LuLu Pom, Los Gatos, CA
Don’t miss the
LuLu Pom Holiday Party
Wednesday, November 30 from 5~9 pm
100 W Main St. Los Gatos, CA
SKEdazzles will be there and check back for the recap post
Girlfriends, Glitter and Garland
but don’t miss the real party, be there in person!
I love the holidays. I have my parents to thank for this holiday amour. My mother was an interior designer and each year she would have the entire house elegantly adorned right down to the grande finale of the Angel Hair on our tree. “Don’t touch it, it will cut your hands”, I’m still not sure if she was really referring to the fact that Angel Hair is made of fiber glass or if it was just her way of keeping our grubby little hands off of the tree.
My dad would sit in his lazy boy style chair with his scotch and water, that I had probably prepared for him, and gaze at the tree for hours. I don’t know where he went off to as he sat there day dreaming but wherever it was, he was extremely content. We were that house in the neighborhood where an impromptu gathering would happen at any moment so I have many memories of our home being filled with people having a good time. It’s recollections like these that make me so fond of the holidays.
Goodies adorn my kitchen counter in pretty apothecary jars.
Over the years, I have established my own traditions for this wonderful time of the year.
First, I always buy my tree, haul out and set up my Christmas paraphernalia the day after Thanksgiving. This is always such an exciting time for me….until about the 7th box being handed down to me by my husband ~ hanging out of the attic opening shouting expletives asking why I have so much holiday crap. It takes almost the whole weekend to set it all up between the inside and the outside of the house but when it’s done, I take a moment, and like my father, I just sit and stare at the beauty of it all.
Antique ornament from my husband's grandfathers tree.
Ornament from my trip to the Space Shuttle launch earlier this year with my nephew.
Another tradition I have is that I collect ornaments as keepsakes. I always purchase an ornament from anywhere I travel throughout the year as a reminder of my visit. Over the years, I have collected ornaments ranging from California, throughout the US to Europe and beyond. It’s always such a pleasant surprise to pull out the ornament and be reminded of the trip I took to that location. A likewise tradition, is an annual ornament exchange with my girlfriends. It’s always a fondue dinner, wine, good conversation and the exchange of the ornament. There are funny stories to be told of these exchanges but, better yet, loving memories of shared times with my dearest friends.
My antique Santos collection ~ this stays out all year.
Another love of mine, my Santa collection.
This year, I have to admit, I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about the holidays since my mother passed away in May. As I unwrapped all my ornaments and goodies, I didn’t realize how many my mother had given me over the years. Each one made me smile as it made me think of her. She is with me here this Christmas as always, only this time instead of sitting in my living room, she is embedded in my heart and is reflected in each item she hand picked for me. The angel on top of my tree this year represents her presence.
Enjoy your holiday season. I would love to hear what some of your holiday traditions are or favorite memories.
This small town is scattered with charismatic homes, picturesque shops, luxury hotels, and incredible restaurants. With a population of under 3,000, Yountville is host to several Michelin star restaurants, not to mention the world famous French Laundry.
The world famous French Laundry.
A few years ago, it was my serendipitous fortune to be in Yountville the day after Thanksgiving when the town was celebrating their annual Festival of Lights. Not really knowing what it was all about, but not having anything else to do that evening, my husband and I decided to check out the event. We joined the crowd in the middle of town ~ picture the town square in Punxsutawney, PA from the movie Groundhog Day ~ we chatted with the cheerful couples standing about while their children ran the grounds, we sipped on our hot cocoas and sang along with carolers on stage while we waited for the sun to set.
Finally, the big moment came. A tall, thin blonde guy resembling Carson Kressley, the stylist from Queer Eye for the Straight Guy with all of his exuberance, came leaping on stage and rallying the crowd’s excitement for the Festival of Lights. At each given moment, we thought he would begin the countdown, but instead he would break out in song and have us join along. It got to the point where it was so funny to me, I couldn’t control my uncontainable giggles, which of course set my husband off as well. And then we heard it….10, 9, 8….everyone in the crowd is counting along, voices getting louder with anticipation….1…..cheers break out, people are clapping, children are jumping up and down and the lights on the trees in the square light up.
I can only imagine how Phil Conners would have reacted to being in this satirical situation, but as in the movie Groundhog Day, we walked away that evening with huge smiles and full hearts from being a part of this extraordinary community. To this day, I consider that one of my most favorite holiday memories and I look forward to the opportunity to do it again some day.
