The Velvet Rope

Old Hollywood-Style charm is personified at a new luxury boutique hotel located in Old Las Palmas, Palm Springs.

Last week I was part of an open house amongst photographers from magazines like “home and garden” and “food and wine;” on site to check out the nine room, glamour-themed suites with names like Playmate, Ricardo and Rat Pack to name a few – at The Velvet Rope.

I was blown away by the attention to detail in each room.  Owner/Designer David Rios is a visionary.  The “Lavender” suite pays homage to Elizabeth Taylor and in fact Rios told me that the room was modeled after her real bedroom (the bed and dresser at least) when she had a home in Palm Springs.  “Candelabra” honours none other than renowned showman Liberace (he also had an over-the-top home here which I had the pleasure of visiting during Modernism open-house years ago). The “Legendary” suite shows the glitz and glamour of the iconic Studio 54 phase.  And more…

 I’ll let the photos speak for themselves

Presidential Suite

Liz Taylor bed. Check out the ceiling!

Did I mention how much I love the bathrooms?

Better than the other way around, right?

A little bit hidden away in a corner of the premises is a door that opens up to a dazzling speakeasy which they’ve named “Club Valerie.” It’s named after an Amy Winehouse song and the cocktails will each be named after one of her songs (“Me & Mrs. Jones?” – I will be intrigued to try whatever is in that one).  I wonder if they’ll do a “rehab” and how much alcohol will be in it, if so?

Bar Valerie in the afternoon open for viewing.  Sequin pillows, old Hollywood movies played on a big screen, dance floor and Burlesque shows to come.

All Photos: d. king

To book:


Isn’t this a cool fridge?

And I can’t let you leave without posting one more…



Miramonte Tommy Bahama Resort – Indian Wells

Relax. Recharge. Rejuvenate. Repeat.

Pictures are worth a thousand words.  This one only needs four – all starting with “R”  First 4 pics taken from website.

In the true spirit of the Tommy Bahama persona, which is an Island state of mind; I followed that mantra (except for the repeat, to follow), along with two friends right before Christmas.  My Christmas present to myself was an 80-minute full body massage at Spa Rosa (on the premises), which included a scalp massage (because hairdressers never do it long enough). It was made to order. It was a luxurious spa treat and the appies that followed were really delish.

The appies that followed: fish tacos were amazing as was the homemade chips/salsa/guacamole & flatbread.  Photo: d. king

My friend Miranda (who resides in Seattle when she’s not in Vero Beach, Fla.) was in town to visit her friend Barb who lives in Indian Wells.  Miranda and I go way back because she and her hubby Dave were neighbors with me and my late husband Don when we all lived in Toronto (they’re originally from Connecticut).  When Don and I moved back to Vancouver, shortly after, she and Dave moved to Seattle.  So we were still fairly close in proximity and visited each other and managed to stay in touch throughout the years.

with Miranda (R)
Barb

I was so happy when she texted that she’d be in the Palm Springs area and asked if I’d be able to join her and Barb for a spa day at the new Miramonte (Tommy Bahama) resort.  Hell, yeah!  Because like I always say “it’s great to meet new friends, but getting together with old friends who knew you when is even better.” And doing it at a spa; the best.  It was great to re-connect so we’re going to make an effort to make this a more regular occurrence.  I sure hope so.

The grounds here are very picturesque as you step into the trademark Tommy Bahama Island lifestyle featuring huge palm tree prints and colourful casual wear with the true essence of relaxation. The boutique reflects the brand perfectly.  The restaurant “Grapefruit Basil” is inspired by local, on-property ingredients. We had a sampling after our spa session and everything was excellent. We thought the guac was the best ever.

Chiki Palm is the fun new poolside bar offering poolside service of savory small bites and a paradise of cocktails.

Chiki Palm. Photo: d. king
Photo: d. king
Photo: d. king
In the boutique looking out.  Photo: d. king
Photo: d. king
Is it 5 o’clock yet? Doesn’t matter – happy hour is anytime here.  Tommy Bahama T-shirt & shorts I already happened to have – pulled them out for the visit.

