THESE WE COVET: Review

Showing posts with label Review. Show all posts

Fiamma Burger - Bellingham's premier all-natural burger joint

>> Monday, December 10, 2012 – food, local travel, quick meal, Review

Beef burger topped with proscuitto ham, fried egg, cheddar-jack, shoe string potatoes, and smoky sauce.

Nuff said.

B"HAM" Burger

We have been a few times and will definitely be back again. The food is great and we love the atmosphere.

If you find yourself in Bellingham take the time to grab a bite at Fiamma - 1309 Railroad Ave, Bellingham WA

Magic in a bottle: BB Cream

>> Thursday, June 14, 2012 – Beauty, Makeup, Review

{via Chic and Unique}

I keep thinking about this product... which means it must be be something special.

Truth be told, I try a lot of products so when one repeatedly pops into your head.. well then you know it is good and worth buying.

A few months ago, in my Glymm box (your missing out if you don't get these), I received a mini pot of this magic cream. Honestly, I looked at the packaging and didn't give it a second look. It had a certain "dollar store" look and upon opening the lid, the color seemed waaaay to dark for my skin. Incidently, I had bought a friend a few months of the Glymm boxes and she texted about how she "absolutely loved the Magic Fini cream".

Hmmm. Well I definitely had to try it now.

And wow... you really should never judge a book by its cover. This foundation/BB cream is so soft and supple. It smooths over your skin and you can layer to get more coverage. Somehow it seems to work on everyones skin tone, even though it looks really dark in the pot. I have somewhat uneven skin and it seemed to just blend and vanish (in a good way) without catching up on any dry skin areas. In fact, as I was googling the product to find out where I could buy a full size pot, I came across a ton of amazing reviews claiming how good Magic Fini by M.Asam is.

This brand is from Germany and is based on the 'power of grapes' as they put it.

You can find it online to purchase at Cosmolane Boutique. It ships to Canada and is $38 for 30mL.
https://www.cosmolaneboutique.com/?products=details-239

{via this blog}

Tea with my ladies

>> Friday, May 18, 2012 – Beauty, food, Life, Review

{via my Iphone}

Last weekend I attended 'High Tea' at a beautiful new tea house called Adorabelle in Steveston. High Tea seems to be such a trend now. To be honest, I had never really heard of it until attending one at a Fairmont Hotel last year. It was a lot of fun... a bit stiff ...but sort of addicting at the same time.

You definitely get into the girly vibe and wear your most pretty spring dress. It was especially great because around twenty ladies/girls were invited, so there was a ton of laughter and new faces. We were split up at separate tables and I preffered this layout so that we were able to chat a bit more easily.

And really, the food. That's what it is all about right? Oh yah, and Tea. I LOVE devonshire cream. How was I never introduced to this before??? I feel like my parents failed in some way ;) The scones were all baked in house, and very lovely. There was also a lemony custard that I have never seen at other tea places. It was good, but not worth it compared to my sweet, sweet devonshire.

And look at how lovely they had our napkins folded ...as pretty pink roses! The tea I chose was a glorious herbal robois flavour (I don't have much caffeine usually). And of course our hostesses left us with a parting gift of some yummy jelly bellies...because we weren't already spoiled enough.

I also snuck in a scary elevatore photo of me while I was rushing not to be late ;)

GLYMM Box Excitement

>> Wednesday, February 8, 2012 – Beauty, Makeup, Review

Here is one of my last Glymm boxes from a month or so ago. Still indulging in these and still
thinking they are totally worth it for the price. See my old post here for more details.

It included the follwing:
Juicy Bamboo cleansing clothes:

I actually really like these and would consider buying a pack for summer camping or those nights when you feel lazy and don't want to take your make up off.

Burt's Bees Lotion:

Having always had a soft spot for their products since they are so natural and have been around since I was a pre-teen..this lotion was kind of disappointing. The texture was just 'meh' and the scent was double 'meh'.

Anastasia's Clear Eyebrow Liquid:

Totally would have never bought this product, but I am AMAZED at how well it shapes the brows. I feel like you can comb them up and over and you instantly look more awake and vibrant. Love it!

Cargo Eye Pencil - Black

Haven't actually opened this yet, but funny enough I have one already (that I bought..boo) and it's pretty good. I will just keep this one for when my other runs out. Ps. Pretty sure I paid at least $14 so that alone made up for the box price.

Vasanti Brightening Cream

This looks boring...so still needs to be used.

RMS lip color/conditioner:

This was a bonus product I received because I have ordered for a few months. LOVE LOVE LOVE it.. So smooth and just a touch of pretty color (see photo). Plus all the ingredients are organic. Definitely could see myself buying again.

Vintage lighting find in La Conner

>> Monday, January 30, 2012 – Beauty, Design, local travel, Review

Mary Davis Vintage Lighting in La Conner, Washington

The past weekend found us staying a couple of nights on Whidby Island. It definitely was a great, relaxing weekend and the rainy weather added to the westcoast atmosphere. On our way home, we stopped in this cute town called La Conner that is know for fields upon fields of colorful tulips in the Spring. Of course there were no tulip yet!! But the town was adorable and had a ton of little shops along the water. I also couldn't get over the fact that each of the stores were laid out beautifully and so well organized....even the antique and thrift stores. Really, have you ever been in an organized antique store? Everything was labelled, stating where it was found and things were grouped by color or categories. So wonderful..lol!

Anyways, back to the best little shop of all which was this lighting store called Mary Davis Vintage Lighting. The store owner was incredibily friendly and he even ahd this adorable fluffly grey and white dog that sat behind a gate behind the counter. Apparently the shop used to be an old firehouse.

Everywhere I looked were these lighting fixtures that were SO unique and I can honestly say that I could take anything home and make it work. Some pieces looked they were from old New York hotels, while a few others definitely seemed very industrial and perhaps made by the owner. I noticed that he had an island work station behind the desk and was constantly tinkering around in his well organized baskets and compartments.

There were little vignettes set up on vintage tables and desks that featured not only the lighting, but also candles, pens, etc. I especially appreciated the section that displayed their twisted filament bulbs and painted bulbs (with switches) so you could turn them on and see the effect of each individual bulb. Whoever imagined and sets up the displays has an impeccable and creative sense of design. Somehow everything just works and if you are ever in the area...you need to just go in and check it out!

This is somewhere that I will for sure be going back to again and again...and using their products to outfit future clients homes (or my own!). I promise you that you will not be disappointed and will find yourself loving everything they have on display :)

The shop owners work station behind the front counter

Who doesn't need a shop dog?

Most memorable meals out in 2011 - Ensemble

>> Friday, January 13, 2012 – food, Review

It's been a while since the last entry, but over the next few weeks I am posting, in no particular order, some of my most memorable meals out in 2011.

Just to recap...I wrote about a very memorable meal at Vij's, a delicious nuevo latino meal at Cobre, the nine-course tasting heaven experienced at C, and the outstanding Neapolitan pizza at Nicli Antica Pizzeria.

Ensemble – We're hardcore Top Chef fans (it’s one of the few shows on TV that we actually follow) and have not missed an episode since the show first started back in 2006. When the Canadian version aired we were pulling for local chef Dale MacKay who appeared to be a strong contestant from the get go. He went on to win Top Chef Canada, and has since opened two of his own restaurants in Vancouver: Ensemble (which I am talking about today), and the more comfort food/pub-style Ensemble Tap (which we have yet to try, but will definately be catching a Canucks game there in the near future).

Chantelle and I dined at Ensemble with a friend, and between the three of us we go to try a good handful of items on the menu. The price points and portion sizes really allows for sharing, which in my opinion always makes for a fun dining experience.

We tried two salads, the Cornmeal crusted scallops, the Beef shin and fritz, the Sweet and sour eggplant, the Pulled pork sandwich (Top Chef), the Black cod with pork Thai broth (Top Chef), and to finish, the Strawberry pavlova (Top Chef)(and one of Mark McEwan's personal favorites lol)

The thing that I loved most about the meal was the originality. None of the dishes were particularily "unusual" per se, but I didn't feel like they were anything that I've had before, which is definately a compliment. (Okay fine, a pulled pork sandwich is pretty standard fare, but serving it with watermelon and a fried pickle is genius). The dishes were modern and all executed to perfection. Chef Dale MacKay is clearly creating his food, his way, which is exciting to see and a breath of fresh air.

