Four Seasons Resort Hualālai R – Summer Retreat Series

Chicago, IL – Picture yourself taking a break to Hawaii Island’s only five-star beachside resort to renew your commitment to your fitness, nutrition and appearance. Imagine having a paddleboard adventure, hiking in a tropical setting or participating in a goal setting workshop to reset your aspirations as well as your attitude.

“Four Seasons Resort Hualālai is a sanctuary for the senses,” remarks Tammy Petersen, President of Retreats Unlimited, “and the perfect setting for the retreats we’re offering this summer to revitalize your body and mind. Indulge in one of these retreats in our unparalleled luxury on the picturesque Kona coast of Hawaii, the Big Island and you’re sure to leave invigorated and inspired.”

July 10-14, 2016

Hawaii Island Boot Camp with Zack Schares

In this active lifestyle retreat, you’ll step up your fitness program, embrace healthier eating and sharpen your style with Zack Schares, a high performance fitness instructor, personal trainer and professional triathlete. Zack’s infectious enthusiasm and “No Excuses” philosophy inspires confidence and makes each session—ranging from a rock climbing excursion or beachside obstacle course to a mini marathon—exhilarating. A goal setting workshop, organic cooking demonstration and fashion show are part of this getaway. Take advantage of the Early Bird Promotion until June 10, 2016, priced at $3,578 USD for double occupancy (shared room) and $4,966 for single occupancy.

July 24-28, 2016

Intense Yoga Immersion Retreat with Sean Phelps

Whether you want to take your yoga practice to the next level or need to revive your passion for yoga, you’ll accelerate your practice at this Intense Yoga Immersion retreat. Sean Phelps is a dedicated daily Ashtanga practitioner and agility and strength training devotee with an avid following throughout the country. In this five-day session, you’ll learn how to sustain and ignite your inner fire and float peacefully, mindfully, and energetically every second you are on the mat. Alignment techniques and breath work will be covered extensively during all sessions. Take advantage of the Early Bird Promotion until June 17, 2016, priced at $3,578 USD for double occupancy (shared room) and $4,966 for single occupancy.

August 21-25, 2016

Total Wellness Made Sexy with Fern Langham and Nikki Sharp

Abundant living through food, fitness, yoga and empowering knowledge are the themes of this retreat.

Fern Langham, founder of ThyroidYoga™, is a wellness expert renowned for her artful approach to self-healing. Nikki Sharp teaches people how to have a healthy relationship with food and their bodies. Together, they will inspire and guide you to adopt simple changes that lead to deeper connections with others, increased serenity and greater happiness. A cooking demonstration, guided meditations and rituals, and workshops on food, relationships and creative visualization are included. Take advantage of the Early Bird Promotion until July 21, 2016, priced at $3,858 USD for double occupancy (shared room) and $5,586 for single occupancy.

All Retreats Include:

5 days and 4 nights at the magnificent Four Seasons Resort Hualālai, Hawaii Island’s only Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond hotel and selected by U.S. News & World Report as the #1 hotel in Hawaii
Full meal plan with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Shuttle service to and from the airport
All taxes, tips and services
Retreats Unlimited daily gift bag

These retreats are being offered by Retreats Unlimited and Wild Wellness Travel. To make a reservation, review the detailed itineraries or for additional information visit Retreats Unlimited or call 312-961-3280.

Retreats Unlimited

Retreats Unlimited is a full-service retreat company offering fitness, self-improvement and wellness vacations. Unlike any other, our retreats and wellness holidays are in destinations that are unique. The resorts are luxurious and each retreat offers unique experiences. http://www.myretreatsunlimited.com/

Wild Wellness Travel

Wild Wellness Travel creates balanced vacations based on a philosophy that includes stress reduction, fitness, cultural involvement, self-care and food education. With these five pillars we promote and offer transformational wellness experiences internationally. www.wildwellnesstravel.com

About Four Seasons Resort Hualālai

Four Seasons Resort Hualālai, set on the picturesque Kona coast of Hawaii, the Big Island, is a magnificent work of destination art. Built into its natural surroundings, the Resort combines history, culture, pure pampering, and true aloha to all who come its way.

