All of us are busy with work, family, friends, chores and more. We literally don’t have to time to research-to-death every topic. World wide web certainly has a ton of information if you only have the time to sift through the minutiae. And whom do you trust when you read reviews?

My adventures will give you some feedback that is not tied to a commercial transaction. Clearly you may have noticed by now that I have NOTHING for sale. No ugly ads to distract you. Just recipes, words or photos of things I love which include food, travel and music.

Why should I listen to music?

One of my goals is that my words will move you to cook, eat, travel, listen and go. Enjoy an experience, location, recipe, music or festival that you may not have tried before. At times we all need a gentle push to try something new. One of my many joys in life besides cooking and sharing or eating great food is listening to music

Grill Man and I have the standard ways to enjoy music like everyone which include stereo, radio, Alexa, turn-table and Sonic Suitcase. Absolutely nothing compares to listening to live music especially if it is a small venue.

Especially live, music is good for the soul. By watching musicians play directly in front of you it increases your sensory enjoyment. After attending a festival last year I wrote about one food and travel experience titled, Adorable Opelika and Songwriters Festival 2020. This event is next month and they have over 70 artists. Read link above for details.

Subscribe to Dining With Mimi for latest Music that you haven’t heard

If you love a musician’s music there is no better way to support them then by going to a concert and buying their album, cd and merchandise. This monetary exchange direct with the artist helps to support and sustain their creative work and sustains the music.

Our world would be a sad and dreary place without music to lighten our hearts. Musicians creating melody and music improves our attitude and contributes in other ways that we may not realize.

Did you know music is good for your health? If you don’t believe me check out this report from Harvard titled, Music and Health. It is very technical, but the short version is you should listen to more music. You will be happier and healthier. Who doesn’t want more of that?

Music makes us travel. While traveling I experience new foods and spices which make me want to cook at home. This food discovery encourages me to share with friends and family. Dining With Mimi is an extension of my journeys.

While on a journey at 30a Songwriters Festival we discovered a stunning new talent, Liz Longley. Check out Liz Longley her music is soulful and lovely. James Squire described her music this way, ” Seeing her live is an experience to behold. Every song is imprinted with a piece of her soul and stamped with so much emotion. She has one of the most pure voices that resonates within your bones. Angelic and ethereal.”

Listening to music and while I am writing about food and travel please remember anything that I write about is based on my opinion (such as it is) of my experience. Please recognize that this is subject to change at any given time based on new information.

How do I get the latest information?

Jump on board and Subscribe to Dining With Mimi. If you subscribe you will be sure to see the latest recipes and food or travel adventures. As Grill Man and I discover new music or festivals you will be the first to know via the subscription email.

Once you subscribe, a confirmation request will be sent. Confirm acceptance and that is all you need to do. Thank you for supporting my site with your time and attention. I hope to earn your trust and become the go-to Southern girl. Let me know how I may assist.

If you see something you love please share it with someone. If you dislike something please let me know that too. This year I am on a mission to increase my subscriber following and if you share my site, it will help. Pick 10 people, share site with friends that love recipes, music and travel tips.

It’s time, Subscribe to Dining With Mimi or share with your loved ones.

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First of all no matter how you spell it Luzern or Lucerne, add it to your travel list. It is the same destination. Luzern is located in the German speaking portion of Switzerland and this is what you will see on signs or maps. In the French or English language the city of Luzern is translated as Lucerne.

Luzern Lucerne How I love thee, Let me count the ways.

In my travels overseas, I have learned the hard way to plan arrivals as centrally located to hotel destination. Trust me when I say it is worth the time and ensures an easier trip. Bahnhof (Station) Luzern is a major hub and located in the heart of of the city. In addition, station offers 69 vendors to address travelers needs for that one item left at home.

“Everything for your daily needs. 365 days a year. From early till late. “

This train station is positioned on the south side of Lake Luzern which greets you upon arrival. Everywhere is a photo waiting to be captured and a postcard worthy view. Prominent arch way stands resolute in front of the train station. Original station was destroyed in 1971 and a comprehensive redevelopment took place before they built the station as you see it today. On departing, Ricard Kesslings statue Spirit of the times welcomes you to Luzern in a grand way.

As you leave the station sights and sounds surround you while attempting to dodge people traveling to and fro. Sensory overload is almost impossible to escape between the views and trying to navigate with luggage in tow to destination. I remember the immense pleasure that I felt while entering this lovely city by the river. It’s impossible to avoid excitement while wandering and discovering the city on the way to the hotel.

Within a short walking distance of the train station a bridge leads you over the beautiful water that appears to be everywhere. My Swiss Gear spinners were working well on my new luggage as we walked to Des Alpes Hotel . Des Alpes is located in the heart of historic downtown Luzern beside the waterway and Kapellbrucke wooden chapel bridge.

