Tag: Travel

A Taste of Spain: Culinary and Cultural Fusion at the Pearl

Texas culinary industry leaders can experience Spain’s finest through cutting-edge panels, exclusive tastings, and more during Spain Fusion. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Culinary and hospitality professionals are invited to attend Spain Fusion 2024, the immersive food & wine experience hosted by Vocento – the team at the helm of Spain’s renowned Madrid Fusion. The FREE event features an educational experience for the senses, offering guests a day of exclusive panels, tastings, and meetings with Spain’s premier exporters of wine, seafood, preserves, Iberian ham, olive oil, jam, cheese, and more. This year’s edition will take place on Friday, October 18 from 11:30a.m. to 10p.m. at Pearl in San Antonio. (Pearl, 2024)

Spain Fusion introduces fresh additions to this year’s lineup, including a panel on Spanish creams and gazpachos as well as a new presentation on top-caliber tuna and sea bass sourced from Spain to be led by returning speaker Chef Danny Lledó, from Washington D.C.’s Michelin-starred restaurant Xiquet. Select featured vendors at the day event are not yet distributed in Texas, so attendees will be the first to taste these premium goods.

The event returns with both Daytime programming and Night Out festivities. From 11:30a.m. to 6p.m., guests are able to partake in educational sessions about Spanish food & wine with tastings and more. From 7p.m. to 10p.m., guests can network and enjoy tasting demonstrations, passed bites and beverages outdoors at the historic Pearl. 

Participants are welcome to attend the come-and-go formats at their convenience for both day and evening events. 

This event is intended for food, beverage and hospitality professionals as well as distributors. However, there will be a limited number of spots available to the general public on a first come, first serve basis. All guests must RSVP HERE for entry. Once spots are filled the link will close. This event is 21 and up only. 

WHEN:
Friday, October 18 from 11:30a.m. – 10p.m.
*Spain Fusion Daytime: 11:30a.m. – 6p.m.
*Spain Fusion Night Out: 7p.m. – 10p.m.

Spain Fusion Daytime:
Hotel Emma at Pearl
136 E Grayson St
San Antonio, TX 78215

Spain Fusion Night Out:
Pearl Park under Cellar’s Pavilion by the Food Hall
312 Pearl Pkwy
San Antonio, TX 78215

A Taste of Tradition: La Panadería Opens New Location

Opening on Sunday October 13, guests can experience a diverse menu of authentic Mexican cuisine and freshly baked pan dulce. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

James Beard Nominated bakery and café, La Panadería, hailed for its authentic pan dulce, tortas and more, is thrilled to announce that its newest location will open to the public on Sunday, October 13, 2024. The new restaurant, dubbed the “Midtown Broadway” store, is located at 2503 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78215, just minutes away from popular destinations like the Historic Pearl District, Brackenridge Park, The DoSeum, and more. (La Panadería, 2024)

Guests can indulge in the same mouthwatering menu featuring pan dulce, all-day breakfast, brunch, and lunch options, alongside a refreshing selection of wine, cocktails, beer, coffee, fresh juice, and customizable tortas and salads. In addition to its delectable offerings, this new location will have an expanded patio, providing the perfect setting to savor meals amid the bustle of the Broadway Cultural Corridor.

Opening Day: Sunday, October 13, 2024

Soft Opening Hours:
• Sunday, October 13 and Monday, October 14 from 8a.m. to 3p.m.

Regular Operating Hours:
• Monday – Friday from 7a.m. to 8p.m.
• Saturday – Sunday from 7a.m. to 6p.m.

**Regular hours to start after October 14

La Panadería Midtown Broadway
2503 Broadway
San Antonio, TX 78215

La Panadería, founded in 2013 at the Quarry Farmers Market, is a bakery and café in San Antonio, Texas. Co-owners and brothers, José and David Cáceres opened their first brick-and-mortar in 2014 to share their cultura and love for baking with the beautiful city of San Antonio. With a commitment to quality ingredients and artisanal craftsmanship, La Panadería’s legacy has become a staple in the evolution of the San Antonio culinary scene, delighting locals and visitors alike with its delectable pan dulce, tortas, brunch, and inviting dining experience for all their guests.

Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Pueblos del Maíz: Celebrating the Flavors of Corn and Culture

Pearl to host UNESCO Chefs for Pueblos del Maíz. Chef Jaime Gonzalez of Carriqui. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

San Antonio has blossomed into a vibrant culinary hub, blending rich cultural influences and innovative gastronomy. Its diverse food scene, rooted in Tex-Mex and traditional Southern flavors, showcases local ingredients and culinary traditions. The city has attracted renowned chefs and restaurants, earning accolades in national food rankings. Events like the San Antonio Restaurant Week and the annual Fiesta highlight local talent and foster a strong sense of community. The city’s burgeoning food markets, food trucks, and artisan producers further enrich its culinary landscape, making San Antonio a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking unique and flavorful experiences.

