The Traveling Diva » Spa Diva

Maui Prince Video

The Diva — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:22:14 +0000

This text will be replaced

Mark DeCarlo visits the island of Maui and invites you to join in on all the fun.

As heard on Mad Dog’s radio show in Palm Springs:

The Maui Prince, Hawaii -Filled with enchantment and romance, this Hawaiian paradise will find its way into your hearts without emptying your pockets. Rated one of the top hotels of the island, the Maui Prince is now offering amazing rates for all their rooms, including ocean front rooms. Their amenities range from spa to complimentary valet to wi-fi in your room, should you need it.

Take advantage of their Special Packages or let them take the worry away from planning a wedding! That’s right, lucky divas! They also have wedding packages, complete with every detail, including the fabulous backdrop of Black Rock and red sunsets.

***

Email us at diva@travelingdiva.com for more info and special rates not advertised on their website!

and….. shhhhhh… the secret to their free upgrades!!!!!! diva@travelingdiva.com

Fall Getaway: Claremont

The Diva — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 18:29:04 +0000

It’s that time of the year again… summer is gone and the slow, steady cold winds of winter start to creep up. Angelenos need a break from the everyday. Away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, you’ll find a thriving city with the charm of a small town in which to relax. Claremont, once again, a diva’s getaway. From LA: Take the 134 to the 210 exit North Towne Avenue South. Ontario International Airport (ONT) – 10 miles; Los Angeles – 40 miles

Hotel Casa 425 is just what it claims to be: a home away from home. Located on the town square, within steps of fine restaurants, cafes, boutiques, art galleries and the prestigious Claremont Colleges, Casa 425 is a sophisticated boutique hotel with spacious rooms with clean lines and understated art. This diva recommends you grab a drink at the hip lounge or a complimentary green apple on your way out.

Another great alternative is the Doubletree Hotel Claremont. DIVA’s TIP: All Doubletree Hotels offer a warm cookie at check-in. If you are nice, you can get more than one…. Want to float off into winter? Try Essentials Day Spa & Salon at the Doubletree Hotel Claremont 555 W. Foothill Blvd. Claremont, CA 91711 Phone: 909-626-2411 www.Doubletreeclaremont.com

Charming Downtown streets have a charm of their own. Reminiscent of middle America, with the advantages of LA’s technology-driven stores, downtown offers select stores, products and services, sure to satisfy the most eclectic of tastes. For the visiting foodies, La Parolaccia, an Italian gourmet corner restaurant seems to be the all the rage in Claremont Village. Within the fancy interiors, the first thing you notice is the smell of delicious garlic and the smile of our server. Try the Focaccia Forza Italia, a thin crust focaccia from their wood burning oven, topped with goat cheese, tomato sauce, arugula, fresh tomatoes and white truffle oil, or their Carpaccio di Bue con Arugola e Funghi, or as I called it, heaven in my mouth. This appetizer of raw beef tenderloin came topped with fresh arugula, mushrooms, capers and shaved parmesan cheese. La Parolaccia Osteria Italiana 201 N. Indian Hill Claremont, CA 91711 909-624-1516 http://laparolacciausa.com/

This tree-lined downtown houses a myriad of mom and pop places as well as trendy favorites. You.ll find a specialty cheese and olive oil place, The Cheese Cave, where you can try cheeses from all over the world, specialty fennel salame and hand-pressed olive oils. Definitely ask for a taste of Snow White. You’ll absolutely adore it. You’ll never think of the fairy tale the same way again. Cheese Cave 325 North Yale Avenue, Claremont, CA 91711-4727 909-625-7560 http://www.claremontcheese.com/

What a better place to start a hot date than a dimly lit place being served high quality wine and light fare, surrounded by comfy pillows? Add 1950′s standards to that equation and no woman could resist. Packing House Wine Merchants on First Street offers excellent service with an enjoyable, relaxing, and fun atmosphere at which to shop, drink, and learn about wine. This is definitely a place of which Sinatra would approved. Packing House Wine Merchants 540 West 1st Street Claremont, CA 91711-4618 909-445-9463 http://www.packinghousewines.com

For those looking for nightlife, there’s Hip Kitty, a swanky and intimate jazz supper club and lounge in downtown Claremont Village. Live music is featured on its stage 6 nights a week and every seat in the house has a great view. If comedy is your style, Flappers Comedy Club’s A-list comedians perform for very thankful audiences. Order the cheese plate, unexpectedly fantastic, and even the MC and host comedians were great. Make sure you drink plenty at the Wine Merchants downstairs and the comedy and cheese will seem even better. There’s also Piano Piano, your big city dueling piano bar with some of the most amazing talent you’ve ever seen come out of a small town.

La-la land getting too crowded for you? Come relax in Claremont. This is a place you will want to go back to time and time again.

DiscoverClaremont.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/discvrclaremont

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/discoverclaremontca

Tumblr: http://www.tumblr.com/blog/discoverclaremont

Flicker: http://www.flickr.com/

GoWalla: https://gowalla.com/stories

A Diva’s Getwaway from LA: CLAREMONT, CA: Not your ordinary Sleepytown, USA

The Diva — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 06:36:03 +0000

There are many places outside of LA that serve as great options for a getaway. Few are the ones you’d also consider living in. Claremont is that city. Away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, you’ll find a thriving city with the charm of a small town.

