Paradise Stream Getaway

Most of you who follow my blog semi-regularly probably know that my husband and I adopted a baby boy in December. Because we are so in love with him and find him to be the most entertaining person in the world we hadn't really had any time for ourselves since we brought him home. I mean, how do you leave this face?

I didn't think I missed alone time with my husband, but taking a weekend to get away reminded me how nice it is to take a break from time to time. I love my son, but it was nice to be spontaneous and not think about feeding schedules or bedtimes for a weekend. This is why visiting Paradise Stream was such a treat.

It's like camp for couples. Every day the provide us a schedule of events and activities that the guests can participate in, but there's no pressure to join if you don't want to. Even without all these events there is plenty to do. We played basketball, horseshoes, swam in the in ground pool, walked the trails, and participated in their ice carving session which was really neat! We did some things on our own like mini golf, and others that were planned like the ice carving session and bingo time. They also offered horse drawn carriage rides around the property, horseback riding, boating and fishing, boccie ball, archery, pool and ping pong, outdoor mini golf, weight room and so much more. ...and did I mention breakfast and dinner are included in your stay? Breakfast is a nice buffet every morning with the option of made to order items like eggs or pancakes, and dinner varies each night. There's plenty of options and something for everyone!

Aside from all the activities available on the grounds, they also offer many amenities in the rooms in case you wanted a weekend away from it all. Our room, the champagne tower suite, had it's own heart-shaped pool and a champagne glass jacuzzi tub, along with cable tv and some romantic touches such as twinkling star lights in the ceiling, chocolates left on your bed, and a rose petal path leading to the bedroom. They ooze romance, which can be cheesy at times, but it was such a nice getaway.

We've been to Cove Haven and now Paradise Stream, and of the two we liked the remote feeling of Paradise Stream, but both were very nice. My husband and I would definitely go back in the future!

To find out more about Cove Haven Resorts visit their website: http://www.covepoconoresorts.com/

Romance/Getaway Series - When In Rome Tours

"We are a fully licensed and insured tour operator providing exceptional private, semi-private, and group Vatican tours and Rome tours, van and driver service in Rome and elsewhere in Italy, and a wide selection of other tours including gastronomic, volcanic and outward bound adventures"

We had a chance to take the afternoon tour of the Vatican City, which included the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel. Our tour guide, Triva, was so bubbly and enthusiastic that you couldn't help but get swept up in her love for art and history and Rome in general. She was full of information and funny stories that kept everyone's interest. I'll be the first to admit that I cannot handle days and days of museums, but I could definitely take days of this tour!

I didn't realize this but inside the Sistine Chapel they don't allow any talking or photographs which is why tour groups will line up outside to explain what we were about to see. Our tour guide explained about the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel and how long it took Michelangelo to paint this, and the toll it took on his body. She also shared the minute details he painted into the ceiling as a way to get back at the Pope for making him paint the ceiling, but I don't want to give away too much information.

It was a great tour and very informative, and I would highly recommend this group for any Italy tours. For information on their tours visit http://www.wheninrometours.com/index.html

disclaimer: discount received for these tours

Romance/Getaway Series - Le Clarisse

About Le Clarisse:

Located in the 7th Arr., blocks from the Invalides metro station and walking distance from the Grand Palace, Pont De Invalides and Champ Elysees you will find this restaurant offering both indoor and outdoor seating. Inside you will fine black velvet benches, dark tables of wood, beautiful height under ceiling and mezzanine and friendly staff who speak French and English.

Le Clarisse believes that tasting begins with the sight of the graphic and coloured plates and finishes as an explosion in mouth.

The Japanese Chef, Sadaki Kajiwara, has been with Clarisse since the beginning of March and maintains a French menu built around fresh and seasonal produce.



Celery Banana Smoothie and a candied cherry tomato

My Thoughts: 

When traveling in Europe as a whole, if you expect to be in an out of a restaurant within 45 minutes to an hour you would be gravely mistaken, as eating is a leisure activity in Europe, especially France, so expect to be there no less than 90 minutes for a meal, and I found this to be a great thing. Instead of rushing from place to place we were forced to relax and really enjoy our dining experience, and we did!

Upon our arrival we were greeted in French and English by the staff, who were more than willing to answer any questions we had. Our server was so friendly and helpful and her English was faultless, which was great for us as our French is poor. 

