all the dish that’s fit to print
santa fe by day, inn on the alameda by night
Santa Fe’s authentic small hotel, Inn on the Alameda, could not agree more with Henry Shukman’s thoughts on New Mexico’s capital city! Nestled between historic Santa Fe Plaza and Canyon Road art galleries, the inn provides an ideal and enchanting central location for strolling the streets of Santa Fe.
Run, don’t walk, to explore this fascinating, all-season destination and discover that ‘something’ that only a personal experience can unveil. Click here to read Mr. Shukman’s full article from The New York Times!
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‘heritage travel’ on the rise
Gozaic, a online travel community devoted to cultural and heritage travel, recently made some rather interesting discoveries about the habits of U.S. travelers. It appears that authentic experiences centered around the exploration of history and culture are more popular than ever! Here are some tidbits from Gozaic’s research.
- 40% of U.S. pleasure-travelers (not business travelers) are engaging in cultural/heritage travel.
- Those taking cultural/heritage trips are going on MORE of said trips, an average of 5, while those engaging in other kinds of travel averaged less than 4 trips this year.
- These same people are also spending 66% more money per trip that the average U.S. trip taker.
View the rest of the results.
Want to see what all the fuss is about? Start by visiting Santa Fe, the nation’s oldest capital city. It was just listed as a Destination to Watch for 2010 on SmarterTravel.com and is celebrating its 400th Anniversary in 2010. Stay at the Inn on the Alameda, celebrating their 24 years in the heart of the city, and take advantage of the city-wide bash, including arts and lecture series, free outdoor movies in the summer and Historic Dinner Re-Creation at El Rancho de las Golondrinas in July!
Inn on the Alameda’s Historic Santa Fe Package includes:
- A two (2)-night stay in one of the Inn’s distinctive southwestern accommodations
- Passes for two (2) people for admission to the New Mexico History Museum
- One (1) copy of The Essence of Santa Fe, a rich photographic history of past and present that reveals the magic of this enchanting city
- A set of four historic (4) Santa Fe note cards to send or frame
- One (1) “I Love Santa Fe” bumper sticker to remind you of your trip through history
- A lavish continental “Breakfast of Enchantment” served each morning at the Inn
- An afternoon wine and cheese reception offered daily in the Inn’s distinctive Agoyo Room
Visit http://www.innonthealameda.com/ for more details.
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turquoise in 2010
The Pantone Color Institute®, the acknowledged international standard-setter for color, has announced that turquoise is its color of the year for 2010, describing it as “an inviting, luminous hue.”
“In many cultures, turquoise occupies a very special position in the world of color,” explains Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “It is believed to be a protective talisman, a color of deep compassion and healing, and a color of faith and truth, inspired by water and sky. Through years of color word-association studies, we also find that Turquoise represents an escape to many – taking them to a tropical paradise that is pleasant and inviting, even if only a fantasy.”
Here is a list of our favorite turquoise fantasies: Dream away!
Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos
White sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, kaleidoscopic marine life, and flocks of brilliantly plumed tropical birds – no wonder Parrot Cay is where A-listers go to kick off their shoes and escape the world’s zoom lens.
The beautiful view from Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos
Inn on the Alameda, Santa Fe
Nestled in the heart of the city, the Inn on the Alameda is the perfect location from which to discover Santa Fe, the city that is home to beautiful handcrafted Native American turquoise jewelry. Sip on the Inn’s signature drink- a turquoise margarita of course!- while you unwind in the tranquility of the 71 thoughtfully-designed rooms and suites, whose interior spaces, handcrafted finishes, graceful Pueblo-style architecture and authentic southwestern decor capture the timeless essence of New Mexico.
The turquoise margarita is Inn on the Alameda’s signature drink.
Crystal Cruises
Crystal’s signature turquoise seahorse logo is not the only shade of blue to see while cruising the world’s oceans. Escape to blissful tranquility, where gentle trade winds caress the senses and sandy beaches are wrapped in turquoise waters with Crystal’s Caribbean Voyages. Or set sail for the storied Mediterranean where turquoise is the color of the sea, the color in a brilliantly patterned rug in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, or the beautiful color of the sky over Santorini seen from your private verandah.
Crystal’s signature turquoise seahorses logo
Crystal has made the deal even sweeter with 2- for-1 pricing on all itineraries in 2010 as part of the line’s 20th Anniversary promotion. What’s more, free business class or economy air for most sailings, so you can have your cake and eat it, too!
