Archive for May 2010
See Atlanta through the Eyes of Your Canine Companion
Author Alexine
By Barbara Wade © 2010, All Rights Reserved
Planning a getaway with your best friend? Maybe you’ll head to the big city, take in a ballgame, do a little shopping, and stay in a luxury hotel for some well-deserved pampering. If your best friend has four legs and wears a fur coat, then Atlanta is your ticket.
This gem of the South is leading the way with exceptional entertainment, dining, shopping and lodging – and it’s all pet friendly. Atlanta hotel accommodations can provide a welcome retreat for you and your pal. Look for amenities designed just for him as well as locations near all the places pups love to roam and you’ll make your stay delightful for both of you.
Sniffing Out the Pet-Friendly Spots in Atlanta
From hotels to attractions, Atlanta is a bustling city with a rich history, but there’s more to it than peach trees and plantation houses. Beyond Gone with the Wind is a thriving metropolis that promises a spectacular trip for both you and your pooch.
Since every good dog leads with his nose, your trip to Atlanta can have no better starting place than in one of the many gourmet treat shops catering to canines. Pampered pups will find treats, supplements, and just about everything a well-groomed dog needs to keep his coat shiny and teeth white. Scrumptious hand-decorated biscuits, canine confections, and specialty grooming products are available from several fine retailers around town.
Of course, people have to eat, too. Dog-loving Europe can’t compare to Atlanta, where you’ll discover an array of pet-friendly restaurants. You’ll have your choice of cuisines to tempt your taste buds, from pizza and microbrews to sushi or even upscale menus featuring local, organically grown foods. More than a dozen Atlanta restaurants offer outdoor dining and will allow your furry friend a place at the table – or perhaps under it.
For boutique shopping with a bit of history, Stone Mountain Village is the place to see. Taking a stroll along Main Street is like stepping into the past. Little has changed from the time when summers were spent sipping lemonade on the veranda and the most important decision was which dance to attend on Saturday. You’ll feel like Scarlett O’Hara as you wander the streets of this charming burg, the air heavy with the scent of gardenias. Located just east of Atlanta, this delightful little town is a haven for dog lovers and features one of five off-leash parks in the area.
Collegiate Pups Make the Grade
Do you have college-bound kids? Look for pet-friendly hotels near Georgia Tech. There’s no need to leave your dog behind when scheduling a campus tour or dropping in for a football game. Students away from home for the first time will love that you brought the family pet along for a visit, and your dog will be just as thrilled to see his old friend again.
Getting there is Half the Fun
Even Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is joining in the fun. In November 2009, they opened a brand new dog park of their own, completely fenced and decorated with flowers and benches. They also provide biodegradable bags for easy, earth-friendly cleanup. This little park gives the frequent-flying dog a fun place to stretch his legs after a long flight.
Visiting Atlanta with your favorite four-legged companion has never been easier. Off-leash parks are popping up everywhere, specialty treat stores are almost as common as fire hydrants, and even restaurants are getting in on the act. Better still, you don’t have to settle for run-of-the-mill motels just because you’ve brought your dog along. Luxury hotels offer pet sitting, grooming, walking, even massage. Rather than leave him in a kennel, book a pet-friendly vacation that he’ll enjoy as much as you will.
World-Class Shopping Awaits You in Beautiful San Francisco
Author Alexine
By Barbara Wade © 2010, All Rights Reserved
San Francisco, perched delicately on the hills of California’s striking coastline, delivers more than just breathtaking views of the Pacific and scrumptious sourdough bread. Discriminating travelers looking for a unique vacation can book their stay in a San Francisco boutique hotel located in the heart of this great city and be within walking distance of some of California’s most exclusive shopping venues. Union Square offers nearly three acres of lavish shops, fine dining and culture in beautiful downtown San Francisco, and Fisherman’s Wharf is home to one-of-a-kind stores you’ll not find anywhere else on earth.
Pamper Yourself in Union Square
Whether you’ve come for the tried-and-true elegance of Gucci or Prada or are in the market for some home-grown sporting equipment from The North Face, you’ll find it here. Union Square is the third largest shopping area in the United States and the largest on the West Coast. It is a destination all its own, with dozens of stores catering to savvy shoppers from every corner of the world. A whimsical heart statue marks the entrance to the plaza, and tells the world that San Franciscans love their city – and their shopping – every bit as much as New Yorkers or Parisians do.
