To celebrate travel and comfort, MBT is giving away the ultimate San Francisco travel package for two! Your trip includes roundtrip airfare to San Francisco and two-night accommodations in a Deluxe King guestroom at the Hotel Drisco.
Hotel Drisco:
Tucked away in Pacific Heights, the Hotel Drisco offers casual sophistication, unparalleled service, and easy access to everything the City has to offer. You will feel so comfortable at the Hotel Drisco that you might actually forget you’re traveling. The warm inviting decor and thoughtful staff will soon have you calling this hotel your San Francisco home away from home.
America’s Cup Sailing Adventure:
You and your guest will enjoy a thrilling 2½ hour sail on San Francisco Bay and feel what it’s like to be a crew member for America’s Cup aboard USA 76!
Two CityPASSes:
CityPass gives you admission to San Francisco’s must-see attractions and unlimited transportation on all Muni Trolleys, busses and historic Cable Cars. Free admission to Aquarium of the Bay, California Academy of Sciences, Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruise, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) and Exploratorium or de Young Museum.
Guided Walking Tour:
Soak up the rich culture and history of San Francisco during a guided walking tour of one of the many famous sections of the city. Options include: North Beach, China Town, Pacific Heights Mansions, Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Park and more!
PIER 39:
PIER 39’s Premier Pass is your VIP ticket to a day of fun and adventure. Enjoy complimentary tickets for a 60-minute Bay Cruise aboard Blue & Gold Fleet, admission to the Aquarium of the Bay, Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze, and one free ride on the San Francisco Carousel! After your fun-filled day, kick back and relax with a $50 gift certificate to San Francisco’s only water-front tiki bar at Players Sports Grill’S Luau Lounge.
Dinner with Tango Diva:
For Tango Diva Fans, you have the opportunity to enjoy a dinner with me, founder of Tango Diva.com and author of FLY SOLO. You will also receive a signed copy of my book. Yes, she’s paying for dinner. Or, if you prefer to keep it more private, be treated to a dinner for two.
A Pair of MBTs:
We wouldn’t send you on this action-packed trip without having the benefits and comfort of the original physiological footwear, MBT®. You and a guest will each choose a pair from MBT’s Official Online Shop. MBT® – Made for your body, made for getting away!
Super Diva best describes Elizabeth St. Hilaire Nelson. An artist, athlete, musician, professional graphic designer and devoted wife and mother, Elizabeth, like her art, is a spirited collage of creative energy. Her life mirrors her celebrated work. She beautifully incorporates the past into the present utilizing simplistic elements.
Meticulously torn bits of paper pulled from treasured mementos – old cards, letters, and even her children’s homework – are delicately put together to form colorful collage paintings.
Nature, dogs, birds and flowers are recurring subjects. Elizabeth likens her creations to music compositions. Rhythmically, she layers textured and patterned papers weaving in colors and creating dimension to achieve her final masterpiece.
Sentimental tidbits and memories magically redefined!
Her art radiates. The vibrant color palette and soft underlying messaging draw you in for a closer look. A sense of nostalgia permeates your thoughts. You are comforted and calmed by the imagery. Elizabeth St. Hilaire Nelson’s extraordinary talents touch the world every day teaching us to savor each moment.
Count yourself among the lucky to experience her creations first hand.
Her inspiring collection now includes note cards, tote bags and iphone cases. Check out the artist’s official blog to learn more.
FLASHBAGS online, a small innovative company founded by two women, offers the full line of tote bags. Average Retail Cost:$39+
Grand Bohemian Gallery located in Kessler hotel properties around the country is the exclusive gallery partner showcasing a comprehensive selection of her work.
Don’t miss the opening of Elizabeth’s latest exhibition – Noah’s Ark Series – at the Thrasher Horne Center for the Arts in Jacksonville, Florida on Friday, April 27. The solo exhibition runs through June 16.
First clue is…I’m sipping it as I type this and baby, it’s rich and velvety and slips down nicely. Give up?
Ok,it would be……are you ready for this……???? Van Gogh Vodka’s new Peanut Butter & Jelly flavor. More precisely, we’re talking smooth peanut butter and an intense raspberry flavored jelly,with just the right touch of vanilla undertones. After a few you’ll really be ready for nap time.
Grown-up kids might want to try this tasty sounding cocktail:
PB & J & Coke
Created by Jonathan Pogash, The Cocktail Guru,
2 parts Van Giogh PB& J Vodka
4 parts Coca-cola
Add ingredients to a tall glass of ice and stir.
