Accommodations • Attractions • Events • Relocation
Ritz-Carlton Club - Vail
Newest Gem in Colorado
Inside:
• • • • •
Hotel Galvez Feature Sonoma Wine Country Gettysburg Anniversary Il Mulino Feature Hotel Guide “Experiences”
ss a P a
to nd rie F
First Edition 2011
Ritz-Carlton Club - Vail, Colorado
deals
Save 50% - 90% off Travel & Leisure Deals.
Simply Click HERE and sign up.
Contents
Hotel Galvez Galveston, Texas
Hotel Valencia - San Antonio, Texas
6
Ritz-Carlton Club - Vail, Colorado
26
Shopping Abounds - Beaumont, Tx.
8
Sonoma Wine Country
28
Hotel Galvez - Galveston, Tx.
10
Gettysburg 150th Anniversary
31
Aldaco’s Stone Oak
12
Il Mulino - New York,San Juan
32
Natural Bridge Caverns
14
Palm Springs Bus Tours
33
Hotel Sorella @ CityCentre - Houston
16
Sedona, Arizona
34
Rosewood Crescent Hotel
18
Hotel Guide “Experiences”
35
Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek
22
Thailand Resort - Roberta Sotonoff
36
About the Cover:
Elegance and luxury are combined in the newest member of the Ritz-Carlton Destination Club in Vail, Colorado. Experience the utmost customer service from one of the world’s leaders in elegance. (Photo courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Clubs)
A Word From
the Publisher...
I
t’s always fun to get the New Year going. Resolutions, goals, and roadmaps for success all start playing major roles in our daily lives. This is the time when our imagination runs wild and we dream of all the places we want to see this year. Well, at The Hotel Guide, we also dream and dream big. In this edition, you can read about the newest jewel in the Ritz-Carlton Destination Club’s portfolio in the serene setting of Vail, Colorado. This 10th property to the portfolio is sure to please everyone with it’s elegance and incredible charm! If you are wine drinkers or just love the majesty of the Sonoma Wine Country, read about all the incredible things happening in that region. The piece beckons you to book a flight to that area of the world. For the history buffs who love to travel, get your gear and head out to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania to mark the 150th Anniversary of that historic town. Speaking of history, you must venture to the Texas Gulf Coast and see one of the grand jewels - the Hotel Galvez. This property has weathered numerous storms and has stood the test of time. This year marks the 100th Anniversary of this beautiful property. Book Your Travel... Remember, our comprehensive travel website allows you to book ALL your travel needs - including Accommodations, Car Rental, Airlines and even, Cruises. We are your one-stop shop for traveling in Texas and beyond! For great story ideas or to be a part of our “Experiences” section, send me a personal e-mail by clicking here. Safe Traveling!
Edward R. Leos Publisher
Jennifer Leos
Associate Publisher
Vianni Busquets
Senior Travel Writer
Daniel Leos Illustrator
Deanna Barrett Javier Garza Jody Truly Amy Sanchez Roberta Sotonoff Contributors
Contact Information:
The Hotel Guide P.O. Box 592418 San Antonio, TX 78259
Toll-free
(877) HTL-GDE1 phone (210) 857-2003 info@thehotelguide.com www.thehotelguide.com
Special Thanks to:
• Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority • Texas Department of Tourism • Texas Department of Transportation • Texas Hotel and Lodging Association • Texas Travel Industry Association • Las Vegas CVB • Austin CVB • Tyler CVB •GalvestonCVB • Houston CVB • Corpus Christi CVB • New Braunfels CVB • El Paso CVB • Lubbock CVB • Institute of Texan Cultures • Amarillo CVB • Go Girl Go! •Fredericksburg CVB • Arlington CVB Copyright 2011 The Hotel Guide. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reprinted in whole or without written permission from the publisher. The Hotel Guide does not assume any liability for errors in advertisements or editorial which may appear in this magazine.
TEXAS s
sher’
li Pub
pick
Hotel Valencia
A True
River Walk Oasis
incredible views and ambiance, and now has S it’s another truly inspiring reason to boast. The luxurian Antonio’s Riverwalk has long been known for
ous Hotel Valencia, the city’s only contemporary small luxury hotel, is nestled along the world-famous Riverwalk offering guests breathtaking views and amenities while bringing an exclusive brand of luxury to this tourist-friendly region. Old World meets New World The Hotel Valencia offers guests a blend of timeless and romantic sights, sounds and scenes. The hotel’s interior incorporates elements of nature to create a one-of-a-kind, yet timeless look. The hotel’s architecture features the rich, deep color finishes of a Tuscan farmhouse set against a distinct backdrop, with step-out balconies, plastered vault dome ceilings reminiscent of a 15th century monastery and trickling water over candle-lit brick walls. The second floor of the property boasts the hip “V Bar” - where locals and hotel guests can mingle and take in the breathtaking views of the Riverwalk. Venture up to the third floor and get taken away to another world in the open-air courtyard with Los Angeles-based designer, Dodd Mitchell’s signature reflecting pond, which sits at the base of a dramatic fountain backlit by a rhythmic line of fire. Amenities and More Hotel Valencia features a number of amenities unique to the city, including complimentary high-speed Internet access available throughout the hotel. Technology makes going from curbside to bedside a non-stop trip. All guest rooms feature a posh, custommade, seven-layer “Hotel Valencia Bed,” wrapped in luxurious cotton linens and topped with a downfilled comforter and a lush faux mink throw. Guests can melt into the down-stuffed leather club chair or ottoman and enjoy the 70-channel cable television line-up. Bathrooms come equipped with extra long, shawl collared waffle weave bathrobes and oversized waffle 6
weave bath sheets. Delectable Dining Citrus, the hotel’s topnotch restaurant, features New American cuisine under the direction of Jeffery Balfour. From Serrano Ham-Wrapped Mahi Mahi to Provencal Herb-encrusted Striped Sea Bass, Balfour adds his own personal touch to all of the menu items. Contact Information For more information on this incredible 213-room, San Antonio Riverwalk hotel, call (210) 227-9700 or visit their website at www.hotelvalencia.com.