Start your adventure at Neiman Marcus, located on the corner of Stockton and Geary. Here you’ll find the original stained-glass dome that topped the famed City of Paris Dry Goods Company from 1850 to 1976. Though the store itself is gone, its spirit remains in the elegant rotunda of this Union Square landmark. Enjoy a leisurely brunch in the Rotunda Restaurant and experience all the grace and charm the area has to offer before heading out to hunt for the perfect evening gown or classic home décor you’re unlikely to find anywhere else.
If you prefer boutique shopping over department stores, Union Square offers a variety of exclusive places to match your unique personality. From Wolford lingerie to jewels by Tiffany to the classic sophistication of a Chanel suit, you’ll find all your fashion needs satisfied in true San Francisco style.
Frolic By the Sea at Fisherman’s Wharf
A quick jaunt on one of the city’s famous cable cars takes you to the world-famous Fisherman’s Wharf. From Pier 39 to Ghirardelli Square you’ll find a nearly endless parade of stores and street vendors catering to your every need. “Only in San Francisco” is the dominant theme at Pier 39, where more than 100 specialty stores await you. Make sure to bring your camera because there’s plenty of gorgeous scenery you’ll want to remember. Pier 39 is the perfect vantage point for a picture-postcard shot of Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge or the city skyline.
At the far end of Fisherman’s Wharf you’ll find some of the world’s finest chocolate. The Ghirardelli Chocolate Company began production of its famous confections in 1852. Today you can still see the original equipment and indulge your sweet tooth at the Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop. And don’t worry about the calories. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to work them off on the giant stairway that leads to this chocolate wonderland.
The city is perhaps best known for its hilly topography, sparkling bay and the world-renowned Golden Gate Bridge, but discerning buyers will discover San Francisco’s shopping districts offer everything they’ll find in New York and Paris. Exclusive boutiques, magnificent dining, fine chocolate and one-of-a-kind San Francisco souvenirs all come together at Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf. Hotel accommodations are plentiful and offer a wide range of choices from elegant luxury to modern splendor, making San Francisco the ultimate shopping vacation.
Author Bio
Barbara Wade writes for the Serrano Hotel, a San Francisco boutique hotel located just steps from Union Square. You can find them online at http://serranohotel.com.
Branson, MO Shows – An Ozark Tradition That Just Keeps Getting Better!
Author Alexine
Some Are Wondering If This Might Be the Best Branson Show Season Ever
By Janet Sanders
Each year thousands of people flock to Branson, Missouri in the Ozark Mountains. Though Branson is home to attractions such as theme parks, museums, and boat, it’s the selection of over 100 live music and variety shows that have kept people coming back for years. In fact, Branson is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World.”
The question is, how did this sleepy little town in the Ozarks come to be such a big draw for music lovers and entertainers alike? And, what is it about the Branson shows that have kept people coming back well into the 21st century? This article will answer both of those questions and just might even give you the urge to pack up the family and head to Branson!
The History of Branson Shows
It all started 50 years ago when the Presley Family and the Baldknobbers Jamboree began performing country music shows for the visitors to the Ozark Mountains in southern Missouri. Eventually, both of these shows moved their venues to spots along Highway 76 and the Branson “strip” was born. Today, over 50 theaters thrive on that location and boast show schedules that start in the morning and run well into the evening.
While these early comers and others provided quality entertainment that tourists to the Ozarks loved, it wasn’t until the 1980’s and early ’90’s that the live show business skyrocketed. That’s when entertainers such as Andy Williams, Roy Clark, Barbara Mandrell, and Boxcar Willie took advantage of the unique opportunity that Branson offered them and opened up their own theaters.
In Branson, these stars found a growing resort town in the beautiful Ozark Mountains that gave them the chance to perform the music they loved to packed houses every night, without the wear and tear of the life on the road. They also loved Branson’s mild year round climate, and opportunities to escape to one of its championship golf courses, pristine lakes, or to just relax in its mountain setting.
Music lovers and vacationers also loved the idea of Branson, and why wouldn’t they? It was less than a day’s drive from one third of the United States, especially the areas that loved country music, and it offered a variety of outdoor activities such as golf, fishing, and camping as well as the opportunity to see several of their favorite entertainers in smaller, more intimate settings.
