PatrickG38
Posts: 338
Joined: 10/8/2010
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A little travel advice from our trip to California in case anyone needs some recommendations. United business class on its ps flights only is fantastic, better than its first class on non ps flights (had I know this, I’d have looked harder for a ps flight back).
If money isn’t a great concern, the Honor Mansion in Healdsburg is one of the classiest properties we have stayed at. Aside from the great room (including a private outdoor Jacuzzi) and beautiful grounds, the small touches were truly delightful including mimosa’s with breakfast and cocktails at Dry Creek Kitchen when we arrived courtesy of the inn. I can recommend the property without reservation (if money is a bit of a concern Gaige House was wonderful when we last stayed there).
For dining I’d list Dry Creek Kitchen very highly and there was a cauliflower soup (and yes, I am a serious carnivore who knows how that sounds) that was transcendent and stood above dishes I would have normally much preferred. Redd in Yountville (we stayed as well at the Hotel Yountville which recently had a beautiful renovation and expansive rooms, but was not as unique as the Honor Mansion experience) does sublime work in the shadow of The French Laundry and at a third of the price. Michael Chiarello’s new place Bottega was quite good, but the place was a bit of a 'scene' and service was slightly below what it should have been.
For wineries, there are scores of good choices, but I would highly recommend Chalk Hill (the culinary tour was amazing), Porter Creek, Hess Collection, Mauritson Family Winery, Jessup Cellers and the cave tour at Schramsberg.
So that is our two-cents, but it is really well informed two cents and I hope it helps anyone planning a trip.
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Some Free Travel Advice for Anyone Planning a Trip to C... - 
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