Wine With Wanda

Haute Travel Deals from Voyage Prive

Luxury travel is superb but luxury travel for less is absolutely divine! Offering discounts of up to 75% off and 15-20 travel deals per week, Voyage Privé is a fantastic way to shop for high quality travel packages without breaking the bank.

Ok, you've heard this spiel before - flash sale sites offering excellent travel deals are everywhere, so what's the big deal? Well, Voyage Prive, in addition to having a very chic name, is different from those other sites in some really important ways.

Voyage Privé is the ONLY members-only travel flash sale site to offer a flexible cancellation policy, the option to purchase travel insurance as part of your selected package, and flash sales for airline tickets – both flight-only deals, and flight + hotel deals.

Membership is free! Join and Voyage Prive will start sending fabulous deals to you via e-mail. Bon voyage!

 

Save the Date: First Annual Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine & Food Festival

Spring breakers consider yourself warned - foodies will descend upon and devour Cancun in 2012 for the First Annual Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine & Food Festival. Scheduled for March 15-18th, this gourmet extravaganza will bring together chefs and wine & spirit producers from around the world.

These days the term celebrity chef gets tossed around more than bad pizza dough but this festival is the real deal and will feature a dinner tribute to world famous Catalan chef Ferran Adrià. The creator of molecular gastronomy, Adrià's world famous El Bulli restaurant in Spain was widely considered to be the best restaurant in the world and gourmands have been in mourning since it closed this July.

In addition to Adrià, chefs from the Americas will participate, including the United States, Mexico, Canada, Argentina, and Brazil. Names you may recognize include Ingrid Hoffman (pictured), Jacques Pepin, and Marcela Valladolid. Activities include cooking demonstrations, a celebrity chef & winemaker yacht cruise followed by a private beach club lunch, and the American Express Gourmet Tasting Village.

Plan ahead - tickets to the Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine & Food Festival will be available to the general public starting October 1. American Express card members can access an exclusive pre-sale from September 15-October 1. Feeling lucky? Enter for your chance to win two tickets!

I had a blast when I went to Cancun last year - the beaches are stunning and the ambiance is absolutely seductive. Although the food at the resorts is plentiful and delicious, I think that the Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine & Food Festival is long overdue. By creating an opportunity for visitors to uniquely experience the extraordinary culinary traditions of Mexico and the latest trends in gastronomy from throughout the Americas, visitors will develop a deeper connection to the region. Muy bien!

 

In the Bag: Flight Friendly Beauty Products

Thanks to the TSA's insistence on punishing keeping us safe from dangerous amounts of lotions and potions, deciding which beauty products to cram into that darn ZipLock bag always stresses me out before I fly. Here are a few great products that have earned their frequent flyer miles and will keep you TSA compliant.

Yes to Blueberries Daily Repairing Moisturizer with SPF 30
$19.99
Don't let the silly name fool you - Yes to Blueberries delivers serious results. This affordable moisturizer has completely exceeded my expectations - it is gentle yet leaves your face hydrated and protected from the sun's UVA and UVB rays. Unlike most moisturizers with SPF, Yes To Blueberries imparts the skin with a natural matte finish, no greasy shine. It also has some anti-aging benefits - the blueberries help fight external skin damage and the organic cotton thistle boosts natural collagen production. Moisture, sun protection, and anti-aging - Yes to Blueberries has hit the travel trifecta with this product!

Schick Intuition Razor with Renewing Moisture
$9.99 at Drugstore.com
No need take up space in your bag with shaving cream - this ingenious little razor is encased in a Skin Conditioning Solid that lathers, shaves and moisturizes. I tried the pleasantly scented Renewing Moisture with pomegranate extract and loved the results. The Intuition has 4 blades and a pivoting head that follows your contours for a silky smooth shave. Very affordable at $9.99, each pack contains 2 refill cartridges, shower hanger and travel cap. Also available in Advanced Moisture with Shea Butter, Sensitive Care with Aloe and Vitamin E, and Soothing Moisture with Milk and Honey.

Laura Mercier HydraTint SPF 15
$20
This portable product keeps your lips moist, protected from the sun, and enhanced with a subtle hint of color. Another added benefit - it is formulated with breath-freshening mint and orange.

