san - Blogs - Tripatini2024-03-29T01:11:25Zhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/feed/tag/sansan diego haunted tunnelhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/san-diego-haunted-tunnel2019-12-19T11:05:18.000Z2019-12-19T11:05:18.000Zmysterioustripindiahttps://tripatini.com/members/mysterioustripindia<div><p>This tunnel is also known to be<span> </span><strong>Miramar tunnel</strong><span> </span>and use to consist of the<span> </span><strong>Drainage system</strong>.</p><p>The <a href="https://mysterioustrip.com/haunted-faze-rug-tunnel/" target="_blank">san diego haunted tunnel</a> is even worse than any<span> </span><strong>nightmare</strong>. It is so<span> </span><strong>much famous</strong><span> </span>that every<span> </span><strong>urban visitor</strong><span> </span>visits the place very often.</p><p>This tunnel does not have much history but a favorite spot. People have visited the<span> </span><strong>tunnel claims</strong><span> </span>of listening to the<span> </span><strong>screaming and terrifying voices</strong><span> </span>all around the tunnel.</p><p>They witnessed of sounds of any woman and also a<span> </span><strong>small girl<span> </span></strong>calling her mother.</p></div>The Land of smiles - 5 Reasons for your next visit!https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/the-land-of-smiles-5-reasons-for-your-next-visit2020-02-26T06:46:24.000Z2020-02-26T06:46:24.000ZRaz Gabriel Millerhttps://tripatini.com/members/RazGabrielMiller<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009442290,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009442290,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-full" alt="9009442290?profile=original" /></a></p><p><span>If you've never traveled to Thailand, you've been missing out a lot! But hey, it’s not too late! In this article, we will give you the top 5 reasons why you should join more than 30 million foreign visitors that visit Thailand each year. As tourism declines in some parts of Asia, the 'Land of Smiles' only becomes more and more popular and it's easy to understand why.. is it their smile? Let's have a look.</span></p><p><span>To start with, Thailand is one of the greatest archipelago nations on the planet, which also makes it one of the most diverse nations you will ever have the chance to visit once you are visiting the southern part of it.</span></p><p><span>The list of reasons for why it is such a great travel destination can be made long but we don’t want to spoil the surprise and get you the best ones for now. These five reasons should be enough to get you packing;</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>1. The Most Smiling People on Earth</strong></span></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009443060,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009443060,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-left" width="222" height="151" alt="9009443060?profile=original" /></a></p><p><span>Well, a whole nation got their name as for Smiling People should say something right?</span></p><p>If you've never been to Thailand you may not have heard about the amazing friendliness of the people here. In fact, some would argue that the hospitality of Thai People is unparalleled compared to any other country in the world. Their curiosity and kindness make them treat all tourists with respect and openness. You will recognize them easily, as they are constantly smiling and looking happy, laughing whenever they get the chance. They will be happy to answer all of your questions, get you with travel indications and of course, do their best to point you to the best restaurants.</p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>2. Best Island Beaches</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009443091,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009443091,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-left" width="220" height="165" alt="9009443091?profile=original" /></a></strong></span></p><p><span>The beaches.. what can be said that was not said already..</span></p><p><span>You can always go to one of the mesmerizing islands down south but one particularly extraordinary island with unforgettable beaches is <strong>Koh-Samui</strong>. It is the one Island that is constantly ranked and labeled as one of the best islands on the planet, so get ready to enjoy the white sand and breathtaking turquoise waters.</span></p><p>With Thailand's beautiful islands, you are prone to find the ideal pristine beach and turn it into your own private resort which you might not want to leave.. Grabbing a tasty cocktail, relaxing in your sunbed, reading a book or playing your favorite game, on your smartphone. And don't forget to upload your holiday images for your friends to watch!</p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>3. The Diving Areas</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009443667,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009443667,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-left" width="223" height="148" alt="9009443667?profile=original" /></a></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:10pt;">It is literally impossible to mention traveling to Thailand and not talk about diving. With so many species of coral to see and admire, there are about 350 diving sites you can go scuba diving or snorkeling all along the fabulous coral riffs of <strong>Koh Tao, Koh Phi-Phi</strong> and many others while the most famous one <strong>Phuket</strong>. Maybe you'll be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the smallest fish in the world or to swim with the turtles. Either way, you'll have an unforgettable experience for life!</span></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>4.</strong></span> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Bangkok – Day and Night Life City</strong></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009443295,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009443295,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-left" width="339" height="225" alt="9009443295?profile=original" /></a></strong></span></span></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p style="text-align:left;"></p><p style="text-align:left;"><strong><span>Nightlife:</span></strong></p><p><span>Bangkok is a bustling city with friendly locals, exceptional cuisine and an electric nightlife scene. It hosts millions of visitors from all around the world every year. This eclectic capital of Thailand offers a variety of fun activities for all age groups – from a ladyboy cabaret shows to a romantic dinner in an old aircraft restaurant or famous <a href="https://touristhailand.com/blog/khao-san-road-bangkok-nightlife/">Khao San Road</a> and they all come to life at night time.</span></p><p><strong><span>Temples:</span></strong></p><p><span>Bangkok is positively a city of Breathtaking Temples, the standout to be the most famous one amongst other is the Grand Palace of course, which is only a brief stroll from the amazing Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the acclaimed mammoth statue estimates 46 meters in length and is canvassed in gold leaf.</span></p><p><strong><span>Shopping:</span></strong></p><p><span>Appreciate a special shopping trip like no other at one of Bangkok's beautiful gliding markets. Even though it is progressively touristy everything offers a genuinely credible involvement in great nourishment cooked on skimming kitchens.</span></p><p><strong><span>And Food..</span></strong></p><p>Bangkok is full of amazing street food and hectic people. The most famous one those day is Bangkok’s Chinatown area packed with market stalls, restaurants and gold shops. It is located quite near to Charoenkrung Road. If you visit in February during Chinese New Year you’ll really see it at its best..</p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>5.</strong></span> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>The Nature</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009443699,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009443699,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-left" width="211" height="142" alt="9009443699?profile=original" /></a></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:10pt;">If you have come to appreciate wild nature, flora, and fauna more than the concrete skyscrapers back home, you will absolutely love this country for all it has to offer. Hundreds of different species of birds, animals, marine creatures, trees, and plants, not to mention 200 mammal species – come see them all, including one of the tiniest monkeys on the globe.</span></p></div>Saborea Culinary Extravaganza Celebrates Puerto Rico's Resilience and Recoveryhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/saborea-culinary-extravaganza-celebrates-puerto-rico-s-resilience2018-04-27T20:09:24.000Z2018-04-27T20:09:24.000ZSteve Mirskyhttps://tripatini.com/members/SteveMirsky964<div><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/hurricanemaria-1024x682.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1024" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/hurricanemaria-1024x682.jpg?width=1024" alt="hurricanemaria-1024x682.jpg?width=1024" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">With Puerto Rico's communities wiped out, hotels battered, and power grid devastated, Hurricane Maria's landfall on September 2017 was the worst storm ever on record for the island. Included in this destruction from which many are still recovering are small farms producing coffee, plantains, livestock, and other fresh fruits & vegetables. Even</span> <span lang="en" xml:lang="en"><span style="font-size:12pt;">100 days after the storm, half the island was still without power and many lacked access to potable drinking water.</span></span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/saborea.