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moutoshidotcom · 3 years

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EXPERT CHOICE: 10 BEST 5-STAR HOTELS IN LONDON

London is the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom. Tourism of London according to the London Government website the statistics are:

Visitor Count: 21 million

Spending Amount by Visitors: £2,104 million

The Number of Overnight Stays: 1.3 million

Visits Per Day: 19.7 million

In Britain, tourism is the fastest growing industry. Up until 2025, it is expected to grow by 3.8% a year, creating 10% of all jobs. In 2016, overseas travelers spent £22.5 billion in the UK. Here is a listing of the 10 Best 5-star Hotels in London.

List of 10 Best Most Visited 5-star Hotels in London

1. Vintry & Mercer

2. Intercontinental London — The O2, an IHG Hotel

3. Hilton London Bankside

4. Shangri-La The Shard, London

5. The Ampersand Hotel

6. ME London by Melia

7. Kimpton — Fitzroy London, an IHG Hotel

8. Andaz London Liverpool Street — a Concept by Hyatt

9. The Langham London

10. London Marriott Hotel Canary Wharf

1. Vintry & Mercer

The five-star Vintry & Mercer in London offers a fitness center and bar 700 m from St Paul’s Cathedral. Nearby points of interest include Sky Garden, Tower of London, and Borough Market. A business center and free WiFi are available at the property.

Every room and suite has a bespoke interior design and includes a wardrobe and a flat-screen TV. Some rooms at Vintry & Mercer feature a balcony as well as a private bathroom with free toiletries.

The property offers a continental breakfast. Restaurants on-site specialize in British and Asian cuisine. You can get advice on what to do in the area at the reception.

The accommodation is 1.7 km from London Bridge. The property is a short walk from Mansion House station. The London City Airport is 12 kilometers away.

Based on independent reviews, this is our guests’ favorite part of London. The location is especially popular with couples, who rated it 9.4 for a two-person trip.

2. Intercontinental London — The O2, an IHG Hotel

The InterContinental London — The O2, an IHG hotel, is located on the Greenwich Peninsula. Free WiFi and a spa are available onsite. It takes 5 minutes to walk to the O2 Arena from the hotel via a covered walkway.

All rooms have a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and complimentary luxury toiletries. Three restaurants and two bars are available to guests. Both Clipper Bar and Eighteen Sky Bar offer views of Canary Wharf and the River Thames.

IHG’s InterContinental London — The O2 has a 24-hour reception and a large conference center. In the UK, the Arora Ballroom is the largest pillar-free event space. 19 additional meeting rooms are available.

The InterContinental London — The O2, an IHG hotel, is 8.2 km from London City Airport. The Excel Arena is 6.4 km from the hotel. Five minutes walk from North Greenwich Tube station and ten minutes walk from Emirates Airline Greenwich is the North Greenwich Tube station. For a two-person trip, couples rated the location 9.6.

3. Hilton London Bankside

Hilton London Bankside has an indoor pool, a restaurant, a fitness center, and a cocktail bar, as well as free WiFi. The hotel is located on London’s popular South Bank, 11 minutes from Borough Market and Waterloo Station.

There is a 42-inch flat-screen TV with pay-per-view channels, a radio, air-conditioning, and a Hilton Serenity Bed in each room. The room has a seating area, a work desk, and a refrigerator. There is a shower or a bath in the en suite bathroom, as well as bathrobes, a hairdryer, and free toiletries. A few of the rooms offer a view of the city. Restaurant service is available all day long as well as 24-hour room service.

Shakespeare’s Globe is a 7-minute walk from the Hilton London Bankside, and the Shard is a 14-minute walk away as well. The London Eye, Southbank Centre, and SEA LIFE London Aquarium are all nearby.

According to independent reviews, this is the favorite part of London for our guests. Couples rated the location 9.0 for a two-person trip.

4. Shangri-La The Shard, London

The Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London occupies levels 34 to 52, offering breathtaking views of the capital and beyond. The highest bar in London serves cocktails until late and has an exquisite restaurant.

In addition to floor-to-ceiling windows providing views of the city, all of the hotel’s rooms maintain the theme of Oriental elegance. In addition to the body-contouring Shangri-La Bed, rooms include a TV, coffee maker, complimentary WiFi, and binoculars.

Marble-clad en suite bathrooms come with underfloor heating, separate bathtubs, and a glass-enclosed shower. There are plush bathrobes, Acqua di Parma toiletries, and mirrors with TV screens. As part of the building’s integrated sun-shielding, all rooms are equipped with climate control.

TING, a signature restaurant and lounge on level 35, and Bar 31 are two of the hotel’s dining and drinking options. GŎNG, located on level 52, is London’s highest champagne and cocktail bar.

London Bridge Station is less than one minute walk from the Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard. You can walk to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge in 20 minutes. Enjoy a stroll along with the South Bank of the River Thames to The London Eye, Big Ben, and Westminster, located approximately 2.4 km away.

According to independent reviews, this is the favorite part of London for our guests. Guests rated the location 9.5 for a two-person trip.

5. The Ampersand Hotel

In a large Victorian building, The Ampersand is a cosmopolitan hotel with a Mediterranean restaurant and is a short walk from South Kensington Underground Station. There is also a gym and a games room at the hotel.

An elegant chandelier cascades down a grand staircase in the pillared foyer. A patisserie menu is available in the hotel’s drawing rooms, while the downstairs bar area has an urban feel with exposed brick arches.

All of the rooms at The Ampersand have original Victorian features and bold contemporary wallpaper designs. There is a minibar, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and an en suite bathroom in each room.

Additionally to the hotel’s well-equipped gym, guests will have access to information about horseback riding, private trainers, and running routes.

A short walk away from the Natural History Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum, Harrods and Hyde Park is just 15 minutes away.

According to independent reviews, this is the favorite part of London for our guests. Couples rated the location at 9.7 for a two-person trip.

6. ME London by Melia

ME London by Melia overlooks Somerset House from its location on the Strand. This elegant hotel offers international fine dining at the STK London restaurant. The River Thames, Covent Garden, Somerset House, and Soho are all just 2 minutes away. The Radio Rooftop Bar offers panoramic views of London.

This innovative hotel features cosmopolitan interiors and contemporary music. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with spectacular views, a media hub, an LCD TV, and a Bali shower in the en suite bathroom. Guests can also enjoy free WiFi, 24-hour gym access, and 24-hour room service.

The radio rooftop offers a variety of breakfast options and in smoothies, pastries, and coffees in the Marconi Lounge Bar, or guests can enjoy a cocktail on the radio rooftop bar. A Suite and breakfast rate also includes breakfast at the rooftop Radio restaurant, with views of the city.

Guests at ME London by Melia can request tailored tourist information and reserve tickets for events and attractions. Only 5 minutes walk from the bright lights of the West End is the hotel. Ten minutes by foot will take you to Trafalgar Square, and five minutes will take you to Temple Tube Station.

According to independent reviews, this is the favorite part of London for our guests. For a two-person trip, couples rated the location 9.6.

