A New Schedule

Travel writing doesn’t pay all the bills, but it has a few perks. My full time job has just implemented a schedule change which will put a damper on some of my travel assignments. I may be able to squeeze in one or two overseas trips in 2008, but it looks as if the bulk of my travel will be in the US.

I really need to get working on another travel book. Maybe this will force me to stay at home at write a bit more.

I may even take a road trip in the next few weeks. I have a red VW convertible that I love driving around.

Write to Travel has a new look

Writetotravel.blogspot.com has a new look. It is fantastic. Not only does Liz have a great new look, but she still provides some of the best information out there for travel writers.

From Right: Carolyn from Vancouver, Desertwriter, Clarktwins, Firegrl820, Karasw, Jenhaha, and Hope from Atlanta.

Travel Media Showcase 2007 was held in Palm Springs, CA at Morongo Casino Resort and Spa. This was a wonderful opportunity for travel writers and destinations to meet face to face. It was also a great networking opportunity.

A few travelwriters.com members met up for a quick group picture at the closing dinner. Other members in attendance, but not pictured, include: Candy Harrington, Sunbeltsue, CPfeiffer, lurkers, and a few anonymi.

Next year’s TMS will be held Sept. 2-5, 2008 in Kansas City, MO.

I finally made it to the UK! Whoopee!

I stayed at The Capital Hotel in Knightbridge. There were five writers and a variety of room types. My room Karma had kicked in and I lucked up with the two-bedroom flat. It was fantastic! I had my own private entrance, two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a dining/kitchen area, living area, and office area.

What the heck did I do to deserve such luxury? A colleague on the trip, Janis, got real upset with me. She insisted that I always get the “good” rooms. What? All the rooms at this place were good. They were phenom!

All I know is, it was a very nice start for the trip of my dreams. I’ve always wanted to visit the UK, because that’s where my grandmother grew up. She was a War Bride who married an American soldier during WWII. I’ll write more on that later.
The Capital Hotel is home to a Michelin 2 Star restaurant. We were treated to a private dinner one evening. The chef is very talented, serving delicious and filling selections from the menu. The wine is Levin, and comes from the hotel owner’s winery. Mr. Levin graced us with a short visit. He is a super-nice man. The manager of the hotel, Henrik, is a doll.

Chef Eric, seen here, is full of humor and joking. This man cooks up some serious vittles.

Sexy Pose

Now go ahead and do your SEXY POSE!

Daytona Beach - The Shores Resort

I was invited to Daytona Beach to experience all it has to offer. I have to say, I was slightly surprised at what a nice place it is. I had invisioned Spring Break Party Place, but it really offers so much more.

A group of us stayed at The Shores Resort and Spa. My room was lovely with a four poster bed, sitting area, and all things nice. I had a balcony that overlooked the beach. Oohhh!
Part of the itinerary included a visit to The Daytona International Speedway. I went to Victory Lane and did my best Ricky Bobby impression. Of course, I had to hurry to get my picture taken, there were many others waiting for their turn.
We did so much while we were there, but I enjoyed the visit to Angell and Phelps, a local confectionary. Who could pass up these chocolates?

I had a fun time in Daytona Beach with Georgia and Tangela. Sushi, Champagne, the beach, and new friends. What a hard life!

Saint Tropez

Denise and I toasting at Chateau de la Messardiere, a secluded upscale property in Saint-Tropez. Of course, I have a glass of Champagne. We went the first week the Chateau was open for the season. It was still a bit chilly and I enjoyed that it was a slow time. The Chateau keeps all of its guests information totally private.
We went to the Saint-Tropez Polo Club where Diego, a polo player from Argentina, gave Denise some Polo lessons. I had to drag Denise away from all the horses so we could get to our next appointment.
My room (209) was fit for a princess. I really felt special in such a luxurious room. It was approachable elegance with a wonderful outdoor sitting area that was totally private.

What’s a press trip without food? The pastry chef was a god and I wanted to take him home. Look at all that chocolate!

Champagne

I really like Champagne (and sometimes sparkling whites) on press trips. Ahhhh!

Food on Press Trips

All I can say is…..I’m full.

A Beach Wedding Trip

This is a shot of a few of our group before our first dinner. The trip was to a Florida resort and the focus was Weddings and Honeymoons.

This was a fantastic trip that included everything a bridal party would experience, should a wedding be held at this property. It was so good, it makes me want to get married all over again. Not!

WaterColor put together a bridal fashion show with a local shop. The clothes were all Nicole Miller. After the fashion show, there was a mock reception, with locals from the area attending. I had no idea who all these people were, but the champagne was really good.
The brides and bridesmaids were gorgeous. All of the writers had hair and makeup done by local vendors. It was a relaxing research trip and not what I am used to. I could get used to this.

My room overlooked the beach and the bathroom had a shower for two where you can see the Gulf. I sat outside on the balcony when I had the chance and took a few moments to take a deep breath. I love the beach and the way the waves lapping on the shore relaxes my mind.

I ended up covering this for a local television show for Valentine’s Day. We even gave away a romantic getaway for two to this property.