Category: Hotel news

JW Marriott San Antonio and Desert Door Texas Sotol’s partnership for Texas bees

The two organizations partnered to serve a signature cocktail exclusive to the resort using Desert Door Texas Sotol’s Pollinator spirit, the third Texas Sotol variation in Desert Door’s Conservation Series. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa and Desert Door Texas Sotol have pollinated a partnership to serve a signature cocktail exclusive to the resort using Desert Door Texas Sotol’s Pollinator spirit. The cocktail, Paloma Preserve, will be available on the menu across all of the resort’s restaurant and bar outlets: 18 Oaks, Cibolo Moon, Crooked Branch, High Velocity, Rivertop, and Replenish. (JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, 2023) 

Desert Door Texas Sotol’s Pollinator is a sotol spirit made from the West Texas-grown evergreen sotol plant and is similar in profile to agave-based spirits, tequila, and mezcal. Pollinator was created with mesquite, persimmon and honeysuckle, which are native plants that are pollinated by Texas bee species. 

The Paloma Preserve cocktail will feature the Pollinator Sotol, grapefruit juice, lime juice, simple syrup, topped with soda and garnished with a lime wedge, and will be served in signature blue porcelain tumblers. 

The partnership between JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa and Desert Door Texas Sotol was established from the organizations’ common mission of the preservation of Texas bees.

According to Texas Master Gardeners within Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Services, development and pesticides have ravaged Texas bees putting not only honey prices at stake, but the pollination of native Texas plants, since bees play a key role in pollinating, and the pollination of around $587 million worth of crops every year in Texas. 

Desert Door’s nonprofit foundation Wild Spirit Wild Places (WSWP) is dedicated to the restoration and preservation of wild lands across Texas and the U.S. through research, education and conservation practices, and spearheaded the planting of pollinator gardens across Central Texas as part of the release of Pollinator. Desert Door regularly releases limited editions of its Texas Sotol with a portion of its proceeds directly funding the foundation’s future land conservation projects. Pollinator is the third spirit variation in the Conservation Series and highlights one of the overlooked heroes of the earth’s ecosystem, bees. 

According to WSWP, bees are experiencing a steep decline which poses a serious threat to global food production. In Texas, 40% of the honeybee population is being lost every year. Reasons for the decline vary from pesticides, drought, habitat destruction and disease.

“Desert Door’s nonprofit foundation and third Conservation Series spirit directly aligns with the resort’s missions to protect bees in Texas and to establish local community partnerships. We are proud to have them as a partner and are confident our guests will enjoy the exclusive Paloma Preserve cocktail using Desert Door Texas Sotol’s new Pollinator spirit.” – Adam Tyler, director of food & beverage at JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa

The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa’s food and beverage team and Culinary Gardener are responsible for providing regional bees with the home they need to thrive by maintaining beehives on the resort’s property and harvesting honey from them. Recently, honey harvested at the resort was used in the brewing process of a new beer, Hill Country Honey Blonde, in partnership with Freetail Brewing Company, a company that actively builds awareness for wildlife conservation through the development of their products. 

Both the Paloma Preserve and Hill Country Honey Blonde beer are part of the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa’s Conservation Series aimed at creating a positive impact in the local community.

The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa is an award-winning luxury resort encompassing 600 acres of rolling hills, meandering creeks and Live Oak trees in the Hill Country. The resort is a sophisticated but relaxed destination with 1,002 guest rooms; seven restaurant and lounge options; 9-acre water park experience; TPC San Antonio, a 36-hole PGA TOUR golf facility; full-service Lantana Spa; and more than 265,00 square feet of customizable meeting and event space. 

The recipe for the Paloma Preserve cocktail is:

  • 1 ½ oz grapefruit juice
  • ½ oz lime juice¼ oz agave simple syrup
  • 1 ¼ oz Sotol
  • Build in glass rimmed from 12-6 with salt, fill with ice and top with soda
  • Garnish with lime at 10 o’clock

Wellness offerings at Thompson San Antonio Spa

Thompson San Antonio Spa has several packages perfect for Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, or a personal pampering day for you or a loved one. Photo: Thompson San Antonio Spa, used with permission.