I only share this story to make my point of how strong the sense of community is in this town. And yet, at the same time, this is also a well sought after location for discerning travelers seeking a wine country getaway with luxury accommodations and exquisite food, all of which, Yountville offers.
Lavender fields at the Bardessono Resort.
On more recent visit, I had the opportunity to stay at the Bardessono Resort. Bardessono is a family owned property and is one of only three Platinum LEED Certified hotels. If you are someone who is in to “green” travel, Bardessono will meet your every need without compromising luxury. This is also the location where you will find one of the Michelin star restaurants in town (last I checked reviews on Yelp, Bardessono actually had a higher rating than the French Laundry…all subjective of course).
The rooms are a contemporary, clean design with a huge bathroom that includes either an indoor/outdoor shower or outdoor soaking tub by which you can star gaze in the evening. Each room includes a spa massage table which is tucked away Murphy bed style for private in-room treatments. The resort does have a small spa on site, however, they can only accommodate a few people, so the convenience of being able to have a treatment in your room was by design.
A relaxing day by the pool at the Bardessono Resort.
The resort offers a sleek roof-top pool area, where piped in music entertains you all day and a snack shack offers menu items from their main dining room that are delivered to you for poolside consumption.
This property is conveniently located right in the middle of town (across from the famous holiday gathering) and is extremely service oriented. Julia Roberts stayed here while doing her junket tour for Eat, Pray, Love. For those of you who like to travel with your dogs, this is a pet friendly property as well. I look forward to staying at this property again, when I return for the Festival of Lights. 
From the instant I drove up to this resort, The Montelucia Resort & Spa had me at “Hello”. The resort sits on 28 acres of land at the base of Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale, AZ. Since its inception in 2008, the resort has already managed to be recognized with all the major awards by many prestigious publications such as Travel & Leisure, Conde Nast, Elite Traveler and too many local publications to mention.
From the moment you step on the property, it’s easy to see why this resort has already become so honored. Aside from the friendly staff, one of the first things to catch your attention is the colorful and vibrant hues of the buildings reminiscent of the red rock backdrop that is native to Northern Arizona. However, it’s the Moroccan and Spanish influences in the architecture and fine details that are executed throughout the resort that really dictate the ambiance. There are beautiful water and fire features scattered throughout the property and soft piped-in music soothes you as you stroll the grounds. In keeping the resort authentic, they have imported antiquities from Spain and Morocco and have consigned artists to customize Moroccan glass light fixtures and furniture.
The property is designed to reflect the feeling of a small European Village incorporating some multi-functional buildings with restaurants below and guest rooms above. There are plenty of public areas for mingling with comfortable seating and fire pits, along with open bars around the pools, and a small café/store. The resort rooms are filled with rich, warm tones, over-stuffed furniture and ambient lighting; and let’s not forget the Montelucia signature “Devine Bed” that lulls you to a heavenly sleep each night.
As if this isn’t enough for you, the best is yet to come. The gem of this Moroccan wonderland is the Joya Spa. What is the saying…”Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free”…Ok, maybe the “poor” part doesn’t really apply at a luxury resort, however, this spa offers the remedy for everything else. From the moment you are greeted at the door by your personal attendant, you feel the stress melting away. I could go on about how ultra-luxurious its décor is or how calming and relaxing the canopy beds are in the “whisper room” as you wait to be summoned for your treatment or maybe you would prefer the Eucalyptus steam room and then a cold rain shower before being whisked off to your treatment, but this is all standard fare here. Then, after being pampered beyond your belief, lounge yourself by the spa pool as you gaze at the best view of Camelback Mountain in the area and indulge in your delicious spa cuisine. Whatever your preference, this spa is a must-not-miss experience….even if you are not staying at the resort, I highly recommend treating yourself to this spa experience.
The Intercontinental Montelucia is a clear departure from any other resort in the Scottsdale area and a real treat for any traveler.
For more information or to book accommodations, contact Saratoga Travel, 408.867.9861
Have you ever stayed at a resort that completely changed the game for you? A resort where the accommodations are gorgeous, the amenities are rich and the service is impeccable. The turning point when you knew that those economy motels will never be good enough for you again. For me, that resort was Las Ventanas al Paraíso in Los Cabos, Mexico. As the name implies, it truly is a window to Paradise. As one of the most acclaimed resorts ever, Las Ventanas has redefined luxury and pampering, reaching out with special touches that are the hallmark of refined hospitality.
The property is a small to mid size resort designed to blend into the natural, surrounding landscape. The beauty is in its simplicity. Situated on the corridor between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, it’s in an ideal location for peace, quiet and tranquility. A good reason why they attract such a celebrity crowd.
