FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Smoke on the Water

by Tracey Cullen

Aug 27, 2018

I love watching BBQ competition shows like BBQ Pitmasters. I am amazed every competitor has his or her own unique technique for what they feel is THE perfect smoked or grilled meats, and everyone has a different idea of what works best. I thought it would be fun to experience one myself.

Well, this weekend, I finally got my chance. It wasn’t a large-scale TV show production, but it was still fun!

It was a family affair, with my parents, husband and daughter attending the eighth annual Hammondsport Fire Department Smoke on the Water Competition in Hammondsport, New York.

When we arrived around 1 p.m., the aroma of wood smokers already filled the air. I was excited as soon as we saw all the smokers set up! We weren’t sure how the whole event worked, so we had to ask someone who looked official. He informed us we could purchase a wristband to taste all the competitors’ entries, and then he gave us a ticket to vote for our favorite in the People’s Choice category. I was thrilled we were actually able to participate in some judging. As we made our way from stand to stand sampling entries, we could see contestants in the back feverishly tending to their smokers, preparing their meats to perfection. The competition ran from 12–8 p.m., and we were there early in the day, so we mostly tasted the chicken entries. Each competitor had to prepare chicken, pork, brisket and a mystery category determined by the committee that day. After they submitted each entry for judging, they then served small samples to the public. I wish I had known the times for each meat to be submitted, as we would have gone a little later to taste the brisket! And I never did find out what the mystery entry was. But now that we have experienced it, I marked it on my calendar for next year, and we’ll show up later for those categories.

Since Hammondsport is in the heart of the Finger Lakes, of course there had to be some local beer and wines available. I had a glass of Chardonnay-Reisling from one of my favorite wineries, Dr. Frank’s, and my husband enjoyed a beer tasting flight from Brewery of Broken Dreams. We purchased fresh local produce and some cinnamon maple syrup, that the vendor, Schweigart’s Sugar Shack, described as “French toast in a bottle,” and, after a small sample, we agreed!

Congratulations to this year’s Smoke on the Water winners: Practical Smokers (1st), Shady Pig (2nd) and Uncle Pauly’s (3rd). We enjoyed them all!

— Tracey Cullen, art director

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
May 19, 2025

“Viking Libra”: The World’s First Hydrogen-Powered Cruise Ship

Able to operate with zero emissions, the new Viking Libra will be the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, set for delivery in late 2026. Currently under construction at Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard, Viking Libra will be part of Viking’s small-ship ocean fleet.

Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage

Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.

May 2025
May 19, 2025

Caribe Hilton Serves the Creamy Frozen Cocktail of Your Dreams

To paraphrase that cheesy but infectiously catchy 1970s yacht rock tune: If you like piña coladas — and the feel of the ocean — make a pilgrimage to discover the origin of this beloved tropical tipple.

Daily
May 19, 2025

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe Unveils Property-Wide Transformation

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe recently debuted its property-wide transformation. The two-year project included an overhaul of guestrooms and suites, refreshed common spaces, updated dining concepts, and new experiences for guests.

Sail Unique with Explora Journeys

SAIL UNIQUE: A New Chapter in Luxury Ocean Travel Imagine a place where modern European elegance meets the rhythm of the sea — where time slows down, and every detail is crafted to inspire connection and quiet indulgence. This is Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean brand from MSC Group created to redefine how we explore the world.

Slideshow
May 19, 2025

6 Roman Walls to Put on Your Travel List

It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through these Roman walls with us.

Daily
May 15, 2025

Mansions, Gardens, Museums and More Await in Greater Wilmington, Delaware

Lovely any time of year, Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley in Delaware shine in spring and summer, providing an easy getaway from nearby major cities like Philadelphia; Washington, D.C.; Baltimore; and New York City. Wind down with a stroll along the riverfront, or time your visit to enjoy outdoor and indoor sites, plus plenty of great food on these dates:

Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive

Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.

May 2025
May 15, 2025

Culture Runs Deep in the Old Town of Corfu

Corfu, or Kerkyra, as the Greeks call it, is arguably one of the most beautiful islands in Greece — and one of the most cultured. Part of the Ionian Islands located off the western coast of Greece and Albania, it boasts a storied history dating back nearly 3,000 years and a heritage shaped by many foreign rulers who made it their own.