Accommodations • Attractions • Events • Destinations
The Majestic Phoenician Resort
Inside Scottsdale, Arizona Telluride, Colorado Two Step Restaurant Third Edition 2012
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The Phoenician Resort - Scottsdale, Arizona
History and Elegance.
Table of Contents Hotel Valencia San Antonio,TX
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Two-Step Restaurant - San Antonio, TX
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Four Seasons Hotel - Houston, Tx
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Aldaco’s Stone Oak Two Step Restaurant San Antonio, Texas
Hyatt Key West Resort & Spa
San Antonio, Tx 12
Key West, Florida
Harlingen, Tx Feature 14
Monastero Santa Rosa
Embassy Suites Outdoor World
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Rivertini
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Michael Jackson/Cirque du Soleil
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Destinations
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Amalfi Coast, Italy
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
Telluride, Colorado 26 Phoenician Resort & Spa- Scottsdale, AZ
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Scottsdale, AZ 30 320 Bonham San Antonio, Texas 78205 (888) 450-8436 www.crocketthotel.com
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About the Cover:
The Phoenician Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona boasts incredible views, oustanding customer service and an impeccable array of amenities. This award-winning property is a “must” on your travel list. (Photo: The Phoenician Resort) www.thehotelguide.com
Summer Festivals in Utah
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Florida Hyatts - Summer Getaways
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Monastero Santa Rosa - Italy
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Experiences - Team Cocktail
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...beautiful ...magical ...memorable www.riosanantonio.com
Ride the Rio
River Taxi • Private Charters • Special Events
Connect. Share.Engage
(210) 244-5700 (800) 417-4139
A Word From the Publisher...
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ummer is upon us and with that comes the challenge of finding where we can make memories and travel. This issue has a myriad of great opportunities for individuals and families to certainly do that. If you are in Texas or traveling to the Lone Star State, you don’t want to miss one of the hot spots in Harlingen, Texas. Tons of things to do for the family. Hungry? You can’t go wrong with the impeccable Aldaco’s in Stone Oak and Two-Step Restaurant, both in San Antonio, Texas. From delectable margaritas to truly delectable fare, both of these South Texas staples will leave you full. Want hotter? Head to Scottsdale, Arizona. This family-friendly getaway has lots for everyone to do. Looking for an outstanding place to stay? Then look no further than the Phoenician Resort and Spa. This impeccable property thrives on customer service and making your experience out of this world. Go Coastal? Try the Hyatt hotels in Florida. These three properties really make Summer fun. If the mountains are more your style, visit Telluride, Colorado. Read about great Summer festivals and the Hotel Telluride, courtesy of our great partner, Jennifer Broome of “Swept Away with Jennifer Broome.” 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!
@riosanantonio
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Edward R. Leos Publisher
Jennifer Leos
Associate Publisher
Vianni Busquets
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 • Institute of Texan Cultures • Amarillo CVB •Fredericksburg CVB • Arlington 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.
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©2012 Hotel Valencia Corporation. Valencia® is a registered trademark.
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
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Chosen among the Top 10 0 U. S. Hotels, Condé Nast Traveler, 2010 & 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards
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Two Step Restaurant History and Charm
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hen you find the last piece of a puzzle, the picture suddenly becomes clear. That’s what happened for Chef Steve Warner when he was exploring the option of opening his restaurant. The question of cuisine, concept and location kept evolving, but when Warner came upon the opportunity to partner with Fulcrum Group on the historic property in front of Braun Pointe Shopping Center,at the time the home to a dilapidated homestead originally built in the 1860s, everything clicked. “The Ruempel homestead was the final piece of the puzzle. The feel of the house and barn, the opportunity to create something new while honoring the history of this location—this spot is the perfect home for a true Texas theme, true Texas cuisine, a true Texas feel—we’re Texas. You can’t get more authentic than the roots of this homestead,” explains Warner. Those roots formed the basis of Warner’s menu for Two Step Restaurant and Cantina, located inside West Loop 1604 at the corner of Braun Road and Loop 1604. It’s easy to spot: look for the historic farm buildings with terrific music and true Texas barbeque smoke filling the air. The array of Texas tastes on the Two Step menu are meant to honor Texas cuisine and showcase it in a way that it should be done, not what the stereotype of a dish may be. For instance, a menu offering that is totally Texas is chicken fried steak, but at Two Step, that gets a makeover to remain truly authentic and to be better than what people have come to expect from chicken fried steak. At Two Step, it’s “Fork Tender Chicken Fried Steak.” Really. For those who are used to seeing a tough cut tossed in flour and fried, Two Step’s Chicken Fried Steak is a new experience: made from 28-day wet-aged certified Angus beef that’s never frozen, the steak is flavorful and tender before it’s fried, making for an amazing tribute to a Texas classic that is often poorly imitated.
An Autobiographical Menu Much of Two Step’s menu comes from Warner’s background, as well as his family and his experiences. Menu items such as the “Loaded” Beef Ribs and Parmesan Crusted Pork Chop were influenced by his family, while Nana’s Award Winning Borracho Style Pinto Beans truly are Nana’s—the recipe originated with Warner’s mother-in-law. Warner is proud of the family dishes on the menu, but now realizes that those are the toughest critiques to please. “I’ve learned the hard way not to use family recipes for the menu—when they come in and try the dishes, it’s never just right!” One of the restaurant’s most popular sides, served as full or half orders, is the Creamy Cheese and Shell Macaroni, another recipe credited to Warner’s motherin-law. And no,Two Step’s version hasn’t met her standards yet, but Two Step diners seem to disagree. They also rave about Nana’s Award-Winning Borracho Style Pinto Beans. The” Loaded” Beef Rib—short ribs that are trimmed to leave a well-marbled, tender piece of meat on the bone—is another dish tied to Warner’s in-laws.” They had a butcher shop in Edinburg and the loaded rib was a cut they used to do. It’s unbeatable if you like rich cuts.” The cooking techniques employed at Two Step keep the emphasis on the superior quality of the ingredients, utilizing the best cooking preparation to bring out the best in every dish. For instance, the Loaded Beef Rib is smoked for 12 hours, which renders the fat and bathes the meat, basting it from the inside out, further tenderizing the cut. Two Step offers the rib as a single or double cut on both its lunch and dinner menus. The Parmesan Crusted Pork Chop with Raspberry