Ensemble - Sweet and sour eggplant

Ensemble - Pulled pork sandwich with fried pickle and watermelon

On top of great food, a truely memorable meal should include great service...and it was just that. We loved the friendly, unpretentious atmosphere. It's great to see a restaurant in this loaction thriving again. If you haven't gone...go! There are some dishes that I am still eager to try, so a visit back in 2012 is high on my list.

Let us know what you think of Top Chef Canada winner Dale MacKay's restaurant Ensemble in the comments below...

Most memorable meals out in 2011 - Nicli Antica Pizzeria

>> Friday, January 6, 2012 – food, Review

Over the next few weeks I am posting, in no particular order, some of my most memorable meals out in 2011.

Just to recap...I wrote about a very memorable meal at Vij's, a delicious nuevo latino meal at Cobre, and the nine-course tasting heaven experienced at C.

Today we're talking about the beautiful thing that is Neapolitan pizza...

Nicli Antica Pizzeria - A few summers ago Chantelle and I spent six weeks travelling around Europe and nearly 3 weeks in Italy alone. We ate very well. But truth be told, the pizza they are serving up at Nicli is the best that either of us have ever had. Chantelle doesn't even typically like pizza, but she has been back to Nicli even more times than I have! When either of us are craving pizza Nicli has become our go to place.

The menu here is simplicity at its best. You will not find any pasta or any typical entrees here, which I can appreciate. Just a few antipastis, and about 10 different pizzas. Not to take anything away from the other varieties (which are all very delicious), but for me, the Margherita is where it's at. I beleive the best way to judge a pizzeria is by it's Margherita pizza, and Nicli blew our socks off! It may possibly be the best $12 you will ever spend.

Nicli Antica Pizzeria - Margherita pizza

If making the perfect pizza is an art, then the chefs at Nicli are modern day Picassos. From the consistency of the crust (00 Caputo flour)...to the flavour, balance, and controlled volume of the sauce (San Marzano tomatoes)...to the quality of the cheese (Fior di Latte, or mozzarella de Bufala)...to the fresh basil that they are growing and snipping on the counter...it is a pizza done to perfection. If it's not already on the table, ask for the chili oil, which is a great way to finish off your crusts.

These guys are serious about their pizza to say the least. Aside from the high quality ingredients listed above, their wood-burning Acunto oven, imported from Naples, cooks their pizzas at 900°F in just 90 seconds. They are one of only six certified Vera Pizza Napoletana restaurants in Canada. (The only other VPN certified restaurant this side of Ontario is Pizzeria Prima Strada in Victoria, and although very good I have to tip my cap to Nicli as superior).

It seems that their dedication to their craft is paying off. Opening their doors in 2011, they are packed to the gills on most nights that I have seen, and won Scout Magazine's readers poll for best new restaurant in the city.

Have you been to Nicli Antica Pizzeria? What's your most memorable pizza experience?

Let us know in the comments section below!

Most memorable meals out in 2011 - C

>> Thursday, January 5, 2012 – food, Review

Over the next few weeks I am posting, in no particular order, some of my most memorable meals out in 2011.

Yesterday I wrote about the deliciousness that is Nuevo Latino cuisine at Cobre. The day before it was a very memorable meal at Vij's. Today we are talking local, sustainable, and unbelievably delicious seafood at none other than...

C - The only thing better than a delicious meal, is a delicious meal that you can feel great about eating with the understanding that the ingredients were sourced as sensitively and as locally as possible.

The "c" experience begins with actively sourcing the best local ingredients produced in harmony with our commitment to fostering sustainable farming practice & advocacy.

As the founding restaurant in the Vancouver Aquarium's Ocean Wise Program, Executive Chef Robert Clark has deconstructed seafood supply lines, dealing directly with the fisherman, to ensure a product that is of the highest quality while respecting environmental sensitivities.