7. Kimpton — Fitzroy London, an IHG Hotel

The Kimpton Fitzroy London is a landmark building on the eastern flank of Russell Square in Bloomsbury. A short walk from Covent Garden, Fitzrovia, and The British Museum, this lavish property features a striking terracotta exterior and luxurious contemporary designer interiors.

The rooms and suites have been completely redesigned throughout the hotel to create a sense of modern luxury throughout the hotel. All rooms come with free WiFi, Smart TVs, minibars, and en-suite bathrooms with high-end toiletries.

On-site dining options include Burr & Co., a casual coffeehouse by day, and a wine bar by night. At Fitz’s bar, guests can relax with a drink. The Neptune Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the Palm Court serves afternoon tea.

Hotel guests have access to eight meeting and event spaces, including a ballroom that can hold up to 300 guests.

The Kimpton Fitzroy is just steps from Russel Square Tube Station and less than 1.6 km from Oxford Street and the West End’s theatres. In less than 10 minutes, you can reach King’s Cross, St. Pancras, and Euston stations by car.

According to independent reviews, this is the favorite part of London for our guests. Couples rated the location 9.4 for a two-person trip.

8. Andaz London Liverpool Street — a Concept by Hyatt

This five-star hotel is adjacent to Liverpool Street Station and has 267 stylish rooms and suites, 7 restaurants and bars, free WiFi, a 24-hour health club, and complimentary wine and canapes in the hotel’s lobby every evening.

All rooms feature a flat-screen TV, Yukata bathrobes, REN toiletries, and a free non-alcoholic minibar with juices and snacks.

At Eastway Brasserie, you can enjoy casual dining, traditional English pub food at Lady Abercorn’s Pub & Kitchen, or authentic Japanese cuisine at Miyako. Guests can also enjoy all-day dining, beverages, and live music at Rake’s Café Bar.

The Andaz London Liverpool Street has located just 1.6 km from the Tower of London and St Paul’s Cathedral, as well as a short distance from vibrant and creative Shoreditch, with its array of boutiques, markets, and nightlife. Located in central London, Oxford Street is only a 7-minute Tube ride away.

Independent reviews indicate that this is the favorite part of London for our guests. For a two-person trip, couples rated the location 9.4.

9. The Langham London

An award-winning glamorous bar, Artesian, and a stylish restaurant, Roux at the Landau, are located at the top of Regent Street. Oxford Circus tube station is a 5-minute walk away, and there is free WiFi. In the local area, there are numerous shops, theatres, and restaurants.

Among Langham’s bars and restaurants are the award-winning Palm Court, Artesian Bar, and The Wigmore, all overseen by Michel Roux Jr. Currently, the Landau restaurant Roux is closed.

A 16-meter swimming pool, sauna, steam rooms, a fully equipped gym, and treatment rooms can be found at Chuan Body + Soul Spa and Health Club. Each room at Langham London features an en suite bathroom, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV.

It was Europe’s first grand hotel when it opened in 1865, and it has hosted royalty, foreign dignitaries, and celebrities in luxury for 150 years.

Our guests’ favorite part of London, according to independent reviews. The location is particularly liked by couples — they rate it 9.7 for a two-person trip.

10. London Marriott Hotel Canary Wharf

Luxury rooms and a gym are available at this 5-star landmark hotel in Canary Wharf. The O2 Arena and London City Airport are easily accessible.

The spacious rooms at London Marriott Hotel Canary Wharf feature LED TVs with Google Chromecast, luxurious beds, and comfortable seating areas. Room service is available 24 hours a day, and there are USB outlets in the rooms.

In addition, many of the rooms overlook Canary Wharf and the skyline of London’s business district.

Manhattan Grill Steakhouse offers prime USDA steaks in a stylish environment. You can also relax at the G&Tea Lounge, which offers a variety of gins, cocktails, snacks, and full meals as well as afternoon tea.

The Marriott Health Club offers a wide range of fitness facilities, including a fully equipped gym and a relaxing sauna.

West India Quay Station, 200 m from the hotel, is served by the DLR. In the public areas, executive rooms, and suites, Wi-Fi is free. Couples like the location the most — they rate it 9.2 for a two-person trip.

These are our expert choices for the 10 Best 5-star Hotels in London. We hope you enjoyed this article. Please share your views through comments. We are wishing you all the best in spending your holidays in Mauritius. Thanks for being with moutoshi.com.

#hotels #hoteldesign #hotellobby #london

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helenaalyssa · 7 years

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Six places to indulge this Pancake Day in London

London restaurants have upped their Pancake game for this years Pancake Day or Shrove Tuesday as it's most commonly named. From savoury offerings, pizza and vegan pancakes there really is something for everyone to over-indulge in in London for this year's Pancake Day - and falling a day before Valentine's Day this year why not use this as the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a pre-Valentines date night or just drown your sorrows in stacks of pancakes... here are a selection of six that I think are definitely worth a visit!

Christopher's

Christopher's in Covent Garden, famed for their ultra fabulous and delicious french toast are going big this year to celebrate Pancake Day. The three specials include a multi-coloured vegan option, featuring Beetroot & Sunflower Seed, Rainbow Chard & Spirulina, and Pumpkin, Caramelised Onion & Turmeric, all garnished with pomegranate, Bee Pollen and Coconut Yoghurt.

Personally, I'm looking forward to the French Toast one In homage to their infamous dessert, Christopher’s will re-create their French Toast in pancake form. Buttermilk French-toasted pancakes will be served with honeycomb pieces, honeycomb ice cream, maple syrup and a dusting of cinnamon – with optional chocolate sauce for those wanting it extra-sweet, this sounds right up my street!

Finally there's he Lobster one for a tad of American luxury, a lavish grilled lobster with sea kale and chorizo, all on top of a Purple & Sweet Potato Pancake. All available throughout 13th Feb.

Covent Garden, 18 Wellington St, London WC2E 7DD

christophersgrill.com

Dirty Bones

As part of Dirty Bones' brand new brunch menu they are now offering pancakes,and not just any old pancakes, double dutch pancakes! The signature dish involves a deep dish pancake topped with fresh clotted cream and blueberries, served with a shot of maple syrup. The good news is that this pancake will be sticking around after Pancake Day so there's loads of opportunity to get it down you! If you missed my Dirty Bones brunch review you can check it out here.

Kensington, Carnaby, Soho & Shoreditch

dirty-bones.com

Breakfast Club

The almighty Breakfast Club have some up with some genius creations making all of our pancake dreams come true for this year's Pancake Day. You can expect Pizza Pancakes teaming up with Pizza Pilgrims, fried chicken delicacies teaming up with Coqfighter, vegan delights and even boozy pancakes thanks to a collab with Bulleit Whiskey.

Their famous Pancake Day challenge is also back, simply eat a stack of 12 in 12 minutes or less and win your stack on them. The specials are available from the 12 - 18 Feb but the challenge will only be available on the 13th Feb.

Angel, Battersea Rise, Canary Wharf, Croydon, Hackney Wick, Hoxton, London Bridge, Soho, Spitalfields

www.thebreakfastclubcafes.com/events/pancake-club-2018

The Book Club

The Book Club never fail to disappoint for Pancake Day - and this year on offer is a boozy stack of fluffy American pancakes, glued together with delicious Kahlua Cream, covered in chocolate, Espresso and vodka sauce and topped with even more Kahlua Cream. If that hasn’t sold it to you then I don’t know what will.

