Question: The necktie dates back to what century?
(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)
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Big Mikes BBQ
Big Mikes BBQ is one of the local food places nominated by Cary Spotlight's readers for our Discover Cary project. If you've had a chance to sample their food, feel free to share your opinion below.
Big Mikes BBQ in Cary, NC, is a laid-back barbecue restaurant and craft beer shop serving locally-sourced, pasture-raised smoked meats like slow-cooked brisket, chopped pork, and beer-brined chicken alongside homemade sides like smoked potato salad and collard greens.
Check out their menu on their website: Big Mikes BBQ
Address: 1222 NW Maynard Rd, Cary, NC 27513 | Get Directions
Big Mikes BBQ
Do you have a favorite place to eat in Cary, NC? Click to share your pick.
Hello, Venice!
Gateway to Canals and Renaissance Splendor
Welcome to Venice, Italy, a place where marble palaces rise from a lagoon, where gondoliers glide through centuries-old canals, and where every corner reveals a masterpiece of art or architecture. With connecting flights from RDU (Raleigh-Durham) to Venice's Marco Polo Airport (VCE) through major hubs, this floating city is easier to reach than you might think. Whether you're drawn by romantic waterways, world-famous art, or the simple magic of getting beautifully lost in winding alleyways, Venice offers an unforgettable escape into a world unlike any other.
Why Visit Venice?
St. Mark's Basilica: This stunning cathedral is one of the most beautiful churches in the world, covered inside and out with glittering Byzantine mosaics that tell stories in gold. Step inside to marvel at the ornate domes, admire the Pala d'Oro golden altarpiece, and climb to the terrace for breathtaking views over St. Mark's Square.
The Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge: The Grand Canal is Venice's main waterway, lined with elegant palaces that seem to float on the surface. Take a ride on a traditional gondola or hop aboard a vaporetto (water bus) to cruise past stunning architecture, then walk across the iconic Rialto Bridge—the oldest bridge spanning the canal and one of the most photographed spots in all of Italy.
Murano and Burano Islands: Just a short boat ride from the main city, these charming islands offer their own special magic. Murano is famous for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition, where you can watch artisans create delicate masterpieces. Burano enchants visitors with rainbow-colored houses lining peaceful canals and shops selling intricate handmade lace.
Travel Guides – Here are two comprehensive travel guides to help you plan your trip.
Lonely Planet Venice & the Veneto: This trusted guide provides detailed neighborhood breakdowns, insider tips for avoiding crowds, and recommendations for everything from hidden restaurants to the best gelato shops.
Rick Steves Venice Travel Guide: Rick's guide offers self-guided walking tours, practical advice on navigating the water buses, and expert recommendations for experiencing Venice like a local rather than just another tourist.
Learn about more family trips built for adventurers of all ages.
G Adventures is the leader in small group and solo travel for 30 years, they know how to do it right. Check out the Online Deals: Shop Travel Deals
If you could only have one, which romantic getaway would you pick for you and yours?
Ritz-Carlton Sets Sail with Evrima
The Ritz-Carlton has ventured into the luxury cruise market with Evrima, a sleek 624-foot yacht that aims to redefine ocean travel. Unlike traditional cruise liners, Evrima provides a boutique, hotel-at-sea experience, focusing on intimacy and exclusivity.
The ship is tailored for a younger, culture-loving demographic, blending Ritz-Carlton's signature elegance with the adventure of Mediterranean and Caribbean voyages. This move represents a strategic effort by Ritz-Carlton to create a unique niche in the cruising industry, merging the world of high-end hospitality with ocean exploration.
Credit: Ritz-Carlton
The yacht boasts 149 suites, numerous amenities including bars, pools, a spa, and a unique marina terrace. The staff, known for their personalized service, ensures a warm, homelike atmosphere.
The itinerary allows ample free time for guests to explore ports of call deeply, with prices starting at $7,800 for seven-night sailings.
Tuesday
Meme of the Day.
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Small Business Edition Recommendations
Hey, Cary! We’re building a growing showcase of local Cary businesses our community should know about.
If you run a small business in Cary, especially home services, local shops, or neighborhood favorites — tell us about your business below
Drop this in the comments:
• Your business name
• What you do (one sentence)
• Your website (if you have one)
• What makes you different in Cary
Each week, we highlight local businesses in our Cary Spotlight daily newsletter. From there, some may be invited for a full Spotlight feature or a podcast interview.
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The Answer to the Cary Spotlight Hook Trivia Question 👇👇👇
A: 17th century
The necktie dates back to the 17th century.
Its origins are generally attributed to Croatian mercenaries serving in France during the Thirty Years' War (1618–1648). These soldiers wore small, knotted neckerchiefs—known as "cravats" (from the French cravate, meaning "Croat")—which caught the attention of King Louis XIV, who subsequently made them a fashion staple among the French aristocracy.
🔗 Learn more about Neckties