Hotel Spotlight: US Grant Hotel - San Diego, California - A Starwood Luxury Collection Property

The Grant Grill - Seating Area off of the Bar

Hotel Spotlight: US Grant Hotel - San Diego, California

I recently had the wonderful pleasure of staying at the US Grant Hotel in San Diego, California. The hospitality exhibited from the moment I checked in, until I checked out was exemplary. It didn't matter if it was the Manager on Duty, a Valet, or any other individuals who worked there, all of the employees were courteous, polite, and seemed to enjoy their job - even if that wasn't the case, they didn't let any guests feel any differently.

If you like a hotel that has that Old World Charm of understated elegance, then you will definitely enjoy staying at the US Grant Hotel. While it's not a budget hotel, it is definitely worth the price to stay there. The rooms are well appointed, clean (barring some windowsills that were a bit dusty) and intimate. It wasn't the largest room I've ever stayed in, but it was cozy, intimate and I slept like a baby every night. I will add that I stayed in a street side room, so it was a bit more noise than probably would have been in an interior room, but that was ok, since I was on a higher floor, the noise was not overwhelming at all.

The artwork was exquisite. I felt like I was in Paris, because everywhere I looked there were eclectic pieces of art disbursed throughout the property - bronze sculptures, unique paintings and elaborate chandeliers.

The pros about staying at the US Grant Hotel were:

• Close to the airport
  
• Within 10-15 minutes to any of the attractions (Sea World, the Zoo, etc)
  
• Close proximity to any ships departing from San Diego for cruises
  
• Walking distance to great restaurants, House of Blues, Croce's restaurant and many new bars and clubs
  
• Intimate rooms with exceptional customer service
  
• Nice "Happy Hour" at the Grant Grill - located off of the lobby area
  
• Inexpensive and short cab rides to a majority of locales outside of the downtown area
  
• Shopping, shopping, and more shopping were just steps away from the hotel (directly across the street)

Some cons of staying (fortunately, not that many):

• There was a fee to use the internet in your room; however, if you worked in the lobby area it was free of charge
  
• My drivers who would come to pick me up or drop me off had a problem figuring out which entrance to go too, and since I wasn't certain, I ended up walking around the entire building on numerous occasions looking for my transportation
  
• The neighborhood is definitely sketchy. There were obviously tourist around, but there was an enormous amount of (seemingly) homeless people in the surrounding area by the hotel - most were relatively harmless, just asking for money or usually just carrying on conversations with themselves

This picture was taken in my room. It's a headboard that is made of cloth and then painted with black, depicting these unusual characters. I loved it!

This divine, bronze sculpture was located off of the 4th floor elevator area. The chandelier is not given any justice in this photo. It sparkled like a million stars.

*photos taken by That Chick Té of the US Grant Hotel, San Diego, CA

(http://www.chicksthattrip.com/)

Gas Prices...

Recently I wrote on May 12, 2010 regarding the increase in gas prices and lo and behold, I was reading that gas prices may decrease as the summer months go on. If you are interested in the article I've provided the link: http://www.dailyfinance.com/story/gas-prices-should-drop-as-summer-driving-season-heats-up/19486413/).

I will remain silent on this for the time being...but even in this article stating that gas prices may decrease, there is STILL that run around language about crude oil prices...stay tuned. I'm certain I'll be writing more about this annoyance!

I Don't Care Where I Stay...

I Don't Care Where I Stay When I Travel

I hear this comment a lot by people who travel both frequently and infrequently, and I always have to hold back a chuckle. I think what people should really say is, "I don't care where I stay if I'm paying for it, but if someone else is paying, I want to stay at the Four Seasons/Ritz/St. Regis." You get the point!

I understand that a lot of us are on budgets, and while I'm not meaning to imply that you can't enjoy a vacation unless you stay at the most elaborate establishments around the world; there is a lot to be said for enjoying a great day of sightseeing and then going back to a beautiful B&B, Hotel Suite, etc, and just relaxing like a King or Queen.

There are many individuals who really don't want to stay at a high-end location because they don't feel comfortable, or they believe it's too stuffy. I get that. I have a host of friends and family members who really do prefer to stay at a place that's more relaxed, less pretentious (as some high-end hotels can be) where they feel like they are at home and can kick their feet up - figuratively and literally. These individuals can most assuredly afford to stay anywhere else, but their preference is something along the lines of a Holiday Inn or Best Western. But, there are others I know and have met who truly do want to live the high life, just as long as they aren't footing the bill.

While I'll admit that I do enjoy staying at an eclectic, less expensive establishment from time to time; in general, I prefer to be somewhere lavish and luxurious. I love walking into the lobby of the Phoenician (in Arizona), and just admiring the lobby area and the high-tea room with it's elaborate table settings and high brow clientele. I prefer jumping out of my rental car at the trendy and hip "W" at any destination, and rubbing elbows with trendsetters and the like. I enjoy imbiding an expensive cocktail while sitting on an exquisitely upholstered lounge chair, in some funky Manhattan hotel (too many to name).