Grab the stack at The Book Club between 9am – 10pm on Tuesday 13th February.

100-106 Leonard St, EC2A 4RH

thebookclub.eventcube.io/events/10140/pancake-day

Joe's Southern Table

If chicken and waffles can work so well I have all the faith in the world that the fusion of fried chicken and pancakes would be beautiful. Joe’s Southern Table & Bar in Covent Garden is passionate about deep southern flavours; their fluffy pancake stack is topped with sweet tea-brined southern-fried chicken and lathered in Jim Beam bourbon maple syrup.

34 King St, London WC2E 8JD

joessouthern.co.uk

Polo Bar

If you have to work late or simply have no time during the day, Liverpool Street’s 24-hour favourite; Polo Bar, is your savior! This year they have teamed up with Jude’s ice cream to whip up three mouth-watering specials for Shrove Tuesday.

Don't miss the red velvet & cherry ripple ice cream stack (topped with a slice of red velvet cake OMG!!), for the traditional dessert lovers they have also whipped up a stack of apple crumble and custard pancakes complete with Jude's custard ice cream as well as a healthier alternative of tropical pancakes topped with Jude's mango and passion fruit frozen yogurt and fresh fruit.

Their ultimate challenge is also back for another year, if you missed me being defeated the Polo bar Pancake Day challenge last year, be sure to check it out here. These stacks are only available until Tuesday 13th Feb!

176 Bishopsgate, London EC2M 4NQ

polo24hourbar.co.uk

#pancake day 2018 #pancake day london #helena alyssa #polo bar #pancake challenge #the book club #red velvet pancakes #breakfast club #pizza pancakes #dirty bones #brunch #christophers #christophers covent garden #shrove tuesday #joe's southern table #fried chicken pancakes #breakfast

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thisfamilylifewelive · 4 years

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Family Travel Itinerary: A Long Weekend in San Francisco

Last June 2019, our family spent my birthday weekend in San Francisco. In this post I share our long weekend itinerary exploring the City By The Bay.

Family Itinerary: A Long Weekend In San Francisco | This Family Life We Live

Day 1

We arrived on a Friday at about 11:00 am. Went to pick-up our rental car (Got a free upgrade to a Nissan Armada. Wohoo!) and was finally able to get out of the airport by 1:00 pm.

Jollibee

Since hotel check-in was not until 2:00 pm, we decided to have lunch first. First meal in SanFo, Jollibee. #Priorities Born and raised in the Philippines, it brings back good childhood memories.

There are a lot of good restaurants close to the airport though. In my original itinerary we were supposed to have lunch at New England Lobster Market and Eatery.

After lunch, we headed to our hotel to check in. We chose a hotel closer to the airport because they are way cheaper compared to hotels in San Francisco City proper. However, I won’t mention which hotel we stayed at as they didn’t fulfill my expectations. Yes, I matched my expectations to my price point affordability. Yet this hotel still did not manage to get to that level.

Once we we’re checked in and freshened up, we headed back out, this time driving towards San Francisco City proper.

Painted Ladies

First touristy stop, the Painted Ladies. A row of painted Victorian houses, also known as Postcard Row, popularized by the sitcom Full House. The painted ladies are right across Alamo Park where there is a nice playground. So after a couple of pictures, the kids had about an hour playing in the playground. Then a couple more pictures before we headed to Lombard Street.

Lombard Street

This is the most crooked road in North America. Marc parked the car on top of the street and we walked up and down Lombard street for photo ops.

It was the NBA finals at the time we visited, next game is being held in the Chase Centre. There was a red mustang convertible driving down Lombard Street bearing the Raptors flag as we we’re walking back up. I couldn’t help but yell, “Go Raptors!” #CanadianPride The occupants of the car yelled “Go Raptors!” back at least.

Marc wanted to experience driving down Lombard Street, so we piled ourselves back into the car. He drove from the top of the street all the way down. Then it was time to visit the Palace of Fine Arts.

Coit Tower

Another SanFo touristy landmark is the Coit Tower. Anybody watch the movie San Andreas Fault? Yes, that’s The Rock.

We chose to skip this place because I read a recent TripAdvisor review written by a mom, that says she doesn’t feel it was safe for young kids. Marc and I have actually been in the tower before, and yes, I wouldn’t feel comfortable taking Kaeden and Kenzie up there based on previous experience.

I did however take photos of the kids on Lombard Street with the Coit Tower in the background.

Palace of Fine Arts

By the time we got to the Palace of Fine Arts, the kids were already tired from our adventure. Kaeden had a power nap in the car while Kenzie had an extended 30 minute nap on the stroller.

We took a lot of photos while walking around the Palace of Fine Arts. I think this was my favorite part of the trip because we were just having quality time with family while taking in the sights.

Alioto’s Restaurant

For dinner that night, we had reservations at Alioto’s Restaurant, in Fisherman’s Wharf. I made the reservations online about a week before our visit.

Dinner was superb! Nothing can beat eating fresh seafood with a view of the bay in front of you.

Although, in all honestly, Marc and I still had a nightcap of Jollibee Chicken Joy. LOL

Day 2

Another reason we chose the hotel we stayed at was because breakfast was included. Nothing fancy, just your typical continental breakfast buffet spread. It prepared us for the day’s adventure.

Golden Gate Bridge

First stop of the day was Golden Gate Bridge. We left the car in the lower level parking lot and walked all the way up to the bridge. Obviously, also took a lot of pictures along the way.

You can cross to the other side of the bridge through the walkway underneath. The kids had a good time looking at the underside of the bridge. There was also an exhibit explaining the history of the bridge and the engineering design utilized for it.

No tourist tour is complete without visiting at least one gift shop. LOL We browsed but didn’t buy anything. My mom and Dad ended up buying some souvenirs. Did I mention that my mom, dad and brother were with us on this trip?

Barrel House Tavern

After spending almost half the day at the Golden Gate Bridge, we drove to Saulsalito for lunch.

On my original itinerary we were supposed to eat at Scoma’s. I mistakenly did not make reservations, and we didn’t want to wait 45 minutes for a table. So we walked up to Barrel House Tavern and had lunch there instead.

Food and drinks were excellent. Calamari and mussels hit the spot. And the kids had fun sitting on a bar-height table.

Sausalito

After lunch, we walked around this beautiful sea-side town. Marc and I had been here back in 2012. We both remember it being smaller and quaint. Fast forward several years later, it has grown a lot, possibly due to the fact that it accommodates tourists from all over the world.

Lappert’s Ice Cream

A visit to Sausalito would not be complete without trying Lappert’s Ice Cream. We treated ourselves to scoops of ice cream in waffle cones.

I love that they have different flavors inspired by places around the world. The kids definitely enjoyed their scoop of ice cream while looking out to the ocean.

After enjoying our ice cream and a long walk, we piled ourselves back into our Nissan Armada and headed back to San Francisco. The kids enjoyed nap time while in the car.

Ghirardelli Town Square

Since dinner was still a couple of hours away, we spent some time in Ghirardelli Town Square.

There are a lot of things to do here. Several stores have interactive play for kids outside. And did I mention that the Ghirardelli chocolate shop gives generous samples?!

I think the kids went back a couple of times for chocolate. LOL. Marc and I may have also gone back for seconds, we won’t confirm.

After buying some Ghirardelli chocolate packs to take home, it was time to start walking towards Fisherman’s Wharf for dinner.

Parking Tip

Since our rental SUV was quite tall, it was too high for the underground parking at Ghirardelli Town Square. So we opted to park near the park to the left of the square. There are a few spots there. However, parking is only for 2 hours. So just before we headed to dinner, Marc moved the car several spots down. There were more spots open then because our dinner reservation was booked for 7:00 pm.

Cioppino’s

For my actual birthday dinner, I made a reservation at Cioppino’s, an Italian Seafood restaurant. Because seafood and pasta, how can you go wrong?

The service was great but the food was okay. It wasn’t mind-blowingly good. Also the restaurant is slightly dated in appearance.

But the servings are massive. All of us had to take about half of our meals back to the hotel. LOL. But in all honesty the service was excellent. I wish I can remember the name of our server.

Family Itinerary: A Long Weekend In San Francisco | This Family Life We Live

Day 3

We woke up bright and early on Sunday for our day 3 adventure. We were first in line at the breakfast buffet.

Chase Centre

Marc wanted to watch an NBA finals game but ticket prices were ridiculous. So he just opted to drive up to Chase Centre for a photo op.

Security was tight though because of the NBA finals so he didn’t even have a nice photo. But at least he saw the arena. While the kids and I had some time to catch some sleep before we started the day’s adventure.

Cable Car

After we parked the car again in the same area near Ghirardelli Square, we walked over to the Cable Car station. Tickets for a 1-way trip cost $7 per adult.

We rode the cable car down to the downtown area. Kaeden and Kenzie at first were terrified, thinking they would fall off. But then they got the hang of it and enjoyed.

Downtown San Francisco

Once in the downtown area, we stopped by Starbucks for drinks. We walked around a tiny bit. There was a huge event happening, so there were too many people, and we are just not into that.

We took a few pictures and decided to head back to Fisherman’s Wharf. We lined up to take the cable car back. The line up was so long!

Senor Sisig

Luckily we spotted the Senor Sisig food truck near the line up. This is one of the most popular food trucks in San Francisco. Bonus that it’s Filipino cuisine based.

We purchased a couple of orders of sisig and happily ate lunch while lined up. The kids had Burger King chicken nuggets and fries. Everyone was full by the time we boarded the cable car.

Fisherman’s Wharf

We got off the cable car at a different spot where we initially boarded. So we left the kids with my mom & dad in Starbucks, while we walked to the car.

This time we parked the car underground in the building where Ross is. It was a $10 parking fee, but it was a hot day and the fee was for the entire day.

After we met up with my parents and the kids at Starbucks, we headed down to the pier. At the pier we purchased tickets for the Bay Cruise, this is what we plan to do in the afternoon.

Originally we wanted to go on the catamaran cruise, but with the kids, we thought the boat cruise would be less stressful for us adults. LOL.

Since our cruise time was not until 3:30 pm, we decided to walk around the Fisherman’s Wharf area, take some photos, and try the famous fish and chips from The Cod Mother’s Fish and Chips. It’s our linner! The meal between lunch and dinner when you’re on holidays. LOL.

Bay Cruise

At 3:30 pm we lined up for our Bay Cruise. It took us around the bay area, near Alcatraz, under the Golden Gate Bridge and then back to the pier. We took A LOT of photos. Like really a lot!

It was fun to just sit back, relax, and have the boat tour us around. A nice break from all the walking we’ve done so far. The kids certainly enjoyed it!

Note that we specifically did not go to Alcatraz because Kaeden and Kenzie will not appreciate it. They’d probably just be scared if we go in there. The Bay Cruise went close enough that they can see it and we can touch on the subject but not delve too deep into it.

Shopping

After getting off the boat, we headed back to the car and drove to Red Ribbon. This is a famous bakery for Filipino people. We bought a lot of pastries to take back home. There is no Red Ribbon in Canada yet.

Next stop, Target and Trader Joes. We stocked up on Trader Joe spices – Everything But The Bagel, Chilli Lime, 21 Seasoning Salute, and the coffee rub.

All of us got stopped at airport security, our baggage checked, because it was just full of spice blends. LOL

The kids were allowed to buy a $10 item in Target as a souvenir, obviously they each chose a toy.

Isla Restaurant

For dinner on our last day, we decided to try a popular local Filipino restaurant. We chose Isla Restaurant through a recommendation by my Mom’s friend.

Dinner was excellent! Definitely satisfied my Filipino taste buds. And they gave us a free dish because it was still my birthday week. Gotta love that!

Day 4

Our flight back home was at 12 pm. As usual we had breakfast at the hotel. Did a rejig of our luggage – each of us only brought one carry-on suitcase and a back pack, including the kids. So we had to distribute the pastries and spices accordingly.

Dropped off the rental car and was surprised that there was no line up at security.

We were relaxing inside the airport about an hour and a half before boarding time. So we had time to eat a mini-lunch and let the kids burn off some energy before flying back home.

I hope you enjoyed and picked up a thing or two from our long weekend family itinerary in San Francisco. If you want to see photos of our trip, head on over to our Instagram (@this.family.life.we.live). If you like what you see there, please follow us. We always appreciate new tribe members!

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dwscmt · 6 years

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January Meeting Recap

Hi Downtown and Wooster Square Community,

Thank you to everyone who was able to attend our January DWSCMT meeting! Below are the minutes from the meeting.

We hope to see you at our next meeting on February 19th at 6pm in City Hall, Meeting Room #2.

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A few additional notes to the minutes:

Economic Development Survey: As a part of their presentation, Economic Development and City Plan created a survey about the Development Process. Fill out survey and send back to Economic Development or bring to next meeting to discuss.See survey here.

Point in Time Count: The CT The Point in Time Count (PIT) 2019 is next week - this is the one day of the year that we have an unduplicated count of sheltered and unsheltered individuals and families. This one day count informs how we utilize services and it influences how we request and gain access to much needed resources on the state and federal level. The Greater New Haven area will be completing the PIT Count this year on January 23, 2019 from 4:00am-7:00am. If you are interested in joining us this year please visit the CCEH website and sign up! Thank you Jim Pettinelli of Liberty Community Services, Inc. for providing this helpful information!

Speed Sign on Olive Street News: Two “Your Speed Is…” street signs have been approved for intersections at Olive and Green Street, and Chapel and DePalma Court. They will be installed soon. Learn more here.

The Storehouse Project: The Storehouse Project has applied for CBDG funding for their Mobile Food Pantry. The Mobile Food Pantry has a site at Gateway. They are looking for letters of support from individuals. Learn more about the project and how to provide letters of support here.

DWSCMT Summer Movie: It's time for City of New Haven Parks & Recreation to start planning their annual summer movie series! Each of the 12 Management Team areas will have a Friday night showing of a popular movie which will be selected by popular vote in March. The DWSCMT Executive Board would love your input on when and where the Downtown-Wooster Square movie should happen! Fill out the survey here.

