Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Tea Time

Looking for a reason to travel? How about Tea Time at the Ritz Hotel in London?

Nowhere in the world is tea time more famous or revered than at the famous Ritz Hotel in London, England. It is one of the most sacrosanct traditions of the British people - whether commoners or royalty are enjoying it.

The Versailles-inspired Ritz hotel and rococo Palm Court tea room will make you feel every inch a monarch in your own right. The pomp and circumstance associated with the serving of the tea is as delicious as the finger sandwiches, scones and pastries. The best part of the entire production is the clotted cream - a heavy sweet cream difficult to find outside the United Kingdom. Tea - or champagne is usually taken with the tea. Allow up to two hours for this feast of the senses.

The tradition of tea time allegedly dates back 150 years ago to the Duchess of Bedford who needed a 'boost'of food to keep her going between lunch and dinner - to avoid fainting.

The only thing you might be fainting at today is the price of Tea at the Ritz ($45 per person or more). Reserve well in advance. This is tasty tradition is something travelers don't want to miss. You have to do it at least once in your lifetime.

Yes, there is a dress code. Think "Puttin' on the Ritz."

For more information: www.theritzlondon.com

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Monarch Madness!

Monarch Madness is on November 28, 2009, in Pacific Grove, California.

What is Monarch Madness? Its when thousands of Monarch Butterflies find a winter retreat. And I can't think of a better place than Pacific Grove, a town off Highway 1 near Monterey.

The butterflies star coming in November and stay until February. During that time you'll witness one of the most beautiful, colorful and magical events of nature on the planet.

Go to the Monarch Grove Sanctuary on Ridge Road for the Monarch Madness event. The butterflies are a flutter in shades of gold, orange, green, deep blues and browns.

There are activities for the kids and docents on hand for something a little more intellectual. You'll even get butterfly gardening tips.

Call 831-648-5716 or go to pgmuseum.org/monarchs.htm

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Nor a Haunted Hill to Eerie

There's not a cliff to awesome
nor a stream too swift or deep

Nor a haunted hill too eerie,
not a mountain trail too steep

For the questing heart to venture
or the eager breath to dare.

- Lorraine Usher Babbitt

Dare and venture in your travels.

Happy Halloween!

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Santa Monica Pier

Looking for a wonderful and historic place to travel?

Try out Santa Monica Pier. This timeless pier is one of the last originals to survive the changes of a growing and diversifying California. The pier in 100 years old but living more the life of a youngster than a creature nearing retirement. The famous carousel, from 1922, is still a huge tourist draw, and the solar-powered Ferris wheel is a family favorite.

For those looking for even more adventure you can learn the trapeze or rent a a bicycle (or bring your roller skates or roller blades and hit Venice Beach).

Through December 20, the Cirque du Soleil is performing the Kooza under a big top. The Santa Monica area Hotels are fabulous - Check out the Ritz Carlton, the Shutters on the Beach or the Loews.

For more on the pier go to Santamonicapier.org

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Las Vegas. Gamble on a good time in Nevada

If you went to Las Vegas a few years ago and were shocked by the prices of the hotels - its time to go back. This year, due to the world-wide economic meltdown, Vegas is offering great deals at an even better price.

Plane tickets are reasonable, too. Try Allegiant airlines for prices as low as $59 - however, you will be restricted by the days and times you fly. www.allegiantair.com

Even the big hotels are dropping their prices - from the Bellagio to the Luxor you can pick up terrific rooms for a fraction of a cost. And no, the amenities and great service is still the same.

Vegas is an American landmark. Built at the beginning of the 1900s this has been a place where Lady Luck can change your life in a throw of the dice or a spin of a wheel.

The shows are still spectacular and the strip sings with excitement all night (and all day). Food, drinks, fun and wild rides await for those looking for adventure and a bonanza of good fortune.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Safari on a budget

For those of you wanting to travel on a safari but are more concerned about the expense than potentially lethal wild animals need to read a new travel book on the market titled, "The Ultimate Safari Handbook."

With the global economic meltdown there are plenty of available spaces, but the costs are still high. However, this book will give you some valuable inside tips that maybe helpful in getting exactly what you want at the best possible cost. Ted Botha offers you everything you'll want to know, and need to know, if your travel plans take you on that one word that conjures up both romance and adventure: safari.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Want to RUN - away?

October is a great month to run - jog or walk. If you're looking for a wonderful place to visit (as well as run) check out the four fabulous cities recommended by Women's Running Magazine.

Boston, Massachusetts - Run the famous Freedom Trail and get in touch with your American history. Of course, this is the home of the famous and elite Boston Marathon, but it is also the home of the Boston Half Marathon - which takes place, you guessed it. In cool and breezy October.

San Francisco, California - If you love running hills you've come to a terrific town for an intense workout. The Bay to Breakers 12K in May is one of biggest runs (or you could say party) in the old USA. Of course, San Fran is loaded with museums, culture and take a trip to Alcatraz.

New York, New York - A fabulous city with delicious restaurants and a vibrant culture. The New York City Marathon puts this city on the serious runners calendar, but for sheer fun try the 4 mile Emerald Nuts Midnight Run on New Years Eve - which ends in fun, food and fireworks.

Austin ,Texas -This city has been hailed for it's art and music scene - and of course, every thing's bigger (and arguably better) in Texas. February's Austin Marathon or Half Marathon is worth training for and the trip to Texas is it's own reward.

Gotta great running city?

Tell us about it.