What’s New in San Francisco - March 2019

In this monthly roundup from San Francisco Travel, you will find:

• San Francisco News
• Attractions & Activity News
• Culinary News
• Arts & Culture News
• Hotel News
• San Francisco International Airport News

SAN FRANCISCO NEWS

San Francisco has 17 Semifinalists for James Beard Awards

San Francisco has 17 semifinalists in the running for the prestigious 2019 James Beard Awards.  The finalists will be announced on March 27 and the awards will be presented on May 6, 2019.

Nominees in San Francisco include:

• Best New Restaurant: Angler 
• Outstanding Chef: Corey Lee, Benu
• Outstanding Restaurant: Nopa and Quince
• Outstanding Restaurateur: Anthony Myint and Karen Leibowitz (Mission Chinese Food, The Perennial, Commonwealth)
• Rising Star Chef of the Year: Alexander Hong, Sorrel
• Best Chef-West: Gabriela Cámara, Cala; Brandon Rodgers and Ian Scaramuzza, In Situ; Joshua Skenes, Saison; Pim Techamuanvivit, Kin Khao

For more information, visit  https://www.jamesbeard.org/blog/the-2019-james-beard-award-semifinalists?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=2019-2-27. 

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES NEWS
March 14, 2019 – 32nd Annual π Day at the Exploratorium
Join the Exploratorium on March 14 for the 32nd celebration of the never-ending number (3.14159 . . .), as well as Einstein's birthday.  Pi Day was invented by the Exploratorium and the popular hands-on museum attraction is also celebrating its 50th year in 2019. 
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., pay-what-you-wish on your admission and enjoy all-ages fun engaging in π-related activities, including a free piece of pie.  For an adults-only experience of the holiday, join After Dark from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Learn more: www.exploratorium.edu/pi.   
May 4-5, 2019 - World’s Fastest On-Water Racing to Make U.S. Debut in San Francisco  

SailGP, a new annual, global sports championship embarking on its inaugural season, has launched ticket sales for its highly anticipated San Francisco event, which will take place on Saturday, May 4 and Sunday, May 5. San Francisco SailGP will feature bold, cutting edge technology and awe-inspiring athleticism, introducing U.S. audiences to sailing redefined while showcasing the members of the national team on home waters. 

On May 4 and May 5, San Francisco SailGP will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., just off the Marina Yacht Club Peninsula, in the heart of San Francisco Bay with the Golden Gate Bridge serving as a stunning backdrop. Each of this year’s events will feature teams representing six countries – the United States, Australia, China, France, Great Britain and Japan – all racing on identical 50-foot foiling catamarans, known as the F50 – the world’s fastest, most technologically advanced race boat.

Tickets are now on sale at SailGP.com/SanFrancisco

CULINARY NEWS

Lord Stanley’s “Simple Yet Refined” Menu Getting Lots of Media Attention

Rupert and Carrie Blease are the husband and wife chef team behind Lord Stanley, the popular four-year-old Modern European restaurant in the Russian Hill neighborhood. Lord Stanley was named the #3 Best New Restaurant in America by “Bon Appetit” in 2016, earned 3.5 stars from the “San Francisco Chronicle,” and has been awarded a Michelin star every year they have been open.  The menu at Lord Stanley is simple yet refined, with British and European influences that focus on unique preparations of local vegetables and proteins. Wine Director Louisa Smith has created an impressive natural wine list to pair along with the cuisine, featuring small-batch natural winemakers from all over the world.

For more information, visit www.lordstanleysf.com

ARTS & CULTURE NEWS

Neon Mural by Acclaimed Artist Joseph Kosuth Lights Up Bill Graham Auditorium

The San Francisco Arts Commission held a lighting and dedication ceremony on March 13, 2019 to commemorate a new sight-specific neon artwork on the western façade of the historic Bill Graham Civic Auditorium by internationally acclaimed conceptual artist Joseph Kosuth. “W.F.T (San Francisco)” presents the etymology, or “Word Family Tree,” of ‘Civic’ and ‘Auditorium’ in white neon. Through the use of language, Kosuth’s artwork reflects the historical significance of the Auditorium while also demonstrating how words reveal relationships to cultural and social realties. “W.F.T (San Francisco)” is Kosuth’s first permanent public artwork on an historic building in the United States. It is also the City’s first public art project funded by a private developer, Emerald Fund, through the Public Art Trust.  

