Tampa Bay Resorts

Hello foodie and drinky fans! Jerm here to tell you about another funtastic event happening over in the Westshore District!

Join our friends over at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar for a memorable evening of wine appreciation as we explore the fabulous heritage of French food and wine through an exceptional five-course dinner.

Each course will be paired with a notable wine from one of France's top growing regions. For those of you who are like me and may not be as familiar with your wine (or your French), you'll be joined by Michael Rugers, long-time director of wine and spirits for Bern's Steak House, Tavern on the Green and the Russian Tea Room. 

Just to wet your whistle, here is a look at some of the offerings you can begin to look forward to:
 

FRIDAY, APRIL 27th, 6:30 PM
$125 PER GUEST, ALL-INCLUSIVE*
CALL 813-874-WINE (9463) TO RESERVE

FIRST COURSE: PROVENCE
Crispy Goat Cheese Salad
perfumed d'anjou pears, balsamic-honey reduction
and ginger-essence vinaigrette
JEAN-LUC COLOMBO, Cape Bleue Rosé
Côteaux d'Aix en Provence, 2010

SECOND COURSE: BURGUNDY
Cream of Tomato Soup
camembert cheese foam, basil-infused oil
LOUIS LATOUR, Meursault, 2009

THIRD COURSE: BURGUNDY
Crusted Swordfish Provencal
potato gaufrette, lemon brown-butter-infused
spring vegetables
LOUIS LATOUR, Côte de Beaune-Villages, 2009

FOURTH COURSE: BORDEAUX
Slow-Braised Lamb Shank
gruyère-potato croquettes, rosemary jus
CHÂTEAU MALMAISON, Moulis, 2008
90 pts. Wine Spectator (2006 vintage)

DESSERT: RHÔNE VALLEY
Tarte Tatin
goat cheese gelato, pink-peppercorn anglaise
JEAN-LUC COLOMBO, Les Fées Brunes
Crozes-Hermitage, 2009 — 90 pts. Wine Spectator

Space is limited for this special wine event, and with a lineup of wines like this, rest assured this one will sell-out quickly!

Please call early to reserve your seat! We'll be back with more updates on Tampa Bay dining, wine and foodie related items so be checking back early and often!

Hey there College Hockey fans! We're one week away from the puck dropping at the Tampa Bay Times Forum for the 2012 NCAA Frozen Four Hockey Championships in Tampa Bay!

I hope that all you fans are as excited as we are here in Tampa Bay to host all you Golden Gopher, Eagle, Bulldog, and Dutchmen fans! Here is a list of the fan hotels so you can go ahead and get to booking your stay in Tampa Bay!

These rates are subject to change and will fill up fast so be sure to contact the hotel first to confirm! When making your reservations, be sure to mention the promo code “College Hockey Fan Housing” to receive discounted rate. All hotel rates listed below do not include tax rate of 12% (subject to change without notice).

For information on these properties, visit: http://www.visittampabay.com/visitors/hotels/ visit our website for a comprehensive listing!

Downtown Accommodations (approx. 1 mile from Forum)

Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Tampa
102 E Cass St. Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 229-1100
Rate: $199.00

Howard Johnson Plaza Downtown
111 W Fortune St. Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 223-1351
Rate: $99.00

Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown Tampa
101 East Tyler St. Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 221-4224
Rate: $219.00

Westshore/Airport Accommodations

Renaissance Tampa Hotel International Plaza
4200 Jim Walter Blvd. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 877-9200
Rate: $144.00

Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
2900 Bayport Dr. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 874-1234
Rate: $129.00 - $179.00

Intercontinental Tampa
4860 W Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609
(813) 286-4400
Rate: $134.00

Marriott Tampa Westshore
1001 N. Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 287-2555
Rate: $185.00

The Westin Tampa Bay
7627 Courtney Campbell Cswy. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 281-0000
Rate: $145.00 - $185.00

Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore
5303 W Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609
(813) 289-1950
Rate: $129.00 - $139.00

Doubletree Hotel Tampa Airport Westshore
4500 W. Cypress St. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 879-4800
Rate: $89.00

Ramada Tampa Airport Westshore Hotel
1200 N Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 282-3636
Rate: $79.00

Embassy Suites Hotel Tampa Westshore
555 N Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609
(813) 875-1555
Rate: $169.00 - $189.00
    Mainsail Suites Hotel and Conference Center
5108 Eisenhower Blvd. Tampa, FL 33634
(813) 243-2600
Rate: $129.00 - $149.00

Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore
2225 N Lois Ave. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 877-6688
Rate: $99.00 - $109.00

Wyndham Tampa Westshore
700 N Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609
(813) 289-8200
Rate: $134.00

Sheraton Suites Tampa Airport Westshore
4400 West Cypress Street, Tampa, Florida 33607
813.357.6126
Rate: $99.00

