Top Things to Do Near Our Monterey Bay Hotel

Although I don’t run in marathons or otherwise, I have a couple of friends who run for fitness’ sake. One of these friends has run the Big Sur Half Marathon for the past few years and swears by its interesting sights and beautiful bay and ocean vistas. Out of curiosity, I took a look at the map of the race on the Big Sur Half Marathon website and discovered that not only is it not in Big Sur (as is the full Marathon), but the course runs through many of the prettiest bay and ocean areas of Monterey and Pacific Grove. To me, the course is very familiar, as it runs through areas I like to walk when I go for my daily stroll. I suppose you could say that I’ve “walked” the Big Sur Half Marathon several times since my arrival on the Monterey Peninsula eighteen years ago. I recommend to visitors to the Peninsula take a look at the race map on their website and do a little walking tour of their own when they are in town. http://www.bigsurhalfmarathon.org/

October is upon us, it’s time to celebrate the harvest and look forward to starting off with Halloween, a time of celebration and superstition. Halloween is thought to have originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off roaming ghosts. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints and martyrs; the holiday, “All Saints’ Day,” incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain. The evening before was known as All Hallows’ Eve and later Halloween. Halloween evolved into a community-based event characterized by child-friendly activities such as trick-or-treating. The practice of decorating “jack-o’-lanterns”—the name comes from an Irish folktale about a man named Stingy Jack—originated in Ireland, where large turnips and potatoes served as an early scary carved face. Irish immigrants brought the tradition to America, home of the pumpkin, and it became an integral part of Halloween festivities. Plan a quick getaway to Monterey and enjoy Halloween/Ghost tours to Point Lobos tours to Point Sur Lighthouse. Details: www.pointsur.org

Every day daily hectic routine calls for relaxation and soothing elements. Where to find these things? Certainly there are shop upon shop in Carmel, CA, in the artistic colony of Big Sur, CA, catering to the discriminating soul, but I find that it is always best to go to the artists themselves that are the experts. Twice a year, once in May and then again in October (1st-2nd 2011), a confab of psychics and healers descend on the Monterey Peninsula at the Monterey Fairgrounds, not only offering readings and advice, but many items that can help your relax in your home. The ROTA (Road Of Transformation Arts) Psychic Fair brings with them artisans who craft those very things that creates a serene setting in your homes, such as candles and fragrances. One may also shop these artisans for gifts of crystals, jewelry and cloth, perfect for giving on special occasions and in December. As the name implies, psychics and healers are available for consultation as well.

I think I have just found my new favorite restaurant in Monterey! The former Stokes Adobe restaurant just went through a major renovation. An elegant, chic and modern makeover is the perfect setting for incredible California fresh cuisine. The multiple dining rooms and hip bars spread over two floors not only lend an elegance but are very inviting in shades of gray and white. Antique looking chandeliers and candles through out the restaurant. Not sure about the coed bathrooms. But I will get over that if the guys don’t mind women powdering their noses!

We started with cocktails out by the fire pits. I think had we not had dinner reservation, I would have been content sitting outside all evening. However the dining experience was incredible. Our starters included mac and cheese, signature corn bread, bone marrow, roasted cauliflower, and baked goat cheese with hazelnuts. Main entrees included Fresh pea raviolis with mushrooms, Gnoochi in Leek sauce, Rib eye, and pasta. Out of this world! Not one of us could fault any taste. Incidentally all in my party are avid cooks be it being amateurs, we do have a discriminating pallet.

Prices were moderate. Coctails and wine definitely added to the final bill. Wait staff were professional but very personable. Definitely added to our dining experience. Next time I do want to try the Asinthe served classic style dripping ice water over a sugar cube!

I contemplated saving Restaurant 1833 for special occasion, but the fire pits, the chic decor and incredible food will certainly be haunting me to go back sooner with my girls!

Kudos to the owners and chef for one of a kind restaurant in Monterey.

Living in Monterey, CA, one can easily take things for granted. Whether it is the incredible Ocean vistas, Romantic sunsets on the beaches or the serene beauty all around the Peninsula. This weekend I discovered or should I say rediscovered my delight in visiting the local Farm Stands which are overflowing with the best fruits and vegetables picked that day. If you are travelling to Monterey Peninsula whether on Highway 1, 68 or 156 take your time and stop by at one of the Fruits and Vegetables stand. You will not be disappointed. Past weekend I picked up the sweetest watermelon, raspberries, white peaches, local honey for a scrumptious fruit salad. Avocados, cilantro, tomatoes, garlic, red onion for an awesome guacamole. The best thing, I did not break the bank. All of the above plus few more items came to less then $11!!!!

How far is 17 Mile Drive? Where is Carmel Mission? How far to Monterey Aquarium…..These are some of the questions we get at Front Desk everyday. More often then not, our guests are surprised at how close we are located to all of the major attractions in Monterey, Carmel and Pacific Grove. We are located with 2-10 miles to popular attractions. In addition we are walking distance to several restaurants and shopping.
So if you are seeking a clean and comfortable room, look no further. We offer great convenience to all that is to do in Monterey.

If you are like me, you hate to hassle with parking issues especially when you are on vacation. Well, when in Monterey, take advantage of the Free Trolley that operate up to Labor Day. Ride to Monterey Aquarium, Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, Downtown Monterey. Ride as often as you want. ITS FREE!!! http://www.mst.org/wp-content/media/MST_MontereyTrolley1.pdf

Mazda Laguna Seca Raceway will once again host high-performance, Daytona prototype car racing July 8-9. This event is one of the most competitive road races in North America that attracts well known superstar racers and world’s top automobile manufacturers. Great event for the whole family. Laguna Seca is located just minutes from the Comfort Inn.

The fun begins at 7pm on Friday June 24th at Monterey Fairgrounds when the sounds of legendary Blues Artists fill the air all weekend long. Over 15 Blues artists will perform throught the weekend. 2011 Grammy Winner, Mavis Staples will be the featured act on Sunday. One does not have to be a Blues fan to enjoy this festive and fun weekend in Monterey. Blues Festival Weekend in Monterey has become a favorite weekend getaway destinations for reunions, family fun, and a great start to the Summer. Dare I say that one of my favorite activity involoves the delicious food that is served all weekend long!

Check the calendar of exciting Monterey events. Get in on every moment of fun in Monterey with sporting events, equestrian shows, motorcycle racing, concerts, music festivals and classic car auctions.