Rue La La » Experiences

It’s A Family Fling: The “What’s In My Bag” Kids’ Edition

ruelalablog — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 14:36:44 +0000

WHAT TO PACK FOR A TRIP WITH THE KIDS

By planes, trains, and automobiles — letting a kid pack a bag helps keep a trip fun (and a parent sane). Here’s a list of what’s in our kids’ bag, verified by one staffer’s 8-year-old for complete authenticity.

Once the bag is packed, visit the following Rue Local Picks for hands-on, family adventures (where adults can have fun, too):

Our Tiny Prints Boutique will open at 11AM ET on April 11, 2011.
Harvard Museum of Natural History launches on Rue Boston at 8AM ET on April 11, 2011.
Please Touch Museum launches on Rue Philadelphia at 8AM ET on April 11, 2011.
Yuen Lui Photography Studio launches on Rue Seattle at 8AM ET on April 11, 2011.
Create a Cook launches on Rue Boston at 8AM ET on April 12, 2011.

Rue How-To: 5 Tips for Traveling Like a Local

ruelalablog — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 16:33:39 +0000

WE WANT TO GO: BLISS TRAVELS SHARES TOURING SECRETS

For most of us, vacation time is sacred. So when we treat ourselves to a trip abroad, we want a personalized getaway – not some cookie-cutter trip. That’s why we turned to the experts at Bliss Travels to get insider tips on how to make the most of a tour.

Ask for a walking map
If you like to walk, stroll right past those crammed bus tours and opt for an intimate pedestrian view of the city. Ask your guide to cater a walking map to your interests. And the best part? You can do it on your own time. “Getting crammed onto a bus and shuttled from place to place with different guides with varying degrees of English comprehension gets frustrating,” explains J. F., who honeymooned in the south of France with Bliss Travels. “Your guide can lead you to some of the most breathtaking sights in the region without the regimented style of a tour group.”

Sweat the sights
Don’t love the typical museum-lunch-museum itinerary? No problem. Think of how you like to spend your time – then explore the city that way. One of our favorite alternatives? A sweaty, scenic run. Take in all the sights – and work up an appetite for more local treats.

Get a guided dinner reservation
Every traveler knows to ask around for a local dinner hotspot – but only the most savvy think to ask their guide make the call. Having an in with someone who knows the language means you may score a better table – or even a tableside visit from the chef.

Get close to the action
An unforgettable meal is a treat in and of itself. But if you want an even deeper connection to the city’s culinary scene, you want an in with the people in the aprons. Your guide can get you beyond the dining room and straight to the action in the kitchen. “Nothing made me feel more connected to the people and the food than when I was allowed to look upon a French kitchen,” explains J.D.

Chat with the locals
Hidden gems generally aren’t in your bookstore’s guidebooks – and for good reason. (Wouldn’t you be ticked if your favorite neighborhood spot was overrun with tours?) The best way to get to know a city? Ask someone who lives there! Your guide can hook you up with locals with similar interests – and some may even become lifelong friends. (Like you needed another reason to go back.)

VIDEO: A Deeper Look into the Galapágos

ruelalablog — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 10:28:59 +0000

INSIGHT FROM SVEN OLAF LINDBLAD ABOUT THE FAR-OFF ISLANDS

Nothing says adventure like exploring the distant shores of the world-famous Galapagos Islands. So to tell us why the storybook islands are unlike any place in the world, we turned to the founder of the renowned Lindblad Expeditions.

Our Lindblad Expeditions – Galapagos Boutiques opens Thursday, February 24 at 11AM ET.

Five-Minute Pow-Wow: Chef Tony Mantuano Talks Tastes, Tours, and Italian Soul

ruelalablog — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 12:11:28 +0000

WORLD-RENOWNED CHEF AND HOST OF OUR AUTHENTIC FOODS OF ITALY: TOUR THE ITALIAN COUNTRYSIDE BOUTIQUE SHARES HIS INSIGHT INTO THE FAVORED CUISINE

A culinary tour through Italy is all about the senses – the tastes (first and foremost), the smells, the scenery. And of course, the people who make it all so delicious. Chef Tony Mantuano (maybe you recall him as one of the most revered and beloved contestants of Top Chef Masters) hosts the tour with his wife and culinary partner, Cathy. The expedition departs Rome and journeys through Molise, giving guests “insight into a little-known region’s food, wine, and history.” We sat down with Chef Mantuano for his take on all things Italian.

Rue La La: The itinerary takes Members through several villages and home-style restaurants. What’s your one favorite meal?
Chef Mantuano: The specialty of the region is called Pampanella – delicious and unforgettable. [Editor's note: Pampanella is a pork dish, marinated overnight with garlic and ground sweet pepper.]

Rue La La: When we think Italian, we think hearty pastas, rich sauces, and creamy cheeses. How do you keep it light and healthy?
Chef Mantuano: It’s all about dining Italian-style with sensible portions, vegetables, and wine.

