Archive for In Season

New Year, Tropical You

January 1, 2013 / / Comments Off

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Well it’s 2013, and if you resolved to travel more there’s no shortage of tropical destinations on SniqueAway right now (Los Altos Club Casa de Campo, Magic Blue Boutique Hotel and Utopia Village).  But let’s say you can’t make the trip just yet. Well, we’ve picked out a few tropically inclined watering holes scattered across some decidedly non-tropical areas. So if you’re nearby, these places will bring the Beach Vacation vibes to you.

Tiki Bars

Photos courtesy of Lani Kai, Forbidden Island, Mai-Kai Restaurant and Trailer Happiness

Clockwise from top left:

Lani Kai (New York, NY): This Hawaiian-native-owned tiki bar serves up some truly tropical libations like the Pacific Swizzle with white rum, lemongrass, hibiscus tea, lime juice and passion fruit.

Forbidden Island (Alameda, CA): Try award-winning cocktails like the banana-coconut-cream-and-silver-rum Banana Mamacow at this California-based oasis.

Mai-Kai Restaurant (Ft. Lauderdale, FL): Dinner and a (Polynesian) show—this place takes the average drink menu to a new level with house specialities like the Mai-Kai Blizzard with rum, ice cream and a blend of West Indies spices.

Trailer Happiness (London, England): A small cocktail lounge that offers an off-the-beaten-path sense of seclusion alongside vibrant Hawaiian-inspired drinks, original artwork and live music.

Category: In Season, Wine & Dine / Tags: , , , , , , ,

Have Yourself a Merry Little Cocktail

December 25, 2012 / / Comments Off

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What’s the easiest way to spread some holiday cheer? Well, you can start with festive libations. With so many fantastic hotel bars (cough, The Palazzo, cough), we thought we’d scour the Internet for some killer cocktails that will put anyone in the spirit, no matter what holiday you celebrate.

Holiday Drinks

Photos and recipes courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens, Epicurious and How Sweet It Is

Clockwise from top left:

Aztec Hot Chocolate: Warming up in the Winter can be tough, so we recommend trying this grown-up version of a snowday staple—especially if you can’t make to the Langham Boston’s Chocolate Brunch (hint: spike it with some chocolate liqueur).

Sparkling Ginger Cocktail: Sure, you’ve seen gingerbread-flavored drinks. Well, try something a little bit fresher this year. This bright, sparkling cocktail will class up any holiday gathering.

Apple Cider Margarita: Generally speaking, we’ll drink anything with a cinnamon-and-sugar rim. So, try this unique take on apple-cider-based drinks. Who said tequila is only for Cinco de Mayo?

Category: In Season / Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

To: You, From: Niagara-on-the-Lake

December 18, 2012 / / Comments Off

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It’s December so office gift swaps and holiday shopping are in the air. If you’re still scratching your head trying to think of a unique gift (perhaps for yourself?) that screams “Winter Wonderland,” then Shaw Club and Niagara-on-the-Lake are here to help.

When we think of Shaw Club, we think of their world-class spa treatments and the extensive Spa Boutique to go with them. But, what if you can’t stop by the boutique and want those spa treatments right now? Well, you’re in luck. You can order them direct from upscale names like Algologie and B. Kamins. We recommend the line of Maple-based treatments to channel that Canadian spirit.

And speaking of Canada, if you’re filling out the gift basket (or just want something to sip during your at-home spa day), try grabbing some of the finest Icewine the country has to offer. Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries like Ice House and Ravine Vineyard will ship them right to your door. Your Secret Santa will love it, even if your Secret Santa is you.

Shaw Spa and Ice House

Photos courtesy of Ice House and Shaw Spa

Category: Fit & Fabulous, In Season / Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

Bring the Ski Lodge to You!

December 13, 2012 / / Comments Off

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Dreaming of snow-covered mountains? Racing across freshly-fallen powder? Or maybe just sitting in a warm and cozy lodge? We certainly are—especially after writing about Newpark Resort & Hotel in Park City, Utah.

If, however, you can’t get to the mountain this year, don’t despair! You can bring the cuddly ambiance of the ski lodge to your own home.

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock and L.A. Burdick

First, you’ll need a classic ski movie to capture the thrill of the slopes. Warren Miller films are filled with ski-tastic moments. If, however, you’re in the mood to watch John Cusack fling himself down a mountain in the name of love, we recommend Better Off Dead.

No ski lodge is complete without a cozy fireplace. You can download a virtual fireplace and watch it flicker and burn for hours. Plus, the warm glow will help keep you toasty while you sip a cup of hot cocoa. We adore L.A. Burdick for everything chocolate, and their recipe for  hot chocolate makes a homemade ski lodge feel just like the real thing.

Gourmet Hot Chocolate (Recipe courtesy of L.A. Burdick)

For a simple yet luxurious cup of hot chocolate, put 2-3oz of chocolate in a cup (more or less according to taste). While whisking, pour in 6-8oz of scalding milk. No sugar or sweetener needed.

Add a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon for a twist. Enjoy!

Category: In Season / Tags: , , , ,

Happy Holidays and Appy Traveling

December 12, 2012 / / Comments Off

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‘Tis the season. And no, unfortunately that doesn’t just mean warm boozy beverages and festive feasts. We’re talking about the inevitable scramble of crowds to airports, train stations and interstates—grumpy travelers hoping to find the tinsel at the end of the tunnel.

For preparations and day-of coping, refer to our Holiday Travel Tips post. But if you’re looking to be truly modern and savvy, turn to the thing you pretty much always have with you: your smartphone. We recommend loading it up with this collection of apps to make travelling this season just a little bit smoother.

Travel Apps

Images courtesy of Packing Pro, Flight Track Pro, Wi-Fi Finder and AroundMe

Clockwise from top left:

Packing Pro: Before heading out into the masses, do a little planning. Packing Pro is an iOS app for keeping track of everything you need to pack—sure beats looking for a pen and paper.

FlightTrack Pro: No more craning your neck, looking at the flight status board. This app—available for iOS and Adroid—lets you keep track of your flight’s status, delay information and in-flight progress.

Wi-Fi Finder: Okay you’re on vacation, but you might need to send off a few last-minute emails (or catch up on that latest TV episode). The Wi-Fi finder turns your iOS device into a veritable hotspot finder so you don’t max out your data limit.

AroundMe: This popular little app is pretty self-explanatory. You’re at the corner of [blank] and [blank]. Where can you grab a bite or pick up a few last minute gifts? This iOS and Android app presents a map with anything you might need within walking distance. Too bad it can’t bring the family to you.

 

Category: Gizmos & Gadgets, In Season / Tags: , , , , , ,
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