Mad Men-themed packages and parties to celebrate the season premiere

by McLean Robbins on

Mad Men returns this week for season five – and hotels are jumping on the bandwagon of this popular show with retro-themed parties, events and packages. Here are a few of our favorites:

The James New York
The SoHo hotel’s rooftop bar, Jimmy, has two special drinks themed around creating what Don Draper would drink if he were an ad man in New York in 2012. Across 110th Street, is an updated version of a Manhattan; the other is a tobacco-infused version of an Old Fashioned highball.

Islas Secas Resort, Panama
Book “The Drape,” a bespoke vacation package (code “The Drape” saves you 25%, fyi) and savings on this luxury resorts exclusive casitas (there are only seven on the whole island). Taking inspiration from the upcoming Episode 58 (airing 4/22), where Draper and his buddies escape to a “far away place,” this 16-island private hideaway personifies everything that Draper would appreciate. Take a hike, swim with reef sharks, and enjoy custom meals and an evening tapas and cocktail hour. Packages are designed for each guest, but rates start at $610 per night.

The Pierre, New York
On Tuesday, March 27th, The Pierre’s weekly jazz night will have a retro twist: in honor of Mad Men’s Season 5 premiere, Two E Bar/Lounge will offer classic cocktails from the early 1960’s.Fans are invited to dress up in their favorite Mad Men-inspired garb and embrace their inner Don Draper and Joan Holloway at the swank Pierre, which has been a featured in previous episodes. Enjoy cocktails including a Ramos Fizz, Irish Coffee, Big Mac Daddy, Moscow Mule, Grasshoper or Sazarac for $14 each.

The Charles Hotel, Cambridge
This popular Boston area hotel is back with their annual premiere party at Noir Bar. The two-hour broadcast will be on the projection screen. Dressing the part is encouraged, and prizes will be awarded to the best Mad Men look-a-likes. Tables are available with an $85 food and beverage minimum for up to four people ($50 for up to two people). To reserve, email rsvp@charleshotel.com. Each Sunday, Noir also offers viewing parties during the season.

Times Square Renaissance Hotel, New York
R Lounge in the Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel is offering up a special “before dinner cocktails” deal for fans. Both of the lounge’s Mad Men-inspired cocktails will be half price ($6) every Sunday up until the show airs at 9PM.

70 Park, New York
Kimpton’s recently renovated 70 Park Avenue hotel is inviting guests to channel their inner Don Draper with a retro night cap. From now until premiere night, guests can call room service to arrange a special nighttime delivery of everything they’ll need to create a Park Avenue Old Fashioned, from bourbon to bitters. The hotel bar, silverleaf tavern, will also offer this special cocktail made with Jefferson’s Bourbon until premiere night.

Hotel Monteleone, New Orleans
This Tuesday (March 20), dress in your favorite 60s attire and head to the New Orleans hotel’s Carousel Bar and Lounge. Actor Bryan Batt, former star of the popular drama series, will serve as a special guest and costume contest judge. In keeping with the theme, The Yat Pack will perform hits from the 60¹s in the style of Sinatra and company. Complimentary themed cocktails will be served including Absolut® Vodka Gimlet, Beefeater® Gibson and Chivas® Rob Roy. Hotel Monteleone is providing 60¹s-inspired hors d¹oeuvres for guests throughout the event. Local vintage clothing and accessories boutiques will provide on-site modeling, and a “green screen” will allow guests to pose with vintage props for an event keepsake.

The Pearl Hotel, San Diego
Dress to impress for this swingin’ shindig – we’re talking suits, skinny ties, party dresses, hats – show us your best 60’s attire! Sip fun drink specials inspired by the hit series and vie for best dressed contest prizes. Mad Men will be playing on the big screen all night, and the hotel promises to rock old school ’60s jams.

The Roosevelt Hotel, New York
The recent recipient of a multi-million redesign project and the famed backdrop to several Mad Men episodes, The Roosevelt Hotel NYC celebrates the return of the series with a special “Mad Men in the City,” package available for booking March 1 – June 31, 2012. Starting at $425/night, “Mad Men in the City” includes everything from spacious accommodations in a recently-renovated guestroom and sixties-inspired mixers at Madison Club Lounge (Draper’s hot spot) or mad46 (the hotel’s 19th floor rooftop bar), to Mad Men Season 4 on DVD to take home, two tickets to Paley Center for Media and a take-home copy of the newly-released “Unofficial Mad Men Cookbook.”

