Kimberly Fisher's Blog, page 240

Travel Guest Post: 5 Essential Items for Vacations

You'll be set next time you travel if you bring a good attitude and five simple essentials.

Money

Unless you're planning to hitchhike and beg for food, money is a must. Take cash, credit and debit cards or traveler's checks, but make sure you take something. Money is even more important that clothing, since you can always use the money to buy new clothes. Keep your money safe with hidden packs you can hide under your clothes. Don't carry large sums of cash. Make sure you also have access to emergency funds, perhaps with an emergency credit card or one that has high limits, in case of emergency.

Clothes

The clothes you pack should match the environment and the weather. Check the extended forecast for the area and time you'll be staying. Also plan for the type of adventure you're expecting. Leave your leather mini-skirt and three-piece suit at home if you're hiking in the mountains. Clothing should always include extra socks and underwear, preferably without holes, and a jacket even if you don't think you're going to need one. Any clothes you forget, you can always buy since you brought your money, of course.

Shoes

Shoes can wreck a vacation if they hurt. Bring at least one pair that is comfortable, durable and fits you well. Never travel with a new pair that you have not yet broken in or sore feet and blisters can ruin your trip. Buying new shoes with the money you brought won't solve the problem. Athletic type walking shoes are best for general travel. The same travel tips for clothing apply to shoes: they need to match the weather and type of adventure. That means no snow boots on the beach, no flip flops for mountain hiking and no hiking boots for an elegant night out on the town – unless, of course, they match your leather mini-skirt or three-piece suit.

Paperwork

Paperwork is not exciting but it is vital if you want to get where you're going with minimal hassle – or at all. Your identification is at the top of the travel tips essentials list, whether it's a passport to enter a foreign country or ID to get on the plane. Paperwork also includes your airline and other tickets, information on car rentals, hotels and other preliminaries, directions, phone numbers and a map. Most of your research can be done online and printed out. Keep all your travel tips info together in a single folder so it's conveniently at hand. Don't forget the folder.

Miscellaneous Musts

Miscellaneous musts include those small yet very important things that you cannot travel without, even for a single day. Prescription medication is on list, as are special vitamins, eyeglasses, contact lenses, hearing aids, your toothbrush, toothpaste and other health-related items and toiletries. A few first-aid essentials should also make it into your suitcase. These include bandages for cuts, rubbing alcohol for sterilization and eye drops for red and tired eyes. Some type of small multi-tool, such as a Swiss army knife, can be a lifesaver for sudden repairs, splinters or cutting needs. Just don't try to take it on the plane or authorities will take it away from you. Small tools with sharp points are definitely a suitcase item for cargo. One more way to assess your personal miscellaneous musts is to go through your day, noting every item you use throughout it.

About the author: Diane Johnson primarily writes about online classes">online education  and anything else that interests her. She enjoys traveling, reading, and sports.

Filed under: adventure, holiday, travel, travel planning, travel tips, travel writing

Travel Guest Post: Relaxing Spa Getaways

There's nothing like a relaxing spa getaway for an opportunity to revive and revitalise tired bodies and minds. For many thousands of years, people have escaped the daily grind of life by visiting spas and retreats to indulge in treatments, good food and beautiful calm surroundings. Nowadays there are a huge range to choose from to suit all budgets and interests – whether an ancient French spa at a natural volcanic bath, or a modern hotel spa with a range of cutting-edge treatments.

Spa breaks generally start from a quick couple of hours for a short recharge, to a longer week or more option at one of the larger resorts. These can be expensive, but will often be used for a serious detox or to recover from illness. Traditionally spas in places such as Bath were where recuperating patients were sent to 'take the waters' which are infused with healing salts and minerals. It is possible to get good cheap spa breaks on the many websites which sell packages directly, as well as last minute special offers which are ideal for a weekend escape. Spa vouchers are also a nice way to treat friends and family who might not otherwise treat themselves to a facial, massage and hydrotherapy pamper session. Spa vouchers make a great Christmas or birthday present and will often have a fairly long redemption date on them.

A good place to start with spa breaks is by recommendation. Think too whether you're looking for a spa break which offers a place for you and your friends to catch up and have a good chat and lunch with a glass of wine, or whether you're looking for a more serious detox or to lose weight for example.

Some spas will offer a variety of therapies such as facials, massages, pedi and manicures and hydrotherapy, sauna, steam rooms and jacuzzis. Others will specialise in certain areas, such as high-tech treatments or international treatments, for example Swedish massage, hot stone therapies, Moroccan and African mud therapies and Japanese rice exfoliations. Swedish hot and cold baths are very popular for building immune systems and regaining strength and energy after a long winter, but they're not for the faint-hearted!

