A Clear Review

Staying at a hotel or motel soon?  Is it for just a night; perhaps a business trip?  A family vacation?  You want to find a place that meets not only your needs but your expectations. Must haves for anyone is clean!  For others it might be a pool, a on site bar, duvets rather than bed spreads, a single level property or good lighting to put your make-up on.  How to determine where to stay has been made much easier with online reviews and photos. You just need to know where to begin. 

We travel frequently; Tara more than me for business reasons.  Reviews have become a part of our everyday life and a ritual for every vacation.  We have learned about the perks of loyalty clubs no matter how small.  We have come to realize that not everyone rates over night comfort the same and that you have to take it upon yourself to elucidate what is the right fit for you!  Start with the reviews. 


To believe or not to believe...those darn reviews. Today, everybody [including me], wants to be a critic!  Vacationers, those simply passing through, and business travelers alike are taking their views and writing.  There are so many sites these days where we can try and eliminate the guess work when it comes to finding a hotel. Most hotels, motels and Inns offer their own personal review site...they usually only offer positive reviews.  Other sites ...you have to find your preference! 

~ Trip Advisor is the most well known site, with members from every walk of life. It's got the most number of reviews of any of the online tell-alls. It's rare that I can't find a review for a planned stay on Trip Advisor.  It's easy to use, and navigate, offering reader photos, reviews with the ability for the property managers to respond, links to the hotels via booking sites and a simple rating system. This is the way to go if you want to read through the critical masses.
~ Oyster is a new site that has excellent potential and offers the tag line, "Our special investigators visit, photograph, review and rate each hotel.  We uncover the truth, before it's 'uh-oh' time".  The hotel "tell all" site is new therefore every hotel you are looking for will not be found.  It offers "unprofessional" photos of the properties and the site sends someone to stay and review.  As a professional photographer, I found their photos a very good example of what a traveler will really find! Great shots of the places you are reading about without the luster of Photoshop! However, reading their reviews of places I have traveled I did find them one dimensional; informative but more a narrative. They offer numerous pricing sights directly from their page which is always great for comparisons. It's a nice page to thumb through but every hotel you may want to visit is not going to be there AND you may want more opinions! Use this site if you don't trust the masses but there's no guarantee (with anyone really).
~Raveable is a site for those that don't want to read reviews but like numbers.  It's like a Rotten Tomatoes of hotels and motels.  It's also not for the faint of heart as it has a "bed bug" rating.  The latter is from sightings and I am not sure where these come from.  I know there are a lot of finger pointers out there...but...To be honest used this site a while back and got crazed...I had the itchies an entire weekend and I know it was only my mind.  This does not make for a happy partner! Let's just say I was labeled an "Annoyance!"
~Expedia, Price Line, Travelocity, Orbitz, Hotel.com and others are often the same reviews you will find on Travelocity.

Now what?  Choose the review site that best suits your needs and time frame. Then read! I personally prefer Trip Adviser due to the diversity of the contributors and its quantity of reviews for any place, any where. Unfortunately many people review just to bitch.  Some have no real reference point while others expect every hotel or motel to stand equal to each other regardless of location. Others have odd standards, expecting a Motel 6 to be the Ritz Carlton  (who I think I gave only four stars on Trip Advisor for their Half Moon Bay Property!!).  In fact, you really have to read the reviews and decide just what the contributor is upset with or what they are raving about. With a little thought you can get an insight into where you are staying and they can help you choose wisely ~ for YOU!

Let's look at a few examples that I am familiar with!  No actual locations just examples of reviews...to get you to understand my thought process.  

1. A Foreign All-Inclusive:  I had read all the reviews and found most of them right on target when I arrived. After my return I was posting my own review. I noticed the post above mine was one star...mine was four out of five due to their complicated restaurant reservations and their dress code that was only adhered to when they wanted to; all of this I detailed.  I then read the review with one star...quickly recognizing the reviewer by name as one of the guest there during my stay!  Her beef and reason for the very low rating:  They did not serve top shelf alcohol (they did) and they were not nice to her.  What she failed to realize or was to embarrassed to confess, was that two days in a row she passed out pool side after so much alcohol that she was being asked to relax and calm down. At one point they had to pull her out of the pool!  Her companion was beside herself...Something the review did not convey. Solution ~ read more than one review to get a complete picture.  

2.  Beach front motel in one of our northern states:  The reviews raved about this property. I did note that they all said pretty much the same and that if a person gave less than a stellar review the Owner/Manager would write back with reasons that often represented the reviewer in negative fashion.  We (ok Tara would tell you..."not her part of the we") made a reservation believing the good!  YIKES!  Not so...beach was great; Fenway loved it.  The motel itself almost got a drive by from us but the five stars made me convince Tara that it had to be good!  WRONG again!  Let's just say Tara was very happy she had brought her trusty blanket along for cases like this.  When I reviewed the property negatively, I like the other nay sayers got reamed by the manager with her reply.  The take away from this is when there are numerous negative reviews with the same issues and each has a nasty note on the reply from the Manager/Owner, question it...why after months or years is the same problem arising and why is the property manager so defensive!  Best bet, find a new place to stay before you get stuck!