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Chipotle was also introduced to Warner by his in-laws. It’s a dish his father-in-law served the family that caught Warner’s attention. “It’s a very flavorful way to do a pork chop—the crust keeps the meat moist and pairs very well with the raspberry chipotle flavor.” The Roasted Corn, dressed with cojita, chili, mayonnaise and lime, is based on a dish served at Havana, a New York restaurant that Warner and his wife enjoy. They were married in New York, so the corn is another tie to Warner’s history. “The Crispy Sautéed Chicken Breast with Sweet Corn Butter is a dish I created in California, however, there it featured seafood and California flavors, like white cheddar. The cooking process with the sweet corn butter gives the meat a terrific flavor and the Kiolbassa chorizo and cojita cheese make it Texas.” Warner also pulled from his California experience to create the Gulf Shrimp “Firecrackers” with Red Pepper Jelly. The dish is a twist on a recipe Warner created in California. Appetizers like the Texas Rolls filled with Smoked Sausage, Chicken and Brisket with Roasted Poblano-Avocado Sauce take a cuisine concept not associated with Texas and feature the best of Texas ingredients for a true Texas taste, while the QuesoOaxaca, “Mexican Mozzarella” with Spicy Pork Chorizo and Fresh Hot Tortillas appetizer is all Texas. An appetizer that gets a lot of attention is the Fried Baby Back Ribs. The ribs are first smoked, then fried, and served with Garlic Chile Honey Mustard. “It might sound gimmicky, but it’s about the flavor: it’s crispy, fatty, tender, smoky and spicy, all at the same time.” Another appetizer with a Texas twist: Fried Pickles. The secret? The crust includes crushed Fritos for a taste that can only be Texas. Desserts are not an afterthought at Two Step and each is a bit autobiographical as well: the Whiskey Cuswww.thehotelguide.com
TEXAS tard Cream is a dish served at Gumbo’s in Austin, a restaurant Warner helped open in 1990s, and the Cinnamon and Raisin Bread Pudding with Hot Sugar Butter á la Mode is based on a soufflé he used to serve at Wildfish Seafood Grille. And the Pecan Pie? “That’s my mom’s, of course!” Quality Ingredients Cooked From Scratch Many of Warner’s culinary values were instilled during his childhood learning home-style cooking from his paternal grandmother, who would serve dishes for huge family holiday gettogethers. “My lessons in cooking began with learning how to make everything from scratch, and honoring the value of really simple and fresh ingredients,” he says. For its fish dishes like the Fish Tacos or the Fried Catfish Po’Boy, Two Step uses Texas farm-raised, “top-fed” catfish from Bowers Shrimp & Fish Company in Palacios. “Top-fed fish are just that—fed from the top of the water, so they’re not eating from the bottom of the pond, ensuring the meat has a fresh taste to it,” explained Warner. “Less expensive dining doesn’t have to mean less quality,” says Warner. “We want the experience to still be high end.That means quality ingredients, cooked from scratch. People shouldn’t have to eat something that’s been frozen, unless it’s ice cream!” By the way, ice cream is the only thing not homemade on Two Step’s menu! The most surprising house-made item on the menu? Two Step makes its own bacon, so the bacon featured in dishes such as the Pepper Crusted Roast Turkey Club and the Bacon Wrapped Brisket-Habanero Stuffed Jalapeno is fresh made in the Two Step kitchen. Even Two Step’s children’s menu is fresh made. “We’re a family establishment—children are not an afterthought. Why wouldn’t we want to serve them fresh made food?” Contact Us For more information on Two-Step Restaurant, visit 9
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Four Seasons - Houston Texas Luxury at it’s Finest
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n the heart of downtown Houston’s financial and business districts and just steps from many internationally renowned cultural destinations, Four Seasons resonates with the cosmopolitan elegance and refined Southern charm that characterize Houston. A $25 Million Facelift The Four Seasons Hotel Houston completed a threeyear, $25-million renovation project that encompassed four areas of the hotel – guest rooms, the pool, the lobby, and the hotel’s exclusive apartments, Four Seasons Place. The 20-story tower of the Five-star Four Seasons Hotel Houston features 404 well-appointed guest rooms, including 103 luxury suites and 12 specialty suites. The residential atmosphere mixes traditional and contemporary décor to reflect the urban elegance and easy Southern charm of the city. Extra-large bay windows showcase city and pool views. Designed to ensure complete peace of mind, all luxury accommodations feature comfortable furnishings, a signature Four Seasons bed, a flat-panel television and a CD/DVD player. Pampering marble bathrooms include a tub and shower combination. To ensure maximum productivity, all rooms are equipped with a spacious executive desk, wireless Internet access, dual-line telephones, and connections for a fax machine and computer equipment. Leave the bustle of the city behind and begin a journey to relaxation and rejuvenation. Relax at the Spa... The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Houston features a variety of massages, body treatments and facials to help nurture the body, melt away tension and calm the spirit. Get whisked away to a relaxing place. The Spa features a private couple’s suite, as well as men’s and women’s locker rooms. Before or after your treatment, enjoy our dry saunas or whirlpool, or simply take advantage of our complimentary amenities that are available for our guests.
Vinoteca Quattro Located on the third floor, this exciting new wine bar offers a comfortable respite from the hotel’s bustling downtown location. Adjoining Quattro restaurant, Vinoteca Quattro features vivid lighting, red leather banquette seating and more than 50 feet of solid granite bar top. The restaurant’s signature floor-to-ceiling silver beads create a secluded retreat for guests. Contact Information For more information on this incredible Houston property, visit their website at www.fourseasons.com/houston.
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Aldaco’s Stone Oak
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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-
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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 www.thehotelguide.com
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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
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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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True Texas Charm in Grapevine
Embassy Suites Outdoor World
rapevine, Texas is known for great wines, dining options, shopping, golf and even some of the state’s best hotels. You can certainly add the Embassy Suites Outdoor World to that list of accomplished area hotels. Roomy and More... This AAA Four Diamond, Award-Winning property is minutes from the DFW Airport and perfect for the business traveler or group and leisure traveler. All of the spacious hotel suites contain a variety amenities that ensure that whether you’re working or relaxing, you’ll have everything you need to hand. Things such as high-speed Internet access, two televisions and two telephones with voicemail. Guests can also choose from OnDemand® movies and video games to keep you entertained; and when you work up an appetite you can make use of the refrigerator, microwave oven, wet bar and coffee maker so you can snack or dine in your hotel suite. Hungry? Every morning starts with the Embassy Suite’s full cooked-to-order breakfast to get your day started. Looking for lunch and dinner options, then the Sportsman’s Club Bar & Grill is certainly the answer. It offers an American fair menu with daily lunch and dinner specials. We have 16 TV’s including four big screens and twelve High Definition LCD flat screens. We broadcast the popular sporting events daily. We maintain the Direct TV NFL and NCAA College Football Packages in addition to the full NCAA March Madness package annually. The full menu is available until 10pm and we offer a late
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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.
night sandwich and appetizer menu through closing. Also, don’t forget about the complimentary Manager’s Reception that offers cold beverages and a myriad of snacks for the entire family. Meeting Space Looking for a great venue for your next meeting or function? Then the Embassy Suites is the answer. This is the ideal place to meet for business meetings & social groups such as wedding receptions and family reunions. With 20,000 square- feet of meeting & event space,the property has a variety of meeting space options. Contact Us For more information on pricing, advance reservations, etc....please call 972-724-2600 or visit them here.
