The Hotel Guide - Holiday Edition 2012 by The Hotel Guide

Accommodations • Attractions • Events • Destinations

Sun Valley Resort

Simply...Amazing.

Inside San Antonio Cocktail Conference

Inn & Spa at Loretto Red Mountain Resort Holiday Edition 2012

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Sun Valley Resort - Idaho

Table of Contents

“Texas Inspired Cuisine and World-Class Margaritas”

Hotel Valencia San Antonio,TX

San Antonio Cocktail Conference

Galveston, Texas - “Holidays”

Aldaco’s Stone Oak San Antonio Cocktail Conference San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Tx 12 Harlingen, Tx Feature

Mansion at Judges Hill - Austin, TX

Christmas Capital of Texas - Grapevine, TX 22

9840 West Loop 1604 N, San Antonio, TX 78254 (210) 688-2686 • www.twosteprestaurant.com

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Inn & Spa at Loretto

Hawks Cay - Florida

Ahwanee Hotel - Utah

Brown Palace Hotel - Colorado

Woodstock Inn & Resort - Vermont

Loews Ventana Canyon - Arizona

Sun Valley Resort - Idaho

Cameron House - Scotland

Dylan Amsterdam

Red Mountain Resort - Utah

Inn & Spa at Loretto

Award-Winning

Santa Fe, New Mexico

“Top 5 New Restaurants” - San Antonio Express News Reader's Poll 2012 “Top 10 New Restaurants” - San Antonio Magazine Critic's Choice 2012 “Best Margarita in San Antonio”- WOAI Reader's Poll 2012 “Best Restaurant Margarita” - Margarita Pouroff 2012 “Best Burger in the City” - San Antonio Magazine Annual Best in the City Poll

Loews Ventana Canyon Arizona

About the Cover:

Experience a Sun Valley Christmas. This is the first ski resort in the United States and puts on an incredible holiday event. Definitely a must-visit place. (Photo: Sun Valley ) 2

Destinations

www.thehotelguide.com

...beautiful ...magical ...memorable www.riosanantonio.com

Ride the Rio

River Taxi • Private Charters • Special Events

Connect. Share.Engage

(210) 244-5700 (800) 417-4139 4

A Word From the Publisher...

he holidays always seem like the perfect time to travel and see family, see friends, or just see a new destination. Our Holiday Edition gives you some incredible options that allow you to embark on memorymaking adventures. For those deep in the Heart of Texas, you don’t want to miss seeing Grapevine, Texas - billed as the “Christmas Capital of Texas.” And, for the many that just want to make it past the New Year, don’t forget about the Second Annual San Antonio Cocktail Conference which brings some of the finest cocktail novices and professionals from across the country right to the Alamo City. Great event for a great cause. If you seek out other discernable areas of the globe for your holiday venture, a must is the Inn and Spa at Loretto along with the equally charming town of Santa Fe. In Utah, the Red Mountain Resort is another “must-see” place to stay. An incredible venue to get away from the world and soak in the seclusion the red mountains offer. Craving snow? You can’t go wrong with the Sun Valley Resort in Idaho, which happens to be the nation’s first ski resort. This beautiful resort is all that and plenty more! 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. Happy Travels & Happy Holidays!

@riosanantonio www.thehotelguide.com

www.thehotelguide.com

Edward R. Leos Publisher

Jennifer Leos

Associate Publisher

Angie Cronin

Director of National Sales

JoAnn Boone

Senior Travel Writer

Daniel Leos Illustrator

Jordan Apodaca Deanna Barrett Jennifer Broome Lyndsey Huggins Chriselda Pacheco 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 • Denver Convention & Visitor’s Bureau • 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

Copyright 2012 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.

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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

Stay Authentic. Unique destinations. Exceptional hotels. Indulge in local cuisine, art, and music and stay authentic. Experience the true sense of a vibrant city at any one of the Valencia Group locations. Whether it’s a stay on the River Walk in San Antonio, in the hub of the high tech district at Santana Row in San Jose, or just feel the pulse of Houston’s heart beat at CITYCENTRE, you’ll find that a stay with us puts you in the center of it all. It’s no wonder that Condé Nast Traveler magazine has given all three a place among the 100 Top Hotels in the U.S.

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

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 Angelesbased 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

H O t E L VA L E N C I A R I V E R WA L k

H O t E L V A L E N C I A S A N tA N A R O W

HOtEL SORELLA

Chosen among the Top 10 0 U. S. Hotels, Condé Nast Traveler, 2010 & 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards

1. 86 6. 8 42 .010 0

www.thehotelguide.com

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San Antonio Cocktail conference Raise Your Spirits

e are excited to welcome cocktail novices and enthusiasts, industry experts, sponsors, and regional and national media to San Antonio from Jan. 17-20, 2013. Combining education with good oldfashioned fun, this year’s event promises to be even bigger and better than before, with seminars, tastings, evening soirees, after parties and more—all to benefit HeartGift San Antonio, a non-profit organization that provides life-saving heart surgery to children in areas where necessary care is unavailable. Second Year... Now approaching its second year, Cocktail Conference visionary, Bohanan’s Restaurant & Bar Owner and Executive Chef Mark Bohanan, is anxious to see what this year’s conference will bring. “San Antonio Cocktail Conference 2013 will have more to offer than ever before, and will continue to bring the cocktail community together,” he says. “Last year was a huge success raising $57,000 for HeartGift, and my goal is to exceed that donation this year.” Celebrate the art of craft cocktails To kick things off in style, the 2013 conference launches with a beautiful evening at the Majestic Theatre on historic Houston Street. Ambassadors of select spirit brands will host a number of bars throughout the three levels of this historic theater, crafting and serving a variety of specialty cocktails. In addition, six-time GRAMMY Award winner Arturo Sandoval will make a special guest appearance, filling the theatre with a masterful jazz performance. The San Antonio Chef Coalition will also participate in this spectacular opening night event. Friday will offer a full day of classes and parties that appeal to cocktail beginners and aficionados alike. Put your skills from the daytime seminars to the test by participating in the Original Cocktail Competition. And don’t miss the river level evening events! Savor downtown with an evening Tiki party at El Tropicano/Lani Kai and events at Luke, SoHo and The Esquire Tavern. With so many venues to choose from, San Antonio Cocktail Conference 2013 has once again partnered with Rio San Antonio

Cruises to make sure you can experience them all in true San Antonio style. Saturday, Jan. 19 will present even more daytime cocktail craft seminars. Chef Jason Dady hosts a bar takeover at his restaurant, Tre Trattoria, on Saturday evening as Dallas bar The Standard Pour with Brian McCullough moves in for the night. Enjoy a beautiful view of downtown from atop double-decker buses, provided by City Sightseeing Double Decker, as you make your way to the street level evening events at Bar 1919, Bohanan’s Restaurant & Bar, and The Brooklynite. In the mood for more? One after party ticket gives you access to two late-night bashes. Head over to Hyatt Regency San Antonio’s Lone Star Palace which overlooks the historic Alamo or swing by The Menger Bar where hosts Jason Kosmas and The 86 Company keep the fun flowing. Round out the Cocktail Conference with a delicious Sunday morning brunch hosted by Tito’s Vodka and a tequila cocktail event at La Margarita Restaurant & Oyster Bar. Tickets and More Information This exceptional weekend that is sure to impress, and the enthusiastic response received from around the globe fuels the plans for a bigger and better event. Get ticket information and a detailed class schedule and more at www.sacocktailconference.com/schedule. CY