Our meal started off with a palette cleanser of banana celery smoothie and a candied cherry tomato. I loved ingenuity of these items. I would never think to pair banana and celery but it was a very tasty combination, and the concept of a candied tomato was so creative and we loved it!



Chilled corn soup topped with caramel corn and roasted corn

 Our next course was chilled corn soup, which doesn't sound appetizing but it was surprisingly tasty and refreshing, especially on a warm day or evening. It was sweet and creamy, but with a kick. I loved how they topped the soup with caramel popcorn as this is not something I've seen before on soup.

Sadaki Kajiwara really knows how to think outside of the box and bring you brand new combinations and concepts!

Rabbit



Swordfish

For our meals we tried the swordfish, which seems to be a popular menu item in Europe, and rabbit, which is not something I've ever seen on a menu in the US. The swordfish was moist and full of flavor,

while the rabbit was an all-together new experience for us. It was tender, but not a meat we would order again, simply because of taste preference, but to no fault of the chef. 

  

Chocolate tartlet, black sesame ice cream

Our final course was dessert, and I've always heard that the French are master bakers and chocolatiers so I was very excited to try this course. The first item was chocolate tartlets with black sesame ice cream. It was like eating a mouthful of chocolate ganache, which I love, and the sesame ice cream was creamy and a delicious compliment to the chocolate.

The second item was a panacotta and strawberries that resembled a caprese salad. To be honest I didn't know what I was ordering, but when it arrived I thought it was too pretty to eat. Made to look like slices of mozzarella and tomato this dish played tricks with your mind, making you think you'd be biting into something cheesy and tart but experiencing sweet and creamy instead, and the basil ice cream topped it off perfectly. I have never hard basil ice cream, now would I ever thought to try it before but it was so refreshing and was the perfect addition to this dessert.

Panacotta and strawberries like a tomato-mozzarella, sorbet with the basil





For more information, visit http://www.leclarisse.fr/

Many thanks for the staff of Le Clarisse for a wonderful dining experience!

disclaimer: meals provided for review

Romance/Getaway Series - Versailles

About the Palace:

The Château de Versailles, which has been on UNESCO’s World Heritage List for 30 years, is one of the most beautiful achievements of 18th-century French art. The site began as Louis XIII’s hunting lodge before his son Louis XIV transformed and expanded it, moving the court and government of France to Versailles in 1682. Each of the three French kings who lived there until the French Revolution added improvements to make it more beautiful.

About The Gardens:

From the central window of the Hall of mirrors (pictured above with the chandeliers) the visitor look down on the grand perspective that leads the gaze from the Water Parterre to the horizon. This original perspective, which preceded the reign of Louis XIV, was developed and prolonged by the gardener André Le Nôtre by widening the Royal Path and digging the Grand Canal. This vast perspective stretches from the façade of the Château de Versailles to the railings of the park.

My Thoughts:

This palace is well worth the bus trip outside of Paris. It's fairly easy to get to from Paris - a train or two and then the C RER line all the way out to Versailles. Once there just follow the crowds and they'll lead you to Versailles. And since there are crowds be prepared for lines and waiting as Versailles has to be one of the most visited attractions in Europe. Despite the crowds it is very easy to be swept away at the expansive palace and its gardens, which were my favorite part. The grounds outside are perfectly manicured and parts were symmetrical. The tree placement and hedge shapes were identical on one side and the other which, in my opinion, added to the beauty. We had the good fortune of visiting on a day when the sky was crystal blue and perfectly clear, which only amplified the natural beauty of the gardens.

One thing to note is that the area leading up to Versailles is a little difficult to walk as it is made of stone, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes that small pebbles can not easily penetrate. I would no suggest this location to travelers with babies/toddlers in strollers as it could pose difficult to maneuver, however once inside it's smooth and easy to tread.  

For more information visit: http://en.chateauversailles.fr/homepage

disclaimer: passes provided for this visit and review

Romance/Getaway Series - Hotel Britannique in Paris, France

About this hotel: Hotel Britannique is located in the heart of Paris, only a pace away from the Seine on the Avenue Victoria, in a beautiful building dating back to 1860, surrounded by theatres and cabarets, shops and oh so Parisian bistros.

