more than four miles of Boardwalk, the beach and the therapeutic salt water of the Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic City provides the perfect setting for bike riding, walking, running and surfing on a daily basis. All of the casino hotels feature state-of-the-art fitness rooms with sauna, Jacuzzi’s and swimming pools to keep guests feeling fit. Plus, Atlantic City has over 30 nationally recognized golf courses sure to make any golfers’ pulse race. With more than 198 holes, the Atlantic City region is one of the premier golf destinations in the country promoting fitness and well-being.

Retreat into the sanctuary of world-class spa destinations. Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa, bluemercury apothecary and spa, Spa Toccare, Larimar Aveda Salon & Spa, The Spa at Bally’s among others all offer an array of treatments that will pamper every guest and rejuvenate their spirits.

In need of a little retail therapy? Look no farther than Atlantic City. With more than 200 shops touting high-end designers, including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Burberry and Tiffany as well as the stores you love such as Sony, Apple, Victoria Secret and Coach. Atlantic City is also home to the Atlantic City Outlets – The Walk featuring 100 outlet stores, including Adidas, Nike, Banana Republic, H & M, Calvin Klein and more. With all the options, a little therapy never looked so good.

Once you have restored your sense of self, get out and get “Turned On.” With 11 casinos and nightlife galore, entertainment is as easy to come by as the dice. If laughter is the best medicine, than AC has the cure – spend the night in one of two comedy clubs featuring the latest up-and-coming comedians from around the country at the Borgata Comedy Club and The Comedy Stop at Tropicana. Casinos, headliner entertainment, revue shows, nightclubs, lounges and bars balance the serenity of mind and body with the excitement of ‘letting loose’ in a city that embraces the human spirit.

Plan Your Getaway To Atlantic City?

For complete details on vacation packages, attractions, events, and entertainment visit the Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority website at www.atlanticcitynj.com.

Port Canaveral To Offer Access To Nearby Dining And Entertainment

With the approval of Cruise Terminal 1 at the south side of Canaveral harbor, passengers will have access to more dining and entertainment.

The Port Canaveral commissioners unanimously approved selection of local firm Ivey’s Construction of Merritt Island, Florida to build the 187,500 square foot facility.

During the construction the current boat ramps at Freddie Patrick Park in the Cove will remain open with parking relocated directly south of the current parking area. This temporary parking will be in place until the new boat ramp facility is constructed just west of Jetty Park near the entrance of the Port’s harbor.

Commission Chairman Tom Weinberg said, “We are fulfilling our pledge to our community to build a better boat ramp complex to continue Port Canaveral’s heritage of recreational fishing and boating for residents and visitors.” The new boat ramp facility is expected to be complete this summer.

Plan Your Trip To Port Canaveral

To learn more about Port Canaveral by visiting www.portcanaveral.com.

Explore Kentucky’s Bourbon History At The Frazier History Museum

Along with historic artifacts from Kentucky around the world, and the stunning Hunger Games: The Exhibition, the Frazier also explore’s the Bourbon history of the state. The Frazier has partnered with the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) to present a Bourbon History exhibit that includes the actual Congressional resolution declaring Bourbon to be “America’s Native Spirit.”

The original exhibit marked the first time the document left the National Archives since it was signed in 1964. Working with the KDA, the Frazier has continued to expand and extend the Bourbon History exhibit to include many more objects and artifacts that tell the story of Kentucky’s signature industry and the reasons why it so important to the state’s heritage, culture and economy.

And, you’ll want to mark your calendar for the Bourbon and Beyond Festival that blends bourbon, music and Kentucky cuisine that kick’s off in Louisville this fall. Bourbon, master distillers, national and local chefs, bartenders and musicians will take over Champions Park on Sept. 23 and 24. And, a special treat will be the performances by Stevie Nicks, along with Eddie Vedder, the Steve Miller Band and several other musical acts.

Bourbon and Beyond is presented by Danny Wimmer, who is recognized throughout the country for his music festivals. The festival is an “all-encompassing celebration in honor of the soul and spirit of Kentucky,” according to festival organizers. The festival will showcase more than 50 of the best Kentucky Bourbons curated by bestselling author and bourbon authority Fred Minnick, nationally celebrated Louisville chef Edward Lee, and celebrity chef Chris Cosentino.

Did You Know? September is National Bourbon Heritage Month, which is the ideal time to join the Bourbon and Beyond Festival, and visit one of the six distilleries open for public tours or enjoy the Urban Bourbon Trail pub crawl highlighting Louisville’s best bourbon bars and restaurants.

Order Tickets To The Bourbon and Beyond Festival

Tickets are on sale now, and can be ordered by visiting www.BourbonAndBeyond.com.

Visit The Frazier History Museum

To explore current and upcoming exhibits and events at the Frazier History Museum use this link.

