July 19th, 2008
Video:Inside Dallas
Join our Dallas Chief Concierge, Teklu Berhane, as he gives the grand tour of this great Texas city.
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July 16th, 2008
Jazz in Berlin
Jazz is still alive and well in the famous clubs and cellars of Berlin. Whether local or legendary, these venues’ programmes are brimming with exciting acts.
B-Flat
Featuring a minimal ambiance— and a long and well-stocked bar— the focus of B-Flat club is clearly the stage and the wide array of international musicians gracing it.
Quasimodo
Stated as the oldest jazz club in Berlin, Quasimodo has been home to many of the greats since its birth in 1975. Located under the delicious Quasimodo Café, the club is a traditional “jazz cellar” in every sense of the term.
A Trane
Legends Herbie Hancock and Alice Coltrane have called this stage home for at least a few sets. That’s probably enough to convince most jazz fans to stop by, but A Trane also features good, clean cocktails and the smoky ambiance of the classic scene.
July 10th, 2008
Greece’s Aegina Island
If you’re travelling to Athens and want to stray a bit off the tourist path, catch a “hydrofoil” ferry over to Aegina Island. In less than an hour’s boat ride, you’ll experience local life, sample the local Mediterranean fare, stumble unto ancient ruins, and of course, hit the beach.
Afea Athena Sanctuary
See the ancient sights and avoid the crowds by heading over to the Afea Athena Sanctuary.
Sandy Beaches
Walk in any direction on Aegina, you’re bound to find white sand and crystal-blue waters lined with eucalyptus trees. The stretches of beach that are most popular with visitors to the island are Aiginitissa, Marathonas, and Sarpa.
Restaurants
For such a small island, the array of restaurants is astonishing. Stop by Kiriakakis for some fresh-caught fish, crisp salads, and the perfect view of the Saronic Gulf. Don’t forget to enjoy dinner late, just as the locals do.
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July 4th, 2008
Dining in New York City
There are endless dining options in New York, but here’s a guide to a few of the Big Apple’s truly outstanding restaurants.
Momofuku
Located in the East Village, this small family of restaurants mirror the “melting pot” attitude of the city itself. With a clean, minimal ambiance, the spotlight is most certainly on the food— and the chefs. When stopping by the original Momofuku Noodle House, be sure to try the delicious fried veal shortbreads.
Cupcakes and More Cupcakes
The most famous cupcake house in the city is, of course, Magnolia Bakery. But don’t forget to try out the others, like Sugar Sweet Sunshine, Buttercup, and Billy’s. They each put their distinctive spin on the sweet mini treat, with seasonal specials and also full-sized cakes.
Aquavit
Creative Swedish cuisine is not something one thinks of as the typical Big Apple experience. But the cool confidence and unpretentiousness of the restaurant is the very essence of Scandinavia, right on 55th Street. We recommend the tasting menu and a glass of flavoured aquavit liquor, the restaurant’s namesake.
Creperie
If you’re in a hurry, but still want a worthwhile meal, stop by Creperie in the Lower East Side. They feature the classic banana-and-Nutella variety, but also feature such savoury items as a goat cheese and sun-dried tomato.
EN Japanese Braisserie
Delicious and stylish in the West Village, EN seems to do everything well. The service is impeccable, regardless of whether you’re seated at one of their tables, the communal dining counters, or one of their private rooms. The menu ranges from seasonal tempuras and noodle dishes, to appetizers, like a chicken sausage with poached egg.
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June 27th, 2008
Victory at Le Mans
We are proud to announce that for the second year in a row, our partners, the Aston Martin Racing Team has taken first place at the famous Le Mans competition.
In an extremely intense race, the team, led by David Brabham, Darren Turner, and newcomer Antonio Garcia, had to contend with not only inclement weather conditions, but also a Corvette rival that shadowed their every move.
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June 25th, 2008
A Quick Tour of Los Angeles
Sometimes a business trip or unforeseen layover can be a blessing in disguise. Whether its an extra day or even a few extra hours, Los Angeles is an exciting place. Our concierge can help you have some fun before catching your flight. Here are a few tips.
The Beach Some sun and sand is the perfect way to spend a few hours and also return home rested. Los Angeles’ beaches are a fairly short drive from both the airport and the InterContinental Century City.
Sony Pictures Studio Tour
Visit the behind-the-scenes of the silver screen. This guided tour of the studio that created such classics as “The Wizard of Oz” is sure to leave an impression. Don’t forget to bring home a gift for that special someone!
Downtown Disney
Downtown Disney is a spectacle to behold. Shopping, food, and live music abound just outside the gates of Disneyland.
