Beaver Creek Men's Alpine World Cup
As winter gets underway in the Vail Beaver Creek region and the area is expecting its first significant storm of this winter season, it’s time to start thinking about SKIING! Marking the opening week in Beaver Creek is the Audi Birds of Prey World Cup Alpine Men’s Ski Race.
Beaver Creek is the only US stop on the tour circuit and has been a World Cup circuit host since 1987 when the Birds of Prey run first opened in 1987. During the run’s opening week, the World Cup events which had been originally scheduled to occur in Val d’lsere, France, came to be hosted at Beaver Creek due to snow-challenged year. It became an annual event after a successful affair at the US location.
This year’s race gives US fans an opportunity to view the contenders for the World Cup championship. The Birds of Prey racecourse at the Beaver Creek ski resort in Colorado was built in 1997 for the 1999 World Alpine Ski Championships. The racecourse was designed by Bernard Russi, an Olympic Downhill gold medalist. The run starts at the top of chair lift #8. When the course officially opened, Red Ute, a Native American tribal elder, performed the opening and traditional ribbon cutting ceremony.
Fun Facts about the Beaver Creek World Cup:
- During the 1999 Championships, Birds of Prey was the site of the first ever World Championships gold medal tie. Austria’s Hermann Maier and Norway’s Lasse Kjus each earned the gold medal in the Super-G race, with times that were identical down to the thousandth of a second.
- On February 6, 1999, an estimated 20,000 spectators attended the World Championship Men’s Downhill competition, the largest crowd in U.S. ski racing history.
- The fastest World Cup or World Championships Downhill race time ever recorded on Birds of Prey is 1:39.59, courtesy of the U.S. Ski Team’s Daron Rahlves in 2003.
Event Description:
DOWNHILL
Downhill racers attempt to be the fastest one down the mountain through a minimum number of control gates. Speeds in Downhill often exceed 80 mph on major courses and require a hill with at least a 750 meter vertical drop.
Downhill racers must have two training runs on a course before each race, although the second training run may be waived.
SUPER-G:
Initially created in order to provide the Downhill specialists with an additional opportunity to score World Cup points, essentially giving the “speed” skiers two events, while the “technical” racers had Giant Slalom and Slalom.
A cross between Downhill and Giant Slalom, Super-G is a one-run event like Downhill, but with more frequent turns, ala Giant Slalom. Unlike Downhill, however, there are no prior training runs for Super-G, just a racer inspection on the morning of the race.
GIANT SLALOM:
Giant Slalom is the event characterized as being the discipline requiring the most technical skill as skiers race down the mountain through a faster and more open course than in Slalom, which requires the execution of many short, quick turns.
The number of gates in a Giant Slalom course is determined by the vertical drop of the hill. The event is staged in two runs, with the total time of each run added together to determine the final finish order.
In World Cup competition, the finish list from the first run is cut to the fastest 30 racers and reversed to determine the second run start order. In Olympic or World Championships competition, all racers who finish the first run are allowed to take a second run.
Looking for a place to stay? The Ritz Carlton Club in Bachelor Gulch, CO offers complimentary shuttle service from the Ritz Carlton resort and up to 8 free lift tickets per day to be used at Beaver Creek, Bachelor Gulch, or Vail. For more information on the Birds of Prey World Cup Races, click here.
Opening Day at Beaver Creek Mountain Colorado
Beaver Creek Mountain opens Wednesday, November 23, just in time for Thanksgiving. The 8th annual Beaver Creek Chocolate Chip Cookie Competition will be held on opening day, where 5 recipes will be selected to compete to win as the official cookie of Beaver Creek.
The 5 contestants will bake 1,000 cookies each and pass them out in the village. Guests can try the cookies and vote for their favorites.
If you're staying at the Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch Residence Club this Thanksgiving, don't miss the free cookies!
To book a condo at the Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch, call us at (800) 033-7704 or email concierge@travelenvogue.com
Christmas at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas
The holidays are coming up and before you know it, Christmas will be here! It's time to start planning your trip to the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas for a tropical Christmas vacation. The Residence Club condos at the resort are the perfect accommodations for the whole family. The resort is located along the Great Bay, where you can sip St. Thomas's holiday drink, guavaberry rum, on white sand beaches.
Book your stay by contacting us at concierge@travelenvogue, or call us at (800) 933-7704. Rates and availability can be found here.
