Game On­­ – Dining, Adventure, Fun (And Football)

Highlight Fall Weekends in Tallahassee 

            Ah, fall. For college football fans, that means one thing – the end of that excruciating period of darkness without a college game to enjoy, digest and dissect with your closest friends.  Fall football Saturdays mean one thing – road trip. The highways connecting Tallahassee to all points on the horizon get busier now as the Florida State and Florida A&M faithful bring their passion, lucky game-day outfits and rituals to town for the annual autumn-long party. Visit Tallahassee invites visitors to wrap a weekend around that special time rooting for the Seminoles or Rattlers at either Doak – Campbell or Bragg Stadium. 

The Friday before game day, visitors arrive early and head downtown for a fun, free evening at the Downtown Get-down and Seminole Block Party.  Think street fair with a football flavor offering musical concerts, food and beverages since hydrating becomes important prior to those sunny afternoons in the stadium, standing and cheering.  Visitors park at Kleman Plaza – the epicenter of Get-down fun.  Events start at 6 PM.  Party-goers be sure to dress comfortably, with team accents, of course.

On the big day it is always important for visitors to pick a breakfast dining option and get fortified for a full day.  Guests make it as adventuresome as they like by wandering among the historic buildings and wildlife exhibits at the Tallahassee Museum or soaring above the crowd and testing their skills with the new Tree to Tree Adventure, one of Florida’s most unique zip line courses. 

History buffs gain insight into the state’s history with a scenic but educational stroll through the grounds at Mission San Luis or by soaking up some air conditioned comfort while viewing the “Forever Changed’ exhibit at the Museum of Florida History. Hint – In 2013, Florida celebrates 500 years since the Spanish first arrived so gain a knowledge advantage and impress the neighbors back home.  And yes, there’s a ball game tie-in with the ancient Apalachee Indians.

Lunch might find foodies enjoying white tablecloth treatment, something a bit more casual or a scenic mini-adventure into another time period.  The latter takes visitors along Centerville Road, one of Tallahassee’s famed canopy roads, to the 1927-era Bradley’s Country Store.  It’s a national landmark where enjoying a grilled homemade sausage dog and soft drink while sitting in a rocking chair on the porch puts an exclamation point on the day – until game time anyway.  Hint – Take home some smoked sausage or the acclaimed ground-right-there grits.  For grits connoisseurs, these set a very high standard. At some point, fans migrate to the stadium and the open-air festivities that define a college football weekend, all accented by the aroma of creations of a legion of tailgating chefs. 

The toughest decision for fans is making a choice for a post-game meal.  Do football enthusiasts discuss their team’s performance over fresh seafood (contemporary touches or down-home fried fare), a traditional steak with the trimmings, all-world barbecue, Italian, Greek, Asian fusion or sushi?  Visitors take their time and enjoy.  The party continues late in the night in Tallahassee.

For early morning risers on Sunday, the requisite visit to a coffee shop starts the day.  Then it’s on to brunch, perhaps a little shopping or sightseeing before visitors head home and face another workweek. There's always a Monday upside - another game, another road trip awaits.

Visitors review that Tallahassee bucket list and figure out a way of squeezing in some golf, kayaking, checking out a few galleries or a few other hotspots on the next trip. And underline the part about ordering more fresh, Apalachicola oysters.

                                                                          ###

Please visit the Fall Frenzy page at www.VisitTallahassee.com to sort through the expanse of dining, entertainment and exploration options, building that “perfect football and more weekend”.

Luxury and Pampering

In Grand Cayman

The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman Resort | By Ronda M. Parag

The tropical breezes and azure waters of the Cayman Islands in the Caribbean Sea lend itself to the ideal vacation destination for either a romantic escape or fun for the entire family. Three islands make up the Cayman Islands with Grand Cayman being the largest and it surrounds a protected reef that is ideal for diving and snorkeling.

Luxury and service are qualities that The Ritz-Carlton is famous for.