General Updates

DWSCMT Meeting Time: The DWSCMT monthly meeting has official been extended from 6 pm to 7:30, with the last half hour for Economic Development updates, and at times, presentations from developers.

Civilian Review Board: The Board of Alders passed a Civilian Review Board ordinance last week. The Management Teams play a role in recommending representatives from the district to serve on the Civilian Review Board — to then be nominated by the Mayor and confirmed by majority vote by the Alders. It’s important to the DWSCMT Executive Board that the process of recommending CRB members is transparent, fair, and representative of the diversity of Downtown and Wooster Square. We are going to be exploring best practices around what this process could look like and would love input from multiple perspectives. More updates to come.

New Haven Police Department

Crime reduction down by double digits in 2018, specifically violent crime

Recent increase in commercial burglaries, Sgt. Maher has been working to investigate but they have since been reduced to zero this week

Green initiative is still ongoing to address quality of life issues – officers on beat 7 days a week

Full time radio car is coming to Wooster Square to address recent property crime issues

Town Green

Night Market in December was a success, looking to do another event in Spring/Summer so it will be held twice a year in the future.

2020 budget planning is currently happening for next year’s events

Flights of Fancy taking place on January 24 – shop, sip, and taste at over two dozen local shops and restaurants

Beginning a window display program for empty storefronts – looking for artists, partners on supplies, property owner sponsors. Contact [email protected]

New Haven Free Public Library

Free Tax Prep being offered Jan. 29

Grow with Google program Feb. 13, 9 – 4:30: representatives from Google will be holding workshops at the library

Women in Stem programming, youth events, Democracy in Crisis conversation with New Haven Scholars

Yale

Yale is planning a number of events to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, please check their website for more info.

One event includes: Yale University’s 2019 MLK Commemoration on Wednesday,January 23. With a theme of “Think Globally, Act Locally,” this event will feature community organizers who honor King’s life and legacy through their daily work towards social justice from the intersection of activism, art, faith, and healing. Moderated by Hanifa Nayo Washington (Communications & Participant Engagement Coordinator for Co-Creating Effective & Inclusive Organizations), this dynamic panel discussion will feature: (1) Barbara Fair, social worker and social justice activist; (2) Kerry Ellington, Community & Economic Development Organizer, New Haven Legal Assistance Association; (3) Aaron Jafferis, Founding Artistic Director, The Word New Haven; and (4) Mikveh Warshaw YSN ’17, psychiatric nurse practitioner and founding member of Mending Minyan. The event will be held at Sheffield-Sterling-Strathcona Auditorium (SSS 114), which is located at 1 Prospect Street at the corner of Grove Street. Doors will open at 5:30p.

Alder Catalbasoglu

Yale students have returned to campus

On Wednesday, January 16 the Education Committee will hold a workshop on the school to prison pipeline. We'll hear from experts, NHPS administrators, and stakeholders. 6pm, Alder Chambers of City Hall

Alder Roth

Budget season is coming March 1, there will be a calendar of public hearings and workshops

The state is getting grant money for renovating the Crown and Temple street garages, could affect parking during construction time

Feb 7, 6 pm – there will be a public hearing on Bikeshare before City Services, new bikes are coming that you will not need to use a credit card for

Traffic Safety – there will be a banner placed across the medical center bridge to alert people to stop at red lights to address recent incidents where people are frequently running red lights. Also proposing red light cameras be installed.

Point in Time Count taking place on January 23 from 3-6 am. This program will count the number of people experiencing homelessness, both on the streets and in temporary housing. It will also audit the programs offering shelter. This is a very important event that affects HUD funding. There will be a Youth Point in Time event as well, led by Youth Continuum on January 23 for a week. Register to volunteer here.

Alder Greenberg

On Thursday, January 24 the Affordable Housing Task Force will vote to finalize its report and recommendations. The report and recommendations will be made available to the public in advance of the vote. 6pm, Alder Chambers of City Hall.

Sickle Cell Disease Association of CT

The first community center in the Northeast to open in a month on the corner of Orchard and Chapel

They are currently looking for letters of support in order to obtain grant money for programming at the facility.

Interested individuals can write their own letters of support. Contact James [email protected] or here.

Emergency Management — Rick Fontana

New Snow Emergency plan

New communications will be sent during parking bans and snow emergencies, with shorter SMS messages and more concise info

They have new equipment to pre-treat road surfaces (ice-eater instead of brine, more effective and safe for trees/cars).

New focus on treating/shoveling sidewalks, quality assurance

New zone structure for parking bans: Zone A (Downtown), Zone B (Snow Routes), and Zone C (Residential)

For $3 a day, affected residents may park in Temple and Crown street garages, and there will also be designated school parking lots

No odd side parking during parking bans (if even is regularly banned, residents must find another place to park. Example: Lyon Street)

City homepage has FAQs and the number of the Emergency Operation center for any reported issues. Contact Rick Fontana – [email protected]

See full presentation and materials here.

Other Reports

Update from Doug Hausladen: Two “Your Speed Is…” street signs have been approved for intersections at Olive and Green Street, and Chapel and DePalma Court. They will be installed soon. Learn more here.

Update from Anstress Farwell: The New Haven Urban Design League held a meeting to discuss a new parking garage design for Union Train Station. An abbreviated report will be coming out soon about what Union Avenue could look like.

Economic Development Presentation – Mike Piscitelli and Aicha Woods

The Economic Development Division has 6 departments

Their goal is to look for a more comprehensive place strategy for Downtown, which acts as both a regional center and neighborhood.

Focused on defining development values and looking for successful development project criteria; the projects relationship with Development has changed in recent years, more private investors are involved now, and the rulebook needs to be re-written and have more clarity over development values

Upcoming Plans:

Path of a Development project

How to Stay Informed

Getting rid of the Route 34 connector in order to better connect the Hill area/train station to Downtown

Long Wharf Plan is going before the Board of Alders and City Plan Commission

Olive, Elm, and State Street Corridors- focusing on commercial corridors and zoning regulations that may be out of date (newhavencorridors.com)

Examples: 80 Elm Street Hotel in former Webster Bank building.

Buildings on east side of State Street

170 Olive Street, more mixed-use buildings for this area

Ninth Square Residences will have new owners, with first floor retail and market rate apartments

RFP for community event use at State and Wall parking lot in evenings/on weekends areas

Development deals with both building codes and zoning codes

If it’s a deviation from the standard, project goes to the BZA (Board of Zoning Appeals)

If it’s checking a technical detail, it goes to a Site Plan Review with the City Plan Commission

If the project requires a zoning change, it can go to the Board of Alders

Deviations with special exceptions go to BZA, special permits go to CPC. Exceptions have one set of criteria, where permits are more elevated and often involve design criteria

Public Hearings – some are required and some are requested by Alders. Public Comment by letter is also allowed

The Historic District Commission deals with changes to property in a historic district.

Projects with the city’s direct interest (where city land is involved) go straight to the Board of Alders.