The hotel will serve you a generous and hearty breakfast, with the house omlette and hard boiled eggs, its various meats and French cheeses, pastries and fresh fruit juices of the day…. A breakfast that will set you on the right path for an exerting day in this exciting city.

My Thoughts:

I loved the location of this hotel. It was walking distance to many shops and restaurants (a great shopping district or so I was told by some locals), the Chatelet subway station, and walking distance to many tourist attractions such as the Louvre, Champ Elysees, and Arc de Triomphe and much more. I found Paris to be a wonderful city to walk around and explore, but if you have a lot to cover in a short amount of time it helps to stay near a metro station. 

Accommodations: I would give the accommodations/amenities 4 stars because our room was small, but I was told that most European hotel rooms are much smaller than American hotel rooms, so I expected that, but it was big enough for us. It was decorated in warm reds and browns and felt very inviting. I especially loved the little balcony overlook. It felt quintessential of the Parisian lifestyle - getting to watch people walk by at all hours of the day and night, as Paris truly doesn't sleep. We were out until midnight or 1am every night exploring the city or watching an outdoor movie or watching people dance along the river. I am in love with Paris and would love to go back some day!

Customer Service: I would give this 5 stars!!!

Another thing I appreciated about Hotel Britannique was the customer service. The staff spoke English very well and were quick to answer any questions. One of the gentleman working there even pointed us to a shopping area where we could get French clothing but not at "designer prices." That was a lot of fun!

 

Cuisine: I would give this 4.5 stars. As far as continental breakfast goes this is a good spread. I enjoyed the fruit and croissants, but for people who want hearty breakfasts they had cheeses, eggs and meats to choose from. Every morning there was a basket full of flaky croissants and baked goods, yogurt, fruit, eggs, cheese, coffee, tea and more.

We were very pleased with our stay and would have gladly stayed longer if we could have!

For more information or to book your stay visit http://www.hotel-britannique.fr/?lang=en

disclaimer: discount received for this review

Romance/Getaway Series - London Eye & London Eye River Cruise

At 135m, the EDF Energy London Eye is the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel. It was conceived and designed by Marks Barfield Architects and was launched in 2000. It has already won over 75 awards for national and international tourism, outstanding architectural quality and engineering achievement and has now welcomed over 39 million visitors.

The circular cruise departs from the London Eye Millennium pier directly underneath the London Eye, goes as far as Tower Bridge and returns 40 minutes later. The cruise takes in the landmarks on the river: Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe as well as Westminster, Millennium and Tower Bridges. The Silver Bonito can carry up to 170 passengers at any one time, and has an  upper deck and a lower deck meaning it is suitable in all weather conditions.

The EDF Energy London Eye offers a unique view of the capital, but beyond the landmarks, another vision is taking shape: that of a city committed to cleaner, lower carbon living. As Britain’s largest producer of low carbon electricity, EDF Energy want to lead the energy change, working with governments, transport providers, attractions and institutions to help create a city that’s more sustainable and enjoyable for visitors and residents alike. 

I was surprised by how large the capsules are. I was expecting ferris wheel size boxes that fit 4-6 people tops, but I think about 15-25 people fit into each pod. I was also surprised by how smooth the ride is. I didn't feel it moving at all, partly because it never stops. The eye continuously moves around as people are embarking and disembarking so you never feel the jerking motion of the stops and starts.

To the left is a view from one of the London Eye Capsules. We went on an overcast day so we couldn't see as far as on a clear day, but was had a great time. It's relaxing and gives you a view of the city that not many people get to see. I would highly recommend adding the London Eye to your trip itinerary.                                   

For more information or to purchase your tickets visit http://www.londoneye.com/

disclaimer: tickets provided for review

Romance/Getaway Series - Tour & Transportation in London

From the various trips that we've taken and articles we've written over the years I've found that the best way to find out about a city or a destination is to take a tour. There are many options these days - bus tours, segway, boat tours, but I still enjoy walking tours. The groups are generally smaller so it's easier to ask questions and have a dialogue going with the tour guide. In London the best way to really get to know the City of London is to walk round it with one of their guides. They can give you a unique insight into the history and customs of the City and entertain you with the stories that it has to tell, helping you to find out so much more than you would from any guide book. Each guide is trained and accredited and was given his or her badge by the Lord Mayor of London. The City of London Guide Lecturers Association provides walks and tours in the City of London which you can just turn up and join and their daily walks only cost £7 for an adult.

