Remember way back, when I took that trip to Mexico? My pregnancy brain and I finally got our act together and are ready to share the rest of the trip with you all. In case you missed it, here’s PART I.

ps. This was the trip I won to be the official blogger correspondent.  It was most definitely the coolest thing I’ve ever won in my life.

I just adored Marcus Samuelsson. He’s full of energy and you can tell he’s incredibly passionate about food and knows a hell of a lot about it. That day he prepared delicious fish tacos along with several other dishes, all made with fresh and local ingredients that he had just purchased from the market. I’m pretty confident he could do all this in his sleep.

One interesting fact he shared – Cooking didn’t become a profession until 1977.

I spy…

The beautiful and talented, Diane from White on Rice. It was such a pleasure to be able to spend such quality time with both Todd and Diane. They are such a lovely couple, and their talent is just remarkable! By the end of the trip, I felt like we were all family. At one point I’m pretty sure my mom had invited them over to their home in Seattle.

Highlight of my trip, Michael Symon & my  1:1 interview with him.

If you ever watch The Chew, that’s exactly how he is in real life. For reals.

There was lots of this going on. Drinking <& eating> that is.

This is Chef, Guillermo Gonzalez Beristain. He had a beautiful presentation. Amongst running restaurants, and a cooking school, he also has his own wine label, Mariatinto.

Mark Oldman was the man. Also know as the wine expert.

I almost feel like we’re old friends after that weekend and then sitting next to one another on the plane ride home. If you ever get a chance to listen to him speak or watch him work, I highly recommend it!

Some might cringe, BUT… He gave us all permission to chill red wine, up to 10 minutes. Shocking, right? This is good for lighter red wines that don’t have a lot of bitterness and becomes more refreshing with ice. Or, if you don’t like the bitterness, eat protein or fat [like meat or cheese] and it will help balance it out.

Wine short cuts:

• What does the Chef drink when he’s off duty?
• What’s a wine with some personality?
• In a restaurant, it’s a dance.
• Treat it like a mad lips. Example, “color, ____; body_____; end of the price list____”

“Go where wines are neglected” – Mark Oldman

I practiced my swirling and did a good job a sticking my nose in there, trying to breathe in as much of the beautiful scent as possible. But, as you can see, my wine went untouched. <in case you hadn’t heard, I’m pregnant>

Isn’t she stunning? Yeah, that’s my mom.

I’m so incredibly thankful my mom was able to join me on this trip. With all the morning/all day sickness, I couldn’t think of anyone better to be my partner in crime than my mom. We had the best time.

This is a grapefruit margarita, blended. You have no idea how badly I wanted one of these.

I’m sure bartender thought I was crazy when I asked if he could make one WITHOUT the tequila.  Well, I at least felt crazy for asking for such a thing.

This is a cocktail with watermelon juice [watermelon + water blended], tequila, agave, and basil. Although it was a virgin, it was still delicious, especially on a warm day.

If you EVER go to Zihuatanejo, you MUST visit Carmelitas. Trust me on this.

One of the nights we had dinner on a golf course, where several restaurants and local vendors lined up and served the most amazing authentic Mexican food.

The last night was the finale, in my book. It was a lovely seated dinner prepared by Federico Lopez and Michael Symon.  The decor and setup was almost like a wedding, so beautiful and romantic.  Then the food was to die for.

Each course was paired with a Mexican wine, which I hear was outstanding. I watched my wine glass get passed around the table. While I was “eating for two”, others were drinking for two.

These three superstars are from Curator, a PR company who put this all together and were the ones to bring me down for the big event. They also happen to be the most kind and loving people, ever. Also, the entire staff at Food & Wine, as well as the folks from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo were so kind and wonderful. Huge thanks to everyone!

Scott, Ann Marie & Lisa – Thank you so much for everything, especially allowing my mom to join. This trip was an absolute highlight! Also, thank you for being so patient with me and my early pregnancy sickness. That was certainly not part of my original plan.

Several of us spent the last day soaking up the sun & enjoying a delicious breakfast over at the gorgeous Viceroy Hotel. My mom is already planning to return next year and without question, will be staying here at the Viceroy. I certainly hope I’m included in that trip as well.

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