Thursday, November 27, 2008

Even Holidays Are Great Times With The Girls


Thanksgiving was so much fun! I am very lucky that some of my best girlfriends are also my family. We enjoyed some wonderful gal pal time at Rafter T Ranch and took an afternoon buggy ride around the property to enjoy the amazing wildlife and stunning sunset. I cannot wait until next year.




PHOTOS: Above - Sarah, Carly & Jeri. Below - Katie, Dot, Casey & Gayla

Girls Getaway Guide to Key West Receives Rave Reviews

The Girls Getaway Guide to Key West: Leave Your Baggage at Home received a fabulous review by Associated Content. Many thanks to Carine Nadel for taking the time to review the book and for her glowing recommendation. To read the review, visit http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1167704/girls_getaway_guide_to_key_west_by.html?cat=38.

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Key West Legend Passes Away at 92

Sad news! Key West legend Capt. Tony recently passed away at the age of 92. He was friends with Ernest Hemingway and Jimmy Buffet. In fact, Buffet pays tribute to him in his song "Last Mango in Paris." Capt. Tony owned the famous bar named after him, which was the original location of Sloppey Joe's. He was mayor of Key West from 1989-1991. He was married four times and has 13 children.

Just last year, during a Girls Getaway to Key West, we made sure to stop by and see one of the island's most unique and iconic figures. For more details about Capt. Tony, visit http://www.floridatoday.com/article/20081102/BREAKINGNEWS/81102005/1086/?source=nletter-breakingnews


PHOTO: Nikki, Casey Wohl, Capt. Tony & Kelly during November 2007 Girls Getaway to Key West.

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Don't Forget to Register for Free Vacations!

The Girls Getaway Guide is pleased to announce The Getaway Girl’s™ second annual “12 Days ‘til Christmas” holiday promotion. In an effort to help all girls beat the holiday madness and Leave Your Baggage at Home™, the Girls Getaway Guide will host a countdown to the big day. Women everywhere can visit the Girls Getaway Guide online at http://www.girlsgetawayguide.net/ to sign up for nearly $7,000 in fabulous giveaways, which are sure to provide welcome holiday cheer during this stressful time of year. The winners will be selected on each of the 12 business days starting Dec. 8-23, with the Grand Prize selected on Dec. 24. Each day leading up to Christmas, a terrific Girls Getaway Guide prize will be given away to a randomly-selected entrant.

Date Prize
Dec. 8 Gaylord Palms Resort
4 tickets to ICE!
Value: $100
www.GaylordHotels.com/gaylord-palms/

Dec. 9 Zou Zou Boutique Shopping Gift Card
Value: $100
www.ZouZouBoutique.com

Dec. 10 Emeril’s Tchoup Chop
Tasting Dinner for 2, plus Wine Pairing
Value: $200
www.emerils.com/restaurant/7/Emerils-Tchoup-Chop/

Dec. 11 The Ritz-Carlton, Grande Lakes
On Property, Guided Eco-Tour for Two on Shingle Creek
Value: $200
www.RitzCarlton.com

Dec. 12 Hampton Inn & Suites Lake Buena Vista
Three day/two night stay
Value: $250
www.OrlandoSLBVSuites.hamptoninn.com

Dec. 15 Blue Tree Resort
Three day/two night stay in 2-bedroom villa
Value: $350
http://www.bluetreeorlando.com/

Dec. 16 Orlando Premium Outlets & Marriott Village
Two night stay at Marriott Village, $50 shopping spree and VIP gift bag
Value: $500
www.PremiumOutlets.com/Orlando

Dec. 17 Regal Sun Resort
Three day/two night stay for 2 with breakfast, admission to Mystery Dinner Show
Value: $600
www.RegalSunResort.com

Dec. 18 Baccarat/Lalique at Prime Outlets International Orlando
Frivole Butterfly Necklace made of lead crystal on a silver chain, topaz in color
Value: $625
http://www.primeoutlets.com/

Dec. 19 Omni Orlando Resort at Championsgate
Deluxe Resort Accommodations for 2 with Breakfast each morning
Value: $658
www.OmniOrlandoResort.com

Dec. 22 Crowne Plaza Key West – La Concha
Girls Just Want to Have Fun Vacation Package with two nights accommodations, two-hour Wind & Wine Sunset Sail, breakfast for 2, 2 drink tickets Value: $795
http://www.laconchakeywest.com/

Dec. 23 Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort
Three day/two night stay
Value: $900
www.SwanDolphin.com


BONUS DAY & GRAND PRIZE
Dec. 24 Ocean Key Resort & Spa
Three day/two night stay in Oceanview Boutique Suite, two spa treatments & breakfast for two each day (subject to availability and black out dates)
Value: $1,500
www.OceanKey.com

Monday, November 24, 2008

GNO at JLWH Merry Market


The Junior League of Winter Haven's Merry Market Girls Night Out (GNO) event Friday night was awesome! From wine tasting to manicures to shopping, this event had it all. The Getaway Girl™ was there for a special book signing and got to witness Jen Myers sport a Balloon Dress, which was created by Mark Byrne (http://www.balloonguy.net/).
For some reason, I am a little worried the photos of me in a Balloon Bikini in NYC may re-surface soon. Thank you to the JLWH for hosting a wonderful event.

