So - the Biltmore was opened as a resort in 1927 ... and in 1937 it added the Casino Club ... a members "club" with pool, cabanas, restaurants etc.
Being on the "American Riviera", the resort was frequented by all the rich n' famous from Hollywood and coming to think of it ... it still is!
It's now owned by Ty Warner ... he of Beanie Baby fame. He also "owns" the Four Seasons in New York.
I am loving in Suite 840 - Ty Warner Cottage. It was originally built in 1904 ... but has been very tastefully refurbished. Photos tomorrow when it has been cleaned & tidied properly! As today was film day, it's in a wee mess.
The suite in 2000 square feet - huge lounge with open fireplace - a butler kitchen - a four poster bed - shower/steam room - ENORMOUS bath-tub - 1000 square foot outdoor terrace ... and 2 further bedrooms should you wish them! It's quite spectacular ...
Anyway, met for coffee at 0730 and then waited for the weather to improve. It didn't (in fact until 6 pm!). Gena (hon) was looking after us all day ... and after filming the room, we headed off to interview the General Manager Karen Earp. I have known Karen for a decade ... she is one of the most fun (ny) GMs you could ever meet ... but also one of the most knowledgeable. Her staff love her ... as do I ...
After that we headed to Casino Club for a shoot in a cabana before I learnt to prepare an excellent local, Summer seabass and prawn dish ... with the resort's exec chef Martin Frost.
More resort filming: spa, putting green and croquet lawn. Finally onto the beach - in the sunshine - for an intro shot.
TWO more days to go until the end of my California adventure ... sadness mixed with relief ... I need sleep!
Song of the Day: Together in Electric Dreams - Giorgio Moroder and Phil Oakley
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rZ0Dp06OO4
Weather: Earpy
karen earp - general manager and goddess
putt putt putt
martin frost - exec chef (& tim!)
the life ...
