Thanks to a series of storms we did enjoy excellent skiing conditions over the holiday season. As they say “It’s not winter until the fat flakes fall.” Not sure who “they” are in this case but the High Sierras are expecting a major snow fall later this week. Great way to start 2008!
In addition to skiing/boarding and snowmobile riding a nearly full house of guests these past two weeks have been reminding us of the many things to do here in our own backyard. The regulation sized, indoor Ice Arena (across the street and up the block about 100 yards) has been very popular with both young and old this year. The City’s Recreation Center is located in this same complex, complete with an indoor Olympic sized pool. However, our outdoor pool (kept at 80 degrees) and bi-level spa (103) have been active, despite the cold evening temperatures. And of course our own Tahoe Bowl is a must do, featuring 16 lanes and the Lane 17 Sports Bar. Many have also enjoyed walks along the lakeshore to nearby restaurants such as Sprouts, Freshies and the Blue Water Bistro. The county library, across Rufus Allen from the Inn, is also a quiet place to sit down with a new book.
With what appears to be abundant snow fall this year, prime weekend periods are beginning to fill-up. We hope that Lake Tahoe and specifically Inn by the Lake will be part of your winter travel plans in 2008.
Please let me take this opportunity to wish you good health, happiness and prosperity in the New Year!
Monday, December 31, 2007
Friday, November 2, 2007
Autumn in Tahoe and Your Opinion, Please!
Ask any Lake Tahoe local and chances are they will tell you that Autumn is their favorite season in the High Sierras. Pleasant sunny days with cooler tempetures common in the evening. The leaves have changed to a golden color, with more falling to the ground each day. More visitors from Europe and far less from our traditional US market. Business slows in general and Tahoe takes on a more tranquil atmosphere. Those able to visit during this period are greeted with pleasant smiles and great values throughout the Resort.
Some on our staff choose to take their well-deserved vacations during Autumn. We have several who have thoughtfully “scheduled” the delivery of new additions to their families in the weeks ahead. Others remain very busy with housekeeping and maintenance projects during what we call our “shoulder season.” The goal is to make the necessary seasonal changes and have the property in “top shape” for what we expect will be a very busy winter.
I would like to ask those interested a few questions.
As an independent property, we have taken great pains to make our web site (www.innbythelake.com) user friendly, especially for making reservations directly on line through what we call our booking engine. We strive to maintain rate parity, to insure that prices quoted on our site or an authorized 3rd party site (Expedia, Orbitz, Travelocity etcetera) is consistent. Recently, without notice, one of our 3 party site partners has proposed raising their discount/commission rate by 25%. This is a high volume affiliation that we would like to retain. In order to do so we would have to increase our room rates proportionately. Should we? If we do not, would you take the time to reserve space through another 3rd party site, book online directly or call our 800 number?
Beginning in 2008 we will be replacing our televisions with HDTV’s. The technologies for cable and satellite providers to cost effectively provide High Definition programming to hotels is currently evolving. We want to be ready. Currently we offer, through an outside vendor, pay-per-view movies. Usage is limited and this technology is such that it creates frequent technical and reception problems with our normal basic cable service. After evaluating numerous alternatives, we are considering eliminating pay-per-view, expanding our cable offering from basic to basic/expanded and adding HBO. The Inn would absorb the cost associated with this change. Do you think this is a good idea?
We like to think of ourselves as customer driven and your thoughts would be very much appreciated. Let me also take this opportunity to wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving whether you spend it with us here at the Inn, your home away from home, or at your Mother In-laws.
Best Regards,
Dan
Some on our staff choose to take their well-deserved vacations during Autumn. We have several who have thoughtfully “scheduled” the delivery of new additions to their families in the weeks ahead. Others remain very busy with housekeeping and maintenance projects during what we call our “shoulder season.” The goal is to make the necessary seasonal changes and have the property in “top shape” for what we expect will be a very busy winter.
I would like to ask those interested a few questions.