We were spoiled with a nine course tasting menu, as follows...
*WARNING* wou will be hungry after reading ; )

Wild and cultivated mushroom velouté with garlic confit and croutons

Charred octopus salad with frisée, bacon vinaigrette, and soft boiled egg

Seared scallop with crushed minted peas, veigi sauce, panchetta, and lemonade foam

House-smoked salmon with corn risotto and green onion relish

Seared albacore tuna with lyonnaise potato, zucchini ribbons, and parmesan soubise

Farmhouse chevre with poached pears, artisan honey, and spiced walnuts

Cucumber sorbet with pickled ginger and crisp basil

Chocolate brownie with berry chantilly and lemon curd

Petits fours

I could go on and on about how great each dish was, but I still would not give the meal justice.

This was my first time trying octopus. I was excited when I saw it on the menu and quite enjoyed it.

I'm not typically a huge smoked salmon fan, but this dish with the corn risotto really won me over...the green onion relish was a huge punch of flavour and a perfect compliment to the rich and creamy risotto.

I decided to upgrade my albacore tuna course to the beef tenderloin, so Chantelle and I had a chance to taste two different protein dishes. Both were amazing.

The chevre course was presented like a work of art. It was served on a wood board, and the way each condiment was individually layed out reminded me of an artist's palette.

My favorite dish was the seared scallop. Minted peas, veigi sauce, panchetta, lemonade foam, and the scallop itself...there were a lot of strong flavours going on in this dish but they all worked beautifully together. It takes the honour of the best scallop I have ever had, so well done C!

C - seared scallop

The service was excellent. Our server described both the ingredients and preparation of each course in depth and in a friendly, unrushed manner.

Seeing that it was a tasting menu some of the portions, as expected, were small. But others were actually quite generous and after all nine courses and wine we were both full, and extremely satisfied with everything we just ate.

If you've been lucky enough to try this tasting menu or have had a memorable meal at C in general, post a comment below and share your experience!

Most memorable meals out in 2011 - Cobre

>> Wednesday, January 4, 2012 – food, Review

Over the next week I will be posting, in no particular order, some of my most memorable meals out in 2011.

Yesterday I wrote about a very memorable meal that we had at Vij's. Today we're switching regions all together will be talking about the deliciousness that is Nuevo Latino cuisine.

Cobre - When we saw that Cobre was taking part in Dine Out Vancouver 2011 we were quick to pounce. It was a dark and rainy January night, but we felt warm and relaxed as we enjoyed this great meal up on the second floor overlooking the wet cobblestone streets of Gastown. Between Chantelle and I, we got to try seven different dishes, and were impressed with both the flavours and presentation of all of them.

So what is "Nuevo latino"?

According to Cobre's website it’s a style of cooking that blends the passion of Argentina, with the exuberance of Cuba, the sultriness of Brazil and the joy of Mexico. Call it what you want...I call it pure flavour.

If you're looking for a great Caipirinha (aka Brazil's National cocktail), this is the place to go. The style of menu and prices are really set up to allow you to try a variety of items, yet the portion sizes were not lacking. The ceviches were good. Both the duck and rockfish tacos were sublime, I would highly recommend ordering a few different types of tacos for your table to share. The real star of the show (for me anyways...I think Chantelle preferred the scallops which were also great) and something I would call a MUST order was the maple chipotle tamarind glazed wild boar belly.

Cobre - wild boar belly

It looks amazing, right?...and it's not just a tease, it tastes equally as good.

So if you see Cobre on this years Dine Out Vancouver list again this year I would highly recommend giving it a try. Last years price of $28 for three savory courses is a steal, and a great way to try six different dishes if you dine with a friend.

Most memorable meals out in 2011 - Vij's

>> Tuesday, January 3, 2012 – food, Review

Memorable dining experiences.

Isn’t that the goal of all chefs?

We have to eat to survive. Three meals a day x 365 = 1095 meals in a year. Point being we eat a lot of meals, and if a chef/restaurant can give you a meal/experience that stands out in your memory as a great one, they have truly done their job.

Over the next week I will be posting, in no particular order, some of my most memorable meals out in 2011.

Vij's - Our first visit to Vij's was long overdue...and I must say it definately lived up to the hype.

