New Years in Times Square

Posted on January 3, 2012 by Michelle

Happy New Year! How did you end up spending your New Years Eve? I thought mine would be low key, which it pretty much was for my standards…dinner, a friend’s apartment party in Times Square and then we walked around the city for awhile before settling into a diner at 3am. However, being that the apartment was on 47th street right off of Broadway, we were able to get close to all the action at around 11:45pm, which was pretty sweet. In all these years living in the New York area, I had never seen the ball drop because I never wanted to wait outside beginning at two in the afternoon. Last year, I went to the same party and it was awesome being in the middle of it all, so I decided to do it again this year. 

The energy of Times Square was truly amazing, with people gathered in one place from all around the world. The countdown, the confetti, the billboards, and the music pumping through the streets was just incredible. I think the best part was just a few minutes after midnight when everyone cleared out and I stood there looking up and around. It’s not often I stand in the middle of Times Square and take it all in.

And to top the night off, there were fireworks in Central Park and as I turned around towards the park, I saw the finale. Definitely a memorable way to start off the New Year, but what’s most important is that I was with friends and that’s what it’s all about. How have you spent the new year so far? We all make resolutions, but what is the one promise you have made to yourself that you will most definitely keep? I think the new year is a time for inspiration and motivation to change whatever it is you’d like to do differently and if you want it, only you can make it happen!! Here’s to health and happiness in the new year!

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The Big Island: Full of Big Adventure!

Posted on November 22, 2011 by Michelle

There is so much to see and do on the Big Island but with only two and half days, I had to make the most of them.  I decided to take a volcano tour and go scuba diving with the manta rays, two experiences I could only get on the Big Island.  First, I’ll tell you about the diving in Kona….a must do!!  Or if you are not a diver, you can usually go out as a snorkeler on the dive boat and just stay above the water, but still see many of the magnificent sea life including the manta rays.  I decided to go diving with KonaHonu Divers and I couldn’t have picked a better dive operation.  I went with them because in addition to the single manta dive that they had in the evenings, they made it a two’fer and did a reef dive at the same spot prior to the manta dive.  It’s amazing what a few hours can do to bring out other creatures of the sea. 

KonaHonu’s dive shop is in town and easy to get to by rental car or SpeediShuttle. Since we were only there for two days, we opted for the SpeediShuttle, which is the easy, no hassle way to get around the island.  We made the mistake and didn’t reserve the shuttle upon arrival, so we had to take a cab to the resort which is more expensive than the shuttle, so definitely make your reservation before flying into Kona.  Once there, I made a reservation to take me to the dive shop as well as back to the airport.  I really liked the drivers for Speedishuttle.   Not only did you get a ride, but also a very informative tour about the people and the island.  Making the reservation was easy, as there is a SpeediShuttle desk inside the Hilton, or you can do on their website.

Once I was at the dive shop, everything was made so easy.  My dive gear was already on the boat, so all I had to do was fill out the waiver and be on my way.   I usually bring my wetsuit and fins with me, but this time decided to travel light.  The service on board the boat was impeccable and I felt spoiled compared to some of my other dives in the past.  Everything was set up with your name label on it.  They came around to make sure everything was good with your integrated weights…that’s right…integrated, so no weight belts!!  The crew on my boat was John, Jason and Jack and they were so diligent in giving us a briefing of the site we were going to dive both before the first and the second dive.  You can tell they are very thorough in their safety checks while also running a top notch operation and making sure everyone has a great time.  They explained the creatures we would see and when it came time to talk Mantas, Jason talked all about how long they’ve been there, how they reproduce, the various ones we’d see, etc.  In between dives, they fed us sandwiches, animal crackers and chips…more than your typical oranges and cookies!

The manta ray dive has been written up as one of the best in the world and I can certainly see why.  When I tell you this is an experience you don’t want to miss, you definitely don’t want to miss this!   With all my diving over these past few years, I had never seen a manta ray, let alone one so close.  It was basically a light show underwater full with 13 mantas swimming up  and over our heads.  Everyone had a flashlight and as the mantas were attracted to our light, they would come right to us as if they were going to eat us with their big but harmless mouths, and then swim right over us, almost in a choreographed fashion with the other manta rays.  I couldn’t believe how beautiful and large these creatures were.  One can just sit there and watch the show they put on for a 45 minute dive.  After the dive was complete,  the crew took care of all of your equipment, so all we had to do was put on our clothes and watch the video the professional videographer took underwater.   They really made the dive so effortless and enjoyable.  I can now see why one of the couples on our trip has been diving with them several times.  If I were to go back, there’s no question, they would be my dive operator of choice.

One of the main reasons I chose to visit the Big Island was for the volcano that keeps on erupting.  I figured this was a site you would only see in Hawaii, so it was a must do.    What I didn’t realize was that there was a company that would take all of the guesswork out of hiking the volcano.  One that would pick us up at your hotel, provide an extremely informative tour on the ride there, and choose only the best spots to stop throughout the day.  Hawaii Forest and Trail was started by Rob Pacheco who saw there was a void in Hawaii tourism…the ecotourism aspect of Hawaii.  So he started Hawaii Forest and Trail, a full service company that provides a variety of tours to view the volcano and the amazing astrology one can see on a clear night.  We chose the Twilight Volcano Tour, as we were hoping to see the lava lit up at night.  The trip began with a pickup in their van which has a capacity to sit twelve, but we were a more intimate group of six, which really made for a personal tour experience.   Ethan was our guide for the day and from beginning until end, he made sure we were comfortable and safe.  He was always monitoring our happiness from the temperature of the van, to how much we enjoyed the lunch and dinner that came with the tour, and each stop we made along the way.  We first traveled between two of the world’s largest mountains, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on Saddle Road.  Along the way, Ethan pointed out some of the rare plants and trees of the world and explained the science of the volcano and how it forms new land.  On the way into Hilo, we stopped at Mauna Kea State Park and the Kaumana Cave, which was probably one of the coolest part of the trip.  We trekked through the lava tube and saw first hand the various types of lava that once flowed through the tube and settled into different textures depending on how quickly it cooled.  While walking through the tube, we could feel the ground water drip through the lava.  Next on the trip was the summit of Kilauea inside Hawaii Volcanos National Park.  Since there is so much to see and do inside the park, it’s really nice to have a guide show you the best spots and take you there in a methodical fashion so you can get the most out of your day.  On our tour, we visited the sulfur banks, steam vents, a pit crater which is only accessible if you’re with Hawaii Forest and Trail along the Chain of Craters Road, hiked a lava field, and before our dinner, drove down the coast and took in the awe inspiring view of the coastline and ocean from a lava bench.  This is a truly romantic spot and would make for a great place to propose above the arches!  After a healthy, delicious dinner in the park, we drove back up around 3000 feet and paid a visit to Jaggar Museum and saw the awesome site of the Halemaumau Crater, which contains hidden molten rock that glows after dark.  It was a magnificent sight to see.  After our full day of exploration, Ethan got us home safely while most of us dozed off on the two hour drive back.  It was a wonderful day and I’m so glad we chose to take the tour with Hawaii Forest and Trail.  They took all the planning out of the equation and left us with a day filled with magnificent memories and new knowledge.  This trip gave new meaning to the volcanoes I used to make with baking soda in grade school!

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Hilton Waikoloa Village: Beauty on the Big Island

Posted on November 19, 2011 by Michelle

When deciding which Hawaiian islands to visit, it can be a very tough decision, as there is so much to see and do on all of them.  I wanted to pick two islands that were going to provide different experiences, so I decided on the Big Island to go with my Kauai visit.  As much as I love the beach and relaxing, I like gathering new experiences wherever I go, and the Big Island certainly was intriguing with its volcano and the opportunity to scuba dive with the manta rays, known as one of the world’s best dives.   With the volcano on one side of the island and the diving on the other, I wasn’t sure where to stay, and if it would require a lot of time in the car switching hotels.  Then I called the Hilton Waikoloa Village and they were so helpful in figuring out the best itinerary. It turns out they work with Hawaii Forest and Trail, a company that provides full day tours to the volcano, so you can plant yourself on the west coast and leave the rest to them.

