It’s back to the dating game. You’re newly single and ready for the marketplace and that exciting but dreadful first date. Or maybe you’ve been seeing someone for a little while and ready to take it to another level.  An intimate one.

Either way you’re going to have to impress the person if you want a second date or if you’re simply looking for a happy ending to this one.  If you would like a guaranteed return on your luck – just be yourself and make it enjoyable for your partner-to-be. It’s also a good idea to involve some good quality food. Everyone loves food so you can’t go wrong there.

It’s that simple. No really. It is. But there are a few things you can do to ensure that things run smoothly.

First and foremost, Be Ready! If you jump into something you’re not ready for it’s a spell for disaster.  So if it’s your first or fifth date, make sure you look and feel your best, be relaxed and not rushed, and choose a special spot to wine and dine and enjoy the company.  Well, if you want to keep it around longer than that first drink.

There are also a few secret foods that will enhance the mood.  What you choose on the menu could very well increase your luck!

Try strawberries – they are succulent and passionate red little berries, which improve circulation and provide anti-oxidants for a hot love affair.   Oranges also do the trick. Yep, that’s right! The vitamin C increases levels of oxycotin, a hormone that induces human bonding and might just bring your date a sudden urge to get a little closer.

Don’t be too shy! Try some walnuts as they increase sex hormones with an abundance of essential fatty acids. Or ginger – it is known for revving up the metabolism which can rejuvenate and bring sexy back.

To really arouse the mood, you could add honey as a sweetener. If offers the mineral boron, a testosterone booster for an increased sexual appetite.

Other foods that send subliminal sensations to the nether regions are eggs, oatmeal, oysters, and garlic.  But the best food to fulfill your desires is chocolate.  It’s definitely the drug of choice for women. Methylxanthine, the active ingredient, causes the body to release dopamine.  Put simply, it’s a mind spell for pure pleasure.

So the moral of the story is that choosing the right foods can lead you to a happy ending.  It also helps to be cool, calm and collected. And fun! Everyone loves someone they can have a good time with. Even if you end up as friends, it’s always best to enjoy the time you do have together no matter how long it lasts.

When you’re ready for that hot date, be sure to set the mood straight.  Pick a dim lit romantic place with a nice atmosphere like the award winning Glass Door restaurant, located at the Porto Vista Hotel.

With a selection if items that contain ingredients listed above (wink-wink), the Glass Door also offers the best bay views in San Diego.

It’s always a good idea to call ahead for reservations – not only does it guarantee you a table but it will ring in as bonus points by showing your date how well prepared and thoughtful you are. So get out there and try these methods and you’ll be on your way to a happy ending, or quite possibly – a happily ever after.

For dinner reservations, call (619) 564-3755.

by Angela Bratrud

Dogs are individuals just like people. They vary across the world in breed, characteristics, shapes, sizes and social skills. Some look and act alike, others differ like night and day.

Exposing our dogs to a variety of people, animals and environments breeds confidence and control. Dog obedience classes, veterinary visits, walks in the neighborhood, and exposure to off leashed situations are all great ways to build resilience in your pet. No dog is perfect. It is the rare dog who gets along well with other dogs and people at all times. To raise the best dog possible, it’s up to the master to tame the beast. A little socialization can go a long way in creating a low stress atmosphere for the whole pack. It is each owners’ responsibility to teach our dogs to cope and respond in healthy ways.

Have you ever met someone you just clicked with right away? How about someone you could never get along with, no matter how hard you try? Not all people like each other, and dogs are the same way. This is one reason it is so important to properly socialize your pet. We cannot expect every dog to get along with every dog, but we do have the ability to train our animals with tolerance and proper communication skills. Without socialization, your dog is likely to develop the most serious and hard-to-resolve problems, which include fearfulness, biting and fighting.

As a dog owner of an American pitbull terrier rescue, I’ve had to enforce training measures to ensure a well behaved pup the world isn’t scared of. The challenge is usually in socializing off leash. And it’s not with other dogs, but human intimidation. Dogs have a strong sense of when the master is afraid, and they instinctually respond. Fear can breed ignorance, and one bad experience is all it takes to make someone afraid for life – in the dog or human population.

