Take the Trip by Brian – A Former Chef Turned Travel Blogger
One of my favorite parts about traveling is not just seeing new places—it’s tasting them.
As a former chef turned full-time traveler, I approach every trip with one big question:
“What’s the dish I can’t leave town without trying?”
It is not always the place with the longest line or the fanciest décor.
Often, it is the mom-and-pop diner tucked into a strip mall, the food truck that only operates on weekends, or the no-menu dive bar where the cook whips up magic behind the scenes.
And now, I want to hear from YOU.
🍽️ Help Plan My Future Food Trips!
I am building out my next round of food adventures and looking for:
🔍 Hidden gems – spots locals love but tourists don’t know about 🌶️ Secret menu items – the things you have to ask for 🧀 Must-try bites – regional specialties that are unforgettable 🥘 Mom-and-pop shops – places where tradition lives on through food 🌎 Anywhere, really – small towns, big cities, even roadside diners
🗺️ Have a Favorite Spot?
Whether it is a greasy spoon in Kentucky, a pierogi joint in Cleveland, or a seafood shack in the Florida Keys, I want to know:
👉 What is the one place you would tell a friend they absolutely have to eat?
Leave a comment, send a DM.
You might just see your recommendation featured in an upcoming blog or vlog episode!
🍴 Why It Matters
When I hung up my chef’s apron and picked up a camera and a map, I promised myself one thing:
To tell stories through food, the way only a chef can.
Every meal has a memory behind it. A family recipe. A local tradition. A creative twist from a bold new cook. And those are the stories I want to share—with your help.
So… where should I eat next?
Drop your favorite spot below or tag me on social media @TakeTheTripByBrian.
I will follow the flavors wherever they lead.
Until then—take the trip, eat the dish, and tell me where to go next!
Not every ship is equally kid-friendly. The best ones offer more than just chicken fingers and a pool. You want fun activities, kid clubs, character experiences, and even a little relaxation for the grown-ups.
1. Disney Cruise Line
✅ Best for: Families with young kids or Disney fanatics
Why it stands out: Character meet-and-greets, Broadway-style shows, themed kids’ clubs, and exceptional attention to detail. Kids clubs: Top tier. Your kids will not want to leave. Parent rewards: Adult-only areas, upscale dining, and spa options. Cost: $$$ (One of the most expensive, but you get a lot of magic for your money.)
Brian’s Take: If budget is not your biggest concern and you want a truly magical experience, Disney is tough to beat. It is basically a floating theme park with five-star service.
2. Royal Caribbean
✅ Best for: Active families with kids of all ages
Why it stands out: Huge ships packed with kid-friendly thrills like surf simulators, rock climbing, zip lines, and water parks. Kids clubs: Adventure Ocean program for every age group. Teen spaces: Some of the coolest hangout zones at sea. Cost: $$ (Mid-range, but often excellent value for the activities offered.)
Brian’s Take: Royal Caribbean keeps the whole crew busy. While your kids are zip-lining or hitting the arcade, you can enjoy a cocktail in peace. Win-win.
3. Carnival Cruise Line
✅ Best for: Budget-conscious families and first-timers
Why it stands out: High-energy, casual vibe with plenty of family-friendly fun. Kids clubs: Camp Ocean for ages 2–11, plus tween and teen programs. Entertainment: Waterslides, mini-golf, pool games, and comedy shows. Cost: $ (Consistently one of the most affordable options.)
Brian’s Take: Carnival is like a pizza party of cruising—fun, loud, and affordable. Great for families who want to let loose without worrying about the tab.
4. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
✅ Best for: Families who like flexibility
Why it stands out: “Freestyle cruising” means no set dining times or dress codes. Kids clubs: Guppies Nursery (6 months–3 years) and Splash Academy for older kids. Teen hangouts: Well-designed and supervised. Cost: $$ (Reasonable prices, with frequent offers for free kids’ fares or drink packages.)
Brian’s Take: NCL is great for families who want to do their own thing without a rigid schedule. Plus, they have got great entertainment and waterslides onboard many ships.
