The Travel Issue

ANDERSONSOMERSELLE.COM Winter 2017

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THE

ravel

A Lifestyle Zine

ssue I

ANDERSONSOMERSELLE.COM A Lifestyle Zine

The Travel Issue

T

he end of the year always catches me by surprise. Work-filled autumn months slip right through my fingers, and suddenly the holidays are upon us. Looking back at 2017, I feel especially thankful that I was able to cross quite a few places off of my “Travel Bucket List.” From strolling through the romantic streets of Paris to basking in the tranquil landscapes of the Pocono mountains, my adventures this year have fed and refueled my spirit.

In this issue, we are talking about travel! I’ll share personal stories from my recent trip abroad, and I’ll be sure to walk you through some of the best recipes I brought back to the

states. My “A List” of must-have items is required reading before you start packing for your next adventure. Actress and travel enthusiast Jessie Cannizzaro will join us to discuss her dream destinations and share practical advice to make you feel (and look) like a professional jet-setter. In this issue’s “ReStyle” section, I’ll design living spaces inspired by different regions of the world. And last but not least, you didn’t ask for it, but I brought it anyway: Haggis, haggis, HAGGIS! I’ve convinced Michael that we can find a way to put our vegan-ish twist on the (infamously meatbased) classic Scottish dish. Will we succeed?

Will he taste it? Keep on reading to find out!

THE

LIST

Carry On

The A List

This perfectly sized grey toiletry bag has everything you need. Three separate zippered compartments fit a great amount of items, keeping them separated and organized, and fold together into a purse-sized bag. You don’t even have to unpack it: you can hang the bag open on a towel hook and access whatever item you need when you need it.

Away We Go!

Away Luggage makes the perfect suitcase. It's designed for the way people actually travel. This luggage is functional and beautifully minimalistic.

Featuring unbreakable shells, interior compartments, and get this: builtin USB chargers! Now that's smart. This is the luggage of your dreams.

Plug In

Just In Case

When you are traveling abroad, your passport should be your number one prized possession. So why not dress it up and keep it safe? What better way to do that than with a personlized passport case!

Outlets vary from country to country, and we’re all lost without our devices!

Do your research to bring an adapter that will help you out where you’re going.

This inexpensive set of four adapters kept me plugged in through my Europe trip.

Towel Down

I was hesitant about trying out a microfiber towel, but I’m glad I took the risk. This towel is huge, soft, absorbent, and lightweight. It folds up nice and small into the included drawstring bag, which makes it easy to pack and bring on a day trip. It’s the perfect multi-purpose towel: I used it as a bath towel, a pool towel, a beach blanket and a picnic blanket.

EG

Anderson’s

uropean etaway

T

his May, I celebrated my thirtieth birthday. And I do mean “celebrated!” Some people dread leaving their twenties behind, but not me. Looking back at my life so far – the insecurities of my childhood, followed by some personal and professional ups and downs in my twenties – I finally feel like I have begun to manifest my “true self.”

I’m in control of my life, and I’m taking responsibility for my own happiness and success. I embraced my thirtieth birthday as the symbol of achievement in progress and growth that it is.

Beginning this new decade (and era) of my life, I felt it was important to fulfill a lifelong dream of traveling to Europe. I’ve always been drawn to the breathtaking architectural highlights of Europe: The Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and many more. I knew that immersing myself in the culture and heartbeat of cities like Paris and London would enrich me as a person and as a designer. I’m so excited to share with you some of my favorite moments of this trip.

Flying to Europe Has Never Been Cheaper.

LONDON

E

ngland has been on my list for years!

To be surrounded by such impressive history and inspiring architecture was going to be a dream come true. Even more exciting: I was going to see England from the perspective a tourist and through the eyes of a local. A few years ago in Princeton, New Jersey, I met my good friend Zoltan (yes, that's really his name - no, he’s not a robot or a comic book villain). Conveniently enough, Zoltan now lives in London. When I started planning this trip, I told him that I wanted to see London as if I lived there. Of course I wanted to see Big Ben and the major attractions, but I also wanted to ride the tube and eat at the local pubs. Zoltan told me to not worry about a thing, he’d plan the perfect experience for me.