Rue La La: What’s an ingredient we should never compromise on when preparing Italian food?
Chef Mantuano: Aceto balsamico (balsamic vinegar). There is no substitute for the real thing. Also, extra virgin olive oil – it’s the one food I can’t live without. One of the best comes from Molise-Il Traturello, which we will be visiting on this trip.

Rue La La: What’s your ultimate Italian meal?
Chef Mantuano: Insalata di puntarelle (puntarelle chicory salad with anchovy sauce), linguine con vongole (linguine with clams), and abbacchio al Romano (Roman-style roast lamb), all paired with rarified Italian wines (Pigato from Liguria and Brunello di Montalcino, to be specific), an assortment of cheeses, and a good espresso.

Rue La La: What’s one ingredient a chef should always keep on hand?
Chef Mantuano: Capers. They give a distinctive flavor to many dishes, but they are often overlooked when stocking the pantry. Plus, they have a good shelf life.

Rue La La: Describe the power of Italian cuisine in three words.
Chef Mantuano: Satisfying. Healthy. Soulful.

Our Authentic Foods of Italy: Tour the Italian Countryside Boutique opens Wednesday, January 26 at 11AM.

Behind The Scenes at the Lodge at Woodloch

ruelalablog — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 15:58:14 +0000

THE RUSTIC LODGE GIVES US A SNEAK PEEK AT THEIR FAVORITE SPOTS

The Lodge at Woodloch – Hawley, PA Boutique opens Monday, January 24 at 11AM ET.

The Crib Sheet: How to Stick to New Year’s Resolutions

ruelalablog — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 18:59:23 +0000

CANYON RANCH GIVES HEALTHY LIVING TIPS TO TAKE INTO THE NEW YEAR

It’s that time of year again. We’re making resolutions to kickstart the New Year. If you’re anything like us, you get bogged down throughout the year (ok, by the end of the month) and those pledges get left by the wayside. But this year, we’re turning to the wellness experts at Canyon Ranch in Lenox, Massachusetts to help find ways to stick to them.

1. Find an exercise routine that you actually enjoy.
Don’t fret if running is not for you. Anything that elevates your heartbeat for a sustained period is a good cardio workout – the best exercise for you is the one you enjoy most, because you’ll keep doing it. Try classes that look like fun - indoor cycling, boxing, or high-energy dance classes like Zumba®. If you enjoy competitive sports, get your heart going with racquetball or basketball. If you prefer a solo activity, try swimming, cycling, or walking (mile for mile, walking and running yield about equal benefits). If you like to be social, go out dancing, hiking, or kayaking with friends – even a snowball fight works. Your body doesn’t know the difference between exercise and play, it just loves to be active.

2. Plan out your meals in advance.
Always aim for balance, so you’re getting the full spectrum of nutrients. Imagine your day-long plate including plenty of vegetables and fruits, whole-grain carbs and fiber, a moderate amount of protein, and a small amount of fats. The proportions may vary at each meal, but the average should be well-balanced. Try this visual tip: Think of your plate as a painting and use all the colors in your culinary palette. Many nutrients are associated with specific hues, such as beta carotene in orange foods and potassium in white foods like banana and potatoes.

3. Find time for yourself.
Reserve your Sunday nights (or whatever time works best for you) for a calming (sometimes indulgent) activity just for you: a night of magazine catch-up, meditative yoga, or a long bath with soothing oils. And set aside one room for quiet relaxation for any time, a space that’s free of noise and distractions, where you can sneak away in case you’re feeling frazzled.

4. Create a calming home.
People feel rejuvenated as soon as they arrive at Canyon Ranch because of the balance of natural beauty and casual elegance. To create this feeling of tranquility and well-being in your own home, keep all the senses in mind. Include fresh flowers and scents that make your house smell good. Choose art that speaks to you. Play music that suits your mood for calmness or exhilaration. Select furniture and fabrics that feel as good as they look. And if possible, create a garden or outdoor space to enjoy nature.

5. Don’t be too hard on yourself.
Set clear goals, keep track of your progress, and reward milestones. Choose one or two objectives to start, rather than trying to change everything at once. As you achieve each goal, set a new one. It’s easier to stay committed to a specific plan than a hazy intention. If you decide to get 40 minutes of exercise five days a week, record your success. If you commit to eating six vegetable servings a day, mark it in your food log. Give yourself credit each time you meditate, attend a class, or take another step on your healthy journey. When you reach pre-set milestones, treat yourself to something special like a weekend getaway or new outfit.

6. Start fresh.
Kick off your resolutions with a new year’s cleanse. Whether it’s a lavish spa getaway or a peaceful, cell phone-free weekend, you’ll end it feeling refreshed and ready.