As an independent property, we have taken great pains to make our web site (www.innbythelake.com) user friendly, especially for making reservations directly on line through what we call our booking engine. We strive to maintain rate parity, to insure that prices quoted on our site or an authorized 3rd party site (Expedia, Orbitz, Travelocity etcetera) is consistent. Recently, without notice, one of our 3 party site partners has proposed raising their discount/commission rate by 25%. This is a high volume affiliation that we would like to retain. In order to do so we would have to increase our room rates proportionately. Should we? If we do not, would you take the time to reserve space through another 3rd party site, book online directly or call our 800 number?
Beginning in 2008 we will be replacing our televisions with HDTV’s. The technologies for cable and satellite providers to cost effectively provide High Definition programming to hotels is currently evolving. We want to be ready. Currently we offer, through an outside vendor, pay-per-view movies. Usage is limited and this technology is such that it creates frequent technical and reception problems with our normal basic cable service. After evaluating numerous alternatives, we are considering eliminating pay-per-view, expanding our cable offering from basic to basic/expanded and adding HBO. The Inn would absorb the cost associated with this change. Do you think this is a good idea?
We like to think of ourselves as customer driven and your thoughts would be very much appreciated. Let me also take this opportunity to wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving whether you spend it with us here at the Inn, your home away from home, or at your Mother In-laws.
Best Regards,
Dan
Thursday, August 9, 2007
What we are and what we are not!
Today’s visitor is looking for a memorable holiday experience. Often, Inn by the Lake guest time is tighter than money. Many come to Tahoe not only to enjoy our facilities but also to participate in one of the numerous local events or perhaps a private social or business function. Most find the time to enjoy the natural “beauty and wonder” that surrounds our facilities here in the Tahoe Basin.
Inn by the Lake has always tried to present an accurate reflection of what we represent and offer. However, like most commercial enterprises we focus on the positive and on occasion could be accused of trying to be “all things to all people.”
Following are some thoughts that come to mind of what we are and what we are not:
Inn by the Lake
IS: A family resort catering to all ages.
IS NOT: A Casino Hotel – However, if compelled, feel free to toss your loose change in
the pond located off our lobby. Seriously, this form of adult entertainment is a short
shuttle ride away for those who feel “lucky.”
IS: An independently owned and operated hotel.
IS NOT: A chain hotel, condominium, fractional or timeshare establishment.
IS: Located on 6+ acres, across the street from the El Dorado Beach and THE Lake.
IS NOT: On the beach. Few lodging properties are and the vast majority of beaches are
public.
IS: A non-smoking hotel, featuring a fitness room, pool, bi-level spa, bikes/snowshoes (seasonal) 16-lane bowling center and a deluxe continental breakfast with a focus on healthier menu items.
IS NOT: “Fanatical” about our guests fitness preferences. To each his own! Smoking in not encouraged but allowed on our guest room balconies or patios as long as it does not infringe upon the “space” of a neighboring visitor.
IS: Now 25 years young! Our alpine architecture is circa 1982 and we are proud of it! Each year we upgrade another portion of our facilities and grounds, a never-ending process. With all interior corridors, we are the only “vintage” Tahoe property in South Lake featuring a four-pipe HVAC system (A/C & Heating available year around - outside temp. must be over 55 degrees).
IS NOT: An inexpensive, limited service motel. Nor are we one of the newer chain hotels offering fractional, timeshare or condominium ownership. Most of these are really quite nice but offer a different experience at Stateline.
Well I guess that is enough for now. Surely, I have alienated enough market segments for one posting. Those of you that are left, please come up to stay with us soon. The weather has been unbelievable this summer!
Best Regards,
Dan
Inn by the Lake has always tried to present an accurate reflection of what we represent and offer. However, like most commercial enterprises we focus on the positive and on occasion could be accused of trying to be “all things to all people.”
Following are some thoughts that come to mind of what we are and what we are not:
Inn by the Lake
IS: A family resort catering to all ages.
IS NOT: A Casino Hotel – However, if compelled, feel free to toss your loose change in
the pond located off our lobby. Seriously, this form of adult entertainment is a short
shuttle ride away for those who feel “lucky.”
IS: An independently owned and operated hotel.
IS NOT: A chain hotel, condominium, fractional or timeshare establishment.
IS: Located on 6+ acres, across the street from the El Dorado Beach and THE Lake.
IS NOT: On the beach. Few lodging properties are and the vast majority of beaches are
public.
IS: A non-smoking hotel, featuring a fitness room, pool, bi-level spa, bikes/snowshoes (seasonal) 16-lane bowling center and a deluxe continental breakfast with a focus on healthier menu items.
IS NOT: “Fanatical” about our guests fitness preferences. To each his own! Smoking in not encouraged but allowed on our guest room balconies or patios as long as it does not infringe upon the “space” of a neighboring visitor.
IS: Now 25 years young! Our alpine architecture is circa 1982 and we are proud of it! Each year we upgrade another portion of our facilities and grounds, a never-ending process. With all interior corridors, we are the only “vintage” Tahoe property in South Lake featuring a four-pipe HVAC system (A/C & Heating available year around - outside temp. must be over 55 degrees).
IS NOT: An inexpensive, limited service motel. Nor are we one of the newer chain hotels offering fractional, timeshare or condominium ownership. Most of these are really quite nice but offer a different experience at Stateline.
Well I guess that is enough for now. Surely, I have alienated enough market segments for one posting. Those of you that are left, please come up to stay with us soon. The weather has been unbelievable this summer!
Best Regards,
Dan
Friday, July 6, 2007
Summer in Tahoe - How Sweet It Is!
A big thanks to those of you who read and/or responded to my last Blog update. To those of you who did not, go to your room. Better yet come up to Tahoe and rent one of our rooms.
Thank goodness, things have returned to normal in Tahoe since this past weekend. We had a great 4th of July Holiday at Inn by the Lake. A big thanks to all of you who filled the Inn and enjoyed the best fireworks show in the west from our front lawn. Would you believe our sprinkler system went off durnig the middle of the show. If Ace our landscaper did not do such a great job with our grounds I would %^&$ him. Nudged him into the pool instead. Sorry to all, I should of double checked the timer.
Inn by the Lake is now very close to capacity on weekends through August. Few rooms left on some Fridays. Space continues to be available earlier in the week, Sunday through Wednesday.
Please come up and see us soon!
Regards,
Dan
Thank goodness, things have returned to normal in Tahoe since this past weekend. We had a great 4th of July Holiday at Inn by the Lake. A big thanks to all of you who filled the Inn and enjoyed the best fireworks show in the west from our front lawn. Would you believe our sprinkler system went off durnig the middle of the show. If Ace our landscaper did not do such a great job with our grounds I would %^&$ him. Nudged him into the pool instead. Sorry to all, I should of double checked the timer.
Inn by the Lake is now very close to capacity on weekends through August. Few rooms left on some Fridays. Space continues to be available earlier in the week, Sunday through Wednesday.
Please come up and see us soon!
Regards,
Dan
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Trouble in Paradise
Its 5:10 PM Wednesday, June 27, 2007.
As you have no doubt read, seen and heard the Angora Wildfire has been burning for just over three days now. This forest fire has scorched over 3,000 acres, destroyed more than 200 structures most of which were private homes. The fire was roughly 45% contained yesterday afternoon. Winds picked-up when a back-burn backfired and flames jumped the fire line. Thanks to the heroics of nearly 2,000 firefighters the fire was further contained last night and throughout today. The winds predicted for this afternoon have been milder than anticipated, greatly aiding the effort towards full containment. This allowed many of those evacuated yesterday to return to their homes.
As “regulars” know, Inn by the Lake is located in mid-town South Lake Tahoe, across the street from El Dorado Beach and still beautiful Lake Tahoe. We are about four miles from the northern most edge of the affected area. Our neighbor, the city’s recreation center, across Rufus Allen Blvd. has served as an evacuation center throughout this ordeal. On Sunday night the American Red Cross notified us of the need for evacuee housing. Inn by the Lake was one of the first to offer complementary rooms to evacuees. Many other South Lake Tahoe properties have extended this courtesy. Thus, we have had the privilege of serving some truly remarkable families these past few days. The fortunate ones have learned that their houses have been “spared” and are awaiting permission to return home. Those less fortunate, who have lost their homes, are coping as best as can be expected. I was initially amazed by how some of those who have lost everything appear to have accepted their material loss and are ready to move on. Puts things in perspective, doesn’t it? Maybe it’s living in Tahoe. With some exceptions, locals tend to cherish the beauty of the Lake and the Tahoe Basin more than the interiors of their residences.
In addition to regular guests and evacuees we have had some of the heroic firefighters staying with us here at the INN. They arrive late and leave early. Can’t say enough good things about these amazing men and women who have worked so hard to save lives, homes and an American Treasure – Lake Tahoe.
Obviously, it will take sometime for those directly impacted by this tragedy to fully recover. However, the sky’s above Inn by the Lake and much of the basin are already beginning to clear. Today, air quality continues to be lousy but once the fire is further contained, the same afternoon breeze that spread the fire on Sunday will quickly clear the basin on another day.
Please wish us well and visit Tahoe soon.
Best Regards,
Dan
As you have no doubt read, seen and heard the Angora Wildfire has been burning for just over three days now. This forest fire has scorched over 3,000 acres, destroyed more than 200 structures most of which were private homes. The fire was roughly 45% contained yesterday afternoon. Winds picked-up when a back-burn backfired and flames jumped the fire line. Thanks to the heroics of nearly 2,000 firefighters the fire was further contained last night and throughout today. The winds predicted for this afternoon have been milder than anticipated, greatly aiding the effort towards full containment. This allowed many of those evacuated yesterday to return to their homes.
As “regulars” know, Inn by the Lake is located in mid-town South Lake Tahoe, across the street from El Dorado Beach and still beautiful Lake Tahoe. We are about four miles from the northern most edge of the affected area. Our neighbor, the city’s recreation center, across Rufus Allen Blvd. has served as an evacuation center throughout this ordeal. On Sunday night the American Red Cross notified us of the need for evacuee housing. Inn by the Lake was one of the first to offer complementary rooms to evacuees. Many other South Lake Tahoe properties have extended this courtesy. Thus, we have had the privilege of serving some truly remarkable families these past few days. The fortunate ones have learned that their houses have been “spared” and are awaiting permission to return home. Those less fortunate, who have lost their homes, are coping as best as can be expected. I was initially amazed by how some of those who have lost everything appear to have accepted their material loss and are ready to move on. Puts things in perspective, doesn’t it? Maybe it’s living in Tahoe. With some exceptions, locals tend to cherish the beauty of the Lake and the Tahoe Basin more than the interiors of their residences.
In addition to regular guests and evacuees we have had some of the heroic firefighters staying with us here at the INN. They arrive late and leave early. Can’t say enough good things about these amazing men and women who have worked so hard to save lives, homes and an American Treasure – Lake Tahoe.
Obviously, it will take sometime for those directly impacted by this tragedy to fully recover. However, the sky’s above Inn by the Lake and much of the basin are already beginning to clear. Today, air quality continues to be lousy but once the fire is further contained, the same afternoon breeze that spread the fire on Sunday will quickly clear the basin on another day.
Please wish us well and visit Tahoe soon.
Best Regards,
Dan
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Spring-cleaning and projects...
So, you think the annual spring-cleaning of your home is a lot of work. Consider what we have to go through at Inn by the Lake when “old man winter” bids adieu to spring. Business typically slows in April & May and we put our maintenance & housekeeping staffs to work going through each of our 100 rooms and suites performing heavy cleaning.
The Inn was built in stages, with the pool building opening in 1982. It’s not easy to develop or build anything in the environmentally sensitive Tahoe Basin. As a result there are only a few south shore lodging properties newer than Inn by the Lake. We have great owners and they allow us to reinvest the bulk of our excess cash flow back into the property. Alas, the only type of Tahoe lodging properties that have been build in recent years were either timeshare or condo hotels.
Projects this spring included replacing sinks and faucets in our Pool Building units. The 34 units in our Lake Building were painted to include the corridors. We currently have on order new soft goods for this building to include desk & lounge chairs, pictures, lamps and sleeper sofas (for the suites). The week of June 4th we will be taking delivery of new Serta Perfect Sleeper Concierge Suite Plush bed sets. This will complete the total property wide replacement of all box springs and mattresses started last year.
Ace Anderson and his crew came off the mountain in April (Ace does ski patrol for Heavenly Mountain Resort in the winter) to activate our sprinkler system and revive and enhance our extensive grounds. As I write, the lawns are already looking better. However, we typically do not plant flowers until the first week of June out of fear of a late snowstorm. Bob Alcorn will be patching, sealing and re-striping our parking lots beginning next week. This will be the 18th consecuitive year that Bob and his son have made our lots safe and pretty. Our signature bi-level spa will undergo a “face lift” beginning on June 4th. The interior will be completely refurbished to include new plaster, safety strips etcetera. Hope to have it back up to 103 degrees by Sunday June 9th.
Take a break from your spring-cleaning and come up to Tahoe and see the results of our efforts soon.
Best Regards,
Dan
The Inn was built in stages, with the pool building opening in 1982. It’s not easy to develop or build anything in the environmentally sensitive Tahoe Basin. As a result there are only a few south shore lodging properties newer than Inn by the Lake. We have great owners and they allow us to reinvest the bulk of our excess cash flow back into the property. Alas, the only type of Tahoe lodging properties that have been build in recent years were either timeshare or condo hotels.
Projects this spring included replacing sinks and faucets in our Pool Building units. The 34 units in our Lake Building were painted to include the corridors. We currently have on order new soft goods for this building to include desk & lounge chairs, pictures, lamps and sleeper sofas (for the suites). The week of June 4th we will be taking delivery of new Serta Perfect Sleeper Concierge Suite Plush bed sets. This will complete the total property wide replacement of all box springs and mattresses started last year.
Ace Anderson and his crew came off the mountain in April (Ace does ski patrol for Heavenly Mountain Resort in the winter) to activate our sprinkler system and revive and enhance our extensive grounds. As I write, the lawns are already looking better. However, we typically do not plant flowers until the first week of June out of fear of a late snowstorm. Bob Alcorn will be patching, sealing and re-striping our parking lots beginning next week. This will be the 18th consecuitive year that Bob and his son have made our lots safe and pretty. Our signature bi-level spa will undergo a “face lift” beginning on June 4th. The interior will be completely refurbished to include new plaster, safety strips etcetera. Hope to have it back up to 103 degrees by Sunday June 9th.
Take a break from your spring-cleaning and come up to Tahoe and see the results of our efforts soon.
Best Regards,
Dan
Friday, May 4, 2007
Welcome to Inn by the Lake's updated web site!
We just launched Inn by the Lake's updated web site. Quite candidly we still have some work to do. Please be patient with us as we add content and improve functionality. A primary goal of our new site is to foster more interaction with guests, potential guests and anyone else interested in our INN. We hope this blog will contribute to this dialog.
Moving forward we will share with you what Inn by the Lake and its Team represents. And what we are not. Travel is not only my profession but my family's favorite pastime. Thought you might be interested in some "insiders tips" on Inn by the Lake, Tahoe and travel in general.
From time to time we will also post blogs from other team members here at Inn by the Lake. Many know the secrets and pleasures of Lake Tahoe better than I.
Thank you for clicking -in. Please stay tuned!
Warm Regards,
Dan
Moving forward we will share with you what Inn by the Lake and its Team represents. And what we are not. Travel is not only my profession but my family's favorite pastime. Thought you might be interested in some "insiders tips" on Inn by the Lake, Tahoe and travel in general.
From time to time we will also post blogs from other team members here at Inn by the Lake. Many know the secrets and pleasures of Lake Tahoe better than I.
Thank you for clicking -in. Please stay tuned!
Warm Regards,
Dan
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