I had lived in Charlotte for six years and always wanted an opportunity to visit the Ballantyne Hotel & Lodge. I had driven by it many times and couldn’t help but notice the spacious grounds and the beautiful green golf courses. FINALLY my company decided to have a corporate event there so I was able to attend and spend a night at what is now my favorite resort in Charlotte.

The resort is a member of the Luxury Collection by Starwood Hotels and is also recognized by Forbes as a Four-Star and AAA Four-diamond category hotel. I am not surprised at all! The spa is incredible. If you live in Charlotte it is a great girls outing to go to the spa for the day. If you are traveling to Charlotte on business it is an ideal place to hold your meetings or corporate events.

I have several friends who have been fortunate enough to have weddings at the Ballantyne Hotel & Lodge and the pictures are beautiful. If you are looking for a place to hold your wedding and / or wedding reception definitely look in to this location. Your guest will be in heaven with the indoor and outdoor pools, spa, fitness center and championship PGA golf course.

It is very easy to access being just 18 miles from the Charlotte airport. and very close to major shopping areas like Southpark Mall. Southpark Mall has more than 100 shops including Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom.

AFTERNOON TEA
Traditional afternoon tea in The Ballantyne Lobby Tuesday - Saturdays from 1pm - 5pm. Reservations required in advance at 704.248.4100.
View Sample Menu
Adults $32, Juniors $16

Gallery Bar Tastings
Reservations are recommended at 704.248.4100.  







Friday, March 22 at 6pm – South American Wines $25 pp Friday, April 5 at 6pm - Spanish Whites $25 pp

Friday, April 19 at 6pm - Mother Earth Beer $25 pp

I wanted to share with you one of my favorite hotels in Washington DC, The W  Hotel. When thinking of a place to stay while in our nation’s capital ….well The  W had me at  ”flirty, fun, fresh  experience” !! And it is that!
It has incredible views of the White House and other historical landmarks  like the Washington Monument. You need to experience this  if you are in DC.  FYI they have some special rates coming up on the following dates:  November 1-7,17-25 and December 16-30. The most appealing thing  about this hotel besides the view is the fact that is is within a close walk of  some major DC landmarks. Basically, you’ll be in the perfect spot for experiencing all that DC has to offer.

Check out the incredible view of the Monument and of the White House  from the
P.O.V. roof terrace.

Even if you don’t stay overnight at the W you really need to experience the
view from P.O.V. For more reviews on P.O.V check out what my friend wrote on her
blog about our experience there http://www.coastaljetsetter.com/5/post/2012/10/pov-w-hotel-washington-dc.html

 The overall service was more than we could have expected. Their description
of the experience is spot on! “We cannot tell a lie—with 317 rooms featuring the
signature W bed, fully wired technology, fabulous in-room entertainment,
delightful Munchie Box and our Whatever/Whenever® service, the First Amendment
of luxury, you’ll never want to leave.”  – W Hotel

The rooms were SWEET/SUITE (ha) and I have to point out the interesting selection in the “munchie box”. My only complaint is that there was only one  lolly pop so my friend and I had to fight over it!  

Yes my pink purse had to make it into at least one photo. The signature “W” bed  is more than comfortable! The rooms are stately and have a modern/cool feel to
them.

Their “Living Room” is really a “living room” with so many cool amenities. The style and decor is stunning!
DJ
High Speed Internet Access
W Signature Cocktail List and Bar Service
Books
Board Games

Last but not least they offer the Acura experience……….and what an
experience!!  They call it their “Whatever/Whenever Service”. The Concierge set
us up with a complimentary ride to dinner in their Acura MDX. They want you to
“arrive in style”!

Oh wait…….one more thing! How cool is this………they even provide your pets with
posh service! Love their “P.A.W. – Pets are Welcome” Program. P.A.W. – Pets Are Welcome™

Woof/Meow! Who loves your pet? We think the furry friend you love should
travel in luxury with you. That’s why Pets Are Welcome™.

The following services are available for your four-legged friend at W
Washington D.C.:

 
• Pet Welcome Kit


• Pet Toy


• Pet Treat


• W Hotels Pet Tag


• Clean-Up Bags


• Custom W Pet Bed


• Food and Water Bowl with Floor Mat


• “Pet In Room” Door Sign


• Special Turndown Treat


• Dog-Sitting and -Walking


• Vet and Grooming Services


• Special Treats


• Leashes and Toys


• Litter Boxes and Wee Pads


• Pet First Aid Kits

For more information on the W go to their website http://www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3279

One of the main reasons I started my blog is so that I would capture unique experiences that I have while visiting cities during my business travels and share them with others. I know that business travelers often find it challenging to stay in an exercise routine while on the road. City Running Tours is a perfect way to experience a city AND burn some calories while traveling. The
running guide actually meets you at your hotel and runs with you (and a group if you choose group tour) along themed routes. Of course it isn’t limited to business travelers. If you find yourself in one of the major cities in the U.S. (listed on city running tours website) then you might find it fun to take a running tour.