Spa Rosa (taken from the website):

Photo: d. king

Using methods and rituals inspired by the healing powers of the surrounding desert and beautiful views of the Santa Rosa Mountains, the expert team will transport you to an instant state of bliss. With rejuvenating treatments like a massage tailored to your needs to an island state of mind body treatment or our inviting outdoor soaking pools, Spa Rosa presents everything essential for a day of tropical relaxation in the heart of island living.

Photo: d. king

https://www.tommybahamamiramonte.com/

Hotel Eldorado

A Gem of a place to stay with some interesting history.

Hotel Eldorado in Kelowna is a hidden gem; best described as old world charm with a side of lakeside luxury. The history behind this hotel is one of British Royalty and thrilling vacations, an honour bar and Olympic rowers, and of London cabs and dog shows.

Photo: d. king

Sadly; they only had one King stay there recently with two dogs and absolutely no honour bar to be seen.  There was however a bottle of wine for purchase in the room and a free water bottle.  We didn’t row, we didn’t take a London cab and instead of a dog show, there were only two retired ex show dogs.  Wouldn’t use the word thrilling to describe our stay; instead, it was super relaxing with an outstanding view.  My friend and I (and our dogs) loved it and will stay there again.

Our view. Photo: d. king
Little private stretch of beach. Photo: d. king

Apparently the Eldorado (or EL for short to those in the know) is not so hidden to people living in Kelowna (especially on or near the lake) but for me, it was.  I was looking up hotels in Kelowna that were dog friendly when I recently met up with a friend for wine tasting in that region.  What a find!

Photo: d. king

Towards the end of September is perfect because the weather is still good but the tourists are not plentiful. The property is situated right on the lake, there’s a few really nice restaurants on site (they host a great Sunday brunch buffet), a spa, a long boardwalk  and green space for the dogs. Bonus: a short driving distance away is one of the nicest off-leash dog areas I’ve seen.

Photo: d. king
photo: d. king
1941 Cadillac Series 62 Deluxe Convertible Coupe.   Photo; d. king

Sidenote: About 8 years ago I started an online TV series (now ended) with a friend where we revealed many hidden gems around Vancouver to do with all sorts of businesses run by various entrepreneurs; many of them originally from other countries.  We loved hearing the fascinating stories about how and why they started their business. Each and every one had something unique and outstanding to offer.  Which brings me to…

THE STORY BEHIND HOTEL ELDORADO (taken from their website):

Hotel Eldorado has been a hidden gem among Kelowna BC hotels on the lake since 1926: a destination of genuine hospitality, infinite warmth and spirited gatherings fondly remembered for years to follow. With beautiful Okanagan Lake as the backdrop, it was then what it is today; a luxury getaway set in one of Canada’s most spectacular destinations, the Okanagan. Whether you’ve traveled the world over or are venturing away from home for the first time, you will recognize this place as one of the most scenic in the world. 

In The Beginning

Hotel Eldorado was founded in 1926 by Countess Bubna, an aristocratic English woman, who decades earlier had been married to an Austrian Count. Prior to her marriage to Count Johann Franz-Bubna-Litic in 1901, the Countess was a popular stage actress in London. In 1908, after spending most of their marriage living in Paris, the couple divorced, making Countess Bubna a social oddity in a time where marriages rarely dissolved. She had already become accustomed to controversy, as her mother, Mary Caroline Mitchell, was the mistress of the supremely wealthy Duke of Sutherland, and had even spent time in jail for burning some of his documents. After the Duke passed away, the Countess’ mother inherited a sizable fortune that expediently provided the financial backing the Countess needed to establish her own Victorian-style Inn in Kelowna’s Mission area.

Originally called The Eldorado Arms Hotel, the Inn became the town’s most sophisticated social hub. In the 1950’s and 1960’s the Eldorado was the hub, the place where locals gathered with friends, where visitors stayed, where generations married and celebrated. The town was small, about 20,000 residents only, but it was a place of energy, enthusiasm and vision.

