BoomerGirl Diary

Wonderful Wine Weekends

Think culinary pleasures in a wooded sanctuary that would be the perfect setting for Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Now fast-forward to wintertime in the 21st century and add a penchant for wine and you'll arrive at The Lodge at Smithgall Woods. North Georgia's premier destination for the discriminating traveler has three big reasons to make the just-over-an-hour-trek north from Atlanta.

On three consecutive weekends in February, it will host escapes designed for wine lovers, with plans to showcase American and European grape varieties under the theme "New World and Old World." Handpicked wines paired with gourmet cuisine and advice from a regional wine expert are part of the package.

It all happens in the Dukes Creek Conservation Area, which means that you can easily take a nature hike amidst the debauchery. The waterfalls and lush landscape will remind you that after all, wine is a gift from Mother Nature. At the private estate-turned-lodge, fourteen individual guestrooms are found in five luxurious guesthouses (including two cottages with private hot tubs!) anchored by a main building where feasts take place due to the talents of resident chef Mac Parks.

With 5,600 acres of North Georgia mountain scenery at your disposal for exploration, there's no need to feel guilty as you enjoy course after delicious course. You'll be glad you settled in for a balmy winter's night in Helen.

• The Lodge at Smithgall Woods

Helen, Georgia

800.318.5248

www.smithgallwoods.com

Wine Weekends 2008:

February 8-10, February 15-17, February 22-24

Packages start at $749 per couple

Check In At NYC'S Jumeirah Essex House!

The spectacular Jumeirah Essex House Hotel located on prestigious Central Park South in New York City is about to celebrate its 75th anniversary. A 75 million dollar renovation at this landmark property is another reason to celebrate. It's one of the most distinguished and lavish places to stay while visiting the Big Apple.

Particularly noticeable is the impressive art collection with commissioned pieces by noted Korean photographer Atta Kim and American landscape painter Mark Innerst. Stop by and you'll gaze for hours at the artwork housed throughout the hotel. The lobby is extraordinary, complete with a new lounge, offering a delectable menu.

Whether you opt for a full meal, a glass of cabernet, a delicious latte or perhaps high tea, culinary delights await. When it's time to turn in, you'll find the guest rooms have been renovated to the highest standards featuring flat screen televisions, unrivaled Central Park views and of course the same stellar service the hotel has always been known for.

Joining the National Trust Historic Hotels of America, this grande dame has been awarded Michelin Guide's 2007 "Five Pavilions Award" and is also the recipient of AAA's Four Diamond award. Add two 2007 World Travel Awards to the list and it's obvious this is the place to be in New York. The Essex House's five-star restaurant opens soon, stay tuned for a report.

• Jumeirah Essex House

160 Central Park South

888.645.5697

www.jumeirahessexhouse.com