One Busy Bee

I think I made a great decision in changing careers! From food and beverage to now the travel and tourism industry, I am thrilled at what I have been able to experience so far as a Certified TravelAgent and Concierge at one of the best hotels at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco. For one, AC Sailing gets all As in my book.  What an incredible experience! When I first learned about the day sailing opportunity on a racing boat that was used in the America’s Cup , I thought that was so cool. My concierge company partners with AC Sailing so we had a training on what they offer and were given the opportunity to try it out. Rough part of the job, right? Then Captain John said no one has gotten seasick on the boat. I’ve gotten sick whale watching in Maui and along the Napali coast in Kaua’i . Are you sure, John? Hesitant at first, but I was game and willing to risk it to get on that multi-million dollar boat. I even recruited two friends to go with me! We started our day din...

So, I'm committed. I signed up for my first half marathon ( Team in Training - Orlando Bound for Lolo ). I will create monthly posts to outline my progress, my workouts and struggles.  So here it goes! SPONSOR ME SUNDAY - I signed up. Did my research. Ask my friend and TNT alumni how it worked and recruited my friend do consider doing it with me. Success! I had already packed my gym bag and brought it work thinking I would repeat and actually succeed in running eight miles back and forth from the Argonaut Hotel to the Golden Gate Bridge and back. I did not. I forgot I had dinner plans with my Bride and she was running late, so I got at least 4 miles in. It was a windy day and I was not looking forward to running against the wind again. Plus I was still sore from the workouts from the weekend. But I now had to do it! I have been telling coworkers that I signed up so I am making sure I don't disappoint. Though sore and not a great time, I surpassed my revised goal of doi...

We have all lost someone dear to us. My Lolo, Victor Manzano, lived with leukemia for many years. A lovable, sweet, funny, short man but boy, did he have a temper! Sound familiar? I honor my grandfather by wearing his wedding band every day since he left us, when I witnessed him take his last breath. I still remember the expression on his face when he saw me walk into his hospital room that night. He was always happy to see me. And I am happy to honor him even more and head to Orlando for the first time, put in the work and fundraise for my first half marathon. I just adored my Lolo. He'd put his hands up defending his belly when I tried to tickle him. With all six Manzano grandchildren. Maui - 2004 Though not part of my team, my friend, Nelson, will also be participating and highlighting our friend, Sandra Hernandez-Eudy, who has been diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Thinking of you, Sandra!  Erika, Nelson, Sandra & I hiking Bri...

Sitting at Comstock Saloon in San Francisco with my #Instafriend, catching up. All of a sudden, while at rest enjoying her company, my heart starts to pound, The kind of pounding that you can't help but take notice of and take a deep breath to try to calm it down. I had to interrupt #Instafriend's story and say, hey, something's not right. I haven't told anyone about these episodes. It continued til I got home that night but added a bit of nausea this time. Not fun. I called my future cousin-in-law who's a nurse. She gave me some good things to try and that my symptoms were 'ER worthy.' That scared me a bit but I tried some of the things she mentioned and waited it out. I did schedule an appointment with my doctor and went a day later. An EKG was done (my first was at JFK airport after a stressful 6 weeks with two jobs), blood tests and of course I had an exam. All tests were normal. Medication was prescribed for when it got really bad but my doc thin...

Oh man, I get it. Tourists won't know any better but $14-$18 for a normal slam breakfast? From Denny's ? That's not nice to charge for something we get much cheaper at other locations for nothing superior. I love working in the Fisherman's Wharf area but the fact that prices are high because it's a tourist destination hurts us locals and doesn't make me feel too good about the business. Where are the $4, $5, $6 options? These prices are definitely not what I am used to when going to Denny's . It is not a bargain, especially at this location. I love a Moons Over My Hammy and their French Toast as I have since I was a kid but not at these prices! If you want the same food at the prices you're used to, leave Fisherman's Wharf .  It's a large restaurant, is open 24 hours, in the HolidayInn with the entrance being on Jones. Sit at a table underneath the skylight or at a booth. Try your luck at the claw game to win a prize and good luck dod...

" Are you sick of seafood yet? " I ask this question of my hotel guests at the Argonaut when they ask for a recommendation on where to eat. I have dined at just about everywhere on the Fisherman's Wharf so I can tell you what I have and enjoyed at each location.  If ' yes ', is their response, Surisan is where I direct guests. It is a popular, modern Korean restaurant offering lunch, brunch, dinner and cocktails. It is located at the corner of Beach and Jones. The Millionaire Bacon is a must! Don't eat pork? You should! Sweet, peppery and thick slices. It's worth the money at $8 for two slices. And what better way than to share it with a dear friend.  Get the Surisan gria that's served in a beaker where you can see the distinct layers of deliciousness. Before my dear friend, Nikki , arrived. I texted her if she wanted one. Her enthusiastic answer and confidence in my order selection is appreciated. I've had the Korean Taco...