may 22, 2009

Jan Gets a Blog!
I realized one of my long-time goals and launched my Girl on the Go blog covering travel-related news, events in Atlanta and relationships. Check out other blogs from travelgirl contributors here.

Social network with travelgirl.
Get a behind-the-scenes look at travelgirl by following us on Twitter! We're listed as travelgirlmag. We're also looking for more fans on our Facebook page - we'd love to see you there.

One-Dollar Deals

We seem to be on a roll of writing about dollar deals – so here's another one. Stay at a Kimpton Hotel and get a cocktail or continental breakfast for just $1 more for two guests for each night you stay. This deal is good from now through December 30. Book in advance at any of Kimpton's 50 hotels in the U.S. and Canada at www.kimptonhotels.com and enter Dollar in the rate code box, or request the deal when you book by calling 800-KIMPTON.

And Kimpton Adds Another

My hometown got its own Kimpton Hotel with the opening last week of the Hotel Palomar in Midtown Atlanta. The opening was celebrated with much fanfare, including a performance of the magnificent Atlanta Drumline and a welcome speech from our mayor Shirley Franklin. Mayor Franklin was given a trademark leopard print robe, which she stylishly wore for the rest of the ceremony. CEO Michael Depatie spoke and said of the boutique hotel chain, "We don't strive to be the biggest hotel chain, but we do strive to be the best loved." We toured the new property, where many of the rooms include gorgeous views of the Atlanta skyline and I had severe bathroom envy over the huge two-person tubs. Diners can enjoy delicious Italian food at Pacci Restaurant and the rooftop at AltoRex has already become one of the hottest places to meet for a drink. www.hotelpalomar-atlantamidtown.com/

On the Jerk Trail

No, we're not talking about a visit to boyfriends past. This is the yummy kind of jerk, best found in its native Jamaica, where visitors can follow the Jerk Trail. Discover 10 of the best places to sample Jerk cuisine, from Negril, through Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, to Kingston and ending in Port Antonio. Jerk foods are marinated for hours in a spicy mix of several spices, and then cooked slowly over low heat. For more information and a video on the origins of jerk narrated by a woman with a lovely accent, visit www.visitjamaica.com/jerk

Layover Luxury

I was lucky enough to experience an XpresSpa at the Amsterdam Airport last fall. There's no better way to recover from an overnight flight than lying in a huge comfy chair, enjoying a foot massage while watching the sunrise. Well, that feature may be unique to Amsterdam, but there are many XpresSpa locations around the United States. Atlanta just got a new one on Terminal C, with another to follow on Terminal A in July 2009. No appointment necessary – just walk in and treat yourself to a full menu of spa services. Open seven days a week, 7 AM to 11 PM. www.xpresspa.com for locations.

pick of the week

My friend Beth told me about her friend's jewelry website after I admired her gorgeous necklace while we were sipping margaritas on Cinco de Mayo. I checked it out and promptly set about deciding which of these beautiful and truly affordable pieces I wanted for myself. In addition to their jewelry, they have bags, wallets and other gift items. The prices are already practically a steal, and monogramming and engraving are free. Shell pendants start at $20 and cords at $8, and shell earrings start at $18. Check them out yourself at www.kandcdesigns