Why not gather together family or a couple of friends and do a search for some cheap spa breaks as a great way to catch up together and positively benefit your health and beauty. Even those who don't enjoy the pampering will enjoy the water facilities and pool and a good lunch and most will relish the chance to kick back for a few hours. Otherwise treat them to some spa vouchers and book some time in ahead!

Bio: Ben Jones is a travel enthusiast that can be reached at ben.jones@branded3.com.

Filed under: health, holiday, luxury, spa Tagged: relax, Spa

Travel Guest Post: Why Not Have a Wedding in London?

 

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If planning a wedding in London there is so many choices to suit whatever you fancy. Within central London hotels offer a full package for your whole wedding and reception. Plus, you can spend the night of your wedding in their specialist bridal suite right in the heart of the capital. Or chose a more unique venue and then stay overnight in one of the plush apartments in London that are available. Here are 10 ideas:

1. Marriott Hotel, London Grosvenor Square

Impressive 5 star apartments in Mayfair, where you are assigned your own personal Events Manager, for a beautiful wedding experience in opulence and style. As central London hotels go, this is one of the best.

2. Belvedere Restaurant

The Belvedere provides a unique wedding experience. Up to 120 guests, with some of the finest cuisine, a dedicated wedding co-ordinator, superb flower arrangements, photographers and evening entertainment. The happy couple also meet the head chef for a personal menu tasting session before the big day.

3. The London Eye

An unusual but unique experience riding 135m above London 19 guests, canapés and a personalised floral arrangement all around. At the very top you will be declared husband and wife and open the supplied champagne. Not many couples have such a splendid view on their wedding day.

4. The Barbican Centre

The Barbican Centre offers culture, taste, style and splendour. Tie the knot in the Conservatory amidst tropical plants, fish and birds. Then dine on the Conservatory Terrace overlooking the gardens or the Garden Room itself.

5. The Ritz

One of the most famous central London hotels  and the only hotel in London with a Royal Warrant. Everything is taken care of in style and luxury. Memorable for all the right luxurious reasons.

6. Wembley Stadium

Something more unusual for the sports fans out there is Wembley Stadium. A wedding ceremony at the side of the pitch followed by champagne a marvellous reception and free tickets for an England match for the lucky couple.

7. Eltham Palace

A 1930s Art Deco masterpiece and a stunning locale for any wedding. They provide all the catering, flowers and entertainment. Everything is with style and in keeping with the unique nature of the building.

8. London Zoo

London Zoo really does offer something special for any couple. Get married in one of the animal houses of your choice surrounded by nature. Then a reception in one of the 2 suites, with a bespoke menu to your choice and views over the zoo itself. Very unique and very special.

9. Claridges London

One of the most famous hotels in the world and a stunning venue. Art Deco luxury, combined with a modern twist, unique individually designed rooms and a world-class menu. There is little that can better this.

10. The Science Museum

Inspiring backdrops to any wedding, among the displays, including the Flight Gallery, The Director's Suite or Making the Modern World.

The lack of rooms in some unique venues is no problem these days. With so many luxury apartments in London, the bride and groom and their party can easily stay in comfortable and roomy luxury before and after the wedding itself.

Bio: Ben Jones is a travel enthusiast. He has been all over the world and enjoys meeting new people and going new places. To contact him, email ben.jones@branded3.com.

Filed under: holiday, luxury, travel, travel planning, travel tips, weddings Tagged: belvedere restaurant, london, london zoo, The Barbican Centre, the london eye, the ritz, weddings, wembley stadium

Event: Meet Mindy Weiss

Filed under: books, california, events

Travel: Villa Milagro

When you need an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, head to Villa Milago in Troncones, Mexico. Located on a secluded cove just north of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, the thatched-roof buildings face a perfect beach and the Pacific Ocean and have a magical and serene vibe. Villa Milago, which translates to 'House of Miracles", is the perfect escape to rejuvenate and relax as it is surround by the sea, lush tropical landscape and gorgeous mountain ranges.

A full scale wellness retreat and spa, Villa Milago offers you things no other resort can: besides the usual activities of swimming, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, sailing, fishing, golf and lounging by the pool,  the retreat also has dance, yoga, gigong, meditation, couples therapy and other forms of holistic healing. Owner and PhD Berta Davis says "this is an exciting venture that is a unique approach to wellness and healing". Throughout the year the resort will also host other healing professionals who combine mind, body, and spirit.