💸 Best Cruise Lines for Budget Travelers
You do not need to spend a fortune to enjoy an amazing cruise. These cruise lines offer excellent value, and with a little planning, you can avoid hidden fees and still have a fantastic vacation.
1. Carnival Cruise Line
Budget highlights: Frequent sales, short itineraries, and tons of included entertainment. What to watch for: Extra fees for drinks, Wi-Fi, and specialty dining. Pro tip: Book older ships for even lower fares—just check that they have been recently updated.
Brian’s Budget Tip: Watch for “Fun Saver” or “Pack & Go” deals on their site—huge savings if you’re flexible on dates.
2. MSC Cruises
Budget highlights: Often the cheapest base fares in the industry, especially for Caribbean and Mediterranean routes. What to expect: European-style service and décor; kids under 18 often sail free with parents. What to watch for: Fewer included amenities—many things are à la carte.
Brian’s Budget Tip: MSC’s “Kids Sail Free” deal can make a family cruise shockingly affordable, especially for large families.
3. Norwegian Cruise Line
Budget highlights: Frequent deals like “Free at Sea” that bundle drinks, Wi-Fi, and excursions. What to watch for: Cruise fares are low, but costs add up if you don’t choose the right package. Pro tip: Sail off-season (January–March) for deeper discounts.
Brian’s Budget Tip: Book through a travel agent or website that includes “Free at Sea” perks for the most bang for your buck.
4. Royal Caribbean
Budget highlights: Older ships offer incredible deals, especially for short weekend cruises. What to watch for: Newer mega-ships are pricier. Pro tip: Look for repositioning cruises or 3–5-night itineraries.
Brian’s Budget Tip: Sign up for their email deals and be flexible on ports—you can score a 4-night cruise for less than a hotel weekend.
🚢 Final Thoughts: What is the Right Cruise for You?
If you want magic and can splurge → Disney Cruise Line If you want action and big ships → Royal Caribbean If you want fun on a budget → Carnival If you want flexibility and modern ships → Norwegian If you want Europe on a shoestring → MSC Cruises
Cruising with kids does not have to be stressful. And cruising on a budget does not mean giving up the fun. Do your research, look out for deals, and always read the fine print (hello, extra fees).
Ready to set sail?
Drop a comment with your favorite cruise line or a question you have got about planning your trip—I love helping fellow travelers find their perfect vacation!
If you are anything like me, few things fire up your appetite (and your travel engine) quite like the promise of a juicy, cheesy, perfectly grilled burger. And in Ohio, we have got more than cornfields and buckeyes—we’ve got some serious burger joints hidden in small towns, hip cities, and roadside diners that will have you unbuttoning your pants in bliss.
So, buckle up and bring your appetite—here is your ultimate Weekend Burger Trail in Ohio. Three days, six cities, endless beefy bliss.
Start your trail with a legend. This German Village gem is home to the monstrous “Thurmanator”—a stack of beef, ham, mozzarella, bacon, and more. It is outrageous in the best way.
🧭 Tip: Go early or be prepared for a wait. It’s popular for a reason.
2. Bummie’s on Main – Newark 400 W Main St Newark, OH 43055
I have written about this place before, and I will say it again, Bummie’s is a smashburger dream. Local favorite, small-town charm, and a burger that hits all the right notes. Located right in the heart of Newark, it is a must-stop on your trail.
🍟 Try the Rajun Cajun Burger with the to Die for Onion Rings—thank me later.
This retro roadside joint has an old-school charm and old School Root beer. Their burgers are Grass Fed, simple, fresh, and loaded with grilled onions. It is nostalgia in a bun.
Try the Farm burger with Locally sourced organic Egg, Applewood smoked Bacon and pepperjack cheese.
If neon lights and gourmet toppings are your thing, Terry’s is the holy grail. Filet Mignon Burgers. Brie and burgundy sauce? Jalapeño jelly? Go wild.
🧀 This place feels like a burger carnival. Bring an open mind—and a stretchy waistband.
📍 Day 3 – Northern Ohio: Cleveland’s Burger Bounty
5.Skyway Drive-In – Akron 951 E Turkeyfoot Lake Rd Akron, OH 44312
No Ohio burger trail is complete without a stop at Skyway drive in. Home of the iconic Skyscraper Burger, a double cheeseburger with two sauces, it is a cult classic for good reason.