How to get there: The eastern-most city in Los Angeles County, Claremont is 30 miles east of downtown Los Angeles along Interstate 10. It’s a destination quite unlike any other in Southern California: A hidden gem within the sprawling, urbanscape of the L.A. basin. From LA: Take the 134 to the 210 exit North Towne Avenue South. Ontario International Airport (ONT) – 10 miles Los Angeles – 40 miles

STAY: Hotel Casa 425 is just what it claims to be: a home away from home. Located on the town square, within steps of fine restaurants, cafes, boutiques, art galleries and the prestigious Claremont Colleges, Casa 425 is a sophisticated boutique hotel with spacious rooms with clean lines and understated art. Most of the rooms of this stylish boutique hotel open onto a tranquil courtyard in the heart of historic Claremont Village, and within walking distance of all the nightlife. This diva recommends you grab a drink at the hip lounge or a complimentary green apple on your way out.

Hotel Casa 425 425 West First Street, Claremont, CA 91711 909-624-2272 http://www.casa425.com

RELAX: Besides being a great place to stay of Doubletree fame, this hotel houses an incredible top rated spa and salon for Claremont visitors. Essentials Day Spa & Salon claims it is specifically designed to provide a haven for your Mind, Body and Soul, so I put it to the test. As I floated out of the salon after my spa pedicure and my full-body massage/scrub by an incredibly gorgeous Latina/Amazon goddess, I questioned my plans to keep on discovering the city, or go back inside for more pampering. I highly recommend you spend at least half a day experiencing Essentials’ exquisite hair and nail services, full body massage, treatments, and complete skin spa menu. Remember to thank the Amazon goddess as you float out after your massage.

Essentials Day Spa & Salon at the Doubletree Hotel Claremont 555 W. Foothill Blvd. Claremont, CA 91711 Phone: 909-626-2411 www.Doubletreeclaremont.com

EAT! La Parolaccia, in Italian, literally means “The Bad Language,” which you’ll be using if you happen to miss out on dinner at this place. This Italian gourmet corner restaurant seems to be the all the rage in Claremont Village. Within the fancy interiors, the first thing you notice is the smell of delicious garlic and the smile of our server. I don’t think I’ve ever enjoyed eating so much, munching on Focaccia “Forza Italia,” a thin crust focaccia from their wood burning oven, topped with goat cheese, tomato sauce, arugula, fresh tomatoes and white truffle oil. YUM! …and while I generally like my meat well done, I have to admit to LOVING the Carpaccio di Bue con Arugola e Funghi, or as I called it, heaven in my mouth. This appetizer of raw beef tenderloin came topped with fresh arugula, mushrooms, capers and shaved parmesan cheese. DOUBLE YUM!

La Parolaccia Osteria Italiana 201 N. Indian Hill Claremont, CA 91711 909-624-1516 http://laparolacciausa.com/

HANG OUT! Claremont Village. This tree-lined downtown houses a myriad of mom and pop places as well as trendy favorites. You’ll find a specialty cheese and olive oil place, The Cheese Cave, where you can try cheeses from all over the world, specialty fennel salame and hand-pressed olive oils. Definitely ask for a taste of “Snow White.” You’ll absolutely adore it. You’ll never think of the fairy tale the same way again.

Cheese Cave 325 North Yale Avenue Claremont, CA 91711-4727 909-625-7560 http://www.claremontcheese.com/

WINE AND DINE! What a better place to start a hot date than a dimly lit place being served high quality wine and light fare, surrounded by comfy pillows? Add 1950’s standards to that equation and no woman could resist. Packing House Wine Merchants on First Street offers excellent service with an enjoyable, relaxing, and fun atmosphere at which to shop, drink, and learn about wine. This is definitely a place of which Sinatra would approved.

Packing House Wine Merchants 540 West 1st Street Claremont, CA 91711-4618 909-445-9463 http://www.packinghousewines.com/

CULTIVATE! Fancy a romantic walk amongst the flowers? Head to Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Garden. Spread across 86 acres in Claremont, California, the Garden is located approximately 35 miles east of Los Angeles. Nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, the Garden offers beautiful mountain vistas. The Garden displays about 2000 taxa of California plants and includes those native to the California Floristic Province as a whole. This region extends into southern Oregon, far western Nevada and extensively into Baja California, Mexico. Docents lead tours of the Garden periodically.

Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Garden 1500 N. College Ave. Claremont, CA 91711 909-626-7670 http://www.rsabg.org

PARTY! Piano Piano is your big city dueling piano bar with some of the most amazing talent you’ve ever seen come out of a small town. I was lucky enough to be there on a night when Susan was at one of the pianos…. I can’t say I’ve ever seen a more fabulous rocker chick who can blow your mind on the piano, drums, keytar, AND harmonica. All while looking like Rocker Barbie. That same night, Shaun, a fantastic voice, not to be overshadowed by the sexy dances while grinding on the stage and on some of the lucky guests. This is a place you will want to go back to time and time again.