For more information, visit www.sfartscommission.org

Oakland Museum of California Adds Permanent “Black Power” Exhibit

Uncover the history of the Black Power movements in California with a compelling addition to the Gallery of California History at the Oakland Museum of California. In response to the widely-popular 2016 exhibition “All Power to the People: Black Panthers at 50,” the new “Black Power” installation illustrates the creative ways black anti-racist activists in California supported their communities and challenged the U.S. government. Focusing on the example of the Black Panther Party, “Black Power” brings to light the tensions between a culturally and socially progressive California and examples of economic racism and oppression in the state. This moment in California history is represented through historic photographs, provocative objects, iconic posters, paintings and interactive prompts that encourage visitors to take action out in the world. 

For more information, visit http://museumca.org/projects/black-power 

March 21-Sept. 8, 2019 – California Historical Society Marks 150th Anniversary of the First Transcontinental Railroad with Two Concurrent Exhibitions

One hundred and fifty years ago, the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in North America signaled the closing of the American frontier and the ability to travel from coast to coast quickly and with more ease than ever before. In recognition of this anniversary, the California Historical Society (CHS) presents two simultaneous exhibitions that examine the history of the railroad in California and beyond. 

The exhibitions, “Mark Ruwedel: Westward the Course of Empire” and “Overland to California: Commemorating the Transcontinental Railroad,” will be on view at the California Historical Society, located at 678 Mission St. in San Francisco from March 21 through Sept. 8, 2019. Special events and programming will accompany the exhibitions, including a rarely seen gold spike, which was the last to be driven into the railroad connecting Los Angeles and San Francisco to the East Coast. 

For more information, visit www.californiahistoricalsociety.org

July 11-22, 2019 - Flower Piano - Twelve Days of Pianos in the Garden

This summer, music, community, and nature join forces once again in the heart of the city during the twelve-day, outdoor extravaganza, Flower Piano.  After a record-breaking fourth year with over 60,000 attendees, Flower Piano will once again transform San Francisco Botanical Garden into the city’s own alfresco concert hall where everyone is invited to play and listen. From July 11-22 only, visitors are encouraged to play what they like at any of the twelve pianos located in scenic spots throughout the Garden. Event partner Sunset Piano will also curate a wide array of musical performances by professional pianists and a whole host of other musicians, ranging from classical to Brazilian bossa nova, and the public is welcome to pack a picnic and enjoy the shows. New this year, in partnership with Community Music Center, free piano lessons will be offered.

For more information, visit www.sfbg.org

American Conservatory Theater Announces 2019-2020 Season Lineup  

American Conservatory Theater (A.C.T.) Artistic Director Pam MacKinnon and Executive Director Jennifer Bielstein have announced the seven productions that will make up the company’s 2019–20 season: Caryl Churchill’s acclaimed play, “Top Girls;” the world premiere of Kate Attwell’s “Testmatch;” Obie Award–winning playwright Will Eno’s latest work, “Wakey, Wakey”; Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’s shocking and scalpel-sharp dark comedy, “Gloria;” Lydia R. Diamond’s unforgettable baseball play, “Toni Stone;” Richard O’Brien’s cult classic, “The Rocky Horror Show;” and Qui Nguyen’s raucously funny and deeply moving sequel to “Vietgone”, “Poor Yella Rednecks.”  The performance schedule will be announced at a later date. Season subscriptions for the 2019–20 season range are available now. Single tickets will go on sale in mid-summer 2019. 

For more information, visit https://www.act-sf.org/home/box_office/1920_season.html. 

HOTEL NEWS

Luxury Mansion Collection Opens Mansion on Sutter in San Francisco

The historic Mansion on Sutter is an opulent Victorian mansion built in 1881. Originally constructed by the Payne family to serve as their private home, the property is a prolific design masterpiece crafted with rich cedar, stained glass, gilded ceilings, and breathtaking chandeliers. Each guest room is uniquely designed, blending classic Victorian style with all of the contemporary touches a discerning guest would expect. A gourmet breakfast is included with each stay, along with culinary surprises for each room. The property also houses The 1881 restaurant, featuring California-French cuisine with an emphasis on organic and sustainability. 

For more information, visit www.mansiononsutter.com 

Chateau du Sureau, A Luxury Escape at the Gateway to Yosemite

The Estate by the Elderberries is comprised of the luxurious five-star hotel, Château du Sureau, the award-winning The Elderberry House Restaurant, the relaxing Spa du Sureau and the private Villa Sureau. This nine-acre property is nestled in the foothills at the gateway to Yosemite National Park. The Estate is reminiscent of the French countryside, where beauty and old-world charm await. With stately guest suites and enchanting gardens, Château du Sureau exudes luxury and bliss. Discover the magic of traditional European service and the allure of fine dining.  

