Accent On Tampa Bay Travel Stories - Volume 2

On T a mpaB a y TRAVELOGUE VOL2

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TRAVELOGUE

Gasparilla Inn & Club

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Casual Florida Elegance

Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino & Al Martino

f we could conjure up the perfect Florida getaway, it would greatly resemble the historic Gasparilla Inn & Club located on Gasparilla Island in Boca Grande (near Port Charlotte on Florida’s West Coast.) It is out-of-the-way — in a good way — since the island has a low population and a state park on one end. The Gasparilla Inn is the star of the show on the island with it’s gorgeous golf club, tennis club, beach club, spa and pool, and being mere steps to a natural Gulf beach.

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he Neo-Classical style Inn has a historic designation since it was first opened in 1913. In the beginning it hosted such wealthy notables as J.P. Morgan, Henry DuPont and Henry Plant, with folks arriving by train and yacht. Having gone through expansion renovations and refurbishments through the years, it now has charm that is reminiscent of old Key West—in the grandest way. Predominantly white furniture with soft pastel fabrics and muted color wallpaper create a most welcoming and tranquil ambiance throughout the Inn. The guest rooms are appointed in the same colors to carry the theme throughout.

When we checked in we were given the key to our room. The key was an actual key! When was the last time you saw one of those in a hotel? The guest room hallways are wide and well lit, adorned with paintings, mirrors, and the occasional console table and chairs. We even spotted an end table with an old fashioned wired phone. So charming.

Walking through the impressive sunlit lobby (more like a large comfortable sectioned living room) we were trusting that our guest room would be of equal standard, and we were not disappointed. The oh-so-comfy bed, bedding and amenities are superior. The bright room of pastel colors can’t help but put you in a cozy mellow mood.

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e loved the look of the inn, but thought it might be too “girly” for a lot of men, so we queried several of the male guests, and they said they found it very comfortable and “homey.” BZ’s Bar lounge has more masculine colors and decor, and the Inn Dining Room has a St. Augustine feel with white tablecloths, dark woods and palm trees scattered throughout.

The Gasparilla Golf Club, with a beautiful Pete Dye designed par 72 golf course, is set along the waters edge for spectacular views, and has a full pro shop on site, as well as golf lessons by PGA professionals. If tennis is more your thing, there are seven tennis courts and a pro shop that offers tennis lessons as well. Relax at the Beach Club, enjoy the spa and fitness center, and take a dip in the pool which faces the Gulf. Fishing and shelling expeditions from the dock are available at the full-service marina. All manner of vacation recreational needs are met through the Gasparilla Inn with bicycle, kayak, and wakeboard rentals available. There are even some croquet courts if you are so inclined.

There are several dining choices within the Gasparilla Inn property, The Outlet Restaurant and The Inn Bakery serve breakfast and lunch, The Pink elephant serves lunch and dinner, and (our fave) the Inn Dining Room serves breakfast and dinner. Of course, room service is available all day for Inn guests.

There are other options at certain times throughout the year as well.

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lthough our visit to the Inn wasn’t on our anniversary, we felt like it was, and can’t imagine a better place to spend it. We enjoyed a splendid dinner in the Inn Dining Room, with impeccable service, ambiance and food fare. We were seated at a cozy table for two overlooking the lush Inn grounds, and began our memorable meal with Gulf Shrimp Cocktails, a Caesar Salad that was almost too pretty to eat, and a colorful Medley of Beets Salad. For entrees we ordered a Pork Tenderloin with mixed vegetables, and a Line-Caught Swordfish, both of which were sublime. Dessert was a delectable Crème Brûlée.

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he Inn has a resort wear dress code for some of the public areas and dining, which is a welcome change from anythinggoes t-shirts, cutoffs and flip flops that have become the norm just about everywhere. Guest appearance also contributes to the elegance of the Inn. The Gasparilla Inn is not just a place to sleep and go off elsewhere. This was our destination.

We turned off the cell phones and TV, took a stroll over to the golf course, then the unspoiled beach, and found a cozy nook back in the Inn to read our real page-turning books.

We will be returning to the Gasparilla Inn because we are so drawn to it, and cannot imagine a more perfect place to truly relax and get away from it all. Maybe next anniversary?

For more information about the Gasparilla Inn & Club, please call 941-964-4535, or visit www.the-gasparilla-inn.com/

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by Barbara McGovern

Photos courtesy of Gettysburg CVB he start of the five year commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, will begin in April. Fifty thousand people either died or were wounded in only three days on a Pennsylvania field in the most famous battle of the Civil War. It is almost impossible to believe that so much heartache happened in this bucolic area filled with gentle hills and scenic farms. If only the fields and trees could talk. As you stroll the pathways and view the many memorials, it feels like you are in a church — you want to whisper and shush the children. This was the only major battle on Union soil. Even though many other battles left desolation across the country, so many died here that President Lincoln came to Gettysburg to remember the slain. The speech that he gave was only two minutes long, but is one of the most remembered speeches in history.

Anyone with an interest in history should plan to be here for the anniversary. Gettysburg is located only 2 hours from Washington and Philadelphia and about 4 hours from N.Y. There will be so much to experience in the area that it’s safe to say that at least a week would be

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needed to see everything. I’m not sure that’s even enough time.

The first thing I would do is to visit the Museum and Visitor Center at Gettysburg National Military Park, where you get to see the world’s largest Civil War collection.

The Cyclorama has recently been restored and enhanced. The painting will surround you with the fury of the war. The “voices theater” will let you hear the words of those who were at Gettysburg. You get a unique perceptive on one of the most important events in our Nation’s history.

Gettysburg is a great area for a family visit, as there is something here for everyone and everything is real. The town is very pretty, with fascinating things to see and do. Have you ever met President

The entire area is full of charming little towns and villages with historic buildings, churches and old time taverns, covered bridges and antique shops. There are beautiful hotels and quaint bed and breakfast all around the area. When it’s time to eat — trust me; you will very be well fed, with everything from historic taverns from the 1700’s that serve gourmet meals to casual fast food places that are perfect for a quick bite.

All and all, this is perfect place to vacation.

From skiing to savoring history, you can do it all in Gettysburg anytime of the year. The 150th Anniversary is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our nation’s past.

For more information contact www.gettysburg.travel or call 717-334-6272, or toll free 1-800-337- 5015.

Lincoln? Go over to the David Wills House and have a picture taken with him. Have you ever seen a real ghost? Be very careful, this town is loaded with ghosts. At the Farnsworth House, go down into the cellar (if you dare) and you will be in the spirit world. Are you still feeling brave?

Then go up to the attic. You never know you’ll meet up there. There may be long dead (or are they dead?) Confederate sharpshooters roaming about.

Next plan to visit the Eisenhower National Historic site, the home of President and Mrs. Eisenhower. Enough history for now? How about a game or two of golf? Some shopping in one of the historic buildings or at an Outlet Mall?

There are farmers markets and a unique lavender farm that has a lavender festival in June. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

TRAVELOGUE

Hyatt Regency and The Red Door Spa A Perfect Combination

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fter our drive from St. Petersburg and checking in, we hit the Zen Bar in the hotel lobby for a refreshing cocktail and tasty appetizers. The bar is decorated in muted tones and comfortable seating for a relaxing atmosphere, yet lends itself to spirited discussions.