PB & J vodka is produced in small batches by Master Distiller Tim Vos at the Royal Dirkzwager Distilleries in Schiedam, Holland. If you’re not a fan of P B & J (perhaps you had enough of these sammies in grade school to last you a lifetime), no worries. Van Gogh Vodka has 21 other authentically flavored vodkas to entice you, such as Rich Dark Chocolate, Double Espresso (oooh, I’m going to mix these two together for a mocha that really packs a wallop), Mojito Mint, Acai-Blueberry, etc.
The master showman does it again. A spectacular music event where “on demand” takes on new meaning!
For the first time in 25 years, Costello will let the fans rule the repertoire. In the return of the Spinning Songbook, an oversized Wheel of Fortune takes center stage and leaves the performance of Costello classics and musical genius to chance. The good news is that there are no losers in this playful interactive show.
Costello’s creativity connects with the audience. And, once again this iconic and versatile artist delivers a legendary performance that is not to be missed.
For die-hard fans – like this Diva – the tour is a truly a gift from the music gods!
A Grammy Award Winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee, Elvis Costello has few rivals in the realm of talent. Timeless ballads like “Alison” and powerful poetic songs the likes of “Peace, Love and Understanding” set the bar high…heavenly high in a world often cluttered with senseless noise.
You still have four show dates left this month to see the Elvis and his faithful band at work stateside… before the tour crosses the pond in May.
North Florida is graced with a performance in late April.
For the past 2 days, I have been living in luxury at the St. Regis, Punta Mita. Here, on this small peninsula 30 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, the world’s best chefs and wine makers have descended on the private community of Punta Mita for the annual Golf and Gourmet Classic.
For the next days, international chefs take to the stage to create magical menus that are carefully paired with wines from around the world. Within the gates of this secluded cove is the famed St. Regis hotel and Resort and it is here that most of the events take place.
When guests arrive to the St. Regis, they are greeted with a glass of Veuve Clicquot before being escorted to the opening party. Veuve Clicquot is the champagne sponsor – which is apropos for an event of this caliber.
American Airlines sponsored the magnificant Opening Cocktail Party. The scene was ablaze with international socialites and famed chefs serving up incredible edibles. Renowned Chefs Abraham Salum, British Bernard Collins, Argentine Pobre Luis, Australian Andrew Ormsby, Brasil’s Rodrigo Oliveira, Italian Celestino Drago along with his colleague Ian Gresik joined celebrated local Chef Thierry Blouet of the renowned Café des Artistes in Puerto Vallarta and Punta Mita along with host Mexican Chefs. Wine & Tequila tastings with participating Sommeliers and Tequila Masters.
Are You A Digital Native?
Everyone knows that if you can’t fix your computer, ask a twelve year old. These kids who were born and raised on YouTube and instant messaging are pushing aside the baby boomer grasp on the media. It hit me whack upside the head the night I showed up at the New People Cinema for the closing night of the Asian American Film Festival in San Francisco. Lia Yoo, a fifteen year old from Ohio, was introduced as the youngest film executive producer. They found her on the creative arts fundraising site Kickstarter. Lia gave a stirring introduction, explaining her commitment to diversity as president of her high school gay/straight alliance. The lights went down and before me began a carefully choreographed collection of videos, live performance, singing, karaoke, lights on, audience participation, lights off, random outbursts and short attention span comedic interludes. These people were flaunting every audio/visual convention. I really wanted to be annoyed but I was rapidly converted by the stunning production values, brilliant camera work, innovative editing, and Grammy worthy singing. The dominant cultural paradigm has officially shifted.
Transmedia from Transylvania?
The producers called the production “transmedia”, “interactive cinema”, and a blatant quest for musical world domination. Those Rocky Horror midnight costumed audience participation film nights are so last week. Prison Dancer flouts the linear narrative conventions without sacrificing entertainment value or plot.
How Did This Transmedia Thing Start?
If you are twenty you probably already know that there’s a great series on YouTube called Prison Dancer. The creators were inspired by those inmates of Cebu, Philippines who performed Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” in a viral YouTube video back in the day. The characters in this nouveau Prison Dancer have a touch of Glee, but instead of the band Journey, the running homage is to the famous Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao, aka Pak Yow. (You’ll be humming his name for days). The Prison Dancer cast consists of several top Filipino-Canadian stars of Broadway, stage, and all sized screens.
