TRAVEL
hotel reviews, destinations and visitor guides of places I visited or plan to visit
When I bought my latte to go yesterday, I felt bad again for not having a recycled coffee sleeve. At least I could reuse for a few runs the cardboard sleeve I got at the coffee shop. But usually I finished my coffee while working or talking to someone, so I forget to keep it.
Today I am proud of myself because I acted. I bought three coffee sleeves on etsy. I went for the CupKozy II that is made of felt. I bought one in each accent color: orange, pink and green. I planned to carry two with me. I will keep the third one on reserve for when I need a tiny gift.
What I like about the one I selected is the key ring. Apparently once it is rolled up the coffee sleeve is about the size of lip balm tube.
Features to look for in a reusable coffee sleeve
- It is best to find a model that fits most 12, 16 and 20 oz. disposable coffee cups.
- To make sure you use it all the time, check that if it easy to carry around.
- Must be easy to clean
A cool option with a pocket
I saw the Hip Grip Cup Sleeve on Real Simple. The coolest thing about that is come with a pocket to store a few bills or the coffee club card. If you like to grab your java or tea after your jogging run in the park, I am sure you will appreciate the pocket.
Hip Grip Cup Sleeve is reversible with two fun prints. I did not buy it because I prefer a toned down pattern. As summer is arriving, I may wish I got a bolder fabric. For sure, the practicality is amazing.
An upscale version
The third one is a pure indulgence. You use it when you want to impress. Handmade with reclaimed architectural veneer offcuts, the Bentwood Coffee Cuff performs double duty. The concept is that you wear it as a bracelet once you finished your coffee. It is a good idea in principle. But every fashionable girl knows that wearing the same bracelet every day is out of the question. So you need to be more creative to carry the Bentwood Coffee Cuff around.
But the Bentwood Coffee Cuff is definitely the most stylish coffee sleeves I have seen so far. There are three wood veneers to chose from: bird's eye maple, black walnut and benge.
This concept emerged from the design duo at Contexture Design. They are a design firm located in Vancouver, BC. Their unique products are sold online and at selected retailers in Canada, the United States, UK, Australia and Italy.
Sourcing:
Buy online: CupKozy II in Heather Grey and Green by cupkozy on etsy – price: $7 USD
Buy online: Hip Grip Cup Sleeve at Solutions – price: $14.95 USD
Buy online: Bentwood Coffee Cuff by Contexture – price: $68 CAD
Learn more: Retail locations for Contexture Design products
Via: Coffee Cuff — 'Wear your java jacket' published on bookofjoe
Via: CupKozy II on Design Crush
Categories:
GIFT ideas
TRAVEL
posted @ Wednesday, April 09, 2008 1:21 PM | Feedback (4)
This is not an April’s fool: Be on the first 100 citizens to book a room at the first citizenM hotel and enjoy one night of casual chic luxury, nice towels, huge king size bed and friendly smile for free.
CitizenM (M for mobile) is a new affordable luxury hotel option for travelers to Europe. The first hotel is located at Schiphol International Airport, an amazing international airport that acts as a gateway.
Like in a boutique hotel, the concept behind CitizenM is hip with a fresh attention to details.
Excellent Services
The new hotel chain concept caters to a new type of travelers. CitizenM targets people who value personal choice, modern design, friendly technology and the proximity to a city at an accessible price. Every room has a wall-mounted LCD television with free movie access and provides a free Wi-Fi internet connection.
CitizenM wish to provide you with a unique experience. It starts by asking you while booking your preferred room settings from your favorite color lighting, the room temperature, your preferred music, the amount of daylight you want and more. It is a pretty ambitious plan so I hope they will deliver on site.
Exciting Modern Design
CitizenM participates to the pre-fab movement. The hotel rooms are pre-made in our own special factory off-site with features that you can expect from a luxury yacht or private jet. So yes, the rooms are smaller. Still, you will sleep in a comfortable king size bed. If you want to work in a different setting, you will find a communal working center furnished with Vitra furniture.
The style of the hotel sets it apart from the mainstream hotels. The lobby is made of several contemporary living rooms, furnished with the latest collection of iconic Vitra and Eames furniture. Must be pretty cool to relax there and meet people. If you are hungry, stop by canteenM that will provide a 24-hour choice of signature sandwiches, salads, sushi, warm dishes and more. Order your coffee from the barista and sip a drink at night at the well-stocked bar.
The 100 One-Night Stays Giveaway
The hotel is scheduled to open June 21st, 2008. CitizenM Hotel joins the free marketing trend. Here is an extract for the email I got as a Citizen member this morning with a clear mention that it is not a joke:
You are also guaranteed a 15% discount via www.citizenM.com. For those who have faithfully returned to our Web site trying to book again and again, CitizenM hotels would like to reward your patience by giving away 100 free room nights. The free rooms are valid for one-night stays only, and will go quick, so be the first to book! The smart citizens amongst you won’t be fooled by April 1st.
At this moment, there is still some free room left. I tried the reservation system. It is a little slow but be patient it worked.
Sourcing:
Book online: CitizenM Hotel
Categories:
TRAVEL
TRENDS
posted @ Tuesday, April 01, 2008 12:45 PM | Feedback (0)
As I visited Toronto for the IDS 2008, I booked the Sunday brunch at Jamie Kennedy Wine Bar. I heard the buzz about this place so I was excited.