The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman resort is no exception. The property offers 365 guest rooms and suites with spectacular views of the famous, white sands Seven Mile Beach. Relax with a chair and umbrella along the coastline or reserve a private poolside or beach cabana for an afternoon of sun and fun. A fruity daiquiri from the outside Bar Jack will quench any thirst. For a quick refresher, take a swim to the Aqua floating Lounge or Aqua Bed anchored just off shore. There are plenty of water sport activities including kayaks, paddle boards, and water tricycles that are available for use included in the daily resort fee. 

The resort offers plenty of activities on-site as well as off-property excursions to entertain. Whether a boat trip out to famous Stingray City or a tour of local Georgetown for shopping, spend the days however you choose. Bring clubs or there are rentals available to test your golf skills on the Blue Tip — a Greg Norman designed nine-hole course. The tennis center by Nick Bollettieri offers instruction and play for those wishing to practice or enhance their game. For those who don’t want to miss a workout, the fitness center offers all the latest equipment and daily Yoga, Zumba or Pilates classes. 

A delightful experience not to be missed includes an escape to Silver Rain, a La Prairie Spa. Upon entering the signature spa, the waterfall sound offers instant relaxation and celebrates the healing energy of the water. The luxurious spa features a variety of facial and body treatments using the exclusive products of La Prairie that help delay, prevent and repair the skin. Try the Platinum Rare Facial that includes two La Prairie therapists working in tandem to transcend one into a state of bliss. Spend the entire day between treatments rejuvenating in the steam, sauna or whirlpools. Bring a good book, stretch out and retreat to the Silver Haven for peaceful comfort.

The property offers five restaurants including the premier restaurant on the island – Blue by Eric Ripert. The award-winning restaurant serves delicious seafood using local fish caught by Cayman’s fisherman. The restaurant offers a variety of seasonal tasting and prix fixe menus throughout the year. Wine lovers will appreciate the over 650 available bottles. For casual al fresco dining, Periwinkle offers delicious calamari and other simple seafood selections along with homemade pasta and pizza over looking the dock and resort waterways. Room service is always an option for those wishing to enjoy a romantic dinner on the balcony.

For the ultimate memory maker, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman delivers luxury and adventure for the vacation of a lifetime.

For more information on Grand Cayman visit www.caymanislands.com or to make reservations at the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman visitwww.ritzcarlton.com.

Romantic and Remote Island Getaway
Little Palm Island Resort & Spa | By Ronda M. Parag

No passport required to escape to Little Palm Island Resort & Spa tucked offshore of Little Torch Key and 35 miles from Key West. A boat or seaplane ride is the only way to access the remote island. A tropical paradise offering an escape from all the distractions of today’s hectic and busy world. 

Upon arrival, guests are greeted with the signature cocktail – The Gumby Slumber – before embarking on the 20 minute boat ride to the resort. The delightful concoction is made from Captain Morgan’s Parrot Bay Coconut Rum and Spiced Rum, pineapple, orange and cranberry juices topped with shredded, marinated in 151 proof rum, coconut. During the visit, be sure to mosey up to the bar, as the bartender will share the recipe. 

The 15 Polynesian-inspired thatch roof bungalow buildings offer 30luxurious oceanfront rooms, mixed among the 250 Jamaican palm trees and lush foliage. The Bungalow suites offer a British Colonial style decor living room, large bath area with sunken tub and private outdoor shower and custom-made King bed surrounded by romantic mosquito netting. Each room has a minibar that is re-stocked daily. 

Be sure to bring a good book as there are no telephones or televisions inside the rooms. Cell phones are not allowed in public spaces and there is one telephone booth available if you must reach the outside world. Relax on the private deck overlooking the water and in the early morning or around dusk, it is easy to spot one of the key deer that call the island home.

Retreat to The SpaTerre to help restore peace and relaxation. Experience the signature treatment, The Javanese Lulur Royal Treatment, that begins with a body massage of Jasmine Frangipani scented flower oil and continues with a Lulur exfoliation, a yogurt massage, a scented shower and a soak in a Japanese tub infused with fragrant rose petals. Or pamper the soles with a Key Lime Margarita Pedicure that incorporates the local fruit and begins with the signature Key Lime Margarita to sip.

Dining is an experience with breakfast, lunch and dinner offered at The Dining Room. Chef Luis Pous changes the menu frequently to offer fresh, seasonal ingredients including herbs grown on the property. The dining room is elegantly lit in the evening and romantic beach-side dining is offered, weather permitting.

