Red Mountain Spa in St. George, Utah

Utah’s Red Mountain Resort, Where Guests Find Their Own Path to Wellness

By: Jessica Turner

Here there are no celebrity gurus; the scenery is the celebrity,” states Tracey Welsh, General Manager of Red Mountain Resort. Indeed, the panoramic views of majestic red sandstone mountains are awe-inspiring; the mountains seem to encircle you with an energy that is perhaps more calming than anything I’ve heard from my therapist, my yoga instructor, or the dozens of podcasts I’ve downloaded from various self-help gurus in the year since my marriage imploded.

I am here at Red Mountain Resort, traveling solo, to celebrate having survived said year, take stock, and re-charge my batteries. I want some serious “me” time. I want to enter year two of single motherhood, small business ownership, and a never-ending string of commitments refreshed, relaxed, and in tune with my priorities. I want breathing room, space, and I want to find my own path to getting and feeling better. I could not have found a more ideal place to do so than this gem of a resort in Ivins, Utah, outside St. George.

Just a short flight on United from LAX and a two-hour drive from Las Vegas, the resort’s location is ideal for a quick getaway from L.A.  (Shuttle service is available from both St. George and Las Vegas.) It is in close proximity to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks, and Snow Canyon State Park is only a quarter mile away.

It is dark when I arrive at Red Mountain Resort and a bit cold. (Be forewarned — this is the desert, so temperatures fluctuate and layers are advised, especially in the winter months!) I am thrilled to enter my villa suite to find a roaring gas fireplace and, in the bathroom, a ginormous jacuzzi bathtub. I take a hot bubble bath, curl up in my robe to read a book by the fire, and eventually fall blissfully asleep. If this were all I experienced here, I’d be forever grateful for this moment of peace. But it isn’t even the tip of the iceberg, as I’m soon to find out.

Relaxation Room

One of the wonderful things about Red Mountain Resort is that unlike at some other spa resorts, where one’s daily activities and caloric intake are regimented, guests are welcome to be as active -— or as inactive — as they wish. While there is daily guided hiking in the local canyons, a Zion National Park hiking adventure, a cooking demo and a hike with local pound puppies on offer my first morning here, I opt to sleep in a bit on my first day — another untold luxury for a working single mom. Around 10 o’clock I amble over to the Fitness Studio for a yoga session.

After yoga, to the Canyon Breeze for lunch, and am delighted to find that there are communal tables available for solo travelers, or for non-solo-travelers who simply wish to meet fellow resort guests. I meet several really interesting women who are also traveling by themselves — a chiropractor from D.C., a pharmaceutical sales rep from New York City, an accountant from L.A. We bond immediately over the resort’s delicious, fresh cuisine (Hawaaian yellow fin tuna with wasabi mashed potatoes, daikon radish salad, crispy rice noodles and tamari, anyone? Or perhaps molasses-seared cervena venison with sun dried tomato-blueberry compote, chipotle goat cheese polenta?) Everyone is eager to share their experiences and tips about what classes and spa treatments to take.

This is helpful, because the plethora of activities available at Red Mountain Resort is overwhelming, in a good way. Upon arrival I receive a docket with a list of daily activities. Most are covered in the all-inclusive rate (which also covers accommodations and meals.)   Some of the included activities are the aforementioned daily guided hikes, yoga, Tai Chi, Boot Camp with TRX and Power Pilates. There are also signature classes such as DRUMS ALIVE® (a fun, active class in which balance balls are used as “drums”), and MELT® classes, which teach gentle self-care techniques to reduce inflammation, back and neck strain, and foot and hand pain. There are also free cooking demos, bicycling, swimming and seminars on a wide array of health and personal wellness topics.

Fitness center at Red Mountain Spa

For an additional fee, guests can participate in any number of amazing activities. While there I went horseback riding in Snow Canyon with a bona-fide cowboy named Matthew, hiked the Anasazi Ridge under a full moon with Certified Reiki Master Bud Howard (who later provided me with near-transcendental private Reiki therapy session), and experienced a Life Path Reading and Sound Healing with Shaman Spirit Guide Betina Lindsey, which was a little out-there for me but which also undeniably left me feeling calmer, clearer, and inspired.

My daily schedule at Red Mountain Resort fell into a pleasant routine of waking up late, reading a book in bed, getting up for coffee, then yoga, gourmet lunch, another fitness class or activity, ending with a luxurious spa treatment at day’s end.