Piano Piano (at Doubletree Hotel) 555 W Foothill Blvd Claremont, CA 91711 909-626-2411 http://www.duelingpianopiano.com

JAZZ IT UP! Hip Kitty is a swanky and intimate jazz supper club and lounge in downtown Claremont’s Village. Located in the renovated, historic landmark Packing House, the warm and eclectic vintage décor takes you back to an era when jazz was subversive and fondue was all the rage. Hip Kitty is classy but casual and over 21 only- a great place for a date night or a special celebration. The retro menu features a wide selection of cheese, meat, seafood and chocolate fondues that are cooked right at your table, in addition to our lounge food menu. Live music is featured on its stage 6 nights a week and every seat in the house has a great view.

Hip Kitty Jazz & Fondue 502 West 1st Street Claremont, CA 91711 909-447-6700 http://www.hipkittyjazz.com/

VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE! Partying not your thing? Make sure to catch a show or two when you are Claremont. If comedy is your style, Flappers Comedy Club’s A-list comedians like James P. Connolly perform for very thankful audiences. The food at Flappers is also quite good. The cheese plate was unexpectedly fantastic, and even the MC and host comedians were great. Make sure you drink plenty at the Wine Merchants downstairs and the comedy and cheese will seem even better.

Flappers Comedy Club 532 W 1st Street, Unit 218, Claremont, CA 91711 818-845-9721 http://www.flapperscomedy.com

Ben D. Bollinger’s Candlelight Pavilion Dinner Theatre provides patrons with a dinner theatre and musicals for a theatrical experience the caliber of the Broadway shows in downtown LA without the freeway or parking dilemmas. Located in the center of Claremont, CA, audiences can enjoy a nice dinner and a show surrounded by locals. This is the sort of place you’d take your parents.

Candlelight Pavilion Dinner Theater 455 W Foothill Blvd Claremont, CA 91711 909-626-1254 http://www.candlelightpavilion.com

THE SCOOP! Don’t let this college town fool you. Yes, there are plenty of youngsters, but that also brings about the hot singles and the eye candy. Who says you can’t find a good man in LA? Well, they’re half right… go find him in Claremont.

Taste of Playa Festival welcomes US Travel Channel host Mark DeCarlo

The Diva — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 16:30:12 +0000

Taste of Playa is an annual culinary event in Playa del Carmen that celebrates the creativity and cultural influences of chefs throughout the Riviera Maya. The event promotes the unique culinary perspectives of local chefs, highlights new event venues and coordinates the efforts of local businesses and municipal governments. In 2009, Taste of Playa captured the attention of national and international media and showed the spirit of multi-cultural cooperation that defines the modern Riviera Maya.

International culinary festivals are held throughout the world, with each host city highlighting the chefs, restaurants and retail food outlets that define the culture of the area. Playa del Carmen is renowned for its diversity, its international influences, its culinary expertise and its Caribbean lifestyle. The restaurants and food industry have played a major part in the development and definition of the Riviera Maya. This event provides local businesses with an opportunity to showcase the expertise of their talented chefs.

Originally named Xaman-Ha (waters of the north) by the ancient Maya, modern day Playa del Carmen is the heart of the Riviera Maya. Located on the coast 40 miles (60 kms.) south of Cancun, Playa, as it is now commonly known, is the perfect base of operations from which to explore the incredible sites of this fascinating region. Famous for its pristine beaches, clear blue waters, and Caribbean lifestyle, Playa del Carmen is a place for those in search of an extraordinary vacation destination. The friendly people, the vibrant indigenous culture, and the remarkable biodiversity all contribute to a unique travel experience that will stay with visitors long after their suntan fades. Once a quiet seaside fishing village, Playa del Carmen has doubled its population in the past decade, attracting new residents from around the globe. Europeans, South Americans, Americans and Canadians have discovered this little slice of paradise, and have set up permanent homes as well as a myriad of internationally influenced businesses.

The event location, Parque Fundadores, commemorates the Founders of Playa del Carmen and is a significant historical location within the city. Originally a community gathering spot where residents obtained their water, food and basic living essentials, this seaside location was the market hub for the then small village. As the population grew and the city expanded, the park evolved into a center for entertainment and events, with local businesses and vendors setting up shop around this central point. The current Municipal President, Prof. Roman Quian, has brought life back into this important community area and rejuvenated the site under the program ‘Rescate de los Sitios Publicos’. Playa del Carmen’s only beachfront park has been thoughtfully renovated to include public seating and shade, a play area for children and their families and a beautiful bandstand. The local vendors have remained, selling their wares, just as they have for generations.

The event is scheduled for November 21, 2010 in the Parque Fundadores from 3 pm to 9 pm. Local businesses and sponsors are supporting the operations of this food focused event, leaving chefs free to concentrate on the execution of their creations. Government and media support will promote this festival to local residents and tourists alike, inviting everyone to sample creations that normally they may not have the opportunity to enjoy.

Admission to Taste of Playa is free to the public with all inclusive VIP Passes and Taste of Playa “Pesos” available for sale. The Taste of Playa Pesos are used to purchase the signature dishes offered. Samples will have a value of 1 or 2 Taste of Playa “Pesos” (10 to 20 pesos in value). Taste of Playa “Pesos” and VIP Passes may be purchased at the event, ordered in advance or purchased online.

In addition to sampling dishes from some of the best culinary talent on the Riviera Maya, festival attendees will be able to shop at the Taste of Playa Marketplace. The Marketplace is the event’s retail outlet where each year, a collection of food merchants will be invited to promote and sell their specialty food products. This venue proudly showcases a variety of local small businesses whose products will contribute to the overall experience of the event. Tourists and residents alike will have the opportunity to sample and purchase distinctive items and regionally prepared products.