🚗 Pull up to the drive-in and honk your horn for service. Old-school rules.
End your weekend on a high note with one of Cleveland’s classiest burgers. Hecks has been crafting gourmet burgers inside a restored 120-year-old brick house since the ‘70s.
🥩 Go for the Brie & Applewood Bacon Burger or try the Moroccan Lamb if you are feeling fancy.
🔁 Bonus Stops (If You are Feeling Ambitious)
360 Burger 11201 Cadiz Rd Cambridge, OH 43725
This cool burger place serves Boozy milkshakes too!
Slyman’s Tavern – Cleveland: 3106 St Clair Ave NE Cleveland, OH 44114 Known for their Reuben, but the burger deserves love too.
🗺️ Trail Tips
Spread it out: Six burgers in three days is doable, but pace yourself and split with your travel buddy if needed. Take notes: Make it a tasting challenge—rank them on flavor, bun quality, juiciness, and creativity. Support local: All these spots are local businesses. Buy a T-shirt, tip well, and tell them Brian sent you.
📸 #TakeTheTripChallenge
Document your journey! Post your burger trail pics and tag #TakeTheTripBurgerTrail. I want to see your stacks, bites, and burger bliss.
Closing Bite:
From iconic drive-ins to gourmet gastropubs, Ohio’s burger scene is sizzling. Follow the flavor. And find your next favorite burger one bite at a time.
Until next time Take the Trip and remember to take a bite out of your next adventure!!
If you ever find yourself in the Texas Hill Country, do yourself a favor and take the trip to The Preserve just outside Fredericksburg. I visited this one-of-a-kind elephant sanctuary—and let me tell you, it was amazing.
As a former chef turned travel blogger, I have been lucky to experience some unforgettable moments on the road—but standing face-to-face with a 9,000-pound Asian elephant while helping scrub behind her ears? That is a memory I will never shake.
🐘 The Preserve: More Than Just a Sanctuary
Tucked into the hills about 15 minutes outside downtown Fredericksburg, The Preserve offers visitors a rare opportunity to connect with elephants up close—and in a way that feels personal, educational, and emotional.
From the moment I arrived, I could see and feel the connection between the keepers and these magnificent creatures. These are not just handlers going through the motions. These are people who absolutely love and understand the animals they care for.
💧 Hands-On with Gentle Giants
Our group experience lasted about 90 minutes, and every moment felt intentional and meaningful. We were introduced to four elephants—Kitty, Rosie, Becky, and Louie—each with their own unique personality.
Here is what stood out:
Bath time was unexpectedly intimate. I was gently scrubbing an elephant’s massive shoulder while she closed her eyes and leaned in. That is trust. Foot care demonstrations showed just how detailed and loving the keepers are. Elephants need regular “pedicures,” and the team takes it seriously. Photos and memories? Oh yes—plenty of chances to snap pics with the elephants, and they even sanitize your phone or camera before and after. (Classy touch.)
🙌 A Word on the Price
Yes, tickets run about $125 per person, and I know that might feel like a splurge—but don’t let the price deter you. This is not a petting zoo. This is a carefully curated, small-group experience with endangered animals who are being cared for with intention.
It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, worth every penny.
💭 A Few Thoughts on Ethics
Some visitors have raised questions about the facility’s approach. It is important to know: The Preserve is deeply hands-on, and elephants are trained for cooperative behavior (like lifting feet for care, turning on command, etc.).
While I personally did not see anything that concerned me, it’s fair to do your own research—especially if you are passionate about sanctuary standards. What I did see was genuine care, respect, and a lot of elephant snacks being shared.
🧭 Quick Tips for Your Visit
Book ahead – spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Bring your camera – there are so many photo-worthy moments. Plan around it – the experience runs about 90 minutes, so give yourself time to relax and enjoy it without rushing. Dress comfortably – you will be outside, brushing and bathing elephants (aka, best spa day ever—for them).
