We have been to New Orleans a few times now. To me that is one of the most fascinating cities in the US. We did a lot of walking and sight seeing in this town and enjoyed every minute of it.
One of the things I always liked to do , is walk up and down Bourbon Street one time each visit. Just walk it and look at the businesses, hotels and people. While doing that I usually have a beer or two.
Also a regular stop was and will be Café Beignet. Café Beignet sits in the back of a court yard where you can find some live music. Local artists of all kind playing music which at times brings you back into the good all times of this vibrant city.
What we usually did was to walk in, listen to the music and have a beer. Walking into the court yard is like leaving the city. Really interesting feeling. You listen to the music and at times forget that you are in the middle of a big town.
We never really ate anything there. But this time we came with family including a child. So after walking for over an hour in the heat, all were hungry and thirsty. We decided to try out some of the items on the menu.
We ordered a couple omelette , a sandwich and beignets. Had some beer and coffee with it.
I had the ham and cheese omelette. The other omelette was the crawfish. The sandwich was called Mufalletta.
Took about 10 minutes to get the food. I was disappointed with the presentation of the items. There were just thrown on to some plastic plates and neither garnished or even orderly placed.
The food itself was fresh and hot but of low quality. Not even worth to go into detail of the items. One might think that for the price you pay, you might get some better quality items which are prepared in an appetizing way.
The Beignets were the only item which were OK. Rest of the food was not worth the money. Coffee was good and all other drinks were good as well.
While I liked and like the spot to visit and listen to music, I certainly will never eat there again. The prices are to high for what they offer. Seems like a full blown tourist trap to me. And we stepped right into it although not being real tourists.
If you walk Bourbon Street in New Orleans, I would suggest to stop by this music plaza and enjoy a cold drink while listening to the music and enjoying the atmosphere which reminded me of a little court yard in Paris.
I would not suggest to eat much there. Maybe the bakery items. But you will find better food not far from there.
Who has been to the Café Beignet on Bourbon Street and what was your food experience?
Official Website for Café Beignet
Friday, June 12, 2015
Wednesday, May 6, 2015
Quality Inn Golf Resort in Naples - Review of 2 day stay - May 1st and 2nd
Is the Quality Inn Golf Resort a good place to stay?
That is exactly what I asked myself just a week ago and here is what I found last weekend.
In connection with a WGAT USA golf tournament in Naples I was in search for a reasonably priced hotel. There seemed to be plenty of options in town. But we decided to go with the Quality Inn Golf Resort at Golden Gate.
A few reasons let us book this hotel. Amongst them the location, price, amenities and OK reviews.
After the first round of my tournament I found the hotel easily. Just a mile and a half from I 75 and right on the main road. When I drove in to the parking lot I immediately thought that this must be an older place. The buildings looked a little dated and the area around the hotel complex was older as well.
I right away noticed that the parking lot was packed. Still I found a spot and went straight to the check in counter. The greeting I received was not too friendly. No smiles and no hello. The girl behind the counter asked briefly if I was checking in and for my name.
The check in process was fast and easy. I liked that, but at this point I did not feel to welcome. However, I was explained where my room was, where I find breakfast and that there is a restaurant and a Tiki Bar.
My room was located in the most right building of the main complex right on the golf course. Again I found that the building was pretty old. I noticed that the entrance door to our building was not only old, but also that it closed slowly and you were able to actually leave it open. Which raised the question why there was a room key scanner to the right.
Entering the building I noticed that everything was neat and clean. A good sign. This weekend I stayed on the second floor. So in to the elevator. Old my functional and again , clean.
After entering my room I first opened the curtains to get some light in. My first impression of the room was good. The entire room looked very clean and organized. Again I noticed the age of all things. A tube TV ( which worked great), older micro wave, small fridge and a coffee machine ( which was not old).
The main room had everything you need to be there for a longer stay. All equipment was clean and worked good. The bed not only looked good, but also was comfortable.
Moved on into the bathroom , which also was very clean and well stocked. The shower cabin seemed to be new and looked inviting. I liked the shower head, which was the kind you can change settings.