One could sit in the relaxation room at the Sagestone Spa & Salon at Red Mountain Resort and be lulled into calmness simply by looking at the view — giant floor-to-ceiling windows look out onto the red mountains; after my first visit to the spa I made a point of arriving early so that I could fully enjoy this view while sitting in my incredibly plush robe sipping hot tea. The spa’s treatments use native therapies and indigenous plants unique to southern Utah. Try the Warm Lava Detox Wrap, the Soothing Agave Ritual salt scrub and agave nectar oil massage, or the Desert Rain massage, which incorporates the use of seven Vichy showers.

At the end of my blissful four days at Red Mountain Resort, I realized that for the first time since my arrival, I had a problem… I had not scheduled a long enough stay! There was so much more to see and do. I felt relaxed, rejuvenated, but I wanted more. Indeed, many of the new friends I met during my visit were second — or third-time visitors. I plan to be one, too, for I have come to adore Red Mountain Resort’s approach — letting guests pick and choose their own path to wellness while providing many tools, knowledgeable staff and a warm, safe environment to help one get there. And it helps that their “star” — the stunning red cliffs and canyons of southern Utah, will always be there, shining in the desert sun.

The Essentials:

Red Mountain Resort

www.redmountainresort.com

Reservations: online or at 877-246-4453

The Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui

By Frank DiMarco

When we think of big resort hotels, we sometimes default to thinking there will be waste issues regarding food, trash, laundering and energy. It is with delight when we discover a major destination property that is making a commitment to sustainability principles.

As guests at the Fairmont Kea Lani, set on lovely Polo Beach on the Valley Isle of Maui you might get a hint of this commitment with your first Mai-Tai by one of the pools, served in a “glass” made of corn (and 100% compostable). It doesn’t stop there.

During a recent stay, we learned a great deal more about the Kea Lani’s sustainability efforts on Maui and the significant corporate commitment by the Fairmont’s global properties. For example, by the end of 2013, Fairmont’s goal is to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to 20% below their 2006 levels, the equivalent of taking 19,777 cars off the road annually. Look for Electric Car charging stations coming later this year, a developing addition to Maui travel. Leftover food donations to local food banks, farm-to-table sourcing and on-site “Green Teams” prove that this is not just a “trendy” corporate nod, but also a way of life for the Fairmont culture since 1990.

The Fairmont Kea Lani actively engages its guests to be partners in this great effort and we found ourselves easily tuned-in and mindful, thanks to the hotel’s examples, led by General Manager Charles Head, a cheerful host, custom-made for the modern hospitality industry. He is the real deal.

The remarkable art in the Kea Lani lobby invokes the history of Hawaii.

Amenities. Big ones, small ones, lots of them. The little touches that you remember. Have you ever been to a WSUE Resort (World’s Slowest and Ugliest Elevators)? The Kea Lani’s elevators arrive quickly and are beautifully designed. Expect top of the line Rose 31 eco-products by Le Labo in the spacious bathroom(s), great in-room coffee and tea service, and high-quality linens and down pillows. Staff attitude? Aloha says a lot but let’s just say “Aloha-Plus” for this staff. How do they remember who we are by name? Do they have chips installed?

Whoever came up with the all-Suite resort concept was brilliant. With 413 of these 800 square-foot-plus ocean-view suites and 37 very private ocean-view villas (each with their own small pool), the Kea Lani is a sweet spot in resort size. Add to that a very unique location tucked in the Polo Beach cove and you have a feeling of privacy in the heart of Wailea.

The whale watching, in season, from your private lanai, libation-in-hand, is, well, the stuff of dreams. Speaking of Lanai, that’s the island right out your window.

Service gets to you fast because the resort is adequately staffed with well-trained and motivated employees (each of whom is imbued with the culture of the property and Hawaii by going through a comprehensive cultural training program run by the resort’s own cultural advisor).

There is, of course, lots to do on Maui: from the top of Haleakala to the snorkeling and myriad water sports; to the great helicopter tours, upcountry touring and the gorgeous marathon drive to Hana…but, if you just want to stay put, the Kea Lani makes it easy. This property clearly wants you to relax and enjoy everything. For off-property adventures the Concierge desk is at your service, and will arrange for just about any activity.

The best deal is to get the Sunnyside Breakfast Package when you reserve. This is a real value. We’re not normally big buffet fans, but the Kea Lani Restaurant somehow re-wrote the book on resort breakfast buffets. From Chef Irwin or Chef “Smiley” at their made-to-order omelet stations, to the huge fresh fruit bar and fresh pastries (the apple strudel and the mango cobbler), with staff bringing fresh pots of coffee, refreshing your water and juice (or mai tai)…well, maybe you’ll be lounging at the hotel today. And if you are off for an adventure, this breakfast will fortify you. (You can also order from the menu, but value-wise, go for the Breakfast Package).