PHOTOS: Left - Jen Myers, Mark Byrne and Casey Wohl at the Junior League of Winter Haven's Merry Market Girls Night Out (GNO). Right - Marcy Bishop & Casey Wohl.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

New ebook: Travel Writing as a Freelancer

People often ask me about travel writing and how they can get involved, so I asked travel writing expert Wendy VanHatten to share some information about her new ebook, Travel Writing as a Freelancer. Here's what she had to say:

Getaway Girl: Why did you write this ebook?
Wendy: I have given a variety of classes about writing and travel writing and was asked if I had a reference manual. I decided to put an ebook together for writers to use as one.

Getaway Girl: Who does this ebook benefit?
Wendy: This book will benefit both new travel writers as well as those who have written a few articles. It will also benefit writers who want to break into the travel market. Plus, once again it can be used as a reference.

Getaway Girl: What areas does this ebook cover regarding Travel Writing as a Freelancer?
Wendy: You will get the basics in this ebook. Some highlights are query letters, working with editors, telling your story without telling a story, markets, rights, and other basics of travel writing. Travel writing is different from other types of writing and I give example of how that is.

Getaway Girl: Aside from this ebook, what other products and services do you offer?
Wendy: One service is editing articles for other travel writers. Another one is coaching one on one with writers that are new or established. I also speak at workshops and classes. In addition, I have photos for sale. I am in the process of writing another ebook on success, which will also be available on my website.

Getaway Girl: What did you learn about writing an ebook that you plan to pass along to your readers?
Wendy: As with most writing, I use an outline. Not a “formal” outline…but still an outline. This helps me focus, put things in the right order, and allow the book to flow or make sense. It’s ok to jump around…as long as your audience can follow it! That’s why I use one.


This interview was part of a virtual blog tour.
Yesterday the blog tour was with Going Green Marketplace. And tomorrow the blog tour continues with Cynthia Norris at Original Impulse blog.

You can pick up your own copy of Wendy’s ebook at http://www.travelsandescapes.com/ebook.html.

Saturday, November 22, 2008

LBD Party at The Kennedy

Everyone had a terrific time at the Little Black Dress Party at The Kennedy in Tampa on Thursday. Girls indulged in spa and salon treatments, makeovers, complimentary champagne and a dessert bar. Many thanks to Brian and Dustin for taking care of my lighting and refreshment needs, as well as Larissa for making it all happen. It was great to see old friends and meet new ones. Cannot wait until next time!

PHOTO: Casey Wohl with new friends Janice, Janette & Maria at the Little Black Dress Party at The Kennedy.

Friday, November 21, 2008

Join Me at the Winter Haven Merry Market Tonight!

Join me tonight, Friday, Nov. 21, for a fabulous Girls Night Out (GNO) at the Junior League of Winter Haven's Merry Market. Shop more than 10,000 square feet of retail space with just one stop!

Buy any Girls Getaway Guide book and register to win a fantstic Girls Getaway to Key West (a $795 value)! Hope to see you in Winter Haven. For more details, visit www.jlgwh.org.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Getaway Girl to Attend Little Black Dress Party in Tampa

Join me tonight from 7:00 - 10:00 PM at the Little Black Dress Party at The Kennedy in Tampa. Guests are invited to indulge in spa and salon treatments, sip complimentary champagne and enjoy sweets from the dessert bar.
The first 100 ladies will receive a signature goodie bag and door prizes all night long. Proceeds to benefit the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. For more information visit www.TheKennedySoho.com or call (813) 259-9669.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Great Time at the FPRA PRowl!

Thank you to everyone who attended the FPRA PRowl in Lakeland last night. It was great to see everyone and catch up with the girls. Many thanks to Susan Black for putting this wonderful event together and for Bonefish Grill for hosting us.

Monday, November 17, 2008

Getaway Girl Scheduled for Encore Presentation on Best Life Barb Show

Great news! The Best Life Barb Show has selected me to be a part of their Encore Presentation Show on Nov. 29. Tune in to station 1190 WAMT Orlando from 9:00 - 11:00 AM to listen!