Hawaii Island’s only Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond hotel, the Resort features 243 magnificent rooms, including 51 spectacular suites, a signature Jack Nicklaus golf course, a world-class spa and sports club, seven pools, an array of cultural experiences, and active adventures. Award-winning dining is offered, highlighting a regional, seasonal, artisanal approach; while romance abounds, as the Resort specializes in creating spectacular wedding, honeymoon, and anniversary experiences. All the while, the contrast of ancient black lava rock with towering coconut palms, white sand beaches, and azure sea creates opportunities for memories and photographs at every turn. www.fourseasons.com/hualalai

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Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen – Birmingham

We decided to dine at Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen due to our love of Cajun cuisine.  I grew up in the Deep South; born in Mobile, Alabama.  There are several memories of my family fishing and hosting crawfish boils. My aunts would also meet-up (weekly) at my grand mother’s home with a huge pot of Gumbo.  The menu would included fried okra, boiled corn, seafood gumbo, and snow crab legs.

Needless to say, I was excited to fill my stomach with this delicious meal.  I ordered the Jumbo Shrimp Brochette, Dirty Rice with Spinach on the side.  This was no ordinary shrimp because it’s actually wrapped in bacon, infused with jalapeño and Monterey Jack Cheese.  We ended the meal with a shared slice of Chocolate Cake.

“It’s not what we have in our life but who we have in our life that matters” author J. M. Laurence

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PAPPADEUX SEAFOOD KITCHEN
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SHRIMP CREOLE & GRITS
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CHOCOLATE CAKE

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Costa Baja Resort and Spa – Snorkeling with Sea Lions

Costa Baja, Mexico – This summer, give your kids the best vacation stories ever. Take them on an awe-inspiring adventure in the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez, swimming and snorkeling with sea lions. This outing is a memory maker and the perfect bonding experience for inter-generational family trips and large groups. Professional guides host the excursion to the barrier island of Espiritu Santa Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Bio Reserve and it’s a highlight of a tour offered by the Costa Baja Resort and Spa. This all-inclusive resort is located just 10 minutes south of downtown La Paz, the capital of Mexico’s Baja California.

More About Swimming and Snorkeling with Sea Lions

Guests will treasure an hour and 20-minute boat ride, revealing deep blue turquoise waters while their professional guide provides an educational discussion of what to expect upon arriving to Espiritu Santo, a UNESCO world heritage bio reserve. This barrier island is rich in both sea and plant life. Soft beaches, secluded bays, and pristine eco-systems dotted with blue-footed boobies, playful sea lions, jumping dolphin, sea turtles and, in season, grey whales will delight and inspire. Guests will cherish the one of a kind experience of swimming and snorkeling with sea lions. Hungry swimmers will savor a freshly prepared lunch on the beach of Ensenada Grande Island that is surrounded by commanding red rocks and towering cacti. After lunch, a professional guide will lead a discussion about interesting facts about the natural history of the area. This outing includes:

Round trip transportation to the barrier island of Espiritu Santa (Departure in the lobby at 8:00am and return to the resort at 4:00pm)
Visiting and swimming at the sea lion colony
Snorkeling Equipment (mask, fins and snorkel)
Beverages
Boat and captain
-more-

Snorkeling with the Sea Lion Eco Retreat at Costa Baja Resort & Spa, page 2 of 2

The resort also recommends guest pack a camera, sun block, sunglasses, a hat, jacket, and comfortable

swimsuit.

About the Costa Baja Resort and Spa

This all-inclusive Costa Baja Resort and Spa is just 10 minutes south of downtown La Paz, the capital of Mexico’s Baja California. The resort, unmatched in the region, is set on the magnificent Sea of Cortez overlooking a 250-slip marina and a white sand beach. It is nestled like a jewel within 550 acres of environmentally protected costal lands. Just north of the hotel lies Isla Espiritu Santo, a designated UNESCO World Heritage bio reserve, and adjacent waters that offer the best sport fishing in Baja Sur. Costa Baja offers exclusive access and preferred rates at Mexico’s only Gary Player-designed golf course; the tranquil Espiritu Spa featuring locally-inspired treatments and full spa services; three pools and multiple dining options.

Don’t miss this opportunity for the ideal family vacation in a serene, tropical setting. Prices for families start out at $3,889 for a family of four, all inclusive of food and accommodations. This includes all tax and resort fees. Extra nights can also be added on.

This retreat is being offered by Retreats Unlimited. To make a reservation, review this itinerary or for additional information visit Retreats Unlimited or call 312-961-3280. Join Retreats Unlimited on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for upcoming retreat announcements, promotions and discount offers.

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Tampa Beach Dining and Shopping – Mini Vacation Recap

A wise woman once said, “Don’t wear your real studs to the beach.”  This wise woman’s my super feisty mother! (smile)

Last weekend, I took a mini “mommy” vacation and flew to Tampa, Florida.  The trip was long overdue because aside from this website my life has been pretty hectic.  Due to this perspective alone, I grabbed a flight and my cute bags for some pre-summer fun.