The delicious, quiet adult pool at the Kea Lani offers relaxation and full pool-side service.

Later in the day, other dining options will tempt you to stay on the property: Nick’s Fishmarket Maui is a seafood and steak establishment, with a great terrace and a lively bar; and the Polo Beach Grille and Bar is a poolside, casual daytime place where friends gather and includes a handy swim-up bar; and Caffe Ciao Bakery and Deli is open from early morning to late night and has a wide range of food options including custom picnic baskets.

We found the poolside service to be excellent. The nicely tranquil adult pool is great for guests who wish to be without kids for a little while. Snacks and beverages are brought to your small chaise-lounge tables. Hint: Go for the Kalua-Pork Quesadilla with Mango Salsa. Zesty!

Overseeing all this terrific food is a Chef of great renown, Tylun Pang. He is also the driving force behind one of Hawaii’s great authentic restaurants, Kō, which was the dining highlight of our Fairmont Kea Lani stay. There is so much to say about Kō and the integration of Hawaiian home cooking that we are dedicating a separate article to the restaurant and Chef Pang’s commitment to local food sourcing and environmental stewardship. That said, one meal at Kō will open your eyes and palate to the cultural influences on contemporary, Hawaiian cuisine. Move over fusion; let’s get down with some plantation-inspired home cooking. An over-arching quality for any deluxe property is the amount of return business. At the Kea Lani we asked staff members about this and the story was consistent: Families have been coming here year after year. In fact, many employees have worked at the property for many years and have seen children grow, and return with their own families. These are qualities of a destination property that can’t fit into any metric but are as important as any.

Fairmont-Kea Lani

4100 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753

(808) 875-4100

www.fairmont.com/kea-lani-maui/

Grand Hyatt Resort Kauai

Grand Hyatt Resort Kauai

The check-in experience was royal: I was met with a beautiful flower lei greeting, valet parking, and warm smiles from the staff — a true reflection of the aloha spirit. Once I arrived in my beautiful deluxe ocean view room, the marble floors, beautiful decor, and private lanai overlooking the majestic Pacific Ocean astonished me. I just didn’t expect that. The housekeeping staff greeted me to ensure that the room met my needs while offering turndown service, chocolate, and extra amenities. I truly felt like a royal.

The property offers a seemingly endless variety of dining, shopping, and leisure activities. There is literally something for everyone. I spent much of the day at the beach wading in the beautiful surf and watching other visitors enjoy surfing and boarding. Other visitors just lay on the sand, soaking up the warm Hawaiian sun; including the local endangered Hawaiian Monk Seal who lay unhindered by the beach-goers passing close by and taking pictures of him.

Although it was easy to sleep-in late in my cozy deluxe ocean view room, I made my way down to the ‘Ilima Terrace each morning where I enjoyed a beautiful breakfast buffet as I watched the whales bathing just off shore.

Afternoon and evening dining choices are also plentiful with several fresh and tasty local dining experiences for any budget. The drinks are spectacular, with my personal favorite being the Tai Chi (the Grand Hyatt’s unique take on the traditional Hawaiian Mai Tai). I indulged in a few of these delicious treats while enjoying the live entertainment at Stevenson’s Lounge and the authentic Hawaiian Luau at the Seaview Terrace.

Napali cliffs and whale watching

If guests wish to venture off the property, the helpful and knowledgeable staff at the Grand Hyatt can help you with activities.  I decided to take a dinner cruise tour of the Napali coast at sunset with Blue Dolphin Charters. The tour was amazing — many breath taking views of the Napali cliffs, plus delicious local Hawaiian cuisine and mixed drinks on board for the guests.  Perhaps the most exciting part of the tour was the chance to see whales bathing off the coast and leaping out of the water.  They put on a spectacular show for all to see.

1571 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756
(808) 742-1234
http://kauai.hyatt.com/

Koa Kea Resort

Koa Kea Resort

If a smaller and more intimate luxury resort experience is more your style, then you will love the Koa Kea Resort. The first thing you will notice about the property is the spacious modern lobby with beautiful decor. Every aspect of the property is maintained with immaculate attention to detail. The Koa Kea offers all the high quality amenities that one would expect in a Hawaiian luxury resort such as easy access to beautiful beaches, pool, jacuzzi, gym, and a full service spa. All services are delivered with warm greetings and smiles from the staff: everyone expresses the spirit of aloha. When looking for a great dining experience while at the Koa Kea, there’s really no need to leave the property. In addition to their great room service throughout the day, the Koa Kea features the highly acclaimed Red Salt Restaurant. Red Salt offers an upscale dining experience; both in terms of the food, decor, and service. The menu at Red Salt offers a wide variety of fresh local seafood choices and excellent land fare for meat lovers.

If you do decide to dine off property, there are several excellent choices but nothing like authentic Mexican cuisine done the Tortilla Repulic way.

The key word is “fresh” Modern Mexican cuisine done right. Decor is modern and the atmosphere is comfortable with beautiful authentic equipales chairs from Mexico. Famous for their margaritas, I tried the “Perfect Margarita” made with Sauza Hornitos Reposado, Patron Citron and all fresh homemade lime sweet. For appetizers, I ordered the Civiche and Pedro’s tableside guacamole with house made tortillas. For dinner I enjoyed the Seared Ahi Tuna and Chicken Enciladas with Mole sauce and still managed to save a little room for Chocolate Flan Cake and Churros. The food is authentic but sophisticated modern Mexican done in a very honest and non-pretentious way.

The next morning I discovered that the gastronomic experience at Tortilla Republic isn’t limited to its dinner menu. I found myself back for an authentic Mexican breakfast. The Huevos Rancheros and the Relleno Poblano were the best I’ve tasted north of the Mexican border.

2251 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756
(808) 828-8888
http://www.koakea.com/

The Hotel Wilshire is the perfect place to rest as you explore the Los Angeles art scene. Located in the heart of the Miracle Mile section of Wilshire and minutes (by walking) away from LACMA and various other galleries with great proximity to West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Century City. The hotel is eco friendly without sacrificing style.

The Hotel Wilshire features 55 Guestrooms and 19 Suites, including a rooftop Penthouse Suite. In addition to in-room dining, guests can enjoy a rooftop experience at the hotel’s restaurant, The Roof on Wilshire with its vibrant American cuisine and panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills. The many guest amenities include a business center, complimentary wireless Internet access in all areas, concierge services, overnight valet parking, same day laundry service, and an executive boardroom.

Let’s face it: Hollywood does things to people. We are drawn to movie making, stardom, glamour, and the trappings of fame and celebrity. This is not a new thing. Even the most jaded of us will get a little wonky when the buzz of celebrity is close by. And the nucleus for all this continues to be Hollywood.

So it figures that somebody would build a luxurious hotel smack in the middle of it. Which is exactly what a legendary group of people did in 1927, with names like Mayer, Pickford, Fairbanks and Grauman involved. Two years later the very first Academy Awards were held in the hotel’s “Blossom Room.” Walking into this beautiful, historic room is to feel some magic of those first glamour days of the American film industry. And this is only a small part of exploring this great hotel.

The construction and decor of The Roosevelt is a wonderful example of early Southern California style and architecture, lovingly restored and preserved by the Thompson Hotel Group. From the polished floor tiles to the clever, intricate deco ceilings and wall reliefs, the eye is dazzled. Chandeliers and lobby and lounge lighting fixtures are simply amazing.

And the scene. Understated, humming, wink-and-a-nod cool, it is clear that this is a place a celebrity or business group can seek quiet, and a little anonymity. The Roosevelt provides quite a few venues to make this happen and they each do their job in unique ways: The Spare Room, with its leathered elegance, clubby game tables, and two-lane bowling alley (with on-site bowling coach) is a favorite for celebrities and guests. Windows out to Hollywood Boulevard help keep an eye on the crowds across the street at Grauman’s Chinese Theater. The intimate Teddy’s, and the mixology fan’s dream, The Library Bar, are must-stops for any stay at The Roosevelt as well.

The famous David Hockney-painted pool, with its adjacent Tropicana Bar, emphasizes the understated, privacy-focused nature of The Roosevelt. While it can be a wonderful party at the cocktail hour and is frequently the site of record label and movie launch parties, this area of the hotel retains its exclusive character with the help of the attentive and professional hotel staff. Business gets done around this pool and in the adjacent cabana rooms.

Rated by the Los Angeles Times as serving one of L.A.’s best burgers, 25 Degrees restaurant in The Roosevelt is a cozy, friendly and casual eatery. Belly up to the counter and have a delicious milkshake (or a martini) with your burger. The fries are memorable as well. The Public Kitchen and Bar, with its plush banquettes, is another place to dine in the hotel, a big enough room to get a feel for the Roosevelt’s venerable history.

The rooms have a modernist feel to them without trying to be too cute and there is enough of a range of options all the way up to the Marilyn Monroe Suite, or the Gable Lombard Penthouse to suit any needs, and the valet parking at The Roosevelt is well run, safe, and worth the price. This historic hotel has a long life ahead of it. Enjoy!

Poolside Cabana at Mr C Beverly Hills

In Los Angeles we love our hotels and in Beverly Hills we promote them to an iconic status. The new Beverly Hills hotel, Mr. C Beverly Hills is a welcome addition to the leisure scene — and they’ve done it right!  First, start with the fabulous pool with cabana service, second, a hot (meaning so cool you can’t believe it!), restaurant with splendid food and a happening scene, and third, spacious rooms with the best in luxury amenities and high tech offerings. This new hotel is first-rate — in fact, brilliant!

Mr. C Beverly Hills is a family business, owned and managed by Ignazio and Maggio Cipriani, two young entrepreneurs of Italian descent, whose family has been in the hospitality business for several generations. They have a large collection of properties globally. Mr. C Beverly Hills is their first foray into hotel business. Their extensive hospitality experience is evident throughout the property and it’s clear that the operators are accomplished at their craft.

Mr C Beverly Hills

The history of the family is interesting and in fact, you may have already heard of them. It’s the Ciprianis, a family with well-known restaurants throughout the world including New York City. Surely you’ve heard of Cipriani’s in New York. They also used to own and operate the Rainbow Room in New York, a destination so important that it is now a New York landmark. The group has restaurants in some of the most interesting and exciting cities in the world: Istanbul, Monte Carlo, and Abu Dhabi, to name a few. The first restaurant started was Harry’s Bar in Venice, Italy. Harry’s Bar is credited as the birthplace of Bellinis and Carpaccio! The Cipriani’s have contributed greatly to haute cuisine in our society!

Of course, at the hotel is one of their signature restaurants. The best table in the house is table 23. Begin your visit with a Bellini and then carry on. You will have your pick from their very creative menu, which offers healthy staples with an Italian twist. We loved the asparagus and beetroot salad with goat cheese. The tuna tartare was heavenly and the veal was off the charts. Classic cocktails and a fantastic wine list are available for the drinkers. For the sugar lovers there are some pretty amazing desserts. How about some tequila in the caramelized part of your crème brulee?

We are excited to welcome the Cipriani family to Los Angeles; they’ve got a great operation at Mr. C Beverly Hills. It’s the go-to neighborhood spot for an elegant good time — Beverly Hills style.

Mr C Beverly Hills
1224 Beverwil Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90035
877-334-5623
www.mrchotels.com

Exterior of The Oaks at Ojai, Deluxe Bathrooms, Shelia Cliff – Owner

The Oaks at Ojai is a terrific place to reset and renew your diet and fitness goals. At the heart and soul of The Oaks at Ojai is Shelia Cliff who has dedicated her life to the pursuit of health and fitness, and to inspiring others to follow her example of good, clean living with an active lifestyle fueled by sensible eating. Sheila is Canadian and is in a perpetually good mood! She is a delight. Most likely she’s so happy because she gets a lot of exercise, and has made a career of doing what she loves best — teaching others about the virtues of fitness and eating right.

A trip to The Oaks at Ojai is not your typical vacation. There will be no drinking unless you bring your own libations onto the property. It’s an all-inclusive exercise resort located in the heart of Ojai — a fabulous little town, not far from Los Angeles and tucked into the mountains of Los Padres National Forest, around the bend from Santa Barbara. Just arriving in the quaint town will cause your stress level to plummet. It’s a classic Californian small town with clean air and mountains all around. The Oaks at Ojai sits in the center of town in a beautiful, historic adobe style building. The resort offers more than just a place to rest. It offers lessons in diet and fitness that remind you how easy it is and how good it feels to eat right and exercise. And boy do they exercise at the Oaks!

Any typical day at the Oaks starts with either a hike or a brisk walk, followed by a choice of at least 15 different group exercise classes such as weight training, tai chi, yoga, zumba and more. They even have an outdoor pool for water aerobics. If you would prefer to venture beyond The Oaks compound, they offer bike tours, private hikes, rock climbing, kayaking and meditation sessions.

When you are not exercising at The Oaks then you are eating. The food served at The Oaks is extremely healthy. If you are not used to a limited caloric intake then you might find yourself very hungry; given the extensive exercise regime, you may feel beyond famished! But that soon levels off and you feel light and full of energy. The daily caloric intake is around 1200. It basically consists of fruit, veggies, lean meat and broth. It is all very tasty so clients feel as though they’ve had a satisfying meal. The idea is to reset your body and to learn healthy food preparation and cooking possibilities.

After a day of exercise paired with a limited caloric intake you’ll be tired, and will retire to the delightful rooms at the resort. The rooms are huge and very well appointed with arched walkways, tile floors, outdoor relaxation areas, and deep soaking tubs. It’s all very glamorous. And, it stays warm in Ojai, with daytime temperatures in the summer around 90 degrees — the warm weather is very soothing to tired limbs!

This is a perfect destination for girl’s trips, Mother/Daughter getaways, a reunion with old friends, or just by oneself to recharge those low batteries. With the focus on health and fitness, this is one vacation where you’ll truly feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

The Oaks at Ojai
122 East Ojai Avenue
Ojai, CA 93023
805-646-5573
www.oaksspa.com

Reunion ruined?

Imagine that you’ve got a wonderful trip planned. You are headed to see your family and meet your new nephew! You and your family are a bit spread out and your annual visit is where you catch up, have fun and restore the bonds of family. You are in charge of your aging father and this year he’s gotten weaker in his knees and is in a wheelchair. For your dad, the thought of flying through LAX and maneuvering through the airport to catch your flight to the East coast is daunting. Just getting from the curb, through check-in and security to the gate can be challenging on a good day so the idea of pulling it off while pushing your father through the airport is enough to make you consider skipping the trip. But missing out on missing the new bundle of love in your family is an even worse option.

Many people are not aware that there are services at LAX to assist you through the airport from the curbside to your flight or to the ride that is picking you up. You don’t have to struggle. That’s right. S.A.S. Services is available to provide assistant 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Their courteous, knowledgeable passenger assistance professionals know the airport inside and out, and are proud to provide the highest quality of service to ensure your experience is a positive one.

These services are provided free-of-charge to passengers by various airlines throughout LAX, utilizing the experience of companies like S.A.S. They have succeeded in building their business on the foundations of hard work, thorough training, and a dedication to the complete satisfaction of every passenger they assist. As a small, locally owned and operated business, they are able to concentrate on superior service, instead of corporate politics, enabling them to provide individualized assistance for each passenger. After providing wheelchair assistance for thousands of people, they have recently expanded to provide Chauffeured Limousine Services, as well as VIP Escort Services to LAX Passengers. In addition to wheelchair assistance and baggage handling, they now provide comprehensive passenger assistance from curbside to jetbridge; perfect for those traveling with a gaggle of small children, a large number of bags, or who simply need a bit of extra help through the often overwhelming check-in process. They can even walk you to your seat on the plane, help you secure your carry-ons, and will try their hardest to get you a hard-to-find blanket.

SAS is run and owned by local and younger businessman, Saif Rteimeh, who started the business a several years ago by winning a services bid contract. Saif has built relationships thought out the airport community and has grown his business to over 80 employees. He’s built the business by providing superior customer and airline support in a fast-paced and competitive industry. He’s also talking geographical expansion with additional contracts throughout the United States. It’s very nice to see this homegrown, local business grow!

SAS Services

• Wheelchair Assistance

• Skycap Services

• Security Services

• Checkpoint Customer Service

• Unaccompanied Minor Escorts

• Janitorial Services

• Utility Services

S.A.S. Services
310 – 894 – 1190
www.laxsasservices.com

The Torrance Marriott is one of the premier hotels in the South Bay area and has carved out a unique niche in the market as the preferred corporate business location for the business traveler. It features a tremendous combination of modern, cutting edge style, gracious comfort, and genuine warmth; fusing together, in its design, the East and West, all with an unsurpassed appreciation for the art of gathering.

Sense of Space and Places to Gather

A hotel should be a place where friends, family, colleagues, and associates gather together to meet for business, and share good conversation or to experience good times. More than any other hotel in the market, the Marriott has developed comfortable and very inviting atmosphere zones that are unique gathering spots for you to be together with fellow colleagues, family or friends, or simply with you and your laptop. The hotel especially caters to business guests, but is also an ideal location for staycations (a vacation spent close to home) as families escape the inland southern California valley areas and come to the beach for fun in the sun, shopping, and all of the amenities this hotel has to offer.

One of the signatures of the Marriott is the large, wide-open expansive lobby with subtle color accents and beautiful combinations of natural elements, water, wood and stone. The area is anchored center stage by the Rain Wine Bar and Lounge and its captivating two-story water display sitting behind the aesthetic curved stone-top bar. The Rain is such an inviting space with inescapable energy where you can meet up with friends for a drink, catch up on your work with your laptop, or just relax and watch the people and scenery of this buzzing, yet serene atmosphere zone. The Rain features a selection of more than 40 specialty wines and a first class seasonal menu of the freshest ingredients available. The lobby also has another little café zone featuring an espresso bar patisserie: Starbuck’s Marketplace serving specialty and regular coffee beverages, and a selection of pastries, sandwiches, and salads.

We have traveled extensively, and this lobby area and the Rain are clearly one of the most inviting “hang out” spots to be found for work or pleasure. The gathering theme is evident by the fascinating and interesting mix of clientele, as guests were sprinkled throughout all of the lobby space and zones: professional soccer players gathered in pairs; singles grabbed a bite to eat while they watched soccer on the big HD TV screen; pilots from an international airline met over coffee at Starbucks; those in business worked on their computers; and a group of friends had fun with some wine, drink, and food.

The fact that the Torrance Marriott takes its gathering spaces seriously is further evident in two of its newest cutting edge event areas: the aesthetic outdoor Zen Garden, and the newly designed Serenity Gardens; a premier outdoor venue with Gazebo to host a dream wedding or memorable social event. These two areas were a part of a major renovation the past few years to revitalize and upgrade the hotel public spaces and guest rooms. The Serenity Garden is a 9,500 square foot, beautifully landscaped, outdoor venue with a romantic setting including a breezy gazebo that provides an idyllic spot for weddings, receptions, and outdoor parties. The Gazebo and a huge, elegantly gnarled coral tree, anchor this outdoor spot; both stand guard over the grassy lawn, beautiful California landscape, water fountain features, and an expansive natural stone courtyard leading up to and surrounding the Gazebo. In addition, when not in use for memorable weddings and events, the Serenity Garden’s adjacent patio area with modern outdoor seating, serves as a gathering spot featuring beverage service and specialty food stations. This specialty atmosphere zone and gathering spot can host a reception of 500 guests, to a banquet of 160 people.

The Zen Garden is an edgier, more intimate outdoor space with fire pits and natural furnishings and a courtyard area nestled in between the main conference and meeting space Grand Ballroom building, and the signature circular Elements ballroom. The Zen Garden provides a visual impression of the East, as the Gardens namesake roots from China and Japan. This eastern feel provides another unique sense of place and space, as it is a delightful setting to relax and melt away stress. Overall the Torrance Marriott offers 31,500 square feet of total meeting space with the 10,000 square foot Grand Ballroom, the 5,000 square foot circular Elements Ballroom and numerous breakout rooms and conference rooms. In addition to great facilities and services for business guests and staycation families, the hotel offers an excellent selection of facilities for group and corporate business meetings and banquets.

South Bay Central Location Close to Everything

The Torrance Marriott is centrally located to many Southern California attractions. This Hotel is the perfect choice for both business travelers, or for those who are planning to enjoy the warm sunny weather and miles of Southern California’s pristine beaches and golf courses. The Marriott Hotel is ideally located in the heart of Torrance, California, where guests are just minutes away from some of California’s most beautiful beaches. Torrance and the Marriott are also central to many Greater Los Angeles area attractions with easy access to Disneyland, Universal Studios, Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, Santa Monica, downtown Los Angeles and Long Beach, and many other top attractions in the Torrance/Los Angeles area.

The Marriott offers up a big dose of the Southern California beach scene for sunning, swimming, biking or jogging on the beach, as Torrance, Redondo, Manhattan and Hermosa beaches are just minutes away. A favorite destination spot is the Redondo Beach Pier only two miles away. If surfing is your game, some of the most famous surfing spots in Southern California are a quick drive away or even nearer at the coves in nearby Palos Verdes, to the Redondo Beach Boardwalk Bay.

This first class Marriott hotel is conveniently located in the renowned South Bay, close to the Pacific Coast Highway, just 20 minutes from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and seven miles north and within walking distance of dining and shopping options. The Del Amo Fashion Center, right next to the Marriott, is one of the largest malls in the country with over 2,000,000 square feet of space, and is estimated to be the second most visited mall in the US with over 27,600,000 visitors annually. The Del Amo Fashion Center is on the verge of a major renovation and currently has strong diverse anchors from Macy’s to Sears, with other stores including, Marshalls, Crate and Barrel, Levis, and the Gap. For dining and entertainment the mall features an 18 theater Cineplex and nearly 40 food and beverage outlets. The Fashion Center has something for everyone, and is right next door to the Marriott; just a few minutes walk away.

The sport fans will surely appreciate that the Torrance Marriott South Bay Hotel is very close to the Home Depot Center. Most important, for the soccer lovers, the 27,000-seat, state-of-the-art soccer stadium (home field for Major Leagues Soccer’s Club Deportivo Chivas USA, and the 2005 MLS Cup, and U.S. Open Champion Los Angeles Galaxy) is just minutes away! Better yet for the soccer fan, nearly every one of the 17 visiting MLS franchise soccer teams stay at the Marriott Torrance when in town for a match. During our stay, the Home Depot Center and the Galaxy were hosting a round robin pre-season tournament, and six MLS teams were in town and the lobby was teeming with professional soccer players, which added excitement to the environment.

Revive the Guest

The Marriott Hotel enhances a very convenient location by offering luxurious guest rooms and amenities. There are 476 guest rooms, 11 suites and three Concierge Floors. The spacious guest rooms include wireless internet, flat-screen LCD TVs, and the Marriott signature Revive bedding where every detail, from the comforters, to sheets and pillows are designed to evoke warmth and comfort and assure a good night sleep. The guest rooms provide all of the comforts of home, and also luxurious and spacious bathrooms.

Guests of the Torrance Marriott hotel can take advantage of the stunning indoor/outdoor connected swimming pool. The signature pool has an amazing look and feel as it is designed and fashioned after the classic Bellagio Hotel swimming pool. Its fantastic, elegant design makes it a popular destination for shooting film and TV scenes. If you spend all day at work, or are simply enjoying this Southern California piece of paradise, you’ll appreciate the chance to unwind with a refreshing dip. The sporty guests can use the state-of-theart fitness facility equipped with cardiovascular machines, strength training equipment, and free weights before relaxing in the sauna and whirlpool.

We very much enjoyed our stay at the Torrance Marriott and recommend that you come enjoy this oasis of South Bay Hospitality and first class, luxurious surroundings that offers both comfort and style.

Perched on the coastline of Rancho Palos Verdes is one of Southern California’s most scenic resorts, Terranea Resort. This exceptional resort embraces its natural landscape and historical setting to deliver a distinctive, classic California lifestyle experience.

What’s incredibly facinating about Terranea Resort and the land that it sits on is that it used to be part of the Channel Islands. The Palos Verdes Peninsula shifted slowly over millions of years and fused to the mainland coast of California. As a result, there is a unique collection of rocks and plant species that can only be found along the Peninsula and on the Islands.

Located 20 miles south of Los Angeles International Airport, Terranea Resort is grand in scale with 582 rooms including traditional rooms, suites, bungalows, three-bedroom casitas and ocean view villas available for rent or purchase. The resort offers a huge amount of activities and amenities including golf, spa, nature excursions (including whale watching), dining and fun for all ages.

Dining

There are eight different options for food at Terranea Resort; they offer everything from casual sandwiches to upscale multi-course meals. We’ve selected a few of their not-to-miss options.

Mar’sel – An oceanside fine dining option led by Chef Michael Fiorelli, Mar’sel has a rotating menu that utilizes local, seasonal ingredients (some drawn from the herb and produce gardens on property). The cuisine is fresh and beautifully presented featuring fresh, local meat and seafood paired with the season’s best produce. In addition to the intimate dining room, Mar’sel also offers outdoor seating and a stone fire pit, taking full advantage of its location overlooking the Pacific Ocean, as well an intimate Private Dining Room perfect for special occasions.

Nelson’s – Named after Mike Nelson, the character played by Lloyd Bridges in the famous television series, Sea Hunt, Nelson’s is a casual dining spot offering sandwiches and burgers paired with a PBR or a microbrew. Set right at the edge of the water the restaurant is casual with character. Standouts on the menu include fish tacos, shrimp po boy or the Nelson’s burger, which is served with arugula and black bean mayonnaise. If you’re not a beer lover then the restaurant does have an impressive list of signature cocktails.

bashi – New to the resort is bashi, which opened this summer. bashi is inspired by the Japanese farming families who first settled in Palos Verdes in the early 1900s. Today, bashi pays tribute to the historic agricultural community, with a menu that celebrates fresh Asian fare and emphasizes the use of seasonal and locally harvested ingredients. The Japanese term “bashi” means bridge, and is not only a nod to the Japanese farming families but also a celebration of the restaurant’s distinctive mix of Eastern cuisines and its home at Terranea.

The Spa at Terranea

If rest, relaxation and recuperation are on your mind then be sure to book yourself into The Spa at Terranea. Spanning 50,000 square feet, the award-winning spa, salon, wellness and fitness center blends a tranquil Mediterranean ambiance with state-of-the-art design by the foremost experts in wellness and restorative therapy. Natural stone, native woods, bamboo and water elements transition indoor to outdoor spaces seamlessly, preserving the delicate harmony between nature. The Spa at Terranea offers 25 luxury treatment rooms overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with tranquil spaces for massage, hydrotherapy and facial rituals. For couples, three Signature Treatment Suites soothe with freestanding copper soaking tubs, warm fireplaces, infrared saunas, couples’ massage tables and Swiss showers. Outside, guests cool off with a dip in the exclusive, adults-only pool or lounge beneath private cabanas. Elegant gardens and fire pits offer quiet spaces to unwind amid breathtaking ocean views.