by Editor | Dec 1, 2004 | California, North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, United States
: We arrived at Aqua, located on the ground floor of a restored post 1906 earthquake building, early on a Sunday night anticipating we would have the restaurant to ourselves. To our surprise, the popular restaurant was buzzing with the sound of diners’ conversations and meals being served. It was already almost full and remained so the whole night. We floated effortlessly through our delicious multiple course meal while other diners completed their evening and new ones arrived. The large high ceiling dining room, was decorated in muted shades of sepia and gray which created an elegant yet casual ambiance. Two larger than life mirrors drew visitors’ eyes to the side wall and enhanced the feeling of spaciousness.
by Editor | Nov 1, 2004 | North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Texas, United States
: Dishes at Bank were expertly prepared and delightful. Though no one is perfect all the time, Bank’s ability to consistently serve outstanding food on a regular basis was noteworthy. The décor was eclectic, warm and elegant with an exotic dash. The dining room, housed in a former bank lobby, was an inviting place to linger and savor our meal. Service staff were attentive and eager to please and the ambiance provided privacy including a relaxed and quiet atmosphere where meaningful conversation was inspired.
by Editor | Nov 1, 2004 | Fun Gadgets, Products, Safari Gear, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Travel Comfort
After flying for two days from the U.S. through Europe, we were tired and jet lagged. The last thing we wanted to do was drive around a strange city famous for its high crime rate, in an unfamiliar car (and on the opposite side of the road). Everything worked out like a charm thanks in great part to our newest travel technology, the iQue 3600 from Garmin. Before leaving the U.S. we purchased the City Select South Africa software. It allowed us to navigate accurately and easily through South Africa’s two major cities, Cape Town and Johannesburg, their environs and the Kruger Park in the North.
by Editor | Oct 1, 2004 | Products, Safari Gear, Simon and Baker Travel Review
The idea of the anti-bacterial wipes appealed to us from the moment we heard about it. Due to weight limitations we carefully scrutinized every article we considered for inclusion in our African safari trip. Every item selected, including the Anti-Bacterial Wipes, played a useful roll. Though we stayed at luxury oriented comfortable and clean lodges and camps, the wipes came in handy a number of times during our travels: on flights, at airports, at border crossings, during game viewing drives, and in the car driving through the Kruger National Park or between lodges. When we returned home we kept using them. We found the seal of the package held the wipes moist for months at a time. The towellettes were light enough to carry in a handbag, computer case or briefcase for those times when soap and water were not immediately available. We plan on taking the Anti-Bacterial Wipes on our next adventure.
by Editor | Oct 1, 2004 | North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Texas, United States
Dinner at this long famous Houston restaurant was full of eclectic culinary surprises, satisfying and savory at once. In spite of a busy full house the Tuesday night we were there, the servers were attentive, circumspect and efficient. Many in the crowded restaurant appeared to be regulars. Our meal was a crescendo of flavors from mild crab to zesty red fish, concluding with a tasty and perfectly prepared lamb and later a lemon themed dessert.
by Editor | Oct 1, 2004 | North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Texas, United States
: Our stay at the modern and jazzy Hotel Derek, billed as the first contemporary hotel in Houston , emphasized style and business guest services. Our senses were rewarded with decorative touches in unexpected places. At the same time all our business requirements such as high speed Internet access, fax/printer/copier, and meeting room space were met. Leisure time could be spent poolside, at the 24-hour fitness center, relaxing with an in-room spa treatment or at a nearby spa. For those wishing to shop, the hotel was conveniently situated in the Galleria area and a short drive from downtown Houston .