Special activities to be held at the resort during the month of December include:
- Island hopping and fishing trips: Several options are available, including a full day private cruise aboard the luxury power yacht Magic Moments, fishing excursions, and Nauti Nymph bare-boat rentals. Contact the Ritz Carlton Aquatic Center for more information.
- Lady Lynsey Sailing Excursions: Embark from the resort's beach on full or half day snorkeling trips, sunset cruises, dinner sails to St. John, pirate treasure hunts, and private charters for up to 49 guests.
- Scuba diving at the Patagon Dive Center: Daily diving is available for both beginners and experienced divers. The Great Bay offers plenty of coral reef, sea turtles, parrot fish and blue tangs to explore.
- Noodle Station at the Great Bay Lounge: Every Monday and Friday evening, the Ritz Carlton offers noodles prepared in different styles from around the world.
- Sailing and Windsurfing Lessons: Olympian winner Paul Stoeken teaches children and adults of all levels how to sail and windsurf, available daily.
A St. Thomas tradition is to go to the Emancipation Garden at dawn on Christmas Day, where choirs will sing carols as the sun rises over the horizon. There are some traditional carols about Santa Claus, but most of the indigenous carols are about food or rum. Reggae Christmas music is also very popular.
Traveling with Kids
Family vacations are great, but traveling with kids can be a challenge that requires planning and resourcefulness. Here are a few tips that can make things easier:
Book a direct flight. One of the most stressful things about flying can be catching the connecting flight. People take their time removing their carry-ons from the overhead compartments and getting off the plane, and this can be an especially grueling process if you're at the back of a large plane. If the kids have finally fallen asleep, now you have to wake them up and get everyone situated all over again. If possible, it's definitely best to avoid this hassle and just book a direct flight.
Travel at non peak times. Non peak times are late at night, midday, or Monday through Wednesday. There are more empty seats on flights during these times, giving you and your kids extra space to stretch out and get comfortable. Comfortable kids are happy kids!
Use the family lane during check-in. TSA has made improvements to checkpoint services based on customer feedback. The "Black Diamond" program has been implemented in over 50 airports to enable expert travelers to quickly get through checkpoints, allowing families and travelers with more complicated needs more time and assistance. The "green line" is for families or beginner travelers. However, if your family is up to speed on all TSA rules, check out the "blue line" for intermediates, or even the "black line" for expert travelers.
Get through Security as fast as possible. You can do this by wearing slip on shoes (such as Crocs), not wearing belts, and putting all electronics, keys, and loose change into a carry on tote. This makes things faster and cuts down on lost items. You won't have to worry about reminding everyone to check their bins to make sure they've taken all their items because you'll have them all in the tote.
Pack plenty of entertainment. Gameboys, iPods, iPad (fully stocked with movies), or Kindles will help keep your kids entertained and hopefully, quiet on the plane.
Don't forget to rest. Part of the fun of going on a family vacation is the fun activitites. However, if everyone isn't well rested, they can get cranky and the fun will be ruined. Make sure you have some down time each day to maintain your energy and sanity!
Split up. It's great to do things as a family, but it can be nice to have some alone time too. Maybe one day dad can take the kids to the pool while mom goes to the spa, or mom can take the kids biking while dad enjoys a game of golf.
Plan the itinerary together. Take everyone's wishes into consideration so everyone feels included. Talk to your kids about what kind of activities they'd like to do, or if there's anything in particular they'd like to see. Getting everyone involved is a great way to make sure they have fun.
Take advantage of Kids Programs at your hotel. The Ritz Carlton offers the Ritz Kids Program, and the Four Seasons offers Kids For All Seasons. These programs allow parents to enjoy some quality time together, while resting assured that their children are in the capable hands of a trained professional.
Our vacation rentals are all in great destinations, like Vail, northern California, and St. Thomas. Each location has a wide range of outdoor activities and amenities that will be enjoyed by the whole family!
Aspen Foodie Food Tours
Foodie Food Tours will take you and your party to local restaurants where you can experience some amazing Aspen cuisine! Chat with chefs and ask them questions about where they get their ingredients, what their favorite dishes are, and how you can prepare some of their dishes at home.