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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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RiverTini Pour Off
Fun Event for a Great Cause
haken, on the rocks or with a twist—there’s no telling what this year’s competitors will offer up as their interpretation of the San Antonio River in a martini glass during the Fourth Annual RiverTini Pour-Off, an event that benefits the San Antonio River Foundation. The fundraiser is scheduled for June 19, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency San Antonio, 123 Losoya Street. The Hyatt Regency is the perfect location for the event: the San Antonio River literally flows through the hotel’s first level. “We can’t imagine a better way to enjoy RiverTini than being on the river we’re working to enhance,” said Estela Avery, Executive Director of the San Antonio River Foundation. “It’s the perfect backdrop to showcase drinks designed to reflect the spirit, culture and vitality of the river that flows through our city.” What is it? The RiverTini PourOff is an annual competition featuring some of the city’s top bars and restaurants mixing specialty martinis that reflect the fresh and lively spirit of the San Antonio River. Sponsored by the Hyatt Regency San Antonio and Republic National Distributing Company, all proceeds from the event benefit the San Antonio River Foundation. The event raises funds for the San Antonio River Foundation and celebrates the on-going efforts to bring recreation, public art and educational opportunities along the San Antonio River expansions, the Mission
Reach and the Museum Reach. A non-profit organization, the San Antonio River Foundation’s mission is to enhance the natural beauty, recreational use and public appreciation of the entire San Antonio River and its tributaries through Bexar, Wilson, Karnes and Goliad counties. The River Foundation works to provide amenities and enhancements not funded by public monies; opportunities that will allow residents and tourists alike to enjoy the river’s natural beauty, immerse themselves in its history and become thoughtful stewards of its future.
The Foundation’s ambitious projects range from installing exciting urban art pieces by renowned artists to creating unprecedented opportunities for education, recreation, reflection and interaction with nature along the entire river. The Foundation is the only non-profit involved in the San Antonio River Improvements Project. Ticket Prices? Tickets for the event are $50 each and are on sale now through the event’s website, www.rivertini.com, as well as the River Foundation’s website, www.sariverfoundation.org. Tickets include entrance to the event to sample the creative martini masterpieces and fabulous hors d’oeuvres, as well as the opportunity to win fun
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door prizes. All guests must be 21 years or older. To keep up with the latest on RiverTini, follow RiverTini on Twitter, @rivertini, or on Facebook, Rivertini. Questions? Please contact Karen Kimbell with the San Antonio River Foundation at 210-224-2694 or via email at karen. kimbell@sariverfoundation.org. Past Winners Past martini concoctions have included such unique ingredients as sushi, pop-rocks, chocolate, cucumber and more—and who knows what this year’s competitors will dream up? There are 18 RiverTini Pour-Off competitors, each determined to claim the trophy: an oversized martini glass etched to commemorate the event. The 2012 participants include last year’s champion, Cork Bar at Hotel Contessa; as well as Ácenar, Bohanan’s Restaurant & Bar, Brio Tuscan Grille, Coco Chocolate Lounge, Drink Texas, Esquire Tavern, Feast, Lüke San Antonio, Oro at Emily Morgan Hotel, Q on the Riverwalk at Hyatt Regency San Antonio, Achiote River Café at Grand Hyatt San Antonio, Quarry Hoffbrau, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Soho Wine and Martini Bar, Tiki Bar Cocktail Lounge at El Tropicano Hotel, V-bar at Hotel Valencia, and Zinc Bistro & Wine Bar. Judges? The martinis will be critiqued by a panel of five judges: Chef David Kellaway, Managing Director of the Culinary Institute of America; Cassandra Lazenby, cohost of FOX 29’s Daytime@Nine; Jennifer McInnis, Wine and Spirits Writer for the San Antonio Express News; Richard Ojeda, El Rey Feo 2012; and Robert Olivarez with Republic National Distributing Company. The judges will be sequestered at a head table and will receive hand-delivered, full presentations of each martini.
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TEXAS Martinis will receive numerical scores on a 1 to 5 scale (1 being poor and 5 being great) based on flavor, uniqueness and appearance. Appearance will include beverage color, serving glass and garnish. Flavor scores will be based on overall initial flavor, mouth feel and aftertaste. Uniqueness refers to the “gee, I’ve never had a martini like this before” feeling. And be sure to bring your smartphone with you: this year’s RiverTini guests can take home the martini recipes with the simple click of a button. Using QR code technology, all participant booths will have a QR code on the table. Guests are encouraged to capture the code to have their favorite RiverTini recipes at their fingertips.
Quick Facts Fourth Annual RiverTini Pour-Off WHO: The San Antonio River Foundation WHAT: RiverTini Pour-Off, an annual event and fundraiser featuring 18 of the city’s top bars and restaurants mixing specialty martinis and competing to take home the prize for this year’s best martini. WHEN: Tuesday, June 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m. WHERE: Hyatt Regency San Antonio 123 Losoya Street, 78205 WHY: To benefit the San Antonio River Foundation and celebrate the on-going efforts to bring recreation, public art and educational opportunities to life along the San Antonio River.
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Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour
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ichael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour™ is a once-in-a-lifetime electrifying production that combines Michael Jackson’s music and choreography with Cirque du Soleil creativity to give fans worldwide a unique view into the spirit, passion and heart of the artistic genius who forever transformed global pop culture. Catch the tour in San Antonio at the AT&T Center on June 23rd for one night only. Star Power Directing The show is written and directed by Jamie King, the leading concert director in pop music today, and features more than 60 international dancers, musicians and acrobats. “[The show] is really just a celebration of [Michael] and his legend and his immortality. Even though he’s not there physically, you will feel him spiritually and emotionally because of what you’re visually seeing and hearing,” said King. “It was easy for us because Michael has not only always been a fan of Cirque but has always lived in a kind of fairytale, fantastical way. So in many ways he’s already kind of Cirquelike... He loves magic, fairy tale, theatricality and appreciates everything that Cirque provides. So now that we have this great marriage we have such a great opportunity to flip things upside down and make it larger than life.” Pure Passion A riveting fusion of visuals, dance, music and fantasy that immerses audiences in Michael’s creative world, Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour unfolds Michael Jackson’s artistry before the eyes of the audience. Aimed at lifelong fans as well as those experiencing Michael’s creative genius for the first time, the show captures the essence, soul and inspiration
of the King of Pop, celebrating a legacy that continues to transcend generations. Michael Jackson-Inspired THE IMMORTAL World Tour takes place in a fantastical realm where we discover Michael’s inspiration and the wellspring of his creativity. The secrets of Michael’s inner world are unlocked—his love of music and dance, fairy tale and magic, and the fragile beauty of nature. The underpinnings of THE IMMORTAL World Tour are Michael Jackson’s powerful, inspirational music and lyrics—the driving force behind the show—brought to life with extraordinary power and breathless intensity. Through unforgettable performances Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour underscores Michael’s global messages of love, peace and unity. Information For more information, visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/ michaeljackson.
