viagra
Subscribe RSS

Archive for May, 2009

Palm Beach Local Attractions – Worth Avenue May 29

Palm Beach is known for pandering to the tastes of almost everything – but more particularly, as the play place for the rich and famous.worth avenue

Worth Avenue, or simply “The Avenue” to local Palm Beachers, has been boasting big name patrons for half a century and former visitors include those as importante as the Kennedy family, Donald Trump, and Henry Flagler. Fashion connoisseurs from international destinations fly in to peruse themselves the extensive list of high-end designers well “worth” their travel.

Legendary international boutique businesses stand alongside specialty stores found only on the walk of fashion’s finest. If you’re interested in the international finds or dying for domestics, stop into to Salvatore Ferragamo, Giorgio Armani, Louis Vitton, Valentino, Christian Dior, or try Tiffany & Company, Juicy Couture, Jimmy Choo and  Michael Kors.

Stores cover a vast array of designers and unique finds and where there’s superior shopping, there’s fine dining to sate the thirst of your palette – why not be seen while you’re at ‘the’ place to see in Palm Beach? The Mar-a-Lago Club, home to the most elite guest list and a member of the National Historic Sites, is just across the street.

Toast to an afternoon of your shopping stroll and stop into one of the many restaurants that’ll have you salivating in seconds. Places to park your rear include Bice Ristorante, Renato’s, and Ta-boo.

Dining and shopping aren’t all this center of chic – there’s even a Galeria of Sculpture and antiques, furniture and wild finds to be seen amidst the mix of sensational style. Why not see for yourself what fashion or glittering antique you’ll find? It’ll be ‘worth’ your time, we’re sure.

For more information and a full list of businesses on Worth Avenue, please visit the Web site.

West Palm Beach Events – Taste of the West & Chocolate Lovers Festival May 27

I know I like to say I’ve got great things to tell you about, but today I’ve found all of you a super sweet treat – literally! Now, don’t get too excited about weekend plans, as this special event doesn’t start until the first week of June, so hold tight.

12th annual taste of the west & chocolate lovers festivalThe West Palm Beach Chamber’s annual food tasting and business expo, otherwise known as The Taste of the West & Chocolate Lovers Festival is hosting its 12th celebration at the Americraft Expo Center on Thursday, June 4th, 2009.

From 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. you can enjoy delectable samplings from various member restaurants and country clubs, all while touring the products and services offered by the exhibitors. Some of the restaurants and businesses that will be in attendance are: California Pizza Kitchen, Havana Restaurant, Starbucks Coffee Company, Costco, Binks Forest Golf Club and Breakers West Country Club.

Bring the kids for a quirky interactive instruction and be sure to sign them up for the Kids’ Cooking Corner where girls and boys aged 5 to 12 can cook up chocolatey goods with Dianne Morin of Marroc Cooking for Kids.

The free food and fun continues with a myriad of musical entertainment, guest celebrity chefs, and an array of cooking and pie eating contests drawing people from all over Palm Beach County. Also, take part in the award ceremony where the “Best Chocolate Dessert” title will go with the trophy of “People’s Choice” to the winner chosen by the attending public after you sample all the sweet samples from contestants.

Admission: $10 in advance, $12 same day as event.

For a full list of vendors and information on participation, please visit the Web site or contact Catherine Engel at (561) 790-6200.

West Palm Beach Things To Do – The Maui Spa May 26

Hear me out – Hawaii isn’t as far as you think.

The Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront Resort is a sure crowd pleaser, with a variety of restaurants, nightlife and beachfront activities; however, if you’re ready to rid yourself of the grit of the sand or just the down and dirty of every day life, “hakuna matata” my South Florida fans.the maui spa & wellness center

“No worries” will follow you to The Maui Spa & Wellness Center in Boca Raton. A beachfront beautification bash doesn’t always require fine dining or stout spirits, though the Center does boast a fabulous lunch selection to benefit the health of both your body and mind.

Built in 2007, 7,000 square feet of fantastical treatments and fancy services will woo you into thinking you’re in Waikiki, including the Kipahulu Relaxation Room where you’ll lounge under the stars of Maui. Authentic Hawaiian spa services are offered from a variety of 10 treatment rooms and include those catering to both men and women.

The list of services available seems endless but so is the no holds barred approach to relaxation and rejuvenation – holistic treatment is key at this treat in Boca that’s bound to have you back for more. Facials, scrubs, seaweed wraps and copper soaking tubs are only half of what The Maui Spa has to brag about.