London was the first stop on my European getaway, and the schedule was jam-packed. I touched down at 11am in Gatwick, a cute little airport about an hour and a half outside of London. I could have taken a train to the city from there, but I was pleasantly surprised to be picked up by Zoltan and driven through the beautiful English countryside.

The English country is everything I thought it would be: sheep roam free in the rolling green hills, cows graze in the pastures, quaint English cottages and that crisp country air.

After a bit of rest at Zoltan’s flat, we were off to the city for a drink and a bite. It was perfect timing because it was happy hour. Let me tell you, nobody loves a happy hour like a Londoner. Every bar and pub was packed! Now if I were back in New York, I’d sooner have a drink at home than try to tolerate a crowded bar in touristy Times Square.

But, being on an adventure, I was all too happy to squeeze into the crowd at The Sterling. Located on the ground level of London's iconic Gherkin building, it was the perfect place to grab my first British pint! Then, we headed off to grab a burger at Meat Mission, a place famous for their breathtaking stained glass ceiling and mouth-watering burgers. It absolutely lived up to the hype. The best part of eating with locals is that they’ll point to you in the direction of some of the area’s (frequently more affordable) hidden gems.

I had told Zoltan that I didn’t want to see London from the window of a car. I wanted to walk as much as possible.

Walking around a new city, if you can, is the best way to experience it. My third day in London was my “walkabout” day, and boy, did we walk! VisitaCity.com has a Things-to-Do planner that helps you plan your itinerary based on how much time you have. With Z’s input, I used this feature to plan the day. I was sure to select some major points of interest such as the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and one of my architectural obsessions, Big Ben. We were up and out the door first thing in the morning, and on our way into the city on one of those iconic double-decker buses. I was surprised to find out these are the regular local transportation, not tour buses as I had assumed! Once we got into the heart of the city, our walkabout began. We ended the day’s tour with a cool martini… shaken, not stirred.

It’s no secret that I’m a social person, and I love meeting new people. So, of course I had to have a little night out on the town. Zoltan and I planned our day so we would end up in London’s gay-friendly neighborhood, SoHo. We popped into Village Bar, which was the first gay bar to open its doors in London's Soho. After that, we went to check out The Duke of Wellington, a traditional London pub that attracts a slightly older (30 plus) gay crowd with a laid back vibe and AMAZING wallpaper. At the Duke, we met and befriended flatmates Tricia and Nick. They were so warm and welcoming, when they heard it was my last night in London, they insisted we go on a pub crawl immediately! Tricia was hoping to end up at a bar where the guy she likes was working. Although Zoltan was quick to remind me that we had to be up early for our train to Paris, the matchmaker in me couldn’t resist joining Tricia to see if sparks would fly between her and her crush. And while I won’t kiss and tell on Tricia’s behalf, I can tell you that we all had a great time the rest of the night. We danced, we drank, and as we met more friendly locals and fellow travellers, we collected great suggestions for the best spots to check out in Paris.

Indie

Artist

Kevin Carlie Smith is an up-and-coming fashion designer making a name for himself in New York City.

Kevin studied fashion at the Academy of Art in San Francisco, California. This New York Fashion Week veteran made his official move to NYC three years ago to continue building his name in the fashion industry. Kevin's clothes have landed on the cover and in the pages of multiple magazines both here in the US and internationally.

Currently, Kevin is working on a new collection, but he took a moment to let us know how his travels have influenced his design aesthetic.

Kevin: My travels have influenced the way I experience and process inspiration. Having lived outside the US, I was able to experience different cultures and ways of life. It is very different to have first-hand experiences rather than seeing something in a book, on TV, or a computer. Seeing how people interact and have differing views has had an influence on me and my process. I am able to see things from many different angles, which allows me to have a distinct point of view in my designs. It has allowed me not to be confined or restricted, put in a box so to speak.

My unique perspective helps me to find new ways to design and different approaches to create.

PA R I S

L

et me start with a travel “don't.” Do not (I repeat, do not!) schedule a travel day after a long, late night of tequila! Exhausted but excited, Zoltan and I were on the Euro-Tunnel.

The Euro-Tunnel is a train that you drive your car onto, and it brings you under the English Channel to France in about an hour and a half. You haven’t really experienced France until you’ve driven a convertible with the top down through the countryside, belting Shania Twain with your travel companions. That’s some travel advice you won’t get from Fodor’s!