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hoosing a spa getaway can be daunting, with many choices available these days, but we decided to go for one with a solid reputation — the Red Door Spa, conceived many years ago by Elizabeth Arden. Choosing which Red Door was an easier decision, even though there are 30 across the country. The Red Door Spa in Weston, FL, is associated with another company with a stellar reputation — The Hyatt Regency. How could we go wrong? e found the Hyatt Regency Bonaventure nestled in Weston — a town we were not familiar with, but discovered it to be an upscale enclave, home to some notable sports figures and others of affluence. Indeed this town of only 65,000 boasts four glossy lifestyle magazines.

Hyatt took over an existing property in 2006, and completely renovated it with a $100 million makeover, which is evidenced when you first enter the Hyatt lobby and see the quietly elegant design and decor of the hotel’s common grounds.

Warm dark woods, marble and earth tones are carried through the hotel and guest rooms. The Hyatt is very proud of being the Broward County’s first State-Certified Green Hotel.

We chose a one bedroom unit overlooking a golf course and waterway populated by wood storks, ducks, egrets, and other water birds. The guest rooms are all condo units decorated in a British Colonial style, and are available as kings, doubles or suites. The suites have kitchens with refrigerators, microwaves, and a stove top. Rooms have connecting doors which can be rented together to accommodate families or groups (think girlfriend getaways!) Of special note to pet owners — Fido is welcome at the Hyatt, with special amenities just for him!

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xploring the hotel grounds, we found they cover 23 acres and are lovely, with lots of lush vegetation, waterfall pools, and pathways filled with the delightful sounds of many birds.

Along one such path we met “Anthony and Cleopatra” two beautiful swans that have their own little island home in one of the many waterways found in the complex. The Hyatt’s landscape is dotted with some unique plantings which are being named and plaqued to sate the curiosity of guests. Three swimming pools are on property, the main one with cabanas and a cafe/bar.

There are several dining options on property, with the casual Cabana pool cafe, Club Banyan, and Ireland’s Steakhouse — all of which serve wonderful food. Located in front of Ireland’s is an attractive herb garden, which is utilized by all the Hyatt restaurants.

The upscale Ireland’s is very popular with the local residents, and Chef Bob Axenfeld prepares a menu that pleases all. He certainly pleased us with our dinner choices.

Our appetizers were Fennel Scallop with fennel pollen, Kobe sliders, and Coconut Shrimp with pineapple. Their signature appetizer — and a must — is “On The Rocks”.

Lava rocks are heated to 650°, and brought to your table where the waiter cooks slim pieces of NY strip that has been marinated. It was memorably tasty. Their meat comes from the Neiman Ranch in California (a green ranch) For dinner we had Pork Shank with potatoes au gratin, and creamed corn. And an order of Lobster Tails proved to be sweet and succulent. A nice touch was the offering of NY style Condiments, which include 4 different

kinds of salt: Black Hawaiian lava salt (for beef); Red Hawaiian salt sweet (for lamb); Australian course salt (fish and poultry) and Fine White Mediterranean Sea Salt with no iodine.

For dessert we ordered several because they sounded so intriguing: Haagen-daz Pistachio Ice Cream with Olive Oil Cake and Apricot Compote — wonderful, and NY style Cheesecake - which turned out to be the real deal, which is not always the case in a lot of restaurants.

The service was impeccable, the dinner, divine. Ireland’s and the Hyatt Bonaventure have both had the well deserved 4-diamond award bestowed on them by AAA, making Ireland’s the only restaurant in Broward County with that distinction.

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he Red Door Spa was founded by Elizabeth Arden in 1936 in Maine. She created the first successful spa experience as a destination. Best known for her cosmetics, Ms. Arden was the brand choice for the world’s most famous and glamorous women.

Spas bearing her name have grown and multiplied through the years, and have always maintained the highest of quality and reputation. It is with this knowledge that we stepped through the famous Red Door at the Weston location.

The first set of red doors opens to a calming open garden of flowers and waterfalls, where you can immediately begin to relax. The next set takes you to the open lobby/ registration desk where you sign in for your chosen treatment.

Although there are 31 treatment rooms offering many different spa options, we both

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went for a massage, as that is usually our personal choice. This massage however, was different than we had ever had before. The Abhyanga Massage has it’s origins in India.

The massage utilizes a friction method, involving heat and Tara Indian oils which are chosen especially for you to best suit your body/personality type. It involves a lighter touch, and is a very relaxing massage which will remove toxins, and drain away any tensions you may feel. Needless to say, it was wonderful. The Spa offers just about any treatment you can think of, and more, in a very relaxing atmosphere.

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he employees at the Hyatt may very well be the most attentive we have ever encountered — from the wait staff to management. Everyone was very friendly and sincere in wanting to make a guest’s stay enjoyable.

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f you decide to go off property, some of the best shopping in the state can be found at Sawgrass Mills outlet mall. This mall is often a travel destination in itself. Shopping for unique items is fun at Los Olas Blvd. in Ft. Lauderdale. The brand new Pembroke Gardens outdoor shopping complex with restaurants is a big attraction as well.

The Everglades are close by, and tours are very popular. Of course boating is always an option in the area. Also several casinos are not a far drive for some nighttime fun. Two 18-hole golf courses and tennis are very close by as well.

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o, grab your significant other for romance, or your friends for fun and relaxation and take them to this beautiful resort. It’s time to just let go.

For more information please visit www.bonaventure.hyatt.com or call 1-800233-1234.

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TRAVELOGUE

Innisbrook

Golf & Spa Resort Story and Photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino

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love Florida. I love the feel of Florida, and that includes the images one conjures up of the palm trees and sandy beaches of the Tampa Bay area. But I also love the diversity of Florida, where you can take a short drive in Tampa to an area that is not sandy beaches and palm trees, but looks and feels more like Georgia and points north. I’m talking about the Innisbrook Resort — land of tall pine trees, old oaks, Spanish moss, and golf....lots of golf.

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A section of the Copperhead Course. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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nnisbrook Golf and Spa Resort recently hosted the Valspar Championship PGA Golf Tournament, and proved once again to be the ideal location for this annual event (25 years now). Although rain threatened the weekend, it fortunately never really materialized. Charl Schwartzel ended up taking home the prize.

Innisbrook has four courses, with several being quite challenging. The popular Copperhead course is the one used for the Championship game, with it’s notorious “Snake Pit” final holes provoking a love/hate relationship with golfers (mostly love.) In fact, the pros rank Innisbrook as one of their top favorite courses on the PGA tour. Courses were designed by the renowned golf course designer, Larry Packard, back in 1972, and Copperhead was just refurbished using the original Packard plans.

Golf may be the main draw to choose to stay at Innisbrook, but I found it to be great for couples and families alike, whether you enjoy golf or not. The sprawling 900-acre resort has plenty to offer.

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Crowd lines up at the Valspar Championship.

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ccommodations include deluxe guestrooms, executive suites, 1 bedroom suites and 2 bedroom suites, so you can make yourself really at home. My husband and I had a spacious 1 bedroom suite in the St Andrews section, which was really a well appointed condo with a living and dining room, full kitchen, and a patio overlooking the beautiful Copperhead course. All the accommodation sections are named after famous golf courses and are in alphabetical order, so it makes it easier to navigate around the large property.

d Pro instructor DAWN MERCER helps a new golfer with her swing.

A section of the family friendly Lochness Pool

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Turnberry Pub Omlette.

Market Salamander Grill seafood special.

Steak and Lobster at Packard’s Steakhouse.

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Crème Brûlée at Pakard’s.

here are several dining options at the resort.

Packard’s Steakhouse serves breakfast, lunch and dinner overlooking the Copperhead Golf Course.

