TOP CHEF, NEW RESTO
Big Easy hotel lands Nina Compton of Top Chef: New Orleans fame,
It started out as a 19th-century warehouse serving the Port of New Orleans. Now the Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery is the Big Easy’s newest accommodation option. The 167-room hotel has hardwood floors, exposed brick walls and a storied past dating back to 1854, when it opened first as a coffee warehouse not far from the French Quarter.
An introductory package for summer stays, called “Kick it Off with a Kick,” includes a 25-per-cent discount off select room rates and two complimentary Gingeroo cocktails made with Old New Orleans Rum. The deal is available until Sept. 30. Blackout dates may apply.
Foodies, take note: this summer a new restaurant headed up by Nina Compton (a fan favourite from the TV show Top Chef: New Orleans) will open at the Old No. 77. See the “Offers” link at old77hotel.com.
Montreal jazz fest getaways Accommodation packages are ready to book for the 36th annual Festival International de Jazz de Montreal, taking place June 26 to July 5. One option, the Exclusive Jazz Package, is available for the duration of the Festival. It comes with two nights accommodation with breakfast, one concert ticket and priority access to select free concerts. There’s also the Special Event Jazz Package, avail- able on select dates, covering one night’s accommodation with breakfast, priority access to select free concerts and a reserved seat in the “special guest” section at major outdoor events. Participating hotels include the Hyatt Regency Montreal, Fairmont the Queen Elizabeth and Residence Inn Montreal Downtown. See montrealjazzfest.com.
Summer savings in Fort Lauderdale Greater Fort Lauderdale’s “2-for-1 Summer Savings” program includes discounts for more than 70 attractions and activities. The deals run through Oct. 12. Fort Lauderdale also has a “Vacation Like a VIP” promotion including a two-night minimum stay with room upgrade, resort credit and an American Express gift card. See sunny.org.
Best buy of the week Nassau Paradise Island in the Bahamas is extending its “Instant Savings” promotion. Air-inclusive hotel packages booked by June 1 qualify for $250 (U.S.) in savings. A minimum four-night stay is required. Travel must be completed by Dec. 18. Blackout dates are Nov. 22 to 27. More than a dozen hotels are taking part in the deal, including Atlantis Paradise Island and the Best Western Bay View Suites. See nassauparadiseisland.com. Kathryn Folliott is a Toronto-based freelance writer. Prices quoted are subject to change and availability. Follow @KathrynFolliott.