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www.thehotelguide.com

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Galveston, Texas

Winter Wonder Island of Texas G

alveston is the “Winter Wonder Island” of Texas, offering visitors more than 1,000 magical holiday events to enjoy during the holiday season. This tropical island is home to breath-taking beaches and one of the largest collections of well-preserved Victorian architecture in the country, bringing together the enchantment of traditional holiday merriment and the benefits of island weather. Galveston is home to nationally recognized holiday events, including the Victorian festival Dickens on the Strand and Festival of Lights at Moody Gardens. Passport to Holiday Magic This year the island will offer visitors a new experience with its Passport to Holiday Magic promotion. Galveston’s Passport program takes place now through Jan. 1, allowing you to access a downloadable passport to keep track of the island’s many holiday festivities. When you visit five or more participating holiday events and attractions with your passport, you’ll be entered in drawings for a variety of prizes, including a chance to win a Disney Magic cruise for four. The passport program coincides with the launch of a new major holiday event in Galveston – Lasers, Lights & Magic in the Park. During this event now – Dec. 31, visitors to Galveston’s historic downtown will see free nightly holiday lasers shows at Saengerfest Park. On Saturdays and Sundays, Santa on The Strand will take place from 1 to 5 p.m. offering photos in Santa’s Workshop. The park, located at 2302 Strand, will be decorated with holiday lights synchronized to music. To 10

5 Hotels within 50 Miles

WE’VE GOT HOUSTON, KEMAH AND GALVESTON ISLAND, TX COVERED!

add to the magic, visitors will be able to send text messages to make it snow in tropical Galveston! All activities are free and open to the public. Magical Parties with Disney Also new this year will be Magical Parties with Disney held the last three Saturdays of December in Saengerfest Park. Jake Short from Disney Channel’s “A.N.T. Farm” and Spencer Boldman from Disney XD’s “Lab Rats” will be in Galveston to sign autographs and take pictures with visitors Dec. 15 and Dec. 29, respectively. On Dec. 22, the Radio Disney AM 1590 Road Crew will provide interactive entertainment, including music, dancing and prizes. Festival of Lights and More... You can also walk the mile-long trail of more than a million lights at Moody Gardens’ Festival of Lights now – Jan. 3, explore historic architecture at the East End Victorian Christmas Homes tour Nov. 30 or enjoy costumed fun Dec. 1-2 at Dickens on the Strand. Other festivities throughout the season will include the Home for the Holidays Gift Market, Santa Train at the Galveston Railroad Museum, holiday performances at The Grand 1894 Opera House, and the Santa Hustle. More Info For details about spending the holidays in Galveston, visit www.galveston.com/holidaymagic. www.thehotelguide.com

713.228.1520 innattheballpark.com

281.334.9880 kemahboardwalkinn.com

www.thehotelguide.com

409.744.1500 sanluisresort.com

409.744.5000 galvestonhilton.com

409.740.5300 holidayinnresorts.com/ galveston-bch 11

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Aldaco’s Stone Oak

pick Award-Winning Food and More s

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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 Botana” which comes with two quesadillas al carbòn, three flautas, four fried cream jalapeños, four bean & cheese nachos,guacamole and sour cream. As you gear up for dinner, the choices range from incredi-

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

Free shuttle after 5 pm 100 Hoefgen @ Sunset Station San Antonio, TX 78205 www.aldacos.net 210.222.0561 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

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Harlingen, Texas

Rich in Culture and Tradition

ocated in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, Harlingen, Texas offers historic sites, family fun and outdoor adventures. Near the southern tip of Texas, at the lower end of the Rio Grande Valley, the city of Harlingen is an exciting blend of South Texas hospitality and the rich, colorful traditions of Mexico. With landscapes edged by palm trees and flaming bougainvillea, Harlingen is home to everything tropical, from red crowned parrots to palm trees and bougainvilleas that dominate the landscape. The beautiful beaches of South Padre Island are also only minutes away. Downtown Harlingen Downtown Harlingen is situated along the picturesque palm-lined Jackson Street that has served as Harlingen’s “Main Street” for more than a century. Downtown Harlingen features a variety of unique shops that specialize in home decor, apparel, original Texas and Mexican artwork, hand-made jewelry, gifts, antiques, and collectibles. A vintage vinyl shop , 100-year-old seed store and garden center, and authentic army surplus store are just a few of the reasons that locals and visitors alike flock to the area. Jackson Street is the site of many community festivals and events, Market Days on the first Saturday of every month and the annual Christmas Parade. Harlingen Murals Harlingen, the mural capital of South Texas, has more than a dozen interesting and colorful artworks on display. Drive through Downtown Harlingen and enjoy the beautiful murals that describe Harlingen’s history as a major city in the development of the Rio Grande Valley.

From the old cinema downtown to the historic Route 77, murals can be found on the outside and inside of many Harlingen buildings that tell the story of Harlingen’s heritage. Original Iwo Jima Memorial Monument & Museum Harlingen’s Marine Military Academy is home to the original working model of the famous bronze statue at Arlington National Cemetery. This stunning outdoor sculpture was donated to the school by sculptor Dr. Felix W. de Weldon. It depicts the raising of the U.S. flag on Iwo Jima during World War II. The museum features Marine Corps Memorabilia, a video about the battle, and a veteran’s Hall of Fame. Birding The city is known worldwide as a tropical birder’s paradise because of its location on the convergence of two major flyways. Birders flock to Harlingen year round to spot exotic and migratory birds. Harlingen is home to one of nine World Birding Centers in the Rio Grande Valley, Ramsey Nature Park. Pick up a birding checklist at the Harlingen Convention and Visitors Bureau and see how many species you can identify. Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of birds and peak at some of the more uncommon species including Green Jays, Great Kiskadees, Buff-Bellied Hummingbirds and the Altamira Oriole. Harlingen is also home to the famous Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival. Each November birders from across the globe come to explore our region and it’s unique tropical birds. Bass Pro Shop Harlingen is home to Bass Pro Shop’s newest descontinued on page 16 www.thehotelguide.com

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TEXAS tination outdoor superstore that includes a restaurant, bowling alley and archery range. Outdoor enthusiasts will discover their next great South Texas adventure begins at the new Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World in Harlingen. While you’ll find a huge selection of outdoor gear, Bass Pro Shops stores are also part museum, art gallery, antique store and an aquarium, education, conservation and entertainment center. Bowling like you’ve never seen before will be offered at the Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill. This 15,000 square-foot nautical-themed entity, located within the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World store, features a truly unique atmosphere and design geared for family fun and dining. Dock wood lanes feature beautiful under-water scenery of sea turtles, sharks, stingrays and other saltwater species which will also glow in the dark during cosmic bowling. Hand-painted murals depicting oceanic life line the walls and fish, like a 16’ long giant squid, hang suspended from the ceiling. More than a hunting and fishing store, visitors will also find items per-

fect for camping, hiking, outdoor cooking, bird watching or whatever your outdoor pleasures may be. Golf Harlingen is the perfect destination for golf. In fact, according to a poll by the National Golf Foundation, the Rio Grande Valley has more playable days of golf per year than anywhere else in the United States. Our tropical climate makes us a great destination to enjoy a game of golf year round. The city has four public golf courses and one private course. Just down the road are two 18 hole championship courses at Rancho Viejo Resort and a picturesque 18 hole course along the Laguna Madre Bay at the South Padre Island Golf Club.Whether you are a beginner or pro, Harlingen and the surrounding area has a course for you showcasing the natural beauty of South Texas. Contact Us For more information on visiting this incredible Texas city, go to www.visitharlingentexas.com

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found in one place. The Hurst Conference Center is minutes away from everything DFW has to offer. Restaurants, shops, sporting events, attractions, airports and more. Our state-of-the-art facility has over 50,000 square feet of flexible event space, with seating for up to 900 in the Grand Ballroom and 300 in Meeting Rooms. Full audio-visual presentation equipment and production is available in-house, plus wi-fi is readily accessible throughout the building. Everything you need to make a lasting impression is right here in our amenity-rich facility. Find out how the Hurst Conference Center is central to your success by contacting our sales team today.

