Tag Archives: Date ideas

Welcome to Germantown, Nashville!

Posted on July 25, 2016 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Fun with the Nashville Sounds at First Tennessee Park, Photo by: Deldevries via Wikipedia

You heard it here first! Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals is opening yet another location in one of Nashville’s most trendy neighborhoods- Germantown! Located North of downtown (and walking distance from the capital building), the Germantown district is brimming with historic appeal and all the charm of what makes Nashville so loveable.

Our 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom vacation homes at Vista Germantown have all the amenities you need for a relaxing and comfortable trip to Music City. With en suite laundry, a living room, and a kitchen, you’ll be able to live like a local with twice as much space for about the same cost as one of the downtown hotels. Relax outside on the community sundeck and take a dip into the salt water pool. Feeling a bit chilly afterward? Sit and watch TV by the outdoor fire pit.

Step outside your condo community and you’ll be walking distance from downtown and other exciting attractions that the Germantown neighborhood has to offer. If you don’t feel like wandering too far from the neighborhood area, take a moment to explore the interesting attractions and restaurants of Germantown:

Nashville Farmer’s Market: Voted the best Farmer’s Market in Nashville, this Germantown spot runs 362 days a year. If you’re the type who adores fresh food (and likes to know where it comes from) this spot is a definite must for your grocery gatherings. Tip: This place is bustling on Saturday, but not so busy on Sunday. (You’re in the Bible belt, after all.)
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park: This scenic park stands as Nashville’s own “National Mall”-esque tribute to Tennessee. Witness 31 fountains and a wall mural depicting the history of the state. There’s more- a 95 Bell Carillon, a World War 2 Memorial, Court of Three Stars, and a 2,000 seat amphitheater. Worth a visit!
First Tennessee Park: The new home of the the Nashville Sounds baseball team! Catch a game and grab some snacks for an affordable family activity. Awesome views of the city from here, as well.
Peter Nappi: One of Nashville’s most unique luxury product stores. Peter Nappi is an Italian leather company that operates in Germantown. Witness a boutique with incredible ambiance as well as some of the finest leather products you will ever touch. Peter Nappi even has a small concert venue within the store for local musical performances. A true Nashville fashion legend. See their online store here.
Oktoberfest: This might only be in October, but it’s worth checking out when it happens! Germantown overflows with festivities, music, German cultural activites, and BEER!

Germantown is chalk full of incredible restaurants to try. Here’s some of our favorites:

Germantown Cafe: Modern American, German
Mad Platter Restaurant: Modern American
Rolf and Daughters: Modern American, Mediterranean
5th and Taylor: Modern American
Silo: Southern, Modern American
Monell’s Dining and Catering: Southern, Soul Food
City House: Italian
Butchertown Hall: Traditional American, Gastropubs
Germantown Pub: Modern American, German, Breakfast & Brunch
312 Pizza Company: Pizza, Sandwiches

Not sure where to stay in Nashville? Stay like a local in a Germantown vacation rental and skip the stuffy hotel experience. Give us a call any time of day at 866-232-3864 and one of our helpful reservation agents can assist you in booking the perfect Nashville condo. We look forward to hosting your next Music City adventure and hope you love the city just as much as we do!

5 Great Spots in Portland’s Pearl District

Posted on July 18, 2016 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

A book lover’s dream come true! Photo by: Cacophony via Wikipedia

Welcome to the Pearl District, the thriving hipster and business haven in downtown, Portland. Over the years, this exciting neighborhood has hosted some of Stay Alfred’s most popular vacation rentals. There’s quite a bit to do in the Pearl District, and with our condos’ incredible walk scores, you’ll be able to reach everything on foot! Here’s five of our favorite spots that we think you’ll enjoy:

Jamison Square Park: Looking for a nice place to sip coffee, relax, and people watch? Stop by Jamison Square Park and enjoy the waterfall and arched pool. You’ll see children playing in the water and people playing bocce ball in a nearby court. Plenty of fun food and snack options surround you, including Starbucks, Cool Moon Ice Cream, Hot Lips Pizza, and Jamison Restaurant. 810 Northwest 11th Avenue, (503)823-7529
Powell’s City of Books: Powell’s is a Portland legend. Founded in 1971, this humble bookstore has grown to take over an entire city block within the Pearl District. Even if you’re not looking to buy any books, Powell’s is still worth a visit. There’s a coffee shop and gift store inside. Be sure to check out the “rare books” section for a real treat. 1005 West Burnside Street, (503)228-4651
Andina: Andina is truly one of Portland’s best restaurants. It has an astounding 4.5 stars on Yelp with over 2,000 reviews. (Although we know that it deserves 5 stars!) This impressive Peruvian spot has everything that we love about restaurants- incredible eats, an exotic wine list, friendly service, a swanky atmosphere, and occasionally live music. It’s Portland, so plenty of menu items are vegetarian friendly and gluten free. Trust us, you’ll love this place. Reservations recommended. 1314 Northwest Glisan Street, (503)228-9535
Portland Center Stage (at Gerding Theater at the Armory): Looking for an artistic night out? Consider stopping by for a showing at Portland’s largest theater company. The shows are eclectic and fun, and often include classic stories like Anna Karenina or One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. Insider tip: Follow Portland Center Stage on social media closely and you might be able to catch free tickets! 128 Northwest 11th Avenue, (503)445-3700
Flight sampler at Deschutes Brewery, Photo by: Karen Neoh via Flickr
Deschutes Brewery Portland Public House: Portland’s own craft beer brand serves up delightful brews and pub fare at this comfortable urban spot. Not sure what type of beer you prefer? We recommend ordering a sampler flight. Also, their pretzel with mustard and cheese dip is a delicious snack. Looking for something a bit more quirky? Also stop by Rogue Distillery and Public House while you’re in Portlandia. (They even have Voodoo Doughnut inspired beer flavors!) 210 Northwest 11th Avenue, (503)296-4906

Not sure where to stay in Portland, Oregon? Skip the crowded hotel experience and opt to stay in a vacation rental with twice the amount of space for a comparable rate. Instead of sharing one room, enjoy a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a living room, fully-equipped kitchen, and en suite laundry. When you stay at one of our high-rise rentals, Portland city views will surround you. Live like a local and Stay Smart with Stay Alfred. Give us a call any time of day at 866-232-3864 or click here to look more about our Portland condos.

City of Seafood: Best Sushi Spots in Seattle

Posted on May 16, 2016 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

From the famous fish tosses of Pike Place Market to the Ballard locks salmon ladder, Seattle’s distinct seafood culture is part of what makes this city so special. Naturally, Seattle is one of Stay Alfred’s favorite cities to sample sushi. After asking my sushi-obsessed office what restaurants in Seattle were the best, these were the top contenders. Feel free to let us know what sushi restaurants in town you have had the best experience at. Enjoy- and don’t forget to make a reservation!

Maki roll style sushi, Photo by: Suzette via Flickr

Sushi Kashiba: Shiro Kashiba is Seattle’s own master sushi chef. Kashiba, an apprentice to famed world’s best sushi chef Jiro Ono from “Jiro Dreams of Sushi”, has delighted sushi snobs everywhere by opening his latest restaurant in Pike Place in late 2015. Sushi Kashiba might have a high price tag, but it doesn’t disappoint. Incredibly fresh fish is paired with other interesting seafood elements to create sushi as it is supposed to be savored. You’ll be graced with attentive service and helpful presentations on what you are eating. 86 Pine Street #1, (206)441-8844

Shiro’s: Chef Kashiba also opened this 11 seat restaurant in Belltown in 1994. Though Kashiba has since moved on to work at Sushi Kashiba, the excellence of this Spartan-simple yet iconic restaurant still lives on through lead chef Jun Takai. Expect incredibly fresh seafood and traditional Japanese fare at its finest. 2401 2nd Avenue, (206)443-9844

