Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Marlene Dumas at MOCA

It's definitely worth the trip downtown to MOCA on Grand Avenue. The exhibit of Marlene Dumas opened on Sunday and will show through September 22nd. The works span the artist's 30-year career and represents a broad selection of paintings and drawings. Dumas merges existential human themes with person experience. Each piece seemed to exude a human aura as if she was able to capture some essence of the person's soul. http://www.moca.org/ Title: Measuring Your Own Grave

Friday, June 20, 2008

Beckley Boutique

I mingled with Billion Dollar Babes last night at the new Beckley Boutique on Melrose Avenue. This passion project of Hollywood restaurateur Melissa Richardson, offers a charming global array of women's wear from Australian label Camilla and Marc to Katherine Kwei's Chinese-knotted snakeskin totes. Open seven days a week across from the Pacific Design Center, Richardson is including a menu of in-store services including tailor, stylist and personal shopper. I loved the quirky bugs and B's throughout the store. http://www.beckleyla.com/

Thursday, June 19, 2008

It's Love Day in Beverly Hills

Cartier is celebrating its new collection of LOVECHARITY bracelets during the third annual LOVEDAY, June 19th. Enjoyed some Cartier champagne and studied the 24 chord colors which have been selected by celebrity ambassadors in honor of their charities. Cartier pledges 10% of all sales from the entire LOVE collection will benefit partnered organizations. Everything goes with 18K white and pink gold! http://www.love.cartier.com/

Seen in the lobby

Jennifer Garner was seen at the Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive where she was filming a TV commercial for Neutrogena last night. Look good, feel fabulous is their motto and hers.

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

A Happy Client

Wendy, Your hotel is lovely. Thank you for fitting me in after such late notice. I look forward to visiting again. Lou DeLone, Publisher, Houston Modern Luxury

Monday, June 16, 2008

Beyond the Anchor Desk

Last week I attended the last of a series of journalism events at The Paley Center. This one focused on The Rise of Citizen Journalism. Forget the 'evening news', more and more we're getting our news from the Internet, contributions made by engaged citizen journalists armed with video cameras to cell phones. Some of the panelists included Max Lugavere and Jason Silva, hosts of Current TV. See the Paley website for upcoming Comedy events, such as "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia." http://www.paleycenter.org

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Vintage Car Show on Rodeo Drive

Today's note is dedicated to my globe trotting Aunt Evie who drove a British racing green 1965 Jaguar XKE like a pro. She adored that car and cruised all over Europe after she picked it up at the factory outside of London. Family rumor has it that eventually my uncle took it away from her! Too many speeding tickets we surmise. If my diesel VW Beetle could pick up that much speed in this traffic clogged city, I'd be in the same predicament.

A Happy Travel Agent

Wendy,
Thank you so much for your Birthday Wish! That just put a Smile on my face. Love ya, Laura
Laura Vasti, New Act Travel, "A Virtuoso Agency"

Come Fly, Come Fly Away

Photographer, Brian Finke, has turned his lens toward the lives of stewardesses in his latest body of work. Spanning two years, Finke manages to highlight the social camaraderie among these women. There’s a rare glance at a stewardess carrying a sandwich – we may not see that again soon. Running from June 12 – August 2, 2008 at Stephen Cohen Gallery in Los Angeles. Shown here is ‘Sara, Icelandair, 2006”. http://www.stephencohengallery.com

Friday, June 13, 2008

A Happy Client

Wendy,
Many thanks for remembering me on my special day; the “color analysis” in particular was quite interesting and befitting. Again, many thanks for your thoughts and consideration. Warmest regards, Cristina [Thompson] Assistant Manager, Concierge Services The Grove, Los Angeles

Jury Duty

Jury duty touches the lives of thousands of Los Angelenos each year and all of us have family, friends, employers and co-workers who are affected by our jury service. I know from personal experience that a summons for jury duty raises many concerns about how you will be able to fit the civic obligation of jury duty into your busy life. The notice comes in the mail and you say, "Why me?" Three days into jury selection, the prosecuting attorney dismisses Juror #3. That's me.

Thursday, June 12, 2008

A Happy Travel Agent

Hy Wendy!
Back from US, I can tell you it was a great trip for us, also during our stays at LUXE Rodeo Drive. Next time I will order leather pants and jackets for everybody to meet your request ;-)
Respectfully, Hardy Egger, Managing Director Owner
PRIME TIME GmbH LIFESTYLEHOTELS

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Beverly Hills Chihuahua


The Rodeo Drive Committee and the Hollywood Foreign press did little celebrating last night at Beverly Hills Hotel’s Bar NINETEEN12. Rodeo Drive is having a starring role in the upcoming Walt Disney Picture; “Beverly Hills Chihuahua” starring a pampered Beverly Hills Chihuahua named Chloe who finds herself accidentally lost in the mean streets of Mexico without a day spa or Rodeo Drive boutique anywhere in sight. Seen here are Chloe, wearing the diamond necklace and an amorous pup, named Papi. The film opens September 26th. Also pictured are Joann Nishi, Eres Boutique Manager, me and Iya Ritchie, Rene Caovilla Store Manager.

A Happy Travel Agent

My Dear Wendy,
Thank you so much for being so thoughtful, and remembering my
birthday!!! You made my day with the cute card and the beautiful message. May your days be always beautiful and rewarding in every way you dream of!!! Keep smiling-it's magical!
Thanks & warm regards, Shouki Khan, R. A. Travel, Inc.

Kung Fu Panda

I confess that I love cartoons and I saw Kung Fu Panda this past Sunday and called my nieces immediately to tell them the good news: Go see it! The cartoon landscape is moody and misty and the interiors are traditional red and gold which gives it an ancient epic feeling. It's a real pleasure to look at. All of the Zen wisdom passed on by kung fu master, Oogway, such as "There are no coincidences", caught me off guard. The LA Times found it annoyingly familiar, however, I found it to be more familiar than annoying. I am in the midst of reading my 3rd book by Eckhart Tolle and it was unexpected. Try it you might like it.

Monday, June 9, 2008

Seed catalogues

Today I received a charming e-mail of photos from a guest's garden. It was such an unexpected delight for me to go through the slide show as it reminded me of those seed catalogues that my grandmother would get in the mail. Each spring, I would sit with my grandma at the dining room table and search, page after page, through colorful pictures and we would order packets of seeds for her awarding winning garden. It was an annual rite of passage to do this with her and in turn, I learned about moisture levels, temperatures and growing seasons. Of course I always thought that Burpee was a hilarious name for a seed company and Adelaide was always gentle with me when I pointed this out. Thank you, Alan, for sharing.

Saturday, June 7, 2008

The Cook's Library

Here I am scouring through the stacks of books at the annual Cook’s Library sidewalk sale. This 18 year fixture along Third Street is a great gathering place for foodophiles, inexperienced and accomplished. They have a resourceful staff that can help you find the perfect book for your area of interest and talent. (Personally, I prefer one recipe per page with a picture.) Stop by with a question and you’ll find yourself curled up on the sofa with a stack of cookbooks savoring the possibilities. There's also a chance to meet local and internation authors at their book signings - in the store and at the local Hollywood Farmer's Market. http://www.cookslibrary.com/

Friday, June 6, 2008

Marc Baptiste New Work


Genlux Magazine, Keisha Whitaker and Amanda Demme hosted a sexy opening reception for Marc Baptiste's new work at The Celebrity Vault. Baptiste was charming and very available. His nudes were appreciatively more real women than Hollywood. A portion of tonight's sale benefited The Jakmel Film Foundation. Congratulations to publisher Cecilia Moreno, seen here with me. I caught Omar on the way out for a photo-op.

A Happy Travel Agent

Hi Wendy, just to said thank you very much for remember my birthday, it`s was a nice present your letter. Best regards and have a nice weekend.
Marcia de Asco, Viaje a las Estrellas, American Virtuoso Member

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Miu Miu

After a two-year hiatus, Miu Miu is back! And the boutique is on Rodeo Drive just steps from Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive. Prada’s sweet little sister offers whimsy galore with sequined shoes, delicate feathery headbands, coral satins and puffy skirts. Designed by Robert Baciocchi, the 25 foot ceilings and skylights gazing at the stars make a perfect addition to the Miu Miu universe. Glad they're here. http://www.miumiu.com/

From the publishers of Los Angeles Magazine

This evening, I attended the glamorous block party celebrating the launch of Beverly Hills Magazine. Entertainment was provided by The Foundry Three with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres by McCormick and Schmick’s. Two Rodeo and our glorious southern California weather provided the perfect backdrop for this toast. Seen here are The Crescent General Manager, Shaw McPherson, me and Kathryn Smits, Beverly Hills CVB Director.