Doubletree Guest Suites Tampa Bay
3050 N Rocky Point Dr. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 888-8800
Rate: $129.00 - $169.00

Chase Waterfront Suite Hotel
3075 North Rocky Point Drive East, Tampa Florida 33607
(813) 281-5677
Rate: $129.00 - $199.00

Hyatt Place Tampa Westshore
4811 W Main St. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 282-1037
Rate: $134.00 - $154.00

Emerald Greens Golf Resort
13941 Clubhouse Dr. Tampa, FL 33618
(813) 961-9400
Rate: $209.00

Sailport Waterfront Suites
2506 N Rocky Point Dr. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 281-9599
Rate: $129.00

That's all for now, but keep checking back with us for more College Hockey related updates!

Hello there college hockey fans! Jerm here with an update on next week's NCAA Frozen Four for those of you still looking to purchase tickets!

For the first time in the history of the event, the NCAA is bringing the crown jewel of college hockey to the South, as the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, Tampa Bay Times Forum and University of Alabama in Huntsville host the 2012 NCAA Men’s Frozen Four on April 5 and 7 at the newly-renovated Tampa Bay Times Forum.

Our friends over at the Tampa Bay Sports Commission are pleased to offer the purchasing of individual VIP tickets in the Forum’s North Party Suite for both the Semifinals and Championship/three games for $375. This package also includes unlimited access to the Tampa Bay Sports Commission’s pregame VIP tailgate area.

The newly renovated, all-inclusive executive club is located on the north end of the arena (attack end for hockey). The Party Suite provides stadium style seating, private restrooms, unlimited buffet access, and all-you-can-drink beverages. Individual lower level tickets, which do not include a hospitality option, are available while limited supplies last for $195.

Interested fans should download this form and fax back to 813-218-3375 or email to Bguthrie@VisitTampaBay.com! Act fast, as these tickets will be gone before you know it!

Greetings Tampa!

The Plant City Strawberry Festival is upon us … and last week we had an opportunity to visit a hotel property that would be perfect to stay at during the festival.

The Holiday Inn Express Plant City, just minutes away from downtown Tampa is close to not only the strawberry festival but also LEGOLAND, and Dinosaur World, Florida State Fairgrounds and many other attractions.  Their location is perfect for those attending sporting events held at either of the nearby International Softball Federation, Mike Sansone, or the Randy Larson Four Plex sporting fields too!

Surrounded  by verdant tropical foliage, this four story all inclusive 70 room hotel accommodations includes 16 suites and 54 standard rooms, meeting space for up to 60 people has also just completed its beautiful million dollar renovation, that sets a relaxing tone for vacations and business trips alike.

Guests will enjoy the fantastic amenities including free hot breakfasts, and one really cool aspect to their hot free breakfast is the pancake machine that will get you geared up for the day, and the beautiful outdoor pool offers a place to relax once work is done.

Again conveniently located minutes from downtown Tampa, I would definitely recommend it to anyone who wanted a great property and a great price!

A great big kudos to Charles Harris, VP and his wonderful staff, for having us visit!

Until the next time ... THINK TAMPA and stay tuned in for more updates, places to stay in Tampa Bay!

Good morning Tampa Bay, Alex here to tell you about a five-course winemaker and chef dinner taking place at The Columbia Restaurant Ybor City.

The Columbia- Ybor City is hosting a five-course winemaker & chef dinner featuring the wines of Bodegas y Viñedos O.Fournier of Spain, Chile and Argentina with co-founders José Manuel Ortega, president and Nadia Haron de Ortega, chef, of O.Fournier.

O.Fournier was selected five times for Wine Spectator Grand Tour (200 Best Wineries Worldwide). And in 2008 and 2009, one of two wineries in the Tour with two invitations, Mendoza and Ribera del Duero.

This dinner is taking place on Wednesday, January 25th, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. $100 per person, all inclusive. 

Don’t miss out on this fun night of great food and wine. Make your reservation today by calling 813-248-4961. For more information, see www.columbiarestaurant.com

Enjoy a wonderful evening at The Columbia Restaurant Ybor City!

Check back with us often for more information on Tampa Bay Dining, Restaurants In Tampa Bay and for information onThings To Do In Tampa Bay!