L – O – L – A … Lola:
Throughout the tightly choreographed 70 minutes we get to know Lola, the unlikely leader of the pack, a loud and proud queen who keeps everyone in line by giving dancing lessons to fellow inmates. The most non-macho comedy interaction with a punching bag award goes to Jeigh Madjus, Mr Jailhouse Rock in a parallel and very gay universe. Caught up in the excitement I shyly lifted my iPhone to snap a discreet pic of the concert/film/happpening. Looking around, half the audience was tweeting or had their smartphones in the air making real time docs. Times have changed.
Prison Dancer Everywhere, Anytime:
You can view the Prison Dancer interactive musical web series on YouTube 24/7. The talented crew goes full circle in July 2012 at the New York Musical Theatre Festival with an off Broadway musical production of performative cinema. Tablets are phones, phones are tablets, get used to it.
Dancing with the Stars fans in Jacksonville will be in a frenzy – dusting off their dancing shoes and kicking up their heels when the smok’n hot dance spectacle – Burn The Floor. Ballroom. Reinvented. – visits the River City this month.
The internationally acclaimed hit show is aptly described as “strictly ballroom with an attitude”.
Entertainment Weekly says the show is - Downright sexy! A polished production, with classy costumes and stunning vocals.”
Under the artistic guidance of former World Champion Latin and Ballroom dancer, Jason Gilkison (who is also well known for his choreography and judging on “So You Think You Can Dance”), the show is electric. Each performance shines.
The sensational talents of this global group of 22 award-winning dancers are simply amazing! Stars in their own right – with over 100+ championship titles held collectively, these dancers are poised to set the stage on fire with classic dance favorites like the Viennese Waltz and high octane numbers like the Jive.
Whatever your footwork fancy… a Sultry Samba, a Tantalizing Tango or the Passionate Paso Doble, Burn The Floor will deliver!
A Special Pre-Show Treat: It is Twinkle-Toes time with the local Fred Astaire Dance Studio. Dance Instructors will take you for a spin around the lobby. Don’t be late…the lesson starts at 6:30 p.m. prior to the performance.
Search no more! Skip the boxed soap gift sets and edible floral arrangements this Mother’s Day. Give mom the gift that says and DOES so much more.
Honor and thank her for her many sacrifices by celebrating and elevating her special beauty with the help of science.
NuFACE®, a sleek futuristic-looking device the size of a television remote, has rocked the beauty world as an anti-aging secret weapon. Proclaimed as the “pilates or personal trainer for the face”, this hand-held magic wand is revolutionizing in-home and over-the-counter skin care solutions. Using technology to turn back the clock by diminishing fine lines and plumping the skin, NuFACE promises to deliver noticeable and dramatic results in less than 60 days.
Passionate users claim it is a Botox contender and a replacement for more costly invasive plastic surgery procedures, laser treatments and topical creams.
A safe and sensory patented micro-current system is key to NuFACE’s effectiveness and continued success. Skin appears tighter and toned with a regime of application. Add in the unit’s affordable price point ($250-$325) compared with the known alternatives, the positive clinical research and the solid customer testimonials, and NuFACE comes out a winner on every level.
For over ten years, the Carol Cole Company has been leading the way in results-driven skin care. The NuFACE device was created to aid in facial rejuvenation. Each year, Carol and her team of aesthetic experts, scientists and tech designers work to improve and enhance the NuFACE experience. Today, consumers have a choice of colors and models to meet their lifestyle and budget.
The NuFACE Classic comes in a variety of diva color favorites including bright pink and teal.
The NEW Trinity Model is totally tricked out with a cool ergonomic design, a rechargeable cradle charger, interchangeable heads for multiple therapies, push button controls, audible treatment indicators and a 20 minute auto shut-off.
I was skeptical after reading mixed reviews. But decided to give NuFACE a try. I previewed the online tutorial and was careful to apply the gel primer to treatment area before using. And, I made sure my skin was clean and free of any makeup or moisturizers. The total process took under 15 minutes; it was easy and painless. I glided the probes as instructed in defined repetitive upward movements (holding 5-10 seconds) on specific problem areas of the face – the forehead, brow, jowls and cheek. After only one week of daily use, I noticed a difference. I looked rested and refreshed. Even friends commented on the positive change in my appearance. Results are said to last up to 72 hours or even longer with consistent usage. A routine treatment schedule consisting of a minimum of five days a week for for first 90 days is highly recommended followed by maintenance treatments two or three times each week thereafter. Insider Tip: Natural Aloe Vera is a a cost-effective substitute for the gel primer.