It is known for fine steaks and seafood. The Market Salamander Grille serves fresh seasonal American cuisine with inside and outside patio dining, and is also open breakfast, lunch and dinner. We sampled both during our stay, and the food was excellent. We also chose to have breakfast every morning outside on the patio at the Turnberry Pub which overlooks the scenic Island golf course. Really tasty omelettes! There are several more spots to eat on property (not to mention some fun bars) and a take-and-go at the Market (which will even make a picnic basket up for you.)

Appetizer sampler at Packard’s.

Turnberry Pub’s outdoor patio overlooking the Island Course.

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Market Salamander Grill.

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am not a golfer. However, when offered the chance to have a lesson with a pro, I decided to give it a go. I must say, PGA Pro golfer Dawn Mercer has a LOT of patience. I don’t think I could have been much worse starting out, but she is so tuned in to what each person needs to work on and is so encouraging, that I started to feel like “the little engine that could.” While taking the lesson with some other ladies, and looking out at the lovely landscape, I thought what a fun time and place Innisbrook would be for a girlfriend getaway.

I still may not be much of a golfer, but I am most certainly a Spa-er, and relished a visit to the Indaba Spa which is located next to the Copperhead course. I may have had the best massage ever under the magical and skilled hands of “Catey.” The spa is lovely and calming, and also complete with a large array of treatment offerings, including a couples massage area.

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Indaba Spa couple’s massage.

Massage therapist Catey at Indaba Spa

Indaba Spa front desk. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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n addition to the aforementioned golf, Innisbrook has tennis courts and 6 pools — including the Loch Ness Monster pool which kids just love. It has sand beaches, waterfall, slides, water volleyball, sand volleyball, and family activities hosted by the staff. If you really want to go to the beach while staying at the resort, they offer complimentary transportation to Honeymoon Island Beach.

Innisbrook has obviously given much thought to preserving their gorgeous old trees and natural surroundings. They even have a nature walk which takes you along a boardwalk to a small lake inhabited by shore birds, turtles and an occasional alligator. Along the path you will pass a tree that is growing over the walk. It is a Dahoon Holly, and it is designated the oldest known tree of it’s species in the U.S.A. by the American Forests Foundation.

Since the property is so large, the resort has made it easy to get around with complimentary shuttles that pick you up at your building and take you wherever you wish to go within the resort. Once you arrive at Innisbrook, you never really need to use your car until you leave.

Innisbrook is loaded with wonderful old oak trees.

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IF YOU GO:

Innisbrook Golf & Spa Resort 36750 U.S. Highway 19 North, Palm Harbor, FL 34684 888-794-8627 www.innisbrookgolfresort.com/ Innisbrook Resort is part of the Salamander group of hotels and resorts, owned by entrepreneur Sheila Johnson. Each resort is luxurious and unique to it’s area: Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, VA, the Henderson Beach & Spa Resort in Destin, FL, the Hammock Beach Golf & Spa Resort in the Palm Coast, FL, and Reunion Golf & Spa Resort in Orlando, FL. Salamander Resorts: www.salamanderhotels.com/

Nature walk with the oldest Dahoon Holly tree in the USA. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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TRAVELOGUE

THE INN ON FIFTH Inviting Elegance

by Melissa Wolcott Martino and Al Martino

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ntering the lobby of the elegant Inn On Fifth in Naples, FL, one would never guess the building housing the hotel was once a 1951-era bank. The hotel is a mere 15 years old, but has the look and feel of seasoned grand dame — perhaps because of all the marble, warm lighting, and lovely antique furnishings adorning the lobby and common areas.

Photos by Melissa unless otherwise indicated.

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e were warmly greeted by staff when checking in to the Inn On Fifth, and they could not have been more accommodating, trying to anticipate our every need.

An unexpected surprise at a hotel as lovely as this one, is discovering that parking is free — including valet — and there are no separate resort fees for the use of the pool and exercise equipment, etc. that most hotels tack on to your bill. ddd

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photo supplied by the Inn On Fifth

odern British Colonial comes to mind in describing the hotel’s guest rooms decor.

Inviting and comfortable, yet sophisticated with predominate shades of buttercup yellow and pale green. The Inn’s pillow-top bedding is divine, and slumber came easily to us after busy days exploring Naples. All the rooms have sliding French doors leading to balconies or terraces with rattan or wrought iron furniture. We made full use of our balcony in the mornings with coffee and conversation in our snuggly hotel-supplied robes while watching Fifth Avenue come alive. To get ourselves going, we enjoyed a dip in the Inn’s rooftop pool before heading out for the day.

A must during a stay at the Inn is a visit (or two!) to the Inn’s luxurious Spa On Fifth. Utilizing Feng Shui and all natural products, skilled staff will relax or rejuvinate you with a variety of treatments. How does a Chocolate Raspberry Brown Sugar Body Scrub, or a romantic couples massage sound‑?

Athough the hotel is not old, it recently underwent complete refurbishing of all the guest bathrooms in Italiante marble. And the Inn is actually expanding, having purchased buildings directly across the street and renovating them to become new suites (some at 1,000 sq feet) with exclusive club level check-in, and with retail shops on the ground floor. The project is expected to be complete in the fall of 2012. ddd 72

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Judy Nelson, Spa Manager, will see to your every need.

Couples massage.

photo supplied by the Inn On Fifth

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McCabes Irish Pub ining can be found right at the hotel’s location, with McCabe’s Irish Pub and Truluck’s Seafood, Steak and Crab House.

McCabe’s is a truly authentic Irish Pub, as a lot of the interior findings, paneling and decor were shipped over from Ireland. The menu consists of traditional Irish fare, with hearty Irish stew, shepherd’s pie, angus beef and grilled seafood, and, of course, Irish beer. The pub’s site includes the old bank vault (complete with the thick steel tumbler door) which they utilize as a private dining room. With live entertainment and a fun crowd, McCabe’s is the place to be.

Truluck’s Seafood, Steak and Crab House is next door to McCabes, and is the most popular fine dining spot in Naples. The restaurant is elegant, and service is impeccable. The food, however, is what keeps folks returning, and reservations are a must (months in advance for Saturday night!) The Naples Truluck’s is one of eleven owned by the company (others located in Texas, California and more in Florida.) To supply all the restaurants, Truluck’s founded their own sustainable fisheries. Their menu changes seasonally, as their seafood is only the freshest possible. The most popular dishes are their Dungeness and King Crab when in season. All their vegetables and meats are organic, and the absolutely delicious, tender steak comes from Niman Ranch grass fed, free-range cows. Truluck’s has over 100 wines by the glass, and their wine program is always changing.

Rick Rinella, Manager of Truluck’s.

Truluck’s Seafood, Steak and Crab House

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hey say real estate is most valued by location, so the Inn On Fifth is prime. It is located right in the heart of Naples, on it’s most prized shopping street, and short ride to most area attractions. Unfortunately, we did not have a lot of time to stay in Naples, but did manage to visit two of the area’s popular attractions, the Naples Zoo, and the Naples Princess luxury yacht, and both experiences were memorable.

Naples Zoo handler shows us how a sloth likes to just hang around.

The Naples Zoo is non-profit, with conservation being key. Begun in 1919 as a botanical garden, animals were introduced in 1969. The animal enclosures are all natural habitats, so they are able to roam around comfortably. A guided boat takes visitors around islands inhabited by different primates, where the aniZoo mals swing freely in trees and “jungle gyms”. Among other events are a giraffe feeding (where guests can feed the giraffes themselves) and an alligator feeding (no, no guests - just handlers for this one!) The shows are fun and fascinating.