I’ve done two tours in Chicago in the past couple of years and had an absolute blast both times.

The Tragic events Route showcases Chicago as a world class city. In addition
to the impressive architecture the route includes the locations of 5 major tragic events that occurred during the city's early history. Those events include 1) The Fort Dearborn massacre 1812, 2) The Great Fire Oct 8-10, 1871, 3) The Iroquois Theatre Fire Dec 30, 1904, 4) The Eastland Disaster July 24, 1915, 5) The Wingfoot Dirigible Jul 21, 1919. This route also includes 3 notable sculptures; 1) The Flamingo, 2) The Miro, 3) The Picasso.

The Tragic Events Route is just ONE of many tours offered by the group. You can see the complete list on their website. See and experience Chicago like few others get to! City Running Tours - Chicago allows visitors and locals alike to get their miles in while they learn about the financial, business and cultural capital of the Midwest. Their professional guides will lead you to the spectacular sites, share fascinating stories of our history, and will fill you in on all the "best" places to visit during your stay.

City Running Tours offers both guided personalized and group running tours of major cities across the United States, accommodating your needs as both a runner and tourist. Share your love of running with us as we share our
city with you!

More about Marlin: Marlin Keesler, "The Reluctant Runner"

Marlin has completed over 60 marathons including one in each of the 50 U.S.States. He authored his experience of running, travel, and family in "Our Life on the Run - A Story of Running 50 Marathons in 50 States: A Family Quest". Available on Amazon.com) The irony is that Marlin does not like to run hence "The Reluctant Runner". However, he understands the benefits of a good running cardio.

Marlin's mission is to make sure that YOU leave Chicago satisfied having accomplished YOUR cardio goals while experiencing the most complete and fulfilling tour Chicago has to offer. You will leave knowing you gained the absolute most out of your travel experience.

Contact:
Marlin@CityRunningTours.com

Run requests within a 24 hour period are subject to guide availability.

Our runs take place 7 days a week, all year long excluding Christmas day and Thanksgiving

http://www.cityrunningtours.com/chicago.html

When it comes to dining I am definitely more about atmosphere than the actual food. If the restaurant is on a roof top or has a view of the water then I’ll most likely love it. If you are in to food AND the view, then I have a feeling Nepenthe will go on your list of favorites in the U.S. I don’t know that I’ve ever been to a place with equally spectacular views of the ocean and the mountains.

Here are a few of the cool people who were also mesmerized by this spot...........

If you find yourself in this part of CA you'll definitely want to make a memory at Nepenthe.

www.nepenthebigsur.com

www.luciavineyards.com

I can't say enough good things about the Sonoma California area. Why in the world did it take me so many years to make it to the beautiful California Wine Country? I am not urprised that I fell in love with it. Here is my recommendation on a memorable place to stay if you are making a trip to Sonoma. The Sonoma Fairmont Mission Inn & Spa is not only convenient and beautiful but it is one of the only luxury spa resorts in that area.

I could not get over the incredible plants and trees on the property. The flowers, palm trees and lush landscaping made for some fantastic photos.

The service was impressive too! I was staying there for a company meeting and I decided to check in a day earlier that the rest of the team. What to do with a solo day in Sonoma with no car?? The conceirge suggested "Sip and Cycle". That
sounded interesting. It turns out I could rent a bike on their property for 24 hours for $25. They provided me with a map of local wineries along a 12 mile path in and around Sonoma. You must do this if you are out there. It was so fun to combine a little exercise (the 12 mile path was flat), sight seeing and WINE! It turned out to be one of my best days in the wine country.

Thank you to the entire staff at the Fairmonot Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa for such an experience. Our entire team had a great time and they are still talking about it!

http://www.fairmont.com/sonoma/

I am so happy that SUP Joey recommended The Shem Creek Inn when I asked him where I should stay while in Charleston for the Paddlefit Certification Class. It was such a cool spot. Right across from Red's and other great waterfront dining

At the time I booked the room I didn't know the class would actually be held at the Shem Creek Inn. It was so that was even more convenient!!! The staff was so accomodating to the group of Paddleboarders staying at the hotel. I have to especially mention the girl who was at the front desk when I checked in (sorry I didn't get your name) but she noticed my Georgia Southern University shirt and made a postive comment even though she was a UGA grad! Go Eagles...........Go Dawgs!!!!!!! I have always been torn.

I will definitely stay at this location again if I head over for other Stand Up Paddle Events. Nothing better than a view of the water, shrimp boats (what is it about Shrimp boats??? Love them!)

The rooms were newly remodeled ...very modern and they had a complimentary continental breakfast so that we could fuel up before our big day out on the water. I didn't get time to enjoy the pool but I hope to next time!