www.thehotelguide.com
www.thehotelguide.com
7
TEXAS ’s
sher ubli
P
pick
Beaumont, Texas
Shopping Savings Abound
T
he Best Shopping and Hotel Deals in Beaumont are now just a text message away. The Beaumont Convention & Visitors Bureau hopes the easy-to-obtain deals on Beaumont’s best shopping and hotels will drive traffic off I-10 and more tourism dollars into the city’s economy. Mobile Marketing “Our primary goal with this mobile marketing initiative is to raise awareness of Beaumont in its key drive market, I-10, in hopes of converting day trips into overnight stays,” said Beaumont CVB marketing director, Stephanie Molina. “According to the Texas Department of Transportation, an average 85,000 people drive through Beaumont on I-10 any given day. We’re hoping to capture some of that market,” she continues. Great Deals to your Phone To experience the great deals for yourself, text “BeaumontDiscounts”to 678 678 on your mobile phone. Reply”SHOPPING” or “HOTEL” for discounts from Beaumont’s many participating partners including top stores and hotels. Those who prefer to view the coupons via their mobile web browser are able to link to a mobile site via the initial text. Travel, shopping an dining promotions will also be created and added around concert and other entertainment events. New Year, New Campaign The text campaign is active and will run through early spring. If it’s successful the CVB hopes to continue it and add more retailers. Right now, YaYa Club, Bella Bella and BurnsAntik Haus are participating, as well as MCMElegante, Holiday Inn Beaumont Plaza and Residence Inn by Marriott. The text campaign is aimed at travelers within a two-hour radius of Beaumont. Billboards onInterstate 10 create an immediate call-to-action and targets Beaumont’s key drive market, 8
the daily interstate traveler. In addition, the Beaumont CVB has placed posters and informational rack cards in the participating retail outlets and hotels to promote the campaign. Additional keywords have also been created for use in the Beaumont CVB’sprint collateral and online social media efforts to help promote the program aswell as track its success. Benefits the Tourist “The benefits of using the technology of texting allows the CVB to plug into the day-to-day routines of leisure travelers,” says Ashley White Communications Specialist for the CVB. “We are able to maximize the return on investment, get to the point in a speedy manner, save paper, drive business and communicate with travelers in a way they are accustomed to communicating,” she continues. Shopping in Beaumont is an experience you can’t find anywhere else! Whether you’re in search of major national chains or a unique boutique, Beaumont has the shops that fit the bill. Visit www.beaumontcvb.com for more info. www.thehotelguide.com
www.thehotelguide.com
9
TEXAS
Hotel Galvez
100 Years of Excellence in Texas and hauntings, W hurricanes the Hotel Galvez & Spa, eathering ten decades of
A Wyndham® Grand Hotel, will celebrate its centennial in 2011 with special events for guests and the public throughout the year. Just 45 minutes south of Houston, Texas’s only historic beachfront hotel is located on Galveston Island, known for its classic beach, rich history, tall tales and natural disasters. City by the Sea This small town is widely known as the site of the worst natural disaster in United States history - the 1900 Storm. Historians estimate that 6,000 to 8,000 people died and more than 3,600 buildings were destroyed. More recently, 75 percent of the island was flooded by Hurricane Ike in September 2008. Despite the occasional hurricane, Texas’ only historic beachfront hotel - Hotel Galvez & Spa - continues to grace the beachfront as it has for 100 years. Celebrating 100 Years! Hotel Galvez & Spa has launched a year-long celebration commemorating its 100 years of proudly serving as “The Queen of the Gulf” with monthly events and packages, including: • Wedding Vow Renewal Package, Saturday, February 12th : A popular venue for weddings and honeymoons, Hotel Galvez invites couples to renew their wedding vows in a mass vow renewal ceremony and reception. 10
• The Art of Spanish Cooking, Friday, April 15th: In honor of Galveston’s namesake, Bernardo de Galvez, culinary enthusiasts will have the opportunity to learn the art of Spanish cooking with a Spanish celebrity chef at Hotel Galvez’s Bernardo’s Restaurant as a part of the 2011 Galveston Island Food and Wine Festival. Reservations are required and can be made by calling Bernardo’s Restaurant at (409) 7657721. • 100th Anniversary Celebration Weekend, Friday, June 10th - Sunday, June 12th: The hotel will kick off its centenwww.thehotelguide.com
nial with a reception with Spanish guitars and flamenco dancers in the lobby from 7 to10 p.m. On Saturday, Hotel Galvez will come alive with activities and musical performances throughout the hotel grounds and culminate with fireworks over the Gulf of Mexico. The hotel will offer a special overnight package as a part of the weekend celebration. • Ghost Tours Each Thursday in October: Known for its ghosts, Hotel Galvez will offer one-hour ghost tours led by Hotel Concierge Jackie Hasan using an electromagnetic field detector and infrared thermometers. After the tour, guests will be invited to a dinner buffet at Bernardo’s Restaurant. Advanced reservations are required and the cost is $35 per person. Overnight packages are also available. Reservations can be made by dialing (409) 765-7721. Renovation Completed As part of the hotel’s 100th anniversary, hotel owners George Mitchell and the Mitchell family have completed a full renovation of its guest rooms and suites, which now offer modern décor and flat screen televisions. The owners have also replaced Gulf-facing windows with operable, divided light windows reminiscent of the hotel’s original design. A new green space on the west side of the hotel will also be completed for outdoor events in early 2011.
www.thehotelguide.com
TEXAS
Quick Facts Hotel Galvez, A Wyndham Grand® Hotel and a National Trust Historic Hotel of America, remains the only historic beachfront hotel on the Texas Gulf Coast. Hotel Galvez is rated four diamonds by AAA and is part of Mitchell Historic Properties. The hotel, located 45 minutes from Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport and 75 minutes from George Bush International Airport, offers in-house tour and transportation services. For more information, visit the Hotel Galvez online at www.hotelgalvez.com.
11
TEXAS
Aldaco’s Stone Oak
pick Award-Winning Food and More r’s
lishe
Pub
MARGARITAS LUNCH DINNER
an Antonio has long been known for incredible Mexican food and for the past 20 years, Aldaco’s has kept up the tradition. Founded by it’s namesake, Blanca Aldaco, the restaurant has won many awards for their food, delectable desserts, tasty margaritas and unforgettable ambiance. After launching the original Aldaco’s near Sunset Station and subsequently moving into the facility adjacent to the Alamodome, the restaurant has earned local, regional and national acclaim. Appetizers with a Flare If you are looking for little bit everything then you must try “La Botanaâ€? which comes with two quesadillas al carbòn, three flautas, four fried cream jalapeĂąos, four bean & cheese nachos,guacamole and sour cream. As you gear up for dinner, the choices range from incredi-
S
ble enchiladas to steaks to freshly-prepared seafood. Try the incomparable, Chile Relleno or their scrumptious Fish Tacos. Aldaco’s also offers a Gluten-Free and Celiac menu for their guests. Delectable Desserts Your dining experience isn’t complete without a serving of Blanca’s famous Original Pastel Tres Leches dessert. It is sinfully delicious and melts in your mouth. Another “dessert� that Aldaco’s is known for are their award-winning margaritas. You have to try the infamous Avacado Margarita or the Margarita Pour Off winner. Either way, if you love these tasty treats, Aldaco’s has the answer. Groups The restaurant also has a private dining room that holds up to 100 guests for those intimate gatherings. For more info, visit www.aldacos-stoneoak.com.