The event schedule has the media entering at 2 pm in the press area, VIPs and Corporate Sponsors at 2 pm and general admission at 3 pm. The event closes at 9 pm.

Corporate Sponsors for Taste of Playa 2010 include:

Title Sponsor: Habanero: Chili Piquin: LocoGringo.com, Yucatan Holidays Serrano: Grupo MSM Alquiladora, Wanna Lounge Chipotle: Deli-Playa, Acanto Condo Hotel, Mayaqueb Constructor Jalapeno: Buy Playa Real Estate Advisors VIP Lounge: Wicky’s Restaurant and Beach Club Poblano: Cultura Culture Xactic: Buy Playa Real Estate Advisors, Abyss Dive Center, Latido de Mexico, Playa Rentals, Hotel Tropical Casablanca, Yoga by the Way, North American Standards, Latin Latitudes

An up to date list of Sponsors, Restaurant and Marketplace participants will also be available on the webpage at www.tasteofplaya.com/restaurants and www.tasteofplaya.com/sponsors.

This year, the organizers of Taste of Playa 2010 have signed on a celebrity host, Travel and Food Expert, Mark DeCarlo, to team up with local chefs during the event. Mr. DeCarlo, host of the hit comedy/food show on the Travel Channel “Taste of America with Mark DeCarlo”, traveled the United States collecting recipes and characters for over four seasons. All the best morsels from his travels appear in his new book, “A Fork on the Road: 400 Cities One Stomach”, published in September 2010 by Lyons Press which will make its Mexico debut at the event November 21, 2010. As he moves across North America, Mark’s traveling comedy and cooking show will be chronicled in daily Podcasts available to 60 MILLION fans via MSN and WhereTraveler.com.

Throughout the day, Mark will be conducting a series of food demonstrations with local chefs highlighting the unique recipes of the Mexican Caribbean, signing copies of his new book and sampling dishes from the 40 participating restaurants and beverage providers.

Each year, Taste of Playa will donate proceeds from the event to a local non-profit food or clean water program. The goal of the committee is to help develop and sustain community programs that will have a positive effect on the residents of Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya.

Proceeds from Taste of Playa 2009 were awarded to Ak Lu’um International School, Playa del Carmen’s only non-profit learning institution. Funds raised by Taste of Playa 2009 provided the school with clean, safe drinking water for students, teachers and volunteers for the 2009/2010 school year.

This year’s donation will go to a new food education program implemented by the Rotarians of Playa del Carmen, in an effort to educate local children and families about the importance of nutrition, nutritional balance and the use of local produce and resources to maintain a healthy diet. The Rotary Club brings together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the cities and areas where we live.

Taste of Playa Executive Committee Members develop, execute and market this International Event.

The committee members for Taste of Playa 2010 are Nicola Inwood, Executive Chairperson and owner of Hotel Tropical CasaBlanca, Gabi Waldert, Graphics Committee Chairperson and owner of Playa-Rentals , Ellen de Jonge, Volunteer Committee Chairperson and owner of Yoga by the Way, Susan de Lima, Operations Committee Chairperson and owner of Latido de Mexico, Sherry Stevens, Marketplace Committee Chairperson and agent for One Stop Real Estate, Monica Hartlief, Restaurant Committee Chairperson and owner of Latido de Mexico, Mitch Gour, Sponsorship Committee Chairperson and freelance travel writer, Armando Elizalde, Finance Committee Chairman and owner of the online newspaper, MexicanCaribbeanToday.com, Michele Kinnon, Marketing Committee Chairperson and owner of Buy Playa Real Estate Advisors and Tyra Hamilton, Administrative liaison to the Executive Committee and agent for Yucatan Explorer. Each committee member has brought a unique set of skills and personal experiences crucial to the success of this exciting event.

The attendance for Taste of Playa 2009 has been estimated at over 3200 persons; which was comprised of local residents, tourists and media. The event attracted the support of 27 Corporate Sponsors. 25 restaurants participated, 65 volunteers supported the event operations, and 5 Marketplace participants sold their food items at the event. Testimonials from the event day are available at http://www.tasteofplaya.com/media/testimonials.html .

It is anticipated that 5000 people will attend Taste of Playa 2010, 65 volunteers will support event operations, 40 restaurants, 10 marketplace vendors and over 80 Corporate Sponsor representatives will participate in the event.

Date: November 21, 2010

Location: Parque Fundadores, Playa Del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico Playa del Carmen is located 45 minutes south of Cancun on the Mayan Riviera

Schedule: 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. rain or shine VIP, Press and Corporate Sponsor entrance at 2 p.m. General Admission at 3 p.m. Event closes at 9 p.m.

Event Goals: To execute a culinary event in Playa del Carmen that highlights the cultural inspiration and influence of 40 local chefs, restaurants and beverage providers and 10 food retailers, with the portion of the proceeds supporting a local not for profit community food program

Event Format: Admission to the event is free and open to the public with food sampling ranging in price from 10 pesos to 20 pesos. Musical entertainment will be provided by DJ SOMOS. Various seating areas, family recreation areas, rest room facilities and shade will be provided for attendees.

