Sunday, February 27, 2011

Aerobeds for Summer 2011

New for Summer 2011!  Our Queen size Aerobed is comfortable, durable, versatile and great for overnight guests at your vacation rental.



When reserving, we ask our customers to comply with vacation rental occupancy policies before renting. 

Weekly and weekend rates are available at www.relaxconcierge.com.

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Relax Concierge Recommends... (Stone Harbor, NJ)

STONE HARBOR RECOMMENDATIONS

Many vacationers at the Jersey Shore already know Relax Concierge for their egyptian cotton linens rentals, luxurious towelrentals and beach item rentals. What you may not know is we provide free recommendations to area restaurants, stores and local area attractions.

Relax Concierge wants to provide you with the customer oriented assistance you would receive if staying at a fine hotel. Feel free to call us and ask for assistance. If we don't know we'd be happy to look it into your request in more detail.

The following are just a few recommendations in Stone Harbor, NJ.

RESTAURANTS

Bread & Cheese Shop
246 96th St
(609) 368-1135
Known for more than their bread and cheese. Try their sticky buns :)

Coffee Talk
299 97th Street
(609) 368-5282
Great place to hang out and enjoy a cup of coffee.  I always look at the Dave Matthews picture and wish he was visiting while I was in town.

Quahog’s Seafood Shack
206 97th Street
(609) 368-6300
BYO. No reservations accepted. Featured on the Food Network.

Springers Homemade Ice Cream
9420 3rd Avenue
(609) 368-4631
After completing our Stone Harbor deliveries, we treat our drivers to ice cream at Springers. A vacation favorite. We suggest getting there early before all the lines at night.


SHOPS AND MORE...

Free Shop
266 96th Street
(609) 368-5874

Harbor Outfitters
354 96th Street
We can officially say that we've paddleboarded. Special thanks for Harbor Outfitters for the one-on-one session. They do all kinds of group or solo sessions for water sports.

Mimi's
9425 2nd Avenue
(609) 368-6131
We love to check out their Nicole Miller dresses. They carry lots of great designers. Good bathing suit selection too.Check out the Attic too two doors down for good deals on some of the same  designer items.

Ocean Galleries
9618 3rd Avenue
(609)368-7777
Always a nice vibe when walking by. Very welcoming. Always changing their collection so theres always something new to check out.

People People
9810 3rd Avenue
(609) 368-3355
Fabulous boutique with lots of adorable fashions. I always see something I like when I'm there!

Suncatcher
9425 2nd Avenue
(609) 368-3488
Surf clothing.


REALTY OFFICES

Nancy M. Alexander Diller & Fisher Stone Harbor Office
9614 Third Avenue
(609)425-7521
Speak with Nancy M. Alexander and make sure to check out her blog.

Tim Kerr's Power Play Realty
2821 Dune Drive
Avalon, NJ 08202-1908
(609) 967-7950
Speak with Ann Delaney and make sure to check out her blog.


Saturday, February 19, 2011

Relax Concierge Recommends... (Manasquan, NJ)

MANASQUAN RECOMMENDATIONS

Many vacationers at the Jersey Shore already know Relax Concierge for their egyptian cotton linens rentals, luxurious towel rentals and beach item rentals. What you may not know is we provide free recommendations to area restaurants, stores and local area attractions.

Relax Concierge wants to provide you with the customer oriented assistance you would receive if staying at a fine hotel. Feel free to call us and ask for assistance. If we don't know we'd be happy to look it into your request in more detail.

The following are just a few recommendations in Manasquan, NJ.

RESTAURANTS


Blue Peach Cafe
2517 New Jersey 35
Manasquan, NJ 08736-1918
(732) 223-3444
So good, we had our birthday breakfast there!  A bit off the beach but worth it.


Green Planet Coffee
700 Arnold Avenue
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
(732) 899-2201
One of our two favorite coffee shops in Manasquan. Good coffee, cool vibe, free wifi.

Leggetts Sand Bar
217 1st Avenue
Manasquan, NJ 08736-3314
We are big off-season Leggetts fans. It it definitely a hotspot for the young and young at heart. We love bingo nights, their pizza, nachos and blackened tuna bites.

The Rail
229 East Main Street
Manasquan, NJ 08736
We ere there for breakfast and enjoyed watching a rubgy match on tv. A good option if staying in Manasquan and interested in a cocktail.