The Dupont Circle Hotel, Washington DC
Slip on the fedora and head to the hotel’s Bar Dupont to toast the return of the most dapper show on television. The bar is featuring specialty cocktails ($11 all weekend long and just $7 during the premiere). If you want to stay a bit longer, the hotel is offering an en suite Martini Bar – fully stocked with Gin, Vermouth, Fresh Lemons, Olives, and Shakers and Stirrers – that would make Don Draper himself swoon.

The Four Seasons, Washington DC
Take in the season premiere at this swank hotel’s acclaimed BOURBON STEAK restaurant. For $75, guests enjoy a cocktail reception and three-course meal (think lollipop buffalo wings, Swedish meatball, Waldorf Salad and Beef Wellington), plus truffle popcorn and a viewing of the premiere in the hotel’s private dining room. There will also be award prizes to those guests best dressed in ’60s fashions.

[Image courtesy of AMC]

Syracuse, New York, offers $1 deals for March Madness

by Jessica Festa on

In celebration of Syracuse University Orange’s #1 seed in March Madness, the city is featuring a “1 for 1 All the Way” campaign, offering a variety of $1 deals. Twenty-two local hotels, restaurants, spas, museums and theaters are offering discounts for the Orange’s run through the NCAA Tournament. To receive all promotions, just mention “1 for 1 All the Way.” Check out some of the top deals below, or go to Visit Syracuse for a complete list and more information.

Hotel Skyler

Recently opened is Hotel Skyler (pictured right), once a temple and then a theater until it was turned into a hotel. Now, it’s an eco-chic LEED Platinum Hotel that offers a mixture of retro and metropolitan style with “organic comfort.” In honor of March Madness, the property is offering visitors who purchase two nights at the “best available rate” to get a third night for $1.

The offer is valid until April 10, 2012, on new reservations only. Call 1-800-365-4663 or 315-476-4212 to book. Lakeland Winery

Lakeland Winery was the first custom winemaking facility in New York and offers wine tours, classes and even the chance to make your own wine and label. Throughout March, the winery will be selling select bottles of red and white wine for $1.

Hours are Monday to Friday, 4:00 to 8:00 a.m., and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Jefferson Clinton Hotel

Located in Armory Square, the Jefferson Clinton Hotel (pictured right) is an eco-friendly property and a member of the Historic Hotels of America. It was originally built in 1927 as an upscale hotel, but had to shut down after the Stock Market Crash of 1929 and the Great Depression of the 1930s. Under new management, the accommodation was able to reopen in June of 2001 and has been a Quality Award Winner for the past six years, as well as the Hotel of the Year in 2003. For March Madness, they’re offering guests who stay two nights a third night for $1.

Deal available until May 1, 2012, on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday arrivals. Black out dates include April 19, 20, 21, 27. Call 315-425-0500 to book.

Belladerma Wellness Spa

Belladerma Wellness Spa is a boutique day spa that offers personalized service and treatments. To help celebrate March Madness, the spa is offering a deal on their UltrasonicFacial – buy one for $75, get one for $1. The treatment involves cleansing sound waves that bolster cell repair and muscle tone. The treatment is followed by an arm and hand massage, as well as a moisturizing mask.

Available until May 1, 2012. Call 315-751-1439 to book.

Onondaga Historical Association Museum and Research Center

The mission of the Onondaga Historical Association Museum and Research Center is to “inspire people’s understanding that the history we share as a community is the foundation for our future together.” Visitors will learn about the beginnings of central New York, transportation, architecture, agriculture and more through exhibits like “Agriculturally Speaking,” “Birth of a County” and “Crossroads of New York.” Through March, the historical association is offering the following deals:

  • Syracuse China Standards- Buy one at $10, get a second for $1.
  • CD’s direct from the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra collection- Buy them for $1 each.
  • Syracuse China Approved Sample Plates- Buy one at $15, get a second for $1.
  • OHA Signature DVD’s- Buy one at $19.98, get a second for $1.

Limit one deal per item, per customer.

Elsbeth Rose

A boutique clothing store, Elsbeth Rose sells fine women’s clothing and accessories in classic and urban styles. Their most popular location is in Armory Square, where you will find dresses, pants, tops and accessories by designers such as Ronen Chen and Isda. This is the location you’ll want to stop in during your March Madness visit as they are offering the chance to buy one Alternative Tee Shirt and get a second of equal value for $1.

Available until the end of the NCAA tournament.

Empire Brewing Company

Established in 1994, the Empire Brewing Company is a bohemian downtown bar and grill that also houses an award-winning brewery. For the eco-conscious, the venue uses only local ingredients, and even won a Snail of Approval Award from Slow Food for its efforts. In honor of March Madness, Empire Brewing Company is offering 16 ounce pints of house-made brews for $1.

