Gluten Free Travel Blog

Best Restaurant Chains for Gluten Free Dining

 BLOG HOP, DAY 8: I know some of you may shy away from "chain" restaurants, preferring more "unique" or "sophisticated" fare. But “chain” doesn’t have to have a bad connotation. Just because a restaurant company has multiple locations -- either in a particular region or nationwide -- it doesn't mean they can't provide some of the best gluten-free meals around.  In fact, some of our family’s favorite places to dine are the more sophisticated and fun concepts that have taken off with the gluten-free set: Burton's Grill, Biaggi's, and Glory Days Grill. Even BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse, originally known for their deep-dish pizza, now has a wonderful and extensive gluten-free menu, which includes gluten-free pizza and tons of other tasty options.

The main advantage of these restaurants is that they have printed gluten-free menus, so you know exactly what’s safe and what’s not, or if any substitutions need to be made. Because of this, the wait staff (and kitchen staff) are typically well-trained about the gluten-free offerings, but it’s still wise to be vigilant when ordering, as I've mentioned in past posts (staff turnover can be high in the restaurant business, which leaves the potential for slip-ups in even the most well-intentioned chains).

Some restaurant chains may have worked with one of the Celiac associations to gain GF certification or credentialing (GIG and NFCA both offer progams). Other restaurant chains may have thoroughly educated themselves -- or worked with nutritionists or dieticians with gluten free expertise.  If you're at all in doubt about how an item on the gluten free menu is prepared -- or if you're concerned about cross contamination in the kitchen -- don't be shy...ask questions!

The other advantage of restaurant chains is ubiquity. There are almost always one or two that offer GF options virtually wherever you travel. I can't tell you how many times we've traveled and been comforted seeing a chain restaurant that we know offers a reliable gluten free menu! When you're on the road, you can only dine at McDonald's so often!

We have a list of some of the best restaurant chains for gluten free dining on GlutenFreeTravelSite. Some of the regional chains may be new to you, like Rockfish (in TX and NC), Picazzo's (AZ), Sam and Louie's (IA, NE, MT, SD), Village Tavern (6 states), Fresh To Order (GA and TN), and Hearth and Kettle (MA). And did you know that Old Spaghetti Factory even has a gluten free menu with gluten free pasta? 

I'm curious...what's YOUR favorite national chain? Regional chain? Please share your thoughts in a comment below -- and receive one entry into our giveaway of a $25 P.F. Chang's gift card, to be selected at random from all entries received by May 18, 2012, the last day of our Blog hop. Each person is allowed one entry/comment per day for each of the 10 days of posts (May 7-11 and May 14-18), for a total of 10 entries on THIS Blog. You have the same opportunity for entering a total of 10 times for the giveaways on the other 9 Blogs listed below. The giveaway is limited to U.S. residents who are 18 years or older. The Giveaway begins May 7, 2012, and ends at 11:59 pm Eastern Time on May 18, 2012. No purchse is necessary. Odds of winning are based on the number of entries. The winner will be randomly chosen and contacted by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond, a new winner will be randomly chosen. 

Would you like to get more great gluten-free tips on baking, dining out, and kitchen tips? Check out today's posts from other Blog Hop participants: 

Getting Started - Linda at The Gluten-Free Homemaker 
Resources – Wendy at Celiacs in the House
Eating Out – Heather at Gluten-Free Cat
Frugal Tips – Janelle at Gluten Freely Frugal
Cooking – Carrie at Ginger Lemon Girl
Baking – Jules at Jules Gluten Free
Kids – Lynn at Lynn’s Recipe Adventures
Lunch Boxes – Tessa at Tessa the Domestic Diva
Shopping – Laura at Gluten Free Pantry

Best International Choices for Gluten Free Travelers

 BLOG HOP, DAY 6: Having wanderlust but wondering if you can successfully venture overseas while maintaining your gluten-free diet? Leaving the relative comfort of the U.S., with its growing awareness of Celiac, to travel into uncharted territory can spook even the most seasoned travelers. And it's no wonder...there are international destinations that consistently get high marks from gluten-free travelers -- and there are those you probably want to shy away from. Do some more detailed online research, and you'll see that...