Sponsors: LocoGringo.com, Yucatan Holidays, Grupo MSM Alquiladora, Wanna Lounge, Deli-Playa, Acanto Condo Hotel, Mayaqueb Constructor, Buy Playa Real Estate Advisors, Wicky’s Restaurant and Beach Club, Cultura Culture, Latido de Mexico, Playa Rentals, Abyss Dive Center, Hotel Tropical Casablanca, Yoga By the Way, North American Standards, Latin Latitudes.

*A fully updated list can be found on the Taste of Playa website.

Participating

Restaurants: Lol Ha Restaurant, Dirty Martini Lounge, Bar Ranita, Tequila Barrel Bar and Grill, Luna Blue Hotel and Bar, Fusion Hotel and Beach Club, Wicky’s Restaurant and Beach Club, Off the Vine, Babes Noodles and Bar, La Casa del Agua, Ula Gula, La Casona de los Vinos, Zabor, Zenzi Beach Club, Turtle Bay Café and Bakery, John Gray’s Place, Diablito Cha Cha Cha, Los Aguachiles, Canibal Royal, Carboncitos, El Bistro de La Tortuga, Season Bistro, Cocina 38, Café Tropical, Chez Celine, Xocolatier, Byblos, Gynn’AK, Mom’s Bar, SWEco, Era Ora, Aventura Restaurant by Mahekal Beach Resort, El Puerto Restaurant at Fairmont Mayakoba.

Marketplace

Participants: Sapori di Casa, The Little Mexican Cooking School, DAC, Hot Lips Hot Sauce, Sabrina Pasteleria Italiana, Ah Cacao Chocolate Café, Café Kawa, Mayan Fiesta Rum Cake Co.

*A fully updated list can be found on the Taste of Playa website.

Event

Statistics: The attendance for Taste of Playa 2009 has been estimated at over 3200 persons; local residents, tourists and media. There were 27 Corporate Sponsors. 25 restaurants participated, 65 volunteers supported the event operations, and 5 marketplace participants sold their food items at the event.

It is estimated that 5000 people will attend Taste of Playa 2010, 65 volunteers will support event operations, 40 restaurants will be providing food samples, 10 marketplace vendors will be selling food products and over 80 corporate sponsor representatives will participate in the event.

Shop Fabulous LA!

The Diva — Sat, 15 May 2010 20:11:14 +0000

Grab your divalicious girlfriends and shake off the cold with a little help from Shecky’s! At Girls Night Out, you’ll experience the newest warm weather fashion trends, delicious cocktails, plus sensational spring beauty treatments. Throw in our fabulous goodie bags, chock full of freebies, and we guarantee you’ll have a spring in your step in no time!

What?
Shecky’s is an online and event destination for what’s cool and undiscovered in FASHION, BEAUTY and FUN with the girls.

From emerging designers to great beauty discoveries, delicious cocktails to free giveaways— Shecky’s offers a wonderland for girls to SHOP, SAMPLE & SCORE the world of things girls love.

How?
Shecky’s partners with 1200+ cool companies a year to bring women the latest and greatest in fashion, beauty, entertainment, and more in unique web and event experiences that can be shared with friends.

Why?
Because once in a while, women need a place to escape, where we can indulge, pamper ourselves and have some quality girl time—without the boys!

What’s Shecky’s Mission?
To spoil girls with fashion, beauty, fun and the best girlfriend group experiences.

Shop Fabulous LA!

Date: Wed.-Thu., May 19th-20th, 2010
Time: 5pm-10pm
Place: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
1855 Main St. (Pico Blvd. & Colorado Ave.)

TO PURCHASE TICKETS PLEASE VISIT THIS LINK:

http://girlsnightout.sheckys.com/?rf=LA_TravelingDiva

and choose “Socialista” from the “We’re very curious! How did you hear about this event?” drop down menu on the checkout page and write in my full name, YENI ALVAREZ.

See you there!!!

Spa Week in LA, April 12-18, 2010

The Diva — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 18:28:35 +0000

In the wake of an urgent national debate on healthcare, Americans ended the first decade of the 21st century less certain about their wellness futures than ever before. In these unsure times, Americans are increasingly turning to alternative therapies to strengthen the body and guard against illness. The health benefits of the spa have never been more relevant, and Spa Week is proud to ring in the new decade by continuing to deliver the benefits of the spa at an affordable price to millions of deserving consumers.

The 12th edition of the Spa Week Event is slated for April 12th – 18th, 2010. In total, the nationwide Spa Week Spring Event will include 30 markets and a list of participating spas will be posted on www.spaweek.com by mid-March. The Spring Spa Week Event will bring $50 spa treatments to consumers at over 800 spas across North America. As always, the goal is to introduce a new generation of consumers to the benefits of a healthy lifestyle by opening up the spa industry to the masses. Spa Week has spent the last 6 years turning “wellness” from a mere buzzword into a healthy reality.

Thanks to the efforts of Spa Week and their Spa Week Spring and Fall Events, the spa industry now offers health benefits to an unprecedented cross-section of the American public. Since its inception, Spa Week has afforded hundreds of thousands of people the ability to heal, strengthen, and energize at the spa. Spa Week has dashed the old myth that the spa is where the rich and famous go to be pampered; thanks to the success of the Spring and Fall Events, over 350,000 affordable spa treatments have been booked and enjoyed by average Americans since 2004.