During this era, Hotel Eldorado hosted dog shows, garden parties and croquet with Kelowna’s then Mayor John Hindle and his wife Jennifer graciously welcoming guests. John would pad about the Eldorado barefoot, wishing all a good night when it came time to retire, leaving his patrons to the famous honour bar. One of those celebrated patrons was no doubt Glen Mervyn, fresh from his silver medal race in Canada’s eight-man scull at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Evidence of this great sporting heritage can be seen hanging in our Lakeside Dining Room, Lounge and pool area.

Later Years

Jim Nixon and his family took over Hotel Eldorado in the 1980’s, expanding on the current Lakeshore location and building upon the great legacy of those who came before. Now, the Hotel Eldorado has been passed to the next generation of ownership. Ted Callahan, CEO of Argus Properties. 

Sculpture on the property. Photo: d. king

Photo: d. king

Callahan remembers Hotel Eldorado from his childhood and knows that ownership brings with it a responsibility to honour those who came before and to embrace the rich traditions of this magnificent hotel.

https://www.hoteleldoradokelowna.com/

Have you been?

City Unique: Montreal Past Perfect

Growing up in Montreal I can certainly say that it is unlike any other city in Canada or anywhere else for that matter.  I’ve travelled all over Canada, lived in Toronto for several years and made Vancouver my home. You can’t have it all!  A city is like a relationship – neither will give you everything you need. 

As much as I love living in Vancouver for the proximity to nature, I have to admit I really missed the energy and joie de vivre of Montreal.  I was able to relive some of it on my recent trip.

In this post I want to share some of the old Montreal hangouts & establishments that are still around.

Although, at the bottom of this page I share a link to a previous exposé I wrote about Montreal in its absolute heyday when it was way further ahead of Toronto  – for those who are still around and lived through it, only heard about it or want to know about it. The book “CITY UNIQUE” was as

William Weintraub
My uncle Frank

original as its author William (Bill) Weintraub.  The writer, filmmaker, historian and part time provocateur began his career at the Montreal Gazette and was a friend to my uncle Frank (who wrote a column for the Gazette).  They  both shared a close bond with writing cohorts Mordecai Richler (“THE APPRENTICESHIP OF DUDDY KRAVITZ”), Brian Moore (“BELFAST”) and Mavis Gallant (“PARIS STORIES”).  I loved it when my uncle would invite me over to the old Press Club on rue de La Montagne which at the time was an old boys club.  I have a feeling if it still exists it’s not the same.

Weintraub especially was a walking history book of Montreal in the 20th century — one filled with amazing stories of mobsters and mayors. Made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2003, Weintraub never learned whether Jacques Parizeau saw the humour in his 1992 documentary, “THE RISE AND FALL OF ENGLISH MONTREAL.” although the former Quebec premier had requested a special screening of the film.

My uncle Frank and Bill Weintraub along with many of the original city classic characters, are now sadly gone. Ironically, news of Weintraub’s death came around the same time the city was fêting another of its famed cultural sons, Leonard Cohen, in a tribute concert at the Bell Centre marking the one-year anniversary of his passing.

Characters are what make a City Unique don’t you think?

On this last trip I decided to book a hotel room for several nights in the midtown Montreal area.  There were happenings around that part of town that I wanted easy access to get to, also somewhere not too far from the airport, close to a highway, smoked meat and a metro.  I found the perfect solution for all of that at hotel Ruby Foo’s.

Some things do not remain the same…

For over half a century The Ruby Foo’s brand has been a mainstay in Montréal culture.  The Chinese restaurant was a famous hangout and I remember  going there on many occasions with my parents.  It opened in the 1950’s and quickly became the go-to place for egg rolls and chicken almond gui ding. And for the less adventurous, there was always a club sandwich. The restaurant established itself as the place to see and be seen.  Everyone from Politicians, Broadway stars, Movie Stars, the business and sporting elite all made Ruby Foo’s the top spot in the city.  It was class personified, fun and lively. I went solely for the Chinese food not realizing that eventually I’d be living in a city that’s known to have the best Chinese food outside of Beijing.

