Renee Sklarew

Washington, D.C., United States

Travel and Culinary Journalist at Freelance

Travel, Food and Lifestyle Writer at Northern Virginia Magazine

Travel-Culinary Journalist, Photographer, Author-UnofficialGuide to DC & 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles of DC, destination developer, Northern Virginia Magazine

Articles

Explore Everything Bermuda Has to Offer on Your Next Island Vacation

2 weeks ago | northernvirginiamag.com | Renee Sklarew

From the airplanewindow, a vast expanse of pink sand and turquoise water stretches out below, evoking the thought that if paradise exists on Earth, it probably resembles the enchanting island of Bermuda. This notion isn’t entirely novel.
Fat-Washed Cocktails: The Secret to Richer, Smoother Sips

1 month ago | virginialiving.com | Madeline Mayhood |Hope Cartwright |Renee Sklarew |Laura Ingles

It’s been almost 20 years since a bacon-infused Benton’s Old-Fashioned launched a new technique among bartenders called fat-washing. Despite the unappetizing name, fat-washing has so gained in popularity over the years because it continues to deliver a legitimately elevated cocktail. Fat-washing is a fairly simple process of freezing your spirit with fats that you later strain, leaving your alcohol with a thoroughly balanced mouthfeel andtextured flavor that is, well, pretty great.
Where to See the Gorgeous Hotel Holiday Décor This Year

Nov 27, 2024 | northernvirginiamag.com | Renee Sklarew

Celebrate the season at one of these dazzling hotels that go all-out for the holidays. All dolled up in brilliant shades of blue and gold, The Willard is the perfect place to warm up after a stroll through President’s Park to see the National Christmas Tree. Hues of silver and gold ornaments complement the lobby’s distinctive Corinthian columns, while wreaths made of fresh pine further enhance the festive atmosphere.
What to Know Before You Go to Middleburg’s 2 Christmastime Parades

Nov 22, 2024 | northernvirginiamag.com | Renee Sklarew

We have just two weeks until the Middleburg Hunt Parade begins its annual jaunt down Main Street, but there’s still time to reserve a spot at one of the top holiday events in the DMV. Few places celebrate the season with more pomp and charm than this quaint town in Loudoun County, and the Middleburg Hunt Parade has gained national attention for how picturesque and friendly it is.
Rippon Lodge Played a Crucial Role During the American Revolution

Oct 28, 2024 | northernvirginiamag.com | Renee Sklarew

Independence Day has always been a grand celebration, but in two years, the occasion will be even bigger, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As the country approaches July 4, 2026, planning for this milestone has begun.  Colonial history is part of Northern Virginia’s DNA, a region that took a pivotal part in the country’s founding.
What Were the Top Dishes at Best of NoVA Soiree?

Oct 14, 2024 | northernvirginiamag.com | Alice Levitt |Renee Sklarew

By Alice Levitt and Renee SklarewAfter an evening of award-winning food, dancing, and entertainment, the curtain fell on Northern Virginia Magazine’s Best of NoVA Soiree Thursday night. With an “enchanted forest” theme, attendees dressed in dazzling attire were buzzing with excitement as they stepped through a living ivy trellis into the elegant CrystalView Event Center in Fairfax. There, they were greeted with a magical world filled with whimsical characters and VIPs from throughout the region.
Exploring Southern Pennsylvania's Snack Factories

Sep 30, 2024 | northernvirginiamag.com | Renee Sklarew

If variety appeals to you, head north to Pennsylvania. The Keystone State, from its bustling cities to its rural farmland, is rich with enough American history, celebrated art, family festivities, award-winning dining, and nature excursions to suit any visitor’s tastes. In our September issue, we tell you where to go and what to do in some of our favorite PA destinations. We’re sharing those stories online over the course of the month.
Lancaster Getaway: Antiques, Arts, and Eats

Sep 25, 2024 | northernvirginiamag.com | Renee Sklarew

If variety appeals to you, head north to Pennsylvania. The Keystone State, from its bustling cities to its rural farmland, is rich with enough American history, celebrated art, family festivities, award-winning dining, and nature excursions to suit any visitor’s tastes. In our September issue, we tell you where to go and what to do in some of our favorite PA destinations. We’re sharing those stories online over the course of the month.
Scenic Fall Foliage Drives to Try in Virginia

Sep 23, 2024 | northernvirginiamag.com | Renee Sklarew

The beauty of autumn is especially arresting on fall drives through the woods or in the countryside. Within the commonwealth are miles of breathtaking forests that transform from green to gold to crimson. To fully relish this colorful time of the year, we’ve made a list of five Virginia roadways with spectacular fall foliage. So, hop in the car and let’s drive. Stay close to home for a leisurely drive down the rolling lanes of George Washington Memorial Parkway.
Dōgon by Kwame Onwuachi to Open in September at Salamander Hotel in DC

Aug 19, 2024 | northernvirginiamag.com | Renee Sklarew

Guests watched in anticipation as a platter of curried branzino sailed to long rustic tables inside Salamander Resort’s tented patio. They gathered in Middleburg for the fourth annual Family Reunion, an event where culinary luminaries and fans meet for food and fellowship. These diners received an exclusive preview of the new DMV restaurant, Dōgon by Kwame Onwuachi , which opens September 9 at the Salamander Washington DC at The Wharf.