For those serious gamblers, for those who perhaps just dabble in gambling, and for those who don't gamble but want to see the action - Reno offers a pleasing diversity of casinos. And most of these casinos feature a large hotel, often in a separate building from the casino (sometimes connected by walkways). The majority of the casinos feature doors that must be pushed open - and once you push through a second set of doors, you are deposited into … [Read more...]
Reno, NV – Restaurants
Any phone numbers listed below are in the (775) area code. Prices mentioned are for dinner unless otherwise noted. Note that there casino's often contain multiple restaurants within their confines. The ones listed below are simply a few restaurants out of the overall Reno dining scene. Restaurants Archie's is located across from the University of Nevada Reno and as a result sees a good crowd of college students at … [Read more...]
Guadalajara, Mexico – Plaza Tapatia
This prominent and massive plaza located along Avenida Hidalgo is one of only a few plazas in Mexico with a footprint that extends in all four directions (similar to the shape of a thick cross). A cathedral is located in the center of the plaza. Plaza Tapatia is seven blocks long with Teatro Degollado at the west end and Cabanas Cultural Institute at the east end. Numerous shops and stores surround the plaza - anchoring all of its sides. This … [Read more...]
Guadalajara, Mexico – Hotels
Because Guadalajara is so spread out geographically, driving distances between hotels can be as much as 30+ minutes. Note: some of these hotels are located in Tlaquepaque, an artisan based suburb about 20 minutes from downtown Guadalajara. We have visited, stayed or received recommendations for most of the ones listed below. Readers have also emailed us their comments about some of these hotels and in some cases have suggested additional … [Read more...]
Guadalajara, Mexico – Restaurants
From personal experience visiting other Mexican cities including Guadalajara, I have found that the cleanest restaurants and the ones with generally very good food are located in larger hotels. However, one should not overlook the smaller restaurants - do not rely solely on online ratings, ask locals for recommendations. Any prices listed are rough estimates for the cost of dinner for one person. However, most of these restaurants serve lunch … [Read more...]
Guadalajara, Mexico – Hotel Frances
We highlight this hotel on its own page within our Guadalajara guide because of its uniqueness as being the oldest hotel in the western hemisphere. Hotel Frances Guadalajara is located in the heart of Guadalajara's downtown historic district, within a short walk of Plaza Tapatia, address: Maestranza 35. Hotel Frances was founded in 1610; it was renovated and restored in the early 1980's. Priced reasonably with plenty of old world charm. During … [Read more...]
Hopland, CA – Wine Tasting
Tiny Hopland contains a number of tasting rooms which deliver down to earth experiences for visitors - focusing on wines from Mendocino County. Although there are many wineries in Mendocino County including a number of tasting rooms in Hopland, this area does not have the recognition that perhaps Napa and Sonoma County have obtained over the decades. For the consumer, that is not a bad thing. Mendocino County is producing some stellar wines (the … [Read more...]
Manzanillo, Mexico – Restaurants
Most of the fancier restaurants are located on or quite close to beaches. There is also a good selection of restaurants in or near the center of town surrounding the primary zocalo (public square). Most of the good restaurants will serve bottled water instead of tap water. However, I recommend asking if they serve bottled water at all restaurants you eat at. Or simply drink beer. Restaurant Bar Roca del Mar is located on the east side of … [Read more...]
Monterey, CA – Carmel
Carmel is a picturesque small town with a variety of art galleries, boutique hotels and tucked away restaurants. To some people Carmel may be categorized by only two words: art galleries. This town was established in 1904 by a group of artists and writers as a retreat center. The original flavor of the town is still preserved today. It has a unique individuality and small village charm. There are many different architectural styles, many … [Read more...]
Monterey, CA – Monterey Restaurants
Monterey has a great selection of restaurants. This city is known for excellent seafood and this is easy to see, considering Monterey is situated on the coast. If these restaurants have been rated we will be sure to include a rating. The prices listed below are for dinner only. Most of the good restaurants in the town of Monterey are located at Fisherman's Wharf or along certain sections of Cannery Row or in the downtown area. Prices … [Read more...]