The Getaway Girl™ was thrilled to be interviewed live on Oct. 4 on the Best Life Barb Show. She chatted with “Best Life Barb” and “Sweet Lou” about the importance of girl getaways and revealed exciting news about the “12 Days ‘til Christmas” girls getaway promotion. The Best Life Barb Show is all about the BEST of the BEST whether it be food, drink, products, services, or even relationships. After appearing on the Oprah Winfrey Show, Barb Simon (aka Best Life Barb) helps listeners LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE. For more information about the Best Life Barb Show, visit www.bestlifebarb.com.

Friday, November 14, 2008

Getaway Girls of All Ages at Cats On Main

Thank you very much to Elizabeth Durrance at Cats On Main for a great event yesterday. I had so much fun meeting everyone and exchanging girl getaway stories! Be sure to visit this fabulous store for all your holiday shopping!
PHOTO: Savy Conerly models the "Leave Your Baggage at Home" visor.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Mark Your Calendar for Nov. 21 in Winter Haven!

Mark your calendar for the Junior League of Winter Haven's Merry Market Nov. 21-22. I'll be co-hosting a fabulous Girls Night Out (GNO) on Friday, Nov. 21 from 6:00 - 9:00 PM, so I hope to see you there! Click on the link below for more details.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OwbkFFDZXTA

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Girls Getaway Guide Makes Top Twelve List for Girlfriendology.com

I am thrilled to announce that Girlfriendology.com recently featured the Girls Getaway Guide website as one of the Top 12 travel websites for women! What an honor! Girlfriendology is an online community for women based on female friendships.

You can check out the full list at: http://girlfriendology.com/1575/top-ten-womens-travel-sites-2/

Monday, November 10, 2008

The Getaway Girl on GirlfriendCelebrations.com

I am thrilled to announce that I am a new contributor to the fabulous website www.GirlfriendCelebrations.com. This site is packed full of helpful tips and great stories for celebrating life's special occasions and the everyday joys we get from our girlfriends.

Be sure to visit the site and read my recent post about a girls getaway to Music City USA!

Sunday, November 9, 2008

MEGA Speaking Was Awesome!

Today is the last day of the MEGA Speaking Conference and I am so glad I attended this great event in Los Angeles!

As always, Mark Victor Hansen, co-creator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, assembled a fantastic roster of speakers, including author of Life’s Golden Ticket Brendon Burchard, hypnotist Marshall Sylver, movie producer Peter Gruber, marine life artist and conservationist Wyland, NYT best-selling author Andy Andrews, business strategist Christine Comaford, networking guru Keith Ferrazzi, corporate trainer Berny Dohrmann, wealth and lifestyle strategist Chris Howard, motivational/inspirational speaker and best-selling author Barbara DeAngelis PhD, as well as Mark Victor Hansen himself.

Thank you to Mr. Hansen for hosting this wonderful event and to all the speakers for sharing their knowledge. This was one awesome conference!

Saturday, November 8, 2008

Visit to Wyland in Laguna Beach

For anyone who has watched MTV’s Laguna Beach show, you’ve seen snippets of this quaint seaside community. Although I have seen the show, I never realized that Laguna is such an artist haven. Locals say that artists began arriving more than a century ago, as they were inspired by the wonderful weather and picturesque beauty of the area. Visitors (and celebs) from around the world come to Laguna Beach to enjoy the numerous art galleries, cozy restaurants, and idyllic resort atmosphere. During our time in town, we stopped by the flagship Wyland Gallery (www.wyland.com). Wyland is the world’s leading marine artist and has been internationally recognized for his marine conservation efforts. I was aware of Wyland due to his gallery in Key West, and the opportunity to check out this gallery was not to be missed.
PHOTO: Casey Wohl & Wendy Kurtz outside Wyland Gallery.

Friday, November 7, 2008

Laguna Niguel is Top Surf Spot


As we trekked down to the ocean from the resort, we made new friends and enjoyed the scenic flora and fauna of the area. Despite the cold temperatures, we wanted to make sure our toes hit the water. After running in and out of the tide, we made friends with some surfers to get the surfing scoop. Sean the Surfer was gracious enough to answer our questions (and even be interviewed on video…stay tuned for the video clip). As we had our fill of surf and sand, we hiked back up to the hotel and convinced ourselves that the hike up was strenuous enough to be our daily workout. We sadly packed up, said our goodbyes and headed to the town of Laguna Beach.

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Does it get any better than this?

Located about an hour south of Los Angeles, the Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel (http://www.ritzcarlton.com/) is an amazing property with every bit of the perfection you expect from the Ritz Carlton brand. Situated on top of a 150-foot bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the grounds and view could not be any more serene and wonderful. On a clear day (which we enjoyed), you can even see Catalina Island. Guests on a girls’ getaway will enjoy the on-property spa, which features 12 treatment rooms (each one features a crystal chandelier and tranquil water amenities. There is also a salon and (for the die-hard exercise queens) a fitness center complete with gorgeous views of the ocean. Highlights for us (in addition to ENO) were the Adirondack chairs on the back lawn of the hotel that overlook the ocean, as well as the dining room with a complete view of the ocean via floor to ceiling windows. Both were perfect for total relaxation and for checking out the hundreds of surfers in their wet suits. The resort also offers wellness classes, such as yoga, pilates and T’ai Chi. For the adventurous girls, the resort can also arrange for surf lessons and whale watching excursions during the peak whale migration season. Does it get any better?

