Always Time to Eat, Drink and Be Merry - TAG Restaurant - Larimer Sq. - Denver, CO

I love to have friends come and visit me, because that gives me a reason to try out new restaurants and bars. Not to say I need any encouragement, but it's always fun to experience a great place with a friend.

Bar @ TAG Restaurant - Denver, CO

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of one of my friends visiting me, and let  me tell you, we ate, drank and were extremely merry! We didn't cause a raucous or anything, but we enjoyed ourselves immensely.

In order for us to be able to partake of libations, we decided to stay downtown. Everything is close and in walking distance, so that was an easy decision to make, plus our hotel at the Westin, had a great pool to lay out on...come on, life just does not get better than that...or can it?

Mini Chicken Tacos (yum!)

There were a few places I took my friend to, where I had been before, (some of which are my favorite haunts). On Friday evening, we strolled into TAG restaurant during their "Social Hour." My friend had a "Black Rose" (which she loved) and I just had a simple vodka tonic, but as you can see from the picture above, the bartenders here are mixologist! The muddler was working hard that evening, as our bartender mixed up a bevy of cocktails. While the drinks were delicious, our food was absolutely fantastic! I had the appetizer of chicken tacos, and my friend had some delicately, exquisite sushi rolls. I can not begin to tell you the joy my mouth felt as I took in the delicious mini bites of tacos. The chicken was chopped small and crispy, served with shredded napa cabbage, a light sauce (of some sort) and a slice of avocado. While it may sound simplistic and easy (which I'm sure is what they are going for), the taste was big, bold and in your face. We did not stay there for dinner, but I assured our bartender that TAG would now be on my rotation of restaurants to go to on a regular basis.

The atmosphere  is laid back; although, some may consider it a bit foo, foo...I revel in foo foo, so it worked just fine for me. Also, it seems they have a sense of humor too, as the decor is sleek and contemporary with beautiful lighting; yet, fun and interesting paintings on the wall.

We ate at more places during the course of the weekend such as, Snooze, a delightful breakfast joint that is oh, so, worth the hour long wait (I'll be showcasing them in the future). Also, Rioja, again, this will be its own write-up as the food there was divine and intoxicating, and is well deserving of its own kudos. All in all, we had a great time and relaxed. Ah, for the lovely summer days!

*photos provided by that Chick Té

www.chicksthattrip.com

Part 21 of Series: 101Reasons To Use A Travel Agent

Part 21 of Series: 101 Reasons To Use A Travel Agent

There has been a lot of chatter in the news and in the Travel Professional community about travel to Mexico. I am not going to belabor the point, because I know it is a "hot button" topic; however, I did want to show my support regarding travel to Mexico, and in so doing, here is a link to a site that is requesting support for Mexico travel: http://signon.org/sign/mexico-matters.fb1?source=s.fb&r_by=366690.

Many points have been discussed within the travel community regarding our responsibility to advise our clients on the pros and cons of any travel destinations; not just to Mexico. While there is sufficient reason to be alarmed regarding some of the news we've been hearing, there is also another side, and to that point, many agents that reside in Mexico (year round or part of the year), have been vocal about the misleading information in the news, although conceding that there are some areas that are dangerous; however, there are dangerous areas in every major city throughout the world, and I always recommend to my clients to be aware of their surroundings and exercise good judgment whether they are in New York City, or Amsterdam.

  

What to Pack - Your travel expert can give you great advice on what to pack to those exotic destinations.
Plan a Trip Where you Bring the Kids but Can Still Get Some Alone Time - Many cruises and resorts now offer activities throughout the day for young children that make the day fun for them and give you some time to yourself. Travel experts can help you find great family destination options such as these.
Higher Productivity Benefits - You have your trip planned while you are hard at work in the office.
You Get to be the Boss - You get to tell someone what to do for a change (politely).
Great Group Trips - Trying to organize a trip for big group of people? A travel expert can help get all the details finalized and do the work of updating everyone in the group.

*Source: American Society of Travel Agents

www.chicksthattrip.com

Stress Reducing Your Travel!

 

Stress Reducing Your Travel!

It's that time of year again, where anxious travelers all over the world are gearing up for their holiday travel. The air in their houses is thick with the anticipation of a new adventure; beach lounging; hiking; surfing; gallery hopping; browsing, or just plain relaxing. Having done a fair amount of travel in my life, I can say this with great certainty, the way you start your trip is likely an indication of the rest of your trip. NOW, with that being said, I am not saying a trip that starts out a bit whacky can't be improved, or a trip that started out great can't go down hill; however, from my experience, your trip begins before  you even leave your house. If there is a lot of stress prior to your vacation, I can tell you that the probability of you encountering stress throughout your vacation is inevitable. When people are stressed, they are unable to relax, and such, any derailment (no matter how small), is given greater importance; versus if that person were relaxed, and simply took the inconvenience with stride and let it "roll off their back."

