Winter 2014 Adjourn

A Publication of the National Association of Business Travel Agents
Winter 2008
A Publication of the National Association of Business Travel Agents
Winter 2013
Photo Courtesy Omni Hotel San Francisco
Cruising Down the St. Lawrence River ~ Photo by George Fischer
PRESORTED STANDARD
US POSTAGE
PAID
SOUTH GATE CA
PERMIT NO. 294
Adjourn
Winter 2013
Spa Adventures
Spa at Mandarin Oriental
Publisher: National Association of
Business Travel Agents
Editor-in-Chief: Stuart J. Faber
Associate Editor: Cheryl Wilson
Managing Editor: Arthur O. Reynolds
Food & Hotel Editor: Stuart J. Faber
Lifestyle & Spa Editor: Cheryl Wilson
Wine Editor: G. Richard Green
Products & Services Editor: Stuart J. Faber
Published Four Times Yearly
Single Issue: $12.00
Yearly Subscription:$47.50
Adjourn/BizTravelersChoice
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Dedicated to the publication of accurate
evaluations of cities, hotels, restaurants, airlines
and other travel products & services….uninfluenced by advertising… because we accept no
advertising.
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and their contents Copyright © 2013 by
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form without prior written permission.
Recommended Travel and
Dining for the Legal Profession
RECOMMENDED BY
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In This Issue
Spa Adventures...........................................2
People-Friendly Frankfurt...........................4
Kusadasi & Ephesus...................................6
Superior Class Hotels..................................8
Superior Class Restaurants.........................9
St. Lawrence River....................................10
Products for the Traveler...........................11
Airline Reviews........................................12
222 Sansome, San Francisco, CA., 415/276-9888
[email protected]
The 8000 square foot Spa and Fitness Center is reason
alone to select the Mandarin for your stay. A dedicated team
of holistic therapists guides guests through a sensory experience
that touches the mind, body and spirit. The Spa offers a tranquil,
meditative setting within four treatment suites, including a special couple’s suite and a relaxing Tea Lounge. Design highlights
include a warm, natural color palette with subtle Asian detailing.
The walls are finished in richly textured, mocha-hued coverings
accented with illuminated golden tones; the interior is further
accentuated with museum quality art pieces.
The spa offers signature Mandarin treatments developed
in consultation with specialists in Traditional Chinese Medicine
and master aroma therapists. Treatments consist of a relaxing,
hands-on body massage ritual that combines the powerful effects of Oriental meridian massage with the therapeutic benefits
of custom-blended essential oils, created uniquely for Mandarin
Oriental. The signature 60-minute Oriental Essence massage
endows guests with a firm, full-body massage concentrating on
neck, shoulder and lower back areas to leave the body, mind, and
spirit energized, revitalized, and in perfect harmony.
Enriched body treatments include a hands and feet application of rich vitamin E to cuticles and heels. Revitalizing eye
treatments, cocoon treatments for new mothers or mothers-tobe, plus half day or full day treatments can endow new energy
and vitality to the weary traveler.
I love the all-day retreat. The Enchantment Package lasts
over five hours and includes a welcoming foot ritual, Oriental
essence, customized aromatherapy facial and a special nourishing
manicure and pedicure.
Hurrem Sultan Hamami
Istanbul, Turkey
New spas are springing up all over the world. Recently, I had the spa experience of
a lifetime. I visited the Turkish Baths at a spa built in 1556. Located between Hagia Sophia
Museum and the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, this magnificent structure was constructed in the
shape of the classical Ottoman period. The original spa compound was destroyed around 500
years ago and restored according to original features in 2008.
In the coldness section, the VIP rooms are cheerfully designed with private lockers, massage rooms, resting areas a vitamin bar and a boutique. Many of the bath items are made of
original Ottoman stones. The hot area, or sweating area consists of native stone. Temperatures are similar to those of steam rooms. I enjoyed a relaxing bubble massage to the entire
body. The treatments are enhanced with a body
clay mask with redbud essence.
A Turkish bath treatment is unlike any spa
treatment I’ve ever had. A massage therapist escorted me to a steam room. Hot water of just
the right temperature was gently poured over my
entire body. After a steam, the therapist escorted
me to another room where she luffad my body
to remove dead skin cells. After that experience,
I was taken to another room and reclined on a
marble slab. There, the masseuse poured a portion of soap all over me and after a scrub, I was
completely rinsed. Then, I was given a glorious
massage, taken to another room, dried off, then
escorted to yet another room where I was provided with herb drinks and fruits. I’ve had hundreds
of massages and spa treatments and I’ve never
felt like this afterwards. My body felt ecstatic,
cleansed and relaxed for days beyond.
-Cheryl Wilson-
2
Adjourn
Winter 2013
Adjourn, BizTravelersChoice & Faber’s Choice:
Publishers of Accurate, Unbiased and
Professional Reviews of Hotels,
Restaurants, Airlines, Destinations & Products
RECOMMENDED BY
RECOMMENDED BY
RECOMMENDED BY
RECOMMENDED BY
RECOMMENDED BY
biztravelerschoice.com
biztravelerschoice.com
biztravelerschoice.com
biztravelerschoice.com
biztravelerschoice.com
A
nd why are these reviews accurate, unbiased and
professional? For one reason, when we visit a hotel
or restaurant, we inspect every nook and cranny. Not
only the public rooms. We snoop around the restaurant kitchen
and peek in the freezer. That is the only way to determine if the
chef keeps the place spotless and uses the freshest ingredients. If
the freezer is full, the chef ’s credibility is empty. At the hotels,
we inspect under the beds—we even check the AC and heating
vents to make certain that dusty air is not being blown your way.
We utilize a checklist of over 120 items for each reviewed facility.
Why are our reviews unbiased? Because we accept no advertising from any of the hotels, restaurants, destinations or vendors
whose products and services we review. We’ve all heard the politicians pontificate on about how they accept contributions from
special interests, yet wouldn’t think of allowing those contributions to affect their vote. Who in their right mind would believe
that spin? An unbiased vote can be cast only by those politicians
who refuse to take contributions from the entities who will be
affected by their vote. By the same token, an unbiased review of
a travel product or service can emanate only from the refusal to
accept advertising.
Our reviews are professional because our staff consists of
professional travel journalists. For example, for the past 40 years,
Stuart J. Faber has traveled to over 90 countries, he is an avid
aviator and outdoorsman, holds an FAA rating as an airline
transport pilot, and is certified to fly Citation-500 jets.
He works side by side with many preeminent chefs. He is a
reasonably accomplished chef himself—some of his recipes have
been published in leading culinary magazines. He won first-prize
blue ribbons in two Los Angeles pie baking contests. In the past,
he served as a consultant to hotel and restaurant operators. In addition, hotels we recommend are visited and evaluated by a team
of travel agents who specialize in business travel services.