PATIO DINING
&REE SHUTTLE AFTER PM (OEFGEN 3UNSET 3TATION 3AN !NTONIO 48 WWW ALDACOS NET A San Antonio Tradition for 20 Years.
20079 Stone Oak Parkway San Antonio, Texas 78258 (210) 494-0561 www.aldacos-stoneoak.com Delicious Food• Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner • Award-Winning Drinks • Delectable Desserts 12
www.thehotelguide.com
www.thehotelguide.com
13
TEXAS s
sher’
li Pub
pick
Natural Bridge Caverns A True State of Attraction
T
here is always something fun for everyone epitomizes your trip to Natural Bridge Caverns. This family-owned attraction is an opportunity to combine education and fun all into one magical journey. Situated minutes from San Antonio, Texas, this state historical site has an array of things to do for everyone. The Discovery Tour Here you can discover incredible underground chambers that are filled with spectacular formations on a guided tour along paved, lighted pathways. On your journey, expect temperatures in the Cavern to be 70 degrees with high humidity. Illuminations Tour This unique tour combines the essence of light and dark as you explore two huge underground chambers that are dramatically illuminated by a state-ofthe-art lighting system. On your tour, you will see some of the most rare formations found in Natural Bridge Caverns. Experience the sensation of total darkness on this 70-minute tour. Adventure Tours This is the perfect opportunity for all adventure-seekers out there. Guests can partake in one of two unique Adventure Tours - the Discovery Adventure Tour or the Hidden Passages Adventure Tour. Both of these unique tours offer guests the ultimate in being real-life explorers. You get to experience the same path created by the original explorers. The paths wind across the floor of the cave and are covered with loose rocks, mud and some formations. The tour includes walking, climbing and crawling. 14
Natural Bridge Caverns provides all the necessities to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, including all caving gear, harness, helmet, headlamp, rappelling gear, spare batteries, spare light and water. Advance reservations are required for both Adventure Tours. Natural Bridge Mining Company This new addition to the attraction gives guests the opportunity to pan for gems and minerals just as miners once did in their search for gold at Texas’ largest sluice. Once guests pan for gems and minerals, they also identify their finds at one of the assay stations, or by using an identification chart. Watchtower Challenge The new climbing tower named after the tallest formation in the Caverns, The Watchtower, stands 50 feet tall and features two climbing surfaces along with two 350-foot zip lines. The zip lines allow guests to glide from the top of the structure in a matter of seconds. Contact Us For more information on pricing, advance reservations, etc....please call (210) 651-6101 or visit them at www.naturalbridgecaverns.com. www.thehotelguide.com
TEXAS
www.thehotelguide.com
15
TEXAS r’s
lishe
Pub
pick
Hotel Sorella
Elegance & Style Combined
S
ometimes you need to just take a step back and take it all in. That is exactly how you feel when you walk into the new Hotel Sorella at CityCentre. Just heading to the front desk to check in you can’t help but feel overwhelmed with customer service and an impeccable array of decor. Rooms to Make You say, “WOW” The Hotel Sorella obviously prides itself on the guest experience and completely delivers that and more. When you enter your rooms you are greeted by pristine floors, bedding and decor. The property has 244 contemporary guestrooms, including 30 suites and yes, even a Presidential Suite for the A-List. Each room is fitted with its own customdesigned Hotel Sorella bed - making your sleeping experience even that much more dreamy! Guests can expect goose down pillows, luxurious Egyptian cotton bed and bath linens and plush terry robes in each room. For the business traveler or one that just needs to stay connected to the world, each room is also equipped with complimentary wireless, high-speed Internet access along with an MP3 compatible, plasma flat-screen television. Making Your Visit an “Experience” The Hotel Sorella has a wealth of amenities on site and within the confines of the rising CityCentre. Guests can be amazed at the memorable outdoor pool that overlooks the CityCentre plaza and adjoins to “The Monnalisa”, which is a stylish bar and lounge and a must-see spot for a drink. Guests can also embellish in the lobby lounge wine and espresso bar or partake in Bistro Alex and Cafe Rose by acclaimed restaurateur Alex Brennan-Martin. And if health and well16
ness is in your cards, the property has access to some of the finest spa and fitness facilities around. A Place to Meet The Hotel Sorella has approximately 18,000 squarefeet of meeting space, including two private and elegant Hotel Sorella VIP Boardrooms. With the Norris Conference Center adjoined to the hotel by a glass skywalk, the property can offer a 7,800 square-foot ballroom and a 5,200 squarefoot meeting room that features state-of-the-art lighting and sound, plus high-speed Internet access throughout. This partnership allows for half day or full day meetings, exhibitions, weddings, receptions and other special events. Contact Information For more information on this incredible 244-room hotel in CityCentre, call (866) 842-0100 or visit their website at www.hotelsorella.com. www.thehotelguide.com
TEXAS
www.thehotelguide.com
17
TEXAS
Rosewood Crescent Hotel Immaculate and Luxurious
allas, Texas is known for some incredible Texassized hospitality and the Rosewood Crescent Hotel delivers on that mantra. From the moment your drive through the incredible archway leading up to the bellman, you know that you are in for an unforgettable stay. At the Center of it All The Rosewood Crescent Hotel is a refreshing experience of contrasts and is as culturally vibrant as the neighborhood in which it sits. The property sits within walking distance of the art, culture and energy of Dallas. With a bold palette of rich colors, chic European-style guestrooms with all the modern amenities, innovative cuisine, and the serenity of The Spa, Rosewood Crescent Hotel offers discreet and professional service with a Texas charm. Wonderful Accommodations The Rosewood Crescent Hotel has 191 recently renovated guestrooms, ranging from 380 to 460 square feet, that all include a sitting area and bath. Each guestroom comes with customized Lady Primrose bath amenities with shampoo, conditioner, bath gel and lotion. If you are looking for the “suite life,” the property doesn’t disappoint. With 29 suites ranging from 625 - 3,035 square feet, the Crescent is sure to meet your every desire. Some of the suites have their own full kitchens with larger suites offering a bi-level layout and featuring spiral staircases and all coming with 42” flat screen HDTV.