A common misunderstanding goes along with people who own small pets. They still need to be socialized and walked daily, to maintain balance. Dogs have needs that we don’t have. For example, a dog who constantly barks is an animal who is terribly bored and needs more stimuli. All it takes is one problem dog to rally up an entire pack and cause trouble. Introducing proper social skills to your pet is ideal in puppy hood, but can be taught at any age. It’s also a great way to maintain your sanity, as human stress increases when we have unruly and unpredictable pets.

Here are some tips for Socialization and a Healthy Balanced Pet:

- Enroll in community training classes – they are cost-effective and worth it
- Understand that socialization is a lifelong process
- Walk your dog on a leash daily and try different routes
- Take your dog out frequently to expose him to stimuli
- Set up regular play dates with dogs that get along
- Take a trip to the dog park –when its’ not crowded
- Ensure your dog has pleasant experiences with people in your home
- Attempt to bring your dog into social situations whenever possible
- Relax – your stress level will affect your pup

Keepin mind that not all dogs are created equal. Chasing, humping and arguing are also very normal in social settings. What makes a dog social savvy is his ability to interact with confidence in unfamiliar situations and resolve conflicts without doing damage.

The Porto Vista Hotel offers a monthly Happy Hour on the Wooftop for those interested in socializing pets and enjoying a cocktail and gorgeous bay views. The next event is August 6th from 5;30-8:30pm.  for more information call (619) 544-0164. Be responsible, socialize wisely.

Color can bring happiness to an otherwise ordinary world.  And get ready because this weekend San Diego will see myriads of prisms in every shape and form.  It’s a time when streets close down and crowds of supporters dedicate one weekend a year to a celebration of vibrant colors, wild and freaky costumes and high energy dance parties that parade the streets and local establishments in full force.

A traditional symbol of gay and lesbian identity and solidarity all over the world, the rainbow flag, also known as the Gay Pride flag, unites a cultural tradition and represents a sign of hope and yearning, diversity and openmindedness.  Still a long way to go, acceptance is gaining momentum. 

Its’ symbol represents lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities (LGBT) and has been used to unite the revolutionary and highly controversial movement since the Gay Freedom Day Parade in San Francisco in 1978.

Artist Gilbert Baker designed and flew the first pride flag, which had eight stripes and was hand stitched and dyed.  It has since come a long way through its variation of color.  Now with six vertical stripes – in red, orange, yellow, green blue and violet, each color is represented by its’ own meaning.

Theories suggest the idea for the rainbow flag was influenced by the Flag of the Races, which consisted of five horizontal stripes matching the skins of the human race and used to demonstrate World Peace in the 1960’s.

The Rainbow Pride flag is now the most widely used symbol for the LGBT community worldwide.  Flags of the same variety can include a black stripe on the bottom to represent “Victory Over AIDS” to all those lost to the virus.  There are others that include a black or pink triangle and those to represent bisexual people as well. In a mission to create the world’s largest flag, some have been spread across cities with a width of thirty feet and up to a mile long.

A once controversial symbol of a highly underrepresented minority, the Rainbow Pride Flag is now recognized by the International Congress of Flag Makers and lives in the public domain.

There are some ways not to be confused by a rainbow flag, as they are used in unrelated ways across the world.  For instance, the rainbow like Peace Flag, popular in Italy.  Or the colorful cooperative flag which is used as a symbol of International cooperation.

Anyway you look at it, the rainbow flag symbolizes a decree of hope for an entire culture of people, united by their identity.  It is quite possibly the only flag in the world that unites and accepts diverse lifestyles regardless of race, gender or religion.

In support of San Diego Pride, the Porto Vista Hotel is a proud hotel sponsor of the 2010 event.  Head on over for the festivities and rooftop dance party, Sunday, July 18, 2010, from 12-7, with DJ ReFresh spinning the hottest beats and food and drink specials all day.

