A FARMHOUSE IN PROVENCE - AMAZING BASTIDE AMONG THE VINES - A BUCKET LIST MUST

After three beautiful days and nights in the great city of Paris, we took a high speed train with a cruising speed of 145 MPH. It was like riding on a soft cloud. I've always said, the Europeans have the food thing and the train thing figured out. And, best of all, it's cheap - $25 for a 2.5 hour trip from Paris to Avignon. After arrival, we rented a car to get around Avignon. We stayed in the beautiful small B&B, Lumani, which, unfortunately has closed. 

A Swiss architect and his wife, an accomplished artist, converted a large courtyard house into a small, intimate hotel. Our room was four star all the way. I understand they closed it in order to open another hotel in the Provencial countryside a short drive from Avignon. While I cannot give a recommendation, because we never stayed there, if they run it like they did the smaller place, I am sure it will be excellent. To check it out just click THE SUZET. Unfortunately, it's not cheap. So I would spend some time finding other places that have that amazing sense of European quality for less money. I highly recommend staying in Avignon for at least two nights. From 1306 - 1376 Avignon was the center of the Roman Catholic Papacy. This beautiful ancient city has many fascinating historic buildings and, like all places in France, you can have some of the best food you will ever eat. And, like virtually all of Provence, they have numerous small, intimate hotels at reasonable rates.

LA BASTIDE DE MARIE - ROMANCE AMONG THE VINES

We drove the short one hour through the beautiful countryside to one of the most unique places we have ever stayed - La Bastide de Marie. The best description of this fascinating place comes from their web site:

"Nestling in the heart of a 57 acre vineyard, The Bastide de Marie is a haven of peace where life is good. This Provencial bastide comprises 15 guest rooms, each designed with a unique decor, where you will find the perfect coolness and finesse. When in the lounge areas overlooking the vineyards or in the vicinity of the gardens or pools, just go with the flow and be rewarded with simple moments of happiness."

As we drove up to the entrance of this country farmland hotel, there was a man, wearing a Fedora hat, who was the concierge. He reminded me of the famous French actor Maurice Chevalier. He greeted us in English, though he was clearly French. Two bellman appeared from nowhere to unload and take our luggage to our room. As we checked in, we were asked if we would need anything and we said we were fine. Once checked in, we found ourselves wandering around this beautiful old farmhouse that had been restored and converted to a small, intimate country bastide, complete with comfortable beds, big bathrooms and incredible views of the beautiful Provencial countryside. And the price, while not cheap, is not over the top.

This well designed small hotel is perfect for any vagabond that wants to just enjoy a few days relaxing in this artistically influenced environment, drink some great wine and enjoy fabulous food at their restaurant. Sitting on the terrace with the one you love and taking in the views and the essence of this beautiful region of France is truly exceptional. To give you a taste of what the place is like, take a look at the short video below.

So, get busy today - Put this one on your Bucket List. Every vagabond traveler should see Provence and their is no better place to to take it all in than Bastide de Marie.

Grands Voyages Dans Provence

D.L.Stafford
thenomadARCHITECT

RANDOM VAGABOND ALERT - LUCILLA SHOW ME SOME LOVE

This quick post is for people within an easy drive to the capital of God's Country - Tallahassee, Florida. I have to share this alert to cool people, foodies and people who will not settle. February 14, 2019 - Valentines Day - I took the love of my life to eat at a great little restaurant that we were impressed with  some months ago. And all I can say, beyond any shadow of any doubt - If you want a great, romantic meal then put this small boutique restaurant that serves passionately prepared food and great wine, with incredible service, on your bucket list. Even the name is cool - LUCILLA, a simple bistro with a simple concept - Serve amazing food with great service.

Just to get your mouth prepared here was our menu:

Bread - Incredible bread hot and tasty.

Calamari - Like I have never tasted with a sauce that only a well educated culinary artist could prepare.

Wedge Salad - So big my bride ordered it for her main dish. She is still talking about it. Most restaurants do not know how to make a really good wedge salad, but these guys are pros.

Fried Oysters - I am not an oyster fan, but, Susie is. Her take - Perfezionare!!! These perfect oysters were served with roasted tomatoes & a killer sauce.

Shrimp & Grits - OMG - I have had shrimp & grits from North Carolina to South Florida and they all fall short compared to the delicately fried shrimp and Low Country Grits in Lucilla's heavenly dish.

Wine - It doesn't get any better than a nice French Bordeaux. We took the small amount remaining home and finished it. If that's not to your liking, they have a nice sampling of other great wines to choose from.

And the prices for this great little culinary experience are not too bad, especially when you are trying to impress the one you love or just having a special meal with family and friends

So, don't ponder - Call, make a reservation and enjoy a meal to die for at this very cool little place serving some of the best food you will ever have.

"One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well." - Virginia Woolf

Eat Well My Fellow Vagabonds,

d.l.stafford

thenomadARCHITECT

WEST COAST FOOD, WINE & CLINT'S PLACE - CARMEL PART DEUX

OK - IT'S BEEN A WHILE BUT READ ON!

My  02/15/16 post raised a few points about one of the most unique west coast environments in Central California - Carmel By The Sea. With its very dense, almost zero lot line homes built by artists, writers, actors and other famous and not so famous creative types from 1929 on, it is truly an environment that must be seen to be appreciated. So - You may want to take a quick look at that post before reading today's Part II on the lovely village Carmel By The Sea. Its restaurants, artisan shops, small museums and small "downtown" area will provide any visitor with a perspective on how people of means and artistic  bent have managed to create a place of intense, small urban quality that is like no other place you will experience.

DO NOT MISS EASTWOOD'S PLACE - AMAZING!

First, Clint was not there the night we ate at this very old, well appointed simple restaurant. However, if you go to Carmel, this place is a must. Great food and an amazing setting make The Mission Ranch Restaurant a place that must not be missed. I highly recommend eating outside on the terrace overlooking a rolling pasture and a few sheep with the Pacific beyond. Vegans need not apply. The specialty is Slow Roasted Prime Rib - GO AHEAD MAKE MY DAY!! The food, the service, the wine. All these ingredients combine to generate this acclaimed restaurant's  high ratings by people who rate such things. What a gig - huh?

And nothing goes better with great cuisine than a very, very good jazz pianist. We sat right next to the keyboardist as he played some great classics and new stuff while we waited for our table. We are both jazz lovers and hearing this great jazz pianist gives this place that sense of old school  and new day vibe combined. So, when in Carmel, check out this restaurant located on the original twenty-two acres along with  the thirty-one room Mission Ranch Hotel. The place was rescued and saved from the condo developers by none other than the former mayor Clint Eastwood, who, we were told, shows up unannounced on a regular basis.