The Maldives, Indian Ocean
Almost everything you see in The Maldives is turquoise, cerulean, and azure, and the three Anantara properties are no different! In the South Malé Atoll, neighboring properties Anantara Dhigu and Anantara Veli offer overwater suites and beachfront villas, so you can take in the views of the surrounding Indian Ocean. Or, check out Naladhu on its private island for the ultimate romantic experience with only 19 beach-facing villas. Lastly, never too early to plan for your upcoming summer vacation! If you find yourself headed to The Maldives, check out the soon-to-be-opened all-suites Anantara Kihavah on Kihavah Huravalhi, one of the most exclusive of all The Maldivian islands (opening July 2010).
Blue-sky view of the Indian Ocean from a room at the new Anantara Kihavah
Cocoa Island’s distant locale, intimate size, and striking surroundings (turquoise as far as the eye can see) impart a Robinson Crusoe feel to the atypical Maldivian getaway. Wake up to an empty horizon from your over-water bungalow at a small private resort designed for those seeking an easygoing, toes-in-the sand experience. The rich, warm turquoise waters and bountiful coral also promise some of the world’s best beaches, snorkeling and diving.
Ariel view of Cocoa Island in the Indian Ocean
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getaways for the girls
It’s harder and harder to get quality time with the girls these days, and sometimes an ‘I miss you’ text is just not enough. So pick a date when your conflicting schedules align and take advantage of these relaxing and rejuvenating packages made just for you and your BFFs.
Inn on the Alameda, Santa Fe
Best Friends Get the Best Deals
Santa Fe is great for off-the-cuff shopping, nature walks in and around the city, the majority of attractions are within a leisurely walk of the Inn, and the city itself is known for great and unique shopping.
Our Best Friends Package encourages friends to meet up in the City Different for an affordable vacation. Create lasting memories and start a tradition, all while sharing one of the best Santa Fe hotel deals! We make it easy for you with some extra amenities to help ensure an unforgettable experience. This friendly offer includes:
- Two (2) nights’ accommodations, in cozy accommodations, based on double occupancy
- The Inn’s lavish “Breakfast of Enchantment” each morning
- A complimentary wine-and-cheese reception each afternoon
- A pair of hand-crafted sweets from Todos Santos, creator of unique Santa Fe chocolates
- Two (2) 50-minute massages in the Inn’s massage room
- One (1) disposable camera to capture all the special moments you’ve shared together
Two-night package rates, based on double occupancy, range from $322 to $660, plus tax, depending on room-type and dates selected. The two-night charge for each additional person after two (2) in a room, is $100, with a maximum of four (4) people per room. This BFF package is not applicable for holidays or special events.
http://www.innonthealameda.com/
The White Elephant Hotel, Nantucket
Girlfriend’s Offer
Included in the Girlfriend’s Offer is:
- Accommodations in a luxurious 3-bedroom cottage for six of your special friends
- Full breakfast each morning
- Spa cocktail reception with express chair massage for all (now including foot bath, new for 2010!) – and weather-permitting, spa treatments will take place on the lawn of the White Elephant overlooking the harbor.
- A selection of romantic comedy videos
- Popcorn and other movie treats
- Hosted port, sherry, and cheese service in the afternoon
- Special spa welcome gift (a spa product made for the White Elephant Spa called Pineapple Body Crush – we have samples of this on hand if you’d like to test it out!)
Offer starts at $2400 for 3 nights; more info online at http://www.whiteelephanthotel.com/reservations/specials.php.
Rosewood Mayakoba, Riviera Maya
Spa Indulgence Four-Night Package for Two
In ancient Mayan culture, one went into a sweat lodge, called Temazcal, to purify the body after battle. At the Sense spa at Rosewood Mayakobá (which is located on its own island in the middle of a tranquil lagoon), best friends can solidify their friendship with this age-old tradition!
The package includes: Daily buffet breakfast for two and the Ancient Mayakoba Journey: two Mayakoba Complete Body Therapies, two Mayakoba Ancient Massages, two Traditional Temazqual Journies, two Mayakoba Body Glow treatments and two spa gifts.
Offered through Apr. 30, 2010. Rates in U.S. Dollars start at $830 per night inclusive of tax and service; minimum 4-night stay.
http://www.rosewoodmayakoba.com/en/specialoffers.cfm
ESPA at Acqualina, Miami
Spa Party
The ESPA spa at Acqualina has a spa party room that girls can rent to host private spa get-togethers complete with mini treatments of choice and spa catering. The spa offers four different packages that range from two to four hours, and include up to four mini treatments of choice per guest. The space accommodates up to 25 friends, although parties of up to 35 will have use of the ESPA’s Ladies Relaxation Lounge as well. The price per person is reduced depending on the size of the party.