Make way as soccer fanatics all over the world are gearing up for the 2010 World Cup finals.  As the most popular sport on earth, the game is played by roughly 500 million men, women and children every day.  All you need is a pair of feet, good coordination skills and a willingness to work with others.

Better known as football or futbol in just about every land other than America, the game has an extraordinary ability to bring people together, regardless of cultural barriers.  Its popularity is on the rise as new generations are turned on to this team sport.  Not only does it provide an avenue of inspiration to deprived youth from every corner of the world, but it offers a chance to succeed for anyone with talent.  Fanatics will tell you that soccer represents a feeling of belonging, of striving for something  of greatness as a group. 

Fans of Team Italy at the World Cup Semi-finals

Soccer has been embraced all over the world for centuries. It’s as near and dear to the hearts of people in Europe in a way similar to the likes of fashion. The first recorded game took place as early as A.D. 217 in England. It was part of a grand festival celebrated by the locals after a victory over the Romans. England set the tradition of having annual soccer events ever since.

The FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) was established in 1904 as a governing force of all the International games.  A recent count of the countries who belong to FIFA is also rumored to outnumber the members of the United Nations.  Quite a popular sport indeed!  Here in America we tend to embrace the big league sports we can claim as our own, such as American Football, Baseball and Basketball.  But soccer is undeniably gaining momentum in the U.S. 

Ghana took us by storm a few weeks ago in the men’s league, but we still have a chance to make our mark at the upcoming Women’s World Cup in Germany.  The U.S. women’s team has actually proven stronger on the playing field, with more wins than the men.  In the first Women’s World Cup in 1991, the U.S. team took home the trophy.  With a little more media attention and support, I think we can do it again.     

With such a diverse fan base and players, it’s no wonder that soccer is the fastest growing sport worldwide.  It’s time to join the party.  If you haven’t followed the sport this far, it’s not too late to see what all the hype is about. Grab your friends, head out to a local establishment, down your pint of ale and join the crowd as the 2010 World Cup spices up the crowd this weekend as the final score will be between Spain and the Netherlands.

The European style Porto Vista Hotel in Little Italy will play host to the World Cup game at the Glass Door restaurant and lounge.  So if you are looking for a great place to see the game, share a bucket of Heinekens or sip on some Sangria, come join the fun!  With multiple flat screen TV’s, gorgeous bay views, drink specials galore and a full brunch menu to match the authentic cuisine of the teams, it’s a score for every fan!

It’s official. Summer has arrived, and there is no better place to be than San Diego.  I came here on vacation 10 years ago and never wanted to leave.  I call it an endless summer.

San Diego is indeed a place where life is lived year round in the sun, the sand, and the ocean. In addition to the natural landscape and amazing beaches, America’s finest city doesn’t stop short of variety.

Home to famous tourist attractions such as Sea World, the San Diego Zoo, Lego Land, Balboa Park, and our own Chargers and Padres home teams, there is plenty for the whole family to enjoy. But it doesn’t stop there.

In summertime, San Diego boasts with special events, live music, fireworks and other entertainment. The 4^th of July is just around the corner, so don’t miss out on the best BBQ and fireworks show that money can buy.  Make the Porto Vista your spot and celebrate ‘In Style’.  For a bit more formality, The Glass Door restaurant offers panoramic views, sensational July 4^th inspired cocktails and an innovative menu.  A guaranteed place to relax in your seats as the pyrotechnic drama unfolds.

Watch the day turn to night at one of many summer concerts, art festivals, surf competitions, award winning restaurants and bustling night life. The transition of sunglasses and sand to rooftop cocktails and views overlooking the city skyline is sure to bring you to your senses like no other place.  Some areas of San Diego actually feel like other parts of the world.  If you’re in the mood for European flair, head over to Little Italy for some authentic cuisine. Or if mariachis are on your mind, Old Town offers the feel of early Hispanic settlers and great margaritas. For a healthy dose of shopping or entertainment, the historical Gaslamp District is your one stop shop.