For more information, visit www.chateausureau.com.

SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SFO) NEWS
Alaska Airlines deepens Bay Area commitment with plans for new San Francisco International Airport lounge
Alaska Airlines has unveiled plans to build a new 8,500-square-foot top-floor lounge at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Located in Terminal 2, guests will be treated to the highest viewpoint of any domestic lounge at SFO, with stunning sights of the Bay and runway. Expected to open in 2020, the Alaska Airlines SFO lounge is the company's first in Terminal 2 and is part of a multi-year commitment to invest in new and existing lounges with guests' every comfort in mind.

For more information about San Francisco International Airport, visit www.flysfo.com. 
The San Francisco Travel Association is the official destination marketing organization for the City and County of San Francisco. For information on reservations, activities and more, visit www.sftravel.com, read the Visitors Planning Guide or call 415-391-2000.  

American Express® is the official Card partner of the San Francisco Travel Association.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers non-stop flights to more than 46 international cities on 39 international carriers. The Bay Area's largest airport connects non-stop with 79 cities in the U.S. on 13 domestic airlines. SFO is proud to offer upgraded free Wi-Fi with no advertising. For up-to-the-minute departure and arrival information, airport maps and details on shopping, dining, cultural exhibitions, ground transportation and more, visit www.flysfo.com.  Follow SFO on www.twitter.com/flysfo and www.facebook.com/flysfo.    

What's Hot in Singapore 2019

AFTER DARK

Singapore's world-class bar scene

Five bars from Singapore were recognised in the World's Best 50 Bars List for 2018, putting Singapore in the same class as global nightlife hubs, London and New York.

• Manhattan, which earned its place at #3 on the list, is an elegant art-deco inspired bar fitted with glass elevators and marble floors. The menu is a tour of Manhattan's various neighbourhoods, providing old-school glamour with a New York flare. www.regenthotels.com/regent-singapore/dining/manhattan

• Atlas Bar is another must-visit and #8 on the list. Home to over 1,000 varieties of gin, the luxurious, gothic-inspired bar offers exquisite food and as you can imagine - an extensive cocktail menu. http://atlasbar.sg/atlas-story

• Native, a bar that uses only regionally-sourced ingredients, draws in travellers with their inventive menu, including basil leaf frozen with liquid nitrogen and garnished with crunchy ants. Native also earned its place at #13 on the list,achieving the 'highest climber' award after being placed at #47 last year. http://tribenative.com/

• Forest Valley, four storeys of lush greenery (and one of Singapore's largest indoor collection of plants) is perfect for walking up or rejuvenating between shopping and dining stops

• Rain Vortex - the world's tallest indoor waterfall at 40m high, which transforms into a Light and Sound show after dark

• Canopy Mazes, a pair of mazes which includes the world's first mirror maze set in a garden

• Sky Nets, of which one is a 250 metre long bouncing net

• Over 280 retail stores and eateries with several first-in-Singapore brands such as Shake Shack, Pokémon Center Singapore and Läderach.

• Village Hotel Sentosa, is a coastal themed hotel boasting 606 rooms specifically for families, delivering a unique experience by the sea. Surrounded by exciting retail and dining experiences, there will be no shortage of family entertainment options. www.stayfareast.com/en/sentosa

• For travelling adults and couples looking for a trendy island getaway, The Outpost Hotel is the perfect choice. Inspired by Sentosa's heritage as a colonial military base, the 193 guestrooms are done in a stylish interpretation of colonial black and white design. In addition, the beautiful rooftop pool and bar provides a picturesque backdrop for any occasion or celebration. www.stayfareast.com/en/hotels/the-outpost-sentosa

• Once a military outpost in 1904, The Barracks Hotel is a restored heritage building, taking guests back to a cherished time of romance and charm. With sophisticated decor, the 40 well designed guestrooms tell a story of the hotel's colonial past and the exclusive pool allows guests to lounge with a cocktail or take a dip. www.stayfareast.com/en/hotels/the-barracks-sentosa

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Party all night at Marquee

One of the biggest nightclub brands in the world, Marquee, is slated to hit the shores of Singapore's iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel in 2019. Be dazzled by this new multi-concept dining and entertainment destination that spans across three levels. The venue features a full-sized ferris wheel that overlooks the dancefloor and performances by the brand's bevy of musical residents, including Kaskade, Dash Berlin, Erick Morillo, Andrew Rayel, DJ Khaled, French Montana and Travis Scott. www.marinabaysands.com/nightclubs/marquee-singapore