Consider this a quick "tune up" for your travels throughout the remainder of this year. None of the tips I am providing are new, nor are they anything you likely haven't heard before, but if I can impart any tiny bit of wisdom and save at least one person from a stressful travel experience - well then, my work is done!

These tips are in no particular order, but I've found that most of my travel experiences are relatively stress free because I do not worry about anything I have no control over, such as flying the plane, the weather...you catch my drift.

• Pack ONLY what you absolutely need - really! Pull out whatever you THINK you might want to take on your trip and reduce it by almost half.
• Eat a small breakfast, lunch or dinner (depending on the time of your travel) - this helps to keep you energized, as well as keeping you from eating all of the horrible items posing as "food" that are available at the airports. And with that being said, take along some healthy snacks. A few nutrition bars, dried fruits, nuts and an apple are small, compact, and easy to stuff into little pockets on backpacks and in handbags. 
• While not always possible, get some rest before your trip - you'll need it.
• Make sure you have a small first aid kit available that contains band-aids, gauze, antiseptic, pepto bismol (tablets only, not liquid form so you can place it in your carry-on) and any prescription medications you may need, and make sure you keep them in their prescription bottles - just in case.
• Bring two good books to read. You can buy some from the airport, but if there is a book you have just been hankering to read, bring it with you; trust me, you'll have plenty of time to read.
• Which leads me to this point. NOTHING kicks off a vacation the wrong way than arriving to the airport late and having to RUN at break neck speed through the airport in HOPES you can make your flight. I know that I am one of those freakish people who arrives creepily early, but truly, it reduces so much stress because you are there, through security, and don't have to worry. Yes, flights are sometimes canceled and/or delayed, but if you are there early and they begin locating flights to redistribute the passengers on, you are there, and will have the highest probability of getting on the next available flight to get  you where you need to go, with the least amount of pain.
• Finally - SMILE, you're going on vacation!

*photo used from: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3159/2868884619_932b4362fc.jpg

www.chicksthattrip.com

Part 20 of Series: 101 Reasons To Use A Travel Agent

Part 20 of Series: 101 Reasons To Use A Travel Agent

 I will be writing a more in depth piece on Travel Insurance in the future; however, I had a recent situation whereby, two clients were in another country where some political unrest was taking place; their inter-country flights had to be changed, as well as their itinerary. Also, one of them fell slightly ill and had to get medication prescribed. Obviously, the moment I heard of the political unrest via my Tour Operator, I emailed my clients to assure them that we were aware of the situation, and were ready to do whatever was necessary to assist them while they were abroad. Fortunately, while there were some changes that were made, my clients still had an enchanting holiday in one of the most intriguing places in the world, and thankfully they had Travel Insurance.

As a travel professional,  I never want to hear any stories of my clients not having the most perfect trips; however, in this day and age, there is so much that we have no control over, that it stands to reason there are going to be moments of uncertainty, changes and down right frustrations during travel. The good thing about working with a travel professional is that the traveler is never alone and on their own. They have an advocate who is accessible to assist in some of the most bizarre circumstances (think: Iceland Volcano), and that is peace of mind that anybody would want while they are traveling.

Clarifying the Fine Print - Your travel agent can advise you of all the cancellation penalties and restrictions hidden in the fine print of your travel documents.
Detailed Itineraries - Your travel expert can help you plan your trip out day- by- day to give you a good mix of fun and relaxation.
Advice on Activities to Book Beforehand - A travel expert can forewarn you of any activities that tend to sell out early so there are no unexpected disappointments when you are there. For example, character dining in Disney sells out months in advance.
General Ideas on Where to Go - A travel expert can offer excellent trip advice based on the details of what type of a trip you want to take. Internet booking sites tend to require a destination up front.
A Trip to Nowhere…Sort of - Want to take a trip to get away to somewhere that is really not a normal vacation hot spot? Your travel specialist can help you find that perfect place.
Great Single’s Trips - A travel agent can help you to match you with help find you an exciting singles’ trips and cruises.

*Source: American Society of Travel Agents

www.chicksthattrip.com

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

Wishing you all a relaxing day.

Chicks That Trip

www.chicksthattrip.com

*photo used from: http://images.cdn.fotopedia.com/flickr-107360969-hd.jpg

Hotel Spotlight: Fairmont Olympic Hotel - Seattle, WA

Circular Drive into Hotel

The Fairmont Olympic Hotel is located in one of the easiest areas to navigate in the Seattle area. Anybody who has read my blog before knows that I have specific hotel requirements, and while the Fairmont is a lovely property with an understated elegance, it is not totally "me." I say that with the utmost respect.

