Tag Archives: travel

This Makes Senza!

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_MG_3109_MG_3191_MG_3227Next time you plan a trip to Napa for an encounter with the nectar of the gods…stay at Senza Hotel. This classic boutique hotel, located between Napa and Yountville and just off Highway 29, will ease your senses and have you relaxing in under five minutes. The quiet and understated luxury resort will knock your socks off once you have entered your guest room. This property is swaddled by vineyards, mountains and artwork from owners Kathryn and Craig Hall’s private collection. These pieces have been strategically placed to catch your eye, slow you down and to take in a deep breath of Napa air. (Kathryn and Craig Hall are also the owners of the Hall and Walt wineries.)

From the minute you are greeted by the friendly staff, escorted to your room and wowed by the sleek contemporary decor, you know you have landed in the perfect spot for a few days of relaxation. Pool, Jacuzzi, spa, fire-pit and art tour are some of perfect amenities that will help your brain slip sideways and decompress.

As a guest, you will be invited to enjoy an hour every evening of wine tasting and fabulous epicurean delights of fine cheese, fruits from the valley and light fare that will keep you satisfied until dinner. Enjoy the patio setting in front of the fireplace while swirling a new sauvignon blanc that has never before touched your pallet. For your tasting pleasure, you are also welcome to a complementary wine tasting at Hall Winery (a $30 value).

Sleeping in late, in the quiet confines of this resort, is more than possible, but if you wake at sunrise, you will be treated to the spectacular views of the Napa area hot air balloons gently parading low across the vineyards. What a splendid way to wake up and say…”Good morning…I’m in Napa!”

Hugs and Kisses

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I’m in love again! The other day, Adagio Teas in Naperville, IL was offering tea samples outside in carafes. As I stopped to take a taste, the carafe was empty, but the smell was divine. I went inside and asked if they had any more tea for sampling. Kindly, the sales associate offered to make me a new pot of tea if I cared to wait. Of course! While waiting,  I found a packet of my favorite Midnight Earl Grey I raved about last year…but I also found a wonderful new selection of teapots, cups and accessories every tea aficionado can’t live without.

A new pot of tea was ready. I was poured a cup of Hugs and Kisses. This is when I fell in love, again. A combination of rooibos, rose petals, cornflowers, vanilla, almond, cream and caramel flavor hit my pallet and I was sold! Smooth and dreamy…all of the way down. This blend is made by Adagio Teas and is contained in a beautiful rose covered tin. Perfect for a gift or self indulgence.

I encourage all you shopinistas and travelers out there to stop in at Adagio Teas if you are in the Naperville area. Their customer service goes above and beyond and warms you inside and out! Happy Valentine’s Day to all of my treasure and travel seekers.

Wonderful Wednesdays: Free Admission to the Art Insitute of Chicago

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Calling all Illinoisans to the Art Institute of Chicago. Did you know the first and second Wednesday of each month is free to all Illinois residents? Just bring your driver’s license or proof of residency to the ticket office (you may be asked to make a donation) and enjoy a stunning collection of world class art.

Explore the well known impressionism paintings from Monet to Van Gogh. Step into the new Modern Wing and find contemporary artwork bathed in light and openness. Both, the original and the new wings, have delightful gift shops.  Here, you can purchase a souvenir of one of the great master’s works or a lesser known craftsman’s object you may want to savor. After you depart the museum, take a stroll to the museum’s outdoor sculpture gardens and find yourself insulated from the city’s hustle and bustle. Migrating warblers, owls and woodpeckers have been seen here in the trees (by yours truly) making it hard to believe you are in the middle of a major metropolis. Take a Wednesday morning, afternoon or day and feed your senses with art, for free!

Upgrade the Suitcase

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Spring is here. Time to dust off the passport and start traveling. Renew your wanderlust for traveling by treating yourself to a new suitcase. While standing in the long TSA lines, strike a pose and make a statement with your luggage. My new set of luggage is an ensemble of nesting London Fog suitcases, designed for three different types of travel. The practical overnight bag…”just checking into a hotel for one night “, the weekender…”I just have to get away for a few days bag”, and the full tilt – seven to ten day vacation suitcase. These classic, durable bags – are both practical and chic. Since 1923, London Fog has been creating well-built products backed by an excellent warranty. Extra compartments and features help with the ease of both packing and unpacking. You will certainly treasure having reliable luggage on your adventures. There is nothing worse than having the zipper on your case break the morning you are set to leave for your destination (been there) or have a wheel crumble in the concourse of the airport (done that). You may be able to purchase a suitcase for less at one of the box stores, but if you are planning to do some serious traveling, invest in luggage that will be your best traveling partner for years to come.

Need to update your passport? Follow this link to Cheapflights.com for great tips on getting your papers in order. The sooner you are up-to-date, the sooner you’ll be sipping a cappuccino in Roma enjoying la dolce vita!