The Naples Princess is a beautiful three-year-old, 105 ft. long, $4M custom built yacht, which sails several times a day out of the Port O Call Marina. There are different sailing options available, from afternoon sightseeing to a sunset dinner cruise. You glide past waterfront mansions, and most likely will see some interesting wildlife, like dolphins playing in the wake of the boat, or some slow-moving manatees. We heartily recommend the sunset cruise, for the beauty of the area and catching one of Florida’s spectacular sunsets.

The Inn On Fifth offers some very attractive vacation packages year round, and with an average 75° temperature in Naples, it is well worth a visit at any time of year.

Naples Princess

A gorgeous sunset seen from the Naples Princess cruise.

If you Go

Upsacle shopping is right outside your door at the Inn On Fifth.

Inn On Fifth - 239-403-8777; www.innonfifth.com McCabes Irish Pub - 239-403-7170; www.mccabesirishpub.com/ Naples Visitor Bureau - 239-225-1013; www.paradisecoast.com/ Naples Princess Cruises - 239-649-2275; www.naplesprincesscruises.com Naples Zoo - 239-262-5409; www.napleszoo.org Truluck’s Seafood, Steak and Crab House 239-530-3131; www.trulucks.com/

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G N I L E U F E R L A I R E A L L MACDI LIGHT ON A R E F K N A T O T A R T S 5 3 1 KC Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott and Al Martino

R Melissa and Al in the jump seats.

Pilot Maj Eric Zion and Copilot Kendall Brown.

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ecently, we had the extreme pleasure of a ride-along on an in-flight refueling training mission from MacDill Air Force Base. Some members of the media were invited to experience and share just what it’s like on such a mission.

We arrived at MacDill early for an 11 am takeoff with several other media, a few servicemen, the crew — consisting of a pilot, copilot and two refueling boom operators from MacDill’s 6th Air Mobility Wing, to fly in a KC-135 Stratotanker. Our job (well, their job) was to fly 26,000 feet over Louisiana to refuel a huge B-52 bomber.

The KC-135 is a large jet with a barebones interior except for jump seats along the walls and only four small windows on the sides to catch a glimpse outside. But it’s been the go-to aircraft for the Air Force refueling for over 50 years. It makes it possible for the Air Force to have a global reach, as well as the Navy, Marine Corps and allied nation aircraft. It also serves as an ambulatory aircraft during evacuations.

Once we were airborne we were able to explore the whole plane, and found the best seat in the house was actually not a seat, but the boom operator’s station in the back of the plane, where you lie in a prone position on a padded board. There is no relaxing going on there, however, as the boom operator has some delicate maneuvering to do to line up the 28 ft. long fueling tube to a very small hole in the object aircraft, using a joystick. The receiving aircraft comes within feet for the hookup — so close we could actually see the B-52 pilot’s insignia on his uniform. You have to remember both planes are flying around 530 MPH. It is quite amazing to watch. These guys must be great at video games.

Since this was a training mission and no fuel was actually transferred, we watched the procedure repeated for about an hour before heading back to St. Petersburg.

We never felt a bit of turbulence. Kudos to the great crew.

For more information on the MacDill 6th Air Mobility Wing, visit www.macdill.af.mil/

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Pilot Maj Eric Zion

Servicemen training for the mission.

The B-52 is mere feet away from the Stratotanker

SSgt. Ryan Thomas explains the process to Al.

The fueling tube is inserted into the receiving port on the B-52.

L to R: Maj Eric Zion, SSGT Ryan Thomas, copilot Kendall Brown.

A1C Christopher Cannon, boom operator

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THE MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST Mardi Gras and Much More!

Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino and Al Martino

OK. So New Orleans may have the most famous Mardi Gras celebration, but Biloxi has the largest and most family-friendly one along the Gulf Coast. Polish up your beads and gather up your most garish outfit, for the Parade Of The Year is quickly approaching. On February 21, colorful floats will take to the streets with bead throwing and entertainment for thousands of spectators. ack in 1908 when the tradition began, there was one parade with 17 floats. Today that number has swelled to 23 parades with many floats along the coast. The festivities actually begin the day B before with the elaborate celebration crowning King D’Iberville and his Queen Ixolib (in case you

didn’t get the Queen’s odd name, it’s Biloxi spelled backward.) The King and Queen are chosen each year for their contribution to the community. The crowning event is quite a spectacle, with many Dukes and Duchesses in attendance in amazing colorful costumes beaded, sequined and gemmed-out. You can see that no expense is spared in making them.

Mardi Gras is but one of many events along the coast that brings in visitors. Throughout the year you can visit many museums, established attractions, and, of course, casinos galore.

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THE MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST Mardi Gras and Much More! iloxi’s newest pride and joy is the Ohr-O’Keefe B Museum of Art, with George (The “Mad Potter of Biloxi”) Ohr’s (1857-1918) renowned pottery now housed in

an amazing structure built by the world famous architect, Frank Gehry. The objects d’art are impressively presented with plenty of space and perfect lighting. Ohr is considered an early leader in the modernist movement. The museum has revolving exhibits as well as it’s permanent collection. www.georgeohr.org/

cean Springs is home to the Walter Anderson Museum of Art. O Anderson (1903-1965) is famous for his endearing water colors, and a walk through the museum with a docent will enlighten you to his life. Anderson’s depictions of local plants, animals and people make him a highly regarded American master although, sadly, he didn’t realize fame during his lifetime. An eclectic artist, he would row his boat 12 miles to Horn Island, turn the boat over and sleep under it. He would stay on the island for weeks at a time until food and art supplies ran out. A lot of his watercolors are done on typing paper, which have miraculously survived the years. The museum houses his studio cottage and a large ballroom — both filled with his artwork painted directly on the walls. His painting influence was the cave paintings in France. Walter never owned a car, he rode a bike everywhere. (The bike and rowboat are hanging in the museum.) He painted on every surface possible, including napkins, drapes, etc.

Walter was schizophrenic, and went through some dark periods which you can see in some of his work. www.walterandersonmuseum.org/

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eauvoir was the home of Jefferson Davis B (President of the Confederacy) and is a Biloxi landmark that sits on 65 acres. The 1852

French-Creole style home had a lot of damage from hurricane Katrina (it’s located right on the gulf), but has been refurbished to it’s original glory. Some of the original furniture and items were saved from the storm and can be seen in several of the rooms. www.beauvoir.org/

he Biloxi Lighthouse is still standing since 1848, weathering many T storms and hurricanes. Made of cast iron, you can see watermarks from the storms inside. iI is the only lighthouse in the USA that is in the

middle of a 4 lane highway. The lighthouse was manned by women through the years - they had to mount 54 steps and an 8 step ladder in petticoats! The lighthouse can do tours in the morning only, since it gets too hot the rest of the day. www.biloxi.ms.us/museums/biloxilighthouse/

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THE MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST Mardi Gras and Much More! ne mustn’t visit the coast without experiencing a ride on O a shrimp boat. The Biloxi Shrimping Trip takes you out of the harbor and sets out a net, which captures all forms of sealife. When they haul it in is when the fun really begins, as the captain’s mate will tell you all about the different creatures in the net. They are then released back into the sea.

Another way to enjoy the gulf is to sail on a Biloxi schooner. The Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum has daily sails on one of it’s two 65-foot two-masted schooners. The musuem also has exhibits on shrimping, oystering, fishing, wetlands, wooden boat building, and more.