I’d like to say they had me at “Hola” but in this case it was when they handed me a cold welcome margarita shot. As I scanned the entrance for the lobby desk, I am greeted by a concierge informing me that I will be escorted to my room where I will be checked in privately. Say what? No lobby desk, no line to stand in? Fine with me.
As we approach the room, I am enchanted by the hand carved wood entrance door leading in to our personal paradise for the next 10 days. The door swings open and I am immediately greeted with the sight of delicious munchies and a quaint bottle of tequilla. My eyes then divert toward the main room which is adorned with subtle and tasteful Mexican decor from the tiled floor, fireplace and mosaic headboard to the hand-crafted furniture pieces. There are ceiling to floor window panels that open the expanse of the room to reveal a glorious indoor/outdoor living area with stunning views of the sparkling Sea of Cortez along with our own whirlpool. At this point, I can barely contain my excitement and all I want to do is get checked in so I can dig into my munchies, take a shot of tequilla and hop in the pool. Oh, and did I mention that we had a roof-top deck equipped with a telescope for star gazing?
The resort offers all the amenities of its larger counterparts – a holistic, world-class spa; infinity pool with swim-up bar with several satellite pools scattered throughout the property; shopping; along with numerous dining options from casual fare to their award-winning Baja-Mediterranean cuisine at “The Restaurant”. I could go into every little detail of what we did throughout the trip but suffice it to say, we spent the days lounging by the pool being pampered by the cabana staff with towels, pillows, buckets with ice/water, Evian spritzers and afternoon snacks. We did break for a spa treatment or two and rented a Mini-Cooper one day to go into town. The hotel also arranged for us to take a private guided kayak trip to the famous El Arco de Cabo San Lucas where we experienced some great snorkeling.
So far, this is all sounding wonderful, right? Yet, let me just say, that none of the above is why this resort has my undying devotion. As true as “location, location, location” is to real estate, is what “service, service, service” is to the hotel industry and you do not become one of the most acclaimed resorts ever without providing superior service.
This resort stands head and shoulders above any resort I have ever been to when it comes to service and amenities offered. It seemed as though my every need was anticipated before I even realized what I wanted. This resort will spoil you rotten….and I have yet to mention the “Department of Romance”.
Yes, you heard me correctly, Las Ventanas has a Department of Romance. Do you want a private dinner on the beach under canopied gazebos, bon fire party with friends, or how about watching movies or sleeping under the stars? Just pick up the phone and call the Romance Department. In truth, anything you can dream up, they will make it happen because your satisfaction is their goal.
If you are looking for a true luxury experience at a beautiful resort with unsurpassed service, look no further than Las Ventanas al Pairaso. But let me warn you, once you peer into that “window to paradise”, there’s no going back!
After years of reading about the Montage Laguna Beach resort in celebrity magazines and hearing rave reviews from friends who had visited the property, I finally had the opportunity to experience this luxury resort for myself when my husband took me there for my birthday. And let me just say up front, it did not disappoint!
Located on an oceanfront bluff with sweeping panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, this 250-room luxury beach resort is located in the heart of the picturesque arts community of Laguna Beach. Although this property was built in 2003, the Craftsman-style architecture, designed with distinctive period elements evokes the feeling that this hotel has been here since the turn of the century and has a rich history.
The first thing that caught my attention as I entered the lobby, was the stunning, unobstructed ocean view offered from the floor to ceiling sliding doors off the main sitting lounge. For me, one of the great appeals of this property is the gorgeous, natural landscape and the juxtaposition of the relaxed beach lifestyle, in its most elegant form, along with the superlative service you would expect from any 5 star resort.
The rooms are designed with comfort and elegance in mind, with dark wood furnishings, white crown moldings, shuttered doors, stylish light fixtures, soft sand color schemes, and authentic artwork by noted California artists. I can’t tell you how excited I was to see the marbled bathroom with it’s large soaking tub, readily equipped with candles and lavish bath amenities. Our room had a private oceanfront balcony and a spectacular view of the Laguna Beach coastline where we took the opportunity to dine on several occassions during our stay.
Of course we took the opportunity to experience the spa. There are many treatments to choose from, ranging from herbal and hydrotherapy body treatments to fitness consultation and daily classes. The spa has a separate men’s and women’s facility, both offering eucalyptus steam rooms, dry rooms, outdoor jacuzzi’s and comfy waiting rooms with a fireplace and a light snack/drink bar. The spa’s exercise room has floor-to-ceiling windows which take maximum advantage of the breathtaking ocean vista as you pedal your bike or run in place. With all this in mind, let me say that price wise, this was probably the most expensive spa that I, pesonally, have ever been. However, having said that, you must keep in mind where this resort is located and the type of clientele that it draws – major celebrities.