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CONROE, TEXAS Urban Jewel in the Piney Woods
destinations We are a delightful blend of nature, history, arts and recreation nestled in the Piney Woods of East Texas. Visit our Website and print a Visitors Guide, Visi call us or order one online and we’ll mail it to you.
1-877-426-6763
THG 2011
www.playinconroe.com
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Colorado
Telluride, Colorado Festivals and a Stellar Hotel
by: Jennifer Broome, “Swept Away” ucked in the San Juan Mountains of Southwest Colorado, Telluride is a golfer’s paradise, adventurer’s haven, outdoor enthusiatist’s heaven, and relaxation seeker’s outdoor spa during the summer. Some of the area’s earliest settlers, the Ute Indians, called Telluride and surrounding area “The Land of Waterfalls.” Summer Festivals The summer festival line-up is as eclectic as the people, from the tent sleeping hippies to the uber rich vacationing in ultimate luxury melding together in Telluride. There’s some sort of festival almost every weekend from Memorial Weekend through September. Superpickers and some of the biggest names in bluegrass like Alison Krauss & Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas and Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers take the stage in the 39th Annual Telluride Bluegrass Festival which is Telluride’s best known summer festival. It’s June 21-24 and coincides with the summer solstice. During the Telluride Yoga Festival July 12-15, world-class instructors will lead you through a weekend of balance, relaxation, and enlightenment. Brand new this year is The Ride - Telluride’s Rock Festival August 25-26. Headliners include Ben Harper and the Relentless 7, Los Lobos, and Big Head Todd and the Monsters. The 38th Annual Telluride Film Festival is Labor Day Weekend, September 2-5. This festival is unique from other film festivals because the movies premiering are kept secret until opening day. It’s all about music and beer during the 19th Telluride Blues and Brews September 14-16. The B-52s, Gov’t Mule, and Phil Lesh are some of the headliners. Beer takes the center stage
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during the Grand Tasting on Saturday featuring over 50 microbreweries, over 50% from Colorado, and 150 different beers. USA Pro Cycling Challenge On August 20th, Telluride is the stage one finish of the USA Pro Cycling Challenge. The best cyclists in the world will race 683 miles in 7 days, including going over 12,000 feet in elevation three times. The perfect place to stay for any and all of the summer festivals is The Hotel Tellurde. With the hotel in the heart of Telluride, you literally are just steps away from the festivities.
The Hotel Telluride
The Hotel Telluride is a boutique hotel with oversized accommodations. It is luxurious yet cozy. With the oversized rooms, it’s a great hotel for your ski vacation too. The Hotel Telluride Select is the standard room featuring a king bed or two double beds, overstuffed chairs & ottomans, antique writing desk, and private balcony. The Hotel Telluride Deluxe and Junior Suite rooms give you a little more space than the Select. The most exclusive hotel accommodation is The Hotel Telluride Suite. The master bedroom includes a king bed, fullsized sleeper sofa, sitting area, private full bath jacuzzi tub, and private balcony. On the balcony you get spectacular views down the box canyon towards Bridal Veil Falls. There
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is a second oversized balcony off of the living area so you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the box canyon with friends and family. You’ll get a fantastic night’s sleep in the “Incredible Bed” with down bedding and 250 thread count sheets. Dining... The Nook is The Hotel Telluride’s inhouse dining. Get your day started with their wonderful breakfast buffet served daily 7-10am. Dinner is served 4:30-9pm daily. The Nook is also a perfect spot for happy hour before a night on the town or a nightcap and dessert before bed. Spas and More Soak up the sun and scenery while relaxing in the outdoor hot tubs or treat yourself to a spa experience like the Gemstone Balancing Massage. In this aromatherapeutic massage, herbal infused healing gemstone
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serums and oils are used with heated basalt & gemstones to help re-center and rejuvenate the body. You can take your pooch along too. The Hotel Telluride is pet-friendly, which is nice since Telluride is an ultra petfriendly town. Foodie Heaven Telluride is quite the foodie town with some incredible restaurants. For breakfast or lunch, try The Butcher & The Baker Cafe. Flora Dora Saloon is perfect for a low key dinner. If you want something a little more upscale, then try the Chop House at the New Sheridan Hotel or Allred’s on the mountain. Dress code is mountain casual so jeans are acceptable attire anywhere in Telluride. So get Swept Away to Telluride and make it a festival of fun this summer!
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Luxury in Scottsdale
The Phoenician Resort
ince it first opened its doors in 1988, The Phoenician has set the standard for luxury and service in the Sonoran Desert. The AAA Five Diamond resort is a visual masterpiece, spanning 250 acres of lush gardens and dramatic desert terrain against the spectacular backdrop of Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale, Arizona. Tons to Offer Everyone But what truly sets The Phoenician apart is the remarkable diversity guests will find here, allowing them to create the travel experience of their dreams. Accommodations range from luxurious guestrooms to residential-style casitas. Dining can be a casually elegant affair, as found at the Italian-inspired Il Terrazzo; as informal as a refreshing salad enjoyed poolside; or as memorable as a romantic feast just for two under the stars. The world-class recreational offerings of The Phoenician’s golf, tennis and spa facilities are balanced by the more unconventional pleasures of touring the resort’s fascinating Cactus Garden or exclusive $25 million art collection; or feeding Koi at Necklace Lake Lagoon. Spacious, Elegant Accommodations The Phoenician offers guests a choice of 643 spacious accommodations from guestrooms and luxury suites to casitas with private entrances. In the main resort building, there are 450 beautifully decorated guest rooms, plus 12 luxury suites and two expansive, 3,000 square-foot presidential suites. The intimate Canyon Suites, nestled against Camelback Mountain, is a boutique resort within the resort offering guests enhanced signature services, such as a personal wake-up call served with a choice of freshbrewed tea or coffee in a sterling silver set, a seasonal amenity presented by Executive Chef Paul Carter and a Canyon Ambassador to take care of the guest’s every desire. The Canyon Suites features 20 guestrooms, 38 luxury suites and two presidential suites, as well as its own secluded “edgeless” pool and cabanas. A short stroll from the main building adjacent to the Necklace Lake Lagoon, the casitas include an additional 119 guestrooms and suites offering doorstep parking and private entrances. Award-Winning Dining The Phoenician offers seemingly endless dining options that are as diverse as they are inspired. Among the nine restaurants is Il Terrazzo, featuring authentic American-Italian cuisine; and J&G Steakhouse, showcasing a bill of fare created by world-renowned Chef
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Jean-Georges Vongerichten. For a more casual experience, the charming Café and Ice Cream Parlor serves tempting treats and light meals in a family friendly atmosphere; and the Oasis and Canyon Grills present a variety of poolside favorites; while a complete lineup of signature burgers, appetizers and desserts await at the Relish Burger Bistro. For a more traditional experience, relax to the rich temptations of Afternoon Tea in the Lobby Tea Court. Another popular gathering spot, the Thirsty Camel Lounge, serves luxury spirits, light fare and rare cigars with live piano or saxophone adding to the ambience. And for private dining, The Praying Monk offers an intimate, Renaissance-inspired setting for small parties. World-Class Leisure Pastimes At The Phoenician, world-class recreational options abound. The golf club offers 27 holes of championship play on three, nine-hole par 70 combinations designed by Homer Flint and Ted Robinson, Sr., while the 11-court Tennis Garden is the only resort facility in the Southwest to offer four playing surfaces. Guests in search of enlightenment can indulge in an array of pampering and rejuvenating spa treatments at the 22,000 square-foot Centre for Well-Being, or learn about the resort’s many treasures – both natural and cultural – with guided and self-guided tours of the two-acre Cactus Garden and The Phoenician’s $25 million art collection. More info? Visit them online at www.thephoenician.com.