Deal available during Syracuse University men’s basketball NCAA Tournament games.

1060 Restaurant

1060 Restaurant is an easy-going restaurant with an upscale feel. The venue uses locally sourced ingredients to create a menu of American and international cuisine, like Greek-style vegetarian pitas, mesquite-smoked pulled pork sliders, and Atlantic salmon. Until April 10, the restaurant will be honoring March Madness by offering $1 domestic beers.

Flavor Flav’s House of Flavor opens today in Las Vegas

by McLean Robbins on

Yeah, boy! The iconic rapper and “Flavor of Love” reality star Flavor Flav will open his fried chicken restaurant in Las Vegas today, in case you needed another reason to visit Sin City. The take out restaurant features recipes and secret spice rub mixtures developed by Flavor Flav himself over the years. Yes, that’s right. Flav has a cooking degree.

The menu includes fried chicken, fried shrimp and Flavor Flav’s signature red velvet waffle. We’re told to also expect celebrity sightings.

Not sure who Flav is? Apparently you’re not into quality TV (his “Flavor of Love 2” finale was the highest rated VH1 telecast ever). Most recently, he appeared with Elton John in the Pepsi Super Bowl commercial.

Flav wants to make sure everyone understands that this is not the same restaurant that failed in Iowa a few years back. Well, it is, but this one is going to be different, he told Business Week.

Let’s hope so – if you make it to Vegas and check out the chicken, be sure to let us know.



[Flickr image via Back9Network]

Want to get away for Easter weekend? These U.S. hotels are offering holiday specials

by Jessica Festa on

Are you sick of doing the same thing every year for Easter? Why not make this holiday special and do a bit of traveling? These hotels are offering packages, parties, spa discounts, egg hunts, bountiful brunches, the chance to meet the Easter Bunny and more.

Sandestin Beach Hilton
Destin, Florida

The Sandestin Beach Hilton is a family friendly resort with an array of activities, like indulging in spa treatments, swimming, shopping, fishing, scuba diving and snorkeling. From April 6-8, the property will be celebrating Easter by hosting a huge “Eggstravaganza.” Easter basket deliveries from the Easter Bunny, a coloring contest, an egg hunt and Sunday brunch will all be part of the festivities. For the adults, the Serenity by the Sea Spa is selling Easter spa baskets for mom. If you purchase a gift certificate, you’ll also be able to choose a golden egg with a prize or discount inside.

Rates vary depending on when you book. Click here for more information or call 800-559-1805. Omni Bedford Springs Resort
Bedford, Pennsylvania

Located in the Allegheny Mountain region of Pennsylvania, the Omni Bedford Springs Resort is 216-room property immersed in nature. Eight natural hot springs, hiking and biking trails, fly fishing and outdoor sports are easily accessible. This Easter, the resort is offering an “Easter Adventures in the Alleghenies” package, which includes accommodations, a chocolate bunny, an Easter egg coloring class, live entertainment, an outdoor egg hunt, crafts, a visit by the Easter Bunny, and a massive brunch held in the immaculate Colonnade Ballroom.

Package rates start at $183.50 per night based on double occupancy. Click here to book.

Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa
Lake Placid, New York

Located in the center of the Adirondacks, Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa will place you in a mixture of beautiful, mountainous surroundings and luxurious indoor experiences. Guests can enjoy a picturesque nature hike before relaxing in the heated indoor pool or indulging in a spa treatment. The resort becomes even more alluring this Easter as it is featuring an “Easter at the Inn” deal. Not only do kids stay and eat free from April 6-8, but also there will be egg coloring, an Easter egg hunt, an Easter basket scavenger hunt, and a delicious, daily breakfast.

Package rate is $315 per night for a family of up to four people. Call 518-523-2544 or click here to book.

Abbey Resort
Fontana, Wisconsin

The Abbey Resort sits on the shores of Lake Geneva and features colorful gardens and well-manicured lawns. For the upcoming holiday, they will be hosting their annual Easter weekend celebration, complete with an Easter egg hunt, holiday contests, face painting, a petting zoo, balloon animals, a visit from the Easter Bunny, and a delicious brunch and children’s buffet with complimentary mimosas for the adults.

Room rates during Easter weekend start at $139 on Friday night and $149 on Saturday night, plus tax and resort fee per night. You can also stay the entire weekend for the BOGO rate of $139 on Friday and $69.50 on Saturday. Reservations for Easter brunch required. Please call 800-709-1323 or click here to book.