The new year is well into February, but if your New Year’s resolution included more ‘me time,’ the Thompson San Antonio Spa has several packages to choose from. These are also perfect for Valentine’s Day gifts for even a day out with girlfriends for Galentine’s Day. Below are some of the latest news and upcoming events from the Thompson San Antonio Spa. (Thompson San Antonio Spa, 2023)

Launch of AIRO Skincare
Thompson Spa is the exclusive spa to recently debut Texas based travel and lifestyle brand, AIRO Skincare, the latest luxury and travel friendly product on the market. Drawn from the power of healing desert plants and marine extracts sourced from land and sea, Airo is a clean and uniquely effective skincare line that features lightweight but deeply penetrating treatment products. Thompson Spa’s very own esthetician, Daphne Chapman, is the founder of Airo and her love of beauty and travel inspired her to create the product.

CBD & Chill
Wanting to totally mellow out? Look no further than the CBD & Chill experience which includes the Thompson Tailored Deep Tissue Massage with upgraded CBD Massage Oil, then go into full relaxation mode with our Ani-Aging CBD Facial for $410.

Therapeutic Tranquility
This is for anyone looking for the ultimate day of relaxation. This package includes Relax & Recharge 50 min massage and Jetsetter Hydrating Facial to leave you with an undeniable glow.

Yoga Membership
Monthly membership for 8 yoga classes hosted by Thompson Spa each month. Members have access to fitness center, spa amenities, and 20% off any service booked. $80.00.

Valentine’s Day Promo
The Spa will be offering a Valentine’s Day Promo, the Cabana Cuddle up, from February 10-19. The package includes an 80min massage for two followed by lunch or dinner in one of the Cenote Cabanas at the hotel’s show stopping pool deck for 2 hours, complete with a bottle of bubbly. $710 (Cost of food not included).

Superbowl Sunday Ditch the Dudes Spa Brunch
Visit the Spa on February 12 for one 50-minute service valued at $175 followed by Thompson’s Sunday Spa Brunch from 10-1 pm.

Galantine’s Wine Down Package
Treat yourself to day of relaxation with one 50-minute service valued at $175 and a ticket to Thompson’s exclusive spa wine tasting from 6-8 pm on February 16.

Spring Into a New You Event
Clear the body and mind with Saturday yoga/sound bowl meditation classes on March 11 and journal your way to a new you. $40.00.

The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa’s Annual Lonestar Lover’s Weekend

The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa’s Annual Lonestar Lover’s Weekend will take place on February 10 – 12. Photo: The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.

Join The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa for their Annual Lonestar Lover’s Weekend on February 10 -12. On Saturday, February 11, The LCR Culinary Team will be offering an exquisite 5-course romantic dinner for two in celebration of Valentine’s Day. Extend the celebration with your sweetheart by booking for the weekend in one of the luxury cabins or spacious guest room accommodations. To further enhance your stay for you and your special someone, take advantage of the wide assortment of activities and spa services available. Our guest service team will be happy to assist you in planning the ultimate Lonestar Lover’s Weekend experience. (The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2023)

That special day is quickly approaching, so make sure and plan ahead. Make your reservations now to ensure you are ready to celebrate your love in luxury with The JL Bar team. To make reservations for the Lonestar Lover’s Dinner for Two or schedule activities for your weekend, email guest services or call (855) 414-3337. Seating options: 6p.m. and 8p.m. – $150 per couple. Dining menu available online.

Photo: The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa

Concert featuring Michael Ray at The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa

Tickets are now available for the Michael Ray concert at The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa. Photo: The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa

On Saturday, April 22, The JL Bar Ranch, Resort, & Spa is excited to welcome Michael Ray as part of the JL Bar Concert Series lineup for 2023. The concert will take place at the FBO Private Airport Hanger and tickets are available now. Michael Ray is a singer, songwriter currently signed to Warner Music Nashville and has released two albums: Michael Ray and Boats and Hoes. (The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2023)

Guests can turn this Saturday night event into a well-deserved weekend getaway by reserving a room in the luxury guest accommodations and booking other activities known to enhance The JL Bar experience. Additional event details are available online.