The actual design of Villa Milagro feature few exterior walls and windows, bringing the outside in and vice versa. Architect Karina Cabana and her Contractor husband Gustavo Jasso used only sustainable building materials in the construction of Villa Milagro. The furniture is mostly bamboo and teak, and other renewable local tropical woods. The end result: earthy, natural, classy, sophistication.

For more information:

http://www.mexicovillamilagro.com

Filed under: adventure, beauty, holiday, luxury, Mexico

Travel: SoCal Travel with The Privileged Pooch

Maggie Espinosa, an award-winning travel writer and luxury connoisseur, is one of the 45 million households in the United States with a posh puppy, and part of the elite 21 percent that travels with her pet. A San Diego resident since 1990, Maggie loved traveling locally in SoCal for its perfect weather, beaches, shopping and outdoor activities.

After several trips and extensive research, The Privileged Pooch: Luxury Travel with Your Pet in Southern California was born. The colorful guidebook features pictures on every page and includes 69 hotels, 55 bistros, 56 activities and 36 trendy shops all over Southern California.

Ratings are done with one to four wags, depending on pet friendliness. The best of the best made the cut to the guidebook with detailed descriptions of settings, decor, service and more. Check out which places offer welcome toys, special doggy menus, spas and special pet sitters.

Examples of some of the amenities:

The Casa Laguna Inn & Spa welcomes dogs for breakfast and at the afternoon wine hour. Owners and dogs can also take part in a "Togetherness Massage." A licensed canine masseuse treats the dog, kneading its back legs and shoulders, stroking its ears and checking paws for proper circulation.

The Healthy Spot, with locations in West Hollywood and Santa Monica, provides blueberry and plum pet facials, milk and honey baths and moisturizing paw rubs. The shelves are stocked with organic and vegetarian cuisine, Fou Fou brand toys and K9 art.

While shopping at Betsy Johnson in Fashion Island, treat your pooch to water and doggy snaps.

*Pups at Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel can enjoy the "Grrrreen Dog" package with a recyclable rubber chew, in-room meal and organic cotton bandanna. At check-in, food bowls, treats and a place mat are delivered to the room.

We caught up with Maggie and her pampered pooch Marcel at home in San Diego:



How did the idea for The Privileged Pooch come about?

Maggie: A few years ago I was interviewed by homemaker maven, Heloise, on her syndicated radio show. I had recently stayed at one hotel with my pup, Marcel, and shared the experience with Heloise's listeners. Heloise and her listeners were amazed at the myriad pet amenities offered. So, I thought, hummm, this could be the subject for a book. Hence, The Privileged Pooch idea was born.

What was your favorite pet-friendly destination?

Maggie: It's hard to narrow my favorite destination down to one. In the winter Palm Springs is a fabulous pet-friendly spot. The residents love dogs and there are many pooches vacationing in the desert. Summertime is perfect in Santa Barbara. The weather is glorious and dogs are welcome with open arms.

Where is your next trip? With Marcel?

Maggie: This summer Marcel and I are renting an RV and driving around the western states. I've never "RV'd" before, so my curiosity has the best of me. My husband swears both Marcel and I will be begging for a five-star hotel by day three on the road. We'll see.

Do you have plans for another book?

Maggie: I'd like to extend The Privileged Pooch series to include other parts of the United States – Northern California, CO, TX, NYC, etc. I've also toyed with the idea of The Privileged Pooch in Paris.

Note: This article was dually published on JustLuxe.com.

Filed under: beverly hills, books, california, luxury, pets, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: california, palm springs, pets, santa monica, travel

Travel Guest Post: Rock Star:: Exploring Lanzarote

The Canary Islands are seven Spanish owned specks of rock located off the coast of West Africa.  And to all intents and purposes these islands are the European Caribbean – located on the same line of latitude as parts of Florida and Mexico and offering sun starved residents of countries such as the UK and Germany much needed respite from their harsh winter weather.

Lanzarote is arguably the most unusual and unique link in this chain, as the scenery here is literally out of this world.  The island was rocked by enormous volcanic eruptions as recently as the 1820´s, which transformed the interior into a surreal lava scape, punctuated by burnt out volcanic peaks. Fortunately these volcanoes – there are over 300 in total – are all now dormant.  But at the time of the eruptions this obviously caused widespread devastation, decimating some of the most fertile farmland on the island and forcing many Lanzaroteños to flee and start a new life abroad.  With many ending up in locations such as San Antonio in Texas, a city that retains strong links with Lanzarote to this day.