Items on public agenda are listen on websites

Fill out survey and send back to Economic Development or bring to next meeting to discuss

Additional info: Wooster Square TOD Plan and Commercial Corridors

See article in the New Haven Independent about Economic Development's presentation here.

See you next month!

DWSCMT

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jazminbell · 5 years

Text

Melaleuca Port Douglas

Take in ocean views as balmy breezes rustle overhead leaves at newly opened Melaleuca Port Douglas on Wharf Street. Boasting a fabulous alfresco courtyard with three giant mango trees forming a canopy above diners, as well as a chic indoor restaurant space, this fine diner combines relaxed and casual service with a Modern Australian menu to set the mood for a memorable meal. Visit for lunch and delve into light options such as tempura battered salt and pepper Moreton Bay bug tails, candied chilli, macadamia dust, lime and petit herb salad; while those dining at night under fairy lights may be enticed by beef cheeks, creamed potato, King trumpet mushrooms, baby carrots and leeks. Sunday brunch-goers won't go past pancakes, smoked bacon, maple syrup, strawberries and whipped cream. from Recently Reviewed Australian Restaurants : AGFG http://bit.ly/2HmlqTB via http://bundabergdirectory.com.au/

#Recently Reviewed Australian Restaurants : AGFG

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demitgibbs · 6 years

Text

New Bars and Museums Make DC a Perfect Vacation Getaway

Washington, D.C. is perfect any time of the year for a visit. However, late fall and early winter are especially good times to visit. The tourist traffic is light, hotels are reasonable, and there is a lot to do. Further, the nightlife scene now includes two new bars in the trendy Adams Morgan district —Pitchers ( a sports bar with a dance floor) and A League of Her Own (a new bar for women). The two bars are side by side on 18th Street NW.

In case you didn’t know, D.C. rivals San Francisco as one of the most LGBTQ friendly cities in the nation, if not the world.

WHAT TO DO

I walked up Rock Creek Park to the National Zoo with the Frontrunners. They meet Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. (10 a.m. for the runners) at 23rd and P Street and then go to breakfast afterwards. It’s a friendly crowd and I met my first Trump appointee who has a high level position in the administration as well as a guy that works at PBS News hour. Frontrunners is a great way to meet the locals. They also meet Tuesday night at Union Station.

Be sure and visit the Wharf in the newly renovated Southwest DC complete with Boardwalk. They feature a fish market, kayak rentals and more. You can even catch a ferry to Georgetown or Alexandria from there. The newest location of the Politics and Prose Bookstore can also be found in Southwest.

Museum options abound. I like the National Portrait Gallery (which has a nice cafe in the courtyard).

The National Museum of Women in the Arts (1250 New York Avenue NW) also looked interesting.

Note all the Smithsonian Museums are free. However, private museums like the Spy Museum and the Newseum (the news museum) charge a fee.

The National Building Museum at 401 F Street is very nice as is the new nearby National Law Enforcement Museum. I also visited the National American Indian Museum (which has a cafe with related fare including the Northwest smoked salmon). Across the street, the U.S. Botanical Garden is another must. It has a great orchid display as well as a nice collection of plants of the region. The new National Museum of African American History is another must, although you have to reserve your (free) tickets in advance.

There is also a lot to see nearby including Alexandria. Take Metro to King Street Station and hop on the free trolley to explore Old Town. The historic village has great views along the Potomac River and bike rentals where you can ride south to Mt. Vernon (home of George Washington).

Nearby Mt. Vernon also has a great restaurant with a colonial theme. Peanut soup anyone? You can get to Mt. Vernon by taking the Yellow Line Metro to Huntington and then hopping on the Fairfax Connector 101 bus.

Movie buffs will want to take in the John Waters exhibit, King of Trash, at the Baltimore Museum of Art (a quick MARC commuter train ride away).

NIGHTLIFE

Who says LGBT bars are a thing of the past? Washington has two new ones—A League of Ones Own and Ptichers. They are both at 2319 18th Street. League is the city’s newest if not only bar for the ladies while Pitchers is a sports themed bar which features dancing on the weekends. They are located in the Adams Morgan neighborhood.

Trade Bar at 1410 14th Street is another fun option.

My favorite bar is the Number Nine on P Street (1435 P Street NW). You will find them on P Street off 14th Street NW.

WHERE TO EAT

Sweetgreens is my favorite. They are around town including on P Street off 14th Street NW. They are a DC based salad chain featuring healthy low calorie dishes.

Shake Shack has great burgers and fries and has 3 locations including on 14th Street NW. It is a New York chain.

Compass Coffee is the local coffee place. There is one on F Street near the Gallery Place Metro, 1335 7th Street NW. Try the vanilla flavored, nitro infused cold brew.

Zaytina’s has great Mediterranean Food. You will find them on 9th Street NW.

You can’t beat Sunday brunch at Annie’s Paramount Steak House which is celebrating its 70th year and is in the original DC gayborhood, 17th Street NW.

In Old Town Alexandria, The Warehouse (214 King) had great salmon while nearby Magnolia’s had great Southern cuisine.

GETTING THERE

I took American Airlines to Reagan National (DCA) which is a quick Metro ride into DC. On the way back, I took Southwest out of BWI which is a short MARC or Amtrak ride from Union Station. (Avoid the Southwest terminal at DCA as it is noisy and over-crowded (and not near the Metro).

WHERE TO STAY

I like the Comfort Inn on 13th Street NW (near Mass Avenue). It’s near the restaurants and bars on 14th and 17th Streets. It is a bargain and very handy. The Street Market nearby has everything you could need for a quick bite or snack. The nearby Washington Plaza Hotel is another bargain as is the Beacon House.

I also stayed at the Alexandrian in Old Town Alexandria. It too was handy to all the attractions.

The Line Hotel in DC is also getting rave reviews as is Kimpton’s Hotel Monaco.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Metro Weekly is the weekly LBBTQ magazine. Celebrating 50 years, the Washington Blade is another must read each week.

Bill Malcolm is a freelance LGBTQ syndicated travel columnist. He also writes the Round the Ripple column in the Broad Ripple Gazette and for All Aboard Indiana. He is based in Indianapolis and writes for a hobby. He is a frequent visitor to D.C.

from Hotspots! Magazine https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/11/15/new-bars-and-museums-make-dc-a-perfect-vacation-getaway/ from Hot Spots Magazine https://hotspotsmagazine.tumblr.com/post/180139608100

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hotspotsmagazine · 6 years

Text

New Bars and Museums Make DC a Perfect Vacation Getaway

In case you didn’t know, D.C. rivals San Francisco as one of the most LGBTQ friendly cities in the nation, if not the world.

WHAT TO DO

Museum options abound. I like the National Portrait Gallery (which has a nice cafe in the courtyard).

The National Museum of Women in the Arts (1250 New York Avenue NW) also looked interesting.

Note all the Smithsonian Museums are free. However, private museums like the Spy Museum and the Newseum (the news museum) charge a fee.

Movie buffs will want to take in the John Waters exhibit, King of Trash, at the Baltimore Museum of Art (a quick MARC commuter train ride away).

NIGHTLIFE

Trade Bar at 1410 14th Street is another fun option.