3.  Another foreign hotel:  What is the reviewer angry at?  A recent vacation plan had us worried at first until I began really reading the reviews!  At first look the rating were mediocre at best.  A closer look almost brought with it laughs!  Our stay it turned out was wonderful and in fact it will see us again next year!  When reviews complain about service; read what they are upset with.  In this hotel's case a number of reviewers were comparing the property to much more upscale properties that are almost known for their elite status and one could say snootiness... that was not the nature of this location.  The location itself was very laid back and almost intimate. Reviewers were upset that it was small and scored it low.  The property had photos and number of rooms; it was small! Perhaps the negative reviewer can write but not read?  Many reviewers complained deducted rate points for the lack of fluent English speaking employees...Um  they were not in an English speaking country!  One gentleman gave negative marks because they served beer at the pool in cans.  Mind you they were included in the hotel's price, you could drink all day all night...they were soooo cold and they didn't break when you were drinking pool or beach side!  Take away here...you have to use your brain a little to decipher the reviews because some folks don't use their brain when writing!

4. Basic large city Hotel: The price was perfect, the photos excellent, the location could not be beat but the reviews seemed to suck!  Upon reading all the reviews that raved about the comfort and location I found a common theme...no attached lounge.  It also seemed that this hotel was in a business location and many of the reviewers were there for that reason.  Most wanted to come in for the night and have a cocktail delivered to their room (no room service) or grab a libation and take it to their room (no bar).  In our case, we were planning on attending a concert.  Who cared about the bar?!  Perfect location, nice large comfy room...we were super happy. Glad I read all the reviews to see the problem! Again what doesn't fit some may be perfect for you!

I think you get the picture.  You can't rely on just one review's word as the gospel.  If there is a common theme and it's lack of cleanliness...run! If it's something like a pool or lack there of; think about why that person rated it a 3 rather than a 5.  Really look at the photos.  They can tell you more than you realize.  What could they be hiding?! Are they dark and dingy...taken at all angles?  No photos of the room itself? Find what speaks to you.  Make your choice and go.  If you have a bad experience...write about it and give details. If the something doesn't work, let management know via your written word. If something happened that you didn't like explain it!  You would be surprised at how many managers read these reviews and respond.  I have received numerous thank you's after reviews...I have also received I'm sorry's.  Just take a moment and review for the next guy.  

When you pick a place to stay; go to their web site.  Check to see if there are any perks like Loyalty Clubs.  Even small places have them! The benefits can surprise you even if you don't travel frequently.  Example is Joi de Vivre; a small boutique chain that we have stayed with numerous times.  The first time we stayed I joined their "club".  Upon arrival to any of their hotels I now receive a choice between a free large bottled water or a bottle of red or white wine.  Small gesture but all I did was fill out my information online!  If you don't like online forms; request one when you get there.

An example of larger loyalty club perks is something that Tara reaps the benefit of with her many business stays.  Within the form for many larger chains you'll find customer requests...sometimes it is about the pillow you desire, sometimes smoking or non-smoking, but for her...she loves the request for lower or higher floors!!  If you are someone that finds yourself at corporate meetings (if only one time a year) you know how clogged the elevators can get when everyone has to be downstairs at the same time. A pain in the a$$ if you are on the 24th floor!  Not for Tara! She has it in her file to always receive a low level floor.  Time saved, less frustration and if all else fails she can hit the stairs. There might be a must have on that request form for you...check it out!

Loyalty clubs can get you snacks at night, a stop in the gym without charge. You don't have to be a repeat traveler to see the small simple hospitality perks.  Of course if you frequent a particular brand often; please sign up!  Points can add up quickly Remember many chains have sub-names such as The Hilton Brand who also owns The Hampton, Double Tree and more.  Marriott is also the Ritz, Residence Inn and Courtyard to name a few.  Choice Hotels consist of Clarion, Comfort Inns, Econo Lodge and more.  Look past the single name and see the whole picture! It can add up...think an entire vacation free!  Yes, FREE!  For us it's that beach front hotel that serves beer in a can! All those stays on lower floors for business add up to a five night winter vacation in a friendly resort town for me (okay Tara too)!  

Bottom line, read the reviews but add a little thought to your processing.  Fill out those three minute forms and see what you get! 
Find a place that delivers bang for buck and sleep like a baby!  

Travel safe! 

Clearly My Home Road Trips

Many of you know that I live up Highway 70 in the community of Yankee Hill. Initially when we moved up here I thought where in the hell am I moving?!  "We have a great house". I pondered to myself, "but dang, what is there to do up here?!"  As I have said before, one can't even order a pizza to your door up here! Having lived in Chico most of my life, taking a leave only to a larger city for grad school, I was familiar with the area but only as a wide spot in the road [barely] when traveling up Highway 70 on the way to Quincy or Reno.  

We are in fact, about a half hour from Chico, Paradise or Oroville.  We have an Oroville zip code, but we are in Yankee Hill.  On the other side of the road directly is our mirror community of Concow.  There is no real reason in my mind as to why the two sides of the roads have different names, but we do!  In Concow we have a small grocery store, in Yankee Hill we have a hardware store.  There are a lot of wonderful folks up here and with each passing week, I usually learn about something new that exist in the community. Sometimes it is learned through meeting people other times it is with the dog in the back seat and driving the back roads!

As the weather this year clears, it's time to load up Fenway (the dog) and find new sights, sounds, and even tastes! 

If you have never really adventured around this area, you should...you will be pleasantly surprised.  For the sake of this blog, let's take an adventure today!