Jamie Kennedy has earned a great reputation in Toronto for his upscale restaurants. With the Wine Bar, he proposes an affordable option executed by the Chef of cuisine Tobey Nemeth.
My opinion
Sadly I liked the décor more than the food. In all fairness, I should have sat at the kitchen bar. Usually it is a treat to see what is going on.
That Sunday, we were speaking about Status Competition, our Facebook application, at PodCamp Toronto. So I opted to sit at a quiet table. I imagined that Jerome and I may refine our presentation during the brunch.
Basically, Jamie Kennedy Wine Bar serves small portion seasonal dishes either for lunch, dinner or at brunch. I was told that the menu slightly changes on a daily basis. As you may suspect by the name of the restaurant, wine pairing plays a big role on the menu. Next to each dish on the menu you have the wine recommendation of the sommelier. Due to our speaking engagement, we did not taste any wine.
About the Sunday Brunch menu
The Sunday Brunch Prix Fixe menu lets you select 2 dishes from the menu for $20. Side dishes are extra. I found that the mix of flavors on the Cheese and Dried Fruit Grilled Sandwich was not really successful. The caramelization of the dried fruit with the cheese (I do not remember which one) did not work for me. Since we were pressed by time, I did not say anything to our server. My egg dish was good. Jerome ate a warm tartelette and an omelet. His selections were more interesting than mine.
We had the House-Made Berkshire Pork Bacon which I enjoyed since I ate the lean parts. I was surprised that there was that much thick fat on our pieces. The white fat was easy to remove with a knife but I would expect the kitchen to do it before serving.
About the Décor
As you can see from the pictures I took, the restaurant decor is warm, cool and creative. The Mason jars wall looks amazing. That is my favorite thing in the place. It is an idea to steal for your own kitchen. The school dining table ambiance in the larger room is charming.
The night before, I lived through a delightful dinner at Kultura. I was still under that spell so maybe I asked too much from my brunch. I suspect the dinner at the Wine Bar must be a different experience. If you ever ate at Jamie Kennedy Wine Bar, how did you like the food? Should I try it again?
Sourcing:
Learn more: Jamie Kennedy Wine Bar
Photo credit: Jamie Kennedy with his sous-chef at the Gardiner Museum taken by Mary Elizabeth Armstrong - Rights reserved picture
Categories:
DINING out
TRAVEL
posted @ Tuesday, March 25, 2008 1:49 PM | Feedback (0)
It is snowy a lot down here so I feel that a piece of sunny paradise is in order. These pictures were taken from the Six Senses luxury resorts, which are absolutely stunning vacation places.
Guests at any of the Six Senses resorts stay in their own villa with generous personal space. Although the villas respect the country traditional architecture, their style displays a hint of modern architecture. These resorts are unique and remarkable.
But even though you do not live in such an idyllic place, you can still throw a fabulous romantic picnic. As I checked how Six Senses designed the private dining experience for their guests, I can see that the same elements are reused and adapted to the surroundings.
The Basic Recipe
If you wish to host a romantic dinner, find a beautiful secluded spot, bring up lots of deep cushions, rattan stools or even a table and chairs. Add candle lights, throws and serve a bunch of appetizers. Bring exotic looking trays in earthy materials. Hire a caterer and ask them to set it properly so it is easy to display on site.
Even on your backyard, you can create a sentiment of intimacy and grandeur. If you live in the city or the crowded suburbs, enclose the dining space with drapes, small trees, vines and dividing walls. Use a small waterfall to cover the noise. Play your favorite romantic music or go with a spa mood with the relaxing sounds of sea. The idea is to set a time and place, away from your busy life.
If you have children, hire a babysitter if the picnic is not at home. Otherwise, organize for them to sleep at grandma. Make sure you and your partner close the cell phones. Enjoy your time together!
About Six Senses Resorts
The first two rows are pictures from Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay, located on the northern Musandam Peninsula in the Sultanate of Oman. The place is magical if you wish a real change of scenery.
The bottom pictures were taken at Six Senses Hideaway Ninh Van Bay located in Vietnam. In 2007, Six Sense Spa at Nha Trang was one of the Top 50 Hotels from the Travel + Leisure World's Best Award.
The Six Senses Spa at Hua Hin, Thailand was awarded the Best Rooms by Conde' Nast Traveller The Gold List 2007. I will stop because the list is too long. If you are looking for luxury accommodations in Asia, check out the Six Senses Web site before finalizing your travel arrangements.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Six Senses Resorts & Spas
Categories:
PARTY ideas
OUTDOOR
TRAVEL
posted @ Wednesday, March 05, 2008 12:32 PM | Feedback (4)
Ever since I first heard of them, I wished to stay at Hotel Vitale. The hotel opened March 9, 2005.
I imagined myself taking the complimentary yoga class, available daily, at the penthouse level yoga studio. Unfortunately I was unable to fit a class into my tight schedule. Oh well, one more reason to go back.
To understand the concept of this hotel and its appeal to me, let's go back to their root. Their goal was to create an urbane oasis. In a press release published before their opening, you can read that
Hotel Vitale represents not only a new frontier for the highly successful boutique hotel company, but an entirely ground-breaking concept in the arena of luxury hospitality.