The culinary scene is active throughout the year, with various locations hosting events to highlight the chefs and cuisine that makes San Antonio shine. One of these is the Pearl downtown and this week they are hosting Pueblos del Maíz events.

Pearl is proud to host Pueblos del Maíz events this week on October 10-11, 2024. This celebration highlights San Antonio’s role as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and showcases the importance of maíz (corn) in global culinary traditions. San Antonio UNESCO Chef Ambassadors, including Chef Jaime Gonzalez of Carriqui, will showcase the diverse flavors of maíz by preparing small bites inspired by UTSA’s Special Collections cookbooks. (Pearl, 2024)

Thursday, October 10, 2024 – Ticketed event at Carriqui

The event kicks off on October 10 with an exclusive ticketed dinner at Carriqui from 6p.m. to 8p.m. This reception style experience will also feature maíz inspired signature cocktails and tastings of maíz derived spirits prepared by UNESCO Chef Ambassadors. Tickets are $70 per person and available online.

Friday, October 11, 2024 – Free Event at Pearl Park

On October 11, the celebration expands to a free community event at Pearl Park from 5:30p.m. to 9:30p.m. Visitors can enjoy cooking demonstrations by UNESCO Chef Ambassadors from Bergamo, Italy; Tucson, Arizona; Merida, Mexico; and San Antonio, Texas. The event will also feature live music, art installations, and a variety of food and beverage vendors showcasing maíz-inspired creations.

Carriqui
239 E Grayson St
San Antonio, TX 78215

Autumn Delights: Your Guide to October Events at The Spa Plaza San Antonio

October events you can’t miss at The Spa Plaza San Antonio at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.

Spa days offer a rejuvenating escape, promoting wellness through a range of soothing services. From invigorating massages to calming facials, each treatment is designed to relax the mind and body. Aromatherapy enhances the experience, utilizing essential oils to elevate mood and alleviate stress. Spa services often include hydrotherapy, which uses water for therapeutic benefits, and body scrubs that exfoliate and nourish the skin. Ultimately, spa days are not just about indulgence; they are essential for self-care, promoting physical and mental well-being in our busy lives.

If you’re in the San Antonio area or plan to be, and are looking to treat yourself or a loved one to a spa day, consider Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa. Here are some of the spa specials they’re offering for the month of October.

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection is excited to share upcoming October happenings you can’t miss. Enjoy relaxing spa specials and events at The Spa Plaza San Antonio all month long beginning on Tuesday, October 1. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2024)

Guests can look forward to the below activations in October:

Spa Face Mask Special: Tuesday, October 1 – Thursday, October 31

  • Details: Guests can add a Specialized Treatment Mask to any service, and then receive one to take home for free. The Specialized Treatment Mask is a sheet mask excellent for infusing skin with deep hydration, as well as potent ingredients like neroli, maple water, comfrey, and slow-aging ingredients, to leave skin feeling clean and glowing. 
  • How to purchase: The Specialized Treatment Mask add-on is only $40. This special is automatically applied to anyone that adds a specialized treatment mask onto their booking through the online reservation link.

Floating Sound Bath: Tuesday, October 8 from 8p.m. – 10p.m.

  • Details: Immerse yourself in the ultimate zen getaway with a relaxing sound bath experience while floating on water. Guests can expect to hear the soothing sounds of crystal singing bowls and gongs while floating in Plaza San Antonio’s tranquil pool. This in-person event is the perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with your inner self.

Guests 16 and under must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or new to the practice, everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the healing power of sound. 

Event includes all day pool and fitness center access on 10/8. Guests also receive a special discount of 25% off of any spa services booked the day of the event at the Spa at the Plaza.

  • How to purchase: Interested guests can purchase tickets for only $50 through the Eventbrite link.

Halloween Themed Poses at the Plaza: Sunday, October 27 at 11a.m.

  • Details: Poses at the Plaza is a relaxing and rejuvenating yoga session led by Alison Galvan, owner of EnergyXFitness at The Spa Plaza San Antonio’s Oasis Lawn. Guests should bring their own yoga mat to participate. A limited amount of mats are available for rent. 

This month’s class is Halloween themed, so guests are encouraged to dress in costume. There will be a costume judging at the end of class, with the winner of best costume receiving a free Slow Beauty Pedicure at The Spa At The Plaza!