D
18
Dine to Your Heart’s Content The Rosewood Crescent Hotel offers some of the area’s most delectable cuisine. Dining at the fabulous Crescent Club is a must. Located on the 17th floor of the Crescent office tower, this powerful restaurant specializes in impeccable customer service with fare to match provided by Chef Juan Rosado. Nobu, located off the hotel lobby, features the most innovative new style Japanese restaurant in America. The Conservatory is a stylish, glass-enclosed sunroom overlooking the Crescent gardens with incredible dining options provided by Chef Gianni Santin. Finally, check out Beau’s, which is located in the lobby and also serves tapas, desserts and cocktails. The Spa at the Crescent The hotel is home to one of the world’s most highlyacclaimed spas. Situated within 23,000 square feet of space, The Spa offers guests 77 unusual and one-of-akind treatments with services for both men and women in the state-of-the-art treatment rooms. Let’s Meet Here The Rosewood Crescent Hotel also has more than 19,375 square feet of meeting space and 13 meeting rooms making the property a perfect choice for your next meeting. Contact Information For more information on the the Rosewood Crescent Hotel, visit their website at www.rosewoodcrescent.com or call them toll free at (800) 654-6541 or (214) 871-3200.
www.thehotelguide.com
TEXAS
beautifully immersed in dallas. s tay i n t h e h e a rt o f i t a l l at ro s e w o o d c r e s c e n t h ot e l .
p e r f e c t l o c at i o n
enjoy the convenience of being minutes from major entertainment venues and walking distance from exciting shopping, neighborhood galleries, interesting nightlife and dallas’ world-class arts district. g r e at c u i s i n e
look foward to renowned fare at nobu. dining and cocktails at our private club and lobby lounge. or venture out to the shops and galleries and nearby restaurants. l u x e c o m f o rt
rejuvenate with soothing treatments at our spa, rated the best hotel spa in the nation by condĂŠ nast readers. tone up at the fitness center. and experience the gracious charm of being a rosewood guest.
214.871.3200 rosewoodcrescent.com
www.thehotelguide.com
19
TEXAS
)8// 6(59,&( &$7(5,1* a /,1(1 5(17$/ a )/25$/ '(&25
6$1 $1721,2¶6 35(0,(5 )8// 6(59,&( &$7(5,1* &203$1<
&25325$7( (9(176 a :('',1*6 a 63(&,$/ (9(176
,VRP 5G 6XLWH 6DQ $QWRQLR 7H[DV ZZZ 6D$Q(YHQW7R5HPHPEHU FRP 20
www.thehotelguide.com
PINEY WOODS
41
Be a part of the Texas Travel Industry Association. Join today. www.ttia.org www.thehotelguide.com
21
TEXAS r’s
lishe
Pub
pick
Elegance and More...
Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek
reathtaking. Elegant. Aweinspiring. These are just a few distinct adjectives readily available to describe the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. When you arrive at the hotel, a dramatic floral arrangement greets you at the entrance along with 32-foot high marble rotunda. This leads to the welcoming reception desk, concierge and a lobby elegantly appointed with antiques, comfortable lounge chairs and sofas grouped around a fireplace. Incredible Accommodations The Mansion is a world-renowned, nine-story hotel with 127 beautifully-appointed guest rooms and 16 phenomenal suites. The rooms have comfortable sitting areas, private label bed linens, spacious bath and vanity, deluxe terry velour robes and amenities by Lady Primrose. In the Mansion’s premier rooms, guests will be awed by oversized marble baths with soaking tubs, and glass-enclosed showers and double sinks. Delectable Dining The Mansion’s world-famous restaurant, was recently renovated showcasing the hotel’s historic character with a new, contemporary design. Guests are treated to modern lighting elements and honey-colored walls - creating a warm ambiance. The food at this tasty dining establishment is just as delightful as the decor. Revel in the exquisite variety of appetizers and main courses. On a side note, make sure you get feedback from your waiter about
B
22
popular items and specials made daily by renowned Chef John Tesar. Chef’s Room and Mansion Bar The Chef’s Room allows guests experience to begin with cocktails and canapés. Prix-fixe menus and chef tasting menus reign supreme. As well, there is an extensive selection of cheeses, teas and confections available. If you are looking for a little more libations, then visit the cozy Mansion Bar draped in Cognace colored leather and a blend of contemporary and traditional hunting themed artwork lining the walls. The Bar offers comfort cuisine and an extensive wine list and variety of cocktails. Live music is available Wednesday through Saturday. Staying Healthy... The Mansion has a state-of-the-art health and fitness studio, including universal machines, free weights, Stairmasters, and treadmills with personal televisions. Additionally, guests can massages, facials and have access to steam and sauna rooms. If you want to beat the heat, then the spectacular Mansion outdoor pool will definitely suit you. Bask in the clear blue skies while taking in the sun or simmer in the heated whirlpool during the cooler months. Regardless, this pleasure oasis is the perfect getaway for you. Contact Information For more information on the the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, visit their webiste at www.mansiononturtlecreek.com or call them toll free at (888) ROSEWOOD or (214) 559-2100.
www.thehotelguide.com
www.thehotelguide.com
PRAIRIES & LAKES
three new takes.
TEXAS
27
three engaging experiences.
refreshingly spontaneous
elegantly rejuvenated
quintessentially delicious
the mansion restaurant
the mansion bar
the chef’s room
make it a date or drop in
a gathering place for
decades of the mansion and
on the spot.
those in the know.
now a new dawn.
jackets are op tional
great music, food and drinks,
in the chef’s room you’ll
and je ans , why not.
all part of the show.
find the legend lives on.
2 8 2 1 t u rt l e c r e e k
www.thehotelguide.com
dallas
214.559.2100
m a n s i o n o n t u rt l e c r e e k . c o m
23
Luxury & Elegance
TEXAS
Come check out our fabulous and unique selections of jewelry, bath products and home accents that can only be found at Maripoza Boutique. Several items are imported from France, Brazil, Italy, and Spain and are sure to make great gifts for you or a special someone! Many of our products have been featured in Elle, InStyle, People and Us Magazine!