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1000" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/saborea.jpg?width=1000" alt="saborea.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">There was serious discussion about whether it would be possible or even appropriate to hold <i><a href="http://www.saboreapuertorico.com/">Saborea: A Culinary Extravaganza</a></i>, an annual culinary festival now in its 11th year. Ultimately, suppliers and organizers decided that one of the best ways to continue recovering was to welcome travelers back to the island reminding them why Puerto Rico remains the Caribbean's top foodie destination.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/foodcollage-1024x204.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1024" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/foodcollage-1024x204.jpg?width=1024" alt="foodcollage-1024x204.jpg?width=1024" /></a></p><p></p><p><span lang="en" style="font-size:12pt;" xml:lang="en">Borges Meat, Agropeck, Microgreens of the Caribbean, Semila, and Empresas Bobet stepped up to be primary ingredient purveyors of Saborea ensuring that participating chefs directly supported Puerto Rican agribusinesses.</span> <span lang="en-gb" xml:lang="en-gb"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Cocina criolla (Puerto Rican cookery) has Spanish, African, Taíno (Native American), and French influences but lately, forward-thinking chefs are redefining the boundaries of their culinary traditions, merging new techniques while retaining local flavors.</span></span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/roastpig.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1000" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/roastpig.jpg?width=1000" alt="roastpig.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Considered the Caribbean's largest culinary festival, this year's Saborea held April 4-8, showcased nearly 70 restaurants accompanied by an array of top chefs and mixologists from Puerto Rico and North America. The festive ambiance and dancing are just as much a part of the festival as the enormous variety of samples ranging from tostados and mofongo using plantains, Puerto Rico's baseline ingredient, to whole roasted pig that after being hacked off the spit was meticulously prepared and garnished with pineapple chutney and pepper aioli. Other dishes had an internationalist twist like samosas and sushi.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/balenariopark.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1000" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/balenariopark.jpg?width=1000" alt="balenariopark.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span lang="en" xml:lang="en">Only 15 minutes drive from Old San Juan overlooking the city and bay of San Juan, the majority of</span> this year's Saborea was held at <a href="https://www.municipiocarolina.com/municipio/gerencias/servicios/balneario/">Balneario de Carolina</a>, one of Puerto Rico’s blue flag beaches and <span lang="en" xml:lang="en">largest urban beach in the Caribbean</span>. <span lang="en" xml:lang="en">Sustaining $1.5 million in storm damages, the park reopened just in time for the festival welcoming n</span>early 6,000 attendees including an increasing number of tourists.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/bubblesbitescollage-1024x286.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1024" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/bubblesbitescollage-1024x286.jpg?width=1024" alt="bubblesbitescollage-1024x286.jpg?width=1024" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Festivities began with <em>Bubbles and Bites</em> overlooking the beach at the Intercontinental Hotel with light bites ranging from escabeche, to yam burgers and chicharrones served with bubbly in its many forms in a chic night club ambiance on the pool deck. The night after, Saborea Sunset took place under the gastronomic pavilion at Balneario de Carolina with the ocean front views, music, and tastings evoking all that Puerto Rico has to offer. Festivities continued the next morning with brunch samplings like bananas foster and fresh baked treats.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/deltaviplounge.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1000" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/deltaviplounge.jpg?width=1000" alt="deltaviplounge.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span lang="en" xml:lang="en">Primary sponsor <a href="http://www.delta.com">Delta Air Lines</a> was on hand with a welcoming VIP lounge area celebrating their 65th anniversary flying to San Juan, also the longest uninterrupted service throughout both the Caribbean and Latin America, with</span> 3 daily flights from JFK, and 4 from Atlanta.</span></p><h2><strong><span style="font-size:18pt;"><em>Other Must-do Activities in San Juan</em></span></strong></h2><p><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;">Whether you're in San Juan for Saborea or simply looking to gain a better understanding of the island's food culture, don't miss the following:</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/spoonfoodtourscollage.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="931" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/spoonfoodtourscollage.jpg?width=931" alt="spoonfoodtourscollage.jpg?width=931" /></a></p><h3><a href="https://www.spoonfoodtours.com/">Spoon Food Tour<span lang="en" xml:lang="en">s</span></a></h3><p><br /><span lang="en" style="font-size:12pt;" xml:lang="en">A small Puerto Rican family-owned-and-operated tour company established by Paulina and Gustavo Antonetti, Spoon Food Tours of Old San Juan is committed to reinvigorating the island’s economy and agricultural heritage. Small group walking tours maximize guide interaction visiting 5 establishments that only use local and sustainably sourced ingredients like artisan hand-picked coffee, traditional pastries, locally seasoned pork, mofongo (the Island’s quintessential dish), and homemade ice cream. A refreshing rum cocktail is sure to be on the list for sampling as well.</span></p><p></p><p><span lang="en" xml:lang="en"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Strolling this 500 year-old Spanish Colonial City is also the perfect way to explore historic cobblestone streets winding past neo-classical architecture including the second oldest cathedral in the Americas, a centuries-old convent, and fortifications like the iconic El Morro.</span></span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/elmuseocollage.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="951" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/elmuseocollage.jpg?width=951" alt="elmuseocollage.jpg?width=951" /></a></p><h3><a href="http://www.mapr.org/en">Museo de Art de Puerto Rico</a></h3><p><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;">San Juan boasts one of the largest and most celebrated art museums in the Caribbean. Housed in a grand neoclassical building that was once the city’s Municipal Hospital, The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico boasts 18 exhibition halls encompassing 30,000 sq feet filled with art works from the 17th century to the present. Prints, paintings, posters, drawings, sculpture, photographs and new media depict and interpret both on island and global Puerto Rican experiences.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/elmuseocoffeewoodcut.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1000" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/elmuseocoffeewoodcut.jpg?width=1000" alt="elmuseocoffeewoodcut.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Puerto Rican food ways are also well represented here including a series of wood carvings illustrating each stage of coffee harvesting as well as a video giving modernist perspectives of the huge influence that plantains have had on island culture. Don't miss their 2.5-acre gardens to the back of the museum where winding paths invite visitors to stroll past 16 sculptures and more than 100,000 plantings in a scene reminiscent of Monet’s water lilies.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/santaellacollage-1024x294.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1024" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/santaellacollage-1024x294.jpg?width=1024" alt="santaellacollage-1024x294.jpg?width=1024" /></a></p><h3><a href="http://josesantaella.com/">Santaella Restaurant</a></h3><p><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span lang="en-gb" xml:lang="en-gb">Owned by chef José Santaella, his eponymous restaurant in San Juan's Santurce district is</span> a bustling scene complete with an indoor garden and a bar humming with creative mixology. “I keep trying to go back to the basics of local and organic”, says Santaella and it shows in freshly prepared dishes like crisp whole red snapper and flash fried tostones.</span></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/market-streetparty.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="1000" class="align-center" src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/market-streetparty.jpg?width=1000" alt="market-streetparty.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span lang="en-gb" xml:lang="en-gb">Right outside Santaella one block away is Plaza del Mercado, also known as ‘La Placita’ (little plaza), is a traditional open air market selling produce as well as street food and fruit shakes during the day. As the sun sets, the market closes, barricades go up keeping vehicles out, and dozens of restaurants, cafés, and nightclubs surrounding it for a few blocks on either side are packed with ‘Street Party’ crowds every Thursday and Friday. You'll have plenty of opportunities to dance the meringue and soak in the Boriqua spirit</span>.</span></p><blockquote><span style="font-size:12pt;"><em>Coverage made possible by participating in a sponsored visit. Photos courtesy of Steve Mirsky & wikicommons.