🛍️ Bonus Stop: Explore Downtown Fredericksburg
After my elephant adventure, I headed into downtown Fredericksburg, one of the most charming little towns I have explored in Texas. German heritage, boutique shops, Texas wine, and some seriously good eats.
Hondo’s – Best Burgers in town. Get the Brisket Queso you will not regret it!. Hill & Vine – Fresh Hill Country flavors with upscale vibes. Main Street shops – Handmade soaps, local art, wine tastings—it is a slow stroll kind of vibe, and I loved every second.
🧳 Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a travel experience that moves, you—(literally and emotionally), The Preserve is a must-visit. I left with muddy shoes, a full heart, and a camera roll packed with smiles.
When people ask me what the most surprising part of my travels has been, this might be it: the quiet moment I shared with a gentle giant in the Texas Hill Country.
Ahoy, travelers! If you have ever dreamed of sailing off into the sunset with a cocktail in hand and the open sea before you, you are not alone. Cruises are one of the most relaxing, all-inclusive, and exciting ways to travel—but not all cruise lines are created equally. Whether you are a first-timer or a seasoned sailor, here is what you need to know before you book your next big voyage.
Step 1: Choose the Right Cruise Line (Yes, It Matters!)
Think of cruise lines like hotel chains: some are all about luxury and pampering, while others are focused on fun, affordability, or even adventure. Here is a quick breakdown:
Royal Caribbean: Great for families and adventure lovers. Think rock climbing walls, surf simulators, zip lines, and Broadway-style shows. Carnival: Party vibes and value pricing. Ideal for younger travelers or those who want to have fun without breaking the bank. Norwegian (NCL): Flexible dining and a casual atmosphere. Great for couples or solo travelers. Celebrity Cruises: Modern luxury with great food and sophisticated vibes. A bit pricier, but you feel the difference. Disney Cruise Line: The ultimate family cruise with top-notch entertainment for kids and adults alike. Princess and Holland America: More low-key and traditional. Perfect for older travelers or those seeking a relaxed, scenic experience.
Each line has its own flavor, so know your vibe before you dive in.
Step 2: Compare the Itineraries
Not all ships sail to the same places—even within the same cruise line. Some focus on Caribbean Island hopping, while others venture into Alaska, the Mediterranean, or the South Pacific.
Ask yourself:
Do you want warm beaches or glacier views? Are you excited about port days to explore, or do you prefer more time at sea? Would you rather stop at big-name destinations or off-the-beaten-path ports?
Pro tip: Not all ports are equal. Some feel like crowded malls, while others offer authentic culture, adventure, and unforgettable scenery.
Step 3: Activities at Sea – Will You Be Bored or Blissfully Busy?
One of the most overlooked factors when booking a cruise is onboard entertainment. Some ships are floating theme parks; others are more about serene relaxation.
Here is what to look for:
Family activities: Waterslides, kids’ clubs, arcades, and movies under the stars. Adventure seekers: Surf simulators, ropes courses, laser tag, escape rooms. Wellness: Spas, fitness centers, yoga on deck. Evening entertainment: Comedy shows, musicals, casino nights, live music. Adult-only spaces: Look for adult-only pools or lounges if you are cruising without kids.
Make sure the ship matches your energy level.
Step 4: Let Us Talk About the Food
Cruise food can be surprisingly good—or sadly forgettable.
Things to consider:
Buffet vs. Specialty Dining: Buffets are included, but for elevated cuisine, most lines offer specialty restaurants for an extra fee. Dining flexibility: Some cruise lines have fixed dinner times (hello, 6 p.m. every night), while others offer “freestyle dining” so you can eat when and where you want. Dietary needs: Vegan, gluten-free, kosher? Make sure the line meets your needs.
Pro tip: Read the reviews. Food can vary not just by cruise line, but by individual ship.
Step 5: Count the Cost—It is Not Always All-Inclusive
A cruise fare covers your room, food (mostly), and basic entertainment. But be ready for these extras:
Gratuities: Usually $15–$20 per day per person. Excursions: Want to swim with dolphins or tour ancient ruins? That will cost extra. Wi-Fi: Internet at sea is pricey—and not always fast. Drinks: Most cruises charge for alcohol and soda unless you buy a drink package. Specialty dining, spa treatments, and onboard shopping can add up quick.