This luxury hotel cleverly mixes old and new modern furniture for their decor. The old appears through the use of materials and finishes. But the shapes always stay modern. The architects and designers managed to create spaces that are soothing, hip and friendly at the same time.
The Service
It is a trendy place but the service is not snobbish. You feel good in their surroundings.
A lot of high-end car owners stopped by the restaurant for a drink or to eat a meal. It tells something about the excellence of a place when the locals go there.
The Guestrooms
You will not be surprised that I booked a Deluxe Waterfront room at Hotel Vitale for our first night in San Francisco, before we hit the roads of the Wine Country. When we arrived at the front desk, I was offered the marvelous Panoramic Suite for a little extra. What a treat that room is. I adore it!
The particularity of this room is that it fits within the circular tower. From the 5th floor, the hotel has 8, we got an amazing dramatic 180 degree "infinity" views of the water and Bay Bridge. At night, you close the blinds with a remote control. My husband loves that feature.
The Amenities
Many details in the room make your stay more enjoyable. One touch that I appreciated for writing my posts was the excellent lounge music CDs on our room. On top of the CD player, there is also an iPod dock station. You can browse their CD library and request our CDs instead. I wanted to buy the 4 Krystal elemental compilations but I forgot to ask for it when I checked out.
There are several mirrors in the room, the bathroom is compartmented: a powder room on one side, the rain shower and washbasin on a second closed space. Then, a soaking bath sits on the room. Very romantic!
Attention to details is omnipresent so I find it strange that Hotel Vitale forgoes the most basic functionality for style reason. What I am talking about is that there is no handle for your hand towels in neither of the bathroom space. A simple hook, like the ones they used for the robes, will do.
The Location
Hotel Vitale is located directly across from the historic Ferry Building Marketplace; the place to go if you are a foodie. I will tell you all about it soon on my Farmer’s Market report. It is busy during the day but at night, the street is quieter so you can sleep very well. The bed was really comfortable.
We also went for a drink and some appetizers at Americano Restaurant & Bar, the hotel bar and restaurant that I recommend. I will show you the pictures later. The lounge area of the Americano is the same size and shape than the panoramic suite.
I am pleased because sometimes when you wish for something for a long time, you are disappointed. Not this time since I am thrilled by my stay. I am not alone since I checked what other travelers have to say about Hotel Vitale. I only find 5/5 as a rating. This proves that you really experiment the Joie de Vivre at Hotel Vitale.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Hotel Vitale San Francisco
Categories:
DINING out
TRAVEL
posted @ Tuesday, March 04, 2008 11:22 AM | Feedback (1)
Travel + Leisure magazine published this month an interesting review of 5 cupcake shops in Los Angeles. Each of these old-fashioned American cake shops has something different to offer.
The winners stand out through their recipes, cake decorations and packaging. Here are 5 cupcakes shops that emerge as the place to go.
Bluebird Café
From my research on the Web, the cupcakes of the Bluebird Café in Culver City are delicious. Their Crayola-bright cupcakes are offered in mini sizes. A practical format if you cannot make up your mind or when you set up a dessert table. Located in Culver City, Bluebird Café attracts the movie studio crews.
Since I did not taste in myself, I looked for a second opinion on the Web. I found a review by the food blogger Bree Crocetti of Triplecreme who said in 2006 the following:
I could not resist trying their red velvet cupcake - one of the best I have had. They frosted it with a thin, light, creamy, cream cheese frosting, much like Royal Icing. The cake was a beautiful dark red, baked to perfection. Much better than Susiscakes!
Danties Cupcakes
Winner of the Best of LA 2007 in the cupcake category, the owners of Danties Cupcakes have been serving cupcakes to their catering clients for the past six years. Danties Cupcakes is their shop dedicated to cupcakes. They do not use sugar icing; instead, they decorate with whipped cream.
Bree of Triplecreme added a taste of the cupcakes at Danties and she said:
Danties has two things going for them: a smart little box with a level of holes the cupcakes fit in, preventing them from sliding around, and their cupcakes are unlike the others on the market.
SusieCakes
A shot of frosting goes inside the cupcakes at SusieCakes. Called Susie’s Signature Frosting Filled Cupcakes, it is available in regular format or the bite size.
Their Red Velvet Cake outsells any other cakes 5 to 1. Every day, SusieCakes makes 11 flavors of cupcakes. Naturally, the Red Velvet is their most popular. Other winners are their chocolate cupcake with a mint frosting, a chocolate frosting or a peanut butter frosting.
To get a better idea of the place, watch this TV report hosted by Marisa Petroro for Canal 22 Los Angeles. With Sprinkles Cupcakes, SusieCakes is my favorite. The owner Susie Sarich seems so sweet.
Violet’s Cakes
This shop was the dream of Denise Weber. Some of her cupcake recipes originate from her grandmothers; although she altered them. Violet’s Cakes is open five days a week, from Tuesday to Saturday. The selection of thirteen flavors changes daily.
Sprinkles Cupcakes
I talked about Sprinkles Cupcakes before. I love this brand for the clean, modern design of their store and their cupcakes. Basically, Sprinkles Cupcakes fits more into my style than some of the overly old-fashioned cupcakes bakery.
What do you think?
Since I did not hold a tasting session myself, I would have to hear your thoughts about any of these 5 brands? Did Travel + Leisure select the best ones in Los Angeles?
Sourcing:
Learn more: Travel + Leisure magazine – march 2008 issue
Categories:
TRAVEL
CAKES
posted @ Friday, February 29, 2008 10:40 PM | Feedback (0)
We stayed in the hip and fun Hotel Vitale San Francisco yesterday. I love the place. We had appetizers and drinks at The Americano. We went to dinner at the famous Tadich Grill, the oldest restaurant in California. It dated back to the Gold Rush era.
We ate breakfast at Frog Hollow Farm, an organic bakery at the Farmer’s Market of One Ferry Building next to The Embarcadero. Their risotto tart is absolutely divine. Now, we are in the Wine Country. The weather is fabulous.
I will write the details of the fabulous places where I stayed and ate in the coming days.
Categories:
TRAVEL
posted @ Wednesday, February 27, 2008 5:02 PM | Feedback (0)
The most stylish first lady is still Jackie Kennedy. My husband told these pictures of me with the President John F. Kennedy and his wife Jackie when we visited Madame Tussauds in Las Vegas.
My advice if you planned to visit one of the world Madame Tussauds' museum is to dress up nicely. This way, your pictures mingling with the waxed celebrities will look more realistic. We just came back from our helicopter trip to the Grand Canyon, so I did not. I regretted it.
Formal entertaining tips
Until April 3rd, 2008, you can take a close look at Jacqueline Kennedy's distinctive and innovative approach to entertaining in the White House. It is an intrusion on the art of formal entertaining; an art that is getting lost unfortunately.
Jacqueline Kennedy Entertains: The Art of the White House Dinner is taking place at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston.
Jackie Kennedy wore this evening skirt and shell top in chartreuse silk faille embroidered with crystal beads and sequins in November 1961. This beaded silk gown was designed by Oleg Cassini.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Madame Tussauds
Learn more: John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
TRAVEL
MANNERS
posted @ Monday, February 18, 2008 12:06 PM | Feedback (1)
Yesterday, I went to Chelsea because I wanted to taste a fresh-brewed cup at Grumpy Café on the 20th Street in Manhattan.
After reading the January 23, 2008 article on the New York Times, savoring a coffee made with the $11,000 Clover 1s machine was on the top of my list.
And after having a terrible cup of coffee at the airport restaurant plus an average coffee on the plane, going at my Grumpy Café was my treat.
Was it is my appraisal? At first, the coffee was too hot so I could not fully appreciate it. But as it cooled off, I enjoyed the flavors of my freshly brewed coffee more and more. My husband shares my opinion.
What else did I saw?
Our journey started on Gramercy neighborhood of Manhattan. A magnificent residential building in grabbed my attention with its impressive sculpted stone ornamentations.
That unit building is located in front of Gramercy Park, a small and beautiful fenced-in owned park. It is one of two parks in New York that has no public access. The park belongs to the buildings surrounding the park. The Asian inspired bird house (top right picture) sits on the Gramercy Park.
After our stop at Grumpy Café, we stop on Madison Park on our way back. With boundaries of Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenues and 23rd and 26th Streets, Madison Park still has standing still two 200-year old elm trees and one trunk.
Art pieces from Roxy Paine are displayed at the Madison Park until February 28, 2008. Conjoined is a 40 foot-tall sculpture of two intertwined trees. Defunct is a 42 foot-tall sculpture of a lone tree which appears to be under attack from the shelf-fungus growing on it’s trunk. Erratic is a boulder measuring 7 feet high by 15 feet wide that I did not see. The sculptures are part of a larger series. These pieces belonged to a private collator from Switzerland loaned to the city three beautiful stainless steel sculptures of elm trees. I enjoyed how the reflections of the other trees on the park transformed the sculptures.
Madison Park offers to the citizens of the neighborhood a better quality of life. I saw many people with their dogs on the dog playing area. At one corner, a beautiful playground for kids was occupied by three dads and their young children. As you can see on the picture, it was getting pretty dark when we got there so I assumed that during the day, the playground must be booming with activities.
We had a fun day running around Manhattan. After a delicious meal prepared by Jerome’s aunt, I slept like a log. Today, we will probably go to the museum.I also saw gorgeous wedding dresses in Chelsea. I will tell you about it later.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Grumpy Café
Learn more: At Last, a $20,000 Cup of Coffee published on The New York Times
Learn more: Clover 1s machine
Learn more: Arts from Roxy Paine
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
TRAVEL
posted @ Sunday, February 17, 2008 12:11 PM | Feedback (0)
I am sure several of you are a fan of Beatrice Peltre, the extraordinary food stylist behind the popular La Tartine Gourmande. Many of you will envy me since I got the chance to eat brunch with Bea while I was in Boston.
She chose Upstairs on the Square, an exciting restaurant in Cambridge. The type of restaurants that only the locals know about. The front door is on a tiny pedestrian street called Winthrop.
Unusual decor, delicious food
The décor is out of this world. It is not my cup of tea but at least the decor has the advantage of being stimulating for the customers. The ambiance and the menu bring you back.
We had a little performance by a singing chorale from Harvard. Unfortunately, I do not recall the name of the group. On the video, you can have a look at what the restaurant look like. You can also see our friendly waiter.
The conversation was delightful. We are both married to an IT developer. Therefore, our husbands had plenty to talk about. We had a wonderful afternoon.
Directions
Upstairs in the Square
91 Winthrop Street Cambridge, MA 02138
facing Winthrop Park in the heart of Harvard Square, corner of JFK Street and Winthrop Street
p 617.864.1933
You can reserve online via OpenTable.com but if you cannot get the time or date you want, do not hesitate to give the restaurant a call to make sure they cannot accommodate you at that time/date. Bea used OpenTable.com and I taught it was handy because I got link to the map and the Web site.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Upstairs on the Square
Recipes and food photo: La Tartine Gourmande
Categories:
DINING out
TRAVEL
posted @ Tuesday, February 05, 2008 10:35 PM | Feedback (1)
With all the traveling I am doing right now, I came to appreciate more than the cool factor of gadgets available at Flight 001.
If you have a friend who travels a lot, these three products would be deeply appreciated as a hostess gift. They are more great products to choose from for their birthday.
As I told you earlier when I gave you my hospitality tips, my hair wants me to use the brand of shampoo and conditioner they are accustomed to. I did not bring my own because of the 10 kg constraints for carryon luggage. To do that, you need carry-on approved bottles.
Fill + Fly Bottle
This set contains 4 reusable, refillable, leak-proof, shatter-resistant vacuum bottles packaged in a zip-top bag. I read on the latest Domino magazine that you can get 20% off the regular price on the Fill + Fly set by typing Domino at your checkout.
To Go Bottle Set
If you need to carry more bottles, pick the 7 empty travel sized bottle kit. The bottles are of several sizes, all under 3 ounces – i.e., at least 11 ml under the 100 ml limit in Canada.
Go Clean Shoe bags
Keep your shoes away from your clean clothes with the Go Clean Shoe bags. It takes less space and is more stylish that a store plastic bag. They also made one kit for boots.
If you are interested, Flight 001 ships only to the United States and Canada. The only setback is that Canadian orders must be placed over the phone but as least we can order from them.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Fill + Fly Bottles Set by Flight 001 – price: $28
Buy online: To Go Bottle Set at Flight 001 – price: $16
Buy online: Go Clean Shoe bags at Flight 001 – price: $18 for 2 shoe bags
Categories:
GIFT ideas
TRAVEL
posted @ Thursday, January 24, 2008 4:40 PM | Feedback (0)
An old saying teaches us that Travel broadens the mind. I would add that traveling makes you a better host.
We are so accustomed to how we live at home that we do not notice the small details anymore. But staying at hotels uncovers the fine points that make your stay comfortable or not. Hotel design and functionality have improved greatly over the years. But they are still room for improvements on the comfortable level as I experienced it.
Why this is relevant to entertaining at home? Simply because it can make you better host when you are having guests staying over at your home.
My wish list
More and more hotels got it while other hotel chains are still clueless. I compiled my list of essentials for make your stay over guests absolutely divine.
Makeup station outside the bathroom
If you are sharing the room, you must apply your makeup in the room on the morning while your roommate is taking a shower. You want to save time after all. But low lighting is the norm inside the room, especially near the mirror. This is my biggest complaint about hotel design. I still do not understand because no hotels got it.
Available electric plugs
With everything that we need to recharge these days, you need several easily accessible and visible electric plugs. And make sure that there is place to accommodate the big chargers.
Ipod connector to a sound system
It is fun to wake up to the music you like. These electronic devices are quite simple to buy these days. My husband bought one for his office with a radio, an alarm clock and a remote control that costs about $80 at Costco last year.
Premium shampoo and conditioner
I spent a good amount at the hairdresser so I do not want to lower the condition of my hair with pharmacy products. For weight and security reasons, I did not bring my own shampoo and conditioner. Big mistake! It only has been two trips and I feel the difference.
Beauty essentials basket
It is so easy to forget something when preparing your luggage. If you stock the mini size containers in advance, your guests will feel more welcome. And you will have more time for yourself.
So prepare in advance a basket with a toothbrush, dentifrice, mouthwash, a shower cap, deodorant, a first aid kit, feminine hygiene and a pocket size tissue bag.
A reliable wireless Internet connection
As I told you on my last post, the Internet connection at the hotel did not work most of the time. And when it did, it was for about 5-10 minutes at the time. They waived the fees but still I could not do my work.
As more and more people must be connected 24/7, if you wish that your guests stay over longer, give them an easy and reliable Internet access. At the cottage during the Holidays, we are often 5 people hooked up to the Internet at the same time. After a few minutes, you go back to enjoying your vacation without worries.
A final tip for when you are traveling
If you travel often, I suggest keeping your beauty bag ready at all times. So you only need to grab it whenever you travel. It does not cost more since you consume the same amount of products overall. But it will definitively save you time and worries.
If you want to discover luxury hotels around the world, I invite you to check out a new blog from a friend of mine. Her blog is called My Hotel Geek. I took this picture from one of her review of The Fairmont Mayakoba located on Riviera Maya, Mexico.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
TRAVEL
posted @ Tuesday, January 22, 2008 10:19 PM | Feedback (4)
The Internet connection is on and off at the Westin Casuarina, so I will condense what I want to share with you about my trip to Las Vegas.
Yesterday, we rode on the monorail to see to eat at Quarks and live the Star Trek Experience. My husband is a geek, what can I say. On our way back, we stop at The Venetian to see this out of this world Venice man made universe.
We had dinner at a Mexican restaurant with authentic Mexican cooking, as much as you can get in America. It was a good choice. The food is delicious at Taqueria Canonita.
Taqueria Canonita is located next to the canal of The Grand Canal Shoppes. On my picture, you see their terrace in the background next to the gondola. We were seated at the most entertaining spot in the house. Watch the video as I am telling you all about my margarita.
This morning, we booked a tour of the Grand Canyon on helicopter. I will tell you all about it as soon as I can.
Categories:
DINING out
TRAVEL
posted @ Monday, January 21, 2008 12:50 PM | Feedback (2)
We had a pleasant flight. The weather was gorgeous this afternoon. And at last we are in the hotel room we were supposed to have.
My only regret was that I did have bring shoes to go dancing. But I found a fabulous pair on sale. We have a few clubs in mind so I am all set for tonight.
Categories:
TRAVEL
posted @ Saturday, January 19, 2008 8:55 PM | Feedback (0)
Our next week-end getaway begins in two days. We are heading to Las Vegas this time. The temperature this morning was only 8 degrees Celsius more in Las Vegas than in Montreal. I am already missing last week's sunny California.
We hope to see the Cirque du Soleil shows that are only performing in Vegas. O for sure and maybe Zumanity. The tickets I found so far for O are with limited views. So if you know trustworthy sites where to buy the tickets, tell me.
We will look at the tour for the Grand Canyon. But there are so many to choose from. I saw this helicopter tour with a 30-45 minutes picnic with champagne on the ground. It called Grand Canyon Helicopter Basin Landing Special on LookTours.com. Does anyone have ever tried it or heard comments?
We will visit quickly the hotels that are almost amusement parks. My husband and I, we stay away from buffets. Do you know on great places where to eat?
Sourcing:
Learn more: Cirque du Soleil shows in Las Vegas
Buy online: Grand Canyon Helicopter Basin Landing Special on LookTours.com - price: $299.99
Top picture: Las Vegas Strip by Christopher Chan - copyright photo on flickr
Bottom picture: Visit Las Vegas
Categories:
TRAVEL
posted @ Thursday, January 17, 2008 8:15 PM | Feedback (2)
Take a look at the store windows on Rodeo Drive. We are not allowed to film inside.
I really like the orange handbags at Dolce Gabbana. A lot of girls go wild for shoes. Me it is bags. Chanel collection is divine. And the beautiful dresses at Max Mara fit my body type.
I enjoy Prada fashion. I saw some pretty dresses. Their ballet flats were adorable; I cannot wear heels for the next year or so.
The design of the Prada store mixes simplicity hidden behind nifty technological tricks. Glass walls made of panels switching from clear to frost in a harmonic fashion, plus a camera that follows your movements in the change rooms are some of the cool gadgets I saw at the Beverly Hills Prada store. On my video, you can catch a glimpse of the interior and see the mannequins under the sidewalk.
Watch the video to have an idea of my afternoon.
Categories:
TRAVEL
posted @ Wednesday, January 16, 2008 1:08 AM | Feedback (1)
We were told by a friend of a celebrity that Toast Bakery Café on 3rd was a great place to eat breakfast. So yesterday we gave it a try. And I am glad we did.
The food was excellent. It is a trendy popular place. If you go, unless you are lucky like us and found a parking spot right in front across the street, go for the valet parking. It is only 5 dollars.
In less than 15 minutes, we sit at our table. This gave my husband time to take some outside shots. As he was taking a picture, a car stopped with three cute girls. They asked him: Who’s there? As he was talking to them, I called him. They thought he was a paparazzi! It is true that we do not see a lot of amateur Nikon cameras around here, especially with someone wearing a hat.
The food
I ordered a twist on the Egg Benedict called The Open Face. Strangely, their real Egg Benedict is served on an English muffin instead of a croissant. To make an Open Face, you layer smoked salmon, scallions and scrambled eggs topped with hollandaise sauce an opened face croissant. Pass it in the oven just enough for the hollandaise sauce to stop being liquid. It was delicious. If you are planning a brunch, that recipe should be a hit.
My husband Jerome ordered The Favorite omelet. It was filled with goat cheese, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, avocado, mushroom and basil. Next time you take a trip for leisure, take the extra time to eat breakfast where the locals instead of the hotel restaurant. The experience is worth it and you never know who you might see. In Los Angeles, Toast Bakery Café is a trendy place that delivers on taste.
We did not spot any actor or actress although I got the impression that the guy besides us was an agent or something like that. With so many new celebrities, it is hard to tell. Then on our way out, we saw the groupie girls eating on the terrace and we shared a few laughers.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Toast Bakery Café in Los Angeles
Categories:
DINING out
TRAVEL
posted @ Monday, January 14, 2008 12:37 PM | Feedback (2)
Ever since I started blogging two years ago, I saw wonderful modern architecture houses. Many were located in Venice. So I did not want to miss them on my trip to Los Angeles.
We went to the Venice Beach this afternoon. Eureka! I saw several along the beach.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Venice Beach
Categories:
TRAVEL
posted @ Monday, January 14, 2008 3:36 AM | Feedback (0)
Last night we went for sushi. I first spot a sushi restaurant designed by Philip Starck team but we were unable to get a reservation for 8 o’clock.
So the hotel concierge suggested Gonpachi on North La Cienega Boulevard. Watch the video to get a glimpse of the wonderful time we had at Gonpachi. I take about the food when we came back.
Learn more : Gonpachi Beverly Hills
Categories:
DINING out
TRAVEL
posted @ Sunday, January 13, 2008 1:15 PM | Feedback (2)
That is the right way to greet a guest. Giving them a warm cookie at their arrival. I just finished eating the chocolate cookie that we were greeted with at DoubleTree. It was good!
Our flight went well, we rented a sporty car, life is good as you will see in my first video report on my vacation in Los Angeles.
Categories:
TRAVEL
posted @ Saturday, January 12, 2008 5:42 PM | Feedback (0)
I am going on a week-end gateway in Los Angeles with my husband Jerome. We are staying in Santa Monica. I visited LA once when I was 9 or 10 years old . I experienced the magic of Disneyland with my cousin and my parents.
We are open to suggestions about to do and see. So far our plans involve cruising on the famous streets of Beverly Hills, Malibu and Venice. Amongst other things I want to do some shopping and touring the Paul Getty Center.
Do you have any suggestions of places to eat, to go out at night and to shop? For my blog, I am looking for tableware, home décor and design stores. I am interested in stores that either have a unique retail concept or that are renowned for the products they carry.
What activities should I do? Any good restaurants to spot celebrities? Where to shop?
Sourcing:
Top photo credit: Santa Monica
Bottom photo credit: Santa Monica taken by hoveringdog on Flickr – beautiful picture with some reserved rights
Categories:
TRAVEL
posted @ Tuesday, January 08, 2008 1:15 PM | Feedback (3)
In our house, we need to transform the room to create a magical atmosphere for a party. But if you utilize a magical location you do not really need to add decorative items to plan the best party ever. One such place is a perched tree house.
An inspirational tree house in Brittany, France
The July-August 2007 issue of Maison Française published a nice article about an outstanding perched tree house in the Domaine des Ormes. Standing 10 meters from the ground, the Cedar tree house is impressible. The terrace is a perfect spot for a small party during the day.
I know that tree houses for adults are not common but if you search on the Web you can rent some.
If you want to build your own, it can be a fun group project at the cottage. Make sure to consult a tree expert to help you select the right tree and guide you with design requirements. When you built a cabin around a large tree, you should ensure that the tree will continue to grow and live well.
At the Domaine des Ormes, the Sequoias cabins are even more fun. Reachable by a mini adventure course: a ladder, 2 zip lines, a suspension bridge (Sequoia 2) or a net (Sequoia 1). Wow! You can organize a trail excursion first and finish it up with the adventure course. Then, you offer a nice cool drink to your guests on the terrace.
A few safety issues
Always make sure that the structure can supported the number of guests you invite. And plan for more spaces per person to move around since it is a constricted area. A party does not need a huge guest list to be exciting. Having between 2 to 6 attendees is the norm for a perched tree house party.
If you wish to host a night party, I suggest you make the latest in wireless lighting. Candles in the wood are a huge fire hazard. If you use candles, put any candle in a fire resistant lantern.
The best option is to bring out several polar powered lights and rechargeable portable lamps. Check out the luau portable lamp by Vessel that can be hanged or rested on a table or the floor.
Be careful when you bring children up. Try to select a lower perched tree cabin if you invite kids. Some people are afraid of heights or not athletic (say if you have an adventure course) so tell your guests in advance about the location characteristics.
Often, you must bring stuff up by lifting them up with cords. Do not bring items that are too heavy and pack light if you stay over. Tree houses get almost no sun. So bring warmer clothes and mosquito repellent to be comfortable.
It can be a fun family getaway if your kids are old enough. This is an adventure that your kids will remember for a long time.
A new trend: Tree house hotel accommodation
The Chateau cabin, shown here, was built three years ago as a wedding gift to the sister of the owner of this French hotel complex. The intent was to create a magical refuge for the first wedding night of the couple. It did not take long for friends of the family to ask to stay in the tree cabin.
The tree house is built with the ancient wood craftsmanship techniques without nails or screws. The Chateau cabin for 2 persons covers 20 square meters. A nice terrace let you take a romantic breakfast, read peacefully and enjoy the view of the golf course and cricket pitch. You get up by a rope ladder.
The complimentary breakfast is delivered at the foot of the tree supporting your cabin. Ecological toilets are available in every cabin. The Domaine des Ormes has a total of 5 tree houses.