Kapellbrucke Wooden Chapel Bridge

Work started on the wooden chapel bridge in 1332 on a portion of River Reuss. Kapellbrucke bridge linked the old town with the new and surely became a busy path. In the 17th century artist Hans Heinrich Wagman created 158 paintings which adorned the bridge until a fire burned the bridge in 1993. Water tower, 2 bridge heads and a portion of the paintings were saved.

Trails by fire and time did not prevent the Swiss from restoring Europe’s oldest covered wooden bridge. Take the time to walk around and see the surviving art work on this bridge and others. If only the walls could speak to us. Surely the bridge has seen everything from romantic trysts to proposals or hearts won and lost. At dusk walking this dark pathway helps you to step back in time with its creaky noises.

Truly, I loved staying in this area and its central location to everything. During my stay our hotel provided great customer service and a lovely meals by the river. If this hotel isn’t available there are several in this same area along the water and by chapel bridge. Get lost around this area and pop into shops, restaurants, museums and art galleries. We found a great Indian restaurant Mirch Masala within walking distance. Indian food is a great contrast to heavy German food.

Chapel Bridge Farmers Market has it all

Besides the creaky wooden bridge a gorgeous farmers market is held every Tuesday and Saturday. Vendors sell everything that I would need to complete a beautiful fresh meal. Or even items for a great picnic that could be shared on top the mountain. If only someone would have let me in the kitchen? Market has everything from fruits that I did not recognize to veggies saying, “Pick Me-Pick Me”. Vibrant flowers,seafood, cheese, bread, candies, coffee, pastries and more.

Our group wandered through the market while I had visions of recipes in my head. Meanwhile UK stopped in front of the local Pickle Meister and purchased a mixed bag of pickles including sweet, sour, hot and OMG-Hot. UK generously shared with our group as we walked and chatted about which pickle was best.

Counting the ways

From the farmers market to wandering around aimlessly through this city was my favorite part. However there are a few destinations that you should add to your list while you wander.

01 Hiking Suggestions

Scanning the horizon view of Mount Pilatus it is impossible to ignore the majesty and close proximity to the city. If hiking in Switzerland is on the travel list, “You have arrived at your destination.” Clearly more options for hiking will be available than you have hours in your day.

02 Lion of Lucerne Monument

The Lion Monument in Lucerne is a giant lion relief carved out of a wall of sandstone rock above a pond. (32.8′ x 19.7′) It was designed as a memorial for the mercenary soldiers from central Switzerland who lost their lives while serving the French king Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Mark Twain was touched by the Lion and wrote that it was ” the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world”.

03 Max Chocolatier

Swiss chocolate melts in your mouth and makes you want to scream for more. Not very lady like, but the chocolate is too damn good. I recommend a chocolate tasting experience at Max Chocolatier. This company has a special story to tell besides the outstanding products.

04 Fairytale Castle Chateau Gustch

Directions: In front of the Bahn train station, a bus station awaits for you. Take bus line No. 12, No. 18 or No. 2 to the Gutsch bus stop. Proceed to the Gutsch funicular and follow the signs.  The views are worth the effort and bus ride to see this castle.

If the weather is lovely please have lunch or cocktails on the patio. On my next trip, I will have to spend the night in this fairytale castle in the sky. Destination would be a prefect spot for celebrating a honeymoon or special occasion. I only wish that I had more time to fully discover every nook and cranny of Chateau Gustch so that I could share it all.

Chateau’s history is romantic and speaks to us of times gone by. In 2010 Alexander Lebedev and Evgeny Lebedev purchased the property. In time they developed a plan to create a luxurious hotel. Renovations included preservation of historical and artistic details. Attention to beauty surrounds this historical but updated setting that opened to guests in 2014.

05 Jesuit Church- First Baroque Sacred building in Switzerand

In 1666 construction began on this structure and just over a decade later an official inauguration was held for the church modeled after the Roman Church of the Gesu. Baroque and rococo stucco stand out as well as its altar and organ. A concert in this location would have amazing acoustics.

06 Spend a day without an agenda and discover the city

Wandering around a city without a plan or guide book is one of my favorite travel days. You may only discover the unexpected if you allow an opportunity to do so. Please don’t over plan your vacation and miss the chance to wander. Who knows what you might miss?

Truly I could ramble on about Luzern Lucerne How I love thee Let me count the ways. Visit Luzern! City is modern enough to have all of the conveniences of today while still preserving the old. Regardless of your age, this is a city for you to see with its vibrant life. Sadly I don’t know when but I will return one day.

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Mix up your life and work with  a change of address

Relocating allows you to leave your chores and routine at home while you head off to parts unknown. Yet work is still around hanging about like a fog. With the necessity of work, family and play must be managed. Of course, this is before you add in the laundry, cleaning and never-ending errands to keep up your household. All of these things are weaved into our fabric of life.