Then came the Ruby Foo’s hotel which first opened its doors in 1962 and quickly became an ideal destination for both business and leisure travelers.  Then in 1984, a group of developers acquired the property with the vision of turning it into a 198-room hotel complex, including a mini convention centre, restaurant, commercial space and office tower.  They succeeded. Sadly, the original restaurant was closed for good in 1984.

In recent years, the architectural firm of Lemay Michaud, which has built a reputation for its work on luxury and boutique hotels throughout Canada and North America has revamped the 4-star hotel complex to 198 spacious bedrooms, 6,000 square feet of meeting space in eight banquet halls, two restaurants, a barbershop (not a beauty parlour for women unfortunately – I did take exception to this), an outdoor seasonal pool and state of the art gym.

Ruby Foo’s Hotel

Overall I enjoyed my stay there. It was reasonably priced especially considering that it was high season. With so many hotels  fully booked and knowing this, I booked about two months in advance.  It’s clean, beds are extremely comfortable, comes with the essentials; an espresso maker, a safety deposit box, plush robes and mini fridge.  The restaurant ‘Eggspectation‘ for breakfast was very good.  Didn’t make it to the evening bar/restaurant.  The gym is well equipped (my brother told me) and the pool area is nice except for how you reach these two places.  They need to re-do the ground floor windy hallway area which gives you access to the gym and pool. I’m surprised it has absolutely no personality.  Other than that, the hotel staff was really helpful and pleasant and it was very easy access to everything I mentioned.  I would stay there again.  Of course if you’re looking for a high end luxury hotel you want the Ritz Carlton (nothing beats the Ritz) and if you want more of a stylish boutique feel you might prefer Le Petit Hotel in Old Montreal.  But for overall convenience to everywhere and price point, Ruby Foo’s is pretty decent.  These are 3 totally different stays.

Casing the joints…

Montréal’s restaurant scene is one of the best in the world. From fine dining restaurants to casual eateries, the sheer variety satiates all palates. 

The Orange Julep is pure nostalgia and located right across the street from the hotel.  It’s an iconic giant orange orb drive in and takeout place for really good hot dogs, creamy orange drinks (they have their own secret recipe) & fries.  I remember going as a kid with my parents where they come out to take your order and deliver it to the car.  No drive in window.  My mom would always order the Michigan Red Hot.  It’s a hot dog covered in a meaty spaghetti sauce. It actually originated in Plattsburgh, New York – the closest American border for us to go cross border shopping, where we went on occasion. 

For smoked meat sandwiches Schwartz’s still remains everyone’s favourite and a true Montreal classic. Located on Blvd Saint-Laurent, when you walk through those doors you take a step back 95 years. You have to lineup outside no matter who you are and wait your turn.  You never know who you’re going to sit with too as they sit you wherever there’s space – everyone gets treated the same. You can rub elbows with politicians, movie stars (Elizabeth Taylor was one) to the local poet and blue collar workers.  You won’t find better smoked meat anywhere else. My dad knew all the owners (family run and passed down the line) and we’d always order a slightly fatty sandwich with a black cherry cola and side of sour pickles while my mom preferred rib-eye steak.  At this time Moishe’s #1 steakhouse was located right above, but she’d order the one from Schwartz’s.

However, Dunn’s is only a two block walk from Ruby Foo’s hotel and my second most favourite for smoked meat when I can’t get to Schwartz’s.  They’re known for their famous cheesecake which I’ve made before and put a link to their recipe at the bottom.  You’re welcome.

Le Steakhouse Rib ‘N Reef has a reputation over the course of 63 years for gastronomic expertise. It’s a swanky landmark for charbroiled meats & seafood, with a rooftop terrace and large wine & cigar lists.  I think it’s a bit less than a two block walk from Ruby Foo’s.  I met my childhood bestie there for dinner where we both ordered filet Oscar off the table d’hôte menu. They still maintain the old style of coming to your table to make Caesar salad.  Both the meal and seeing my friend made for an exceptional evening.