A variety of complimentary water sports include kayaks, day sailers, water bikes, Boston Whalers, fishing and snorkeling gear and beach floats. 

Arrangements can be made for SCUBA, snorkeling, backcountry and deep sea fishing, sunset sailing cruises, as well as guided nature tours by canoe and sailboat. For divers, a trip to nearby Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary to explore the wonders of the last living coral reef in North America is a must. Trips to historic Key West can be arranged, as well as visually dramatic and exciting seaplane tours. Or simply rest and relax at the lagoon-style swimming pool tucked in the lush, tropical landscape.
For reservations, call 1-800-3-GET-LOST or visitwww.littlepalmisland.com to plan a romantic island escape.

NAPLES, FL (May 2012) – A Southwest Florida tradition continues, as The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club will again host its popular “SummerJazz on the Gulf” concert series. This will mark the 27th consecutive year of the fun, free concert series, combining a diverse selection of Jazz entertainers with gorgeous views of the Gulf, exquisite sunsets, refreshing breezes, and a relaxing atmosphere. Each concert is held on the resort’s scenic Watkins Lawn overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. “SummerJazz on the Gulf” will take place one Saturday evening per month June-September, and each concert will be from 7 - 10 p.m. This year’s concerts will be on Saturday, June 16; Saturday, July 21; Saturday, August 25; and Saturday, September 22, 2012.

According to Jim Anderson, food & beverage director for The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club and organizer of the annual concert series, the 2012 “SummerJazz on the Gulf” line-up is:

·         Legendary J.C.’s  – Saturday, June 16, 2012

·         Late Night Brass – Saturday, July 21, 2012

·         New Groove City featuring Gumbi Ortiz – Saturday, August 25, 2012

·         Eight To The Bar – Saturday, September 22, 2012.

“This year we’re featuring two groups who have played SummerJazz previously, Late Night Brass and Gumbi Ortiz, now known as New Groove City featuring Gumbi Ortiz – plus two new groups that we think will put on great shows,” said Anderson. “It promises to be an excellent concert series.”

Those interested in staying at the resort during “SummerJazz on the Gulf” weekends can contact the resort’s reservations department for best available rates and packages by calling (800) 237-7600 or (239) 261-2222, or online atwww.NaplesBeachHotel.com .

For those not staying at the resort there will be parking just north of the hotel at Lowdermilk Park, with free parking provided to those with a Naples beach sticker, and free trolley service to the resort and back. Guests may bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating, however coolers are not permitted. Call (239) 261-2222 for further information and directions.

The Legendary J.C.’s will kick-off this year’s “SummerJazz on the Gulf” concert series on Saturday, June 16, 2012. Performing for the first time at SummerJazz, the 8-piece band – commonly called “The J.C.’s” – is known for getting the audience on its feet from the first song to the last. Performing a very appealing mixture of soul, old school R&B, funk, Motown classics, and original tunes, the band features talented and energetic lead singer Eugene Snowden, and impressive horn and rhythm sections. The band has headlined at NOLA Jazz Fest, Florida Music Festival, the Springing in Blues festival, and at the Monte Carlo Casino in Las Vegas. Additionally, the band has performed with such greats as James Brown, B.B. King, and Al Green, and has played for dignitaries at the G8 Summit and the Canadian Parliament. For band information, visit www.sonicbids.com/thelegendaryjcs . The concert is being sponsored by Fifth Third Bank. 

The very popular and versatile 10-piece Late Night Brass will headline the SummerJazz concert on Saturday, July 21, 2012. Returning to SummerJazz for the fourth consecutive year, this high-energy band features a powerful four-piece horn section, a skilled four-piece rhythm section (keyboard, guitar, bass and drums), a dynamic male vocalist, and a very talented female vocalist. They will perform a range of songs from such popular horn bands as Chicago, Earth Wind & Fire, Tower of Power, Blood Sweat & Tears, and The Doobie Brothers. The band has opened up for Chicago, Chris Botti, Huey Lewis & The News, Billy Joel & Elton John, Michael Bublé, Earth Wind & Fire, and Sting & The Police. For more information on the band, visitwww.latenightbrass.us . The concert is being sponsored by Insurance and Risk Management Services, Inc., and Florida Community Bank.