We had no set itinerary for Paris. So I surrendered myself to a plan that I'm not too fond of: “Go with the flow.” Our adventure started right away. We desperately needed to get gas for the car, but were finding out (after several failed attempts) that some parts of France were experiencing a gas shortage. So, fair lesson learned: brush up on current events of the places you are visiting. Luckily, we made it to our hotel where our concierge was able to help us find gas and parking.

We checked into our hotel, which was located near the Sacré-Cœur, a breath-taking hilltop cathedral overlooking Paris, designed by French architect Paul Abadie in 1875. We climbed the 90 steps (I think) from the street to the base to the of cathedral to take in the view. When we went inside the cathedral to take in all its majesty, from its beatiful stained glass windows to its haunting religious statues, I was overcome with emotion. I sat in one of the pews and took a moment to offer my gratitude to the universe for bringing me to such a beautiful place on such a life-changing trip.

After that moment of reflection, we went to see the lady herself, the Eiffel Tower. The best time to see her in all of her glory is at sunset. As we walked up the mall towards her, we tried not to trip over the many couples sprawled out for picnics (and making out) in the grass. We stuck around long enough to see the spectacular light show another great reason to be sure to see the tower at night.

The next day we embarked on what we called our “tour-de-France.” We hopped on the train and headed to town.

As we emerged from underground we were immediately in the hustle and bustle of Paris: people having breakfast, people on bikes, and someone was even yelling “Maurice, the baguettes, hurry up!” We turned the corner and there it was, the Notre Dame Cathedral. It was the stuff of dreams! We walked the streets of Paris, popping into local shops and trying the famous French pastries. I recommend Kouign Amann, a round crusty cake containing layers of butter and sugar, similar in fashion to a croissant. We had lunch on the Seine alongside the Notre Dame. We later explored the neighborhood where our hotel was. To my surprise, we were just blocks away from the red-light district and the Moulin Rouge.

After my jog the next morning, Zoltan and I hopped in the car for a trip to see one of the greatest homes in the world: The Palace of Versailles. As an interior designer and fan of architecture, Versailles was sure to be my favorite stop so far. As I walked the grounds of the gardens, I felt very immersed in the history of this place. I felt connected to the people who walked those same paths so many years ago. Interestingly enough, I learned a true story about two women in 1901 who got lost while touring the grounds of Versailles. They reported to have seen the ghosts of Marie Antoinette’s court. If you’re going to Versailles, you should hear this story first! I learned about it through the podcast, Stuff You Missed in History Class.

As we drove back from the palace, I was a little bit sad that it was my last night with Zoltan. I was thankful for the memories we’d made and the friendship we maintained for all these years. We cranked up the music and just and enjoyed the trip back to our hotel.

EY H R !

EADERS

How has travel enriched your life?

"Traveling has made me more adventurous as I have gained a passion for the outdoors. Most of my trips now consist of going out to nature and soaking in all the beauty that our planet has to offer. Traveling has made me appreciate other cultures and lifestyles. Learning about other cultures has influenced my daily life by helping me assess what things within my life are truly important and what is not. A new friend I recently met while traveling told me that he loves to travel to escape from the stresses of daily life. Extended traveling helps him mentally reset which allows him to better enjoy his travels and to return home refreshed and with a most positive attitude towards his life. I agree with him and whether I travel near or far, I always return home with a more positive outlook."

- David Hernandez, Arizona -

"My dream was to have a job where I travel, because I can see the world and do what I love! I did just that, performing Burlesque from Alaska, to Hong Kong to Australia has given me the opportunity to meet WONDERFUL audiences, but also connecting with the global performance community, creating life long camaraderie that will last long after my career is gone!

Nothing is more fulfilling than international friendships!"

- Darlinda Just Darlinda, New York -

"I am not the stay on the resort kind of girl. I get all into my new environment: the culture, interacting with the people, eating new foods and appreciating being able to breathe a different quality of air, because I believe traveling should always be a learning experience which enhances your ability to value life having the knowledge of places beyond your norm."