AND A SCENIC DRIVE TO A REALLY COOL RESTUARANT

Because Carmel is not very big, it is one of the most feet friendly towns you can visit. Around every corner is a bistro, a brunch place or a bakery with great food - not to mention many small and expensive art galleries and small shops. And, of course, there is Carmel Beach, where you can hang out and dip your toes in the Pacific. The architectural flavor of the town is old school to the max with mostly wood siding bungalows and no large buildings. It is intimate and cosy. You get the feeling that you are a local, even if you're only there for a few days. One interesting architectural masterpiece on the Pacific is the Walker House - Cabin On the Rocks, designed by Frank LLoyd Wright and built in 1949. It was featured in the movie A Summer Place. However, if you want to tour the house, you need to plan on a June visit. It's open to the public only one day each year.

In addition to walking the town and emjoying the food and the vibe, you must hop in your car and take a nice drive down California 1 to a culinary institution - Nepenthe Restaurant. In Greek it means "Isle of No Care". Make absolutely certain you grab a seat on a waterfront front bench/table about 200 feet above the Pacific. Serving hungry locals and visitors from all over the world since 1949, in a building designed by Architect Rowen Maiden, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, this is a great day trip to the heart of Big Sur for a great meal, great atmosphere and killer views. And the leisurely drive down California's Coast Road (CA 1) with magnificent coastal views around every bend - a little over an hour - ain't too shabby either.

 

One final suggestion - If you want to  impress your significant other, reserve a view table at Sierra Mar Restaurant, which is on the property of The Post Ranch Inn boutique hotel.  If you have a little bit of extra cash and you really want to impress your travel partner, reserve a Pacific Coast room at this  $875 - $1,300 per night multiple award winning place. It's a tad rich for this Nomad, but, if you can pay the freight - don't hesitate.

AND LET US NOT FORGET THE WINE - OH YES THE WINE!

Since California produces 90% of the wine in the United states, you really can't go to this part of the country without spending at least a day or two touring and tasting some of the best wine in the world. Just get a Carmel Valley Map and go man go. The Bernardus Winery is a great place to start. If you want to pick up some delicious lemon olive oil, in addition to some great wine, check out Joullian Vineyards & Winery. And there are at least twenty other, mostly small, boutique wineries that will quench and delight your taste buds.

So, if you need a few days getaway or something longer, Carmel By the Sea, along with Big Sur and other Central California must sees, is a place you should add to your bucket list.

Next Up. Some thoughts on Sonoma Valley Wine Region - California Here We Come!!

Bonne Randonnée,

D.L. Stafford
thenomadARCHITECT

 “To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.” – Freya Stark

 

CHRISTMAS IN JULY - HELLO NEW YAWK CITY - BOOYAH! - REPOST

DANCE OF THE SUGAR PLUMS, GREAT ART & RIDICULOUS FOOD IN THE BIG APPLE

OK - In the interest of pure, unedited honesty - this is a repost. It's not too early to plan your travel future and planning a trip to NYC during Christmas should start about now. So, I thought you might benefit from reading about our experiences in what many consider to be America's greatest urban center. Whether you agree with that is a discussion for another time and another place. I know, I know - You probably don't really want to read about the bright lights of NYC at Christmas time right in the middle of our currently long hot summer. But I have to correct a most egregious dereliction of duty on the part of this wandering vagabond heart. I left out all the cool stuff and my thoughts on all things great and small in the city that never sleeps - not to mention a killer hotel right off Times Square. I got way too busy dealing with all things holiday- kids, the countdown, presents, shopping (ugh!) - and we bought a house - SO, I have posted nil in months.

Once again, just like last year, I thought today's post would give at  least a virtual respite from that famous Tallahassee heat and humidity. As a close friend and musical mentor who moved to Arizona said upon returning for a short visit - "I knew I was in Tallahassee when I got off the plane and all the air was sucked out of my body". That's what happens when you live in a place that averages about 20-30 percent  humidity. Serves him right for leaving God's Country. My apologies to those vagabonds who happen to live in more hospitable summer climes. So this week's post will enter into the official blogosphere record a trip that has been on my bride's Bucket List since we started life together 42 years ago next month - Christmas in New York City - Check!

 

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION - WHERE YOU SLEEP MATTERS

 

Making a hotel reservation in New York, can be a daunting task. New York may, in fact, have more hotels per square foot than any city on the planet. According to the internet - and you know its true if it's on the internet - 54 million wandering souls visit this city every year. When you toss in the roughly 8 million plus permanent residents, well it's a busy place.


Therefore, you want to stay as close to the action as possible, lest a Nomad spend too much time and too much money getting from place to place, particularly when you factor in relatively long waits for taxis - and it's Christmas!

 

After researching dozens of hotels in NYC, we settled on a very small hip place just two blocks off Times Square - ROW NYC. This boutique hotel has everything one needs to rest up from a day of sight seeing or a night on the town. The design motif is pure urban minimalist from the understated lobby-bar-social meeting place to the large graphics in the rooms. Typical for New York, the rooms are not huge, but plenty big for two bleary eyed vagabonds. I recommend a Superior City View Room. It's about the same price as a regular room and you get glimpses of the city that absolutely, positively never sleeps. Our room had a killer view up the 8th Avenue canyon. Concierge Service was very good and helpful with directions, restaurant recommendations/reservations, etc.. One helpful point here - Make your reservation at least two months before your trip and check back often as your departure approaches. We got a reduced rate about a week before our trip via an email offer from the hotel. At Christmas no less- go figure!

 

 

OMG "FILL IN ANYONE'S NAME HERE" - YOU WON'T BELIEVE THE FOOD

Like New Orleans, Chicago, Austin, Paris and all of Italy, New York City has great food that will warm the cockles of every foodie vagabond's heart. American - Fusion - Italian - Burgers - Cheap - Expensive - As they say in my neck of the woods - If you cain't find good food in New Yawk, you ain't lookin'. There are two particular restaurants that IMHO every temporary Manhattanite must check out. First, for a superb Italian feast, the quaint bistro Amarone Ristorante will transport you to that little place you always want to be when you enjoy a fine meal with the one you love. This place just happens to be in the heart of the Theatre District, but you will think you are on a side alley in Montepulciano. The place is simple with unadorned brick walls and classic white table cloths. The food is real and superb. The wine, all Italian of course, is also outstanding. And all the waiters may be from Brooklyn, but they sounded Italian to me. The restaurant's tag line on their web site says:

Amarone Ristorante is a secret gem in Hell's Kitchen. This authentic Italian gem offers amazing eats that reflect the owners' Italian background.