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uncompromising elegance Discover a destination distinguished by personalized, unparalleled service, luxurious accommodations and stunning surroundings.
summer rates starting at just $169.* arizona’s premier aaa Five DiamonD resort • 9 Glistening Pools • Spacious Private Cabanas • Renowned Golf, Spa and Tennis
• Award-winning Dining Options • Funician’s Kids Club • Signature Summer Activities
The Phoenician | 6000 East Camelback Rd. | Scottsdale, Arizona 85251 ThePhoenician.com | 800.888.8234 *Valid 5/21/12–9/9/12. Terms and conditions apply. Basic room rate does not include $29 Phoenician resort charge imposed per room, per night, and state/local taxes. ©2012 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Luxury Collection and its logo are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
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Scottsdale, Arizona A Family Affair
verflowing with outdoor adventure, fun in the sun and thrilling Westernstyle escapades, Scottsdale is the ultimate destination for a family sized vacation. And we’re talking the whole family, including your favorite fourlegged friends, who can unwind after a long day of boutique shopping and frolicking at the park with gourmet treats and a plush bed of their own. Most important, Scottsdale is a place where kids can be kids and parents can be big kids. Parenting magazine recognized the destination on its 2010 “Best Cities for Families” list while Travel + Leisure named Scottsdale one of the best warm-weather family adventure places to visit. Revel in rough and tumble dune buggy adventures and safari wildlife tours (javelinas, coyotes and snakes, oh my!). Soak in Scottsdale’s stunning Sonoran Desert from atop a soaring hot air balloon or while riding on horseback! Discover living history with Native American hoop dancers and staged Wild West shootouts; or explore exotic wildlife such as venomous Gila monsters and carnivorous roadrunners. In short, Scottsdale takes its family fun very seriously. Culture Club Between exploring prehistoric Indian ruins and slicing though the air inside a rumbling WWII bomber, who knew learning could be so much fun? Arizona State University’s Kerr Cultural Center presents family oriented theatrical events and student-led musical ensembles inside a quaint recital hall built from natural adobe bricks made and dried on property. Discover 1,500-year-old Hohokam Indian ruins and full-scale reproductions of prehistoric homes created by Arizona’s original adobe builders at the Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park. Founded in 1929, the Heard Museum and Heard Museum North Scottsdale offer a world-
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renowned collection of American Indian cultural art and fine art, unique exhibits and special events - headlined by the annual World Championship Hoop Dance Contest, a drum-filled affair where intricately costumed American Indians from across North America come to compete. Guests at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort, meanwhile, needn’t even leave the property to explore Scottsdale’s deep cultural roots. Home to an award-winning Native American and Environmental Learning Center, visitors learn about Scottsdale’s native Hopi Indians through art, jewelry, textiles, pottery and Katsina dolls, as well as take interpretive tours through the Native Heritage Seed Garden and its 30 varieties of indigenous plants. In downtown, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art offers eye-grabbing exhibitions sure to hold the attention of even the youngest patrons, as well as free admissions on Thursday, when the museum stays open late to offer everything from guest lectures to hands-on art demonstrations. SMoCA’s Young@Art gallery at the adjacent Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts features the work of students and other aspiring artists. And don’t forget to check out Native Trails, presented by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation and produced by
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the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, a free series of Native American dance performances presented every January through April at the Scottsdale Civic Center Mall. Go Wild In a setting as splendid (and accessible) as Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert, outdoor adventure is at the top of every family’s to-do list. Offering nearly 20,000 acres of hiking, biking and outdoorsy fun right in the heart of Scottsdale, the McDowell Mountain Regional Park is a must see. Nestled amidst Papago Park’s rolling red buttes, the Desert Botanical Garden is home to five thematic trails illustrating everything from how desert plants are used for nourishment and tools to the blooming beauty of desert wildflowers. On Saturday nights, families are invited to explore the desert flora and fauna after dark during the Garden Flashlight Tour allowing them to see, hear and feel the desert in a whole new way. Put civilization in your rearview mirror when you hop aboard a Jeep or Hummer tour for a rousing off-road adventure. Led by professional drivers well-versed in the area’s adventurous history and native wildlife, riders can extend their adventure with visits to abandoned mining encampments, Native American ruins or even a ropin’ demonstration followed by a campfire cookout. True thrill seekers, meanwhile, will want to slide behind the wheel of one of Desert Wolf Tours’ and Green Zebra Adventures’ self-drive Tomcar tours. These rugged two-seaters require only 10 minutes of instruction before drivers 18 and older scamper off on a follow-the-leader journey into the wilds of Scottsdale’s desert outskirts. The Phoenix Zoo was voted one of the top five in the nation for kids for their creative family programming. For the artist in the family, try Wild Art where children create a unique work of art inspired
AZ by animals found in the zoo or for the animal lover, the Critter Keeper program allows kiddos to spend a day in the life of a zoo keeper. Take a walk on the wild side with the Family Wilderness Experience Night Camp where the whole family sleeps in a tent and enjoys campfire s’mores, a night hike, private safari train tour and a day of zoo exploration. Animal action awaits at Out of Africa Wildlife Park in neighboring Camp Verde, Ariz., where visitors are whisked away in traditional safari vehicles for an authentic African photo safari as experienced guides navigate the tour through the Serengeti. It wouldn’t be a real safari without up-close animal interaction, so guests can treat giraffes and camels to tasty snacks and may even be greeted by a gentle kiss. Be sure to catch Africa’s big cats in action at Tiger Splash where Bengals and Siberians romp, play, and of course, splash in a pool with brightly colored balloons, animal-shaped pool toys, and their experienced trainers who teach visitors about their striped friends’ instincts, intellect and natural behavior. All Aboard Longtime family favorite, Scottsdale’s McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park features a carousel, railroad-themed exhibits and a small-scale steam train chugging passengers around a mile-long track. The park’s newest addition is the $2.2 million model train building designed for learning about and experiencing model trains with touch screen computer activities; visitor operated model railroads and trains; and exhibits with information, photographs, and illustrations. For those looking to ride the real thing, Northern Arizona offers two historic train adventures: a stunning tour though Arizona’s mountainous Bald Eagle country on the Verde Canyon Railroad, and the stately Grand Canyon Railway, which has been delivering passengers right to the rim of this natural wonder since 1901. continued on page 32