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

A Happy Client

Wendy,
Thank you so much for the card and the color.
You never forget my bday and I so appreciate it.
You are a true friend and thoughtful. Lots of LOVE to you and stay happy and enjoy life.
Bernard G. Jacobs

Monday, June 2, 2008

Sex and the City

Of course I had to see the movie after being one of those thousands of women who watched the HBO series. Not wanting to miss the opening weekend, I went early to The Grove to pick up a ticket and found myself in line with dozens of other eager ladies. Upon requesting one ticket for 8:15 PM, the darling young clerk said, “Would you like a senior ticket? Some people are afraid to ask.” Being closest in age to the character of Samantha, I tried to imagine the look on her face to such a query. Would she have rebuffed the offer, with “How dare you?” or pay $7.75 and figure she just put one over on Arclight Management. I laughed all the way to the nearest barstool and a dirty martini for a pre-show toast with the girls. http://www.hbo.com/city

Friday, May 30, 2008

Ilori

Attended a charming event at Ilori last night. Sipped champagne and entertained myself trying on the myriad of eye wear available in this compact but extremely well stocked boutique on Rodeo Drive. Only a few steps from the front door, this shop is worth a look. P.S. I looked pretty cute in that pair of Alain Mikli. Seen here with me is Pam Luke, Regional Director, West Coast for Luxottica. http://www.iloristyle.com/

Thursday, May 29, 2008

A Happy Travel Agent

Thanks again Wendy for you Hospitality and the quick show round of your Beautiful hotel
Look forward to working with you in the near future
Cheers from Darwin, Australia.
Scott [Stephenson], Manager, DARWIN CENTRAL FLIGHT CENTRE

Commit me

Any man who goes to a psychiatrist ought to have his head examined. -Samuel Goldwyn
My hard drive died over a week ago. I'm ready for my appointment.

Monday, May 19, 2008

A Happy Corporate Client

Wendy,
Thanks for the plate of cheese and fruit, really I fell like home in this hotel. Regards, Gerardo Gomez, National Operations Director, Natura Bisse International

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Kara Walker at the Hammer Museum

The highly acclaimed exhibit Kara Walker: My Complement, My enemy, My Oppressor, My Love finishes its international tour at the Hammer Museum in Westwood. Through June 8th, the exhibition is the first comprehensive survey of Walker's work and includes works in a wide array of materials and mediums. The pieces were both alluring and highly disturbing. Walker fuses craft and content with remarkable originality. http://www.hammer.ucla.edu

Speed Racer

I saw Speed Racer at the most recent Australians in Film screening. Where was I? At a gigantic video arcade? What this movie needs is a wheel attached to each seat.

Friday, May 16, 2008

Seen in the Luxe Lobby

Colombian model and actress, Sofia Margarita Vergara, enjoyed a libation in Café Rodeo this afternoon. Known best in Latin America in the Colombian version of Desperate Housewives, Amas de Casa Desesperadas, she is currently stars in ABC’s breakout series, Dirty Sexy Money, as Jeremy Darling’s new love interest. It was noted that “La Toti” raised the temperature several degrees.

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Simple things

Whenever I visit my nieces, I'm reminded of those simple pleasures, such as peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Pictured here is my oldest niece with 'buddy' markered in the crevasse of her hand. The ventriloquist act followed. Buddy likes his peanut butter on celery.

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

A Happy Corporate Client

Dear Wendy,
Many Thanks for showing us your property! It is truly unique!
I appreciate your time and effort and look forward to continue working together through Splendia!
I will be in town for another week, so please feel free to contact me shall you need anything further.Warm Regards, Stephanie Mariotti, Market Manager for Splendia, Luxury & Character Hotels

Tosca

Thanks to WHERE magazine, we got a chance to see the final dress rehearsal for Tosca at the LA Opera last night. The libretto by Giuseppe Giacosa and Luigi Illica was a real treat. We all thought there should be more grit. Tosca should have really given it to Scarpia! Pictured here are Lisa Mesaros, Tal Golan, Carla Thompson and me.

Softball Practice



Spring: When young girls hearts turn to softball practice. Coaching 9 year-old girls' brought back a lot of memories. I admit that I was one of those who didn't want to get grass stains on her peddle pushers. If the ball didn't come to me, I'd let it roll on the ground until it reached my feet. It's easier to pick up that way. "Little League baseball is a good thing 'cause it keeps the parents off the streets and it keeps the kids out of the house." - Yogi Berra

Twister

Nothing like a great game of twister after eating a platter of pancakes on Mother's Day morning. My sister-in-law makes the BEST pancakes. I'd share the recipe but it's a secret. Even on Mother's Day, she had to make her own breakfast. Thank you, Cindy, for standing by the griddle and making us all happy! Happy Mother's Day.