Many hotel and restaurant “reviews” published by some of
the major travel magazines and survey books arc derived from
reports submitted by visitors from the general public.
Assuming these folks really visited the restaurant or hotel
about which they are reporting, how can the reader determine
how much experience they have? We once met a guy who
thought that military food was great. Would you trust him to
recommend a restaurant?
Each hotel and restaurant is placed in one of two categories:
WORLD CLASS or SUPERIOR CLASS. WORLD CLASS are
best in the world. SUPERIOR CLASS are scarcely a step below.
For further definitions, see WORLD CLASS & SUPERIOR
CLASS articles within.
We rate hotels and restaurants with THREE to FIVE
BRIEFCASES. The ratings are not limited to the most expensive
hotel or restaurant. For example, we review, and publish in
BIZTRAVELERSCHOICE.COM, what we consider to be the
greatest (and most expensive) hotels in the world (such as Claridge’s in London). We also review and publish articles on some
of the best chili dogs in the U.S. (such as Pink’s in Los Angeles).
Each receives BRIEFCASES in their price categories.
—Stuart J. Faber & Aunt Bea–
3
Adjourn
Winter 2013
Friendly Frankfurt, Germany
By Stuart J. Faber
The stretch of the street between Opernplatz and Börsenstraße is actually called ‘Große Bockenheimer Straße’, but
for the locals, this pedestrian zone is always the ‘Fressgass’.
This is where Frankfurt’s culinary temptations are particularly
irresistible: restaurants and fine food shops invite you into the
national and international world of gourmets.
Goethestraße is Frankfurt’s ‘Fifth Avenue’ where classy
shops display the latest collections of international top designers. The designer fashion ranges from Armani, Cartier, Tiffany
to Versace. Visitors can buy less expensive products in the
adjoining streets. Schillerstraße and Steinweg are popular and
both are connected via a covered passageway with shops and
restaurants. Every Friday, a weekly market with around 50
stalls is held in Schillerstraße
Romerberg City Hall, Frankfurt
hat do most American tourists look for in their
selection of a foreign city for a visit? Safety, of
course, is of primary importance. Other criteria
include cost, ease of getting around, English speaking locals,
availability of great hotels, restaurants and shopping, culture,
museums and icons with sufficient foreign elements to deliver
the unique flavor of the country.
Frankfurt, Germany has all of those elements, plus
much more. A large portion of today’s Frankfurt was built
after WWII. The result is a modern, hi-rise city that faintly
resembles a cross between New York and San Francisco. The
hi-rises are tastefully designed and not intrusive. The financial district flows seamlessly as it fades into the charming and
traditional walking districts. Frankfurt is a big, small town with
a river running through it. Located on the River Main, Frankfurt, the financial capital of Continental Europe, is the home
of the European Central Bank, German Stock Exchange and
hosts major trade shows such as the Frankfurt Auto Show and
the Frankfurt Book Fair. You can visit museums until your
heart’s content, roam around the old section of downtown,
especially Romer square, or visit 19th century neighborhoods
such as Bornheim, Bockenheim or Nordend and rarely cross
paths with another tourist.
W
Shopping, Strolling & Hanging Out
Whatever shoppers are looking for will most likely be
found on Frankfurt’s most popular shopping mile, the ‘Zeil’.
Well-known department store chains and a host of boutique
shops offer an extensive range of goods. The centerpiece of
downtown is the Hauptwache, the station where all trains converge. The Hauptwache building was built in 1730 as a militia
headquarters. Over the centuries, it has served many functions
including a prison. Footsteps from the ‘Hauptwache’, are the
shopping centres, ‘Zeilgalerie’ and ‘Frankfurt Hoch 4. A special attraction is the viewing platform on the roof of the Zeilgalerie from which you gaze over the tops of skyscrapers and
see the entire city and the backdrop of the Taunus Mountains.
During the shopping tour, visitors can take a break in one of
the cafes, snack bars or restaurants-or just sit outside on one of
the benches along the tree-lined street.
4
Museums
If you enjoy museums, you will love Frankfurt. A total of
sixty is scattered throughout the city including thirteen along
the bank of River Main. The Stadel Institute of Art is housed
in a series of historical and modern buildings and has one of
Europe’s most comprehensive collections of art ranging from
the Middle Ages to contemporary. The Liebighaus features
Frankfurt at Night
sculptures from antiquity to neo-classicism. Other museums
of interest are the German Film Museum and the German Architecture Museum as well as the Senckenberg Natural History
Museum.
Hotels
Jumeirah Hotel, Thurn-und-Taxis-Platz 2 , Frankfurt
49-69-297-2370 • www.jumeirah.com/frankfurt
Whenever I lapse into a blasé mood with an attitude that
I’ve seen everything a hotel has to offer, I discover an exciting
surprise. The Jumeirah in Frankfurt has more architectural
charisma than I have witnessed in a long time. The hotel is
within walking distance of the financial center, the prestigious
Goethestrasse shopping street and the train station.
The interior design from Peter Silling & Associates Hotel Interior Design is crisp, imaginative and sophisticated, with
spacious, airy guestrooms and suites with openness to maxi-
Adjourn
Winter 2013
mize the city vistas. The 218 guestrooms and suites display a
warm and restful color palette of walnut, honey and nutmeg,
with natural materials such as timber floors, silk carpets and
original artwork . All rooms and suites are equipped with the
latest technical facilities, media hub with a selection of plugs,
Nespresso Machine, BOSE sound surround system and a 42
inch LCD TV.
Dining
I love German cuisine. I can consume huge portions of
weinersnitzel, red cabbage and dumplings for days on end.
Most of the restaurants are quite casual and homey. Of course,
beer is one of the main courses. But I prefer my food in the
solid state. Lorsbacher Tal, Rittergasse 49 is one of my favourites. I generally launch with a soup-and in Frankfurt, they are
thick and hearty. Potato soup, goulash or cabbage soup, take
your pick. For a main course, I love a plate of sausage with
sauerkraut and boiled potatoes-or a whole pig knuckle with
the same sides. For a group of four, I suggest the whole goose
dinner with all the trimmings.
Borussia, Mainwasenweg 31, telephone 069-651185,
near the River Main offers both German and Mediterranean
cuisine. The restaurant is traditional German with colorful garden overlooking the river. Borussia serves excellent fish dishes
including a local perch. Great salads with fish and shrimp, plus
a limited pasta menu.
If you have a surplus of money left over and crave a
respite from sausage, Holbein is one of the leading restaurants
in Frankfurt. Located in the courtyard of the Stadel-Museum
the decor is soaring glass walls and old world paintings. You
can order a magnificent Argentine filet mignon or a grilled
Canadian lobster. The address is Holbeinstrasse 1, phone
069/660-566-66.