5401 North Tenth Street, Suite 109B McAllen, Texas 78504 956.686.GIFT (4438) www.facebook.com/maripozaboutique 24
www.thehotelguide.com
destinations
www.thehotelguide.com
25
CO
Ritz-Carlton Club, Vail Elegance in Colorado
s
sher’
li Pub
pick
T
he Ritz-Carlton Destination Club introduces its 10th Club location in one of the country’s most soughtafter ski destinations, Vail, Colorado. The Ladies and Gentlemen of The RitzCarlton Club, Vail are now welcoming Members to the newest club property at the base of Vail Mountain in LionsHead Village and neighboring the banks of Gore Creek. Featuring Vail’s traditional Bavarian-style architecture hailing from ski resorts in Europe, The Ritz-Carlton Club, Vail offers beautifully-appointed two-, three- and four-bedroom Club residences. An Exquisite Addition “The Ritz-Carlton Club, Vail is a spectacular addition to the brand’s two existing Colorado mountain resorts in Bachelor Gulch and Aspen Highlands,” said Peter J. Watzka, executive vice president and chief operating officer for The RitzCarlton Development Company, Inc. (an affiliate of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.). “Our Members have shared with us their desire to be in this exceptional loca26
tion, and we are excited to bring it to them.” Co-located with The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Vail, this spectacular property will afford Members all the comforts of a vacation home coupled with the legendary, personalized services and amenities of The Ritz-Carlton. Ritz-Carlton Luxury Such luxuries include the following: a dedicated concierge staff, including a ski valet and ski nanny; a fitness facility with a movement studio; Ritz-Carlton spa services and treatment rooms; Ritz Kids program; a great room with a fireplace and bar; a library; an outdoor heated pool and whirlpool spa; a fire pit and a heated underground garage with valet parking. Snow Anyone? With an annual average of 350 inches of powder, more than 5,200 skiable acres, expansive back bowls and 15 miles of recreation paths, Vail has something for every member of the family including tubing, ski biking and ice
www.thehotelguide.com
skating. The new Ritz-Carlton Club, Vail is located within walking distance to the world famous shopping and dining of LionsHead including the Arrabelle at Vail Square, and will eventually become part of the proposed pedestrian village named Ever Vail, the largest green and LEED-certified, multi-use resort project in the country. Spacious Rooms The Ritz-Carlton Club, Vail residences will incorporate spacious floor plans ranging from approximately 1,300 to 2,874 square feet. Club residences provide magnificent views of Vail Mountain, fullyequipped kitchens with the finest appliances and marble-slab counters, beautifully-appointed room finishes inspired by a contemporary interpretation of Alpine-style architecture,
CO
fireplaces, coffered ceilings, hardwood flooring in living areas, high-speed Internet and twice-daily housekeeping. Membership has itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Priviledges Club Members benefit from an exceptional level of service as they are paired with their very own member experience manager who serves as their primary travel liaison. The member experience concierge coordinates everything from airport pick-up and pre-arrival provisioning of the residence, to unpacking and pressing pre-sent garments and arranging a complete vacation itinerary. For more information, please visit their website at www.ritzcarltondestinationclub.com.
Save 50% - 90% off Travel & Leisure Deals.
deals
www.thehotelguide.com
Simply Click HERE and sign up.
27
CA.
Sonoma Wine Country Great Things Happening
hose in need of an after-holiday escape will find new wine and food experiences, soothing spa treatments and new tours and attractions in the land of plenty, Sonoma County. Winter in Sonoma wine country makes for a dramatic backdrop for more than 300 wineries, 40 spas, and 50-plus miles (80 km) of Pacific coastline that makes Sonoma County America’s premier wine, spa and coastal destination. The hectic pace of grape harvest and crush is over, giving way to a relaxed, more personal experience whether wine tasting, hiking, or discovering a new favorite restaurant. Find out more, or book your wine country trip at www.sonomacounty.com. Restaurants, Eateries and Treats Sonoma County Restaurant Week, More Than 90 Restaurants, Starts February 21 Wine Country’s best restaurant promotion kicks off February 21 when more than 90 restaurants offer prix-fixe menus at three price levels: $19, $29 and $39. Local restauranteurs feature plenty of Sonoma County products like local duck, bacon, vegetables and fruit. And, as befits the culinary reputation of this famous wine country destination, plenty of restaurants will offer Sonoma County wines with the meal. Notable restaurants on this year’s list include Michelin-starred restaurants like Sante at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn, famed wine country cuisine spots like John Ash and zazu, as well as local favorites like the Epicurean Connection and Starlight Wine Bar and Restaurant. For a list of participating restaurants, see the website: www.sonomacountyrestaurantweek.org.
T
Francis Ford Coppola Winery Presents: Rustic Restaurant Drawing on a life that has taken him around the world, Francis Ford Coppola shares his personal collection of recipes at Rustic, Francis’s Favorites, the winery’s full-service restaurant. Set in a Sonoma County-casual atmosphere, Rustic’s menu embraces international as well as traditional Italian dishes. It also emphasizes family-style cooking with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the property’s organic herb and produce garden. 28
A focal point of the dining room at Rustic is the parrilla (pronounced “pah-REE-jah”), an authentic Argentine grill. Staffed by the restaurant’s dedicated asador, or grill-master, it provides a true South American experience of delicious, wood-grilled meats. Authentic, Neapolitan-style pizzas are also a specialty. In addition to a gorgeous dining room, Rustic offers service on an outdoor terrace overlooking the picturesque Alexander Valley. A bar adjacent to the restaurant also serves a full complement of cocktails and an extensive wine and beer list. Rustic is open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. www.franciscoppolawinery.com Treats Found on Yogurtdale Blvd. Celebrate the sunny spring weather with a cool treat in the quaint town of Cloverdale. Yogurtdale Blvd. sounds like a street you’d like to live on, but instead it’s a destination frozen yogurt shop owned by a local couple. The best part is that visitors build their own sundae for 40 cents per ounce. Choose from seasonal flavors of frozen yogurt, and top it with peanut butter cups, www.thehotelguide.com
