It would be hard to point to any other Associate on the team that has as much of an impact on the Carlsbad Inn service culture and the Owners’ experience. He is by far our most recognizable Associate, guests have fond memories of their interaction with him.

As a Houseman in our Housekeeping Department, I would guess Eugene has walked an average of 13 miles a day, more than 100,000 miles (that’s over 4 times around earth) every place possible at the resort. There is a joke that Eugene moves fast enough to be two people. Well, during the lunch to celebrate his anniversary a lot of people were thrown off when his twin brother Alan showed up.  It was hilarious to see people talk to Alan like he was Eugene and Alan was eating it up!

The highlight was seeing Eugene so proud with his family in attendance as we acknowledged his service and watched a slideshow photos from many year’s past.
Congrats to Eugene hopefully he will be at Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort another 30 years! Could we be so lucky!

1. Download Seafood Watch
   The Monterey Bay Aquarium has an awesome website, Seafood Watch, where you can look up different types of fish to see what the most sustainable dinner options are. For quick reference on the go, download the free app.
2. Use Less Plastic
   Most of the trash that ends up in the ocean is plastic. Water bottles are a particular problem, and according to the EPA it takes 450 years for them to degrade! All of our resorts have a complimentary water station where you can refill your reusable water bottle on vacation.
3. Buy Reef-Friendly Sunblock
   The most common sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone that damage coral reefs. Mineral-based sunscreens use zinc oxide to shield your skin from the sun without harmful chemicals. We love the SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen from Juice Beauty because it’s easy to rub in and smells delicious.
4. Respect Marine Life
   The ocean is a complex ecosystem. Removing native species from their natural environment is not only bad for them individually, but also harmful to the ecosystem is a whole. If you see a starfish on the beach, take only photos with you.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Amanda Dolan, General Manager at Coronado Beach Resort, our sister resort in Coronado, California, chairs the green committee at Grand Pacific Resorts.

Enjoy the beach year-round.

Carlsbad’s year-round perfect weather always brings about endless fun for everyone. Whether you and your family care to enjoy any of Southern California world-recognized attractions of LEGOLAND, Disneyland, San Diego Safari Park or Zoo or if you are one to take part of the many athletic activities and events in the area, Carlsbad has you covered! Year-round. Maybe you appreciate dipping your toes in the sand to finish that book sitting on your nightstand. With winter temps averaging a pleasant 68 degrees and minimal crowds, December – March, you have the beach practically to yourself. Check all the festivities including fun community events and outdoor activities in Carlsbad, California at http://visitcarlsbad.com/events and book your stay today!  www.carlsbadinn.com

The family is all smiles when around the property, shop owners recognize and love them and they are so gracious to our Associates for helping build the memories. That is just one example of many and it is so wonderful to be a part of a team and an industry that provides that experience for families!

Think of Carlsbad Inn for your next reunion of family or friends with several room options, unbeatable location, numerous activities and amenities your guests will be reflecting on the memories made at Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort for years to come. Call 760-434-7020 for information.

The goal of the Carlsbad Art Wall is to serve as a conduit between aspiring artists and professional artists, to provide a platform to engage and educate the Carlsbad community in the creative act of large scale public painting and to introduce a variety of new art and creative processes to the Carlsbad community.

Along with this amazing art from this project, take a visual journey of the Village’s rich culture and artistic talent through the lens of a half dozen murals. From large, playful pieces seen from the center of the Village, to hidden works adorning alley walls, the mural tour will tell the tales behind the art, including the people, places and artists themselves. The walking tour visit several of the Village’s most notable murals, beginning at the Village’s newest mural, “The Robot” by local artist Jason Markow at the corner of State St. and Carlsbad Village Dr., and end at Michael Summers’ “Cat Nap” on the exterior of Witch Creek Winery.

