Travel Blog Planet

Claremont Hotel and Spa, Berkeley, California

Claremont Resort and Spa

The Claremont is a landmark destination for Bay Area locals and visitors alike. I’ve been hanging out here since my youth.  This August until September 6,  the Claremont Hotel and Spa is offering the perfect retreat with their Beat the Heat package. For nearly a century, discriminating travelers have made this hotel one of the Bay Area’s most celebrated destinations. Perched on a Berkeley hillside, overlooking San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge, the Claremont offers the ultimate retreat.

Looking to Beat the Heat? Stay at the Claremont Hotel and Spa in Berkeley, California

Offered daily now through September 6, 2010 the Claremont’s Beat the Heat package with rates beginning at $179.00, including tax, based on double occupancy includes:

• Deluxe Overnight Accommodations
• $20.00 Food & Beverage Credit to Bayview Café or Poolside Dining
• Access to Club Claremont’s Fitness Facilities and Three Swimming Pools
• Resort Parking Resort Charge

Try a Claremont Double Bed Room with the Family Fun in the Sun package

For families, the Claremont is also offering the Family Fun in the Sun package. With rates as low as $299.00 (a value of $550.00) per night starting now through September 6.

The Family Fun in the Sun package allows families to tailor their vacation to their interests and includes:

• Deluxe Overnight Accommodations
• Choice of $100.00 Spa Claremont credit or $100.00 Club Claremont credit (children swimming lessons, tennis lessons, Kid’s Camp or extended Kid’s Club access)
• Breakfast for two adults and two children at Meritage at the Claremont ($80.00 value)
• In-room movie and popcorn
• Access to Club Claremont’s fitness facilities and three swimming pools
• Parking and facilities charge ($50.00 value)

If You Go:

Claremont Hotel Club and Spa (800) 551-7266

41 Tunnel Road, Berkeley, CA 94705

Related Post:

Claremont Resort and Spa

Article written by  Travel Writer Nancy D. Brown of What a Trip. Photos courtesy of Claremont Hotel and Spa.

Waterview from Turnberry Bungalow at Saddle Creek Resort, Copperopolis, California in Calaveras County

Golfer’s Delight

Golf lovers, listen up – Golf Week Magazine recently ranked Saddle Creek Golf Course 8th for best public courses in California. That’s quite impressive, considering Saddle Creek Resort is located in Copperopolis, California. And yes, there are bumper stickers stating, “Where the heck is Copperopolis?”

Welcome to the Lodge Bungalows at Saddle Creek Resort in Copperopolis, California

Where the heck is Copperopolis?

Saddle Creek Resort is a short two hour drive from the San Francisco Bay Area. The California Sierra foothills are an outdoor lovers dream, with golf, tennis and swimming on property and horseback riding minutes away. Boating enthusiasts will want to check out Lake Tulloch.

Luxury one and two bedroom suite bungalows at Saddle Creek Resort in Copperopolis, California

Luxury Bungalows at Saddle Creek Resort

The one and two bedroom bungalows will appeal to men on  golfing “mancations” as golf course access is on property. While the men may not notice (speaking on behalf of my husband), ladies will appreciate the earth tone decor, granite counter tops and family-friendly kitchen. We both noticed and appreciated the central air conditioning! Folks on a working vacation will appreciate the complimentary internet access.

My Turnberry suite rented for $240 in the high season with lower rates available in the off season (November 1 – March 31.)  This one bedroom bungalow offered a view of the water and was situated off the first fairway. All bungalows are two bedroom, with the option to close off the second bedroom for a lower rate.  The seventeen bungalows are all handicap accessible and smoke free – sorry – no pets allowed.

Family friendly kitchen with granite counter tops in Saddle Creek Resort Bungalows

Winetasting in Murphys

After a day of golfing, boating, panning for gold or horseback riding, try wine tasting in nearby Murphys. Located 30 miles east of Copperopolis on Highway 4, Murphys offers 21 wineries.

If You Go:

Saddle Creek Resort 1 (800) 611-7722

1001 Saddle Creek Drive, Copperopolis, CA 95228

Related Posts:

Things to See and Do in Copperopolis, CA

Horseback Riding at Copper Valley Trail Company

The sweet Brannan Cottage Inn in Calistoga, CA

I recently took an excursion to Calistoga with my cousin who was visiting from the East Coast. I needed to do some lodging research and to get out of the foggy, cold, San Francisco summer.

I’m more of a Sonoma girl at heart, but I adore Calistoga, on the Nothern edge of the Napa Valley Wine Country. It is a funky, unpretentious western frontier town that feels frozen in time. It is a place of spas, healing waters, toxin-absorbing mud baths and a decidedly laid-back attitude.

Local color in Calistoga, CA.