Rib ‘n Reef is old style elegance

Unfortunately the live music is no longer.  The Maître d‘ laughed at me when I asked what time the music started.  It’s been a while.

Moishe’s  in Old Montreal may still remain number one:

Founded in 1938 by Moishe Lighter, it was initially called “Romanian Paradise.” Legend has it that Lighter, an immigrant from Romania to Canada, became the owner of the restaurant in a card game. That’s when anything was wide open for negotiation if you catch my drift. The restaurant’s name was changed to “Moishes” at the outset of World War II.

After all this I should tell you that Montreal also hosts an abundance of good health food restaurants too, including vegan.  Just in case you’re wondering.  It’s not only bagels, poutine, smoked meat and steak.

I think this concludes my look back on Montreal edition.  At least until the next time.  I hope you enjoyed some of the history and stories. 

An interesting and provocative look back:

My previous Post on Montreal days and nights in the book CITY UNIQUE:

Ruby Foo’s Hotel:

https://www.hotelrubyfoos.com/en

Dunn’s famous Cheesecake Recipe:

Dunn’s famous cheesecake. See recipe below.

https://www.food.com/recipe/dunns-famous-cheesecake-recipe-461888

And finally: some tips on healthy ways to lose weight (especially after indulging on a trip such as this):

https://www.forbes.com/health/body/how-to-lose-weight-fast/

The Charm of Old Montreal

To be fair, this mural of Leonard Cohen isn’t situated in Old Montreal…but since we’re talking about charm I had to include it.  After all, Leonard Cohen was synonymous with everything charming about Montreal.  The self confessed man who was born in a suit was a true gentleman, poet and all around music legend. 

This last trip to Montreal was primarily to attend the wedding of a family member but it would not have been complete without an evening in Old Montreal.  Montreal after dark is enchanting.

If Paris is the city of light, Montreal gives it a run for its money! The city beams with artistic light installations. One of the oldest and most famous lights in Montreal is the rotating beacon of Place Ville Marie in the downtown core (not shown here).

Old Montreal is the oldest area in the city of Montreal, Quebec, Canada, dating back to New France. Old Montreal itself is a major tourist draw; with the oldest of its buildings dating to the 17th century, it is one of the oldest urban areas in North America.  This pic taken from images.

After dark, the city transforms: the bare stone walls of Old Montréal become history projected, while the Jacques-Cartier Bridge lights up in flashes of colour over the St. Lawrence River. Building facades in the entertainment district turn into movie screens, and the power of light to trick the eye gives some of Montréal’s first buildings all new life.

this one is a bit haunting

Spanning several blocks near the waterfront of the Saint Lawrence River, Old Montreal is home to historical sites dating back to the 17th century that showcase the city’s indigenous and colonial past. The district also offers a taste of Montreal’s contemporary cultural standing, from art and food to health. Local musicians and dancers entertain in various areas and the place is alive with a European vibe.  Actually Montreal is the most European city in all of Canada.

There may be an American flag but we’re still in Canada.

We had just finished watching a flamenco dancer in the square.

I love all the outdoor cafés, restaurants & shops along the cobblestone streets.

And then there’s all the ART GALLERIES – a sampling of some of my favourites here:

Photos of Old Montreal: d. king

Check out this little video clip of city lights:

VIRTUAL TOUR of OLD MONTEAL:

Okanagan Wine Time

Holiday in OKANAGAN, British Columbia, Canada.

Photo: d. king

I’ve been to some fabulous wine tasting parts of the world including Argentina, California, France, Italy & South Africa.  It always seems more exotic when you’re far from home, but here in Canada one of the loveliest wine regions which can now compete with the rest, is in the Okanagan – about a four and half hour drive from Vancouver.

Summerhill Winery + Bistro. Photo: d. king

I can’t imagine driving through British Columbia’s beautiful Okanagan wine valley (a top producing wine region in B.C.) and not taking the time to stop in to have a look around and do a tasting at one or two or more wineries. It’s not even all about the wine…although…it’s also the locations with magnificent views, top-notch restaurants on the premises, the art & the people and their stories.

