Washington DC’s National Cherry Blossom Festival 2011: What you need to know

by McLean Robbins on

Cherry Blossom fans, get ready! Washington, DC’s annual National Cherry Blossom Festival kicks off tomorrow and runs through April 10, 2011. Throughout the two-week festival, visitors will enjoy spectacular views of Washington’s famed Cherry Blossoms, a parade, 10 mile race, and hundreds of special spring-themed events in the Washington, DC area.

Never attended the festival before? Here’s what you need to know:

Top Five Tips For Attending:

1. Plan Around Peak Blossom Time
DC residents have noticed the first hints of the blooms already starting to peek out, but the best time to view the blossoms is predicted to be between March 29 and April 3. This is when the trees will be in the fullest bloom and yield the prettiest pictures. Typically, this when the areas surrounding the National Mall and Tidal Basin tend to be the most crowded as well, so plan accordingly. Our favorite times to view the blooms? Early morning, before the crowds descend – the Metro opens at 5:00 AM! Another beautiful way to relax and enjoy the festival is by renting a paddle boat on the Tidal Basin. Make advance reservations online to avoid getting shut out.2. Take Metro
Parking around the monuments can be a mess on a normal day – don’t even attempt it during Cherry Blossom season. Get off at the Smithsonian stop (Orange and Blue lines) and you can expect at 10-15 minute stroll to reach the Tidal Basin. Tourmobile is also offering a shuttle service from Virginia’s Haines Point parking area to the Tidal Basin at 20 to 30 minute intervals from 10 AM to 7 PM daily for $1 per person. If you’re more athletically-inclined, consider biking. On weekends, there will be a free bike valet at the Jefferson Memorial’s parking lot from 10 AM – 6 PM. You can rent a bike for just $15 on a five-day pass through Capital Bikeshare.

3. Bring A Camera (And Claritin)
There’s something about the blooms that just makes our eyes water – if you’re allergic to pollen, plan accordingly, as the thousands of blooms WILL cause a flare-up. You may also want to pack a bottle of water, as there are very few vendors located directly on the Tidal Basin. While we’d recommend packing a camera, plan your shots accordingly – it’s quite crowded, particularly on weekends, and getting your ideal shot may be difficult. We wouldn’t suggest opting for a tripod or any fancy devices, as you’ll have difficulty finding the space to set up(and you’ll annoy the other viewers).

4. Don’t Pick The Blossoms, and Other Fun Facts
Want to learn more about the history of the trees and the festival? Consider taking the National Park Service’s free guided walking tour. You’ll learn about the different types of trees (there are 3,700 trees in the area, FYI) and why we celebrate each year. Additionally, consider taking part in one of the 200+ Cherry Blossom Festival events around Washington (AOL Travel has a great guide) – from the Opening Day Ceremonies at the National Building Museum to the fireworks on April 2 to the parade on April 9, there’s plenty going on for anyone to enjoy. Oh, and don’t pick the blossoms or you’ll get a stern scolding from your local Park Ranger.

5. Search for Specials
We’ve already highlighted some of our favorite hotel specials offered during the Cherry Blossom Festival, but don’t forget to ask if area restaurants, bars and shops are offering special deals. Some of our favorites? Check out tomorrow’s guide.

[Flickr via JoshBerglund19]

Take a photographic adventure with National Geographic

by Kraig Becker on

Fans of National Geographic have long been drawn to the magazine’s fantastic photos, with many of us wishing we had the skills to take similar shots ourselves. Now, National Geographic Expeditions is offering us the opportunity to go on a photographic adventure while building and honing those skills along the way.

Nat Geo Expeditions is the travel arm of National Geographic, offering up some excellent adventure travel opportunities to a number of far flung places. But they also offer aspiring photographers the chance to take part in photography workshops held throughout the country including New York, Washington DC, Tuscon, and Santa Fe. Those workshops range in length from 4 to 7 days, and will teach you everything you need to know about using that fancy digital camera that you bought, but never got around to learning how to operate. For dates and pricing on those workshops click here.

Perhaps even more exciting however are the Photo Expeditions that Nat Geo has to offer. Those trips are 8-12 days in length and will send you off to some amazing places where you’ll learn everything you’ve always wanted to know about photography. Destinations include Alaska, Bhutan, Morocco, Costa Rica, and the Galapagos Islands. Much like the workshops, these trips are designed for photographers of all skill levels and are led by National Geographic photographers with years of experience in the field. They also happen to add healthy doses of culture and adventure to the mix. For more information on the Photo Expeditions click here.

