Posts Tagged ‘restaurants’
3 Tasty New Ethnic Restaurants in Chicago that Everyone Should Visit
March 8, 2011
Taxim – Regional Greek
What exactly is “regional Greek”? I have no idea and most of the people I have asked — even those who have been to Taxim — were not sure either. “Just go and see for yourself,” was the answer I got from most of them.
So I did.
And I am glad that I did.
I did immediately see the problem with the descriptions though. The menu is all over the place — from the very traditional Ottoman to the Aegean Isles to modern Greek street food. Consider the pastourma-spiced-rubbed duck leg and breast meat gyros with a mint yogurt sauce. Or how about the house-cured sardines? Or octopus with fennel root.
And don’t miss the veggies. The Politiki melitzanosalata of wood-fire-roasted graffiti eggplants with pine nuts and homemade pita is especially tasty. (And yes, that description is from the menu. Wish I could write like that.)
Only one minor complaint. Not so much a complaint really — more of a warning. The space is really, really loud. What? Right.
Taxim is located in a storefront in Wicker Park at 1558 North Milwaukee Avenue and I would consider it to be affordable
Terzo Piano – Italian
This new gem from Tony Mantuano fits the Modern Wing of the Art Institute of Chicago, where it is located, perfectly.
Plan to go for lunch though — the restaurant is only open one night a week for dinner. (Call 312.443.8650 for information.) Luckily you can get pretty much the entire menu for lunch.
Try the antipasto plate with the flat bread and the hand cut tagliatelle.
Terzo Piano resides (perfectly) in the Modern Wing of the Art Institute of Chicago, 159 East Monroe Drive
Xoco – Mexican
All I can say is that Rick Bayless, the genius behind Frontera Grill and Topolobampo, has done it again. And I know that the people standing in the constantly long line to get in would definitely agree with me.
Rick invented or perfected the torta/churro — it doesn’t matter — and has taken it to totally new heights here. Order a pepito with beef and caramelized onion on a grilled Labriola roll and see if you don’t agree with me. Careful. Don’t talk with your mouth full.
Wash it all down with a cup of Aztec hot chocolate and smile. Heaven on Earth — on North Clark, no less.
Excuse me while I get back in line.
Xoco is at the end of the long line of hungry people at 449 North Clark Street
If you love good food – and who doesn’t? – you need to check out: Secret Copycat Restaurant Recipes has the best recipes from your favorite restaurants that you easily make at home. Places like Applebee’s, Cheesecake Factory, Cracker Barrel, Outback, McDonald’s, Starbucks, Olive Garden and more. Want to know Applebee’s Baby Back Ribs Secret Recipe? It’s here.
Chicago’s “Southern” Side Shines in the Down-Home Cooking of the 3 Delicious Restaurants
March 8, 2011
Sure, in any world-class city, especially one the size of Chicago, you can pretty much get any food or cuisine you desire.
Chinese? Please, give me something difficult.
Brazilian? Fogo de Chao. Next.
Ecuadorian? La Humita.
The trick is not finding a particular food in a restaurant — it’s finding a restaurant that does the food justice. One that would be right at home in the culture or country.
One where the expats and recent arrivals eat.
That’s the trick.
Being from the South, I know Southern American Cooking. Heck, I grew up on Southern Cooking.
So allow me to give you 3 places to try that I think nail it cold.
Army & Lou’s
Deep-fried catfish is always in season at Army & Lou’s — and you don’t get much more Southern than fired catfish with coleslaw and cornmeal muffins. Luckily, all three are always available and always delicious.
The fried chicken ain’t half bad either if you are in the mood. Crank it up with some sweet tators and corn bread dressing. I usually skip the bean-of-the-day — but that’s just me. I’m sure they are killer too.
Finish with my favorite desert, bread pudding.
Find Army & Lou’s exactly where it has been for 50+ years — at 422 E. 75th.
Table Fifty-Two
A bit pricier than A&L’s, this may be upscale dining — but it’s still Southern all the way.
Apparently the chef is from Florida and used to be Oprah’s personal chef (if that’s true, she has good taste!)
Because this guy totally nails the taste of Old Florida. It’s getting harder and harder to find — in Florida! Get away from the resorts — away from the shore entirely and you’ll find joints selling buttermilk fried chicken, spicy low-country-style shrimp with grits and fried green tomatoes.