Every visit to San Diego is a new experience waiting to happen.  One way to enjoy it even more is to extend your stay by a day or two and explore even more than you would otherwise.  Take a Roman Holiday at the Porto Vista Hotel this summer with the Euro Rail package, where you can also opt for the Stay and Play late checkout for next to nothing.  Another way to make your trip worthwhile is to save money by planning a little early. When you book 30 days in advance, you can save 30% off your stay.

Every day is filled with something new. So get away from summertime blues and make San Diego your next stop for summer fun.

]]> http://blog.portovistasd.com/?feed=rss2&p=175 1 http://blog.portovistasd.com/?p=149 http://blog.portovistasd.com/?p=149#comments Mon, 14 Jun 2010 22:45:40 +0000 Greg Keebler http://blog.portovistasd.com/?p=149 by Angela Bratrud

San Diego offers something for everyone in the pack. With a climate near perfection and a large community of dog friendly establishments, parks and other recreation, it’s no wonder so many dog lovers flock to the area. Some love it so much they never leave!

'Miles' posing at San Diego's famous annual Surf Dog contest. May 2010

San Diego is a pet friendly travel destination, so why not grab the leash next time you are up for a little adventure and bring Fido along.

Here are some tips for Hotel Stays:

- Never leave your pet unattended in a room unless the hotel indicates otherwise.
- If you must leave your pet unattended, put him in a crate or in the bathroom.
- Leave the “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door to avoid surprising hotel staff or allowing Fido to escape.
- Bring bedding or a carrier so you pet feels comfortable and at home.
- Place your pet’s food and water bowls in the bathroom for ease of clean up.
- Bring toys or bones to keep your four legged friend busy or to ward of anxious energy.
- Keep your pet on a leash or carrier in public areas.
- Try to locate a hotel near dog friendly establishments or parks for added convenience.

Once you’re settled in and ready for some adventure, there are plenty of things to do. One way to have fun under the San Diego sun is to head out to one of the famous Dog Beaches, where the dog can run off leash and the family can relax and play.

Shop til' you Bark

After catching some rays you can head over to a local Dog Wash and give Fido that fresh and clean feeling. He will need to look sharp for the dog-friendly Happy Hour, where you can both find an afternoon of happiness. Leashed walks are also a great way to end the day and offer your pet the balance he needs to get a good night’s sleep.

Another way to enjoy your day is to dine at a local dog friendly café or take your pooch shopping at one of San Diego’s pet boutiques, where you can purchase clothing, treats, toys or even leave your pet to play for the day while you are out exploring the city. The Porto Vista Hotel offers comfortable European style accommodations with great rates and a pet-friendly Happy Hour every Sunday on the Ripassi Rooftop deck.  A great place to enjoy the simple pleasures of life and watch the sun go down over the bay.

For pet-friendly hotel rates click here

Dog Friendly Happy Hour on Sundays 3-6

San Diego Dog Beaches

San Diego Pet-Friendly Dining

Local Dog Parks

From East to West, the long Memorial Day weekend abounds with travel, adventure and plenty of freedom to relax and enjoy all San Diego has to offer. Lucky for locals, much of the excitement is here right in our own backyards.  Amid the beautiful weather and beaches, an endless supply of attractions, entertainment, and dining experiences abound.

With so many opportunities for enjoyment, let’s take a moment to honor the spirit of this holiday.   Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day is a time of remembrance for those who have died serving our nation in a branch of the Military.  Flags were flown at half staff until noon, then at full staff until sunset.  It’s a day we celebrate now by coming together in honor of those who gave their lives to protect the freedom we have the privilege of living for.

Due to such a high military presence in the area, many San Diego businesses offer deals and discounts as a way to give something back to the heroes who have given so much to defend our nation.

