Friday, May 23, 2014

Memorial Day 2014


Did you know that each year on Memorial Day a national moment of remembrance takes place at 3:00 pm local time?
Memorial Day officially became a U.S. national holiday in 1971 and was designated to be observed on the last Monday in May annually.  This day is dedicated to honor and remember the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military.  The extra-long weekend also happens to be one of the most traveled holiday weekends of the year and is dubbed the unofficial start of summer!
After our record setting winter temperatures this year, Americans across the U.S. are gearing up for Memorial weekend travel!  AAA and business analyst firm HIS predict that over 36 million people plan on traveling more than 50 miles from their homes this Memorial Day.
Here in Chicago--home to Percipia’s headquarters--the Memorial Day parade is one of the largest parades in the country and kicks off the holiday weekend Saturday, May 24th.  There is a wreath laying ceremony at 11:00 am at Daley Plaza with the parade to follow at 12:00 pm.
This year, the parade’s Grand Marshall is Lt. Col. Tammy Duckworth, congresswoman for Illinois 8th district in the House of Representatives. Tammy Duckworth served as a Blackhawk helicopter pilot during the Iraq war and continues to serve as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Illinois Army National Guard. For more information about Chicago’s Memorial Day Parade please visit cityofchicago.org.
Whether you are staying in town for the holiday or hitting the road for the weekend we want to wish everyone safe travels and a great Memorial Day! 


Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

This week we are featuring one of our favorite clients, Namacolin Woodlands Resort in Farmington Pennsylvania.

To say this resort property is incredible is an understatement! Nemacolin Woodlands Resort is abundant with lodging, dining options, and countless activities to keep you entertained! Seasonal snowboarding, a climbing wall, and a professional gymnasium are just a few examples of what the resort has to offer!

Take a look at just 3 of their 6 types of accommodations:

Chateau Lafayette
The Chateau Lafayette’s construction was inspired by the Ritz Paris in France.  It is a nod to all luxury hotels in Europe and has an amazingly decadent reception area sure to impress.  Within the 124-room hotel, patrons are welcomed to enjoy the Tea Room, Cigar Bar, Hardy and Hayes Jewelry Store, and Chateau Signature--their very own clothing boutique!  Guests also have access to the outdoor Paradise Pool and indoor Kidz Pool.  But that’s not all—dining at the Lautrec is a must! Nemacolin’s fine dining restaurant has been awarded 2014’s Forbes Five-Star, and AAA Five-Diamond awards and features European influenced cuisine right down to the prix fixe menu option.

Falling Rock
Falling Rock’s remarkable design is a tribute to the organic architectural style of Frank Lloyd Wright.  This 42-room hotel offers 24-hour butler service to guests and is conveniently located adjacent to Horizon Point--the deluxe meeting facility within the resort.  Enjoy stunning views of the 18th green of the Mystic Rock golf course while you relax by Falling Rock’s infinity pool! Did we mention their outdoor restaurant, Sunset Terrace, which serves up Asian cuisine right by the pool--did someone say sushi? Or if you’re in the mood for a fine dining experience, Aqueous, Falling Rock’s upscale steak house not only offers amazing views of Pennsylvania’s Laure Highlands but also personalized sommelier service.

The Lodge
The Lodge was constructed in 1968 as a private game reserve and has since been extensively renovated to become the impeccable hotel it is today! The Lodge houses an extensive conference center, multiple lobbies, and several works of art on exhibit from the ‘Hardy Family Art Collection’.  Don’t forget to check out Autumn; this restaurant specializes in regional cuisine highlighting farm to table ingredients and has a sustainable seafood menu. Guests also have access to both the outdoor Paradise Pool and the indoor Kidz Pool.


And these are just 3 of the amazing accommodations offered at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort! Whether looking to host a conference or take a vacation Nemacolin Woodlands is the place! Visit www.nemacolin.com for more information on how to plan your next stay! 








Thursday, May 15, 2014

Affordable Hotels in California’s Wine Country

North of San Francisco is home to over 400 vineyards and this region is appropriately known as wine country.  But tourists flock to the area not only for wine tasting; there is also an abundance of activities and sites to visit in the area!  Whether you prefer to hike, bike, visit historical sites or experience the extensive culinary scene, there is something for everyone!
We have put together five of the coolest and affordable boutique hotels in the area that won’t break the bank and still provide a charming experience!

Hotel Indigo, Santa Barbara
Best Rate: $175.00/night
Number of guest rooms: 41
Restaurant onsite: Blue Tavern (Californian cuisine with Peruvian twist)
Website: http://www.indigosantabarbara.com/
This hotel is a satellite of the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara, with rotating museum exhibits in the hotel reception area, hallways, and 2nd floor library.

The Boonville Hotel, Boonville
Best Rate: $185.00/night
Number of guest rooms: 15
Restaurant onsite: Table 28 (Family style prix fixe meals)
Website: http://www.boonvillehotel.com/
This hotel is great because it is near wine tasting and outdoor adventures like hiking through the redwood trees.  This posh hotel also features fireplaces and hammocks for guests to enjoy!

