Balloons above the Valley

Hot air balloons are fascinating to many, not just me. Naturally when I found an opportunity to go riding in one and see the world as I loft in the clouds, I took it. My first try, I found a scam in Balloons Above Napa. Leading me to be extra cautious the next time. Luckily or more with better research, I found a very reputable company named Balloons Above the Valley with a great promotion; $189 per person with a champagne brunch included during week days! I quickly bought and I scheduled it.

We met up at the Marriott in Napa, had a light breakfast waiting and then shuttled to the balloons! Their team was already filling them with air when we arrived. It takes quiet a lot of air to get these balloons up and going!

It was nice to see the final stage and the first ones fly off. Soon after we were in our balloon and it was lifting away. You can hardly feel the movement your drifting so slowly. Yet it is amazing to see the sun rise and Napa Valley fill with light, the shadows dance.

When you are up there, you loft easily and spend most of the time craning your neck. You could see other balloons flying in the air too and then a little over an hour later you were back on the ground. Before your brain can process you’re back at the hotel being served a champagne breakfast! Once your done the day has just started and the wineries are open, it should be a great day.

Palio’s: Happy-Hour (2 drinks =$1 Pizza)

Have you heard of Palio’s

No?! Well listen up, it is a fantastic. Plus has a great happy hour. A lot of people think it is too pricy or fancy, but really it is not! This is one of the most down to earth places I have ever been and the service is off the charts.  Back to the happy hour, when you buy two drinks, you get a gourmet pizza for a dollar. Yes you heard me right, a delicious pizza for just a dollar when you order two drinks. YES! The drink prices are very reasonable and pizza is utterly delicious.

You probably will be quiet surprised with how big the place is. There are multiple rooms, areas for privacy and tons of seating. There are two side rooms that can be closed for private parties. Plus they are adding a second bar in the near future.

Palio’s spans from Sacramento street to Commercial alley. It really is spacious, you never feel crammed at all. The other thing is that the noise level stays very moderate which is fantastic. The decor is simple, elegant and yet family style comfortable. There is a lot of wood, stone and great art pieces.

The full menu is extensive and the Prix Fixe is worth it. You will not believe the size of the plate nor the quality.  You then have your choice from the entire menu with the Prix Fixe and can order independently too. Plus Palio’s makes most of their food in house and has a decent gluten free side too. If you do not have time to stop in and relax, check out their cafe on Montgomery for a quick bite.

The man in charge

If you ever have a concern go talk to Martino and he can work magic. This is a family restaurant and aims to treat you as such. I have been coming here for years with my family and now extremely happy to be coming here after work to unwind.

Sale!

For all the shoppers out there… Bloomingdale’s starts Friends and Family tomorrow. This means everyone gets the employee discount of 20% off. This is on top of the sale price! This means some darn good deals and early holiday outfit planning. Goes on through Sunday. Enjoy!