Event includes all day pool and fitness center access on 10/27, in addition to Zen lounge access, 12p.m. Anaqua Tree Ceremony, and guaranteed reservation to Corinne San Antonio. Guests also receive a special discount of 25% off of any spa services booked the day of the event at the Spa at the Plaza.

  • How to purchase: Poses at the Plaza is FREE to attend. Guests just need to RSVP through the Eventbrite link.

Taco Cabana Announces New Meal Deals and Limited Time Menu Items

Due to popular demand, Taco Cabana is bringing back fan-favorite Meal Deals. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

SAN ANTONIO, TX Tex-Mex innovator, Taco Cabana (TC), is thrilled to announce several new menu items hitting stores this fall, plus the highly-anticipated return of its crowd-favorite Meal Deals starting at just $4.99. All new menu items, including the Meal Deals, will be available in stores starting Wednesday, September 25, 2024. (Taco Cabana, 2024)

Taco Cabana will be adding several all-new delectable Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken dishes to the menu for a limited time only. Whether guests are team tacos or team quesadillas, this tangy twist on grilled chicken has something for everyone. The Street Tacos are served on three street corn tortillas, topped with cilantro and onion, and paired with fresh limes for an extra citrusy kick—all for just $5.49. Guests can also enjoy a Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken Soft Taco for $3.99 or savor the Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken Quesadillas, available in a small portion for $6.79 or a large portion for $9.99.

Guests can satisfy their sweet tooth with a spicy-sweet twist. Introducing the new Tajín Mango Fried Pie—a crispy golden delight filled with juicy mango and a zesty Tajín kick, priced at only $1.49. It’s the perfect way to end a meal on a high note.

TC’s latest menu is designed with its guests in mind, offering exceptional value without compromising on taste or quality. To honor that commitment, Taco Cabana is bringing back Meal Deals starting at $4.99.

New offerings include:

  • The Rise and Grind, which includes two breakfast tacos, a crispy golden hashbrown and a freshly brewed coffee or 20oz drink for $4.99. Breakfast taco options include Chorizo & Egg, Bean & Cheese or Potato & Egg. The Rise and Grind Meal Deal is available during breakfast hours only (6a.m. to 10:30a.m. Monday-Friday and 6a.m. to 1p.m on Saturdays and Sundays). 
  • The Crunch & Quench, which features a Double Crunch Pizza and a 20oz drink for $4.99. The Double Crunch Pizza comes with the guest’s choice of shredded chicken or ground beef, refried beans, jack and cheddar cheeses and chipotle ranch sandwiched between two crispy shells, then topped with more jack and cheddar cheeses, sour cream and pico de gallo. 
  • The Street Fighter, a three pack of Street Tacos, side of Mexican rice or refried beans and a 20oz drink starting at $6.49. Guests can choose from Chicken Fajita or Steak Fajita served on three street corn tortillas, topped with cilantro and onion and served with limes.
  • The O.G., a Taco Plate and 20oz drink for $8.49, featuring two fresh flour tortillas filled with the guest’s choice of ground beef or shredded chicken, jack and cheddar cheeses, diced tomatoes, and shredded lettuce, served with Mexican rice, refried beans, shredded lettuce, guacamole and two flour tortillas.

“Taco Cabana is committed to menu innovation and value for our guests. We want to continue to introduce fun new items like the Tajin Mango Fried Pies and the Chipotle Lime Chicken, but we also want to make sure our guests are getting the biggest bang for their buck, which is why we are proud to bring back a variety of Meal Deals for our customers. At Taco Cabana, we’re all about keeping things fresh—whether that’s with bold new flavors or unbeatable prices. Our goal is to create dishes that make your taste buds dance, without putting a dent in your wallet.” – Taco Cabana President Ulyses Camacho

Taco Cabana’s new menu items, including the Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken and Tajín Mango Fried Pies, are available for in-restaurant dining, drive-thru, online ordering for front counter or curbside pick-up, and through the MY TC!® App or online for mobile orders.

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Mexican-inspired food including breakfast, lunch and dinner tacos, dozen taco boxes, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, burritos, double crunch pizzas, freshly-made flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of bottled beer and signature tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up and delivery. As of September 17, 2024, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa introduces luxury pet retreat package for canines

JW Marriott now has pet retreat packages. Photo: JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, used with permission.

Are you traveling to the San Antonio area with your pet companion? The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa now has Pet Retreat Packages to make dogs feel as welcome as humans guests. Read below for more information.