Anchoring The Squaire is a pair of side-by-side hotels;
the Hilton Frankfurt Airport and the Hilton Garden Inn
Airport. Before our return to America, we spent two nights at
these hotels. What a delightful interlude between the twilight
of our trip and the return home it turned out to be. It felt as
if we were visiting another city. We lounged around the hotels,
visited the fitness center, enjoyed their impressive breakfasts
and lunches and when the mood arose, walked about 5 minutes to the train station and headed for downtown Frankfurt, a
ride of about 15 minutes.
These sparkling new hotels have generously sized rooms
with posh bathrooms and tasteful decorations. They have well
designed work areas with plenty of European and U.S. electrical outlets, wi-fi and ergonomic desk chairs. The executive
floor rooms and suites include access to the executive lounge,
private check-in/check- out and free breakfast. Between working, roaming around The Squaire and running into town, we
worked out in the well equipped fitness center.
When it was time to board a plane and return home, we
were in for one more pleasant surprise. A few hours before
flight time, we took a short walk from the hotel to a special
counter and checked our bags and obtained our boarding
passes. We returned to the hotel and lounged around until
about 15 minutes before boarding time-the best wait in an
airport we’ve ever had!
The Squaire At The Airport
Directly at Frankfurt Airport, atop the high-speed train
station, and adjacent the motorway, lies THE SQUAIRE. The
building provides over 1.5 million square feet of usable space.
With this area are two ultra-modern hotels, a host of restaurants and food courts, shopping of every description, office
space and conference rooms. If you are visiting Frankfurt for
both business and leisure, I can hardly think of a better place
to be. If you need an office for a few days-or space for a meeting, The Squaire has much to offer-it’s like a city within a city.
The Squaire at Frankfurt Airport. Frankfurt Airport. Courtesy Roland Horn
For more on these two outstanding hotels, visit http://
hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/hesse/hilton-gardeninn-frankfurt-airport-FRAAPGI/index.html or http://www3.
hilton.com/en_US/hi/search/findhotels/results.htm.
Frankfurt, a city of consummate charm and vitality, has
something for everyone. We strolled for miles and had no
concern of losing our way or feeling unsafe. If we became lost,
we turned the experience into a new exploration. At times
I practiced my inept German. However, most of the time,
in restaurants, hotels, department stores or just engaging in
conversation with a local, I had no trouble finding English
speaking folks.
For both the seasoned traveler and the first-timer to
Europe, I view Frankfurt as an ideal destination. Frankfurt
is decidedly German in its culture, ambiance, cuisine and
tradition-with just enough of an American influence to make
anyone feel right at home- but remember, when you travel,
you don’t want to feel too much at home. Foreign countries
are supposed to be foreign.
Courtesy Martin Joppen
5
Adjourn
Winter 2013
Kusadasi and Ephesus
E
by Cheryl Wilson
ach year, it becomes a more daunting challenge to
find a spot in the world that is unique and untouched. In today’s corporate-blanketed world, a
country 5000 miles from the United States often looks like its
identical twin. Twins are cute, but when a traveler spends his/
her time and money and suffers the onslaughts of long lines,
snotty airline personnel and lost luggage, an intriguing pot of
gold is expected at the end of the voyage.
Turkish Airlines-A Great Discovery
Not only will travelers to Turkey’s west coast find the
destination-pot of gold, the journey aboard Turkish Airlines will
be as sleek and resplendent as the rainbow. Whether you sign on
for Business Class, Comfort Class or Economy, you will experience air travel that you might have thought was extinct.
During my recent excursions to Turkey, I observed and
experienced all three cabins. Comfort Class and Economy Class
in many respects approached the quality of Business Class of
other airlines. Whatever section of the aircraft I was in, the staff
was extraordinarily professional, courteous and friendly. Every
flight I boarded departed on time and arrived on time. Luggage
arrived swiftly. Cabins were sparkling clean. Electronic components worked flawlessly. Cuisine was remarkably delicious.
In Business Class, service parallels the level of a fine hotel
or restaurant. Seats are placed far apart from one another and
at bedtime, they fold to an entirely flat configuration. The staff
provides each passenger with slippers and a pair of silky black
pajamas.
It’s not merely food service on Turkish Airlines. The meals
were truly memorable culinary experiences. Cuisine is prepared
and served by the “Flying Chefs.” We had no sooner leveled off
when the impeccably dressed chefs, adorned with their fluffy
toques, served up selections of a rich, creamy mushroom soup,
tender, succulent lamb cutlets with a polenta ratatouille tart and
followed by a fresh fruit and artisan cheese trolley and a crumbly
apple tart with vanilla sauce. This feast concluded with a creamy
cappuccino.
With a bursting but happy tummy, I turned in for the
Kusadasi at Night
dasi, Turkey, I could actually see the Greek Island of Samos. As
a matter of fact, not only can you see the island, for a few bucks,
you can hop on a ferry and visit the place.
Kusadasi is one of Turkey’s most popular holiday resorts
and one of the world’s best kept secrets. Situated on Turkey’s
west coast, Kusadasi, is reputed as one of the most attractive
cities of the Aegean Sea. Plus, it is the launching pad for some
of the world’s most significant ancient historical sites including
Ephesus, Temple of Artemis, Goddess Artemis, House of Virgin
Mary, Seven Sleepers, Didyma, Priene and Miletos.
Many Things to do in Kusadasi
Secluded beaches, charming walking streets, cozy restaurants and one-of-a-kind boutiques, plus sunshine for 300 days a
year make this spot an ideal and wondrous retreat.
Swimming, beach combing, water sports and boating are,
of course the main attractions. Food lovers will enjoy visiting
the harbor to see the daily fresh catch. Mackerel, octopus, sea
bass, gray mullet, red mullet, anchovy, sea bream and squid are
brought to shore each day.
Wonderful fish restaurants are scattered along the harbor.
Three local produce markets are close by. Every Tuesday and
Friday they display fresh vegetables and fruits. On Wednesdays,
local garments are for sale.
At nightfall, a dramatic transformation takes over the city.
Turkish nights include friendly bars and restaurants, jazz, folklore dances and belly dancers. And don’t forget to visit a Turkish
bath house.
Korumar Hotel, P.K.
Hiding Out in a Kusadasi Cove
night. In the morning, I awoke with the presentation of a hot
breakfast. Touchdown was just as the timetable promised. The
flight was almost as much fun as the balance of the journey.
On A Clear Day, You Can See Greece
Some candidates for political office have attempted to impress the voters with their foreign policy experience by bragging
that they can see Russia from their front porch. Well, I’m not
running for office, but from my hotel room balcony in Kusa6
18 09400, Kusadasi, Turkey, www.korumar.com.
Yes, from the balcony of my luxurious accomodations at the
Korumar Hotel, I could actually see Ramos, Greece. Indeed,
that sighting qualified me for public elected office, or at least an
ambassadorship, but what was more important to me was that
I could observe the glorious sunsets as they shimmered over the
horizon of the Aegean Sea. Directly below my balcony were
visions of one of Turkey’s largest swimming pools, a private
secluded sandy beach and beautiful rambling gardens.
The hotel offers a host of activities and hangouts-hydromassage facilities, Turkish baths, a solarium, diving instruction,
a general store and an executive lounge with a fabulous breakfast
and snacks served throughout the day.
DINING ALONG THE WEST COAST
Turkey’s cuisine, from its central Asian origins to today’s
cosmopolitan trappings, is remarkably diverse. Together with
bounties from the sea, the origin of many of the dishes emanate
from the local agrarian community. The country’s multicultural heritage has generated a urbanely, purist cuisine, strong on
grilled meats and seafood, salads, fruits and vegetables, rich des-
Adjourn
Theatre in Ephesus
serts and tasty local drinks - from tart fruit juices to fine wines,
beers and Turkish coffee.
The culinary traditions typically emphasize the natural
flavor of its main ingredients, rather than masking them with
sauces. Meat, for example, is primarily grilled like that of one of
the most internationally famous of Turkish culinary creations,
the kebab. It is the grilling process over charcoal that lends a
kebab its distinctive flavor.
While simplicity is a hallmark of Turkish cooking, the
cuisine exudes a density of flavor and texture as well as extraordinary variety (eggplant, for example, is prepared in 40 different
ways), the result of a millennium of refinement, the centuries
long influence of imperial palaces and a culture in which the
preparation and serving of food is an important daily ritual.
A Turkish breakfast commonly consists of a mélange of
fresh tomatoes, white cheese, black olives, and bread with honey
and preserves – with an occasional egg. At lunch and dinner,
soup, such as red lentil, often plays a central role and can be accompanied by a rice or bulgur pilaf dish, served in tandem with
grilled lamb, chicken baked with peppers and/or eggplant and
grilled fish. Several different vegetables prepared with olive oil
and served at room temperature lend additional color and flavor
to the meal, as does yogurt, a common accompaniment. There
are two easily defined courses for lunch and dinner – appetizers or meze, such as sardine rolled in grape leaves, spiced lamb
meatballs and/or roasted pureed eggplant and dessert, which
usually includes fresh fruit as well as sweets and Turkish coffee.
My favorite restaurants in the region were Tarihi Cinar Balik in
Kusadasi and Adi Meyhane in Ephesus.
Winter 2013
About 650 BC, Ephesus was attacked by a nasty group of
folks known as the Cimmerians who razed the city and destroyed the temple of Artemis. After the Cimmerians had been
driven away, the city was ruled by a series of tyrants. About 560
BC, Ephesus was conquered by the Lydians under King Croesus. He treated the inhabitants with harsh respect.
Ephesus continued to prosper until taxes were raised under
Cambyses II and Darius. The result was the Ionian Revolt
against Persian rule in the Battle of Ephesus (498 BC), an
event which instigated the Greco-Persian wars. In 479 BC, the
Ionians, together with Athens and Sparta, were able to oust the
Persians. In many parts of the world, tax raises and revolts rage
on to this day. Perhaps these pastimes originated in Ephesus.
Along came Alexander the Great who defeated the Persian
forces at the Battle of Granicus in 334 BC amd the Greek cities
of Asia Minor were liberated. The pro-Persian tyrant Syrpax
and his family were stoned to death, and Alexander was warmly
greeted when he entered Ephesus.
When the Seleucid king Antiochus III the Great tried to
regain the Greek cities of Asia Minor, he came in conflict with
Rome. After a series of battles, he was defeated by Scipio Asiaticus at the Battle of Magnesia in 190 BC. As a result, Ephesus
came under the rule of the Attalid king of Pergamon Eumenes
II (197–133 BC). When his grandson Attalus III died without
male offspring, he left his kingdom to the Roman Republic.
Once again, taxes rose considerably, and the treasures of the city
were systematically plundered.
During the Byzantine era, 395-1308, the emperor Constantine I rebuilt much of the city and erected a new public bath.
Ephesus remained the most important city of the Byzantine Empire in Asia after Constantinople in the 5th and 6th centuries.
Emperor Flavius Arcadius raised the level of the street between
EPHESUS-A VOYAGE BACK IN TIME
Ephesus, just down the road from Kusadasi, is home to several world renown ancient landmarks. As the capital of Roman
Asia Minor, Ephesus is richly endowed with marble temples,
mosaics and a 25,000-seat Great Theater. The city, whose wealth
and patronage supported its splendid architectural program,
was dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Her enormous temple
was once considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient
World. St. Paul spoke from Ephesus and later wrote his famous
Epistle to the Ephesians. Even the Virgin Mary spent her last
days here, where it is said that she ascended to heaven from a
neighboring hilltop.
A Brief History
To walk through Ephesus and follow the footsteps of
approximately 8000 years of history and the occupation by a
variety of inhabitants is a mystical experience. Excavations have
revealed that the first inhabitants settled during the Neolithic
age around 6000 BC. Recently, excavations have unearthed
settlements from the early Bronze Age. In 1954, a burial ground
from the Mycenean era, around 1500 BC. was discoveredincluding ceramic pots and other artifacts.
Along Ayasuluk Hill, a few miles from the center of ancient
Ephesus, a Greek colony was discovered. The Greek goddess,
Artemis and the Lady of Ephesus probably resided in Ephesus at
that time.
A Proud Temple in Ephesus
the theatre and the harbor. The basilica of St. John was built
during the reign of emperor Justinian I in the 6th century. The
town was partially destroyed by an earthquake in 614.
Following the Byzantine era, the Turks moved in. The town
flourished during the 14th century under these new Seljuk
rulers. They added important architectural works such as the
Isa Bey Mosque, caravansaries and Turkish bathhouses. Around
1390, the Ottoman Empire took over.
Ephesus was an important center for Early Christianity
from the AD 50s. From AD 52–54, Paul spread the gospel from
this city. The Church of Mary close to the harbor of Ephesus
was the setting for the Third Ecumenical Council in 431
Today, Ephesus contains the largest collection of Roman
ruins in the eastern Mediterranean. Only an estimated 15% has
been excavated, so there is much more to come. The archeologists were digging away as we walked by. We could observe
remnants of the Library of Celsus, originally built in 125 AD. A
portion of the Basilica of St. John, built in the 6th century AD
rests in Ephesus. Except for a solitary column, little remains of
the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient
World. Photos Courtesy of Turkish Cultural / Tourist Office
7
Adjourn
Winter 2013
Superior Class Hotels
Portola Hotel & Spa
2 Portola Plaza, Monterey, CA 93940
888/222-5851 • [email protected].