For someone who loves to snap photos (like me!), but wishes they had a firmer grasp on the technical aspects of the art (also like me!), these workshops and expeditions are fantastic opportunities to learn from an expert. So whether you use a point and shoot or a high-end DSLR, a National Geographic photographic adventure is sure to be a fantastic experience.

[Photo Credit: National Geographic Expeditions]




Five great cherry blossom hotel packages in Washington DC

by McLean Robbins on

The National Cherry Blossom Festival officially kicks off on March 26, with peak bloom days beginning on March 29. Want to make a road trip to Washington, DC? Here’s a list of five great hotels offering Cherry Blossom-themed packages. For more Cherry Blossom fun, stay tuned later this week for our suggestions on where to eat and play.

Mayflower Renaissance Hotel
We’re not talking hippies when we mention this famed hotel’s “Flower Power” package. From now until June 6, guests can enjoy special spring events like the White House Easter Egg Roll, Spring Garden Tours, Washington Nationals baseball games and the National Cherry Blossom Festival with a special offer that includes an overnight stay in one of the hotel’s most luxurious deluxe guestrooms, a round of flower-themed cocktails for two and complimentary breakfast for two in Café Promenade the next morning. As part of the National Cherry Blossom Festival’s Cherry Picks Program, Café Promenade will also serve cherry-inspired cuisine throughout the festival. In town tomorrow? Check out the Festival’s annual Pink Tie Party on Wednesday, March 23. Room rates for the Flower Power package range from $219 to $279 per night (excluding taxes and fees).The W
Enjoy views without the crowds while enjoying hand-crafted cocktails at the trendy P.O.V rooftop lounge, overlooking the White House and the National Mall. The hotel’s Cherry Blossom Package includes overnight accommodations, a bottle of champagne upon arrival; two handcrafted cocktails at P.O.V and a Cracking Cherry Pie from Jean-George Vongerichten’s J&G Steakhouse at W, served for two on the rooftop. This package is available from Thursday – Sunday, March 17-April 30, with code LAPKG5. Rates start at $319.

The Willard Intercontinental
This historic hotel is one of our very favorites. Book their Very Cherry Willard Package and receive a special cherry amenity, $50 food and beverage credit, two tickets on the Tourmobile, and overnight valet parking. This package reflects savings of $150 and is available for $399 on weekends only. Can’t make it overnight? Enjoy the daily Cherry Blossom Tea in the hotel’s floral-laden Peacock Alley is offered daily from March 21 through April 10. Tea is accompanied by the soothing sounds of Koto with its player in traditional Japanese Kimono. The cost? $39 per person, or $49 including a glass of Champagne or Specialty Cherry Cocktail.

Liaison Capitol Hill
Stay in the heart of the nation’s most powerful city with this special cherry blossom package, offering overnight accommodations, two $10 metro passes, a live cherry branch to take home, artisan handmade chocolates and a bag of goodies from in-house restaurant Art and Soul to enjoy picnic-style, perhaps by the tidal basin? The package starts at $199 per night through April 30.

The Fairmont
You’re just a short stroll away from Georgetown when you stay at The Fairmont Washington. Book their special Cherry Blossom package for an overnight stay, a box of Cherry Blossom note cards by famed DC photographer Jake McGuire and complimentary valet parking. Rates start at $219 through April 15.

[Flickr via JoshBerglund19]

Ten great hotel bars to see and be “scene”

by McLean Robbins on

Craving insider access to the latest celeb hot spots? We’ve got the skinny on the latest “it” venues brimming with notables, views to die for and parties you just can’t miss. With venues such as these we advise you to tread carefully, for your name may be the next to end up splattered across the front page of Page Six… don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Thompson Toronto
Bringing guests one step closer to living the life of a rock-star, the recently opened Thompson Toronto has quickly become a local hot spot boasting a chic private rooftop lounge where VIP’s can sip signature Hot Toddies while taking in views of the Toronto skyline. We hear the 102-room hotel has played host to celebs such as James Franco, the Kardashians and Usher along with many more. With trendy signature restaurants including famed Chef Scott Conant’s, Scarpetta and the hot late-night staple, The Counter, Thompson Toronto is rating Extra Hot on the “Ultimate Hang Out” meter.

