Santa Catalina Island – Lodging

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catalinaatwatersingleTCatalinaAtwaterlobbyhe Atwater Hotel – Some of the larger hotels on the island are located in Avalon steps from the Avalon Boat Terminal where your ferry docks.  You have the newly renovated Hotel Atwater, built in the 1920’s and offers a variety of room types from economy to suites. It is a hop, jump, and a skip from the docks, as well as the heart of town. This hotel is known for its charm and keeping with the character of the island. There are no elevators in this hotel and all their rooms are located on the second and third floors of the property accessible by stairs. So, pack light!

CatalinaPavilion-1CatalinapavilionRoom-2CatalinaPavilionroomThe Pavilion Hotel – Even closer to the Avalon Boat Terminal is The Pavilion Hotel known for its exceptional service and outstanding value. It is just 14 steps from the beach. You’ll enjoy wonderful tropical gardens and convenient access to all of Avalon. There are many amenities to dazzle their guests.  In the evenings enjoy the large inviting fire ring in the outdoor ocean view lounge. Every morning look forward to a European breakfast plus a complimentary wine and cheese tasting reception every evening from 4:30 to 5:30 pm to help round out your day.

 CatalinaMetropoleFrontCatalinaMetropoleCatalinaMetropoleJacuzziThe Metropole – Centrally located in the heart of Avalon, and just steps from the beach is the Metropole Hotel known as a perfect place for a getaway or small meeting. Stunning oceanfront suites with fireplaces, Jacuzzi baths, and balconies overlook the beach. The hotel has been recently remodeled and offers free Wi-Fi, robes and slippers for every room. The rooftop Jacuzzi has stunning views of the harbor. The Metropole has a reputation for friendly and charming service. The Metropole Market Place is connected to the hotel and offers the advantages of a Spa, shopping, and the Metropole Café. The courtyard is delightful and a great place to spend some time.

Follow our next blog where we will tell you about the newly renovated Inn on Mount Ada with a plethora of amenities.

 

Catalina beckons! So come.

Rosa L. McArthur, CMP

Meeting Planners Plus

Healthy Travels – After Check-in

Now What? You are probably thinking, I made it to my room and now I am home free.  No germs here! Not so fast, there is more work to be done to stay healthy while traveling. This neat well-appointed room you just checked into might not be as germ free as you think.  What do you need to do to protect yourself and that of your family?  First, inspect the room.  A good place to start is in the bathroom and do not hesitate to use your disinfectant wipes.

 

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The following suggestions are also helpful:

  1. If your water glasses are not sealed and pre-wrapped and your ice bucket does not have a plastic liner wash them both with hot soapy water.
  2. Put your remote controls in a clear plastic bag during your stay.
  3. Use your luggage rack instead of your bed when going through your luggage. As the expression goes you don’t know where that luggage has been especially if you checked your luggage with the airlines.
  4. Examine your sheets for any signs of bedbugs. If anything looks unusual alert hotel management right away.
  5. Avoid using your bed spread during your stay as it is not likely to have been washed or changed recently.
  6. If for some reason this is not possible fold the cover back and use the top sheet between you and the cover.
  7. Especially if you have allergies stay away from the drapes. They tend to trap debris and allergens.
  8. Wear slippers or socks and avoid sitting on the furniture where your skin has direct contact with chairs and sofas.
  9. Before you shower rinse the tub with hot water and shampoo;
  10. Unless you give the tub a good scrubbing it might be a good idea to skip taking a bath.

Remember these suggestions should be applied at any hotel. High end properties are no exception. And don’t forget to check your online hotel reviews, they can be very helpful in setting your expectations.

Healthy Travels!

 

By Rosa L. McArthur, CMP 

 

Cancun, Mexico – Place to Remember!

238In April I had the opportunity to travel to Cancun, Mexico.  It is located on the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in the Mexican State of Quintana Roo. I had a few new clients who were looking to bring groups to Cancun.  As their meeting planner part of my job was to make sure that the destination would adequately meet all of their requirements. I must say I was pleasantly surprised.  New hotel brands in the area, like the Grand Residences by Royal Resorts, and recent renovations made my visit a real pleasure. The properties along what I refer to as hotel row have a good sense of security which is always important personally and for my groups.

099246Cancun is a gorgeous destination with stunning beaches, aqua blue water and lots of sunshine. I am partial to properties located on the Caribbean Sea.  Many groups especially those incentive ones would definitely fall in love with the destination. 

I left my office in California traveling on Aero Mexico Airlines. We connected through Mexico City and enjoyed on time, pleasant travels. Upon my arrival my pre-arranged ground transportation was awaiting. My driver knew which hotel I was staying which came in handy when I had to track down where I left my camera which managed to fall out of my tote bag. I notified the Concierge Desk and they immediately called the taxi service. I was so happy to have my camera returned.  You all know how distressing it is when something like this happens.  And, you always remember the photos that got away. This helped sell me on Cancun as a destination!

 

By: Lenise Fourcault