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Game of Thrones final season is here! See where it all began in Malta

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As Game of Thrones approaches its final season, set to premiere on April 14, 2019, it’s a good time for die-hard fans to take a look at the first location where it all started, Malta. Often referred to as “the hidden gem of the Mediterranean,” Malta is not so hidden when it comes to Hollywood and if you’re a Game of Thrones fan you will remember that most of season one was filmed there.

 

The quest for power between the Houses of Stark, Baratheon, Lannister and Targaryen all started on the island of Malta. Malta offers tours to join local actors who took part in Season One of HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones as they unravel the secrets and adventures of your favorite characters including Arya Stark, Daenerys Targaryen, Joffrey Baratheon and Cersei Lannister.

 

Step back in time as you travel to idyllic locations such as those used in the first season including the gardens of Kings Landing, the Red Waste, the Tower of the Hand, the Stables, Maegor’s Holdfast, the Red Keep, Cobblers Square, The Street of Steel, Baelish Brothels (ext), Coppersmith’s Wynd, King’s Gate, King’s Square, and the village of Lhazar (when accessible).

 

The Maltese Islands – Malta, Gozo and Comino – have been home to Hollywood blockbusters such as Gladiator, U-571, The Count of Monte Cristo, Troy, Munich, Popeye, the movie set abandoned in 1980 which remains a huge tourist attraction in Malta, as well as prestigious dramas and sitcoms such as the BBC’s Byron and ITV’s Coronation Street to name a few. The island’s beautiful, unspoiled coastlines and breathtaking architecture have ‘doubled’ for an amazing variety of locations on the big and small screens – from ancient Rome to 19th-century Marseille and 1960’s Beirut. Steven Spielberg, Ridley Scott, Wolfgang Petersen, Guy Ritchie and other renowned directors, as well as a host of A-list celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Russell Crowe, Brad Pitt, Sharon Stone, Madonna and Sean Connery, all experienced Malta’s movie making facilities and its many charms.

The sunny islands of Malta, in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, are home to a most remarkable concentration of intact built heritage, including the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in any nation-state anywhere.  Valletta built by the proud Knights of St. John is one of the UNESCO sights and the European Capital of Culture for 2018. Malta’s patrimony in stone ranges from the oldest free-standing stone architecture in the world, to one of the British Empire’s most formidable defensive systems, and includes a rich mix of domestic, religious and military architecture from the ancient, medieval and early modern periods. With superbly sunny weather, attractive beaches, a thriving nightlife and 7,000 years of intriguing history, there is a great deal to see and do. www.visitmalta.com

Travel News | eTurboNews

Do Millennials want “the Grands” along when they travel?

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It’s no surprise that Millennials love to “do it for the ‘gram.” But when it comes to travel buddies, it’s Millennials’ desire to travel with Grandpa and Grandma that may surprise you.

According to a new survey from Visit Anaheim, the official destination organization for Anaheim, multigenerational vacations are top-of-mind with travelers when it comes to reliving memories, while also creating new ones, with the next generation. The survey, conducted by OnePoll for Visit Anaheim, polled a sample of 1,000 Americans and found that Millennial respondents (aged 25-34) lead the category when it comes to wanting more multigenerational trips, coming in at a whopping 83 percent.

“While Visit Anaheim knew that families loved reliving childhood experiences by having grandparents tag along on vacation, we were surprised by the enthusiasm that the Millennial survey respondents had for this ‘Grandtravel’ trend,” said Jay Burress, president & CEO of Visit Anaheim. “Millennials often have a close relationship with their parents and are now becoming parents themselves. The Baby Boomer grandparents are incredibly active, so they can easily keep up with the grandkids. Additionally, as many smart parents have figured out, having Grandpa and Grandma around means Mom and Dad can escape to check out the local nightlife or less kid-friendly attractions, knowing the kids are in great hands.”

In fact, two thirds (66 percent) of respondents have traveled with three or more generations of their family, making vacations with grandparents, their adult children, and grandchildren, a travel trend with no signs of slowing down. In fact, the majority plan on taking more extended family trips.

Nostalgia is one of the main reasons the trend keeps growing. Many parents and grandparents love reliving memories. The majority (56 percent) “strongly agree” that multigenerational trips are more special when visiting somewhere their parents or grandparents have been before and 53 percent report being “very happy” when they take trips to places they’ve previously been with their parents or children.