Last I stepped out on my balcony. My room faced the parking lot. So my view was more like city view. Not my favorite, but really not bad at all. I guess the rooms facing the golf course were more expensive. But considering why I was there, a view was not on top of my agenda.
The building I was in was a non smoking building and my non smoking room was exactly that. The entire building had absolutely no cigarette smell.
I got settled in and then went on to explore more of the hotel.
First I went to the restaurant. This place has been around for a while. The pattern however continued. All things were old, but clean and well maintained. I went straight to the bar to get something to drink and a dinner.
The server behind the bar, Kaitlyn I believe, was a little shy but very friendly. I ordered a beer and asked for the menu. Both came right away. The menu is simple and the prices are good. I decided to try the Philly Cheese Steak with sweet potato fries.
Did not take very long to get my food as well. The sandwich was OK for the price. The beef was a little dry , but tasted good and the fries were hot and just as I like them. I sat there for about 40 minutes. Eating and drinking a couple beers.
A few people showed up to eat, but most of the customers came in for a drink. I guess I was a little late of the dinner crowed. I paid my bill, which was much lower than I expected! and went outside to the Tiki Bar.
This place was packed. Karaoke was running and it seemed very popular. I really liked the Tiki Bar. Good size, nice setting and right by the pool. The Karaoke evening seemed to be a very popular event. There were so many people and more arrived throughout the night.
Had another drink and watched and listened for a while. Even could have gone in the pool as it was open until 10 pm. But I did not.
I was a little concerned that it would be too loud to fall asleep once I was in bed. But I was wrong. Once in my room , I did not hear a thing from the Karaoke. Laid down and had a very good night. .
Shower cabin worked great. Love the shower head. Continental breakfast was included. So I went downstairs to check it out. They offered all you would need. Fruit, Yoghurt, cereal, toast and waffles. Orange Juice, Milk. Did not look too bad.
Since I was there to play a tournament I checked out the other breakfast. A buffet with hot foods for an extra 10 $. It was in the same room, just on the other side.
There was bacon, sausage, potatoes, country gravy, toast and fruits. Also you could get all the other stuff. I paid the 10 $ and had a good breakfast. The sausage was the best part of the warm items. I still think that 5 $ would have been more appropriate for an extra charge. After all I paid for the continental with the room. But I liked the food and the services was again friendly.
The second evening I did not have dinner in the hotel. But I saw they offered a Prime Rib Buffet. For 29.99 $ you got Prime Rib , Chicken Masala and some sides. But because I did not eat it, I will not write or comment about it. I only had a beer inside and then went to the Tiki Bar again.
Another Karaoke team was working this time. It was not that busy. Again I liked the setting and had another drink and watched and listened. I really liked how fast the servers were. There was no wait and they constantly were looking around to make sure that everybody had something to drink.
I had another very good night sleep that night. Sunday morning was my check out. This time I tried the continental breakfast. It was sufficient and just what you expect from the offer.
Check out was fast and easy again. This time the girls behind the counter were friendlier and also smiled.
I travel a lot. Stay in 1 star hotels and in 5 star hotels. Resorts, Casinos, Roadside Motels and so on. Not every person can smile and be perfect every day and every moment. So I will not put too much weight on the smiling part. Nobody was unfriendly at any time.
Overall : The Quality Inn Golf Resort would be a place I would stay again. Maybe not my first choice, but for sure it is an option if you are on the road and need a decent room.
The rooms were clean and functional. The entire hotel looked clean and well maintained. The service was overall friendly. The restaurant was old, but the food was good for the price. The pool and the ho tub were in good shape and I liked the Tiki Bar. Nice place to hang out and meet people.
I did not play golf there, so no word on that. If I ever do, I will add some words.
Considering all the reviews I read before staying at the Quality Inn Golf Resort, it exceeded my expectations.
Have you stayed at the The Quality Inn Golf Resort?
That is exactly what I asked myself just a week ago and here is what I found last weekend.