Mashiko Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar: We’re not letting Shiro Kashiba’s restaurants steal all the attention. Mashiko is another high-end sushi spot in town with an enthusiastic fan base and rave reviews. What makes Mashiko special? It is Seattle’s first 100% sustainable sushi restaurant. The chef knows where every single piece of piece of seafood is coming from and prepares it with delicate care. A perfect place for special occasions. 4725 California Avenue SW, (206)935-4339

Japonessa Sushi Cocina: Looking for a more unique sushi experience? Japonessa combines Spanish flavors and flair to sushi without compromising the taste of quality cut fish. Despite the non-traditional sushi preparation methods, Japonessa is a favorite of Seattleites. The sushi isn’t the only fantastic thing here- the sake cocktails will not disappoint. 1400 1st Avenue, (206)971-7979

Momiji: With a serene, Japanese decorated interior and delicious fish cuts, Momiji has become a popular choice for sushi that’s a bit more affordable than some of the more high-end spots in town. With friendly service, a pleasant atmosphere, and a great drink menu, Momiji allows you the full Seattle sushi experience without the sushi-snob vibe. 1522 12th Avenue, (206)457-4068

Tsukushinbo: Don’t forget about this spot just because the name might be a bit difficult to say! If you’re looking for a wide selection of both sushi and other Japanese delights in a friendly atmosphere, this slightly hidden spot in the International District might be the perfect place for you. 515 South Main Street, (206)467-4004

Umi Sake House: This popular, bustling Belltown spot is known for both delectable sushi and a well-loved happy hour. While traditional sushi restaurants are more quiet, serene, and simple, Umi’s large, club-like interior and extended drink menu is perfect for a fun night out. 2230 1st Avenue, (206)374-8717

Hidden Gem!
Wataru: This totally unassuming restaurant hasn’t caught the public eye quite yet in Seattle. Tucked away on the main street in the Ravenna neighborhood, Wataru is truly a small but pleasant surprise. Chef Kotaro Kumita (who apprenticed under Shiro Kashiba, of course) only accepts 6 diners at the bar at a time where you can watch as he single-handedly creates sushi for everyone in the restaurant. The whole restaurant only seats 24. With Chef Kumita being the sole chef in this restaurant, don’t come here expecting a rapid dining experience. The foodies are slowly finding out about this place- make a reservation before you have to fight for one! 2400 NE 65th Street, (206)525-2073

Not sure where to stay in Seattle?
Skip the crowded hotel experience and live like a local in Seattle’s best neighborhoods for a comparable rate. At Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals, we offer the most walkable and safe vacation homes in town. Of course you’re condo will be close by the best sushi spots, as well. Give us a call any time of day at 866-232-3864 and our knowledgeable reservation agents will be more than happy to help you book the perfect Emerald City getaway.

Welcome to the San Antonio Riverwalk!

Posted on April 22, 2016 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Nightlife at the San Antonio Riverwalk, photo by Stuart Seeger via Flickr

At Stay Alfred, we know that our guests want to stay within walking distance to the city’s best attractions. In San Antonio, we adore the beauty and excitement of the city’s legendary Riverwalk. The Riverwalk is a series of pathways along the San Antonio River that guide visitors through a gorgeous selection of attractions, shops, restaurants, and art pieces. From food carts to gourmet dining, there’s something for everyone along the Riverwalk.
Not up for a long walk? Plenty of scenic boat rides are available, as well. The Riverwalk is the perfect place to start if you want to tour the beauty of the city. (However, ALWAYS remember the Alamo!)

During April 14-24, Fiesta San Antonio is taking over the city and the Riverwalk! This annual celebration has been entertaining San Antonio for 125 years. During this 10 day extravaganza, numerous arts, culture, music, food, family, and sports events will take place.
On Friday, April 22nd, check out the Fiesta Carnival or 10th Street River Festival. Looking for something a bit more low key? There’s also a Cactus and Xerophyte show and sale for plant lovers.
On Saturday, April 23rd, you can join in on the LUNG FORCE 5K run or walk if you’re feeling a bit motivated. The King William Arts and Crafts Fair will also be going on in the King William Historic District of town.
On Sunday, April 25th, Fiesta San Antonio will wrap up with a number of fun events including the Fiesta Wildflower Ride and the Festival de Cascarones.