- Shae Johnson, The Bronx -

"Travel has first and foremost let me see new places. Especially with work travel, I get to go places that I might not normally visit otherwise (southern Oregon, Baton Rouge, Omaha, and Des Moines). Travel has also given me the opportunity to connect with people and learn more about culture. This definitely applies to my international travels but it also applies to domestic travel. I get to learn more about the culture of different regions and be sensitive to cultural differences in my conversations with people from the south, the Pacific Northwest, and the Great Plains states."

- Mark Stovell, Brooklyn -

"Travel has taught me the true meaning of happiness. I've traveled a lot for missions and aid work and have seen people with far less 'things,' extremely happy. That's when I learned that happiness truly is a state of mind."

- Yaya Zoe, New York City -

Jessie xplores E

This month, we were thrilled to chat with NYC-based actor and rising star, Jessie Cannizzaro. Her amazing Instagram feed (@jessie_explores) takes us along for the ride as she travels to some of the most beautiful, inspiring places around the world. We sat down with her to get some practical advice about how to travel safely and comfortably - and, of course, to steal her secrets for taking the perfect Instagram travel photo.

"

I’ve been very lucky to have been able to visit some pretty neat corners of the world, and each place was amazing in its own very specific way.

"

Tell us a little about yourself! Where are you from, where do you live, what do you do?

Hi, world! My name is Jessie Cannizzaro, and I was born and raised in New York City (which is the place I currently still call home). I’m an actor, educator, and travel enthusiast! I can currently be seen in the off-Broadway comedy Puffs at New World Stages. When I’m not onstage at Puffs, I work as a freelance world history and literature tutor, and a museum guide at Gulliver’s Gate (a beautiful, brand new, immersive world of miniatures - perfect for any travel lover!).

What were some of your favorite places to visit?

Oh, goodness! I’ve been very lucky to have been able to visit some pretty neat corners of the world, and each place was amazing in its own very specific way. In no particular order, some of my favorite experiences have been: Enjoying the perfect peace and quiet in the gardens of Kyoto, Japan; exploring the alpine scenery and Baroque churches in Salzburg, Austria; contemplating history at The Palace of Versailles in France; examining the surrealist Gaudí architecture in Barcelona, Spain; having afternoon tea and baked scones at Harrods in London; wandering the iconic cliffside gardens of Ravello above the Amalfi coast in Italy; walking along Dubrovnik’s medieval city walls in Croatia; and gathering with other travelers at Oia Castle to watch the sunset in Santorini, Greece.

What advice would you give someone about to travel abroad? Any great tips?

Be flexible! After months of carefully planning our adventure to Italy, Greece, and Croatia, our flight was cancelled when we got to the airport. Then, upon arriving a day late on a new flight, all of our meticulously packed luggage got lost by the airline. It would have been easy to panic (and, okay, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t do my share of freaking out), but after the initial frenzy I tried to take deep breaths and relax. We were still on vacation, after all! You should always plan for delays and unexpected mishaps - life has a funny knack for getting in the way of our plans, no matter how organized they may have been. Though initially skeptical about travel insurance, we quickly became glad we had purchased it. I also suggest making sure you have an extra outfit or two, all your medications, your toothbrush and toothpaste, and any other essentials in your carry on bag (just in case the rest of your luggage gets separated).

Traveling anywhere, but especially internationally, can get people concerned about safety. Do you have any advice on ways to be smart and safe while abroad?

As with anything, simply remain aware of your surroundings, be smart, and trust your gut. Keep your money in more than one location, and keep a small and separate amount of cash for every-day transactions readily available. Make sure your phone is password protected with location tracking enabled. Purchase travel insurance before you leave. Let your family and friends back home know where you will be staying. Invest in a sturdy backpack, and keep your identification on you. Know how to get where you’re going before you head out for the day. Learn important words and phrases in the local language before you go. Be respectful, and most of all, have fun! As long as you are smart and mindful, there’s no reason to be concerned.

Your instagram feed is full of beautiful photos from your trips. What are your tips to taking the perfect instagram travel picture?

Why, thank you! My advice is take lots of photos! I always use a photo editing app or two before posting my pictures to Instagram, and it’s great to have lots of angles and options to scroll through first (and to remind myself of the wonderful things we saw that day!). Some of my favorite photo editor apps are Snapseed, VSCO, and Mextures - but remember not to edit too heavily!