To round out the authenticity of this super spa, 2,200 additional square feet encompass the rooftop garden available for hosted events, as well as yoga classes and private hula dancing lessons. It’s only forty minutes to paradise and after you’ve picked out your favorite Swiss massage, hydrotherapy and quality time in the couple’s suite, see about the specials on their Web site.

Aloha, you beach buffs.

Palm Beach Attractions – Dolphin World May 22

Ever wanted to be at one with those kooky but graceful little swimmers in the deep?

I sure have and I have to tell you, it’s a one of a kind experience.dolphin world

Guests at the Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront Resort are particularly in luck. Dolphin World’s Dolphin Encounter and VIP Monkey/Orangutan Park package includes pick up service! You won’t have to worry about winding and weaving through traffic to get to the park – they’ll get you to where you need to be.

Though there are others, this package is particularly a winner. The focus, naturally, is on your encounter with the dolphins where you’ll be greeted by the chipper swimmer, share some special moves, hugs, smooches and the like but where it would usually stop for others, it won’t for you!

The up close and personal experience continues with encounters with even more quirky characters! You’ll coddle a scaly snuggler, either a snake or other reptile, and even get your hands on a tweeting tropical bird – no, it won’t be Polly and you won’t be the pirate asking him if he wants a cracker; however, do feel free to bring your eye patch. Leave the wooden leg at home, though.

There’s more. Monkey around with an Orangutan, laugh at the lemurs and waddle with those cute little goofs in tuxes, penguins. When you’re done pal-ing around with the animals, you’ll get to watch the show – in fact, a few of them!

The Land Animal, Bird, and Reptile Shows are all included, as well as a Marine Park Tour and a VIP Behind The Scenes Tour. When your day finally comes to a close, you’ll have had lunch (included) and tugged on a free T-shirt to remember your fun in the sun.

P.S. If you book 30 days ahead, you’ll get a free video of your fun with your fuzzy, and scaly friends.

Check out the details at Dolphin World’s Web site.
Price and times vary, please verify with Dolphin World prior to booking.

Palm Beach Local Attractions – The Mar-a-Lago Club May 20

If you’re looking for something special in Palm Beach, I’ve got just the thing for you.

This “Jewel of Palm Beach” brings class and culture into the most delicious, flawless combination. The Mar-a-Lago Club is a priceless piece of history and ingenuity perfect for the elite with a particular taste for as much character as containment.

Though it has been renewed and revamped by Donald Trump, the Mar-a-Lago reaches into a history longer lasting than modern day embellishment. Trump purchased the property in 1985 and used it as a private residence for ten years, until 1995 at which point the club was established and opened to the public a variety of venues for enjoyment. An impressive pool, an esteemed beauty salon, one grass and five clay floored tennis courts and a croquet court (recipient Court of the Year Award from the United States Tennis Court & Track Builders Association). Two retail outlets call the club home, one tennis pro and one boutique neighboring the Trump Spa. In 2005, Trump completed the Donald J. Trump Grand Ballroom comprised of 20,000 feet and the largest on the island.

Despite Trump’s glorification of his own name, the entirety of the estate serves to esteem the endeavors of its original owner and dreamer, Marjorie Merriweather Post (then Mrs. E. F. Hutton). Opened after four years of construction, in January 1927 was the product of years of searching and scouring for the prime position nestled between Lake Worth and the ocean. True to it’s name meaning “sea to lake” and now considered the most valuable tract of land in Florida is anchored by concrete and steel to a coral reef. 20 acres of manicured lawns and lavish ballrooms invite elite crowds from as far away places as the building materials themselves.

Outside of the variety of calendar events of wine tasting dinners, galas, balls, fashion shows and leisurely competition on the lawns, the structure itself radiates with cultured character. The main house is modeled after the Hispano-Moresque style, a popular Mediterranean style, facing Lake Worth with a 75 foot tower topping it with a breathtaking view in all directions all comprised of 3 boatloads of Dorian stone from Genoa, Italy. 114 rooms flaunt the tiny seashells and fossils in their building blocks. The Spanish, Venetian, and Portugese stylistic traits do not end at the main house – 36,000 Old Spanish tiles, with some dating back to the 15th century, sprawl the villa.