The Waikiki EDITION
Discreet entrances and uninhibited dancing are just a few reasons why Crazybox at the Waikiki EDITION is one of the hottest new venues around. The hot, new nightlife favorite has an exclusive VIP section with its own private entrance that is elevated above the dance floor positioning notables such as Christina Aguilera, Bruno Mars and Woody Harrelson into the center of the action, while still maintaining their privacy. For party goers who prefer the daytime scene check-out the hotel’s Sunrise pool, where the luxury set are seen sipping Mai-Tai’s and enjoying poolside spa treatments or canoodling on private day beds.

The PuLi Hotel and Spa
Pink Champagne flows freely in Shanghai’s The PuLi Hotel and Spa. The PuLi is home to a scene of its own featuring Shanghai’s “longest” wine and champagne selections by the glass. The hotel’s Long Baris usually a buzz with in-the-know locals and glitteratti alike, sipping favorites from the menu and taking in the breathtaking views from JingAn Park. Frequent movers-and-shakers include high-rollers from LVMH and The Gucci Group along with famed designer Giorgio Armani. The bars atmosphere uniquely transforms in character and mood throughout the day creating chameleon-like experiences patrons can call their own.

Hotel Cipriani
“Venice is like eating an entire box of chocolate liqueurs in one go,” said Truman Capote, the famous author and comedian. Travelers looking for such a sweet retreat can opt for Hotel Cipriani, located on the secluded lagoon island of Guidecca in Venice. The world-renowned Orient-Express property regularly hosts such celebrities as George Clooney. Guests can even enjoy a cocktail that is inspired by the “sexiest man alive” – the “Buona Notte” – honoring the premier of “Good Night, Good Luck” at the 62nd Venice Film Festival. Boasting a panoramic view of St Mark’s Square, the waterfront Cip’s Club is an idyllic spot for those looking for a dazzling view while being seen amidst affluent travelers.

InterContinental London Park Lane
As the city – and world – prepares for this generation’s historic Royal Wedding, InterContinental London Park Lane announces the launch of a brand new bar, fittingly called The Arch Bar. Offering sweeping views of the outside gardens and parks as well as the iconic Wellington Arch, The Arch Bar is largely gin-focused, with a strong emphasis on fresh ingredients and complete with its own botanical apothecary. A wide spectrum of the highest quality spirits are available – as well as a number of virtually undiscovered artisan London producers – including 25 different gins. Favoured by notable guests during the whirlwind periods of London Fashion Week and the Frieze Art Fair, the hotel’s bar plays host to royals, key designers and artists alike, with highlights from the cocktail list including Mother’s Ruin made with Six o’Clock Gin; Tuppence Duty, a mix of champagne, fresh lemon and Fifty Pound Gin; and Ernest Roots – a new take on the classic Hemingway Daiquiri.

Mount Nelson Hotel
Mount Nelson Hotel is proud to announce the newly opened Planet Restaurant. Reflecting the hotel’s popular, celebrity-studded Planet Bar, the glamorously restyled restaurant underwent a stellar four month face-lift and now features a celestial chic design with Swarovski crystal tiles, deep blue carpet featuring the constellations and chandeliers emulating the illusion of shooting stars. Chef Rudi Liebenberg’s legendary springbok pie and tomato variation dishes are still featured on the menu, as well as a daily soufflé and indulgent degustation menus for all. Star Gazer Alert: We hear that A-listers such as Kate Moss and Prince Harry have been spotted sipping cocktails at this newly opened hot spot.

The Surrey Hotel
Be seen at The Surrey hotel located on Manhattan’s exclusive Upper East Side neighborhood and just a half block from Central Park. Step inside the hotel’s Bar Pleiades after a long day of shopping on Madison Avenue to join the scene or simply people watch over a seasonal mixed cocktail. Designer Lauren Rottet’s vision for the bar as a “stage” has come to life as The Surrey has become the newest Upper East Side haunt of mover-and-shaker neighborhood residents and the socialite crowd. During the warmer months, hotel guests can relax on the rooftop garden terrace which offers a true urban oasis with unbeatable views of the city and nearby Central Park.

W- Washington DC
Even the President knows where the celebs in DC go to party, at none other than the rooftop POV Lounge at the W Hotel. Overlooking the White House lawn, the former Hotel Washignton has been renovated into a hostpot for Beltway insiders like Valerie Jarrett and Reggie Love as well as celebs including Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony, Common, John Legend and many, many more. In cool weather, ask for a blanket and cozy up to their warm sips like Hot Peanut Buttered Rum and S’More Whiskey.