It’s all about finding the right balance between enhancing your picture and maintaining the original photo’s integrity. Landscapes are gorgeous, but they can be heightened with the addition of you or your travel companions in the foreground or background. People can help ground the viewer in a photo, and add a sense of personality to the setting. Above all else, remember that your eye is your best camera. Focus on enjoying your adventure and keeping your eyes peeled for the wonders of the world around you, and the photos will come!

What are the most important, must-have items you always pack no matter where you are travelling?

I bought a Mophie wireless charging case for my iPhone before leaving, and was so glad I did! I was taking a lot of photos with my phone, and never wanted to find myself without a charge. Also remember to check if you need to bring a power plug adapter or voltage converter for the country you’re traveling to.

Make sure you have a backpack with padded straps and a pair of comfortable walking shoes - if you’re like me, you’ll be doing a lot of exploring and wandering!

What are the comfort items (or convenience items) you bring with you to make a hotel room or a hostel feel a little bit more like home?

I always keep photos of family and friends with me in my wallet! They are the perfect travel-sized comfort item. I also have a small good luck charm from my mom that I like to keep in my pocket. I almost tried to bring my old teddy bear with me on this last trip, but then in Italy I ended up buying a ton of pasta to take home to my family, and I was ultimately grateful I had the extra room in my luggage! Whatever you choose to bring, make sure it’s (a) travel-sized and (b) not something that is one of a kind and will leave you heartbroken if it happens to get lost during your travels.

Where do you want to go next?

At the top of my list right now is traveling to Peru and hiking to Machu Picchu, and traveling to Iceland to try and see the infamous northern lights. I also have relatives in Australia, and I’ve been hoping to find a big chunk of time in which I can visit them (and hop on over to New Zealand too - I’m a bit of a massive Lord of the Rings nerd, and I’ve been dreaming of going to Middle-earth since middle school!).

For more of her picture-perfect adventures, follow Jessie on Instagram @jessie_explores.

Next time you're in New York, don't miss the chance to see her in the magical Off-Broadway hit, Puffs.

REStyle

International Interiors

Me dite r rane an My friend Kelly gave me a passport holder for my Great European Getaway. Enscribed on the holder is my new favorite quote, “I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.” Morocco is one of the places on my list that I dream to visit. There is a sexy allure to the Mediterranean coast. It is rich with its history, ancient architecture, delicious food and beautiful people. So I for this re- style I wanted to do a kitchen infused with Moroccan flavor.

The Color

The Mediterranean color palette draws its inspiration from its serene oceans, peaceful skies and breathtaking cliffs.

The Accessories Color plays an important part in Moroccan culture as it helps breathe life into the region. These colorful textiles, pots and vases help breathe life into your new kitchen.

The Texture Hammered copper and reclaimed word echo the jagged texture of the cliffs and the coastlines.

Fre nch C ou nt r y One of the highlights of my trip was driving down the French countryside in a Mini Coop with the top down singing Shania Twain with one of my good friends. I call that the toast of life. I’ve been in love with the Parisian style since I was a little boy. Here is a timeless living room that captures the essence of French sophistication.

The Colors

The color palette is simple in the naturals of beige, white, grey and espresso. Shades of color are introduced in pastels of soft red, sky blue and lemon chiffon yellow. Distressed black and gold tones help add depth to these colors.

The Accessories

This style profile is where you can let your inner Liberace free, tastefully. Accessories of ornate grandeur such as gilded gold mirrors, porcelain lamps and antique wood furniture help add a sense of sophisiticated whimsy.

The Texture

Velvets, floral prints, and tolie add romance to the space, while pressed copper and forged wrought iron help add a touch of masculinity.

Caribbean When we think of a vacation, we all have thoughts of sipping a cold cocktail such as a margarita or an Electric Screwdriver on a sandy white beach. Well, I got to live that life (minus the cocktails) for 13 years of my young life. I grew up in the Caribbean, and what a treat it was to be surrounded by the bright colors, the crisp smell of the sea air and the warm rays of the sun. This is a style profile for a calm and relaxing Caribbean outdoor space.

The Color

Soft blues, bright whites, vibrant yellows and oranges and surprise pops of purple.

