Showing posts with label Deacon Jetset. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Deacon Jetset. Show all posts

June 5, 2011

Luxe Life: Living the Hamptons Life

We've been a bit quieter than usual on the blog lately, mostly due to massive work commitments (check out our tweets (@deacondoesdc) and a number of travel stories that have kept us on the road. So we thought we'd share these great images from our recent trip to Montauk with the family.

Lobster everywhere. We ate far too many lobster rolls.

Adorable villages of Montauk

Being right on the water reminds us of our Annapolis roots

One of our favorite parts about The Hamptons? Dogs are always welcome. Deacon's stamp of approval is noted.

We finally made it to Hamptons staple The Lobster Roll (Lunch) where we sampled the (what else) Lobster roll and famed apple pie. Yum!

The gorgeous sunsets were a highlight of every night.

The super modern creation where we stayed is actually for sale. Check out 57startop

This was our "home office" for the week. Not a bad view, right?

April 7, 2011

Jetset: Tucker's Point, Bermuda

Deacon has had a bit of a jetset lifestyle recently. We're off this weekend to visit Tucker's Point in sunny Bermuda. We'll naturally be posting about the fun over on Twitter, and will offer a full recap when we return.

April 2, 2011

Jetset: Homeward Bound

We're headed home from Provence this morning, and, through the miracle of time changes, we leave the resort at 10:45, depart from Nice to Paris, change planes and fly back to DC on a 4:30 flight... all to land by 7 PM EST. Love how that works out.

We'll be sharing our stories here, on Luxist, AOL Travel and GalTime over the next few weeks, but wanted to give you a sneak peek at the photos from the trip first!

March 29, 2011

Jetset: Four Seasons Resort Provence at Terre Blanche

Pardon the blog's quiet approach this week - we're visiting the Four Seasons Resort Provence at Terre Blanche. We'll offer full commentary over on Twitter during the trip if you're absolutely dying to know what's going on during the trip and of course, stay tuned upon our return for more details. In the meantime - check out this great photo slidehow:

March 14, 2011

Jetset: Spring Break at Fontainebleau Miami Beach

Want a weekend away? Do it up right at the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach. From March 19 – 21, spend “One Night at The Bleau” and have a mini spring-break experience that includes dinner for two at Chef Alfred Portale’s acclaimed Gotham Steak, complimentary valet parking and guaranteed 2 PM late checkout to give you back the extra hour you lost when the clocks sprang ahead!

Rates start at $395* for an ocean view room with code BMARCH. 

March 12, 2011

Jetset: Renaissance Arlington Capital View Brings First New Hotel To Crystal City Skyline in 20 Years

Last week, Deacon had the chance to enjoy a sneak peek at the brand-new Renaissance Arlington Capital View hotel and attached Residence Inn by Marriott, the first new hotel to dot the Crystal City skyline in nearly 20 years.

Initially, we weren't very excited - while we always love new hotels, we're generally more into luxury properties. Boy, were we wrong. This hotel is, quite simply, stunning. The lobby boasts 20+ foot ceilings, impressive modern art sculptures, tres chic decor (loads of Assouline books!) and tons and tons of windows that allow natural light to stream in. The color palatte tends towards bright oranges and greens, with tons of texture and "movement," the central decor theme. We wanted to touch everything.

A total techie-hotel, the property eschews a massive front desk in favor of cozy lounge seating, and all of the meeting rooms are completely state-of-the-art with individual controls for heat, lights and AC. Plus, we love that the meeting and party rooms are all above ground, meaning that you'll get tons of natural light (and outdoor space) during your event. Personally, we think this would be an awesome hotel for a wedding.

LEED-certified, the hotel has done everything possible to make it "green" friendly, including a pretty roof garden, which you'd see if you were working out in the hotel's massive gym, which is shared with the Residence Inn. It's got state-of-the-art equipment and a totally funky indoor pool shaped like a martini shaker, and, let's just say ... it's among the nicer hotel gyms you've ever seen. There are also full washer/dryer facilities on-site for longer term guests, plus an outdoor sundeck for lounging.

