Enjoy Famed Cuisine With a Side of History

Looking to get back out into the world? As dedicated, traveling foodies plan upcoming jaunts worldwide, historians and connoisseurs offer a menu full of historic restaurants where great cuisine is served in notable surroundings around the world, including a few right here in the U.S.Sobrino de Botin, SpainOpened in 1725 by French chef Jean Botin, this Madrid favorite holds the Guiness World Record as the world’s longest continuously operating restaurant. Enjoy meats roasted in wood-fired ovens where renowned artist Francisco Goya once worked as a dishwasher.Ristorante Buca San Giovanni, ItalyOriginally a church edifice dating back to the 14th century, where medieval religious groups held secret meetings in the cellar, the famed Florence ristorante still serves classic Tuscan dishes beneath low, curved stone ceilings under the watchful gaze of pious statues.Union Oyster House, BostonThe city’s oldest eatery, opened in 1826, sits in a building that predates the American Revolution. America’s oldest newspaper, The Massachusetts Spy, was printed there, and the exiled future king of France, Louis Philippe, lived there in 1796. Enjoy dishes like house-made crab cakes with lemon garlic aioli or classic lobster roll in then-Congressman JFK’s favorite lunch spot.The Laff, CanadaLocated in Château Lafayette House, and officially older than the city of Ottawa in which it resides, the restaurant established in 1855 is rumored to have once operated as a brothel. Noted for classic Canadian pub fare, like poutine (fries topped with cheese curds and gravy), The Laff has attracted famous American patrons from Dan Ackroyd to Justin BieberWhite Horse Tavern, Rhode IslandTouted as America’s oldest surviving tavern, the Newport establishment known for its clam chowder was opened in 1673 by William Mayes, Sr, with ownership later transferring to his son – a pirate who, some believe, still haunts the tavern today.Zum Franziskaner, SwedenThe Stockholm restaurant dates back to 1421, when its beer cellar was imported to the Swedish capital by German monks. It’s had many incarnations since, but still feels as old as time, with wood-paneled walls, beer served in steins and a menu featuring wurst platters and Scandi-style comfort food.Wierzynek, PolandThis legendary Kraków spot is as opulent as is storied, with a glamourous history dating back to 1364. Feeling like a fine art gallery with detailed wall paintings, stained-glass windows and knights’ armor, Wierzynek serves up famous feasts of meat, pâtés and dumplings, rounded off with fantastical desserts.

Smart Home Gadgets That Will Elevate Your Home

Technology seems to mutate with the speed of light, but is your home keeping up with the changes? Smarten it up with a few smart-home electronics that will boost safety, increase comfort and may even save you a few bucks: Video DoorbellThe VTech Video Doorbell, about $115, lets you screen and even video chat with visitors before you answer the door. And the system takes a snapshot each time the doorbell is pressed, so you’ll always know who came a-knocking while you were away. Smart Door LockThe August Smart Lock uses keyless technology to keep your home safe no matter where you are. From your smartphone, you can let guests in, check to make sure you locked up before you left, keep a record of who has entered and exited, and unlock your door from the driveway. Cost? About $220. Home AutomationYou can ease into wireless control of your lighting and appliances with Insteon’s Start Here Kit, about $125, before moving on to automating other household needs, like irrigation control and occupancy sensing. Water SaverThe WaterPebble Water Saver memorizes the length of your first shower and uses it as a benchmark to measure future shower times. Using a series of ‘traffic lights,’ it reduces your shower time by a fraction each time, helping you save on your water bill without trying. About $12. Learning ThermostatFor about $250, the Nest programmable thermostat will learn your heating and cooling schedule and program itself. It can even be controlled from your phone and could save you up to 20 percent on energy costs. Smart WateringIs your sprinkling system over-watering or under-watering your lawn? Toro’s wireless Xtra Smart Soil Moisture Sensor keeps the moisture level just right. Not only will the health of you lawn improve, but your wallet (and the Earth) will benefit, too. About $115.

4 Millennial Lifestyle Trends That Are Shaping the Luxury Market

Here are a few lifestyle trends that have come to define the real estate preferences of millennials, the driving force in the luxury market today. Health and WellnessFrom home gyms and meditation studios to saunas and massage rooms, millennials pay equal attention to the mind and body when it comes to personal wellbeing. Outdoor LivingAny homeowner can appreciate a luxurious outdoor living space, but for young and affluent buyers, this is frequently the No. 1 priority.  ConvenienceMillennials seem to gravitate toward homes that are optimized for efficiency and provide easy access to nearby amenities. Socially and Environmentally ConsciousMillennials seek to minimize their impact on the planet and, as a result, prefer homes that are designed to lower energy and water consumption.

10 Must-Have Boating Accessories

The start of summer brings the beginning of the boating season. From leisurely afternoons on the water to sunset cruises with cocktails, there is an abundance of accessories to make your boating season even more comfortable, functional and luxurious. From items to keep you warm and waterproof, to the best accessories to facilitate well-deserved toasts, stocking your boat with little comforts can make a big difference. If you’re looking for accessories for your boat or to gift to your favorite boat owner, here are some of the top must-have boating accessories. Waterproof BagWhile utilitarian, a waterproof bag will keep your belongings clean and dry and protected from any unexpected—yet inevitable—spills and splashes. Stash your sweatshirts, blankets, bags and other personal accessories, and you won’t need to worry about putting on a wet sweatshirt when the temperatures dip. Personalized TumblersStaying hydrated while out on the water is vital. A set of personalized tumblers with your last name or boat’s name can take you from iced coffees in the morning to sunset cocktail cruises in the evening. Set of Waterproof CasesKeep plenty of small waterproof cases on hand to pass on to guests who need to store their phones and wallets safely. A waterproof case will protect belongings from any unwanted moisture. Waterproof Playing CardsFor leisurely boat rides that call for a game of cards, waterproof sets of playing cards that are fully laminated and will stand up to any inevitable water damage. Keep several decks on hand to help pass the time. Monogrammed Dog Life VestKeep your furry pal safe and stylish with a monogrammed life vest. He’ll stay extra safe and look cute doing it. Fleece BlanketsNothing is cozier than curling up with a warm, fleece blanket on chilly or windy evenings on the water. Keep a collection of blankets so there’s no supply shortage when the temperatures drop. Shatterproof Champagne FlutesWhether you’re toasting to the season’s first ride or simply making it to Friday, keeping a set of shatterproof champagne flutes on hand will make any boat ride a special occasion. Collection of WindbreakersIf you’re out on the water with your family regularly, ensuring each person has their own windbreaker will keep everyone comfortable during any inevitable splashes and unexpected rain showers. Monogram each jacket for a personal touch and to avoid any mix-ups. Boat Scuff ErasersWhile simple, boat scuff erasers act as a magic eraser for your boat. Wipe away any scuffs as they happen to avoid spending entire summer afternoons cleaning and waxing the boat. Fish FinderIf you’re both a boater and fishing aficionado, a fish finder, such as the Garmin Fish Finder, can help you locate fish so that you can spend your afternoon fishing most efficiently.