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Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Monterey County Named one of the Top Ten Wine Travel Destinations in the World



Wine Enthusiast has just selected Monterey,CA as one of the 2013 Top Ten Wine Travel Destination in the World.  Monterey County is the only California wine region to make the 2013 list.

 "Monterey County offers so many unique and top-class experiences in not only wine and food but in everything from outdoor adventures to art to sightseeing. It has an undiscovered, offbeat, creative flair while at the same time offering very elegant experiences. We feel Monterey represents our reader - extremely modern, approachable, sincerely quality driven.  Glamour without pretense," says Wine Enthusiast Executive Editor Susan Kostrzewa.  To get details on wine tasting in Monterey, visit www.SeeMonterey.com

"The wine country in Monterey County is less commercialized and provides a more authentic experience for the devoted wine enthusiast," said Tammy Blount, CEO of the Monterey County Convention and Visitors Bureau, adding, "A wine country itinerary in Monterey County is perfectly complemented with our incredible array of intimate dining options, world class shopping and spa experiences, and the most beautiful coastline in the world."


Monterey County has seen a stunning forty percent increase of tasting rooms in the last year and is home to over 40,000 acres of premium vineyards.  Wine enthusiasts are able to take public transit to tasting rooms in rustic Carmel Valley which is home to the new East End Wine Row.  Shoppers can mix finding their latest treasure with wine tasting in Carmel-by-the-Sea.  Fifteen  tasting rooms are now located in the walkable one square mile known for unique shops.  Vineyard experiences along River Road are also gaining momentum with A-T-V rides through the vines.

 If you're thinking of visiting Monterey county, and looking for affordable lodging, check out the Hyatt Monterey.  The hotel regularly offers specials.  Benefits of the Hyatt Monterey include the fantastic Accista spa, the fire grilled pizzas at the TusCA Ristorante and the golf course.  Of the amenities at the Hyatt Monterey, the spa is the most worthwhile in my opinion.  I visited last fall and was blown away by the quality of services offered.  The staff is top notch and both the facials and massages are relaxing and nuturing.  Even if you don't stay at the hotel, the spa is worth visiting.  Check out their Facebook specials to save. The only drawback of the Monterey Hyatt is the rooms are not all connected via an indoor walkway.  That means you have to walk outside to get to your room.  But, for the price, that may be an inconvenience  you can live with.

If you're looking for a more luxurious accomodation, perhaps to celebrate Valentine's day or another special event, check out the Hyatt Highlands Hotel.  The location is conveniently located between the charming village of Carmel and Big Sur.  It really is the "gateway" to Big Sur.  The rooms are luxurious condos with fireplaces, kitchens and jacuzzi tubs.  For R&R there is a full gym, swimming pool and trails you can run or hike through the property.  The hotel restaurant, Pacific's Edge, is an excursion itself with fantastic food and wine on the menu.