In connection with a WGAT USA golf tournament in Naples I was in search for a reasonably priced hotel. There seemed to be plenty of options in town. But we decided to go with the Quality Inn Golf Resort at Golden Gate.
A few reasons let us book this hotel. Amongst them the location, price, amenities and OK reviews.
After the first round of my tournament I found the hotel easily. Just a mile and a half from I 75 and right on the main road. When I drove in to the parking lot I immediately thought that this must be an older place. The buildings looked a little dated and the area around the hotel complex was older as well.
I right away noticed that the parking lot was packed. Still I found a spot and went straight to the check in counter. The greeting I received was not too friendly. No smiles and no hello. The girl behind the counter asked briefly if I was checking in and for my name.
The check in process was fast and easy. I liked that, but at this point I did not feel to welcome. However, I was explained where my room was, where I find breakfast and that there is a restaurant and a Tiki Bar.
My room was located in the most right building of the main complex right on the golf course. Again I found that the building was pretty old. I noticed that the entrance door to our building was not only old, but also that it closed slowly and you were able to actually leave it open. Which raised the question why there was a room key scanner to the right.
Entering the building I noticed that everything was neat and clean. A good sign. This weekend I stayed on the second floor. So in to the elevator. Old my functional and again , clean.
After entering my room I first opened the curtains to get some light in. My first impression of the room was good. The entire room looked very clean and organized. Again I noticed the age of all things. A tube TV ( which worked great), older micro wave, small fridge and a coffee machine ( which was not old).
The main room had everything you need to be there for a longer stay. All equipment was clean and worked good. The bed not only looked good, but also was comfortable.
Moved on into the bathroom , which also was very clean and well stocked. The shower cabin seemed to be new and looked inviting. I liked the shower head, which was the kind you can change settings.
Last I stepped out on my balcony. My room faced the parking lot. So my view was more like city view. Not my favorite, but really not bad at all. I guess the rooms facing the golf course were more expensive. But considering why I was there, a view was not on top of my agenda.
The building I was in was a non smoking building and my non smoking room was exactly that. The entire building had absolutely no cigarette smell.
I got settled in and then went on to explore more of the hotel.
First I went to the restaurant. This place has been around for a while. The pattern however continued. All things were old, but clean and well maintained. I went straight to the bar to get something to drink and a dinner.
The server behind the bar, Kaitlyn I believe, was a little shy but very friendly. I ordered a beer and asked for the menu. Both came right away. The menu is simple and the prices are good. I decided to try the Philly Cheese Steak with sweet potato fries.
Did not take very long to get my food as well. The sandwich was OK for the price. The beef was a little dry , but tasted good and the fries were hot and just as I like them. I sat there for about 40 minutes. Eating and drinking a couple beers.
A few people showed up to eat, but most of the customers came in for a drink. I guess I was a little late of the dinner crowed. I paid my bill, which was much lower than I expected! and went outside to the Tiki Bar.
This place was packed. Karaoke was running and it seemed very popular. I really liked the Tiki Bar. Good size, nice setting and right by the pool. The Karaoke evening seemed to be a very popular event. There were so many people and more arrived throughout the night.
Had another drink and watched and listened for a while. Even could have gone in the pool as it was open until 10 pm. But I did not.
I was a little concerned that it would be too loud to fall asleep once I was in bed. But I was wrong. Once in my room , I did not hear a thing from the Karaoke. Laid down and had a very good night. .
Shower cabin worked great. Love the shower head. Continental breakfast was included. So I went downstairs to check it out. They offered all you would need. Fruit, Yoghurt, cereal, toast and waffles. Orange Juice, Milk. Did not look too bad.
Since I was there to play a tournament I checked out the other breakfast. A buffet with hot foods for an extra 10 $. It was in the same room, just on the other side.
There was bacon, sausage, potatoes, country gravy, toast and fruits. Also you could get all the other stuff. I paid the 10 $ and had a good breakfast. The sausage was the best part of the warm items. I still think that 5 $ would have been more appropriate for an extra charge. After all I paid for the continental with the room. But I liked the food and the services was again friendly.
