may 7, 2010

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Nashville Flooding

One of our favorite cities, covered in the current issue of Travelgirl, is suffering from unprecedented floods. Although all the highways have reopened, many parts of the city are still underwater or without power. Shows at the Grand Ole Opry are being relocated, but the adjacent Opryland Hotel is under 10 feet of water and is closed indefinitely. The Schermerhorn Symphony Center lost thousands of dollars in musical equipment in its basement, but was happy the water did not get into symphony hall. For the latest information for visitors, go to www.visitmusiccity.com/visitors/floodinformation

Oil Spill Updates

We are so saddened by the potential devastation to coastal systems and wildlife from the oil spill off the Gulf Coast. To find out the latest information on the spill, including maps and updates on efforts to contain the spill, visit the website of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. NOAA's Office of Response and Restoration is at the site of the BP/Transocean’s Deepwater Horizon oil spill. www.noaa.gov.

Las Vegas Fav Relocates

Social House, one of my favorite restaurants in Las Vegas, will relocate to CityCenter. The restaurant closed its previous location at Treasure Island in July 2009 to prepare for the new location, which will be on the second floor of Crystals and will include an enclosed dining area and an open terrace that overlooks the first-floor shopping area. Can’t say I'll miss the noisy interruptions of the Sirens of TI show that we experienced quite up-close during our last dining experience there. Social House is scheduled to open early summer. www.purelv.com

Pretty in Paris

Hotel Beauchamps, an 89-room boutique hotel, has opened in Paris in the 8th arrondissement, not too far from the Champs Elysée. The hotel's restaurant, Velvet, has a 1930's Far East theme. I'm impressed by the hotel after reading an entry on Trip Advisor. A family was stranded there during the volcano in Iceland and the hotel told them they could stay as long as they needed and also offered a discount. So check them out next time you heading to Paris. www.hotelbeauchamps.com

Pick of
the Week

As I increasingly turn over the meat portion of our dinners to my husband, who excels in all things grilled, I thought I'd make it a little more fun by offering him a line of grilling products from Fire & Flavor Grilling Company. The make brine mixes, skewers, spices, rubs and more. I'm most intrigued by the grilling planks that will add a woodsy flavor to meats and fish. They are so easy – just soak the plank in water for an hour – throw the meat on and cook on the grill. The company's founder, Gena Knox, has also written a wonderful book. Gourmet Made Simple: A Fresh Approach to Flavor focuses on using local foods and fresh ingredients. Check all these out at www.fireandflavor.com