1888 Union Hotel, Los Alamos
Best Rate: $145.00/night
Number of guest rooms: 14
Restaurant onsite: Art Deco Lobby Bar or Wine Saloon (Serving up drinks and small plates)
Website: http://www.unionhotelvictmansion.com/
This building was founded in 1876 and the décor in the lobby and guest rooms resemble its modest and historical beginnings sure to charm!

The Madrones, Philo          
Best rate: $160.00/night
Number of guest rooms: 5
Restaurant on site: Stone and Embers (Features fire pizza oven)
Website: http://themadrones.com/
This Mediterranean inspired hotel has four tasting rooms and a private garden for guests to relax and enjoy the serenity.

Granado Hotel and Bistro, San Luis Obispo
Best rate: $139.00/night
Number of guest rooms: 17
Restaurant on site: Granado Bistro (Spanish cuisine)
Website: http://granadahotelandbistro.com/
This gem was built in 1922 and still has an art deco flare to the design! Guests are invited to relax on the roof top patio--perfect for summer nights with a glass of wine!








Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Hutton Hotel in Downtown Nashville!

This week we are featuring the Hutton Hotel in downtown Nashville.  This extraordinary luxury hotel is one of our many acclaimed clients who utilize technology solutions by Percipia!

The Hutton Hotel is a hospitality masterpiece with a guest focus at the heart of their design. Each deluxe room features laptop safes, media hubs, large work desks with LED lighting, video – on demand, and Percipia’s own customizable voice mail. Did I mention the plush robes?!?! The Hutton Hotel also recommends their Cardio King room, which in addition to the deluxe, also includes an in-room elliptical allowing guests to exercise in private.  This landmark property was originally an office building in the 1970’s and has since been renovated with eco-friendly materials including bamboo flooring and furnishings.

Is your team traveling together for business? Perhaps the Forum Room is right for you! This hotel suite showcases a conference table, instantly transforming your hotel room into your board room! This suite also comes with twice-a-day maid service, automated do-not-disturb, a 50“ LCD-HDTV and Percipia installed IP phone system!

In town for an extended stay? Get your own private address in downtown Nashville at one of the Hutton Hotel’s two penthouse apartments! Each penthouse has floor-to-ceiling windows, a private balcony, 50” LCD-HDTV, surround sound, two bathrooms and a steam shower in the master bedroom! 

The Hutton Hotel is also home to an impressive nine banquet rooms perfect for hosting conferences, weddings, and other special occasions—and to make your event even more amazing Executive Chef, Charles Phillips, can create the perfect menu just for you!

The Hutton Hotel’s restaurant, 1808 Grille, is a must-see! Their signature menu blends traditional southern dishes with global flavors-- the braised pork cheeks and classic braised short ribs got our mouths watering! And just in case you would rather dine in-room, items from 1808 Grille are also offered as part of the hotel’s room service menu.

Check out Hutton Hotel online at www.huttonhotel.com to plan your next visit to Nashville!








Thursday, May 8, 2014

Planning a Weekend Getaway!

Life in the city of Chicago, home of Percipia Networks headquarters, is fast paced to say the least.  The buzz of the city is enough to keep anyone on the move, but as much as we love the hustle and bustle it is nice to get away from time to time.

Our very own marketing assistant, Marcia Kosin, is doing just that over Memorial weekend with a trip to Pepin, Wisconsin.  Check out how she went about planning her weekend getaway…!

A few months ago my fiancé and I decided to visit Lake Pepin in Wisconsin for Memorial weekend.  His Uncle has a sailboat on the lake and we have been dreaming of going back ever since we visited last July.  This charming town is quaint and picturesque-- the perfect weekend getaway!

I believe planning ahead of your trip will ensure smooth sailing! I booked a room at a bed and breakfast a few months ago, since accommodations in the area are limited. And although we plan on sailing the majority of the weekend, the weather may be unpredictable, so I have found some local attractions within driving distance to check out just in case!

Hoksila Municipal Park
This local park is a 30 minute drive from Pepin and has sandy beaches and gorgeous views of the lake and surrounding bluffs. We think this outdoor destination is perfect for an afternoon picnic or playing volleyball in the sun. What a great escape from the city!

National Eagle Center
Have you ever wondered how much an eagle weighs or what their wing span is? The National Eagle Center in nearby Wabasha, offers live programs three times a day where visitors can see eagles up-close and personal.  The staff teaches visitors about the eagle’s biology, ecology, and natural history. 

Vineyards and Orchards
Last year we visited the Vella Bellezza Winery located right in Pepin and their wine tasting and beautiful grounds were both romantic and fun! Turns out there are several wineries along the coast and two are within our reach.  Just 9 miles north of Pepin in the town of Stockholm is the Maiden Rock Winery and Cindery.  Visitors can take tours of the winery and apple orchard for only $5.00. Afterwards guests are invited to a complimentary wine and cider tasting --don’t mind if I do! Another winery just south of Pepin, is the Danzinger Vineyards. I have checked their online calendar and the Friday we get into town this local gem has live music to accompany their tasting room!