Located in a premier area surrounded by such high-end retailers like Louis Vuitton, the Fairmont Olympic Hotel is in good company. What I appreciate the most about this location in general, is its easy walking distance to great restaurants, shopping, wine shops, Pike Place Market, Nordstrom, the theater district and additional shopping. Also, other delicious and trendy hotels are located well within the same area like, the 'W' Seattle, Hotel 1000 (two of my favorite hotels in Seattle, by the way), the Hotel Monaco, and many more.

You can valet at the hotel or park around the corner at one of the parking garages. Like every major downtown area, parking is not an inexpensive proposition. Even with the slightly discounted rate you receive by having the charges billed directly to your room key, you are still essentially paying $30 a day for parking. My strong recommendation would be to avoid parking at all cost and take either the Gray Line service into Seattle, a shuttle service, or a private car service, because even at a private car service rate, once  you throw in the cost of the rental car and parking, you would still be paying about the same price, if not slightly less by having a private car service, and obviously with the Gray Line and shuttles being approximately $15.00 or so each way, this is definitely the least expensive route. Once you are in Seattle, parking is not only atrociously expensive, but if you are not use to hills and slanted parking, you are in for a rude awakening. This was the first trip I've ever driven myself in Seattle, and I can tell you right now, I will not be repeating this mistake ever again.

Sitting Area Entering Hotel From Valet

There is no shortage of doormen as you enter into the hotel; they are all polite and attentive. The first lobby area upon entering the building by the valet court is a simple and elegant sitting area. It is a bit worn for wear, and I think that the entire property could use a face lift. There were no blatant items that were in need of immediate repair; yet, the property did not leave me with a "WOW" factor. The check-in process was much like any check-in at a major hotel. They were sufficiently staffed, and the total process took approximately five minutes; including my waiting, giving her my credit card and obtaining my room key.
 
The elevators are conveniently located off of the main lobby, so you will not find yourself roaming  randomly throughout the property in an effort to locate an elevator. Also off of the main lobby are comfortable seating areas, as well as the seating for The Georgian restaurant, where high tea is served and the happy hour, served Monday - Friday.

King Size Bed

My room was large, clean and suited my needs. Again, given the type of property the Fairmont Hotel proclaims itself to be, I was not blown away by the room; which contained a King size bed, an armoire, a desk area, closet with an in-room safe, and a well stocked mini bar (sidenote - there is a mini market located directly across the street behind the 'W' hotel and connected to the parking garage, where you can buy water, wine and snacks). The bathroom was spacious and clean, and they also supplied Miller Harris bath products.


All in all, it is a nice property and the main reason I likely would not stay there again is simply because it's in close proximity to other properties in Seattle that I prefer more and fit my personal taste. With that being said, if I knew someone or had clients who were visiting Seattle, and they wanted a laid back, quiet and simple elegant property, I would recommend the Fairmont Olympic property without hesitation. They have several restaurants on the property to suit various tastes from the Georgian, the Georgian Tea, Shuckers, the Terrace, and of course, in-room dining. I did not eat at the Fairmont because there are so many restaurants I love in Seattle, that I simply did not have sufficient time to check out their restaurants.

Seating in Room

Armoire & Desk Area

*photos taken by That Chick Té

www.chicksthattrip.com

Sit and Relax

Sit and Relax

It is easy to get stuck in a rut; be unproductive; kvetch about what is not going right, versus reveling in what is going right - the list is endless. What I do know, is that this type of behavior is counterproductive and does not help to further your goals. I know this, because I had been having a moment of the "blahs" recently too, but imagine my surprise when a simple bagel, and chicken salad (with a glass of wine) helped to brighten not only my day, but my outlook on everything.

I ventured into a Denver neighborhood haunt, Zaidy's Deli, located in Cherry Creek, Colorado. Zaidy's has been around for years, and if you crave a bagel with chicken salad, or a delicious pastrami sandwich with tons of pickles and sauerkraut (or any kind of sandwich), delightful breakfast, or scrumptious and embarrassingly large desserts, then Zaidy's will hit the spot.

On this particular afternoon I could not decide what I wanted to eat, so I decided on an everything bagel with a side of chicken salad. I sat on the porch that faces a relatively busy street (1st avenue), but since it is set back in the tiny strip mall where it is located, it is not as if I was huffing diesel fuel as cars passed me by. My waitress brought me my delectable bites and I was immediately transported to the days when I was a child, and my mom would bring me a special treat of chicken salad on a pumpernickel bagel. I smiled and relaxed as the sun hit my face, and I felt all of the stress and annoyance ease out of my body. I sipped my wine and simply enjoyed my food. No rush. No fuss. I read several articles from Travel Leisure magazine and actually forgot about all of the issues and worries that had been forefront on my mind.