(817) 581-0044 / info@hurstcc.com / www.hurstcc.com 16

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History and Elegance.

Like Texas, the Crockett Hotel is well-located, independent, spacious, and comfortable, has a great history, and is friendly and personable. • • • • • • •

138 beautifully-appointed guest rooms Outdoor pool & landscaped fountain Complimentary continental breakfast Free Wi-Fi in guest rooms Meeting facilities on property Complete full-service spa Across from the Alamo and Rivercenter Mall “Like” us on Facebook

Be a part of the Texas Travel Industry Association. Join today. www.ttia.org

320 Bonham San Antonio, Texas 78205 (888) 450-8436 www.crocketthotel.com www.thehotelguide.com

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Mansion at Judge’s Hill Elegance in the Texas Capital

he Mansion at Judges’ Hill has a history as storied as the city it dwells in. Originally built in 1900, the Mansion was a wedding gift to Goodall & Ella Wooten by Thomas Dudley Wooten, one of the founders of the University of Texas. The two both had a passion for life and they used the Mansion as a fountain of new ideas. In fact, in 1929, they hired Neiman Marcus at a cost of $10,000 (today’s estimate of $1 million) to re-decorate the home. Since its inception, this grand venue has combined the elegance of its historical roots with the vibrancy of its future. “Fluffy. Not Stuffy.” At the Mansion, you are whisked away to a timeless era with the hint of today. Each room in this fabulous boutique hotel is different, uniquely-appointed with an inviting appeal. All the rooms have a personality all their own. Even the bathrooms have texture and color to give it more style and panache. Amenities in these incredible accommodations include: 310 thread count Egyptian cotton linens, hypo-allergenic down and duvets and pillows, complimentary L’Occitane and Gilchrist & Soames custom bath products, private stocked honor bar, complimentary wireless & high-speed internet access, cable television and dvd players. Additionally, there is twice daily housekeeping services. Food for Thought. The Mansion has its own dining room that boasts a fivestar chef and an impeccable array of delicacies. Here you will find an exquisite blend of International Modern and Classic Cuisines. The food is always fresh and the plates are designed to allow you to experience many tastes all in one 20

meal. The 1900 Lounge is open everyday from 4 pm - 11 pm and features stunning carved wood accents, intimate tables, vivid draperies and the attentive and friendly atmosphere the Mansion has come to be known for. Here you can enjoy a delicious martini, tempting frozen margarita or a glass of wine from our selections. Special Events and More. The Mansion offers groups the perfect backdrop for their events. Regardless of the formality, tastes or budget, they can weave a tapestry of simple elegance into any function. Whether it’s a business meeting, wedding reception, or conference, they can create the right atmosphere for you and your guests. The venue can accommodate up to 250 people. Contact Us For more information on this worldclass, boutique hotel, visit them online at www.judgeshill.com or call (512) 495-1800. www.thehotelguide.com

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Grapevine, Texas

The State’s Christmas Capital

elebrate the magic of Christmas in Grapevine, the Christmas Capital of Texas! Grapevine is the perfect place to create wonderful Christmas memories with your family and friends this season. You’ll be amazed at the more than 1,400 Christmas events in 40-plus days, as you see Grapevine sparkle with millions of lights, enormous decorations, animated characters and a whole lot more! Christmas shop ‘til you drop Don’t let the tree be the only thing that sparkles and shines this season! Come to Grapevine and shop for that special gift at some of the most sophisticated and chic hotspots in Texas. Grapevine’s shopping options provide an incredible variety for all your holiday needs for every taste and budget. From unique shops featuring clothing, jewelry and collectibles to winery tasting rooms to home décor to specialty food items, Historic Downtown Grapevine offers shoppers a chance to locate unique and special gifts. Stores such as Good Things For All Seasons, Chic Boutique, Merry’s Christmas and Clowns, Bermuda Gold, Grapevine Olive Oil Company, Ooh La La and many more will make your shopping list disappear like a plate of Christmas cookies! Bring the kids to make their own ornament at Vetro Glassblowing Studio. Wine fans will love picking up a bottle of wine for that special someone or for a special holiday event from one of Grapevine’s winery tasting rooms. Grapevine Mills mall offers even the most devoted shopper a truly amazing experience. The 1.6 million square feet of shopping euphoria includes spots such as the recently opened H&M, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Last Call by Neiman Marcus, Forever 21, New York & Company, Ann Taylor Factory Store, Banana Republic and many more! And don’t miss a chance to shop the fantastic gifts shops of LEGOLAND® Discovery Center and SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium, both located at Grapevine Mills. And for a special holiday treat, enjoy 22

Breakfast with Santa at Grapevine Mills mall December 15 and 22. Got an outdoor lifestyle fan in the family? Check out all the great gear for fishing, boating, hunting, camping, archery and the outdoors at Santa’s Wonderland conveniently located at Bass Pro Shops! Located across the street from Grapevine Mills mall, you can also see special Christmas visitors throughout the season on weekends. It’s Time to Dine in Grapevine Whether you’re shopping or attending one of the more than 1,400 Christmas events, you’ll want to make sure to stop and enjoy some delicious dishes in Grapevine. With more than 200 restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines at prices to fit a range of budgets, you’re sure to find something that delights even the pickiest palate. Ride the Rails on the North Pole Express® See the magic of the season unfold as children of all ages and adults alike experience this classic Grapevine event. This approximately one hour expanded experience with added activities includes a ride on a historic train, pre-boarding holiday fun, Santa, journey through the Christmas tree maze, ornament making, caroling and more. Don’t forget to wear your special Christmas pajamas! Tickets are $18 per person and are on sale now. Children 2 and under can sit on an adult’s lap, but must have a complimentary ticket to board. The North Pole Express runs November 23, 24, 25 and 30 and December 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22 and 23. Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 705 S. Main St. Chill Out at ICE! featuring DreamWorks’ “Merry Madagascar™” during Lone Star Christmas at the Gaylord Texan Resort The ICE! winter holiday attraction returns with an all-new, hilarious theme: ICE! featuring DreamWorks’ www.thehotelguide.com

One for you, one for the kids. You’re welcome. When you stay with Embassy Suites, you get more. Like a spacious tworoom suite, complimentary beverages at our evening Manager’s Reception* and complimentary full Cooked-to-Order breakfast. It all adds up to more reasons to stay.

MORE REASONS TO STAY®

For reservations, call 972-724-2600 or visit www.outdoorworld.embassysuites.com. *Service of alcoholic beverages subject to state and local laws. Must be of legal drinking age. ™ indicates a trademark of Hilton Worldwide. ©2011 Hilton Worldwide.