The Success of Branson, MO Shows
While Branson live shows are still predominantly country music influenced, they now have expanded to incorporate all types of music. There are popular tribute shows dedicated to the Beatles, Hank Williams, Elvis and others. There are also variety and comedy shows such as “Yakov Smirnov’s Moscow Circus” and there are full-scale acrobatic and musical productions, like the “Legend of Kung Fu” show. This constant infusion on new talent and offerings, keeps Branson’s lineup relevant and entertaining, but it’s not the secret of their success.
Through it all, though, the one thing has remained unchanged and has kept visitors returning year after year is Branson’s commitment to family entertainment. It’s still one of the few places around where the grandparents, parents, and kids can all sit together and enjoy a show and create memories that they’ll cherish for a lifetime. With this secret ingredient in its recipe, it’s a sure bet that Branson shows will be thrilling audiences for generations to come!
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Wine Connoisseurs Delight in San Francisco’s Napa Valley Tours
Author Alexine
By Barbara Wade © 2010, All Rights Reserved
The city of San Francisco, nestled on the hills overlooking San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean, is near some of the finest wineries the West Coast – and the world – has to offer. The city lies within easy driving distance of both the Sonoma and Napa Valleys, and offers wine lovers the opportunity to discover delightful vintages they might not find outside San Francisco. Luxury hotel accommodations in the heart of the city provide a sensual respite where you can relax and recharge at the end of the day. The City by the Bay is a truly the perfect vacation spot for wine aficionados.
Wine Country Tours
Sonoma Valley is the largest and oldest of the area’s wine-producing counties. In 1823, Father Jose Altimira planted mission grapes in his church’s vineyard, and there began the world-class winemaking that continues today. A tour of the area yields a feast for the senses, with stunning views of miles of vineyards, a sampling of the most popular wine varieties, and a spectacular climate that rivals that of the south of France.
Perhaps better known, if smaller, is Napa Valley. This 40-mile stretch of paradise follows the meandering Napa River from the town of Napa to the San Pablo Bay. The river wanders among the rolling hills and mountains of one of the most breathtaking landscapes found anywhere in the world. This fertile river valley is home to some of the finest wine grapes ever grown, with 45,000 acres devoted to Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
For a different view of the wine country, you might choose to tour the valley via boat. Two-hour tours aboard luxurious, environmentally friendly electric boats are a delightful way to spend the afternoon. Limousine-style, wrap-around seating ensures spectacular views of the countryside from every seat. In addition to sightseeing, you’ll be entertained with tales of the area’s history while drifting leisurely through Napa and past the hills for which this area is famous.
Food and Wine Go Hand in Hand
If you prefer food with your wine, you can book a 48-hour City and Wine Country Tour. You’ll get to sample all the tasty delights this city has to offer as well as enjoy a guided tour of nearby Sonoma Valley.
You’ll spend the morning casually wandering among the neighborhoods of San Francisco, nibbling on gourmet chocolate in Ghirardelli Square or feasting on authentic Asian cuisine in Chinatown. After lunch, a climate-controlled coach will whisk you off for a wine tour and tasting you won’t soon forget. This relaxed, do-it-yourself tour affords you the opportunity to see the sights you wish, while skipping those you don’t.
Lodging in San Francisco is as delightful as the wine. Luxurious hotels catering to discerning travelers feature all the amenities you desire and make your vacation a memory you’ll treasure. Choose a Moscone Center hotel and you’ll be right in the middle of all this fantastic city offers, from wine bars to restaurants to theater and shopping.
Author Bio
Barbara Wade writes for the Hotel Monaco, a San Francisco luxury hotel offering exquisite retreats in the heart of the city. Visit them online at http://www.monaco-sf.com.
Explore the Local Favorites of the Emerald City
Author Alexine
By Barbara Wade © 2010, All Rights Reserved
Seattle, home to such American institutions as Starbucks, indie music and Microsoft, is the largest city in the Pacific Northwest. Known as the Emerald City for the surrounding lush forests, the area is a unique mix of stunning mountain views and a thriving city-center. Cutting-edge culture and art venues rub elbows with elegant theaters and restaurants. At the heart of Seattle, luxury hotel suites provide a fantasy escape from everyday life.
Pike Place Market
A piece of Pacific Northwest history that should not be missed, Pike Place Market – or simply, the Public Market – is a Seattle landmark. Pike Place is one of the country’s longest continuously operating public markets and features several levels of shopping overlooking Elliott Bay. On the upper street level, you’ll find fishmongers bringing in the day’s catch, fresh produce, local artisans displaying their handiwork and the most gorgeous array of locally grown tulips available in practically every color of the rainbow.