VISIT ANAHEIM’S GRANDTRAVEL CONTEST

With Spring vacation around the corner and Summer vacation planning in the works, Visit Anaheim is kicking off their first-ever Grandtravel contest. One lucky family of six will win an Anaheim vacation, including accommodations at Great Wolf Lodge and tickets to Knott’s Berry Farm – perfect for a family of four, plus two grandparents. Contest starts Tuesday, March 26, 2019 and ends Tuesday, April 30, 2019. Enter to win here. Find rules and regulations available here.

Actress, activist and mom to four kids, Holly Robinson Peete, is helping to kick-off the contest by encouraging families to take Grandma and Grandpa along for the vacation fun.

“Anyone who watches us on ‘Meet the Peetes’ knows that my mom is a big part of our lives – and that includes vacation time,” said Robinson Peete. “Whether it’s a girls weekend in New York City visiting my daughter, Ryan, or escaping for a quick staycation to somewhere fun like Anaheim, having grandma along for the journey is something the entire family looks forward to every chance we get.”

Additional Survey Highlights

Other noteworthy Visit Anaheim survey results include:

  • LET’S HIT THE ROAD – Multigenerational trips are most likely to be either a road trip (69 percent), traveling to see family (67 percent), or a flight to a major destination (48 percent)
  • PARENTAL PLANNERS – When planning a multigenerational (grandparents, parents, kids) trip, parents are most likely to choose the flights (46 percent), set the dates (38 percent), pick the hotels/lodging (44 percent) and pay for the trip (41 percent)
  • GRANDPARENT TRAVEL PERKS – Top benefits of traveling with three generations are:
    • Allows bonding time/memories to be built between grandparents and grandchildren (67 percent)
    • Spending more quality time together (65 percent)

Though packing up the minivan with three generations can be fun, over half of the respondents (51 percent) have taken a trip where Grandpa and Grandma took the grandkids on vacation – sans their adult children. Many wanted one-on-one time with their grandchild(ren)/grandparent(s) (48 percent), others celebrated a special event or milestone (45 percent), and some believed it created a different dynamic when parents are not there (41 percent).

“Getting to spend time with your grandkids is always special, but being able to vacation with them is truly a treat,” said Dolores Robinson, Holly Robinson Peete’s mom. “My grandkids affectionately call me everything from ‘Gorgeous’ to ‘G-Money.’ It’s because we’ve carved out time to create memories that we have such a close bond. Visit Anaheim’s survey is proof that families love to travel with grandparents. And I love that they’re giving a family a chance to win a vacation to Anaheim – including spots for Grandma and Grandpa. How fun!”

Fans can watch Holly, grandma Dolores, Holly’s husband – NFL veteran quarterback Rodney Peete, and their four kids, embark on their newest adventures on season two of “Meet the Peetes,” which debuted on the Hallmark Channel in late February and airs Monday at 10 p.m./9 Central.

For more information on Anaheim and to begin planning a memorable family-friendly vacation, please visit: visitanaheim.org

Travel News | eTurboNews

Americans Gain Easier & Expanded Access to Premium Dutch Cheeses

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Cheese-loving turophiles and wine-loving oenophiles can rejoice amid the recent announcement that global dairy giant Dutch Royal FrieslandCampina N.V., among the largest dairy companies in the world, has acquired U.S. based importer and marketer Jana Foods. While this development is certainly a boon for both companies and represents forward momentum of FrieslandCampina’s reported investment growth strategy, Americans, themselves, will also realize a tasty gain. This as the deal allows FrieslandCampina to avail a greater breadth of its cheese products to consumers in the region.

American’s will realize great benefits from the deal, vis a vis enhanced access to FrieslandCampina’s portfolio of products that cover a wide range of specialty imported Dutch cheeses. This includes mild, aged and smoked Gouda, Edam, Maasdam, Emmental and Goat Cheese. Its array of offerings are available in a variety of formats from wheels, loaves and wedges to slices, snacks and shaved. Courtesy of Jana Foods, FrieslandCampina specialty cheeses can be found across the United States in the deli section of supermarkets, club stores and mass merchandisers.

Amid the excitement of the acquisition, FrieslandCampina also aptly announced the debut of its new product line Frico Cheese—a suite of four imported Dutch varieties. This includes a Gouda Snack in convenient 20 gram portions packed eight to a bag; a shaved Goat Cheese in a 5-ounce cup; a line of Cheese Slices in easy peel and re-seal packaging (also featured in display-ready cases for easy merchandising); a line of Cheese Loaves featuring Gouda, Maasdam, Emmental, and Goat Cheese for behind-the-counter slicing; and a line of Cracker Cuts featuring cracker-sized Gouda, Mediterranean Herb and Goat Cheese.