Designated in 1969 as “The Mar-a-Lago National Historic Site” by the Department of the Interior, it was placed  on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 by an Act of Congress. Formerly used by Post for foreign dignitaries, it has become a leading contender for one of the world’s most exquisite and exclusive private clubs, both timeless and ageless in all its glory of luxury, dining, entertainment and recreation.

For more information please visit the Web site or call 561.832.2600.

Palm Beach Specials – Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront Resort May 18

Trip it to the beach or tip toe on the waves to get that burnt bronze, whatever your passion, Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront Resort offers comfort and convenience for your getaway – and at a great price!

hilton singer island oceanfront resortFeel like you’re wasting away from a rough work week? Get away! Seriously. The Hilton’s offering a variety of specials and this one’s super. This super pick is perfect for the weekend – why? It’s got the best three particulars for paradise: bed, breakfast, and the beach. The Hilton Bed & Breakfast beats the best – get away from a weakened week of work on the beach and have a Hilton Breakfast for two all weekend long.

Tired of the weekend crowd but still tired of your work week? Don’t worry, you haven’t missed the weekend. There’s a little something special for you too.

Before you hit the beach after a refreshing night of sound sleep, you’ll be treated to an expansive breakfast buffet for two at the oceanfront restaurant. After refueling, you’ll be able to stick your toes in the sand while being provided with complimentary beach chairs and umbrella, or have the option of embarking on another adventure (complimentary options include one hour rentals of kayaks, surfboards, boogie boards, tubes and snorkeling equipment). After you’ve bronzed up or beat the waves, check back in to the beachside restaurant with $25 food or beverage credit (applicable toward lunch or dinner).

Looking for something more? Family fun or a ravishing resort staycation? Check out the Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront Resort Web site for more information or call 1-561-848-3888.

Hilton Bed & Breakfast offer valid through December 10, 2009.

Missed the Weekend offer valid through December 31, 2009 from $230/night.

Palm Beach Dining – Morton’s The Steakhouse May 15

Chi-town’s gone to the beach – how?

mortons the steakhouseMorton’s of Chicago – The Steakhouse in West Palm Beach promises an evening at a place that not only serves prime selections in decadent desserts and entrees but service that’ll have you chomping at the bit, and a sirloin, to get back.

Thirty years of fine tuning to food and service has earned Morton’s an extensive following – the company calls 80 different locations home to prime hospitality and hearty meals, and Palm Beach is no different. Mere minutes from the Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront Resort, it’s the perfect pick if you’re in the mood for steak, seafood, or sweets with phenomenal service.

Bringing coastal cuisine from Chi-town, USDA aged and primed steak isn’t the only thing available for your selection to savor on fine linen topped tables. Their seafood selection alone boasts an impressive variety not unlike their steaks with plates serving Ahi Tuna, Colossal Shrimp, Maine Lobster, Oysters, and Smoked Pacific Salmon – Morton’s is also famous for their menu presentation at your tableside where each prime cut piece is reviewed by the customer to ensure their satisfaction before even beginning cooking.

That’s service – and there’s more. Fast favorites include the 24-ounce porterhouse steak and a 14-ounce double filet, and the best part is they’re all perfectly complemented by award winning wines, all recommended by service staff trained in each of their particulars.

If you’re mouths not watering yet, you ought to check out the menu for yourself. With both a lunch and dinner menu, the service will suit your taste in salads, sandwiches, seafood or steaks for a laudable lunch or a divine dinner.

Morton’s is located at: 777 South Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
For reservations, information and other locations, please call 561-835-9664 or visit the Web site.

Palm Beach Local Attractions – Palm Beach Princess Casino Cruise May 14

palm beach princess casino cruiseBelieve it or not, there’s a place that combines food, fun, and frivolity – all on the water.

Whether you’re in town at the Hilton Singer Island’s Oceanfront Resort or up for cruising the coast, we’re showing you our best hand. Throw some money at your honey or into the luck of the draw when you board the Palm Beach Princess Casino Cruise. That’s right, a cruise AND a casino.

15,000 square feet encompass the cruise line’s casino boasting Blackjack, Roulette, Poker, Craps and slots to suit your fancy for a roll of the dice or drawing from the deck. Departing from the Palm Beach port, the cruise line offers a duo of dips into the pocket: 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. The casino opens, however, only when the ship is 3 miles off shore, generally around 11:15 a.m. and 7:15 p.m. per their respective trips.