My favorite bar is the Number Nine on P Street (1435 P Street NW). You will find them on P Street off 14th Street NW.

WHERE TO EAT

Sweetgreens is my favorite. They are around town including on P Street off 14th Street NW. They are a DC based salad chain featuring healthy low calorie dishes.

Shake Shack has great burgers and fries and has 3 locations including on 14th Street NW. It is a New York chain.

Compass Coffee is the local coffee place. There is one on F Street near the Gallery Place Metro, 1335 7th Street NW. Try the vanilla flavored, nitro infused cold brew.

Zaytina’s has great Mediterranean Food. You will find them on 9th Street NW.

You can’t beat Sunday brunch at Annie’s Paramount Steak House which is celebrating its 70th year and is in the original DC gayborhood, 17th Street NW.

In Old Town Alexandria, The Warehouse (214 King) had great salmon while nearby Magnolia’s had great Southern cuisine.

GETTING THERE

WHERE TO STAY

I also stayed at the Alexandrian in Old Town Alexandria. It too was handy to all the attractions.

The Line Hotel in DC is also getting rave reviews as is Kimpton’s Hotel Monaco.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Metro Weekly is the weekly LBBTQ magazine. Celebrating 50 years, the Washington Blade is another must read each week.

from Hotspots! Magazine https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/11/15/new-bars-and-museums-make-dc-a-perfect-vacation-getaway/

0 notes

dwscmt · 6 years

Text

January Meeting Recap

Hi Downtown and Wooster Square Community,

Thank you to everyone who was able to attend our January DWSCMT meeting! Below are the minutes from the meeting.

We hope to see you at our next meeting on February 19th at 6pm in City Hall, Meeting Room #2.

---

A few additional notes to the minutes:

General Updates

DWSCMT Meeting Time: The DWSCMT monthly meeting has official been extended from 6 pm to 7:30, with the last half hour for Economic Development updates, and at times, presentations from developers.

New Haven Police Department

Crime reduction down by double digits in 2018, specifically violent crime

Recent increase in commercial burglaries, Sgt. Maher has been working to investigate but they have since been reduced to zero this week

Green initiative is still ongoing to address quality of life issues – officers on beat 7 days a week

Full time radio car is coming to Wooster Square to address recent property crime issues

Town Green

Night Market in December was a success, looking to do another event in Spring/Summer so it will be held twice a year in the future.

2020 budget planning is currently happening for next year’s events

Flights of Fancy taking place on January 24 – shop, sip, and taste at over two dozen local shops and restaurants

Beginning a window display program for empty storefronts – looking for artists, partners on supplies, property owner sponsors. Contact [email protected]

New Haven Free Public Library

Free Tax Prep being offered Jan. 29

Grow with Google program Feb. 13, 9 – 4:30: representatives from Google will be holding workshops at the library

Women in Stem programming, youth events, Democracy in Crisis conversation with New Haven Scholars

Yale

Yale is planning a number of events to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, please check their website for more info.

One event includes: Yale University’s 2019 MLK Commemoration on Wednesday, January 23. With a theme of “Think Globally, Act Locally,” this event will feature community organizers who honor King’s life and legacy through their daily work towards social justice from the intersection of activism, art, faith, and healing. Moderated by Hanifa Nayo Washington (Communications & Participant Engagement Coordinator for Co-Creating Effective & Inclusive Organizations), this dynamic panel discussion will feature: (1) Barbara Fair, social worker and social justice activist; (2) Kerry Ellington, Community & Economic Development Organizer, New Haven Legal Assistance Association; (3) Aaron Jafferis, Founding Artistic Director, The Word New Haven; and (4) Mikveh Warshaw YSN ’17, psychiatric nurse practitioner and founding member of Mending Minyan. The event will be held at Sheffield-Sterling-Strathcona Auditorium (SSS 114), which is located at 1 Prospect Street at the corner of Grove Street. Doors will open at 5:30p.

Alder Catalbasoglu

Yale students have returned to campus

Alder Roth

Budget season is coming March 1, there will be a calendar of public hearings and workshops

The state is getting grant money for renovating the Crown and Temple street garages, could affect parking during construction time

Feb 7, 6 pm – there will be a public hearing on Bikeshare before City Services, new bikes are coming that you will not need to use a credit card for

Alder Greenberg

Sickle Cell Disease Association of CT

The first community center in the Northeast to open in a month on the corner of Orchard and Chapel

They are currently looking for letters of support in order to obtain grant money for programming at the facility.

Interested individuals can write their own letters of support. Contact James Rawlings atscdaaofsouthernct.org or here.

Emergency Management — Rick Fontana

New Snow Emergency plan

New communications will be sent during parking bans and snow emergencies, with shorter SMS messages and more concise info

They have new equipment to pre-treat road surfaces (ice-eater instead of brine, more effective and safe for trees/cars).

New focus on treating/shoveling sidewalks, quality assurance

New zone structure for parking bans: Zone A (Downtown), Zone B (Snow Routes), and Zone C (Residential)

For $3 a day, affected residents may park in Temple and Crown street garages, and there will also be designated school parking lots

No odd side parking during parking bans (if even is regularly banned, residents must find another place to park. Example: Lyon Street)

City homepage has FAQs and the number of the Emergency Operation center for any reported issues. Contact Rick Fontana – [email protected]

See full presentation and materials here.

Other Reports

Economic Development Presentation – Mike Piscitelli and Aicha Woods

The Economic Development Division has 6 departments

Their goal is to look for a more comprehensive place strategy for Downtown, which acts as both a regional center and neighborhood.

Upcoming Plans:

Path of a Development project

How to Stay Informed

Getting rid of the Route 34 connector in order to better connect the Hill area/train station to Downtown

Long Wharf Plan is going before the Board of Alders and City Plan Commission

Olive, Elm, and State Street Corridors- focusing on commercial corridors and zoning regulations that may be out of date (newhavencorridors.com)

Examples: 80 Elm Street Hotel in former Webster Bank building.

Buildings on east side of State Street

170 Olive Street, more mixed-use buildings for this area

Ninth Square Residences will have new owners, with first floor retail and market rate apartments

RFP for community event use at State and Wall parking lot in evenings/on weekends areas

Development deals with both building codes and zoning codes

If it’s a deviation from the standard, project goes to the BZA (Board of Zoning Appeals)

If it’s checking a technical detail, it goes to a Site Plan Review with the City Plan Commission

If the project requires a zoning change, it can go to the Board of Alders

Deviations with special exceptions go to BZA, special permits go to CPC. Exceptions have one set of criteria, where permits are more elevated and often involve design criteria

Public Hearings – some are required and some are requested by Alders. Public Comment by letter is also allowed

The Historic District Commission deals with changes to property in a historic district.

Projects with the city’s direct interest (where city land is involved) go straight to the Board of Alders.

Items on public agenda are listen on websites

Fill out survey and send back to Economic Development or bring to next meeting to discuss

Additional info: Wooster Square TOD Plan and Commercial Corridors

See article in the New Haven Independent about Economic Development's presentation here.

See you next month!