Oscar Blandi Pronto Invisible Volumizing Dry Shampoo Spray 
$11 at 3flOz.com
No water around to freshen up your tresses? No worries, just spritz on this innovative dry shampoo from hair guru Oscar Blandi. It sprays on clear but uses gentle starches to absorb oil and product build-up while protecting hair with Vitamin E and wheat.

Humbled by a Hurricane

Safely (I hope) cocooned in my Harlem apartment, I hear Hurricane Irene beginning her dramatic entrance into New York City. The normally carnival like atmosphere of my street has been usurped by heavy rain and building wind. We’ve had quite a week - an earthquake on Tuesday and now a hurricane that is predicted to be so powerful that NYC authorities have made the unprecedented decision to completely shut down the entire mass transit system.

For many of us, the first reaction was frustration. Why did a hurricane have to hit on the last weekend of August? What do you mean I have to cancel my vacation? Doesn’t Irene know that I have plans, very important plans? Well, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, and other forces of nature don’t care about our plans. Yes, our technology is often able to predict the storm but we can’t stop it.

This weekend there won’t be any little black dresses, fancy soirees, or spur of the moment getaways on my agenda and I’m fine with that. I am praying that we pass through this storm unharmed but changed. Changed so that we truly value time with those we love. Changed so that we appreciate the gift of stillness. Changed so that we don’t let our plans get in the way of cherishing the moment, even the stormy ones.

Deals for Divas: 4 Nights in Dublin for $499

I want to take this opportunity to apologize to all of my friends and family who have heard the topsy turvy tale of my 2002 trip to Dublin countless times. My first flight following the tragedy of 9/11, my heart led me to Dublin when I met a captivating Irish man who was visiting my hometown, New York City.


Wow, time flies. Yours truly in Dublin in 2002.

Alas, our romance was not meant to be, but Dublin left an impression on me. The blockbuster highlight of the trip was serendipitously meeting my beloved Bono, yes THAT Bono from the world renowned rock band U2! But the small moments in Dublin also left an impression - my first sight of the River Liffey, the beauty of the Book of Kells, the energy of Temple Bar, and the taste of a perfectly poured Guinness as it first hit my taste buds. I've always felt like my trip 10 years ago was just the first chapter and that I have unfinished business in Dublin. Every year I say I will return but for some reason or another it never happens.

Well, my crystal ball tells me that a return to Dublin awaits me. Dooley Vacations is offering an amazing 4 Nights in Dublin for $499, including airfare (taxes,fees, facility charges additional). The package includes round-trip airfare from New York City and accommodations at the Regency Hotel. The price is based on two people traveling together on select Sunday through Thursday departures from November 24, 2011 to February 12, 2012.


Dublin Castle

The Regency Hotel is close to major attractions including Trinity College and the Book of Kells, Dublin Castle, Temple Bar, St. Stephen’s Green, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Guinness Storehouse. The hotel also has a spa, pool, and gym. Nice!


Regency Hotel

Bono sightings are not guaranteed but I believe in the luck of the Irish!

For more information, visit the Dooley Vacations website.

Let the Good Times Roll at FestiGals: Women's Weekend Getaway in New Orleans

Summer is winding down but don't fret mon cher, now is the perfect time to plan your fall trip to FestiGals in New Orleans! Scheduled for October 6-9, 2011, FestiGals is a unique opportunity for women to unwind and connect in one of America's most magical cities. Long time readers know that I absolutely adore New Orleans: the people, food, history, music, and resilience simply captivate me. I'm really looking forward to being in New Orleans with women from all over the country in a celebration of friendship, food, fashion and fun.

Highlights of the FestiGals weekend include a luncheon with a special keynote delivered by Soledad O'Brien (CNN, Anchor & Special Correspondent), a Diva Dine tasting tour of NOLA's finest restaurants, the Fire & Ice Cocktail Party featuring the 2012 New Orleans Fire Fighters "Look Hot" Calendar Launch, and a sassy Stiletto Stroll - an authentic New Orleans second-line parade featuring several women’s marching groups, bands, horse-drawn carriages, convertibles, and more. The FestiGals Ultimate Package is $225 and includes access to 10 events over 4 days and select FestiGals events are available at a la carte pricing.

More than just a party, FestiGals also includes the S.H.E. series of seminars featuring dynamic guests speaking on a variety of topics dedicated to Self, Heart and Empowerment. FestiGals is truly a party you can feel good about - a portion of the net proceeds will benefit Dress for Success and Women for Women International.