bubble gum, or chocolate chip cookie dough. Yogurtdale Blvd also offers coffee, espresso, tea, soups, and bagels. Yogurtdale Blvd. is an environmentally conscious business with 100 percent compostable cups and spoons and they recycle all of their frozen yogurt cartons. In the spring and summer they are open daily from noon to 9 p.m., and on Friday nights they stay open until 10 p.m. They are happy to host birthday parties and other events. Visit online at: www.yogurtdaleblvd.com Hot Box Grill Just outside the town of Sonoma diners will find a new wine country gem. The Hot Box Grill serves inspired comfort food made from locally sourced ingredients in a relaxed atmosphere. Chef Norman Owens is the former executive chef at Café La Haye in Sonoma and his resume includes working in the kitchens Aqua with Michael Mina and at Jeanty at Jack’s with Philippe Jeanty in San Francisco. Menu items range from $7 to $60 and include new twists on old favorites such as deep fried Cornish game hen, shells and cheese, hot box hot sauce, and Norm’s coleslaw. Or try a Persimmon “carpaccio” with apple-honey vinaigrette, endive, pistachios, and pomegranates. Top it off with a s’mores tart made with a homemade graham cracker, valrhona chocolate, and finished with vanilla marshmallows. The Hot Box Grill is open Tuesday - Thursday and Sunday nights from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday they’re open from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. They are closed Mondays. Visit online at www.hotboxgrill.com. Fresh Fresh is a French-inspired marketplace where everyone in the family can find prepared gourmet foods and snacks made with fresh local ingredients. Customers may eat their meal in the comfortable eatery, or take it with them for a picnic in the vineyards. Fresh is the creation of Chef Lisa Hemenway, who has been cooking for Sonoma County diners for 30 years. At Fresh, she creates wine country cuisine meant to pair with local wines. She uses ingredients like Sonoma lamb, goat cheese, and baby vegetables, all nurtured within miles of the restaurant. Fresh offers a coffee bar, bakery, deli, fresh-made entrees with menu items for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. The marketplace also has a great wine collection and gourmet gift items.The restaurant is open from 7 www.thehotelguide.com
CA a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday, and from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.Visit them at www.freshbylisahemenway.com Lunch at Vine Tastings Enjoy tastes of some of Sonoma County’s best boutique wines and brews, and pair them with lunch or a cheese platter. Vine Tastings is a friendly, tasting room and wine bar located on the Windsor Town Green. Guests may choose to sit at the lively u-shaped bar and meet new friends, or sit at the more private tables, or cozy couch and chair area. They serve soup, sandwiches and daily specials from 11:30 to 2 p.m., and cheese and charcuterie plates are available all day. They also feature live music Sundays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.Visit: www.vinetastings.us DaVero Tasting Room Well known for their outstanding olive oil, DaVero now has a tasting room where guests may taste not only their olive oils, but also their wines, jams, vinegars, and produce grown on their farm. Guests may also picnic on the property and wander the beautiful fields of their farm that is nestled in the heart of Dry Creek Valley. The DaVero tasting room is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Tuesday. www.davero.com WINERIES A Landmark Presidential Holiday Toast President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama toasted the holidays with Landmark Vineyards Overlook Chardonnay. The First Lady chose the winery because of its history. Damaris Deere Ford, great-great granddaughter of John Deere, started the winery in 1974. Deere revolutionized farming with his invention of the steel plow. Now known for tractors, the company has since become the world’s largest manufacturer of farm equipment. The winery family no longer works for John Deere, but they stay active in different ways. Most recently, they allowed the company to test a new compact tractor that is scaled to be used in vineyards. Dutton-Goldfield Opens New Tasting Room Dutton-Goldfield has opened its own tasting room in Sebastopol, next to Red Car Wine. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the cozy living room complete with continued on page 30
29
CA fireplace warms guests who stop in to taste fabulous wines. Speaking of fabulous wines, Dan Goldfield was named Sunset magazine’s winemaker of the year. Sonoma County’s Bob Cabral of Williams Selyem was also in the running for the top honor. For more information, visit www.duttongoldfield. com. New Urban Winery Village A new urban winery village in Santa Rosa welcomes visitors for daily wine tasting without having to leave the city limits. The Santa Rosa Vintners Square is made up of four small, boutique wineries that include D’Argenzio Winery, Sheldon Wines, Krutz Family Cellars, and MJ Lords Winery. The square also includes Squires Cigar Shop and Lounge, art galleries and a patio area that is both dog and bike-friendly. All of the wineries and businesses are open daily and visitors should check the Santa Rosa Vintners Square website often for events and specials. Visit them online at www.santarosavintnerssquare.com Wineyard at Santa Rosa Vintners Square The Wineyard is just “uptown from downtown,” in Santa Rosa. Experience the re-emerging Santa Rosa Wine District, where vintners collaborate for a direct-toconsumer experience. The Wineyard collective tasting room will accommodate up to 10 boutique wineries. The Wineyard will also include an educational component. Topics include the Santa Rosa Junior College Shone Farm Winery and farm products. The venue will also promote the abundant Sonoma County agri-tourism that the community has to offer. New Ways to Experience an Acclaimed Winery Imagine waking up and opening the window to the tranquil view of gorgeous vineyards and the Laguna de Santa Rosa as it winds its way to the Russian River. Lynmar Estate Winery owns such a place, appropriately called the Bliss House. Once reserved for occasional VIP guests, it is now available to the public for $900 per night March through October, and $750 per night November through February. Bliss House features three bedrooms, three-and-ahalf bathrooms, two commercial kitchens, plush linens and floor-to-ceiling windows that wrap around the house. 30
In addition, Lynmar Estate offers a new indepth wine tour called “The Path of the Grape.” Led by experienced and passionate tasting room manager, Bill Shortridge, guests receive an immersion into the world of wine and an experience that describes the journey of the grape from the vine to the bottle. Along the way, visitors will see some of the oldest pinot noir vines in the Russian River and learn about the thoughtful farming techniques used to protect the precious Laguna de Santa Rosa. The tour ends in the caves where the exquisite wines age till they are ready to be bottled. The complimentary Path of the Grape tours are available Thursdays and Fridays at 1:30 p.m., and by appointment. Visit: www.lynmarestate.com. Award-Winning Winemakers Russian River Valley winemaker Dan Goldfield of Dutton-Goldfield Winery in Sebastopol has been named Sunset Magazine’s Winemaker of the Year for 2010. Also included in the three finalists was another Russian River Valley winemaker, Bob Cabral of Williams Selyem winery. Goldfield has been making wine since the 1980s for wineries such as Schramsburg, La Crema and Hartford Court. Dutton-Goldfield Winery is the partnership of Goldfield and grape grower Steve Dutton. The winery began in 1998 when longtime colleagues and friends Goldfield and Dutton recognized a shared vision to craft wines that express the personalities of their vineyards, and which they would enjoy drinking at their own dinner tables. The winery’s mission is to produce world-class wines that display the brightness of fruit, complexity, structure and balance that are reflective of their cool coastal home. The Sunset Western Wine Awards were established in 2005 and are recognized as the biggest honor for Western winemakers, focusing solely on the best wine producers in the West. Sunset’s panel of professional judges includes Western wine writers, sommeliers, and wine instructors.www.duttongoldfield.com www.thehotelguide.com