Look for bundled deals that include rewards like free drink packages, shore excursions, or Wi-Fi.
Final Tip: Book Smart
Book early for the best cabin options and pricing—or watch for last-minute deals if you are flexible. Use a travel agent who specializes in cruises, they often have access to rewards or discounts you will not find on your own. Check for off-peak deals: Cruises in shoulder seasons (like early December or late January) are often cheaper and less crowded.
Anchors Aweigh!
Planning a cruise is not just about picking a boat, it is about choosing an experience. Whether you want to dance under the stars, explore ancient cities, or just lounge with a frozen drink, the right cruise is out there.
Do your homework, ask questions, and take the trip—the sea is calling!
Have you taken a cruise recently? Drop your favorite cruise line or itinerary into the comments below—I am always looking for the next great adventure at sea.
I’ve stayed in a few Airbnb’s—from cozy Rental home near the Villages, and quaint beach condo near Gulf Shores, and even a Cool Place in the Mountains of Georgia. When it comes to booking the right Airbnb, the listing photos only tell part of the story.
After recent stays, I’ve developed a solid list of Airbnb red flags to avoid—and green lights that tell me I’ve found a winner.
If you’re looking to travel smart, save some cash, and skip the sketchy stays, here’s what I look out for every time I book:
🚩 RED FLAGS: WHEN I DON’T BOOK
1. Too Few Reviews—or All Reviews Are Generic
If a place has fewer than 5 reviews or all of them sound vague and copy-pasted (e.g., “Great stay!” “Very clean!”), I steer clear. Real travelers give specific feedback.
✅ Pro tip: Look for keywords like “responsive host,” “quiet neighborhood,” or “looks just like the photos.”
2. Photos That Look Too Good (or Too Few)
If the listing feels like a stock photo shoot—with perfectly staged lighting but no personality—it might not be real. On the flip side, if there are only 2 or 3 low-quality photos, it’s often hiding something.
🚩 Bonus red flag: No photos of the bathroom? Big nope.
3. Host Rules That Read Like a Legal Contract
I get it—hosts want to protect their space. But if the “house rules” are longer than the rental description and include phrases like “no shoes, no cooking, no guests, no noise at all,” I’m out. It’s your vacation, not a military boot camp.
4. Weird Check-In/Out Times
If check-in is after 5 PM and check-out is before 9 AM, you’re paying for barely a full day. That’s a red flag for me unless it’s a one-night emergency stay.
5. Overuse of Buzzwords
“Cozy” might mean cramped. “Rustic” might mean old. “Lively” might mean you’ll be hearing club music until 3 AM. Read between the lines.
✅ GREEN LIGHTS: WHEN I CLICK “BOOK NOW”
1. Superhost Status with Consistent Praise
Superhosts usually go above and beyond, but I also dig into their reviews. If multiple guests mention how clean, helpful, or thoughtful the host is? That’s a yes from me.
2. Accurate, Detailed Descriptions
The more info, the better. I like listings that tell me about Wi-Fi speed, nearby grocery stores, coffee shops, and what makes their place special.
3. Flexible Cancellation Policy
Life happens. Flights change. I always lean toward listings that offer at least a moderate cancellation policy—bonus points for flexible.
4. A Personal Welcome or Guidebook
Hosts who provide a digital or printed local guide always impress me. It shows they care and want you to enjoy the area. That little welcome note? Feels like home.
5. Fast Host Communication
If I message a host with a question before booking and they reply quickly and helpfully, it’s a strong sign of a smooth stay. If they ghost me or give vague answers? I move on.
Bonus Tip: How I Research Listings Beyond Airbnb
Google the address (if visible) to check the neighborhood. Look up the property on Google Maps street view for a virtual “walkaround.” Search the host’s name—many list the same property on multiple platforms.
Final Thoughts
Airbnb can be an awesome way to experience a destination more like a local—if you choose wisely. By knowing what to look for (and what to avoid), I’ve had some incredible, affordable, and even unforgettable stays.