Oddly enough we just happened to be doing some shopping on South Granville one afternoon, our car parked right infront of the restaurant. When we got back to our car we saw a line of apx 30-40 people and realized that they would be opening for dinner in about 20 mins. Taking our chance on making the first seating we decided to get in line, and it worked out...we were seated in 20 short minutes, when the restaurant opened. For those who do not know, Vij's does not accept reservations...from anybody. (Rumour has it that once upon a time even Robin Williams had to wait for a table with everyone else). Two hour waits on weekends are not uncommon here (the food is worth every minute), and a larger dining room in their soon to be new location on Cambie Street is something exciting to look forward to in 2012.

Once inside we were welcomed with excellent service, and an ongoing variety of tasty little snacks that the kitchen was firing out until the point that our food started to arrive.

Everything we ate was perfectly executed, and delicious...I really cannot think of any criticism. If you do go, the highly touted (for good reason) wine marinated lamp popsicles in fenugreek cream curry are a MUST. Even if you don't think you like lamb or curry, I cannot imagine anyone not liking this dish.

Vij's lamp popsicles

I was recently given a copy of their newest book "Vij's at Home", and I am looking forward to trying to recreate some of those memorable flavours in my own kitchen sometime soon.

Best Online Design Magazine

>> Wednesday, December 14, 2011 – Art, Design, Review

Lonny Magazine

Have you ever taken a look at all the magazine's you subscribe to and wondered if they are really worth the bucks? I never used too...but lately it seems that I can just never get around to reading them all. Also, to be completely truthful, ever since I bought my Iphone last Christmas, my reading has gone waaaay down. So in the spirit of saving a bit of cash and enjoying an awesome publication (a la internet)... I introduce you to LONNY MAGAZINE. The title was conceived from the creators two favorite influences: LONDON & NEW YORK...

A great visual mag choked full of wonderful spaces and interesting tidbits, and usually they run around 200+ pages. Not only this, but you can also click on something and be instantly directed to that company's website. So easy!

I believe Lonny was concepted by some of the editors/staff from the old, short-lived Domino magazine. You will see a few similarities between the two for sure. Check out this seasons issue for some wonderful objects like the Hosta Salad Servers or the amazingly quirky and classic Manhattan apartment of Robert Leleux.

If you're looking for design inspiration then you will most definitely find something good here.

Below Images: Page excerpts from online Lonny Magazine...

7 beers to get you through the winter

>> Friday, December 9, 2011 – Beer, food, Review

We love beer regardless of the season, but like a lot of things some varieties are better in certain seasons than others.

When I think of great beer for late fall and winter I want something that is bold, robust, can warm up your insides, but is still refreshing. Also something that pairs well with a nice warm hearty meal (think winter comfort food ie. roasts, stews, soups, earthy winter veg, etc).

Here are a few of my favorite beers for the winter season. If you can get these where you live, give one a try (if you haven't already).

Howe Sound Brewing - Rail Ale Nut Brown: This one defines the term "smooth"...a flavourful nut brown ale with hints of chocolate and licorice and a delicious roasted malt finish. Drinks well with ANYTHING, but particularily hearty fare such as burgers, sausages, stews and smoked fish, as well as many cheeses and desserts.

Innis & Gunn - Rum Cask Oak Aged Beer: A perfect marraige of rum and beer...they're children will be beautiful ; ) Aged in oak barrels that previously contained navy rum, this ale acquires aromas of caramel, toffee and citrus fruits. Deep red in color, it's matched with the unique, sweet, spicy flavours imparted by the rum barrel and a hint of vanilla that’s compliments of the oak. Definitely a sipping beer, and the higher alcohol content (7.4%) results in a warm finish (because baby it's cold outside).

Guinness: The Black Stuff. People either seem to love it or hate it. With the deep earthy flavours and silky smooth head I'm not sure what is not to ~~like~~ love here. The "perfect pint" of Guinness requires a double-pour method which according to the company should take 119.53 seconds, hence the slogan "good things come to those who wait". Studies claim that Guinness can be beneficial to the heart - researchers found that "antioxidant compounds' in Guinness, similar to those found in certain fruits and vegetables, are responsible for health benefits because they slow down the deposit of harmful cholesterol on the artery walls...enough said, cheers to that!