Taste of Aspen - Off the Beaten Path
This two and a half hour tour costs $70 for adults and $50 for kids under 12. The stops always change, but may include Specialty Foods of Aspen, Boden's Butter, The Restaurant, Sabra's Deli, The Aspen Brewery, 39 Degrees, Ellina, J Bar and more.
Tour of Snowmass Village
This tour is available for groups of 10 or more and costs $80 per adult and $70 per child. You will be able to talk with chefs as they prepare their signature dishes. Restaurants could include Il Poggio, The Artisan, Buch, and more.
Christmas at the Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch
Christmas season is quickly approaching in the Rockies, where the Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch can be found nestled on Beaver Creek Mountain. The ski-in, ski-out convenience of the Resort and Residence Club is one of the many reasons why people travel from all over the country to spend their Christmases there. The town of Beaver Creek and nearby Vail are festive during the holidays, and the Ritz Carlton even performs a tree lighting ceremony for its guests. The 2 and 3 bedroom units can accommodate any family comfortably, and include fully equipped gourmet kitchens and elegant dining rooms that host luxurious Christmas dinners. Zach's Cabin is a popular on-mountain restaurant that is exclusively available to Ritz Carlton guests, accessible by snowcat or skiing. After a long day of skiing, enjoy a dip in the year round heated pool and hot tubs. The Firepit is a great place to spend time with the kids, making s'mores and drinking hot chocolate during the evenings.
To inquire about renting a Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch Club condo, call us at (800) 933-7704. You can view rates and availability here.
The Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch is hosting a series of events for its guests throughout the month of December:
- December 18, 30: "Apres on Ice" series, an interactive ice sculpting demonstration with local artists Paul Wertin. Wertin will create ice sculptures to be displayed on the Resort's Front Drive while the audience watches.
- December 21, 22: Julie Feldman Handbags Trunk Show to be held in the Resort's Signature Shop on the Lobby level. Guests receive 15% off.
- December 27, 28: Magaschoni and Hayley Designs Jewelry Trunk Show will showcase luxurious cashmere apparel and hand-made jewelry at the trunk show in the Signature Shop. Guests receive 15% off.
- December 29, 31: Mauri Pioppo Fine Jewelry Trunk Show. Guests receive 15% off.
- December 31: Christmas Eve at Spago features a prix fixe menu with two available seating times.
- Ritz Kids New Year's Eve Bash: Children age 5 to 12 are invited to Ritz Kids for a kid-friendly party with buffet dinner.
- New Year's Soiree: The Ritz Carlton Ballroom will host a New Year's party from 9pm to 2am that will feature a DJ, dancing, hors d'oeuvres and a champagne toast.
Why Take A Vail Summer Vacation?
Photo of the Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch Club & Resort by The Perrin Post at Conde Nast Traveler
Most people know Vail as a luxury ski destination, but it's also a beautiful summer vacation spot. Sometimes it's nice to get away from it all and go somewhere like Vail, where the picturesque landscapes set the scene for a great family or group vacation.
Vail offers many activities that can be done as a family or group and will create lasting memories for years to come. Go horseback riding through the mountains and stop for a scenic picnic lunch. Be adventurous and go whitewater rafting along the beautiful Colorado river. Take a hot air balloon ride over Vail Valley for a bird's eye view.
When you're not fly fishing, mountain biking, or enjoying a game of golf on a world-class course, head into Vail Village. Vail Village is beautiful in the summer, when you can shop and lunch without heavy coats and boots. Vail also offers five star dining, a lively nightlife scene, and several cultural events throughout the summer season that draw huge crowds of Colorado locals and tourists. Some of these events include Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival, Taste of Vail, Bach on the Rocks, Vail International Dance Festival, and Hot Summer Nights.
One major perk about Vail summers is the amazing rate on five star fractional condos. Rates are more competitive in the summer for Ritz Carlton Club Bachelor Gulch, Ritz Carlton Vail, Four Seasons Club Vail, and Sonnenalp Vail's One Willow Bridge Residence Club.
These Vail vacation rentals offer the extra space of a 2, 3, or 4 bedroom luxury condo at a five star resort. You and your family or party can feel at home away from home, while still enjoying hotel services and amenities. Cooking meals for your family in a fully equipped gourmet kitchen is a great alternative to costly daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner at a resort restaurant. In suite laundry rooms (standard in each condo) means you don't have to pack as much or constantly send dirty clothes out to get dry cleaned. The Vail vacation rentals at any of these Residence Clubs offer twice daily maid service, room service, concierge, golf privileges, and use of any adjacent resorts.
That means guests of a Ritz Carlton Club Bachelor Gulch rental can take a short walk through the tunnel that connects the Club and Resort and dine at Spago, or receive pampering treatments at the award winning Bachelor Gulch Spa. Guests at One Willow Bridge can relax in Sonnenalp Vail's infinity edge pool overlooking the Gore Creek River.
Vail summers offer wonderful vacation options at resorts that may not have been an option during the busy ski season. The summer season is a great opportunity to experience a beautiful outdoors vacation in luxury!
Travel En Vogue can assist you with booking your Vail vacation rental.
To book, call us at (800) 933 - 7704
or
email us at concierge@travelenvogue.com
Taste of Vail
The 21st annual Taste of Vail event is coming up this April 7th through the 9th. If you're staying at the Ritz Carlton Vail, the Four Seasons Club Vail, Sonnenalp Vail's One Willow Bridge, or the Ritz Carlton Club Bachelor Gulch, don't miss this amazing wine and food festival in the mountains!
Taste of Vail hosts 5,000 vendors and consumers. Local restaurants put on food demonstrations and pass out samples to the crowds. Wine makers and winery owners from the US and around the world come to education people about their wines and give consumers the opportunity to try their products.
There are a variety of interactive seminars, an auction, dancing, mountain top picnic, and a Colorado Lamb Cook Off.
For more information, visit Taste of Vail.
Participating Vail restaurants:
- Atwater on Gore Creek
- Beano's Cabin
- Bistro Fourteen
- Blu's
- Juniper Restaurant
- La Tour Restaurant
- Lord Gore Restaurant
- Ludwig's Restaurant
- Marketplace on Meadow Drive
- 7one5
- Kelly Liken
- Saddleridge
- Sapphire Restaurant & Oyster Bar
- Spago
- Terra Bistro
- Two Elk
- Wildflower
- Wildwood Grill
- ZaccaZa! A Red Sauce Joint
Participating Winerires:
- Amapola Creek Vineyards
- Baileyana
- Bergstrom Wines
- Bonded Winery
- Brassfield Estate Winery
- Canyoon Wind Cellars
- Capiaux Cellars
- Carol Shelton Wines
- Champagne Henriot
- Dutton Goldfield Winery
- Estancia Estates
- Flora Springs Winery
- Fog Crest Vineyard
- Foppiano Vineyards
- Gloria Ferrer Champagne Caves
- Graham's and Dow's Ports
- Grgich Hills Estate
- Gundlach Bundschu Winery
- Humanitas Wine Co.
- Kilikanoon
- Klinker Brick Winery
- Krupp Brothers
- Ladera Vineyards
- Landmark Vineyards
- Louis LaTour
- Louis M. Martini Winery
- Milibrandt Vineyards
- Neal Family Vineyards
- Paul Dolan Vineyards
- Premium Port Wines
- The Hess Collection
- Trefethen Family Vineyards
- Truchard Vineyards
- Wild Horse Winery and Vineyards
- ZD Wines
The Baths of Virgin Gorda, BVI
Photo by D.R. McClintock
The Baths of the British Virgin Island of Virgin Gorda are a great tourist attraction that are easily accessible to visitors of other islands, including those staying on St. Thomas at the Ritz Carlton Residence Club. Charter the Lady Lynsey or hop on the public ferry and head over to this natural wonder for some snorkeling and exploration.
The Baths are located on the southern tip of Virgin Gorda, between Spring Bay and Devil's Bay. The beach is evidence of the island's volcanic origin, which caused the formation of the giant boulders responsible for creating The Baths. These boulders, some of which are over 40 feet in size, form natural tide pools, tunnels, arches and scenic grottos that flood with sea water during high tide.
The Baths offer great snorkeling, swimming, and photo ops with your party!
Photo by Utopia Sailing
The Ritz Carlton St. Thomas is the only 5-star resort in the St. Thomas Virgin Islands. Travel En Vogue offers individuals searching for luxury Caribbean vacation rentals the opportunity to stay at an exclusive Ritz Carlton St. Thomas Private Residence Club condo. The St. Thomas vacation rentals are two to four bedroom condos. These spacious Caribbean villas are the perfect setting for family vacations or winter vacations, and feature master bed and bathrooms, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, living room, dining room, balcony, washer and dryer, twice daily maid service, and 24 hour concierge. Guests of the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas vacation rentals are also granted full use of the St. Thomas resorts’ facilities, like 5-star dining, spa and fitness center, aquatic sports center, Tom Fazio golf course, and the Ritz Kids program.
Vail Vacation Rentals
2121 N. Frontage Rd. Ste 4
Vail, CO 81657
(800) 933-7704
Marina Market St. Thomas
Photo by Marina Market
Once you've settled into your Ritz Carlton St. Thomas vacation rental, head over to Marina Market for groceries! Marina Market has everything you need to stock your fridge for your vacation - fresh produce and fish, prime meats, wines, spirits, gourmet cheeses, fruit, and a full service deli.
The Grocery offers a vast selection of gourmet and specialty foods, as well as ethnic and regional options. They also carry diet conscious items including low carb, low fat, low sodium, organic, sugar free and gluten free items.
Marina Market features a wide array of farm fresh produce. You'll find common fruits and vegetables we typically see in the States, as well as exotic items - such as starfruit, lotus root, and cactus pears.
The Meat Market provides fresh (never frozen) meat, cut to order. Their selection includes USDA Certified Angus Beef, free range, preservative free turkeys and chicken, select cuts of pork and lamb, homemade Italian sausages, and exotic meats.
Fresh fish and seafood is flown in twice a week.
The Deli carries Schaller and Weber deli meats, rotisserie chicken, hot dishes and salads (all made fresh daily).
They've opened an addition to the market, Marina Market Gourmet Wine & Cheese, across from the main store. Go there for fine and unusual cheeses, caviar, olive oil, aged balsamic and more.
Marina Market accommodates special orders. Call ahead to order your custom fruit basket and party platter.
They'll also be more than happy to deliver your groceries to your boat or Ritz Carlton St. Thomas vacation rental!
The Ritz Carlton St. Thomas is the only 5-star resort in the St. Thomas Virgin Islands. Travel En Vogue offers individuals searching for luxury Caribbean vacation rentals the opportunity to stay at an exclusive Ritz Carlton St. Thomas Private Residence Club condo. The St. Thomas vacation rentals are two to four bedroom condos. These spacious Caribbean villas are the perfect setting for family vacations or winter vacations, and feature master bed and bathrooms, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, living room, dining room, balcony, washer and dryer, twice daily maid service, and 24 hour concierge. Guests of the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas vacation rentals are also granted full use of the St. Thomas resorts’ facilities, like 5-star dining, spa and fitness center, aquatic sports center, Tom Fazio golf course, and the Ritz Kids program.
Vail Vacation Rentals
2121 N. Frontage Rd. Ste 4
Vail, CO 81657
(800) 933-7704
St. Thomas Coral World
If you're staying at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas Residence Club, you must go to Coral World! Coral World is located at Coki Beach and is a great way to experience St. Thomas's abundant marine life with your group.
They have an Undersea Observatory about 100 feet offshore that goes down 15 feet below sea level. The Undersea Observatory is an underwater glass tower that allows you to keep dry while observing marine life. You can watch fish in their natural habitat, swimming around their coral ecosystem. The twice daily feedings attract large amounts of fish for observation.
There is a Reef Tank in the mid level of the Undersea Observatory that contains schooling fish, sharks, tarpoons, and large fish from deeper waters.
Head to the top of the tower to get a great view of St. Thomas and to make reservations for activities. Coral World's Sea Lion Encounters and Sea Lion Swim let guests get up close and personal with these amazing creatures. The Sea Treck takes guests deep down for a walk along the ocean floor.
Coral World is involved with several education and conservation programs, including shark research, sea turtle rehabilitation, and coral restoration.
Looking for more things to do in St. Thomas? Check out this post about Things To Do in St. Thomas: St. Thomas Activities and Attractions.
Magens Bay St. Thomas
Magens Bay is one of St. Thomas's most beautiful and popular beaches. It has been recognized by National Geographic as one of the world's top 10 most beautiful beaches, thanks to its calm turquoise waters and white sand shores.
The gradually deepening water at Magens Bay combined with its lack of waves and currents makes it the ideal beach for children. Adults can take noodles or floating devices out on the water with one of the beach bar's amazing bushwackers. Magens Bay is not known for its snorkeling, but is a great place to just relax and soak up the sun.
The water sports booth offers paddle boats, kayaks, and sunfish. The concession features a bar and restaurant that serves burgers, pizza and snacks. There is also a gift shop and hair braiding stand.
Magens Bay is located to the northwest of the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas Resort and Residence Club at Red Hook.
The Ritz Carlton St. Thomas is the only 5-star resort in the St. Thomas Virgin Islands. Travel En Vogue offers individuals searching for luxury Caribbean vacation rentals the opportunity to stay at an exclusive Ritz Carlton St. Thomas Private Residence Club condo. The St. Thomas vacation rentals are two to four bedroom condos. These spacious Caribbean villas are the perfect setting for family vacations or winter vacations, and feature master bed and bathrooms, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, living room, dining room, balcony, washer and dryer, twice daily maid service, and 24 hour concierge. Guests of the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas vacation rentals are also granted full use of the St. Thomas resorts’ facilities, like 5-star dining, spa and fitness center, aquatic sports center, Tom Fazio golf course, and the Ritz Kids program.
Vail Vacation Rentals
2121 N. Frontage Rd. Ste 4
Vail, CO 81657
(800) 933-7704
Aspen Guide: Aspen Restaurants, Aspen Shopping, Aspen Things To Do
These posts about Aspen will help you find the best Aspen restaurants, fun things to do, where to shop in Aspen, where the best Aspen apres ski is, and where you can find the best Aspen skiing, while staying at the Ritz Carlton Club Aspen.
Aspen Restaurants: Italian Cuisine and Pizzerias
Aspen Restaurants: Mexican Cuisine
Aspen Restaurants: Casual Dining - American Cuisine
Aspen Bars and Restaurants With the Best Apres Ski
Aspen Restaurants: Fine Dining
Best Ski Spots in Aspen: Aspen Mountain
The Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands is the most luxurious Aspen ski resort in the popular ski vacation spot, Aspen, Colorado. Travel En Vogue offers individuals searching for luxury Aspen vacation rentals the opportunity to stay at an exclusive Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands Private Residence Club luxury ski condo. These spacious Aspen luxury rentals are two to four bedrooms and are perfect for group ski vacations. Each Ritz Carlton Aspen luxury rental features master bed and bathrooms, stone fireplace, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, living room, dining room, washer and dryer, twice daily maid service, and 24 hour concierge. Guests of the Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands are granted full use of the resort amenities, like outdoor heated pool, ski valet, 5-star dining, fitness center and spa, and Ritz Kids program.
Vail Vacation Rentals
2121 N. Frontage Rd. Ste 4
Vail, CO 81657
(800) 933-7704
Fourth of July in Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is an amazing place for a summer family vacation, especially during the Fourth of July! There are fireworks displays on both the North and South Shores, including one in Truckee, close to the Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe Residence Club. Thousands of locals and tourists flock to the shores of Lake Tahoe to picnic and take in the fireworks display.
If you are staying at the Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe, the Truckee display over Donner Lake at 9pm will be the most convenient for you. The Tahoe City Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration on Commons Beach, near downtown Tahoe City, is another great option.
You can also see the fireworks at Kings Beach, Squaw Valley, Incline Village, and West Shore. The South Shore puts on a separate fireworks show, the "Star Spangled Fourth: Lights on the Lake," the largest synchronized fireworks display in the West!
Travel En Vogue can assist you with booking North Lake Tahoe vacation rentals. Inquire about the Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe Residence Club by calling us at (800) 933-7704, or email at concierge@travelenvogue.com
Fourth of July in San Francisco
San Francisco is a great place to celebrate the 4th of July. The Ritz Carlton San Francisco Club condos are located in Union Square, putting you in the center of all the action.
The Pier 39 Waterfront Celebration is the main 4th of July event. Watch a fireworks spectacular launched from the front of the Municipal Pier and from barges to the north of Pier 39. The best viewing spots are from Aquatic park, along the waterfront, Coit Tower, the Cannery, and Ghiradelli Square.
The Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular is a concert event that includes songs from West Side Story, Wicked, and Rocky, topped off with fireworks. This event is located at Shoreline Amphitheater. Tickets are $24 - 29.50, available through LiveNation.