If you want to be in the heart of the city of Monterey and
close to the wharf and waterfront action, I highly recommend
the Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay. Located in historic
downtown Monterey and overlooking the bay and beautiful
peninsula shoreline, The Portola is a bright, airy and relaxing
waterfront retreat surrounded by unique shopping, fine dining,
spectacular coastal trails and beaches, and the rich historical
setting of Old Monterey. The newly renovated rooms are cheerfully furnished. Most have spectacular views of Monterey Bay.
At this petfriendly and
kid-friendly
hotel, you are
just steps away
from Monterey’s scenic
bike path, Del
Monte Beach,
Fisherman’s
Portola Hotel
Wharf, Cannery Row and Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Guests can enjoy a variety of world class spa treatments
including 50-minute symphony massages, designer facials,
manicures or pedicures. The spa and fitness center offers steam,
sauna, outdoor pool and Jacuzzi and a full state-of-the-art
workout center including free-weights, treadmills, elliptical and
stationary cycles. .
With over 50,000 square feet of flexible indoor space and
near 60,000 square feet of outdoor event space, the Portola Hotel & Spa welcomes groups of all sizes. Select from 25 meeting
rooms-even a 500-foot amphitheater.
Kimberly Hotel & Suites
145 E. 50th Street, New York, NY 10022
212/702-1600 • kimberlyhotel.com
An exciting new crop of boutique hotels is springing up
all over Manhattan. Located in midtown, the Kimberly Hotel
radiates a refined elegance with traditional European flair. The
location couldn’t
have been better,
the service was
divine (it rivaled
any other Manhattan hotel),
and the accommodations were
fantastic-a huge
suite with all
the trimmings.
Kimberly Hotel Lobby
Greg Powers
The suites are
appointed with
luxurious amenities including Frette linens and a lush down
feather bedding. These suites and guest rooms are among the
largest of their kind in Manhattan, and most offer an outdoor
covered balcony, a rare amenity among Manhattan hotel rooms.
Other amenities include the NY Times, huge flat-screen TVs,
8
wet bar, Wi-Fi, robe and slippers and a huge security safe.
Hang out at the Upstairs Bar and Lounge, New York’s
only rooftop bar with a retractable all glass ceiling and heated
floors. They serve an outstanding breakfast buffet and a weekend brunch that it equally spectacular. At night, you can cuddle
up, enjoy the panoramic views from 30 stories up and feast on
an exquisite selection of small plate items. The décor is striking, the ambiance is energetic and the cocktails and snacks are
delightful. If you want to organize a private function or holiday
party, I can’t think of a more cozy and intimate space.
The Kimberly was a great discovery. It’s large enough
to offer everything one would desire in a hotel and intimate
enough so that you can savor your solitude.
Condado Plaza Hilton Hotel
999 Ashford Avenue, San Juan 00907
787/721-1000
This sleekly designed resort overlooks the Atlantic Ocean
and the Condado Lagoon. Ideally located on the posh Condado Strip, the hotel is just minutes from the city’s best shopping,
culture and center of Old San Juan. It’s also just 15 minutes
from the airport, five minutes from the Convention Center and
45 minutes from El Yunque Rain Forest.
Most of the 571 luxury rooms and suites feature private
balconies with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Condado Lagoon or city. Amenities include high-speed Internet
access, ergonomic chairs and oversized workstations, premium
cable television, plasma flat-screen televisions, electronic safes,
complimentary inroom coffee/tea, hair
dryers, refrigerators,
and irons and ironing boards.
A private beach
and protected swimming area with a
water sports complex
features windsurfers,
aqua cycles, kayaks,
Condado Plaza Hilton Hotel
an artificial reef and
snorkeling gear. Throughout the grounds are three outdoor
swimming pools – one with salt water and two with fresh water.
These include an activity pool with swim-up bar, a lap pool
overlooking the Condado Lagoon, and a shallow area with a
waterslide for children. There is a whirlpool spa, a massage area
and look-out point, and hammocks for oceanfront relaxation.
Two clay tennis courts, a fully-equipped fitness center with
a sauna and massage services and activity room for children are
among the diversions. The 24-hour fitness center includes stateof-the-art treadmills, elliptical trainers, stationary bicycles, free
weights, sauna, steam and wet area. Kayak tours depart from
the Lagoon pool area. A 12,500 square-foot casino is one of
Puerto Rico’s largest.
For meetings, weddings, reunions, the hotel offers 40,000
square feet of function space including plush boardrooms 18 individual conference rooms and a fabulous waterfront ballroom.
Guests have a choice of six restaurants which feature everything from classic Puerto Rico cuisine to an Asian restaurant. A
state-of-the-art business center with 24-hour access, and conference rooms, Mac and PC computers as well as self-business
services are available.
-Stuart J. Faber-
Adjourn
Winter 2013
Superior Class Restaurants
The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges
25 E 77th St, New York, 10075
(212) 606-3030 • themarkhotel.com
About 2 seconds after I took my first bite of food at
Jean-Georges Restaurant when it opened in Manhattan’s
Trump Hotel (that was over a decade ago), I became an ardent
fan. He is one of the few celebrity chefs endowed with the
uncanny ability to draw extraordinary texture and flavor from
carefully selected provenance. Many other chefs try-and they
present a pretty plate which stops there-with Jean-George, it
begins there. I knew the minute I walked in, that the evening
at the Mark Restaurant, Jean-Georges’ new venture, would be
a memorable one.
Jean-Georges Vongerichten brings his unbridled passion
for fresh from the market and uncomplicated preparation to
this stunning restaurant. The bar serves hand crafted classic
and signature cocktails. Showcased in a copper and glass wine
wall in the dining room
are a collection of
boutique and familiar
food friendly wines
from around the world.
When a plate is
placed in front of you,
the cuisine has such
personality, it almost
sings before you
Mark Restaurant
Jon Nissenbaum
ever take a fork
to it. A seafood platter of oysters, clams, lobster and tuna
tartar was so fresh one could almost detect a wiggle of life. A
pizza with a gossamer crust with three cheeses and chunks of
lobster (why not lobster twice?), was astounding.
As I was about to order the main course, I noticed a
waiter transporting a giant cheeseburger. It took considerable
restraint not to grab it from his hands. I could hardly order a
hamburger and qualify the event as a suppertime experience,
so I ordered the grilled lamb chops with a mushroom
Bolognese which was incredible. We also tried a wild Dover
sole which was light and supple and served with braised
fennel, carrots and olives. This restaurant takes its place as
one of Manhattan’s best.