The final verdict is not yet out for me… it is still too early to see truly significant results. But given the response from friends and the reflection in the mirror lately… my transformation is looking very very promising.
I am excited to erase a few years…as I am certain most women would be.
If you are not quite ready for the investment, opt for a treatment at a local spa or aethestician office. The NuFACE website can direct you to a list of professionals in your area.
Happy Mother’s Day!
To shop and learn more, visit the NuFACE online at www.mynuface.com
If internationally known art community San Miguel de Allende, Mexico is on your vacation bucket list and you love hitting the hotspots when traveling, lock in a stay at Hotel Matilda. A dreamy destination matched with a lifetime come true goal of local entrepreneur: Harold Stream (aka Spook).
A red eye flight from SFO and a two hour shuttle drive from the nearest airport (LEON) delivers us at dawn, bleary-eyed, at the well worth the journey sleek revealing entryway of Hotel Matilda – a sophisticated and polished gem nestled in the cradle of cobbled colonial streets.
Checking in at the front desk is a breeze, the staff is graceful, thoughtful, prepared. It’s the electronic evolving kaleidoscopic (echoing traditional Mexican tiles by Nacho Rodriguez Bach) suspended behind the staff that questions the steadiness of our feet. This is the first indication of what artful promise lies ahead. On our right is an exquisitely designed library and gallery of Latin art, books and collectibles – to be enjoyed after we freshen up.
On to our abode. We breeze past a monumentous bust by Javier Marín, a celebrated Mexican sculptor from Uruapan, Michoacan. My friend and I exchange glances. Hint number two. This is gonna be special. We stroll on past a misty sculptural waterfall feeding into an infinity – the pools surface is at our eye (popping) level. This is the pulsing heart of the property.
Our guest room is sparkling clean, artfully decorated with original photography by Eduardo Dayan, and the floor to ceiling patio windows look out upon the rolling hilltops of San Miguel de Allende.
First things first, a visit to Spa Matilda – the only spa in all of Mexico to make the Conde Nast 2011 HOT LIST. And sexy and sultry it is. The waiting room has the typical tea and cookies selections but what is not so typical is the original museum quality art, the lavish interior touches, a simmering fireplace and a cultivated art library. Allow yourselves plenty time to linger here before and after scheduled appointments.
The Hammam experience. Step into a steam so dense you cannot decipher your surroundings. The heat and fragrance will take your breath away – breathe in, breathe out. Sidestep your way to the plush towel draped divan and absorb the heat and moisture for a few minutes. Arranged in front of the divan is a bench table with a small pot of freshly custom blended ginger, sage and lavender. Scrub yourself from head to toe and then lie down to completely relax and absorb the salt, the fragrance and feel your cares melt away. Thirty minutes of complete surrender. If the heat gets to be too much plunge your fingers into the ice bucket for the cold wash cloth. Eventually the steam subsides and you will discover you are ensconced in a large white marble room with alcoves and artisan touches. The soft plush divan and the rainwater rinse take this steam room experience to another physical level.
Each signature massage treatment begins with hovering lavender oil infused cupped palms suspended over your eyes and mouth until your breathing slows. A satin eye pillow stuffed with sage, lavender, rosemary and clover drapes across your brow and allows you to truly release. Gently wrapped in the softest sheets and blankets, your shoulders and feet supported with absorbent cushy rolls, soft music in the background, aromatherapy infused, you are ready. Inhale and let go as much as you can while you are firmly and carefully worked from head to toe.
Hate to miss a minute of a clear blue sky? Opt for Spa En Vivo – just minutes from the Hotel – for an outdoor massage or dip into thermal springs.
The spa shop is very tempting, carrying Natura Bisse and Primavera® products, all used in treatments and a few more select stylish items. Notice the lavender – grown all round the property – an essential element in every service at the Spa.
Around the corner is a new fitness facility with cardio and strength-training equipment furnished in the Fall 2011 and literally just above is the stunning infinity pool presented center stage in the heart of the hotel. (Locals and long term vacationers have full access to the gym and pool for $150 U.S a month)
We head back to the room to dress for the day. It is late October and the city is humming with preparations for Dia de Los Muertos.
