The Hotel Concierge: A Savvy Travelista's Best Ally

Hotel Life at Sanderson London

The hotel concierge.  Outdated?  Non-essential?  Think again.  A good hotel concierge is worth his or her weight in gold…and can become a Travelista’s best ally for making the most out of what your destination has to offer.

After check-in and settling into my digs, the concierge desk is typically one of my first stops for embarking on my travel adventures.  Not recommended to displace your own research, local foraging and adventure, a concierge, instead, can serve as an added resource in your travel arsenal.

The best concierges have an exceptional network and well-rounded grasp on the local area—from the best restaurants, to entertainment venues, to sporting events, shopping, local tours—or whatever it is that you have a desire to experience during your journey.
 
For instance, when I traveled to London for the first time, I knew that my first meal upon arrival would be fish and chips.  However, to ensure I was going to enjoy the best fish and chips London has to offer, I consulted my concierge and within minutes was on my way to experience an authentic and delicious meal—that didn’t disappoint.   Along with recommending places to nosh, concierges will usually make reservations for you and your party.  It works because there’s an obvious vested interested for all parties involved (you, the hotel brand and the restaurant) to ensure your experience is second-to-none.

Beyond dining options and assistance, concierges are great for helping to secure tickets to sporting and entertainment events.  This was a big bonus when I wanted to attend the French Open during one of my trips to Paris.  My wish became my concierge’s command—and the rest was history.  Hassle-free travel at its best, I like to say.

I also typically prefer to book local tours and excursion packages through the concierge desk, rather than in advance.  I find the additional “insider knowledge” that a concierge brings to guests to be a welcomed plus in choosing from the myriad choices presented by local operators.  There’s just something reassuring about having the input of someone who does it day in and day out.

If you’ve already mapped out the majority of your travel agenda and related details prior to arrival, a concierge can still be invaluable for assisting with the best driving and/or public transportation routes, private cars, maps and other lesser travel matters.  They’ve even been known to provide an umbrella when needed! 

In essence, a hotel concierge represents an extension of your travel savvy resources, which makes experiencing a destination in its fullness a true delight, without any extra heavy lifting.   So the next time your accommodations include a hotel stay, remember to keep your concierge top of mind and make the most of your newfound ally!

Happy Travels!

This article originally appeared on TravelistaTV.

Travel Etiquette 101: 3 Steps for Making Every Journey a Success

More than a list of do's and don'ts, etiquette, at the core, is about consideration, courtesy and respect.  And while you may not be able to master the varying customs and norms of every culture, the universally guiding principles of good manners (also known as the golden rule) will carry you far and leave you in good (social) graces.

So wherever your travels take you next, remember to bring along these simple travel etiquette tips for a successful journey.

• Smile!  A smile can hardly ever be interpreted as anything other than warm, friendly and welcoming.  It's an indispensable asset for establishing positive connections.  

• If traveling abroad, learning a few basic words or phrases in the local language will both endear you to the locals and enhance your connection.  It's a small sign of respect that will take you far and garner the willingness of others to help you, ultimately making your experiences more rewarding.

• Relax and remain open to learn new things!  Each journey should enrich your cultural and social I.Q.    

With these tips in tow, being a great global citizen will be easier than ever.

Happy Travels!

This post originally appeared on TravelistaTV.

Link Love: Summer Travel

If ever there was a time to pack a suitcase and head out into the world, Summer has to be it.  And for good reason.  The days are longer, the weather is warmer, and if you've been in hibernation, you're likely eager to emerge and explore.  

Whether your penchant is for solo travel, top foodie destinations, luxury getaways, or you're seeking tips for making the most of your journey, I've rounded up my favorite inspirations from around the web to get you on your way.  Now all that's left to do is...just go!