The Hilton Waikoloa Village is an amazing resort and a beautiful and fun place to stay as a couple or with your family.  There is so much to do as a family such as the dolphin quest, where you can have an interactive experience with the dolphins.  I’ve never been to resort that has it on premise, so this is definitely a big treat.  It’s also great to have the opportunity to watch the dolphins from your hotel room terrace!  There is a huge pool and waterslide, Club Keiki, the camp for kids, so you can have some alone time, and the lagoon where you can rent paddleboats, water bikes, kayaks, and snorkel equipment through Ocean Sports.  This past summer I had seen a lot of people doing the stand up paddleboarding and I always wanted to try it, but I was a bit hesitant.  However, with Ocean Sports, they will give you a quick lesson and you can practice in the calm waters, which is a great place to get acclimated with the board, keeping your balance and learning how to maneuver yourself around the lagoon.

If you are here as a couple, don’t worry, you won’t be surrounded by screaming children, as the resort is vast in size…so big that it even has a monorail running through it!  I’ve stayed at resorts in the past where you would not want to stay  if you were on your honeymoon, but this is not one of them.   I was only here for two full days, so I did not get a chance to eat dinner at the resort, as I was diving one night and on the volcano tour the other, but there are some great restaurants to choose from for all your meals with a wide variety of cuisine from Japanese to traditional Hawaiian cuisine, and something for everyone’s budget.  For breakfast, I hit up the lagoon spoon, which serves a very generous portion of your choice of two cereals and two toppings with milk for just $4.95.  For lunch, there is everything from inexpensive take-out from the marketplace, a casual poolside grill to a sit down restaurant.  There is also a shuttle that goes back and forth to the shops in the Waikoloa Village which includes a supermarket in case you’d like to stock up.  For couples looking to unwind, relax and stay in shape, there is the Kohala Spa and fitness center.

One of my favorite parts of this stay was unquestionably the room and its terrace. The bed was extremely comfy (like it is at all Hilton hotels) and we stayed in a room overlooking the ocean and pool, so each night, we were able to leave our terrace door open to fall asleep to the sound of the ocean and wake up to the gorgeous sun and the sound of the waves below.  There is nothing more serene and beautiful than the sound of the ocean and the view of palm trees.  It’s very easy to start your day, as it’s extremely difficult to stay in bed with this around you!

The Hilton Waikoloa Village has everything you can ever ask for in a Hawaiian resort…breathtaking scenery and views, lots of activities, shopping, a wide variety of cuisine choices, and a friendly staff.   For your trip to the Big Island, there’s no better choice than the Hilton Waikola Village for amazing beauty, comfort and fun!

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Kaua’i = Paradise

Posted on November 10, 2011 by Michelle

Kauai is a magical place.  It’s an island that welcomes you with warm alohas, gorgeous blue skies filled with little puffy white clouds, but not enough to take away the sunshine, a fascinating coastline, and a remarkable canyon.  Kaua’i will sweep you off your feet with its beauty and romance.  If you are celebrating an engagement, wedding, anniversary, or just a special getaway, Kaua’i will enchant you with its beautiful hotels, hiking, sailing, scuba diving and perhaps one of the most breathtaking ways to see the island, by helicopter.   The oldest of the Hawaiian islands, Kaua’i is beautiful throughout, but has a different flare depending on where you are on the island.   My trip took me around the island with the opportunity to explore different properties.  Below is a suggested itinerary if you’d like to do what we did, or you may choose to plant yourself at one resort and explore the island each day by car.

Start off in the north at the prestigious St. Regis.  You’ll enjoy a magnificent view of Hanalei Bay.  Eating their delicious and comprehensive breakfast buffet overlooking the mountains and water each morning does wonders for your soul.   Plus, you can feel a little less guilty about how much you eat, because the morning boot camp class will give you an invigorating workout on the beach.  With the view of palm trees and the ocean, you’ll be motivated for any workout, no matter how challenging!  Their spa is also a great place to unwind and enjoy treatments utilizing organically grown products from the island.   If you choose to stay on Poipu Beach, the Sheraton Kauai Resort is a great choice.  With an oceanview room, you will enjoy gorgeous sunsets on your own private terrace.  The beach is beautiful and if you like relaxing at the property, they have two great restaurants, which also provide great sunset views.  After dinner, hang out with friends at the bar or relax on the beach with your loved one and listen to the sound of the waves and feel the tropical breeze around you.   Another option for accommodations is the Kaua’i Marriott Resort and Beach Club.   This is a great property if you’re looking for something close to the airport.  They provide a complimentary shuttle and also provide free parking, which is a nice perk if you rent a car.  You can also get some great souvenirs at unexpected stores like Walmart , Kmart and Cosco, all very closeby.

When in Kaua’i, there are many activities from which to choose.  I would recommend choosing activities that enable you to see the amazing scenery of the island by sea, on foot and by air.   Kayak Kaua’i  offers hiking and kayaking tours as well as surfing and paddle board lessons, which are very popular in Hawaii.  Hiking the Na Pali coast will provide you with sweeping views of the ocean from above.  We hiked the first two miles and stopped for lunch on some rocks at the beach.  It is a great hike, but can be slippery at times and a little challenging at others.  However, I saw people of all ages and body types on the trail.

Taking a sail up the coast and looking up is equally breathtaking.  Captain Andy’s Sailing Adventures will take you on a half day sail up the Na Pali coast and  if you look close enough, you can see the hikers climbing the mountains you were climbing the day before.  You’ll pass by caves, and if you choose to take a zodiac ride, they will take inside some of them.  After a great sail, you’ll stop to snorkel and possibly see some nice sized turtles swimming around with you.  After working up an appetite, you’ll come back on the boat for a freshly cooked bbq lunch and drinks.

You’ll also want to spend part of a day exploring Waimea Canyon.  Even if you don’t have a chance or want to hike it, there is an easy drive up to 4000 feet in elevation with a few lookout points along the way for some great picture taking.  The Allerton Estate Tour of the National Tropical Botanical Gardens is a beautiful place to stop as well.

If you’re a seasoned scuba diver or even a beginner, SeaSport Divers is a top dive operation located in Kauai with multiple locations, with the main store in Poipu Beach. Their other store is on the east side of the island in KAPAA.  Seasport Divers is a multiple Rodale’s Readers Choice Award Winner.  They were Voted #1 on Kauai, #5 in the Pacific and Indian oceans and rate as one of the 10 Best Scuba Diving Operators in the US, with a straight “A” rating.  Seasport Divers is the only scuba Diving Company on Kauai with multiple locations.  I had such a great dive experience with them.  From the moment I walked in the door, Frank was extremely welcoming and set me up with everything I needed.  I felt a sense of confidence with this company, especially during the safety briefing.  They were extremely thorough before even getting on the boat.  A lot of dive companies do not explain as much as he did or go into such detail.  While on the boat, divemasters James, Meghan and Frank, made sure all of our gear was set up and working properly.  Captain Andrew led us to the amazing dive sites of Nukumoi and Sheraton Caverns.  While down under, they always made sure everyone was together and when one diver decided to take off on his own, Frank took measures to find him immediately.   James was great with the new divers and took them in a separate group so they didn’t feel the pressure of keeping up with everyone else for their first time out.  Meghan took us down for the second dive in which there were huge turtles everywhere!  I’ve never seen so many turtles in one place, so it was a real treat.  She captured everything on video so one could take it home to always remember the dive.  Frank, James and Meghan were not only a skilled group of divemasters, but also a fun one, and made the Kauai dive a memorable one.  