</em></span></blockquote></div>How to Enjoy California's Central Coast if the Pacific Coast Highway is Closedhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/how-to-enjoy-california-s-central-coast-if-the-pacific-coast2018-03-22T15:34:30.000Z2018-03-22T15:34:30.000ZSteve Mirskyhttps://tripatini.com/members/SteveMirsky964<div><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/CACentralCoast.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/CACentralCoast.jpg?width=866" class="align-center" width="866" alt="CACentralCoast.jpg?width=866" /></a></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><br /> It's really hard to beat a road trip across <a href="http://www.centralcoast-tourism.com/">California's Central Coast</a>. Challenging but spectacular terrain, wine regions rivaling Napa, beach towns ranging from art enclaves to laid back surfer hangouts, and eclectic lodging at every turn drive you forward towards new discoveries. But if Mother Nature isn't cooperating and extreme weather leads to coastal mud slides over the Pacific Coast Highway, here is an alternative approach:<br /> <br /></span></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/sanfrancisconeighborhood.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/sanfrancisconeighborhood.jpg?width=1000" class="align-center" width="1000" alt="sanfrancisconeighborhood.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><h3><b><br />San Francisco Touchdown</b></h3><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><br />There are other logical points of arrival for your Central Coast road trip besides San Francisco like San Jose or perhaps Sacramento to the north but heading straight to SFO puts you within a 20 minute BART train ride into the City by the Bay, perfect for getting your California dreaming on.<br /> <br /></span></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HiltonSanFranciscoUnionSquareExterior-1024x452.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HiltonSanFranciscoUnionSquareExterior-1024x452.jpg?width=1024" class="align-center" width="1024" alt="HiltonSanFranciscoUnionSquareExterior-1024x452.jpg?width=1024" /></a></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><br /> A quick walk from Union Square station, cable car, and all that San Francisco has to offer, <a href="http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/california/hilton-san-francisco-union-square-SFOFHHH/index.html">Hilton San Francisco Union Square</a> is an ideal place for overcoming your jet lag especially upon parting the curtains and realizing you have a private balcony all to yourself with city skyline views of icons like Coit Tower and the Bay Bridge.<br /> <br /></span></p><p><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HiltonSanFranciscoUnionSquareBalconyRoom-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HiltonSanFranciscoUnionSquareBalconyRoom-1.jpg?width=1000" class="align-center" width="1000" alt="HiltonSanFranciscoUnionSquareBalconyRoom-1.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p lang="en" xml:lang="en"><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Most recently renovated in 2017, 1,919 rooms occupy a three-tower skyscraper, making this not only the largest hotel in San Francisco but the entire West Coast. No fewer than five onsite venues and bars give you an impressive array of choices even before stepping out into the street.</span><br /></p><p lang="en" xml:lang="en"><a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HiltonSanFranciscoUnionSquareHerbKitchen.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HiltonSanFranciscoUnionSquareHerbKitchen.jpg?width=1000" class="align-center" width="1000" alt="HiltonSanFranciscoUnionSquareHerbKitchen.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p><a href="http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/california/hilton-san-francisco-union-square-SFOFHHH/dining/index.html"><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Herb N' Kitchen</span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;">'s gourmet marketplace has fresh grab-and-go seasonal eats including just-made flat bread pizzas, salads, sandwiches, and locally made snacks like Thatcher's White Cheddar Popcorn and Kika's Treats' Chocolate Covered Espresso Shortbread Cookies. Breakfast buffets at <a href="http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/california/hilton-san-francisco-union-square-SFOFHHH/dining/index.html">Poached</a> can't be missed, with cooked-to-order as well as regional and international dishes.</span><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HiltonSanFranciscoUnionSquareUrbanTavern.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HiltonSanFranciscoUnionSquareUrbanTavern.jpg?width=1000" class="align-center" width="1000" alt="HiltonSanFranciscoUnionSquareUrbanTavern.jpg?width=1000" /></a> <br /> <a href="http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/california/hilton-san-francisco-union-square-SFOFHHH/dining/index.html"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Urban Tavern</span></a> <span style="font-size:12pt;">showcases the bounty of the Bay area's seasonal ingredients with house specialties like candied pork belly, ahi salmon hamachi poke, devil fried duck eggs, wild mushrooms, and blackened cauliflower. Libations include your choice of 50 wines made within 50 miles of the hotel. A transformed lobby bar and <a href="http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/california/hilton-san-francisco-union-square-SFOFHHH/dining/index.html">Cityscape Lounge</a>’s 46th-floor panoramic views are a perfect backdrop for savoring evening cocktails like Blackberry Old Fashioned and Cucumber Apple Martini.</span> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/carmelbeach2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/carmelbeach2.jpg?width=1000" class="align-center" width="1000" alt="carmelbeach2.jpg?width=1000" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">At some point you'll be ready to rent a car and push forward with your Central Coast excursion. Head south on I-280 and then Route 85 to 17 over hairpin turns through redwood forests to Route 1 south on the coast arriving in Carmel-By-The-Sea in approximately 2.5 hours.</span></p><h3><b><br />Carmel-By-The Sea & Monterey</b></h3><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><br />Within 15 minutes of each other and nearly equidistant from Cannery Row, the coastal town of Pacific Grove, and much of what the Monterrey Peninsula has to offer, <a href="http://www.hofsashouse.com/">Hofsas House Hotel</a> and <a href="https://monterey.regency.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html?&mckv=sxo9hinqo_pdv_c_pcrid_210723246688_pmt_e_pkw_hyatt%20regency%20monterey_slid__&src=adm_sem_agn_pfx_crp_ppc_bps_D+Brand-Monterey-NonGP_google_Brand-Monterey-HR+Monterey-Exact_e_hyatt%20regency%20monterey_Brand_Corporate">Hyatt Regency Monterrey</a> offer two completely different lodging experiences.</span></p><p><br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/hofsashousecollage-1024x304.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/hofsashousecollage-1024x304.jpg?width=1024" class="align-center" width="1024" alt="hofsashousecollage-1024x304.jpg?width=1024" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">In the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea, built into a hill side overlooking the mighty Pacific, family owned and operated <a href="http://www.hofsashouse.com/">Hofsas House Hotel</a> offers magnificent sunset views from their fourth-floor deck area. Bavarian chalet-style architecture and outdoor mural painted by Maxine Albro are defining exterior characteristics while inside, many of Hofsas' 38 spacious rooms include fireplaces, private balconies, wet bars, and partial kitchens.</span> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/hofsashouseroom-1024x336.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/hofsashouseroom-1024x336.jpg?width=1024" class="align-center" width="1024" alt="hofsashouseroom-1024x336.jpg?width=1024" /></a></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Continental breakfast each morning is a casual affair served in the living room lobby with pastries delivered each morning from a local bakery, French roast coffee, fresh juice, fruit, and yogurt accompanied with trays and carafes for loading up to enjoy back in your room if you wish.</span></p><p><br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/carmelstreetscene-1024x394.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/carmelstreetscene-1024x394.jpg?width=1024" class="align-center" width="1024" alt="carmelstreetscene-1024x394.jpg?width=1024" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Outside you have access to a year-round heated swimming pool and saunas while walking to the village center just several blocks away takes you past fairy tale cottages and modern ranches clustered around boutique shopping, art galleries, and <a href="http://www.arroyosecowinegrowers.com/">Arroyo Seco AVA</a> winery tasting rooms like <a href="http://www.manzoniwines.com/">Manzoni Cellars</a> and <a href="https://www.shalecanyonwines.com/">Shale Canyon</a>.</span><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/carmelbeach.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/carmelbeach.jpg?width=1000" class="align-center" width="1000" alt="carmelbeach.jpg?width=1000" /></a> <br /> <a href="http://www.5thavedeli.com/"></a></p><p><a href="http://www.5thavedeli.com/"><span style="font-size:12pt;">5th Avenue Deli</span></a> <span style="font-size:12pt;">is the perfect place to gather your provisions for a picnic lunch before heading down Ocean Ave. to Carmel Beach which is spacious enough to be off leash dog friendly while leaving plenty of room for those who instead wish to retreat into serenity. Dinner presents many options but <a href="http://www.beachhousepg.com/">Beach House at Lovers Point</a> in neighboring Pacific Grove overlooking the Pacific is renowned for ultra fresh seafood dishes like panko crusted sand dabs and scallop pot pie while catching a magnificent sunset.