Granville Island Brewing - Lions Winter Ale: One of my favorite beers in the entire Granville Island lineup. The caramel malt and vanilla flavours will make you feel all warm and fuzzy on the inside (ladies, think "Love Actually"). Only available October - March, this is a nice balance of sweet and bitter that is perfect for a cold winter day.

Brooylyn Lager & Sam Adams Boston Lager: Both are great day-in-day-out beers to have stocked in the fridge. Really, these are great throughout the year, but the strong malt flavours supported by a refreshing bitterness and floral hop aromas make them both great matches for earthy winter-style foods and snacks. Sam Adams even claims their beer tastes better in their specially designed glasses...I say it tastes great even if drinken out of an empty paint bucket. Can't go wrong with either.

Russell Brewing - Blood Alley Bitter: Part of their Brewmaster Series of speciality beers...picture a cold but sunny winter day, you've just finished a few hours of snowshoeing, snowboarding, or other outdoor activity, and are craving a crisp and flavourful reward for your efforts...this is the one. Slightly higher in bitterness than the average bitter but very well balanced by the rich, roasted malt flavours (hello winter!) and crisp finish. The well-designed painted label shows that they take care both inside and outside of the bottle.

I have to admit, these 7 beers really don't make winter seem all that bad!

Which one's did I miss?...Chime in with some of your favorite winter beers.

Makeup & Product Boxes delivererd to your door..pure fun!!

>> Sunday, December 4, 2011 – Beauty, Makeup, Review

Glymm Box

I hate to say it, but these boxes bring me waaay to much joy ;) There really is a something about receiving mail (when it's not bills of course) that has always made my day. You know that feeling when you get a parcel notice and you wonder who it's from or what gift might be in the box. Well, this is basically what happens once a month when you sign up for Luxe Box or Glymm Box. Ahem..I am trying both out..hehe..to my husband's chagrin. But really, I just couldn't decide and they both looked so good so I just had to sign up for both! Below you will find some photos from each of the boxes and the type of stuff that was included. I will update in a few weeks with my other boxes so you can compare and pick which you prefer. So far I am really torn because one month might be better for Glymm, but then all of sudden Luxe sends some awesome product.

They both do wonderful packaging and you feel so special to see your name on the stickers and print cards. Ribbons and cute little treats are always included. Also included are 4-5 deluxe samples and quite often (in my two months of ordering) I have been sent full size products!!

These would really be a great Christmas present for any friend that loves products....
Glymm: $10 per month
Luxe Box: $12 per month

They also have a points they will give if a friend signs up so if you are thinking of trying it out, sign up through one of my links :) And, you can pay month by month for either, so there is no big committment.

This is an awesome idea for those people who want to try out some products and don't always have time to shop. It is also great that they tend to send new products. You also get a little card that shows the retail price and product size...so sometimes the smaller samples are actually worth a lot because the original sized product was over $100!. Also, they have been sending coupons/emails occasionally to purchase the products featured at a discount price. Awesome!

Anyways, check out some of the photos of my boxes below this write-up.

Glymm Box: http://www.glymm.com/share/chantelle_greig
Luxe Box: http://luxebox.loosebutton.com/friend-sign-up?referrer=ZmFjZWYyMGE=

***For those of you in the States (don't worry I didn't forget!), you can find a similar product here. It is called Birch Box and is only available in the US and seems very reputable and super cute!

I am really looking forward to trying the Rahua Shampoo & Conditioner as apparently Gwyneth Paltrow loves it...and I trust her judgement and like how she promotes sustainable & natural products

Full size RGB nail polish in Black

These next two Glymm photos were from my October box...but I thought you might want to take a peek.... There were three full size products:

Lise Watier Lip Gloss in a pencil

Principessa Gloss in Baccio Me

Vasanti Eyeshadow in a pink color that I use for blush

....and here is the LUXE BOX: yaaaaay...Moroccan Oil.