The central plaza is decorated with fluttering colored flags and surrounded by an assortment of colorful alters to the dead. The cathedral soars above us ripping the blue sky. It is warm and small children are shouting and darting in every direction.
After a stirring and thought provoking two hour walking tour of the town with Patronato Pro Ninos(highly recommended) we were inspired to watch the film Frida (2002) again, with a fresh awareness of the historical events that took place here and throughout Mexico.
Choosing to pass on the outdoor screening of an ancient horror flick we scrambled to catch up with a smartly uniformed singing and marching troupe headed seemingly towards the parque beyond our hotel. Much to our delight the troupe was destined for Hotel Matilda! What a unique musical experience for the guests! And an insight into the support of the arts of this community and of hotel management.
As the music died down we queried the front desk for the film Frida. To our complete delight and their surprise they had the DVD in stock and proceeded to set up the player in our room. Truly custom service. After learning so much during the morning tour we wanted to continue the experience of reliving history. Watching Frida and the art and politics of the day was perfecto.
We slept soundly, blissfully. Breakfast was fresh fruit and eggs, all beautifully presented. Off we went to explore the the arts in town. On our evening return we met for drinks and appetizers in the Bar Matilda with the hotel representative for insights on the property.
Clearly the arts are the passion of this property. It houses an eclectic collection of works, including several pieces commissioned specifically for Hotel Matilda by popular and rising stars of the Mexican art world.
Underscoring Hotel Matilda’s commitment to the arts is that it is named for the subject of a famous painting in the hotel’s collection. In the 1940s, internationally acclaimed Mexican artist Diego Rivera painted a larger-than-life portrait of Matilda Stream, the mother of Hotel Matilda owner/developer Harold Stream. Rivera was unhappy with his first effort, believing it represented what others wanted her to be rather than what he saw in her, so he painted a new portrait his way. In “The Archer,” Matilda stands straight and strong, clutching a bow and arrow, and embodies – in Rivera’s artistic vision the inner Matilda – the goddess of the hunt, Diana. As a tribute to artistic vision, a reproduction (the original remains in the Stream family private collection) hangs in the hotel.
Much like an art gallery experience ones physical passage throughout the property is supported masterfully. Thoughtfully designed sliding doors are a signature nuance. From the superb street entrance to the lobby and dining sliding doors, right on thru to the suites solid bathroom door that upon closure reveals a full length mirror. Windows frame beauty in every direction. Our bathroom window reveals a deep blue wall absorbing the natural light of the day, providing a fresh sense of calm with each entry.
There are 32 rooms and suites in five categories: Deluxe Rooms, Grand Deluxe Rooms, Junior Suites, Luxury Suites and Owner’s Suites. All accommodations are luxuriously appointed with artistic touches, from fine 400-thread count linens and Mexican calcuta marble floors to art works by acclaimed Mexico City photographer Eduardo Zaylan. Most feature a balcony or terrace, while many boast panoramic views.
Travelers seeking old world charm have a plethora of options but for those who seek a state of the art experience – a vibrant home away from home pulsing with a Latin beat – this is your dream come true.
More deets:
Wifi: Wireless internet at no charge is available in all common areas. Every room and suite has an internet connection.
Canine Club Pet Program: Pets up to 20 pounds welcome with special beds, treats, toys, daily walks and more.
Mexican Materials & Décor: Most of the materials and components of the construction and décor are Mexican, from marble from Hidalgo and Puebla states and quarried rock from the state of Queretaro to upholstery and furniture hand-crafted by Mexican artisans.
Green Profile: Photo-voltaic panels producing up to 30% of the electricity needs; solar panels heating water for guest rooms, the pool, and other uses; a lighting system that automatically dims and shuts off lights to reduce energy use; composting of organic waste and recycling of glass, plastic, paper and other inorganic waste; and sustainable bath amenities presented in large 32 oz. pump bottles that are refilled rather than small individual throwaway bottles (very nice touch).
Hotel Matilda
Aldama 53
San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato
37700 Mexico
KEEN lovers – I just got a tickle out of my mom’s hot buy for her new Mary Janes! Spotted in Sundance Catalog, she shopped around and found free shipping + 25% off and is stoked! Her words!
I just scored these Bronze Luna FitFlops – I cannot live without this brand! Seems those in Europe get the freshest releases and at $70 =- $130 a pop – I shop around too. Euro sizes can be tricky!
What sandals or shoes do you have your eye on for Spring?