The in-house restaurant concept is modern Italian, and we can totally see ourselves sipping a glass of wine on the patio during summer months. The patio will be pet-friendly, a Deacon must.

The rooms themselves are spacious, with great views of Crystal Drive and Reagan Airport. We can only imagine the nighttime views as planes land - so pretty. Thankfully, the rooms are also completely soundproof, so you'll enjoy complete peace and quiet. Our favorite part? The top-floor Renaissance lounge, which will offer daily snacks and beverage services, plus huge windows overlooking the airport. We'd totally book one of their Presidential suites, which offers mod, almost 70s-esque decor and ample space for entertaining.

This new property is sure to make waves in the area - we'd totally recommend it to anyone looking for a business property, a home for out-of-town guests, or those who are looking to plan an attractive yet affordable business meeting or wedding. Check out the pics, below!

March 9, 2011

March 7, 2011

Luxe Life: Wedding Weekend

We spent the weekend in Annapolis for the wedding of a dear friend from high school - and, judging by the fact that it seems like everyone we know is hearing wedding bells, we thought it only appropriate to share a few fun updates from the weekend (in case you're planning your own shindig in town!). Pardon the lack of non-stock photos - Deacon was a bit camera shy.

Accommodations
For the first time in our four-legged history, we spent the night in a hotel! And we're not talking the kennel, either. The Westin Annapolis, located on West Street, is just a mile from DTA (that's downtown Annapolis to you newbies) and offers a free shuttle to Main Street. Just over two years old, the hotel offers spacious rooms, a number of nearby dining options, and a pool and gym. Hovering around $150 per night, it's the town's newest and arguably one of the nicer properties.



Venue
The couple got married at the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club and hosted the ceremony at St. Mary's, one of the most beautiful Catholic churches in the state. You likely can't get married at St. Mary's unless you're already a member, but you can book the Beach Club. It was our second wedding at the location, and the beautiful venue, solely reserved for special events, is located just over the Bay Bridge on Kent Island. It offers spacious outdoor areas (we once saw a beautiful sunset ceremony over the water) and also offers ample indoor space for a reception, dinner and dancing.

The couple personalized the reception with tasteful and personalized touches, including a seating card tray made from sod (the groom's family owns a sod farm) and "potato-tini" bars, a make-your-own station with mashed and sweet potatoes in martini glasses with assorted toppings. They also offered mini tuna tartare bites and tomato soup and grilled cheese "shots" before a seated dinner. Afterwards, guests filled up on a retro candy bar and enjoyed chocolate-covered strawberries and wedding cake.

Around Town 
We love our hometown. So much, that to tell you about all the great things to do would take all day. So we'd suggest you peruse the archives for some of our fave activities, or visit this great article (albeit a bit dated, some of the shopping destinations have since closed) we wrote for The Washingtonian.

Planning  your own wedding or just a weekend away? Deacon is always happy to offer suggestions - feel free to drop us a line with questions - deacondoesdc@gmail.com.

February 23, 2011

Jetset: Travel Healthy with Kimpton

Palomar DC, one of the properties offering the program.
Earlier this month, Deacon made a quick jaunt to the Big Apple for meetings, meetings, and more meetings. While we were certainly excited for upcoming business ventures, one of the things we hate most about spending so much time on the road is the havoc it can wreak on our waistlines and workout routines. Being on-the-go often means skipping our daily gym sessions and eating out (and much later) than we normally would.

While there's absolutely nothing wrong with splurging every now and again, our jetsetting lifestyle means we're on the go a lot - which is why we were particularly intrigued when we found out about one of our favorite brand's new healthy travel initiatives. Kimpton's  new "Travel Healthy" program is offered in conjunction with Joy Bauer, Today Show regular and Kimpton's wellness correspondent.