Get on Highway 70 East and plan a short day trip.  About three miles past the Lime Saddle Bridge you will have to look fast to avoid missing our "market".  Pull into Canyon Lake Store or as it is known around these parts, "The Dome Store."  It's an interesting little piece of our community.  Two gas pumps, for those of us who forget to fill up "in town" or for the weary traveler who looks down at their gauges to see red; a dusty gravel drive with lots of parking, ice, propane filling, an occasional table in front selling fresh produce or eggs and the store itself.  The first thing to warn travelers about is the dust...it might look like nothing gets rotated in the Dome Store, but in fact it does and they even dust! Unfortunately, the dust outside is just too crazy to keep up with...relax...there is nothing to worry about! There is an assortment of goods in the store. Just last night we wanted frozen Zestie French Fries to go with our BBQ burgers I was about to grill...No way did I think they would have them but to my surprise they did.  Usually we just stop in for beer if we get word of incoming company or for a cold soda!  Beer and soda is no more expensive here than in the "city'!  The second thing to make note of is the clientele...let's simply say this, "we are an eclectic group of residents up here!"  Enough said!!  If this was a mall we would offer the best of people watching in California.  Grab a couple sodas here for your little driving adventure.  Let's keep exploring.  

Speaking of malls...many call the area off to the side of 70 just as you exit the driveway of the Dome Store our Local Mall.  In clear weather, one can always find someone on the large gravel turnout selling some sort of goods.  Whether it be yard sale like "trinkets', hand made outdoor furniture, tamales, breakfast burritos, Jamaican BBQ or other hand made goods it's worth checking out.

Not too far from here is a surprising little place that I am hoping starts to market their breads and pastas locally...At present, unfortunately you can't buy their goods anywhere but at the Chico Saturday Market.  Miller's Bake House is located just minutes from Highway 70.  Yum!  That said, I do wonder if they take special orders up here?

Another fun little spot that does offer spring time and any time blossom filled delights is Spring Fever Nursery.  Everything grown from love; certain photos don't do this place justice.  

Up 70 we continue and in seconds you will find yourself at The Pines Yankee Hill Hardware Store.  This little store packs a whollop!  One would be amazed at just what this store sells.  Whether it be hay or bolts, paint or potting soil, dog food or plumbing supplies the store usually has exactly what you are looking for.  Our hardware store also serves as our local post office!  

Next to the hardare store is a new business. Tropicali brews up tasty coffee, lattes, espresso, and mocha's!  According to John the owner and Barista, they are open 8-5 Monday through Saturday and 10-3 on Sunday.  

Now with soda or coffee in hand head to Concow Road and enjoy the sights of our wilderness.  In about 15 minutes you will arrive at Concow Lake.                                     

Although there are no boats or swimming allowed on the diminutive lake, fishing from the shoreline is not frowned upon.  There are many large and small mouth bass that call this reservoir home.  I hear that jig fishing and plastic bait is your best bet.  Around the lake is a small rural campground with spaces to rent and even a frisbee golf course.  

Continue and you will find the quaintest of parks named after a long time local family; Crain Memorial Park.  Great picnicking, plenty of grassy area and room to play and frolic.  

Head back to Highway 70, aiming east and grab a bite at Scooters Cafe.  If you have't been reading my blog, check out the write up of past on its delectable grub.  Once you stop, it will have you coming back for more!  If you're timing is good you may even catch some live music on their patio!  Tell them CC sent you!  

Continue on with your journey, enjoy the magical canyon and its almost hypnotic beauty.  Stop off and throw a few rocks in the Feather River, photograph architect of its bridges or get out your trout pole and catch a Rainbow!  While aiming up you will have to keep your eyes peeled for the little road that reverts backwards on the left prior to 4 Tree Road, but find it and head down it!  One of the canyon's favorite summer beaches and swimming holes is at the bottom.  Weekends will find a crowd but it's still a fine spot for a dip!  Your four pawed pals will be happy as well!

Continue back on 70 a ways and you will come to Belden Town on your right. If you didn't stop at Scooters for lunch or breakfast...stop here...Belden Town Resort offers a full bar, big breakfast, lunch and dinner all over looking the river and nestled directly in the canyon. It's old and its funky but it can be fun!

Belden Town also offers clean and comfy little cabins, a lodge and a campground for those who wish to stay! The water slows here at the bridge and there is a very kid friendly beach area.  Summers also bring with it music and festivals.

If you aim up the canyon more you will come to Caribou Road.  It's here on the left corner Caribou and Highway 70 that I found my greatest canyon surprise!!  Caribou Crossroads is a diamond in the rough of our canyon.  It offers an RV park, cute little cabins (where well mannered pets are accepted with a small fee!), a store, and cafe.  It's the cafe that caught my attention.  It advertised their shakes as "Pacific Crest Trail Famous"...the best in the canyon.  I just had to check them out and try them... I was so excited about this buzz, that I loaded the dog in the car and convinced Tara to come along for an afternoon drive! We went...the place is small but clean and very friendly with a simple but tasty looking menu; something for everyone from biscuits and gravy to burgers; even fish and chips.....we ordered...we waited and then our shakes arrived...a fountain glass and extra!!

We both got shakes...and we got a lot!  Real Ice cream!  Real whip cream!  Okay, let's just say I am now close to drooling.  This place was not exaggerating about their shakes! 

YOU MUST DROP IN! 

If you are looking for a cabin, I recommend you call in advance. If you are just passing by...stop and try their shakes!  Your pallet will be happy you did!

After our shake we drove back down the canyon and headed home.  We actually stopped on the way down at Belden Town because we had a big breakfast at our local Scooters and a shake at Caribou Crossroads. We grabbed a beer and sat on the patio with our dog Fen beside us.  We soaked up some sun and simply enjoyed our surroundings! 