Fandango
223-17th Street, Pacific Grove, CA 93950
(831) 372-3456
In the center of the tranquil city of Pacific Grove is a
huge old house converted into a restaurant. As we walked in,
the first of six rooms was colorfully furnished in the spirit
of a Mediterranean villa. The beauty of this place increased
with each step through the other rooms. Most have wood
beamed ceilings, heavy windows, handmade curtains and an
array of colorful tile and art work. Diners seated at country
kitchen-styled tables beamed with looks of excitement and
contentment. It did not look like a restaurant full of peopleit looked like a neighborhood house party. I glanced at each
plate of food and had to force myself from begging, or even
stealing a sample.
Fandango, which serves lunch, dinner and Sunday
brunch, is resolute in its dedication to the use of top-notch
ingredients from local seafood
and produce to premium meats
and poultry. The chef, at his
post for over 25 years, insists
on cooking the old fashion way.
Each day, he roasts veal and beef
bones to make superlative stock
and demi-glace. His sauces are
fashioned from fine wines and
stocks reduced to a rich flavor and
syrupy consistency. He shares my
belief that great products should
be served with little or no fuss or
Fandango Restaurant
embellishment.
I launched with a cup of
French onion soup. Fandango’s version has a rich broth, tons
of caramelized onions, topped with a fresh crouton and a thick
blanket of gruyere cheese.
The best rack of lamb I ever had to date was served
to me about ten years ago at the Ritz Hotel in Paris. I have
been searching for a superior version ever since. I found
it! Fandango’s rack is plump and juicy- a superb example
of an exquisite portion of meat that demands no adornment.
We also shared a huge helping of osso buco, a braised shank
served with the outstanding veal stock, Madeira, tomato,
mushrooms over saffron rice Desserts, which I generally
avoid in a restaurant, should not be missed at Fandango. Try
the Gran Marnier Soufflé, the lemon cheesecake or farandole
sundae.
Original Joe’s
601 Union Street, San Francisco, CA 94133
(415) 775-4877 • www.originaljoessf.com
For years, Original Joe’s was one of my first stops in
San Francisco. A few years ago, I rushed to the restaurant only
to discover that it had been ravaged by a fire. First opened in
1937 by the grandfather of the present owner, this legendary
eatery has been reborn.
The Original Joe’s dining room evokes the spirit of the
original and includes the signature burgundy red booths from
the old Taylor Street location, a separate bar/cocktail lounge
with a piano, green leather banquettes, a fireplace (made
with salvaged bricks from the original locale), an exhibition
kitchen, Art Deco mermaids, and a vintage-like neon exterior
sign. The restaurant showcases
unpretentious, moderately priced
classic, uncomplicated Italian/
American fare including signature
offerings such as the Joe’s
Burger, Veal Scallopini, the Joe’s
Special, Filet of Sole and Chicken
Parmigiana. The selections are
sparkling in appearance and
resonant with flavor. Service is
reminiscent of old San Franciscofriendly, responsive and very
professional.
-Stuart J. Faber9
Adjourn
Winter 2013
Exploring The Great St. Lawrence River
F
or those who love the great outdoors and who yearn
to visit places which remind them of a more simple
and pristine America, leave your fancy duds at
home and forget about fancy-shmancy hotels and restaurants.
Generally, you can’t have both pristine regions and fancy
surroundings. This part of America is so spectacular in its
vastness and beauty, a super-luxurious hotel would only
serve as desecration. The St. Lawrence River and its environs
are examples of a
disappearing America.
It has become one of
my favorite areas of the
United States.
About 500 years
ago, a French guy
named Jacques Cartier
discovered what he
eventually named as
the Gulf of St. Lawrence, a huge estuary that empties into the
Atlantic Ocean way up around the northeastern provinces of
Canada. The Gulf flowed westward to the St. Lawrence River.
In those days, it was navigable only to an area near Quebec
at which point the river narrowed to the impassable Lachine
Rapids. From that period up to 1959, other explorers from
John Cabot to the captains of Nazi U-Boats tried their hands at
reaching the Great Lakes.
It took a consortium headed by President Eisenhower
and Queen Elizabeth II to divert the river around the Lachine
Rapids and other obstacles to eventually transform the 1900mile river into a deep-draft waterway which today, can take
just about any vessel all the way from the Atlantic Ocean
through Lake Ontario, Lake Erie and up to Lake Superior as
far as Thunder Bay-a distance of over 2300 statute miles.
FISHING
The area where the St.
Lawrence River meets Lake
Ontario is a fisherperson’s
paradise. Spring time on Lake
Ontario is when brown trout and
steelhead fishing is abundant.
You can even catch them off
shore. Starting in mid-September,
Chinook embark on the spawning
migration from Lake Ontario to the
Salmon River and other tributaries.
As October rolls around, the
Chinook and Coho along with
German Browns are at their peak.
The season for Steelhead runs from October through late
December and again from March through May.
Some of the tastiest fish, Walleye, Brown Trout and
Smallmouth Bass can be taken in large numbers from Lake
Ontario and the river. Muskie fishing is legendary in these
parts. Walleye can run as large as 8 pounds.
I hooked up with a couple of pros-the Sheltra Brothersaka Strike Zone Charters. These guys are not only great
fishing guides, they hand-built their own boats. They are
10
also extremely knowledgeable, almost scholarly, on subjects
of water ecology and fish life. Contact these guys at 1078
County Road 22, Altmar, NY 13302, 315/298-2074 or
[email protected]
THINGS TO DO
Sandy Beach State Park, situated within the Lake Ontario
Wetland and Dune System is a stretch of pristine beach that
extends for 17 miles along the shore of Lake Ontario. This
is one of the only freshwater dune systems within the United
States and offers many opportunities for hikers, birdwatchers,
canoeists and kayakers.
I stayed outdoors as much as possible, but if you want
to take in some history, I suggest a visit to the Fort Ontario
State Historic Site, 1 E. 4th Street, Oswego. The Fort sits on a
bluff overlooking Lake
Ontario and Oswego
Harbor. Built in 1755,
the fort has been restored
to its post-Civil War
appearance.
The Remington
Museum, located in
Ogdensburg, houses
a vast collection of
Frederic Remington’s
paintings, sketches
and sculptures. The Antique Boat Museum, mostly outdoors
contains over four acres of great North American boatcraft.
The 1000 Islands Region is an international tourism
destination, encompassing communities on both sides of
the US and Canada border along the St. Lawrence River
and the eastern shores of Lake Ontario. The region takes its
name from the more than 1000 islands that dot the lake and
river. The region extends from Kingson to Cornwall on the
Canadian side, and from Oswego to Massena on the US side,
reaching inland to the foothills of the Adirondack mountains
to embrace the communities that are west and north of the
Adirondack Park, and the four New York counties of Oswego,
Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence.
This portion of the St. Lawrence Waterway is, in my
view, one of the most beautiful regions of the United States.
The clear waters of the river meander along its banks. The
adjacent land is covered with pine trees, magnificent foliage,
rolling hills, inland lakes and clear, fecund rivers. Along the
shores and on the islands are turn-of-the-century structures
from castles to mansions to quaint cabins. You can rent boats
of every description and cruise the waterway, pull up to an inn
or restaurant or just fish and swim. It seems as if there is more
water than land.