The second evening I did not have dinner in the hotel. But I saw they offered a Prime Rib Buffet. For 29.99 $ you got Prime Rib , Chicken Masala and some sides. But because I did not eat it, I will not write or comment about it. I only had a beer inside and then went to the Tiki Bar again.
Another Karaoke team was working this time. It was not that busy. Again I liked the setting and had another drink and watched and listened. I really liked how fast the servers were. There was no wait and they constantly were looking around to make sure that everybody had something to drink.
I had another very good night sleep that night. Sunday morning was my check out. This time I tried the continental breakfast. It was sufficient and just what you expect from the offer.
Check out was fast and easy again. This time the girls behind the counter were friendlier and also smiled.
I travel a lot. Stay in 1 star hotels and in 5 star hotels. Resorts, Casinos, Roadside Motels and so on. Not every person can smile and be perfect every day and every moment. So I will not put too much weight on the smiling part. Nobody was unfriendly at any time.
Overall : The Quality Inn Golf Resort would be a place I would stay again. Maybe not my first choice, but for sure it is an option if you are on the road and need a decent room.
The rooms were clean and functional. The entire hotel looked clean and well maintained. The service was overall friendly. The restaurant was old, but the food was good for the price. The pool and the ho tub were in good shape and I liked the Tiki Bar. Nice place to hang out and meet people.
I did not play golf there, so no word on that. If I ever do, I will add some words.
Considering all the reviews I read before staying at the Quality Inn Golf Resort, it exceeded my expectations.
Have you stayed at the The Quality Inn Golf Resort?
Tuesday, April 14, 2015
The Ole Biloxi Fillin Station - great place for oysters and beer in Biloxi, MS - Dinner April 6th 2015
We visited Biloxi ,MS a lot over the past 6 years. Mostly we stayed at the Beau Rivage and jumped Casinos. If not doing that we took road trips or played golf. Although we read about the historic town a few times, we were under the impression , that there is not much going on. So when we walked, we walked along the beach or the main roads to the casinos.
Last weekend, April 5th to April 8th we visited Biloxi yet again. This time with a different plan, which included the exploration of old down town.
Last Monday we then decided to check out historic downtown at last and see what is going on there. Totally forgetting that it was Easter Monday. Naturally all stores and shops were closed. So we walked through this part pretty quickly.
After walking for some time we saw what looked to us like an old gas station which was converted into a bar and restaurant. From the get go I liked the feel of it.
Seemed like a great idea to try something new and we needed to find a place for some supper anyhow. Walked under the old gas station canopy and found us a table. We were lucky to find a table as it was pretty busy. Seemed like a lot of locals were eating and drinking there, which always is a good sign.
Only took a few minutes for a server to greet us and to take the order for drinks. Alicia was very friendly and took the time to explain the beer selection to me. I ordered a local beer. Some family followed and others had some soft drinks.
The menu was pretty interesting. Immediately I noticed that they had three different Oyster Meals. That appealed to me and it seemed a specialty from them. Alicia did not take long to bring out the drinks and took the order while there.
Again she answered all questions and the ordering process was a breeze. I had fresh Oysters and hand made fries while other orders were Oysters baked with bacon and Parmesan, the house burger and chicken stripes. Also we ordered one side of coleslaw.
The food came within reasonable time and all at once. This is always good. I do not like when meals are brought out with big time gaps. So we all started eating at the same time.
My Oysters were excellent. Extremely fresh and of great quality. The cocktail sauce was not too spicy and the horse reddish tasted like in the old world. They were served on an ice bed and with a lemon. Simply loved it. The hand made fries were also excellent. Fresh, nicely seasoned and plenty of it.
I tried the baked Oysters with bacon and Parmesan and again was very happy with it. Real Parmesan and the right amount of bacon. Also they were not baked to total dryness.
The burger tasted very fresh. Seemed like they make them, but I did not ask , so I will not say they do. The coleslaw also tasted fresh and home made.
Only thing I did not try were the chicken strips, but the person who ordered them said they were very good and I will settle for that.
Had a different local beer after the first one and it was as good if not better than the other one.