PHOTO: View of Pacific Ocean from the Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel's backyard. I was sitting in an Adirondack chair soaking up the cool weather and sunshine when I took this photo.

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel's ENO is Amazing


We arrived at LAX Wednesday afternoon and were looking forward to getting down to Laguna Beach to the Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel. After a little bit of traffic, we made our way onto the Pacific Coast Highway. Unfortunately, it was already dark so we did not have a fabulous scenic drive alongside the ocean.

Upon arriving at the Ritz, we were greeted by Deanne French, Director of Public Relations. After checking in and getting settled in our rooms, we met Deanne in ENO, the Ritz’s wine, cheese and chocolate tasting room. We had a fabulous time indulging in all the above! I chose to try to Lasting Laguna Reds wine flight, which included a sampling of three red wines presented in order of lightest to heaviest. My favorite was the Ahnfeldt Merlot, which was perfect. Next, we sampled the cheese flight, which included cheeses from across Europe. I loved the Spanish brie made from goat’s milk…delightful. Shannon was so helpful and informative and an absolute pleasure to have assisting us with our decisions. She recommended we try a sampling of meats as well, which include roasted chicken, ham and shaved pepperoni, along with olives and flatbread. I was thinking that I should not have already eaten dinner! Once again, everything was wonderful and the wine and gal pal chit chat kept flowing. Soon we were ready for dessert, and Shannon presented an absolutely wonderful chocolate flight to our table. The “must try” was the caramel sea salt covered in chocolate cocoa…yum!

Not only is the food and wine at ENO amazing, but the atmosphere is as well. With a full floor-to-ceiling glass wine tower in the middle of the room, and the surrounding high-top tables are perfect for socializing in any size group. In one area, they feature great wine gifts, such as books, glasses and wine-related items.

Of course everything is wonderful at the Ritz, and we had a terrific time chatting with Deanne and gaining interesting information from Shannon. Many thanks to both of them for making our Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel evening spectacular!

I cannot wait to get up in the morning and see the Ritz Carlton grounds and coastline of the Pacific Ocean.

Casey Wohl Appears on First Wives World

We had a great time in NYC and had a blast chatting with Debbie Nigro from First Wives World. During an interview at the Empire State Building, we talked about the importance of girlfriends to get you through tough times, like divorce. Click on the link below to see the interview.

http://www.firstwivesworld.com/resource/debbie-does-divorce/debbie-nigro/girlfriend-therapy

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

GNO Halloween with the "Hos"

No Halloween is complete without a costume party with some of my favorite girlfriends, the "Hos." We inherited our name from an abbreviation of Bunco, but we make it a point to get together about once a month, with Halloween and Christmas being our big celebrations! Much love to my Hos. It was great seeing you this weekend.

Pictured (L to R): Amy Winehouse (Anne), Beth - Dog the Bounty Hunter's wife (Gina), Getaway Girl Pirate Wench (Casey), Correctional Officer (Traci) and the Devil Herself (Heather).

Monday, November 3, 2008

Casey Wohl Featured on Media Talk

I had so much fun with Janet Sherer and the entire crew at Media Talk! They are absolutely terrific and wonderful to work with. Be sure to see the Halloween interview we did in front of the Tampa Bay Brewing Company at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MvmOJ0DML9s.

For more information about Media Talk, visit www.TampaBaysMediaTalk.com.

Girls Getaway to Laguna Beach

I cannot wait to arrive in Laguna Beach this week for a fabulous girls getaway. We are staying at the gorgeous Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel. Stay tuned for more details!


Sunday, November 2, 2008

Girlfriends "Frightenly Pink" Getaways

Thank you to the Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando for using the Girls Getaway Guide to Orlando: Leave Your Baggage at Home to celebrate their Girlfriends "Frightenly Pink" Getaways! Super cute!
For more details, visit www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-palms/

Saturday, November 1, 2008

Mark Your Calendar for Nov. 13

Join The Getaway Girl™ Casey Wohl as she hosts a book signing event at the delightful Cat’s Corner boutique in Wauchula from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Refreshments will be served, and attendees will be entered to win a Girls Getaway Vacation Package to Key West, including two nights’ accommodations at the Crowne Plaza Key West – La Concha, breakfast for two, Wind and Wine cruise for two and complimentary drink tickets for two (a $795 value) with each book purchased.
Contact Information: 106 N 6th Ave., Wauchula, FL 33873; (863) 773-6565