The legendary Hotel Monteleone in the French Quarter is the headquarters for FestiGals and they are offering a fantastic rate of $159 per night.

For more information and to register, visit the FestiGals website. I hope to see you in New Orleans! Of course, I'm already thinking about which dresses I will bring!

Pack Like a Preppy: Classic Summer Style

Summer is winding down but there is still time to enjoy a perfect preppy getaway! Wherever you travel, the colorful and casual chic of classic preppy summer fashions make them ideal for vacation. And, the fourteen-year old girl inside of me still melts when I see a cute guy in madras shorts!


Need help planning your preppy escape? Check out the Lighthouses and Lobster Rolls collection of destination deals on Jetsetter. Curated by the founders of Vineyard Vines, the adorable brothers Ian and Shep Murray, their vacation choices include Montauk, Rhode Island and Vermont. Once you've selected your preppy vacation spot, here are a few must-haves from the perfect tote to a fabulous frock.

Vineyard Vines Shoreline Polo
$49.99-$65.00
A preppy without a polo is like a gin without tonic. Cut to fit a woman's proportions, this Vineyard Vines polo is embroidered with their adorable and instantly recognizable whale logo.

 

Vineyard Vines Barefeet Classic Tote ($95) and Starfish & Ropes Flip Flops ($24.99)



Could this cute little bag be any preppier? The colorful silk trim with images of tiny bare feet adds the perfect amount of summertime playfulness to this canvas tote. The waterproof bottom makes it a smart choice to carry to the beach for those summer clam bakes or afternoon sails. Pack a pair of these fun little flip flops and your preppy ensemble is complete.

Lilly Pulitzer Cameron Dress ($268) 

Lilly Pulitzer is known as the "Queen of Prep" and sets the standard for dresses that look great from the Hamptons to Palm Beach. Did you know that Lilly Pulitzer's iconic brand took off when Jackie Kennedy Onassis was photographed wearing one of her colorful shifts on vacation? Madras is a mainstay of preppy fashion and this Lilly Pulitzer dress perfectly melds the classic patchwork pattern with sexy summer chic.

Want to learn more about the preppy lifestyle? Pack a copy of Lisa Birnbach's (with Chip Kidd) True Prep in your Vineyard Vines tote. Thirty years ago Birnbach caused a sensation with The Official Preppy Handbook and True Prep has updated the info for the modern age. A must read before any trip to Martha's Vineyard!

 
P.S. The photo of the preppies at the beginning of this article is from one of my all-time favorite comedies, Trading Places. The preppies runneth over in that film!

 

Travel Chic for Less with Jetsetter: Here's Your Invitation to Join!

Really, my head is spinning - the number of websites offering flash travel sales is mind-boggling. When the deals hit my inbox, I usually spend a good 30 minutes oohing and aahing over the sandy beaches and luxury hotels, but I almost never reach for my credit card and complete the transaction. Could Jetsetter be the site that wins me over?

Founded by the fashionistas at the wildly successful Gilt Groupe, Jetsetter is a travel community that offers their members flash (limited time) sales on many of the world's best vacation getaways. Recently, I attended a travel networking event and chatted with a woman who has used Jetsetter to book several trips and gave it rave reviews.

From Miami to the Maldives, Philly to Portugal, Chicago to Crete, Jetsetter's travel experts hand-select the deals and each destination is subject to rigorous quality assessment and ongoing monitoring - a process they call call Jetsetter Verification.

Best of all, membership in Jetsetter is free. Just follow this link, sign up, and you will start receiving amazing and high quality travel deals in your inbox. Be prepared to ooh and aah!

Got Travel Insurance?: Pack Peace of Mind

Let's face it, travel insurance is the last thing that most of us think about when planning a trip. Who even wants to consider that something could go wrong on our dream vacation, family getaway, or business trip? Well, darlings, the truth is that things can go awry on even the most perfectly planned trip. Have you thought about what you would do if your trip were disrupted by a natural disaster, medical emergency, or civil disturbance?  When calamities arise, travel insurance can really save the day.

According to the U.S. Travel Insurance Association 1 in 3 travelers buy insurance for their trip and Access America is the world's leading provider. Why should you consider making travel insurance a regular part of your trip planning?