First-time visitors will be thrilled with this enchanting
region-a hidden piece of our country with charming hamlets
with lake or river backdrops, mom and pop shops, restaurants
and inns, miles and miles, forests, farmland and winding
2-lane roads where every turn or curve presents a new post
card scene.
Photos by George Fischer
-Stuart J. Faber-
Adjourn
Winter 2013
Products For Travelers
Before we recommend any product,
we test it, toss it, kick it and make
certain it does what they claim.
Dandy Case for Cellphone
This is one of the greatest products
I have ever purchased. I have a new
Galaxy S-4. I have always carried my
phone in my shirt pocket and when
I bend down, out it comes and lands
on the floor. I purchased DandyCase
which is a transparent plastic pocket I
wear around my neck with a lanyard. I
tuck it under my shirt and I have never
had a problem with fallout.
This waterproof case for will
accommodate iPhones, Samsung
Galaxies and most smartphones.
Should you have the desire to submerge
the device in water, you can do so up to
100 feet deep. You can take underwater
photos with this device. You could
Zuca Carry-All
ZUCA, creator of unique carry-all
bags, just rolled out the ZUCA Flyer.
At last a
small carryon in which
you can stuff
a massive
cargo of
garments
and techtoys. The
Flyer was
specifically
designed
for hard-core business travelers. The
ultra-durable fabric to the chrome
accents and weight platform are ideal
for tablets, ear buds, smart phones
and more-plus this critter doubles as
a chair. The unit comes with an array
of hefty pouches which allows for
customized organized packing of over
300 pounds of stuff. The polyurethane
wheels are recessed and absorb shock,
the front feet enable sturdier upright
support and the gear platform can carry
an additional load. Suggested retail is
$345. For more, visit www.zuca.com
Power Surge Protection
even submerge it in a pot a soup and
photograph a matzo ball-something
I’ve always wanted to do.
This waterproof case is IPX8
Certified to 100 feet (30m). With a
secure "2 Snap Lock System," your
device will be secure all day whether
you are swimming, relaxing on the
beach, boating, or drinking near water.
The case has 2 clear sides so you can
still use the picture taking & video
recording capabilities of your device
without worrying about potential
damage. The DandyCase provides full
protection while maintaining full touch
screen functionality. A neck lanyard is
included. See on www.dandycase.com.
The Home or Away Power
Station is the ideal power solution for
use at home or
when traveling.
It provides 612
Joules of surge
protection to all
connected devices.
The Power Station
features 3 surge
protected grounded
AC outlets and
a folding power
plug, providing
a compact and portable design
for maximum storage and travel
convenience. Easily turn any grounded
AC outlet into a USB charging station
for your mobile devices. The two USB
ports enable the charging of two items
at once, perfect for charging mobile
devices such as phones, tablets and
MP3 players. The Home or Away
Power Station features a LED indicator
reporting that the connected equipment
is protected.
Delsey Helium Aero Carry-On
Delsey has launched their new
collection, Delsey Helium Aero. The
sleek hard side case is lightweight and
expandable, with eight multidirectional
wheels and dual position handle,
making this a functional and
fashionable choice. The Helium Aero
collection is ideal for the business
traveler. The line combines style,
quality and convenience, in an eyecatching design. Delsey Helium Aero
is one of the only hard side luggage
collections that expand up to two
inches, making this line as practical
as it is pretty, allowing travelers to
bring home any unexpected treasures
they pick up along the way. The
eight multidirectional wheels and an
ergonomic handle which locks in two
positions, travelers. can conveniently
roll their luggage beside them on all
four sets of wheels, with zero weight
on their arms, or behind them on two
sets of wheels, to weave through tight
crowds. An integrated 3-dial TSAaccepted combination lock as well as
top and side carry handles complete the
bag.
The fully lined interior is divided
into two sections and elastic web straps
buckle to secure items. In addition, the
packing compartment in the lid comes
with a zipper divider to provide extra
space for organizing.
-Stuart J. Faber11
Adjourn
Adjourn
2013
Winter 2008
EXPLORING
PITTSBURGH
Impressive
Airline
Experiences
class museums such as the Carnegie Museum of Art, which,
with its extensive collection of Impressionist and PostTurkish
Airlines-A Great Discovery
Impressionist works, takes its place with the leading museums
ot only
willWarhol
travelers
to Turkey’s
coastsinglefind the
of the world. The
Andy
Museum
is thewest
largest
destination-pot
of
gold,
the
journey
aboard
artist museum in the country. The Carnegie Museum of Turkish displays
Airlines an
willincredible
be as sleekdinosaur
and resplendent
Natural History,
exhibit. as the
rainbow.
Whether
you Phipps
sign onConservatory
for Business Class,
Comfort Class
Finally, don’t
miss the
and Botanical
or
Economy, you will experience air travel that you might have
Gardens.
thought was extinct.
HOTELS
During &
myDINING
recent excursions toWestin
Turkey,Convention
I observed Center, 1000 Penn Avenue,
412/281-3700
in three
the heart of the business and Cultural
and
experiencedisall
District.
This
is
a
functional,
cabins. Comfort Class and bustling hotel with premier
restaurants and a 9000 square foot fitness center.
Economy Class in many
Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel, 107 Sixth Street,
respects
approached
the qual412/562-1200,
presides
along the Allegheny River. This landity
of
Business
Class
mark 1906 building of
wasother
completely restored and opened as a
airlines.
section of Business Class in Turkish Airlines
hotel in Whatever
2001.
the aircraft
was in, the
staff
Omni IWilliam
Penn
Hotel, 530 William Penn Place,
was extraordinarily professional, courteous and friendly. Every
flight I boarded departed on time and arrived on time. Luggage
arrived swiftly. Cabins were sparkling clean. Electronic compoIRVING & LAS COLINAS,
nents worked flawlessly. Cuisine was remarkably delicious.
In Business Class, service parallels the level of a fine hotel
or restaurant. Seats are placed far apart from one another and
travel to Dallas about once a year. I look forward to galat bedtime,
they around
fold to an
entirely
flatdowntown
configuration.
The
livanting
Turtle
Creek,
Dallas
andstaff
Ft.
provides
each
passenger
with
slippers
and
a
pair
of
silky
black
Worth. I visit with some of my favorite chefs, hunker down
pajamas.
with a Texas size Porterhouse steak, work it off at the hotel fitnot then
merely
food
serviceshopping.
on TurkishHowever,
Airlines.Las
The meals
ness It’s
center
take
in some
were
truly memorable
culinary
Cuisine
is prepared
Colinas-Irving
is the region
thatexperiences.
seems to offer
the best
of all
Dallas-Metroplex
worlds. Chefs.” We had no sooner leveled off
and
served by the “Flying
Several
factors attract
to Las
Colinas-Irving.