• New Year's Eve at Busch Gardens - Dec 31, 2011 - Ring in the new year safari-style at Busch Gardens' one of a kind New Year's Eve experience. Enjoy live music and fireworks at midnight. Website
  
• New YEar's Eve at Mojito Restaurant & Lounge - December 31, 2011 - This New Year's Eve, the rhythmic sounds of Latin & American music will be coming from Westshore Area newest restaurant at The Crowne Plaza Hotel on Kennedy Blvd... : Mojito! It's a grand opening you don’t want to miss! With no cover, live entertainment, great food & drinks specials and take the elevator home guest room rates, Mojito will ensure you enjoy this night and welcome 2012 with style! For more information, please call 813-289-1950. Website
• Noon Year's Eve Dec 31, 2011 9:30 AM - Celebrate the 'Noon' Year with this family friendly celebration at the Lowry Park Zoo. Website
  
• 2012 New Years Eve Channelside Dec 31, 2011 2:00 PM - Say goodbye to 2011 and ring in the new 2012 New Years at Channelside with a fireworks show, live music, food, entertainment and more. The largest New Years party in Tampa. Website
  
• MacDinton's New Year's Eve Party Dec 31, 2011 8:00 PM - Celebrate New Years at MacDinton's in Hyde Park for their annual New Year's Eve party. MacDinton's is located on South Howard Ave. Website
  
• The Rooftop Eve Dec 31, 2011 9:00 PM - A lavish New Year's Eve party overlooking the Tampa skyline from a rooftop in beautiful Hyde Park Village. The Rooftop Eve New Years party is an all-inclusive event benefiting Heartbeat International Foundation. Website

• Aqua-Eve at The Florida Aquarium Dec 31, 2011 9:00 PM - Make a splash at this awesome, unique New Year's Eve celebration at The Florida Aquarium in Channelside. Website
  
• Tampa Bay NYE 2012 Dec 31, 2011 9:00 PM - Thank you for your interest in attending the 2011 New Years Eve Gala at the Tampa Convention Center. Brought to you in association with: the City of Tampa and The Tampa River Walk.
• NYE 2012 at The DrYnk Soho Dec 31, 2011 9:00 PM - The Drynk in Soho has their annual New Year's Eve exclusive party and this year it features a Kettle One Vodka sponsored open bar! Celebrate VIP style with party favors, decor, champagne toast at midnight, and more. Website

• NEW YEARS EVE TOAST 2012 at Channelside Cinemas Dec 31, 2011 9:00 PM - The NEW YEARS EVE TOAST 2012 at Channelside Cinemas offers a $1000 balloon drop, giant screens to watch the ball drop in New York City, spectacular fireworks display, great drink specials, and much more.
• Matisyahu with Tea Leaf Green at the Straz Center on Dec. 31. Website
• New Year's Eve Celebration Cruise Dec 31, 2011 10:00 PM - Ring in the New Year with elegance on Tampa's famous Yacht Starship. Website
  
  
  
• Jackson's 2012 New Year's Eve Bash Dec 31, 2011 10:00 PM - The 2012 Bash at Jackson's on Harbour Island in Downtown Tampa is one of the most popular destinations for NYE parties in the Tampa area. The waterfront Bistro Bar overlooks Tampa's Skyline with midnight fireworks in Tampa. Website

Tampa Bay & Company Director of Services and Special Events Susan Williams was recently appointed to Advisory Board for Special Events Magazine, the “official and premier magazine of the special events industry in North America,” according to the International Special Events Society.  

With over eight years of experience in a twofold role as Tampa Bay & Company, Director of Services and Special Events and twenty years in the Special Event Industry, she continuously provide outstanding service & professionalism throughout the community and industry when it comes to conventions or planning special events for Tampa Bay & Company & the Tampa Bay Sports Commission. 

Whether it’s working with meeting planners, an organization & convention attendees or planning a special event from an intimate dinner to the Super Bowl - it is noteworthy, speaks volumes and come as no surprise that Susan was selected to the advisory board.

Susan is one of the ten new members on the advisory board which consists of members from the US, Canada & Ireland and will serve a three year term.

Special Events is the leading information source for event professionals worldwide who plan or manage special events in hotels, resorts, clubs, banquet facilities, conference and convention centers, and other event sites.

In partnership with Special Events magazine and sister publication Corporate Meetings & Incentives, along with thousands of event professionals representing millions of dollars of buying power will gather January 24-27, 2012 in Tampa, at the Special Event Conference and Trade Show at the Tampa Convention Center to view the latest innovative event services, meet with suppliers and gain industry insights where the theme is to evolve, flourish & prosper!

Join us in a “Hip Hip Hooray Congratulations” to our very own Susan Williams !

That’s all for now, but be sure to tune in for more exciting convention and meeting news & updates…

Until then… Think Tampa!

Hey Tampa Bay, Alex here to remind all of you that Tampa Bay Fashion Week is coming up this month!

Fashion Week will be taking place September 20- 24, 2011.

Fashion Week celebrates the fashion scene in The Bay Area, while showcasing Tampa Bay's unique style. This event brings talented fashion and accessories designers to The Bay Area to showcase their work for local and national retail buyers, boutique owners and consumers.