Sour or Sweet

"Let me embrace thee, sour adversity, for wise men say it is the wisest course." - William Shakespeare
Pictured here is my niece who insisted that I try some sour candy spray. If you think she looks funny, you should have seen my face!

A Happy Corporate Client

Hi Wendy,
It was nice meeting you last week! Thank you for everything. Our guests were very happy!! Thank you again!!
Lucia Peretti
Italy-America Chamber of Commerce West

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Thought for the Day

This life is yours. Take the power to choose what you want to do and do it well. Take the power to love what you want in life and love it honestly. Take the power to walk in the forest and be a part of nature. Take the power to control your own life.
-Susan Polis Schutz
Pictured here is my brother's backyard in Wisconsin.

A Happy Travel Agent

Hi Wendy,
Thank you soo much for that Birthday card....:)
DeeDee Callaway, The Velvet Road Group

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

A Happy Travel Agent

Hi Wendy,
Thanks for your lovely email – what a beautiful quote! I will keep that one.
Thanks again for welcoming us to Luxe Hotel and putting on such a beautiful lunch. It was very generous of you and the agents all enjoyed seeing the property. I look forward to working with you in future – if you ever need any assistance or information on the Australia/New Zealand market please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Best regards,
Alison Scott, Public Relations Manager

My sympathies

Thank you to everyone who has sent their kind and generous condolences.
"Hi Wendy, I was at West Hollywood City Council and heard about your Mom. I am so very sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you at this time and hope you find solace in the love surrounding her. XOXO Love, Gen" [Genevieve Morrill, Vice President, Pacific Design Center]

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Quotation of the Day

"It clearly evokes a visceral response because we’re the only industry that has our prices in two-foot-high letters on the street corner." John Felmy, chief economist at the American Petroleum Institute, on gas prices. New York Times, May 6, 2008

A Happy Travel Agent

Thank you. Loved the Hotel and I will recommend it for sure after meeting the staff and the presence at the Hotel fantastic as I did used to work in a 5* [star] Hotel and it was lovely but not as welcoming as your Hotel. Very well done and I hope my clients think the same I'm sure they will. Regards, Michelle Saidi, Senior Travel Consultant, Flight Centre Eastgardens South

Monday, May 5, 2008

Happy Birthday!

Dearest Wendy,
Thanks very much for all the goodies you've sent me. The pictures are super, specially the one of you, it's a winner you look beautiful. The colors and surroundings are in perfect harmony !!! Also, thanks for being so thoughtful and sending me the lipstick. Today is my B-day and I will use it for the first time as a special gift. I'm very excited, that was really so so very sweet of you. I will get back to you later, lots of love always and for making me look very pretty. Mucho amor,
Reyna [Harriet Jones], Embajada de Irlanda

Saturday, May 3, 2008

A Happy Guest

Had a wonderful stay at your hotel. Food was amazing.
Best,
Judie [Ashworth], Mothers Work, Inc.

Bigger Than Barbie

Women in Film screened a film by a Norwegian director who was captivated by a beaded doll she received as a gift. Davis went on a quest to learn about the doll’s origins, which led her to the artists of Moneybiz and fueled her passion to share their story with the world. In cooperation with the event, Art Aids Art had samples of the beaded art work for sale. All profits when to the construction of eKhaya eKasi, a multipurpose community center to serve the Monkeybiz artists in the Khayelitsha Township. Shown here with pins made from recycled tires. http://www.artaidsart.org/

Jacaranda

Jacaranda is a photographic exhibit documenting an unexpected exchange between Sam, a 13 year old boy in Los Angeles, and the Jacaranda School in Malawi Africa. After meeting founder Marie Da Silva who spoke about her group of students, Ben wanted to donate money that he had received as gifts for his Bar Mitzvah. When he asked what else he could do, she suggested that he start pen palling with a young student named Blessings Goliyo. “He had lost both parents to Aids but has a positive outlook on life and feels lucky to attend the Jacaranda School. I wanted to send Blessings some gifts and we had also cleaned out our closets at home so I sent three big boxes of things for Blessings and the students.” It’s a remarkable exhibit at Lost and Found Gallery, through May 26th in Hollywood. Coincidentally, the jacarandas are in bloom along Yucca Street. http://www.jacarandafoundation,org/

In memory of my mother

“The death of a mother is the first sorrow wept without her”, author unknown.
I got up this morning, grabbed an old toothbrush, Comet cleanser and scrubbed the grout in my shower stall. Then I paid myself 50 cents. I’ll miss you mom. My heart is filled with the kindest of memories.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

A Happy Travel Agent

I wanted to thank you for your most thoughtful Birthday wishes last week!! What a memory!! Thank you so Very Much
Best,Jane Aiello
R. A. Travel, Inc.