Our Canyon Ranch in Lenox, Massachusetts Boutique runs Monday, January 3 – January 6.

Indulgent Extras: Treats for the Fireside

ruelalablog — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 17:07:31 +0000

A RECIPE FOR HOT BUTTERED RUM, THE ULTIMATE S’MORE COMPANION

The Hyatt Lake Tahoe Resort, Casino and Spa is literally chock-full of wintertime activities - from snowy sports on nearby trails to relaxing treatments at the mountain-inspired spa. But there’s one activity in particular that caught our eye: s’more roasting at the fire pits. There’s just something so classic about gathering friends and family for a night of s’mores, stories, and gorgeous lakeside scenery. And the perfect (albeit grown-up) complement to s’mores – hot buttered rum. Here’s an easy recipe for a wintery concoction to top off the toasty treats:

Ingredients:
1 teaspoon of brown sugar 
1 teaspoon of stick butter 
2 ounces of white rum 
4 ounces of boiling hot water (enough to fill the rest of the mug)

Instructions:
1. Mix ingredients in a mug - adding a bit more or less boiling water depending on preference.
2. Let it cool for a minute.
3. Sip, savor, and grab a s’more!

Download the recipe

Our Hyatt Lake Tahoe Resort, Casino and Spa Boutique opens Tuesday, December 28 at 11AM ET.

5 Telling Tidbits: Salvatore Ferragamo Talks Family Wines

ruelalablog — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 01:00:13 +0000

THE INSIDE SCOOP BEHIND THE STORIED FAMILY VILLA

We caught up with Salvatore Ferragamo, grandson of the iconic fashion company’s late founder, for some insider insight about their family estate that he describes as “historic, luxurious, and picturesque.” There are so many amazing details about the estate (and our Tuscan adventure as a whole!) but we’ve zeroed in on five little-known facts about the Ferragamo family, wines, and estate that get us dreaming of the dolce vita.

1. When Salvatore said the property was historic – he meant it. The estate once belonged to the world-famous Medici-Tornaquinci noble family, as well as Italian royals throughout history.

2. The estate’s library is chock-filled with the family’s private collection of books and photographs – a treasure-trove of family heirlooms.

3. Although the family is all about style, the estate’s ambiance is all about homey comfort. So no need to stress, guests are encouraged to dress as formally or casually as they wish.

4. The estate restaurant, Osteria del Borro, specializes in ancient Tuscan recipes reinterpreted by renowned Chef Roberto Bendinelli. Salvatore’s pick for a can’t-miss meal: steak florentine paired with the flagship Il Borro wine.

5. The Ferragamo name doesn’t grace any of the bottles of their estate wines. The family wants the wine to stand on its own delicious merits.

The Ferragamo family estate and winery is only one aspect of the incredible Tuscany: Il Palio & The Ferragamo Estate Boutique – other elements include coveted views of the Il Palio horse race, three nights in an eleventh-century castle, and unparalleled wine country experiences.

The Tuscany: Il Palio & The Ferragamo Estate Boutique opens Monday, December 6 at 11AM ET.

Experiences: The Next Level

ruelalablog — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 14:31:15 +0000

A LOOK AT OUR FIRST VIRTUOSO-CURATED BOUTIQUE, THE CHATWAL HOTEL

Chatwall

We’re so excited to bring Members even more when it comes to Experiences. Here’s a crib sheet of just what we’ve been up to:

More destinations
You may have heard about our partnership with Virtuoso. This elite luxury travel network includes some of our very favorite hotels in the world, so we can bring more top-notch destinations to Members.

Insider expertise
Members now have a coveted resource – the Virtuoso Travel Advisors. Virtuoso Travel Advisors know all the industry tips, have exclusive access to sold-out events, and can provide the extra-special finishing touches that take your trip to the next level.

A new look and feel
We’ve changed the layout of our Experience Boutiques so that they are better fit for travel and spa offerings – we’ve packed them with useful information and great pictures. We hope you’re loving the new look.

Check out The Chatwal Hotel New York
The Chatwal Hotel New York is our first Virtuoso-curated event, and the Virtuoso Travel Advisors are armed and ready with tons of behind-the-scenes exclusives. Once you’ve purchased your Rue La La Experience, the Advisors can help you choose the unforgettable add-ons that turn your vacation into the total package. For The Chatwal Hotel, they’ve gathered up once-in-a-lifetime NYC extras that you can tag on to your trip:

- A backstage tour of a Broadway show
- A makeover with a stylist from What Not To Wear
- A before-hours dance party on the big piano at FAO Schwartz
- A private visit to artists’ studios and galleries
- A shopping tour with a personal shopper

So yes, we’re excited about all the new extraordinary hotels and spas in the pipeline. But we’re even more excited to kick each Experience up a notch. Pull out your calendar – we’ve got amazing offerings coming your way.

Enjoy!