Here you will find authentic Mexican restaurants, cute, ramshackle cottages and colorful locals in contrast to exorbitantly-priced tasting rooms and lavish, sprawling estates found elsewhere in Napa Valley.

I was invited to stay at the Brannan Cottage Inn by proprietors Doug and Judy Cook, so after my daughter’s pre-K graduation, my cousin and I headed out of the fog to Calistoga.

Built in 1860 by Sam Brannan, an entrepreneur and gold speculator who profited from the healing properties the area’s legendary hot springs and therapeutic waters, the inn is a charming gingerbread Victorian with a white picket fence. The owners are warm and welcoming.

Julie and I arrived in time for wine and cheese served in the parlor. Among the cheeses offered was a fantastic English cheddar marbled with porter ale. We sipped a crisp Chardonnay from  Guenoc Winery and Judy divulged that the “Periwinkle Room” is rumored to be haunted by a benign ghost.

We were shown to our room,  the comfortable Lavender Suite, with a private entrance, a sitting area with fireplace, and day bed. The suite can comfortably sleep three adults.

The well-appointed suites are a good option if you’re traveling with children, but I must admit, I was happy to leave my precious cargo home this time. The large landscaped lawn with a few adirondack chairs is great for romping around and is enclosed by the picket fence. Brannan Cottage Inn is also dog friendly.

Breakfast is included and the next morning we were served stuffed French toast and chicken and gouda sausage al fresco on the sunny patio. When it was time to leave, my car didn’t start. Dead battery. Our gracious host gave me a jump and we were off – now that’s hospitality!

Brannan Cottage Inn
109 Wapoo Avenue
Calistoga, California 94515
707-942-4200
BrannanCottageInn@sbcglobal.net

Photos by Lisa Dion of Friscomama

New York City is chock full of hotel options, but I have no doubt the soon-to-be-open W New York – Downtown will stand out. W Hotels are known for their stylish luxury and this new location is no different.

A Room at the New W New York - Downtown

Located minutes from the New York Stock Exchange and 1 World Trade Center, in the city’s Financial District, the W New York – Downtown is set to open August 16, 2010.

All rooms will feature the Signature W bed with goose down comforters and pillows, flat screen TVs, iPod docking stations, and Bliss Spa products in the bathroom. High speed internet access is available for $14.95/day and the hotel is pet-friendly.

To celebrate the opening, the hotel is offering a special package called, Who Puts the W in Wall Street?

Lengthy title, but here’s what you get with the package deal (in addition to the room, of course):

• Two cocktails by mixologist Charlotte Voisey to sip in the Living Room Bar & Terrace
• Downtown New York Walking Tour
• Late Night In-Room Dining (from 1am – 5am) valued up to $50
• Breakfast for Two at BLT Bar & Grill, each day of your stay
• Suit Press & Shoe Shine
• The recently released W “Symmetry” CD
• Two-Way Car Service to/from JFK, LGA or EWR Airport

The package starts at $399 on weekends and $529 on week nights, is valid for stays from August 16 to October 11, 2010, and requires a two-night stay. It can be booked online or by phone at 866-961-2860. Use promo code WGO.

*********************************
W New York – Downtown
123 Washington Street
New York, New York 10006
Phone: 626-826-8600
*********************************

[Photo courtesy W Hotels]

Fairmont Heritage Place Suite Ghiradelli Chocolate Festival Package Deal in San Francisco, California

Ghiradelli Square Chocolate Festival

It’s true – San Francisco is a popular, year-round travel destination. However,  in September, chocolate lovers from across the U.S. will head to Ghirardelli Square to attend the annual Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival.  The two-day Chocolate Festival, now in its 15th year, is set for September 11-12, 2010.

The weekend chocolate celebration features chocolatiers, artisans and chefs – from California, Scottsdale, and Las Vegas- showcasing chocolate delicacies and decadent desserts.  In addition, the festival offers family-friendly activities including the annual “Hands Free” Earthquake Ice Cream Sundae Eating Contest, and free Ghirardelli ice cream sundaes.

Join the Earthquake Ice Cream Sundae contest at the Ghiradelli Square Chocolate Festival

The 15th Annual Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival is free and open to the public.  Chocolate tasting tickets are $20 for 15 tastings and benefit Project Open Hand. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the event.

Sweet Lodging Package at Fairmont Heritage Place

The Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square is offering “The Chocolate Festival Package” over the festival weekend. The package includes two chocolate tasting tickets (each ticket is valid for 15 tastings); a two night stay in a one-, two- or three-bedroom residence; a goody basket from Ghirardelli Chocolate Company; daily continental breakfast; nightly wine & cheese reception and complimentary house car service.  The package is available September 10-15, 2010 and starts at $624.

