Many thanks to everyone who stopped by the Barnes & Noble book signing on June 28. We had a fabulous Girl’s Night Out (GNO). A special thanks to the B&N staff for hosting the event and all their assistance. 
Join Girls Getaway Guide author Casey Wohl for a Girls Night Out and book signing from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at the Barnes & Noble Booksellers at Plaza Venezia (7900 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando 32819; 407-345-0900). After the book signing, stop by Roy’s Restaurant (a feature in the book) where you will, with a purchase of the book, receive a complimentary Melting Chocolate Soufflé. Come in and enjoy a taste of paradise at Roy’s.
When Kelly told me she and her friend Lori were going to the Tim McGraw concert in Oregon, I told her they had to meet my friends David and Chad of the Nashville-recording duo Halfway to Hazard who are opening for Tim McGraw. Kelly and Lori had a wonderful Girls Night Out (GNO) and are ready to visit Nashville.
Nicole and I recently went to a Stripping Slim class, where your workout is based on learning stripper moves and techniques (I didn’t know there were specific techniques). Despite being “less than graceful” spinning around the pole, we had a great time and an awesome workout. Everyone should try this at least once, but be prepared for some bumps, bruises and sore muscles. We agreed to come back for a Girls Night Out (GNO) with a group of friends. Nina – that includes you!.JPG)
Last night we attended the launch party for Orange Appeal Magazine at Star Tower in Downtown Orlando. Congratulations to Christi Ashby and her team on this fabulous new publication. Pick up a copy of the magazine or visit www.orangeappeal.com where you will find great articles, tips and features all geared towards women.
Ali and I decided to check out a new place called Stardust Lounge, which is located in Downtown Orlando on E. Central. The "Rat Pack" inspired lounge is unique to the area and a great hangout. Formerly Lee's Tavern, the space has been converted in a Las Vegas-esque lounge with billiards, decorated with zebra print, red velvet, multi-colored lighting and a swanky, underground feel. Stardust features a 50ft L-shaped bar, comfy over-sized sofas and a zebra room to complete the retro look. Even the staff are dressed to fit the theme. Merv at the front door and Kyra behind the bar are very helpful and friendly, which makes the experience here that much better. I love the signature drink, The Stardust....awesome! Happy hour is everyday until 8:00 PM. For more information, visit www.stardustorlando.com.
Join Girls Getaway Guide author Casey Wohl for a Girls Night Out and book signing from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at the Barnes & Noble Booksellers at Plaza Venezia (7900 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando 32819; 407-345-0900). Purchase three books and be entered to win a Girls Getaway Registration!
To celebrate Leigh’s 35th birthday, a group of us went to Tina Tapa’s at Tampa’s Channelside. We had a blast sharing all sorts of tapas, including gazpacho, ceviche, spicy mango shrimp, fried calamari, balsamic grilled vegetables, baked crab al fornos and so much more!
Top Photo: Casey, Ronna & Leigh at dinner.
Carly and I had an awesome Girls Night Out (GNO) earlier this week. We met at Bahama Breeze for dinner, then went to see American Idol finalist Phil Stacey perform here in Orlando. Thank you Phil for a great concert and for meeting us backstage.
On his second voyage, Christopher Columbus landed an island he named San Juan Bautista, or St. John the Baptist, with a fleet of 17 ships in 1493. Juan Ponce de Leon was with Christopher Columbus on this voyage and witnessed the locals showering Columbus with gold nuggets. As a result, Ponce de Leon returned to the island 15 years later to become the first Puerto Rican Governor after invading the island in 1508. The island was later renamed Puerto Rico, meaning 'rich port', and Juan Ponce de Leon enslaved the local inhabitants to mine for him. The islanders rebelled against Ponce de Leon and many fled Puerto Rico or took their own lives. Ponce de Leon was then forced to bring in African slaves as a cheap source of labor.
We met up with Nina, Nicole and the girls after our rainforest visit. We had wine, appetizers, dinner and great conversations at their condo in Palmas Del Mar. After dinner we cautiously attended a "foam party" at the local hangout, the Sugar Cube. 
Top - Jo Beth, Casey, Lisa & Sarah enjoy the foam party.
Today, we rented a car from Charlie Car Rental (across from our hotel) and drove to El Yunque, a nearby rainforest located southeast of San Juan. It was nice to see other parts of the country besides the city. Compared to other countries, Puerto Rico is fairly Americanized. We saw many familiar businesses, most everyone speaks English and the dollar is used here, so no need to convert currency. 
We arrived in Puerto Rico late Friday night. We were thrilled to wake up Saturday morning to an awesome view of the pool and beach from our room at the Marriott San Juan Resort & Stellaris Casino (see photo to right). After a few hours of beach and pool time, we made our way to the spa for afternoon massages.
I guess I was bit early by the travel bug. My mom's friend Donna sent me this photo yesterday with the following message:
The Sex and the City pre-party and movie were absolutely fantastic! We started the evening at Neiman Marcus Orlando where we were treated to cosmos, appetizers, make up consultations, chocolate shoes, giveaways and prizes all while viewing Neiman Marcus’ vast array of fabulous shoes.