Ironically, the volcanic region has also become Lanzarote´s most popular tourist attraction – and rightly so.  As close to one million tourists flock here every year to view the twisted fields of lava and multi hued volcanoes.  Temperature here beneath the earth's surface still reach up to 400 degrees Celsius, which park wardens are only too happy to demonstrate.  Pouring cold water into geysers which is then spurted out seconds later as jets of hot steam.  Tourists can even have their lunch cooked by the heat emanating from a dormant volcano, as skilled chefs turn chicken and fish pieces on a giant grill.

Lanzarote is currently little known to tourists in the US.  There are direct flights between Miami and Tenerife, one of the larger neighbouring islands.  But flying to Lanzarote from other airports in America requires a lengthy journey to either Madrid or Barcelona – followed by a further two hour flight.  The island is however easily accessible for holidaymakers from mainland Europe and is just a four hour flight from the UK, which is Lanzarote´s largest tourist market.

During the package holiday era in the 1980´s some of the Canary Islands acquired a reputation as cheap and cheerful holiday destinations.  Packed with low cost high rise hotels and downmarket British bars serving all day breakfast and pints of beer.  Lanzarote managed to escape this fate however and is far less touched by tourism than say Gran Canaria or Tenerife, the two largest islands in the archipelago.  A fortunate state of affairs that can be attributed to the vision and drive of a famous local artist called César Manrique, who fought against untrammelled tourist development on Lanzarote – and won.

Manrique was born on the island in 1919 and was in the vanguard of the Spanish surrealist movement in the 1950´s.  Before moving to New York under the patronage of the wealthy Rockefeller clan in the 60´s, where he exhibited his paintings and rubbed shoulders with the likes of Andy Warhol.  Tourism was just taking off in Spain at this time as General Franco sought to fill the country´s coffers with foreign currency.  Leading to an explosion of building work and development along the Spanish Costas and on the Balearic and Canary Islands.  As small traditional fishing villages became submerged beneath hotels and apartment complexes.

Manrique, determined to preserve Lanzarote´s unique landscapes, resolved to return home and stem the tide of over development.  Amazingly he succeeded too – securing an outright ban on high rise developments taller than a Canarian palm tree, as well as the outlawing of all adverting billboards.  So ensuring that the island remained much as nature intended.

At the same time the pragmatic Manrique realised that a degree of tourism was vital for an island economy that had previously survived solely on agriculture and fishing.  But he sought to illuminate a different path, by creating unique visitor attractions that provided an ecologically friendly alternative to the golf courses and water parks being thrown up elsewhere in Spain.

His philosophy was to fuse art with nature, which he achieved to great effect in a number of his best known creations.  Such as the Jameos del Agua, a massive, collapsed lava tunnel which he transformed into a stunning underground auditorium and nightclub.  Or the Mirador del Rio, a former naval gun battery and now an amazing lookout point where visitors can enjoy incredible bird's eye views down to the neighbouring island of La Graciosa below.

Thanks to Manrique and these incredible volcanic landscapes UNESCO awarded Lanzarote protected biosphere status back in 1994.  The first island in the world to achieve such status.

Bio: Nick Ball is the editor of Lanzarote Guidebook, the in depth island information guide. Visit their site to download a free copy of Lanzarote Guidebook and to book apartments and villas in Lanzarote direct online.

Filed under: adventure, holiday, luxury, outdoors, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: Canary Islands, Lanzarote, luxury, Nick Ball, travel

Travel: The World's Highest Hotel

The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong opened its doors on March 29th and dominates the skyline as the world's "highest" hotel, as well as the 75th location and 16th location in Asia. The newest addition to luxury sits at the very top of the International Commerce Centre (ICC) in Hong Kong, occupying floors 102 to 118. Breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour and the iconic Hong Kong skyline can be seen from the posh new playground.

To enjoy yourself in the culinary department, indulge in three restaurants on the 102nd floor. Tin Lung Heen features refined Chinese food, Tosca is decadent Italian and The Lounge and Bar will have you relaxing around crystal fire pits.  To satisfy your sweet tooth, there is a chocolate-themed lounge named The Chocolate Library on the 103rd floor and a stylish patisserie located on the 9th floor. The Chocolate Library will let you experience chocolate breakfast, chocolate afternoon tea and chocolate drinks galore. The crown jewel could possible be Ozone, located on the 118th floor. Now know as the world's highest al fresco dining, the modern restaurant will serve Asian tapas, signature drinks and a social scene like no other.