This Frico Cheese product launch could not be more well timed amid the holidays—a period when demand for cheese products soar.  But, holidays aside, this new line represents FrieslandCampina’s publicly-stated intentions “to meet the growing consumer demand in cheeses” as well as the “needs of today’s consumer with superior products that cheese enthusiasts have called for.”

These eagerly anticipated new introductions join the existing line of Frico products, both in their traditional wheel-and-ball formats. No newcomer, Frico is a global brand in its own right with a rich history dating back to 1898. It’s long been revered for its top-quality, mouthwatering cheeses in over 90 countries around the globe. The company imparts that its unique Dutch cheeses originate in the open landscapes of Holland, all naturally ripened and crafted by experienced cheese-makers to provide the most authentic natural flavors.

All told, this FrieslandCampina-Jana Foods acquisition and Frico product line rollout will indubitably make this gal’s holidays “grate.”

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As the Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee Kern is an internationally-regarded consumer product trends expert and hospitality industry voice of authority—a travel, dining, leisure and lifestyle expert who spotlights noteworthy marketplace innovations, change makers, movers and shakers. She reports on exemplary travel destinations and experiences, extraordinary events and newsworthy products and services across all categories. Reach her online at www.TheLuxeList.com, on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/LuxeListEditor, on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/TheLuxeList and on Instagram at www.Instagram.com/LuxeListReviews.


***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided at no cost or sponsored to accommodate this review, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.***

Photo Courtesy Royal FrieslandCampina

Garden Lites Celebrates Fresh Culinary Approach with Revamped Look and New Line

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Amid the imminent New Year as throngs will collectively commit to eating more nutritiously, whether as part of a weight-loss resolution endeavor or to enjoy a healthier lifestyle overall, one company—Garden Lites—has set its sights on helping folks achieve those goals—one tasty veggie at a time. This decidedly plant-forward firm is downright braggadocios about its brand purpose: “to make surprisingly delicious veggie-rich foods so people can incorporate more veggies into their diet.”

As a means toward this end, Garden Lites recently debuted its new breakfast category frittata line helping consumers easily add vegetables to their morning diet via low calorie, high protein, and highly flavorful prepared food options. The timely new line launch coincides with a brand refresh bolstering its unequivocal positioning on plant-based food preparation: overtly eschewing food science in favor of a culinary approach utilizing produce in its natural form to proffer “surprisingly delicious and nutritionally smart, vegetable-oriented foods.”

Sharon Palmer, an award-winning Registered Dietician Nutritionist and well-reputed expert on plant-powered food and nutrition, applauds Garden Lites’ focus on fitting vegetables into a range of products, highlighting that “the vegetables are identifiable and recognizable.”

“You can see carrots, broccoli and spinach, for example, in the products, and they fit into healthful categories of the diet,” Palmer said. “They provide ways to fit vegetables into all meal occasions, and they are vegetarian. [Garden Lites] have been open and honest from the beginning that their mission is to help people fit in more vegetables into their diets …”

Garden Lites’ vegetarian frittatas, available in Spinach Egg White and Veggie Bacon & Potato Frittata varieties (with the “bacon” made from Pinto Beans), are a noteworthy complement to the award-winning company’s other sweet and savory products, including their popular Superfood Veggie Cakes and Superfood Mac and Cheese. In fact, while the brand was already established in the breakfast space with items like veggie-packed muffins and waffle varieties, the frittata line launch is helping reinforce the company’s standing as an innovative leader in the frozen food category. Additionally to this newly introduced line being packed with non-altered veggies like spinach, red bell peppers and cauliflower, the frittatas are gluten, soy, peanut and tree nut free; non-GMO and kosher.

So certain are they of their vegetable-driven victuals resonating in today’s health-minded marketplace, Garden Lites’ new tag line “Veggies Made Great” is now prominently emblazoned in bright green on its product packaging. Plus, the new design also boldly highlights and asserts veggies as the No. 1 ingredient, furthering the company’s mandate of making scrumptious, veggie-laden frozen food something grocery consumers regularly seek out.

“This dynamic new Garden Lites packaging is a radical change sure to scream from the frozen food aisle as to why to purchase,” says Andy Reichgut, Garden Lites’ Executive Vice President.