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Hitting From the Kids’ Tee Kierland Golf Club rolled out a family golf program where young aspiring pros learn the fundamentals of putting, chipping and full swings, as well golf etiquette, rules and history of the game. Next, these diminutive duffers take on one of the club’s three nine-hole courses decked out with junior tees to make the course more playable for younger golfers. The Family Tee program at TPC Scottsdale’s Champions Course makes golf more enjoyable for kids and newbie-adults by turning the course into a shorter, more playable venue. Two markers are provided at each hole, offering unobstructed shots to the green with few, if any hazards, and there is even easy-toread scorecards. Cannonball! Although Scottsdale is smack dab in the middle of one of America’s largest deserts, families are never left high and dry. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’ kid-friendly Sonoran Splash is a 6,000-squarefoot water recreation area featuring two of the state’s longest resort water slides. The Phoenician boasts nine pools and an 11-million gallon Necklace Pool and Lagoon where families can help feed the resident Koi fish. But that all pales in comparison to the spine-tingling excitement of the 165-foot waterslide, which is transformed during summer holidays into an “electric waterslide” complete with fog, lasers and pulsating music. Located in downtown Scottsdale, Kimpton’s FireSky Resort & Spa’s verdant inner courtyard hides a spacious pool deck including a sandy beach pool,
Summer Festivals
Sizzling Summer in Utah
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Mediterranean-inspired lagoon, and torch-lit heated outdoor pool and hot tub. The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort tempts with two-and-a-half-acres of water wonderland, including 10 separate pools, 28 fountains and 47 sparkling waterfalls. Kid favorites include a spiraling three-story waterfall and “beach pool” featuring 500,000 pounds of toe-curling sand trucked in from Monterey, Calif. to form a 50-footlong, 70-foot-wide shoreline. Offering more than 575,000 gallons of wet n’ wild fun, including a 110-foot-long waterslide and 900-foot-long lazy river ride, The Westin Kierland Resort’s Adventure Water Park is a splashing good time. Lined with native desert plants and family friendly cabanas, the pool deck is complemented by a children’s play area featuring pop-jet water fountains and a shallow pool for small children and babies. Plus, The Westin Kierland Resort is one of several Scottsdale resorts that encourage families to kick back in the water and enjoy poolside cinema as part of their dive-in movie programs during the summer. Other places to catch a poolside flick include The Phoenician, Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale. Contact Us To download a free kids activity guide to Scottsdale, visit www.scottsdalecvb.com/scottsdale/ family-friendly.
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his summer Utah is inviting visitors of all ages to take advantage of special events and offerings throughout the state. Whether indulging in the best of Utah’s culinary delights, attending spectacular theatrical and musical performances, or relaxing amidst the breathtaking landscapes at various lodges throughout the state, Utah promises to deliver excitement and value on every level. Beyond the following sampling, a comprehensive list of statewide summer offerings can be found at www. visitutah.com. Utah Arts Festival - Salt Lake City, UT - June 21-24 The Utah Arts Festival, entering into its 36th year, is the largest outdoor multi-disciplinary arts event in Utah, drawing over 80,000 patrons to Library and Washington Square to enjoy performances from hundreds of visual artists, performing arts groups and culinary artisans. Travelers will enjoy four days of award-winning fine arts in the Artist Marketplace, live entertainment on five stages, local and international street theater, a short film festival, Artists at Work showcase and local culinary treats. Perfect for families, the Festival offers a handson Art Yard for children and an Urban Arts venue for teenagers to explore their creative sides. For more information, visit www.uaf.org. Utah Shakespeare Festival - June 21 - October 20 Theater lovers all over the world will travel to southern Utah’s Cedar City this year for the 51st annual Tony Award-winning Utah Shakespeare Festival with performances scheduled for June 21 - October 20, 2012. The Festival is one of the oldest and largest in North America and features plays from the around the world, but the works of William Shakespeare, long admired by the people of southern Utah, remain its cornerstone. The plays are enhanced by interactive experiences which entertain, enrich, and educate festival attendees. This season promises to be one to remember as the Festival has added Les Miserables to the line-up, one of the world’s most popular shows and Broadway’s third www.thehotelguide.com
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longest running musical. With eight plays in total, other exciting productions will include To Kill a Mockingbird, Scapin, Titus Andronicus and Hamlet, among others. For more information, visit www.bard.org. 5th Annual Savor the Summit - Park City, UT - June 23 Kicking off the summer season, the 5th Annual Savor the Summit will showcase the culinary talents of Park City’s best restaurants. This unique dinner party, which brings together the region’s diverse dining options, is served at The Grande Table in the middle of Park City’s Historic Main Street, creating an incredible culinary experience for diners. Accompanied by live music throughout, this event celebrates Utah’s love of music and food. The event is open and free to the general public who want to witness the Grande Table, listen to the musical sounds and visit the business of Main Street. Dining guests can make a reservation directly with any participating restaurant, each offering their choice of menu, pricing and bar service. Menu prices range from $40-$150. For more information, visit www. savorthesummit.com. Deer Valley Music Festival - Park City, UT June 29 - August 11 Held at Deer Valley Resort’s beautiful Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater, this month-long celebration of music features a full repertoire of musical performances from the Utah Symphony. Locals and visitors of all ages will enjoy classical and pop music, chamber orchestra performances and salon events in exquisite Deer Valley area homes, where guests will hear and meet artists. The musical performances line-up includes The Music of the Eagles, Von Trapp children, Chris Botti, Summer Pops with Keith Lockhart, Time for Three, Holst’s The Planet, “Broadway Rocks”, The Music of Queen and a Utah Symphony performance of “Patriotic Celebration.” For show times and ticket information, visit www. deervalleymusicfestival.org. continued on page 34 33
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Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theatre (UFOMT) Logan, UT - July 12 - August 11 Utah Festival Opera celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, inviting opera lovers to partake in creative musical performances, set against the backdrop of Cache Valley’s spectacular mountain scenery. With over 130 events, the five-week festival includes productions of grand opera, operetta, light opera and seldomseen Broadwaystyle musical theatre, in addition to a variety of orchestral and vocal concerts. In honor of the exciting 20-year milestone, the festival will introduce new productions of the most oft-performed grand operas of the 20th Century including the immortal “Faust” and timeless “Tosca.” UFOMT will bring to life blockbuster Broadway musicals “Kiss Me Kate” and “My Fair Lady” and will also host a “Tribute to Judy Garland” concert, backstage tours and adult education courses through the Utah Festival Academy. World-renowned in the operatic industry, the festival’s founder Michael Ballam recruits the incredible talent that makes this a destination opera for thousands of enthusiasts. Prices range from $10-$76. For additional information on UFOMT, visit www.ufoc.org. Escalante Canyons Working Arts Festival: Everett Ruess Days - Escalante, UT - Sept. 28-29 The Ninth annual Escalante Canyons Art Festival will celebrate the life and work of enigmatic artist Everett Ruess who disappeared from the rugged canyon country near Escalante, UT in 1934 and was never seen again. Organized by local businesses, caring citizens and artists and top Ruess aficionados, the Working Arts Festival is a premiere art and literary