June 10th, 2008
Puerto Vallarta’s Fall Festivals
There’s never a bad time to visit paradise, but Puerto Vallarta, Mexico’s fall festival list makes it that much more seductive. Here are two of our favourites:
Festival Gourmet International
Chefs and foodies from the world round converge at the Festival Gourmet International. Going strong in its 14th year, this festival brings is a showing of delicious and innovative cuisine, not to mention interesting seminars and classes.
International Sailfish and Marlin Tournament
Whether participant or spectator, everyone will find this competition riveting. The schedule is jam packed with activities, from the welcoming ceremonies of the crews in the harbour, to daily weigh-ins to award dinners.
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June 5th, 2008
Budapest’s Unique Sights
When travelling, sometimes it is fun to book a tour bus and see all the usual sights. But what about the more hard-to-find things that make a city unique, or even odd? Here is a bit of our favourite kitsch in Budapest:
Golden Eagle Pharmacy Museum
See how alchemists and pharmacists worked in bygone eras. Housed in Budapest’s first pharmacy, this museum features fascinating bottles and equipment that date back to the Renaissance.
Cave Tours
Although Turkey is famous for its thermal baths, many travellers forget about the caves these waters have formed. You’ll find fascinating formations and colors, and a breathtaking view of nature in its glory.
Cotton Club
The Roaring Twenties are alive and well at the Cotton Club. The sultry ambiance, extensive liquor list, delicious menu, and rousing stage revues are not to be missed.
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May 28th, 2008
The World’s Best Beaches
Whatever style of beach you’re looking for from stylish Miami to off-beat Los Cabos you’ll find an InterContinental Hotel nearby. Here are a few of our favourite beaches, just in time for summer holiday:
Los Cabos, Mexico
Definitely farther from beaten tourism path, Los Cabos is both charming town and a sun-bather’s haven. You’ll find delicious restaurants, fun local shopping options and some daily aquatic adventures, such as snorkeling and diving with sharks.
South Beach, Miami
See and be seen at the world’s most fashionable beach scene, placed against the backdrop of pastel Art Deco architecture. In addition to sand and surf, the colourful Miami residents enjoy fantastic shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Santo Domingo, The Dominican Republic
Strategically located in downtown Santo Domingo, The InterContinental V Centenario gives you the option of enjoying not only the stunning nearby beaches, but the thriving city as well. Don’t forget to visit Puerto Plata, where you’ll find copious local shopping options including inexpensive silver and turquoise jewelry.
Sydney, Australia
Surfing is king in Sydney. Whatever experience level you’re at, you’ll find the perfect way to ride the waves. Your concierge can help set up lessons, if you so desire. Also, pack a few evening outfits and head to the famous Sydney Opera House for a show.
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May 21st, 2008
Shopping in Atlanta
Atlanta, Georgia, the proclaimed capital of the America south-east, is a shopper’s paradise without the stress and cost of New York. The InterContinental Buckhead is directly across the street from two world-class malls and the surrounding neighborhoods are just teeming with unique boutiques. Here are a few of the options you’ll find when you’re searching for just the right thing.
Lenox Square Mall and Phipps Plaza
These two malls, colloquially known as Phipps and Lenox, feature a combined 350 specialty stores and the whole range of luxury department stores. Find everything from sporting goods to china, cocktail dresses to denim. Word to the wise: head over to Lenox during the week, away from peak traffic days, and save the more spacious Phipps for the weekend.
Blue Genes
Blue Genes is the premier Atlanta spot to find all of the high-end trends, such as Juicy Couture, Rock & Republic, and Hudson.
2 Little Chicks
Self-proclaimed as “Big Style for Little Peeps,” this Atlanta-based boutique delivers adorable fashions for the young ones, from babies to older children.
Bill Hallman
Bill Hallman and his family, who you might find actually helping guests, hand-picks the men’s and women’s wear items for a truly unique look that can rival any LA or New York-based boutique. The store’s price-point varies, so you’ll find something for any budget. They also carry a great selection of vintage women’s clothing.
Chico’s
A national American brand interwoven with famous southern hospitality and charm. Their Virginia Highland’s location features the classic-yet-modern, mature-yet-breezy styles that Chico’s is known for. Really, though, it’s the customer service that can’t be beat.
Paris on Ponce
Don’t let the facade fool you: Paris on Ponce is a fantastic place to find great antiques. Whether it’s a little something for yourself, or a gift to take home, you’re sure to find a piece of Americana here. Be prepared to spend a while, as there is plenty of kitsch and glamour to look at.
