April 14 – 24, 2012 … Mallorca and Menorca: Gardens, Art and Cuisine
Boasting an exciting itinerary – including a rare opportunity to visit private gardens in the countryside and coastal settings of Mallorca, an upcoming tour offered by the Pacific Horticulture Foundation has a few spaces available. Escorted by Katherine Greenberg, a designer with expertise spanning an in-depth knowledge of Spain and Mediterranean gardening, the tour promises insider status as participants experience gardens, fine cuisine, and art that sets Mallorca apart. 
- Palma Fountain: Photo © Katherine Greenberg
A lovely fountain near the Cathedral of Palma.
Another highlight of this small group tour: Participants will explore Menorca, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, while experiencing the island’s fascinating archaeological sites and distinctive architecture.
Link to: Pacific Horticulture Tour Details
and the itinerary pdf.
The lake bordered by palm trees at Alfabia, a private garden dating from the Moorish period, featured in…
Great Gardens of Spain, by Anneli Bojstad and Eduardo Mencos .. reviewed on Alice’s Garden Travel Buzz.

Mallorca: Photo © Katherine Greenberg
The Pacific Horticulture Foundation web site features a trove of information for all who appreciate the world of flora and exceptional landscape design.
Handful of truffles….

Photo Courtesy Napa Truffle Festival
January 13 – 16th: The second annual Napa Truffle Festival begins Friday at the Westin Verasa, Napa, taking in seminars, winery tours & tastings, and memorable meals. (The sold out event already has dates in place for the 2013 event.) On Monday, however, tickets can be purchased that day for a food and wine event celebrating the fabulous fungi at the Oxbow Public Market.
The event’s keynote speaker – a savvy insider in the world of food and travel -Barbara Fairchild is the former editor of Bon Appétit.

Napa Valley Photo © Alice Joyce
The Festival is an exciting concept, bringing in scientific experts to lead seminars dealing with the cultivation and economics of European truffles. Food lovers will bask in the presence of stars of the culinary realm, and the preparation of elegant cuisine calling attention to the earthy, flavorful allure of European truffles.

Boasting an impressive gathering of Michelin Star Chefs from the U.S. and Italy, Ken Frank of La Toque will presiding over cooking demonstrations, and the weekend’s culmination: a virtuoso Saturday evening dinner.
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Quixote Winery / Photo © Alice Joyce
Beautiful Settings Year-Round / Art Collections / Food Pairings