In March 2017, Guerlain Spa relocated from the Waldorf Astoria to the Plaza hotel in New York City. Just a few weeks after relocation, I booked a facial for an afternoon pick-me up spa treatment and to check out the newly open location.
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Tag: special night out
Exploring the Champagne Region of France
Champagne is my go-to beverage for celebrations, Sunday brunch, a quiet night in, and every other occasion that I can think of.
In February 2002 I spent a week in Reims, France to explore part of the Champagne region. The main purpose of my visit was to enjoy as many varies of Champagne as I could! I called to reserve my cellar tours (before online reservations), booked my hotel (through a travel agent), and rode the TGV train from Paris Gare de l’East to Reims. My hotel was a short walk from the train station, and I stopped at a local café for dinner and pastry.
Between Champagne tastings and cellar tours, I managed to visit the Palais du Tau and nearby cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims. I walked to most places with the occasional taxi ride. Exploring the city as a solo female traveler was easy and safe.
The down side of travelling solo all those years ago (before smart phone with built in cameras) is that I have a fuzzy memory and very few, poor quality photos. Admittedly, the photos were made even worse by the massive amounts of Champagne consumed during operation.
My friend Lisa recently went to the Champagne region, and was kind enough to share her experience and photos.
During a recent trip to Europe to visit family, my husband and I snuck away to France for just a couple of days. We thought about visiting Paris, but then I ruled against it… I wanted to go to the Champagne region instead.
St Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico Review
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort is the only Five Diamond resort property on the island of Puerto Rico. And that is exactly what I had in mind for a luxury getaway break.
I have been to the St. Regis Bahia resort Spa several times, but this was our first overnight stay at the property. I booked a 4 day, 3 night reservation over Thanksgiving weekend, which also happens to be our Anniversary. November is still considered off-peak for tourist season, which officially kicks off mid-December through April.
Orpheum Theater Phoenix | Arizona History and Architecture
My favorite, and the most luxurious theater in Phoenix is the Orpheum Theater in downtown Phoenix.
Home to performances from the Phoenix Theater League, comedians, and high quality shows. Capacity is less than 1400 seats, which means there really are no bad seats. Even mediocre views are easily avoided by skipping the last 10 rows lower level or last 5 rows on the balcony.
Originally opened in 1929 in the Spanish Baroque architecture style, the 1997 restoration gave the theater amazing acoustics and modern lighting while keeping the Roaring 20’s class. The theater itself is beautiful, with new details inside and out to be discovered during every visit.
The seat rows are a smidge close (not as much leg room as Phoenix Symphony Hall). Seats on the interior aisle are a great option for taller people or anyone needing a little more room.
Beverage bars serving wine, coffee, and light snacks are open before and during intermission for performances. The bathroom lines tend to be short and fast moving. Every comfort is provided in the Orpheum. The ground level lobby is small, venture downstairs to the lower level bar (not always open), large area for mingling, and restrooms.
Performances at the Orpheum are a great excuse for date night, family afternoon matinees, girls’ night out, and more. Incorporate one of the nearby restaurants for the perfect dinner and a show event.
The Breadfruit Restaurant Review | Caribbean Dining in Central Phoenix
Downtown Phoenix is home to the Breadfruit & Rum bar, a little spot for Jamaican cuisine and beverages. Walking distance, or a short pedi-cab ride, from the Phoenix Symphony, the Orpheum Theater, and downtown Phoenix attractions.
Each dining experience at the Breadfruit is better than the last visit.
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