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“Merry Madagascar™.” From now to January 1, see all your favorite characters including Alex, Marty, Melman and Gloria carved from more than two million pounds of ice. You’ll be delighted as these colorful creations set the perfect holiday mood. And while at the Gaylord Texan Resort, don’t miss Kung Fu Panda Awesome Snow Tubing. Open daily now thru January 1, experience an extreme eight-lane tubing hill that’s covered in real snow. Watch your children smile and sparkle at Lone Star Christmas at the Gaylord Texan Resort. This winter wonderland includes 1.5 million holiday lights, a 52-foot rotating Christmas tree, a lifesized Gingerbread House, 12,000 ornaments and Santa Claus. Christmas hotel packages are available. Visit www.gaylordtexan.com for ticket prices and times. Musicals and Magical Moments at the Palace Theatre From country to classic Christmas, Grapevine is the place to be for all your holiday entertainment. Set in the beautiful setting of the restored Palace Theatre in Historic Downtown Grapevine, you’ll delight at all of the spectacular Christmas music and movie offerings. Texas Tenors – It’s a return engagement for the Texas Tenors at Grapevine’s Palace Theatre! Audiences will be amazed at this terrific trio, most well-known for their amazing journey on America’s Got Talent. Mixing country and classical music with their own Texas Tenor flavor, this beloved group will bring Christmas audiences to their feet. Tickets $25. December 13, 14, 16, 20, 21 and 22 at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 817-410-3100. An Elvis Kind of Christmas with Kraig Parker – Don’t let it be a Blue Christmas! On Sunday, December 2 come to the Palace Theatre for a delightful Christmas show -Elvis style. Kraig Parker, the world’s premier Elvis tribute artist, will entertain all ages with this unique twist on all your favorite Christmas songs. Tickets, $32 and $27. The show starts at 4 p.m. Grapevine Opry – Tap your toes to the sounds of Christmas with the Grapevine Opry at the Palace Theatre. All shows start at 7:30 p.m. Group discounts are available. A Texas Christmas – November 30 and December 7, $25 per person Fabulous Fifties Christmas – December 1, $25 pp Letter from Santa – December 8, $25 per person

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Christmas Wonderland – December 15, $25 per person New Year’s Country Eve – December 31, $25 per person Play reindeer games with Santa Step back in time this season at Christmas on Main! See Victorian-style buildings dressed up with ribbons, bows and wreaths and set aglow with twinkling lights. Watch jolly Christmas characters including Santa on stilts, play reindeer games, experience the glass workshop at Vetro Glassblowing Studio, enjoy tractor-drawn wagon rides ($1 per person, per ride) and spot beautiful decorations adorning Historic Downtown Grapevine’s Main Street. November 23, 24, 25, 30 and December 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22 and 23. Fridays1 – 6 p.m.; Saturdays 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sundays 1 – 6 p.m. Christmas for grown-ups The Christmas Wine Trains offer a great grownup escape from all of the Christmas hustle and bustle! This fun evening begins with a reception at 7 p.m. in the Cotton Belt Railroad District, followed by boarding at 7:30 p.m. Each train features a different Grapevine winery and winery representatives will be on board. Wine will be available for purchase on the train. Tickets are $36 per person. Riders must be 21 and over. December 13 and 20 at 7 p.m. Visit www.gvrr.com or call 817410-3385. Happy Howl-idays at Great Wolf Lodge Take a visit to the North Woods in Grapevine at the Great Wolf Lodge’s Snowland! And don’t miss visits from Santa, North Pole University for Elves in Cub Club, holiday carol sing-alongs, the life-size Gingerbread House, Santa’s workshop, writing depot, wrapping depot, toy creation station, Polar Wolf Walk, Great Clock Tower holiday snow show, nightly story time, Rowdy the Reindeer and a Polar Bear Race inside the 84-degree indoor water park. December 1 – 25. Build your Holly Jolly Holidays at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center and SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium Check out Scuba Santa at SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium, December 5, 8, 12, 15, 19 and 22. You’ll be amazed to see Santa swimming among some of the most beautiful creatures of the sea. And check out all the holiday fun at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center December 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 and 22. More Information Holiday hotel packages are available. Contact the Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-4576338 or visit www.GrapevineTexasUSA.com/Christmas. www.thehotelguide.com

destinations

www.thehotelguide.com

Santa Fe, New Mexico Heavenly Holidays

he December holidays bring together Santa Fe’s historic adobe surroundings with priceless traditions from Spanish, Native American, and Old West heritage to give the city a holiday look and feel unlike anywhere in the U.S. The nearby mountains are covered in snow, the sky is vivid blue, and the spicy smell of local piñon wood in fireplaces scents the air as the city moves into its most romantic and charming season. A Great Mix All of the culture, arts, and attractions remain in place even as Santa Fe quiets down for the winter. The city is shopping heaven and its many boutiques and galleries are busy with those seeking special gifts. Ski Santa Fe, just 16 miles from the Plaza, usually has all 73 runs open by Christmas while the forest’s summer hiking trails become tracks for snowshoeing and Nordic skiing. Many restaurants and hotels have events and dinners that make everyone feel like family home for the holidays and the city’s relaxed atmosphere keeps visitors and friends returning every year. Museum of International Folk Art Just in time for this holiday season, the Museum of International Folk Art opens a highly anticipated exhibition, “New World Cuisine: The Histories of Chocolate, Maté y Mas”. Food will tell the delicious tale of how the Old and New Worlds came together and trace the origins, rise in popularity, and cross-cultural connections of chocolate and maté. www.moifa.org December Calendar The rest of the December calendar is filled with special seasonal events in Santa Fe in a celebration of culture and heritage: Christmas Eve. The Santa Fe Plaza, the heart of the city, is filled with 1,000 glittering farolitos, turning it into a magical place. There are carols and cider and many people walk a few blocks to the Cross of the Martyrs

where there are views of the entire city, more farolitos, and bonfires. Nowhere is tradition stronger than along Canyon Road and the nearby neighborhoods where every surface seems lined with farolitos, luminarias punctuate the night, and the community walks the streets, chatting and caroling during one of the city’s most festive evenings. Santa Fe Convention & Visitors Bureau, 800-777-2489, www.santafe.org. A word about Farolitos and Luminarias. Farolitos are made from the most humble materials--a brown paper bag, some sand, and a votive candle. But hundreds of them lining streets, walls, and buildings create twinkling golden lights that turn holiday nights into a wonderland. Luminarias are small bonfires that are a nice way to warm your hands while strolling the streets. Both are a New Mexico tradition and the words are interchangeable within the region. In Albuquerque, the meaning of the terms is reversed. Las Posadas, December 9, 5:30 to 7:00 P.M. This is a traditional Spanish folk play that reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for a room on Christmas Eve. It starts at the Palace of the Governors and winds around the Plaza with spectators following along. There are some funny moments and the Devil is always a popular character. Everyone joins in for cookies and cider afterward in the Palace courtyard. www.nmhistorymuseum.org. www.thehotelguide.com

Noche Buena, the Midnight Mass of the Rooster. This service incorporates a folk story about the animals in the manger on Christmas Eve. They were dismayed that no humans had come to visit the Christ child, so an elderly rooster flew to the rafters and crowed the news of the child’s birth to the world. Basilica Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi, 505-9982-5619. Music. The city is filled with music throughout the entire holiday season, including Christmas Eve. Look for concerts by the Santa Fe Men’s Camerata, Santa Fe Concert Association, Santa Fe Desert Chorale, Santa Fe Pro Musica Baroque Ensemble, Santa Fe Symphony, and Santa Fe Women’s Ensemble. Find listings in the calendar at www.santafe.org. Christmas at the Palace, December 7, 5:30 to 8 P.M. A celebration of the Spanish, Native American, and American traditions that weave together into Santa Fe’s unique holiday is held at the 400-year-old Palace of the Governors. There is music, storytelling, refreshments, and always an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Palace of the Governors, Inessa Williams, inessa.williams@state. nm.us, 505-476-5100. Food. New Mexicans love their locally grown chile all year, but Christmas is a time for special dishes. Posole, a stew of chile, dried white corn, and pork is traditional on Christmas Eve. So are tamales, corn dough with a sweet or savory filling wrapped in a corn husk and steamed. And bizcochitos, sugary, flakey cookies, are not to be missed. Many of Santa Fe’s 200 restaurants prepare special holiday menus of all kinds. Winter Spanish Market, December 1-2. This is a smaller, more intimate version of the Summer Spanish Market that is one of Santa Fe’s largest and most beloved events. The Spanish Colonial Arts Society, through the annual markets and its Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, preserves and encourages traditional arts that have existed here throughout the past 400 years. Some of these arts, which include tinwork, weaving, embroidery, straw appliqué, and the carving and painting of images of saints, are only found in Santa Fe and are highly collected. At the winter market there are many small items suitable for gifts. Spanish Market is juried and artists must meet very high standards to participate. There is a pre-market show and sale, WinterNite, on November 30. Both events are at the Santa Fe Convention Center. Spanwww.thehotelguide.com