We hiked around the property and Fenway had a nice cooling off in the river.  Then it was back to home sweet home.

So...if you are in the mood for a drive, don't want to spend all day or go too far...try heading up this way.  There is so much to see and I only touched upon a few.  You can add so much more to your adventure.  Swim under the railway bridges, find a secluded beach, hike a small creek way...just enjoy.  You will be amazed at the beauty that's only minutes away!

As Clear as Home

You want to get away, relax...you have a large family, a good sized group or you just want the feeling of home! You want to bring the dog, come and go as you please and NOT share a room! What are you going to do?  Hotel rooms at most family/group vacation spots can start at $100 a night and run into as much as $500. That's a room with at most double beds (sharing), a tiny refrigerator and a mini coffee pot with two packets of coffee a day.  Not to mention what my Father-in-Law tells is a common use for those coffee receptacles!   A story for another day!! What else can you do...OPTIONS!

In 2012 we wanted to take our 17 year old exchange student to Southern California for the Thanksgiving break.  We wanted a central beach where we could hover and stay for some of the days so our German sports fanatic could learn to surf and enjoy the ocean and that had easy access to the tourist spots we planned on going to.  Our first thought was to only stay four nights.  We would get a hotel suite with two rooms; $385 a night...eat out for all meals...$$$$$, and visit DisneyLand, Hollywood and the beach! It was decided that was a lot to do in a short amount of time, lots of money spent on who know what kind of food and still no Thanksgiving ~ American Style...something every exchange student should experience.  We not only needed more time ... now we needed a kitchen to accomplish all this.  We needed a house!!

I had previously looked at rental homes instead of hotels for some other trip but put it on a back burner...maybe this was the time to revisit the idea. If you remember from previous post, I am a planner...so I began to plan.  What I found was a big world out there that rents rooms both shared and not, apartments, flats, homes and mansions! Since this isn't about sharing, rather about comfort and saving I'm narrowing in on homes and apartments and what I have found!

There are numerous online sights for vacation rentals.  The most popular airbnb (the pioneer with homes of all prices all over the world), HomeAway (the most homes of any of the sites but more in the USA), Vibro (long term vacation homes with a US focus but growing in Europe and FlipKey (a TripAdvisor company). All have easy search menus and you can set filters to narrow your search to find exactly what you want. The other alternative is to look into local area vacation rentals.  Most places of vacation status have local rental offices.  

Each home comes with EVERYTHING you will need...just like home! Clean linens, towels appliances, dishes, pots pans...you name it!  It is just like walking into you own house but somewhere different!  Somewhere you want to vacation!

We decided for us and our exchange student we liked the idea of home. HomeAway it was!  Our extended vacation brought with it good friends visiting; spending a few nights and sharing Thanksgiving dinner.  We wanted something steps from Venice Beach, quiet, two or three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a washer and dryer and space.  $350 a night found us a great condo with two bedrooms (one huge with a bunk bed set, desk divider wall and another twin on the other side), great room with pull out couch, gourmet kitchen, 

dining area rooftop patio, BBQ, two full bathrooms and laundry room.

  The rental came equipped with bicycles, boogie boards, baby crib and beach toys (our guests had a 13 month old).  The apartment's owner even set up our exchange student with surf lessons and let him use a surf board all week long!  We had all the comforts of home, able to hit the beach Thanksgiving morning, walk back and get the turkey in the oven and back to the beach while it cooked.  This was the perfect way to enjoy a vacation!!

Another occasion last year was one of those celebration birthday's for Tara's Mom.  Tara wanted to throw big bash for her, her sisters and friends. Tara's Mom has a beautiful house that most would love to vacation AT!  We had to come up with a get away for these women that had WOW!

 We tossed around a number of ideas, different locations and settled on Bodega Bay.  The local agency there had numerous beach rentals.  We found a beautiful gem!  Two master bedrooms, two other bedrooms, four bathrooms, gourmet kitchen, gorgeous comfy living room,    

jacuzzi...the perfect place.  We could not have afforded hotel rooms for everyone in a place of this home's status! The house was certainly a looker   

 and for two nights we were perched at the Oyster Catcher celebrating Julie with friends, family, music, good food , wine and fun!  

There are homes for everyone and every budget and occasion.  In almost every city a home or apartment can be rented for less than a hotel. Even here in Chico, you can find them.  I have noticed that many parents of college students have found vacation rentals more economical and comfortable than staying in a hotel. Even if it's just for a night or weekend.  Many even take pets!  


Our trip to Germany and  Italy will be peppered with only two hotels our entire three week stay. The rest of the trip we will be staying in flats, cottages, and apartments found on Airbnb.  Not only did I save upwards of $100 a night...I get a washer and dryer (great since we are only taking back packs), my own kitchen for those midnight snacks and a taste of how folks live in the country I am traveling in.  

So whether it be a basic house in a country setting, a cabin in the snow, high rise or penthouse in the big city or a tree house out side of San Francisco, or a boat at Boston's harbor there is wonderful alternative to those boring hotels!  You can sit, enjoy your coffee and have a second cup if you want...you're home...away from home.  Give it a try!

And PS...it was going to be a surprise but obviously I am not good at them...I found a cute little cottage nestled directly on Stinson Beach where Fenway is even welcome...it will be our little home for three nights as we relax and celebrate Tara's birthday! I'll let you know how it goes!  

