Wine and Spirits Travel

I don’t usually write about hotels I haven’t been to, but when the Ritz Carlton PR rep approached me with New Year’s Specials and unique drinks at her hotels, I couldn’t resist passing the information along – especially since she’s sharing yummy cocktail recipes! Happy New Year, everyone! from the The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia Ten Arts by Eric Ripert “Green Tea White Chocolate Martini” Created by Steven Diaz 2 oz. green tea mint infused Godiva White 2 oz. vanilla vodka 1 oz. white crème de cocoa House made green tea mint simple syrup Swirl the green tea syrup and green tea mint infused Godiva White around a martini glass Add vanilla vodka and white crème de cocoa Garnish with a strip of white chocolate. from the The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, D.C. Degrees Bar & Lounge “The Sparkling Melange” Created by Christine Moore Veuve Clicquot Champagne St Germain Elderflower liquer Mix and serve up in champagne flute. from the The Ritz-Carlton, Washington,

Between my trips to far off locations like Punta Cana and Champagne , France, I often receive invitations to check out events and places within the two states I am in most – New York and Illinois.   What I didn’t imagine when I headed into New York City a few weeks ago was that I would really be heading into another worldwide adventure. I visited the Hotel Elysée a few months ago.  I loved it, but I didn’t get a chance to experience all it had to offer.  I was determined not to do the same at its sister property, Casablanca Hotel .  The Casablanca offers a whole different atmosphere than the Elysée, with a Moroccan flair and a more laid back feel.  It is literally a stone’s throw to Times Square, in fact, I probably walked by it 100 times in my life and didn’t realize all that was being offered inside.  They offer mini-suite rooms, with a separate living area, perfect for couples and families, but singles like us can also get two queen beds, with free internet and a helpful staff.