Squan Tavern
15 Broad Street
Manasquan, NJ 08736
732-223-3324
Great pizza. Family friendly.

Sweet Tease Desserts
150 Main St
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Our other favorite coffee shop. Good coffee, good desserts, free wifi. Oh... fun cupcakes too!

Surf Taco
121 Parker Avenue
Manasquan, NJ 08736
(732) 223-7757
Whenever my family visits Manasquan, a stop is always required at Surf Taco. Good spot for family and friends to hang out after a day at the beach. We especially love their Aloha Wrap.

SHOPS AND MORE...

Garret
135 Main St
Manasquan, NJ 08736
732-223-8440
Nice coastal home furnishings and home items.

Muellers Florist
245 Hwy 71
24 Parker Ave, Manasquan, NJ 08736
(732) 223-1882
We recently received a beautiful arrangement from Muellers. Happy to recommend!

Salon Via Bella
600 Union Ave
Brielle, NJ 08730

Squan Dry Goods
73 Main St
Manasquan, NJ 08736-2925
(732) 612-3258
Interesting mix of clothing, home items and jewelry for those cool with "reuse".

Weston Galleries
79 Main Street
Manasquan, NJ 08736-2932
(732) 292-1664
We just love their beach badge jewelry. They carry badges from most Jersey Shore towns.

REALTY OFFICES

Richard Wood Agency
535 Main Street
Manasquan, NJ 08736-3357
(732) 223-3333
Speak with Carol when renting.

Check back soon for additional recommendations including area attractions and realty office contacts.

Monday, February 14, 2011

Ocean City Magazine & Seven Mile Island Guide Book Delivered Direct To Our Customers

During Summer 2010,  Ocean City Magazine and Seven Mile Island guide books were included with our linen and towel orders.   The books include tons of options for places to go and things to do when visiting Ocean City, Avalon and Stone Harbor.


Relax Concierge is dedicated to  making our customers experience more similar to a stay at a hotel.   In addition to the magazine and guide book, our 2011 customers receive complimentary sparkling water, "Do Not Disturb" door tags among other hotel-esque extras.


Over the next few months, we will also be offering both Ocean City and Seven Mile Island Guide Books for purchase on our website.   

About Ocean City Magazine
Ocean City magazine is a  publication covering shopping, dining, things-to-do, local personalities, entertainment, and fashion in Ocean City.
http://www.ocnjmagazine.com/



Ocean City Guide Book and Seven Mile Island Guide Book includes to the Best Places to Eat, Shop, Stay and Play in Ocean City, Avalon and Stone Harbor, NJ.  You'll find places to shop, dine, dance and stay over, as well as events, history and more.
http://www.gonenativecommunications.com/

Saturday, February 12, 2011

Relax Concierge Recommends... (Sea Girt, NJ)

SEA GIRT RECOMMENDATIONS

Many vacationers at the Jersey Shore already know Relax Concierge for their egyptian cotton linens rentals, luxurious towel rentals and beach item rentals. What you may not know is we provide free recommendations to area restaurants, stores and local area attractions.

Relax Concierge wants to provide you with the customer oriented assistance you would receive if staying at a fine hotel. Feel free to call us and ask for assistance. If we don't know we'd be happy to look it into your request in more detail.

The following are just a few recommendations in Sea Girt.

RESTAURANTS

Joe Leone's
527 Washington Boulevard
Sea Girt, NJ 08750
(732) 681-1036
http://www.joeleones.com/ 
Great italian take out. I recommend the Point Pleasant location over Sea Girt based on size but food is great in all locations.

Parker House
1st Avenue
Sea Girt, NJ 08750
(732) 449-0442
http://www.parkerhousenj.com
Goes without saying - this place is a tradition for those partying it up in the area. We read somewhere that the Parker House used to host mass on Sunday mornings back in the day. Interesting tidbit of info:)

Rod's Tavern
507 Washington Blvd.
Sea Girt, NJ 08750
http://www.rodstavern.com/contact.htm 
Burgers and beers. Enough said. And awesome corned beef too.

Siam Basil
2161 New Jersey 35
Sea Girt, NJ 08750-1003
(732) 974-7300
Best thai around!