Stone Sculpture outside Cedar Creek Estate Winery. Photo: d. king
Photo: d. king

You cannot possibly visit every vineyard on one trip – there’s just too many, close at hand and far between.  There’s always new ones opening up too.  From world-class operations to family-run boutique vineyards, the Okanagan Valley wineries are rich in tradition and character, consistently ranking among the world’s best at international competitions.

At Kismet. Photo: d. king

Aside from Summerhill Pyramid winery in Kelowna which I always visit because the proprietor is a friend (the wine is also great), on this most recent road trip I kept it simple and focused on only a few. Summerhill held an amazing Autumn Equinox in the Pyramid which my boyfriend and I attended.  After only hearing about it, I can now say I’ve experienced it.  It’s a community gathering to celebrate our connection to each other, the earth and the universe, with a guided group

Que Syrah, Syrah at Kismet. Photo: d. king

meditation in the Summerhill Pyramid. Followed by a vegetarian potluck dinner, and drumming and dancing around the sacred fire in the Kekuli.  It was dog friendly too so Layla also experienced it. We met some nice new friends.

At Tantalus. Photo: d. king
Lounging at Cedar Creek.  They didn’t seem to mind that I was wearing my Summerhill t-shirt.
At Kismet. Photo: d. king

The other wineries I visited on this trip were Tantalus and Cedar Creek in Kelowna, NK’MIP Cellars in Osoyoos and Kismet in Oliver.  These were over several days as we were staying with a friend in Peachland and then onto the Kootenays to stay with another friend.

Tantalus:

Photo: d. king

Tantalus is known as one of the oldest continuously producing vineyards in British Columbia.

At Tantalus Photo: d. king
Calendar at Tantalus – Dogs of the Okanagan Wineries. I had the pleasure of knowing Fortuna – RIP.  Photo: d. king

I’m a chardonnay lover and heard through the grapevine (pun intended) that they have a really good one.  Yes; they do, but I ended up loving the off-dry Riesling as much or even more so. Which is a surprise because I find most Rieslings too sweet – but this one was just right.  Overall, the view and location is fabulous, the tasting was really good and the art on the bottles is created by Tahitian, Tlingit artist, Dempsey Bob.  I must admit that I like a good label.

Cedar Creek: winner of 2022 winery of

the year award. One more breathtaking view with floor to ceiling windows that look over the Okanagan during a relaxed all-organic tasting.

State of the Art Tastings at Cedar Creek. Photo: d. king
Cedar Creek. Photo: d. king

Kismet

My tasting here, like the name, was meant to be – especially since it was not planned.  A few people have mentioned this winery to me as having unique wines. I was interested in the sparkling moscato as they use a rare orange muscat varietal which is cold fermented, resulting in a crisp refreshing flavour. I opened it over Thanksgiving and it did not disappoint.

Nk’Mip

Photo: d. king

Time in a Bottle. This is my second time at the very first Indigenous-owned winery in North America. Located in Osoyoos – the hottest and driest part of not only the Okanagan; but all of Canada.

Nk’Mip. Photo: d. king
Photo: d. king
Photo: d. king

The spectacular Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre (pronounced in-ka-meep) is a state-of-the-art interpretive centre of architectural marvel sensitively constructed into a hillside. Discover the fascinating stories of Canada’s only desert and share in the rich living culture of the Okanagan people.  Websites below:

https://www.summerhill.bc.ca/

https://tantalus.ca/

https://www.kismetestatewinery.com/

https://www.nkmipcellars.com/About-Us

I hope you enjoy the photos.  Let me know if you’ve been to any of these wineries or if you have a favourite winery in your area.

Header photo: d. king

The kekuli. Photo: d. king

Flying High in Vancouver

Leading up to Canada Day which is every July 1st, I thought it a good idea to showcase some exciting & inspiring local events and businesses.I began with a little write-up on Vancouver’s “Bard on the Beach” our first-rate Shakespearean theatre group which brings tourists and local community together by filling seats to capacity every afternoon/evening until the finish in September.