Perhaps the most spectacular way to see the landscape of the island is by helicopter.   Island Helicopters offers an exclusive Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure.  In addition to your hour and half ride over the island, you will land at the Manawaiopuna Falls, the falls used in the movie Jurassic Park and only accessible by air.  As we rode deeper into the Waimea Canyon and along the coastline, I was overcome with emotion by the sheer beauty.  With everything we had seen while hiking and from the water, I couldn’t imagine it could get anymore gorgeous.  But it did and I think I had a huge smile my face for the entire ride.  If you’re looking for romance, do not leave this out!

All of the food on the island was delicious with lots of fresh fish.  However, one restaurant is an absolute must visit.  Joesslin’s Tapa’s Bar and Grill is a favorite among locals and tourists and for good reason.  The world renowned chef, Jean Marie Josselin prepares organic, fresh dishes in with impeccable style and creativity.  Many of the dishes we tasted included ingredients I had never had before, but were local to the region.  The dining experience was incredible and you should definitely make a dinner stop here.

I’ve seen some places over these past few years, but I can definitely understand why so many people visit Kaua’i for their honeymoons.  It exudes romance without even trying.  As soon as you step off the plane, an air of relaxation will fulfill you and you’ll realize you’re in Paradise!  As they say in Hawaii, Mahalo for reading my article and I hope I’ve inspired you to begin or renew your relationship in Kaua’i!

 

 

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Thompson Beverly Hills: Swank and Sophisticated

Posted on October 22, 2011 by Michelle

I love traveling to Los Angeles.  Everytime I visit, I vow to move out there. The weather is spectacular and there is always so much to see and do.  In the past I’ve stayed with friends, but this time I decided to stay at one of the newer, hipper hotels in Beverly Hills and see the scene from a new perspective.   The Thompson Hotel brand has hotels in cosmopolitan areas including New York, Chicago, Washington DC, Chicago and two in Los Angeles, including the Roosevelt in Hollywood and the Thompson Beverly Hills, built in 2008. Upon driving into the hotel, which is discreetly located on Wilshire Boulevard, the valet attendant will help you with your luggage and take care of your car.  Right inside is reception with a cozy lobby.   The hotel is modern and the architecture, sharp.  When I stepped into my room, I knew this was different from any hotel I’ve stayed in.  With 107 rooms, 12 of which are suites, the architecture and furniture gave off a sexy, sophisticated and edgy feel.   It was upscale and smart, but reasonably priced.   The hotel and its fabulous rooftop bar and pool has been home to many fashion and television shoots, but is also a perfect spot for business meetings.  Overlooking downtown Los Angeles and the Hollywood Hills, one can order drinks or dinner and relax on couches and chairs under a heat lamp.   In addition to the traditional drink menu, they also serve up some delicious signature cocktails.

Many couples will get married at the nearby Four Seasons Hotel, which is quite beautiful and lavish, but also outside many people’s price points, so the wedding party will stay at the more affordable, yet fun and hip, Thompson Beverly Hills.  It’s a great place for locals and tourists alike, and I would highly recommend staying here if you are looking for a sheek, comfortable hotel in the middle of the swank neighborhood of Beverly Hills. Plus, with the winter upon us on the east coast, there’s no better time to visit Los Angeles, especially with fares as low as $149 each way from New York. If you are traveling to this or any of the other Thompson property, be sure to check out their blog called Room 100, which talks all about the exciting events and openings in and around the property.  Whichever Thompson Hotel you choose, you’ll enjoy a stylish, memorable stay in your city of choice.

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Niagara Falls: Romance for the Adults, Fun for the Kids!

Posted on October 12, 2011 by Michelle

I had always heard that Niagara Falls was the honeymoon capital of the world and it was one of those places that I always wanted to see. Located between the twin cities of Niagara Falls, New York and Niagara Falls, Ontario, six million cubic feet of water flow over the crest every minute during the high flow.  Niagara Falls is comprised of three distinctive falls including Horseshoe Falls which are 2,600 feet with with the American falls measuring 1,060 feet wide.  The highest drop is 173 feet at Horseshoe Falls.  There are many ways one can experience falls, from walking the path and observing them from a bit of a distance, but still close enough to capture some great pictures, to taking a boat ride right next to them on Maid of the Mist. One can also buy an adventure pack which includes admission to Maid of the Mist, Journey Behind the Falls, which takes you through tunnels behind the falls and an outside spot, where you can observe the immense power of the side of the falls. It also includes entrance to Niagara’s Fury, which is a 4-D movie that will make you feel as though you are in the falls and learn about the history of the falls.  We did not get to explore the White Water Walk which also comes with the pass, because we unfortunately hit Niagara on the coldest, rainiest day of the season, but I hear that is definitely a neat experience as well.  A unique perspective of the falls can be seen from a helicopter and Niagara Helicopters offers a spectacular ride above the falls where you will see the falls, whirlpool, and if you’re lucky a striking rainbow.  If you are there on a Friday or Sunday, be sure to catch the amazing fireworks show over the falls which are lit up at night.

The area surrounding the falls is a perfect playground for both adults and children.  There are two casinos, and if you get a players club and play for a bit, it will entitle you to free parking, which is a big plus if you will be hitting any of the attractions in the area.  Each casino has a variety of table games, slot machines, food and entertainment and is the place to be at night.  If you’re looking for something more interactive, you can check out the Oh Canada Eh? Dinner show.  Your ticket includes the musical show in their log cabin theater as well as a dinner consisting of French Canadian Pea Soup, Homemade Bread, Fresh Garden Salad, Alberta Grade Eh? Roast Beef, Fresh Atlantic Haddock, Manitoba Roast Chicken, PEI Vegetable Medley, Roasted Potatoes and Maple Chocolate Cake for dessert.  Just a ten minute drive from the heart of Niagara Falls, this show is perfect for kids and adults and kids under sixteen are free!   If you chose to stay in the vicinity of the falls, there is everything from bowling alleys to a wax museum and lots of places for the kids to play.  It’s pretty touristy and reminds me of 42nd street in NYC, but you’ll always have something to do!

I would allow one of two days to explore everything around Niagara Falls and then take a day to explore Niagara on the Lake, which is a quaint town about 15-20 minutes away and is also home to many wineries.  The town itself is a great place to grab lunch and some homemade ice cream and desserts and wander in and out of the local shops.  We took a tour and tasting at two wineries, Inniskillin and Jackson Triggs.  At Inniskillin, we took a tour of the winery and then sat down for a delicious tasting of  renowned ice wines.  I like sweet wines, so I enjoyed them tremendously, as I had never tasted anything like them before.  Because of the climate in the Niagara region, they are able to pick the frozen grapes at the right time and make the wine directly from them as opposed to some other wineries which will actually freeze their grapes before making the wine.  Jackson Triggs, one of Inniskillin’s sister wineries also produces outstanding Canadian wine and is a great place to visit to get a taste of your more traditional wines.  At both wineries, you can enjoy light food pairings to go perfectly with your wine and just relax in their dining area or outside on one of their many benches in or surrounding the vineyards.

There are  hotels overlooking the falls or if you’re looking for a more non-commercial, relaxing, romantic environment that is just a 10 minute walk from the falls, you can choose one of the many bed and breakfasts in the area.  My brother and his fiance’ had stayed at the Emerald Falls Bed and Breakfast, so we decided to follow his recommendation.  When he had told me how friendly the owners, Dan and Brenda, were, that was an understatement!  They immediately make you feel right at home and are full of enthusiasm for your stay in Niagara.  There are four room options, one with a jacuzzi tub and others more basic, but no matter which room you choose, the price is just right.  They are very affordable while giving you all the comforts of home.  They will both give you any advice you may need about things to see and do in the area and are honest when telling what is definitely worth seeing and what you can skip!  Each morning, Brenda prepares an outstanding breakfast consisting of fresh fruit, yogurt, homemade banana bread and either eggs or pancakes.  Healthy, yet very filling!  I can’t say enough nice things about the Emerald Falls Bed and Breakfast.  They will always make sure all of your needs are fulfilled and I challenge you to find friendlier owners anywhere!