Which is exactly what you will also find at Table Fifty-Two.
Skip the wines. They are not authentic and very expensive.
Visit low-country Florida in the Windy City at 52 W. Elm.
Wishbone
This is Southern comfort food at it’s best — and most reasonably priced. Golden corn cakes, cheesey grits and shrimp, juicy grilled chicken (with mango salsa — okay, it’s not ALL authentic), crab and crayfish.
Also don’t miss the pecan topped mashed sweet potatoes. Unless I am there and there is only one last helping. 
Desserts include my weakness, peach cobbler, and chocolate pecan pie.
Drop in anytime to Wishbone at 6611 W. Roosevelt, Berwyn
Today’s powerful Electric Portable Grills are convenient and reliable — the perfect choice for your patio, deck or yard. Or as a second grill for those nights you don’t have time to fool with gas or charcoal. They are also the perfect portable grill to take camping or tailgating. Visit http://electricoutdoorgrill.info to find one that is right for you.
Vacationing In Big Bear Lake California
December 23, 2010
Vacationing in Big Bear Lake, California is a popular family activity, these days. There are many things to do and see on the the water. You will also find other types of activities to pass the time. Here are some of the things that you may enjoy, while you are there.
Touring the Lake
There are several types of tours on the lake. Relax and learn about the local history as you take a guided tour on a big paddle boat. Some of these tours can be used for wedding and corporate events, if you book in advance.
Water Fun
There are marinas to visit and rent a variety of equipment. If you wish to fish, you will get everything you need at the marina. You will find an entire fleet of pontoon boats to choose from, there. There is also a complete service bait house, for your fishing needs. Perhaps you and your family like water skiing or wake-boarding. The marina is a good place to catch a ride on a pirate ship, also.
You can have fun at the marinas in the spring, summer, or fall. Bring your own boat, and you can buy a permit at the marina. You will also find many boats to lease, during your stay. Perhaps you would like a kayaking adventure, or maybe you would rather para-sail across the water. These are only a few of the fun activities that await.
Day Spas
You may not wish to spend all the time on the water or at the slopes. Take a day off and visit the day spa. It is a good place for a facial or a massage. You might decide to give a day at the spa to your family or friends, too.
Off Road
Not all of the fun is on the water, as you can take a guided tour on a four wheel drive vehicle. It is an excellent way to see points of interest in the mountains. Some tours only last for an hour and a half. However, you can take longer tours and some are five hours in length. Many tours include hiking and picnic lunches, and can be enjoyed in all seasons.
Winter Fun
Take the entire family to one of the mountain resorts. There is something for everyone to enjoy, and it does not matter if you are inexperienced. There are beginner slopes and lessons available, too. There is a huge selection of slopes to have fun on. These slopes are well manicured and looked after, for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Final Thoughts
Vacationing in Big Bear Lake, California can provide fun for all the family. If you are into skiing, come to one of the mountain resorts. They have a large selection of slopes, and they have something for all levels of skill. There are many guided tours to take on the water, and there is also a pirate ship. You will find a full service bait shop and boat rentals at the marina. For those that want some time off, there is a full service day spa, also. Relax and get a massage or a facial.
Planning on vacationing in Big Bear Lake? Get the ultimate inside scoop on this fab spot now in our complete guide to the exquisite Seafood Restaurant.
Dells Attractions – Why Tourists Are Fascinated In Visiting Dells
December 20, 2010
Wisconsin Dells is located a few miles north of Baraboo and centered on the ravine created by the Wisconsin River, it is viewed as the primary place in the state’s widely recognized holiday region. A variety of theme parks, cruises on the river, hiking and horseback riding are among the many attractions that pull an influx of tourists each and every year to check out Wisconsin Dells.
As winter is already on our doorstep and you may possibly thinking the best place to spend an excellent time this winter season. Winter in Wisconsin Dells offers you tons of family adventure – from snowboarding to snow tubing to winter zip line tours to ice fishing, skiing, downhill and cross country that you’ll surely enjoy while having winter break.
There are a lot of great ways to experience Wisconsin Dells and among the best ways is to undertake it by water. The Dell’s boat tours got a variety of tours that will actually take you to the scenic areas of Wisconsin Dells. If perhaps you are an adventurer, you can take boat tours through the rapids.
Water theme parks like the Mt. Olympus features roller coasters, water slides, and other attractions that will offer you and your family an excellent time regardless of what the season is.
If you desire to enjoy an immaculate feasts for you and your family this Christmas season and New Year’s, Wisconsin Dells resorts and restaurants are the very best spots to check out. Your palate will likely be tempted by mouth watering turkey, ham, sweet potatoes, apple and pumpkin pie and various tasty dishes like baked halibut and Prosciutto chicken.
Apart from dining and having fun with resort activities you can for certain enjoy non-stop holiday shopping at the Tanger Outlet Mall to get unique presents for your parents. But if you want to make them more happy, you can treat the whole family with an all inclusive vacation.
Great news for those tourists who are preparing to visit Wisconsin Dells! The Holiday train is arriving downtown Wisconsin Dells at the Amtrak station on the 9th of December. Wondering what’s there? Plenty! There will be festivities, live entertainment, refreshments, and photos with Santa Clause and also huge raffle and Green Bay Packers tickets being the grand prize.
There are many things to do in Wisconsin Dells to make your winter getaway a memorable one. Hotels and resorts offer great vacation packages and special rates. Any visitor can without doubt select from a wide variety of lodging that suits his needs and spending budget.
Winter season should be relished with loved ones, so what are you waiting for? Plan your best winter escape today!
Dreaming of a perfect holiday getaway? Enjoy exciting indoor and outdoor family adventures at Wisconsin Dells all year round! Wisconsin Dells has all the things that you need for a perfect vacation!
The Best Ways To Plan And Make Your Dream Holiday Escape To Wisconsin Dells Become A Reality
December 20, 2010
Are you intending to have a great holiday with your loved ones in Wisconsin Dells? A great vacation in Wisconsin Dells can surely offer rest and relaxation for the whole family plus provide quality time to strengthen family ties.
Wisconsin Dells, called the Waterpark of The World is a vacationer’s haven that provides year-round of fun and excitement for the whole family. The Dells never ever ran out of visitors attractions – from waterpark to amusement ride at an indoor theme park, bowling, golf, shopping, dining, movies or live performances and a lot more.
Below are a few amazing tips in order to get the very best out of your vacation in Wisconsin Dells.
When planning to have a holiday vacation you need to ask what you would wish to accomplish during the holidays. Do you choose to stay at home and watch tv or would you like to take pleasure in adventure-filled family activities?
Apparently, everyone would rather to go for a trip and enjoy thrilling activities. Even so, you should make sure that you have money and spending budget.
In order to make your dream vacation become a reality the most important thing that you need to do is to lower your expenses months and months previous to your vacation. What can you do to obtain the required amount?
You have to start lowering unnecessary expenditures or completely stop shopping. I know this might be impossible particularly during this christmas season. Nevertheless, there are a variety of ways to minimize spending and save for the perfectly planned out vacation in Wisconsin Dells.
But before everything else, you must know how much money you need for your holiday vacation. This would give you the idea about the amount you are likely to need as well as the target amount you will be saving. When doing all of your computation always include everything from airfares, to food and holiday accommodation, transportation and your pocket money. For you to be on the safe side make an allowance by adding $500 to your summation.
Now here comes the challenging part and that is, ‘saving’. The following are the practical tips that will aid you to save the necessary money for your dream holiday in Wisconsin Dells.
Avoid impulsive buying – Before making any acquisition, think about whether you really need it or you simply want it. This will help keep you off from making unneeded purchase. Just a little sacrifice will bring big rewards to saving thousands of dollars a year.
Save a fixed amount each week – Try to save a fixed amount of $20 dollars a week. Place the weekly savings in your bank account as this will earn interest over the amount saved. Or have a jar where you could put your loose change in hand every single day. You will be astonished to see how much you have saved over a year.
Make a diary of your weekly spending – Categorize your spending habits every week. This will provide you with a clear picture on what goods you are mostly getting and how much you have used on it. In addition, this will also let you determine the areas in which you need to cut down spending.
Make use of your ATM cards on your bank – Find this ridiculous? You need to be informed that making use of your ATM card once per week or 4-5 times a month at ATM machines of other banks will charge you over $3.50 for each transaction. This could add to nearly $20 a month and $240 every year that ought to be a large savings.