Occasionally necessities are postponed or avoided but even the dust bunnies will take over if you let them. Learning to unwind is vital to your sanity. Our brain and bodies want  a respite daily even if we don’t want to slow down long enough. If you can’t get away for a longer vacation, select something close to home. You too can unwind on Dauphin Island!

Dauphin Island is the perfect island getaway place for a family that enjoys  water activities. Whether it’s boating, fishing, skiing, beaching, skateboarding, paddle boarding, surfing or sunset critiques the island offers it all.  White sandy beaches with salty water that lures you in for a dip or fishing.

Inshore or offshore fishing is amazing on or near the Island. Gulf Coast waters hosts the best fishing in the world. With a large variety of species you can catch your limit before you know it. Research before you go and don’t forget to pack everything from sunscreen, hats and fishing license. Outdoor Alabama has lots of information to help you plan.

What to expect while visiting Dauphin Island?

Life on Dauphin Island is typical to what  you would expect on most islands. Everything is island casual and ultra laid back every where. People are super friendly and happy to help or direct you as needed. Dauphin Island is a small community of locals with a steady stream of visitors.

Public Beach has plenty of parking and easy access to the water’s edge for your enjoyment. Availability is limited on the amount of selections offered on the island. Stores on Dauphin Island offer island-pricing at some locations.

Bring everything that you may need while on the island. If you forget an item just go buy it.  It is not like you pay $3.87 for a dozen of eggs all the time. Yes, $3.87 plus tax for plain jane un-cage-free eggs. My chickens would be appalled.

Most importantly, remember while  visiting you’re on Island-Time. Settle in and grab a cocktail whether it’s on a dock or beach side. The island offers many water spots to grab a great view of sunsets and slowly sip a cocktails. Although work managed to weave in and out like a loose thread stuck to your clothes that you never seem to get rid of, I relaxed.

Can you unwind on Dauphin Island? If quiet coastal living is your goal, Dauphin Island is your place.  City Council and founding Fathers have managed to keep away  big business and big box stores. Unlike Destin or Gulf Shores, traffic is non-existent everywhere you go. Yet, Dauphin Island is a different speed than Destin or Gulf Shores.

Dauphin Island is 14 miles long and its widest point is 1 3/4 miles long. No matter where you step,  water is never too far away with multiple public beach access points. Plenty of rental options with an assortment of amenities designed to fit most budgets.

Our crew certainly took full advantage of the water sports. I managed to paddle multiple times but still could not get enough. It was true joy to take my nephews and their Momma paddling for the first time. Everyone paddled like pros and no one fell off the board.  My mischievous nephew jumped ship but his Momma was quick enough to pull him back in without falling over.

Water is a great family friendly place to discover and share time fishing or boating.  If you  wait long enough you may see jellyfish, jumping fish or dolphins.  Dolphins came out to greet me on several occasions which always makes brings excitement. Especially if you notice the fin first without seeing that it’s only a dolphin. And yes I hear that music occasionally you know the one, it starts with duunnn dunnn.

Happily all of my fins have been dolphins! Baywatch came over  for the day and we paddled all over the west end Gulf side of the Public Beach.  Paddle, paddle and more paddling for a couple of hours until we were starving.

The day before we paddled Grill Man and Bama Beau had caught plenty speckle trout for us to cook and eat.  My girl and I whipped up dinner while Grill Man battered the fish with a Zatarains fish fry. Bama Beau moved in the kitchen as fry-daddy until the fish were hot and crispy. Dinner turned into a group effort. I highly suggest this as always a good idea to share kitchen duties to make it easier on kitchen Momma and great way to spend time together.

Baywatch and I were happy for the leftovers  after our long paddle along with my favorite Zipper Peas . Cold glass of wine paired along well with our meal and much deserved after our long paddle. Sitting by the water staring off into space and chatting with friends is a great way to spend the afternoon.

Natures beauty is all over the island in lots of nooks and crannies. Plenty of things to see and photograph on the island. From the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, Sea Lab, Fort Gaines, Shell Mound Park and many sandy beaches  to share  with your family. Good idea to step away from crowds, technology and get back to basics.

After family time is over for the day,  whip out the  blender and mix up a frosty concoction like pina colada or daiquiri. Rum and fruit juice with a cute little umbrella will put you in the mood.  Whether you choose to unwind on Dauphin Island or any other quick get away spot, pick a place to Shake It Off, relax and recharge.

Everyone needs the battery recharged. Sadly, in the US we have a tendency to go-go-go to work-work-work. Our friends overseas plug-in downtime more than we do.  I for one am ready to change that in my world. How about you? Are you ready to unwind on Dauphin Island?

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