Never content to rest on past successes, though, each Spa Week Event brings the cutting edge of health and wellness technology to the average consumer. In addition to offering traditionally beneficial stress-busting and immune-boosting spa treatments like massage, Spa Week brings intensive, clinical therapies to consumers at the same $50 price point with hundreds of participating medi-spas all over the country.

As the healthcare crisis rages on in Washington, Spa Week’s mission to educate consumers to the health benefits of the spa lifestyle is more important—and more successful—than ever. Spa Week affords everyone the ability to experience the incredible physical benefit of spa treatments and therapies.

Spa Week was created and founded by Cheryl Reid, who hails from successful careers within the luxury spa industry and publishing spheres. Spa Week is thrilled to announce it’s 2010 Presenting and Title Sponsor: Dove Deodorant; National Media Sponsor: Allure Magazine; Exclusive Cosmetic Sponsor: Bare Escentuals; Exclusive Wine Sponsor: Rioja; Exclusive Destination Sponsor: Canyon Ranch; Exclusive Wedding Sponsor: The Wedding Channel; Exclusive Fashion Sponsor: Fashion Week Daily; and Exclusive Spa Association Partner: ISPA.

Content borrowed from www.spaweek.com

Loving San Diego

Contributing Diva — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:22:35 +0000

San Diego, like Shakespeare’s Cleopatra, “…age cannot wither nor custom stale her infinite variety…” enjoys a glamorous reputation. The Southern California city, is a sparkling jewel set about with water and dotted with lovely hotels, fabulously fun entertainments, and historical sites such as SeaWorld, San Diego Wild Animal Park, San Diego Zoo, architecturally adventurous Balboa Park with its many museums, the USS Midway, and the first of the 21 California missions, Mission San Diego de Alcala, established by Franciscan Friars in the 18th century for the Spanish crown.

It is true to say that no matter how many times one visits San Diego there is always more to see and relish. Having written about San Diego for decades it is refreshing to know there is always something left unexplored to which one can look forward. Though summer is past, fall offers continuing warm weather, with fewer tourists, online discount coupons and lower hotel rates.

There are many special events to entice visitors: Fleet Week San Diego, actually runs into mid-October with many events, including US Navy ship tours; Miramar Air Show, Oct. 2, 3 and 4; SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular; Little Italy Festa, Oct. 11 and SD Wine & Food Festival, Nov. 18-22. Admission to SD Zoo and SD Wild Animal Park is free for children ages 3-11 in October. The Da Vinci Experience (to Nov. 1) at the SD Air & Space Museum features over 30 full-sized and interactive replica Da Vinci machines along with reproductions of 12 of Da Vinci’s most famous paintings. It’s best to consult the San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau, one of the best such sources, for complete information on the vast array of attractions: www.sandiego.org or call 619-236-1212.

Recently we treated two of our grandchildren, Michelle, 11 and Andrew, 9, to a few days in sunny San Diego in order for me to be introduced to the killer whale, Shamu – a celebrity nearly as famous as the late Michael Jackson. Alas, we had missed him on previous visits to see artist Edgar Degas’ Little Ballerina sculpture, the Pompeii exhibit, the SD Zoo pandas, the Wild Animal Park giraffes, the USS Midway and the mission San Diego de Alcala. I was intrigued to see this world renowned performer. As I consider myself to be something of a “non-fish” person– yes, I know Shamu is not a fish, but our cousin mammal – I was not anticipating what happened to me at SeaWorld. While there are a wide variety of animals such as polar bears, penguins, walruses, dolphins, sharks, fish, whales, etc., at SeaWorld I wanted to see Shamu.

San Diego SeaWorld is an easy drive from our homes in Orange County, CA, and to cut down on driving even more we selected hotel accommodations ten minutes from Shamu’s place…we didn’t want to waste a moment. So after settling into the lovely Paradise Point Resort & Spa on Mission Bay, www.paradisepoint.com, a 44-acre charmer with lavish tropical gardens, five pools, bike trails, marina and an 18-hole putting green (Andrew’s favorite), we dashed over to see Shamu.

It was love at first sight.

Much to my surprise – and not a little embarrassment – I became emotionally enthralled as Shamu began to perform. Silly to say, but I felt as I did the first time I’d seen Frank Sinatra in person and immediately understood his half century successful career. I felt he was singing especially for me. And Shamu – with apologies to Frank – was nearly as enticing. Shamu seemed to be smiling at me as he slid up from the water in a marine salute to the audience. My emotional response accelerated and produced a near-Stendhal syndrome experience. I’d heard about the Stendhal or Florence syndrome after being dazzled by the art at the Uffizi Museum in Florence, Italy. Apparently, it is a recognized phenomenon in Italy. A highly emotional response consisting of a mixture of awe, wonder, delight in great art or natural beauty which can produce, among other things, dizziness, fainting or weeping.

How else to explain that Shamu, in his own way, was nearly as awesome, in the correct sense of that over-used word, as a Florentine art treasure. It seemed to me Shamu is one of the wonders of the world.

Shamu is sleekly black and white, spectacularly beautiful, agile and talented – and yes, he certainly has personal charm. It was the Sinatra effect all over again. This glorious creature graciously enacted improbably daring – they looked that way –skills just for me. Well, OK, for the entire audience.