ish Colonial Arts Society/Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, 505-982-2226, www.spanishcolonial.org. Feast of Guadalupe, December 12. The Virgin of Guadalupe is the patroness of the Americas and the Patron Saint of Pojoaque Pueblo. She first appeared to Juan Diego, a Mexican Indian, in 1531. This celebration features traditional dancing and feasts held in the Pueblo’s homes. Visitors can be invited to dine with tribal members but are encouraged not to linger in order to allow others a place at the table. Held at the Pojoaque Pueblo, 505-455-3549. Native American Dances. Native American Dances are beautiful and spiritual to watch. They are not performance dances, but rather are ceremonial in nature, expressing ancient traditions and connections to the earth. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are excellent opportunities to view dances, but visitors are asked to be respectful, follow rules set by the Pueblos, and remember that these are religious events. On Christmas Eve, there will be a sundown torchlight Procession of the Virgin at at Picuris, Nambe, and Ohkay Owingeh Pueblos. There are Matachina and other dances on Christmas Day at Picuris, Ohkay Owingeh, Santa Clara, Taos, and San Ildefonso Pueblos. There are Holy Innocents and children’s dances at Santa Clara and Picuris Pueblos on Deceomber 28. At Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo there is a turtle dance on December 26. On New Years Day and the first few days of the year, there are dances and Transfer of the Canes ceremonies honoring tribal government officials. It is always best to check ahead and confirm dances and dates at each of the Pueblos. www.miaclab.org/42. Temperatures in Santa Fe in December are normally in the low 40s during the day and low 20s at night. Ski Santa Fe at a much higher elevation is considerably colder. While it does snow in town in the winter and there are occasional major storms, there are still 300 days of sunshine in a year. So it is possible to ski and play golf on the city’s Marty Sanchez Links de Santa Fe in the same day. More Information For visitor information, new holiday events, winter hotel package deals, and updates check the Santa Fe Convention & Visitors Bureau web site, www.santafe.org.

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Elegance Beyond Belief

ituated near the heart of Santa Fe, the world-class Inn and Spa at Loretto is an oasis that beckons everyone. From the inviting entrance to the friendly and knowlegable staff, this property doesn’t disappoint. About the Hotel Reflecting the culture and sophistication of Santa Fe, New Mexico, the Inn and Spa at Loretto effortlessly blends old-world charm with world-class luxury. One of the state’s most photographed buildings, this Santa Fe, New Mexico, resort is an architectural recreation of an ancient Pueblo, built at the end of the historic Santa Fe Trail amid the spectacular Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Tradional to Deluxe Suites With 134 rooms, you step into a world inspired by Native American folklore. Our richly appointed Traditional accommodations are bathed in warm vibrant colors which create an ambiance that is romantic and tranquil. The internationally renowned design team of Zimmer Associates International, Robert Zimmer and his partner Dolores Hundley Zimmer designed each room with a vision to transcend space and time in order to capture the Pueblo Indian’s spirit, character, and reverence for life - through design. Traditional accommodations offer the Inn’s signature amenities in a more intimate setting with spectacular city, mountain and garden views and include our signature comfort bed with pristine bedding and custom designed Native American patterned blanket, 42 inch flat screen

Hawks Cay

Inn & Spa at Loretto television, leather chair with ottoman, and a glass top writing desk. Luxurious appointments also include plush Spa at Loretto bathrobes and an internationally recognized bath amenity line from Gilchrist & Soames. Additional conveniences include a pedestal sink, clock radio stereo, well stocked refrigerated mini bar, coffee & tea maker, pay per view movies, voice mail, data port and wireless Internet access. Spa at Loretto Elegance, pampering, and exquisite nature all embody the Spa at Loretto. Get whisked away as you are indulged in signature Southwestern treatments. The Spa has five spacious Spa Suites designed for individual or couples massage, facials, manicures and pedicures. Dining Pleasure At Luminaria Restaurant in Santa Fe, New Mexico, food is considered an art form. Run by Executive Chef Brett Sparman, Luminaria Restaurant features a menu of dishes symbolizing the crossroads of modern and traditional southwestern soul cuisine, inspired by the Anasazi culture. Luminaria’s regional menu includes dishes from a juicy cowboy rib eye to New Mexican paella. For more information on the Inn & Spa at Loretto, visit them online at www.innatloretto.com. www.thehotelguide.com

Holiday Fun in the Florida Keys

tart a new Christmas tradition with your family...escape to the islands for a Hawks Cay Christmas. Take a few days this December to slow down to island time, reconnect with your family and celebrate Christmas before Christmas at Hawks Cay Resort Holiday Hangout This December book our exclusive Hawks Cay Christmas package for your family and give them a Christmas gift they’ll never forget. Not only does the package include our upscale hotel or 2- and 3-bedroom villa accommodations, but it also includes these Hawks Cay Christmas gifts to you (a $300 value!)*: • Save 10% off 2 nights, 15% off 3 nights, and 20% off of accommodations on a stay of 4 nights or more •Enjoy 10% off nightly and weekly liveaboard boat slips • Saturdays at 5:30 pm (Resort Lobby): Story Time and Hot Chocolate with Mrs. Claus • Christmas “Spirit” Card: A punch card provides you with a sample of a designated Christmas cocktail at each of 4 outlets (Bar at Alma, Tio’s Cantina, Tiki Bar and Island Time). www.thehotelguide.com

• Meet Santa Claus himself! (He likes to rest up in the Keys before his big night). •Saturdays at 4 pm: Decorate Christmas cookies with a special Christmas helper • 2 for 1 Kids Night Out (Choose one night Sunday through Tuesday) • Sundays 10:30 am and 3 pm (Indies Club): Write a Letter to Santa or Design a Family Christmas Card • Receive 1 free tarpon feeding at the Marina • Enjoy 10% Dockside Dolphin and Dolphin Discover Programs (through 12/21) • Ease away tension at Calms Waters Spa with 15% off any 80 minute treatment • Explore the island via Kayak on our Saltwater Lagoon or a Bike and get 2 rentals for the price of 1. • Dive in and enjoy 2 for the price of 1 on a snorkel trip with Sundance Watersports. • Save 10% off parties of 2 or more for diving, SNUBA or scuba lessons at Dive Duck Key. • Indulge your sweet tooth with a complimentary Midnight Munchies Sundae to share with the family at Emack & Bolio’s. No need to dash away….enjoy a late checkout of 1 pm. *Based on a family of four. Valid on bookings November 30 through December 24, 2012. More Info... For more information on a holiday getaway to the Florida Keys, visit www. hawkscay.com/ christmas. 29

