Avia Hotel

Last week I checked into the Avia Hotel in Long Beach, California, a new addition to the City as it is only one year old.  I absolutely fell in love with the modern design of this boutique hotel. If you are looking for a simple, yet stylish boutique hotel then the Avia is the perfect alternative to the corporate hotels in the City's downtown.  With respect to amenities, the hotel is simple: no valet parking, no room service and no luggage assistance. I am assuming that they can keep their room rates competitive by not providing these services.

There is a beautiful restaurant and bar on-site.  The restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner and there are literally dozens of restaurant choices within a 5 minute walk of the hotel.  You won't go hungry here!  The roof-top pool is an amazing feature of the eight story hotel available only to hotel guests (key card access) or non-guests for a fee.  It boasts amazing views of the Long Beach Harbor including the Queen Mary.  Another plus is that it is conveniently located to the convention center if that's the reason you are in town. 

As much as I loved my stay at the Avia, and as much as it pains me to put this in writing, there was one downside to my stay and it has to do with providing a consistent level of quality service.  Several staff were outstanding and went above and beyond while others provided me with wrong or inadequate information that left me feeling a little frustrated.  But overall, I had a wonderful stay in a comfortable suite and would not hesitate to stay here again.

All photos are original by Mrs. B

In Need of Comfort Food

Soup is definitely a comfort food.  And that is what I will be needing over the next week since I will be having surgery tomorrow.  I have been very apprehensive about the surgery for the last few weeks and I just want to hurry up and get it done.  When I started this blog, I wanted to post pretty pictures...not bore you with the details of my problems.  After all, I am sure you have your own things to worry or be concerned about.  

What are your favorite comfort foods?

Do you have a favorite soup? Do you have any great (easy) soup recipes you can share?

Potato and bacon soup from Delius Restaurant in Signal Hill, CA.
Yes, it was delicious!

Sunday at the Farmers Market

Did you know last week was National Farmers Market Week?  I read that fact somewhere and that's what prompted me to visit my local farmers market this morning.  It is held near the bay so being outside near that water was a perfect way to spend a Sunday morning.  I didn't buy any fruits or veggies but brought home some beautiful flowers. 

Here are a few pictures from this morning.

I love the eye catching rainbow of colors. 

The potatoes have a wonderful texture.

This is one of my favorite pictures of the day.

Do you frequent farmers markets? What do you usually like to buy.

We Olive (Long Beach, CA)

I have to admit something.  When We Olive first opened its doors in Southern California I wondered how a store selling only olive oil could survive...especially during these tough economic times. Well folks, don't let the name fool you. We Olive is more than just olive oil. Of course they have an amazing selection of oils and balsamic vinegars but they also stock tapenades, mustards, gift items and more.  A huge number of the items are actually from California companies. 

There are currently 8 charming stores in California. This particular location is situated in the Blemont Shore neighborhood of Long Beach, CA.  I just love this area!

"We Olive is more than just a store with olive oil...it is an olive oil experience." -- We Olive website

I have to agree with the company's quote.  There are tasting stations throughout the store but the "Tasting Bar" is center stage.  The owners are very warm and make you feel welcome  so you don't feel intimidated tasting the products.  In fact they encourage it! It makes for a fun shopping experience.  The owners are also very knowledgeable about the products they carry and can assist you in making just the right purchase.  They helped me choose a chipotle flavored olive oil.  It definitely was the right purchase for me because I recently went back to buy a second bottle.

We Olive has a welcoming rustic feel.  I love the use of rock along the back wall and freestanding "furniture" adding to the charm and character of the store.

Bath and body products as well as other related gift items are also available.

Now where else can you find Peach White Balsamic Vinegar?