Again, from my neck of the woods - It ain't braggin' if you can back it up. Amarone backs it up.

ATTENTION ALL VEGANS - DO NOT READ THIS!

Carnivores, on the other hand, listen up. Upon the recommendation of an in-law, who shall remain nameless to protect her from the onslaught of Texts, Tweets, Instagrams and Facebook Trolls she would no doubt receive from the red meat hating food police, castigating her for recommending a restaurant that prides itself on serving the finest slain bovine on the planet, we made reservations at one of the most unique restaurants I have ever had the pleasure of eating in - Quality Meats. This interesting multi-level eatery, part of an exclusive group of  restaurants in New York and Miami, proves that quality really has no substitute. Steaks with every trimming you could ever want paired with a great wine recommended by the excellent wait staff came together like Sinatra and "New York, New York"  . I'm spreadin' the news - Quality Meats must be added to every  NYC loving foodie's Bucket List. And kudos to my unnamed in-law. You did good girl.

 

WHO LOVES YOU PRETTY BABY!

The Great White Way is one of America's great cultural treasures, and after over 1,400 performances,The Jersey Boys has become one of the hottest tickets on Broadway. With minimal set pieces, this drama/musical trip about one of America's greatest pop-rock groups, The Jersey Boys captures the true story and essence of the 100 million record selling super group. We so enjoyed the story about this often troubled group  with the unique high falsetto front man, Frankie Valli. The stripped down performance in the intimate August Wilson Theatre makes the musical presentation of some of the greatest pop songs ever recorded something to remember. And they sang virtually every hit this Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted group ever recorded - Sherry - Big Girls Don't Cry - Rag Doll - ad infinitum. The actor/singer Joseph Leo Bwarie absolutely killed the Frankie Valli role with his voice and the nuance of this complex icon and his even more complex relationship with the other members of The Four Seasons. If you are a child of the sixties, ya gotta go! And drag your kids along so they can see and hear what real talent looks and sounds like.

 

THE NUTCRACKER, THE ROCKETTES, A BIG TREE & MATISSE AT MOMA - WOW!!

 

One of the great joys of visiting a city like New York is the opportunity to see the best of the best. Premiering on February 2, 1954, the George Balanchine Nutcracker Ballet is something that every person, young or old, should see. The music of Tchaikovsky, combined with the genius of Balanchine and the talents of some 90 world class dancers, presents all that is magical about the vision of Christmas. In  a world that is growing increasingly harder to understand, this annual Christmas extravaganza brings all who see it closer to the joy and beauty of our greatest holiday tradition.

 

And then we have those girls with legs that seemingly go on forever - The Rockettes. With over eighty dancers, all the same height, this dance troupe has been performing their dazzling choreography for over eighty years in one of the most iconic performance halls in America - Radio City Music Hall. Put simply, The Rockettes are a true red, white and blue blast of pure entertainment presenting Christmas entertainment at its best. And they look pretty good doing it.

And there, right in the middle of Manhattan - The giant tree in Rockefeller Center sets the mood for any Christmas visit to The Big Apple. It's very big, it's very bright and it will make you feel like Christmas. If, upon viewing this magnificent sentinel of light, you don't feel like celebrating all that Christmas means - sorry, that's on you.

 

New York is one of those places that forces any Wandering Nomad to make sometimes hard choices on what and what not to see and do. However, one experience any self respecting vagabond cannot forgo on any visit to NYC is an afternoon wandering among the great works of art that adorn the walls of  The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA). World class paintings, sculpture and other objects de arte abound in this museum that has been at the cutting edge of modern art since 1929. The special exhibit - Matisse: The Cutouts - must be seen up close and personal to grasp the impact of one of modern art's most compelling and inventive artists.

FINALLY - THE WORLD TRADE CENTER - BE PREPARED!

The horrific events of 911 are respectfully remembered in film, architecture and artifacts at The 911 Memorial and Museum. You simply cannot visit this amazing memorial without understanding how ordinary Americans can  do extraordinary things when circumstances demand it and the unflinching spirit of America in the face of incomprehensible horror. The  gravity of the devastation that took place on this iconic parcel of real estate is apparent as you enter the main plaza surrounding the black sculptural voids of the original Twin Towers with a continuous black granite viewing rail featuring the embossed names of some 3,000 innocent victims who died in this soul shattering, murderous attack perpetrated by people who redefine evil of the first order. Upon entering the museum, you are first given the opportunity to view a film with dozens of world leaders, firemen, police and other ordinary Americans who had some connection with the only attack on our homeland by a foreign entity. The museum itself, which descends to the lowest foundations of the original World Trade Center subtly features a simple modern design motif by the architectural-design team lead by  David Brody Bond juxtaposed against remaining foundations, steel columns and artifacts that render the experience not so much like a museum but more like a continuous visual and emotional journey through tragedy that ultimately gives way to the life affirming power of the human spirit.

Then you see the future rising out of the ash heap from the main level of the museum as the New One World Trade Center, at a height of 1776 feet, comes into view and you hear yourself believing once again - America is still the most brilliant idea ever birthed in the mind of human kind. It is an experiment that will prevail  even in the most adverse of circumstances. As Thomas Jefferson said in 1787:

The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots & tyrants. It is it’s natural manure.

As we were leaving this place, which so eloquently memorializes the somber events of that tragic day in our history, I looked up to see the gleaming new tower of the New World Trade Center and I thought - God Bless America Indeed.



Thank You New York & America - Still The Land of The Free

d.l.Stafford
thenomadARCHITECT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MUSEUM DAY IN MADRID - GUERNICA AND TAPAS TO BEAT THE BAND

It Always Helps To Know A Guy (or girl) That Knows A Guy

 

One of the most impressive things about The One Shot I raved about in my last post on Madrid was the staff. The young ladies at the front desk seemed to know everything about everything in the Prado area. Waking up with reduced jet lag our second day, we asked about a place for breakfast. They pointed us to a very small café just down the lane - D.O.C.C. Madrid - Perfecto! As we were served by a most helpful and resourceful barista/manager of this 10-12 seat eatery, it became apparent that the Spanish are very accommodating people, even with Americans who speak embarrassingly bad Spanish.

However, one thing must be noted. Call me an Ugly American if you like, but, the Spanish do not have the coffee thing figured out. This is going to sound soooooo uncharitable - but we are all about the truth here at TNA. The coffee served in virtually all restaurants and coffee shops in Spain is Café Con Leche - half coffee and half warm milk. It is always luke warm and tastes rather odd to a palette that is accustomed to very hot coffee with a small amount  of cream and sweetener. I know what your thinking - What an unliberated American  toadie, right? I apologize in advance for my embrace of that symbol of American coffee excess. That's right - the only real coffee I had in Spain was purchased at - you guessed it - Starbucks. I should probably have my vagabond credentials suspended for not "acting like a local", but that's my story and I'm stickin' to it. I don't care what Rick Steves says. Trains and Tapas - Sí. Coffee - No!