UTAH

Ahwanee Hotel

Celebrating 86th Bracebridge Dinner k c i p r’s lishe

Pub

he Ahwahnee, a historic AAA Four-Diamond hotel nestled in the heart of Yosemite National Park, today announces the schedule for The Bracebridge Dinner at Yosemite, celebrating its 86th season. This American theatrical tradition transforms the hotel into a 17th century English manor for a feast of food, song and mirth for eight performances, held from December 13-25. Reduced advance booking rates are available now for overnight packages and single tickets. Visitors are also invited to attend complimentary concerts featuring world-class artists singing holiday, pops and Broadway standards in the hotel’s Great Lounge on nights alternating with The Bracebridge Dinner. The 86th Annual Bracebridge Dinner The Bracebridge Dinner is a Yosemite tradition that transports guests to Old England, where more than 60 costumed, professional singers and performers enact a lively holiday banquet with Lord Merrick of Bracebridge and his entertaining household. The Bracebridge Dinner is recognized as one of the most sought-after holiday events in the U.S. In 2006, The Wall Street Journal reported, “Bracebridge is, without much doubt, the country’s, if not the world’s, premier Christmas dinner.” The Ultimate Holiday Experience During each Bracebridge performance, up to 300 guests enjoy a lavish, seven-course feast by The Ahwahnee’s Executive Chef Percy Whatley, with service choreographed as part of the pageantry. The Ahwahnee Dining Room, with its 50-foot ceiling topped by massive

log beams, serves as the Great Hall at Squire Bracebridge’s manor. The entire room is a stage, crowned by an elaborate Squire’s table and decked with holiday decorations, many of which are restored originals from the first productions in the late 1920s. Performances The 2012 performances of The Bracebridge Dinner take place December 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 and 25, at 6 p.m. The following one- and twonight lodging packages for two are available: Packages Two-night Package* One-night Package* The Ahwahnee from $1,424 from $1,125 Yosemite Lodge at the Falls from $1,092 from $959 Wawona Hotel from $1,146 from $996 The Bracebridge Dinner lodging packages include: • Dinner for two at The Bracebridge Dinner, excluding alcohol (Dinner is on the second night of a two-night Bracebridge Package). • Professional group portrait sitting to commemorate the event. • Shuttle services to The Ahwahnee for The Bracebridge Dinner guests staying at Yosemite Lodge at the Falls and Wawona Hotel. Information? For more information or to make package reservations, please visit www.yosemitepark.com/bracebridge or call (801) 559-4903. Dinner-Only Tickets... Dinner-only tickets are available starting at $299 (adults) and $230 (children 12 and under), including www.thehotelguide.com

gratuity and exclusive of tax. Please call the reservations desk to make a dinner-only reservation at (801) 5594884. Dinner-only tickets are not available online. Concerts... Enhancing The Bracebridge Dinner experience at The Ahwahnee are five concert presentations in the hotel’s Great Lounge on nights alternating with Bracebridge performances by the Andrea Fulton Chorale, soloists and dancers. The Ahwahnee Pops concerts feature holiday favorites, and the Say it with Music concert is a showcase of selections from Broadway sensations Chicago, Les Miserables, The Producers, La Cage aux Folles and more. Admission to the performances listed below is complimentary and open to the public: The Ahwahnee Pops – A Concert of Music of the Christmas Season December 15 at 8 p.m.; December 23 at 2 p.m., followed by Christmas caroling and the arrival of Santa Claus Greg Parker – A Holiday Concert December 12 and 19 at 8 p.m. Say It with Music – An Evening of Musical Theatre December 17 and 21 at 8 p.m. History of the Bracebridge Dinner The original production of The Bracebridge Dinner was created by Garnet Holme, a California pageant director, who conceived the event for The Ahwahnee’s first Christmas in 1927. The inspiration for this yuletide ceremony was author Washington Irving’s The Sketch Book (1819), which described Squire Bracebridge and English Christmas traditions. After Holme’s death in 1929, Donald Tresidder, president of the Yosemite Park & Curry Company, asked world-famous photographer Ansel Adams to assume directorship. Adams, who was also a talented musician www.thehotelguide.com

UTAH and pianist, worked with Ahwahnee interior designer Jeanette Dyer Spencer to improve the script, set and costumes. Adams continued directing and performing in The Bracebridge Dinner until his retirement from the production in 1973. Eugene Fulton, who took over the directorship from Adams, began as conductor of the Chorale in 1934, and served as musical director beginning in 1946 after a two-year production hiatus for World War II. The current director and executive producer of The Bracebridge Dinner, Andrea Fulton, took over the role from her father after his death in 1978. Fulton grew up with Bracebridge, performing in the production since the age of five. She currently plays the role of Augusta Billingsly, Housekeeper of Bracebridge Hall. Many of the cast members have been with the production for 20 to 25 years, maintaining a longstanding tradition and consistent mark of theatrical and musical excellence. When not in The Bracebridge Dinner, most perform as soloists, choral singers and actors with major opera companies, theatre productions, festivals and symphony orchestras throughout the world. About the Ahwanee The Ahwahnee, AAA Four-Diamond hotel featuring rustic architecture with Native American, Middle Eastern and Art and Crafts design elements, is located in scenic Yosemite National Park, which is home to stunning natural beauty, year-round activities and historic charm. The Ahwahnee was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977 and in 1987 it was listed as a National Historic Landmark. The hotel was recognized by Condé Nast Traveler magazine’s “Reader’s Choice Awards” in 2010 as one of the top 100 resorts in the United States. For more information, visit www.yosemitepark.com/ ahwahnee.

Brown Palace Hotel

Landmark Property and Much More to go O places for the holi-

ne of the best

days is The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa in downtown Denver. The Brown Palace is a Forbes Four Star, AAA Four Diamond luxury landmark, and it makes the holidays extra special with a bottle-popping of epic proportions and holiday themed spa treatments. Holiday Events To kick off the Holiday season, the iconic Brown Palace Hotel and Spa will host its 25th annual Champagne Cascade. A master swordsman will use an antique Napoleonic saber to sever the bottle necks of Moet & Chandon Champagne bottles that will be poured into the uppermost glass of the two-story, 6,000-glass pyramid. In addition to kicking-off the holiday season, this year’s toast will honor US veterans, offering several ways for the community to thank the servicemen and women this Veteran’s Day. Denver Delights There are plenty of things to do in Denver during the holiday season, but if travelers want to be relaxed and ready to face the holiday madness, we’ve got just the thing. Take a trip to a favorite Denver spa—The Spa at The Brown Palace, of course—for one of the hotel’s seasonal spa treatments. Just consider it a holiday gift to yourself. · Holiday Cookie Massage There’s the kind of holiday cookie that is enjoyed after spending the day 32

toiling in the kitchen, and then there’s the kind you can enjoy from the comfort of a massage table. The team at The Brown Palace Hotel’s Spa prefera the latter. This holiday cookie-inspired spa treatment involves a tantalizing blend of Swedish, Reflexology and deep tissue massage techniques, combined with deliciously scented chocolate, almond and coconut essential oils. Not only is this treatment rich in vitamins A, B1 and B2 (perfect for parched winter skin), but it’s delightfully caloriefree. $115 (without gratuity). · Holiday Candy Body Scrub We’ve always had a soft spot (or sweet tooth, rather) for old fashioned holiday candy, so what could be better than this candy inspired body treatment? Sit back, relax and relive holiday memories with an indulgent sugar scrub featuring the invigorating aromas of wintergreen and grapefruit. This exfoliation session will reveal glowing, soft skin, which is then moisturized with a hydrating lotion application. $110 (without gratuity) More Information To plan a holiday vacation or spa treatment at the iconic Brown Palace Hotel & Spa, check the hotel website for availability: www.brownpalace.com. www.thehotelguide.com