So next time you’re scrolling through listings, keep an eye out for the signs that say: “This place? This feels right.”
Because life’s short. Take the trip—and stay somewhere worth remembering.
✈️ More smart travel advice and food-forward finds?
Stay tuned right here at Take the Trip: Travel Advice by Brian. New blogs, tips, and hacks posted regularly!
Let us be honest — airport food has a reputation. People expect greasy fast food, overpriced bottled water, and flavorless sandwiches wrapped in plastic. But I am here to tell you: that reputation is not entirely fair.
As a former chef turned travel blogger, I have eaten my way through dozens of airports, and I have discovered a little secret… not all airport food is trash. In fact, some of it is surprisingly good — even great — if you know what to look for.
So, before you settle for stale chips and a warm soda, check out these travel-tested tips for finding food that is worth your money (and calories) when you are on the go:
✅ 1. Look Local
If you see a local brand or restaurant name you recognize from the city you are flying through — go, there. Many airports now invite in local favorites to give travelers a taste of the region. Whether it is a hometown barbecue joint, a famous bakery, or a local brewery, those spots often serve higher quality, freshly made food with more character than generic fast-food chains.
✅ 2. Skip the Grab-and-Go If You Can
Sure, that cold turkey wrap might seem like the easy choice, but if you have a little time, look for spots that cook to order. Fresh is key in an airport, and made-to-order food always tastes better and sits better during your flight. Bonus if you can see the kitchen — if they are slicing meat, flipping burgers, or mixing salads in front of you, it is a good sign.
✅ 3. Explore Before You Settle
Here’s a pro move: do not eat at the first food court you see. Many airports have better options tucked into different terminals or even down quieter hallways. Use airport maps or food finder apps to scout out what is available. You would be surprised how many hidden gems are just a few gates away.
✅ 4. Prioritize Protein and Balance
Traveling messes with your body — especially long flights and changing time zones. Try to avoid heavy fried foods and carb overloads. Look for options with lean protein, veggies, and whole grains to help you feel full without feeling sluggish. A grilled chicken bowl, a veggie wrap, or sushi (if it is fresh!) can go a long way.
✅ 5. Read the Room
If you see a long line at a spot — especially if it is not a chain — it is usually a good sign. Airport crowds vote with their stomachs. The busiest places often have the freshest food, fastest turnover, and highest satisfaction.
✅ 6. Do not Sleep on the Bars or Lounges
Even if you are not flying first class, many airport bars and casual lounges now offer surprisingly good menus. Think flatbreads, sliders, hearty salads, and even chef-inspired dishes. Sometimes you will find the best meal of your trip just past the bar stools.
✅ 7. Keep Emergency Snacks Handy
Even with all these tips, sometimes your flight boards early or your connection is tight. Pack a couple of solid backup snacks — almonds, protein bars, dried fruit — just in case. It is not glamorous, but it beats scarfing down a bag of chips at 30,000 feet.
✈️ Final Thoughts: Do not Dread the Terminal
Airport dining has come a long way. These days, you can find quality meals, local flavors, and chef-inspired bites without leaving the concourse. All it takes is a little curiosity, a bit of planning, and a willingness to explore beyond the food court staples.
So next time you are flying, do not just settle — seek out the good stuff. Your stomach (and your travel day) will thank you.
💬 What is your go-to airport food move?
Have a favorite airport or a pro tip I missed? Drop a comment — I am always looking for my next in-terminal discovery!
There is something magical about walking into a farmers’ market.
It is the smell of just-picked herbs, the rainbow of produce spilling out of crates, or the guy yelling “Try this tomato! It will change your life!” (Honestly? It kind of did.)
For a chef turned travel blogger like me, farmers markets are the ultimate treasure hunt—a chance to shop local, eat seasonal, and connect with the heart of a place one zucchini at a time.
Here is how I tackle them like a pro, score the good stuff, and sometimes—just sometimes—work a little deal on the side.
🧭 1. Go Early or Go Late (But Know the Vibe)
Early bird gets the pick of the peaches. You will find the freshest produce, the prettiest pastries, and the proudest farmers still full of caffeine and optimism. Late riser? You might just snag a deal. Vendors do not want to pack up thirty pounds of beets. Ask politely near closing time and you may hear, “Take it all for five bucks!”