The act of simply sitting seemed to rid me of my negative energy. After I finished eating (and yes, I munched away on every last bite), I remained seated and soaked in the fresh air with no pressing sense of urgency to be or do anything - I simply relaxed.

Hoping you find your own special place; wherever that may be, so you can also sit and relax.


*photo used from: http://farm1.static.flickr.com/34/69006224_2ad4ea995c.jpg

www.chicksthattrip.com

Concerts, Music & Fun in the Sun

Concerts, Music & Fun in the Sun

I have a love of music - I always have, and I always will. If I am having a lousy day, nothing can make me feel better than listening to some good music. I can move between a lovely concerto; to hip hop; to big band. Regardless if it's Eric Clapton, Mtume, Kenny G, Maxwell, Rod Stewart, Kanye, Tu Pac, Carrie Carpenter, U2, Van Halen, Cyndi Lauper, George Michael, Kelly Clarkson; the list is endless, because I simply appreciate music and all the aspects of it.

During this time of year I start looking for the outdoor concerts and seeing which ones may fit my tightly packed schedule. The summertime makes me want to be outside, so I am fond of venues where the concerts are held out doors, and the closer to the beach or wine country they are - the better. California is flush with concerts throughout the year, but one of the big ones is the Playboy Jazz Festival, held at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. If you've ever been to this concert, you know that it's a cornucopia of top performers in the jazz industry. There are a host of other concerts held in the Los Angeles (or surrounding) area - it makes me a bit envious that they are stocked piled with the some of the best concerts and venues.

Despite the fact that (in my opinion) California is one of the best places to attend outdoor concerts, there are a host of other cities and that have fantastic concerts throughout the year; for instance, here in Colorado they have an awesome Winter Park Jazz Festival. My advice is to get online and check them out in your area, so you can take a break, sit back, and sip on a nice beverage of choice and enjoy a relaxing day or night of music and fun.

*photo used from: http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4717546367_205f975f7f.jpg

www.chicksthatrip.com

Part 19 of Series: 101 Reasons To Use A Travel Agent

Part 19 of Series: 101 Reasons To Use A Travel Agent

Have you ever been in the process of researching the purchase of a car, and all of a sudden that one model you've looked at seriously starts popping up every where you go? You can be in a mall parking lot, at a gas station, grocery store, freeway; just about any where, and you are seeing that car. Well, I've been feeling that way about travel; more specifically, stories about travel agents and their "resurrection." Five years ago, the inevitable extinction of travel professionals was being touted everywhere as being the "last of a dying breed." OUCH!

I am happy to report that the trend is now being reported in the opposite direction (like I didn't know this already). It seems not everybody feels that travel professionals are going the way of the dinosaur; in fact, I was recently reading an article in the Washington Post, whereby the author is extolling the virtues of using a travel agent, and how many people are going back to their preferred travel agents to book their trips. You can read the full story here at: http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/travelers-turn-back-to-travel-agents/2011/04/25/AFZcLM8F_story.html.

It doesn't surprise me at all, and as a matter of fact, there are more and more people I've been coming into contact with that indicate they don't mind doing some research on their own, but ultimately when it gets down to the final recommendations for lodgings, activities, and "must see/do" items, they still prefer working with a travel professional. I have said it once, but it deserves repeating; you can have 100 people who prefer to only do online banking; however, you will always have another segment (although it is a smaller percentage) that will want to have that face time with a banker. Also, for those who prefer 24/7 online access, they will still come across situations where they need to speak with a real, live person. Travel is the same thing. Yes, there is a lot of information out there, but a lot of times people like the idea of contacting one person to help them plan everything and be done with it; versus spending hours and hours trying to out beat the lowest price. There are individuals who see the value in not expending their time doing something that they can have done by someone else.

Is the Upgrade Worth It? – Your travel expert can help you save money by helping you decide if certain upgrades at hotels are really worth the extra money.
Difference in Days to Save Money – Instead of playing around with dates on the internet for hours your travel agent can advise you on any changes to your travel dates that might save you hundreds of dollars.
Staying In-the-Know of Daily Promotions –Travel agents get emails and faxes of daily money saving promotions.
Enhancing the Trip with Extra Amenities – Your travel specialist may be able to arrange for those little extras like a bottle of champagne to be waiting in your room when you arrive.
Using Clout in Impossible Situations – Whether it is air line seats, cruise reservations, or overbooked activities travel experts have more buying power than the average consumer.

*source information provided by ASTA

www.chicksthattrip.com

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Wishing you all a wonderful and special day!

Chicks That Trip

*photo by That Chick Té