</span></p><p><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HyattRegencyMontereyExterior-1024x342.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HyattRegencyMontereyExterior-1024x342.jpg?width=1024" class="align-center" width="1024" alt="HyattRegencyMontereyExterior-1024x342.jpg?width=1024" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;"><span lang="en" xml:lang="en">Over on the Cabrillo Highway heading out of Monterey towards Salinas, 550 room <a href="https://monterey.regency.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html">Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa</a> nestled on 22 acres which includes</span> <span lang="en" xml:lang="en">18-hole Del Monte Golf Course</span> <span lang="en" xml:lang="en">is another excellent place to stay on the Monterey Peninsula particularly if you're looking to use your Hyatt points or simply prefer the predictably high standards of a brand name hotel. Business and event based travelers in particular rejoice with</span> 27 suites, along with more than 40,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space for conferences and weddings.</span> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HyattRegencyMontereyTuscaCollage-1024x307.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HyattRegencyMontereyTuscaCollage-1024x307.jpg?width=1024" class="align-center" width="1024" alt="HyattRegencyMontereyTuscaCollage-1024x307.jpg?width=1024" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">California-inspired <a href="https://monterey.regency.hyatt.com/en/hotel/dining.html">TusCA Ristorante</a> serves up Tuscan favorites with a healthy twist like Tuscan white bean soup, asparagus and lump crab omelet, and an airy ricotta and lemon ravioli. Following their latest $6 million refresh, the hotel pays homage to its Monterrey roots with live Jazz Nights in the <a href="https://monterey.regency.hyatt.com/en/hotel/dining.html">Fireplace Lounge</a> every Friday and Saturday night.</span><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HyattRegencyMontereyCollage-1024x276.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/HyattRegencyMontereyCollage-1024x276.jpg?width=1024" class="align-center" width="1024" alt="HyattRegencyMontereyCollage-1024x276.jpg?width=1024" /></a></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Their expansive lobby, filled with cozy chairs and leather couches, is perfect for sipping a cocktail while <a href="https://monterey.regency.hyatt.com/en/hotel/our-hotel/spa.html">Marilyn Monroe Spa</a>, two heated outdoor pools, and <a href="https://monterey.regency.hyatt.com/en/hotel/dining.html">Knuckles Sports Bar</a> offer additional places of respite when you're not out and about exploring.</span></p><p><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/RobinsExterior.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/RobinsExterior.jpg?width=1000" class="align-center" width="1000" alt="RobinsExterior.jpg?width=1000" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;"><b>Village of Cambria</b></span></p><p><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">While a landslide still blocks the Pacific Coast Route 1 at Big Sur, your only alternative for heading south of Monterey is the El Camino Real (aka the 101). At exit 228 take winding route 46 past steep rolling golden pastures and soaring mountains to the low key coastal town of Cambria.</span> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/robinscollage-1024x284.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/robinscollage-1024x284.jpg?width=1024" class="align-center" width="1024" alt="robinscollage-1024x284.jpg?width=1024" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Boutique shops and eateries like <a href="http://www.robinsrestaurant.com/">Robin's Handcrafted Global Cuisine</a> abound serving up handcrafted comfort dishes made with farmers' market fresh ingredients. Owners Robin and Shanny Covey started out in the back room of a small health food store but quickly expanded into a restored adobe home on Burton Drive serving the area's largest selection of vegetarian dishes. Seating ranges from spacious garden seating open to the outside to tables in front of the fireplace inside when it's chillier.</span> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/CovellHorses.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/CovellHorses.jpg?width=1000" class="align-center" width="1000" alt="CovellHorses.jpg?width=1000" /></a></p><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Just above town high on a hill surrounded by 2,000 conservation easement protected acres of pristine Monterey Pine forest and rolling pastures with an exquisite view of the Pacific, some of the biggest herds of Clydesdale horses in the world roam free at <a href="http://www.covellscaliforniaclydesdales.com/">Covell's California Clydesdales</a>.</span></p><p><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/CovellTrailRide-1024x404.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/CovellTrailRide-1024x404.jpg?width=1024" class="align-center" width="1024" alt="CovellTrailRide-1024x404.jpg?width=1024" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Trail rides and farm tours are available by appointment. Ralph provides an in depth history of the place upon arrival while both he and his daughter Tara lead tours over roads on their extensive estate. They also arrange events like weddings and steak dinners accompanied with hay rides and barn dancing.</span> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/SLODowntowncollage-1024x509.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/SLODowntowncollage-1024x509.jpg?width=1024" class="align-center" width="1024" alt="SLODowntowncollage-1024x509.jpg?width=1024" /></a></p><h3><b><br />San Luis Obispo & Surrounding Attractions</b></h3><p><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Heading inland a bit, your next destination should most definitely be San Luis Obispo. Thanks to Cal Poly, <a href="http://visitslo.com/">SLO</a>'s vibrant pedestrian friendly downtown, roughly a 3x10 block street grid, is lined with historic brick storefronts filled with Mom & Pop shops like no fewer than three locally operated coffee roasters for your morning fix, dive bars and artisan restaurants, and record shops selling classic vinyl accompanied by vintage players lovingly on display.</span> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/fromaggeriesofiecollage-1024x323.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/fromaggeriesofiecollage-1024x323.jpg?width=1024" class="align-center" width="1024" alt="fromaggeriesofiecollage-1024x323.jpg?width=1024" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">70-foot long Bubble Gum Alley has walls plastered in chewed gum from passersby over the decades while a block over, a decidedly more appetizing attraction awaits gourmands stocking up for their next wine tasting party. <a href="https://www.fromageriesophie.com/">Fromagerie Sophie</a> has an impressively mouthwatering selection of cheeses from across the globe ranging from blue Rogue River Blue to Colston Bassett Stilton. Unique and decadent accompaniments include unique charcuteries, oils, crackers, and syrups.</span> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/slobrewloftinteriorcollage.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/slobrewloftinteriorcollage.jpg?width=1152" class="align-center" width="1152" alt="slobrewloftinteriorcollage.jpg?width=1152" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Right at the epicenter of it all, <a href="https://www.slobrew.com/the-lofts/">SLO Brew Lofts</a> directly above <a href="https://www.slobrew.com/the-brew/">SLO Brew</a> <a href="https://www.slobrew.com/the-brew/">Pub & Brewery</a> in the historic 1905 Carissa Building are essentially five dream apartments with fully outfitted kitchens, separate living and dining rooms, and an ambiance that embraces the rustic industrial aesthetic of exposed brick, beamed ceilings, and riveted sheet metal wall treatments. Natural touches include reclaimed wide planked Douglas fir wood flooring and copious paintings & sculpture on display everywhere. The three-bedroom Voyager and Drifter Suites each have their own private patio overlooking SLO Brew's beer garden, San Luis Obispo Creek, and nearby <a href="http://missionsanluisobispo.org/">Mission De Tolosa</a>.</span> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/slobrewinteriorcollage.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/slobrewinteriorcollage.jpg?width=1357" class="align-center" width="1200" alt="slobrewinteriorcollage.jpg?width=1357" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Leading the west coast craft beer movement since 1988, SLO Brew is now one of 9 other microbreweries that have opened across the Central Coast. SLO Brew's gastro pub menu features craft pizzas and quirky pub-favorites like street tacos,Nasty Nashville's Hot Chicken Thighs, and bacon-fat donuts. Steam punk influences abound like exposed pipe beer taps and wall sconces made from pipe and gauges lit with Edison bulbs. Their vibrant nightclub and stage spotlights local bands and an occasional big name like Jeff Bridges or Dick Dale.</span> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/sunbuggie.