If you’re looking for a great weekend escape, Niagara Falls is definitely a place everyone should see once in their lifetime.  You could drive, but since it would’ve been a nine hour drive from New Jersey and I wanted to see it in a weekend, I decided to fly out of Newark on Porter Airlines. If you are going to visit the falls, you should see the Canadian side, so you can fly into Toronto and then rent a car and drive an hour and half to the falls.  This also allows you the opportunity to explore Toronto.  I’ve said  it before, and I’ll say it again, I love Porter Airlines!  The flight was just over an hour, but in that hour, they served a complimentary sandwich, fruit, and drinks.  What airline does that anymore??  The flight back from Toronto was even more amazing.  The airport is located on an island, so there is a ferry that will take right across, but while waiting for the ferry, you can check in, so as soon as you get there, you can head straight to security.  If the ferry is there when you arrive, you can also check in on the other side.  There was no line at security, as they are the only airline that flies out of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport back to Newark, and as soon as you pass through, you are in the lounge at the gate.  In this lounge, you can enjoy complimentary Starbucks coffee, tea, non-alcoholic beverages as well as a variety of snacks.  You can sit in the comfortable seats until it is time to board.  Everyone who works with Porter is very friendly and accommodating as well.  I’d highly recommend flying with them if you are taking a flight within or to Canada, as they fly into many of the cities.

So whether you’re looking for a fun vacation with the kids or a quick escape to celebrate or renew your romance, head to Niagara Falls and Niagara on the Lake and experience the magical force of nature!

 

 

 

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Skydive the Ranch!!

Posted on October 6, 2011 by Michelle

As some of you know, I went skydiving in Fiji back in November and I was petrified, but it was a thrill of a lifetime and I was so glad I overcame my fear and jumped. Well, when I returned, my brother said he’d love to try it one day, so I decided I would brave it once more and go with him so he could share the same experience.  We decided back in March to go for his birthday, and it’s taken us until just a couple of weeks ago to finally go, and I’m so glad we did!  I have to admit I was nervous all over again, but also enjoyed seeing how excited yet full of fear he was.  At one point he said he thought he’d vomit as they opened the door to plane 14,000 feet in the air.  I watched him jump in horror, but when we met up in the sky ( I jumped 30 seconds later), he was so thrilled and was having the time of his life.

This time around we went diving at a place called Skydive the Ranch in Gardiner, New York, near New Palz.  A friend of mine had gone diving there before and had told me what a great operation they run, and he was absolutely right.  I was very impressed with how organized everything was.  I almost felt completely at ease when we got there and looked up to the sky.  There were so many parachutes up there at once with people having just jumped from the plane.  When I went in Fiji, it was just me and I didn’t see anything beforehand except the training video.   I have to say the scariest part of the whole process was filling out out the waiver!  After the waivers were completed and I acknowledged that skydiving could lead to death more than enough times, we were given detailed instruction on what would go on in the plane and for the jump.  Then it was time to suit up and get paired up with our tandem jumper and cameraman.   They offer the option to jump with someone who will take pictures and video of the jump and since this will probably be a once (or twice) in a lifetime opportunity, you should take them up on it.   The guys who we were jumping with went over our equipment several times to make sure everything was tight and secure and explained to us again how it would all go.  Next, we were all lined up in the plane and climbing high in the sky.  As they opened the door and the wind rushed in, that scary but exhilerating feeling came over me and before I could really have a chance to question myself, I arched back, leaning into him, and we were off out of the plane and falling several thousand feet per second.  The free fall was awesome and then before I knew it, we pulled the parachute and were floating through the sky gazing out at the sunset over the horizon.  When it was time to land, I lifted my feet in the air, and John landed us safetely on the ground (ok in a mud puddle, so it’s good I was wearing their jumpsuits!) 

As we were getting ready to leave, one of the other intructors began explaining how the parachute system works.  Not only do they dive with two parachutes, but there is also a jump computer that figures out when to launch the parachute if for any reason you don’t.  He said most of the jumpers feel safer outside the plane than inside, because outside, they have full control over where they will land.   He said that despite what people think, jumping out of a plane is probably the safest thing you’ll do in your day.

I have to say I was very impressed by Joe’s operation at Skydive the Ranch .  Everyone I spoke with over the phone was always very friendly and informative and once I was there, I knew I was in good hands.  If I were to go again, I would definitely feel confident in coming back to Skydive the Ranch.  I think every couple before getting married should dive together or make it part of their honeymoon! It’s also great for family bonding!  Check out the videos here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N3Smq15Ly7A and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkMwJEOOJNM

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Hello Gorgeous!

Posted on September 22, 2011 by Michelle

It’s been awhile since I’ve done an installment of South Jersey Spa finder so this time I thought I would tell you about a South Jersey Salon and Spa.  I had asked someone at my gym awhile ago who did their hair and they had mentioned Hello Gorgeous.  At the time I did not go, but always thought her hair came out great.   Then someone else had mentioned them to me, so I decided to give them a try.  I am always very hesitant to try anyone new for my hair, because ladies, as you know, it can be very easily messed up and I’ve had my fair share.  For the past year, I had been going to Ana at Ouidad in Manhattan, who is terrific, but I really wanted to find someone closer to home.  Hello Gorgeous has seven locations in South Jersey.  I went to the one in Marlton and met with Lisa Fiorentino who is also the owner of all of the locations.  She spends one day in each location, so no matter where you live, if you’d like her to do your hair, which I would highly recommend, it can be convenient for you.

When I stepped into the salon, I had a feeling it would be a good experience.  It was clean and spacious with a contemporary look.  When I first met Lisa, she asked if I was scared.  Of course I was!  But as soon as we started talking, I knew I was in good hands.  I told her what I had done before and after examining my hair, went to mix up my colors.  They use Chi color products that supposedly contain very low ammonia compared to other products.  I was happy not to leave there with the chemical smell in my hair.  As she was putting in the foils, we talked about the products I’m currently using in my hair in the way of shampoo and conditioner and she recommended a Keratin shampoo and conditioner, which I’ve used a few times so far and love how soft and curly it leaves my hair!  My hair had been feeling a bit dry before I went for my coloring, but she put some color back in and with the change in products, I’ve already seen a difference.   After she washed my hair, she finished off with a nice glaze to blend all the colors.  I was so happy when I left there (not to mention relieved!) because the highlights were popping and it was a nice contrast with the lowlights.  It came out exactly how I had envisioned it and looked great for my recent TV work!

In addition to their full service salon, they also have a spa where you can enjoy a massages, facials, waxing, scrubs and makeup applications.  The pricing for all services is very reasonable and I as I was watching other stylists and their work, I can comfortably say you will get great results for your money.   I’ve always believed that your hair is one of your most important features, so while it’s tough justifying paying so much for a cut and color, I’d rather pay a little more and know it’s not going to be a botch job.  However, at “Hello Gorgeous,” you are guaranteed a great cut, color and style and it won’t break your pocketbook, which means you can actually get a full head of highlights for the price some places charge for just the hairline.   Hello Gorgeous definitely lives up to its name!

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Motivate and Workout!

Posted on August 5, 2011 by Michelle

I love the gym, but I have a hard time motivating myself sometimes.  I used to belong to a great family friendly gym (even though I am single), but it was a twenty minute drive to get there.  That did not really help, as I’d always get to classes late and be the one running in, hoping no one noticed.  Then a friend asked me why I didn’t belong to LA Fitness, which was right down the block from me, and I didn’t know what to say.  I don’t know why I never went in to check it out.  I went with him one day and I was hooked.  Not only was it a three minute drive from my house, but it had state of the art equipment and a list full of classes that I later would find out were not only fun but challenging. It also had a pool, which was very important, as I love to swim and feel it’s one of the best exercises for you.  I had come to a point at my other gym where the classes weren’t yielding the results I wanted anymore.

LA Fitness has a wide variety of classes and because it is a corporate gym, you are guaranteed to find similar classes no matter which location you attend, which is nice because you know the quality of the class you’ll be getting.  I have taken everything from spin, latin heat (zumba), and kickboxing to body works plus abs (weight lifting) and pilates.  I’ve been to many gyms over the years and I think the LA Fitness instructors are very well trained and you will leave the class feeling as though you’ve received a great workout.  I used to leave some classes feeling as though it was just a warmup.  My time is valuable and if I am going to devote an hour to a class, I want to know I am going to get a great workout.

As I mentioned, the weight equipment on the floor is modern and simple to use.  It’s easy to get a good workout (I just have to put myself on the gym floor!)  I have not had the opportunity to work with a trainer yet, but I’ve watched them with many of their clients and I like the fact that they are not just putting them on different pieces of equipment.  They are innovative with their workouts.  I hope to get myself back on a solid training program soon and will blog about the updates as soon as I do!

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Fly Like A Bird!

Posted on July 21, 2011 by Michelle

A few months back a friend was telling me I should go skydiving and I never thought I’d be able to do it, but when I was in Fiji I decided to take the plunge, and was I glad I did…so exhilarating!  So when this same friend told me he was going hang gliding, I ‘you tubed’ it and figured, why not go with him. He was going to be moving for a job in a few days and I thought it would be a fun activity to do before he left.  He had told me about it in the past, and as much as I loved scuba diving, the thought of going up in the air and then having someone snap a cable connecting you to the plane was not something I thought I could do.  However, after looking it up, I tried to compare it to parasailing in which you are up in the sky and feel like you’re floating while enjoying the scenery around you.  I tried to forget the fact that for this, I’d be at least 2500 feet in the air and not attached to a boat. 

When I told my friends I had done this, they remarked how adventurous I am.  Maybe so, but I believe everything can be done if you are in the right frame of mind.  Just because I did it, does not mean I was not initially nervous and scared.   I was petrified, but also excited at the same time.  My friend let me go first because he knew if I watched it, I’d probably freak myself out even more.  He was right.  However, as soon as I met Tom Atkins, the guy to whom I’d be tied, I knew I was in good hands.  Tom has over 20 years of hang gliding experience and can land the glider on a dime if he had to (at least that’s what he told me!)

The process was very easy.  I climbed into my pouch on the glider, which was tied to Tom’s and we tipped forward, getting ourselves to face the ground.  The plane took off and we followed, slowly lifting into the air.  After a gradual ascend, we were 3500 feet in the air.  While climbing, Tom turned and chatted a bit with me which helped me feel very much at ease.  There were handles on the side of him to hold onto.  Then when we were at a height where we could play around, he separated us from the plane, which at first was a bit scary, but then it just felt as though we were floating, taking in all the scenery below.  It was fun to see planes flying and landing below us, as well as the trees, birds, and highway.  I can’t imagine how many car accidents have occurred with people looking up into the sky at the hang gliders!  Once in the air, it was so peaceful.  You have the opportunity to fly the glider yourself by pulling the bar closer to you and shifting your body weight.  Then after a bit, Tom takes over, and does some fun tricks like a fast drop and a quick turn.  Felt like I was at an amusement park in the sky!

When it was time to come in for a landing, we descended slowly as he monitored the drop rate.  Then as we got closer to the ground, we felt the speed and hit the ground smoothly.  Since there are wheels on the glider, you don’t have to worry about landing on your feet like in skydiving.  What a rush and such a cool experience!!   There is no reason to be scared and I think everyone should try it at least once!  He was telling us he has taken people in the 70s and 80s hang gliding, so if they can do it, you definitely can!  Check out the videos here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xatSxY5F0c4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmGbbIvMWkw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zQF10KLJ8E

If you’d like to book an experience of a lifetime, check out Hangar 3. You can email Tom at  thomas20a@aol.com or call 917-270-5669

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Fly to Europe in 1.5 Hours!

Posted on July 14, 2011 by Michelle

Ok, maybe it’s not to Europe, but it’s a close second and if you want to feel as though you are there but without the long flight, check out Quebec City, Canada!  Surprisingly, I think there are regions of Canada that are drastically overlooked by Americans.   I had heard of Quebec City for their ice hotel, but I never knew just how romantic and charming the walking city is.  That’s right, it is a walking city, and you are guaranteed a terrific workout with all of its hills and steps, so be prepared!  I decided to go when their summer music festival (Festival d’été de Québec) was in full swing.   For the past 44 years, the festival has offered musical shows for 11 days on multiple stages.   Thousands of people pour into the streets, making for a very lively atmosphere in Québec City.  The main stage is situated in the Plaines of Abraham and when we were there, we saw Ben Harper, Aaron Neville and Elton John.   There were so many other genres of music represented.  I just wish I had more time to see other performances.  However, as you walk throughout town, you will pass other stages and can stop and listen and you venture to your next destination.  The Elton John concert was spectacular.  The sound system was phenomenal and I hear there were over 60,000 people who piled into and around the park to hear him rock out on the piano.  Tickets to the festival are fairly inexpensive, with a day pass going for $30 and other options for multiple days.  We stayed at the Hilton, which was a very nice four-star hotel centrally located and perfect for going to and from the festival and the rest of the city.  Québec City is also known for its quaint bed an breakfasts.

I think Québec City was especially energetic because of the festival.  However, if you choose to go any other time of year, you will have an amazing time.  It is a romantic city with lots of history and fun cafes and shops.  If you like the city life, you can spend the day strolling the cobblestone streets, admiring the only fortified city north of Mexico.  UNESCO names the Historic District of Québec City a World Heritage Site in 1985.  If you like to balance your trips with nature as well, check out Vallée Bras-du-Nord.  Just a 40 minute drive outside of Québec City and you can enjoy mountain biking, canyoning, horseback riding, canoe and kayaking, and hiking to the majestic waterfall.  One can go for the day or stay for a few, as they have lodges every few miles along the trails.  Most people venture out on his or her own, but you can hire a guide.  We had Mathieu who was very informative and also sensitive to our fitness level in deciding what activities to plan and which trails to take. You’ll find 70km of built and marked hiking trails, in seven short and long, all level itineraries. The region is not very touristy, so you don’t have to worry about crowds as you enjoy the nature around you.  It’s very peaceful and loved by many locals.

A great way to see the city is to hire a guide to take you on a walking or driving tour.  We did this on Saturday morning for three hours to get a good feel for the city, which was great because in addition to learning and seeing the various neighborhoods of Québec City, she took us to see the Montgomery Falls, which are around 10 minutes away by car and beautiful.  They are 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls.  If you decide to take a tour, you must take it with Sharon Frenette.  Originally from the U.S. she has been in Québec City for many years and is so much fun and informative.  You’ll have a great time with her.  When you are in Québec, you must try a poutine, which is basically French fries, topped with melted cheese and gravy.  Not exactly a cholesterol friendly food, but I’m a firm believer of “when in Rome…” or when in Canada….that is why I also enjoyed some escargot, French onion soup and a Québec meat pie.  Don’t miss one of the oldest grocery stores in North America, J.A. Moisan, or the Chocolate Museum.  I had the best sorbet and frozen yogurt topped with hardened dark chocolate…to die for!

So if you’re looking for an extremely fun and romantic quick getaway, check out Continental Airlines, Air Canada or Porter Airlines for your escape to Québec City for a great time and wonderful memories!  Check out this video with tour guide, Sharon Frenette from the tourism board to hear more about the great city.  Note she looks gorgeous and I am a mess after having just gone hiking!  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwDaV7cKPqs

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A Terrific Travel Pillow!

Posted on June 27, 2011 by Michelle

As you know, I travel a lot, and some trips have long flight times.  I always have my checklist of things to bring with me on the plane…airborne, nasal saline, elderberry extract, earplugs, eye mask, etc. However, the most important part of my trip that is  going to entail I get to the destination well rested or exhausted is my travel pillow.  It is my most important accessory.  A lot of times I arrive to my destination at 7am and have to hit the ground running, so if I don’t sleep on that flight, I will be miserable.  I’ve tested lots of travel pillows over the years like the ones that go around your neck, but the problem with those is that my neck always falls forward and wakes me up or I wake up with a stiff neck and headache.  I’ve realized that I need a pillow that I can lay against the window or on the tray table in front of me and lean forward.  I’ve tried different ones  and what is going to work for one position is not necessarily going to work for another because it doesn’t expand or contract for different angles.  Well, I have finally found a pillow that solves that problem.  It’s the Zami Pillow. 

Shawn Montazami is the inventor and he stands by the fact that hundreds of hours went into the making of this product, yielding an extremely durable and versatile pillow that can expand and contract to any size.   It is a multi-cell inflatable pillow that can be used not only on the plane, but for boating, camping, taking a bath, the beach, pool or in the car, so once you reach your destination, you can use it on your vacation as well.  Check out their website at http://www.thezami.com/index.php to get your own zami.  No matter how many you order, he charges the same 4.95 for shipping, so get one for the whole family!

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Rejuvenate Without Going Far

Posted on June 17, 2011 by Michelle

With the price of airline tickets on the rise and gas prices so high, the idea of having a great getaway close to home is priceless.   And I’m happy to say, I have a found a place just two hours from New York City and from most regions in New Jersey in the Pocono Mountains.  It’s a perfect romantic getaway, girlfriend getaway, and solo retreat…a spa at which you can recharge and rejuvenate.  It’s the Lodge at Woodloch. 

At The Lodge at Woodloch, your all-inclusive visit comes with three delicious, healthy meals, most fitness classes and outdoor activities and cooking clinics.  Breakfast and lunch include a buffet as well as a sit down meal.   Dinner is a three course menu with a full drink list for puchase.  All soft drinks, tea, freah squeezed juices and smoothies are included.  Each day you are given an itinerary of the day’s fitness classes and activities which include hiking, biking, kayaking, and classes that range from spin, and kickboxing to drumming on exercise balls.  There’ also a full day of mind and body classes including Qigong, yoga and pilates.  For a small fee, you can enjoy a wine tasting class as well.  In addition to all of the activities, they have a wonderful spa with a steam room, sauna and whirlpool in each locker room, as well as a co-ed outdoor whirlpool, two whirlpools with waterfalls that give a great back massage and a pool big enough to swim laps or take one of their many aqua classes.

Of course with a great spa comes a wide variety of treatment options.  You can choose  from a traditional Swedish or hot stone massage, a number of facials, body wraps, or manicures and pedicures.  The treatment I’d most recommend is not your typical massage and you do keep your clothes on, but will hit on all your pressure points, and if you are having any issues, herbalist Nathaniel Whitmore will work magic.  I was having major stomach pain from something I had eaten a few days prior and he focused right in on the stomach and other pressure points that corresponded to the area.  While he was working on the different spots, he was also giving me great information on natural herbs and cures. I left there feeling not only better but very relaxed.

So if you are looking for an active yet relaxing getaway close to home, you must visit the Lodge at Woodloch! You will leave feeling refreshed and fit!  I can’t wait to go back!

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Ottawa Is Outstanding!

Posted on June 13, 2011 by Michelle

After a very easy 3 hour ride on VIA rail, I arrived in Ottawa and transferred to the Brookstreet Hotel.  The Brookstreet is a four star hotel with a great fitness center, saltwater pool and a terrific spa, with very friendly therapists.  If you are traveling for business or would just like some good R and R and don’t really mind not leaving the hotel, this is the place to go!  It is not walking distance to anything, except to some businesses, as it is around 25 minutes outside downtown Ottawa, but if you have a rental car, it’s an easy drive. I was there on a Sunday night when their main restaurant, Perspectives, is closed, but I hear the food is terrific and they also have jazz and sushi some weekdays.  On Sunday, their casual bar and restaurant, Options, was open and I still was able to get a good soup and steak salad.  Since I wasn’t going to venture out anywhere, it forced me to relax and enjoy the hotel’s amenities.   They have a wonderful outdoor sitting area in the back of the restaurants, which offers a lovely view on their golf course.  The spa at Brookstreet was very busy with both tourists and locals and I can understand why.  I experienced an anti-aging facial and despite my hardest efforts, I fell into a deep sleep as she massaged the products into my face.  It was so relaxing and healing at the same time.

The next morning, I transferred by cab to downtown Ottawa and fell in love immediately!  It is such a charming city with magnificent history and beauty.   One of my favorite parts was the huge path along the Rideau Canal and River…it’s a biker’s or runner’s paradise.  The Parliament is a must see as well as many of the other government buildings.  A good way to take in everything is by boat with Paul’s Boat Cruises.  You have the option of jumping onboard for a tour on the canal or river.   A very popular part of Ottawa is the By Ward Market, where you can buy jewelry from local vendors, fresh fruits and vegetables, or enjoy a beaver tail snack, which is basically fried whole wheat dough with your choice of toppings.  The simple one has .a cinnamon and sugar topping.  It’s amazing how many people gathered around the shack to partake in this traditional snack.  In the center of the historical capital city is the Fairmont Château Laurier and I would highly recommend staying here if you can, or at least partaking in their delicious breakfast buffet or just a stroll through this remarkable landmark.    It is the perfect place to stay, as it is right in the center of everything, just steps from the Ottawa locks, where you can pick up the boat tours, walking distance from Parliament and the market.  The view from my room was spectacular as well, overlooking the park right behind the hotel as well as the city’s most prominent buildings.  It was also two blocks away from the Holtz Spa, which is a must do if you are looking to sprinkle in some pampering with your exploring.

The Holtz Spa would be the last stop on the spa train and it was an amazing way to end the trip. I arrived there in the morning for the astroscape treatment customized for each zodiac sign.  The owner is very much into astrology and did all of the research and customization.  I think she’s onto something because I was in pure heaven and in total relaxation mode.

This was the first spa intensive trip I’ve taken and it definitely won’t be the last.  While the whole trip was only four days, I felt completely rejuvenated and definitely need to do this at least twice a year.  Everyone should take some time to unwind and recharge.  Since we are a country of people who don’t take extended periods of time off from work to getaway, this is the perfect escape that can be done over a long weekend but you’ll come back feeling as though you were away for weeks.

 

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Dorset Manor Spa…Beyond Your Typical Hotel Spa

Posted on May 29, 2011 by Michelle

After a short taxi ride to Union Station in Toronto, I hopped aboard VIA rail, which is a great way to travel throughout Canada! It was about an hour and a half ride to Cobourg, which is just outside Port Hope, Ontario, the home of the Dorset Manor Spa.   VIA rail is very comfortable, whether you are riding in coach or business class.  In business class, you will be spoiled with wide seats, free drinks and a great meal.  The food was outstanding.  I had salmon cakes with basmati rice and vegetables and it was better than any airline food I’ve had!  There is also free wi-fi on board, which makes the trip fly by.

Upon arrival into Cobourg, a representative from the Dorset Manor Spa was there to greet me and take me to the spa.   As soon as I stepped into the old Victorian home overlooking Lake Ontario with beautiful lush views, I knew it would be easy to relax.  I began my day with a delicious lunch full of fresh vegetables from their gardens and a delicious potato and leek soup followed up by a fruit cup for dessert.  After lunch, I changed into my robe for what was going to be a day full of two treatments, the first called Caribbean Therapy in Which Rob, who is an awesome therapist, exfoliated my skin and then massaged seaweed all over!   After he wrapped me up, he proceeded to massage my neck and scalp, which got me into total relaxation mode.  After showering off the seaweed, he followed it up with a 20 minute massage which focused on releasing the muscles around my shoulders and pulling them back, which most people should get done since they sit at a computer all day or drive a lot.    After my session with Rob, my skin was as smooth as butter!  I definitely need to exfoliate more often!  I had an hour before my next session, so I had some of their homemade tea and an apple as I took in the sun on my room’s balcony.  It was then time for my 90 minute Swedish massage which was just as out of this world as the last treatment.  I told her the area on my body that was hurting and I wish I could tell you what she did throughout the session, but I fell into a deep sleep!

After dinner, which was also extremely good, especially the trout over warm apple appetizer and the sorbet for dessert, I relaxed in the outdoor whirlpool and sauna before settling into my Victorian style room full of antiques and soft classical music playing in the background.   Dorset Manor Spa is the sister spa to the widely popular St. Anne Spa, which has been voted Canada’s number one spa for five years in a row.  I am told this is just a smaller version of that spa.  It doesn’t have the wellness classes of St. Anne’s, but instead of being set on a large property, you have the quaint town of Port Hope to work to.  The therapists work at both, so you are going to get the same caliber of treatment no matter where you stay.  It’s really the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a quiet retreat.  It has just nine luxurious guestrooms, making for a very intimate setting. 

I slept like a baby and while I didn’t sleep long enough in what was such a comfortable bed, the nutritious breakfast woke me up.  The multigrain pancakes topped with apples were delicious!  Every breakfast also comes with a continental bar including fruit, yogurt, granola and pastries and your choices or juices or tea/coffee.   After checking out, I did a quick tour through Port Hope and Cobourg and was back on VIA train for my next stop in Ottawa.

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Hop Onboard the Spa Train!

Posted on May 29, 2011 by Michelle

I have trouble relaxing and I’m always running around, so when I heard about the opportunity to jump aboard the spa train in Canada, I was very excited.  Not only did I want to explore parts of Canada I have not seen, but the idea of being pampered for a few days with no choice but to relax, was very inviting.  What a perfect escape for you to rejuvenate or escape on a romantic trip with your partner or grab some friends for the perfect girlfriend getaway. I flew into Toronto aboard Porter Airlines, a Canadian airline with great service and one of the few airlines that serves you a meal on board!  Many of the airports have lounges where all passengers can relax before the flight.  I flew out of Newark and was in Toronto in a quick hour and a half!  After arriving at the lovely Delta Chelsea hotel in the heart of downtown, I walked next door to the Elmwood Spa for what would be a day of complete relaxation.  After changing into my bathing suit, I enjoyed their water therapies for an hour, swimming and sitting in the steam room.  After that, it was time for the three course lunch which was made with all fresh, healthy ingredients, and even thought it was supposed to be “spa food,” the portions were enough to have me leaving there very full from the spinach and avocado salad, salmon with asparagus and the rhubarb pie with a side of mango sorbet.  (normally comes with ice cream, but I substituted!)

After lunch, I had the elmline facial, which was out of this world!  The esthetician evaluated my skin and decided to go with the hydration line.  The combination of the face massage while applying the products, and the hand and feet massage while I was getting steamed was enough to put me into a very deep sleep! I left there looking very refreshed for someone who was on three hours of sleep and the wrinkle lines between eyebrows were not visible!  I liked that fact that she told me every step of the way what she was doing and explained a lot to me about how to take care of my skin after leaving there. If you are looking for a peaceful oasis in the middle of a big city, this is the place to go as part of the spa train or as part of your Toronto visit.

I would highly recommend staying at the Delta Chelsea for any occasion if you are in Toronto.  The hotel has every amenity, including two pools, one in the adult fitness center, which also houses top of the line equipment, a whirlpool and sauna.  There is no shortage of restaurants and bars, including everything from a gourmet serve yourself restaurant to their elegant bistro.  It is the largest hotel in Toronto and if you are traveling with kids, this is definitely the place to stay!  With a kids and teen center, there is plenty for them to do, from playing with the in house rabbit to video games and billiards.  If parents would like some time to themselves to explore the city or to go see a show, they can pay a nominal fee for babysitting.

I finished my stay at the Delta Chelsea with their great breakfast buffet filled with fresh fruit, yogurt, and eggs benedict.  After a quick taxi ride, I was at Union Station and hopped on VIA rail for my trip to Port Hope and the Dorset Manor Spa.  Could it get any better than this?

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Luxury Romance At It’s Best

Posted on May 5, 2011 by Michelle

Ever since my group exercise instructor showed me pictures from her honeymoon in St. Lucia over 10 years ago, the island has intrigued me from the beauty and romance her pictures captured.   When I had the opportunity to visit the resorts of Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet,  I did some brief research online but nothing could have prepared me for the breathtaking scenery I was about to experience and the sanctuary I would call home for three nights.   Archictect Owner Nick Troubetzkoy’s built Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet on Morne Chastanet, overlooking St. Lucia’s Piton World Heritage site and the Caribbean Sea.  Jade Mountain is a resort within the resort of Anse Chastanet.  His philosophy of building in harmony with Caribbean nature forces one to unwind and just be in the moment with your partner or in touch with yourself if you choose to come to the resorts to unwind and reflect.

Stepping into your sanctuary, which is what they call the rooms, took my breath away. The fourth wall is gone, so an open view of the incredible twin Pitons is seen from your bed, elevated bathroom, which features a hot tub for two, living room and your own private infinity pool in which you can control the colors inside the pool.  There is no formal separation between the rooms so everything flows into one another.

As a guest of Jade Mountain, it is easy to see why this five diamond resort has won numerous awards and recognitions over the years.  In addition to the amazing setting for this property, the service is unparalleled.  Upon check-in, you are given a mini cell phone that calls reception and your own personal Majordomo who is there to service your every need.  If you would like a complementary shuttle down to the beach or to one of the restaurants at either of the resorts, or if you’d like to take advantage of their outstanding room service, all you have to do is call them to let them know you’d like a meal or snack and then place the order form in a bag which you  hang from the outside of your door with the time you’d like it delivered.  I decided to have two breakfasts and one dinner in the room, tried the Indian restaurant one night and the restaurant at the top of Jade Mountain another, and all meals were delicious.  With a wide variety of local, Caribbean and international foods to choose from, as well as a vegetarian restaurant and options on each menu, your biggest concern will be choosing what to order.  However, if you elect the all-inclusive option for your meal plan, you can sample a bunch of different flavors.  Since I love trying new food, I chose to get some of the entrees in appetizer sizes so I could try a variety of options.

One could easily stay in their sanctuary all day and reconnect with nature and each other.  There are no televisions or radios in the room, which you’ll soon realize is not needed, but if you must keep in touch with the outside world, they do have an optional wireless internet hookup.  In the morning, the sounds of the many birds will wake you up naturally as the sunlight shines in and the amazing galaxy of stars will relax you as you unwind from the day.  However, if you’d like to add some activity to your day, they offer everything from scuba diving and kayaking to biking with Scuba St. Lucia, Kayak St. Lucia, and Bike St. Lucia.  I went scuba diving for two boat dives and a shore dive at the Anse Chastanet Reef.  Some of the famous dive sites include Pinnacles and Superman’s Flight at the base of the Piton Mountain, the setting for part of Superman II.  The dive operation is a five star Padi shop and  all of the dive masters are great at helping you out with your equipment if needed and pointing out some great finds during the dive.   You can also join many complementary tours into town  or to the rainforest or choose from an excursion like a visit to the botanical garden and volcano.  If you’re looking to  treat yourself to some more rest and relaxation, take advantage of their terrific therapists and get a solo or couples treatment in the spa, in your sanctuary or on the beach.  I had the traditional Swedish massage and the therapist was great.  I’ve had some back and neck issues in the past, have had massages to know what is good and what’s not, and after this fifty minute treatment, my aches were gone! 