In observance, see this video Remembering the Fallen

Take the opportunity to find a hero to thank for their service or show you care by supporting a local event. Also be sure to  give yourself a little something in return.  How about a chance to enjoy your freedom at a local Happy Hour, or a night out on the town?  You could gather up your friends and have a BBQ, or hit one of San Diego’s famous beaches.  For something off the beaten path, try the La Jolla Sea Cave kayaking adventure. Don’t forget this weekend is full of concerts and festivals as well.  Check out the gaslamp district’s annual KIFM Jazz Festival or for a full list of events, click here.  You could celebrate your freedom by trying out a new restaurant with gorgeous bay views like The Glass Door or take a stroll through San Diego’s Little Italy historic neighborhood and boutiques.  One thing everyone should try at least once is a brunch cruise from the San Diego Harbor.  If that’s not enough, you can always opt for a night of entertainment and fireworks from SeaWorld’s Summer Nights that kicks off this weekend.

For a truly unique boutique hotel experience, the Porto Vista Hotel is offering Military Discounts.  Just call and ask for the Salute Package (619) 544-0164 or visit us online at www.portovistasd.com.

Memorial Day Weekend Specials: Click Here

For a complete list of events in the area, day by day, Click Here

Local Events in Observance of Memorial Day

Monday, May 31, 2010

San Diego Vietnam Peace Memorial. Veterans Museum and Memorial Center, 2115 Park Blvd., San Diego 7p.m. candlelight vigil
Balboa Park: Remembrance ceremony at 7:30 a.m. with Vietnam Veterans of America San Diego Chapter 472, then an open house from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Both events at Veterans Museum and Memorial Center.
Coronado: 10 a.m. service hosted by Coronado Navy League, Coronado Military Officers Association of America and VFW Post 2422. Coronado Star Park, 1121 Star Park Circle.
Midway Museum: Honor guard, 10 a.m. on the aircraft carrier Midway, 910 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego.
Point Loma: Annual Memorial Day Service and Day of Remembrance ceremony, 10 a.m. at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. Guest speaker will be Rear Adm. Garry Bonelli, deputy commander of Naval Special Warfare Command.

Regardless of what you get into this weekend, remember to honor the heroes, stay safe and enjoy your freedom!

I’m ready for a vacation. Every year I seek out something a little different, and one thing I’ve always wanted to do is take a cruise. But this is one adventure I’ve been putting off for one reason.  I’m single.

Let’s face it, taking a cruise is usually a family affair, a couple’s retreat or a group of women joined at the hip for an adventure of girl time.  I’m looking for something a little more on the edge, where I can explore new things and let go of all my worries.  I don’t want to be responsible for group decisions.  It actually wracks my nerves to think of spending a week trapped on a boat with someone I can’t get rid of.  Maybe it’s my carefree spirit, but I want freedom of the sea, to make new connections, and have a low pressure good time.

So I set sail on the Internet to check my options. I found a list of cruise lines that accommodate singles and solo travelers.  The difference between the two is that solo refers to the traveler who really wants the peace of being alone, amid others. Single cruisers look for a way to meet others aboard, through a host of social functions designed for that very purpose.  The cruise lines understand this difference, and they offer packages that cater to singles who come aboard with the intention of meeting other travelers in a uniquely authentic, yet laid back setting.

A singles cruise is definitely the social way to go.  People come together from all corners of the world and have the chance to get to know each other face to face. It’s also a more economical choice, as it provides an all-inclusive adventure for one price. Generally, the ticket covers accommodations, meals, entertainment, amenities and all the social functions.

Sounds like a deal to me.  Of course another way to stay on budget is to depart out of a port close to where you live. San Diego has nine cruise lines that offer packages from three to 17 days long.  Carnival has been voted the top choice for singles, and offers all inclusive deals for those who want to explore the possibilities.

For travelers who want to top off the adventure with some unique flair, the European boutique style Porto Vista Hotel offers affordable rates and discounts to cruise travelers.  Within minutes of the airport and cruise terminals, the award winning Glass Door restaurant is also a fabulous place to wine, dine, or relax on the rooftop patio and enjoy beautiful bay views while you take in a little piece of San Diego.