Clear Planning

I am a planner!  I am one of those people who likes surprises but not the kind that come with a vacation.  You know like losing your luggage, your wallet or forgetting to bring along the information about where you are staying or where it is at!  One reason is actually laughable...I am that person that would forget their head if it were not attached...It's a joke in my household that I either forget my wallet or my cell phone... You get the picture... I know I am not the only one out there, so I am going to share a few of the items that really will help your life and your vacations go smoother!  Trust me; there is help for a vacation with no surprises.  

First let's address that wallet/phone issue.  I am not a purse carrier.  I see no reason to; especially when traveling. Purses will be addressed here but I honestly think I have an even better idea!  For me there are times when I just want my phone, id and a credit card.  I received a gift a few Christmas's back that initially I thought silly.  That gift the Card Nija has become my best friend.  There are many other card holders that will stick on the back of your phone and perhaps do the same things; but this one really works.  It doesn't interfere with your phone or its functions.  It will hold as many cards as you need, money too, and you only have one thing to worry about!  

Don't worry, they come off easily with a good pull but won't come off if filled too full or caught on a pocket.  This little item has been a life saver for me!  

Traveling today is all about safety.  We will be traveling to Italy soon and have heard all the warnings about pick pockets, luggage snatchers, or back pack thieves.  A little preparedness is all at your fingertips; it simply takes a little forethought. In our case, we are traveling with carry-on luggage only! I know that in today's travel circles ~ luggage with wheels is the only way to go.  We don't roll that way ~ The past few years we have been traveling with only a back pack.  Mind you we have carried enough clothes for a ten day stay in the Dominican Republic, a week at a time in Mexico and planning on twenty plus days in Italy!  We travel with a back pack  ~ think "Amazing Race" style. Wheels can really slow you down when running to catch a flight that is two terminals away and you only have twenty minutes! Rolling bags are much easier to steal as they can easily be grabbed right out our your hand.  Finally, have you ever attempted eight flights of crowed stairs with a wheeled case? Clunky, heavy and annoying ~ much easier with a well balanced pack on your back ~ just add the weight you feel comfortable in carrying!  We love the versatility and capacity of our Porter 46 by Osprey.

Amazing how much fits into this pack!  The straps are comfortable and can be tucked inside and then carried as a case.  It cinches and expands, is durable but most important; it is the EXACT size for carry on!  All  Osprey products are waterproof and have a life time warranty!  They stick by their products AND they are staffed at their 800 number with REAL people.  A strap holder broke on one of our packs.  Nothing that would have really bothered the function of the pack but none the less I was curious to see if they really stood by their warranty.  A real person answered the phone and a real person took my information and the piece is on its way!  I even learned they are releasing a new model of the Porter 46 in August that will have, the same roomy carry on legal dimensions, better internal pockets for computers, iPads and phones along with even more safety features against theft!!  There is an Osprey back for everyone; even ones WITH wheels!

Always lock your luggage!  Use TSA approved locks to avoid hassles with the screeners just in case they think they see something!  They have the special tool to open the lock, quickly look inside and let you go happily on your way!  Any time your lock is opened without your special combination, whether it be by TSA or thief, you will know because the lock shows red!  These can be found many places, PacSafe, Magellan's and TravelSmith to name a few!

Once at our destination our pack is left in the hotel room and we are off to see sights! Many women would carry a purse in these situations...I choose to carry a smaller pack. Easy to sling over the shoulder along with my carry on.           

 

The best thing about this is they virtually can not be compromised.  The straps have metal cording through them so they can not be cut.  The bag itself has a mesh to stop slashing...NO, they are not heavy!  The cool technology makes them safe and lightweight! Zippers are hidden and can not be opened with one hand.  The inside pocked is RFID lined.  This will stop anyone from hacking into your computer or smart phone if you are carrying it AND not allow hackers to steal your credit card information from hot spots that are popping up all over the world surprising unsuspecting travelers! When at a restaurant or train the straps have special locks that can be undone and then attached to a chair or seat. This type of pack will carry me through my sight seeing needs, holding my camera, jacket, water bottle and papers with room for souvenirs! PacSafe has something for everyone to keep their personal items safe and out the hands of thugs.  So whether it be a purse or day pack, order before your next trip! 

Another PacSafe necessity is a cut proof camera strap.  I know I have a day pack big enough to hold my camera but if you are like me, it's on your shoulder waiting to take the next picture!  I shudder to think what I would do if someone slashed and ran with my "baby"!  I have been a photographer for over thirty years and feel pretty secure about how guarded I hold my camera when walking around sight seeing...but if someone were to slice my strap; would I be able to continue that grip if they took off running with it? Thus the purchase of this strap and the thought that $30.00 may not only give me peace of mind but keep my camera out of the hands of someone else!     

Now keeping my money safe is another matter!  We had batted around all types of scenarios about what we bring in the way of cash, credit cards and cash cards in foreign countries.  So many cards charge outlandish fees for foreign transactions.  Getting cash with your bank card usually means high transactions fees...and one can't carry around enough cash for vacations over a few days long!  So the homework began!  Don't just guess; really check into your card and bank fees because they can add up to hundreds, even thousands of dollars over time! One of us has a Capitol One credit card that has no foreign fees!  The other...Chase's Mileage Plus Explorer card offers no foreign transaction fees.  Both have low interest and seemingly good customer service.  Alert your card of your travels, giving them specifics and dates to eliminate any fraud!  As far as cash goes, it's a little more difficult.  Most banks just don't offer check cards that can be used in foreign countries without fees.  That said, I found that Capitol One does! The Capitol One 360  offers you everything you will need!  It is a strictly online bank card that allows you to add and transfer funds online or with your smart phone.  It can be used anywhere in the world that has a cash machine, it carries the Master Card logo and there are NO fees, hidden or otherwise!!  Again, make certain you give them the heads up to your foreign travel and you are perfectly travel safe!  