The show is artfully conceived and Shamu is presented in a creative narrative in an aquatic theater overseen by highly talented trainers and performers. And like the Stendhal response I nearly wept with the beauty of what I was seeing. Even now, I’m not sure why I responded so emotionally to what is, after all, only an animal act. I can only say the Shamu (actually there are several killer whales that enact the role) I saw perform has “it” – that indefinable quality that grabs an audience and leaves an indelible impression.

We also saw the dolphin show, which was wonderful. The dolphins are trained to swim around the perimeter of the water tank while flipping water at guests – who love it! It was fun, but I did not fall in love with any of the performers, same with the dog show. Cute pooches doing cute things, but no love affair developed. The Wild Animal Park denizens were lovely to see, especially the giraffes that come up close to the guest tram to nibble one of the few trees – maybe they it would be good to plant more trees in the animal area. Anyway, again, no bells ringing. Yet, I’m willing to bet that each visitor will have his or her unique experience in response to the splendid variety of experiences within San Diego. No doubt someone has fallen in love with the giraffes or dolphins, as I did with Shamu. This is a city which offers so many entertainments return visits are necessary.

With fall there are more special promotional discounts on parks and accommodations.The best strategy is to first check the San Diego Visitors & Convention Bureau, then the individual attractions you wish to see. Leave time for unexpected delights that will certainly turn up. One should check online for discount coupons for SeaWorld and other attractions, as well as hotel rates, vacations packages and operating hours for various attractions. Request any available informational booklets, brochures, coupons, etc., be mailed to you. Once you go, you’ll know and will return again & again.

Before you go:

SeaWorld – www.seaworld.com, and www.seaworldsandiego.com,
1-800-25-SHAMU.

San Diego Convention &Visitors Bureau – www.sandiego.org,
1-619-236-1212.

Paradise Point Resort & Spa – www.paradisepoint.com,
1-858-274-4630.

The Castle Estate… a Royal Diva’s Dream

The Diva — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 23:44:09 +0000

Had fun storming a castle lately?
On the way to Temecula’s wine country, many roads lead to wine, but only one leads to The Castle Estate.
Every detail there is designed to keep you in a past reality of castles, kings and, of course, Queens. From the gigantic medieval iron locks that guard your room and the mural on the stairs depicting part of it’s own family history, to the most minute detail of a delightful butterfly garden right outside your bedroom door, this castle has proven to be a diva’s favorite.
If you happen to endure LA traffic, a night arrival is breathtaking, as the castle lights glow to guide the way. Past the helicopter pad out front, you’ll be greeted by the sounds of a huge front door knocker, and welcomed by dimly lit candelabra and a smile from the castle’s proprietors, Joanne and Dee.
How does waking up at The Castle sound? “Ding, ding, ding!” A soft “Good morning!”   a bell ring in the morning light shining through the hand-painted stained glass windows onto the luxurious medieval bed linens, and the chain link armor guard standing by. Thankfully, you’ll still have time to enjoy the feeling of waking up in a castle without the worries of modern times… no ringing phones, no television, no digital alarm clock…. Everything in this medieval room erases the never-ending rat race of nearby big cities.
The Castle’s breakfast is presided over by Delyte’s catering company and brought to the table by their culinary student chef. You’ll swoon over the delicious pumpkin pancakes and their signature fruit compote cups.    What else could a diva ask for? God food, good people, good castle! When it comes to personalized service, this B&B gets an A+.
After breakfast, take a walk through the grounds, stroll past the hummingbirds visiting the butterfly garden. Why not have a picnic by the fountain, or enjoy high tea in the Queens’ Gazebo? A knight and dragon chess set will be waiting by the fireplace should you decide to come inside. Their vast library adorning the pool table room downstairs can keep you occupied before heading out for the afternoon. Feel free to ask the castle dwellers for insight on the events, tours, wineries, and eateries of the moment.
For larger groups, take advantage of this one-of a kind backdrop for weddings or bachelorette parties.   Their spa services are divine, and so exclusive, they’ve yet to advertise on their website! Since the castle offers limo and taxi calls, and sometimes even shuttle service, family and friends are safely close by with no worries of drinking the night away. You’ll have a lot to talk about when comparing rooms, each with their unique décor, starting with the cave-like shower in the Medieval room, and the understated luxury of the Venetian room.
When you finally venture out to leave the castle, Traveling Diva recommends Old Town Temecula for a day trip. Taste the local and not-so-local cheese at the Cheese Factory, enjoy fresh roasted coffee at Café Bravo and pick up a homemade blend of spices at the Spice Merchant. Also, make sure to grab an Old Town map for easy planning.
A royal diva’s home away from home is her castle. The Castle Estate gets this diva’s Wink of Approval (TM) .
Hazzah!