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/sunbuggie.jpg?width=1000" class="align-center" width="1000" alt="sunbuggie.jpg?width=1000" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Just about 15 minutes out of town on the coast in Pismo Beach, <a href="http://www.sunbuggy.com/pismo">Sun Buggy</a> rents out dune buggies for exploring the extensive <a href="http://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1207">Oceano Dunes State Park</a> next door. You have to watch a safety video and feel like you're signing your life away but no worries. These belt driven vehicles are easy to operate since they have no transmission and large high flotation paddle tires keep you on top of the sand. And just in case, a four-point safety harness keeps you secure in the unlikely event that you experience a roll over.</span> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/pasoroblesdistillerytrail.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/pasoroblesdistillerytrail.jpg?width=1000" class="align-center" width="1000" alt="pasoroblesdistillerytrail.jpg?width=1000" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">If you have an extra day before heading back up the 101, check out either the vineyards of <a href="https://pasowine.com/visit/wineries/">Paso Robles</a>, <a href="http://www.visitcentralcoastwine.com/edna-valley-wine-tasting-and-wineries/">Edna Valley</a>, or hop on the <a href="http://www.pasoroblesdistillerytrail.com/distilleries">Paso Robles Distillery Trail</a> sampling the goods of 10 distilleries ranging from Grappa & Limoncello from <a href="http://www.pasoroblesdistillerytrail.com/distilleries/manucci-spirits">Manucci Spirits</a> to the Barrel Aged Gin at <a href="http://www.pasoroblesdistillerytrail.com/distilleries/krobar-craft-distillery">Krobar Craft Distillery</a>.</span><br /></p><blockquote><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>Photos: Steve Mirsky, CarmelCalifornia.com, Hilton.com, Hyatt.com. Coverage made possible by participating in a partially sponsored trip.</em></span></blockquote></div>Fun River Trips in Northern Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/fun-river-trips-in-northern-costa-rica2014-08-11T13:14:57.000Z2014-08-11T13:14:57.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296587680,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296587680,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296587680?profile=original" /></a>A trip down one of Costa Rica’s rivers</b>, either by <b>raft, canoe, kayak</b> or <b>small boat</b>, is an excellent way to see some of the country’s <b>extraordinary wildlife</b>. The <b>rivers in Costa Rica</b> are as diverse as the terrain through which they flow.</p><p> </p><p>Trees that line most river banks may hold <strong>troops of monkeys, lounging iguanas and boas, and birds</strong> such as egrets, herons, ibis, ospreys, and colorful kingfishers. <strong>Crocodiles and caimans</strong> like to sun themselves on muddy banks, or may be cleverly disguised as a floating “log”. If you are lucky, you may catch sight of playful <strong>river otters</strong> or sunning <strong>river turtles</strong>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008859889,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008859889,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008859889?profile=original" /></a>In the <a href="http://www.visitcostarica.com/ict/paginas/llanuras_norte.asp" target="_blank">northern plains of Costa Rica</a>, on the banks of the San Carlos River, <a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/" target="_blank">Maquenque Eco-Lodge</a> opens the door for travelers to experience the remarkable rainforest of the <a href="http://www.costaricainfolink.com/en/maquenque-wildlife-refuge-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge</a>. Maquenque is an important region for birds in Costa Rica, and is on the migratory path for many bird species between North and South America.</p><p> </p><p>Maquenque Eco-Lodge is one of the <b>top <a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/special-birds/" target="_blank">bird-watching hotels in Costa Rica</a>,</b> with <b>more than 410 species identified</b> in the area<b>.</b> When a guest, be sure to go on a <a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/birdwatching-tour/" target="_blank">guided bird-watching tour</a> through the gardens, wetlands and forest paths.</p><p><b> </b></p><p>Also for <b>bird-watching and wildlife viewing,</b> trips on the <b>San Carlos River</b>, nearby <b>Tres Amigos River</b>, and on the <b>lagoon</b> at the <a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/for-nature-lovers/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a> are excellent.</p><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/canoeing-on-the-lagoon/" target="_blank">Canoeing on the Lagoon</a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008860294,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008860294,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008860294?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/canoeing-on-the-lagoon/" target="_blank"></a></p><p>Early morning is the best time to float softly on the water of the lagoon at Maquenque Eco-Lodge. Listen to the rainforest wake up with all of its amazing sights and sounds.</p><p><b> </b></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296587869,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296587869,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296587869?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/half-day-boat-trip/" target="_blank">San Carlos River Boat Tour</a></p><p>This trip explores downstream on the San Carlos River by boat. Wildlife you might see include crocodiles, river turtles, bats, herons, kingfishers, king vultures, and much more. Close to the Nicaragua border, the boat stops to visit the small village of <b>Boca Tapada San Carlos</b>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/our-safaris/" target="_blank">Tres Amigos River Float Trip</a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008860083,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008860083,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="173" alt="9008860083?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/our-safaris/" target="_blank"></a></p><p>Paddling a raft down the serene waters of the remote Tres Amigos River, through rainforest with overhanging trees and vines, is one of the most tranquil ways to discover Costa Rica’s great beauty. Crystal clear water harbors river otters, crocodiles and river turtles, and the surrounding forest is home to Great Green Macaws, Scarlet Macaws, toucans, aquatic birds, iguanas, and several species of monkeys.</p><p><b> </b></p><p></p><p></p><p><b>Article by Shannon Farley</b></p></div>10 Best Business Hotels in San José, Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/10-best-business-hotels-in-san-jose-costa-rica2014-01-29T13:17:52.000Z2014-01-29T13:17:52.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p>As Costa Rica’s multinational business community grows, so too does the number of <strong>business travelers</strong> visiting the country. <strong>Costa Rica</strong> also has become a highly <strong>popular destination for international meetings, incentive trips, conferences and events</strong> (MICE tourism).</p><p> </p><p>Most business and conferences still take place in the capital city of San Jose. As a <strong>business traveler to Costa Rica</strong>, you will want to stay in one of the <strong>best business hotels that San Jose</strong> has to offer.</p><p> </p><p><b>10 Best Business Hotels in San Jose, Costa Rica</b><br /> </p><p><b>10.</b> <strong><a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/hotels/hot-special-deals/entry/business-hotel-deal-san-jose-costa-rica.html" target="_blank">Barceló San José Palacio</a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008816487,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008816487,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="140" alt="9008816487?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/hotels/hot-special-deals/entry/business-hotel-deal-san-jose-costa-rica.html" target="_blank"></a></strong></p><p>San José; 20 minutes to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), 10 minutes to downtown San José</p><p>Conference center; complimentary breakfast; free airport shuttle</p><p> </p><p><b>9. <a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/san-jose/2012-06-20-18-39-12.html" target="_blank">Holiday Inn San José-Aurola</a><br /></b></p><p>Downtown San José near financial district and government offices; 35 minutes to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)</p><p>Business center; meeting facilities</p><p> </p><p><b>8. <a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/san-jose/crowne-plaza-corobici.html" target="_blank">Crowne Plaza Hotel Corobici</a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008816871,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008816871,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008816871?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/san-jose/crowne-plaza-corobici.html" target="_blank"></a><br /></b></p><p>San José by La Sabana Park; 25 minutes to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), 5 minutes to downtown San José</p><p>Renovated in Feb. 2013; convention facilities, meeting planning service, business center</p><p> </p><p><b>7.</b> <strong><a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/entry/park-inn-san-jose-costa-rica-special.html" target="_blank">Park Inn by Radisson San José</a></strong></p><p>Downtown San José near Paseo Colon; 30 minutes to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)</p><p>Business center; meeting facilities; complimentary breakfast</p><p> </p><p><b>6.</b> <strong><a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/alajuela/2012-06-20-18-09-01.html" target="_blank">Hampton Inn and Suites by Hilton San José-Airport</a></strong></p><p>Alajuela; 5 minutes to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), 25 minutes to downtown San José</p><p>Business center; meeting rooms; complimentary breakfast; free airport shuttle</p><p><b> </b></p><p><b>5.