I actually got up early enough to watch the sunrise and have coffee out on the patio overlooking the river. So peaceful. For a few minutes there I was homesick.

We had a great class and the drive to the spot where we actually did the water portion of the SUP class was less than three miles. Perfect location! Did I say that already?

If you'd like more info on the Shem Creek Inn go to their site https://www.bookonthenet.net/east/RKEres/EresMain.aspx?url=Shem_Creek_Inn&inn_alias=0000009337&promo_code=
APR12&gclid=COf089LAu7ICFQYGnQodGBQAZQ

If you'd like to go Stand Up Paddleboarding while in Charleston call SUP Joey...their website and info is http://supjoey.com/

If you take a trip to London you need to experience the unique creations at The Coburg Bar at The Connaught Hotel in the Mayfair area. Ask for Andras Deme who might be the best bartender in London! I say "creations" because his drinks are his unique creations. I started to order a glass of wine and Andras said "No.....you need to have my Passion Fruit Martini". I don't know what was more fun....watching him make it or drinking it.

Want to see a picture of the best Martini I've ever had? Here it is.

I said "I don't even know how to describe this" Andras says "It is a mysterious, exotic, fluffy, silky, smooth drink that keeps people guessing"......I would say that is accurate!

If you are planning a trip to London I hope that you take time to at least stop in and have a Passion Fruit Martini at the Coburg and check out The Connaught.
The Connaught
Carlos Place
Mayfair
London. W1K 2AL
United Kingdom
T: +44 (0)20 7499 7070 http://www.the-connaught.co.uk/home.aspx

I’ve traveled to Toronto for business several times over the past few years but never really had the time to experience the city. When I found out I’d be staying for a week in September I was excited that I’d have the opportunity to combine some fun things with work. I wanted to stay downtown, close to major attractions. I ended up in an ideal spot, The Fairmont Royal York. This is the view of the Fairmont from the CN Tower.....WOW!

Besides location I chose the Royal York because I know the Fairmont culture is focused on personal guest experience. This proved to be true! I have to mention a couple of people who went "above and beyond" during my stay. One morning I went into one of the main restaurants, EPIC and asked where I could find a cafe with coffee, etc. Julien stopped what he was doing and walked me downstairs to find the cafe. Thanks Julien, this type of service is rare! I chatted with Nadia at the front desk while checking out. I asked "what do you like about working for Fairmont?". She shared with me that she had been with Fairmont for 30 years because they treat their employees so well. Nadia, I love your passion for the Fairmont brand! Here are some of the chefs at the Royal York  (notice the CN Tower in the background...cool).

The ability to execute on their brand promises around guest service is the reason they've hosted over 40 million guests since 1929, including three generations of Britain's Royal Family. The Fairmont gives so much back to the community. There is a list of about 15 different projects that they are involved in to support Toronto and I wish I had the time and space to list them all. As a runner and someone who just finished my second Race For The Cure, the article below really made me smile. Way to go Fairmont Team!

CANADIAN BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION In 2007 The Fairmont Royal York began raising funds for CIBC Run For The Cure. In 2008 Heather McCrory, Regional V.P. and General Manager took on a corporate challenge and led over 100 colleagues to participate in their first ever “Run For The Cure” on October 5, 2008. Together they raised a total of $22,484 for the foundation. That year the hotel was the 7th largest corporate fundraising team in the Greater Toronto Area. In 2009, 110 colleagues returned to the run and raised over $34,000, placing second to CHFI radio as the greatest fundraiser in Toronto. In 2010, The Fairmont Royal York had over 150 colleagues participate and raised a total of $58,272.69, much more than their goal of $42,000. The Hotel has placed as the second highest fundraiser in the city for the past two years in a row with donations totaling $119,575.22. The Fairmont Royal York is striving to be the top fundraising corporation in Toronto for 2011.

Here are a couple of photos of EPIC Restaurant .....part of the Fairmont's allure...........

This is my second great experience at a Fairmont resort and I hope to have many more........next on my list......maybe The Fairmont Banff Springs!

There was so much to do and see in and around Vancouver and this hotel was in the heart of it all. It was just a couple of blocks from Coal Harbor where there are countless waterfront restaurants like Lift Bar & Grill which was one of our favorites. With endless possibilities for activities it was a bit overwhelming to decide what to do during our four day trip. Josh, the concierge, was extremely helpful! We called down to ask about hiking trails and he quickly put together a packet of information with trail maps, descriptions and driving directions. Thank you Josh! We LOVED the Grouse Grind and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. We haven't stopped talking about it since we got back to North Carolina.

If you stay at the Pinnacle you don't have to go far for great food. The Show Case Restaurant, located in the hotel, had some of the best Salmon in the city!

For details and facts about this hotel which is ranked as one of the best in Vancouver go to

http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/yvrdt-vancouver-marriott-pinnacle-downtown-hotel/