THE CASTLE ESTATE
Joanne DiBernardo
The Castle Estate
35250 Loma Ventoso Lane
Temecula, California 92592
(951) 699-3940
joanne@thecastlebandb.com
www.thecastlebandb.com

DELYTE’S FINE FOODS
Leah D. Di Bernardo
Exec. Chef – The Castle Estate… southern california wine country
Local, Organic & Seasonal Foods Catered
(323) 376-1799 C.
(951) 694-3663 (food) O.
www.delytes.com

PR and Media Relations
Regina Marston (regina@ideationunlimited.com)

LESLIE’S Art Gallery in Luxembourg

The Diva — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 15:58:11 +0000

November 2009

Current exhibition

The current exhibition features the french artist Cédrix Crespel, born in 1974, living and working in Guérande, France. Open from tuesday to saturday from 15h00 to 19h00 up to november 28th, 2009, the exhibition is well appreciated by visitors, art collectors and art critics.


Le Quotidien 20.10.2009	Le Quotidien 10.11.2009	Opening reception 15.10.2009 expo Cedrix Crespel

There are still some paintings and sculptures from Cédrix Crespel available at the gallery :

Leslie VII, 2009, glycerophtalic and acrylic paints on canvas, 89 x 116 cm, 2.087 EUR HTVA
Leslie VIII, 2009, glycerophtalic and acrylic paints on canvas, 97 x 130 cm, 2.261 EUR HTVA
Leslie IX , 2009, glycerophtalic and acrylic paints on canvas, 89 x 116 cm, 2.087 EUR HTVA
Leslie X, 2009, glycerophtalic and acrylic paints on canvas, 97 x 130 cm, 2.261 EUR HTVA
Leslie’s Stockings, sculptures, 80 x 80 x 25 cm (call for prices)

The value added tax (VAT) of 15% and the transport costs will be added to these prices for shipping inside the European Union.

An artbook about Cédrix Crespel showing the paintings exhibited at the gallery and a selection of his former artworks has been published at the Blurb Bookstore and can be ordered online at the website.

(Standard Portrait 20 x 25 cm, october 2009, 88 pages, softcover, 30 EUR).

Invitation to the opening reception of the upcoming exhibitions

LESLIE’S ARTGALLERY has the pleasure to invite you to the opening reception of the solo exhibitions featuring the Japanese artist Teiji HAYAMA and the American artist Jane ZWEIBEL at the gallery in Bridel on Thursday, 3rd december 2009, starting at 7.00 p.m.The artists will be present.

We look forward to seeing you in the gallery,

Leslie Barnig

LESLIE’S ARTGALLERY a le plaisir de vous inviter à la galerie au Bridel le jeudi 3 décembre 2009, à partir de 19h00, au vernissage des expositions personnelles de l’artiste japonais Teiji HAYAMA et de l’artiste américaine Jane ZWEIBEL, en présence des artistes.

En attendant d’avoir la joie de vous accueillir à la galerie,

Leslie Barnig

Free services for art collectors and art lovers

Leslie’s Artgallery has the pleasure to offer the following new services, free of charge, to the visitors of the webpage www.lesliesartgallery.eu/stock.php :

Artworks from selected self-represented artists auctionned currently at eBay worldwide
Filtered artworks from selected famous artists auctionned currently at eBay US, DE, FR
Filtered Digital Artworks auctionned currently at eBay US, DE, FR
Filtered Photographies auctionned currently at eBay US, DE, FR
Recommended Artbooks available at Amazon US, DE, FR
Items created by artists of the gallery available at Amazon US, DE, FR
Customized search tools for Contemporary Art in Luxembourg, Conceptual Art and Generative Art
Links to Auctions & Sales at Christies, Sotheby’s, Drouot, Artprice and art fairs

Christmas 2009

LESLIE’S ARTGALLERY
66-68, rue de Luxembourg
L-8140 Bridel
Luxembourg

Tél: +352 621 132 890

Visit us at www.lesliesartgallery.eu

Opening : tuesday – saturday : 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Ouverture: mardi – samedi : 15h00 – 19h00

1st Annual SANTA Monica Pub Crawl

The Diva — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 00:55:13 +0000

Title: 1st Annual SANTA Monica Pub Crawl
Location: Santa Monica, CA
Link out: Click here
Description: The First Annual SANTA Monica Pub Crawl will take place on Saturday, December 19, 2009 at 5PM in Santa Monica, CA at the city’s best bars and restaurants to help raise money and food for those in need for the holidays, through a partnership with the Westside Food Bank. Participating locations will be offering drink and food specials as part of the SANTA Monica Pub Crawl festivities. Crawlers are asked to bring non-perishable food donations to drop at Westside Food Bank collection barrels strategically placed along the pub crawl route, which will allow them access to the drink specials at each location. For a list of bars, pub crawl maps and updates, visit the official Web site at www.santamonicapubcrawl.com.

SANTA Monica Pub Crawl participants are asked to dress in Santa/Holiday attire so the streets of Santa Monica will be filled with merry cheer as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Elves, Reindeer, Carolers and Santa\’s Helpers. The Pub Crawl will include bars on Wilshire, 4th St. and Broadway to Santa Monica Blvd and Ocean Ave as well as bars in and around the Main Street and 3rd Street Districts.

COST: Minimum donation of one non-perishable food item per person. The donation will
provide participants with a wristband that offers discount food & drink specials at all of the participating locations. A list of donation drop off locations along with a map of participating bars will be announced on the official Web site at www.santamonicapubcrawl.com.

SPONSORS: Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce, Westside Food Bank, Santa Monica
Daily Press, YELP.com, JACK FM, Local Buy Santa Monica, SPIN Public Relations

Start Time: 5:00PM
Date: 2009-12-19