</b> <strong><a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/san-jose/double-tree-cariari.html" target="_blank">DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cariari, San José</a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008817481,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008817481,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008817481?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/san-jose/double-tree-cariari.html" target="_blank"></a></strong></p><p>San Antonio de Belen, San José; 15 minutes to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), 20 minutes to downtown San José</p><p>Convention center; meeting facilities; business center</p><p> </p><p><b>4.</b> <strong><a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/san-jose/hotel-indigo.html" target="_blank">Hotel Indigo San José</a></strong></p><p>Santa Ana near the Forum towers, Ultra Park, Global Park and Plaza Roble business parks; 20 minutes to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), 15 minutes to downtown San José</p><p>Business center; boardroom; event facility</p><p> </p><p><b>3. <a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/san-jose/costa-rica-marriott.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica Marriott in San José</a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008818262,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008818262,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008818262?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/san-jose/costa-rica-marriott.html" target="_blank"></a><br /></b></p><p>San Antonio de Belen, San José; 15 minutes to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), 20 minutes to downtown San José</p><p>Business center; conference and event rooms; meeting planning service</p><p> </p><p><b>2. <a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/san-jose/wyndham-san-jose-herradura.html" target="_blank">Wyndham San José – Herradura Hotel & Convention Center</a><br /></b></p><p>San Antonio de Belen, San José; 10 minutes to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), 20 minutes to downtown San José</p><p>Full convention center; meeting rooms; complimentary breakfast; free airport shuttle</p><p> </p><p><b>1. <a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/san-jose/real-intercontinental-hotel.html" target="_blank">Real InterContinental Hotel & Club Tower</a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008818492,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008818492,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008818492?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.costaricaspecialdeals.com/san-jose/real-intercontinental-hotel.html" target="_blank"></a> <br /></b></p><p>Escazú, San José, next to the Escazú Corporate Center ; 25 minutes to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), 10 minutes to downtown San José</p><p>Conference rooms; meeting rooms; executive business center & services</p><p> </p><p><strong>Reserve your San Jose business hotel with <a href="http://costaricaspecialdeals.com/" target="_blank">Costa Rica Special Deals</a></strong>, a professional online travel service. Costa Rica Special Deals will help you with where to go, reservations, transportation, and tips on what to do.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Article by Shannon Farley</strong></p></div>Flights from San Jose to Limon Costa Rica make travel easyhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/flights-from-san-jose-to-limon-costa-rica-make-travel-easy2015-11-24T23:45:46.000Z2015-11-24T23:45:46.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008891290,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008891290,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="543" alt="9008891290?profile=original" /></a>Planning to <b>come to the <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/blog-category/338-explore-the-magical-south-caribbean-coast-of-costa-rica.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica Caribbean Coast on vacation</a></b>? While the <b>drive from San Jose to Puerto Viejo</b> is pretty, there is a much easier way to get to Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast. Fly!</p><p>It takes about <b>four hours to drive the 217 kilometers</b> <b>to Puerto Viejo</b> from San Jose. The stretch on Route 32 through the Braulio Carrillo National Park is certainly very beautiful, but can also be treacherous when raining, foggy, or after dark – a good portion of the time.</p><p>Save yourself the headache and stress of driving. Getting to the southern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica is easy on <b>30-minute domestic flights between San Jose and Limon</b> operated by <a href="http://www.natureair.com/" target="_blank">Nature Air</a> and <a href="http://crc.flysansa.com/en/home" target="_blank">Sansa Airlines</a>. After the 30 minute flight, it is only a quick 30-minute drive from the Limon Airport to Puerto Viejo. In an hour from San Jose, you can be lounging under a palm tree on a stunning Caribbean beach with a cold fruit drink in your hand. Besides that, the views of Braulio Carrillo National Park and the Sucio, Reventazon and Pacuare rivers are even better from the air!</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008945883,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008945883,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008945883?profile=original" /></a>Costa Rican airline <a href="http://www.natureair.com/limon-flights.aspx?gclid=CIquqOrLjsICFZPm7Aod9g0Ajg" target="_blank">Nature Air</a> operates flights four times per week to the Caribbean port city of <b>Limon from San Jose</b>. Flights depart from the <a href="http://www.fly2sanjose.net/" target="_blank">Juan Santamaria International Airport</a> by San Jose on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, leaving at 5:50 a.m. and arriving to the Limon airport at 6:20 a.m. Return flights depart Limon at 6:30 a.m. and arrive to San Jose at 7:25 a.m., with a quick stop on the way to Tortuguero in the northern Caribbean.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014069,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014069,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="530" alt="9009014069?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://crc.flysansa.com/en/destinations/Limon" target="_blank">Sansa Airlines</a> operates <b>flights between San Jose and Limon</b> regularly, departing from Juan Santamaria International Airport:</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014253,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014253,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="245" width="245" alt="9009014253?profile=original" /></a>San Jose to Limon: depart 6:50 a.m. / arrive 7:35 a.m. Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun</p><p>San Jose to Limon: depart 7:45 a.m. / arrive 8:05 a.m. Daily</p><p>San Jose to Limon: depart 2:30 p.m. / arrive 3:30 p.m. Daily</p><p> </p><p>Limon to San Jose: depart 7:01 a.m. / arrive 7:56 a.m. Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun</p><p>Limon to San Jose: depart 7:45 a.m. / arrive 8:47 a.m. Daily</p><p>Limon to San Jose: depart 3:40 p.m. / arrive 4:20 p.m. Daily</p><p></p><p><b>Costa Rica Caribbean Coast</b></p><p>Sunshine, warm turquoise Caribbean Sea, palm trees, lush jungle, sloths in the trees, parrots and toucans flying overhead, cool restaurants, great hotels and a laid-back Caribbean vibe … what more could you want on holiday? <b>The <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/10-things-expect-costa-ricas-southern-caribbean-coast/" target="_blank">southern Costa Rica Caribbean Coast</a> has everything for an idyllic Caribbean vacation</b>.</p><p>Try out <b>new adventures</b>: snorkeling or scuba diving around coral reefs, go sea kayaking, hike in the jungle, visit a sloth sanctuary or a jaguar rescue center, learn how to make chocolate, surf some of the best waves in Costa Rica.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008824294,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008824294,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="451" alt="9008824294?profile=original" /></a>Whether you <b>come to Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast</b> for a romantic getaway, family vacation, friends’ trip, or honeymoon, the <b>place to stay in <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo</a></b> is <b><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Le Caméléon</a>.</b> The <a href="http://www.enchanting-hotels.cr/en/le-cameleon-boutique-hotel.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica boutique hotel</a> offers <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/rooms.html" target="_blank">upscale beach accommodations</a> in the tropical rainforest, facing one of the area’s <b>most beautiful beaches –</b> <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/prettiest-beach-by-puerto-viejo-costa-rica-is-playa-cocles/" target="_blank">Playa Cocles</a>.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014653,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014653,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009014653?profile=original" /></a>Hip, modern and chic</b>, Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel has 23 rooms stylized in all-white minimalism with touches of bright colors that change every day like a chameleon, and <b>all of the comforts you expect</b> at a four-star resort. The hotel’s <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">La Sula Sea Lounge Beach Club</a> across the street is the place to hang out by the shore and meet friends for a cool drink or a light meal. <b>Hotel Le Caméléon</b> provides <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/puerto-viejo-costa-rica-spa.html" target="_blank">spa services</a>, private yoga classes, <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">first-class restaurant</a>, reading/lounging areas, and a lap pool and cool water Jacuzzi.