There's always the basics in safe travel...

Make two photocopies of all your travel documents in case of emergency or if your documents are lost or stolen. Leave one copy with a friend or relative at home. It is always a great idea to let at least one person know exactly where you will be staying and how to contact you in an emergency. Carry the other copy with you stored separately from the originals. Documents to make copies of include:

• Passport ID page
• Foreign visa (if applicable)
• Itinerary
• Hotel confirmation
• Airline ticket
• Driver's license
• Credit cards brought on the trip
• Traveler's check serial numbers 

If you are traveling abroad, add your trip and information to Smart Traveler Enrollment. One never knows what could go wrong and it's best to be prepared!  

Do a little homework...know where you're going and what you should be prepared for.  Whether it be Trip Advisor Forum, online blogs or articles, travel magazines or Rick Steves, get familiar with your destination before you get there and find surprises you were not expecting!  

The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.

Saint Augustine

  

Sometimes Nice isn't easy!

Sometimes it does not pay to be nice!  Today was one of them!  Grrrrr!  Let's just say this writing is a means to alleviate some of the day's Hotel Drama and frustration!  I am sure I am not the only one that has had this happen! Comments welcome on this topic because I am curious...Here goes...

Tara's birthday falls on a three day weekend.   Always does. This year we thought we would venture over to Mendocino. it's a little over a four hour drive.  Tara works Friday so we thought we would get up early on Saturday, meander over to the coast slowly, stopping along the way at a couple of wineries and a brewery.  We know the area is very dog friendly so Fenway got to go as well.  

We had loved our stay at the Stanford Inn and Tara thought it a great idea for her birthday.  So my Tuesday began...I called to make a reservation.  The receptionist, Ann was a little scattered on the phone but that's okay.  First she noted that we were return guest and then she lost all our information. Still not a problem, we all have bad days.  I made my two night reservation in one of the mid level rooms (not cheap I might add) gave her my credit card information and she gave me confirmation.  She thanked me, said she looked forward to seeing us and we finished our conversation.  

Excited, I called Tara to tell her of our reservation.  Same room as we had stayed in last time!  I was just about to call back to schedule two massages when the phone rang.  "Hi, this is Ann," she began..."I have to cancel your reservation because it's a three night minimum on three day weekends!"
WHAT!  I had just noticed that I had received an email from them.  It was a CONFIRMATION email.  Now she was canceling!!  I asked why when you confirm can you call and cancel?!  She said that was the policy and it had come up after she had confirmed!  Does this make any sense to you? I asked to speak with a manager or the owners who had "signed" my confirmation email and she informed me no one was there.

Bewildered, I hung up.  I was mad!  I checked my credit card and sure enough they had even charged that for the one night required reservation holding fee!  After speaking with Tara, I called back and asked to speak with one of the owners or another manager.  This time Ann told me she was on the phone with the manager and that the manager would be calling me back from her house..."Let me get off of here so she can call you..."  We're getting somewhere, I thought. Surely no good business person would think this a positive way to run a business.  This was a hotel that prides itself on service and taking care of people?!  A business that thrives on having folks return to their establishment!!

Almost two hours past...thought I was "getting off the phone" so that this Manager could call me?  I began to wonder what phone number was on the registry.  Ann had been very scattered...who knew?  I called back.  At that time the Manager, Jill was coming into the office and took the phone. I began nicely.  Nice did nothing!!  The woman on the other end of the phone who called herself a manager had the customer service skills of a rattle snake!!  First, wouldn't you apologize and try and make this right?  Not her, she said her employee made and mistake and well, all humans make mistakes!!  I asked why I got a confirmation...you got it...A MISTAKE!!  Instead I was told why after this... would you even want to come here?  Really?  I get that mistakes happen, but I didn't make the mistake...Isn't customer sales about making good on ads or misprints or even "HUMAN ERROR"! I wasn't trying to do something wrong. I didn't do this...I was not the  untrained employee or glitch in the computer!! Wasn't it just last month that the airlines made good on $10 flights that were a computer error?  Heck, in this case I was attempting to spend well over $800 at their establishment when all would have been said and done! Funny, my Daddy used to say money talked ~ these days with customer service the way it is ~ I would tell him you can't even give money away!!

I would wager to bet that all their rooms do not fill up for the three night minimum during Memorial Day.  We are a Nation that is traveling less as gas prices rise and not everyone can afford hotel rooms that begin at over $200 a night for three nights.  Grant it; we could but we work we only had two nights and three days. That leads us back to my opening...at this distance who can expect folks to stay three nights without taking off work?!  Wouldn't Stanford Inn have been better booking one room for two nights at the premium price, selling us our cocktails that we always had when staying there, having us as guest at their restaurant, The Raven; and having us enjoy their relaxing spa massages?  Oh, not to mention that famous and effective advertisement campaign...WORD OF MOUTH.  We were repeat customers for goodness sake...even Fenway! They knew this was a special occasion and still they could not swallow their OWN mistake!  Bad business...gets a complaint made to the Better Business Bureau and a negative review in Trip Advisor!!  Saying, you know we blew it...let's make it right gets happy travelers and more repeat business!  Not to say a good Trip Advisor review and positive blogger!