Celebrating 150th Anniversary
Gettysburg
PA
T
he site of the American Civil War’s most famous battle is kicking off its five-year commemoration on April 29 and 30, 2011. Through 2015, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania - the scene of more than 50,000 casualties in just three days in 1863 - will remember this important period in history with re-enactments, living history, solemn remembrances and the opening of a new museum housed in one of the most historic buildings in America. “Gettysburg is iconic and the most revered of all the Civil War battle sites,” said Norris Flowers, President of the Gettysburg Convention & Visitors Bureau. “During this five-year commemoration, millions of visitors from around the world will take part in this memorable observance of America’s crucial test.” History...Then and Now Gettysburg - the only major battle fought on Union soil - is most remembered as being the turning point of the American Civil War. Two years into the war, thousands of soldiers lost their lives in Gettysburg, which ultimately led President Abraham Lincoln to stand on its hallowed ground and deliver what would later be known as the Gettysburg Address, one of the most remembered speeches in world history. “The 150th anniversary is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on this nation’s past - particularly this seminal event that shaped who America is today,” said J. David Petruzzi, a renowned historian and author of the Civil War. “We have the opportunity to look back to learn from the past, celebrate the dedication of all those who served, and be thankful that America is a united country.” New Seminary to Open One of the highlights of Gettysburg’s five-year commemoration will be the opening of the Gettysburg Lutheran Theological Seminary’s Schmucker Hall, a buildwww.thehotelguide.com
ing that played a major role in the Battle of Gettysburg, specifically as a Union lookout on July 1 and a Civil War field hospital throughout the three-day fight. In 2013, coinciding with the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, that building will open to the public as a museum to tell the story of the battle’s first day, and faith and medicine in the Civil War. Celebration Kick-Off Gettysburg’s April kick-off is part of a four-week series of events held in Pennsylvania that outline Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s invasion of northern territory. The event in Gettysburg will include a march by Union and Confederate troops into Gettysburg, living history encampments at historic locations throughout the town of Gettysburg, re-enacted skirmishes, and capped off with 150 cannon shots along with the playing of “Taps.” “This kick-off is just the beginning,” said Flowers. “Over the next five years, we expect many more events, special observances, expanded programs and tours, and large battle re-enactments - a commemoration few will forget.” More Information For a list of events planned for Gettysburg’s 150th anniversary commemoration, call (800) 337-5015 or visit www.gettysburgcivilwar150.com. 31
PR s
sher’
li Pub
pick
Il Mulino New York, San Juan Blending Traditional Italian with the Caribbean
By: Vianni Busquets for impeccable service, urK nown ban sophistication and luxury sur-
roundings, Ritz-Carlton hotels have a way of standing out from the pack. Now couple that unique elegance with the Latin flair of the Caribbean, and you find yourself in the oasis that is The RitzCarlton, San Juan Hotel, Spa & Casino. A Valentine’s Day Dinner For romantics and gourmands, it is here where you will find the perfect Valentine’s Day dinner. Hailed as one of New York City’s best Italian restaurants, Il Mulino New York was introduced in San Juan in summer of 2006. Since, it has graced its Caribbean visitors with top-notch service, a romantic ambiance like no other and epicurean delights of traditional dishes from the mountainous countryside of Abruzzo, Italy. Always fresh, Il Mulino New York boasts Signature dishes which include the Spaghettini Bolongnese, Rack of Lamb and an exquisite Veal Chop. Patrons can also choose from an array of delectable antipasti dishes including an appetizing plate of fried calamari or try your hand at some breaded shrimp with lemon, garlic and white wine. With an assortment of simplistic yet wholesome foods, couples won’t leave hungry or dissatisfied.
A Romantic Ambiance Having perfected the allure of what makes a restaurant perfect for two, Il Mulino New York boasts striking chandeliers and intimate white-linen tables with singular red roses taking center-stage in each setting. Elegant white floral arrangements flank the bar, while a striking wine selection boasts everything from a Pinot Grigio hailing from Umbria to a Californian Merlot from Esser Cellars. Honeymooners Stephanie and Vinny Consola who enjoyed a stay at The RitzCarlton, San Juan couldn’t sum up their culinary experience any better, “Best meal we had the pleasure of experiencing throughout the whole trip! The wait staff was superb and every course we enjoyed was beyond our expectations!” Blending the Italian countryside of Abruzzi with Tokyo, Long Island, Las Vegas, Chicago, Miami, and Washington D.C., quite frankly, Il Mulino New York at The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan makes for an experience all its own. Contact Information For more information on this restaurant or to find out more about the exquisite Ritz-Carlton, San Juan Hotel, Spa & Casino, call (787) 253-1700 or visit their website at www.ritzcarlton.com
Click Here to Book Your Travel and Save up to 65%. 32
www.thehotelguide.com
Palm Spring Bus Tours See the Stars via Guided Tours n your next vacation to Palm Springs and the California desert resort cities of Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, Palm Desert and Indian Wells you should take in the Palm Springs Celebrity Bus Tour. Hollywood Hideaways Known as the hideaway for such Hollywood stars as Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Debbie Reynolds and many others when you next take a Palm Springs vacation be sure to take the “Grand Tour.” This is 2 1/2 hour guided tour that immerse you in the history and grandeur of California and the stars that made this desert paradise one of the most popular destination points in the world. Along the way you will see the celebrated estates of Frank Sinatra, Debbie Reynolds, Bob Hope, William Holden, Suzanne Sommers, Barry Manilow, Lucille Ball, Walter Annenberg, Thunderbird Country Club, Marx Brother’s homes, the Santa Rosa Mountains, and much more. Professional Bus Tours This tour is a professionally narrated excursion aboard
CA
O
www.thehotelguide.com
state - of - the - art air-conditioned buses that take you to the doorsteps of dozens of homes occupied by the rich and famous (past and present). You will enjoy neighborhoods lined with Stars and the stories that go with them. Learn about the Native American heritage of the area, and how their prominence impacts the development of this magnificent desert vacation destination today. Pricing and Contact Info Prices range from as little as $12 for children to $35 for adults. This is one trip in and around the California desert communities that won’t be hard on your wallet and will provide entertainment and information on your next Palm Springs vacation. For more info, contact them at www.palmspringsvacationdiscounts.com.