Palmer also advocated Garden Lites brand refresh and approach to fitting into consumers’ daily lives, noting, “I like the clean packaging and that they focus on delicious, comfort food recipes, but in a more healthful version. So, basically, they are meeting consumers’ needs in a healthful way. They are good for the whole family, too. I appreciate that they use the slogan, ‘Veggies Made Great,’ which resonates with people. And it’s important to point out the prominence of ingredients and clean lists.”

Overall, the strong new branding undertaken by Garden Lites has given the company a fresher face and clear-cut mission, and the new frittata products—now available in Stop & Shop, Giant Landover, Publix and select Costco stores—are further energizing the lauded lineup.

When asked her opinion on what’s needed to help the food industry and consumer marketplace at large become more vegetable-centric, Palmer recommends creativity and transparency. “I think one strategy is to make food products that include a variety of whole plants, but in a global, interesting, delicious format,” she said. “Keep it real, where you can see all of those delicious plant foods right there in the open.” Recommendations that indubitably mesh with Garden Lites’ own efforts.

“Finding new ways to provide healthful whole plant foods in attractive formats will be successful,” Palmer added. “People want healthy, interesting, global, delicious, but they also want to be satisfied.”

Satisfied and satiated indeed.

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As the Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee Kern is an internationally-regarded consumer product trends expert and hospitality industry voice of authority—a travel, dining, leisure and lifestyle expert who spotlights noteworthy marketplace innovations, change makers, movers and shakers. She reports on exemplary travel destinations and experiences, extraordinary events and newsworthy products and services across all categories. Reach her online at www.TheLuxeList.com, on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/LuxeListEditor, on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/TheLuxeList and on Instagram at www.Instagram.com/LuxeListReviews.


***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or sponsored at no cost to accommodate this review, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.***

Photo Courtesy of Garden Lites

Last-minute holiday gifts, gets & getaways

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As much as holiday shopping is a thrill-filled function, it can also overwhelm amid the glut of retail marketing messages asserting deals, steals and grand gifting opportunities galore. With so much to choose from, here’s a short list of a few tried-and-true gifts, gets and getaways that are well-suited for a holiday spending spree.

***** GADGETS *****

Funcl Earbuds
Funcl is a hardware startup devoted to making true wireless headphones accessible to everyone with price points starting at $19. The company recently launched two models: the Funcl W1 and Funcl AI. The Funcl W1 feature touch buttons on the headphones, which let you control the music and easily answer or reject calls. The Funcl W1 boasts integrated, sophisticated audio engineering to support AAC and provide good sound quality and bass performance for both calls and music. Designed by the company’s award-winning industrial design team, these earbuds also have a unique design for a comfortable fit and attractive aesthetic. Qualcomm chip powered, Funcl’s other model, the AI, provides Hi-Fi sound quality and extremely low latency. Also power friendly, a single charge provides six hours of battery life and, with three extra charges from the case, total battery life is a full 24 hours.  Ranked with a waterproof level of IPX5, Funcl AI is well-suited for use during workouts and exercising, whether at the gym or outdoors. A free Funcl AI App also makes the AI voice assistant feature easier and more intuitive to access.

Anova Precision Cooker Nano
The Anova Precision Cooker Nano is an appliance innovation allowing you to cook delicious, restaurant-quality meals in the comfort of your own home. Paired with the Anova App, which features the world’s largest collection of sous vide recipes, this device makes it easy to cook, control and keep track of your recipe from your mobile phone. Simply choose a recipe, press start, and the Nano does the rest. Used by professional chefs for decades, sous vide is a simple and approachable technique that eliminates overcooked, dried out food and ensures edge-to-edge perfection every time. Whether it’s steak, chicken, fish, vegetables, or even crème brûlée, with the Anova Precision Cooker Nano anyone can cook like a pro!

***** STYLE *****

Lamo Footwear
Lamo is a Southern California-based company known for creating comfortable, high quality sheepskin boots, slippers and moccasins for men, women and children. Lamo footwear is extremely high quality, offered at a value price. With a SoCal fashion-forward feel, Lamo’s stylish and comfortable footwear ensures you’ll walk in style, whether you’re traversing snowy peaks, snagging a few rays at the beach, or even cozying up at home. For at-home coziness I particularly love the Ladies Scuff design, which features a luxurious 100% Australian sheepskin lining for $80. Or choose the ultra-affordable premium faux fur option for just $40—the western print is super cute!