When you book a room at participating hotels (the program is slowly being rolled out across the chain), you'll get access to dedicated videos on demand, in-room fitness equipment like a hula hoop, jump rope, yoga mat and resistance bands, plus in-room dining options with low-calorie healthy options for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

What really made us happy? The “Travel Healthy” in-room meals are offered all day (meaning you don't have to limit yourself to just dinner) and offer a wide array of flavors and options, all under 500 calories. Our favorites? The hearty oatmeal and rich turkey burger.

Healthy Option: Yogurt Parfait
Bauer also stars in Kimpton's four new “Travel Healthy” short in-room videos titled Healthy Breakfast, High Energy Snacks, Tips for the “Morning After” and In-Room Workout. In the videos, travelers are encouraged to pick nutrition-packed foods to start the day or to refuel later; hear advice on shaking off a late-night of overindulgence; and get a boost of energy from a quick workout without having to leave the guest room. While we admit that we'd normally bypass the "how to" videos, they were interesting - particularly the morning after one....

But our favorite part? Having our workout at the touch of a button. In addition to the brand's already-standard 24-hour yoga channel, complimentary yoga mats, pilates classes and meditation classes on-demand, several hotels in the brand also offer full-service spas and outdoor or group exercise classes.


70 Park Avenue Hotel
We opted to stay at New York's 70 Park Avenue during our most recent trip. Eventi, the brand's newest NYC property, also offers the program, as does DC and Arlington's Hotel Palomar. 70 Park, while one of the brand's older properties, offered the same high-quality Kimpton service and exceptionally friendly hotel staff. The rooms were spacious (incredibly so, by New York standards) and the fitness equipment was already waiting for us upon arrival, as well as a copy of Bauer's "Slim and Scrumptious" healthy cookbook. While we probably would have preferred a healthy living magazine, we have to admit the recipes looked good.

It had been quite the stressful day, so after a long soak in the tub, we busted out the yoga mat and opted for a short stretching sequence to wind down before heading to bed. Would we have taken the time to otherwise go for a run? Never. But given the convenience - it was all right there - and the ease of use, it was hard NOT to want to work out.

And let's just face it - when the choice to be healthy is an easy one... we're all about it. Overall, we'd highly recommend a stay at Kimpton to anyone looking to hit the road - whether fitness is a primary goal or not, it's always better to live a healthy lifestyle when you can. Particularly if that healthy lifestyle comes in a chic boutique hotel package.

Our visit was sponsored by Kimpton Hotels. The author's opinions, however, are 100% her own.

February 16, 2011

Jetset: And We're Off

Readers, it's time to seek advice. Our paws are going to be on the road quite a bit in the next few months and we'd love to know if you have any advice for must-see places:


We'll be in ...

NASHVILLE

Tin Pan South, here we come! 
CHARLESTON

Our dear dear friends are celebrating their marriage. 
MONTANA

Get jealous. We'll be "glamping" at the fabulous Paws Up Resort
SEATTLE

Our blonde better half is moving. Anything we need to see?

Jetset: Shape Up, Beach Bums with a Yoga Retreat at Cieba Del Mar

One of Deacon's new passions is fabulous fitness - avoiding the tried-and-true of the basic gym routine in favor of new and exciting ways to stay in shape. Which is part of the reason we're sort of dying to head to luxury Mexican resort Cieba del Mar to participate in their Sun, Sea, and Fat-Burning Fun fitness program, March 13-17, or A Seaside Celebration of Life’s Sweetness yoga retreat, March 27-31.

Sure, yoga is nothing new, but doing it in such a beautiful environment adds an element of fun that can't be dampened even as we swear our way through the series because we're not nearly as flexible as those other skinny biatches so effortlessly pretzeling themselves in their itty bitty Lululemon outfits.  Check out the itineraries:

Sun, Sea and Fat-Burning Fun: March 13-17, 2011
Shape up, slim down and sweat under the sun at this fitness and health event hosted by Rita Treiger, founder and editor-in-chief of Fit Yoga Magazine, and led by nationally-ranked triathlete, fitness expert and aerobics star Bobbi Nigro. Included in the package:

• Health and fitness program, including Zip-lining through the jungle, touring the Mayan ruins of Tulum, and a Temezcal Ceremony, a contemporary spa therapy inspired by an ancient Maya purifying ritual;
• Four nights of luxury ocean-view accommodation;
• All meals and beverages by the glass, including beer, wine and liquor;
• Use of land and sea sports equipment, including bicycles and tennis courts, kayaks and snorkel equipment;
• Access to the fitness center and facilities at the Spa at Ceiba del Mar;
• Wireless high-speed Internet;
• Airport transfers to and from the resort; and
• All taxes and gratuities.


A Seaside Celebration of Life’s Sweetness: March 27-31, 2011
Join Anusara yoga star Bernadette Birney, and hosts Donna Kuebler and Bruce Bassock, for a week of Madhurya: Honey, Chocolate and Yoga at this seaside yoga retreat that will emphasize spiritually-connected physical practice, meditative inquiry and indulgent self-care. Included in package:

• Seven yoga sessions and four sessions of morning meditation;
• Four nights of luxury accommodation;
• All meals and beverages by the glass, including beer, wine and liquor;
• Use of land and sea sports equipment, including bicycles and tennis courts, kayaks and snorkel equipment;
• Access to the fitness center at the Spa at Ceiba del Mar;
• A Temezcal Ceremony, a contemporary spa therapy inspired by an ancient Maya cleansing ritual;
• Wireless high-speed Internet;
• Airport transfers to and from the resort;
• All taxes and gratuities.

Rates for both luxury retreats start at $1893 for double occupancy, $2393 for single occupancy of a Deluxe Room, Jr. Suite, Master Suite, or Penthouse. Rates for a non-participant sharing accommodation with a registered retreater start at $1563. Retreaters attending either event also will receive 15% off spa treatments not included in the fitness and yoga programs. Adventures for an additional cost include snorkeling, cave diving, scuba diving and golf. Use group code “Yoga Retreat” and specify dates of retreat.

February 12, 2011

Jetset: Live in "Camelot" at the Ritz-Carlton

Celebrate celebrate the 50th anniversary of the inauguration of JFK with special packages at DC's Ritz-Carlton hotels.

Our favorite? The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown's Camelot at Dawn package. This package includes a walking tour of the homes they shared along with a VIP reservation to dine in Booth #3 or “The Proposal Booth,” at the famed Billy Martin’s Tavern. You'll also get a copy of Camelot at Dawn: Jacqueline and John Kennedy in Georgetown, a photo essay by Orlando Suero, who documented a typical week in the young couple's life. The package is just $399 per night and is available through the end of the year.

February 9, 2011

Jetset: Make time for Robemance at Kimpton

One of Deacon's favorite hotel chains is Kimpton - we love the boutique vibe, excellent service, and generally fab pricing. Our other favorite part? The robes. Yes. Leopard and Zebra print robes rock. That's why, this Valentine's Day, we're in the mood for "Robemance." Book a stay between now and the 28th to enjoy two signature robes and a $25 credit towards in-room dining at all participating properties.

@ DC's Hotel Rouge
Mostly so you can take pictures like the one above. Yes, that's us (well, McLean, anyway) at right.

January 18, 2011

Jetset: Valentines Day in "Suite Romance" at Park Hyatt Washington

We're in love with this "Suite Romance" package at Park Hyatt Washington!

You'll enjoy overnight accommodations for two in Park Hyatt Washington’s Presidential Suite, dedicated butler service, Champagne and strawberries, an en-suite couples massage for two, along with a set of monogrammed robes, a $2,000 shopping spree at Tiffany & Co., with chauffeured, round trip transportation in Park Hyatt Washington’s BMW 7-Series sedan, a specially-created, decadent five-course tasting menu for two, with wine pairing, prepared by Chef Brian McBride, accompanied by a live pianist, a private moonlight tour of the famed monuments, a rose petal drawn bath in the suite’s handcarved travertine tub, en-suite breakfast for two, and naturally, valet parking. The package is $8,000 and includes tax and gratuity. It's only valid ON Valentine's Day, so get hopping!