Ireland gets top marks, due to its higher incidence (2%, vs. 1% for the U.S) of Celiac Disease. And Italy — ironically the land of pasta! -- has a high awareness and therefore a higher rate of diagnosis, even though their overall rate of Celiac is equivalent to ours (1%). Reviews are mixed, but it seems many restaurants understand the needs of their gluten-free diners and are able to offer plenty of gluten-free options, including GF pasta. 

Australia and New Zealand are very aware and accommodating to people on gluten-free diets, and the many GF-friendly choices there make finding a “safe” restaurant easy. We have a good number of reviews from this part of the world on our website, so check them out...it just might inspire you to plan a trip "down under."Other areas of the world — like Latin America and Africa — have less of a reliance on wheat and rely more on gluten-free grains like quinoa, rice, teff, and amaranth. Meals prepared with some of these grains can expose you to new tastes. In fact, many of these grains are gaining quite a following here in the U.S. (and not just in the GF community) for their wonderful taste and superior nutritional content. 

One place our family traveled last year -- which we admittedly found very difficult (although incredibly beautiful) -- was Paris. There was only one restaurant in the entire city that was gluten-free, and it was owned by a gentleman with Celiac who got so frustrated with the lack of "safe" places to eat in Paris that he opened his own restaurant. We had two wonderful dinners there, but unfortunately, the restaurant recently closed (I sent him an email to inquire as to where he is eating now...will let you know when I hear back if he has any recommendations!). You can read more about Paris in my comprehensive Blog post.

If you want to hear about favorite domestic OR international travel spots recommended by others on gluten-free diets, be sure to sign up for our free monthly e-letter. We always feature top-rated places, so it's a great way to get inspired to plan a trip of your own!

Have YOU had any good -- or bad -- experiences traveling gluten-free outside of the United States?  If so, leave a comment below and you'll receive one entry into our giveaway of a $25 P.F. Chang's gift card, to be selected at random from all entries received by May 18, 2012, the last day of our Blog hop. Each person is allowed one entry/comment per day for each of the 10 days of posts (May 7-11 and May 14-18), for a total of 10 entries on THIS Blog. You have the same opportunity for entering a total of 10 times for the giveaways on the other 9 Blogs listed below. The giveaway is limited to U.S. residents who are 18 years or older. The Giveaway begins May 7, 2012, and ends at 11:59 pm Eastern Time on May 18, 2012. No purchse is necessary. Odds of winning are based on the number of entries. The winner will be randomly chosen and contacted by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond, a new winner will be randomly chosen. 

Would you like to get more great gluten-free tips on baking, dining out, and kitchen tips? Check out today's posts from other Blog Hop participants: 

Getting Started - Linda at The Gluten-Free Homemaker 
Resources – Wendy at Celiacs in the House
Eating Out – Heather at Gluten-Free Cat
Frugal Tips – Janelle at Gluten Freely Frugal
Cooking – Carrie at Ginger Lemon Girl
Baking – Jules at Jules Gluten Free
Kids – Lynn at Lynn’s Recipe Adventures
Lunch Boxes – Tessa at Tessa the Domestic Diva
Shopping – Laura at Gluten Free Pantry

 

Gluten Free Travel: GF Dining on Cruise Ships Has Come a Long Way

If your idea of the perfect vacation is a cruise with multiple ports-of-call, you're in luck...cruises are fast becoming one of the better options for gluten-free travelers. Most of the big cruise lines have policies in place to serve people with special dietary needs. If you've never cruised and have been hesitant for one reason or another, consider this...cruise vacations are mostly inclusive (excursions and alcoholic beverages are usually extra, as are spa treatments), and it gives you the opportunity to visit many destinations, while only unpacking once!

On our website, GlutenFreeTravelSite, we have links to many of the cruise lines and their GF policies on our Travel Resources page. Most cruise lines recommend noting your gluten-free needs at the time you — or your travel agent — makes the reservation. It’s a good idea to meet with the Maitre d’ upon arrival on your first day on the ship, too. That should enable you to articulate any preferences to the chef — and find out a bit more about the GF options on board. Some cruise lines may even tell you more about the gluten-free staples they stock on their ships when you first make your reservation — and they might also take specific requests for favorite brands. It doesn’t hurt to ask — you are a paying guest, and you have chosen their cruise line. It is in their interest to make you happy!