While Alicia picked up the dishes , we ordered the check and then enjoyed the atmosphere and the view of the town. Really liked the feel of this old town .
Alicia did not take very long to bring the bill. I used the time to check out the bathroom. There is only one of them. One for all. No problem in my mind and it seemed to not bother anyone. It was clean and simple.
I then checked out the inside bar area and the second dining room. Both are cozy and also bring over a nice atmosphere.
Overall I was excited that we found this place and we will for sure go back there and spend some time trying beer and some more food.
The food is very good, service was great, prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is nice. If you come to Biloxi and want to get away from the Casino Buffets and bars, The Ole Biloxi Fillin Station would be a great choice.
Friday, March 27, 2015
Cooke real estate school 14 hour continuing education course for Florida licensees
I am holding my real estate license for a long time. Had a license in different states and different countries. To be able to do so I took many classes and passed many exams.
Currently living in Florida I have the Florida real estate license for sales associates.
Part of having this license in Florida is to do continuing education every 2 years. Now the particular course I did this time is for licensees who hold there license for at least 4 years. Meaning that it is the second renewal period.
This time I picked an offer from Cooke Real Estate Schools. They started sending me offers for this course long time before my renewal due date. The price was by far the best 14.95$.
I went to their website, found my course, paid with credit card and received 2 emails within minutes. It was very simple to find what I needed and to submit payment. The two emails I received were:
1. Confirmation of my sign up and payment
2. Password and instructions
2. Password and instructions
I signed in right away to make myself familiar with the system.
The page I was directed to was super simple. Showed me links to the ebook for studying, email to instructor ....
Also status of course and a link to the final exam. As a matter of fact you could take the final exam right there.
I decided to go through text book first. Although it is not a problem to fail ( you can take it again right away at no extra charge), I am not a fan of wasting time.
Ebook was a PDF file. Easy to navigate and with all needed information. Not sure if I took 14 hours to read it, but you are not clocked so it does not matter.
Once ready for the exam I clicked on the link and started. You do not have to finish in one sitting and are able to save and finish later. So there is absolutely no pressure.
I answered all questions, but noted the ones which I was not sure about. Then I saved my work and went back to the textbook to check my answers.
Once I was sure about all 29 answers I gave ( multiple choice system) I submitted the form. Few seconds later I got my result. Passed. You need 75% of 29 questions.
You can print out the confirmation and put it in your file. Cooke school will send the completion certificate to the Department.
Cooke Real Estate School is definitely a great way to go when you need to get the 14 hour continuing education for FL real estate done. I will pick them again next time.
Did you do any exams with them? How did you like it. Always glad to hear about experiences others had.
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
HTC One Mobile Phone - short review
When I say short, I mean short.
I first worked in the cellular phone business in 1996. Selling hundreds of phones with plans from different providers.
I first worked in the cellular phone business in 1996. Selling hundreds of phones with plans from different providers.
My market was residential as well commercial. In those years you needed to know as much as possible about your phones and your providers and I was a master in learning about phones and then getting the right phone in the hands of my clients.
Times have changed and phones became more than just that. Over the past 4 years I tried all kinds of phones. All Android software, all smartphones. I liked them all and was satisfied.
Then I bought the HTC One. By far the best piece I owned so far.
Looks:
Flat, stylish, metal look. This phone simply looks good.
Battery:
Thew battery life is super. Depending on your usage it might be different to mine. Using all day for work including internet etc I get 24 hours . When using it as a phone only I easily had 2 full days. Naturally I expected the battery life to get shorter and it did. But nothing so significant that it would be worth to write about too long. In all I am satisfied.
Software:
I am not a tech geek. But from what I understood at the time of my purchase, the phone had the most current software available as operating system. Thinking about the speed of this phone when working with the apps and programs I have only good things to say. Compared to my old phone the HTC was lightening fast. In regards to what was on my pbone as pre installed applications, I had everything I needed to get my social and business work done. Over time I added applications and with Google Play it was a breeze to do so.
I guess there is authors who go into much more technical details or write lengthy books about the HTC filled with info which only means something to certain people.