Trolleys ride up and down the coast for ease of tourist transportation. As you ride along the coast from Biloxi to Gulfport, you will see wildlife sculptures along the way. These are the work of Marlin Miller and Dayton Scoggins, who created their works of art out of dead trees (courtesy of Katrina) using chainsaws. www.biloxishrimpingtrip.com/ www.maritimemuseum.org/

ometimes, out of the (very) bad comes good. In this S case, Hurricane Katrina wreaked havoc on the Gulf Coast destroying almost everything in her path. From

this devastation rose new, modernized structures.

Pretty much any hotel/motel you choose to stay in was rebuilt or at least, refurbished, so you won’t find yourself in a dilapidated place.

The gorgeous Beau Rivage Resort’s structure was left intact after the storm, but it was gutted and refurbished inside. It has maintained it’s comfortably elegant feel, and is a destination unto itself. The guest rooms are large yet cozy with understated decor. Large marble bathrooms have a separate tub and shower.

The location of the Beau is such that you either have a fabulous view of the city, or a fabulous view of the water. Win-win. Speaking of win, the casino is loaded with everyone’s favorite slot and table games, www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

and the Beau keeps up with the most current popular slots around.

The lovely and calming spa overlooks the large pool, which overlooks the gulf. A state-of-the-art exercise room also looks out over the pool. Upscale fashions and accessories are available in the Beau’s promenade.

The Beau has plenty of dining options for all budgets. With eleven restaurants,

from the upscale BR Prime to the Snack Bar, there is something for everyone. The Buffet is one of the best you will ever experience - with loads of all-you-can-eat crab legs in the seafood buffet. www.beaurivage.com/ Continues on following pages.

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THE MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST Mardi Gras and Much More! here are a lot of dining options along the T coast, and it’s rewarding to try different restaurants that are area favorites. The award-

winning Bayview Gourmet in Ocean Springs is a must for breakfast or brunch. Try the Shrimp & Grits and you won’t be sorry. www.bayviewgourmet.com/

nother dining gem in the artsy bedroom community that is A Ocean Springs is the family-owned McElroy’s On The Bayou. Crowd favorites are the Bayou Special, with Snapper Filet cooked to order, topped with Fresh Crabmeat and Creole Cream Sauce), or the Eggplant Augratin with Lump Crabmeat.

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he Half Shell Oyster House in Gulfport is popular for it’s T oysters served just about any way you can think of. A yummy dish to try is the Oyster Combo, with 3 Oysters ‘Orleans, 3 Charbroiled Oysters, 3 Oysters Bienville, and 3 Oysters Rockefeller - something for everyone. Fish dishes are fresh straight from the Gulf. www.halfshelloysterhouse.com/

he most famous coast restaurant has to be Mary Mahoney’s Old T French House (referred to in John Grisham’s “The Runaway Jury” and “The Partner”, as John used to live in Biloxi, and still revisits the place.) As with Biloxi’s Lighthouse, it has withstood even more storms, since it was built around 1737 during the French occupation of the coast.

It has been Mary Mahoney’s since 1964, and although it has been added to over the years, it retains its original characteristics. The building was constructed of hand-made brick with wooden pegged columns of hand-hewn cypress and roofed with slate brought over from France. In front of the restaurant is another old soul, “Patriarch”.

Patriarch is one of the oldest know live oaks, at an estimated age of 2,000 years. All history aside, it’s the deliciously prepared fresh seafood (especially their famous gumbo) that keeps people coming back. www.marymahoneys.com/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

THE MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST Mardi Gras and Much More! though Mardi Gras is a lot of fun, anytime on the Gulf Coast is the right time to A visit. In addition to top-name entertainment at the casinos and convention center, there are plenty of other events that take place along the coast weekly, as well as popular annual events. Here are just a few that are coming up in the next few months:

32nd Annual Gulf Coast Rod Run takes place March 16-18, with a family fun car & truck show featuring hundreds of Pre-80’s cars, trucks, and motorcycles.

On the same weekend, March 16-18 is the 35th Annual Coastcon, when Sci-fi fans converge on the Coliseum. There are always interesting and eclectic special guests that show up.

And if that’s not enough, get your Irish on in the same weekend, March 17-18 for Grillin & Green, with parades, tasty food, and arts & crafts.

March 19-25 is for golf fans when the Champions Tour comes to Fallen Oak Golf Club. Look out for fan favorites, Hale Irwin, Fred Funk and Tom Kite.

The 60th Annual Diamond Jubilee takes place over 9 days — March 24-April 1, and features visits to beautiful homes, gardens and historic locations, from Moss Point to Bay St. Louis.

Jazz lovers will want to go to the coast for the 4th Annual Southern Miss Jazz and Blues Festival in Long Beach on April 7.

Get you motor running for the 5th Annual MS Gulf Coast Bike Fest in Ocean Springs, April 13-15. All brands of motorcycles are welcome, whether it is a Harley Davidson, Yamaha, Suzuki, Triumph or any other type of bike, and all enthusiasts are welcome regardless if they ride a bike or not.

Weekends April 19-29, brings the Crawfish Music Festival with name acts such as The Band Perry, Montgomery Gentry, and some Cajun/Zydeco acts, carnival rides, arts & crafts, and, of course, a crawfish cook-off.

You may need earplugs for the 9th Annual Smokin’ The Sound & Smokin’ The Lake Boat Race April 26-29 in Biloxi channel and Gulfport Lake. Smokin’ the Lake features over 60 boats racing in seven categories while Smokin’ the Sound features over 30 race boats clocking speeds of over 150 mph in 13 categories.

To find out more about the Gulf Coast, visit the Mississippi Gulf Coast CVB at www.gulfcoast.org. You are sure to find something of interest within the friendly communities along the coast.

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TRAVELOGUE

The night before the parade, we attended the Gulf Coast Carnival Association Tableau, which introduced the 2009 King and Queen, and Dukes and Maids of Mardi Gras (all society folk from the area). It was quite a spectacle, and the costumes were amazing.

Apparently no expense is spared in making them.

The Katrina Memorial in Biloxi.

Bead bestowers on the Gulf Coast Carnival Association float.

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recent trip to part of the re-energized Gulf Coast (Gulfport, Biloxi and Ocean Springs) afforded us a great experience with people places and events.

The necessary refurbishing of the area means a lot of shiny new places.

Remnants of the hurricane are mostly in what you don’t see, as in properties wiped clean, awaiting a new house or building.

Pretty much anywhere you choose to stay will be a new modernized version of what used to be there, such as some of the old casinos and motels. We stayed at the Treasure Bay Casino Hotel which we found to be cozy and comfortable with a convenient location.

Of course the big draw for us was the Biloxi Mardi Gras. We were thrilled to have the opportunity to be on the Gulf Coast Carnival Association Float in the parade, and took advantage of the power of our plastic royal crowns to dole out beads to whomever we chose. The Mardi Gras (“Fat Tuesday”) Parade attracted 85,000 souls seeking beads and a fun time.

he Mississippi Gulf Coast folks are proud of their commitment to their history and the arts, and have worked to rebuild some important icons of their area.

Beauvoir was the Jefferson Davis stan ds home of Jefferson Davis (President of the Confederacy) Hurricane Katrina damage to Bouvoir.

trouble at some point and had to sell off some of the property. When he died, his wife sold the estate to the Sons of Confederate Veterans. She stipulated that the property was to be used for Confederate Vets and their wives, and the last Confederate wife died in 1957. Ms. Davis also stipulated that the estate be kept as a memorial to her husband.