Woodstock Inn & Resort

Perfect Holiday Destination

he Woodstock Inn & Resort is a festive destination to enjoy another enchanting holiday season in Woodstock, VT. Winter events officially begin with Wassail Weekend, December 7 – 9, 2012, named one of Vermont’s top 10 winter events by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and continue well into the New Year. Wassail Weekend Wassail Weekend highlights include a holiday crafts fair, Yule Log and memory tree lighting and a walking house tour of six notable Woodstock historic homes that welcome visitors inside for rare peek of seasonal décor. The main attraction is Saturday’s town-wide parade with more than fifty horses and riders dressed in holiday attire and costumes from the early 19th century. Additionally, throughout the weekend Billings Farm & Museum offers hands-on experiences such as making historic Christmas ornaments, candle dipping and horse-drawn sleigh or wagon rides, weather permitting. The Perfect Destination The resort offers an idyllic experience during the Christmas season with wreathes and decorations adorning the property, a soaring tree and a roaring lobby fireplace. During Christmas week guests can choose from Alpine or Nordic skiing, rejuvenating in The Spa at the Woodstock Inn & Resort and picking up last minute holiwww.thehotelguide.com

day gifts on Main Street. Children will be occupied with daily activities in the game room, swimming in the indoor pool and more. The Inn will also be hosting a sumptuous Christmas Day dinner with all the traditional fixings. Throughout the winter season Woodstock Inn & Resort provides guests with a number of dining and recreational options to enhance their stay. The Red Rooster, the resort’s awardwinning fine dining restaurant emphasizes a menu using fresh, local ingredients sourced from the best purveyors in New England. Richardson’s Tavern offers a cozy old-world atmosphere with a full bar and live music. Resort activities include Suicide Six, a 23 trail mountain, the Nordic Center which offers more than 60-kilometers of cross country skiing and a 41,000 square foot Racquet & Fitness Club. The 10,000 square-foot LEED-certified spa offers a nature-inspired ambiance and treatments including the signature winter selection, Deep Forest, which features a gentle exfoliation of the body and is followed by a massage. Special Packages Pre-Holiday B&B Package starts at $179 for weekdays, and $199 on weekends valid now thru December 20, 2012 Package includes: Luxurious Accommodations for one night (or add on additional nights!) Hearty Vermont Breakfast for two Rate does not include applicable tax, gratuity, and $20 per room, per night resort fee. Not available November 21 - 23, 2012. Upgrades are available at an additional cost. Some dates may require a two-night minimum. Other restrictions may apply. To book the special packages, visit www.woodstockinn.com or call (888)-481-8802. 33

Visit America’s First Ski Resort

Warmth this Holiday Season

oews Ventana Canyon was constructed into the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains with the mindset of preserving the natural habitat. About Loews The 398-guestroom resort boasts two Tom Fazio-designed PGA golf courses, a full-service spa and fitness center and nearby hiking trails. The resort’s ½ mile Window Walk nature trail, designed by the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, features a stunning natural waterfall and over 200 signs to educate guests on the flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert. Great Holiday Weather Known throughout the region for its fun and festive holiday events, Loews Ventana Canyon is a warm weather holiday wonderland with something for every member of the family. The season kicks off with the popular Afternoon Tea, a daily four-course tea service featuring champagne, loose leaf tea, finger sandwiches, scones and a variety of holiday pastries; and Fireside S’mores every Saturday evening featuring traditional and special holiday themed s’mores and hot cocoa. Holiday Spirit Get into the holiday spirit with our annual Holiday Tree Lighting including complimentary hot apple cider, holiday treats and a special appearance from Santa. We keep the holiday celebrations going throughout the month of December with an our Annual Breakfast 34

Sun Valley Resort

Loews Ventana Canyon with Santa, our Chanukah Celebration and nightly Menorah lighting, and our festive 12 Days of Christmas tradition featuring live music and holiday treats for 12 consecutive nights. Relax and indulge with the family on Christmas Eve with our pastry chef-led Kids Holiday Cookie Decorating event and complimentary hot chocolate, treats and holiday music. Awake Christmas morning to sunshine and blue skies (Tucson boasts 350 days of sun) and join us for Christmas Brunch, then enjoy complimentary hot apple cider and treats in the afternoon. A special Holiday Prix Fixe menu, along with the full menu, is available in the Flying V Bar & Grill for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners. Then, make plans to ring in the new year with us by enjoying New Year’s Eve Dinner at the Flying V Bar & Grill or our Canyon Café before heading to our New Year’s Party with live music, party favors and a sparkling wine toast at midnight. Or stay in for a romantic four-course dinner for two in the comfort of your guest room with sparkling wine and party favors. Packages and More... With more than two months of holiday activities and celebrations, Loews Ventana Canyon is your destination for comfortable, luxurious accommodations and fun for the whole family this holiday season. Visit www.loewshotels.com/en/Ventana-Canyon-Resort. www.thehotelguide.com

f Santa doesn’t live in Sun Valley, he should. So say the elves of this winter wonderland in south-central Idaho, whose merry holiday work to display thousands of twinkling lights is eclipsed only by the sparkling diamond surface of fresh snow. The valley lives up to its namesake throughout the year – but no time is more brilliant than the holiday season. First Ski Resort Santa would approve the childlike glee of travelers who have flocked to the secret town for over 75 years. An escape for celebrities and Olympic athletes eschewing typical mountain crowds, Sun Valley was America’s first ski resort and continues to be a perpetual favorite. Today, it is a winter playground where skiers and snowboarders, sleigh riders and snowshoers go for outdoor fun. Great Activities Combine its abundance of outdoor pursuits with a wealth of holiday activities, and you’ll quickly realize why generations choose Sun Valley as a family seasonal gathering spot. The December schedule includes the Nutcracker on Ice show, performed on the outdoor rink. Horsedrawn sleighs take guests to dinner at famed Trail Creek Cabin. A classical holiday concert includes a singalong of old favorites, and a gingerbread village is as frosty as the whipped-cream world outside. A new Holiday Window Stroll delights guests from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day with a walk past 13 international displays, depicting winter scenes from places afar. Artists from Finland, England, North America and South America chose their favorite traditions from Kenya to Argentina, England to Italy, www.thehotelguide.com

IDAHO

China to Russia, as they celebrate the “Language of the Holidays.” “This is an exceptional cultural and celebratory experience for our local community and visitors from around the world,” said Tim Silva, general manager of Sun Valley Resort. “We love creating new traditions that families can enjoy for generations.” Making Memories... Guests receive “passports” and collect stamps from each display, each bearing a greeting from a different country. A special confection is given at the end of the stroll. The experience is free and open to the public. Beyond the complete list of activities, resort guests will find traditional holiday décor spread throughout the property, unique holiday menus at each of its 13 restaurants, children’s craft time, and more. Family-friendly Accommodations are family-friendly, comprised of individual hotel rooms in the Sun Valley Lodge and Sun Valley Inn, as well as spacious suites in its signature cottages and premium condominiums. Overnight rates start at $79 per person, per night through December 20; and many of the resort’s activities are so affordable, they’re worth a firsttime try. On Christmas Eve, Sun Valley ski instructors host a torchlight parade, inviting guests to watch the light that envelops the region through the month. Guided by a thousand twinkling stars, sightings of a jolly old soul in red and white can’t be hard to find. For more information, see www.sunvalley.com or call 800-786-8259. 35

Scotland

The Cameron House Incredible Scotland Getaway

ameron House on Loch Lomond during the final week of December. The property, which is a traditional country house, sits on the “bonnie banks” of Loch Lomond. Here guests are surrounded by log fires, festive décor and a variety of activities steeped in Scottish tradition, plus special events and rates for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and “Hogmanay” (the Scottish New Year). Great Packages Two- to four-night packages from for Dec. 23-26 are priced from £595* ($935) to £805* ($1,265) per person, double, and £760 ($1,194) to £987 ($1,551) for Dec. 30- Jan. 2. Rates include accommodation in a classic room, daily Scottish breakfast, nightly dinner in one of three restaurants and special holiday features. Families can create an 11day holiday vacation by combining the aforementioned packages with the hotel’s “Festive Interlude” (Dec. 2729; £199 ($313), with combined pricing of £1,991 ($3,126). For guests wishing to extend the visit there is the “Festive Recovery” (Jan. 3Mar. 31), with rates starting at £110 ($173). Contact festive@cameronhouse.co.uk for more details. Great Things to Do A full program of holiday activities can be enjoyed by both adults and children. After a Highland piper sets a festive mood on Christmas Eve, younger 36