All 312 suites at the hotel have panoramic views of the city and harbor. Amenities include  WiFi, iPod docking stations, blu-ray DVD players and flat screen TVs. The Ritz-Carlton Spa by ESPA is the ultimate in urban spa sanctuary experiences. Located on the 116th floor and featuring nine deluxe treatment rooms and two couple's suites all with floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views, the spa will appeal to both residential guests and Hong Kong citizens alike and offer a true escape from the city some 16,000 feet below.


The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong has one of the largest ballrooms in the city at 10,000 sqft. Elaborately decorated with a sea of crystal chandeliers, the décor of the Diamond Ballroom is suited to weddings, meetings and gala events.



In the bottom levels of the ICC, the one million square foot Elements shopping mall offers some of the finest shopping in Hong Kong with luxury brand names featured throughout this world-class, city-center location.

For more information: www.RitzCarlton.com/HongKong

Note: This article has been reprinted on Examiner.com


Filed under: food, hong kong, luxury, ritz carlton Tagged: hong kong, ritz carlton

Travel: Adventure Camps for Kids

Kids want adventure and travel too.

Today, summer camps are catering to children and teens by offering extreme escapades.

Pali Overnight Adventures is now offering 16 highly unique summer camps this

year – from Hollywood Stunt Camp to Girl Power Camp, Secret Agent Camp, Rock

Star Academy, Culinary Institute, Fashion, Dance, Movie Make up and more.  Instead of hiking and roasting marshmallows, kids have 50+ activities to choose from including yoga, ziplining, EuroBungee, High Ropes, Paint Ball, Cricket, Wall Climbing, Laser Tag, etc.

Kids from all over the nation (and 17 other countries) sign up for these

overnight sleepaway camps (California – Lake Arrowhead area)  that go from June-August and sign up is already underway.

Tuition includes 24/7 supervision, room, board, basic health care, all activities, souvenir DVD, t-shirt, water bottle and special gifts.

For more information:

www.paliadventures.com

Filed under: adventure, california, holiday, luxury, travel Tagged: camp, kids, summer camp

Travel: Irish Room Service at The Lodge at Doonbeg

Set along the Atlantic shores in County Clare, The Lodge at Doonbeg is the only 5-star luxury coastal resort in western Ireland with panoramic views of the fairway and pasturelands. The 400 acre property features 189 guest rooms and suites as well as a magnificent Greg Norman-designed championship links course and distinct dining by Tom Colicchio, Consulting Chef of the Lodge. The cottages are styled with antique furnishings, fireplaces, winding staircases and fully-equiped kitchens. Cottages are available with one to four bedrooms en suite and span 3,100 square feet. The White Horses Spa, a sanctuary of wellness and rejuvenation designed by Clodagh, incorporates the essence of Ireland into all treatments, with skincare products by Kerstin Florian. Also available are whole ownership cottages and suites and a private residence club managed by Timbers Resorts. The Lodge at Doonbeg is owned by Kiawah Partners, the master planner behind Kiawah Island, South Carolina and Christophe Harbour, St. Kitts. The Lodge at Doonbeg is a member of Small Luxury Hotels.

Guests looking for the privacy and comforts of home while traveling to County Clare, Ireland can now enjoy their stay in one of the 17 Links Cottages at The Lodge at Doonbeg with meals prepared by Executive Chef Wade Murphy.  Chef Wade has created the new Cottage Cuisine Menus offering over 100 dishes from breakfast to barbecue that are delivered to the cottages to be enjoyed at any time.  The new menus are perfect for couples and families, providing flexibility and convenience without the restrictions of a restaurant schedule.

Chef Wade's Cottage Cuisine Menus allow guests to sample local dishes, such as Seafood Pie or Chowder, Traditional Fish and Chips and Eton Mess. For guests that miss their grill at home, the "Who's the Chef" barbecue menu offers selections including Irish Beef Burgers, Burren Lamb Burgers and Free Range Pork Chops, delivered to the door. Doonbeg also offers ready-made picnic baskets for day trips to the surrounding countryside such as the Cliffs of Moher or the Burren, a one-of-a-kind natural landscape.

Rates start at $224 per person, per night for cottage accommodations.  For more information or to make reservations, please contact (866) DOONBEG (366-6234) or visit www.DoonbegLodge.com







Filed under: food, ireland, travel Tagged: food, ireland, room service