gathering with the aim of welcoming visitors to the stunning landscapes and intense beauty surrounding the Grand StaircaseEscalante National Monument and educating them on the region’s rich history. Festival events include fine arts and crafts exhibition and sale, lectures, films, exhibits, workshops, gallery open hoes, walking tours of nearby historic buildings and performances by poets, dance groups and musicians. All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit www. everettruessdays.org. Western Legends Roundup Kanab, UT - August 16-18 A signature Kanab event, the Western Legends Roundup was created to honor the richness of Western movie history and to celebrate the 100-plus classic Western movies and television series filmed in the area over the years. Visitors will get a taste of the old West during this classic weekend featuring Western vendors, exhibits, art shows and workshops, Western entertainment and concerts, cowboy poetry and cuisine, child-friendly activities and autograph sessions with well-known Western movie stars. For more information, visit www. westernlegendsroundup.com. Tuacahn CTR. for the Arts - Ivins, UT - June 4 - August 31 One of only two theatres in the country to present Disney’s “Aladdin,” just minutes from St. George and the perfect addition to a trip to Zion National Park, the Tuacahn Amphitheatre at the Tuacahn Center for the Arts in Southern Utah, is a world class family entertainment venue, perfect for family fun. Surrounded by the majestic Snow Canyon State Park, Tuacahn will turn out more than 230,000 visitors to see Disney’s “Aladdin,” “Hairspray,” and “The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee” this summer. Guests will enjoy new some new special effects, including the use of 3D technology and may also enjoy a scenic dinner before the show on the outdoor plaza under Tuacahn’s towering red cliffs. Tuacahn’s concert series is yearround and this summer includes Huey Lewis and the News. For more information, visit www.tuacahn.org.
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Florida Hyatts
Perfect Summer Getaways
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he Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa As the newest beachfront resort on Florida’s west coast, Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa delivers a whole new tropical island experience that includes West Indies décor, spacious balconies and views of pure white sands and spectacular azure waters. Since its official opening in February 2010, the all-suite, AAA Four Diamond Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach has raised the bar for dining, service and amenities in the Tampa Bay area. Award-Winning Cuisine Already the resort has become notable for its award-winning cuisine. The resort’s SHOR American Seafood Grill serves regionally inspired, fresh seafood and American cuisine, which are only rivaled by the restaurant’s impressive show kitchen, optional outdoor dining and spectacular Gulf views from expansive, floorto-ceiling windows. Menu highlights include pan-seared black grouper and house-made lobster ravioli with side dishes such as roasted chorizo potatoes and mintbasil asparagus. Rounding out the menu, the decadent dessert list comforts diners with old fashioned favorites such as an oversized root beer float, crème brulee and flourless chocolate cake. SWIM, another Gulf-front restaurant, is Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach’s casual poolside bar and grill. Located on the eighth-floor, open-air pool deck, SWIM draws a regular crowd with a Pan-Latino menu of small plates and resort-style appetizers, sandwiches and burgers. These poolside cravings are served alongside a spectacular, panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico and are the perfect complement to Clearwater’s famous sunsets. Incredible Amenities Raising the bar even further, Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach has introduced never-before-seen amenities including twenty air-conditioned cabanas located alongside the eighth-floor infinity pool. Available www.thehotelguide.com
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for full- or halfday rental to resort guests, each private cabana provides the luxuries of a high definition flat screen TV, wet bar and private bath, plus the ease and convenience of a room-service call button. Cabanas can be reserved from 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. daily. In-cabana food and beverage packages can also added and range from sophisticated wine and cheese platters to The Whole Cabana Caboodle Package, which serves groups of up to eight guests. Guests may also elect to have their massage service inside the privacy and comfort of their own cabana, one of the many offerings provided by the resort’s ecocoastal Sandava Spa. Spa Time For personal reflection, relaxation and reconnection, Sandava Spa supports a lifestyle of conscious living and living well. With eight beautifully appointed treatment rooms and unparalleled views from the relaxation room, Sandava Spa connects guests to the sea, shore and power of personal wellness. Spa patrons can choose from a variety of Florida-inspired spa treatments such as the Eco Sea Scrub, Sun-warmed Shell Massage and so much more. No matter which indulgent treatment they select, guests are sure to activate, nurture and inspire your mind, body and soul. Clearwater Beach Best of all, the resort is located on Clearwater Beach’s new multi-million-dollar Beach Walk, providing guests with easy access to the destination’s wealth of summer events and activities, including Pier 60’s nightly sunset parties. For information or reservations, visit www. clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com or call 727-373-1234. continued on page 36
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Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa
Recently named among Travel + Leisure’s 100 World’s Best Hotels, the AAA Four Diamond Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa is no stranger to the limelight. The resort has accrued a wealth of awards and accolades since its opening ten years ago, including Florida Green Lodging’s prestigious Three Palm eco-friendly certification and inclusion on Conde Nast Traveler’s listing of Florida’s top 20 golf resorts. Located on 26 acres overlooking the breathtaking Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve, the 454-room resort serves as the ideal base camp between Naples and Ft. Myers, offering convenient access to both destinations while providing plenty of on-site fun including multiple pools ranging from 2,700 to 5,000 square feet. One of the resort’s most unique offerings is its private beach on Big Hickory Island. A 15-minute, narrated water taxi ride whisks guests to white, soft sands and the brilliantly colored Gulf of Mexico. The island offers plenty of open chairs and umbrellas for those seeking relaxation and is also a great spot to hunt for sharks’ teeth, collect more than 400 types of seashells, build old-fashioned sand castles or kayak along the beautiful shoreline. Back at the resort, guests can relax and rejuvenate with pampering treatments at the 19,000-square-foot Stillwater Spa. The spa’s eco-conscious philosophy offers a total-immersion experience based on Florida’s cycle of nature. Each spa journey has a beginning, middle and end, which is the foundation and inspiration for the resort’s innovative and unforgettable treatments. Unique treatments include the coconut spice body polish, the warm shell massage and water shiatsu. Traditional services such as Swedish massages, facials and body wraps are also available as well as hair, nail and makeup services. Another of the resort’s unique offerings is the Raptor Bay Golf Club, which ranked among the top 10 favorites by Sports Illustrated’s Gary Van Sickle. Crafted to exist in perfect harmony with the natural beauty of Southwest Florida, Floyd’s design made history by earning the club the first Gold Signature Sanctuary Certification by
Audubon International worldwide. The ecologicallyminded design preserved the most valued habitats on site and restored nearly 25 acres of wetlands. As a result, golfers can often spy protected wild creatures such as the American Bald Eagle, Great Blue Herons, Snowy Egrets and even the shy Whooping Crane For dining, Hyatt Regency Coconut Point offers several unique offerings. Located in the lobby, the recently redesigned Tanglewood Restaurant echoes the relaxed yet refined spirit of Southwest Florida, perfectly complementing Executive Chef Andreas Singer’s award-winning cuisine. The freestanding Tarpon Bay restaurant, meanwhile, provides a charming culinary experience in a casual, Key West-inspired environment. Jutting just out over the water, Tarpon Bay has a beach cottage vibe where colorful lanterns keep watch over each table. Only the freshest seafood is combined with innovative combinations of herbs and spices for a truly memorable meal. For information or reservations visit www.coconutpoint.hyatt.com or call 239-444-1234.