New Groove City featuring Gumbi Ortiz will perform on Saturday, August 25, 2012. Performing an eclectic blend of jazz/fusion, funk, samba, and retro-soul, the 5-piece band is under the leadership of charismatic Gumbi Ortiz, who has been an integral part of superstar fusion guitarist Al Di Meola’s band for 20 years. Formerly called The Latino Projekt, the band became New Groove City in 2011 to better reflect the more soulful direction the band has taken. The band has released two successful albums, and has toured throughout the Southeast. For more information on the band, visit www.newgroovecity.com . The concert is being sponsored by Naples Transportation, Tours and Event Planning. 

This season’s final SummerJazz concert on Saturday, September 22, 2012, will feature Eight To The Bar. The impressive, 6-piece band performs swing, Motown, classic R&B, standards, and funk. Known for its outstanding instrumentalists and sophisticated musical and vocal arrangements, highlighted by female vocals, Eight To The Bar was named “Best Live Band 2010” by Hartford Magazine. The band has produced 11 CDs and has performed coast-to-coast in the U.S., as well as in England, Sweden, Germany, Denmark, Austria, and Switzerland. Additionally, the band has opened for Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Manhattan Transfer, Robert Cray, Neil Young, Roy Orbison, and Ray Charles. For more information on the band, visitwww.eighttothebar.com .  The concert is being sponsored by BSSW Architects, Inc., and D. Garrett Construction, Inc.

Guests attending “SummerJazz on the Gulf” should consider dining at the resort’s H.B.’s on the Gulf, the city of Naples’ only beachfront restaurant, which serves fresh Florida seafood and traditional American favorites. Patrons also can enjoy a specialty drink at the newly renovated and expanded Sunset Beach Bar & Grill, named Naples’ “Best Beach Bar” by the Travel Channel. All concerts feature full bar service in several locations and a food concession with a selection of snack items and freshly grilled burgers, hot dogs, and grilled chicken sandwiches.

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club, owned and operated by the Watkins family for more than 65 years, is Naples’ only beachfront resort offering on-site championship golf, a world-class spa, and an award-winning tennis center.

Continually enhancing its already-impressive offerings, the 317-room resort completed a $22 million renovation in 2010. The multi-phase project included the renovation of guest rooms and suites, and the addition of a $5 million all-new beachfront pool complex. On-site amenities include a fitness center, the professionally-supervised Beach Kids Club child activity program, an Orchid House, multiple restaurants and bars, 34,000 square feet of indoor meeting and event space, and many beautiful outdoor venues. The resort is located at 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. North in Naples. Contact the resort at (800) 237-7600 or (239) 261-2222, and visit www.NaplesBeachHotel.com .

Taste of Amelia Progressive Dinner

Omni Amelia Island Plantation

Appeasing the most discerning appetites, the Omni Amelia Island Plantation

invites guests to embark on an exclusive culinary journey with the Taste of

Amelia Progressive Dinner. At $150 per person, groups of up to eight travel on

a private island hopper to the luxury resort¡˜s most exquisite restaurants to enjoy a

five-course progressive dinner, accompanied by Executive Chef Helminski¡˜s

wine-pairings.

The Taste of Amelia Progressive Dinner offers an opportunity for guests to

savor premiere samplings of the Omni Amelia Island Plantation¡˜s greatest

cuisine. From awakening the palate with a delectable choice of cheeses, freshly

baked bread and complementary wines at French market bistro MarchŽ Burette

to enjoying a mouth-watering main course of Red House Grouper at The

Verandah, the Omni Amelia Island Plantation offers an exclusive dinner tour

highlighting its finest flavors (see full menu below).

Nestled at the tip of a barrier island off the Northeast Florida coast, the Omni

Amelia Island Plantation surrounds itself with sparkling Atlantic waters and lush

salt marshlands. Across 1,350-acres of canopied live oaks and ocean views, the

beachfront resort offers 249 deluxe oceanfront rooms, as well as over 300

spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom villas with the Villas of Amelia Island

Plantation.