Travel En Vogue can assist you with booking Ritz Carlton San Francisco vacation rentals. To inquire, call us at (800) 933-7704, or email us at concierge@travelenvogue.com.
St. Thomas Guide: St. Thomas Restaurants, Nightlife, Shopping, Things To Do
These posts will help you find the best St. Thomas nightlife, shopping, activites, attractions, and St. Thomas restaurants while you enjoy your stay at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas (the only 5 star resort on the island!).
Things To Do In St. Thomas: St. Thomas Activities and Attractions
St. Thomas Restaurants: Fine Dining
St. Thomas Restaurants: East End Dining
St. Thomas Restaurants: Southside Dining
St. Thomas Restaurants: Havensight Dining
St. Thomas Restaurants: Charlotte Amalie Dining
St. Thomas Restaurant: Frenchtown Dining
Best St. Thomas Restaurants of 2010
Free Summer Things To Do In Vail
The town of Vail offers several free activities for the community. Get to know Vail while you're in town by participating in these activities!
Art & Nature Walks
Enjoy a walking tour of Vail's public art collection. The tour begins at the Vail Village Visitor Center and focuses on how Vail's public art enhances its charm.
Guided Nature Walks
The walks will begin at the Nature Discovery Center, adjacent to the Eagle Bahn Gondola on Vail Mountain. Your tour guide will help you discover how plants and animals acclimate to elevated conditions on the mountain.
Creekside Nature Tours
Meet at the Vail Farmer's Market and take a walk through Vail's paths along the streams.
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Open from dawn to dusk every day through September.
These are the highest botanical gardens in the world, and showcase a unique collection of alpine, sub-alpine and other mountain plants and flowers.
Family Fun Ride
Available Memorial Day through Labor Day
A one hour guided bike tour through Lionshead Village, Vail Village and Golden Peak is the perfect way to get to know Vail! You can bring your own bike or rent one.
Family Saturday Afternoon Club
Bring the kids to Lionshead between 3 and 6 pm and enjoy the Kid's Fun Zone and Crafts Center, hosted by the Blue Creek Children's Theater Company. There is face painting, a Hula Hoop Zone, and Kids' Discovery Zone featuring a special theme and guest each week.
Adventure Ridge at Slackline Park
Come play bocce ball, horse shoes, bean bag toss and dino dig at Slackline Park! Kids can dig through sand to find dinosaur bones while learning about these prehistoric animals.
Fourth of July in Vail
Vail is a great place for the summer and there are several five star accommodations to choose from - Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch Residence Club, Ritz Carlton Vail, Four Seasons Vail Residence Club, and One Willow Bridge Road. There are some great Fourth of July events that will make your stay even more special.
Vail America Day is a day long event, beginning at 8am. The Homespun Parade kicks it off at Golden Peak and goes through Vail Village and Lionshead. There is entertainment in Vail Village and Lionshead from 12am to 3pm, including a 2pm concert at the Ford Amphitheater. The America the Beautiful concert by Bravo! welcomes the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, who will perform a variety of songs during this free event.
The Grand Finale is a fireworks display at Golden Peak at 9:45pm.
Travel En Vogue can assist you with booking Vail vacation rentals at one of the many Vail Residence Club destinations in our inventory. To inquire, please call us at (800) 933-7704 or email us at concierge@travelenvogue.com.
Lake Tahoe Casinos
Lake Tahoe borders California and Nevada, and the Nevada side has several casinos throughout North and South Lake Tahoe. The casinos in North Lake Tahoe will be closer to you at the Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe (which is on the California side in Truckee), while the casinos in South Lake Tahoe might be a bit of a drive.
North Lake Tahoe Casinos
Cal-Neva
This casino features dancing and showroom productions and is famous from the days of Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra. Check out the historic Frank Sinatra Tunnel Tours.
Hyatt Regency
The Hyatt Regency Grand Lodge Casino is the only casino in Lake Tahoe with its own private beach. This 20,000 square foot casino features 22 table games, 250 slot machines, and a weekly Blackjack tournament every Wednesday at 6pm.
Tahoe Biltmore
The Tahoe Biltmore offers over 240 slot and video poker machines, 8 table games (Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, and a Sports Book). Club Biltmore is their players club where members earn points towards free slots play, meals, rooms, special evets, and cash back. Daily Happy Hour at the Breeze Bar is from 3-7 pm.