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I grew up visiting Florida and knew what to expect in terms of the beautiful scenery and coastal breeze.  My mind was swirling because this trip gave me the opportunity to put a lot of things into perspective and relax near the ocean.

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Aside from the meditation, I enjoyed delicious seafood from Oceancatchers Restaurant at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay.  Leading up to the restaurant was a walk-way of Palm trees (that light up at night) and customers can dine inside or sit near the coast.

The next day we ventured to Clearwater Beach.  I grew up taking family trips to Pensacola, so this brought back several memories.  The sky was crystal clear and the ocean was radiate!   I’m not the one to shy away from the sun because I love a bronzed complexion.

I decided to wear a high-waist bikini which was totally out of my element. I wanted to show moms that you can be attractive and fashionable on the beach.

The reality is that giving birth is a beautiful process.  It’s also an opportunity for self-love and personal growth.  You may not look the exact same but internally you have been renewed in strength.

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Swimsuit from AMICLUBWEAR

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The trip concluded with a visit to International Plaza; walking around to view the local stores.  I’m always fascinated with how people dress in different regions.  Overall, I enjoyed my visit and looking forward to the next summer adventure!

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AFRICAN AMERICAN FESTIVAL PERFORMANCE LINEUP – GOSPEL DUO MARY MARY

GRAMMY-WINNING GOSPEL DUO MARY MARY, “THE VOICE” FINALIST JOE MAYE, BALTIMORE NATIVES EX MUSIC AND R&B BAD BOY RO JAMES ADDED TO THE PERFORMANCE LINEUP AT THE 40TH ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN FESTIVAL

 

MEDIA PERSONALITY KWAME JACKSON ADDED AS EMPOWERMENT TENT SPEAKER

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The African American Festival (AAF) is excited to announce Grammy-winning gospel duo Mary Mary, “The Voice” finalist Joe Maye, Baltimore natives Ex Music and R&B Bad Boy Ro James have been added to performance on the main stage at the 40thannual African American Festival.

Known for such hits as Shackles (Praise You) and Go Get It, sisters Erica Campbell and Tina Campbell are ready to bring Mary Mary’s powerful voices and message to the City of Baltimore.  Baltimore native Joe Maye will perform at the festival for the first time, straight from the hit show “The Voice.”  Ex Music will perform their song “Human,” which is the theme song for the One Dollar for One Baltimore campaign.  With each song downloaded, $1, with a goal of raising $100,000, will be donated to after school programs and summer jobs for Baltimore youth. Ro James, dubbed the “Bad Boy of R&B” will electrify the stage with his viral hit, Permission.

I am excited to come back home to Baltimore and perform on the main stage at the African American Festival, a festival I have attended as a young boy,” said Joe Maye, The Voice finalist.

These talented artists are joining a notable list of performers to include: Common, Estelle, Angie Stone, Anthony Brown & Group Therapy,Goapele, Maurette Brown Clarke and Ruff Endz.

Speaker and Media Personality Kwame Jackson is a successful entrepreneur who has addressed students, aspiring business owners and executives at many of the world’s leading companies. He will uplift and motivate festival attendees inside the Empowerment Tent on Saturday, July 2.

Hosted by actress and producer Vivica A. Fox (Empire, Kill Bill, Set it Off, Independence Day) and actor and writer Jonathon Slocumb (The Steve Harvey Show, Meet the Browns), July 4th weekend is going to be two fun-filled days of entertainment for the entire family.

The African American Festival takes place at the Camden Yards Sports and Entertainment Complex on Lots B & C, between Oriole Park at Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadiums.  Join the conversation on social media by logging on to AAF’s multiple social media platforms:

  • On Twitter by using hashtag: #BmoreAAF40, #BmoreAAF @BmoreAAF
  • On Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/BmoreAAF
  • On Instagram by liking the fan page at Instagram.com/BmoreAAF

Link to Festival Video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZBgQTlo8Rs

The 2016 African American Festival sponsors are: Comcast, Music Choice, Under Armour, Visit Baltimore, BGE, Diageo, Maryland Lottery, Caribbean Digital Network, Verizon, Dynamic Healthcare, EMC, Evergreen, Howard Stirk Holdings (HSH), Maryland Transit Authority, ShopRite, Washington Mass Transit Authority, Morgan State University, StateFarm, Care First, Colgate, Cricket, Whiting Turner, Maryland Highway, Geico and Bluffa Jo Cosmetics.