Fashion Week Schedule of Events:

Tuesday, September 20- Red Carpet Reception
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Art Institute of Tampa

Wednesday, September 21- VIP Model Behavior Cocktail Reception
Time: 6-9p.m.
Location: Element, 808 N. Franklin Street, Downtown Tampa
Don’t miss the signature VIP Model Behavior Cocktail Soiree hosted by Cambria! Come meet Cheryl Tiegs, iconic supermodel and spokesperson for Cambria, as well as featured designers from Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2011, sponsors, models and elite fashion followers. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and complimentary wine/bar, fabulous raffle prizes, photo opportunities and more!

Thursday, September 22- Swanky Soiree
The second annual Swanky Soiree event is proud to announce its participation in the 2011 Tampa Bay Fashion Week. The event will feature local designers Alla-K and John William Barger III as well as fine artist Don Kobasky. In addition to the world-class art and fashions, Swanky Soiree will host 15 local restaurants, chefs, bakeries and coffee shops – all benefiting Brookwood Florida.

Friday, September 23- Designer Runway Show & FWTB Boutique
Time: Doors Open at 6p.m. for the FWTB Boutique. Runway shows start at 7p.m.
Location: Innisbrook Golf & Spa Resort, 36750 U.S. Highway 19 North, Palm Harbor, FL

Saturday, September 24- Private Party - Invitation Only

I hope you all have plans to attend the many events happening during Tampa Bay's Fashion week. Enjoy the high- fashion and artistic energyhappening all week!

For more information on Fashion week, check out http://www.fashionweektampabay.com/ or http://fashionweektampabayblog.com/. 

Have a wonderful day and visit often for updates on things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hey Tampa Bay, Alex here to tell you all that InterContinental has a new Executive Chef.

The InterContinental Tampa recently named Alexander Reyes as the new executive chef.

In this position, Chef Reyes’s responsibilities include overseeing the daily operations at the award-winning Shula’s Steak House along with the properties other food and beverage outlets. Chef Reyes will also be responsible for providing food and beverage offerings to InterContinental Tampa’s 17,000 square feet of meeting space for group meetings, corporate parties, local catering events, and special occasions.

Chef Reyes has a history of working at luxury resorts and restaurants and came to the InterContinental Tampa from his most recent position as executive sous chef of the AAA Four-Diamond Loews Portofino Bay Hotel in Orlando.

With more than 15 years in the industry, Chef Reyes has also honed his craft at the Hyatt Regency Orlando International and Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress and at well-known restaurants including Annabelle’s in Naples, Florida as well as Norman’s in Coral Gables, Florida.

Chef Reyes is a native of Havana, Cuba, moving to the United States when he was young. He was raised in the Orlando area and graduated with a degree in culinary arts from the Florida Culinary Institute in West Palm Beach. 

Congratulations Chef Reyes! We wish you the best of luck. That's all for now, but stay tuned in for more updates in Tampa Bay dining!

Tampa Bay, head on over to InterContinental Tampa and enjoy a delicious meal at Shula’s Steak House or plan your next business meeting or party here to get a taste of some great food inspired by a new chef. Don’t forget, they cater too!

Please check back with us throughout the week for updates on Tampa Bay Restaurants and Tampa Bay Hotels.

Hey everyone. Travis back with more great things to do in Tampa Bay.  On Sunday, April 17, a complimentary tour (with regular admission) of the Henry B. Plant Museum will occur. At 1 pm, a Museum docent will lead a 35-40 minute tour of the Museum. Immediately afterwards, Curator of Education, Heather Trubee Brown, will make a 5-10 minute presentation on garden seats.
 
At 2pm, Upstairs/Downstairs at the Tampa Bay Hotel will feature Arthur Schleman, Hotel Hunting  & Fishing Guide, 1895. This 30-minute live theater performance of a dashing guide showcases his talents at trapping all kinds of game and hunting on horseback to avoid rattlesnakes. 

Mr. Schleman is a true storyteller who has definite opinions about everything from horseless carriages, called motorcars, to past and current events.  He can recite poetry by heart and is a would-be gentleman of means.  Upstairs/Downstairs is also complimentary with regular admission of the Museum.
 
Oh, and for those of you who STILL haven't been over to the museum, here's a little bit about it - The Henry B. Plant Museum interprets the turn-of-the-century Tampa Bay Hotel and the lifestyles of America’s Gilded Age.  Critical to the success of this mission is the restoration and preservation of this National Historic Landmark, an opulent 1891 railroad resort, and the artifacts significant to its history, and the life and work of Henry Bradley Plant. 

The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, Sunday, noon to 5 pm.  Closed Monday, Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Admission is $10 per adult, $7 for seniors (65 yrs.), $7 for students and $5 for children 4 – 12 yrs.

Have fun everyone, and keep checking back here for more Tampa Bay area events and other Tampa Bay Entertainment options.