Would You Like To Go To The Museum Today Mi Amor?  Sí She Said

After breakfast we hailed a taxi and said Hola! Reina Sofia, por favor. Ten minutes later we pulled up to Madrid's national museum of modern art. This former 16th century hospital boasts permanent and temporary exhibitions of Spanish and other international artists. Works  by renowned painters and sculptors Joan Miro, Donald Judd, Max Ernst and Georges Braque, to name just a few, ensure that the visitor will see some of the most provocative, ground breaking art of the last century.

Enjoying the many works in Madrid's largest and best known museum, we strolled into the room in which is hung one of the truly great paintings by one of modern art's greatest painters. Many art lovers and critics alike view Guernica as Pablo Picasso's greatest work. Upon seeing this enormous painting up close and personal, it is hard to argue against that point of view.

 

 

An apt description of the painting, its scope and effect on the viewer is best summarized by travel blogger Katie Hammel in an excerpt from  one of her articles entitled Viewing Guernica at Madrid’s Reina Sofia Museum:

Picasso’s Guernica is one of the most visually stunning paintings in the world, and one that is best appreciated when viewed in person. At first glance, the painting looks like chaos – all hard lines, blunt angles, and cartoonish scenes of animals and people. But when you look at the details, you begin to see more. Here’s a woman, grieving for the child in her arms. There’s a fallen man, his broken sword lying beside him. The painting depicts the bombing of Guernica (in Basque Spain) during the Spanish Civil War. The Guernica takes up nearly an entire wall of the museum, and at 11 feet tall and nearly 27 feet wide, it is simply massive.

After the Reina and a light lunch, we returned to the Prado area and the beautiful Neptune Fountain. We then decided to do what all good tourists do - hop on a Hop On - Hop Off  Bus for a grand tour of Spain's capital city. Never having done this rather "touristy" mode of sightseeing before, we both agreed that it is a great, inexpensive way to get an overview of a city, its architecture and its neighborhoods. Plus - you can rest your weary feet while enjoying the view.

Al Final Del Día - How 'Bout Some Local Sobrosa Tapas To Make A Thing Go Right

 

As I said earlier - It always helps to know a guy or girl who knows....you get the picture. Once again, the dynamic duo at the front desk did not disappoint when we asked for dinner suggestions. At the end of a full day of museum stalking and sightseeing we were in need of some really good food. We took a short stroll from One Shot up Calle del Prado and arrived at the absolutely slammed, well designed tapas restaurante LATERAL around 8:30 PM. After only a few minutes, we were ushered to our table amongst many apparently satisfied diners, eating and drinking like the locals. Now - I am, by no means, an expert on Spanish food, tapas or otherwise. But, in this Americano's humble opinion, the numerous courses of spring rolls, calamari, etc., etc., etc., along with a nice bottle of  Tempranillo (Spain's most common grape), were superb in every way. And I could have sworn I saw Hemingway sitting in a corner by himself drinking a small glass of sherry - Just kidding.

And the prices, with the euro at an all time low against the dollar, were  muy barato - actually downright miserly. Take heed my fellow Nomads, if you are looking for a place that will serve you well for very little then get on that plane asap.

As we walked back and prepared for another night's sleep in our little trozo de cielo at The One Shot, we mentally crossed the fabulous Guernica off the Nomad Bucket List. The memory of that profound work of art and strolling the narrow streets of "Magical Madrid" is now
permanently etched in our collective Nomad heads & hearts.


Next up - A Bucket List Day Trip - The Windmills of La Mancha.


Salud Vagabundos

d.l.Stafford
thenomadARCHITECT

Spanish Lesson of The Week - Spain is downright cheap. That's right fellow Vagabonds, compared to Italy, France and the UK, Spain is one of the lowest cost countries for Nomads looking for a deal. Excellent wine can be had for $3.50 a glass and four star hotels can run as low as $125 a night. And, as of the date of this post, the dollar is a very low $1.12 to the euro. Take that California!

Video Artist of The Week - Joe Cocker, a true R & B, Soul and Rock & Roll legend could be heard in bars and cafes in the Land of Conquistadors. They love that rock and roll in Spain!
 

 

MADRID - BIENVENIDA TO THE SECOND COOLEST CAPITAL CITY IN EUROPE

IT'S NOT PARIS BUT MAKE NO MISTAKE MIS COMPAÑEROS VAGABUNDOS - MADRID HAS GOT IT GOIN' ON

That's right. Madrid has everything a Nomad full of intense wanderlust needs. Great food, great architecture and Picasso's Guernica. That's enough to put a town on the A List. But Madrid has so much more. As we approached this thoroughly modern metropolis with a history that goes back to at least the ninth century, we became instant romantics in search of all the things we had read about this place of insatiable cultural  diversity and a vibrant populace to go with it.

 

 

And where better to start our almost month long sojourn in the land of Iberia than Magicall Madrid? As one perceptive writer commented to comedian & radio personality Dennis Miller recently - Miller, you gotta go to Spain. All they do day and night is eat and drink. Saludos Vagabundos!

Just Gimme That One Shot Prado 23 - Por Favor

After a little hunting up a narrow street off the main drag,  the taxi stopped in front of our base of operations for three days in Madrid - The One Shot 23 Prado. Through a simple glass door entry into a lobby with stark white walls & modern paintings and sculpture everywhere, and a couple of nice English speaking conserjes jovenes, we were in. It was official, we had arrived in Madrid. Our room continued the minimalist grammar - white walls, smart furniture, a bathroom with a huge rain shower, comfy bed, pickle stained wood plank floors and a large mirror on the wall that was actually a tv. We almost never watch tv while traveling. I mean what is the point of watching a game show in a language you may have studied for six months but have absolutely no chance of actually understanding? However, the subtle design touch with a tv that actually looked like a mirror was a very hip detail in this architect's opinion.

 

The hotel designer adroitly inserted minimalist spaces, surfaces, furniture, etc. into a vintage building of undeterminable age. Those crazy creative Europeans do this with such ease.  And to make the thing go perfect, our room had a large balcony with chairs and a table for a little morning coffee or snack to enjoy the sounds of the street and some fresh air. And the staff, always helpful and knowledgeable about who, what and where were always at the ready with maps and instructions.

 

And one last thing about the One Shot for Gen Xers  and Millennials - FREE WIFI !! - OMG, U have 2 stay here!!!!!!!