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Great to Be Nominated

The "Great to Be Nominated" series, featuring the picture from each Academy Awards year that received the most nominations without winning Best Picture award, continues its fifth and final season at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. This final series runs through August in the Samuel Goldwyn Theater. Each evening includes animated and live action short subjects, original advertising trailers, outtakes and surprise guest panel discussions. Last night was "Pulp Fiction", 1994 and next week is "Apollo 13", 1995. They screen the very best prints at the Academy. Located on Wilshire Blvd, tickets may be purchased at http://www.oscars.org

Monday, April 28, 2008

A Happy Travel Agent

Hi Wendy,
My son and his wife stay with you this past Friday and LOVED the hotel. There was not one thing wrong. from the service, room and ambiance. Thank you so much for you attention and help. You are on my recommendation list.
Regards, Adrienne Frumovitz [New Act Travel, Los Angeles]

Ruth's Skin Care

Since this is my birthday month, I took advantage of a 10% discount on Ina’s ultimate Face and Body Experience at Ruth’s Skin Care in West Hollywood. Since 1985, Ruth has been offering that personal attention to customers in a tranquil atmosphere at the corner of La Cienega Blvd and Melrose Avenue. If you’ve got a birthday coming up – try it, you’ll like it. It includes facial nourishment, cleansing scrub and thermo-mask while another aesthetician treats you to a body massage. http://wwwruthsskincare.com

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Howard L. Bingham: The Rumble in the Jungle

The latest M+B Galley exhibit chronicles Muhammad Ali’s legendary trip of 1974 to Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo) to fight favored George Foreman in the first world heavyweight boxing championship held on the African continent. Bingham’s photography covers Ali’s entire eight-week stay, recounting the event in all its dimensions. Sharing the world spotlight was a dictator eager to gain international respect and visiting celebrities and music luminaries. This show is not to be missed. 612 North Almont Drive, West Hollywood through May 31st. http://mbfala.com

Friday, April 25, 2008

Wisconsin in spring

When asked why I left Wisconsin for California, I always say “The weather of course.” But it’s pictures like this of my parents’ backyard in spring that make me a bit nostalgic for four seasons.

A Happy Travel Agent

Hi Wendy,
Thank you so much for thinking of me on my birthday. They mailed it to me the other day from Pat Walker Travel. The Astrological sign information is really great and fun to read.
Hope all is well with you and thanks again!
Thank you, Joni Miller
Protravel International

Tour Connection update

Tour Connection was a big hit with the travel agents last night. Pat Walker, Pat Walker Travel, e-mailed me that it was a really good event. Hope everyone else felt the same way. I shared a space with Sharon McKernan, The Bristol Hotel in San Diego, and she had mini-portable fans as her give-away. Thank goodness for a bit of circulation. Check out The Bristol at www.luxehotels.com

Thursday, April 24, 2008

A Happy Travel Agent

Dear Wendy, Peace!
Thank you for your kind note.
I did enjoy staying at the Luxe Hotel albeit briefly. I will certainly consider staying there again should my travels take me back to LA.
Sincerely, Dennis Tan, Managing Director, Abercrombie and Kent, Thailand Ltd.

Money Matters

When Uncle Sam sneezes, you might say, "God Bless America."

Tour Connection

The annual Tour Connection event is tonight where hoteliers get to mingle with some of the top producing entertainment travel agents from the Los Angeles area. Yesterday I had the great pleasure to spend time with my favorite talent agency specialists at the Chateau Marmont reception. All of them handle those talent agent ‘special requests’ with aplomb. That’s why I love them. Seen here are Shirlee Kessler, Tom Mesquit, Robyn Bizier, me and Kathleen Allen

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Bento Boxed Lunch - something new in Cafe Rodeo

I forwarded this [Chef Gladestone's bento boxed lunch] to our catering dept. I'll let you know what comes of it. Such a great idea! Thank you again for the lovely lunch today. I wish we had more time, but I will see you again tomorrow. :) Robyn Bizier, Office of Kathleen Allen, Special Services, William Morris Agency

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Girl Bonding

I just returned from a weekend in Wisconsin and my niece asked for nail salon pampering time with Aunt Wendy. It was her first visit and she was a bit apprehensive. But bright blue nail polish is the charm that bonds all girls.