For a more one-on-one get-together for best friends, the resort offers a Girlfriend’s Getaway Spa Package for Two.
Includes:
- Two 50-minute ESPA Treatments
- Complimentary valet parking
- Spa lunch for two
- Minimum night stay requirement: 2 nights
Rates start at $675 from December 24, 2009 – April 4, 2010.
http://www.acqualinaresort.com/rooms-suites/special-packages/
Metropolitan, London
Tote-to-Toe Shopping
Call your best friend and go visit Union Jack. The “Tote-to-Toe” package includes overnight accommodation for two, £50 ($80!) worth of Selfridge’s vouchers, a bottle of champagne, and a priority reservation at the uber-trendy Japanese restaurant NOBU. The great shopping districts of Mayfair, Bond Street and Knightsbridge are within walking distance and as a guest of the hotel, you’ll have access to the chic members-only Met Bar. The package also includes:
- COMO Shambhala Aromatherapy Gift Set
- Access to London’s best connected Concierge
- Metropolitan London tote bag
- Healthy breakfast for two
- Late check-out until 4pm
- ‘Independent London’ by Moritz Steiger & Effie Fotaki, ‘VERYstyleguide for London’ and ‘VERYstylemap for London’
Costs from £309 per room per night in a Metropolitan Room . Offer subject to availability.
Visit http://www.metropolitan.london.como.bz/offers/tote-to-toe-shopping for more details.
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oldest u.s. capital city, new reasons to visit
When a city-wide celebration and an amazing deal collide, it’s the recipe for a perfect getaway. From October 25, 2009 to February 28, 2010, the charming Inn on the Alameda becomes even more enticing. In honor of its 24th year, guests can get the third consecutive night of their stay for just $24! Located in the heart of downtown Santa Fe, but tucked away behind thick adobe walls, the Inn on the Alameda provides the calm we’re always craving, but is just steps from the action. And there’s action to be had this year, as the city is commemorating its 400 year legacy since being declared a Spanish villa in 1610.
The 400th Anniversary events calendar is full of theater productions, live music, history and children’s programs and an arts and lecture series. Be immersed in the rich heritage of Santa Fe’s Native American, Spanish, European and African-American cultures while staying at a cozy inn that prides itself on capturing this multi-faceted spirit.
fall and winter travel deals
Didn’t have time for a summer vacation? Book a getaway for the fall or winter and take advantage of last-minute booking deals for the remainder of 2009. With the air getting chillier and the heat not yet turned on in New York City buildings, we think it’s a great time to explore Nantucket, Beaver Creek, or London (where the heat is on!), head south to the Riviera Maya and Turks & Caicos, or even east to Thailand. (more…)
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the stars shine in santa fe for georgia o’keeffe
Georgia O’Keeffe, “Red Canna”, 1925; Portrait by Alfred Stieglitz, 1918
Just the mention of Georgia O’Keeffe conjures up images of New Mexico’s unique spirituality, sense of place, and individuality. And now, Georgia is coming to the big screen in Santa Fe, one of the country’s most culturally-rich small cities! The O’Keeffe Museum and the Lensic Performing Arts Center announce the exclusive ‘live’ red carpet premiere of “Georgia O’Keeffe,” a Lifetime Television original movie, starring Oscar winner Jeremy Irons and Oscar nominee Joan Allen. (more…)
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father’s day getaways
Wondering what to do with Dad for Father’s Day? Send him away! We love you, Dad, and you’ve been at that desk for too long. Time for a much needed vacation!
Golfing at sea on Crystal Cruises
WHAT: Not Your Average Cruise
WHY: Think cruising is just for elderly ladies? Think again. All of Crystal Cruises itineraries feature an impressive list of activities for men that extend way beyond bridge, shuffleboard, and marathon eating.
MAN-TIVITIES: In a single day at sea, activities abound: paddle tennis, golf lessons with a PGA professional, jogging around the wide deck, poker in a world-class casino, a work out in a fully equipped gym, and cigars and scotch during ESPN’s Top Ten of the Week, to name but a few.
