European Travel Restrictions

Covid-19 has affected the whole world, especially travel. Europe in many ways has fared better than the US, but that doesn’t mean they’re welcoming American tourists and business people without restrictions! Whether you are planning a trip to Europe any time soon or not, you’ll be interested to hear this timely report from world traveler … Read more

Boston Dining Update

Of course no destination remains the same…and every city’s dining and entertainment scene has been affected by the pandemic restrictions. But Boston has a fond place in the hearts of our three friends. So, John Mariani’s report on the current restaurant scene in Boston was important to Celebrating Act 2™’s Art Kirsch and John Coleman. … Read more

Reasons NOT to AGE YOUR WINE

The Virtual Gourmet, John Mariani, is always happy to dispel myths about food and wine for our Celebrating Act 2™ viewers. In this episode he addresses the old adage that wines are better with age–especially Reds! You’ll be fascinated by the facts and history and walk away much less intimidated by wines in general. A … Read more

How Italian Food Conquered the World

Ever notice how Italian cuisine seems to be everywhere–and the most popular! Why is that? Food and Travel writer, John Mariani of the Virtual Gourmet, gives Celebrating Act 2 viewers a critical overview of Italian food wrapped inside a fascinating culinary history lesson. If you love good food (and pizza) you’ll love our expert’s explanation … Read more

About Detroit!

One of America’s great cities has fallen on hard times–and not just because of COVID-19. Food and Travel expert, John Mariani of The Virtual Gourmet, knows Detroit well and had what might be called an update. There are hopeful signs, he says, but still lots to be desired. John clearly loves the city and it’s … Read more

See The USA…Travel Regionally!

Veteran Food and Travel writer, John Mariani of the Virtual Gourmet newsletter (free), says we don’t have to give up all travel due to COVID-19. He recommends that if you’re like him you’ll want to stay off airplanes but don’t miss out on all the great destinations you can reach in a day by car! … Read more

Eating In Parking Lots

With a new round of restrictions on restaurants due to COVID-19 many places are allowed only to serve food outside. That’s a problem for restaurants which don’t already have a patio so we’ve seen establishments spread to serve food in the spaces and parking lots right outside their door. Is this good or bad? What … Read more

Travel Writing -The Mariani Touch

Writer John Mariani has been writing professionally about Food and Travel–and much more –for well over 20 years. As a regular contributor to Celebrating Act 2™ he has gained a new following for his commentary on food and wine but because the reaction to COVID-19 virus has greatly limited travel of all sorts, he’s been … Read more

Develop Your Wine Palate- Start Here!

Food and Travel writer, John Mariani talks with Celebrating Act 2™’s Art Kirsch and John Coleman about the idea of developing a more sophisticated palate to increase you enjoyment of wine. Despite his extensive knowledge of wine, the author simplifies the process of finding wine you love and offers an easy way to get started … Read more

Wine Myths Which Waste Time & Money

Based on his article in Mariani’s Virtual Gourmet newsletter, Food and Travel writer John Mariani shares three of the ten important caveats surrounding wine. The regular contributor to Celebrating Act 2™ smashes popular myths that waste your time and/or money when it comes to enjoying wine. This is a must see for anyone ever intimidated … Read more