The Airline Loses Your Little Black Dresses
Nothing can ruin a day in quite the same way as watching the luggage carousel go round and round without your baggage. Travel insurance can ease the pain by covering the replacement costs of lost items (up to the limits stated in your policy.)

Mother Nature Leaves You Grounded
Did you know that airlines have no legal obligation to provide you with accommodations if your flight is canceled because of the weather? Purchase a policy with travel delay coverage and you may be reimbursed for expenses such as hotel rooms and meals up to the limit of your policy.

Get Your Money Back
Imagine that your child comes down with the flu right before the family vacation. Access America's Classic travel insurance plan with trip cancellation coverage will reimburse you for all non-refundable travel expenses, including plane tickets and theme park passes. You can then rebook that family trip when the little one is feeling better.

Help When You're Sick
I know from personal experience that seeking medical attention away from home is one of the most stressful experiences that a traveler can encounter. Don't assume that your health insurance will cover your emergency room visits in another country. And, what if your illness is so severe that you require medical evacuation? Don't gamble with your health. Access America offers comprehensive travel insurance policies that can cover medical services, hospitalization, and evacuation so that you don't have to shell out significant sums upfront.

There are many more reasons to invest in travel insurance before your next trip. Visit Access America for detailed information about their plans. Pack some peace of mind on your next trip!

Travel in Style: Upgrade Your In-Flight Wardrobe

Do you remember the days when travel was glamorous? That idyllic time when ladies put on fabulous frocks and not sloppy sweats to fly the friendly skies? Granted, the skies aren't as friendly anymore but I still like to add a little pizazz to my ensemble. Dress like a superstar and you just may find yourself upgraded to first class!

TOPSHOP Black Sleeveless Wrap Ruched Dress
$76
The elegant silhouette of this little black dress will never go out of style. A comfortable blend of cotton with a dash of elastane, this washable beauty is a perfect no-fuss but high impact travel dress. Keep it simple or play it up with accessories.

Banana Republic - The Mad Men Collection Animal Print Cardigan in Soft Grey
$89.50
I have no idea of when Mad Men will return to our television screens but Banana Republic's new collection, created by the series' costume designer Janie Bryant, perfectly captures the unabashed femininity of 1960's fashions. This chic cardigan is a stylish way to keep your arms warm and your outfit sizzling!

KORS Michael Kors Erin Ballet Flats
$150
Dash through the airport in style in these racy red ballet flats. Made of flexible leather and patent, these flats will fit easily in your tote - just slip them on when your feet need relief!

J. Crew Newsstand Tote
$198
I always board a plane with a tote big enough to carry all of my essentials but compact enough to fit under the seat. This simple tote is roomy enough for a laptop, newspaper, book, cosmetics and more.

AVON ExtraLasting
Lipstick ($9) and Cream-to-Powder Foundation SPF 15 ($12)
For makeup that still looks fresh and natural when you land, AVON ExtraLasting is an affordable option. The lipstick offers up to 8 hours of transfer resistant color. The cream-to-powder foundation is much more travel friendly than liquid and offers medium coverage that resists sweat and will look flawless for up to 18 hours. Nice!

 

Get More Gorgeous! Makeup Tips from Celebrity Makeup Artist Sonia Kashuk

If you are an habitué of Target like yours truly, then you are very familiar with Sonia Kashuk's incredible line of affordable yet luxurious cosmetics. Sonia launched her eponymous line at Target in 1999, making her the first make-up artist brand available to the masses. She is a true trailblazer in the beauty world.

I'm pretty predictable when it comes to my makeup routine: powder foundation for coverage and to reduce shine, mascara, and lip color. If I'm feeling really wild, I will add a little shimmery eyeshadow and some blush. Yep, I'm in a makeup rut so I jumped at the opportunity to attend a makeup master class hosted by Sonia. All of us brave ladies (including Sonia) wiped away our makeup and began with a clean canvas. Here are a few of my favorite products and tips gleaned from the sensational Sonia.

Prime It or Lose It - I never really bought into the whole makeup primer thing but Sonia presented a compelling case for her Primer Vitamin Serum ($17.99). Think of primer as insurance for your makeup to make sure that your foundation lasts. Like the name implies, Primer Vitamin Serum contains skin-friendly vitamins C, E and B. It also has salicylic acid which promotes cell turnover. Apply the primer after your moisturizer for a smooth and longer-lasting finish.