I guess my point is to those who truly don't care where they are staying - please don't look down on those of us who do care! And in turn, those of us who enjoy a little luxe in our lives won't judge your choice of accommodations either!

In this current market, if you are one of those travelers' who wants to upgrade to the next level, there are many wonderful accommodations that are a fraction of their prices from two years ago. One such destination that is enjoyed by travelers' around the world, and is currently experiencing a fire sale that I've never seen before is Las Vegas - even on weekend days! Some of the most luxurious hotels are advertising their standard rooms for less than $100 a night. I recommend anybody who has wanted to stay somewhere expensive but just hasn't had the money, this is the time to do it, because as we all know these prices won't last forever.

*photo used from - http://www.pinkpt.com/neodex/images/9/93/Sophies_shack.gif

(www.chicksthattrip.com)

Part 7 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

Part 7 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use A Travel Agent

Whenever I hear that gas prices have increased I think to myself, "Oh, summer must be around the corner." I don't mean to sound cynical (well, actually I do), but it's curious to me that every year the gas prices always miraculously increase during the heaviest driving/travel time of the year. That's not to say that it doesn't go up any other times, but it's ALWAYS during the summer months. Yes, I realize there are extenuating circumstances that are typically cited for the increase in fuel charges - sorry, I don't buy any of it. I would much prefer that they just come out and say, "It's summer, and we know all of you lovely people are going to be jumping into your cars; taking a cruise; or flying somewhere during the summer, and this is when we can really make the most money."

Gas prices are passed on to the consumer, so no matter what catastrophic occurrence transpires, it is the consumer who is left holding the gas pump.

Recently I've received emails from some of the cruiselines and guess what? Yep, they are implementing surcharges for fuel. Hmmmm...curious isn't it? I never saw that coming.

Wherever your travels may take you during the Spring and Summer months, Chicks That Trip wishes you happy trails - despite the gas increases.

• Avoid Any Unexpected Expenses That Might Come Up - Travel agents know a lot of the little expenses that you might experience while on your trip, that you might not have even thought of.
  
• Exchange Rate Knowledge - Travel agents are knowledgeable of what countries your dollar goes further.
  
• Useful Travel Books to Have with You - A travel expert can give you advice on what travel books are the most useful to have with you. Some of these books list restaurants, customs, and small amounts of the local language.
  
• List of Not- to- Miss Places - Travel specialists can give you a great list of not- to- miss hikes, waterfalls, and cliffs that may or may not be published elsewhere.
  
• What to Wear - Many restaurants have different types of dress codes. If you are interested in dining at specific places on your trip your travel expert can advise you on appropriate dress wear for the occasion.
  
• What Not to Wear - Travel agents can help you to be in the know of local dress code restrictions. So if a thong is part of your favorite beachwear you should know that they are illegal in places like the Isle of Palms. (This is one of my personal favorites - nothing like seeing a tourist in a fancy restaurant in Paris, attempting to gain access while wearing his Hawaiian shirt...)

*Source: American Society of Travel Agents

(www.chicksthattrip.com)

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

*photo by Ron Niebrugge

(www.chicksthattrip.com)

The BillBoard Latin Music Awards - San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan, Puerto Rico is one of the premier locations that Chicks That Trip specializes in, so with that being said, it's not surprising one of the chicks - That Chick Dawni, is on her way to attend the BillBoard Latin Music Awards being held in San Juan, Puerto Rico at the Conrad San Juan Condado Plaza Hotel.

I'm certain that she will be back with many tales from this experience, and I can't wait to hear them; after all, isn't that what Lobby Bar Confessions are all about?
Stay tuned...

(www.chicksthattrip.com)

Iceland Volcano...

The Iceland Volcano eruption is...to put it bluntly, not only a natural disaster, but a collossal detriment to the travel industry as a whole. With that being said, there is nothing that anyone could have ever done to know this would transpire; and while it is an awful event, it gives pause to the fact that clearly, as much as we WANT to be in control - we are not. This has proven that no matter how great technology is, there are some things that just can not be predicted or known until they actually happen. I'm not saying that our scientific world is bad, or that they don't know what they are doing, but the reality is that none of us know what can happen at any minute/hour/day/week/month, etc. We are all at the mercy of something greater than ourselves; regardless if we believe in religion or other forces of the universe, we are never in control - contrary to what we may think or feel.

As a side note, I think the whole Eastern European front is getting battered as a whole - the flight crash in Poland, the bombings in Moscow, and lest not forget the horrible adoption fiascos that have transpired over the past month - these are all isolated incidents that all seemed to happen within a short span of time, in relatively the same region. It makes me go, "hmmmm."

I wish I had some witty reparté about these situations, but I don't. They are sad realities of life, but with all of that being said - I will still continue to travel. I did after 9-11, and I continue to do so today, even though our air transit leaves much to be desired.

(www.chicksthattrip.com)

Part 6 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

Part 6 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

A few years ago when I was studying to get my M.B.A. in Global Management, I was very intrigued by expats (expatriates are individuals who work in another country other than their home country; typically it’s referred to Americans who live and work abroad). I thought it must be the coolest thing in the world to work for a company and be able to work abroad in another country.