GOLF SPECIAL: For men who are glued to the green, Crystal’s 2009 High Tea and Golf Tees 11-day British Isles voyage gives guys the option of onshore golf excursions at up to six different golf courses in England, Ireland, and Scotland. (more…)
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family matters in santa fe
The kids are going to be off from school soon, and then what are you going to do with those little buggers? Take them to Santa Fe! The new family-friendly package from the Inn on the Alameda offers up an enticing extended weekend trip that satisfies parental units and offspring alike. Charming (and discounted!) accommodations at the Inn are combined with exciting and educational trips to the Georgia O’Keeffe museum and a ghost ranch. More details below… (more…)
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our very own ‘top ten’ summer deals
It was a long winter. We won’t try to predict the rest of 2009, but we do know one thing for sure: we will all need a break this summer. Now that spring is here, let’s start daydreaming.
To help plant a few seeds, so to speak, we have gathered up the newest, best hotel deals for this summer. This is our very own “Top Ten.” One suggestion from us: this is the moment to rethink spots that were always seen as prohibitively expensive. Like Nantucket. London. Switzerland. Even Parrot Cay in Turks & Caicos.
Some of these deals have already started, so if you want to just skip spring and go straight to a summery vacation, be our guest…
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Deal: A little something called “Hot Dates, Cool Rates” from Nantucket Island Resorts, which owns The Wauwinet, the White Elephant, the White Elephant Hotel Residences, The Cottages & Lofts at the Boat Basin, and the Jared Coffin House.
Breakdown: Specific dates throughout the high summer season have seriously low rates.
For example:
- Jared Coffin House: Normal summer rates start at $155 per night; Hot Dates rates start at $105
- The Cottages & Lofts at the Boat Basin: Normal summer rates start at $490 per night; Hot Dates rates start at $175 per night
- White Elephant: Normal summer rates start at $615 per night; Hot Dates rates start at $195 per night
- The Wauwinet: Normal summer rates start at $680 per night; Hot Dates rates start at $225 per night
Why Should I Leave My Air-Conditioned Apartment?: Because Nantucket is one of the prettiest islands in our country, and it has never been more accessible than it is this year. Once there, spend idyllic days bicycling, beach reading, and picking your own strawberries.
Fine Print: Rates are subject to change after April 15, so keep checking the website to see the latest dates and rates.
Book here
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Deal: “Muy Sabrosa” package at the Inn on the Alameda adds not only value but culinary spice to a stay in this kooky, lovely city.
Breakdown: Package rates begin at $376 for a two-night stay and include a two-and-a-half hour cooking demo and lunch at the Santa Fe School of Cooking, a $40 gift certificate to Mucho Gusto (a cozy Mexican café next to the Inn), plus breakfast and afternoon port and cheese daily.
Why Should I Leave My Air-Conditioned Apartment?: To get lost in the flowers at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Plus, Santa Fe averages 325 days a year of blue skies and sun, and is one of only nine cities in the world to be designated a “Creative City” by UNESCO.
Fine Print: Package is available for Sunday- Tuesday and Wednesday- Friday stays during specific dates through the year.
Get more details or call 888-984-2121 to book
Turks & Caicos
Deal: Parrot Cay’s ‘4 for 3‘ and ‘7 for 5‘ offers have just been extended through December 20, 2009. Summer rates go down, so you can stay longer for even less.
Breakdown: Nightly rates begin at $575 this summer (rather than $775 in the winter), which means two can stay four nights and pay $1,725. That rate includes daily breakfast, return airport transfers, and complimentary Pilates and yoga.
Why Should I Leave My Air-Conditioned Apartment?: Because this resort is like rehab for the soul. The private island spans 1,000 acres, with white sand beaches and turquoise water in every direction. You can bone-fish, consult with the Ayurvedic doctor, or float in the pool all day.
Fine Print: You have to play it cool when swimming next to Bruce Willis and his newly-betrothed.
Book here or call 649-946-7788
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Deal: Rosewood Mayakobá just announced a “Spring Getaway” promotion for the month of April. Rates have been reduced by 25% for stays April 1 through 30, with no minimum stay, no advance booking requirement, and no blackout dates.
Breakdown: Lagoon Suites are now $590/night, Deluxe Lagoon Suites are now $790/night, and Deluxe Overwater Suites are $850/night. This rate includes daily breakfast for two (not normally included).
Why Should I Leave My Air-Conditioned Apartment?: Because this is for April, and last we checked New York still isn’t 80 degrees and sunny. Plus, does your apartment have its own private plunge pool and butler? Thought not.
Fine Print: Must be paid in full at the time of booking, and non-refundable. In other words: just go.
Book here or call 888-ROSEWOOD
London, England
Deal: Now through September 6, 2009, the Metropolitan and The Halkin are offering super-low fixed U.S. dollar rates. And we mean super-low.