The Accessories

The accessories of this style profile embody all things beach and ocean. This means shells, sea glass, drift wood and patina-finished aluminum.

The Texture

Light linens, wicker, limestone and concrete help to create that perfect juxtaposition of hard and soft.

This reminds me of the giant bolders that seem to have shot out of the soft white sand of the beaches I played on as a child.

SCOTLAND

T

here’s something amazing about waking up in one country and falling asleep in another. It speaks to the awesome advancements of technology and travel, and it’s such a freeing feeling to be so untethered.

As I embarked on the last leg of my European trip, I was tired and feeling homesick for my boyfriend and our cat.

However, I was also so excited to get to Scotland where I was staying with my good friends Scott and Lauren, who planned this whole part of my trip. All I had to do was show up… are you sensing a trend here? And just as Zoltan made sure I utilized every possible minute in England, Scott and Lauren jam-packed my time in Scotland with all the essentials.

After I collected my bag from baggage claim, I found where Scott and Lauren were waiting for me. We barely had a second to exchange hugs because we we had to hurry into town to get ready for Lauren’s clubbercise class. No, that's not a typo! Clubbercise is kind of like jazzercise but better because it's like you're dancing at the club! Now you should know that I’m not exactly the best dancer. But in my head, I'm just as good as Beyoncé, and I was not afraid to work it! You can draw your own conclusions when I tell you that I’m not quite sure if Lauren’s invited back to that class anymore.

After Clubbercise, we made our way home to unwind and catch up. Lauren and Scott prepared dinner and surprised me with a birthday cake, card and Scottish candies. It was so great to have a relaxing evening in with good friends and good wine. That’s a fact no matter what country you happen to be in.

A few days later we explored the city of Edinburgh where we started with brunch at Howie's. To my surprise, Lauren ordered the seared pigeon breast, which was served with black pudding, toasted foccacia, parsnip puree and crisps with rosemary jus. After brunch, we walked around the very hilly city of Edinburgh. We climbed up to Edinburgh Castle, which sits on a hill overlooking the entire city. Later that evening, we visited with Lauren’s parents who had just moved to the area. That had to be one of my favorite nights of the trip because we got to share stories of what life was like growing up on the opposite sides of the Atlantic. We laughed the whole walk back to their house that night.

On my last night in Scotland, I was treated to a traditional Sunday roast. Scott’s parents made a delicious spread of leeks, roasted vegetables and hen. After eating, we unwound in the sitting room where we enjoyed one last night of my favorite thing: wine and conversation.

Although I was sad for my European adventure to come to an end, I was thankful to return home to my loved ones. As the plane touched down in New York, I knew I was coming back to my “real life” with a full heart and a great new collection of cherished memories.

M

angeons (Let's Eat)

O

ne of my favorite quotes about food comes from traveling chef Andrew Zimmerman, host of the hit show "Bizarre Food." Andrew ends each show saying, "If it looks good, eat it," which encourages his viewers to try new foods while traveling. Well, during my trip to Scotland, I listened to those words when my friends Scott and Lauren introduced me the Scottish delicacy called Haggis. What I thought was going to be a not-so-pleasant experience turned out to be a very delicious one.

So, What Is Haggis?

Haggis is a savoury pudding containing sheep's pluck (heart, liver and lungs); minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and salt, mixed with stock, traditionally encased in the animal's stomach (though now often in an artificial casing instead).

After trying Haggis, I couldn't wait to share the experience with Michael when I got back. Since he is a vegetarian, I had to find a way to put a veggie twist on this traditionally meaty meal.

Haggis with

Neeps 'n' Tatties

INGREDIENTS 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 lb. vegetarian haggis 1 1/4 lb. potatoes (peeled and roughly chopped) 1 1/4 lb. turnips (peeled, roughly chopped) 1 pinch nutmeg (grated) 4 tbsp. milk 4 tbsp. butter Sea salt and pepper to taste Cook the haggis first by placing the haggis in a large pot and cover with cold water.

Cover the pan with a lid, bring to the boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 40 mins per 1 pound (or 450 grams) While the haggis cooks, cook the potatoes and turnips.

For the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large saucepan, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, cover the pan with a lid. Bring the potatoes to the boil, reduce to a simmer and cook until tender (approximately 20 minutes).