While that is partially correct, there are issues that expats must deal with that turn this enviable position into one that is chock full of its own landmines that must be navigated and taken into consideration when traveling and living abroad for any length of time. I liken it to the honeymoon phase of a relationship. It’s all roses and tulips at the beginning because each person is on their best behavior; however, when the thin veneer of that honeymoon phase goes away, you are left with the vestiges of a “real “ relationship, and as we all know, that’s not always a pretty picture.

When considering any travel abroad – even to lovely locales like Paris, London and Prague, there are significant cultural differences that the American traveler should be aware of prior to departure. We’ve all heard the tales of the “Ugly American” or we’ve witnessed these people, or in some cases, we were the “Ugly American.” It’s essential to do some preliminary research prior to traveling to another country, even if it’s visiting our Canadian neighbors to the North of us.

Working with a travel professional can help you prepare for your international trip by ensuring you know the important aspects of visiting that country, like, whether or not you will go to jail if you throw gum on the sidewalk. Also, you can strategize on polite comebacks as to why you can’t eat the mystery meat that is so popular in that country.

• What to Eat - Where are all the top chefs at your destination? Travel specialists give great advice on the best restaurants to hit on your trip and not to be missed restaurants.
  


• What Not to Eat - Leaving your home country and not familiar with the new language?
  Travel agents can help give you some forewarnings so you don’t accidently order the local delicacy (which may or not be specially prepared bugs) without meaning to.
  


• Local Traditions - Travel specialists can update you on all local traditions and customs of places you are visiting, so you make a good impression. For example, in Japan many people expect their visitors to take their shoes off before entering their homes.
  


• Local Laws - Many countries have laws that are very different from your own, especially when traveling abroad. Travel agents can help give you a quick rundown of what you need to be aware of before you go.
  


• Busiest Travel Times to Avoid - If you want a quiet trip, travel experts know what dates you should avoid and can help you plan your trip accordingly.

*Source: American Society of Travel Agents

(http://www.chicksthattrip.com/)

Spring Has Sprung!

Spring is one of the most beautiful times of year to me. The snow is melting away and everyone is in great spirits because they don't have to be locked inside of the house (well, those of us in colder climates).

I am excitedly plotting my Colorado Wine Country Journey that I will be blogging about over the course of the next few months. As time permits, I am going to visit many of the vineyards & wineries located in Colorado, and I am looking forward to this time to reflect, create, and just be one with nature. It may sound trite to some, but going on a road trip is a good way to clear out the cobwebs of your mind and just - be.

I was recently reading an article written by Erin Bried, in the April 2010 Self magazine entitled, "Your Great Escape: 5 Excuses To Skip Town." Paraphrasing, the article points out five great reasons to go on vacation. I won't rewrite the article, but the five reasons were as follow:

1. You'll be fitter and slimmer
2. You'll sleep better
3. You'll live longer
4. You'll be calmer at work (I personally can attest to this one)
5. You'll strengthen your bond

Regardless if you take a trip that is exotic and far away, or a long weekend away, the health and regenerative benefits are exceptional. There is something to be said about that anticipation before a trip, and while it's not always a fun aspect returning to work; I always found (when I was in the corporate world), that it seemed to buy me some more sanity. I probably shouldn't admit to that, but it's true. Going on a vacation was a way to get away from all of the stress and ugliness that can oftentimes be in the work place. While you are on vacation it can help you put a lot into perspective, and it can make you appreciate the fact that you have a job, but it also helps to reenergize you, and to that point, it may help you make decisions that can potentially better your work/life balance.

*picture taken from: http://www.freenaturepictures.com/pictures/view-from-cliffs-5.php

(http://www.chicksthattrip.com/)

Part 5 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

Part 5 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

Having a travel professional in your “pocket” allows you to find out about things that may not be widely publicized or may be so limited in availability that when you do find out – it’s too late. Case in point, one of my top suppliers immediately sent out an email to those of us who book Major Sporting Event packages to let us know what they had available for the Masters’ once Tiger Woods announced he would be playing. It is these types of situations that travel professionals are able to know about, and pass on the information to their clients who may have expressed interest in attending these types of events when made available/accessible to the general public.

• Where to Go to Avoid Kids - Want to go somewhere without children running all over the place? A travel agent can help you to find excellent retreats that are open to adults only.
  

• Good Senior Trips - Need a trip with a good balance of sightseeing, and rest and relaxation? Travel agents can help lucky retirees you to plan great extended trips that are senior-friendly for those lucky retirees.
  

• Student Discounts - Some travel agents are an excellent go to source for students looking to go on discounted trips.
  
  
• Exotic Adventures - Travel experts can help to recommend great once in a lifetime experiences. They can help you to find the best/safest shark cages to dive into and the highest free fall bungees to jump off.
  
  
• Great Deals without Sitting at a Time Share Presentation - Want an affordable trip to Florida without having to sit through a timeshare presentation? A travel agent can help you to exceptional deals without the stipulations.
  

*Source: American Society of Travel Agents

(www.chicksthattrip.com)