We had a chance to take their "Love and Romance in The City" tour. This tour covered tales of romance, marriage and illicit love among the inhabitants. Our tour guide was fantastic. She was full of stories and made the history come alive. Since this was a romance themed tour she told us about a building that was inspired by cake tiers called the St Bride Church (pictured above). We also learned about a criminal and his partner-in-crime and lover that were arrested multiple times, and broke out of prison several times only to be put to death in the end. To the left is an old stone church that they didn't want to tear down so it was turned into a garden, which I think is a lovely way to keep the history and add to the beauty of the city.

On the left is a photo of a wall of tiles. These tiles each represent a common individual who died in a heroic way. This wall was lined with tiles representing men and women who tried to save others, and often, at a very high cost to themselves.

I don't want to say too much or else you won't want to take the tour for yourself, but it was very informative, entertaining and enjoyable.

...but if you don't think that tours are for you, and you prefer to see London at your own pace, then this is an option you may want to consider - the travelcard! This travelcard includes unlimited journeys on all London Underground, Buses, Trams, Docklands Light Rail, Over-ground Trains and National Rail Services within zones 1 – 6 (depending on which zones you purchase) and a hassle free day as you don't need to buy lots of different tickets. We used these cards each day of our trip and they were so helpful. You can buy a one day or a week long travelcard, anytime or off-peak hours. It's the perfect way to get around the city, if you don't want to worry about driving. We took it everywhere, and it was the cleanest public transportation we've ever seen or used, and we've used Boston's, NYC's, Rome's, Paris's and Philadelphia's. It took us past Notting Hill and Hyde Park, down to Victoria Station and Buckingham Palace, over to Waterloo where the London Eye is located and much more. I can't stress how simple and stress-free this transportation option is for out-of-towners like myself. It's a great way to see the city on a budget!

To buy London Travelcards visit: http://visitorshop.tfl.gov.uk/travelcards/1-day/product/day-anytime-travelcard.html

Tour information can be found here: http://www.cityoflondontouristguides.com/index.php?page=index
disclaimer: tours and travelcards provided for this review

Romance/Getaway Series - Dining in "The City" of London

ONE NEW CHANGE is Land Securities’ latest development located on Cheapside in the heart of the City of London. It is London’s newest shopping destination, complete with cafés and restaurants from renowned chefs and flagship menswear and womenswear fashion brands, all set overlooking London’s most famous landmark, St. Paul’s Cathedral (photo on left is the view from One New Change's elevators).

One of the places that we had a chance to visit on our whirlwind tour of London was Searcys Champagne Bar. Here is a bit of information on this restaurant/bar: "We offer the ultimate Champagne offer within unique, contemporary settings in a variety of environments all served by an expert team of energetic, vibrant staff that are truly inspired by Champagne. Leaders and innovators in the Champagne world, the bars are modern in design with bespoke individual touches and are committed to providing a range of the very best Champagnes and sparkling wines. Offering the most extensive Champagne list with the largest selection by the glass and partnered with a food offer that is perfect with the Champagne. Discovering your favourite Champagne has never been more rewarding."

While my husband and I both don't drink, we were still able to enjoy this restaurant. It has a very classy and modern feel. Stepping in you feel like you are sure to be spoiled with great food and drinks, and we were very pleased with our meals. They offer very unusual foods and food combinations that I have not seen before such as braised jacob's ladder, as well as a smoked fish plate which we were very excited to try.  The large mixed seafood plate had smoked salmon, smoked Tilapia and chunks of crab meat. The flavors were so rich and delicious, and we really enjoyed it.

Their menu has been developed to partner their champagne list and to ensure that even the hastiest shopper can be served in quick time, so great food and drinks with a short wait, although ours was not so short. This was probably my only complaint. While we were the only people in the restaurant, there was a significant delay in getting our meals brought out. Aside from this, the food was delicious, and atmosphere was inviting.