Starbucks & iPhone take over the World

>> Thursday, December 1, 2011 – food, Review, Technology

This is one of those things that makes me wonder where we are going with technology. I guess it really isn't even that advanced, but it just seems weird to whip out my phone to pay for my Tall half-sweet, no water, soy Tazo Chai Latte (I know you are thinking high maintenance, but to my credit I used to work there and these things happen..lol). This Iphone app has been out for a few months, but I only recently downloaded to my phone. This morning during my commute, I whipped out my phone and the barista scanned it and voila..done. It really was easy and I didn't feel like I was actually spending any money ;) I do like how you can instantly see your card balance so you know when to refill...and it shows all your transactions for the card on another screen. To use this app, you need a starbucks card (or atleast put some money online with a visa/mastercard, online Starbucks account and the downloaded app. Another major benefit is the easy to use Starbucks locator map which shows your the STORE HOURS!!! This is very nice because many of the locations downtown seem to close quite early as they cater to the daytime business workers. I am a fan, but I do feel like it makes me look like a bit of an addict when I am swipping my phone on the scanner (I swear I am not!!!). Either way...its kinda nice not to have to carry so many extra cards and I really wouldn't mind of some other major retailers joined in.

What I learned in Vegas...

>> Sunday, November 13, 2011 – food, Review, Travel Deals

I know... I know.. you are expecting some crazy, scandalous story about what I shouldn't have done in Vegas and all my regrets! But no, when you go on the trip with your other half, it tends to cut out that whole bit :) I definitely still have a few little tricks for getting the most out of your trip as eating and playing in Vegas can ADD UP!

If you don't mind having to unsubscribe later this can be a good one. Sign up for the member cards at hotels you might decide to play in. For example, the Harrah's group owns a bunch of hotels and they give you $5 free slot play and you can get other great discounts like at their buffet (see next number!). Another great one is the Cosmopolitan Hotel. You get the free card and then you can either take $10 free slot play or spin a wheel for more excitement... it's Vegas right? We both spun and Mark ended up with $5 free slot plan, but I won something super yummy: Free entry into the WICKED SPOON! Yum is all I have to say... it was voted #1 buffet in Vegas, and let me tell you, it was amazing!!

Ok, so as mentioned previuosly, if you sign up for the Harrah's group card (do it online before you go to save time) you can get $5 off the Buffet of Buffet deal. Now, I know what you are thinking. Really? Why would I want to gorge myself. But here is the plan, for $45 each you have 24 hour access to any of their buffets (think Caesar's, Planet Holllywood, Paris, etc.) and you can hit up whichever, whenever you like. So you are doing your thing, and really there happens to pretty much always be a buffet near you. And, don't think unhealthy as these buffets have tons of fruit and vegetables, so we would just be picky and choosy about what we ate. How else are you going to get your fruit when travelling?

Go see lots of shows! This is really the single most important thing (in my opinion) for having a great memorable time. Whether they are Cirque Du Soleil or David Copperfield or some of the small time show..just do it. If you are really concerned about the prices, I would recommend calling box offices and asking for the 'limited view seats' as they are not shown online. The prices for these seats were about the same as the Ticket Tonight prices, but in my opinion they are better seats. Usually you are quite central to the stage, but there might be a small handrail in part of your sightline. Maybe I am weird, I was so so so excited to see "O" (like-I-have-been-waiting-two-years-excited), but I ended up loving 'Ka' as my favorite show. What did you guys think??

So you know the bus in Vegas, I think it's called The Deuce... just don't use it. We had so many issues and delays...that it was either quicker to walk or cheaper/faster to take a taxi. A one way ticket is $5 each, so thats $10 and you end up taking about 30 minutes at least to get a few hotels over. While a taxi was $7 for us both, and it's instantly there (no waiting) and took us the few blocks in 5 minutes. PLUS WE WERE DELIVIRED TO OUR HOTEL DOOR! You know this is amazing if you have been to the strip as at the end of the day the last thing you need is more walking...lol.

Ear Planes

And last of all, if you are flying and happen to get a cold last minute then I have a great contraption for you. If you have ever felt that crazy inner ear pain when the plane descends, then pick up some 'Ear Planes' ahead of time. They basically slow the pressure change in your ear by a little opening with a tiny ceramic ball insead. You just need to put them in before the cabin doors shut (during takeoff) and keep them on the entire time for best results. They seriously saved my life this trip! Canada/USA: Buy them @ Tilley's

It was a great trip and we had a wonderful time taking full advantage of every single day in Vegas. Tons of walking (bring good shoes) and I even mastered the Craps table (which has always intimidated me) and won a bit of moola.