Hyatt Key West Resort and Spa
Located on the Gulf of Mexico, just three miles from the Key West International airport and within walking distance of the world-famous Duval Street, Hyatt Key West Resort and Spa offers a posh vacation retreat in the heart of carefree Key West. The tropically-inspired, full-service sanctuary sets the standard as the Conch Republic’s premier luxury resort. The waterfront resort features a tropical chic design by Morrison Seifert Murphy that captures the whimsical spirit of the Florida Keys. The resort’s 118 guestrooms include eight king salons, 75 kings and 35 doubles.All guestrooms feature private Gulf-view balconies, Hyatt Grand Beds™, 42-inch flat screen televisions, deluxe bathrooms with exclusive bath products and high-speed wireless Internet access. The resort’s signature restaurant, SHOR American Seafood Grill, has recently unveiled new lunch and dinner menus that take an innovative twist on classic dishes by utilizing new flavors and fresh ingredients. Recognized as “the” restaurant to experience in the Florida Keys, SHOR offers a million dollar view of the Gulf of Mexico, which is perfect for taking in Key West’s world-famous sunsets. The restaurant prides itself in offering not only the freshest catch but also 100 percent sustainable wild and farmed seafood. The Blue Mojito Pool Bar and Grill, meanwhile, offers an eclectic ambiance, perfect for enjoying delicious cocktails and snacks by the centrally located, heated outdoor swimming pool. The resort additionally provides a spacious sundeck with three poolside cabanas, beach access to the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, an eco-friendly spa, a 24-hour gym, beachside service, on-site water sports and golf cart and bicycle rentals. For more information or reservations visit www. keywest.hyatt.com or call 305-809-1234.
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Monastero Santa Rosa
ITALY
Historical and Enchanting
onastero Santa Rosa, set on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast overlooking the Bay of Salerno, is now open. Originally a 17th century monastery of Conca dei Marini that housed a cloistered order of nuns, the building is being respectfully restored to honor its roots. Both the exterior and the interior maintain the asceticism of the property, offset by warm and inviting contemporary design within. Elegance and More This five-star, 20-room/suite hotel is also a full-service spa. There is the signature Tepidarium, treatment suites, relaxation areas and outdoor treatments within a garden full of natural perfumes. Amenities of the hotel include a heated infinity swimming pool and beautiful gardens -including a historical herb garden, all situated on five terraced levels. Each room in the hotel will be named after one of the historical herbs still grown at the property site. All rooms and suites offer spectacular views of the Bay of Salerno and all are fully equipped with highspeed access and the luxuries of modern living. Dining... Monastero Santa Rosa’s Ristorante features the original vaulted ceiling, continuing the sense of place. Guests from outside of the hotel are also welcome to
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enjoy regional specialties, delicious seafood and fresh produce from the hotel’s own garden and wines from an extensive wine cellar. The terraced area outside the bar serves light food with a local flair and features an outdoor fireplace. This is the ideal setting for savoring an aperitif at sunset or relaxing below the stars after dinner with a limoncello or other nightcap. Light meals are served by the heated Infinity Pool where guests may go to swim or relax enjoying the breathtaking views. 12th Century Chapel Attached to the hotel by a lovely garden is a 12th century chapel. The chapel or one of the garden settings on the cliff is an ideal venue for weddings. The entire property is available for exclusive hire for weddings or other celebrations, and three other churches nearby are available for weddings. Contact us For more information, visit www.monasterosantarosa. com. 37
Team Cocktail
experiences
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Summer Concert Fun
Experiences
by: Lyndsey Fliehs Higgins
hree cheers to SUMMER!! It’s finally here! The weather is warm, people are in a better mood, some are even getting out of work early to enjoy the sunshine. So what do you do for the summer? Take vacations to the beach or a nearby lake? Travel down to the islands for a little R&R? Well what if you can’t seem to sneak away from the hustle & bustle of real life, how do you get away? What about a concert? Concerts... Concerts are a big part of the Team Cocktail lifestyle. There is just something refreshing, fun and entertaining about listening to live music with great friends, and of course enjoying a few cocktails. Whatever your budget may be, there is a concert for everyone. Whether it’s free concerts in the park to a packed stadium tour, you should be able to find something in a city near you to help you get away…even if it’s just for a few hours. Music Rocks Music is one thing that brings groups of people together. Case in point, Jimmy Buffett and the Parrotheads. If you’ve never been to a Jimmy Buffett concert, or at least been to the parking lot to experience the tailgate party, it’s a must! People (aka Parrotheads) go to the extremes to bring the paradise that Jimmy sings about to the parking lot. Pickups full of sand, pools with water, grass skirts everywhere you look, cheeseburger hats, tiki bars, electric blenders, you name it…it’s all in the parking lot. The Jimmy Buffett concert experience is more than the music, it’s people uniting over their love of fun island music and margaritas!
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We’ll be spending part of our summer creating our own tailgate experience at a couple of Kenny Chesney stadium concerts. Kenny seems to be taking on the next generation of island loving tailgaters, and we are happy to be a part of the movement. We’ll have tiki bars, sand, pools, Corona’s, rum punch and more as we bring our own piece of paradise to parking lot. If you’re going to be in the Kanas City or Nashville areas for The Brothers of the Sun Tour we’d love to have you join us. Then you can see exactly how music, friends, drinks and a tailgate party bring us all together! Stay in Touch For more information about our Tailgate parties and all other events you can check out the Events tab on our Facebook page. Party with us! www.teamcocktail.com www.facebook.com/teamcocktail www.twitter.com/teamcocktail www.youtube.com/teamcocktail www.pinterest.com/teamcocktail 39
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