When you think of Arizona, lettuce is probably not top of mind. But the state produces almost all of the leafy greens Americans eat during the winter months, as well as a whole host of other crops, from citrus to garlic and everything in between. In the Greater Phoenix area, plenty of restaurants are building a reputation for maximizing local farmers’ bounty. Here are seven spots in Phoenix and the East Valley to get a taste of what the area’s farm country has to offer.

True Food Kitchen

Serving “honest food that tastes really good” based on anti-inflammatory diet principles, True Food Kitchen currently has locations in 10 states. With a focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, but omnivores can also tuck into grass-fed beef and sustainable seafood.

In Phoenix: Biltmore Fashion Park, 2502 E Camelback Road, Suite 135

In Scottsdale: 15191 N. Scottsdale Road #101

Flower Child

The motto is “happy food for a healthy world,” a concept reinforced by the owners’ commitment to buying raw ingredients from ranchers who treat their animals (and plants) right. That means meat from naturally raised animals and organic produce that adheres to the guidelines set by the Environmental Working Group. Wash it all down with kombucha on tap.

In Phoenix: 5013 N 44th Street or 100 East Camelback Road

In Scottsdale: 10460 N. 90th Street

TQLA

Named one of the best tequila bars by USA Today, and offering tequilas on tap and tequila flights (in addition to extra-aged tequilas chosen by a certified tequilier – yes, that’s a thing), TQLA offers plenty of ways to be naughty. But there’s plenty of nice here, too, with locally sourced, organic ingredients cooked over a local mesquite-wood-fired grill.

In Mesa: Dana Park Shopping Center, 1840 S Val Vista Drive

Joe’s Farm Grill at Agritopia

At Joe’s Farm Grill, the produce literally comes from across the road. Part of the Agritopia master-planned agricultural community, this popular diner incorporates ingredients from the farm right on site. The menu’s not particularly focused on healthy eats – the motto “common food done uncommonly well” is highlighted in the list of burgers, ribs and pizza – but there’s an extensive salad list and a sign to advise which ingredients are currently in season and picked right on the farm.

In Gilbert: 3000 East Ray Road

Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co.

With ales crafted from heritage wheat grown at the local Sossaman Farms and milled at Hayden Flour Mills, the first brewery in Gilbert, AZ, offers local drinking as well as local eating. Every Wednesday, there’s a local food special showcasing ingredients from the region’s farms to round out the farm-to-table experience.

In Gilbert: 721 N. Arizona Avenue #103  

Dinner Down the Orchard at Schnepf Farms

On two dates each spring, the largest peach grower in Arizona sets a long table in the middle of the organic orchard with white linen tablecloths and plenty of mood lighting. A top local chef showcases ingredients from the farm and other local producers in each evening’s four-course meal. (Note: The second of this year’s events is coming up on April 30.)

In Queen Creek: 24610 South Rittenhouse Road

Eatery at Queen Creek Olive Mill

Arizona’s climate makes it perfect for growing olives, but this is the state’s only working olive farm. The site-pressed extra virgin olive oil features prominently on the menu, showing up as a prime ingredient in waffles and cupcakes as well as savoury items like sandwiches, salads and pizza.

In Queen Creek: 25062 S. Meridian Road

Originally published at FlightNetwork.com

Representatives from the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism met with travel media in Vancouver yesterday to showcase the many new developments in the archipelago nation.

Grand Bahama and Nassau are "the most popular and populous islands,” said Paul A. Strachan, director, Canada for the Bahamas Tourist Office, but the ministry is working to create more awareness of the Out Islands. That means a new niche marketing strategy, with various islands specializing in deep-sea diving, bird watching or fly fishing, for example…

Read the rest at PAXnewsWest.com

Vancouverites surfed Australia's Gold Coast and watched the sun set over Sydney Harbour this weekend, all without getting on a plane. These were two of the 17 immersive experiences at Virtual Australia by Air New Zealand, a first-of-its-kind pop-up virtual reality exhibit presented as part of a three-year partnership between the airline and Tourism Australia…

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There may be no image of Hawaii’s Garden Isle more iconic than the 27-kilmometre stretch of rippling green cliffs along the island’s north shore. Kauai’s Napali Coast is a staple of postcards, travel guides and Instagram feeds. No visit to the island is complete without at least one look, but you can’t get there by car.

“There’s no road to get there,” says Peggy Sowl of Outfitters Kauai “You can’t see it unless you go out and do something fun.”

Here, we explore three ways to experience this very special place.

By Sea: Catamaran or Kayak

A sail along the Napali Coast is not for the faint of stomach, but it is an impressive way to get a close-up view of the cliffs – and the area’s rich ocean life. It’s not unusual for dolphins to play in the wake of the boat, or for huge sea turtles to paddle slowly by. From December to May, you can add humpback whales to the list, as they come to the area to mate and give birth each winter. If you’re adventurous, hop onto the netting at the front on the catamaran for a wild ride – but hold on tight and be prepared to come away with sore elbows from bouncing and sore cheeks from laughing.

If conditions are right, those looking for a challenge can take a guided kayak tour of the coast. Be warned, though, this is a tough paddle and should not be attempted on your own. Book a tour with an experienced local company to stay safe.

By Sky: Hop a Chopper

Seeing the Napali cliffs from above gives a real sense of their impressive scale. But the best part of a helicopter tour is the chance to see the deep green valleys behind the shoreline, complete with waterfalls at practically every turn. Rainbows, too, are a common sight, including double and even triple arches best seen, of course, on cloudy days.

“I’ve flown helicopters in every state west of Mississippi,” says Paul Mateo, chief pilot at Safari Helicopters. “Places people dream about. This is the best. If I didn’t have to concentrate on what I’m doing, I’d be crying like a baby.”

By Sole: Hike the Kalalau Trail

Ninety per cent of Kauai’s land is inaccessible by road, making hiking a prime activity for view-seekers across the island. Only one trail winds its way along the Napali Coast: the challenging 18-kilometre Kalalau Trail. A round-trip would be too much for one day, so those dedicated enough to hike the whole thing camp on the beach for at least one night. (Note: You’ll need a permit to hike past Hanakapiai Valley or to camp.)

Those who want to sample of the trail without having to carry camping gear can explore the first three kilometres, from Kee Beach to Hanakapiai Beach. You’ll hit the first viewpoint after about half an hour of hiking. If you want support and guidance along the trail, connect with a local guide.

“All guides love showing off what we get to experience on a daily basis,” says Kelly Corbett, lead guide with Kayak Kauai, adding that guides ensure the trail is respected and minimize visitors’ impact on the land.

Originally published at FlightNetwork.com

I co-authored a report on this five-star Mexican resort with PAX Magazine’s Michael Pihach for the latest issue.

Read the story online at PAXmagazine.ca

"May this be a very energetic, active and happy new year!”

The Hong Kong Tourism Board's Karisa Lui offered those wishes for the Year of the Monkey as she welcomed members of the travel industry to a sumptuous celebratory banquet at Victoria Chinese Restaurant in Vancouver last night…

Read the rest at PAXnewsWest.com