To see a full guide of Fiesta San Antonio events, click here.

Not sure where to stay in San Antonio?

Vistana vacation rental by Stay Alfred

Experience the beauty of the city from Stay Alfred’s high rise Vistana vacation rental. Our 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condos at the Vistana are perfect for up to six guests! Why cram your family and friends into a 300 square foot hotel room when you can have more space, privacy, and amenities for a comparable rate? With a Walk Score rating of 93, the Vistana truly has everything you need minutes from the doorstep. The River Walk and Old Town San Antonio are about a 10 minute stroll away! Public transportation options are also available right outside the Vistana. With parking available on site, you can easily explore the entire city with your own vehicle, as well.
Our Vistana vacation rental guarantees you all the comforts of home and more. With a living room, fully-equipped kitchen, and en suite laundry, you’ll be able to live like a local and save money if you would prefer to cook meals in your vacation home.
Your vacation rental community also features a wide array of amenities that will keep you entertained when you’re not out enjoying the city. Keep up on your fitness with the 24 community gym, or take a dip in the pool on the 6th floor’s sundeck. Need a place to meet? The property also hosts a club room and business center with a killer view of the San Antonio city skyline.

We’d love to host your San Antonio adventure. To learn more about our vacation rental property, visit this link or give us a call any time of day at 866-232-3864. Our helpful reservation agents would love to assist you in planning your stay.

More Valentine’s Day Date Ideas

Posted on February 8, 2016 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Love Park in Philadelphia, Photo by: Gene Tobia via Flickr

Planning to enjoy a trip to the city on Valentine’s Day?

At Stay Alfred, we think that it’s always a fantastic idea to book a romantic getaway with your significant other. If you’re staying with us during this special time, we’re sure that you’ll enjoy the privacy and amenities that our downtown properties have to offer.

However, we know that it can be a bit difficult to find the perfect date idea in an unfamiliar city. Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals hosts guests in numerous cities across the U.S., and we believe that all of these cities have excellent restaurants, attractions, and events that are sure to make your 2016 Valentine’s Day memorable! From Philadelphia to our country’s Capital, we’ve got you covered!

Philadelphia

Restaurants: Located in Rittenhouse Square, Sbraga Restaurant (of Top Chef fame) on Broad Street is offering a special Valentine’s prix fixe menu with optional wine pairings. For other Philadelphia delights, see this page.

Attraction: Step aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia for a romantic lunch or dinner cruise down the Delaware River. For more information, visit this link. Also, consider going to Love Park to take a selfie with your loved one! (Pictured above)

San Antonio

Restaurants: Enjoy a stroll down San Antonio’s River Walk when you head out to go dine at Bella On the River, a city hot spot for romantic dining. Be sure to make reservations! Other San Antonio restaurants can be found on this page.

Attraction: Spend the day bike touring the majestic missions all across the city via the new Mission Reach trail. At Mission San Jose, you’ll be able to see Pedro Huzar’s famous Rose Window sculpture that he crafted for his love in 1775.

San Diego

Restaurants: Consider dining in the swanky Gaslamp Quarter for V Day- great restaurants abound! Check out Osetra if you’re interested in seafood, or Donovan’s Steakhouse if you prefer a savory steak. More San Diego dinner ideas can be found here.

Attraction: What’s more romantic than wine? On February 13th, you can embark on an unforgettable Baja Wine Country tour that will even stop in Tijuana, Northern Mexico. $189 with transportation, wine, lunch, and sometimes chocolate included. More information here.

Portland

Restaurants: Andina, Portland’s premier Peruvian restaurant, is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a three course dinner with South American wine pairings. If Peruvian isn’t your thing, check out this list of other romantic Portland dining options.

Attraction: Portland offers traditional Valentine’s Day activities such as dinner cruises and winery tours, but if you’re looking for something a little less sappy, consider taking the Haunted Valentine Beer Tour through Portland’s sketchy and haunted past. Your date will be jumping into your arms!