Event details:
Venue doors and bar open at 6:30p.m. (times subject to change)
Opening and featured performance: details coming soon

Concert reservations:
General Admission tickets: $55
VIP private table: $999 (includes 8 event tickets and 2 drink tickets per person – 16 tickets per table)

Partnered hotel availability: (mention The JL Bar Event when making reservations)
Quality Inn, Sonora location: $100/night (single); $120/night (double)
Holiday Inn Express, Junction location: $100/night

Shuttle services:
Sonora location: $20/person
Junction location: $30/person

New Year’s Eve events in San Antonio and surrounding area

A New Year’s Eve concert at JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa in Sonora is just one option for ringing in the new year. Photo: JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.

It is time to start making plans for the biggest party of the year: New Year’s Eve. If you are in the San Antonio area, or plan to be, here are three ideas to get you ready to ring in the new year. JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa in Sonora, Texas is hosting a concert, Carriqui at the Pearl will debut its New Year’s Eve House Party, and Thompson – San Antonio Riverwalk is celebrating the New Year in style with an epic firework show at the iconic rooftop restaurant & bar, The Moon’s Daughters. So whether you want to celebrate with a concert, at a party, or with fireworks atop a rooftop restaurant, get ready to party in style. (JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, Carriqui, The Moon’s Daughters; 2022)

On Saturday, December 31, guests of JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa will dust off their cowboy boots, raise a glass, and celebrate the coming of 2023 with a night to remember. The concert will begin with an opening set by local Texas band, Jukebox Preachers. Nashville powerhouse and country music star Aaron Tippin will then take the stage to wrap up 2022: 

  • Doors/Bar Open: 6:30p.m.
  • Performance Times:  
    • Jukebox Preachers, 7:30p.m.
    • Aaron Tippin, m.
  • Ticket Options:
    • General Admission Ticket: $75 per person
    • VIP Private Table (8 tickets included + 2 drink tickets per person): $1,500 

For those enjoying a concert together with an overnight stay, guests can embrace the true Texas lifestyle with horseback riding, cowboy cookouts, ATV adventures, trail and bike riding, archery, and more. Guests can book their weekend stay online.

To help grant more music lovers the opportunity to attend, JL Bar has also partnered with surrounding hotels offering availability and will be providing shuttles to/from Sonora: 

  • Quality Inn, Sonora Location – $100-110/night**
    • Shuttle Services to and from Sonora: $20 per person
    • Shuttles depart Quality Inn at 4:15pm and 6:00pm
  • Holiday Inn Express, Junction Location – $100/night**
    • Shuttle Services to and from Junction: $30 per person
    • Shuttles depart Holiday Inn Express at 4:00pm
  • **Mention the JL Bar Resort for quoted rate, limited rooms per location, first come basis.

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Potluck Hospitality is excited to announce that Carriqui (239 E. Grayson St) will debut its New Year’s Eve House Party on December 31, 2022. In addition to standard dinner service (last seating at 9p.m.), the house party will  kick off at 10p.m. and run until 2a.m. In anticipation of 2023, Carriqui is taking inspiration from the building’s past as Boehler’s Garden. Fifty years ago, the historic building that is now Carriqui was owned and operated by Aubrey Kline and his brothers. Kline was affectionately known as “Mr. Pearl,” entertaining and hobnobbing with movie stars, politicians, and dignitaries. Upon his retirement from Pearl in 1972, he turned his attention to making Boehler’s Garden the place for a good time. 

Carriqui’s NYE House Party turns up the volume on good times and pays homage to the 1970s (period attire encouraged, but not required). Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased through Tock. The experience includes live music from beloved local favorites Buttercup and DJ Steven Lee Moya, appetizer stations, a champagne toast at midnight and breakfast tacos as a parting gift.

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For the second year in a row, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk is celebrating the New Year in style with an epic firework show at the iconic rooftop restaurant & bar, The Moon’s Daughters. This year’s theme is “Celestial Ball,” paying tribute to the Goddess of the Moon, Celine. Perched on the 20th floor of the hotel floating high above the River Walk, The Moon’s Daughters dazzles with views of the twinkling city lights of the San Antonio skyline. Guests will dance the night away with celebrity performer DJ JAX, who has spun for the Latin Grammy’s WMC, UMF, and many other festivals and has recently opened for the Chainsmokers.