While taking a stroll through the Village this Friday evening December 19th, make sure you catch the Merry Friday Night Live Encore taking place along State Street between Carlsbad Village Dr. And Grand Ave. from 6-8 pm. Performances will feature a variety of local musicians belting out Christmas carols for all the family to enjoy. While you’re in the area, take the time to catch up on any last minute holiday shopping by visiting any of the Village’s one-of-a-kind boutique shops.

If you’re looking for some entertainment, head on over to the New Village Arts Theater for a magnificent performance of the Nutcracker. Keep in mind, this is not the ballet version! More information and ticket pricing can be found at http://www.newvillagearts.org/

Still haven’t had a chance to check out the new and improved State Street Farmers’ Market? Grab your friends and family and take a much needed break from all the stress of holiday planning by heading downtown on Wednesday evening between 3-6 pm (yes, on Christmas Eve!) Enjoy fresh organic produce, locally prepared foods, handmade crafts, and live entertainment in the heart of Carlsbad Village on State St. between Carlsbad Village Dr. and Grand Ave.

Finally, whether you’re a local or just passing through from out of town, remember that you always have a place to stay at the Carlsbad Inn! Check out our holiday promo rates for the best deals on beautiful hotel rooms in the perfect coastal location. We hope to see you soon- happy holidays and warm wishes!

Alex’s Vacation Adventure – Squaw Valley

One of my all time favorite vacations was getting the opportunity to finally use an employee perk. Actually, I had no choice in the matter. I had told my friend, Ray, that Grand Pacific Resorts has a resort in Tahoe (Squaw Valley to be specific). The next thing I know he had called me a few days later telling me he had booked us and a friend plane tickets for weekend getaway. Although, I might have been close to throwing a giddy hissy-fit over it, I was soon thankful.

I have snowboarded most of the Southern Californian mountain area’s from Big Bear to Mammoth, but those were easy ventures via my car. The idea of packing up my gear and flying across the state to experience my favorite extreme sport in the beautiful Lake Tahoe area felt a little a bit out of my league, but oh man, was it amazing.  The resort was wonderful with being just a hop, skip and a jump from the ski lifts and lodging village. We skied all day, soaked in the Jacuzzi in the evening, and then got beers at the local pub after. All the while making friends and enjoying live music into the night.

It was only a weekend trip, but it is one I will never forget. The weather was beautifully crisp, and the snow like powder. I even learned a new term at the top of the mountain as I took in the clear blue sky, which is called a “blue bird day”, with the ability to see for miles including the Lake once I hopped off the ski lift.

As amazing vacations often do, the time there felt far too short. We did end our stay in the most wonderfully bittersweet way as we took our rental car around the lake before heading to the airport. I committed to memory the crystal blue water, and made a mental note to come back in the summer time.

The next best part of this vacation was spending it with two of my bestest friends. Our lives post-high school have had their ups and downs, and time never seemed to be in our favor. It felt like making the rash vacation decision of a snowboarding adventure was the best thing we could have done. Rekindling our bonds, igniting infinite amounts of laughter, not to mention teaching us Southern Californian kids how to drive in the snow. All the experiences bringing us back to where we were years before –best friends. We see each other more often now, and often reflect back on the memory of Tahoe and how we can’t wait to do it again.

Ocean View Ceremony at Carlsbad Inn

February brings out the best in every romantic but at Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort & Hotel we have the love bug all year long!

Specializing in intimate weddings and re-vows, every expression of love is brought to life with the gorgeous views, peaceful pace and the freedom to make it Your Day.

As featured in the very love-able (with hearts all around and stories of loving couples) edition of Carlsbad Business Journal, the reception and ceremony venues at Carlsbad Inn is an ideal location to express your love.

http://issuu.com/carlsbadchamber/docs/cbj0214_love_section

Contact our Wedding & Event Coordinator for a tour of our amazing resort and to receive more information on how to make ‘Your Day, Your Way’ at (760) 434-7020 ext 450 or cbiweddings@gpresorts.com.

http://www.carlsbadinn.com/san-diego-wedding.aspx