Between the hotel sending me some birthday goodies and my husband providing me with a little gift, this was a wonderful birthday experience. This hotel offers a casual elegance that will suit almost everyone’s style. This is a wonderful resort to treat yourself for the weekend or splurge for a longer stay, you won’t get bored, I promise. Montage Laguna Beach, life well-lived.
Contact Saratoga Travel for more information. 408.867.9861
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I don’t know if it’s just me or if this fall season has been an exceptionally vibrant one. The leaves all around seem to be on fire. This was especially apparent to me on a recent visit to the Napa … Continue reading
A couple of years ago, while trying to cover my toosh for not booking a weekend getaway for my husband’s birthday, I discovered a small grouping of cottages located in Marshall, CA. Nick’s Cove Cottages are about an hour north of San Francisco and is a small settlement composed of cabins built mainly in the 1930’s, some on land and 5 on pilings, over the beach of Tomales Bay.
Now keep this in perspective by understanding that my husband is a particularly fussy guy. With this in mind, my nerves were on edge not knowing exactly what these “rustic cabins” were really going to look like. Sure they looked nice on the website but where the heck was Marshall, CA and why would a cabin be available at the last minute on a holiday weekend?
With my expectations low and preparing myself to hear my husband’s disappointment all weekend, I am pleasantly surprised as we pull up to Nick’s Cove. A charming group of cabins with vintage accessories scattered about, these cabins evoke the feeling of a by-gone era. Once we check in, I am informed that the restoration of the cabins and restaurant were the vision of restaurateur and designer, Pat Kuleto, whose iconic restaurants include Boulevard, Farallon, Jardinière and Fog City Diner in San Francisco to name a few.
The cabins have been maintained to preserve the original simple and rustic architectural style, yet, the interior of the cabins are all about relaxed luxury. The cabins are each unique but most offer a wood burning stove for those crisp mornings or cool evenings, a wet bar, small living area and king bed with sumptuous, luxurious linens that engulf you as you sleep. The bathrooms offer a spacious shower or soaking tub along with heated marble floors. Each cabin boasts it own private deck or patio from which to watch a gorgeous sunset and offer all the modern conveniences found in a hotel such as a plasma TV and wi-fi internet access.
After being able to gloat about what a fabulous job I had done in finding this location, we were able to kick back on our deck and enjoy the complimentary amenties they provide upon arrival. The area is quiet, tranquil and calming. It is the perfect place to relax, unwind and reconnect with yourself.
As the late afternoon progressed into the evening, we were truly amazed as we watched the tide roll in under our cabin. The soft sound of splashing water lulled us to sleep. In the still of the morning, we awoke to the breathtaking sight of being surrounded by water. I made my coffee, wrapped myself up in a blanket and sat on the deck enjoying the extreme peacefulness of the moment.
If you’re looking to just stay put, located on property is Nick’s Cove Restaurant, a restored historic roadhouse, which overlooks the pristine Tomales Bay. In keeping with Pat Kuleto’s impeccable standards, Nick’s serves the freshest sustainable local seafood, oysters, produce and cheese Marin and Sonoma County have to offer. Whenever possible, Nick’s supports organic farming, responsible animal husbandry and sustainable fishing practices.
Nick’s Cove Cottages is without a doubt a hidden gem and well worth the visit. Needless to say, my serendipitous find that day has become a beautiful, long term relationship with bragging rights for years to come.
For more information or to book accommodations, contact Saratoga Travel, 408.867.9861.
Welcome to SKEdazzles, a lifestyle blog on travel, fashion, design, and general inspirational musings, all shared with you from my point of view.
Who am I? No one in particular, just someone who over the years has developed a love for travel, design, fashion, photography and finding my spiritual center in life. Curious about the meaning of the blog name, SKEdazzles? The first three letters are my intials, and “dazzles” was chosen after conducting a very serious and thorough poll on my Facebook page. So there you have it, *SKEdazzles*.
Please bear with me as I find my direction with this blog and feel free to comment on what you like and what you don’t. My goal is to share information, photography, life lessons, silly tidbits and yes, it’s fairly likely, that I will step on my soap-box once in awhile. I hope you will find it interesting and I welcome your interaction on this site.
