Blog Archives

Washington Wine Tasting: Darby Winery, West Seattle

Darby Winery in West Seattle is a great urban spot for wine lovers. Located in the West Seattle junction, it’s an easy walk to much of the neighborhood, and if you’re coming from further away, the reopening of the West Seattle Bridge makes it an easy drive. The Darby Story The winery started in 2002 when Darby English, the founder, and head winemaker, began making wine in his basement. His goal was to make the best wine in the state using the best products and winemaking techniques.  Three years later, he started producing wine for commercial sale. With less than 400 cases total, about half Syrah and half Viognier/Roussanne, the supply sold out extremely fast.  One year later, Darby tripled his wine production to 1,200 cases in one year and opened a tasting room. Locals loved his wine then, and […]

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Hotel Review: Heathman Hotel, Kirkland, Washington

The Heathman Hotel is located in the heart of downtown Kirkland on the east side of Lake Washington and boasts that it’s the only boutique hotel in Kirkland. Just a couple of blocks from the lake, in fact, conveniently located in the city and a short walk from Marina Park, local shops, and galleries. While the hotel is within easy walking distance to lots of locations, complimentary bicycles are available to guests. It expands your options if you don’t want to spend all your time driving, it’s a fitness option that’s also fun. There is a fully equipped gym if you want a more regimented fitness routine. Free Wi-Fi makes the hotel attractive for both business and leisure travelers. Who Stays at the Heathman Hotel? The Heathman Hotel caters to a large variety of guest types, ranging from solo businessmen […]

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Milwaukee: Art Museums For an Inspired Visit

Milwaukee is a vibrant city with abundant attractions. I’ve written about the quirky Bobblehead Museum and the impressive niche-specific Harley Davidson Museum (and there are plenty of fans who considered those bikes works of art). Today I’m tackling something more suited for the culture readers, taking a look at Milwaukee art museums. I think you’ll find it represents some of the best in the midwest. In these art museums, you’ll find some of the most famous works of art, including works from Van Gogh, Salvador Dali, and Marc Chagall. If modern art is more your thing, there is no lacking. And if American decorative arts or Haitian art or German expressionism are your jam, you’ll find a museum collection that speaks to your special interests. But where do you find these pieces? What does each museum have to offer? This […]

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