HERE:
SIP AND SAVOR AT BOSTON WINE & FOOD FEST
Join other wine lovers this winter at the Boston Harbor Hotel for the 36th annual Boston Wine & Food Festival (Jan. 31-March 27). Led by executive chef David Daniels and festival director Nick Daddona, the schedule features a series of wine dinners paired with curated courses, tastings, galas, and master classes, presided over by world-renowned winemakers and culinary artists. An opening night walk-around reception in the Wharf Room offers stunning harbor views and tastings of more than 100 global wines, as well as culinary treats prepared by Chef Daniels. Thematic events are returning, such as the Battle of the Cabs Dinner with blind tastings of Napa’s top Cabernets, and the Judgement of Paris Dinner, a showdown between French and California wines. Two romance events encourage lovers to toast each other in February: Valentines on the French Riviera, an intimate evening focusing on the South of France; and the Romeo and Juliet Amarone Dinner, a journey through Verona, the backdrop of the ill-fated lovers’ tale. New this year, Hollywood & Vine, a four-course dinner with wine pairings that draw inspiration from cinematic masterpieces. Check the website for more events and featured wineries. Tickets from $95. Attendees are encouraged to take advantage of an exclusive Boston Harbor Hotel room rate starting at $305, based upon availability. 617-748-1878, www.boswineandfoodfestival.com
THERE:
CALIFORNIA DREAMING
Fall asleep to the soothing sound of waves lapping the shore when you stay at the Monterey Beach Hotel, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio hotel nestled along the Monterey Peninsula. The only beachfront hotel in Monterey, originally built in 1967, the newly transformed property boasts 600 feet of exclusive shoreline, and is steps away from cliffside hikes and the Monterey Recreation Trail, 18 miles of a paved path around the bay. The 188 guest rooms and four suites, with ocean or garden views, are all designed in a sleek modern style that feature plush mattresses, luxury bedding, towels and bath amenities, refillable aluminum water bottles, Lavazza coffee and tea brewer, and more. Ocean view rooms offer NOCS Provisions binoculars, perfect for scouting shorebirds and sea life. Additional amenities include outdoor pool, fitness center open 24/7, e-bike rentals, and three distinct culinary and cocktail venues with chef-driven interpretations of fresh coastal and central California flavors. Rates from $350. 831-394-3321, www.montereybeach.com
CALIFORNIA DREAMING, TAKE 2
Soak up the California sun at the Hotel Joaquin, a 22-room, adults-only seaside sanctuary tucked above Shaw’s Cove, a residential beach secluded from Laguna’s mega beach resorts. Formerly The Motor Inn at Laguna Beach, the property’s extensive renovations reimagine the glory days of 1940s California Riviera with playful, chic décor in bright, airy rooms with ocean and garden views. Amenities include complimentary arrival cocktail; morning coffee delivered to your room; daily complimentary breakfast; heated outdoor pool; beach umbrella and chair set-up; and the Adventure Collection of bicycles, bodyboards, and beach games. Watch the sunset with handcrafted cocktails, beers, and wines at Saline Bar. Seasonal experiences may include weekly morning yoga, outdoor movie nights with popcorn and (if needed) blankets, and meditative sound baths to balance the mental, physical, and spiritual mind. Winter rates from $280. 949-494-5294, https://hoteljoaquin.com
EVERYWHERE:
TRAVEL GEAR FOR PETS
Take your four-legged family members along on your next camping trip with durable adventure-ready gear by P.L.A.Y. Featured Scout & About products include an outdoor dog tent with simple pop-up assembly, fully-enclosed floor, mesh sides for ventilation, and water-resistant roof; multi-functional pouch to hold treats, poop bags, and zip pocket for your keys and cash; collapsible travel bowls; water-resistant chill pad; outdoor bed made of high performance 600-Denier PE fabrics; and toys. The new fleece-lined Trailblazing Coat is designed with a split tail hem for increased mobility, adjustable leg straps for a secure fit, and harness slot for easy attachment. All products are available in a stylish array of colors that are sure to make your fellow campers jealous. Tents: $125; coats: $59. www.petplay.com/collections/outdoor-gear
Necee Regis can be reached at neceeregis@gmail.com.
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