Archive for February 29th, 2008

The atmosphere is comfy here at Fletcher’s, just off the lobby in the Hotel Captain Cook. 

“The Cook” is the nicest place in town. Take that to the bank. It’s a great location right in the middle of downtown Anchorage. There’s easy access to all the Iditarod events tomorrow, plus shopping, dining and entertainment at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. 

Last week we talked about the hotel’s health club, complete with weight rooms, sauna, racquetball, pool and massage therapy. And we really like the fancy coffee bar at the Whale’s Tail.

But Fletcher’s is great for several reasons. First, they continue to serve lunch all afternoon. That’s good because I can’t keep a schedule. This way, I can just stumble in and grab a bite.

And it’s delicious. I started out with a pear-arugula  salad. There’s a fair dose of Gorgonzola cheese, walnuts and a white wine vinaigrette. Then I moved onto the Grilled Pesto Shrimp. Yum. Topped off with a yummy “Cloudline” Pinot Noir. I remember the Cloudline. It’s an Oregon vintage that I had at my 50th birthday party. Many years ago. HA!

If you’re really hungry, pick one of the entrees, such as the Seared Pork Chop or the Pan Seared Halibut.  Those are right off the fresh sheet. But there are plenty of other selections from the menu: pizza, salad, steak, pasta. Take your pick. 

Our bartender, Dirk, is quick and efficient. Stop in at Fletcher’s for a bite. It’s at the Hotel Captain Cook.  Tell Dirk Scott sent you. Also, ask about the Weekend Special at the hotel, as low as $125 per night. 

We flew Condor last spring to Frankfurt. They do a great job, flying from Anchorage, Fairbanks and Whitehorse to Frankfurt. The 10-hour flight shaves about 14 hours of travel time off the well-slogged path through the Lower 48 and across the Atlantic.

Never mind it’s cheaper. Here are the magic dates:

Anchorage-Frankfurt May 13

Frankfurt-Anchorage May 24

These are the Golden Dates when you can travel for just $650 roundtrip, including all government taxes and airline fees. Check with USTravel to get these dates. USTravel’s ticketing fee is additional.

Of course, from Frankfurt, you can hop connecting flights or a fast train to get where you’re going. USTravel can make all the arrangements: 907 561 2434 or toll-free 800 544 2217.

This flower-seller pulled up next to our flat in Rome each morning. That’s our coffee shop in the background under the “P”. We loved visiting Rome. You will, too.