The African American Festival is hosted by Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and the City of Baltimore and produced by greiBO Entertainment.

For festival updates and more information about the African American Festival, please log on to http://www.africanamericanfestival.net.

New Orleans Cuisine Experience – Maison Dupuy

If you’ve been intrigued with Cajun and Creole-inspired cooking, you won’t want to miss “The Ultimate New Orleans Cuisine Experience”. This unique tour immerses you in the southern hospitality, charm and scrumptious food that personifies

New Orleans. You’ll be a guest in the luxurious in the heart of the French Quarter.

The tours are available in 2016 on June 5-9, June 26-30, July 10-14, August 21-25, September 11-15 and November 27-December 1.  This is a turnkey vacation tailor-made for foodies, home chefs who want to sharpen their skills, and couples and girlfriends seeking an unusual getaway. Prices start at $2,271.00 (double shared accommodation).

You’ll experience the cuisine firsthand in two private, highly interactive cooking classes at the respected New Orleans School of Cooking. The vibrant atmosphere of this perfectly equipped instruction kitchen will leave you excited to learn how to cook Southern favorites and buzz-worthy new dishes. Join your small group in preparing—and enjoying–a delicious Louisiana lunch one day and dinner the next, all with locally sourced ingredients.

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During a food tour through the French Quarter, you’ll meet chefs of some of the most popular restaurants in town, hear their take on food trends and taste several of their offerings.

You’ll be captivated by the Houmas House Plantation and Gardens, a 38-acre estate reminiscent of the stately mansions in “Gone with the Wind.” In a private tour of this “Crown Jewel of Louisiana’s River Road” you’ll explore the grandly furnished house, outbuildings and verdant gardens. Then it’s a stop at the Turtle Bar where the bartender will make a classic Southern cocktail for everyone. Finally, linger over a creole-inspired lunch in a gracious setting.

And as a special treat, join New Orleans’ food critic Tom Fitzmorris for a private dinner in one of the city’s finest restaurants. Lively discussion, foodie wisdom and complex wines make for an unforgettable evening. Fitzmorris knows of what he speaks, as he proves with his popular restaurant blog and radio show.

To prepare for each day, you can opt for a morning yoga class and breakfast in the hotels’ picturesque courtyard surround by five stories of wrought iron balconies overlooking a lush garden, outdoor pool and fountain.

The Retreat: What to Expect

  • Morning yoga and breakfast in Maison Dupuy’s charming courtyard
  • Free time to explore the historic French Quarter
  • Courtyard Welcome Reception
  • Visit Houmas House Plantation and Gardens with luxury transportation
  • Dinner with local food critic Tom Fitzpatrick

The Retreat Includes:

  • 5 days – 4 nights at historic Maison Dupuy in the French Quarter
  • Meal plan which includes breakfast, 4 lunches and 3 dinners (additional meals outside of hotel are not included)
  • Shuttle service to and from the airport
  • Houmas House Plantation excursion
  • 2 cooking classes (lunch and dinner) at the New Orleans School of Cooking
  • All taxes, tips and service at the hotel restaurants
  • Retreats Unlimited daily gift bag

These tours are being offered by Retreats Unlimited. To make a reservation, review this itinerary or for additional information visit Retreats Unlimited or call 312-961-3280. Join Retreats Unlimited onFacebook, Instagram and Twitter for upcoming retreat and tour  announcements, promotions and discount offers.

About the Masion Dupuy

Come and experience one of the few, and most unique New Orleans hotels in the French Quarter, the Maison Dupuy. This elegant hotel is situated just a couple of blocks from the hustle and bustle of Bourbon Street. This luxurious property offers guests a distinct mixture of history and pampering unlike any other and beckons you to relax and escape the hustle of modern life. The hotel’s Bistreaux is a casual concept restaurant that delivers a comprehensive dining experience in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. It offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Other amenities include a fitness center and outdoor pool in a lush courtyard. Business facilities include a business center and 5,697 square feet of function space.

AFRICAN AMERICAN FESTIVAL 2016 – CELEBRATING 40 YEARS

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SINGER/ACTRESS CHINA ANNE MCCLAIN AND BRAVO’S “THICKER THAN WATER” STAR CYRENE TANKARD ADDED TO “THE ROAD TO THE FESTIVAL” EVENT AS PARTICIPANTS AT THE 2016 BROWNGIRL VILLAGE RETREAT

 

Hosted by actress and producer Vivica A. Fox (Empire, Kill Bill, Set it Off, Independence Day) and actor and writer Jonathon Slocumb (The Steve Harvey Show, Meet the Browns), July 4thweekend is going to be two fun-filled days of entertainment for the entire family.