Plan your Trip To Louisville

Planning a trip to Louisville is easy when you visit the Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau website, where you can find trip planning resources, including suggested itineraries, the monthly Lookin’ at Louisville video series, a searchable list events, free Louisville Visitors Guide, plus a complimentary hotel booking service via 1-888-LOUISVILLE.

Photo Credits: Frazier History Museum/Bourbon and Beyond Festival

Tour North Carolina’s Wine Trail and Join The Yadkin Valley Wine Festival

North Carolina’s Surry wineries offer many vintages flavors to sample. To help along the way here are some suggestions for your trip. Start at McRitchie Winery and Ciderworks to sample wines, and hard cider as well. Afterwards, visit Elkin Creek Vineyards, which is located on the property of a century-old mill. They also have some wonderful monthly beer selections to enjoy.

In downtown Elkin drop in at Harry’s Place for lunch, before visiting Grassy Creek Vineyard and Winery. At the winery, experience a tasting in the historic red barn and take your time walking the vineyard’s trails. Grassy Creek also has cozy on-site Klondike Cabins that make a nice stop over so you can enjoy dining at Twenty One and Main Restaurant and Wine Bar.

The Carolina Heritage Vineyards is North Carolina’s first USDA Certified Organic Vineyard and solar powered winery, and here you can get a behind the scenes tour of how they grow American native and hybrid grapes. Next to Hutton Vineyards in historic Rockford and sample wines in their tasting room located in a former tobacco barn.

As the evening comes around, visit the Shelton Vineyards in Dobson, and enjoy a glass of wine and dinner at the upscale Harvest Grill before spending the night at the nearby Hampton Inn and Suites.

The following day is a opportunity to visit Stony Knoll Vineyards that is located on a century-old farm near the town of Rockford. The rustic 1800’s farmhouse converted into a tasting room at Olde Mill Vineyards nearby is one of the newest of Surry’s wineries. Another great stop over is the Round Peak Vineyards, where you can sample more award winning wines and enjoy the views from their picturesque grounds.

If you plan to return in the Spring time be sure to visit Elkin Municipal Park for the Yadkin Valley Wine Festival in Mid May. This is a exciting event that brings together the variety of great wineries for wine lovers to experience.

Expect to enjoy samples from 30 wineries pouring the best wines from the Yadkin Valley Appellation. Along with wines to sample, you can enjoy food from local caterers and live music, as well as browse among the various craft vendors, who will showcase their creative works.

Get ready for a foot tapping time as Americana and bluegrass sounds from the Natty Boh Duo take the stage from noon to 2 p.m.. Afterwards, the award-winning Mixed Emotions band will play some beach music from 3-6 p.m.

Your admission ticket includes a commemorative wine glass with the festival logo. And, active duty military personnel and retirees receive a discount in honor of Armed Forces Day with proper identification.

Designated drivers and those who will not be consuming or purchasing wines, and those under 21 get Free admission to the Yadkin Valley Wine Festival. If you do plan to enjoy the tastings offered by the wineries be sure to have your ID ready to show your proof of age.

Plan Your Trip To The Yadkin Valley Wine Festival:

To learn more about the Yadkin Valley Wine Festival and ticket options go to www.yvwf.com.

Photo Credits: Yadkin Valley Wine Festival

Experience The Adventure With Star Trek Online

If you’re a fan of Star Trek, then you have to visit Star Trek Online by Atari and Cryptic, and you can explore the Vast Star Trek Universe Through Space and Ground Gameplay. There’s not only gaming, you can also catch up on the latest news on Star Trek television shows and movies.

Star Trek Online allows players to become a warrior in the Klingon Empire or join the Federation’s esteemed Starfleet and explore a never-before-seen, completely interactive Star Trek universe. For fans a run with the open beta of the highly anticipated Star Trek Online for PC is a cool way to get a preview of what’s to come, and take one step closer to playing in the final frontier.

By visiting the official Star Trek website Online at http://www.startrekonline.com/openbeta you’ll find details about where you can obtain the open beta keys and where to download the open beta client. With a valid open beta key you’re then ready to explore the Star Trek universe and play the first-of-a-kind massively multiplayer online role-playing game.

Taking place in the year 2409, Star Trek Online boasts extraordinary features and lets fans both new and old experience unparalleled adventures. Players will have the opportunity to become a high ranking Starfleet officer and will participate in missions that will take them into the depths of space, across exotic planets and even inside other starships. Star Trek Online offers total customization, where every ship players command can be customized, from color to construction. Additionally, anyone can create their own species in Star Trek Online, as well as customize the look of their avatar’s uniform.

“We are thrilled to give open beta access to fans as we draw nearer to the official release of Star Trek Online,” said Craig Zinkievich, Executive Producer on Star Trek Online. “We are looking forward to the launch of our first-of-a-kind MMORPG with anticipation and excitement and we expect Star Trek Online to explode onto the scene, giving fans and gamers a Star Trek experience like no other.”

Are you ready to explore the vast Star Trek Universe? Be sure to check out the latest adventures of Star Trek Online Escalation and other news online.