Thought for the Day

Humour is the great thing, the saving thing. The minute it crops up, all our irritations and resentments slip away and a sunny spirit takes their place. - Mark Twain

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

A Happy Guest

Thank you Wendy. I will certainly visit the Luxe hotel again on my next trip to Beverly Hills.
Thank you, Vinny [Vincent Ottomanelli, President and Regional Director for Salvatore Ferragamo]

Monday, April 14, 2008

Taxes - good luck today

Born to Party. Forced to Work.

My birthday actually fell on a Friday this year! But because my internal time clock is still 11 time zones away, I was about to fall asleep at 8 o'clock. Instead of a party animal, I was a party pooper. Thank goodness I had two dear friends to prop me up for the dessert course. "Same, Same, Different"

A Happy Guest

Dear Wendy,
Thank you for your lovely message. I had a really wonderful time although it was very different without my daughter.
My warmest wishes to you also, your kindness is endless and I look forward to my next stay in about five weeks time.
Please would you kindly pass on my warmest wishes and affection to Conrad, Marco, Martino, Oscar and all at valet.
All Best Wishes, Sue

Friday, April 11, 2008

Hola from Mexico City

Dear Wendy, I have to apologize for not writing earlier, but I missplaced your b-card. I included a picture of the three of us. Things are going well here, the weather is hot, hot, hot. Any way I hope you had a good time in Dubai, I'd love to hear about it. Any way Wendy, it was very nice meeting you and hope to see you again next year, or sooner, even better.
Hasta pronto. Laura and Lula says hi!

Happy Birthday!


Who’s there?
Mark.
Mark who?
Mark your calendars … my birthday’s today

Bathing Suit

I panicked before I left for Dubai because I didn’t own a bathing suit. Thanks to Eres Boutique on Rodeo Drive, I didn’t have to look too far. Manager, Joann Nishi, took superb care in choosing the perfect one-piece. Thank you! http://www.eresparis.com

Thursday, April 10, 2008

A Happy Guest

Good morning Wendy:
I had a terrific time at the hotel this past week – everybody takes such good care of me – I love being there – I think this now makes the 5th time -
Vincent S. Lipe
ACQUISITIONS Event Management, Inc.

Midnight at the Oasis


The desert caravan was another venture outside of Dubai. After letting some air out of the tires, drivers take 6 – 8 passengers on speed jaunts, up and down the sandy terrain providing a roller coaster effect. Our handsome driver admitted about halfway through that he was operating on two-wheel drive instead of four as we starting sliding down a sand dune. But not to worry, it’s easy to take another turn in this great expanse of dessert and catch up with the rest. The trip culminates in a dinner feast, organized activities around a camp fire and of course, some belly dancing!

Venturing outside of Dubai

Driving along the winding road to the Musadam Peninsula, one could mistake the landscape for Utah. The absence of construction cranes and cement factories clearly marked our entry into Oman; not to mention meandering goats.
Jutting out into the Strait of Hormuz, the aquamarine waters of the fjord like bays provided an excellent snorkel and swim retreat to coral reefs and humpback dolphin sightings along the limestone cliffs.

Dubai Shopping


Everyone talks about Dubai as having some of the best shopping malls in the world. Instead I opted for the old Souk where I studied some of the local fashion.

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Speakeasy Dubai Style

I just returned from a week in Dubai. Well, actually in Ajman, where my girlfriend, Patricia, has taken a year-long consulting position. On my second day, she took me to the local liquor shack behind a construction project and down a winding gravel road. From a side door in the cinderblock compound, we found every conceivable intoxicating beverage stacked neatly on metal shelves. Within minutes, we made off with some beer and wine in a paper sack! No photos allowed.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

A Happy Guest

How impressive - not only that you remember my birthday but that you have specific material about the day/ personality type!
It was very kind of you to send it all the way to NZ - how is life going for you? I guess the weather is starting to warm up abit just as we are cooling down...
With warmest regards, Sue [Heritage Hotels]