Package: Taste of Amelia Progressive Dinner

Rate: $150 per person (group of up to eight people)

Available: Tuesday through Saturday, based on availability

Book Dates By: September 1, 2011 (must also be completed by this date)

Reservations: To reserve your culinary journey on the Taste of Amelia

Progressive Dinner, call 904-321-5050

Contact: For more information on the Omni Amelia Island Plantation,

visit www.omniameliaislandplantation.com

HYATT REGENCY CLEARWATER BEACH RESORT AND SPA ANNOUNCES THREE NEW PROMOTIONS JUST IN TIME FOR SUMMER

Clearwater Beach’s newest luxury resort now has a special offer for every type of traveler

CLEARWATER BEACH, Fla. (June 14, 2011) – The AAA Four Diamond Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa, the newest luxury resort on Florida’s west coast, introduces three new promotions to kick off the busy summer travel season. The offers range from a resort welcome credit to complimentary breakfast for two to a third night free, ensuring that travelers will find a deal that is just right for their travel needs.

- Stay More and Earn More with a Welcome Credit Offer

Guests who book and stay at Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach now through December 30, 2011, will receive a resort credit that can be used on services such as dining, spa treatments and in-room movies. The resort credit is applied at checkout based on the total length of stay:

-- For a two-night stay, guests will receive a $100 resort credit.
-- For a three-night stay, guests will receive a $200 resort credit.
-- For a four-night stay, guests will receive a $400 resort credit.
-- For a stay of five nights or longer, guests will receive a $500 resort credit.

Travelers can book this welcome credit offer by visiting http://clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com or calling 1-800-233-1234 with offer code WELCRE.

The Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville Marks This Independence Day with a Red, White and Blue Americana Celebration

ASHEVILLE, N.C. - In the heart of Biltmore Village, The Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville - a Kessler Collection boutique escape - invites guests to enjoy luxurious accommodations during the City of Asheville’s Pack Square Park Fourth of July Celebration in the town center. The American spirit rings out this summer as Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville visitors bask in the glory of the Blue Ridge landscape surrounding this intimate boutique hotel, masterfully blending lodge-inspired comforts with modern luxuries and featuring convenient access to historic and cultural sights. Independence Day weekend rates start at $299.

Minutes from the Grand Bohemian, the newly expanded, historic Pack Square is a beautiful public park with more than six acres of lush green space, three water features and original, large-scale creations by regional artists. This year, the Independence Day party is an event for the whole family, with festivities starting Monday at 4:00 p.m. At Pack Park, live music plays all day on the main stage and the revelry culminates with a grand fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.

At Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville, Red Stag Grill offers a menu full of tradition, inviting guests and locals to relax in a festive atmosphere to socialize with friends and family. The team led by Chef Adam Hayes serves up exceptional American classics to celebrate the holiday weekend, offering outdoor entertainment and drinks on the Tyrolean Terrace from 2:30 - 8:30 p.m., with live entertainment Friday through Monday from 4:30 - 8:30 p.m. This patriotic weekend, Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville features red, white and blue cocktails and desserts, from Childress Starbound Blueberry Port and The Kessler Collection Red Stag Meritage, to Martha Jane’s Preserved Blueberries with Mascarpone and Cream Cheese Cake.

To celebrate the American past time of art appreciation, the Grand Bohemian Gallery showcases the works of local artist Leo Monahan on Saturday, July 2 from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. with an exclusive Artist Reception and Demonstration of Monahan’s paper sculpture, along with a private artist meet and greet.

Guests of the Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville can celebrate the great outdoors during a Navitat Canopy Adventure through Western North Carolina’s most scenic forest during a zipline canopy tour (www.navitat.com/asheville and 828.626.3700 to book). Asheville area activities inspired by the original land grant settlers in the Swannanoa Valley also include an authentic, three-day Powwow in Cherokee, N.C., highlighting Native American culture, as well as the Tiffany at Biltmore glass exhibition, included with estate admission. For more uniquely American sights, the 42nd annual Mountaineer Antique Auto Car Show will take place in Asheville July 1-3.

For more information or to book a stay at the Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville, please visit www.bohemianhotelasheville.com or call the hotel directly at 828.505.2949.