The Greenbrier
White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia

A national historic landmark, The Greenbrier has been hosting guests since 1778. With this much experience in hospitality, it’s no wonder the property is throwing such a detailed Easter celebration, which they’re calling “the Greenbrier’s Holiday Hare.” Throughout the weekend, there will be a range of activities and events for people of all ages. Adults can enjoy art exhibits, wine tastings and seminars, and an adult egg hunt and roll. For the children, there is a kids’ fashion show, Easter egg hunt, dance party and an Easter puppet show. Likewise, fun for the whole family includes live music, family Jeopardy and an expansive buffet brunch. As an added bonus, the hotel is offering a $100 Resort Credit per room, per stay, and a 10% discount on select activities, tours, and classes.

Room rates during the weekend start at $430 per night based on double occupancy. Additionally, it is $20 per child sharing the room and $50 per additional adult. Call 866-976-3625 and mention promo code “EASTER” or click here.

The Langham, Boston
Boston, Massachusetts

For those who love luxurious weekends, The Langham, Boston features Italian marble bathrooms, plush bedding, an indoor heated swimming pool and the award-winning Chuan Body + Soul spa. This Easter, the hotel is making upscale travel more affordable by discounting rooms to $209 per night and offering complimentary access to Chuan Body + Soul to use the indoor pool, fitness center, sauna and whirlpool. Additionally, Café Fleuri will be hosting a special Easter Sunday brunch with a seafood station, carving and culinary station, omelets made-to-order, a kid’s selection, and more. Dine on house smoked maple cured salmon, cheese blintzes powdered with sugar, and apricot-glazed Easter ham while listening to live jazz. For the kids, face painting, caricature sketches and other Easter activities will be offered.

Brunch is $88 per adult, and $45 per child. For reservations, call 617-451-1900 extension 7125, or visit www.opentable.com. Click here to book a room.

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
Riverside, California

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is a 238-room hotel that occupies an entire city block and has been hosting celebrities, dignitaries, and luxury travelers since 1876. While many hotels feature kid-friendly programming for Easter, this property caters to adults with their “April Celebration” package from April 6-9. On Easter Sunday, Mission Inn will host a delicious brunch, with the Easter Bunny as a special guest. The package itself includes deluxe accommodations, Champagne, an Easter-inspired cupcake for two from Casey’s Cupcakes, $125 credit to spend on either Easter brunch or spa treatments and complimentary valet parking.

Packages are $419 all inclusive. Call 951-784-0300 or click here to book.

Meadowmere Resort
Ogunquit, Maine

Located on Maine’s southern coast, Meadowmere Resort is a family-run inn and a Certified Maine Environmental Leader Hotel. Along with enjoying the Freeport Outlets, Ogunquit Beach, Perkins Cove and Marginal Way, guests of the hotel can celebrate Easter weekend to the fullest with the property’s “Easter Egg-scapes.” The getaway includes Friday and Saturday night accommodations, a wine welcome for the adults, Easter crafts for the kids, a three-course dinner, live music on Saturday night, an Easter Sunday brunch and a late checkout of 1:00 pm. There will also be an egghunt on Sunday held at the nearby Wildlife Preservation Clay Hill Farm.

Packages start at $169 per person based on double occupancy. Call 800-633-8718 or click here to book.

25-year-old Dallas Seavey wins 2012 Iditarod

by Kraig Becker on

The 2012 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race came to an exciting end Tuesday evening when 25-year-old Dallas Seavey claimed victory in the 1000-mile race. By crossing the finish line first, he also became the youngest person to ever win the event.

Held annually in Alaska, the Iditarod has become the state’s most popular sporting event. The racers, along with their teams of powerful dogs, begin the race in Anchorage and follow a historical trail all the way to Nome. Back in 1925 that town faced a diphtheria epidemic and mushers raced along the same trail to deliver life-saving medicine in time. The modern day Iditarod commemorates that daring feat and salutes the men and their dogs who risked their lives to save others.

In order to win the event Seavey had to fend off plenty of competition from a tough and experienced field. In the end, he finished an hour ahead of second place musher Aliy Zirkle and while an hour may seem like a large gap, when you consider that the competitors have been racing for ten days straight, you realize that it is actually a narrow margin. Veteran musher Ramey Smyth arrived in Nome in third place after making a late charge to the front of the pack.For Seavey, dog sledding is a family affair. His father Mitch won the event back in 2004 and had a respectable seventh place finish this year. Grandfather Dan raced in the original Iditarod 40 years ago and as of this writing he is holding down the 52nd position in this years race as well. He is still a few days from reaching the finish line where he will undoubtedly give Dallas a proper congratulations.

Over the course of the next few days the last of the competitors will straggle across the finish line in Nome. For a full leaderboard and more information on the race visit Iditarod.com.

[Photo credit: Marc Lester/Anchorage Daily News)