Sunday, June 29, 2008

Barnes and Noble Book Signing - Thank you!

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.

PHOTO: Casey Wohl and Lisa Hope at the Barnes & Noble Book Signing in Orlando.

Friday, June 27, 2008

The Getaway Girl at Barnes and Noble Tomorrow!

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 SoufflĂ©. Come in and enjoy a taste of paradise at Roy’s.


Thursday, June 26, 2008

More fun with Halfway to Hazard!

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.

Lori writes: "Thanks for hooking us up Casey! They were great and we had a blast!"

PHOTO: The girls with Halfway to Hazard. (L to R): David, Kelly, Lori and Chad.

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Stripper-cise: Fun With Your Girlfriends!

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!
PHOTO: Nicole and Casey post-workout.

Friday, June 20, 2008

Casey Wohl Attends Orange Appeal Magazine Launch Party

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.
PHOTO: Marjorie, Irene, Ali and Casey at Orange Appeal Magazine Launch Party.

Thursday, June 19, 2008

The Getaway Girl Checks Out Stardust Lounge

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.

PHOTO: Casey & Ali at Stardust Lounge.

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Join Casey Wohl at Barnes and Noble and Roy's - June 28!


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!

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 SoufflĂ©. Come in and enjoy a taste of paradise at Roy’s.


Monday, June 16, 2008

Happy Birthday Leigh!

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!

Many thanks to Tina Tapa’s manager Mike Baldwin for his help in accommodating our large group.

After dinner, we headed to Howl at the Moon for some sing-along fun with the dueling pianos. Although Leigh’s alter ego “Jody” did not make an appearance, we had a great time and helped Leigh celebrate her birthday….no matter how old she really is!

Top Photo: Casey, Ronna & Leigh at dinner.
Bottom Photo: Leigh's turns 35 but her cards says she is 40!

Saturday, June 14, 2008

Girls Night Out with American Idol's Phil Stacey!

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.
PHOTO: Carly, Phil Stacey & Casey Wohl.

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Casey Wohl in Columbus Square

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.

Christopher Columbus merely discovered new worlds and did not plunder or exploit the people of Puerto Rico. This is why his memory is favorably honored with a statue.

Columbus Square, or Plaza de Colon, is a well known landmark in Old San Juan. The plaza used to be known as St. James Square but it was renamed in 1893 as part of celebrations marking the 400th anniversary of Columbus' first arrival to Puerto Rico. In the center of Columbus Square is a solid stone column on which stands a marble statue of the legendary maritime explorer Christopher Columbus. The right hand of the statue holds a flag while a globe rests in the palm of his left hand. The pedestal is surrounded by bronze plates that depict the most important moments in the life of Christopher Columbus.

PHOTO: Casey Wohl in Columbus Square.

Monday, June 9, 2008

Girls Night Out at the Sugar Cube's Foam Party

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.

Manolo (the bar owner, not the shoe) insisted we start with his infamous strawberry rum shots. It was downhill from there, but Nina "washed her hands" frequently and someone got my name imprinted on them.....what happens in Puerto Rico, stays in Puerto Rico.

PHOTOS:
Top - Jo Beth, Casey, Lisa & Sarah enjoy the foam party.
Bottom right - Jeri gets decorated in foam.
Bottom - Jeri, Casey, Nina & Nicole sample Manolo's strawberry rum shots.





Sunday, June 8, 2008

Rainforest - Here We Come!!!

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.
Once we arrived at El Yunque, we ate lunch at Yuquiyu Delights, an outdoor cafe that served hamburgers, hot dogs and pizza, as well as authentic Puerto Rican food (I tried the alcapurrias, which are plantains filled with ground beef or crab meat). After lunch, we hiked the Trail Bano de Oro, which was about a 30 minute hike through the rainforest. The tropical foliage was beautiful and the hike was just long enough to allow us to stretch our legs before getting back into the car.
After our visit to the rainforest, we plan to drive further south to Humacao to visit my friends Nina and Nicole. Stay tuned!
TOP PHOTO - Casey Wohl in the El Yunque waterfalls
BOTTOM PHOTO - Casey and Jeri enjoy the view at the Yokahu Tower


Amazing Dinner at Marmalade in Old San Juan


While in Old San Juan, we wanted to get dinner and drinks. We made our way into a restaurant called Marmalade, which is located on Fortaleza Street. We ordered a Pomegrante Martini and a Mojito, as well as Paella Bytes, Baby Field Greens with Honey Passion Fruit Vinaigrette, Tiny White Bean Soup with Black Truffle Oil, and Ceviche. Everything was absolutely amazing! I now have a new favorite restuarant. This place is a "must-visit" during your time in Puerto Rico.

Chef Peter Schintler, originally from Iowa, has been all over the world studying and preparing amazing food. He currently brings his extraordinary flair for exquisite and creative cuisine to Old San Juan. Thank you for one of my favorite meals to date. Also, many thanks to Rob for his impeccable service and wonderful recommendations.

For more information about Marmalade, visit http://www.marmaladepr.com/.
PHOTO: Chef Peter Schintler & Casey Wohl at Marmalade.

Saturday, June 7, 2008

Girls Getaway to Puerto Rico

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.
After massages, we headed to Old San Juan for the Sofo Culinary Festival. The streets were packed with people sampling delicious cuisine, festive cocktails and enjoying live music and street performers (see far right photo).
What a fantastic first day!


Friday, June 6, 2008

Casey Wohl's Sex and the City Party Featured Online in Orange Appeal Magazine

I was so excited to open the most recent email from Orange Appeal Magazine and see our Sex and the City private VIP pre-party featured along with great photos from the event. For more information about Orange Appeal Magazine, visit http://www.orangeappeal.com/.

Girls Getaway to Puerto Rico!

I cannot wait to meet up with the rest of the girls who are already in Puerto Rico. Tomorrow morning we plan to take a tour of San Juan and visit the Bacardi Rum Factory. We also plan to visit the rainforest. Of course there will be plenty of time for sun, fun, drinks, shopping and the casinos. Be sure to visit my blog for getaway updates!

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Casey Wohl - Still a traveling girl!

I guess I was bit early by the travel bug. My mom's friend Donna sent me this photo yesterday with the following message:

"Casey - I ran across this photo of you the other day and couldn't resist scanning it and sending it to you. You are still a traveling girl!"

It's never too early to start taking girl getaways!

Wendy and Wayne Discuss Sex and the City Event

On Wednesday's Wendy and Wayne Show, co-hosts Wendy Kurtz and Wayne Kelly discussed The Getaway Girl's recent Sex and the City promotion and how other businesses can build fabulous promotions based on current events and happenings! To listen, visit
www.WendyAndWayne.com/blog.

Monday, June 2, 2008

Sex and the City Pre-Party & Movie Premiere!

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.

We had a blast trying on shoes, getting made up and sipping the Sex and the City beverage of choice. Many thanks to Bunny, Georgiana, Margaret, Michael (our very own Mr. Big), Katrina, Olga and the entire Neiman Marcus staff for hosting a superb party that is still receiving rave reviews.

After the pre-party we made our way (some via limo) to Universal CityWalk AMC Cineplex, where we had our very own theater. With cocktails in hand, we all sat back and enjoyed the highly-anticipated Sex and the City movie. We laughed and cried, but were overjoyed to be reunited with Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte. Many thanks to Aaron Swisher for all of his help in coordinating the theater arrangements. We had one amazing Girls Night Out!

For more photos, visit http://www.girlsgetawayguide.net/. Be sure to enter your email address for updates on future Girls Night Out events and Girl Getaways!