Our newest festival activation, BrownGirl Village, will debut their one day retreat during “The Road to the Festival” events on Saturday, May 21st at the Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore, sponsored by EMC. Produced by Synregy Communications and greiBO Entertainment, this event for girls of color between ages 12-17, will empower and encourage Brown girls in underserved communities to see beyond their current situation and expose them to new possibilities through mentorship, conversation and programming.  More than 100 attendees will participate in breakout sessions, panel discussions which will instill self esteem and encourage them to continue to dream and pursue their goals.  Actress/Singer China Anne McClain (House of Payne, Daddy’s Little Girls, A.N.T. Farm) and Bravo’s “Thicker Than Water” star Cyrene Tankard will join Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Comptroller Joan Pratt to address the young girls in powerful conversation about image, the beauty within and more.

“BrownGirl Village is a great way to partner and give back to the community we live and work in.  This amazing organization also helps us to expand our brand visibility,” says Jackie Glenn, Global Chief Diversity Officer at EMC.

XFINITY Live, sponsored by Comcast and Music Choice, is the hub of the festival’s social media experience onsite and will feature a Twitter wall, live performances and must-see celebrity interviews. Music Choice will be interviewing artists and celebrities, providing candid conversations and behind-the-scenes footage from XFINITY Live. To gain exclusive access to XFINITY Live, visit the XFINITY onsite display or a local XFINITY Store.

 “BrownGirl Village and the African American Festival can only happen with the support of our sponsors and partners.  We appreciate their support and look forward to the exciting activations they are bringing to our attendees this year,” states Shelonda Stokes, CEO at greiBO Entertainment, Producer of African American Festival.

The African American Festival takes place at the Camden Yards Sports and Entertainment Complex on Lots B & C, between Oriole Park at Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadiums.  Join the conversation on social media by logging on to AAF’s multiple social media platforms:

  • On Twitter by using hashtag: #BmoreAAF40, #BmoreAAF @BmoreAAF
  • On Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/BmoreAAF
  • On Instagram by liking the fan page at Instagram.com/BmoreAAF

 

The 2016 African American Festival sponsors are: Comcast, Music Choice, Under Armour, Visit Baltimore, BGE, Diageo, Maryland Lottery, Caribbean Digital Network, Verizon, Dynamic Healthcare, EMC, Evergreen, Howard Stirk Holdings (HSH), Maryland Transit Authority, ShopRite, Washington Mass Transit Authority, Morgan State University, StateFarm, Care First, Colgate, Cricket, Whiting Turner, Maryland Highway, Geico and Bluffa Jo Cosmetics.

The African American Festival is hosted by Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and the City of Baltimore and produced by greiBO Entertainment.

For festival updates and more information about the African American Festival, please log on to http://www.africanamericanfestival.net.

About Comcast Cable:

Comcast Cable is one of the nation’s largest video, high-speed Internet and phone provider to residential customers under the XFINITY brand and also provides these services to businesses.  Comcast has invested in technology to build an advanced network that delivers among the fastest broadband speeds, and brings customers personalized video, communications and home management offerings.  Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA, CMCSK) is a global media and technology company.  Visit www.comcastcorporation.comfor more information.

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Prime Now: Amazon Celebrates Mother’s Day with One-Hour Flower Delivery & Other Essentials

Amazon Prime

From now through Mother’s Day, Amazon’s Prime Now delivery service will offer one-hour delivery of everything you need to make Mother’s Day special including flowers, food and gifts. Whether you’re looking to order a tasty meal from mom’s favorite restaurant, or want to treat her to a breakfast in bed complete with homemade pancakes, Prime Now has everything you need to make it a Mother’s Day to remember.

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In Baltimore, Prime Now is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week. Two-hour delivery is free and one-hour delivery is available for $7.99. The fresh flowers will be available through Mother’s Day, May 8. All Prime members can download the Prime Now app, available on iOS and Android devices, and will be notified when the service is available in their zip code.

