1st hour, click here to listen.
2nd hour, click here to listen.
Oxnard, California
Guests in order of appearance:
Steve Schroeder, Reno Rodeo
Chris Hoff, Reno Tahoe Open
Ben McDonald, Visit Reno Tahoe
Christopher Baum, President and CEO Reno Tahoe USA
Kimberlee Tolkien, Atlantis Casino Resort & Spa
Tony Marini, Hot August Nights
My Experience:
Unless you have wonderful memories and images of Reno, throw out the old and bring in the new. Reno is a fun, vibrant, fresh, new city that tourist are flocking to experience. After a billion dollar renovation, that is noticeable throughout the city, my four days in Reno was not enough. Between us, I could have easily stay four more days.
My drive from the Coachella Valley was a little over 500 miles, with most of it on the beautiful 395 highway/freeway. From the desert, to rolling hills, mountains covered with pine trees rivers and lakes, I love this drive. For those not wanting to drive, hop on a flight to the Reno International airport…yes, it’s that simple.
I stayed at the Four Diamond award winner Atlantis Casino Resort and Spa. Looking not but a year old, this fabulous resort offers guests newly decorated rooms with flat screens, comfy plush beds and stunning views of the downtown Reno or the mountains. Located on South Virginia St., I found Reno easy to navigate from the Atlantis. I had a relaxing spa treatment, delicious food at Bistro Napa, the Deli and the buffet, plus I won on the slot machines…Life is good!
I was delighted when visiting the new RiverWalk in downtown Reno by the Truckee River. The area is lovely, families are having fun in the river, trendy restaurants are everywhere and all ages now enjoy this new Reno hot spot. Of course some of the old buildings remain, a part of Reno history that shouldn’t be messed with. The locals in Reno are friendly and fun with only good things to say about their city.
Reno is now known as “The Special Events Capital of the World” and special events they have. While I was in Reno the rodeo was taking place (since 1919), the Blues Festival was happening down town, baseball was being played at the new professional stadium, a pub crawl was in full swing, conventions galore and perfect weather!!
For the golfers, the PGA tour players love Reno and the Reno Tahoe Open. I had a chance to play Lakeridge Golf Course, minutes from the Atlantis. With their own island green, spectacular views, Lakeridge is a player friendly course with a lot of intrigue. A fun test for all skill levels. Gary Bradford, the Director of Golf, is a great guy, loves his job and has quite a few fascinating stories to tell, say “Hi” to Gary for me when you arrive.
All in all, Reno is a wonderful destination for the entire family, business trip, getaway, or impromptu road trip. My fingers are crossed that I’ll be invited back, there is so much yet to do!