It is definitely worth mentioning, however, that many cruise lines don’t seem to be very consistent in satisfying their gluten-free guests. It can vary from ship to ship, region to region — and may have a lot to do with the knowledge of the particular Executive Chef in charge. We have received many reviews of cruise lines on GlutenFreeTravelSite. Most can be found on our Caribbean page of reviews. Generally, the ratings are favorable, with the higher-end lines like Celebrity getting the best ratings. One parting bit of wisdom: Take a bag of non-perishable food like crackers, snack bars, cereal, and even your favorite bread. That way, if you're disappointed in the selection or brands of GF food offered, you'll have a back-up!

Have YOU taken a cruise recently? On what line? Were you pleased -- or disappointed? Please share your comments below -- and then perhaps take a few minutes to submit a more detailed review on our website so other Celiacs searching for feedback will benefit from your feedback! 

Have a comment on today's post? If so, leave it below and you'll receive one entry into our giveaway of a $25 P.F. Chang's gift card, to be selected at random from all entries received by May 18, 2012, the last day of our Blog hop. Each person is allowed one entry/comment per day for each of the 10 days of posts (May 7-11 and May 14-18), for a total of 10 entries on THIS Blog. You have the same opportunity for entering a total of 10 times for the giveaways on the other 9 Blogs listed below. The giveaway is limited to U.S. residents who are 18 years or older. The Giveaway begins May 7, 2012, and ends at 11:59 pm Eastern Time on May 18, 2012. No purchse is necessary. Odds of winning are based on the number of entries. The winner will be randomly chosen and contacted by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond, a new winner will be randomly chosen. 

Would you like to get more great gluten-free tips on baking, dining out, and kitchen tips? Check out today's posts from other Blog Hop participants: 

Getting Started - Linda at The Gluten-Free Homemaker 
Resources – Wendy at Celiacs in the House
Eating Out – Heather at Gluten-Free Cat
Frugal Tips – Janelle at Gluten Freely Frugal
Cooking – Carrie at Ginger Lemon Girl
Baking – Jules at Jules Gluten Free
Kids – Lynn at Lynn’s Recipe Adventures
Lunch Boxes – Tessa at Tessa the Domestic Diva
Shopping – Laura at Gluten Free Pantry

 

 

Best Hotels and Resorts For Gluten Free Travelers

BLOG HOP, DAY 4: In my post a few days ago I talked about choosing a condo or hotel that comes equipped with a kitchen, kitchenette -- or at the very least, a mini fridge and microwave --  when traveling. But there will be times this isn't possible -- like at some resorts. Then you'll need to spend a little more time in advance of your trip ensuring you'll be able to safely eat at the restaurants available to you.

First, call the resort (or hotel) and ask to speak with the Executive Chef to asses his or her gluten-free knowledge. Ask what type of choices you’ll have for meals — and if they don’t offer some of your favorite staples (a certain type of gluten-free pasta, bread, or pizza, for example), ask if you can ship some things on dry ice to arrive a few days before your stay. There’s a pretty big range of gluten-free knowledge when it comes to chefs. If you’re okay with “the path of least resistance” that some chefs take (serving you some form of protein — like plain, grilled chicken without sauce — and a baked potato and steamed veggies), that’s fine. But if you prefer more interesting preparations full of flavor and sauces, you’ll want to keep looking until you find a hotel or resort that is more creative with fancier GF food preparation. 

Some hotel chains have recently begun rolling out gluten-free breakfasts and an array of gourmet gluten-free choices in their restaurants. Particularly noteworthy are the Omni, Fairmont, Ritz Carlton, and now Hyatt chains. Many Club Med and Sandals & Beaches resorts also make an effort to accommodate gluten-free travelers, although it seems a bit inconsistent across properties (call before booking!). And then there are countless independent B&Bs and resorts both in the U.S. and overseas that are "GF friendly." There's something for everyone if you search the travel reviews on our website, GlutenFreeTravelSite. I was recently recommending honeymoon destinations to a GF friend, and my recommendations ranged from a hotel on Kauai to a resort in Phuket, Thailand to a cruise! Heck, there's even a dude ranch in Arizona that goes the extra mile to “wow” gluten-free guests!