Riverland Outfitters
Since we will be in town for a long weekend my fiancé and I wanted to give kayaking a try.  Riverland Outfitters rents canoes and kayaks to visitors in the area. It is just $22.00 to rent a kayak for up to 6 hours!  They even deliver the boats to your location for a small fee.  Riverland Outfitters provides paddles, life jackets, and safety gear with their boats.  They request patrons call and make reservations for boats but can usually accommodate same day rentals.

Once I started researching the area around Pepin, I realized there is plenty of fun activities and attractions.  I also recommend putting addresses and phone numbers to attractions in your phone so you won’t have to spend the time looking them up once you get there. Planning ahead is definitely they key to a stress free getaway!  

The first photo is from our trip last summer!







For more information about the attractions near Pepin please visit.

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Trump SoHo New York

This week we are featuring the Trump SoHo Hotel in New York.  This luxury hotel, located in Lower Manhattan, has some really amazing features designed to make anyone’s stay flawless.  In addition to 24 hour room service and overnight dry cleaning, the Trump SoHo offers a handful of signature programs worth checking out!

Trump Kids
The property features a family friendly “Trump Kids” program which highlights the various amenities within the hotel that are kid friendly. These include kids meals, in-room milk & cookies, in-room children’s DVD collection, a swimming pool, cooking classes, a newsletter filled with kid friendly attractions in the city, and even nanny services.

Trump Attaché
The Trump Attaché program provides 24 hour access to a personal assistant or business assistant to make the guest experience that much better!   Whether assistance is needed with floral arrangements, transportation, or dinner reservations, your personal Trump Attaché will go above and beyond ensuring that all your needs are met!

Trump Pets
The Trump Pets program invites you to bring the family pet on vacation.  They offer gourmet treats and bottled water for nourishment, plush beds for resting, a map of dog-friendly parks in the city, dog walking services, and toys for pets promising hours of entertainment! 

Trump Wellness
The Trump Wellness program is designed to keep guests in touch with their daily exercise routines.  Their Nourish Menu offers healthy meals to refuel after a long day or workout.  For patrons who have forgotten their workout clothes or shoes, Trump Wellness has you covered by offering Under Armour apparel to takes its place. They also have “Quick Bites” which are health conscious menu options that can be delivered in less than 15 minutes to satisfy cravings or hunger on the go!


The beautiful Trump SoHo is definitely one of our favorite hotels and one that is sure to meet your expectations. So next time you’re headed near the big apple why not pay a visit to our friends at the Trump SoHo?!?! For more information please visit www.trumphotelcollection.com/soho/




Friday, May 2, 2014

Food Trucks Take Chicago!!

Until July of 2012 food trucks were virtually non-existent in the city of Chicago. But since it is now legal for food trucks to cook up their dreamy creations on four wheels, we are already getting ready for our 2014 summer to be one delicious season!

Whether you spot them outside your office window or feel like being adventurous on a weekend, you can find these pop-up restaurants via social media.  The trucks tweet where they will be on an instantaneous basis. 

To get your mouth watering we have compiled a list of food trucks now operating in the city of Chicago, along with a brief description of their cuisine. Follow them on twitter to get updates of their daily locations!

Beavers Doughnuts @beaversdonuts
Serving up mini doughnuts with gourmet toppings and imported coffee!

Haute Sausage @hautesausage
Afro-Midwestern grilled & encased meat food truck!

Bridgeport Pasty @bridgeportpasty
Like a handheld pot pie!

Starfruite @starfruitcafe
Premier frozen kefir parlor featuring frozen kefir, signature smoothies, and raw probiotic fruit and veggie juice!

5411 Empanadas @5411empanadas
Argentinean empanadas served in the loop!

Babycakes @babycakestruck
Gourmet pancakes serving up both sweet and savory creations!

Bombay Wraps @bombaywraps
Bombay Wraps has simplified Indian food by wrapping popular dishes like Chicken Tikka, Cheese Paneer, and Lamb Curry in a flatbread paratha.

Meatloaf-A-Go-Go @meatloafagogo
Meatloaf-A-Go-Go carries savory meatloaf cupcakes, bringing savory treats to the streets!

The Southern Mac & Cheese Truck @thesourthernmac
The Southern prepares different macs daily.

Getta Polpetta @gettapolpetta
Italian meatball food truck!

Taquero Fusion @taquerofusion
Serving tacos with a Latin twist.

Dokkaebi Tacos @dokkaebitacos
Serving up Korean style tacos!

E.leaven @Eleaven
E.leaven offers a variety of breakfast, lunch and pastries made from scratch daily.

The Slide Ride @theslideride
Serves up mini sliders made with certified Angus beef.

Curried @getcurriedaway
You will find curry plates, kati rolls, naan bread and samosas at this food truck!








For more information check out these links below: