Entries Tagged 'Travel' ↓

One of Palm Springs most historical properties, the Colony Palms Hotel was constructed in 1936 by Purple Gang mobster, Al Wertheimer. Operating as the Colonial House, the hotel quickly became  the town’s most popular locale, know primarily as a speakeasy and gambling house.

In the late 1940’s, the property was bought by Robert Howard, son of the owner of champion thoroughbred Sea Biscuit, and renamed the hotel, Howard Manor. Over the next 25 years, the hotel would be a haven for young Hollywood, with guests including Frank Sinatra and boxing great Jack Dempsey.

The Spanish Style hotel just completed a $17 million dollar renovation in the Spring of 2007. The newly refurbished hotel includes 57 new guest rooms, 8 of which are private casitas and all have stunning views of the desert mountains. Also renovated the Purple Palms poolside restaurant and an intimate spa, voted best spa by Allure Magazine.

This extraordinary property is also a great backdrop for weddings and other special events. – Taryn Cox for The Wife.

www.ColonyPalmsHotel.Com

Carried Away designer zip seal bags
These mini, yet durable bags are prettier than the average zip lock and carry all of your favorite beauty items, and other precious little things, neatly inside your purse. Cute, clear, and the perfect carry-on solution for every traveler, carried away carries you right through airport security with no hassles as they are TSA regulation size! $6.00 for 25 Bags.

www.minikittour.com

My best friend Nicole and I depart LAX.

Headed to Portugal.

Nicole and I on our connecting flight to Lisbon… Needless to say it was an empty flight.

Clemmie and Miguel at breakfast on the terrace. Homemade Belgium waffles made by Miguel followed by manicures at the house.

Sam and Miguel giving useless directions.

Me, The Birthday Girl and her 2 best friends!

Shopping around town.

Nicole chatting on the phone with friends from home.

Sam at my birthday Lunch… Fresh fish!!

Nicole and I.

And the photos shoots begin!

Nicole… A.k.a – Naza

Miguel.

Clemmie and Naza, We went for Sunset cocktails at Bairro Alto Hotel.

Clemmie Posing for the camera.

The Birthday Girl after getting a relaxing massage! Heaven!

Sam looking like a gentlemen.

My birthday dinner/ Pre wedding dinner.

Naza in her darling Sonia Rykiel dress on the dance floor.

Me, The Birthday Girl and Clemmie.

Clemmie drives us all to the beach.

Driving over the river.

We arrive at the sea!

Fun in the sun at Costa Caparica

Clemmie.

Everyone jumps into the sea.

Bronzing Time!

Sam and Clemmie digging in the sand.

Poor Sam got buried…

Me.

Naza and I being silly.

Clemmie and Naza air fighting.

Woo Hoo!

I just love sea grass!

Clemmie and I with a Surfer.

Naza makes sand angels.

Playing in the waves.

At dinner  with Naza and Sam.

An elegant evening: Sam, Naza, Miguel and I.

Clemmie poses with a statue.

Discovering the beautiful property of Fronteira Palace.

The Wedding!

Outside Ambiance.

Our table at the wedding.

Wedding Reception.

Wedding Cake.

I find my favorite treat ever… Portuguese Donuts!

Another day at the shore, Guincho Beach.

Miguel driving.

Sam and I at Lunch.

Me.

Naza and Clemmie sipping cocktails on the shore.

Miguel and Naza.

Clemmie and I hail a cab for the concert.

Bureka Som Sistema and The Black Eyed Peas Concert.

Naza, Me, Miguel and Clemmie Dancing.

Me enjoying the evening.

Naza, Clemmie and I take a break from dancing. After the concert we went for the best steak I have ever had at Cafe Sao Bento.

Sightseeing.

Last day in Lisbon.

The End… Off to London!

Using world-leading conservation measures, the original Homestead has been carefully restored to its former glory. Encompassing 40 free standing luxury suites, each with its own private terrace and swimming pool, the luxury resort was built using today’s cutting edge technology and yet perfectly echoes the original heritage architecture, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the vastness and dramatic beauty of Australia’s Hinterland terrain.

Recreating the rustic style of the Federation Period, the resort’s buildings offer a range of unique spaces in which to enjoy quiet moments with a good book or a drink, or catch up on the events of the day with friends in a luxurious setting.

Members of the local Aboriginal tribe the Wiradjuri, cleansed the site in an ancient ritual before work began at Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa. They have contributed extensively to the process of development and remain closely connected with the property and its history.

Not a single tree was destroyed as a result of construction work, and the ground was meticulously studied for potential archaeological sites.

If your looking for an adventurous Holiday, the resort’s Field Guides are able to offer a variety of inspiring suggestions by which to see Wolgan Valley and the surrounding Blue Mountains region. Guests can choose from outdoor activities such as hiking nature trails, exploring the countryside on horseback, touring by four-wheel drive, mountain biking through forests, or stargazing in the dead of night. These are just some of the many adventures awaiting those with a love for Australia’s great outdoors.

Enjoy the Resorts Spa: During winter months, a massive stone fireplace lends to the cosy atmosphere, while in summer, huge doors open to invite the outdoors in. Six double treatment rooms enable guests to share the spa experience; each room has its own changing area and private bathroom featuring a shower and a Japanese-style soaking tub to complete the luxurious experience.

www.EmiratesHotelResorts.Com

A few weeks ago after having tea with Cambrey Thomas, The Editor of “Detroit Girls About Town” she asked me to write an article about my guide/favorite things in Los Angeles. I was nothing short of  delighted to participate. Here is the Article. -THE WIFE

DGAT had a lot of fun in Los Angeles last month, so much fun that our name almost became L. A. Girls About Town. While there, we lounged on the beach, ate at hip food trucks, and spotted David Hasselhof at The Apple Pan. We even stumbled upon a charming website called Taryn Cox The Wife. The site, run by native California girl Taryn Cox, is a guide to life as a wife. Although we’re betrothed to no one as of yet, DGAT likes her clear, practical, and decidedly stylish take on the world. In fact, we could not return to Detroit without asking Miss Taryn for her top 15 must do’s in L.A for Detroit girls. So, Detroit girls, read on. And be forewarned, this may inspire lust for a weekend jaunt to the city of Angels. – Detroit Girls About Town

Since being introduced to Umami Burger, it has turned into a weekly craving/obsession. What sets Umami Burger apart from the others is that they don’t grind the meat until you order it. Umami means flavor and taste in Japanese…. They certainly have accomplished both with the tastiest burger in Los Angeles. My favorite is the Truffle Burger with sweet potato fries.. Make sure to indulge in a Raspberry Monkey Cake for dessert!

Huckleberry, although on the Westside has been proven to be worth the distance for their delicious brunches and pastries that will transcend you straight to heaven! Don’t let the title fool you, but be sure to order the green eggs and ham for breakfast AND take a goodie bag full of sweet treats home for later. You definitely will not regret being over loaded with carbs and sugar.

Ever since taking residence at this infamous hotel for six months, it has become my favorite recommendation for anyone visiting. The rooms are like mini apartments, most equipped with kitchens and living rooms so you’ll feel right at home. And the pool is perfect for lazy Sundays. Sit in the courtyard on any balmy California evening, its enchanting to enjoy dinner or drinks with friends under the warm nights sky.

The hotel is perfect for extended stays in Los Angeles. Even if your not staying here, it’s the perfect place to meet up with friends for cocktails in their charming lobby. Cozy sofas and a toasty fireplace make up the ambiance ( similar to Mercer Hotel lobby). Their restaurant, The Hall, is lovely for enjoying dinner under twinkling lights in the courtyard.

Not only does O! Burger have delicious burgers and fries, but what make me even more excited to eat there is that the whole restaurant is eco- friendly. Everything in the restaurant is made from renewable resources that are recyclable, compostable or bio degradable. All the ingredients are 100% certified organic! Even all the ice tea and sugar they use are all fair trade products. Good food and responsibility for the environment!

Joan’s on Third has become my go to place for coffee, tea and breakfast with friends. I call it the Los Angeles version of Dean and Deluca, with counters filled with delicious food to eat in or carry out -Sweet treats like morning buns (my personal favorite) and homemade cupcakes. It is the most “at home” place with a most welcoming staff. This is the perfect recipe to get lost in a conversation with your best friend.

Although on the pricier range of restaurants, Cecconi’s is definitely worthy of splurging on a glamorous dinner out. Get all dolled up and toast your friends with champagne while dinning out on the inviting patio. Indulge on hearty portions of Southern Italian pasta and pizzas.

This is a do not skip restaurant in Los Angeles. Whether you dine at Pizzeria Mozza or Osteria Mozza, either will be an enjoyable feast. Call ahead as reservations book up fast. If you still do not have luck scoring a table, the bar at both restaurants is designed for walk in guests.

One of my favorite french inspired restaurants in Los Angeles. The ambiance is very modern Parisian chic. A Must Order dish is the braised short ribs with pommes aligot.

If you or a friend happens to have a membership, Soho House is a must for sunset dinner or drinks. With the most spectacular 360 view of Los Angeles, you’lll get lost in the twinkling lights of the city while sipping on tasty cocktails.

If you find yourself in Los Angeles and in a rush, La brea Bakery is fantastic for a quick sandwich and chips on the go.

Although located Downtown, Bottega Louie is worth the drive. The ambiance has a new york feel, with high ceilings and gorgeous male waiters serving as eye candy through out the evening. The down side is Bottega Louie does nott take reservations, but be sure to shop their market in front of the restaurant while waiting for a table. I always find great gourmet products like fig jam, macaroons and fresh flowers.

My favorite place for sweet treats like cookies, coffee and ice cream. Executive pastry chef Dave Baker has a creative knack for dreaming up unique ice cream flavors like Irish breakfast ice cream and red velvet cake batter ice cream. Also Be sure to try an Iced Chai latte, they make the chai syrup from scratch.

Larchmont Bungalow is located on the charming street of Larchmont (be sure to go on Sunday’s to walk around the Farmer’s Market) Larchmont Bungalow has prided its self on their creativity for meals. Order the red velvet pancakes or tequila french toast! You cant go wrong with anything you order, even the classics are delicious!

On any given sunny day be sure to check out The Grove. You’ll feel like your in the happiest place on earth, as its very reminiscent of Main Street in Disneyland. Charming for catching afternoon movies or shopping at stores like J Crew or Barney’s Co-op. Be sure to Wonder over to the farmers market for your choice of any food genre under the sun. My favorite are donuts from Bob’s Coffee and Doughnuts.