 

And Where To Eat? or should I ask - Donde Comer?

 

The area around the One Shot, Paseo del Prado, is a great area to see many of the things that make Madrid such a great city. Museums, parks, transportation are all easily accessible on foot. In addition, the area is loaded with great restaurants. Because we had eaten the usual composting trash they served on our nine hour Delta bus flight, we were somewhat satiated but very tired. So our plan was to get some shut eye before venturing out for the evening.

 

IMHO - There is nothing more important than getting some quality nap time if you arrive in Europe in the AM after a 9-10 hour flight. Some say you should "keep going". I am not of that school. Your biological clock is demanding that you treat your temple with some respect. That means sleep fellow nomads. So go to bed already!

 

And Wake Up About 8 PM for some Serious Tapas - Oh Mi!

 

That's right. Spaniards just don't bother doing too much in the afternoon - early or late, so we got up around eight, jumped in that massive rain shower with pressure to die for, combed and made ourselves up and took off for our first real experience enjoying one of the many things España has contributed to civilized culture - TAPAS. Hola LA MUCCA DE PRADO! This very busy tapas restaurant/bar had been recommended by the one of the young ladies at the front desk and it did not disappoint. Great food and great service. Flying somewhat blind, we ordered a few items and some wine and began our official culinary trip in the land of Jamón Ibérico and Tempranillo.

 

Oxford Dictionary defines Tapas as small Spanish savory dishes, typically served with drinks at a bar. Savory - sí, drinks - sí, small - well not really! Tapas Rule No. 1 - Go slow. Cheese, sausage, beef, veggies - you name it - they can serve it up in quantities that will leave you with a need for more nap time. Safe to say - the Spanish have very much perfected the art of eating and drinking.

 

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll back to our little piece of minimalist diseño and its very comfortable bed and nodded off with dreams of the coming days in the land of La Mancha.

Still to come in Magical Madrid - Museums, Windmills and More Tapas!

D.L.Stafford
thenomadARCHITECT

Spanish Lesson of The Week - In place of a quip or other witty euphemism, this series will contain a weekly thought, point or admonishment about travel in Spain and other countries, including the good ole USA.

This Week's Lesson - Always follow the two day rule when traveling to Europe. Unless you are a hyper, super energetic traveler, which makes you completely annoying or just too young, you should allow yourself two full days to "get in the flow" of life in your new environs. Jet lag, learning the ways of the place you are in and the practical things you need to deal with (ATM's, different food, language, etc.) require some serious R & R to get your biorhythms properly aligned. So, like I said earlier - Go to bed already!

Video Artist of The Week - Chic Corea - One of the fathers of jazz fusion, this 22 time Grammy winner commands the keys with creativity and skill.

 

 

 

LIVIN' LARGE IN TEXAS PART II

FOUR DAYS IN HIPSTERVILLE - JUST IGNORE THE GUY WITH ALL THE "KIDS" IN THE MINIVAN

That's right, a minivan! When I pulled up to the Marriot in Dallas to pick up "the kids", my son - the first one out the door - exclaimed in his best high pitched Leave It To Beaver voice - HI! DAD!! Then the rest of the crew piled in and discussed, ad nauseam, our mode of transportation for our days in Big D and our subsequent trip south to the tattoo capital of the world, Austin. You know how kids are. Wow dad, what a cool ride said the daughter snarkily. Was this an upgrade? asked the daughter-in-law laughingly. Well, at least we won't get a ticket for speeding said the mom admonishingly. And on and on. However, no one complained about having their very own seat. We just put the 5'2" daughter-in-law, the one who queried me about the upgrade, in the little seat in the back and all was very cool. Perfect ride I say.

 

As we made our way south on Interstate 35 from Big D to Austin, I was happy as a tipped cow to have all of the family headed for some good times in the Live Music Capital Of The World. After hours of searching dozens of web sites, I found a place  that would sleep five  just off South Congress Avenue (SOCO), which is THE happening area in Austin. A 1926 bungalow had been repurposed with some serious funk to create a very cool landing spot for the four days/three nights we were in the place that boasts many favorite offspring, including Willie Nelson, Stevie Ray Vaughn and The Fabulous Thunderbirds.

Complete with old doors,  corrugated tin ceilings and a very funky paint job, in and out, The Red Bungalow proved to be a real find. It had all the basics, including a nice outdoor patio for socializing with your morning coffee and it was within easy walking distance of the clubs, restaurants, museums and ridiculously high priced boutiques of every ilk on South Congress Avenue. The bathrooms could have been a bit bigger and the furniture was somewhat sparse, but, other than that, it was good quality space for our familial coalition of five vagabonds in search of a happening in a city where residents boastfully proclaim - KEEP AUSTIN WEIRD! And, based on the sights and sounds of this unique town, residents and nomads alike nurture that admonishment 24-7.

BAT**** CRAZY IS NOT JUST ANOTHER ADJECTIVE IN AUSTIN

That's right, locals and visitors alike go crazy over bats in this town. Observing the short migration of 1.5 million bats every night at dusk is truly an unforgettable experience. According to local legend, when the bridge was renovated in 1980, the bats found the cracks and crevices built into the bridge a perfect place to call home. Presto! Lots and lots and lots of bats call The South Congress Avenue Bridge over Lady Bird Lake home.     Although in residence as early as March, the best time to witness this man assisted natural phenomenon is in August, which is when we were there. Perfect planning by you know who. They apparently winter in Mexico. I am sure they are included in the latest version of The Dream Act - just kidding.

I also highly recommend paying ten bucks for an open top boat for viewing from the lake. You don't have to fight the crowds on the bridge and the little lady that captained our launch was very knowledgeable about the bats and the Austin skyline. And no need to worry about bugs, since the bats eat 10,000 to 30,00 pounds of insects on their nightly flight. Watching the sky turn black with over a million bats, as they take to the countryside, is a great way to enjoy an early evening with family and friends. And don't forget to bring along a cheap merlot or pinot and some Dixie cups. Good time, indeed.

AUSTIN LOVES TATTOOS, GREAT MUSIC AND KILLER FOOD

Apparently tattoos   generate   some  form of street cred in ultra hip Austin. Every size, color, style and theme can be found on bodies, ankle to neck, along with mega piercings of every lip, nose and ear. I cannot attest to other parts unseen. The GEN Y generation apparently has an almost obsessive need to express their individuality with tattoos. One day, in a galaxy far far away, when the inevitable drooping, dropping and sagging sets in with age, the old Millennials will lament the foibles of their youth. As a friend once noticed about a lady friend who had put on a few pounds - It used to be a butterfly on that cheek, but now it's a California condor. Austin locals, from pizza joint waiters to hotel concierges, wear their body art with intense pride. And that attitude is pervasive all up and down SOCO.