🛒 2. Scout Before You Spend
This is not a supermarket. This is battlefield brunch shopping.
Do a lap before you buy anything. Scope the prices. Compare the colors. Taste test if they are offering. I once bought $8 heirloom carrots only to find better ones two stalls down for half the price and double the flavor. Ouch.
🥬 3. Ask Questions—You Might Learn Something (or Get a Discount)
Farmers love to talk. Ask:
“What’s in season right now?” “What’s your favorite way to cook this?” “Is this pesticide-free, organic, grown with magic fairy dust?”
Get curious. Build a relationship. You might not just get a better deal—you might get bonus basil in your bag.
💸 4. Do not Be Afraid to Haggle (Kindly!)
We are not in a flea market, but if you are buying in bulk, it’s fair to ask:
“If I take a few of these, can you do a bundle price?”
“If I buy 3 baskets, could you knock a dollar off?”
Be respectful. Smile. Do not nickel-and-dime the guy selling eggs from his backyard chickens named Dolly and Reba. But if you are polite and genuine, most vendors appreciate the conversation and may offer a deal—especially late in the day.
🧺 5. Bring the Right Gear
Reusable bags or a basket (chef points if it is French-style wicker) Small bills or change (vendors are not ATMs) A cooler if it is hot — wilted kale is a tragedy.
🥖 6. Taste the Market Life
Farmers markets are not just for shopping—they are for people-watching, snacking, and story-hunting.
Grab a pastry, sit under a tree, and listen to the live music. Chat with the baker. Pet a few market dogs. Ask the guy selling pickles why they are spicy AND sweet. (He will tell you in great detail.)
This is travel, even in your own city.
🌍 Why It Matters: The Story Behind the Food
As someone who spent years in kitchens slicing, dicing, and yelling “behind!”, I can tell you—ingredients matter.
But so do the stories behind them. When you buy carrots from the woman who grew them, you are tasting a piece of her soil, her effort, her season. That is not just food—it is connection.
✨ Final Tip? Take the Trip. Even If It is Just to the Market.
You do not need a plane ticket to feel transported. Just find your local farmers market and go in hungry—physically and spiritually.
Whether you walk away with tomatoes, tamales, or just a good chat and a weird new cheese… it is always worth it.
Have a favorite market or haggling win? Drop it in the comments—I am always looking for my next bite.
🧳 Take the Trip. Taste the produce. And do not forget your tote bag.
I wrote this poem that I turned into a song, about leaving my life as a chef behind and now I crave to travel and be a travel Blogger click the link and listen to the song.
Well folks, we have come to the end of the road for this delicious little detour I called Take the Trip: Behind the Bite—a series where I followed my stomach across cities, counties, and coastlines, chasing down stories, smoke, spice, and soul.
But if there is one bite that always brings me back to center… it is the burger.
Big ones, little ones, smashed flat or stacked high. I am talking cheeseburgers, sliders, patty melts—if there’s ground beef between two buns (or even toast), I am in.
I have eaten burgers in gas stations, food trucks, dive bars, and backyard cookouts. And while I have had plenty of incredible bites, one spot still holds the crown:
👉Bummies on Main, located in Newark, Ohio.
If you have been following the blog, you probably saw my full write-up. This unassuming gem served up a burger so good it made me pause mid-bite and just stare into the distance for a second. Crispy edges, juicy center, perfectly melted cheese, and a bun that knew its role and didn’t try to steal the show. That is burger balance, my friends.
Bummie’s reminded me why I started this series in the first place—to find not simply tasty food, but food that sticks with you, long after the plate is cleared.
Your Turn
As this series wraps up, I want to hear from you—
📍Where is your favorite burger spot? Hidden gem?
Drop the name, the city, what to order, or even that weird off-menu item only locals know about. I am always on the hunt for my next favorite.
Because let us be honest: Behind the Bite might be ending, but the burger chase? That is forever.
Take the Trip Tip:
A great burger is like a great memory—it does not need to be fancy to be unforgettable.
Take the Trip by Brian 