Several Table Packages, named after the hotel’s monthly cosmic night series, will range from $400 to $100,000; the ultimate experience includes flights and a three-night stay at any other Hyatt property in the world. From Cosmic to The Universe, select from the VIP packages to enjoy an open bar, champagne, spirits, and magnum bottles to toast the New Year.

From 10p.m. to 2a.m., the night promises to bring unforgettable firework views, a stellar atmosphere, and a celebrity DJ to match. Tickets are available for purchase on Eventbrite.

 

Next Cosmic Night at The Moon’s Daughters

The next Cosmic Night at The Moon’s Daughters will be held on Sunday October 9, 2022. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk’s signature rooftop lounge, The Moon’s Daughters, will host another Cosmic Night on October 9. This ongoing monthly series takes place whenever a full moon lands each month and will return for October’s hunter’s moon, which will be the first full moon of fall. October’s unique full moon has been nicknamed the hunter’s moon because, traditionally, it is the time of year when hunters start collecting food for the winter. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2022)

Hotel guests and the public can enjoy live music, insight from a tarot card reader, and a specialty cocktail paired with a cosmic coaster. The cosmic coaster adds a flair of entertainment where guests will have the chance to scan a QR code, receive a prompt to think of questions, followed by unique insights, and conclude with a positive affirmation. The Moon’s Daughters is the best way to experience the full moon overlooking San Antonio’s skyline. 

Austin’s Commodore Perry Estate’s fall events

Fall into the festive season at Austin’s Commodore Perry Estate. Photo: Auberge Resorts Collection, used with permission.

As summer fades and the leaves start to turn, Austin’s charming Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection welcomes fall and winter with new immersive seasonal programming, inspiring culinary creations, and excitement for the festive season. The  Estate will honor its Texas roots by bringing native Texan artisans, musicians, and flavors to ATX this autumn and beyond. The captivating city is a must-visit for the remainder of 2022. It will host the Formula 1 Grand Prix and Austin City Limits and more for travelers to step outside their comfort zones and enjoy the cultural hub that is Austin. (Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection, 2022)

These are some of the season’s highlights:

  • Taste of Auberge: Saison Hospitality: San Francisco’s Michelin-starred group Saison Hospitality brings innovative culinary activations on November 4 + 5. Locally curated seasonal Southern flavors will unite with upscale preparations of seasonal California dining for this exclusive culinary partnership. The guest series from Saison Hospitality’s Chef Brian Limoges and Executive Sous Chef Adam Gale (Saison) and Commodore Perry Estate’s Executive Chef Bradley Nicholson and Executive Pastry Chef Susana Querejazu will invite guests to honor collaboration in the kitchen with a private nine-course dinner at Lutie’s, as well as a fermenting workshop for all experience levels.
  • Game Day at The Estate: Every Friday on UT home game weekends, the Estate celebrates with visiting designer pop-up shops, interactive wine tasting events, local Austin musical performances, and guest bartending talent from local favorites and beyond. Friends and family can gather on game day for the resort’s delicious Saturday Brunch at the Mansion, complete with lawn games and pre-game drink specials, such as mimosa bars, shaken carajillos, local beer buckets, and more. For away games, the Estate’s Living Room becomes an extension of guests’ own, with TVs displaying the game paired with creative cocktails and delectable snacks.
  • A Very Texas Holiday Season: Guests can kick off the holidays with the annual festive lighting of the Mansion spectacular with a custom commissioned work from the Dallas-based conceptual artistic duo Anderson + Kincaid. Then, indulge in decadent Holiday Panettone, a collaboration with world-renowned Houston-based baker Roy Shvartzapel and Executive Pastry Chef Susan Querejazu, or give the ultimate gift by having Evan Voyles design a custom, hand-crafted neon piece for loved ones. The Larder Shop will curate a selection of culinary gifts by Chef Bradley Nicholson and Chef Susana Querejazu, allowing guests to bring a bit of the Estate home. 

Thompson San Antonio Spa launches new yoga membership

Your wellness retreat awaits at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk with their new yoga membership. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.