If You Go:

Fairmont Heritage Place 1 (888) 991-4300

900 N. Point Street, Suite D100
San Francisco, California 94109

Related Posts:

Free and cheap in San Francisco

Things to See and Do in San Francisco

Article written by  Travel Writer Nancy D. Brown of What a Trip.  Photos courtesy of Fairmont Heritage Place and Ghiradelli Chocolate Company

This package is one for the foodies…more specifically, foodies without vertigo.

From now through September 6, 2010, the historic Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel in Chicago is offering the Skyline Package. Included in this package are overnight accommodations in a Superior guestroom, a chilled bottle of wine upon arrival, evening turndown service and a $50 dining gift card to the 95th Floor Signature Room at the John Hancock Tower.

A Room at the Millennium Knickerbocker in Chicago

The hotel is in a prime location for exploring downtown Chicago. It is less than a block from the John Hancock Tower, as well as within walking distance of other Chicago places of interest, such as Water Tower Place (an 8-story tall indoor mall) and the upscale shopping of the famed Magnificent Mile.

Built in 1927, the rooms may be a bit smaller than one usually encounters in more recently built luxury hotels, but they still have all the modern amenities.

The onsite Martini Bar lives up to its name with over 50 types of Martini, plus wines by the glass. There’s also performances by a live jazz pianist, which makes the bar a great spot for a nightcap.

The Skyline Package starts at $199. To book it, contact the hotel directly at 312-751-8100 or visit the Millennium Knickerbocker’s website and use the code SKYLINE.

*********************************
Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel Chicago
163 East Walton Place
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: 312-751-8100
*********************************

[Photo courtesy Millennium Hotels]

Girls on a family vacation at McKay Falls in Central Oregon

Family Vacation in Sunriver, Oregon

Brakes shutter, dust rises and gravel sprays from the mountain bike tires. The mountain bike warriors stop on the forested trail to survey the damage and come to the aid of a fallen comrade. One of the teenagers on this downhill mountain bike adventure over-estimated her biking abilities and  is splayed on the road with volcanic rock, the size of fresh peas, embedded deep into her thigh.

Once cleaned up, she valiantly gets back in the saddle. The group charges on to Paulina Plunge where they will abandon their bikes and take a short hike down to the waterfall. This six mile down hill mountain bike ride passes by several waterfalls and natural water rock slides. The ice cold snow melt chills to the bone as the bikers are plunged into the pool below the rock slide. Shrieks of laughter can be heard from the teens as they willingly take the plunge over and over. Yes, this is a day in the life of a family vacationin Sunriver, Oregon.

Fast forward several hours earlier: “Rise and shine,” I call to the kids as I begin packing our  lunch. “We’re biking to a water fall and then we’ll have a picnic.”

While our two children have been biking Paulina Plunge for many years during our annual family vacation, some of the teenagers on this trip haven’t been on a bicycle since the days of training wheels  and Schwinn banana seats. I pack a small first aid kit into a back pack - just in case.

Nancy Brown and Sunriver Stables Guide Diana, horseback riding in Central Oregon

Horseback Riding at Sunriver Stables

As the teenagers begin to stumble out of bed, and trickle into the kitchen for breakfast, they ask about my horseback riding adventure the day before. A horse lover my entire life, I made sure to book myself a private trail ride at Sunriver Stables during our family vacation in Central Oregon.

Horseback riding in the high desert, surrounded by Ponderosa Pines, with the Deschutes River following along the trail, is a treat for family members young and old. No riding experience is necessary for the half hour Bald Eagle Loop. Young buckaroos will ride on ponies lead by capable cowgirls, and experienced riders will be able to trot and lope on private trail rides. Sunriver Stables is able to cater to every riders ability during your family vacation.

Kayaking the Deschutes River at Sunriver Resort, Central Oregon

Splish Splash I was Taking a Bath

Surrounded by lakes, rivers and streams, Sunriver Resort has got it covered when it comes to family vacation activities. Our teenagers hung at the Sunriver South pool and slid down the giant water slide.

Another day we paired the teenagers two by two, like Noah’s Ark, as they paddled down the gentle Deschutes River in canoes. The solo male teenager in our group opted for a single kayak to navigate the clear blue water.

Golf Galore on your Family Vacation in Sunriver, Oregon

If you prefer your water activites to be on a golf course, Crosswater Golf Courseis a winner. Sunriver Resort offers three golf courses for every skil level. The golf course  gave our father/son duo time for bonding during our family vacation.

These are some of the activities our family enjoys on our annual vacation to Sunriver, Oregon. We also added soaring, white water rafting and standup paddle boarding to our outdoor adventures. Of course, nothing beats sitting in the hot tub watching a Central Oregon sunset.

Watching the sunset on a family vacation in Sunriver, Oregon

Related Posts:

Pet-friendly, family-friendly lodging at Sunriver Resort, Oregon

Things to See and Do in Sunriver, Oregon

Hotel Palomar in San Francisco is of the many fine Kimpton offerings.