What's the most memorable place YOU'VE ever stayed? Leave a comment below and you'll receive one entry into our giveaway of a $25 P.F. Chang's gift card, to be selected at random from all entries received by May 18, 2012, the last day of our Blog hop. Each person is allowed one entry/comment per day for each of the 10 days of posts (May 7-11 and May 14-18), for a total of 10 entries on THIS Blog. You have the same opportunity for entering a total of 10 times for the giveaways on the other 9 Blogs listed below. The giveaway is limited to U.S. residents who are 18 years or older. The Giveaway begins May 7, 2012, and ends at 11:59 pm Eastern Time on May 18, 2012. No purchse is necessary. Odds of winning are based on the number of entries. The winner will be randomly chosen and contacted by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond, a new winner will be randomly chosen. 

Would you like to get more great gluten-free tips on baking, dining out, and kitchen tips? Check out today's posts from other Blog Hop participants: 

Getting Started - Linda at The Gluten-Free Homemaker 
Resources – Wendy at Celiacs in the House
Eating Out – Heather at Gluten-Free Cat
Frugal Tips – Janelle at Gluten Freely Frugal
Cooking – Carrie at Ginger Lemon Girl
Baking – Jules at Jules Gluten Free
Kids – Lynn at Lynn’s Recipe Adventures
Lunch Boxes – Tessa at Tessa the Domestic Diva
Shopping – Laura at Gluten Free Pantry

 

The Gluten-Free Travel "Gold Standard" -- Disney World, Orlando

 BLOG HOP, DAY 3: Yesterday, I recommended some top cities in the U.S. for gluten free travel. I touched on the Orlando area of Florida, noting how "gluten free friendly" Disney World and its parks, hotels, and resorts are. (To read peer reviews of Disney's  restaurants from a GF perspective, enter Lake Beuna Vista into the search box on our Search/Mapping page of GlutenFreeTravelSite). In fact, whether you are a fan of "the mouse" or not, it's hard to argue with the fact that Disney World has become somewhat of the “gold standard” for “gluten-free friendly” travel destinations. They were early to embrace special dietary needs of all sorts, likely due to the rising prevalence of Celiac Disease, dietary intolerances, and allegies -- especially in children. They know that family travelers are their bread and butter, and no family destination wants kids to feel left out for any reason. So instead, they make kids (and adults) with special dietary needs feel like rock stars.

Their attention to detail and desire to accommodate all diners has earned them an especially devoted following in the gluten-free community. When you dine at a sit-down restaurant at any of Disney World’s hotels, resorts, or parks, a chef personally visits your table to discuss your dining options. Even “quick service” restaurants make sure a manager is available — and well-trained to know what is safe to order if you’re following a GF or other special diet. I wrote a detailed article about our family’s magical experience at Disney World a couple years ago.

One important note: You can expect similar high-touch service at Disneyland, but NOT Disneyland PARIS. Our family visited Disneyland PARIS a year ago, and it could not have been less accommodating. Their lack of gluten free knowledge — and the almost non-existent GF options at their restaurants — reminded us of the level of GF knowledge in the U.S. about 7-8 years ago. You can read my Blog post about our experience. 

So stay stateside if a trip to Disney is on your radar, and get ready to feel like a true gluten-free prince or princess!

Have a comment on today's post? If so, leave it below and you'll receive one entry into our giveaway of a $25 P.F. Chang's gift card, to be selected at random from all entries received by May 18, 2012, the last day of our Blog hop. Each person is allowed one entry/comment per day for each of the 10 days of posts (May 7-11 and May 14-18), for a total of 10 entries on THIS Blog. You have the same opportunity for entering a total of 10 times for the giveaways on the other 9 Blogs. The giveaway is limited to U.S. residents who are 18 years or older. The Giveaway begins May 7, 2012, and ends at 11:59 pm Eastern Time on May 18, 2012. No purchse is necessary. Odds of winning are based on the number of entries. The winner will be randomly chosen and contacted by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond, a new winner will be randomly chosen. 