Raffles Hotel

Singapore's iconic Raffles Hotel has unveiled its new line up of dining experiences and celebrity chef collaborations, ahead of its much anticipated reopening in 2019. In early October, Long Bar, an classic favourite known as the birthplace of the iconic Singapore Sling reopened fully restored. Celebrity-chefs Alain Ducasse, Anne-Sophie Pic and Jereme Leung will also enhance the Raffles experience, bringing new mediterranean, french and chinese dining concepts. www.raffles.com/singapore

THINGS TO DO

Jewel Changi Airport

Jewel Changi Airport (Jewel) is a world-class tourist destination and an extension of Singapore Changi Airport. Set to open in the first half of 2019, Jewel will be the gateway to Singapore, boosting the airport's already impressive offerings that have earned it the title of the 'Best Airport in the World' for six consecutive years by Skytrax.

Jewel's iconic structure with its glass and steel façade was designed by world-renowned architect, Moshe Safdie (the same architect that designed Singapore's iconic Marina Bay Sands). It will be located at the landside, offering a vast array of options to dine, shop, play and stay for travellers arriving for business or leisure, even if only just a matter of hours.

Key attractions and offerings include:

Jewel is seamlessly linked to Terminal 1's Arrival Hall, and is only a short travelator ride from Terminals 2 and 3. Keep your eye on the time, you don't want to miss your flight! www.jewelchangiairport.com

Minimalism: Space. Light. Object. exhibition at National Gallery Singapore

Minimalism: Space. Light. Object. is Asia's first and largest exhibition that looks into the impact of Minimalism, a radical turning point in 20th century art. The exhibition explores the emergence, development and legacies of Minimalism from the 1950s to the present day and features major works by over 60 artists, including Donald Judd, Mark Rothko, Mona Hatoum, Anish Kapoor, Ai Weiwei, Olafur Eliasson and Haegue Yang. The Minimalism: Space. Light. Object. exhibition is open from the 16th of November to the 14th of April 2019. Tickets range from $10 - $25. Stop and refuel with a cocktail at Smoke & Mirrors, a rooftop bar hidden on the 6th floor of the National Gallery. Here, you can take in the panoramic views of Marina Bay, while you sip on cocktails inspired by the running artworks and exhibitions too!

www.nationalgallery.sg/exhibitions/minimalism-space-light-object

STAY

Six Senses Duxton, Six Senses Maxwell

A new addition to the vibrant Tanjong Pagar historic vicinity, Six Senses Duxton unites a row of heritage trading houses that have been sustainably restored by acclaimed British designer, Anouska Hempel. The design of it's 49 guestrooms have unique individuality so that no two are exactly alike, but include oriental wallpaper from Hempel's personal collection. Located just minutes away, sister hotel, Six Senses Maxwell also opened its doors as of October, with an interior created by French architect and designer Jacques Garcia, reflecting authentic colonial-style decor, but with a stylish modern twist. www.sixsenses.com/hotels

The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore

This ultra-luxurious, art deco-inspired hotel is housed in the heritage jewel that is the Capitol Building and adjoining Stamford House. Located in Singapore's civic district, the newly opened property features 157 guest rooms, a spa and food & beverage options in classical, elegant surrounds.

www.kempinski.com/en/singapore/the-capitol-singapore/

New hotels from Far East Hotel Group

Three hotels with a combined 839 rooms are expected to open in Sentosa in mid-2019.

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH

Passion@Kampong Glam

The historical precinct of Kampong Glam will soon be pulsating with an exciting series of festive fun and entertaining activities for both tourists and local residents from 5 October 2018 to 17 March 2019. The activities included are cooking demonstrations with top chefs, live music performances and games and cultural activities, which will take place from 4-6pm Friday to Sunday.www.passionatkampongglam.com.sg

Latest Travel and Lifestyle News from Western Australia

WA produce inspires Curtis Stone's new menu

Dishes influenced by WA's fresh flavours and produce are on the menu at Curtis Stone's Los Angeles-based, critically acclaimed restaurant Maude. The Australian celebrity chef recently visited WA to source inspiration for the new menu, which features unique ingredients such as marron, saltbush, wattleseed and macadamia, until the end of March. The dishes will be paired with highly-awarded Margaret River wines, including Leeuwin Estate, Voyager Estate, Happs Wines, Cullen Wines and Moss Wood Wines varieties. Curtis's WA travels were documented for an upcoming episode of a new television series, expected to premiere later this year.