Located 25 minutes from Saint-Malo, the Domaine des Ormes is one of the biggest tourist attractions of France within 200 hectares of greenness and pleasantness. The Chateau cabin is 96 € per night for 2 persons, breakfast included.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Tree Houses on the Web site of Domaine des Ormes
Photos credits: En Bretagne, rêves perches published in Maison Francaise issue number 548 – photos by Marie-José Jarry et Jean-François Tripelon
Categories:
KIDS party
TRAVEL
FAMILY style
posted @ Tuesday, August 07, 2007 12:11 PM | Feedback (2)
Following my last week trend report on raw material, I noticed that July-August 2007 issue of French Elle Décoration published several articles about this design style.
Once I reviewed my inspirational styled photographs it became clear that Blue Nature designed most of the pieces I wish to highlight.
Bleu Nature is born out of a wondrous exploration of driftwood-a free-spirited, untamed material by Frank Lefebvre in 1995. They got many lines including one inspired by the novel of Robinson Crusoe.
To keep things simple in this post, I am only showing you the work of Blue Nature for the new Mystique Hotel located in Oia on the Santori Island, Greece. The hotel shows that charms and simplicity can feel luxurious.
A collection of raw material furniture
The raw material trend works so well in bare white rooms of these villas. Many of the furniture and accessories were designed for the Hotel. Forget faux-bois, here all the pieces are made of old wood often found on sea shore.
Here the design is real wood mixed with manmade pebble furniture used as benches and tables. The dining set is the piece of resistance for me. Imagine a romantic dinner or lunch with this view. Beluga is name of the living room table, also shown of the top left picture with ceramic accessories.
The Marie Crusoette candelabrum is amazing. This is a conservation piece that you will cherish for a long time.
A tableware line and ceramic accessories
The ceramics collection of Bleu Nature is based on simplicity of form and color. Flat surfaces and the natural curves of stone slabs meet each other half-way in many accessories.
The raw look can continue with the tableware. Igloolik plates on Nagori Dapple-grey skin place mats reveal a Nordic feeling.
I will take about this look later this fall when the weather drops down. Furniture and accessories complete this look. Some of these pieces have been introduced in the Summer 2007 collection.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Web site of Blue Nature
Vacation: Web site of Mystique Hotel located in Oia on the Santori Island, Greece
Photo credits: Tendance Blanc, Bleu, Bois… in July-August 2007 issue of Elle Décoration magazine and Blue Nature's Web site
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
HOME decor
TRAVEL
posted @ Wednesday, July 25, 2007 12:16 PM | Feedback (0)
I am a huge fan of the Canadian fashion brand m0851. I live close by their flagship store in Montreal. My husband can testify that I always stop to look at their store window. I love the simplicity of their streamlined clothes and leather accessories.
I am thrilled about their way in the hospitality industry. You can enjoy the same design philosophy when you travel to Belgium. m0851 just opened three guestrooms on top of the new Antwerp’s store in a popular fashion street.
The balanced modern aestheticism and functionality of the rooms are typical of the m0851’s look and feel. The interior design is urban chic and has pure lines. The rooms seem very comfortable for the guests. An itty mini boutique hotel that is located near museums, trendy cafes and restaurants.
I am showing you the m0851 rooms because they are inspirational for when you having guest spending the night at your house. m0851 guestrooms are my pretext to talk about the ultimate guest room. When you design a guest room in your home, try to think of everything your guests may need.
The first rule of entertaining is to make your guests feel welcome. They need a place to rest, a place to read, a place to write down stuff or use their computer and a place to relax. It is a good idea when you have friends that sleep over to prepare in advance a basket for each guest.
Put some freshly washed towels, a mild soap, toothpaste and toothbrush, a few water bottles, some fruits, a chocolate bar, several magazines and a scented candle into a pretty basket or a neat box. I say freshly washed towels because they smell so nice. If your guests brought their computer, ask them if they want to borrow a DVD of a movie or a TV series.
Leaving in the room what they need to prepare a hot drink is a good idea. Your guests may wake up earlier or going to bed later than you. This nice gesture will be appreciated. Think about providing stuff that they can get at their convenience. You can leave some herbal teas and a few cups in the room with a thermos of hot water. Even better, buy a two-cup coffee machine; it costs less than 20 dollars these days.
Tell your friends when the breakfast will be served so they can plan ahead when to wake up. If you do not mind that they prepare their own breakfast, you can leave non perishable food on the counter and tell them when you store your dishes.
All these are common sense rules but something we forget to do things because we are cut in our busy lifestyle. If you prepare in advance, things run more smoothly. The key is to think about your most comfy and enjoyable hotel experience. Then, try to mimic the essentials in your own guest room at home.
If you plan a trip to Belgium, you can stay at m0851 guestroom for 140 Euros a night including breakfast.
About m0851
m0851 designs urban-style leather bags, jackets and lifestyle accessories. Humble in appearance, the collection includes basics like dresses, pants, skirts, shirts and raincoats composed of the finest quality leathers, wools, cashmeres and cotton blends. m0851 products possess a distinct look and feel, balancing old-world elegance with new-school articulation. m0851 has stores in several countries.
Link: m0851 guestrooms
Via: rayonnement 17.04.07 - MO851 a Paris et a Anvers from Creativite Montreal Web site
Categories:
EVERYDAY
TRAVEL
posted @ Wednesday, April 18, 2007 12:21 AM | Feedback (0)