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Hilton Chicago: The Perfect Summer Getaway

The Perfect Summer Getaway: Chicago’s Gold Coast Neighborhood

Top Ten Tourist Attractions for Families

The Hilton Chicago/Magnificent Mile Suites is just steps away from some of the most iconic must see Chicago attractions. Families can park their car

and walk in any direction to enjoy one or many unique attractions found on Chicago’s famed gold coast.  Attractions that are great for families include:

–        American Girl Place

–        Chicago’s Pizza Tours

–        Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop / Hershey Chocolate World Store

–        Millennium Park

–        Oak Street Beach

–        Historic Water Tower

–        Chicago Observation Deck

–        Tilt 

–        Water Tower Place

–        Broadway Playhouse

All of this activity calls for a home away from home stay and the Hilton Chicago/Magnificent Mile Suites is just the place for a summer family stay. Recently refreshed spacious suites, offering separate living areas, flat screen TV’s, plus jaw dropping views of Lake Michigan and panoramic city views makes this property a top pick. You won’t want to miss the night time skyline from the top floor pool and fitness center.  It’s a site to behold. An array of eleven unique suites adorned with iconic Chicago themed wall art await guests.

Today’s connected travelers will appreciate free lobby Wi-Fi plus business travelers can also take advantage of connectivity stations and printing capabilities. The property is group and business friendly with 10,000 sq. ft. of versatile meeting space for events to include destination weddings, business and exhibit events. Host a fundraiser for 300 guests in the Lakeshore Ballroom or choose amongst 14 stylish meeting rooms with A/V capabilities: including the Gold Coast Board Room featuring classic lakeside views, and a 52-inch flat-screen monitor.

The resort also provides guests two onsite dining options. The Local – Chicago, a restaurant that infuses local Chicago fare with traditional courses, is a delicious dining experience. Sushi lovers will want to dine at Mirai Sushi featuring a three-star menu of traditional Japanese options layered with a modern day twist – serving the freshest sashimi, specialty rolls and small plates. Families can take advantage of the children’s menu offering kid favorites and adult approved entrees. Of course, the Magnificent Mile and nearby neighborhoods are dotted with unique eateries from fine dining establishments to mom-and-pop neighborhood favorites.

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Flights are available from Chicago O’Hare International Airport or Chicago Midway Airport. The hotel is easily accessible with valet and self parking options: click here for driving directions.

About:

All of this activity calls for a home-away from home stay and the Hilton Chicago/Magnificent Mile Suites is just the place. Recently refreshed spacious suites, offering separate living areas, flat screen TV’s, plus jaw dropping views of Lake Michigan and panoramic city views makes this property a top choice. You won’t want to miss the night time skyline from the top floor pool and fitness center, it’s a site to behold. An array of eleven unique suites adorned with iconic Chicago themed wall art await guests. Upgrade to a Lakeview Suite to savor views of Lake Michigan while business travelers may want to book an Executive Level suite with private access to the Executive Lodge where complimentary breakfast, hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar is available daily.

Ereka Vetrini from TLC Creates Agua Fresca Beverage

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Have you heard of agua fresca? It’s a drink traditionally sold by street vendors throughout Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. This beverage—which is perfect for cooling down on warm days—has recently grown in popularity throughout the U.S. thanks to its refreshing quality.

Today, The Host of TLC’s Sunday Brunch, Ereka Vetrini will introduce you to the refreshing world of agua fresca, and share a few of her thirst-quenching recipes to get your readers prepped for spring and summer.

The recipes Ereka demonstrates will feature the recently released Agua Fresca line from Santa Cruz Organic®. As a pioneer organic brand, Santa Cruz Organic offers a variety of organic, 100 percent juices that you can feel good about drinking.

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Ereka will also share additional tips with our site very soon!

About Ereka Vetrini:

Ereka Vetrini is a TV Host, Lifestyle Expert, Brand Spokesperson, Producer, Blogger and proud mom of two! Tune-in to TLC Sunday Brunch on Sunday mornings as Ereka brings you the very best brunch & cocktail recipes, styling tips and so much more! Ereka is also the host of Lifetime’s Access Health where her and her team bring you the latest cutting-edge developments and innovations in medicine, nutrition and fitness, so women everywhere can take charge of their health, starting today! As the TV spokesperson for AllRecipes magazine, you can catch her in the kitchen at The Today Show, Meredith Vieira Showand The Better Show where she cooks up recipes created by home cooks from across the country. Ereka was the host of Easy Does It on Yahoo! where she interviewed authors, experts and celebrities to uncover everything you need to know about how to simplify family life. As a mother of two, Ereka enjoys spending every spare minute running after her 1st grader and preschooler. Check out her blog BeYOUtifulmoms.com to see how she balances it all and deals with her daily dose of mom guilt.