Avoid having a lot of credit cards – Having a lot of credit cards can be tempting plus more likely you will lead to overspending and fall into debt.
Use cash or debit cards when making a purchase – Purchase goods in cash and avoid using your credit cards to stop overspending and using up your credit limit provided by your banker.
Right after having a great amount of savings, the next thing is to leave for your long awaited dream holiday vacation in Wisconsin Dells.
Dreaming of a perfect holiday getaway? Enjoy exciting indoor and outdoor family adventures at Wisconsin Dells all year round! Wisconsin Dells has all the things that you need for a perfect vacation!
3 Killer Cheeseburgers in Chicago Will Make You Swear Off American Cheese Slices Forever
December 19, 2010
I was never a big fan of cheeseburgers. While everyone else was singing their praises, I always just preferred a simple hamburger.
I never knew why — until I got older and started experimenting with different cheeses.
It wasn’t the cheeseburger I didn’t like — It was the cheese.
Not to be a cheese snob, but we are really doing ourselves a disservice and missing out on a lot of taste by always eating our cheeseburgers with a thin slice of cheap “American process cheese food.”
Thankfully I’m not alone. Other people — in particular cutting edge chefs — have the same thought and are starting to experiment with real — and “real good” — cheese. Sharp cheddar is a great instant stand-in for American. But don’t stop there. The next time you have cheeseburgers, try blue cheese (restaurants have been putting it on steak for years), Gorgonzola, mozzarella or any of the thousands of other cheeses available.
You’ll love it.
In the meantime, here are 3 Chicago chefs and restaurants who have heard the call of good cheese and are making delicious use of different kinds.
Abigails’ Cheeseburger
This is a good place to star if you are new to experimenting with different cheese cheeseburgers since it is the most like traditional cheeseburger — only many times better.
Super-chef, Michael Paulsen, uses aged Wisconsin Cheddar. He does add a “non-traditional” balsamic/red onion jam to the top, but you won’t complain.
Visit Abigail’s at 493 Roger Williams Ave in Highland Park. The Cheeseburger will run you $9
Nightwood’s Hamburger
It says “hamburger” on the menu, but this is all cheeseburger. A beer fondue of white Cheddar, to be exact.
The beef is ground fresh and seasoned with Worcestershire sauce. After being wood grilled the burger is topped with home-made mustard and the cheese.
Don’t bother to mess with it any further. Just enjoy.
Nightwood is at 2119 S. Halsted St. and the Hamburger is $13
Yoshi’s Cafe’s Wagyu Beef Burger
Let’s finish on a high and totally unexpected note.
Chef Yoshi Katsumura makes a massive 10 ounce patty of premium Wagyu Beef and then tops it with a piece of brie and mixuna leaves. Unconventional? Yes. Delicious? YES!
As of my visit he said he was considering adding a knob of foie gras to the top. Look for it when you go.
Find Yoshi’s Cafe at 3257 N. Halsted St and expect to drop $18 for the Wagyu Beef Burger — or a lot more if he does add the foie gras.
When you can’t make it to Chicago — Grill out! If you own a Ducane Gas Grill and you want to keep it working in peak condition, visit our site Ducane Natural Gas Grill Parts for information on the best deals and sources for all the parts and accessories you need. http://ducanegrillparts.org has what you are looking for to keep your grill running hot.
categories: cheeseburgers,hamburgers,Chicago,travel,restaurants,chefs,food,family,vacation,reviews
What You’ll Experience In Canadian Restaurants Or Hotels
June 10, 2010
While many restaurants or hotels that are foreign to those in the USA have a lot of similar qualities, they all have unique qualities. In Canada, there are a number of these qualities, even at the fast-food level. Some of the things an American might experience in a restaurant in Canada can be quite surprising, and can cause some awkward moments if one doesn’t know them ahead of time.
Before you can even enter the country, you have to convert your money to the Canadian dollar. Since the US dollar is worth more, the conversion tends to yield more money. However, because Canada’s currency is weaker, their prices are higher to compensate for having more of their money. To a foreigner, the prices can seem steep, when in fact they’re relatively the same, but the conversion is different.
When someone goes out to eat at a decent restaurant, it’s customary to leave a tip. In Canada (as with many countries), it’s not only a common courtesy, but a necessity. Part of you bill will include the tip, and to many that’s a convenience, but to others it can be disconcerting. Some people may use a different rate for tipping, or may not want to tip due to bad service, but whatever the case, it must be done. More often than not, it just comes off as more convenient in the end.
