My Travels

I'm here for a couple of days for family reasons. I was put into First Class on a United flight and wasn't sure if it was because they had room or that I requested a wheelchair. In any case, it was a pleasant experience particularly for my companion. I also found the snack box amusing and it was sufficient for my needs. Too bad, I can't get the return flight in the same class! ;p As this is my first time travelling with special needs, it was interesting going through the airports escorted about even through customs. I don't know if it was faster than walking around but it certainly was interesting the routes they take you through the airport. Grabbed a Nissan Versa from Avis after landing. I haven't driven one in awhile and I think it has somewhat improved in handling. The mileage remains undetermined since I can't figure out liters to gallons to miles per gallon.... I checked into the Hilton Vancouver Metrotown hotel. I haven't been in a few y...

First trip to Vegas for 2010. I chose to stay at the Las Vegas Hilton from a promotional email they sent. Those things actually work time to time and I was able to snag the $60/night room rate which included a couple of free drinks and breakfast buffets. There were also an assortment of coupons for the various eateries in the hotel but I didn't utilize them. When we first arrived, we decided to grab a late night snack at the HofBrauhaus . I've actually never went and have seen the restaurant many times while in Vegas. It reminded me of a smaller versin of the Alpine Village in Torrance or Old World in Hungtington Beach. The food seemed ok to me and I don't recommend any of the desserts. I had a very good glass of reisling though! Afterwards, checked into the hotel. I've come to the conclusion that any room that requires you to go to the "Central Tower" elevators is bound to be a dissappointment. The room was very worn and could use some TLC. It was ...

A somewhat impromptu trip, I was incentivized by United Airline's cheap fare and discount coupon expiring to head out to the east coast. So here I am this weekend, out to enjoy some good eats and see some friends in the city. Arrived rather late and was able to crash at a friend's place in Brooklyn. Nearing midnight, she was able to take us to a local bar that still served food. Bar Tabac is sort of french gastropub. I had an assortment of brochettes from the bistro bites section of the menu and the brochettes were very good. My favorite was the lamb kebab, excellently prepared. On a side note, the bar takes only cash or Amex....not sure why only Amex but c'est la vie. My friend also introduced me to panache - a half sprite and Stella Artois beer combination. Good stuff. Took off for the city the next day and checked into the Hampton Inn Manhattan Chelsea . The hotel has been around for a little bit. As expected, the hallways and lobby felt a little small but t...