One of the newest hotels on the strip is the Aria Hotel located at City Center in Las Vegas. The rooms have spectacular views of the city and the strip. Each room enjoys a floor to ceiling window, large bathrooms, and comfortable beds. For you techies, everything in the room is computerized and controlled via a remote console. Control your light schemes, TV, curtains, etc…. We were slightly disappointed with the Buffet-that evening they even had a special Maine Lobster and all you can drink wine included in the buffet (Sat/Sun). Other restaurants include a steakhouse, a seafood, an English Pub, and an Italian restaurant. The room rates were reasonable compared to some of the higher end hotels on the strip. Check out the Aria the next time you visit LV.
Tags: las vegas, seafood, steakhouse
In a recent trip to Santa Barbara, we stumbled onto a local favorite for breakfast, although we understand their lunch is quite good also. After visiting the SB Mission, we found the Cajun Kitchen just a few miles west of the Mission. Their generous portions, excellent services, and reasonable prices are all good reasons to visit. It’s owner opened several locations in the SB area. If you’re looking for a decent, casual breakfast local favorite, try Cajun Kitchen.
Tags: breakfast, cajun, Santa Barbara
We recently drove to Santa Barbara for a weekend getaway and found an exquisite oceanfront hotel. The Harbor View Inn is located across from the pier, walking distance from the train station and State Street where shops, restaurants, and nightlife are located. The service was impeccable from the front desk staff to the housekeeping staff. Rooms were spacious, comfortable, and cozy. There are several B&Bs and hotels in SB, this one should be on your list the next time you’re visiting Santa Barbara.
Tags: inn, Santa Barbara
We celebrated our anniversary at the St. Regis Monarch Beach recently and was treated to the most elegant, enjoyable, experience we’ve had in a long time. It’s not surprising that this hotel has been awarded Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star, Five Diamond. The attention to detail, friendly staff, and beautiful setting are just a few reasons we’ll always go back.
Tags: Dana Point, St. Regis
We ate at the House of Big Fish and Ice Cold Beer (yes, that’s the name of the restaurant) the other night at Laguna Beach and really enjoyed our dinner. It’s a casual atmosphere with excellent service. We shared the seafood platter which included oysters, shrimps, crab, and ahi poke. We also shared a cup of new england chowder that was meaty. It’s a very fun atmosphere, good food, and great service. Although located right on coast hwy, it’s not as easy to find. It’s on the 2nd floor of a strip of shops.
Tags: casual dining, laguna beach, seafood