The Dylan Amsterdam

guests join Mrs. Claus for a reading of “The Night Before Christmas” while adults enjoy jazz in the Great Scots Bar. Then all are welcome to attend a Watch Night service in the village church, with mince pies, hot toddies and roaring fires awaiting them back at Cameron House. Christmas Day is made magical by a decadent feast at which Santa appears as the guest of honor. On Boxing Day (December 26), guests can participate in a family-friendly treasure hunt, birds of prey demonstration and fireside fables by day, then try out dancing lessons and whisky tastings in the evening before being entertained by a ceilidh band, pipers and dancers. Hogmanay offer more dancing lessons and whisky tastings – plus a kilt-wearing demonstration – before guests choose between “The Gathering of the Clans,” which is a formal ceilidh and banquet, or the lively family “New Year Hoolie.” On New Year’s Day, guests can take a cruise past the snow-peaked Ben Lomond or watch a falconry display; that night, the property transforms into “Cameron Casino,” complete with its own form of currency. www.thehotelguide.com

NETHERLANDS

“Winter in Amsterdam”

t’s no secret that the best way to see Amsterdam is by canal. This winter, The Dylan Amsterdam offers travelers a new way to experience the historic channels, on ice skates. In 2013, the Dutch capital will celebrate the 400 year anniversary of its canals and to help kick-off the festivities, the 40room luxury boutique hotel introduces the “Winter in Amsterdam” package inviting guests to explore a winter wonderland of rich Dutch history and culture. Great Packages... Starting at €778 (approximately $1,005), based on double occupancy, the package includes: • Two nights in a luxurious double room • Daily buffet breakfast • A glass of Glühwein, a warm and spicy European winter cocktail, upon arrival • “Lunch Plate” for two in the new Brasserie OCCO • Use of ice-skates; when weather allows on the canals or as an alternative entrance to the Museum Square Ice Rink • Amsterdam City Pass for two allowing free admission to must see museums including: the recently reopened Stedelijk, The Hermitage (currently hosting the Van Gogh collection, due to renovations), the “Grachten

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huis” (canal museum), as well as free public transport throughout the city for 24 hours. Available December 1, 2012 through February 3, 2013, reservations for this package can be made at reservations@dylanamsterdam.com or +31(0)20 530 2010. Subject to availability. Additional nights start at €295 per room, per night. About the Dylan A refined luxury hotel situated directly on the “Keizersgracht,” one of Amsterdam’s most famous and picturesque canals, The Dylan is centrally located in Amsterdam’s historic shopping district “de negen straatjes” (“the nine streets”), which features galleries, antique shops, and clothing boutiques. Given the short stroll to many of Amsterdam’s main attractions, The Dylan offers guests an opportune home to take advantage of the city’s winter celebrations including a stroll down the “Boulevard of Light” during the Amsterdam Light Festival taking place from December 7, 2012 through January 20, 2013. For more information on the festival, visit www. amsterdamlightfestival.com/en/. 37

Red Mountain Resort

experiences

Piece of Heaven Under the Utah Clouds

by:JoAnn Boone

hile the Red Mountain Resort is every bit worth its reputation as a destination for outdoor adventure, fitness programs and impressive spa and salon treatments, it may be a bit challenging to get yourself there if you’re coming from Texas. That is how this Mother/Daughter adventure began, but with a little patience and the courteous handling of the shuttle Driver from the St. George Shuttle company, we made it. Don’t let any travel hitches keep you from this experience...

Day 1: Our arrival was seamless, due in great part to the welcome we received, and the full detail of amenities and Daily Schedule of offerings carefully explained at check-in by the front desk staff, as well as the courtesy cart ride by John to our room. On the way he showed us where to find anything we needed at any 38

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Experiences

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time. Our Villa, which was essentially a small apartment, had a full kitchen, living area and powder room. Our bedroom with ample closet space could have easily accommodated four adults. The full bath there was a luxury room in itself with full tub, and granite tile throughout. I should tell you that the regular resort room we visited, was just as luxurious, and had more than ample room and amenities as well. No expense was spared on the accommodations here. Red Mountain Resort is a ‘low light community’ conscious of energy conservation, which was evident in the minimal evening lighting throughout the grounds and the encouragement to reuse bath towels and linens, all of which was appreciated. Not to be missed throughout the grounds, are a variety of seating areas for reposing at any time, as well as inviting hammocks that were irresistible. Time floats right along with you when your on one of these hammocks. continued on next page 39

Experiences

Before I tell you anything about the superb Sagestone Spa offerings, outdoor adventures and the fitness options, I must say a word about the excellent restaurant and food choices created by the renowned Culinary Veteran and Executive Chef, Chad Luethje. His focus on purity of ingredients in healthy gourmet offerings, was nothing but stellar. My daughter Katie and I purposely chose a different entree each night to experience each of Luethje’s creations. We were never disappointed in any of these dinners, sparked only by the added pleasure of a prickly pear sauce that was prepared that day from the ripe fruit growing on cacti on the grounds. The extensive Breakfast and Lunch buffets offered superb choices in the freshest health-conscious diet to keep your energy levels up for the day. These two girls travel to enjoy good food wherever we go, and the perfect combinations of health gourmet and good for the soul food did not disappoint. Day 2: This was when we immersed ourselves in the luxury of true first class Spa treatments. One is escorted to the Relaxation Room for what can only be described as the most comfortable means of decompressing. My daughter Katie started with a Desert Spring manicure and pedicure, while I had the ever rewarding foot Reflexology treatment and pedicure. Many of us may have had the pleasure of any one of these treatments at some point in our lives, but the combination of the quiet atmosphere, calming aromas and professional Spa staff were a true delight, not to 40

be missed. After an excellent lunch, we were back at the Spa for more. We both enjoyed the excellent Luminosity Restorer Facial that was complemented by world class Clarins products and partial upper body massages. We indulged ourselves with one more treat to end our day, an 80 minute Sagestone Customized massage in the privacy of our rooms, by expert masseuses that tailored each of our treatments to the preference of pressure applied and body areas most needing their attention. I cannot say enough for the level of professional and elegant treatment towards us for each and every one of our choices for our day of pampering. The visitor will have a challenge in selecting their treatment, but never a disappointment. Day 3: Our day began in the cool of the Utah morning with an invigorating Kayenta Coffee Cruise bike ride to the nearby town namesake. Along the way, we witnessed the true majesty of the red mountains of Utah that gave this retreat its name. Our ride was a mere six-mile excursion, on moderate terrain. Kayenta is a mecca for artists, galleries and exclusive local jeweler’s crafts and gifts. Our morning was off to a great stimulating start, that we chose to complete with a relaxing stroll along Inspiration Trail that runs along the outer boundaries of the Red Mountain Resort and Spa, perfectly tailored for complete calmness, and not be missed. While our focus on this first of many visits to the Red Mountain Resort began with the hope of experiencing excellent cuisine and luxury spa treatment, the offerings of Whole Body Wellness, Outdoor Adventures and tailored Fitness Programs will bring us back. There was not a moment when what we expected would be our experience of the Red Mountain Resort wasn’t pleasantly met and excelled. The Red Mountain Resort is one of those now “must go, not to be missed” locations you must add to your 2013 list. Enjoy Life. www.thehotelguide.com