For the normal and regular cell phone user I can say the following.
The HTC Smartphone is the best phone I had so far. It is easy to set up and operate, has more than sufficient battery life, looks great and is very durable. Getting it with a contract will bring the price to 99$ or less. That makes it affordable for most of us.
I am positive that if there is no comparable model available when my contract runs out I will get the same phone again.
The HTC One is a great phone for business and social use alike.
Friday, July 11, 2014
Lake Tarpon Resort - Palm Harbor, FL - How good is it?
When travelling for golf tournaments we always look for good looking hotels which offer a pool, a restaurant, maybe breakfast and if possible some view on something nice.
This all helps to have a fun stay and get relaxed before a golf tournament or any other work we would do.
My schedule showed that I play at Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, FL. A Golf Channel Tour event I was looking forward to be part of for years. Palm Harbor is about 1 hour and 20 minutes away from where we live.
Not exactly a long way. However, imagine to have a tee time at 7 38 am. To warm up for such a tee time you need to be there at 6 45 am , which means getting up extremely early.
So for this event we searched for a hotel with the following attributes:
1. Close to the resort, within 1 to 3 miles
2. Pool
3. Restaurant
4. Gym
5. View on the lake or any other water body
6. Price under 100 $
7. Good reviews
8. Free WIFI
9. Breakfast
Amazingly there were not too many hotels in the area and certainly not many who offered what we were looking for.
The good news was that we did find the Lake Tarpon Resort Hotel. By all accounts the exact hotel we were looking for. The hotel seemed to offer all of what we were looking for and for a price which was exactly as we imagined it. Further I read that it was the old Best Western, which made me think that the quality of the building and rooms should be good.
We booked the hotel directly without going through any of the other websites like Expedia and so on. The booking process was easy, fast and friendly.
On 4th of July we arrived in the area at around noon and decided to check out the hotel first and maybe even get into the room ( which usually is not possible until 3 pm). We found it easily.
From the outside it looked nice and interesting. Driving into the parking lot we found a clearly older hotel which was kind of build like a Spanish style building. Parking lot was clean and the entire grounds looked like they were taken care off.
We parked in front and went in. Nice entrance, big entrance hole with seating , computer area and breakfast area. Looked nice. Clean and welcoming. Went to the counter where we were greeted in a friendly tone and asked if we can be helped with anything. I explained everything and we were told that the rooms were not ready yet. That was fine with us. We did not expect that they were ready.
So we said we will be back later this afternoon. On the way out I checked out the breakfast corner. Looked good. Then we walked toward the pool. On the way we saw the gym which looked updated and in good shape as well. Pool was busy. Small pool but being on the canal and with a view on buildings, some green belt and boats I liked it.
The restaurant was empty and closed, which I did not expect. If it would have been open, it would have offered some nice seating with view on water and green belt.
We returned at about 7 pm. The room now was ready and we checked in. Giving a different card than the one we made the reservation with and we were told then that this will not be a problem. The lady told us where to go and that we have a top floor room.
Used the elevator to the 3rd floor but had to walk up one more floor. We entered the room and it was humid and hot. I went to turn on the A/C , but was not, able to get it going. The room otherwise looked nice, clean and had a large balcony with a view.
Called the receptionist and told her about the A/C. She said she will call back and did so about 3 minutes later. She told us that there is no maintenance guy and she will upgrade us. Just pick up a new key. We did so and again had a room on the 4th floor more towards the middle of the building.
Entered the room. Nice and cool. Clean and smelled good. The view as much better. Actually could see the lake and oversee the pool, canal, houses and green belt. We liked it. It came with micron wave, refrigerator, TV ( old one), Table and chairs and plenty of room. The balcony was pretty big but only had two plastic chairs.
Never tried the TV. But used the fridge which worked fine. All lights were working as well. The mattress was newer and of good quality. The bathroom looked clean and had all the supplies. Towels were nicely presented and you could see that they updated a little.
We actually slept well in that room and it was overall quite around us. I mean it was 4th of July.