Part of the experience of going to a foreign restaurant is eating foreign food that you won’t get in your native country. Canada has it’s own share of unique foods, but it also (conveniently enough) shares some of the same foods you’ll see in both France and the UK because of the history they have with those countries. Therefore, when going to a Canadian restaurant, you can get several cultures at once.
For those that are looking for something a little more American, they’d be surprised to see how different fast-food is as well. Canadian fast-food is different in many ways, like selling beer where that’s rare in America. Some of these differences may be better, and some may be worse, but above all they tend to be enlightening, as they generally come off as a surprise.
Another of those differences is how they prepare or list some of the same foods. When you go to a restaurant that you’d see in a America, they’re likely to have some of the same items on the menu, but in a different way. In Canada, for example, they use the metric system, so a steak won’t go by the American size scale of ounces, making it hard for a foreigner to know what they’re ordering.
Anywhere you go, there are certain foods that are more popular, or may not even be eaten in that country. These foods define what kind of restaurant is most common, or what you’ll commonly see on a menu. In Canada, there are a few foods like this, such as cheese and beer, that are popular enough among Canadians that make their way onto menus that you might not see in other countries.
No matter what restaurants and hotels you go to in Canada, the experience is still unique in its own way. In many ways, it can be hard to understand or get used to, but that’s because food means something different to Canadians than it does to Americans. They treat food as more of an art, where in America they treat is as a time consuming necessity. It’s just one of the many ways that make the foreign restaurant experience a reason to travel.
Looking to spend a relaxing night away from home? Then visit your local hotel or motel to stay overnight in luxury and bliss!
Doolin Hotels – Three Best Hotels In Doolin Ireland
May 31, 2010
Doolin hotels have endeavored to compete with the larger hotels that are now becoming the norm in the west of Ireland. The three hotels short-listed here represent some of the best accommodation in the area with splendid view and great food to savor.
The Aran View Hotel is one of the more traditional country manor style hotels in Doolin. The main attraction to the hotel for many guests will be the panoramic views of the Aran Islands that the hotel has from its hill top location overlooking Doolin.
As befits a genuine Georgian country house, the guest rooms are spacious with high ceilings and the recent renovations have raised the standard of the en-suites to a more contemporary style and quality. The hotel restaurant has a superb menu of Irish dishes, with a-la-carte options, and the family-friendly bar hosts traditional music sessions in summer to entertain the guests.
Within a short walk of Doolin village the Ballyvara Guest House Hotel is a modern build hotel which has a great mix of rooms including twin, double, family rooms, luxury suites and studio apartments.
All rooms are appointed with modern amenities with the luxury suites also having spa baths and king size beds. The 2 studio apartment have their own kitchenette making them perfect for families and groups wishing to partake of self-catering. The addition of a pool room and tennis courts which can be used by all guests means there is no end to the number of activities nearby.
The Tir Gan Ean is one of the newer styles of hotels in Doolin that mixes traditional Celtic architecture with modern creature comforts. The hotel has an almost boutique feel to its twelve spacious rooms that all feature under-floor heating, modern en-suite bathrooms, plasma TVs and broadband connectivity.
The hotel’s own restaurant and bar has a good mix of Irish and European style dishes available. In the mornings, the breakfast buffet is also surprising given the huge range of choices on offer with everything from scrambled eggs with salmon to pancakes and maple syrup (a breakfast rarity in Irish terms).
In many Doolin hotels and guest houses, visitors can expect to experience a warm friendly welcome along with some spectacular scenic views. This brief list brings a small selection of the hotels in Doolin that are rightly popular for providing comfort and modern amenities against the back-drop of this lovely Irish town.
If you enjoyed reading this post about hotels in Doolin then check out our website for articles about Doolin Ireland and other destinations
Hotels 101: A Traveler’s Guide To Exploring And Saving
May 30, 2010
There are a plethora of hotels that offer the views and amenities of royalty to visitors of the great land of Canada. The ability to secure the right hotel at the right price during a peak season may become the challenge to many travelers. Last minute travelers are urged to seek the best deals through resources such as the Internet and seek information on the provinces yet to be explored.