Would you like to get more great gluten-free tips on baking, dining out, and kitchen tips? Check out today's posts from other Blog Hop participants: 

Getting Started - Linda at The Gluten-Free Homemaker 
Resources – Wendy at Celiacs in the House
Eating Out – Heather at Gluten-Free Cat
Frugal Tips – Janelle at Gluten Freely Frugal
Cooking – Carrie at Ginger Lemon Girl
Baking – Jules at Jules Gluten Free
Kids – Lynn at Lynn’s Recipe Adventures
Lunch Boxes – Tessa at Tessa the Domestic Diva
Shopping – Laura at Gluten Free Pantry

Great Bets for Gluten Free Travel in the United States

BLOG HOP, DAY TWO: In this second installment of my Gluten Free Dining and Travel Series, I wanted to cover the subject of gluten free DOMESTIC travel opportunities. I'll be covering international locales in another post.

When it comes to locations in the U.S. that afford gluten free travelers plenty of safe dining options, there's no better place to start than our annual contest winners. Each year, GlutenFreeTravelSite awards one particular location the title of “World’s Most Celiac-Friendly Destination.” The contest recognizes locations that offer a wide range of dining choices for people following gluten-free diets. The results are determined by tallying the number of user-submitted dining and travel reviews received throughout the year for each location on GlutenFreeTravelSite. Here's what I'd recommend if you want to if you want a true "vacation from worry." These destinations have so many GF dining options, you'll want to extend your trip!

2008 Winner: New York

Not surprisingly, New York was the winner in the first year of our contest. New York -- especially Manhattan -- is a great place to visit if you have Celiac Disease. Awareness is good, and restaurants are eager to cater to the increasing number of local and visiting GF patrons. Gluten Free diners have their pick of many regional and national chain restaurants with gluten-free menus, as well as numerous independent neighborhood restaurants throughout the state -- some with gluten-free menus and others willing to tailor just about anything on their menu, within reason. You'll find many small, independent restaurants that offer GF menus -- many times as a result of a family member or friend being diagnosed with Celiac. Scan our page of New York reviews or better yet, enter a specific town or zip code on our Search/Mapping page.

2009 Winner: Florida 

Florida was the winning destination our second year, due in large part to the numerous reviews submitted for the Disney properties.  So if you have kids (or just love theme parks), you really ought to consider a trip to Disney World. It's become the “gold standard” in terms of catering to guests with special dietary needs. Disney takes this job seriously, and they do a great job of making everyone feel welcome at their restaurants, parks, and resorts. There are gluten free options available on the menu at almost any Disney-operated restaurant, and the chef or manager will personally discuss safe menu options with you. Plus, the entire Orlando area and other Florida cities are also home to many national restaurant chains that have developed Gluten Free Menus. Read Florida reviews or enter a specific town (Lake Buena Vista for Disney) or zip code on our Search/Mapping page.

2010 Winner: The Washington, DC Metro area (including Maryland and Virginia suburbs) 

The Washington, DC metro area had a particularly impressive showing in 2010. Reviews of many independent restaurants as well as chain restaurants offering gluten-free menus give visitors to the D.C. area a wide a range of “safe” choices. No matter what type of food you desire -- haute cuisine or casual family dining, Italian or Ethiopian -- you can always find plenty of places offering great gluten-free options. Read Washington DC reviews or enter a specific zip code on our Search/Mapping page.

2011 Winner: California 

Californians have always been at the forefront in the areas of health and wellness. Northern Californian restaurateurs, in particular, have risen to the challenge once again and met the demand for gluten-free options. Visitors to this state will typically be met with knowledgeable and accommodating chefs that are aware of the gluten-free diet and its importance. When dining at a restaurant, just be sure to let the server, manager, or chef know that you require a gluten-free diet out of medical necessity, since there are many celebrities in California (and elsewhere) who follow a gluten-free diet by choice. Scan our California reviews or enter a specific town or zip code on our Search/Mapping page. 