On lower levels, the market offers a wide variety of shops and restaurants, including antique dealers, art galleries and the very first Starbucks location. Families traveling together will appreciate the kid-friendly restaurants and discerning shoppers may discover a hidden treasure in a dusty antique market. Whatever your passion, Pike Place Market has the answer.
The market opened in 1907, and today enjoys more than 10 million visitors annually, making it one of Washington’s premier tourist destinations. In addition to sightseers, Pike Place is home to some 200 commercial businesses, 300 farmers and artists who rent tables by the day, 240 street performers and 300 apartment units reserved for low-income, elderly residents.
The Space Needle
No trip to Seattle is complete without a visit to the Space Needle. Built in 1962 for the World’s Fair, today the Space Needle is home to Sky City, the revolving restaurant that serves up a spectacular view of the Seattle skyline along with superbly prepared local delicacies. You’ll gaze upon the vistas of the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier, the Cascade Mountains and Elliott Bay, all without leaving your seat.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take in the view from the observation deck, perched 520 feet above the city. On a clear day, the view of the surrounding mountains and islands that dot Puget Sound is stunning. On any day, the 43-second ride to the top in an elevator traveling ten miles per hour is alone worth the trip.
Wine Tasting and Tours
The Pacific Northwest is home to a large and successful community of winemakers and vineyards, and downtown Seattle sports more than 29 wineries and 21 wine bars. If wine is your passion, you’ll find many places to savor the area’s offerings. Local vineyards, wineries, and boutique hotels schedule tours and tastings, where you’ll have the opportunity to sample
flavors you might otherwise miss.
Whether traveling on business or pleasure, take some time out to enjoy the unique sights of Seattle. Boutique hotel accommodations, modern musical fashion, the catch of the day at Pike Place Market, world-class wineries and more all combine to make Seattle an eclectic, exciting vacation destination.
Author Bio
Barbara Wade writes for Hotel Vintage Park, a Seattle luxury boutique hotel inspired by Washington’s Wine Country. Visit http://www.hotelvintagepark.com today.
Branson MO – Destination Wedding Hot Spot!
Author Alexine
Though the difficult economic times of recent years have had a negative impact on virtually every industry, they have actually given rise to an increase in the number destination weddings. In fact, according to industry statistics, more couples than ever are choosing to exchange vows in ceremonies away from their home towns.
Why choose a destination wedding?
Most brides site control over the wedding day as one of the main reasons why they choose to have a destination wedding. Let’s face it, not every bride wants a large church wedding. These events can often become large, impersonal occasions that are as much for the wedding couples’ families as they are for the wedding couple.
Destination weddings give brides the opportunity to host a more intimate affair with just a few friends and family members present. While many “at home” weddings have guest lists that soar into the hundreds, the average number of attendees at a destination wedding is 45 – 50.
The couple also has more control over the ceremony itself. They can be more creative with the clothes that they wear, the style of the ceremony, and even the wedding officiants. While many brides to be choose an exotic or beach setting for their nuptials, others prefer a mountainous setting. With all that Branson, Missouri has to offer, it’s no wonder that more and more couples are choosing Branson as the place to exchange vows.
Why Brides Are Choosing to Have a Branson Wedding!
One big benefit that tips the scales in Branson’s favor is its central location in the US. Branson is just a day’s drive from a third of the US and half of the country’s population, and now, thanks to the opening of the new Branson airport, it’s easily accessible by air from just about any place in the country.
Wedding couples also love Branson’s unique setting in the Ozark Mountains. Couples can choose to have a quaint and rustic wedding at a small mountain chapel or a more extravagant affair at a four star resort. June brides get their choice of Branson’s summer lake and mountain settings, while couples desiring fall weddings can lavish themselves in the fall foliage colors of the Ozarks. And those brides to be who have always dreamed of Holiday Weddings can tie the knot in one of the Travel Channel’s Most Christmassy Places in the US!
Finally, Branson’s hospitality and entertainment-rich environment provides wedding parties with a carefree time of fun and relaxation in the days prior to the wedding. With the thousands of Branson hotel rooms, there will be no problem accommodating all of the wedding guests, and the vast array of entertainment option will satisfy everyone from the littlest flower girl to the most elderly grandmother.
While Branson weddings may not be for everyone, couples choosing to have a destination wedding will be hard pressed to find a better, more convenient location. Many married couples swear by the Branson MO wedding experience and the unforgettable memories that they’ll treasure for a lifetime.