Sea Girt Official New Jersey Shore site http://www.seagirt-nj.com

Check back soon for additional recommendations.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Only the Best Towels Around

Prior to Summer 2010, we embarked on a search to find the best hotel amenities to offer vacationer renters.  We stayed at many fine hotels to find the "best of the best" towels, linens, toiletries and fun amenities.

During our stay at the Water Club in Atlantic City, we were pleased with the 100% plush combed cotton bathrobes and towels offered in the rooms, spa and pool.   After this trip we also found the same towels at the Chelsea boutique hotel.  After that we knew we this is the quality our vacationers want when visiting the top places at the Shore. 

We like the towels so much we use them at home and offer to all our guests.   We truly hope you also enjoy our towels on your next Jersey Shore vacation.  

Gift Ideas for Jersey Shore Vacationers

If you are visiting the Jersey Shore as a houseguest or just because, here are a few thoughtful gift ideas:

Philly Pretzel Factory - Just the thing for families staying at the Shore or if planning to attend a party.  They have several locations near the beach including Somers Point and Manahawkin.  If you need delivery, please contact us.

Edible Arrangements - Also a perfect idea for families looking for a special treat during their stay.   They are located in 50 spots in NJ and provide delivery.

Flowers - A nice thought to add a special touch to a vacation rental. We suggest sending flowers at the start of a vacation,not towards the end and not during a party.   Try a local florist at the Shore.

Family Photo - This could be a little tricky to arrange but always a keeper when shots are done.  This could be done by self with a self timed camera or done professionally.   Call us for a recommended photographer.

Something Homemade-  When staying down the Shore,  many vacationers leave the cooking to someone else - restaurants.  Homemade goodies are a good option if hanging out at the house and would like something to munch on.

Member of Surfrider Foundation

Relax Concierge is now a member of the Jersey Shore chapter of  the Surfrider Foundation.


The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world’s oceans, waves and beaches. 


We love all the beaches at the Jersey Shore. Each shore town and beach has something different to offer.  Whether it be a vibrant boardwalk overlooking the water,  excellent surfing or a spot to cool off on a hot summer day,  we are lucky to have such nice beaches.


It is our goal to make Jersey Shore vacations more relaxing and enjoyable for our clients by providing premium rental items (linens, towels, beach gear) and services (concierge, groceries, bed making).   We are fortunate that Surfrider is dedicated to protecting our beaches so our clients can hit the sand and surf and create lasting memories.  

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Check "Do A Polar Bear Plunge" off the list

Polar Bear Plunge
For years now, I've been adding places to see and things to do to my bucket list.  There are many things that I have done. For instance I've been on Martha Stewart, visited Paris, went kayaking... Then there are many things that I still have to do.  This includes riding a motorcycle, going to the Kentucky Derby and visiting New Orleans (not during Mardi Gras).   My most recent thing to check off the list was "Do A Polar Bear Plunge."

Back on January 16th, my sister, a friend and I braved the frigid Jersey water temperature and took a dip for the LADACIN foundation.

The day started at our beach rental in Manasquan with several of my family members and friends. I read the Philadelphia Monthly recommendations for those planning to do a plunge (wear limited layers, wear aqua socks...).  My sister and I then selected our attire: bathing suits, big hats and our warm and cozy Relax Concierge bathrobes.  We then headed to Leggett's for registration and a few very necessary cocktails.   After a few announcements to kick off the event, a bag piper led the parade of plungers to Main Beach.  

Upon arriving to the beach, we removed our Uggs, took off our bathrobes, hugged my Bernese Mountain Dog and ran on in.

The water was cold. Then again I think the water is cold in July. I was hit by a wave up to shoulder level then decided that it counted as "going in" and ran back to the beach to dry off...

My brilliant sister then suggested we go back in.  We did and had way more fun since we knew what to expect and we also couldn't feel our legs.

Afterwards we then headed back to the house for warm up by the fire and enjoy the chili and homemade soup.

Let's just say that the day didn't go undocumented (besides this blog).  My sister was pictured in the Asbury Park Press and I was quoted in the Monmouth Shore Patch.  The are also tons of pictures.

I highly recommend any plunge if looking for a fun winter activity at the Jersey Shore while also supporting a great causes.

Let's just say I'll be thinking about the plunge on every hazy hot and humid day from here on out.