While we were having a true southern lunch catered by Naomi’s Catering at a little pavilion on the Beauvoir property, “Mr. Huston Tegarden” (aka John Harral) — a close in front o friend of Davis’ — f Bouvoir . dropped by in his best finBouvoir today.

and is a Biloxi landmark. The ery of the day to tell us more about 1852 French-Creole style home life during the time of had a lot of hurricane damage his friend. While he (it’s located right on the gulf), told us some stories, we but has been refurbished to it’s munched on cornbread original glory now, stripping made from Mrs. Davis’ away many years of paint. The original recipe. It was front porch and parts of the made then (and also for Some reco roof were ripped off, and the us) on an open hearth. It ve red Bouvo items twis ir was very different from ted by th Presidential Library (a sepae storm. rate building) was destroyed. Some of what we’re used to, as it the original furniture and items were saved from Katrina and can Bouvoir Curator Richard Flowers in front of a 400 year old Live Oak that survived the storm. be seen in several of the rooms. Curator Richard Flowers also pointed out to us a slab of slate from the roof that the storm sliced straight into a palm tree with such force that all you see now is a little corner sticking out — barely noticeable, and the palm tree is fine. There is also a 400 year old Umbrella Live Oak on the estate that survived the storm.

The property originally had 608 acres, but r ie today it’s down to 65. sh ra ey Elise B Ixolib Dew n Davis ran into money ee u Q , ter Sr.

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Calvin Coleman from Naomi’s Catering serves up some true Southern cooking.

was a flatbread cornbread. We also enjoyed Naomi’s Calvin Coleman’s cooking of beans, rice, andouille and pig knuckles sausage, and bread pudding.

Can’t get more Southern than that!

Biloxi may be a smallish city (population 46,000), but it will soon be home to a world-class museum designed by none other than architect Frank Gehry (the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain; the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, etc.) His distinct designs are attractions in themselves. The museum was only a year away from completion when Katrina barreled ashore destroying most of it. When it opens (hopefully in 2010) it will be the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum Lawyer John Harral moonights as Mr. Huston Tegarden, a friend of Jefferson Davis.

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of Art, and will feature the works of the famed “Mad Potter of Biloxi”, George Ohr (b. 1857). Considered the “First Art Potter in the World”, the eccentric Ohr is known for his abstract pieces and skill at working the different mediums, which he traveled the country to learn at the turn of the 20th century. Toward the end of his life he was working in bisque, and was able to created amazingly thin-walled pieces which still amaze potters today. The Ohr collection is currently being exhibited in the 1926 Swetman House while it awaits it’s permanent home. The work. rge Ohr’s new museum will Some of Geo

directly on the walls. Each wall in the cottage depicts a time of day, and the ballroom features the history of Ocean Springs. or some water fun we enjoyed a brisk sail on the Glenn L. Swetman Schooner with Capt. Brandon and his crew. The ship is one of two city owned replicas of turn of the 20th century shrimping boats, and sails from the Biloxi Schooner Pier Complex. he Gulf Coast casinos obviously feature gambling, but

A model of the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art designed by Frank Gehry.

also have a gallery featuring African most are also resorts that have comfortAmerican Art, as well as rotating exhibits. able guest rooms, spas, and great dining.

Another local early 20th century artist We had lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe in that gained fame and is honored with a Biloxi, and had fabulous ribs and pulled museum is painter and naturalist, Walter pork, made with a mustard/vinegar base.

Anderson. The Walter Anderson Art Museum is located in Ocean The boat that Walter Anderson used to row 12 miles to Horn Springs, a charming artsy com- Island in, hangs in the museum. munity east of Biloxi. Anderson’s depictions of local plants, animals and people make him a highly regarded American master although, sadly, he didn’t realize fame during his lifetime. This wonderful museum is well structured to fit his art and celebrate his life. Another eclectic artist, he would row his boat 12 miles to Horn Island, turn the boat over and sleep under it. He would stay on the island for weeks at a time until food and art supplies ran out. A lot of his watercolors are done on In the evening we dined in the very invittyping paper, which have miraculously ing Jia’s, a Pan-Asian restaurant in the survived the years. The museum houses Beau Rivage, Biloxi, known for their wonhis studio cottage and a large ballroom — derful sushi (called a Mississippi Roll). both filled with his artwork painted They also have the best Lettuce Wraps www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

anywhere.

Chef Vrazel prepares French, Italian and If you hanker Cajun cuisine. Indeed, the “Chicken for a burger, you James” was memorable, with Boneless have to try the Breast of Chicken stuffed with Wild Rice, funky Burger Mushrooms, Bacon, and Shallots, and Burger Resturant in served with a lemon sauce. Mmmm!

Biloxi. They use a special mustard lthough Mardi Gras is a lot of fun, blend and secret anytime on the Gulf Coast is the sauce on their burgers right time to visit. In addition to top-name which keeps them interesting, and the crowds coming. They are only open for lunainting. rge wall p chtime hours, and also erson’s la d n A r te Wal serve “regular” food as A small portion of tected the house durwell. ing Katrina. Mary Mahoney’s has been a A trip to the Gulf Coast is not com- restaurant under the stewardship of the plete without a visit to Biloxi’s oldest Mahoney family since 1964. The affable Bob Mahoney (a dead-ringer Captain Brandon helms the Schooner for James Carville) makes all Glenn L. Swetman his guests feel welcome, and he has indeed entertained some notables during the Vrazel’s delicious “Chicken James” years, such as presidents and celebrities.

Best-selling entertainment at the casinos and convenauthor, John Grisham, has tion center, there are plenty of other fun taken a shine to events that take place along Mahoney’s and has the coast weekly, as mentioned it in several well as popular of his novels — “The annual events such as Runaway Jury” and the “George Ohr Fall “The Partner”. But Festival of Arts” it’s the deliciously (Oct.3-4), the prepared fresh sea“Cruisin’ the Coast” food (especially their Classic Car Festival house, Mary Mahoney’s Old French famous gumbo) that keeps peo(Oct. 4-11), “Christmas House, which was built around 1737. ple coming back. on the Water Parade” During the years, any reconstruction done (Dec. 5), and “Mardi has kept the original structure and charGras” (Feb. 16) to name Bob Mah oney, Mar acter of the house intact. A 2,000 year old a few. y Mahoney host. ’s massive live oak named “Patriarch” has been standing in the courtyard through many storms, and is thought to have pro-

www.usairways.com www.beaurivage.com www.beauvoir.org www.maritimemuseum.org www.sablich.com/bb www.hardrockbiloxi.com www.marymahoneys.com - www.gulfcoast.org - www.naomis.com www.geor-

The 2,000 year old live oak “Patriarch” in front of historic Mary Mahoney.

geohr.org

In Gulfport, it’s Vrazel’s Restaurant that is a big dining destination. We had a wonderful lunch in this lovely restaurant located across the street from the Gulf. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.treasurebay.com www.vrazels.com www.walterandersonmuseum.org

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TRAVELOGUE

MSC Cruises The Divine Divina

By Barbara McGovern

Photos courtesy of MSC Cruises and Tim McGovern

MSC

Cruise Ships is a family company headquartered in Italy which has concentrated on the European market in the past. Although they have sailed to the U.S. and some other countries, this is the first time one of their ships will be based in the U.S. The MSC Divina arrived in Miami in November, 2013 to serve the American market.

What a magnificent ship! She left on her maiden American voyage to a grand send off, complete with fireworks and a fun deck party.