December 6, 2010

Jetset: Deacon Does Barbados

We're baaaack! We've been with Elegant Hotels in Barbados for the past few days, touring their lovely Barbados properties. See below for a photo slideshow, and stay tuned for articles to come this week.

November 8, 2010

Jetset: Deacon Does Boston

Good morning, readers! Deacon is on his way back from a long weekend spent in the chilly North, where he was playing for the last few days in the great city of Boston.

We're regular visitors to this fabulous city - after all, our college roommate lives here - but every time we visit we see few new things that we really, really wish would make their way down to DC:

So whether you're planning  your first visit to this fair city or just searching for a great new "local spot" ... here are a few of our picks:

For a Sweet Treat: 
Flour Bakery
It's safe to say that we're kind of obsessed with this little coffee shop and bakery that's just a few blocks from our friend's apartment in the South End. It's always packed and no wonder why - the baked goods (made fresh in-house daily) and coffee are tops. It's like our favorite shop in DC, Northside Social ... but better. For a great Christmas gift, pick up their new cookbook - the recipes look delish!

Psst, we also tried the chain's newest outpost - an Asian Fusion / Dim Sum "funky diner concept" called Meyers + Chang. It's great! Opt for the short rib "tacos," the pork belly buns, and the squash/coconut soup ... all amazing.








For a too-cool-for-school shop: 
AllSaints Spitalfields
Housed in what used to be a Pottery Barn, this London-based clothing chain is the first we've seen in the US, so naturally, we had to pop in and have a look. The window dressing - a collection of old Singer sewing machines - caught our eye first, but once inside, the quirky mix of sweaters, dresses, and great boots quickly captured our attention. If it's street-sexy grunge you're after ... this is your shop. Just beware - they go by UK sizing, so a 6 is really a 0.






For high-end hautness
Louis Boston 
We trekked all the way across town to see the new location of Louis Boston, now housed in a super modern building on the water. While the layout is nothing to thrill (the store looks more like a smaller version of Barney's than anything else), we did love the rotating selection of vendors and well-edited selection of housewares.  








For indie cool clothing: 
Flock
At first glance, this store seemed a bit too hippie-chic for our tastes, but a glimpse inside and we were hooked. Boasting names like Megan Park and Lauren Moffat, we wanted just about every dress, boot and flowy blouse available in this South End store.  







For a neighborhood hotspot: 
Coppa 
Truthfully we weren't that blown away by this neighborhood gathering place (by the same owners as Toro), but since it was voted "Best New Restaurant in Boston" by Improper Bostonian, we had to at least give it a go. The perks: sample great wines by the glass and a selection of small plates with a heavy emphasis on the local, organic, and lesser-known cuts of meat - brains, livers, marrow, ect. What we loved? The signature cocktails - an Autumnal "flip" made with spiced brandy and egg was delish, and the lamb ragu pasta, made with just the right amount of spice. Skip the veggie sides - they're overpriced.  Be sure to come early as there's sure to be a wait.







 For an oldie but goodie: 
The Beehive 
While we waited for our table at Coppa, we opted to have a cocktail at jazz club / restaurant / bar The Beehive, one of our favorite spots in the South End.  Maybe it's because we have a soft spot for speakeasies or maybe it's just because the dark n' sexy ambiance downstairs is totally our kind of vibe, but this place is just about perfect.

November 3, 2010

Jetset: JetBlue Flies into Reagan

Starting this week, travelers looking for a sweet deal can look to local airport DCA (Reagan National) for help. JetBlue soars into the skies with seven daily nonstops to Boston (Logan) plus one daily nonstop flight each to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Orlando
International Airport (MCO).

To further celebrate the inaugural service, JetBlue is offering a special $49 sale fare each way between Washington's Reagan National and Boston. Flights are on sale today through November 4th for travel between December 1, 2010 and Jan 31, 2011.

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