Macarons are one of my favorite desserts. They make wonderful wedding favors and photograph beautifully because of their cute round shape and vibrant colors. So, while traveling Europe, we sought out macaron stores to have a little taste test. You would find macarons among other desserts in many patisseries. The notable macaron shops we saw are Pierre Hermé, Laduree and Jean-Philippe Darcis. You would see assortments of macarons up to 12 different flavors, and colors nestled next to gourmet chocolates. We also found them in gourmet markets like the Le Bon Marche in Paris. What should a good macaron taste like? First and foremost it should have a light and fluffy texture; when you bite into one, there should be little resistance but pure soft and puffy consistency. Like biting into a cloud. The filling should not be too sweet. Contrasting flavors such as a tart filling against the sweet cookie outside will have you beg for more. Out of all that I tried, I have to say Pierre Hermé makes the best tasting! For us living in the states, worry not, we have a few specialty stores that make macarons, just as tasty as the European counterparts. Joie Patisserie, for one, is my favorite!
When traveling in Europe a refreshing sight was the way people got around. Yes, there are cars and motor cycles but what was most astonishing is the amount of bicycles on the road. And what’s even more surprising is the way they dress while riding bikes. Here in the US we see avid riders in sportswear. But in Europe, Amsterdam especially, it is common to see women in dress and heeled boots zigzagging around town like it’s a fashion statement. So I dedicated this post to thousands of bicycles and the people who embrace this way of getting around.
In March Connie and I took a photography excursion to Europe to capture the art, the culture and the history of the old world. When we planned this trip, we had a few criteria.  One, we wanted to travel on our own time, and two, do as the locals do.  With that in mind, we avoided any guided tours and we focused on immersing ourselves in the cultures of the places we visited.  So, we took our time, we wore off the soles of our shoes, and enjoyed the many foods they have to offer.  We stayed in apartments equipped with kitchenettes and close to town squares so we were central to everything.  We shopped at local markets and prepared our own meals.  Sometimes we splurged and had an authentic dining experience.  We spent a week with our friend, Madeleine, in Besançon, a city south-east of Paris, and got a true taste of French living.  And everywhere we went, we captured everything with our cameras.
In our 19-day journey we walked on century-old cobble stones, witnessed serene countrysides, sipped strong coffee, tasted fresh pastries, sampled beautiful macarons, enjoyed pungent yet delicious cheeses, visited quaint villages, and drank fantastic wine! Â In the next few posts, we will share our photos and our experiences. Â Join us, as we travel to our European destinations and see what you normally won’t see in a guided tour.
Antwerp train station, Belgium.
Anwerpt train station, Belgium.
Brussels, Belgium.
Brussels, Belgium.
Brussels, Belgium.
Brugge, Belgium.
Brugge, Belgium.
Brugge, Belgium.
Brugge, Belgium.
Panorama of a center square. Brugge, Belgium.
Our friend Madeleine in her kitchen. She is an amazing cook who introduced us to simple and elegant French cuisine. Besançon, France.
Madeleine’s jardin (garden). Soon these trees will bear fruit which will be made into preserves. Just like the ones Madeleine served us for breakfast. Besançon, France.
On top is the Citadel and down below is the entrance to the city of Besançon, France.
A panoramic view of the city of Besançon, France.
A roundabout. Besançon, France.
Farm house near Besançon, France.
Mr. Emile Brutillot, a farmer and artisan sausage maker. La Chaux de Gilley, France.
Bourguignon, France.
Niedermorschwihr, France.
On Route Des Vins D’Alsace near Colmar, France. A region know for their white wines.
Village along Route Des Vins D’Alsace near Colmar, France.
Village along Route Des Vins D’Alsace near Colmar, France.
Eyeing delicious French baguette in Colmar, France.
View from the top of Chateauneuf. Burgundy, France.
Near Chateauneuf. Burgundy, France.
Near Chateauneuf. Burgundy, France.
Canal of Burgundy near Chateauneuf. Burgundy, France.
Cows amused by tourists. Burgundy, France.