Crystal Bay Club Casinos
Crystal Bay has several table games including Single Deck Blackjack, Double Odds, Roulette and Craps. There are also penny and multi-denomination slot machines and Sports Book. Crystal Bay features regular live music events as well.
South Lake Tahoe Casinos
Montbleu
Montbleu offers a variety of table games, slots and video games. Their poker room features Texas Hold'Em, Omaha, Stud and Draw Games. The Zone is a place for guests to wager on pro sports and horse racing. They also offer regular gaming and casino events.
Harrah's
Harrah's features a variety of slot machines plus progressives and video poker in a wide range of denominations. Table games include Baccarat, Mini Baccarat, Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Caribbean Stud Poker, and Pai Gow Poker. Harrah's also has several ongoing poker tournaments and a nightclub called Vex Nightclub.
Horizon
Horizon is a huge, 42,000 square foot casino that offers a variety of classic and new slot machines.
Harvey's
Harvey's offers slot machines, games tables, cabaret theater, and a Hard Rock Cafe.
Lakeside Inn and Casino
Lakeside Inn Casino features Blackjack, Poker Room, Roulette, slots, Craps, and Race & Sports Book. They alo offer a Player's Card for benefits, including the ability to play the Lakeside Lighting Jackpot.
Fourth of July in Aspen
The constant festivals and cultural events make Aspen the place to be during summer months, and Fourth of July is no different. The holiday weekend is packed with parties, picnics, fairs, and performances! If you are staying at the Ritz Carlton Aspen Residence Club, you will have plenty of choices that are fun for the whole family.
Friday, July 1st
- 5pm to 8pm: 9th Annual Aspen Antiques & Fine Arts Fair Preview Party, sponsored by Aspen Peak Magazine. This 10 day event will be held in the Apsen Ice Garden and will feature 35 world renowned dealers of fine art, jewelry, and precious antiques. The $20 tickets benefit Grass Roots TV Aspen.
- 6pm: Aspen Chambers Symphony with Nicholas McGregan, who will conduct works by Beethoven, Bruchi, and Mendelssohn.
- 6pm to 12am: 12th Annual Boogie's Bash for the Buddies at Aspen Mountain, an annual fundraiser that supports mentoring programs for over 600 youths in the valley. There will be live music, a silent and live auction, cocktails, and food donated by some of Aspen's best restaurants.
- 7:30pm: Becky's New Car at the Rio Grande Pack, a romantic comedy about a woman juggling love, life and the pursuit of happiness.
Saturday, July 2nd
- 8am to 3pm: The Saturday Market features 70 vendors of fresh produce, meat, flowers, clothing, leather, Colorado wine, jewelry, artisan products, non-profits, and live music from noon to 2pm.
- 10am to 6pm: Aspen Antiques & Fine Arts Fair
- 4:30pm: Chamber Music at the Harris Concert Hall by Aspen Music Festival and School
- 7:30pm: Becky's New Car
- 8:30pm: Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and Wynton Marsalis in the Benedict Music Tent
Sunday, July 3rd
- 10am to 6pm: Aspen Antiques & Fine Arts Fair
- 4pm: Aspen Festival Orchestra in the Benedict Music Tent
Monday, July 4th
- 8am: Boogie's Diner Buddy 5 Mile Charity Race
- 9am: 1 Mile Family/Canine Walk
- 10am to 6pm: Aspen Antiques & Fine Arts Fair
- 10am to 2:30pm: 11th Annual "America's Birthday Carnival" in Paepcke Park featuring games, BBQ, silent auction, and bake sale.
- Noon: Old Fashioned 4th of July Parade on Main Street
- 1pm: AVSC 16th Annual Community Picnic in Koch Park with BBQ, kids games, live entertainment and beer garden.
- 1:30pm: Aspen Art Museum's Annual Fourth of July Picnic at the Aspen Art Museum with free BBQ and beer, picnic, family art activities, and a parade float with visiting musician/composer Nico Muhly.
- 3pm: Aspen Rugby Summer Touch League Finals at Wagner Park
- 4pm: Free 4th of July Concert by the Aspen Music Festival Band in the Benedict Music Tent
- 8 to 10:30pm: "Dancing In The Streets," Mill Street & Cooper Avenue Mall, a free community concert
- 9:15pm: Fireworks Extravaganza over Aspen Mountain