Never fear, my dears – when you’re not pulling the lever to spin your pennies and nickels, there’s other fun to be had. Not only does the cruise line tout its vast variety of casino games, there’s more. Live entertainment is regularly featured, as well as Bingo, swing dancing, swimming, and a pool bar. If you get a cramp taking “craps” shots down the tables, there’s massage therapy for that, too.

Reservations are not required and the classiest dress is the evening’s cocktail casual – when you’re looking to rock the boat, “cruising” Palm Beach is your best bet.

Bad gambling puns aside, a casino cruise from Palm Beach’s port is worth investing your time and the best part? You won’t have to chance a good time.

Rates vary, please see the Web site for rate and contact information.

West Palm Beach Events – World Croquet Championship 2009 May 13

Feeling a little ballsy?

world croquet championship 2009Then this weekend’s for you. Cracking its starting qualifiers, The Quest For The World Cup World Croquet Championship 2009 ends this Sunday, May 17th.

With qualifiers having begun May 7th, this championship has been “in swing” for quite some time. Whether you’re out to watch mallet swings or some ball crackin’, the Wimbledon Cup is the focus for the major draw to West Palm Beach.

Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront Resort guests, don’t you fret – there’s plenty of fun that’ll have you rolling on down to the lawns.

Hosted by the United States Croquet Association and the World Croquet Foundation, the 12th Annual World Championship for the Wimbledon Cup will see to ball busters joining South Floridians from all over the world. 80 players from 25 different countries, including Australia, Madrid, Switzerland, South Africa, Ireland, and Egypt will be competing for the Championship title at 4 different venues (PGA National, NCC, Beach Club, and Royal Palm Yacht); however, the main event will be held at the National Croquet Center’s 12 lawns.

To get the ball rolling, each day at 8:30 a.m., the crack of dawn meets the crack of mallets. Playing commences and continues on until dusk, approximately 8:00 p.m. If you’re still looking for entertainment after the cup’s been won, raise your own at Blue Martini lounge.

The National Croquet Center is located at 700 Florida Mango Road, West Palm Beach, FL, 33406. For more information, please call 832-725-8814 or visit the Web site.

Palm Beach Events – Mounts Botanical Garden on Mother’s Day May 08

That’s right, readers, this weekend is a special one for some seriously special ladies – Mother’s Day.

Here’s a quick recap and history lesson for you. Social activist Julia Ward Howe penned A Mother’s Day Proclamation as a call to peace after being inspired by Ann Jarvis, who attempted to unite women and improve the sanitary conditions through Mothers’ Work Days.

The third largest card selling holiday and second most popular gift-giving one after Christmas, Mother’s Day was declared a national holiday the second Sunday of May in 1914 by President Wilson. This declaration came after the first official celebration campaigned by Jarvis’ daughter in 1908 in Grafton, West Virginia.

If you’re in Palm Beach, or stealing away for some well-deserved rest at Hilton Singer Island’s Oceanfront Resort, this is just for you. To celebrate the endless generosity and care of our loving mothers, take her out for a time to relish the natural beauty that abounds within their hearts and in nature every day. This year, instead of buying that super market bouqet, take mom to stop and smell the roses.mothers day mounts botanical garden

Mounts Botanical Garden is offering the Connoisseurs Garden Tour to take you and your loved one through a plethora of pretty posies and abounding blooms – no joke.

2,000 species of tropical and subtropical plants spread their blooms over 14 acres, peppered in a landscape of flowering trees, shrubs, palms, herbs, roses in ravishing display.

For $25 a person, you’ll get access to

  • Mounts’ Garden shop
  • Hoffman Chocolate stores (Boca Raton and Greenacres)
  • Palm Beach Gardens and Wellington
  • Delray Garden Center (Delray Beach)
  • Domenico Nursey & Landscape (Boynton Beach)
  • Giverny Gardens (Jupiter)
  • Johnny Mango’s Produce (Boynton Beach)
  • Meyer’s Turf & Landscape Nursery (Riviera Beach)
  • Smith & Hawken (Palm Beach Gardens)
  • Uncle Bim’s Garden Center (West Palm Beach)

For more information and the addresses of the private gardens, call 561-233-1757 or visit the Web site.

Admission: $25 per person. Open May 9, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., and May 10, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

“By and large, mothers and housewives are the only workers who do not have regular time off. They are the great vacationless class.”
Anne Morrow Lindbergh, author