</p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Super Cheap San Diego - Las Vegas Airfareshttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/super-cheap-san-diego-las2011-06-23T22:19:54.000Z2011-06-23T22:19:54.000ZElizabeth Hansenhttps://tripatini.com/members/ElizabethHansen<div><p><strong><span style="color:#cc0000;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296552859,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296552859,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-right" alt="9296552859?profile=original" /></a></span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong><span style="color:#cc0000;">Spirit Airlines just</span></strong> announced that they are starting daily non-stop service between San Diego, California and Las Vegas, Nevada.</span></strong> <br /><br />To celebrate, the airline is offering <strong><span style="color:#cc0000;">$9 fares</span></strong> (each way based on round trip purchase) <strong><span style="color:#cc0000;">on their website today and tomorrow.</span></strong><br /><br />The two daily flights between San Diego and Las Vegas will start on September 7 and will increase to three a day on September 22, 2011.<br /><br />“We are thrilled to welcome one of <span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong>the nation’s most successful low-fare airline</strong></span> to San Diego International Airport,” said Airport Authority Board Chair Robert Gleason. “Spirit Airlines will give travelers more choices for making the trip between San Diego and Las Vegas, and this convenient new service is bound to benefit tourism in both cities."<br /><br /><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong>“San Diego and Las Vegas are two of the most exciting destinations in the southwestern U.S</strong></span>., and Spirit Airlines will help connect them as never before,” said Airport Authority President/CEO Thella Bowens.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.spirit.com/">Spirit Airlines</a> is the largest Ultra Low Cost Carrier (ULCC) in the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Its all-Airbus fleet, the youngest in the Americas, flies more than 150 daily flights to over 40 destinations.<br /><br /><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong>The $9 tickets will be good for travel on September 13, 14, 20, 21, and 27</strong></span>, 2011, which is great timing, since <strong><span style="color:#cc0000;"><a href="http://lajollatravelinformation.elizabethhansen.net/2011/06/san-diego-weather.html">September is one of the best months to be in San Diego</a></span></strong>.<br /><br /><span style="color:#cc0000;font-size:large;">And remember: La Jolla - with its beautiful beaches and coastal scenery - is only a short taxi ride from the airport.</span></p><div style="padding-bottom:.25em;clear:both;"></div><p class="blogger"> </p><p class="blogger">Labels: <a href="http://lajollatravelinformation.elizabethhansen.net/search/label/%249%20introductory%20fares">$9 introductory fares</a>, <a href="http://lajollatravelinformation.elizabethhansen.net/search/label/bargains">bargains</a>, <a href="http://lajollatravelinformation.elizabethhansen.net/search/label/cheap%20flights">cheap flights</a>, <a href="http://lajollatravelinformation.elizabethhansen.net/search/label/cheap%20plane%20tickets">cheap plane tickets</a>, <a href="http://lajollatravelinformation.elizabethhansen.net/search/label/discount%20airfares">discount airfares</a>, <a href="http://lajollatravelinformation.elizabethhansen.net/search/label/La%20Jolla%20travel%20information">La Jolla travel information</a>, <a href="http://lajollatravelinformation.elizabethhansen.net/search/label/Las%20Vegas">Las Vegas</a>, <a href="http://lajollatravelinformation.elizabethhansen.net/search/label/Nevada">Nevada</a>, <a href="http://lajollatravelinformation.elizabethhansen.net/search/label/San%20Diego">San Diego</a>, <a href="http://lajollatravelinformation.elizabethhansen.net/search/label/Southern%20California">Southern California</a>, <a href="http://lajollatravelinformation.elizabethhansen.net/search/label/Spirit%20Airlines">Spirit Airlines</a>, <a href="http://lajollatravelinformation.elizabethhansen.net/search/label/travel%20deals">travel deals</a></p></div>Visit San Francisco wine country tour in winter for your vacationhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/visit-san-francisco-wine-country-tour-in-winter-for-your-vacation2012-12-11T09:30:00.000Z2012-12-11T09:30:00.000ZOlivia Emilyhttps://tripatini.com/members/OliviaEmily<div><p>From cooking classes to wine festivals and from blending seminars to art there are plenty of things to do in California wine country this winter. <a href="http://www.sftours.com" target="_blank">Attraction of San Francisco sightseeing</a> is the best way to visit the most beautiful places in San Francisco. The Napa and Sonoma regions of California are often one of the top of wine enthusiasts' lists when it comes to California wine country tour. <br /> <br /> If you are planning to visit the San Francisco touring spots then you must know something about places. Sonoma, situated west of Napa wine country, is house to many large and boutique wineries.<br /> <br /> Wine Country has so much to offers. Infineon Sonoma raceway has weekend car races; if you are an early riser, consider the hot air balloon rides over the Valley, which are wonderful; picnic bicycle trips to wineries are one of the most amusing experience.<br /> <br /> Generally, red wine is considered as one of the most common types you will taste in this area. They have a full body and are often combined with rich foods. These types of wine will be either Merlot or Zinfandel available from this area. California wine county tour will be one of the wonderful places to know more details about these flavors. For those who are interested in knowing more details about these tasty flavors that come from this offering, a California wine county tour will be one of the wonderful things that you can do. Apart from this Napa valley tours are famous for its resorts, restaurants, wine festival, and spa treatment. <br /> <br /> During this season, the grape vines drop their leaves and the young grasses spring up, encouraged by the predictable January rains rotating the valley green once again. Most of the time temperatures are low at California that is it will range from 40 to 50. This is the best season to get the hotel rooms and restaurants. <br /> <br /> Planning a trip to San Francisco? We've done all the work for you! Book and enjoy for a vacation trip and make use any one of the <a href="http://www.sftours.com" target="_blank">Best San Francisco tour</a> packages.</p></div>Festival rocks downtown San Josehttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/festival-rocks-downtown-san-jose2012-05-11T21:00:00.000Z2012-05-11T21:00:00.000ZDanny Solano Alvarezhttps://tripatini.com/members/DannySolanoAlvarez<div><p>Central American rock will shake the streets of downtown San Jose .</p><p>For the 6<sup>th</sup> year running, Costa Rican and other Central American bands will strut their stuff at the annual <strong>“Festival Rock el Farolito en el Morazan”</strong> at the<br /> <strong>Morazan Park</strong>. Organized by the Spanish Cultural Center and the Spanish Embassy of Costa Rica, this year’s<br /> <em>free event<br /></em> is now two days instead of just one.</p><p>Festival goers’ can revel in a wide variety of rock music, from Indie to punk, funk, hip hop, electronic and metal by groups from Costa Rica, Honduras, Guatemala and Panama. The 2-day event starts from 12:00 pm both days and lasts through the evening.</p><p><a href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Rock-en-el-Farolito.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-1132" title="Festival Rock en el Farolito" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Rock-en-el-Farolito-200x300.jpg" alt="Festival Rock en el Farolito" width="201" height="300" /></a></p><p></p><p>The event celebrates the 20<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the Spanish Cultural Center in Costa Rica. <strong>Morazan Park</strong> is located in downtown San Jose on Calle 5 and Avenida 5, by the Aurola Holiday Inn.</p><p>To stay near the festival, check out <strong><a title="Hotel Ritzli" href="http://www.ritzli.com" target="_blank">Hotel Ritzli</a></strong> right in the heart of downtown and just a few blocks from Morazan Park, on Calle Central Alfredo Volio between Avenidas 8 and 10.</p><p>By Shannon</p><h6 class="zemanta-related-title" style="font-size:1em;">Related articles</h6><ul class="zemanta-article-ul"><li class="zemanta-article-ul-li"><a href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/activities/peace-doves-alight-in-san-jose/">Peace doves alight in San Jose</a> (enchanting-costarica.com)</li><li class="zemanta-article-ul-li"><a href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/activities/shopping-in-san-jose-costa-rica/">Shopping in San Jose, Costa Rica</a> (enchanting-costarica.com)</li></ul><div class="zemanta-pixie" style="margin-top:10px;height:15px;"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" title="Enhanced by Zemanta" href="http://www.zemanta.com/"><img class="zemanta-pixie-img" style="float:right;" src="http://img.zemanta.com/zemified_e.png?x-id=46aa9425-a047-407a-92bf-27ecf7bbaedd" alt="Enhanced by Zemanta" /></a></div></div>Mexico's San Pancho Music Festival 2012https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/2012-san-pancho-music-festival2012-02-21T17:00:00.000Z2012-02-21T17:00:00.000ZPablo Gonzalezhttps://tripatini.com/members/PabloGonzalez<div><p style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial, 'sans-serif';">Visit <a href="http://www.puertovallarta.net" target="_blank">Puerto Vallarta Mexico</a> for more information on the area.