Lash Out - Mascara is a must-have and Sonia Kashuk's LASHIFY makes long pretty lashes a cinch. Very travel-friendly, one end of the LASHIFY case contains mascara and the other has a lash comb. Tip from Sonia: Skip mascara on your bottom lashes, it tends to make your eye area look dragged down instead of lifted and alert. And, always curl your lashes before applying mascara.

Blushing Beauty - I have a friend who insists that every woman over the age of 30 must wear blush. Maybe she has a point. Blush does instantly brighten up the face and enhances cheek bones. The secret is to find a subtle color that makes you look naturally flushed and not like a drag queen. Beautifying Blush ($6.99) is available in six flattering shades.

P.S. Sonia, has a great team of makeup artists working with her but I want to send a special thank you to the amazingly talented (and devastatingly handsome) Edward Cruz. Edward did my makeup a few months ago at another Sonia Kashuk event and helped me to fine tune the look you see in this photo. Gracias Edward! xoxo

Give a Green Thumbs Up to Yes to Blueberries Gardener's Hand Cream

Yes to Blueberries Gardener's Hand Cream
$8.99
Admittedly, I'm no gardener but this city slicker is always in need of an effective hand cream. Yes to Blueberries has sprouted a great new product, Gardener's Hand Cream, that pampers your hands and gives back to charity - 100% of the proceeds benefit the Yes to Seed Fund which gives grants to school gardens. The Yes to Seed Fund gives kids fun and engaging ways to connect with mother nature and teaches them to lead healthier lifestyles through nutrition, gardening & being outdoors. I'm on board with that - some of these little gardening tykes could be our future culinary superstars!

Take Me Away: Join Grape Getaways in Long Island Wine Country

The summer is going by way too fast, take a moment to stop and smell the Rosé! Last summer, I went on an amazing day trip to Long Island wine country organized by Grape Getaways and not only did I smell the Rosé, the Pinot, and the Cabernet, I swirled and sipped them too! (Click here to read about my trip last summer.)

If you are in the New York City area and want to experience a relaxing and delicious day away from the city, Grape Getaways is heading back to the North Fork on Saturday, August 20. The bus leaves midtown at 9:00 am and will return around 6:30-7:00 pm. Readers of The Black Dress Traveler pay the discounted affiliate rate of $99 (regular price is $115.) The fee includes:

- Round trip bus transportation
- Tastings at 2 wineries-  Castello di Borghese and Clovis Point.
- Three course lunch at Claudio's Restaurant . Open since 1870, apparently Claudio's is recognized by the National Restaurant Association as the oldest restaurant run by the same family in the United States -wow!


The Tasting Room at Clovis Point overlooks the vineyards.

For more information and to sign up, visit the Grape Getaways website.

More than Words: Gare du Nord, Paris

Gare du Nord, Paris (France)

Don't underestimate the power of a picture. Images can stir the emotions and transport us to another time and place. My friend, Leslie J.Yerman, is a New York City based photographer who has had a lifelong love affair with capturing people and places. I adore Leslie's beautiful black and white image of Paris's famous Gare du Nord train station - it perfectly evokes the grandeur of the station and that ineffable feeling of waiting to begin a journey. I feel like the train could pull into the station at any moment!

Visit Leslie's website to view and purchase more of her stunning images.

One Cool Lady: Meet Alex Elman aka The Blind Wine Chick

Once in a while I meet someone who completely blows me away with their talent, positive attitude, and passion for life - Alex Elman is one of those people. She is a winemaker and a world traveler who just happens to be blind. Alex lost her vision at 27 due to complications from diabetes but that did not stop her from continuing to work in the wine industy.




Alex recently launched her own wine label, appropriately named Alex Elman Authentic Wine Treasures, and the current collection contains 4 varietals: Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Torrontes. These wonderful wines are also very affordable - they retail for $12.99-$14.99.

I recently had a chance to sit down with Alex (and her sweet guide dog Hanley) in New York City at the Hotel Giraffe to learn more about her journey while sharing a bottle of her delicious Torrontes - a refreshing and luscious white wine from Argentina.

Want to hear our conversation? Watch the video!