Indulge in the wellness sanctuary at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk and explore the luxury, full-service spa including treatments intended to relax the mind, rejuvenate the body, and discover inner peace. With the new Yoga Membership, members can experience eight power yoga classes a month at the exclusive pool deck. The membership also grants access to all spa amenities at the relaxation areas, eucalyptus steam room, sauna, and private locker room to enhance the ultimate spa day. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2022)

Throughout the month of August, classes will take place every Thursday at 7p.m. and Saturday at 9p.m. Classes are also available to the public for $15 a class.

Enjoy summer activities at Madeline Hotel & Residences

Madeline Hotel & Residences in Telluride, Colorado. Photo: Auberge Resorts Collection, used with permission.

As the dog days of summer linger, the mountain town of Telluride, Colorado boasts a unique roster of special events with localized luxury experiences via the destination’s only Forbes Five Star hotel, Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection. Explore the local culinary offerings during a one-of-a-kind guided foraging session, and indulge in an exclusive multi-course dinner during Blues & Brews Festival. (Madeline Hotel & Residences, 2022)

Foraging with Chef Bill Greenwood: During the month of August, explore the local culinary offerings during a one-of-a-kind guided foraging session. On sunrise foray with Madeline’s own Executive Chef Bill Greenwood you will explore the land and learn about the local delicacies found in and around Telluride. Inspired by the best of what is in season from local Western Slope farms, Executive Chef Greenwood serves fresh, spirited takes on the hearty, rustic food you crave after a long day in nature.

Taste of Blues & Brews x Madeline: The Telluride Blues & Brews Festival Brewers Showcase will kick off in style on Thursday, September 15 at 6p.m. with an evening of brews, world-class fare and, of course, music. This culinary experience will pair six courses of curated, modern mountain cuisine from Executive Chef Bill Greenwood with unique craft beers and conversation with brewers.

Telluride Mushroom Festival: Guests staying at Madeline over August 17-21 can attend the annual Telluride Mushroom Festival: featuring a variety of talks from over 30 speakers. The Telluride Mushroom Festival is famous for its array of unique and lively events, including Wild Food Dinner Experience, Mushroom Chefs’ Dinner, Entheogenic Gourd Circles, Open Mic Night, MycoLicious MycoLuscious MycoLogical Poetry Show and our Free Identification Tent. Attend showings of new fungi movies, panel discussions over treatment using psychedelics and decriminalization of psilocybin containing mushrooms. Special guests are happy to take guests on a mycology adventure out into the forest in the beautiful alpine around Telluride.

Austin’s newest female-led and garden-inspired mixology program

The Mansion is debuting a new immersive cocktail menu inspired by the resort’s lush grounds. Photo: Auberge Resorts Collection, used with permission.

Austin’s glamorous Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection’s The Mansion is debuting a new, immersive cocktail menu inspired by the resort’s lush grounds that incorporates the tastes, smells, and sights in the property’s beloved rose garden. The Mansion’s Lead Mixologist, award-winning Sarah Rahl, a veteran of the industry who has held positions at Proper Hospitality and Four Seasons, inspires guests to experience the property with rose-colored glasses, embracing the unique flavors that are exclusive to the renowned hotel. (Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection, 2022)

The Location: Step through the Mansion’s ornate wrought-iron doors and be transported to an era when Texan businessman Edgar “Commodore” Perry and his wife Lutie presided over lavish Jazz Age soirées. Their intangible spirit lives on in the 10,800-square-foot Mansion, reimagined by acclaimed designer Ken Fulk as a glamorous social hub.

The Inspiration: Sip on craft cocktails curated by the Mansion’s Lead Mixologist, Sarah Rahl, that run the spectrum of the rose garden’s particular pantone: pinks, fuchsias, blush, and bright reds. Each cocktail boasts vastly varying flavor profiles, including body, heat, herbaceousness, salinity, and fresh produce.

From the refreshing Desert Rose cocktail, a medley of mezcal, watermelon and lime juice, to a custom Sunken Garden (referring to the on-property garden), featuring gin and sparkling wine, cucumber and lime juice, topped off with green chartreuse – there is a hyperlocal, artisanal cocktail for everyone. Guests and members can enjoy the spectacular cocktails in the charmingly distinct Mansion, or perhaps by the European-inspired chaises for poolside dining.

With this new female-led mixology program at The Estate, the property reaffirms its dedication to exceptional dining and celebrates the story of each cocktail’s unique inspiration and methods.