Drain the potatoes and keep to one side.

Add half of the butter and half the milk to the pan the potatoes were cooked in.

Melt the butter and warm the milk, add the cooked potatoes and mash.

Add the nutmeg and stir well to create a smooth, creamy mash.

For the Turnips: Place the turnips in a large saucepan, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, cover the pan with a lid. Bring the turnips to the boil, reduce to a simmer and cook until tender (approximately 20 minutes).

Drain the turnips and keep to one side.

Add half of the butter and half the milk to the pan the turnips were cooked in.

Melt the butter and warm the milk, add the cooked turnips and mash.

To Serve:

Once cooked remove the haggis from the water. Place on a serving dish and cut it open with scissors or a knife and serve with the tatties and neeps.

INGREDIENTS Pudding:

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature, plus more for pan 1 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour plus more for pan 1 1/2 cups chopped pitted dates (about 6 ounces) 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 large eggs

Sauce:

1 1/4 cups (packed) light brown sugar 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter 1 teaspoon brandy (optional) 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Directions: Pudding:

Preheat oven to 350 °. Butter and flour Bundt pan. Bring dates and 11/4 cups water to a boil in a medium heavy saucepan with tall sides. Remove from heat; stir in baking soda (mixture will become foamy). Set aside; let cool.

Whisk 11/2 cups flour, baking powder, and salt in a small bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat 1/4 cup butter, sugar, and vanilla in a large bowl to blend (mixture will be grainy).

Add 1 egg; beat to blend. Add half of flour mixture and half of date mixture; beat to blend. Repeat with remaining 1 egg, flour mixture, and date mixture. Pour batter into mold.

Bake until a tester inserted into center of cake comes out clean, 40 –45 minutes. Let cool in pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes.

Invert pudding onto rack. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and let stand at room temperature.

Sauce

Bring sugar, cream, and butter to a boil in a small heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Continue to boil, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in brandy, if using, and vanilla.

STPudding ticky offee

Let's “Always do sober what you said you'd do drunk. That will teach you to keep your mouth shut.”

-Ernest Hemingway-

Drink!

E

veryone that knows me know that I love a good cocktail, and boy did I enjoy some good cocktails and the occasional beer on my trip to Europe. While I am a tequila boy, I decided to switch it up while I was abroad.

The liquor of choice seemed to be gin, so I tried a lot of gin-based drinks. I have to share some of my favorites!

BLOOD ORANGE ELDERFLOWER GIN

INGREDIENTS: 1 oz Edinburgh Gin 1/2 oz lime juice 2 1/2 oz ginger ale 1 oz blood orange juice DIRECTIONS: In a serving glass, combine gin, St. Germain, lime juice, and ginger ale. Top glass with ice.

Slowly pour in blood orange juice. Garnish with blood orange slices and fresh lemon thyme sprigs, if desired. Serve immediately.

ROSE WATER AND GIN INGREDIENTS 1 ouncefresh squeezed lemon juice 2 ounces of Musgrave gin splash of club soda DIRECTIONS In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, pour in the gin, lemon juice and simple syrup and shake for more than 20 seconds so the ice can melt and dilute the ingredients.

Add a splash of club soda if you prefer!

Strain over a large ice cube and garnish with a lemon twist and rose petal.

DIRTY GIN MARTINI INGREDIENTS 1.5 oz. Gin 1 oz. olive brine 1 whole blue cheese stuffed olive Directions: Shake with ice in a cocktail shaker. Serve straight up in a martini glass. Garnish with a blue cheese stuffed olive.

SCOTLAND’S FAVOURITE Blending the past with the present, to create the future. Tennent Caledonian is Scotland’s oldest and most successful brewery. With rich history and heritage stretching back to 1556, they've created a beer combined with whisky.

Brewed in Glasgow, Tennent’s Whisky Oak Aged Beer is the culmination of four hop varieties – Zeus, Summit, Tettnang and Aurora. It is brewed using a complex recipe of three types of locally- sourced Scottish malt and the pure waters of Loch Katrine.

This all makes a crip refreshing brew perfect for enjoying a julicy medium-rare burger topped with haggis of course.

I haven't been everywhere, but it's on my list.

- Susan Sontag -

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