As it is I have a bad taste in my mouth from this experience. We have a few spring trips planned; Healdsburg at Healdsburg Inn ~ A Four Sisters Inn for a weekend of wine at J Vinyards, where we are members ...and repeat guest (ha).  Also for a beach weekend in Monterey at The Sanctuary Beach Resort where we are again repeat guest...even our Baseball weekend has us repeating stays; and the last  adventure at that hotel had a down spot when our car was broken into during our 4th of July stay last year...But the Waterfront Hotel and Joie de Vive knew how to make a bad "mistake" that happened on their watch better...and we didn't even have to ask?!  I name drop only because good customer service gets folks coming back over and over... But these trips don't make Tara's birthday better...I'm still looking for "that perfect" place...it WAS confirmed...but now...the rattle snake bit!

Clearly, Where We Go; He Goes ~ Four Pawed Travel

We have a dog!  Or so it seems...if you were to ask any family member or friend they would tell you that we have a third person in our little "family unit. There is the two of us, two very spoiled felines and one four pawed fellow who "thinks he's another human" aka Fenway!  We got Fenway four years ago this past November. He was adorable, cuddly, and although a six week old puppy, huge.  He still is!  I call him sturdy, others, including Tara will tell you he is too big even for his English Labrador breed.  He doesn't care; he is still a lap dog. His beds (yes, plural) are probably more comfortable than most "real" humans... to him Costco beds are for travel and out on the front patio.  He prefers his beds be labeled Orvis, be tempur-pedic and have his name on them!  I confess to being the culprit to his cozy bed fetish...and he has three of them?!  So he's one of us ~ that means he goes where we go.  This is a dog that has never spent a night alone!  Let's say that rather than spoiled he is very savvy in Dog friendly lodging and eateries.  

I am certain if he could talk he would have long ago been blogging about where to go and where to steer clear of!  We have had a couple of places that even Fenway did not want to stay! We don't plan to mention them here...Let's focus on the favorites!  

Fenway's travels began when he was only eleven weeks.  On New Years day we all hopped in the car and headed to San Francisco so he could see the ocean!  At that point in his life, though marveled by the sounds and smells of ocean life he was too little and too afraid to get in...but he loved walking around the city and being oohed and awed at...He still does!  He has been back many times, walked in the Bay-to_Breakers, strolled through the Golden Gate Park and rolled in the succulents and sands of most SF beaches!  Since then,  Fenway has been a constant adventurer!  Wine tasting in both Napa and Sonoma, surfing in Monterey, clam digging at Mendocino, checking out the clean air of Tahoe, Brewery hopping through Oregon and Washington, kite flying at Cannon Beach,  even a little gold panning in the Sierra Nevada...to name a few!

Finding dog friendly hotels is pretty easy.  Web searches and apps are readily available.  Bring Fido.com and DogFriendly.com both offer easy and convenient directories for your phone, iPad and your computer.  Both are up to date and offer reviews.  One good thing to note is that most travelers with Four Paw companions have good taste!  Most tell it like it is!   The sites also give accurate information on weight limits and pet deposits!  

There are many "dog friendly" hotels but in our case we have to have one that does not discriminate over size!  At " a-lot-to-love" weight of over 115lbs you have to realize that size does matter!  Two names should be looked at first when traveling if you were to ask Fen... Joie de Vivre and Kimpton Hotels.  Competitors, at yes but only in some markets...both are found in most  major cities in California but Kimpton is far larger with more national locations.  Both have lots to offer a four pawed traveler!  We have stayed in numerous of both "chains" and never been dissatisfied.  Both offer different styles at each of their sites and are always clean, friendly go above and beyond for the Paw Crowd and well as the humans!  

Rather than go through every place we have taken our big boy...I thought I'd highlight some of the favorites.  Those places where you and your pooch may travel and where it was more than apparent Fenway had a doggy good time and so did we.  We like comfort, clean, uniqueness, good service and if possible, a balcony with a view...people as well as a dog need a place to daydream!  

We have traveled with Fenway to San Francisco numerous times and know you can't go wrong with Joie de Vivre.  Among our favorites are The Hotel Rex (say hello to Maximo if you visit) and Hotel VItale.  Hotel Rex is in the heart of down town with a library like setting.  You and your dog can sit in the study while you enjoy a light breakfast or small dinner.  Cocktails are served and their is a complementary wine hour!  During our visit we were joined by a wonderful couple from across the Bay who were staying the night after they went to a play. As usual Fenway got tons of attention.  Hotel Vitale is located on the Embarcadero waterfront and Financial District. It is very modern, with rooms decorated in perfect harmony and windows with breathtaking views of the Bay Bridge, Ferry Building and Embarcadero street way!  There is a bustling bar in the hotel with an upbeat eclectic atmosphere complete with outdoor patio for you and your dog. It's often cool in SF so the heaters are plenty and ready to light!  This hotel does not forget anything.  Think California dreams with lavender and river stones!  

For those traveling to the Mendocino area you will find it very dog friendly.  We chose to stay near the town itself but not directly in it...Stanford Lodge by the Sea.  We stayed in a gorgeous room overlooking the gardens and town.  It had a wood stove, everything one needed including a wet-bar and a little balcony to sit out on and enjoy the sites and smells.  There were walks and pathways to the river, gardens to explore and and animals to visit and enjoy.  Fen was a youngster and he was like a kid in a candy store here!  Best part of all; they allowed him to eat breakfast with us in their dining area!!  What could be better?  In Fen's case it was all the goodies they provided him, a bed, food dishes, HOMEMADE dog biscuits, toys and a sheet so he could get on the bed...well he used that and more!