Wallet Buckle
Buckle up for a truly unique gift idea that fuses belts and wallets into one super stylish, extremely efficient wearable. As seen on ABC’s Shark Tank, Wallet Buckle changes the way men and women carry valuable credit cards and cash while out and about. This clever creation keeps these essentials secure and on hand in the most stylish, fun, convenient belt buckle that combines fashion with function. Wallet Buckle stores up to four credit cards and ID’s, so it’s a great way to keep these itmes accessible and prevent them from getting lost or stolen.

***** SELF-CARE *****

Eterno Red LED Light Device
Beauty gifts are a burgeoning category and here’s a fantastic idea in kind: The Eterno Device—a four-week face lift you can use at home instead of those creams and masks that just don’t work.  This brand new, time-saving device is clinically-proven to use NASA’s red and infrared LED Light Therapy, the most innovative, age-defying technology on the planet. Its patented glass head is powerful and gentle, and and the device effectively reduces wrinkles, softens fine lines, increases collagen and elastin production, lifts and tightens skin, and improves complexion through its technology. Eterno is a must-have for anyone who wants a fresh glow achieved in the comfort of their own home.

Shiseido Beauty

If there’s one company who knows cosmetics and self-care, it’s Shiseido. From the many fabulous things they offer, there are a few standouts this season that I particularly like. First is their ModernMatte Powder Lipstick Expressive Deluxe Mini Set—a limited-edition wardrobe of five mini ModernMatte Powder Lipsticks. They’re all housed in a deluxe acrylic container for the holidays, and the outer package features festive RIBBONESIA art. The shades range from soft neutrals to bold berries to festive reds, ensuring there’s something for every occasion.  This creamy, non-drying formula transforms into a weightless powder and wraps lips in a velvety, matte pigment. Now what gal wouldn’t love that? Also from Shiseido is the Ult-Immune Power-Infusing Concentrate. This is Shiseido’s best-selling serum, actually having relaunched in a stronger formula powered by Imu-Generation Technology. It has anti-oxidant rich reishi mushroom and iris root extracts that strengthen skin, restore firmness and defend against daily damage. It’s made to produce fast results, with skin growing 28 percent stronger in just one week.

***** STOCKING STUFFERS *****

STICK-AMIS Hands-Free Phone Stickers
STICK-AMIS are nifty phone stickers that allow complete hands-free usage of any type of phone or tablet without the need for special case sizes or bulky contraptions. It’s ideal for the perfect selfie or group shot…often on the first click! Patent pending, STICK-AMIS is a super-handy phone accessory that instantly solves the problem of having to fumble with your phone while taking selfies, group photos, watching videos or even video conferencing. In addition, STICK-AMIS doubles as an instant stand and can eliminate the need for oft cumbersome accessories like pop-sockets, selfie-sticks and tripods! Use STICK-AMIS to also avoid awkward angles, shadows and limited range of your phone or tablet camera.

Shhhtop Door Dampener
For the home improvement and child safety-minded is Shhhtop, which is better than conventional door dampers and stoppers for ensuring doors don’t slam shut–even when other doors and windows are open to let in fresh air. Beyond the annoyance and stress from slamming doors, they’re also a safety hazard to children, the elderly and pets. Shhhtop installs easily with no drilling or damage to door components. It’s also discreet and invisible once installed.

***** TRAVEL *****

Holidays at Renaissance Indian Wells Resort & Spa  
Whether as a holiday getaway for yourself or an experiential gift for another, the Renaissance Indian Wells Resort & Spa is a splendid desert home-away-from-home for the holidays courtesy of a range of events and activities inspired by holiday storybooks and tales. This December, there are some super special offerings at this Palm Springs-area destination, including: a giant walk-in snow globe for family photo ops; kids’ craft classes with Nutcracker, Grinch and other themes; nightly free holiday movies; a gingerbread house decorating contest; oversized storybook characters; an Elf-on-the-Shelf hunt; desert Santa in flip-flops; as well as holiday tree-lighting and entertainment. Then there’s the ultimate New Year’s Eve Glow-in-the-Dark family dance party, which is a huge hit with kids. Their Storybook Holiday package includes $50 per night resort credit as well as milk cookies and a children’s holiday storybook upon check-in.

Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel
Another fabulous holiday or travel gift is Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel, the only hotel on Beverly Hills’ iconic Rodeo Drive. A blend of modern style, relaxed Southern California spirit and the elegance of Beverly Hills, this boutique hotel features inspired spaces from famed designer Vicente Wolf and genuine hospitality from a dedicated staff. Revel in unmatched access to world-class shopping, dining and entertainment, and exclusive Luxe Club amenities. Like a home-away-from-home, the Luxe Club benefits include delicious breakfasts, light lunches, evening tastings with happy hour house wines and cocktails to ensure every craving and necessity is met. The hotel also features complimentary bicycle rentals, a 2nd floor outdoor mezzanine and rooftop that provides incredible 360-degree views of the Los Angeles hills and skyline. The rooftop also has a Fitness Center and hosts “Cinema Under the Stars” events on the weekend. Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel is a premier choice for an immersive Beverly Hills holiday.

As the Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee Kern is an internationally-regarded consumer product trends expert and hospitality industry voice of authority—a travel, dining, leisure and lifestyle expert who spotlights noteworthy marketplace innovations, change makers, movers and shakers. She reports on exemplary travel destinations and experiences, extraordinary events and newsworthy products and services across all categories. Reach her online, on Twitter, on Facebook, and on Instagram.

***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided at no cost or sponsored to accommodate this review, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.***

 

5 must-visit southwest vacation destinations

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Whether for a stress-relieving holiday getaway or vacation in the New Year, or for experiential gift-giving targeted to those on your “nice list,” travel is top of mind for many this time of year. With that in mind, I wanted to share a collection of my top travel picks of late in the American southwest that are all tried-and-true…by yours truly. I can personally attest that these are five locales you’re sure to love.

Kona Kai Resort & Spa
First, I hope you can make it over to San Diego, as America’s Finest City boasts some extraordinary properties. This most certainly includes the recently-expanded Kona Kai Resort and Spa, a Noble House resort that I recently experienced. Located on the tip of San Diego’s Shelter Island, it offers a range of amenities and experiences unique to its beautiful waterfront location and rich history. The property has 170 luxurious guest rooms, including 41 brand new suites that feature contemporary island-inspired decor, deep soaking tubs and oversized balconies. The new suite I stayed in had an elegant and dramatic glass fireplace with lighting that can be set to the color of your choice. I love Kona Kai because it’s intimate, especially with décor touches like this, yet all-encompassing.

The resort boasts its very own private beach replete with multiple cozy gas fire pits where you can make s’mores each evening (with kits the hotel offers) as well as multiple swimming pools, waterfront restaurants, an award-winning spa, a superbly picturesque 500-slip marina and the renowned private Kona Kai club. For groups, there’s 55,000 square feet of versatile indoor and outdoor event space.

You can sip and savor at the Paloma pool and bar, Kona Kai’s new and exclusive adults-only pool area allowing guests to enjoy poolside craft cocktails and California coastal cuisine while overlooking the marina and some of the region’s most breathtaking sunsets just beyond. Take advantage of their bicycle program and take a refreshing cruise along the sparkling bay in front of the resort, which is replete with impressive sea craft.

The property is also extremely well-situated in the city, located just minutes away from San Diego International Airport, the historic downtown Gaslamp Quarter and all of the area’s top attractions. In all, Kona Kai Resort and Spa is a prime destination for both locals and visitors, and a perfect choice for families and couples looking for a convenient getaway.

Parq Restaurant & Nightclub
Next, for fun-loving gastro travelers heading to San Diego, consider planning a night full of dinner and dancing at Parq, a venue offering an unparalleled nightlife experience in the city’s famed Gaslamp district. Its restaurant offers superb chef-driven cuisine and delectable craft cocktails in a chic and trendy dining space. After dinner, hit the adjacent Parq nightclub boasting the latest technologies and advances in entertainment, premium VIP services, and ongoing live shows featuring top artists. Plus, live DJs will have you dancing all night long!

Parq is definitely a venue like none other in San Diego, making it a stellar venue for an exciting night out on the town. It’s also the perfect locale for celebratory occasions like milestone birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties, as well as large guest events like receptions and other private group events seeking a customizable menu and kinetic atmosphere.

Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel
Head north a bit and land at the Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel—the only hotel on Beverly Hills’ iconic Rodeo Drive. A blend of modern style, relaxed southern California spirit and the elegance of Beverly Hills, this boutique hotel features inspired spaces from famed designer Vicente Wolf and genuine hospitality from a dedicated staff.

Revel in unmatched access to world-class shopping, dining and entertainment even just steps from the front door. You’ll also enjoy partaking in the hotel’s exclusive Luxe Club amenities. Like a home-away-from-home, the hotel’s Luxe Club benefits include delicious breakfasts, light lunches, evening tastings with happy hour house wines and cocktails. The happy hour in particular is a fun, lively and communal atmosphere among guests, and there’s plenty of affable staffers on hand to ensure every craving and necessity is met.