If you are a music lover, then Austin is, indeed, where you need to be. Specifically, live music is around every corner and in every venue from barbecue joints to the famed Austin City Limits. Unfortunately ACL had no performances while we were there. In addition, I have read that you need a special dispensation from the Pope to score tickets or be best buds with Willie Nelson. One very cool place we went to enjoy barbecue and some good live R&B was Salt Lick Barbecue. You can also pick up some Texas wine at Salt Lick Cellars next door. Our friend for life, Paula, a transplanted  Floridian took us to this great little spread in Texas Hill Country. It's nice to know we have a friend in one of the coolest town's in America who knows their way around the place.  It's a must visit for hungry vagabonds where great food and music can be had with a view. And having a true Austinite show you around doesn't hurt.

Tex-Mex, Fried Chicken, All of The Above - you name it - is available in the culinary haunts in every corner of this great city of just under a million. It may be left of center politically, but Austin is pure right all the time when it comes to food. Whether it's Lucy's Fried Chicken, which manages to turn comfort food into something sexy or Torchy's Tacos for serious Mexican with that undeniable Texas Touch and bottled cokes. Oh yeah baby!

I would be remiss, as an architect and nomad, if I did not mention one place to sleep in Austin that has been on my Vagabond radar for years. Hotel San Hose' is a repurposed, updated motel right on South Congress. Unfortunately, the place was booked and it is pretty pricey. However, I did take the time to walk its zen like environs and public areas. With its minimalist aesthetic and blend of natural materials laid over the bones of an old motor inn, it seems to live up to its billing. Very retro eco. So, when in Austin, its worth checking out.

Austin should be on every Nomad's list of places to see before you die. It is as All American in a Texas style kind of way as you will find. Like Lyle Lovett says in the song of the same name "That's right - your not from Texas, but, Texas wants you anyway". As we boarded the plain for good old Tallahassee, that song kept playing in my head. I am not from Texas but every time I go, I feel like maybe they do want me. With the right jeans and the right hat, who knows?

Head Em' Up Move 'Em Out!

D.L.Stafford

thenomadARCHITECT

Travel Quote of The Week - "Some folks look at me and see a certain swagger, which in Texas is called walking" - George W. Bush

Video Artist of The Week - Norah Jones & The Little Willies - Born in Brooklyn, raised  in Texas, Norah Jones is the daughter of concert promoter Sue Jones and Ravi Shankar, master sitar player (Yes - The guy that taught Beatle George Harrison). The multi-award winning artist formed an ad hoc group of players and singers - The Little Willies - who turn out some amazing music that you will NEVER hear on the radio. One of the most compelling recordings by this group is a little ditty called "Lou Reed" with Norah Jones on piano & vocals, Richard Julian on vocals, Jim Capilongo on guitar, Lee Alexander on bass and Dan Rieser on drums. Just picture it - Mr. Velvet Underground tipping a bovine. Now that's something to ponder!

 

BIG D - IT AIN'T BRAGGIN' IF YOU CAN BACK IT UP - LIVIN' LARGE IN TEXAS PART ONE

 

And Dallas,Texas can back it up. That's right, the movers and the shakers in Dallas put their money where their mouth is. From the big city swank of the Omni to the low key elegant swagger of the Mansion At Turtle Creek, Big D gets an A+ in every category important to travelers, revelers, nomads and vagabonds, young and old. Sleeping? Take your pick from the big city hotels to the smaller places down the road a piece. Architecturally, its not Chicago or New York, but it's friendlier and you don't have a misguided politico/Bloomberg type trying to stop you from buying a big gulp. And, as you might expect, they love big gulps in Big D. From fifty dollar steaks to  killer bbq, Dallas has food for the hungry nomad, blessed or broke. And then their is shopping. I loathe shopping, but, if you are a shopaholic, then you will think you have died and and gone to heaven in Dallas. From the high end North Park to the very hip Bishop Arts District, shoppers of every ilk can feed their retail inner self in Dallas. No-siree! You don't have to be a millionaire to enjoy the delights of one of the biggest cities in the heartland, but don't show up without some cash or at least a fairly large credit limit on your American Express.

AND MAKE SURE YOU TAKE THE KIDS!

This trip began to germinate in my son's mind  when it was announced that the Defending National Football Champs, The Florida State Seminoles, would be playing a kickoff spectacular against The Oklahoma State Cowboys in The House That Jerry Built, The Dallas Cowboys' AT&T Stadium. Jerry Jones is a perfect troubadour for the Lone Star State and he DOES put his money where his mouth is. A cool billion for one of the sports world's most impressive venues. 

Timing is everything. As it turned out, the game was on August 30, and it was within driving distance of where the little lady and I were going to end up on our anniversary trip, from Bartlesville, Oklahoma and The Wright designed Price Tower and the most impressive 21C Art Hotel in the little village of Bentonville, Arkansas. If you want to read my takes on those Vagabond jewels, just click away. After some late night discussions by phone, one thing led to another and BAM!, a family outing was born. And to put the icing and the cherry on our little travel cake, we all agreed that we should head down to Austin after the big game. I won't go into the logistics involved in getting us all from three different cities in one place at one time. What ever did we do before the internet, email, texting etc. etc. etc.? Since I am the almost senior Nomad of the bunch, it fell to me to find some places to sleep that would meet a Vagabond's standards for design, comfort and cost control. 

IT WAS A FURSHLUGGINER KIND OF A PLACE I TELL YA!

 

As an architect and a Nomad, nothing warms the cockles of my heart more than when I stumble upon a re-purposed, recreated or restored once great place, particularly from the 40's and 50's. Well, I landed on just such a place on the west side of Dallas. The Belmont Hotel's web site said it was a completely renovated and updated 1946 Motor Hotel. Reviews were decent and the description gave one the impression of a very hip place with "the best views in Dallas". Now, I rarely put negative reviews on this blog. That's because I am very good at finding exceptional places, if I do say so myself. But, sometimes - this time, the real just didn't match the virtual.

Modernist master Mies van der Rohe said "God is in the details". Unfortunately, The Belmont didn't get the memo. Too many poor details. Too much broken asphalt paving. Too many fading and unpainted wall surfaces. And it took a little too much effort to see the killer views. Finally, the room, though very clean, just lacked the character that could have been brought out with a more creative approach to design and color. Off white yellow just doesn't do it for me - sorry. The bottom line, in my humble opinion, was the bottom line. They should have spent a little more money to bring back to life what was a very cool place sixty years ago. After a lengthy discussion with my favorite traveling companion and the mother of my thirty something children, who would be arriving the next morning,  I had to make a move.