It pays to be loyal. And timely.

If you book by August 3, members of the Kimpton InTouch Exclusive program will get rates from $109 to $209 per night at such hotels as the EPIC in Miami, the Onyx in Boston, or the Hotel Palomar in San Francisco, Los Angeles or Chicago.

Membership does indeed have its advantages.

In addition to sweet deals like this, when you sign up for the InTouch Guest Loyalty program you can register your preferences from pillow type to favorite newspaper to the location of your room.

You also get free Internet access, credits toward the mini bar and $30 off in-room spa services, as well as earning rewards points for complimentary nights at a Kimpton hotel.

Not too shabby.

This particular InTouch Exclusive offers:

• Weekend rates from $109–$209 per night
• Special rate for suite upgrade
• Now – September 6
• Book by August 3

Kimpton properties in the San Francisco area that are included in the promotion are:

• Hotel Triton ($109)
• Harbor Court Hotel ($209)
• Prescott Hotel ($209)
• Serrano Hotel ($209)
• Sir Francis Drake Hotel ($209)
• Hotel Monaco ($169)
• Hotel Palomar ($169)

So hurry up and squeeze the most out of these late summer days by snapping up these incredible rates at chic Kimpton properties, and make some lasting memories.

Photo by Lisa Dion of Friscomama.com.

Following a three-year complete property restoration program, the legendary Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai, China, reopened its doors for guests this weekend.

A Renovated Room at the Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai, China

The hotel first opened in 1929 and was known as the “Number One mansion in the Far East” both for its luxury and for its location. In renovating the property, the designers and architects worked closely with historians to recreate the grandeur of the hotel while bringing it into the modern era.

Guestrooms feature 1930s art deco furnishings and decor, yet include contemporary amenities such as a 37-inch plasma stereo TV, a bath-side LCD screen, Blu-ray DVD player and wireless and broadband Internet with ‘plug-and-play’ connectivity. Additional room amenities include Illy espresso machines, 400-thread-count Egyptian cotton bed linens and exclusive Miller Harris Cologne Series 1888 bath products.

The Fairmont Peace Hotel's New Indoor Pool

The Fairmont Peace Hotel offers 270 deluxe guestrooms and suites. Six restaurants and lounges are available to guests, including The Jazz Bar, a Shanghai institution since the 1930s. A new extension to the building will house a sky-lit swimming pool and a Willow Stream Spa.

Room rates at the Fairmont Peace Hotel start at RMB 2,300 a night (approximately US $355). Through August 31, 2010, the hotel is running a special introductory 4th night free with all bookings.

I’ve never stayed at this property, but I have stayed at the Fairmont Banff and I can vouch that the service at this chain is top notch. Pair that with such a beautifully restored hotel in a centrally located area of Shanghai and I can imagine this will once again be a very popular place to stay in the city.

*********************************
Fairmont Peace Hotel
20 Nanjing Road East
Shanghai, China 200002
Reservations: 1-866-940-4914
*********************************

[Photo courtesy Fairmont Hotels]

Following a three-year complete property restoration program, the legendary Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai, China, reopened its doors for guests this weekend.

A Renovated Room at the Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai, China

The hotel first opened in 1929 and was known as the “Number One mansion in the Far East” both for its luxury and for its location. In renovating the property, the designers and architects worked closely with historians to recreate the grandeur of the hotel while bringing it into the modern era.

Guestrooms feature 1930s art deco furnishings and decor, yet include contemporary amenities such as a 37-inch plasma stereo TV, a bath-side LCD screen, Blu-ray DVD player and wireless and broadband Internet with ‘plug-and-play’ connectivity. Additional room amenities include Illy espresso machines, 400-thread-count Egyptian cotton bed linens and exclusive Miller Harris Cologne Series 1888 bath products.

The Fairmont Peace Hotel's New Indoor Pool

The Fairmont Peace Hotel offers 270 deluxe guestrooms and suites. Six restaurants and lounges are available to guests, including The Jazz Bar, a Shanghai institution since the 1930s. A new extension to the building will house a sky-lit swimming pool and a Willow Stream Spa.

Room rates at the Fairmont Peace Hotel start at RMB 2,300 a night (approximately US $355). Through August 31, 2010, the hotel is running a special introductory 4th night free with all bookings.

I’ve never stayed at this property, but I have stayed at the Fairmont Banff and I can vouch that the service at this chain is top notch. Pair that with such a beautifully restored hotel in a centrally located area of Shanghai and I can imagine this will once again be a very popular place to stay in the city.

*********************************
Fairmont Peace Hotel
20 Nanjing Road East
Shanghai, China 200002
Reservations: 1-866-940-4914
*********************************

[Photo courtesy Fairmont Hotels]