The Divina epitomizes everything that makes MSC the line that it is. Attention to details makes the Divina special. MSC’s hallmark is promoting the Mediterranean lifestyle that the region is famous for. La Dolce Vita — The Divina has that in spades, from her Godmother, the

fabulous Sophia Loren, to the incredible Svorski crystal staircases and the outstanding “ship with a ship” — the Yacht Club. We were wowed by the Divina. All the eye candy is wonderful but there is much more to impress the guests. Consider the intangibles, the things that really make the ship so special: the outstanding staff that make your trip the event that you expect; the army of specialists that ensures your comfort and peace of mind; The maintenances crew - 110 plumbers, 80 electricians, 54 carpenters, the 100 people on the fire brigade and the 50 people on the medical staff. These are the people we seldom see but are key to the smooth operation of the vessel. We get to know our waiters, cabin stewards, the bar men and the guest relations people but do we realize how important they are to our enjoyment of the cruise? Do we appreciate them or do we only acknowledge them when we have a complaint?

Think about it.

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The Divina is a floating city, at 1,094 feet in length and weighing almost 140,000 tons. It serves almost 4,500

guests on 18 decks, and is equipped with the best of everything in order to ensure that every one of those guests have a memorable vacation. There is outstanding dining in seven restaurants to accommodate every taste, 13 indoor and 5 outdoor bars and lounges, 5 pools, a theatre that has some of the best shows you will every see, a casino, plus amazing shopping (husbands, beware!) There is even an outdoor movie on the pool deck. (It sure beats the old drive in movies.) There hot tubs, a spa and a well-equipped gym and a solarium. Life is good on the Divina.

The ship has wonderful program for their youngest cruisers. There’s a Mini Club for the tiny guests that affords the moms and dads some free time to re-charge knowing that their children are safe and having supervised fun.

There’s a special club for the pre-teens and older teens where they have their own area away from mom and dad — a win-win situation. MSC also has a program where children travel free. It is a great way to create a real multigenerational vacation. Entire families, moms, dads, cousins and grandparents can join in the fun.

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MSC offers several theme cruises.

The cruise we were on was a “Baseball Greats.” You can check their website to see what other theme cruises are being offered.

The Mediterranean spirit is alive and well on all of MSC ships. You can party day and night or you can relax and do nothing. It’s up to you. The Divina lets you do your own thing. We took the Winemakers Experience to learn how to taste, blend and make your own special bottle of wine with your own label. It was fun and informative. Or you can just sit in one of the beautiful lounges and listen to the music; watch a football game or have a beer. What ever you want to do, it’s all there for you on the beautiful Divina.

We have been on many MSC cruises and can honesty say that we have never had a bad cruise. We’ve had some bad weather and a few so-so ports, but never a bad cruise.

If you haven’t cruised with MSC, please check them out.

I’m sure you will enjoy them as much as we do. Just an aside, I would bring a bar of soap and shampoo if you have a favorite. I have noticed that most ships and hotels, in the interest of the environment and the bottom line, are only offering those items as attached to the shower.

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One thing I want to mention is something very

special that MSC is doing. It is dedicated to helping children though UNICEF. Brazil is the biggest and most populous country in Latin America and it is also one of the 11th most unequal countries in the world.

Education is the key to change this. Over the past two years MCS has been the principal supporter of an innovative UNICEF project to combat poverty and inequality by helping children in the vulnerable communities of Rio de Janeiro and San Paolo to have access to a quality education. Thanks to the generosity of their cruise guests they have been able to donate over 1 million Euros to start to make a difference. MCS has underwritten the program and you can help donate.

The children are the future and they deserve the best.

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That’s why children can travel free on MCS and that’s why we can all help. Check www.msc-unicef.org to get more information.

Remember, as with most ships, the crews are from many different countries. Most crew members do speak English, but it’s not their native language. Bear with them, you’re there to relax and have a good time.

It may take a bit longer to get what you need but you will be well taken care of.

Choose the MSC family for your family’s vacation.

You will be glad you did. For more information, please visit MSCcruisesusa.com

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La Dolce Vita S

The Voyage Continues On MSC Posia everal years ago my husband and I had the good fortune to discover the MSC Cruise line. MSC was a small, family owned cruise company based in Genoa, Italy. Although it was the second largest container shipping company in Europe, it was relatively unknown in the U.S. When we took our first cruise with them, they had one ship, the MSC Melody.

It was a small ship by today’s standards, 1,000 passengers and about 35,000 tons. It was a great ship and we enjoyed several wonderful cruises on it. I found out that the MSC Melody was retired recently. She had a good run and was the start of a great family of ships for MSC.

Over the past several years we enjoyed sailing with MSC on about 8 other cruises. We have never been disappointed in any one of them. Our most recent trip was on the MSC Poesia for 10 days through the Caribbean. The Poesia joined the fleet in 2008 as part of the Musica Class of ships. At about 92,000 tons and with a guest list of about 3,000, she is just a tad bigger than the Melody. She may be larger, but some things are still the same. The company’s Italian heritage is still reflected in the way the guests are treated.

When you are aboard any MSC ship you feel that you are at a wonderful family party.

Being on one of their ships feels like a leisurely trip to Europe with out have the long plane ride. From the embarkation, which was gracious and efficient, to our disembarkation, everything was handled with finesse. I have never seen that process so efficient.

Story by Barbara McGovern photos by Tim McGovern (unless otherwise noted) Ship photo courtesy of MSC

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he Poesia itself is beautiful — very elegant but cozy. We felt we were in a lovely boutique hotel while sailing the ocean blue. The ship is like a lovely floating town with everything from gourmet restaurants, intimate wine bars, an Internet cafe, spa, full gym, library, basketball and tennis courts, several pools, an outdoor movie that sure beats those old out door drive-ins we went to in the day. There are dutyfree shops that will please the most discriminating shop-aholic (and make her husband cringe!) and a great casino (I do love those casinos.)

There are several lounges throughout the ship that offer something for every one. The Il Grappolo D’Ora has mellow piano music, which is the ideal spot for enjoying a glass of wine. Pigalle has great Latin music and at various times, Karaoke. The Hitchcock is a restful bar with a very masculine vibe. It’s billed as a cigar bar it I never noticed that cigar smell that you come to expect (thank goodness.) Younger guests will enjoy the Disco, it is the coolest place in town. Our favorite lounge was the Zebra Bar which is very international. It is very hip but comfortable, with a great singer who can do any style of music. The bar is very nicely decorated with lots of glam but not tacky, and lots of comfortable tables and chairs decorated with Zebra prints (what else!)

The entertainment on the Poesia is outstanding. I’m not a big fan of shows on ships. They seem to run to jugglers, magicians and unfunny comedians. On the Poesia was I surprised. I didn’t go the first show but when I heard all the raves about it I wanted to see of it was as good as everyone was saying. Well, they were right. The shows were as good as anything I ever saw on Broadway. The talent was wonderful, the content was great and the variety was excellent. The theatre

itself is beautiful, very large, and no seating problem.

The decor is beautiful with plush purple carpeting and seats, and the ceiling is covered with tiny light so it looks like you’re looking up a sky filled with stars.

The entire ship has the same WOW factor as the theatre. The Poesia is like a huge treasure chest filled with jewels. Every time you enter another space, you find another gem. Everything is classic and done with European good taste.

The best jewels on the ship are the staff. Everyone that we came in contact with were professional, from the cabin stewards, the waiters, and the office staff, right on up to Captain Francesco Veniero. Everyone went out of their way to be friendly and helpful. They wanted to be sure you knew that your were part of the family. It is a very nice feeling.

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bout the food. It was outstanding. I know some people came on board thinking they were going to be eating the regular American food that they may have been used to on other cruises. On the Poesia, we were served great Italian and continental food. The guests on the cruise came from almost 40 countries plus the crew.

Eating is part of the adventure that you have chosen to go on. Make the most of it, trying things you may not try at home. Have fun.

