I'm Albuquerque bound for Thanksgiving. I'll be checking out the Albuquerque Marriott in the trendy Uptown district. The Marriott is within walking distance of two shopping centers and so if I was so inclined, I'd have plenty of Black Friday shopping opportunities at my doorstep.

But I'm likely to enjoy time with a good friend and explore the restaurants. Weather permitting, it might be fun to check out the River of Lights Show at the BioPark. There is plenty to see and do in Albuquerque, whether you want to stay warm and cozy inside or enjoy the spectacular outdoor scenery.

Book your stay online at the Albuquerque Uptown Marriott and save.

Photo Credit: Elizabeth R. Rose - Uptown at Night

It's a a long week-end of indulgence as San Antonio showcases their finest food, wine, restaurants and attractions. Select from events at wineries, fine restaurants, budget attractions and, of course, the beautiful San Antonio River Walk. To show you the variety, we describe New World Wine and Food Festival events we attended and provide you with tips for planning your trip to this annual wine and food event.

Photo Credit: Elizabeth R. Rose - Westin La Cantera's Sommelier offers guests a special treat - Wine laced with Cowboy Candy (Candied Jalapenos)

I've always enjoyed walking along San Antonio's famed River Walk and then resting on one of the leisurely boat trips, and so I was thrilled to find out that the River Walk has been extended.

The River Walk has extended to an area called "Museum Reach." This area, accessible via the Rio Taxi boats, follows the river north of the Southwest School of Art & Crafts. This new section connects the River Walk with more shops, restaurants, and especially art. You can access the San Antonio Museum of Art from the boat landing. You can also see the lock and dam system that allows visitors to ride river barges as far as the Pearl Brewery complex.

San Antonio River Walk Article
San Antonio River Walk Photos
San Antonio River Walk at Christmas

Photo Credit: Elizabeth R. Rose

It was our first New World Wine & Food Festival event - a winemaker's dinner hosted by Boudro's and served in an intriguing wine cellar. Each carefully selected course was paired with Brown Estate Vineyards wines.

Each of the five courses gave us enough to savor the creative cuisine and marvel at how well paired the course was with a Brown Vineyard wine. I have to say my favorite was the first course, a pan seared scallop with sweet potato gnocci, crispy sweetbread and brown butter. It was paired with a 2007 Brown Estate Chardonnay. Why my favorite? It surprised my palate and set high expectations for the evening.

There truly is something for everyone at San Antonio's New World Wine & Food Festival. Today we will travel out to the Hill Country to enjoy a winemaker lunch at Becker Vineyards.

Photo Credit: Elizabeth R. Rose - Coral Brown of Brown Estate Vineyards