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial, 'sans-serif';">More on <a href="http://www.puertovallarta.net/news/san-pancho-a-place-you-must-know.php" target="_blank">San Pancho</a><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial, 'sans-serif';"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial, 'sans-serif';"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008689866,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008689866,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="400" alt="9008689866?profile=original" /></a>The 12<sup>th</sup> annual San Pancho Music Festival will be opening in San Francisco (San Pancho), Nayarit, Friday February 24<sup>th</sup> at 5:00pm. The Festival will be held for three days, Friday through Sunday the 24<sup>th</sup> through the 26<sup>th</sup>.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial, 'sans-serif';"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial, 'sans-serif';">Performances are free to the public and begin each afternoon at 5pm, typically ending prior to 12pm midnight.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial, 'sans-serif';">San Pancho’s Music Festival is a vibrant, eclectic expression of performing art traditionally held annually for 3 days during the last weekend of February. It began informally in 2001, and by 2006 included some 116 performers. The Music Festival attracts some of the most colorful musicians from around the world, including international acts from Europe, the U.S., Chile, Guatemala, France and Germany. Regional talent has also been retained to include the traditional Mexican and Latin music of local musicians</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial, 'sans-serif';"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:.0001pt;"><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial, 'sans-serif';"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008689891,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008689891,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="400" alt="9008689891?profile=original" /></a>Traditionally there is no fee to attend, and performers are not paid. The Festival is entirely supported by the gracious con</span></p></div>Wild West Wander Part Ihttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/wild-west-wander-part-i2011-11-08T00:00:00.000Z2011-11-08T00:00:00.000ZLinda Ballouhttps://tripatini.com/members/LindaBallou<div><p><a href="http://http//nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/adventure-travel/wild-west-wander-in-the-san-juan-mountains-of-colorado-part-i/" target="_blank">Wild West Wander Part I</a></p><p><a href="http://http//nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/adventure-travel/wild-west-wander-part-ii/" target="_blank">Wild West Wander Part II</a></p><p> </p><p>Join me on a whirlwind romp around arguable the most scenic byway in America-The San Juan Skyway in Southwest Colorado. I show you out to get our of your car and into the splendid scenery in a hurry!<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008665282,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008665282,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008665282?profile=original" /></a></p></div>The "Lung" of San José, Costa Rica: La Sabana Parkhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/the-lung-of-san-jose-costa-rica-la-sabana-park2011-08-17T22:47:27.000Z2011-08-17T22:47:27.000ZDanny Solano Alvarezhttps://tripatini.com/members/DannySolanoAlvarez<div>¨La Sabana¨ well known signature of San Jose´s downtown. This park is the biggest and most important urban park in the country. Covers an area of 72 Ha and has been the recreational and sports space for many Costa Ricans during decades.<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/sabana_sanjose3.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/sabana_sanjose3-300x171.jpg?width=291" width="291" alt="sabana_sanjose3-300x171.jpg?width=291" /></a>Officially name ¨La Sabana Metropolitan Park¨, this place represents the green space of downtown San Jose. It was inaugurated in 1977 by the president at the time, Daniel Oduber, who classified it as a Metropolitan Park, worked on planting some trees and grass, renovating it to be called again ¨the lungs of San Jose¨.<br /><br />The history of this park , actually goes back to the 17<sup>th</sup> century, when a ¨Josefino¨ citizen named Manuel Antonio Chapuí donated the lands. The governments at the time started to preserve and develop some planting campaigns, creating the characteristic vegetation making it popular for recreation and sport activities among the people.<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/sabana_sanjose1.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/sabana_sanjose1-300x194.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="sabana_sanjose1-300x194.jpg?width=300" /></a>By the 1930´s the park was taken to locate the first international airport ¨El Coco¨ which was there for about 44 years till the inauguration of the current international airport Juan Santamaría.<br /><br />This year is starting a new important project to renovate the park. The project is based on create a whole new atmosphere for the birds and different animal species that visit the park. The objective is to renovate all the old trees, sowing new native Costa Rican species that can provide food and protection to the animals in the area, also adding some scenic and beautiful views to the park.<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/sabana_sanjose2.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/sabana_sanjose2-300x225.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="sabana_sanjose2-300x225.jpg?width=300" /></a>By staying at <a href="http://www.ritzli.com">Ritzli</a> you can have the chance to take a small picnic with you, walk over the park, explore the recently inaugurated National Stadium, take a tour thru the Art Museum and enjoy a typical ¨tico¨ downtown getaway.<br /><br />La Sabana Park is just one of the many fun and interesting activities you have to choose from, while you visit San Jose. Either is before or after exploring the beautiful Costa Rica, you can also enjoy downtown.<br /><br />By <a href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/activities/san-jose%C2%B4s-lung-%C2%A8la-sabana%C2%A8/">Maricel/Ritzli</a></div>21st Amendment Brewery: The Epitome of Craft Alehttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/21st-amendment-brewery-the2010-04-01T04:15:26.000Z2010-04-01T04:15:26.000ZSteve Mirskyhttps://tripatini.com/members/SteveMirsky964<div><div class="wp-caption alignleft" id="attachment_763" style="width:290px;"><a href="http://gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/hellorhighwatermelon.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-763" title="hellorhighwatermelon" height="210" alt="21st Amendment Brewery's Hell or High Watermelon Wheat Beer...Genuine Refreshment!" src="http://gastrotraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/hellorhighwatermelon.jpg" width="280" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">21st Amendment Brewery's Hell or High Watermelon Wheat Beer...Genuine Refreshment!</p></div><p></p><p></p><p>First, an explanation about where <a href="http://gastrotraveling.com/2010/03/18/21st-amendment-brewery-the-epitome-of-craft-ale/www.21st-amendment.com" target="_blank"><font color="#000000">21st Amendment Brewery</font></a> gets its name. The turn of the 20th century witnessed thousands of small breweries operating across America. Just in San Francisco alone there were about 40 breweries within the city limits. By comparison, today there are eight with a population more than double what it was in 1900. These breweries not only served great tasting beers but also captured the essence of individual neighborhoods. As local gathering places, they went beyond serving a few cold ones to being what we now call a second space. Ideas were exchanged, politics and philosophy were debated, and families gathered together on weekends. All these shared experiences defined the taste of a neighborhood and its beer.</p><p>This all ended in 1920 when <a href="http://www.prohibition.osu.edu/" target="_blank"><font color="#000000">Prohibition</font></a> wiped out this culture for 13 barren years. Social interaction was largely driven underground to the speakeasies where regular citizens became a nation of outlaws. But with the passage of the 21st Amendment repealing the “Great Repression”, society slowly began climbing back to the brewery as a neighborhood gathering place.</p><p>21st Amendment Brewery has strengthened this renewal since 2000 when it opened in San Francisco’s historic South Park neighborhood. Now in the modern world, they buck conventional wisdom by producing craft beer in cans. Although not elegant, aluminum cans keep beer fresher and they’re better for the environment. In the words of owners Nico and Shaun: “21st Amendment means much more than just an end to Prohibition. It means the right to brew beer, the freedom to be innovative, and the obligation to have fun.”</p><p>By my estimation, their best brew is their <a href="http://www.21st-amendment.com/beer/hell-or-high-watermelon" target="_blank"><font color="#000000">Hell or High Watermelon Wheat Beer</font></a>. It pours light gold and clear, tops off with a foamy white head, and finishes with sweet watermelon aromas and a soft tart wheat accent tickling the nose. I can’t wait till BBQ time when I invite all my friends over, fire up the grill and heavily ice a bunch of these beers. Perhaps they’ll dig in thinking that they’ll pull out a Bud or Rolling Rock. But surprise…imagine their incredulous faces…what the heck is this? They’ll just have to taste! Unlike many fruit beers, this one is not overly sweet. The watermelon flavor is crisp and focused… a no-nonsense thirst-quencher. I’m placing my bets hands down that ultimately there will be no complaints.</p><p><em>photo courtesy of 21st Amendment Brewery</em></p></div>