Dogs deserve a change of scenery and a bit of pampering just like their humans. The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa is offering a luxury pup experience that is sure to “bow WOW” your canine companion and provide families with the ability to have their dog join them on vacation. (JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, 2023)

The resort’s Pet Retreat Package offers accommodations in uniquely decorated standard guest rooms with walk out patios providing easy access to the property’s lush lawns. The rooms are thoughtfully arranged for canine convenience and comfort and include a cozy dog bed, water and food bowls, and a blanket, all of which are permanent to the guest room. A take-home welcome amenity will be waiting for the guest of honor that includes a chew toy, dog treats, and a fashionable bandana to make the pup’s vacation extra memorable. After each canine stay, the guest room is professionally cleaned.

“We believe dogs are important members of every family and are excited to welcome these special guests through our new Luxury Pet Retreat Package,” says Brian Morris, Director of Sales & Marketing. “We look forward to providing the whole family with a comfortable and memorable stay in the Texas Hill Country.”

The Pet Retreat Package is available to book on the resort’s website using the booking code, U8D. A $200 nonrefundable pet cleaning fee is required, and package rates are based on availability. 

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa is not a pet-friendly resort, but now offer a Pet Retreat Package exclusively available for canine guests. All service animals are always welcome. Pets are not permitted inside the public hotel spaces, dining outlets, event lawns or the River Bluff Water Experience. Pets are only allowed on immediate walk-out patio lawns and on resort walking trails.

The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa is superbly situated on 600 pristine acres of rolling hills and tree-lined vistas, and an adjacent 100-acre bird sanctuary, offering grand views of the wide-open Texas Hill Country. There are various walking and running trails throughout the resort’s property, perfect for dogs who need a little extra exercise or for their humans who want to enjoy the native landscapes and wildlife of the region. 

This iconic lone star retreat offers endless options of entertainment for guests of all ages, including the canine species, making it a vacation standout. The luxurious, award-winning JW Marriott San Antonio features 1,002 newly refreshed guest rooms, nine-acre River Bluff Water Experience, a world class spa, TPC San Antonio’s two 18-hole PGA TOUR golf courses, eight dining options, hiking and biking trails, sports court, Topgolf Swing Suite, daily summer recreational activities, and 265,000 square feet of meeting and event space, making it one of the largest JW Marriott resorts in the world. 

Through the new Pet Retreat Package, JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa now provides a luxurious getaway for families traveling to the Texas Hill Country with their dog.

Five activities that can bring your life joy

Woman forming heart with hands. Photo: Unsplash

Life is often so busy. We have many responsibilities and commitments that it’s so easy to forget to live. After all, there are so many things in our lives that can bring us joy and we definitely deserve to indulge in them regularly. Yet, either we just can’t find the time or them or we don’t always really know what to turn to. If you’ve found yourself in a rut, you may want a little inspiration. So here are five things that you should always look to fill your life with for more joy.

1. Books
First of all, we have books. When you’re a bookworm and avid reader, books are always going to bring you joy. You’re going to find that you’re able to really immerse yourself into a relaxing environment when you read. It’s okay to always want to prioritize reading time. Filling your life with books and stories can be a simple way to make sure that your life feels fulfilling.

2. Food
It’s safe to say that food always brings us joy. When you’re eating your favorite meals, life can feel good. And if you’re a foodie, taking the time out to go to the right restaurants and trying new dishes is always going to be fun for you. But you can also do the same by cooking things up at home too. Maybe it’s an authentic goulash or your favorite pasta dish – another way, cooking can always make you happy. And it’s certainly something to enjoy the results of too.

3. Movies
If you love cinema, then turning to the right movies is always a good idea. You’re likely to find that filling up your time with amazing stories, documentaries, and even things like shows and theater could spark so much joy in your life. Cinema is art, just as much as other forms. So allowing yourself to switch off and enjoy it can be such a great move for you.

4. Nature
Then we have nature. Being in nature is something that can bring so much happiness into our lives without us even knowing it. Nature is calming. When we’re outdoors, we can exercise, move, enjoy sunlight, and many other things that help our health. Whether you like to walk, practice yoga in the garden, read in the sunshine, or anything else, being in nature can be great for you.

5. Travel
Finally, there’s also travel. You may find that getting out and about in the world is always going to bring you a lot of joy. There’s a wealth of experiences to be had when you travel. From relaxing and enjoying the culture, to getting out into nature and eating more food (two of our joy-filled things), you can do so much when you travel. If you’re yet to book your next trip, go ahead and do it. After all, our lives should be filled with experiences we’ll never forget.

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