Creating a budget, scheduling a flight, booking a hotel and ensuring all travel arrangements are secured are a few steps taken by travelers before embarking on the mysterious adventure of travel. Many hotels offer a discount to travelers whom make reservations early and provide sufficient contact information for any unforeseen occurrences. Travelers are encouraged to seek discounts sites on the Internet, contact hotels directly or speak with an employer to inquire about any additional corporate savings that may be offered.
Ontario offers visitors the advantage of modern architecture and dramatic natural beauty. Sky scrapers line the streets coupled with modern art structures. The closer to downtown visitors choose to reside for the duration of the visit, the more expensive the hotel accommodations will become. Choosing the perfect hotel in a city setting may require the adventurer in many to book a hotel room a few months in advance to secure a lower rate.
British Columbia and Quebec offer the ability to enjoy the beautiful country side with a city flare. Securing a reservation for a private relaxing weekend often requires diligence in planning. The accommodations offered in this province often book very quickly due to the beautiful surrounding areas.
Many travelers attracted to the sea often seek to visit such provinces rich in culture and prestige as Prince Edward Island. The hotel options available offer an option to enjoy the views of the sea while enjoying the modern amenities of a five star experience. Travelers seeking to experience the full extent of this province are encouraged to book a reservation for this area during the summer season.
Saskatchewan is one of the many provinces offering more than just family fun but function. The ability to visit the city aspect of this province and enjoy the over sized attractions is often the reason many families return each year. Planning a trip to this province or Nova Scotia would require the assistance of a travel guide to utilize the ability to visit all attractions offered. Many travel packages offered are accompanied with some of the best hotels in the province.
The selection and options for travel in the great land of Canada are vast. The attractions that lead throughout the cities and into the countryside hold you captive until you reach the destinations that touch the sea. Travelers are encouraged to create a site map of locations and places they would like to visit during the visit to Canada.
Finding the right choice in the final level of relaxation at the end of the night can become a challenge. Hotels in Canada are based around the needs and demands of it’s visitors. Adventurers, professionals, families and individuals are encouraged to seek each option based upon their desires of travel. There are beautiful hotel options available, yet the traveler must always remember that the main attraction will always be Canada itself.
Looking for a place to stay during your vacation? Then book an amazing room at a hotel near you!
Where To Find Some Great Hotels
May 20, 2010
If you are thinking of traveling around Toronto, then you might be wondering where to stay. There are lots of Hotels that are geared for guests who have high expectations and who want to stay somewhere around the action of the city. If you want to stay somewhere close to an attraction, then find out how you can locate some superb hotel locations.
In Toronto, there are many places that you can stay while you are visiting the downtown core. These hotels are located at many famous corners and are close to many attraction spots. You could choose to have a hotel with a view of the water and be right on the lake. During the day you would have a great view, while at night you might see some boats lit up going across the water. On the other side of the water, you would find an island with an airport and an amusement park for kids and families.
If your Toronto hotel view faces the other direction, you would get a wonderful view of the downtown city. This would provide you with an amazing spotlight on the city, during the day you would see things like the CN tower and the Rogers Center, while at night, the whole city would be lit up for your viewing pleasure.
There is a huge underground mall located underneath the city’s streets. Your hotel might have access to this mall directly under it. Some will provide you with an elevator that can drop you off right in the heart of it. That way you can get some shopping done and then just hurry back up to your room.
A hotel room that is situated close to the attractions that you want can make it handy to get around. You could just walk from one place to the next, or use the cab system. It is quite simple to find a cab especially during busy times, when more are on the roads. If you prefer, you could always use the streetcar or subway for your transportation needs.
Some of the hotels during your stay might have some great restaurants or bars attached to them. That can make it even more simple to have a good meal or a few drinks without having to leave the comfort of your hotel.
A handful of select hotels will have a certain number of designated floors designed for VIP. That means the floors get extra services such as a cocktail bar and even a lounge area for guests. Many people enjoy this kind of added service during their stay.
When you glance at specific websites for the Hotels you are thinking of staying in, try to think about the places you would like to visit and then compare which hotels are closest. From your hand picked selection you can take a look at the features and prices, to see which one sounds the best to you. When you do find a hotel or two that you enjoy staying at, you might be inclined to use them over again for future visits.
Looking for a place to stay overnight? Book a room at a hotel near you!