Many couples are looking to go somewhere beautiful and romantic for their destination wedding or for a special anniversary, or maybe just to renew their relationship.  I can’t think of a better place than the magic and serenity of Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet.  They offer many wedding packages and will prepare everything for you…all you have to do is arrive two days prior to the wedding day, which is a perfect way to transition from your everyday busy life into a perfectly relaxed state for your big day.   With the beautiful backdrop of the Piton Mountains, there is no better place to spend your wedding or honeymoon than Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet in gorgeous St. Lucia.  Keep in mind the prices are not those of your average Caribbean resort, but this is far from your average resort.  If you’re looking to treat yourself to an experience to last a lifetime, treat yourself to Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet.

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Looking to Network and Meet New People?

Posted on April 15, 2011 by Michelle

One of the questions I am always asked on the show is where can someone go to meet some good quality people.  Well I’ve recently heard about a new group and I thought I would share it with you.   It’s called Young Jewish Professionals.  A few of my friends turned me on to it and I was speaking with Rabbi Naftali today about their upcoming sedar for Passover and he was telling me that while there a few holiday based functions throughout the year like the sedar, they specialize in big networking events that cater to one’s specific line of work like media or finance.  I know one can be hesitant to join a new group that involves singles events because you never quite know what the crowd is going to be like, but based on what I have heard and the pictures I have seen, they seem to hold some pretty solid events that attract an upscale, working (and people looking for work) crowd.

I am excited to be going to my first event Monday night, the Passover sedar, held in conjunction with Chabad.  There will be over a hundred people at the swank Chelsea Pearl.  In addition to meeting some great new people, they will be having a sedar in English and Hebrew and will be serving a five course international dinner, an open wine bar, and a chocolate buffet for dessert…can’t beat that!  Just click the link below and  with the promo code…”presale” – it’s $71 http://www.yjpnewyork.com/passover/

Looking forward to seeing you at this and other YJP events!!!

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I love the Danes!

Posted on April 2, 2011 by Michelle

After two packed days of touring, shopping and eating my way through Copenhagen, I am back on SAS for my direct flight back to Newark.  I absolutely love Copenhagen airport and SAS’s economy extra’s seats and airport procedures.   As an economy extra passenger, not only do you have the benefit of more legroom and wider seats, but a big bonus in the ability to check in with the business class and avoid the long lines.  There is also a fast track through security, which means I had extra time for last minute shopping at Copenhagen airport!  They have a huge selection of stores in addition to your souvenir shops.   They know how to do it right, also providing free carts throughout the airport so you can wheel you way to your gate and don’t have the standard back pain from lugging your suitcases! If you ever have the option to fly or stopover in Copenhagen airport, try to check out the airport!  The train into the city center and metro are also conveniently located, making it unnecessary to get a cab.

I fell in love with Copenhagen, its way of life and people.  It’s a beautiful city with many museums, romantic castles, canals, delicious restaurants, and an active nightlife.  From what I saw, people looked happy, and a big reason for this is probably because they are always getting fresh air and exercise, as they ride their bikes everywhere.  They commute to work by bike, go to dinner by bike, and even park them outside the nightclubs.  The city has really done a great job in carving out bike lanes, but be careful not to walk in them..it could be dangerous for you! 

One of the traditional foods in Copenhagen is the Smørrebrød, an open-faced sandwich with either meat or fish served on one piece of bread. For lunch the first day, we ate at Cap Horn along the canal in Nyhavn.  I ordered their their sampler which included mini sandwiches of  herring, salmon, and corned beef.  We had some phenominal dinners at some pretty hip restaurants including Kødbyens Fiskebar and Madklubben Bistro de-luxe.  Unlike in restaurants in NYC, one never feels rushed and you can spend hours enjoying your meal and company.  Delicious bread is also in ample supply.  Fiskebar prepares all of it’s meals from local fisherman and gardens and the freshness and quality of each dish is remarkable.  Located in the meatpacking district, this is a great hotspot for an evening out or for dinner and drinks before heading out to the bars.  They have an extensive wine and cocktail list and their raw bar is  incredible.  I tried the Danish oysters which were unike anything I’ve ever tasted!  They were huge!  At Madklubben, they make the menu very simple.  Appetizers are 50 DKK each, entrees 100 DKK, sides 25 DKK and dessert, 50 DKK.  On some dishes like the steak and fish, there is an extra charge, but it’s still really reasonable.  Again the food was full of flavor and really fresh.  I told them I was lactose intollerant and they made sure everything was made without cream/milk/butter.

I would recommend taking a canal tour on your first day in Copenhagen as a great way to acclimate yourself with the city and see all of the highlights from the water.  There are different neighborhoods, all with different character.  From the main shopping area, Strøget, with the high end shops to Nørrebro, which has more a middle eastern/west village feel to  the offbeat community of Christiana. In 1971, many young and homeless people moved in, without the city’s permission, proclaiming Christiania a “free city,” which means they are free from the rules and regulations of the rest of Copenhagen.  Unless you like to hang out with the druggies and homeless, you probably don’t want to spend a lot of time here.  And definitely don’t try to take any pictures!

There are a number of museums and castles to see.  Since I only had two days there, I went to the Museum of Danish Resistance and the Rosenborg Castle, which were both great experiences.  If you have the opportunity to visit Copenhagen in the spring or summer, definitely pay a visit to Tivoli Gardens.  There are so many places to visit in this world, but I would definitely go back to Denmark when the weather is really nice.  I hear it’s also really a great place to visit during Christmas time as there are many Christmas markets.  No matter when you go, the people, restaurants and neighborhoods will be the same, and that will be a great time!  Pictures coming soon!

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Ice Hotel is so Cool!!!

Posted on March 29, 2011 by Michelle

We arrived in Kiruna and took a quick 15 minute bus ride to Jukkasjarvi, home of the famous Ice Hotel in Sweden, the original and largest in the world.   When we arrived, they showed us our warm locker space to keep our luggage during our stay in the cold accommodations.   We are booked for one night in the  cold rooms made entirely of ice and one night in the warm rooms.   There is an area called the dressing room where you get changed for the night and can shower and warm up in the sauna and then when you are ready to go to bed, they give you warm sleeping bags which you lay on the reindeer skin on your bed.  There are briefings throughout the day and they explain how to sleep safely and warmly in the freezing rooms.  Ninety percent of the ice hotel is built from the water from the Torne River out back.  There are tours that explain the history and making of the ice hotel which is quite interesting.

During the day, the ice hotel is open to the public to come tour and take pictures of the various suites and rooms until 6pm and then it is exclusively for the hotel guests to enjoy.  You can go for dinner at one of their two restaurants, have a drink in the ice bar in an ice glass or partake in one of the many activities like snowmobiling or dog sledding to see the northern lights.  Tomorrow we’ll go meet some reindeer and go for a reindeer ride and have an opportunity to feed  them. One can spend all days just looking at the different art sculptures that make up the ice hotel.  Each suite and room is carved and decorated by an individual or group of artists.  Many couples get married in  the Ice Church right inside the hotel.  I met one couple from the states who was getting married today and while the bride was probably very cold taking pictures in her wedding dress, I’m sure it was well worth the beautiful shots they’ll get!

It’s almost time for bed, but first I’m going to head out and see if there is a sighting of the Northern Lights tonight.  Then it’s time to strip down to my sexy thermals and slip into the sleeping bag.  They say you can get one of your best night’s sleep here, so I’m looking forward to a peaceful slumber and a wakeup call with warm lingonberry juice.  As of tonight, the connection is a little tough so I’m having trouble uploading more fascinating pictures, but will do so soon!

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