For dinner we decided to stick around the same area and tried Refettorio, which is located at Crowne Plaza Hotel,  19 New Bridge Street, London (next to London Blackfriars Station).  It is meters from the river Thames and at the centre of Europe’s most vibrant financial and business district, whilst the bright lights of the West End are minutes away. The main dining room features a long refectory-style table with benches along both sides. There are booths in this section as well as another, more private, dining room beyond. The look is clean, smart and up to date with a very nice buzz indeed.

I had a chance to try some items we don't have where we live - Swordfish for starters. I ordered the Char grilled swordfish, Mediterranean herbs, cherry tomatoes and rocket salad.  

The salad was topped with a baked sweet potato chip which added a bit of crunch to the salad which I enjoyed, and I had the ripest cherry tomatoes I've ever tasted. They were so succulent and sweet, I couldn't get enough of them...and thankfully my meal came with more! Having never had swordfish before I was not sure what to expect, but it was tasty. I would compare the flavor to a grilled tuna steak, only much juicier. My only complaint was that it was a bit heavily salted, but still very moist and flavorful.

My husband had a chance to try the Oven roasted rack of lamb, aubergine caviar and sautéed potatoes. He devoured his lamb, but I'm not sure what he thought of the cavier. Being an American, this is not part of our usual diet, so it takes getting used to, but he loved his rack of lamb!

To top the meal off we opted for two very unique desserts:
Classic tiramisu served in a tuile basket & Vanilla panna cotta almond pastry and chocolate sauce. They were both beautifully presented and gone within seconds! I loved that their desserts were unique, and that the chef takes time to plate each course thoughtfully so that you have a delicious course that looks appetizing and inviting.

For more informaton on One New Change, visit http://www.onenewchange.com/
For more information on the restaurants: http://www.searcys.co.uk/one-new-change-champagne-bar/

http://www.refettorio.com/

disclaimer: meals provided for these reviews

Romance/Getaway Series - Buckingham Palace & Windsor Castle

Recently my husband and I had a chance to visit various locations in Europe, and we started with London. London has become quite a popular place since the royal wedding this past April, and seeing as this was part of the Romance and Getaway series I thought that London was a great place to begin!

Buckingham Palace serves as both the office and London residence of Her Majesty The Queen, as well as the administrative headquarters of the Royal Household. It is one of the few working royal palaces remaining in the world today.

From July 23 through October 3, 2011 they have a special exhibit dedicated to the Royal Wedding of Kate and William. The Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding dress, designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, is on display, as well as her jewelry, shoes, Halo Tiara and their wedding cake. The Duchess chose British brand Alexander McQueen for the beauty of its craftsmanship and its respect for traditional workmanship and the technical construction of clothing. Her Royal Highness worked closely with Sarah Burton in formulating the design of her dress.

The palace is a very spectacular place to visit. It's where the Royal Family spends their time, and you get a taste of what it's like to spend a day in their shoes. I loved the brilliance of the palace and would enjoy staying there for a day or two, but I couldn't see living there. I live in a small cozy home, so I can't imagine calling a large, gold adorned house my home, but it is for the Royal Family.

...And while in London you can't miss the Windsor Castle. Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, is one of the official residences of Her Majesty The Queen. The Castle's dramatic site encapsulates 900 years of British history. It covers an area of 26 acres and contains, as well as a royal palace, a magnificent chapel and the homes and workplaces of a large number of people.

 

Of all the places we visited in England, Windsor Castle was, by far, my favorite. I had only been to one other castle in the past, Gillette Castle, and there was no comparison. Gillette Castle looked like an apartment compared to Windsor Castle.

Windsor Castle, with it's beautiful architecture, decorative doors, windows, archways, as well as the exquisitely manicured lawn and gardens could keep me occupied for days. If you enjoy photography, architecture or horticulture you will LOVE Windsor Castle. I think that this is one place that you don't want to miss!

 And of course, what is a trip to London, without a photo with the guards? The photo on the left is with the guard at Windsor Castle. They are not allowed to talk, smile etc, but they will stands there while you snap a photo. :)

Our time in London was wonderful. We had a chance to see Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey (where the royal weddings take place), Big Ben, Windsor Castle (outside of London city), St Paul's Cathedral, London Eye and more. While the cooler temperatures may keep some people away, it was a nice break from our 90 degree PA weather, and perfect for doing a little sight-seeing!

disclaimer: tickets provided for this review