Next morning we found that the shower was not draining properly, but good enough for us. Coffee machine worked great. WIFI worked as well and was for free.
We had a simple breakfast. Bagel, cream cheese, jelly, coffee. They did have some oatmeal and sweet stuff. I was OK with all that. Not like a Best Western, but not bad as well.
Check out was fast, but they did charge the wrong card, which we did not complain about since I had to move on to the course.
Other notes: From the balcony I saw rooms which were in disorder, beds upside down and so on. Clearly they were working on remodeling. We were told the restaurant will open in November again but no explanation why there is no info on the Internet that it was not there.
Overall I was happy. Lake Tarpon Resort Hotel in Palm Harbor might be a 2 star hotel, but it offers all you need. Customer service was good. Everybody tried to help us and make us happy. Rooms were clean and functional. The location certainly is nice. Close to the lake and parks and to the Innisbrook Resort ( for golfers).
If playing again in the area I would not mind to go back to Lake Tarpon Resort. We later heard that the bank owns it right now and not only would that explain how things work out there right now, but it also gives hope that there will be improvement over the next few months.
We paid 80 $ and if you are not seeking a 4 or 5 start hotel, this place could be the place for you. Have you been there? If so, write a comment and share your experiences about Lake Tarpon Resort.
Keep it clean and I will update if I go there again.
This all helps to have a fun stay and get relaxed before a golf tournament or any other work we would do.
My schedule showed that I play at Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, FL. A Golf Channel Tour event I was looking forward to be part of for years. Palm Harbor is about 1 hour and 20 minutes away from where we live.
Not exactly a long way. However, imagine to have a tee time at 7 38 am. To warm up for such a tee time you need to be there at 6 45 am , which means getting up extremely early.
So for this event we searched for a hotel with the following attributes:
1. Close to the resort, within 1 to 3 miles
2. Pool
3. Restaurant
4. Gym
5. View on the lake or any other water body
6. Price under 100 $
7. Good reviews
8. Free WIFI
9. Breakfast
Amazingly there were not too many hotels in the area and certainly not many who offered what we were looking for.
The good news was that we did find the Lake Tarpon Resort Hotel. By all accounts the exact hotel we were looking for. The hotel seemed to offer all of what we were looking for and for a price which was exactly as we imagined it. Further I read that it was the old Best Western, which made me think that the quality of the building and rooms should be good.
We booked the hotel directly without going through any of the other websites like Expedia and so on. The booking process was easy, fast and friendly.
On 4th of July we arrived in the area at around noon and decided to check out the hotel first and maybe even get into the room ( which usually is not possible until 3 pm). We found it easily.
From the outside it looked nice and interesting. Driving into the parking lot we found a clearly older hotel which was kind of build like a Spanish style building. Parking lot was clean and the entire grounds looked like they were taken care off.
We parked in front and went in. Nice entrance, big entrance hole with seating , computer area and breakfast area. Looked nice. Clean and welcoming. Went to the counter where we were greeted in a friendly tone and asked if we can be helped with anything. I explained everything and we were told that the rooms were not ready yet. That was fine with us. We did not expect that they were ready.
So we said we will be back later this afternoon. On the way out I checked out the breakfast corner. Looked good. Then we walked toward the pool. On the way we saw the gym which looked updated and in good shape as well. Pool was busy. Small pool but being on the canal and with a view on buildings, some green belt and boats I liked it.
The restaurant was empty and closed, which I did not expect. If it would have been open, it would have offered some nice seating with view on water and green belt.
We returned at about 7 pm. The room now was ready and we checked in. Giving a different card than the one we made the reservation with and we were told then that this will not be a problem. The lady told us where to go and that we have a top floor room.
Used the elevator to the 3rd floor but had to walk up one more floor. We entered the room and it was humid and hot. I went to turn on the A/C , but was not, able to get it going. The room otherwise looked nice, clean and had a large balcony with a view.
Called the receptionist and told her about the A/C. She said she will call back and did so about 3 minutes later. She told us that there is no maintenance guy and she will upgrade us. Just pick up a new key. We did so and again had a room on the 4th floor more towards the middle of the building.
