Paul Austin
Bio
Paul is a noted freelance writer with hundreds of articles online and in print. Paul is motivated by regional foods. His most recent project is cataloging unique events in Michigan History. You can find more of his work at Michigan4You.com
Stories (14/0)
Exploring the Waterfalls Near Asheville, NC
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, is more than just a vibrant arts hub and a haven for craft brewery enthusiasts—it's a gateway to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the United States. Among these are the myriad waterfalls scattered throughout the nearby forests, each varying in size, accessibility, and unique beauty. This guide will whisk you away on a journey through misty cascades and serene trails, all within a stone's throw of Asheville’s bustling downtown. If your looking to stay near these waterfalls, we found several luxury cabins in Asheville NC that are worth reviewing.
By Paul Austin6 days ago in Wander
The Story of Hotel Harvey
In the heart of Minden City, Michigan, stood a landmark that encapsulated over a century of community life, business, and local politics—the Hotel Harvey. Originally constructed in the late 1890s, this iconic building, which also went by names such as the West End Hotel, Hotel Lankin, and Kowalski Hotel, represented a pivotal piece of local history before its demolition in 2002. The Minden City Herald makes a point of placing historic photos of the area each week. This is from their post on the Hotel Harvey
By Paul Austin9 days ago in History
Dublin's Whiskey Distilleries: A Voyage into the Heart of Ireland
Dublin, with its cobbled lanes and Georgian architecture, holds within its heart a treasure not just of history, but of taste, tradition, and the artful craft of whiskey making. In this city, the distilleries are not merely places of production but temples where the spirit of Ireland is distilled, bottled, and shared. Join me, as we traverse this enchanting city, exploring its distilleries, each a chapter in the rich narrative of Dublin's love affair with the four type of Irish whiskey.
By Paul Austin2 months ago in Wander
Two Days in Dublin, Ireland
Day 1: Diving Deep into Dublin's Gritty Heart Day 1 in Dublin is not just a journey; it's an expedition into the soul of the city. Temple Bar, with its cobbled streets and historic echoes, is more than a destination—it's a narrative of Dublin's tumultuous past and vibrant present. Here, every corner tells a story, from the scholarly halls of Trinity College to the legendary walls of The Brazen Head, Ireland's oldest pub.
By Paul Austin3 months ago in Wander
Vintage Dish Collectors, Take Note: Your Cherished Corelle Might Harbor a Hidden Danger
Today, I'm diving into a topic that's close to our hearts but might be a bit unsettling. It's about our beloved vintage Corelle dishes. Yes, those charming pieces that remind us of grandma's kitchen and simpler times. But, as I've recently discovered, there's more to these dishes than meets the eye. Let's talk about the unexpected guest hiding in some of our favorite collectibles: lead.
By Paul Austin4 months ago in Feast
Exploring Tampa's Culinary Delights
Tampa, Florida, a vibrant city nestled on the Gulf Coast, is not just known for its picturesque beaches and sunny weather, but also for its rich and diverse culinary scene. From the freshest seafood to authentic ethnic cuisines, Tampa's food landscape offers a plethora of flavors that cater to every palate. In this exploration, we'll delve into the city's dining culture, uncovering hidden gems and celebrated establishments, including the renowned Bern's Steak House, a beacon of culinary excellence in Tampa.
By Paul Austin5 months ago in Wander
A Warm Embrace in a Bowl
It was a bitterly cold winter evening at our cottage in northern Michigan, the kind where the snowflakes seemed to freeze mid-air before they even touched the ground. I had just returned from a grueling day exploring the towns of Port Austin and Bad Axe. I took some pictures, but an interview I had scheuduled for a new story fell through. My spirits were as low as the temperature outside; I was questioning the impact of my work, wondering if it was reaching anyone or making a difference.
By Paul Austin6 months ago in Feast
Railstalgia - A Journey Beyond Tracks
I found myself aboard the "Eagle's Wing," a train so luxurious it made the Orient Express look like a subway car. Railstalgia hit me—a yearning for a time when train travel was an art form, a ritual of crossing landscapes while sipping bourbon.
By Paul Austin6 months ago in Fiction
Unearthing the Enigma of Homemade Prison Wine
Today, we're venturing into a realm less explored, immersing ourselves in the intriguing world of homemade prison wine, also known as "Toilet Batch". As we embark on this journey together, remember to view this as an exploration of a unique subculture, not an endorsement of illicit activities.
By Paul Austin9 months ago in Proof
The Pursuit of Hoppiness: An Ode to America's Most Popular Beers
There's a quote I once heard that beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy. And if that's the case, the almighty must hold a particular affection for the United States. Now, I've journeyed across continents, traversed through cultures, and dabbled in my fair share of fermented beverages, but there's something uniquely American about a cold brew on a hot summer day. Or a crisp fall afternoon. Or a cozy winter evening. Alright, let's face it, any time is beer time. This is my journey through the crowded, colorful, and ever-bubbling landscape of America's most popular beers.
By Paul Austin10 months ago in Proof
Explore Michigan's Shoreline With Boat Tours
As the gentle waves of the Great Lakes caress Michigan's picturesque shoreline, a world of nautical adventures awaits. From serene river cruises to thrilling voyages on the vast open waters, boat tours in Michigan offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich history of the Great Lake State. So grab your sea legs and embark on an unforgettable journey as we dive into the wonders of Michigan's shoreline with boat tours.
By Paul Austin10 months ago in Wander
Cracking the Code of the Perfectly Grilled Dog
Alright, folks, buckle up, because today we're firing up the grill and talking hot dogs, a gastronomic gem that transcends culinary borders. I mean, who doesn't love a good hot dog? But today, we're not just talking any old hot dog - we're talking about grilled dogs that are bursting with flavor and decked out with all the fixings. The kind of wiener is a food that can put you in a great mood. These aren't just your average, run-of-the-mill dogs. These are the kind of dogs that'll make your taste buds sing and have your neighbors peeking over the fence in envy.
By Paul Austin10 months ago in Feast