WHEN YOU'RE DOWN & OUT - GO FURTHER WEST YOUNG VAGABOND - AND DON'T LEAVE OUT FORT WORTH!

And that's exactly what we did. I have made it abundantly clear in this blog that I generally eschew large hotels. However, just to prove I am open minded and always willing to rethink my position, I went on line and checked out the ever so plush and uppity - are you ready for this? OMNI FORT WORTH! Much to my surprise, hotel central for the big game had dropped the price of the rooms well below their normal usurious rate for the well healed. That's right folks, you can say I sold out, but, alas, the Omni Fort Worth was an anti-furshlugginer kind of place and it was worth every last minute, we lowered the rate because we can, penny!!  And to top it off, we got adjoining rooms for the crew in the hotel that was Seminole Central for the crazies that came all the way to big bad Texas to watch the Indians beat the Cowboys. Kemosabe!

Well, I take back almost everything I have ever said about big hotels. The service was amazing. The rooms were fabulous. And the food was to die for. This hotel, as big as it is, really does aim to please. Arriving back  after the game, along with throngs of happy Seminole fans, very late and very hungry, I could not get through on the room service phone, so I went down to the consierge desk to ask if there were any restaurants still open. After asking what I wanted, the consierge excused himself for about thirty seconds and reappeared with a small writing pad and proceeded to write down my order. Within fifteen minutes of returning to the room, a knock came and the food was delivered. Now that's service! And speaking of food, unless you are anti-carnivorous, you must have a steak at Bob's Steak & Chophouse. It's one of several signature restaurants in the hotel. No need to thank me, just enjoy.

Besides football, cowboys and great steaks, how does Dallas stack up?  Like any large city, you have to do some homework to get into the fabric of the place and move beyond the usual. Dallas is not as hip as Austin, as urbane as New York or as beautiful as Seattle, but it does things its own way, and, if you look, you can find enough good "stuff" to come away feeling good about the town where "big things happen".

The Kimbell Art Museum is a must see for lovers of art and architecture. This small museum boasts world class art and one of the truly great designs by iconic architect Louis Kahn. The new Piano Pavillion by famed architect Renzo Piano adds to the high quality of one of the great museum experiences in America. The Cultural District of Fort Worth boasts a collection of museums, restaurants and entertainment venues second to none.

The Bishop Arts District is a more hip, lower brow collection of galleries, funky furniture stores, great restaurants and interesting people. You can pick up some very unusual finds to spice up your own place and  you won't have to empty your bank account doing it. Great food and great atmosphere make this a must do on your list.

If you want a unique shopping experience, then Highland Park Village is your place. According to The Urban Land Institute, it is America's first planned shopping center. With an eclectic blend of big names and locals, and great architecture, it provides a top tier shopping experience.

And finally, for some serious fun and food, a visit to The Fort Worth Stockyards is worth the side trip. After some great barbeque at Billy Bob's, stop by M.L. Leddy's Boots & Saddlery and pick up a nice pair of custom made $600 boots. Now that will add to your Vagabond Swagger when you get home.



So there you have it. Dallas is definitely worth the trip. Great sports, great art, ridiculous food and, best of all, at least one big hotel that delivers the goods for discriminating vacationistas.

Next up - Austin - Hipsterville, Texas.

GO BIG D!

D.L.Stafford
thenomadARCHITECT

Travel Quote of The Week - If you ain't Texan, I ain't got time for you - Kinky Friedman - writer, singer and Texas raconteur.

This Week's Video Artist - LYLE LOVETT. No artist says Texas quite like the ex-husband of Julia Roberts. What was he thinkin'? Check out this video on a great tune with a little common sense explanation by this great Texas Master of Irony - That's Right You're Not From Texas.

Food Nazis, Canned Sodas, A Wee Bit of Cheese and Baseball - Oh Atlanta!!!

These Guys (aka Food Nazis) Have a Different Approach To Customer Service

Like the line from the Mick Ralphs tune Oh Atlanta  says - Oh Atlanta I Got To Get Back To You. So we usually get to Atlanta several times a year. Fortunately, the weather was fabulous during one of our recent trips to visit our very handsome and brilliant son and his even more brilliant and adorable wife, giving us ample reason to venture outside. Atlanta always impresses when it comes to places to eat, both fine and low rent, so we decided to try some old favorites and a few new ones. The design of many of these newer places, particularly in Midtown, with an eclectic mix of avante garde, industrial chic and Jackson Pollock,  is often at the cutting edge of trendy, which makes for a great aesthetic, if only temporary, before the next wave brings about new hipness requirements. Design now becomes fashion. As an architect and interior designer I get that. However, as my old Professor Gettle used to say, trendiness begets tediousness.   

 

Good architecture is NOT akin to a  pair of Gucci's or a $600 Michael Kors bag. However, in retail and food service, in particular, the line between the latest Armani soon to be on the half price rack suit and the industrial-rusty walled-spilled paint on the floor-retro graphics-ooh isn't this just the hippest place you have ever seen design aesthetic is very thin. Don't get me wrong, I am a lover of all things new in design. I just don't see Frank Gehry's creations being included in the pantheon of great western architecture like, say, a Richard Neutra house or the Chrysler Building. But, in Atlanta, at least they are trying. 

 

Design and aesthetics aside, one thing must be said about Atlanta. If you've a mind to, you can enjoy some very cool culinary delights in all manner of places, from the simple joint in a repurposed urban hay barn where they claim they grow everything on their menu in their very own backyard  to the more highbrow penthouse revolving eatery where they claim that  the beef in their restaurant comes from the offspring of a single bull named Bastion who feeds only on special organic free range grass in a small village in the Andes and they fly  it in fresh every day on their own refrigerated high speed modified F-15. Only beautiful people, or at least more attractive people with money,  eat in this beautiful enclave high above the city where Bastion's little ones are served only on sustainable extra virgin bamboo dinnerware. Now these places may or may not exist, but, any town that has a restaurant where patrons literally eat in the dark - Dining In The Dark - will surely have unique choices such as these I have imagined for Nomads traveling to The Big Peach.

 

No Nothing For You!

 

After visiting several new dining establishments in A-Town, I discovered a disturbing trend among some of Atlanta's more hip eateries.   Many of these places have developed a business model similar to the renown Soup Nazi of Seinfeld fame. The food is killer with an attitude to go with it, and I don't mean that in a good way. In their quest to become the NYC or Chicago of the south, these places are slowly taking a path which many young Millennials and Gen Y'ers have come to accept but this old Baby Boomer finds annoying and tedious.

