Regardless of the turbulent start to the year and in spite of identity politics, the USA’s popularity is showing no signs of waning. Here are just a few highlights from Wedgewood USA to keep on the horizon when considering East or West Coast.
New York:
Tim and Kit Kemp of Firmdale Hotels opened “The Whitby” in midtown Manhattan on February 27th.
The Whitby is described as “a celebration of contemporary art and design”, and joins The Crosby as NYC properties in the Firmdale portfolio.
Situated in upper midtown Manhattan on West 56th Street at 5th Avenue, The Whitby is a short walk to Central Park and Broadway, as well as being on the doorstep of some of New York’s leading restaurants, galleries and museums, including MoMA which is just a couple of blocks away.
There are 86 individually designed bedrooms and suites, each with floor to ceiling windows, many with a private terrace and views of the Manhattan skyline.
Other features include The Whitby Bar and Restaurant, an orangery, book-lined library, private outdoor terrace, three private event rooms, fully equipped gym and the obligatory Firmdale touch of a130 seat cinema.
Living in the 70’s – PAN AM’s Clipper Club & more at AIR HOLLYWOOD
Relive the magic of flying on board the legendary PAN AM 747 Clipper at Air Hollywood
Your “PanAm Experience” begins at the exclusive First and Clipper Class check-in desk. The PAN AM Customer Servicer Agent provides each guest with a 70’s style-boarding pass, ticket cover and first class carry-on tags.
As you explore the legendary Clipper Club, you’ll have an opportunity to peruse the vintage PAN AM memorabilia including original uniforms, airline seats, cabin bags, artwork and more. You can mingle with other enthusiasts at the Club Lounge and share stories and memories.
Shortly after, there will be a boarding call for Clipper Juan T Trippe, in recognition of PAN AM’s first Boeing 747, where you will be taken back to the ‘70s. Immediately stepping on board, you will be welcomed with a nostalgic cocktail as Frank Sinatra velvety voice resonates in the background.
All cabins have been restored to reflect original décor and branding elements. As soon as you take your dedicated seat, Cabin Crew will commence the onboard greetings and safety demonstrations. Everything from the cutlery to glassware to menus, has been recreated to deliver an authentic PAN AM experience reminiscent of the era.
British Airways First Class Catering at LAX provides the catering for the event.
Call us now to find out how to utilise this experience in your next California incentive.
Miami – Make Your Mark – Graffiti Art Wall
Graffiti artists will lead groups of 20 at a time to spray paint the back wall of R House into a graffiti canvas. The completed wall will remain as the back drop to R House Restaurant and the guests will have made their mark on the Miami art scene!
Branding, imagery or a message can be incorporated into an outline on the wall before guests arrive so that everyone spray paints the artwork in ‘colouring book’ style.
Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Safari and more:
Santa Barbara is a chic locale tucked between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Its superb beaches, amazing food scene, eclectic shopping, elegant hotels, Hispanic architecture and soft adventures in the surrounding environment, make for a great addition to your West Coast incentive programs.
Santa Barbara is also one of the premier wine destinations not just in California, but in the world. The first tasting room, Santa Barbara Winery, opened in downtown Santa Barbara in 1962, and for 40 years it was the only tasting room in the city, however most vineyards in surrounding districts now operate tasting rooms in the city bringing the experience within reach of all visitors.
Santa Barbara, Shops on State Street in the city of Santa Barbara in southern California
The first wine grapes were grown in the Santa Barbara region by the missionaries in the late 18th century, and the unique climate and two coastal mountain ranges have continued to produce some of the highest quality of viticulture in the country. The Santa Ynez Mountains and the farther inland San Rafael range create a series of transverse valleys and microclimates, making this region well suited to grow a diverse range of grapes.
One of the more intriguing experiences we have discovered is SALT, an underground Himalayan salt cave, the largest in the USA. Apart from offering traditional Spa therapies, these Caves are also available for small events, including cocktails parties and meetings.
These are only a few suggestions about what Santa Barbara has to offer.
For more ideas, let Wedgewood USA West Coast office craft an enjoyable experience with special highlights included along the way.
Contact us: info@nemonic.com.au | +64 (0) 22 154 6099