33
AZ
Red Rock Country Majestic Views and Glorious Sites
F
rom the very first glimpse of the glorious Sedona red rock landscape, visitors feel the majesty and mystery of a place sacred to its earliest prehistoric settlers. It’s been said, “God created the Grand Canyon but He lives in Sedona.” It is awesome yet it invites personal exploration. Above plains and canyons soar brilliantly hued cliffs and rugged spires of sandstone sculpted by eons of ocean tides and desert winds. It is a 25 square-mile enclave surrounded by vast stretches of national and state forestlands that make Sedona seem like a world apart. Located two hours north of Phoenix, and 30 miles south of the Flagstaff peaks, Sedona’s mild four-season climate and high desert terrain assure good year-round weather for vacationers and outdoor enthusiasts. Oak Creek Canyon, a spectacular 16-mile gorge with streams and waterfalls between sheer rock walls, beckons hikers, campers and fishermen. It has been termed by Rand McNally as one of the eight most scenic drives in America. Nearly three million travelers visited Sedona last year, rivaling the Grand Canyon, just 2 hours north, as a world class destination. Yet the influx does not disturb the small-town ambiance that is part of Sedona’s charm. Shopping plazas, gift boutiques, galleries and restaurants abound. Tlaquepaque--an Indian name meaning “the best of everything”--is modeled after a Mexican village, made up of quaint courtyards surrounded by specialty shops, galleries and restaurants. First popularized by Zane Grey’s “Call of the Canyon,” Sedona became the backdrop for many films shot on location in the early ‘20s. Since then, Hollywood has made the area its back lot, bringing the film stars 34
of each era. Gene Autry, John Wayne, Henry Fonda, Rock Hudson, Elvis Presley and Robert DeNiro mingled with townsfolk who often appeared as extras. Several celebrities made Sedona their home, including Lucille Ball, Orson Welles, Jane Russell, Walt Disney, Sean Young, Donald O’Connor and Ann Miller. As an art community, Sedona has found recognition worldwide. Surrealist painter and sculptor Max Ernst first settled here in 1950 and attracted other artists and writers of his time. In 1965, the Cowboy Artists of America was founded by a group of western painters as comfortable on the range as with oils. In the spirit of Frederic Remington, the group has created a significant genre of modern art. Where artists flourish, so do galleries. Sedona boasts over 40 showcases for contemporary arts and crafts, as well as Native American arts. The cultural calendar is filled with gallery openings, art and music events, as well as local theater productions. New Age settlers and spiritual seekers have found Sedona a very desirable location for healing and emotional rejuvenation. In the mid-1970s they proclaimed their discovery of four major electromagnetic energy sources called vortexes. Today a community of alternative healing practitioners provide a varied schedule of workshops and events. When the day wanes, and the jeep tour, hiking and shopping have taken their toll, visitors turn their attention to the magnificent sunsets. It’s easy to understand why the Anasazi Indians chose to settle here centuries ago, and why Carl and Sedona Schnebly----for whom our city was named----made the same decision in 1902. Online: www.VisitSedona.com www.thehotelguide.com
experiences
www.thehotelguide.com
35
Experiences
Thailand
Experience the Pimalai Resort & Spa
by: Roberta Sotonoff
ork is a hassle and the kids are giving us grief. My husband and I long to escape to some idyllic place where we will be spoiled rotten.
W
We find it. But the problem is that the award-winning Pimalai Resort and Spa is halfway around the world on Koh Lanta Island in southern Thailand. You really have to want to get there. It takes many in-flight movies, a Bangkok taxi ride with a driver who thinks he’s training for the Indy 500 and then an hour-long boat ride into the roiling night waves of the Andaman Sea. Finally --- and this is the toughest part --- a roller-coaster walk, aided by the resort staff, down a long slithering pier. But it’s all worth it. Once we reach the Pimalai Resort, we are whisked away to luxurious, Thai-style accommodations which are scattered around in an undulating rainforest. Everything is so delightfully secluded. The trail to the dining room is hidden in blooms and greenery. Our only companions when we walk on the resort’s pristine beach are some scurrying sand crabs. Yes, we have truly escaped. Pampering at Pimalai is honed to a fine art. The open-air 36
spa pavilion is nestled in a small valley and shrouded in a verdant landscape. Just glimpsing it gives me a feeling of serenity. A cool towel and a cool drink greet me at the reception hut. Before my treatment begins, I take a dip in the outdoor Jacuzzi and check out the adjacent herbal sauna. My therapist then leads me past a fountain into a tropical garden and to a gated hideaway with individual huts. So begins my Pimalai Signature Massage. My tensions slip away as she applies a variety of pressures from my head to my toes and on both sides of my body. Oh, it feels wonderful. One-and-a-half-hours later, I am brought back to the reception hut and given a cup of ginger tea. My brain is blank and my body is limp. I hardly have enough energy to www.thehotelguide.com
Experiences
make it back to my room. The cost for this bit of heaven? About US$83. I can’t indulge myself forever. Yes I can! But, my husband and I opt for a hike in Mu Ko Lanta National Park. The drive down the winding road is strewn with rocks and ruts that are more like fissures. Where is a Hummer when you need it? The driver finally stops and points to a path, promising to return in a couple of hours. There’s a path somewhere. Oh yeah, it’s the little trail that curves along the beach past a lighthouse, over a small bridge. A red-brick walk leads into the lush tropical forest which becomes a series of stairs --- big, little, wide and narrow. Humid air vibrates with the sounds of cicadas. The path twists and turns. Every now and then, there is a soft breeze. Sweaty and tired, we reach the shoreline and trudge back to the parking lot. “When we return, I will have a foot and leg massage. How much better is that?” I say to myself. Next time we venture off the property it is to kayak around Talabeng Island. Caves and rock formations hug the isle’s shoreline. In some places, sea urchins and coral are plainly visible. We paddle to a small beach on a nearby island. While we laze on the beach, two cooks magically appear to prepare a BBQ lunch. During the last leg of the kayak tour, I tell myself that this exercise www.thehotelguide.com
earns me an Ageless Thai Herbal Scrub at the spa. Oh, if only some years can be successfully scrubbed away. It doesn’t happen. I get over it and go elephant trekking. The elephant plods noiselessly through a patch of virgin forest. Except for the squawks and squeaks of birds and monkeys, it is utterly silent. After about 45 minutes, we dismount at the elephant disembarking stop. We walk the rest of the way to a waterfall. The thick jungle hides much of the sunlight as we pass eerie caves that have giant tree roots sprouting through them. The rocks are slippery in the shallow stream we ford. The cool water feels good on our feet. At the cascade, trickling water drops from a 30-foot embankment. Then it is back to our trunked transport and to Pimalai. This is our last night. Over a candlelit, romantic dinner, we sup on sumptuous, omelet-wrapped Pad Thai. We do not want to return home. But we will. This great escape to the Pimalai Resort has fortified us for our return to reality. Pimalai Resort & Spa 99 Moo 5, Ba Kan Tiang Beach Koh Lanta, Krabi 81150, Thailand. Tel: +66 (0) 75 607 999 Fax: +66 (0) 75 607 998 Website: www.pimalai.com 37