Case No. 1 - Taqueria del Sol

This place has some of the best Mexican meets Old South cuisine served anywhere. With items like Memphis Tacos (pork & jalapeno cole slaw) or Fried Chicken Tacos (fried chicken & jalapeno mayonnaise) you can't go wrong. And with sides like spicy turnip greens or blue cheese mash potatoes, you can enjoy a well rounded meal to die for, literally. And the prices are very reasonable. However, you must follow these rules to ensure an incident free dining experience:

• Do not bring small children. To prove the point, they have no high chairs.
• Do not even think about asking to be seated until your entire party has arrived. If you try this, it can get ugly. And, of course, never, ever try and seat yourself.
• Make absolutely certain that you have studied the menu during your 30-45 minute queue so that you are ready to order quickly, without delaying the Colonel Klinkette at the counter. And she really prefers that you already have your cash or credit card in hand BEFORE you arrive at the counter. 
• And one item that annoys me. The soft drink you order comes in a twelve ounce can - i.e. no refills. I have always been afraid to order another one from my table, as I fear it would upset the natural flow and the precision with which this place cranks out more great food in less time than any place I have ever been - I think.  

Bottom line - Nazis or not - the food's worth the wait and the prices won't force you to dip into your Quicken Line of Credit. Just don't bring a kid or dilly dally at the counter!

 

Case No. 2 - Antico's Pizza  Napoletana 

The sign says BENVENUTI TO WORLD CLASS PIZZA. I don't think so! You are not welcome and the pizza is, well, read on. A partial list of Nomad complaints:

• These people at Antico's make the Soup Nazi look like Shirley Temple. The staff went to a special class to learn the nuances of being rude and disinterested.
• You have to sit at tables with strangers. Now I love new experiences as much as the next guy and I am not anti-social. However, the ambiance of this place is akin to eating in a muffler shop. Everyone is always yelling - at each other, at the wait staff or at the guy trying to steal their seat. And actually getting a seat usually involves some sort of threat of bodily harm.
• And best of all - The pizza just ain't that good. And the prices are ridiculous. Cucinella's in my current home town of Madison, Florida (population 2,769) made by a transplanted New Yorker and his kids and grand kids leaves Antico's in the dust.
• The last straw was the twelve ounce canned coke and no ice!

Bottom Line - On the Soup Nazi Scale - these guys take it to a whole new level. Unless you like average food in a loud, not particularly friendly atmosphere, pass.

 

Case 3 - Gio's Chicken Almafitanoi

This little place is in the same building as Antico's. Great food, decent prices, mediocre staff. Must be something in the air. Some thoughts on Gio's:

• The Pollo Tradizionale is all good. I had the Sorrento Lemon and it was worth the fifteen bucks.
• Though not Naziesque, the front counter girl was an obvious trainee, with that look that can only be described as a cross between bored and condescending.
• Like their sister place next door, there is only group seating. That was actually ok, because, the decibel level was considerably lower than next door. Call me picky if you like, I just don't like paying theses prices and eating in a room with the acoustics of a sewer pipe.
• And finally, when I asked the half hearted girl who was very interested in her I-phone if they had wine by the glass, she pointed to a row of "mini" wine bottles. So I ordered one and she disdainfully handed it to me after ringing it up. What is it with liquid refreshment being offered only in a small can or bottle in this town? I think I see a pattern here.

Bottom Line - I will go back. When the food is that good and not that expensive, the annoyances can be forgiven. And the itty bitty bottle of wine didn't suck.

 

Case No. 4 - Café Gio 

Advanced Nazi training is most evident at the gelato counter. This very small place is in the back of Gio's. Only three things need to be said:

• They informed us, rather rudely, that they don't give samples. Sorry, I am just not going to try goat cheese and raspberry latte gelato without kicking the tires.
• You have to pay before you select. No big deal. It's just weird and, may I say, somewhat Naziesque
• The gelato is not that good. If you think you are going to be transported to Firenza, where they have insane gelato on every corner, think again.

Bottom line - If you can find a parking space, go ahead. But you could do much better at Pelatos Gelato in the Virginia Highlands. Great people and great gelato.

 

And Then There's Bacado's - No Nazi's, Soup or Otherwise

 

At least one restaurant in Midtown Atlanta is bucking the Soup Nazi trend - Bacado's. Located in Midtown, this unique eatery has everything you need for a great night out - a funky, very hip interior design, complete with an open air "porch" at the back and supremely pleasant and helpful staff. From a very diverse menu, I took my son's advice and dined on the best twelve dollar hamburger this side of anywhere. Expertly prepared with a blend of brisket, pork and angus beef and cooked to perfection on a fresh grained bun, this burger will set you free, indeed.

 

One word of advice on the appetizers. I ordered a "plate" of the Thomasville, Georgia Goat Cheese. The cheese was excellent, but it was the single smallest piece of cheese ever served in restaurant. We had a good laugh and, I , being a good Nomad, actually cut up the cheese into four pieces for all to enjoy along with a nice, and pricey, bottle of Pinot Noir. As we enjoyed our morsels of cheese and wine, we had a great laugh at the lilliputian size of the cheese produced just thirty miles north of my home town. And finally, an entirely new concept in today's new urban restaurant obsession with long lines that prove we are the hippest of the hip - They take reservations - How Quaint!

 

And Then There Was Baseball

 

To top our weekend off in the Capital of the South, my son and I attended the Georgia Tech vs Florida State baseball game. With the great weather and a beautiful college setting on the GT campus, there is just no better way for a Nomad to appreciate the best parts of life than attending a baseball game with his son. What is it about food purchased at a baseball game? It just taste better for some reason. A burger and nachos with fake cheese - Oh Yea Baby! And, in this setting, the canned coke works. As luck would have it, we trailed until the sixth inning, when we took the lead and held on to beat the Yellow Jackets. All in all, a pretty good day. It's nice to know that you don't always have to go around the world to savor the best that life has to offer.

 

So next time you are in the hometown of the one and only Ted Turner, aka MOUTHOFTHESOUTH, enjoy the food and notate the attitudes for future reference.

 

Bon Appetit Y'all

 

D.L. Stafford

thenomadARCHITECT

 

Travel Quote of The Week - "If I ever get back to Georgia, I'm gonna nail my feet to the ground" - Lewis Grizzard - humorist, writer and raconteur.

 

Video Artist of The Week - Little Feat - These LA rockers combine blues, R&B, jazz and southern rock to bring a sound that makes you move. Check out an old Midnight Special performance with none other than Emmylou Harris and Bonnie Raitt singing back up on the classic tune Dixie Chicken.