Yesterday I decided it was time to do another flying trip over Canada.  In a matter of minutes not only did I experience the trip of a lifetime flying over the great rockies, Niagara Falls and more…but I also flew over the American Great Wild West.  All without leaving my seat.  Let me explain.

Gift Shop + Restaurant on Premises

Fly Over Canada is located at Canada Place – which is an iconic landmark located in the heart of Vancouver’s waterfront.  We know it as a venue for world-class events, home port to the Vancouver-Alaska cruise lines, Vancouver Convention Centre East, Pan Pacific Hotel, FlyOver Canada, World Trade Centre and more.

Canada Place

FLY OVER CANADA is North America’s leading flying ride.

Last time I was here was at least six or seven years ago where I experienced “Fly Over China.” “Fly Over Canada” experience is always showing, however they add another country or area of interest which shows for only so long before they switch it up.  If you’ve never been I urge you to go.  A bit pricey but totally worth the trip.  You’re strapped to a moving seat suspended, feet dangling, enveloped by a 20-metre spherical screen which gives you the feeling of actually being on the journey as they’ve captured thrilling, authentic footage of real locations so riders experience those locations as they truly are.

Using advanced technology to showcase awe-inspiring sights as you’ve never seen them before incorporating special effects — including wind, mist and scents.

I’ve flown and driven all over Canada as well as the American West like all the places shown on the ride…but I’ve never seen them like this before.  Totally Thrilling!

No photos or video allowed.

ABOUT:

THE REAL WILD WEST

Monument Valley, Arizona

Experience the West at its wildest. Glide over vast prairies and towering peaks. Dip into valleys where untamed rivers rush, and buzz through electric urban spaces pulsing with energy. Limited Showing: April 21 – June 26

FLYOVER CANADA

Soar across Canada from coast to coast to coast. Sweep over Niagara Falls, vast prairies and massive mountain peaks to see Canada like never before.

https://www.flyovercanada.com/

Fleur Noire

I love stepping into a place that takes my breath away.  If there’s rosé to go along with it – all the better.

Here’s another little boutique oasis in Palm Springs that I had the pleasure of visiting.  Have a peek at a few photos I took when Chris Pardo, the owner, took me on a little tour.  

A Tall Tale (taken from their website):

While traveling in France searching for vintage furniture we happened upon a roadside cart selling flower seeds. Not being fluent in the language we believed we purchased a vintage lineage of seeds. Once back in Palm Springs we planted seeds on property, unbelievably the flowers kept blooming black. Dismayed we had one horticulturist after the other come evaluate the phenomenon with no success. Finally after researching the small town near where we purchased the seeds we came upon an obscure landscaper who we believe they called an expert, the French man named Jacque Cousteau (no relation to the famed underwater explorer). After months of negotiating his travels to the states, he immediately identified the problem was with not the soil but the seedlings which were the fabled fleur noire. The only antedote… Rosé all day.

To Book:

https://www.fleurnoirehotel.com/

 

 

 

The Charm of Old Town La Quinta, Ca.

It’s like Night and Day. photo: d. king

We spent the better part of the day/evening in this amiable little town which is only about a 35 minute drive from Palm Springs and had dinner at a chic Mexican restaurant called…

La Quinta is a small resort city in Coachella Valley, known as one of the leading golf destinations in the States. Known for incredible year-round warm and dry climate and superb shopping, world-class golf at more than 20 golf courses, biking through the valley among the orchards and vineyards, and dining at a number of first-class restaurants.

Summing it up: elegant boutiques, gourmet dining, wine and olive oil tasting bars, art galleries, and charming cafes. Upstairs are offices and businesses, creating a fine balance between work and pleasure. There is always something going on in Old Town La Quinta, such as music on weekends, the Art Under the Umbrellas art show, Taste of La Quinta, and very popular Sunday Certified Farmers’ Market.

Summing it up: vacationidea.com sums it up best with the best of the best:

11 Best Things to Do in La Quinta, California

All photos: d. king