Black Dress, Big City: The Black Dress Traveler Goes to Boston

Boston - Customs House at Night
image courtesy Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau

I've been motivated to travel for many reasons: love, business and wanderlust, to name a few. Now, I have a new addition to my list: regret. You see, I've passed through Boston countless times but I've spent virtually no time in New England's biggest city.  I attended boarding school in the suburbs of Boston but it felt a world away. I have a vague memory of venturing into Boston on a failed mission with my equally awkward teenage girlfriends to meet some Harvard boys, but beyond that, nada.

On a recent visit to my alma mater, I decided to stop regretting and, instead of racing back to New York, I spent 2 nights in Boston to get a better feel for the city. Admittedly, the first night I was too tired to do much more than order room service and luxuriate in my gorgeous hotel room, but I was up bright and early the next morning to embark on my getting to know Boston adventure. Alas, meeting a cute guy from Harvard still eluded me but Boston offered many other diversions!

Getting There

Why can't all buses be like the LimoLiner? Plush, comfortable, and civilized, LimoLiner is a fantastic option if you are traveling from New York to Boston. My bus departed promptly from the New York Hilton in midtown Manhattan at 11:15 am and arrived on time at Boston's Back Bay Hilton at 4:25 pm.

What makes the LimoLiner different? It somehow manages to meld together the best of road, train and air travel. The buses are state-of-the art and spacious and there is an attendant on board that serves refreshments and snacks. The wireless internet access and seatside power outlets make it easy to stay productive on the road. Or, you could just take a nice nap in LimoLiner's reclining leather seats. The fare of $89 each way is comparable to business class on Amtrak but LimoLiner is a much more pleasant and personalized experience.

Where to Stay

Ever since I stayed at a Kimpton Hotel in Philadelphia, I've been eager to check into another one of their luxurious, hip, and affordable hotels.  Kimpton actually has three hotels in Boston, each with a different but equally cool vibe. I opted for the Hotel Nine Zero, which is centrally located in downtown Boston at 90 Tremont Street, hence the name of the hotel.

Hotel Nine Zero does a great job on the little details - a hosted evening wine hour, in room spa services, a fully stocked honor bar, Etro bath amenities, and complimentary wireless access for Kimpton InTouch members. Forgot something at home? No worries - take advantage of the hotel's Forgot It? We've Got It! initiative - just call the front desk and they will bring you items like toothpaste and a salon style hairdryer at no extra charge. Items like sunscreen and clear nail polish are offered for a nominal fee.

Feeling hungry? Upscale dining is available on-site at KO Prime or opt for room service. On my first night, a delicious room service meal and the gorgeous view from my window, made it a wonderfully relaxing night.


What to See

In addition to being a fabulous place to stay, the Hotel Nine Zero is centrally located near many of Boston's major attractions - it is right near must sees like the Boston Common (the starting point of the Freedom Trail and America's oldest park) and the Public Garden (the nation's oldest botanical garden and home of the famous Swan Boats.) One of the great things about Boston is that history has a way of popping up around you - I stumbled upon the King's Chapel and Burying Ground, the oldest burying place in Boston proper. King's Chapel is celebrating their 325th anniversary this year and is the fifth stop on Boston's famed Freedom Trail.


Swan Boat in The Public Garden
image courtesy Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau


The Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) was high on my list of places to visit. Located in Boston's Seaport District, it was a nice 20 minute walk from Hotel Nine Zero. A truly stunning building, this waterfront museum is a work of art - not to mention all of the modern masterpieces inside. The galleries are spacious and ICA has a great cafe (Wolfgang Puck's Water Cafe) with indoor and outdoor seating by the water.


The Institute of Contemporary Art

 I worked up an appetite at ICA and strolled over to Sam's for lunch. A casual yet chic waterfront restuarant, Sam's is located on the second floor of the high-end boutique Louis (where I was very tempted to spend my vacation money on a Roland Mouret dress - it was 50% off!). With something tasty to tantalize every palate, the current Sam's lunch menu includes Oysters (crispy fried or fresh shucked), Open Face Lobster Salad, and a really delicious BLT with tomato marmalade. In fact, the BLT was so delicious, I dug in and devoured the whole sandwich and realized at the end that I failed to take a photo - a delicious oversight! When you finish your lunch, leave your mark on Boston and leave a note on Sam's chalkboard walls - Usher did and so did I!

Obviously, I don't proclaim to be a Boston expert now but I do feel like I know the town a little better. I'm looking forward to my next visit - Harvard men, watch out!