First time on. Just finding my way around the site. Wow...lots of stuff.

I am looking for a cooking vacation in the US, preferably in the Southwest or West. Any ideas.

Hi Laura - welcome to the Board! It is great to have another Torontoian here.

I live in Burlington but work in TO at Dundas and University.

If you are looking for cooking classes in the west here are two to check out in California:

Ramekins Located in Sonoma in the heart of the more laid back area of California wine country. Great wineries, shopping, eating, spaing (if such a word exists) and outdoor pursuits nearby.

Culinary Insitute of America Located in the Napa Valley (St. Helena) again in the heart of wine country with simlar amenities, although less laid back IMHO.

The second is a program geared to more 'professional' chefs and cooks although anyone can go. The training there is more long term whereas Ramekins offers much shorter courses in a more intimate setting. I haven't taken a class at the CIA although I have toured the facilities and sampled the food made by the students.

BTW Laura - there are a group of Toronto area Slow Travellers getting together at Spring Rolls (the Yonge Street just south of Bloor location) on Monday, March 12. Let us know in the GTG forum if you wish to join us.

Hi Laura,
Yes, do join us if you can. The Get Together threads are under Miscellaneous, so reply on the Toronto GTG if you can make it.