by Editor | May 1, 2005 | Mexico, North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Tulum
A secluded barefoot-casual, sun drenched enclave of small cabana hotel s nestled between tropical jungle vegetation and the gentle surf of the Caribbean Sea, Tulum was an idyllic “base camp” to explore the nearby archeological and natural wonders of Mexico ’s Yucatan peninsula. When we last visited Tulum, it was a barely visible icon on the map of the Yucatan , indicating the presence of a not yet excavated minor Maya site. Luxuriant tropical vegetation encroached in places upon the narrow, intermittently paved jungle road that took us there. Things have changed a lot in the past thirty years. Today, Tulum is definitely on the map! Easily accessible via a modern highway, as well as a stopping point for cruise ships, it has become one of the most visited Maya sites in the Yucatan . The spot, although small and structurally far less impressive than others nearby such as Chichen Itza , Uxmal and Coba , is spectacularly perched on the edge of a limestone cliff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean .
by Editor | Apr 1, 2005 | California, North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, United States
Our favorite feature of this unassuming facility was the view of the beach we had from our large and comfortable top floor suite. The room was designed to take advantage of the view from almost every corner including the sleeping area. The living area had a working fireplace and a wet bar. We could have spent several days exploring the quiet town of Half Moon Bay or just relaxing in our room; enjoying a good book and the view.
by Editor | Apr 1, 2005 | California, North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, United States
: We will remember the Omni San Francisco for its many desirable qualities, especially its friendly, proactive, helpful, enthusiastic service oriented staff. Feeling welcome and knowing there is always someone available to answer questions, lend a hand with restaurant recommendations reservations, directions, and all those little things than can make the difference between an ok stay a truly enjoyable one.
by Editor | Apr 1, 2005 | California, North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, United States
We were intrigued by the air of reverence and hushed awe the mention of The French Laundry inspired. Before dining there we heard from locals it was nearly impossible to get reservations to this California icon of gourmet food. Those who knew someone who had been there said wistfully that it had been excellent and all agreed it was by far the most notable restaurant in the area. Although our initial attempts to secure a reservation failed, eventually we secured a table thanks to a last minute cancellation. It was worth the effort and one hour drive in the dark and winding wine country roads from our rental villa. Next time we will stay nearby.
by Editor | Apr 1, 2005 | California, North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, United States
We prized Villa Montagna’s expansive views over moon valley, Sonoma, the Bay area and the nearby vineyards. We found it an ideal getaway home, especially during warm weather months, for a family. Though the guest bedrooms were modest in size, the property’s abundant and inviting social space provided plenty of areas for family members and friends to spend time together indoors and outdoors. Our cooking enthusiast appreciated the large open sunlit kitchen with professional Viking and Kitchen Aid appliances.
by Editor | Apr 1, 2005 | California, North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, United States
What a view! Blessed with fabulous weather, we were curious of what awaited us behind the discrete Inn façade when we arrived at the narrow Inn entrance. Once inside, we marveled upon discovering the magnificent view from our penthouse suite. The Inn’s promotional materials said, “There are hundreds of hotels around San Francisco bay, but only one on it…” It delivered on its subtle promise of a waterside location and surpassed it with attractive accommodations, capable staff and more. From our suite’s desk, living area and porch we had an unobstructed marvelous view of San Francisco and part of Sausalito. If a picture is worth a thousand words, we had many thousands of words of a picture perfect view.