What's Cool in Washington? #MyDCcool

#MyDCcool

12 Ways to Celebrate African American History & Culture in Washington, DC

This Black History Month, honor the African American experience at museums, memorials and more throughout the nation's capital. From the city's roots as a vibrant community for African Americans to the opening of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Washington, DC is rich with African American history and culture. Check out the numerous ways to honor the vast and complicated history and fascinating culture of African Americans throughout the District.



Mark Your Calendar for these 20+ Winter Concerts in Washington, DC

Score tickets for awesome wintertime shows at concert venues across the District. Washington, DC is home to a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene that dates back to music legends diverse as the city itself: Duke Ellington, Chuck Brown, Marvin Gaye, Ian MacKaye, Dave Grohl and Wale all share space atop the city’s musical Rushmore. This winter, many of Washington, DC’s amazing music venues will welcome dozens of great artists from numerous genres to their stages. Check out what’s in store and start planning your musical adventure in the nation’s capital.



12 Inspiring Public Parks & Gardens in Washington, DC

When it comes to parks and lush gardens, few cities can match DC’s verdant offerings. You’ll find scenic landscaping around the National Mall and natural beauty in Rock Creek Park, along with dozens of gardens and parks within the nation’s capital. Here is a list of DC’s delightful gardens – some public and others private – but all worth a visit.



11 Great Running Trails & Jogging Routes in Washington, DC

Swap the treadmill and head outdoors to one of DC’s many scenic running paths and trails. The District is also mostly flat and home to many trees, rivers, creeks and canals, making the city a runner’s dream. It's time to pound the pavement on these scenic places to run.




7 Can't-miss DC Sports Superstars

These beloved Washington, DC athletes are well worth the price of admission. DC has plenty of standout athletes that could make your day or evening with a head-spinning goal, basket, pitch or home run.

Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization for the nation’s capital, is a private, non-profit membership organization of 1,000 businesses committed to marketing the area as a premier global convention, tourism and special events destination with a special emphasis on the arts, cultural and historic communities. washington.org

Winter happenings in Penticton, BC

 All winter long, adventure and leisure await in one of the Okanagan’s most vibrant destinations

Penticton, nestled between two picturesque lakes in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, is one of British Columbia’s most popular summer destinations among local, national and international tourists, hosting tens of thousands of visitors each year between June and September.

But Penticton is a true all-season destination — in fact, it was recently voted one of the Top 18 Cities to Visit anywhere by users of Expedia.ca. Its temperate climate, modest snowfall, outdoor activities and world-class dining and imbibing (including award-winning breweries, distilleries, and 80-plus wineries), make it the perfect winter getaway for families, couples and solo travellers alike.

Here are just three reasons to keep Penticton top of mind throughout the months ahead.

Apex Mountain Resort
While snowfall in town is usually light — which means getting around is easy — the mountain receives an average of 600cm each winter, providing just the right amount of dry powder beloved of skiers and snowboarders. As well, Apex boasts an all-ages, no-skills-required Tube Park; a kilometre-long Adventure Skating Loop that winds through breathtaking forest scenery; an NHL-sized outdoor rink; and, on February 16, 2019, the annual Brewski beer-and-spirits tasting event, also featuring an array of food stations and live entertainment. apexresort.com

Hoodoo Adventures
All year round, Hoodoo Adventures hosts one-of-a-kind outdoor activities and events that entertain, stimulate and challenge, as well as provide the perfect showcase for Penticton’s stunning natural beauty. Go to hoodooadventures.ca for upcoming winter activities, including popular snowshoe expeditions. Check back for news about Hoodoo’s recent acquisition of the beautiful Chute Lake Lodge in nearby Naramata; the historic property is currently being renovated and is due to reopen December 1, 2018, with all-new recreation and adventures.

Great Estates Wine Experience Centre
It can be hard to know where to begin with the Okanagan’s scores of world-renowned vineyards. Luckily, there’s a new first-stop destination for both seasoned and novice wine lovers. Opened this past September, the Great Estates Wine Experience Centre, in downtown Penticton, is a hub for the award-winning wares of the wineries in the Great Estates Okanagan portfolio: Black Sage, Dark Horse, Inniskillin, Jackson-Triggs, Nk’Mip, See Ya Later Ranch, Steller’s Jay, Sumac Ridge, and SunRock. Open daily from 10am to 7pm, the Centre offers educational seminars and tastings that highlight the unique qualities of Okanagan terroir. And you can take home your favourite new discoveries from the in-house shop.greatestatesokanagan.com