This hotel also features complimentary bicycle rentals, a second floor outdoor mezzanine and a 360-degree rooftop view that provides incredible sights of the Los Angeles hills and skyline. That fresh outdoor space also hosts the fitness center and weekend “cinema under the stars” events. Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel is certainly a premier choice for an immersive visit to Beverly Hills.

JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa
For those who love a southwest desert-chic ambiance is the legendary JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. Nestled on 125 acres, this AAA Four Diamond resort’s tranquil setting, private hiking trails, world-class amenities and dynamic interior and exterior architecture offer an authentic Arizona getaway.

It features 453 pet-friendly casita-style accommodations and suites with private patios, seven restaurants, a 32,000 square foot award-winning spa, two championship golf courses, tennis courts and sparkling pools. It even offers a myriad of outdoor hiking and biking adventures.  It’s only minutes away from downtown Scottsdale, and just a 20-minute drive to both           downtown Phoenix and the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

If you’re a gastro-traveler like myself, food and beverage is a downright essential part of a vacation experience and, fortunately, Camelback Inn delivers on this front as well with seven eateries at your disposal. Their signature on-site restaurant—Lincoln, a JW Steakhouse—is unequivocally one to not be missed. It offers a traditional steakhouse concept with modern touches, including decadent dishes and processes that exemplify culinary ingenuity. The resort also houses Rita’s Kitchen for fabulous breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner either indoors or al fresco, as well as Sprouts at the Spa and the pool-side Hoppin’ Jacks, which offers casual options such as pizza and sandwiches. In addition to the dining options on the main property, Acacia at Camelback Golf Club has an open-air lounge with an outdoor fireplace where patrons can partake in American style fare.

In addition to its unique setting and fabulous amenities, the resort is known for its impeccable customer service, which workers credit to the company’s philosophy that taking care of its employees will result in an enhanced ability to best care for customers. The satisfaction among staffers is exuded in every touch-point throughout a guest’s experience, throughout which smiles and “above and beyond” service abound.

For more than 82 years, this destination has maintained a legacy and standard of excellence by welcoming generations of guests, Hollywood celebrities and U.S. Presidents since its opening in 1936. It’s a favorite vacation spot for the Marriott family, and myself, to this day!

iPic Theaters Scottsdale
For a fun night out while in Scottsdale or Phoenix check out iPic Theaters. This premier luxury restaurant-and-theater brand, with locations throughout the U.S., is a pioneer of the dine-in theater concept. iPic Scottsdale provides chef-driven culinary and mixology offerings inside premium movie theaters as well as an artisanal Italian on-site bar and restaurant called Tanzy. Be sure to order the mozzarella appetizer prepared tableside!

At iPic, guests enjoy an elevated entertainment experience with plush, fully reclining leather chairs encapsulated within their own private viewing pod, which also come furnished with courtesy pillows, blankets and unlimited popcorn. Premium plus seating pods harness revolutionary acoustic technology for superior sound. Each pod has a swivel dining table and seat-side service call button. Relax and enjoy a movie while savoring cuisine from a signature menu designed by a three-time James Beard award-winning chef. Now that’s entertainment!

Photo Courtesy of ResortKonaKai.com

5 reasons to attend the 2018 San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival

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With the San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival set to take the San Diego gastro-scene by storm for its 15th year this coming Nov. 11-18, there is a cornucopia of flavor-fueled activities poised to satiate the hearts, minds and palates of foodies throughout the week-long fest. As always, the event will showcase the best of “America’s Finest City’s” flourishing cuisine scene and the ever-talented culinary creators, both locally and from afar, whose ingenuity ensure our epicuriosity endures.

As one of the largest and most premier events of its kind in the United States and certainly the largest in all of the southern California region, the San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival is among my personal favorite of the year. As always, this action-packed week is brimming with activities, including: cooking classes, tasting panels, celebrity chef dinners and multiple tasting events.