Seattle

Restaurants: Travel to Pike Place Market and dine at Maximilien, a French hotspot with panoramic views of the Puget Sound. To accommodate different budgets, Maximilien is offering three different Valentine’s Day date specials. More Seattle restaurants can be found on this list.

Attraction: Seattle is an incredibly artistic city, so why not stroll through the Ballard Art Walk along Ballard Avenue on Valentine’s night? While you’re in the area, you’re guaranteed to find an interesting bar to stop in.

Washington, D.C.

Restaurants: Are you a chocolate fan? Head to Co Co Sala to enjoy their Valentine’s special called “50 Shades of Chocolate”. This $90 prix fixe menu will serve five courses that each incorporate chocolate. For other great romantic restaurants, see this article.

Attraction: Head over to one of the city’s numerous ice skating rinks to hold hands with your loved one as you glide across the ice.

Valentine’s Day Date Ideas

Posted on February 2, 2016 by Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals — No Comments ↓

Photo by: Jennifer Zambrano via Flickr

Planning to enjoy a getaway to the city on Valentine’s Day? In our last blog post, we wrote about why it’s great idea to book a vacation rental for a romantic trip with your significant other. However, we know that it can be a bit difficult to find the perfect date idea in an unfamiliar city. Stay Alfred Vacation Rentals hosts guests in numerous cities across the U.S., and we believe that all of these cities have excellent restaurants, attractions, and events that are sure to make your 2016 Valentine’s Day memorable! From Boston to the Big Easy, we’ve got you covered.

Boston

Restaurants: Want to have a unique gourmet experience that heightens your senses? Try the “dining in the dark” experience at the beautiful and historic Hampshire House. For other ideas, check out this Valentine’s Day specific restaurant guide for Boston.

To do: Cruise around the iconic Boston Harbor aboard an elegant ship with an option to do a romantic dinner and lunch event. For more information, visit this page.

Denver

Restaurants: For $59 per person, Argyll Whisky Beer is offering three courses of U.K.-inspired gourmet dishes prepared with a refined American flair. Did we mention this gastropub offers more than 240 selections of whiskey? For other Denver suggestions, visit this page.

To do: Want to see the beauty of downtown Denver at a leisurely pace? Wait at one of the various pick-up points at the 16th Street Mall and you’ll be able to ride together under a blanket in a Cinderella-style carriage pulled by gorgeous draft horses.

Memphis

Restaurant: Chez Philippe, named as one of the Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in the USA by Open Table, is offering a classic French gourmet three course meal for $95 per person. Be sure to reserve! Other ideas for romantic Memphis dining can be found on this website.

To do: Have you always wanted to learn how to dance? The Blue Suede Ballroom is hosting four different early evening dance classes at $30 per couple. After that, why not head back to downtown to stroll down Beale Street?

Nashville

Restaurant: There are so many fantastic and delicious restaurants in Nashville that it’s near impossible to decide! We recommend The Standard at The Smith House for a historic Southern dining experience. For other Valentine’s Day dining options, visit this website.

To do: As expected, Music City has plenty of excellent music events to make a date of on Valentine’s Day weekend. On February 13th, Rick Springfield will perform classic 80’s throwbacks at the Wildhorse Saloon. On both the 13th and Valentine’s Day, Sheryl Crow will perform at the Nashville Symphony.

New Orleans

Restaurant: With a long history and rave reviews, Commander’s Palace is practically a NOLA landmark. With outstanding Southern gourmet dishes such as turtle soup, soft-shell crab, and spiced rum cake, it’s no surprise that this award winning restaurant is known as the place to celebrate. For other ideas, pay a visit to this page.

To do: Mardi Gras might be over, but there are plenty of Valentine’s Day adventures to be had in the historic French Quarter, including local jazz fare at The Spotted Cat. Located between the Garden District and French Quarter, another venue called BB’s Stage Door Canteen will be presenting a tribute to Frank Sinatra on the night of Valentine’s Day.

Speak with a Reservationist

1-866-232-3864