Traveling to Austin for SXSW? Some VIP Mobile Tips For You

Let us know how it works during SXSW!

Just in time for SXSW and all of you social media, music and film loving Austin-bound travelers! A new service in Austin now puts the best local deals in the hands of visitors, business travelers and locals – all they have to do is use their iPhone, iPod, Android or other mobile devices. The Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, in partnership with Miles-Weaver and MeNetwork, recently launched this VIP treatment as part of an innovative mobile program called Mobile Austin.

It’s no secret that we live in a mobile world where just about everyone carries a Smartphone or mobile device. “Austin is on the cutting edge when it comes to technology so it makes sense to incorporate our mobile devices to reach people who live, stay and play here,” said Bob Lander, president and CEO of the Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Mobile Austin does just that.” Trust Austin to get in on the mobile action. Oh, we love you so.

The free MeNetwork app offers exclusive discounts on live music, dining, shopping, spas and more. Just by launching the app, MeNetwork finds your location, then gives you a menu of options and tells you what’s nearby and where you can find the great deals. No smartphone – no problem. You can still find Austin deals via on-demand text message. For example, let’s say you’re in Austin and you’d like to find a good happy hour deal. Pull out your mobile and simply text: “atx happy hour” to 63638. You’ll only receive offers when requested, so there is no opting in or spam – ever. We like these seemingly small facts as, although we may be smartphone savvy, the digital divide still exists, keeping those without the funds from purchasing. So thanks for thinking of everyone, MeNetwork and Mobile Austin.

From 15% off any round of golf at Grey Rock Golf Club to a free chef’s surprise appetizer with the purchase of an entree at County Line BBQ on the Lake, there are plenty of deals to be had. If you choose, subscribe to a specific category and be notified as soon as a new offer is posted.

So check out all the happenings in Austin… Mobile Austin style.

South Beach’s Latest Hot Restaurant

Hawaiian Tuna Poke

Our resident travel guru and Editor-in-Chief, Layla Revis, has roots in Maui so when she heard about Prime 112, South Beach’s latest dining destination, and their incredible new dish: Hawaiian Tuna Poke ($43), we had to let our readers in on the delicious recipe (PS. Thanks to Prime 112 and Chef Sabin!).

Gaining accolades from culinary enthusiasts from around the world for using the freshest and highest quality ingredients available, Prime 112’s Executive Chef Mike Sabin requests up to 300 to 500 lbs. of Hawaiian Big Eye Tuna each week for the dish.

In fact, Prime 112 is the largest purchaser of the rare Hawaiian fish in the country.

With a number of dishes comprised of this Tokyo-grade tuna, Prime 112 requires the superior ingredient be shipped overnight to the restaurant three times per week. As opposed to the standard Big Eye Tuna seen on many local menus, Hawaiian Big Eye Tuna is wild-caught by skilled fisherman who pump CO2 into the fish before and after it is wrapped to keep the meat moist and bacteria free. This special cut of fish is also higher in healthy fat content giving it an unprecedented flavor.

So, our kind readers, how is tuna poke, a staple of most Hawaiian diets made?

Here you go!

Hawaiian Tuna Poke
Serves 4-6

2 lbs. #1 grade Hawaiian Big Eye tuna, cut into bite-sized cubes
1/2 cup shoyu or soy sauce
3/4 cup green onions, chopped (tops too)
2 Tbs. sesame oil
1 Tbs. fresh grated ginger
1 chili pepper, cored, seeded, and chopped finely
Hawaiian sea salt, to taste
1 Tbs. toasted sesame seeds
1 Tbs. kukui nuts or macadamia nuts, toasted and chopped
1 cup fresh limu
1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and julienned

Directions: Combine all ingredients except for nuts, limu, and cucumber. Divide cucumber evenly and place on the bottom of four to six small bowls. Place tuna mixture on top. Garnish with nuts and limu.