Did I mention they make their own dog treats? 








We found that Fenway loved the ocean!  Okay so he's a Lab...guess that makes sense?! Monterey is a ocean lover's dream and is near by the dog loving community of Carmel! Although Fen has not stayed in the hotel itself we have eaten and drank at The Cypress Inn.  If staying directly in Carmel;  this 7th and Lincoln establishment is a must!  It has dog loving Doris Day in every corner, as this was her hotel.  She was a long time resident and  the greatest of Dog Ambassadors and Carmel embraces her endeavors.  The hotel's motto is that the dogs are the true guest and the humans just along with them!.  Dogs first...humans second!  Fen loved this place from the moment he walked into the courtyard and we had afternoon o'dorves and cocktails!  He simply made himself at home!

We enjoy staying out of the main area of Monterey a bit and usually gravitate north of Monterey.  Many hotels in the area are dog friendly. Last year after a number of stays we found the  Sanctuary Beach Resort.  Located in Marina, directly on the dunes this place has us going back this coming Easter!  One can stay in the main hotel  rooms OR Deluxe Ocean Front rooms or suites.  We chose the room rather that the suite because we don't need ALL that space...it always seems like a waste.  Turns out the "room" is perfect.  Right at the beach dunes' edge sits a small number of "duplexes".  Each with a suite on one side and a deluxe room (think studio) on the other.  Both have the same sized patio that has you touching the sand!  The room had the most comfy of beds, huge bathroom where two people could get ready at the same time without bothering the other...room service, a sitting area and the sound of the ocean!!  We couldn't ask for more...as for Fenway...he was in doggy Paradise!  He ran on the beach, romped in the waters, got a kite high in the air for me,

met a new friend and played for hours, 

hung out on the patio with the other Mom and tried to convince her to hand over the pizza we had delivered...

and was just as awed by the sunset as we were!  This place is amazing.  You are secluded...so much so that you get a little gulf cart to take you to and from your car to the room to the pool to the on site restaurant and bar!  This is one of those must stays for any dog or human.  They can be a little pricey, but look what you get!  Not a stale hotel room with no view!!  They also have great online specials and even better ones if you befriend them on Facebook!  





If traveling to Tahoe we have found that many places say they are dog friendly but they have all types of limitations.  We do not fit the under 15 pound dog and our dog likes to sit with you at patio seating.  This is not the custom in Tahoe.  However in Truckee...you know us laxed Californian's ~ we are able to have our boy with us.  We found a small hotel just outside of Truckee that we have been to a few times.  Dog friendly, Cedar House Sport Hotel is like walking into a little chalet in Europe!  Clean and modern its moderate furnishings make it fun, refreshing and roomy.  

Fen's been there a few times and feels perfectly at home!  Every time he has gone there has been a bed waiting for him, along with treats and balls.  Bouncy yellow tennis balls and a patio make a boy very happy!  There is a small bar area open outside when it's nice weather and an onsite restaurant, Stella.  

While traveling in Oregon, we found two hot spots that have "Man's best friend," written all over them.  The first was at Cannon Beach. Ocean Lodge; snug on the beach, steps from Haysack Rock is stunning.  Dogs can frolic ~without their leash~ on what seems like mile after mile of pristine sand and surf.  There are two options of pet friendly rooms; the suites on the first floor, with ocean views.  Problem with these are there is a mound between the hotel and the ocean. There really isn't an ocean view and the rooms are more costly.  We chose the studio that was steps away from the lodge but with no common walls or no one underneath.  At Ocean Lodge they pride themselves in honoring pet guest in ways large and small.  A small $19 pet fee for any sized dog with amenities like water bowls, treats, towels, a dog wash for that beach sand...and again a beach that beats all beaches to romp on!  

Really this is all a person or a dog could ever ask for in life!  Perfection!  










Last but certainly not least is one last favorite.  Kimpton property, The River Place Hotel in downtown Portland.  Walking distance from just about everywhere.  On the river's edge and gorgeous.  

This property was fit for dog and human royalty.  A must go place anyone staying in Portland ~ Dog or no dog.  Whether you just stroll the river, wander the harbor and eateries or simply enjoy watching folks crew the river, you will feel at peace here.  We sat with Fenway on the front porch and had drinks and watch the Oregonian's all out enjoying one of their few days of splendid sunshine!  The staff is friendly and helpful to everyone and always remember Fenway's name!  What a way to make a boy feel like a King...good thing because up in the room Tara was making him partake in girly activities!!

Other Honorable mentions of greatness in our journeys have been The Napa River Inn, that had many great dog friendly restaurants nearby and the river way to walk along.  Rooms were large and had a small balcony for our Fenway to again watch people go by.  

If you want to spend some big bucks...there's always The Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay.  It's as scenic as it gets and dogs are very welcome.  Problem is for the price Fenway thinks he should have been able to get off leash roll in the lush green and get sand everywhere. Not so!!

All hotels expect good behavior...this one just made him feel a little under dressed!  

Taking our best pal is our favorite way to travel and we are always reading and finding new places.  We hope you got some ideas ~ Fenway and I have been discussing this the entire time I've been writing.  He is excited to know we are revisiting Monterey and that he gets to go to a new spot in Healdsburg in April.  We will let you know how it goes!  In the mean time...hug your dog!  And remember dogs need vacations too!!