Archive for the ‘Features’ Category

posted by Charles H. Russo on Jan 29

Though work is not yet complete, it???s already clear that what???s going on at The Heritage Houseis no mere renovation. Built as a farmhouse in 1877 and first converted into a hotel in 1949, The Heritage House has always had a billion dollar location on 37 rolling gently acres that tumble down to the thrashing Pacific. For many years that location sustained the property as it grew into a haphazard collection of eclectic cottages and bungalows???one of which was used as the primary filming location for the movie Same Time Next Year.

But The Heritage House never had the d?©cor, amenities or service to go with its views until rolling renovations started in March 2007. The property has spent more than $20 million so far to complete work on less than half of the hotel???s 47 rooms, and it shows–carpethas been replaced with tatami mats, overstuffed chintz has been ditched in favor of angular earth tones. The new look amounts to a seamless marriage of the serenity of Asian-inspired hotel style and the effortless, naturally laid back Northern California attitude.

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posted by Charles H. Russo on Jan 14

By Nancy Kinley

Who says that you can go to the beaches only during summer? At Galveston, with its semi-tropical climate, visitors enjoy year-round coastal bliss. Located 50 miles southeast of Houston, Galveston is an island in the Gulf of Mexico that offers visitors a unique blend of culture, history, beaches, as well as city ambiance.

On the north end of the island, the restored Victorian Strand district, resort hotels, and beachfront businesses provide a busy, commercial ambiance. If, however, you are seeking solitude and open beach access, then head south where you will find long stretches of private and rental residences.

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