A little bit about Prime One Twelve:  From distinguished restaurateur and back to back James Beard Award Semifinalist Myles Chefetz, Prime One Twelve takes the steak-house concept to another level. Since opening its doors six years ago, Prime One Twelve has obtained national and international acclaim for its outstanding service, menu and atmosphere. Located in the heart of its luxury, high-end South of Fifth Street neighborhood, Prime One Twelve is the ultimate celebrity-saturated culinary experience.

South Beach Chef Mike Sabin

The menu boasts the finest quality beef, dry-aged for 21 to 28 days and steaks that range from an eight-ounce filet mignon to an impressive 48-ounce porterhouse. Main courses can be accompanied by a delectable array of sauces and butters and the endless selection of mouth-watering ‘Accessories’ like the Truffled Lobster Mac n Cheese are large enough to share.

Reservations are a must, as Prime One Twelve is a dining destination sought after by influential tastemakers, professional athletes, Miami locals and tourists.

112 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139 | 305.532.8112| www.mylesrestaurantgroup.com

An African Safari and Luxe Beach Yoga? That’s right!

OMMMMM

Yes, we’re a bit crazy about Africa and we also dig yoga. So, new for 2012, travel specialists Scott Dunn have launched an exclusive Tanzania safari and Mozambique beach yoga itinerary. Pairing up with Vamizi Island’s brand new yoga retreats in Mozambique and Selous Safari Camp in Tanzania, this package offers the very best in sexy African adventure and holistic luxury.

For those wanting to explore lesser-known southern Tanzania, the Selous Safari Camp offers the perfect sophisticated safari experience. Situated within an open palm forest on the shores of Lake Nzerakera (say that three times fast) in the Selous Game Reserve, you can go on daily walking and boat safaris in one of Africa’s least known, yet wildest, conservation areas. And, after discovering the wilds of Tanzania, why not revive, restore and rejuvenate on Vamizi Island, an ultra-luxurious private beach lodge on the Quirimbus Archipelago, Mozambique? Well, don’t mind if I do!

Me.Wants.To. Go.Here.

Celebrating the launch, you’ll enjoy morning vinasa yoga on the shoreline followed by a freshly-prepared juice or smoothie from the island’s ‘natural pharmacy’ and an evening session against the setting sun – both hosted by renowned instructor Claire Finlay. This exclusive package also offers the chance to sample reviving spa treatments, take to the seas to catch surf-fresh tuna sashimi and dive the island’s azure waters. Does that sound Om-azing or what?

The exclusive Tanzania Safari and Vamizi Spa Retreats package is only available for limited weeks in 2012 from $6,310 per person. Valid for the weeks commencing March 1 and November 6, the price includes three nights at the Selous Safari Camp on a full-board basis with daily safari activities and five nights at Vamizi Spa Retreat on a fully-inclusive basis to include twice daily yoga sessions, one spa treatment, dive and fishing trip per stay. The price also includes taxes, domestic flights and transfers so get on it!

http://www.scottdunn.com

Wild Animals and Wine in Monterey, California? You said it!

Vino Blanco... mi favorito...

Ah, the fruit of the vine… how I love thee so.

To that end, about two or three years ago, we wrote up a great itinerary for the Russian River Valley, so we thought we’d expose our readers to another River Road Wine Trail to complement the Carmel Valley. And, with the advent of the Monterey Wine Country iPhone app, it’s easier than ever to experience authentic wine country, get close to the producers and indulge in some of the finest wines made in the world.  The Monterey mobile app acts as a private tour guide, with tasting room profiles and maps, wines, tours, and amenities. The perfect long weekend in scenic Monterey County could include three of the app’s most comprehensive itineraries: The River Road Wine Trail, Carmel Valley Wine Trail, and Monterey/Carmel-By-The-Sea Wine Trail.