I tried some tastes I didn’t love, and some I loved. I never had Indian food before, but now I love it.

Ah, the breads. I think the bakers are really artists.

The bread makers build an entire village one day, and on another day they created a zoo. You never knew what they would dream up, but I must admit, the bread sticks were my favorite and they became everyone at the table’s favorite also. The din-

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ing rooms are lovely, although the seating is a bit tight.

The waiters do a amazing job running the gauntlet between the seats with full trays on a moving ship. I never saw one mishap. Amazing.

There are two sit-down dining rooms for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is also a buffet dining room, which is more casual but still has amazing food.

There are two specialty restaurants. Kaito specializes in sushi. The ambience is great and the food is excellent (love the green tea ice cream!) The food presentation was a dream photo op.

La Obelisco is the second specialty restaurant and is truly special. The setting is very romantic. This isn’t the place to bring the kids, in is not their kind of place.

The food was also excellent, with a beautiful setting and great service. If you are looking for a very special evening, this is the place to go.

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SC hasn’t forgotten their youngest guests. They are treated like the special guests that they are. The kids are split into 3 age groups: 12-17 are in the teen group, 7-12 are in the Jr. Cub, and under 6 are in the Mini Club. There are special programs for each group with every thing from treasure hunts to Italian lessons.

There are specially trained counselors for each age group. On port days guests can arrange for their kids, who want to stay aboard, to be taken care of by the kids staff. They will take them to lunch and make a special day for them. At this time, MSC does not have a baby sitting service. There are new enhancements to the youth program being placed, so please check with your travel agent.

And we liked the Poesia so much that we have booked a 16-day trip on her later this year, traveling from Florida to Germany. We did a reverse trip, from Italy to Florida on the MSC Lirica two years ago and loved it.

We are looking forward to sailing on the newest MSC, the Divina, which will be coming to the USA in Fall of 2013.

I hope this whets your appetite for adventure and you want to cruise on MSC. Check out the web site, wwwmsccruisesusa.com or check them out on Facebook, Twitter, You Tube, Flicker or Printerest. Also check with your travel agent, as they can give you all the latest information on MSC Cruises. If you decide to sail with MSC, be sure to join their MSC Club and HAPPY SAILING!

At MSC, the guests aren’t the only thing that gets the ships attention. The environment is their highest concern. The Poesia is one of the greenest ships in their fleet. The company has received many national and international awards for the commitment to helping Mother Earth to stay well and prosper. MSC is the only company to receive the prestigious “6 Golden Pearls” from Bureau Verittas.

Depending on your needs and the time that you have to travel, the world is waiting at your feet. Go for it. MSC presents the perfect multigenerational family experience. We enjoy MSC so much we have traveled with them more than with any other cruise line. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

All guestrooms are suites at The Palazzo.

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(which are already heads and tails in luxury above same price point rooms at other Vegas resorts, at a spacious 720 square feet.) The beautifully appointed suites have a sunken living room, large 130 sq. ft. marble bathroom with a Roman tub, 3 flat-screen TVs throughout, remote-control shades and curtains, a dining table, and a work desk. The bedroom area comes with either two queens or king beds that are super plush. And that, dear readers, is their basic guestroom. They actually get more and more luxurious as you upgrade.

s if staying in their gorgeous guest– room suites wasn’t enough, the Palazzo in Las Vegas has upped the The Palazzo and it’s next door sister ante, and now offers a “Prestige” package, resort, The Venetian, have it locked with which, at $100 more per night, is too good to the best of everything — guestsuites, pass up. Does that sound a bit pricey to you? dining, spa, entertainment, shopping, and Here’s what you get for your extra $100: gaming. We’ve already mentioned the • Champagne upon check in at the private guestsuites, and dining at the resorts is Prestige level on the 23rd floor. superlative as well, with many and varied • Packing and unpacking service. choices. From the basic (the food court in • Personal concierge service.

Venetian’s Canal Shoppes) to the fine • Daily newspaper delivery to your suite. (celebrity chef restaurants) there is some• Complimentary cocktail reception in the thing for every budget and every mood.

12,000 sq. ft. Prestige Lounge.

Particular fine dining standouts are • Access to the Canyon Ranch SpaClub fitMario Batali’s Carnevino, Wolfgang ness center.

Puck’s CUT, and Thomas Keller’s • Admission to Azure, the Palazzo’s luxury Bouchon. pool.

Shopping within both resorts is pretty • Complimentary WiFi. • Complimentary local and Hot and cold hors d’oeuvres are served upscale, and you will find your most coveted 1-800 calls. in the Prestige Lounge. brands setting up shop • Business center with copyhere (think Barneys, ing, printing and internet availJimmy Choo, Piaget, ability.

Ferragamo, etc.)

• Plasma TVs throughout Some of the hottest the Prestige Lounge. shows in Las Vegas are • A deluxe continental at the Palazzo/Venetian breakfast in the Prestige lounge with the blockbuster • Afternoon teas and coffees “Jersey” Boys”, the in the Prestige lounge. quirky “Blue Man • Hot and cold hors d’oeuGroup”, and the best provres in the Prestige lounge. duction you’ve ever seen • Desserts and snacks in the of “The Phantom Of The Prestige lounge.

Opera” to name a few.

If you add all these perks Between the two casiup, they will certainly come nos (Palazzo & Venetian) you will find every well over $100, and you have the convenience table game imaginable and all the latest slot of not dealing with anything individually. So, machines. The two resorts are also offering a yes. Well worth it. new exclusive feature called “PocketCasino”, which enables you to keep gambling while you The guestrooms in the Prestige Package are drink, dance or dine. You can play Sports Book the same as the regular Palazzo guestrooms games, Extra Odds Baccarat, True Odds Prestige Lounge for relaxing and having a drink and a bite to eat.

Black Jack, Extra Odds Black Jack, DeepStack progressive video poker and many more on this handheld device you can pick up in the casinos.

(I’m not sure how you play blackjack or poker and dance at the same time, but that’s me.)

Palazzo’s Azure (only open Friday thru Sunday) is the ultimate www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

in luxury pools. It looks like the French Riviera, and feels almost overindulgent (if there’s such a thing.) Complimentary fresh fruit, frozen grapes, beverages, ice towels, Evian mistings and fine cuisine samplings are offered while you lounge on a daybed or in a cabana. Enjoy music and fashion shows, and tasty treats by Wolfgang Puck (like smoked salmon pizza with black caviar, or Maine lobster salad) along with cocktails and champagne before or after you relax with a 50-minute massage. Ahhh.

As you can see, you can stay at the Palazzo and actually never venture outside it’s complex

Inviting Prestige lobby.

for a complete resort vacation. And we have done it many times.

If you visit Palazzo’s website, you will see some fabulous vacation package offers. As of this writing, there is a Special Moment’s Package for $139 per night, which includes a luxury suite, view upgrade, $30 dining credit, $50 off 50 minute spa service, 30% off Blue Man Group tix, $50 PocketCasino gaming credit, and $25 slot credit per guest. If you add that all up, the Palazzo is in the minus column.

Friendly concierge staff welcomes guests to the Prestige level.

Throw in the Prestige Package and you’re still way ahead of the game. But wait! There’s more! Join the Player’s Club (free) and enjoy gaming, and you will receive very generous offers for future visits (which can include free stays, dining credits, and slot/gaming free play). By the time you read this, that particular package may no longer be available, but there will be some other great offer in its place.

I do believe I just talked us into heading back to Vegas and the Palazzo real soon!

For more information on the Palazzo and the Prestige Package, visit www.palazzolasvegas.com