three new backer rewards

I've been so caught up in the logistics and promotion of determining where I'd volunteer in Honduras (it's official -- Building a Future in Tegucigalpa won with 49%of the votes), that I've slacked on securing (and posting) new backer rewards. Well, I have three new rewards to add to the mix and must they, they're mighty nice: one night stays at each of the three Seattle Kimpton Hotel properties: Hotel Monaco, Alexis Hotel and Hotel Vintage Park. Maybe you live in the Pacific Northwest and need an urban getaway? Hello, perfect excuse to de-stress and decompress in the New Year! Or maybe an overnight stay at a fancy schmancy hotel is just the incentive you need for an inaugural visit to Emerald City. If that's the case, we can talk and I can help plan an fun-filled itinerary for any first-timers that would make Julie the Cruise Director blush.

Here's what's up for grabs with a $250 pledge:

One night stay at Hotel Monaco
This luxury Kimpton boutique hotel is located in the vibrant heart of downtown near Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square and the Washington State Trade & Convention Center. You can read more about the hotel's perks here in a column I wrote a few months ago.

One night stay at Hotel Vintage Park
This charming Kimpton hotel in the heart of downtown Seattle celebrates Washington's Wine Country by dedicating each room to a local winery and vineyard. Recently named to Travel + Leisure's "Best 500 Hotels in the World" list, this luxury property is located in the heart of downtown Seattle in the city's retail and financial center, near the Washington State Convention and Trade Center and the 5th Avenue Theatre. I love the hotel's nightly get-to-know-Washington wine hour and have had numerous out-of-town guests book rooms here.

One night stay at Alexis Hotel
"A work of art" in itself, Kimpton's recently renovated Seattle luxury hotel is committed to the arts community. Recently named to Travel + Leisure's "Best 500 Hotels in the World" list, the Alexis Hotel displays original pieces throughout the richly decorated guestrooms and public spaces. The 121-room boutique hotel is just steps from the Pike Place Market, the Waterfront and Pioneer Square. One word: Library Bistro & Bookstore Bar and its regular scotch tastings. Okay, maybe that's multiple words, but we love the high geek factor of this hotel bar and its regular booze-fueled, educational events.

The fine print: The gift certificate will be valid for one year from date of issue and some blackout dates may apply. Remember, rewards are not delivered unless The Global Citizen Project is fully funded by February 22, 2010.

Photo courtesy of .Bala

give thanks thursday

My apologies for taking so long to post all of this exciting news (believe me, I’ve been itching all day to tell you), but today was packed with the launch of my project with Honduras for the public to pick my community project, followed by several deadlines and an afternoon meeting. Now, I am all yours. I built a fire, pulled up a chair and I’m ready to chat.

Sit down for this bit of news – The Global Citizen Project has $2,030 in funds and is 10% funded. I have 80 days to go and the momentum is just starting. I have many people to thank for supporting this project – this is definitely not a solo project – but must thank the two latest backers, Jeanette and Meg.

Thank you to Meg for making a pledge to The Global Citizen Project. I met Meg while on a press trip in Maui with several outstanding ladies, plus Johnny Jet (globetrotter extraordinaire). Like myself, Meg’s an East Coaster transplanted in the Pacific Northwest. She writes about travel and shopping, is one helluva bridge player (her husband is pro) and has a wicked sense of humor.

I must also give thanks to Jeanette, my friend from Denver, CO for her very generous $1,000 pledge. I was speechless when I saw that in my inbox this morning post-shower and was so ecstatic, I didn’t even need a cup of coffee to start the day. I met Jeanette this past June while I was covering Barbecue University at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO. (If you love grill marks on your meat, this annual event is a must for you.) The event is hosted by Steven Raichlen, author of The Barbecue Bible, and it’s a really interactive, intimate cooking event where you learn how to cook more than 30 different dishes -- from prep until fire-grilled final product -- over the course of a weekend. Jeanette was there with her family and we got talking about Facebook and cookbooks/all things culinary and travel. We stayed in touch via the almighty social media networking site, Facebook (amen) and I quickly learned that like myself, Jeanette lives life to its fullest. I am always tickled to hear what new adventure she’s up to, whether it’s taking flight lessons (in a plane) or taking flight (trapeze lessons are in the works), or heck, eating donuts for dinner, this is a gal after my own heart – always on-the-go. So, for that, I’m sending a big cyber head towards the Rockies for Jeanette and endless amounts of thanks.

While I’m smiling ear-to-ear and saying thanks, I’d also like to thank Off Track Planet, The Ultimate Backpackers Travel Guide, for helping to spread the word on Twitter about The Global Citizen Project. Also, vtravelled.com, Virgin Atlantic’s new social travel site (which I write for), has been generous in their Twitter love.

Last but not least, I’d like to thank all the folks who are commenting on Visit Honduras’ Facebook Fan Page pick on which community projects I should volunteer for. I cannot tell you how much your input means to me and I look forward to spending some time exploring the websites of each of the recommended organizations.


I think that about covers it. Whew. Got anything on your mind or have any questions about The Global Citizen Project? Leave me a comment and I'll get back to you in a jiff.