Day 1: River Road Wine Trail

At the mid-point of Monterey Wine Country’s 90-mile valley, this wine trail follows a parallel path to Highway 101 at the foot of the gorgeous Santa Lucia Mountains.  Morning fog and comfortable daytime temperatures are the setting for friendly, easygoing tasting rooms that welcome guests.  With the first tasting room less than an hour from Silicon Valley, guests can pack a picnic and camera as they make memories of a journey through relaxed, hassle-free wine country with stops at Talbott Vineyards, Pessagno Winery, Manzoni Estate Vineyard, Ray Franscioni Wines, Boekenoogen Vineyards & Winery, Hahn Winery, Wrath Wines, Paraiso Vineyards, Ventana Vineyards, Sycamore Cellars, Scheid Vineyards, and Marin’s Vineyard.  Wine trail signs easily guide visitors along the way through this picturesque trail.

Don’t miss the River Road’s Valentine’s Day Passport on Saturday, February 11th, where visitors traveling to River Road will receive a souvenir glass for tasting at each of the wineries, entry into a grand drawing, special discounts, fun, food, and a celebration of all things amour. Each winery will be hosting their own wine and food pairing, specifically to suit the love surrounding Valentine’s Day. Tickets are $20 before February 1st and $30 thereafter. info@riverroadwinetrail.com 

Vision Quest Ranch - Your Local Safari...

For luxe and out-of-the-ordinary overnight accommodations, check out the nearby Vision Quest Ranch is a B&B situated on an exotic animal sanctuary that offers safari tent-style bungalows – chic canvas-walled hotel suites complete with bathroom facilities – as well as morning breakfast delivered to the veranda by an African elephant.

Day 2: Carmel Valley Wine Trail 

“Country elegance” defines this well-marked wine trail, which runs east-to-west along the famously charming Carmel Valley Road.  Wineries to visit include Chateau Julien Wine Estate, Boekenoogen, Chateau Sinnet, Heller Estate Organic Vineyards, Talbott Vineyards, Joyce Vineyards, Carmel Hills Winery, Holman Ranch, and Bernardus Winery.  Nearby, it’s easy to find bistros serving sumptuous fare, art galleries, one-of-a-kind boutiques, hiking trails, equestrian trails and world-class golf to round out the perfect Carmel Valley experience.

A Room at Bernardus Lodge

After a full day of indulgence, the accommodations at Carmel Valley’s Bernardus Lodge are sure to rejuvenate and relax.  Nestled among the oaks and vineyards of scenic Carmel Valley, savor the gracious intimacy of a resort with epicurean flair, feather beds, cozy fireplaces and oversized bathtubs for two. The spa’s meditation garden, warming room and soaking pool along with dining at Marinus restaurant welcome you.

Day 3: Monterey and Carmel-By-The-Sea

For the last delicious day, re-energize in the buzz of Wine Country’s downtown tasting rooms in Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, and on historic Cannery Row.  Conveniently located amid art galleries, fine dining, shopping, pristine beaches and tourist attractions like the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, tasting opportunities in this area include Morgan Winery, Caraccioli Cellars, Figge Cellars, Scheid Vineyards Tasting Room, Galante Vineyards, Cima Collina, Coastview Vineyards, Wrath, Otter Cove Wines, Bountiful Basket, Pepe’s Vino Napoli Wine Bar, Tudor, McIntyre Tasting Studio, Bargetto Winery, Pierce Ranch Vineyards and Ventana Vineyards.

The Stunning Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

For a true “Monterey” experience, indulge in a night’s stay at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa located on Cannery Row.  Dramatically perched over the Monterey Bay, the Plaza is a Forbes four-star-rated hotel in the heart of the city that begs guests to enjoy the sounds of the surf, the fresh scent of sea air, and all the activities that the Monterey Peninsula has to offer.  The Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa was recently awarded the Trip Advisor Reader’s Choice Award, highlighted as one of the top 25 hotels in the United States.

For more on these three delicious days by the Bay, visit:

www.MontereyWines.org 

To download the Monterey Wine Country app, visit iTunes.