Happy Traveling...we look forward to hearing about your journey -- and receiving your reviews of the places you discover!

Have a comment on today's post? If so, leave it below and you'll receive one entry into our giveaway of a $25 P.F. Chang's gift card, to be selected at random from all entries received by May 18, 2012, the last day of our Blog hop. Each person is allowed one entry/comment per day for each of the 10 days of posts (May 7-11 and May 14-18), for a total of 10 entries on THIS Blog. You have the same opportunity for entering a total of 10 times for the giveaways on the other 9 Blogs. The giveaway is limited to U.S. residents who are 18 years or older. The Giveaway begins May 7, 2012, and ends at 11:59 pm Eastern Time on May 18, 2012. No purchse is necessary. Odds of winning are based on the number of entries. The winner will be randomly chosen and contacted by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond, a new winner will be randomly chosen. 

Would you like to get more great gluten-free tips on baking, dining out, and kitchen tips? Check out today's posts from other Blog Hop participants: 

Getting Started - Linda at The Gluten-Free Homemaker 
Resources – Wendy at Celiacs in the House
Eating Out – Heather at Gluten-Free Cat
Frugal Tips – Janelle at Gluten Freely Frugal
Cooking – Carrie at Ginger Lemon Girl
Baking – Jules at Jules Gluten Free
Kids – Lynn at Lynn’s Recipe Adventures
Lunch Boxes – Tessa at Tessa the Domestic Diva
Shopping – Laura at Gluten Free Pantry

Key Steps in Planning a Successful Gluten Free Trip

BLOG HOP, DAY ONE: When planning a gluten-free trip, it’s a good idea to keep the Boy Scout adage in mind: BE PREPARED. In my opinion, you can't do too much advance planning. Do as much as time will allow...you'll thank yourself on your vacation when you have more time to relax...which is why you're there in the first place!

A great place to start -- for either domestic OR international travel -- is by contacting the local chapter/support group of a Celiac association in the state or country in which you are traveling. Reaching out to these “locals” is a good idea, because you’ll be getting advice first-hand from people living in the area you’re traveling — and who probably know better than anyone about the safest places to eat in the area.  And believe me, they love to share their knowledge — they are great “ambassadors.” Links to many Celiac associations (and their local chapters) can be found at the top of GlutenFreeTravelSite’s Travel Resources page.

Of course, the review area of our website, GlutenFreeTravelSite is also helpful when planning any successful gluten-free trip. You can find GF-friendly places to dine and shop at your destination by searching the database of thousands of peer-submitted gluten free REVIEWS. You may even get some suggestions for GF-friendly hotels, inns, or resorts to stay. Search broadly by state or country — or narrow your search to the town/zip code level and map the results. (Our free mobile version of the site, which can be automatically accessed on any smart phone when you enter the URL of our site into your browser, will be a great resource once your'e at your destination, too. It allows you to access all the reviews — as well as a listing of chain restaurants offering GF menus -- when you’re on-the-go.)

If you simply don't have time to do all the legwork involved in planning a gluten-free trip, there are now people who can help! Our Travel Resources page has links to travel agents and trip-planning companies who specialize in the GF market, contact information for cruise lines that accommodate gluten-free travelers, and much more.

If possible, it’s always a good idea to try and stay in a condo, efficiency, or hotel with a kitchen (like Homewood Suites, Extended Stay, and Residence Inn) so you can prepare some of your own meals, if needed. At the very least, request a fridge and microwave in your hotel room. You’ll have more flexibility to make quick meals — and be less reliant on dining out.

If considering a stay at a resort where you’ll be eating many of your meals, I recommend contacting the Executive Chef even before booking your stay. You’ll want to assess their level of gluten-free knowledge — and judge how comfortable they are in preparing safe, gluten-free meals. Is this a request they receive frequently, or do they seem hesitant or unsure? If a chef is not knowledgeable --- or worse yet, dismissive — consider staying somewhere else.

Finally, again...BE PREPARED! Anyone traveling gluten-free should also pack non-perishables to bring along on the trip (favorite snack bars, nuts, dried fruit, crackers, bread, mac-n-cheese mix, instant oatmeal, dry cereal, etc.). There may be times you need to fall back on your “stash” -- even if it's just at the airport and on the plane! 

I'd love to hear YOUR tips for successful gluten-free travel, too...

If you have a comment, leave it below and you'll receive one entry into our giveaway of a $25 P.F. Chang's gift card, to be selected at random from all entries received by May 18, 2012, the last day of our Blog hop. Each person is allowed one entry/comment per day for each of the 10 days of posts (May 7-11 and May 14-18), for a total of 10 entries on THIS Blog. You have the same opportunity for entering a total of 10 times for the giveaways on the other 9 Blogs listed below. The giveaway is limited to U.S. residents who are 18 years or older. The Giveaway begins May 7, 2012, and ends at 11:59 pm Eastern Time on May 18, 2012. No purchse is necessary. Odds of winning are based on the number of entries. The winner will be randomly chosen and contacted by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond, a new winner will be randomly chosen. 

Would you like to get more great gluten-free tips on baking, dining out, and shopping for GF food? Check out today's posts from other Blog Hop participants: 

Getting Started - Linda at The Gluten-Free Homemaker 
Resources – Wendy at Celiacs in the House
Eating Out – Heather at Gluten-Free Cat
Frugal Tips – Janelle at Gluten Freely Frugal
Cooking – Carrie at Ginger Lemon Girl
Baking – Jules at Jules Gluten Free
Kids – Lynn at Lynn’s Recipe Adventures
Lunch Boxes – Tessa at Tessa the Domestic Diva
Shopping – Laura at Gluten Free Pantry

Keep up with all the latest Gluten Free Restaurant, Dining, and Travel News

If you haven't already, be sure to sign up for this Blog's feed (just enter your email in the box in the left column) so you always get alerts when a new post is published. I'm always blogging about new developments you won't want to miss in the gluten free dining and travel world, and the next weeks are no exception. In honor of Celiac Awareness Month, I'll be participating in a 10 Days of Gluten Free "Blog Hop" each day for the next two weeks. In each post, I'll be covering a differnt aspect of gluten free dining and travel...the tip of the day, if you will. There will also be a giveaway on each Blog, and you can enter to win each day.

I'll be linking to the other Bloggers in the Hop, too, so you'll have a chance to get to know some new personalities in the gluten free world -- bloggers you may not have stumbled upon yourself. So please forward this post to your gluten free friends and family to encourage them to sign up for our feed as well...and if you read something over the couple weeks that resonates with you, post a comment and spread the word on Faceboook and Twitter, too! Our goal is to make life easier for those living with Celiac -- dining out and traveling can be done very successfully these days...you just need to keep some kep tips in mind.

Thanks, as alwasys, for your support! Here's to spreading awareness during this important month -- so that some of the millions of people still suffering without a diagnosis can learn the facts that might lead to a proper diagnosis -- and so that diagnosed Celiacs can learn the tools for leading an easier, worry-free life!

Gluten Free Travel: Dude Ranch in Tucson, Arizona Welcomes Gluten Free Guests

If you're looking for a different kind of vacation -- whether as a couple, a family, or group of friends -- you may want to consider a week at an authentic western ranch. But let's face it, even if you've been intrigued by the prospect of an adventurous vacation like this, you've probably quickly dismissed it on the grounds of your gluten-free diet. 

Enter White Stallion Ranch in Tucson, Arizona...

This authentic western ranch is not only well-run with fantastic accommodations, but their friendly staff gives their guests with special dietary needs the royal treatment. In fact, one recent guest who visited the ranch back in January submitted a review to our website, GlutenFreeTravelSite, and raved about her experience, from the food to the activities. Guests at White Stallion Ranch will find that all meals, rides, entertainment, activities, and even transportation to and from the airport are included in their stay. Only a very few services, like massages, are available for an extra fee. 

Most meals served at the ranch are naturally gluten-free, and everything is fresh and homemade. When an item such as bread was offered, gluten-free substitutions were always availabe, and care was taken to keep the GF food separate from items containing gluten. 

To read more details about White Stallion and our reviewer's experience, visit our Featured Review page. Have YOU ever been to a dude ranch? If so, what was your experience like -- both from a general perspective -- and a gluten-free perspective? Share your feedback below by clicking the Comments button. Thanks!

Gluten-Free Travel: New REDUCED Price on Gluten-Free Weekend at Canyon Ranch

You may remember my announcment last Fall that travel agent Lesley Hock had arranged a spectacular Gluten-Free Getaway Weekend at Canyon Ranch in the Berkshires. Well, I have great news...

Canyon Ranch has just reduced the price of the 3-night getaway, being held from May 3-6, 2012, at their resort in Lenox, Massachusetts. Their special new rate for this group is like saving up to 45%! But space is limited...so if your body and soul could use a bit of pampering, be sure to give Leslie a call for more details. I think you'll be tempted by all that this world-renowned spa resort has to offer...

Just imagine spending three nights getting away from the stress and responsibilities of everyday life…relax in a serene setting…attend complimentary classes and seminars geared to health and wellness…be pampered with spa treatments…and have gluten-free menu selections readily available.

Set in the elegant Bellefontaine mansion in the serene town of Lenox, Massachusetts in the Berkshires -- and just a short drive from New York City or Boston -- Canyon Ranch health resort and spa has set the standard for luxury spa resorts from the time when the original location in Tucson, Arizona opened in 1979.

Lesley Hock, a travel agent with Travel Leaders who has helped many GlutenFreeTravelSite clients plan "gluten-free friendly" trips, worked closely with the entire team at Canyon Ranch to put together this fantastic all-inclusive weekend. Even though it's geared specifically to gluten-free guests, you are most welcome to bring a non-GF spouse, friend, or family member…they are free to order from the fantastic “regular” menus. In fact, this special weekend makes a perfect Mother's Day gift or graduation surprise!

This is a rare chance to book a trip that's all about relaxing and recharging. You'll be in good hands with Canyon Ranch’s meticulous chefs creating mouth-watering gluten-free meals throughout your entire 3-night stay. In Lesley’s words, this is, “pampering to the max.” You’ll get all the warm, personalized attention from Canyon Ranch’s caring staff and leading health experts, who will help you achieve renewed health and balance in your life. (There's no need to pack any fancy clothes...Canyon Ranch is designed for your comfort and well-being, and casual, comfortable attire is recommended.)

This special weekend presents a great opportunity to get away with a spouse or significant other – or even treat a parent, sibling, or friend to an unforgettable experience. The peaceful environment provides a perfect setting to reconnect -- and the range of activities offers something for everyone (or maybe you’ll just opt to do nothing at all!). There are two pools, an award-winning spa, hiking, biking, tennis, and classes ranging from health and fitness to parenting, cooking, dance, and creative arts. There will be some special seminars geared toward our gluten-free group.

Best of all, your stay includes three gourmet gluten-free meals per day, plus unlimited gluten-free snacks. In fact, you won’t need to dip into your wallet at all during your entire stay…Canyon Ranch is a “no tipping facility,” and there are typically more than 40 complimentary classes and seminars to choose from each day! You are invited to enjoy all facilities and activities free of charge, even up until 5 pm on the day you check out. (Of course, spa treatments cost extra.)

The typical rate for this 3-night/4-day all-inclusive package is $3,000, but Canyon Ranch has just reduced the price to only $1,320, per person (double occupancy), which includes all taxes and occupancy charges. It’s like getting a 45% discount at this unparalleled resort. Transportation to and from either the Albany or Hartford airport is included, as is a shuttle to and from the nearby town of Lenox, should you choose to spend part of a day wandering its quaint streets and shops.

The only restriction is that guests must be 14 or older to stay at Canyon Ranch, in order to maintain the serene, relaxing environment.

For more details, or to reserve one of the rooms that have been reserved for the Gluten Free Getaway, call Lesley Hock from Travel Leaders at 800-487-6110 or email her atLhayden@travelleaders.com. 

**NOTE: Although Canyon Ranch offers gluten-free items on its menu, the Canyon Ranch kitchen is not wholly gluten-free.