Now that sounds like my kind of vacation.

Got your graduation plans under control? If you are like most students right now, time is flying by way too fast.  Final projects are due, the family is coming for a visit, and you still need to be prepared for the big day.  All your hard work is about to pay off, and it’s time to get ready. Get set. Graduate.

The ceremony is only part of the celebration.  Look at what a great accomplishment this is.  Home to beautiful weather, gorgeous beaches and endless sights to see, it’s no wonder everyone under the sun wants to come to your graduation. Of course this meansmore gift dollars for you. One way to say thanks to your friends and family is to recommend a good place to stay and play once they arrive.  After all the hard work, every new grad deserves to let loose of all that responsibility and have a little fun.

Now it’s time to celebrate. Why not go out in style with a theme party for your family and friends?  You could make it a Black tie event or just set the dress code appropriate to your theme.  How about a Masquerade Ball or a Vintage era Hollywood theme? Here is a Party Planning Checklist Every Graduate Should Have:

-Set the Budget
-Determine Location
-Pick a theme/color scheme
-Entertainment or Games
-Photographer or Audio-Visual
-Plan for Food and Beverage
-Send Invitations & RSVP card as Early as Possible
-Purchase Decorations/Party Favors

Remember, it’s all about Location, Location, Location. San Diego will play host to thousands of families this year. It’s best not to wait until everything is sold out.  As you scout the perfect venue, be sure it fits your needs. Would you like to have a rooftop party with ocean views? A dinner celebration? Accommodations for a small or large group? All of the above?  Well, look no further.

The Porto Vista Hotel is here to help.  Located just steps from downtown and minutes from the Harbor in the European style Little Italy neighborhood, the hotel calls to mind the cool, casual vibe of the 1960s Italian coast with a sexy Mediterranean style and dazzling Bay views.  Whether you’re looking for a group dinner, a graduation party package, hotel accommodations or deals on visiting local attractions, we are a uniquely modern, service oriented property that can accommodate most budgets without compromising quality.

The lifestyle-centered, vintage-Italian inspired hotel also offers guests a number of unique amenities. In addition to the award winning Glass Door restaurant, Porto Vista is home to a Ripassi rooftop deck with amazing views, the new Vespa boutique, and the Evolve Salon & Day Spa. The hotel also offers daily yoga classes and a variety of happy hour specials, including a Wooftop happy hour for travelers accompanied by a pet companion.

Current Spring Specials: Room Rates from $109

To help make graduation planning even more of a breeze, we offer a full event services planning department.  The front desk can also assist with arrangements for discounted locat attractions, car rentals, and more. For online reservations and information, visit www.portovistasd.com or call (619) 544-0164.

Hats off to Class of 2010!

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Time for play

A bistro table, cup of rich coffee, the morning paper.  Perhaps an unfiltered cigarette, to complete a Jarmusch film image.  People-watching.  Warm breeze and 68 degrees.  Leonardo Landini calls out from his restaurant to a young couple on a scooter on India St, ” Bon Giorno!”   Produce being rolled to every restaurant.   The start of another day along the coast with the sun behind and the pristine waters ahead.  Another Cappuccino, please.

Around the corner from the Porto Vista Hotel.  Eight men argue in Italian about a missed point on the bocce court.  Who knows what they are saying.  It’s a heated conversation.  Arms flailing.  They play everyday at the same time.  Same argument.  They only smile when a beautiful young woman strolls by and gives them a glance and a nod of her head.  She adjusts her hair from her front to her back and leaves them with a memory of when they were much younger.   The argument resumes. 

San Diego and it’s downtown village of Little Italy is a special place.  Unpretentious and a place you experience a Mediterranean coastal life of the simple pleasures of cafes, boutiques and interesting people.  Little Italy is a hidden gem in the forest of skyscrapers of San Diego.   Wireless internet is reluctantly available most places.  We understand your need to stay connected.  But, we would rather share a glass of Pinot Grigio with you and talk.   

Or, we could play bocce ball….