DWSCMT

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thisfamilylifewelive · 5 years

Text

Family Itinerary: A Long Weekend in San Francisco

Last June, our family spent my birthday weekend in San Francisco. In this post I share our long weekend itinerary exploring the City By The Bay.

Day 1

We arrived on a Friday at about 11:00 am. Went to pick-up our rental car (Got a free upgrade to a Nissan Armada. Wohoo!) and was finally able to get out of the airport by 1:00 pm.

Jollibee

Since hotel check-in was not until 2:00 pm, we decided to have lunch first. First meal in SanFo, Jollibee. #Priorities Born and raised in the Philippines, it brings back good childhood memories.

There are a lot of good restaurants close to the airport though. In my original itinerary we were supposed to have lunch at New England Lobster Market and Eatery.

Once we we’re checked in and freshened up, we headed back out, this time driving towards San Francisco City proper.

Painted Ladies

Lombard Street

This is the most crooked road in North America. Marc parked the car on top of the street and we walked up and down Lombard street for photo ops.

Coit Tower

Another SanFo touristy landmark is the Coit Tower. Anybody watch the movie San Andreas Fault? Yes, that’s The Rock.

I did however take photos of the kids on Lombard Street with the Coit Tower in the background.

Palace of Fine Arts

By the time we got to the Palace of Fine Arts, the kids were already tired from our adventure. Kaeden had a power nap in the car while Kenzie had an extended 30 minute nap on the stroller.

We took a lot of photos while walking around the Palace of Fine Arts. I think this was my favorite part of the trip because we were just having quality time with family while taking in the sights.

Alioto’s Restaurant

For dinner that night, we had reservations at Alioto’s Restaurant, in Fisherman’s Wharf. I made the reservations online about a week before our visit.

Dinner was superb! Nothing can beat eating fresh seafood with a view of the bay in front of you.

Although, in all honestly, Marc and I still had a nightcap of Jollibee Chicken Joy. LOL

Day 2

Another reason we chose the hotel we stayed at was because breakfast was included. Nothing fancy, just your typical continental breakfast buffet spread. It prepared us for the day’s adventure.

Golden Gate Bridge

First stop of the day was Golden Gate Bridge. We left the car in the lower level parking lot and walked all the way up to the bridge. Obviously, also took a lot of pictures along the way.

Barrel House Tavern

After spending almost half the day at the Golden Gate Bridge, we drove to Saulsalito for lunch.

Food and drinks were excellent. Calamari and mussels hit the spot. And the kids had fun sitting on a bar-height table.

Sausalito

Lappert’s Ice Cream

You can’t visit Sausalito and not make your way to Lappert’s Ice Cream Shop. We treated ourselves to scoops of ice cream in waffle cones.

I love that they have different flavors inspired by places around the world. The kids definitely enjoyed their scoop of ice cream while looking out to the ocean.

After enjoying our ice cream and a long walk, we piled ourselves back into our Nissan Armada and headed back to San Francisco. The kids enjoyed nap time while in the car.

Ghirardelli Town Square

Since dinner was still a couple of hours away, we spent some time in Ghirardelli Town Square.

There are a lot of things to do here. Several stores have interactive play for kids outside. And did I mention that the Ghirardelli chocolate shop gives generous samples?!

I think the kids went back a couple of times for chocolate. LOL. Marc and I may have also gone back for seconds, we won’t confirm.

After buying some Ghirardelli chocolate packs to take home, it was time to start walking towards Fisherman’s Wharf for dinner.

Parking Tip: Since our rental SUV was quite tall, it was too high for the underground parking at Ghirardelli Town Square. So we opted to park near the park to the left of the square. There are a few spots there. However, parking is only for 2 hours. So just before we headed to dinner, Marc moved the car several spots down. There were more spots open then because our dinner reservation was booked for 7:00 pm.

Cioppino’s

For my actual birthday dinner, I made a reservation at Cioppino’s, an Italian Seafood restaurant. Because seafood and pasta, how can you go wrong?

The service was great but the food was okay. It wasn’t mind-blowingly good. Also the restaurant is slightly dated in appearance.

But the servings are massive. All of us had to take about half of our meals back to the hotel. LOL. But in all honesty the service was excellent. I wish I can remember the name of our server.

Day 3

We woke up bright and early on Sunday for our day 3 adventure. We were first in line at the breakfast buffet.

Chase Centre

Marc wanted to watch an NBA finals game but ticket prices were ridiculous. So he just opted to drive up to Chase Centre for a photo op.

Cable Car

After we parked the car again in the same area near Ghirardelli Square, we walked over to the Cable Car station. Tickets for a 1-way trip cost $7 per adult.

We rode the cable car down to the downtown area. Kaeden and Kenzie at first were terrified, thinking they would fall off. But then they got the hang of it and enjoyed.

Downtown San Francisco

Once in the downtown area, we stopped by Starbucks for drinks. We walked around a tiny bit. There was a huge event happening, so there were too many people, and we are just not into that.

We took a few pictures and decided to head back to Fisherman’s Wharf. We lined up to take the cable car back. The line up was so long!

Senor Sisig

Luckily we spotted the Senor Sisig food truck near the line up. This is one of the most popular food trucks in San Francisco. Bonus that it’s Filipino cuisine based.

We purchased a couple of orders of sisig and happily ate lunch while lined up. The kids had Burger King chicken nuggets and fries. Everyone was full by the time we boarded the cable car.

Fisherman’s Wharf

We got off the cable car at a different spot where we initially boarded. So we left the kids with my mom & dad in Starbucks, while we walked to the car.

This time we parked the car underground in the building where Ross is. It was a $10 parking fee, but it was a hot day and the fee was for the entire day.

After we met up with my parents and the kids at Starbucks, we headed down to the pier. At the pier we purchased tickets for the Bay Cruise, this is what we plan to do in the afternoon.

Originally we wanted to go on the catamaran cruise, but with the kids, we thought the boat cruise would be less stressful for us adults. LOL.

Bay Cruise

At 3:30 pm we lined up for our Bay Cruise. It took us around the bay area, near Alcatraz, under the Golden Gate Bridge and then back to the pier. We took A LOT of photos. Like really a lot!

It was fun to just sit back, relax, and have the boat tour us around. A nice break from all the walking we’ve done so far. The kids certainly enjoyed it!

Shopping

Next stop, Target and Trader Joes. We stocked up on Trader Joe spices – Everything But The Bagel, Chilli Lime, 21 Seasoning Salute, and the coffee rub.

All of us got stopped at airport security, our baggage checked, because it was just full of spice blends. LOL

The kids were allowed to buy a $10 item in Target as a souvenir, obviously they chose a toy.

Isla Restaurant

For dinner on our last day, we decided to try a popular local Filipino restaurant. We chose Isla Restaurant through a recommendation by my Mom’s friend.

Dinner was excellent! Definitely satisfied my Filipino taste buds. And they gave us a free dish because it was still my birthday week. Gotta love that!

Day 4

Dropped off the rental car and was surprised that there was no line up at security.

We were relaxing inside the airport about an hour and a half before boarding time. So we had time to eat a mini-lunch and let the kids burn off some energy before flying back home.

The post Family Itinerary: A Long Weekend in San Francisco appeared first on This Family Life We Live.

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