Hotel St. Barth Isle de France
Want to vacation like a celebrity? Hang with the likes of Jay-Z, Beyonce and Fergie on the hottest island in the Caribbean – St Barth. The exclusive Hotel St. Barth Isle de France welcomes guests to its gorgeous resort positioned on the picturesque Flamands Bay. Situated amidst enchanting tropical gardens and pristine beaches, Isle de France boasts 39 rooms, suites and villas that have become a home away from home for A-listers around the world. Take in the scene at the patio bar, walk the white-sand beach, take a dip in your privateinfinity plunge pool and relax in the beauty of an intimate Caribbean retreat full of classic European charm.

Banyan Tree Bangkok
The place to be seen in Bangkok, Vertigo Grill & Moon Bar, located on the 61st Floor of the Banyan Tree Bangkok hotel, is unique in presenting a different yet aesthetic urban landscape of Bangkok with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Since its opening in January 2002, it has fast become a hot spot for locals and visitors from all parts of the world. With a 100-guest capacity, this open-air rooftop lounge is divided into three sections – a dining courtyard, a private party lounge and the Moon Bar – for a romantic tête-à-tête, birthday celebrations, fashion launches or just to relax under a canopy of stars.

Coast to coast: Best hotels for Oscar viewing parties

by McLean Robbins on

Want to live it up like an A-lister? You don’t have to hit the red carpet in Los Angeles to make like the stars of The Social Network, The King’s Speech, True Grit or Black Swan. Hotel bars, particularly at luxe properties, have long been beloved by the see-and-be seen set. But if what you really want to see is the annual Oscars / Academy Awards … you’re in luck at these great Oscar viewing parties:

New York

Head to the W Hotel Union Square for Refinery 29’s Oscars bash. $40 admission nabs gourmet popcorn, an open bar, passed apps and Refinery editrixes moderating a style panel of Timo Weiland, Carol Han and designer Jonathan Simkhai, plus prize giveaways. Get your tickets here.

Washington DC

Get swanky just four blocks from The White House at The Jefferson hotel. For $95, you’ll snag admission to their Oscar party at Quill bar, where you’ll enjoy a private viewing area, glass of rose Champagne, a movie-inspired cocktail from their in-house mixologist, truffled popcorn, caviar tacos, foie gras bon bons, mini gold-plated chili cheese dogs and a copy of all recipes for the speciality cocktails served that evening. Snag tickets here.

[Flickr via Dave_B_]

Miami
74 degrees? We’ll take it. Lounge poolside at the chic South Beach hotspot The Delano, where they’ll be screening the Oscars broadcast by the pool.

Seattle
Don’t miss Hotel 1000’s charity bash. $75 gets you admission to the red carpet event, which offers a “paparazzi experience,” cocktail, drink tickets, apps and a swanky swag bag. You even get a chance to win prizes for being the best celebrity look-alike or having the hottest outfit.

Las Vegas
It’s Vegas. Who would expect anything less than an over-the-top event? Party at The Palms, where, for between $50 and $100, you’ll enjoy a celebrity red carpet, private screening of the Oscars broadcast, an after-party at The Playboy Club, and more. Shell out for the VIP tix and you’ll also enjoy VIP after-party access,the official 83rd Academy Awards Program, admission to the Celebrity VIP Reception in the Brendan Celebrity Suite with hosted bar and complimentary hors d’oeuvres, and private balcony theater viewing of the ABC telecast. Buy tickets here.

San Francisco
Don’t miss the great views and private screening at the Intercontinental’s chic Top of the Mark restaurant. Nibble apps like Nob Hill Sliders and Shrimp Cocktail while you fill out your ballots. Choose right, and you’ll be entered to win a luxe gift bag filled with a gift card for brunch for two, complimentary cocktails for two, a limited edition Evian water bottle made by Issey Miyake, and Ghiradelli chocolates. The event is free, but reservations are suggested.

Los Angeles
Would you expect anything less than black tie for this star-studded city? Of course not. Join The Beverly Hills hotel for a swank bash. Tickets are a pricey $1,000, but we’ve heard rumors that actual celebrities may attend.

The Bahamas
Who says it’s just adults that can have fun? Atlantis is offering an exclusive party in their new CRUSH teens club, where atendees can compete for best-dressed prizes, sip Oscar-themed mocktails and enjoy screenings of Twilight and The Social Network.