With the festival offering so many options, either singularly or as packages, I thought I would whip up my top reasons why this year’s event is a can’t miss occasion:

1. Top Talent
The 2018 class of chefs, winemakers and tastemakers that will host or otherwise appear at this epic festival filled with food, wine and culture boasts some of the most elite folks in their fields. From nationally-recognized celebrity chefs, legendary winemakers, guest mixologists and James Beard Award-winning authors to Master Sommeliers, brewmasters and artisans, this year’s lineup is designed to delight, entertain and make your taste buds sizzle at every turn. Among the culinary elite that’ll be on-site this year is television chef-lebrityand author Graham Elliot, The Hearty Boys television personalities, Bernard Guillas of the famed Marine Room, season six MasterChef winner Claudia Sandoval and Sam the Cooking Guy, the local fan-favorite television personality and owner of Not Not Tacos. These are in addition to throngs of other industry movers and shakers hell-bent on leaving attendees longing for more.

2. Locavore Cultural Immersion
As the festival is surrounded by a multitude of laid-back beach towns, coastal cities and bustling urban centers, attendees will be tempted to traverse across the city to experience a range of San Diego’s cultural diversity, buzzing culinary scene and signature flavors. Over 40 city-wide events will be held, ensuring there’s something for everyone. One notable option includes traveling to the burgeoning Valle de Guadalupe for a truly immersive cross-border experience. You can also opt to chow down on iconic SoCal fish tacos or indulge in local microbrew beers—a must given San Diego’s standing as the “craft beer capital of America.”

3. Edu-Tastings Abound
The fest offers a range of educational experiences and hands-on classes with food and wine tastings led by culinary rock stars. And, not reserved for savory sensibilities, there are plenty of sweet experiences as well as those that are sipping-intensive. One notable is with renowned chocolatier and chef of Chuao Chocolatier, Michael Antonorsi, who will helm a hands-on truffle rolling class and a fun, behind-the-scenes tour of the Joy Factory. Craft cocktail aficionados are also duly accommodated, with instruction on how to mix up drinks like a pro courtesy of the You & Yours team. They’ll show attendees how to measure, shake, stir and pour cocktails as you make and enjoy two seasonal elixirs (along with artisan cheese and charcuterie boards), all while learning cocktail basics along with the history behind the drinks and distillery.

4. First-of-its-Kind Experiences
One of the most remarkable tasting experiences offered at this year’s event will compare Library Barolo wines crafted from 1947 through 2013—a range of incredible Barolo wines all from the private library of The Rare Wine Co. of San Francisco. Participants will gain an understanding and appreciation for how these amazing Barolos have held up through the decades. This esteemed event will be hosted by the distinguished Giancarlo Paterlini of the Michelin two-starred Acquerello restaurant of San Francisco, who will also enlighten with his commentary on the wines. In another unique event opportunity, one of today’s most prolific culinary authors, Michael Ruhlman, joins this year’s Festival to guide attendees through the craft of pâté and charcuterie. This experience will feature Groth Vineyards & Winery, set amid the backdrop of the Born & Raised rooftop.

5. The Grand Tasting Epic Ending
As the week of eating and imbibing ends, during which 10,000-plus patrons are expected to partake, many will come together to celebrate the spirit of food and frivolity at the monumental Grand Tasting event to be held Nov. 17 at San Diego’s stunning Embarcadero Marina Park North. Here, television personality and San Diego Magazine food critic Troy Johnson—best known as the co-host of ‘Guy’s Grocery Games’ on Food Network—is set to serve as Grand Marshal. In a not-to-be missed moment, guests will be welcomed to the Grand Tasting with a Champagne saber demo to officially open the day of celebration.

I fervently believe that the most valuable things in life these days are not tangible, but rather are memorable and meaningful experiences that move us from our normal, often mundane, every day state-of-being to a place of mind, heart and spirit that makes you revel in the moment, be fully present, and have gratitude for the “here and now.” Those like me who are wanderers, travelers, foodies and adventurers thrive on awe-inspiring moments—and those moments that concurrently tease and please the taste buds and inspire a sense and desire of discovery drives us ever forward. So do yourself a favor and move forward with your own plans to attend one more of the fabulous San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival events. I envisage the experience will leave you chomping at the bit to return year after year.

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As the Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee Kern is an internationally-regarded consumer product trends expert and hospitality industry voice of authority—a travel, dining, leisure and lifestyle expert who spotlights noteworthy marketplace innovations, change makers, movers and shakers. She reports on exemplary travel destinations and experiences, extraordinary events and newsworthy products and services across all categories. Reach her online at www.TheLuxeList.com, on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/LuxeListEditor, on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/TheLuxeList and on Instagram at www.Instagram.com/LuxeListReviews.

***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate this review, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.***

Photo Courtesy of www.SanDiegoWineClassic.com