Breakdown: A “City Room” at the Met is $199/night, rather than ₤375. A “Double Room” at The Halkin is $299/night, rather than ₤390.
Why Should I Leave My Air-Conditioned Apartment?: Because London is less expensive than New York to visit and live in for the first time since 2002. And with current exchange rates, it’s 25% less expensive for Americans to visit now than it was last year. So you can see London at its greenest, sunniest, and cheapest.
Fine Print: Two-night minimum stay and an advance booking requirement of seven days. Must be paid in full at time of booking. Non-refundable.
Book the Met here and The Halkin here
English Countryside
Deal: Members of The Royal Oak Foundation get 25% off rates and breakfast at England’s three Historic House Hotels, plus a complimentary room upgrade.
Breakdown: Nightly rates begin at £160 (about $230) before the discount, so stay three nights for about $540, including the cost of Royal Oak Foundation membership.
Why Should I Leave My Air-Conditioned Apartment?: Because we don’t have many lush gardens and lovely estates like these in the U.S. This is a true escape from modern stressers like Blackberries, E-ZPass, and MetroCards. Just pack that novel you’ve been trying to read.
Fine Print: Valid for stays through October 31, 2009, with certain blackout dates
Book: There are three steps to this one, but they are well-worth it.
- Call 800-913-6565, ext. 205 to become a Royal Oak Foundation member (it’s $55 and there are many benefits).
- On the same call, ask for the promotional code needed to receive the member discount at Historic House Hotels.
- Reserve your stay in England.
Interlaken, Switzerland
Deal: The Victoria-Jungfrau is offering an ongoing “Internet Special” with steeply discounted rates. This is like a Swiss sample sale.
Breakdown: While normal nightly rates for two begin at €613 (about $786), “Internet Special” rates for two begin at € 250 (about $320).
Why Should I Leave My Air-Conditioned Apartment?: Because this legendary resort is nestled right smack in the middle of the Swiss Alps. Take one of the hotel’s mountain bikes, head for the hills, yell “Ricola!” at the top of your lungs, and then chill out in the 60,000-square foot spa.
Fine Print: Two-night minimum stay, non-refundable.
Book here
European Cruises
Deal: Book Crystal Cruise’s “European Celebration” promotion available on most Mediterranean and Baltic cruises this summer and save up to $1,500 per person. Plus enjoy the new “All-Inclusive, As You Wish” $2,000 per couple spending credit on twelve of the Med and Baltic sailings to spend on virtually anything while on board.
Breakdown: “European Celebration” fares start at $4,245 per person for 11-day Baltic cruises $4,080 per person for 12-day Mediterranean cruises. Savings is determined by cabin category selected; on most qualifying cruises, save $1,500 per person on a penthouse suite, $1,000 per person on a verandah stateroom, and $750 per person on a deluxe stateroom.
Why Should I Leave My Air-Conditioned Apartment?: Because the convenience of unpacking once and traveling to multiple ports on a single itinerary will beat couch-surfing the Travel Channel every time.
Fine Print: “All-Inclusive, As You Wish” shipboard credit cannot be used for cruise deposits or casino gambling
Book at 888-799-4625 or contact a travel agent
Last but not Least: Two Far-Flung Spots That Won’t Break the Bank
Trang, Thailand
Deal: Stay three nights for the price of two at Anantara Si Kao Resort & Spa.
Breakdown: Nightly rates start at $169, so a three-night stay is $338.
Why Should I Leave My Air-Conditioned Apartment?: Because the resort is on Changlang Beach, one of the most pristine of all Thai beaches and part of the Hat Chao Mai National Park. Dive into the waters of the Andaman Sea and rub shoulders with the sea cows, famous in this region.
Fine Print: Valid until October 31, 2009
Book here
Ubud, Bali
Deal: The “Ultimate Savings Offer” at COMO’s Uma Ubud means rates start at $195, including breakfast
Breakdown: Rates normally start at $260.
Why Should I Leave My Air-Conditioned Apartment?: Because just breathing this pure air is worth the trip. The hotel looks out over Tjampuhan valley in the deep lush forest of the Balinese hills, where you can pick your own orchids. We’ll resist the temptation to insert an Eat, Pray, Love reference here.
Fine Print: Two-night minimum stay and an advance booking requirement of seven days. Must be paid in full at time of booking. Non-refundable. This isn’t valid from July 15- September 15, but otherwise is available until December 31, 2009.
Book here or call +62 361 972 448
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