Next up on the list...surf camp in ocean city?

Saturday, February 5, 2011

Relax Concierge Recommends... (Point Pleasant, NJ)

POINT PLEASANT RECOMMENDATIONS

Many vacationers at the Jersey Shore already know Relax Concierge for their egyptian cotton linens rentals, luxurious towel rentals and beach item rentals. What you may not know is we provide free recommendations to area restaurants, stores and local area attractions.
Relax Concierge wants to provide you with the customer oriented assistance you would receive if staying at a fine hotel. Feel free to call us and ask for assistance. If we don't know we'd be happy to look it into your request in more detail.
The following are just a few recommendations in Point Pleasant.

Restaurants 
Daniel's Bistro
115 Broadway
Pt Pleasant Bch, NJ 08742-2609
(732) 899-5333
http://www.jerseymenus.com/menus.php?businessid=28656 
Highly recommended to us for celebrating a special birthday by a Point Pleasant resident. BYO.

Frankie's Bar & Grill 
414 Route 35 South
Pt. Pleasant Bch, NJ 08742-2609
732-892-6000
http://www.frankiesbarandgrille.com/ 
Burgers and beers.



Joe Leone's
400 Route 35 South
Pt. Pleasant Bch, NJ 08742
(732) 701-0001
http://www.joeleones.com/Delicious Italian takeout and catering. At their prices, why cook!?$ 


Rock N' Joe Coffee House

1805 New Jersey 35
Pt Pleasant Bch, NJ 08742-4663
(732) 899-1002 
ICES
http://www.rocknjoe.net/
Great coffee with a cool vibe.


Spike's Fish Market Fresh Seafood
415 Broadway
Pt Pleasant Bch, NJ 08742
(732) 295-9400
http://www.yelp.com/biz/spikes-fish-market-and-restaurant-point-pleasant-beach
Fan of their New England clam chowder and lobster bisque. BYOB.

Realty offices
Ward
106 Ocean Ave
Pt Pleasant Bch, NJ 08742

Shops and such
Git Fired Up 
502 Bay Ave.
Pt. Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
732-892-7529

Kim & Jenn Cleaners and Tailors
2507 Bridge Ave.
Pt. Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
732-295-1981
As recommended by The Bee boutique.

Jenkinsons Boardwalk
3000 Ocean Ave.
Pt. Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
http://www.jenkinsons.com/
Where all the fun is! Aquarium, amusement park, food and more.

Stella E Luna 
500 Bay Ave
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
(732) 714-2221
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stella-e-Luna/362877548240 
Great place to pick up small gifts and unique beach-esque items. Perfect for housewarming and thank you gifts.

Sunshine Daydream
513 Bay Ave.
Pt. Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
732-701-9400
http://www.sunshine-daydream.com/pointpleasantlocation.html 
Cute jewelry that doesnt break the budget.

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Forget The Hotel - A "Mini Bar" for Vacation Rentals

Mini bar gift basket
In the never ending quest to make vacation rentals more similar to a hotel stay, we've developed a "mini bar" gift basket to further bridge this gap.  

Our "mini bar" gift basket was designed with hungry vacationers in mind.  After driving several hours to their vacation rental, they check in, open the fridge and realize there are no snacks easily accessible.  Hungry vacationers then need to either hit the grocery store or unpack the car to find a snack. 

Our mini bar includes favorite snacks, candy and drinks that are typically found in hotel mini bars.   Snacks include Rice Krispie treats, Frito Lay chips, Oreos, chocolate chip cookies, nuts and more.  Candy includes Tic Tacs, gum, Hershey's chocolate bars and Reese's peanut butter cups.  Drinks include Coke bottles, Sprite, apple juice and bottled water.    

These gift baskets are a perfect gift from homeowners or realtors to vacationers as a special thank you!    A personalized message can also be added at no additional charge. 

Gift baskets are delivered direct to Jersey Shore vacation rentals.  We provide delivery to most towns including LBI, Margate, Ocean City NJ, Sea Isle, Avalon and Stone Harbor.

Please visit  http://www.relaxconcierge.com/giftbasket.php for more details.   

About Relax Concierge
Relax Concierge offers premium rental items and services to Jersey Shore vacationers.  Our rental items include linens, towels, beach gear, entertainment options and more.