To
when the
impeccably
dressedme
chefs,
adorned
with their fluffy
begin with,
virtually
everything
newcreamy
and manicured-but
not
toques,
served
up selections
of a is
rich,
mushroom soup,
to
the
point
of
being
austere.
I
generally
prefer
traditional
tender, succulent lamb cutlets with a polenta ratatouille tartand
and
rustic. But
love
theand
openness
vitality
of and
this aresplenfollowed
byI aalso
fresh
fruit
artisan and
cheese
trolley
crumbly
dent new region. Second, Las Colinas-Irving is centrally locatapple tart with vanilla sauce. This feast concluded with a creamy
ed and virtually equidistant from Ft. Worth and central Dallas.
cappuccino.
Third, the region has some of the best hotels and restaurants in
With
bursting
but
this part of Texas. And for those with an urge
toashop,
every
happy
tummy,
I
turned
appetite from Barney’s to Bass Pro Shops can be satiated within
in for the night. In the
twenty minutes of your hotel.
I awoke
With almost a dozen golf courses,morning,
sprawling
resortswith
and
the EDS Byron Nelson Championshipthe
PGA
Tour, Lasof
Colinas
presentation
a hot
is a golfer’s paradise. For non-golfers, breakfast.
Las Colinas
is a paradise
Touchdown
nevertheless. For example, roam through
native
forest
was miles
just asofthe
timetable
and bubbling rivers at Campion Trails.promised.
Or take aThe
romantic
flight was
gondola cruise through Mandalay Canal.
Visit
National
almost
as the
much
fun as the
Scouting Museum, the Irving Arts Center, the restored Irving
balance of the journey. Waiting
the Flight
in Istanbul.
Heritagefor
District
or the
Las Colinas Equestrian Center and
Courtesy
Turkish Airlines
-Stuart J. FaberPolo Club.
N
I
3699 Wilshire Boulevard
Suite 700
Los Angeles, California 90010-2726
Address Correction Requested
12
412/281-7100 is a beautiful historic landmark. It is considered
the Grand Dame of Pittsburgh and now offers wireless interUnited
Airlines
net, a biz center, a fitness center and an abundance of meeting
dmittedly, I have not always been a fan of U.S. carrispace,
ers, but two recent experiences with United Airlines
There are many other hotels, both downtown and in the
on trips to Frankfurt have substantially modified my
neighborhoods. For a complete list, visit
views. As a matter of fact, on both BusinessFirst class and Glowww.visitpittsburgh.com or call toll-free at 877/568-3744.
balFirst class cabins, the service, comfort and cuisine exceeded
My dining preference would be to spend the majority of
that of many of their foreign competitors.
my time cruising through the myriad third and fourth-generaMany of the amenities offered in the First Class cabin are
tion restaurants along the Strip. You can’t go wrong with places
also featured in BusinessFirst. Premier Access for baggage hanlike Sunseri’s restaurant and market where the pepperoni bread
dling, boarding and security lines is available at many locations.
comes out of the oven as timely as a cuckoo clock birdie. I
United has nonstop flights to Frankfurt, Germany from
challenge any Napoli counterpart to produce a traditional
Newport, NJ (EWR), Houston, TX (IAH), Washington, DC
tomato pasta sauce with the texture and succulence of Sunseri’s.
(IAD), Chicago, IL (ORD), San Francisco, CA (SFO) and Los
A Primanti Brothers sandwich is required dining for any
Angeles, CA (LAX). Many of these flights are code shared with
visitor. The sandwich begins with a base of meat, salami, eggs
Lufthansa. United is using new and newly designed equipment
or chicken and is topped with onions, cole slaw and fries.
and you may find yourself boarding a 757, 767, 777 or 747.
There are locations throughout the city.
I was impressed with the extra-wide seats and expanded
–Stuart J. Faberlegroom in both the first
class and business class
cabins. I settled in with
a beverage and
a snack
TEXAS
• The
Other Dallas
and amused myself with
the electronic technology
including DIRECTTV
and a nearly unlimited
selection of movies.
Drinks, snacks and
an amenity kit are present- United Business First Class
ed as you are escorted to
your seat. Most aircraft
have 180-degree lie-flat
seats. The same entertainment and electronic
packages are offered on
most flights. United
Club and Star Alliance
Lounges are available
with your Business ticket. United Global First
The complimentary
Courtesy case.
IrvingDuvets
Visitor’sand
Bureau
amenity kit was presented in Photo
an attractive
pillows were cozy and the seats, which turned into a flat-bed were
more
than ample
for a 6-foot, 6-inch person. The beds even
HOTELS
& DINING
have a motion
system
supportofand
back stimulation.
Patterned
after for
thelumbar
exotic charm
a Burmese
city, the
OnMandalay
select flights,
TV221
is enjoyed
onColinas
a 15-inch
monitor with
Omni
Hotel,
East Las
Boulevard,
more
than
15075039,
hours of972/556-0800,
programming.isLaptop
power
Irving,
Texas
a luxury
hotelsource
with and
ergonomic
tray table
in-flight
work arooms
breeze.and
There
gorgeous rooms
and made
suites,my
versatile
meeting
a great
was
a USB port,
charge my
cell phone
and4150
camspa even
and workout
area.so I could
Four Seasons
Resort
& Club,
era.
The noise reductions
headsets
me the feeling
N. MacArthur
Blvd., Irving,
Texasyielded
75038, gave
972/717-0700
is the
that
I was golf
the only
in the cabin.
premiere
resortpassenger
in Las Colinas.
Generally,
the Café,
worst 1045
part of
a flightRidge,
is the arrival
the terCool River
Hidden
Irving, at
TX
minal.
But I had
the enjoymentis of
Premier Access
check-in,
bag75038-3821,
972/871-8881,
a monstrous,
boisterous,
popugage
handling,
boarding
trip through
security. The
First
lar spot
for both
touristsand
anda locals.
The atmosphere
rocks
with
Class Lounge
at somebilliards
locations
has showers,
breakfast,
business
dancing,
bar/saloon,
tables
and a walk-in
humidor
for
services
and cigars
complimentary
liquor
andare
hors
d’oeuvres.
after
dinner
and cognac.
Steaks
huge
and service is
Cuisine rivaled that of many landlubber restaurants. Juicy
excellent.
steaks,
and crab,
freshly baked
rolls
and hot
Forfresh
morelobster
information
onhot
Irving-Las
Colinas,
contact
fudge sundaes were just
few of the treats.
www.irvingtexas.com
or a800.2.IRVING
Each of my flights departed and arrived on time.
Baggage
–Stuart
Faber–
retrieval was quick and easy. –Stuart J. Faber-
A
12