Entered the room. Nice and cool. Clean and smelled good. The view as much better. Actually could see the lake and oversee the pool, canal, houses and green belt. We liked it. It came with micron wave, refrigerator, TV ( old one), Table and chairs and plenty of room. The balcony was pretty big but only had two plastic chairs.
Never tried the TV. But used the fridge which worked fine. All lights were working as well. The mattress was newer and of good quality. The bathroom looked clean and had all the supplies. Towels were nicely presented and you could see that they updated a little.
We actually slept well in that room and it was overall quite around us. I mean it was 4th of July.
Next morning we found that the shower was not draining properly, but good enough for us. Coffee machine worked great. WIFI worked as well and was for free.
We had a simple breakfast. Bagel, cream cheese, jelly, coffee. They did have some oatmeal and sweet stuff. I was OK with all that. Not like a Best Western, but not bad as well.
Check out was fast, but they did charge the wrong card, which we did not complain about since I had to move on to the course.
Other notes: From the balcony I saw rooms which were in disorder, beds upside down and so on. Clearly they were working on remodeling. We were told the restaurant will open in November again but no explanation why there is no info on the Internet that it was not there.
Overall I was happy. Lake Tarpon Resort Hotel in Palm Harbor might be a 2 star hotel, but it offers all you need. Customer service was good. Everybody tried to help us and make us happy. Rooms were clean and functional. The location certainly is nice. Close to the lake and parks and to the Innisbrook Resort ( for golfers).
If playing again in the area I would not mind to go back to Lake Tarpon Resort. We later heard that the bank owns it right now and not only would that explain how things work out there right now, but it also gives hope that there will be improvement over the next few months.
We paid 80 $ and if you are not seeking a 4 or 5 start hotel, this place could be the place for you. Have you been there? If so, write a comment and share your experiences about Lake Tarpon Resort.
Keep it clean and I will update if I go there again.
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Krazy Lobster Beach Bar Cafe and Restaurante - Costa Maya Mexico
Finally we made it on a cruise again. I did not write much about our cruising yet, but the stop we made on the costa maya in Mexico motivated me to begin.
The Norweign Epic stopped at Costa Maya as part of the 7 day trip we booked this time. While doing my research online I did not find too much about this location. So I decided to just go on land and see what happens.
I will get into the cruise terminal later. We took a cab van to town. 3$ gets you to the little village right on the water. You find a board walk with a ton of on the beach bars which offer food, beer, massages and more.
While walking along you get invited a lot and everybody has great offers. Naturally they all say they have the best deal. That is where Pepe approached me. Very friendly guy. Professional and business like.
He told me about his offer. 5$ for 5 Corona, free WiFi and free tequila when if I would eat. Sounded great and with handshake I told him I will be back for sure. About 30 min later , after walking the beach and some shopping we returned to the Krazy Lobster.
Pepe was pretty happy to see us again. I told I will be back. We got a table in the shade. Beautiful view on the water. The tables were simple plastic tables like the ones you would find in old italian cafes or so. Simple chairs. All right in the sand. Perfect.
We ordered the 5 for 5 deal. Took a while to get it. So be patient. You will get 5 little Coronas. A fair deal. Served cold on ice. We had a regular Corona and a Negra Modelo after that. Fairly priced at 3$. We did not eat but the food I saw commie to other tables looked pretty good.
I was not able to get the WiFi going at the table. However I found out I had the wrong password. We met nice people from our and other ships. It was a nice stay. 17$ for 9 beers was ok with me and for the friendly service our server earned a nice tip.
On the way out I got the free Wi-Fi going and Pepe came personally to thanki us for comingq bac
If you ever make it to Costa Maya in Mexico you need to take the taxi to the village and stop by at the Krazy Lobster. It is a ni e place living up to the promise of Pepe . I for sure will be back there when coming back.
I am sure there is other places whi h are good and. Lean. But there was no second Pepe who just transmitted the right vibe
Krazy Lobster at Costa Maya: I think a cool place
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