Have Food, Will Travel

I've been known to arrange my travel around a destination's food offerings, so I understand this foodie inclination.  If you can relate, then you'll appreciate--no, welcome--this list of the best American cities for foodies. {Conde Nast Traveler}

Party of One

I've definitely expanded my horizons as a solo traveler over the last several years.  Not that I mind the splendored benefits of companionship (I adore them, actually), but I find equal fulfillment in striking out for solo adventures and the excitement they bring.  Whether you're seasoned at going it alone or looking to take the leap, you'll be well-suited with this list of the world's best destinations for solo travel.  {Huffington Post}

Plane, Train, Automobile

Who said luxury travel was reserved for the jet-set, cruise-set or road-trippin'-set?  Taking to the rails can--and most definitely does--include travel of indulgent proportions.  These luxury vacations by train will help you redefine the art of travel. {Pure Wow}

Before You Go

No matter how often the travel bug strikes, you can never be too prepared.  And that's where savvy travel tips from how to pack to navigating airfare purchases to savings tips to getting the most out of your journey with the proper travel etiquette, will leave you in good stead and ready to focus on what matters most: enjoying the journey. {Travel + Leisure, Creative Native, The New York Times, D.M.R. Fine Foods}

So here's to a Summer filled with adventure, relaxation, new memories and...

Happy Travels! 
P.S. Need more inspiration? Visit our Travel page!

Photo Credit

{In Case You Missed It}: 2013 Highlights

One of my favorite moments of 2013: In Puerto Vallarta with Chef Thierry Blouet

With only a few hours remaining in what has been an inspiring, amazing--and, yes, delicious--year, I wanted to share a few of the highlights that have made this year so special for me and D.M.R. Fine Foods.

From favorite recipes, to exciting new (and long-standing) collaborations with stellar brands, to travel, lifestyle inspirations, and more, 2013 was special indeed.  And the best part of it all was sharing it with you--my readers and followers.  I hope you were inspired, and I look forward to continuing our adventure in the New Year ahead.

I captured some of my favorite moments in this fun & quick video collage, so enjoy!

Here's to the Happiest of New Years & Happy Eating!

Las Vegas {In 3 Bites}

This decadent chocolate fountain = one of my delicious Vegas discoveries

When you think of Las Vegas, you probably think bright lights, sin big city.  But you should also think of it as an amazing foodie destination, that boasts some of the culinary world's biggest and best chefs and their standout cuisine.

During my last visit to this West Coast hot spot, I took in some fun, creative and chic eats that made my time in Vegas nothing short of delicious.  Discover three of my not-to-be-missed favorites in my latest post on TravelistaTV.

Happy Eating!

Seriously Seeking Good Eats: NYC Edition

Fresh off the heels of my latest Summer getaway to my favorite, favorite New York City, I am refreshed, recharged and grateful for all the experiences and memories that I continue to gain during my time spent in this city.  As a food, culture, fashion and art mecca, my visits are typically mapped out to experience a bit of it all--everything that makes NYC one of the most exciting and indulgent cities that I've had the pleasure to come across.

And my recent jaunt was no different, as I set out with a clear mission to discover and partake in some of the best eats NYC has to offer.  (And in case you're wondering, it was a mission accomplished!)  I share the delicious details in my newest post on Travelista TV, so enjoy and tell me what some of your favorite food and travel destinations are.

Happy Eating!

Tastes of Paris: A Cookbook Curated Experience

If you've ever been to Paris, or have plans of going someday, then you can attest to the beautiful--and delicious--experiences that await throughout the City of Light.

My last visit was especially unforgettable, thanks in no small part to the delectable and enchanting shops, stores, food, people and memories I experienced--as curated by one of my favorite cookbooks, of all things!  

Discover how my journey unfolded, along with some gems for when you go, in my latest post on Travelista TV and garner your own dose of food and travel inspiration!

Happy Eating!

Travel. Cuisine. Culture. Lifestyle. with Travelista TV!

I'm always excited to let you in on the good things happening with me and the exciting things to come for my D.M.R. Fine Foods readers and followers. Occasionally, I share a window into my love for travel here on the blog, highlighting memories, cuisine, destinations and inspiration that fuel my life and fuse my many passions.  

And now I'm elated to share that I have joined the amazing team at Travelista TV, where I will have the pleasure of continuing that fusion--sharing more of the things I love around the world of travel, cuisine, culture, lifestyle and entertainment--some of the things that make life vibrant, exciting and worth the journey!

I fell in love with the Travelista TV brand at first sight and this collaboration is more than exciting to me.  In fact, I'm already planning my first post that will serve up a delicious mix of foodie and travel tips, so stay tuned!  

In the meantime, be sure to checkout Travelista TV across the web and become inspired by the amazing founders, Travelista Teri and Travelista Andrea, as well as the rest of the dynamic team!  You are sure to be as inspired as I am.

Happy Eating, Travels--and Living!