Destinations

What so great about summer other than the weather? Festivals! Summer is the best time for going to see new and exciting things happening in your town and the world. If you’re looking for something to do while your out and about these are only some of the events that will tickle your fancy.

The Capital Fringe Festival, Washington D.C. July 10-27: The Capital Fringe Festival features more than 500 performing arts shows at several venues around the Penn Quarter of D.C. It is an annual festival that was established to exhibit new, risk-taking art, and non-traditional performances from theater to dance to music and more.

The Smithsonian Folklife Festival, Washington D.C. June 25-29 and July 2-6: Sponsored by the Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage it is an annual event that focuses on celebrating cultural traditions from around the world. There is everything from music and dance, to cooking and crafts, to storytelling and discussions of cultural issues. This year the program will be featuring issues concerning Bhutan, NASA, and Texas.

Essence Festival Back Home In New Orleans: The Essence Festival celebrated its return in 2007 and is continuing the traditional this year. It will have more than 200,000 of the nations best African-American musical talent. In addition one can listen to some of the finest speakers in empowerment seminars. Usually held over the Forth of July weekend.

Taste of Chicago 2008, June 27 through July 6: Chicago’s biggest event started in 1980 as a small food festival, Taste of Chicago has become the world’s largest outdoor food festival. It is an extravaganza of more than 3 million people tasting the cuisine of over 70 of Chicago’s favorite restaurants.

Notting Hill Carnival, London: Since 1964 the Notting Hill Carnival has celebrated the cultural traditions of immigrant population from the Caribbean. In the 1950’s and 60’s the immigrant population faced harsh racism and after the race riots this small party was design to bring people together to remember their cultural roots. The party now has more the two million revelers and is held in August on Bank Holiday synonymous with the Caribbean Carnival.

Okay, I’m a sucker for modern hotels. I’ve been known to put down a Ritz or LeMeridien because the decor and ambiance just wasn’t up to par with my sense of hotel-style. I like a sleek looking room usually with chocolate brown furniture, a platform bed, vessel sink, and chrome accessories. When I saw this promotion come through I had to share.

The Avenue Hotel in Chicago is opening in May on Michigan Avenue in Chicago. They call it “contemporary and stylish,” but the photos say it all. Look at it - sitting there so innocently and blending in perfectly with it’s surroundings. If only they could design a room around this beautiful piece of technology - yes, that’s right…the iMac.

And, it appears they have done a pretty good job! Sleek and modern, yet casually elegant and inviting. There’s even and iHome dock for my iPhone! (Okay, it’s not a Bose, but it works for vacation)

From May 1, 2008 to June 30, 2008 the hotel is offering an introductory rate of $99 per night. The hotel features 200 guest rooms, 150 one-bedroom and junior suites, as well as Tech Rooms with iMac’s and a dedicated T-1 internet connection. The package also includes chocolate covered strawberries upon arrival. What more could you ask for?