JANE SMITH’S TO DO LIST: FRIDAY

1. Drop kids off at school.
2. Doctor’s Appointment.
3. Client Meeting/Closing Negotiations.
4. Lunch Meeting with Boss.
5. Pick kids up at school.
6. Grocery shopping for weekend.
7. Feed kids.
8. Drop kids off at Grandmom’s house for weekend.
9. MEET SIGNIFICANT OTHER THE INDEPENDENT HOTEL FOR A WEEKEND GETAWAY WITH THE HOTEL’S SIGNATURE ROMANCE PACKAGE!!

 Jealous yet?  I would be too.  Jane Smith was surprised with a staycation from her significant other, and they’re enjoying the romance package this weekend.  Our signature romance package Romance Independent Style, will really help set the mood with inclusive overnight accommodations for two, a bottle of wine and a cheese and cracker presentation for the room, turndown service with chocolates, and complimentary light fare breakfast for two!  Let’s just say the Smiths’ night will be unforgettable! 

http://reservations.RomanceIndependentStyle

Which package would you like to surprise someone with?

For the History Buffs, try our Ancient Rome and America Exhibit Package. 

The Ancient Rome and America exhibit at the National Constitution Center (located almost too conveniently from the Independent) is appearing through August 1st.  This package will truly make you feel like a V.I.P.  This includes accommodations at the Independent, two V.I.P. Passes to the Ancient Rome and America exhibit, which includes access to the award-winning theatrical performance “Freedom Rising” and Singer’s Hall.

http://reservations.AncientRomePackage

Explore the city for the first time.

Don’t worry, we won’t hold it against you.  There is a first time for everything, but visiting Philadelphia for your first time should be highest on your to-do list.  If you’re a professional tourist, a family looking for a way to connect with the birth of our Nation, or a business person that has a day or two to explore, look no further, we have the best packages to offer you.

• Brotherly Love Trolley Package

This package is a great way to see the city at your own pace.  With overnight accommodations, and two adult tickets for the Trolley Works (which are good for 24 hours with unlimited on/off privileges) take your time, soak in the city, and indulge in everything Philly has to offer.  Oh, and don’t forget “taste of Philadelphia” treat waiting for you when you check-in!

http://reservations.BrotherlyLoveTourPackage

• iGlide Tours

iGlide Tours- a Segway Experience Tour of Philadelphia in the most EXCITING & FUN way possible, on the Segway PT.  After a brief training, your experience guide will escort you through Philadelphia’s (Art) Museum District speaking to you through state-of-the-art wireless headsets. The historical narrative will entertain you throughout your unforgettable experience.

Your experience will include:

·         Overnight accommodations for (2)
·         (2) – iGlide Philadelphia Art Museum District Tour Tickets
·         Riding your own Segway PT

http://reservations.IGlideTourPackage

• Philly Food Tour Package

Indulge in Philly’s food, history, culture, and fun!  Eat like a local on this Philadelphia-themed tour that is a unique and fun way for visitors to experience the city!

This fun and delicious tour takes place in the heart of Philadelphia and includes over 7 stops including the Reading Terminal Market, more than 2 hours of indulging and less than 30 minutes of walking. This event is perfect for people of all ages. Make room, this is not only a tasting adventure, but a meal!  

The package includes overnight accommodations for two adults, (2) tickets to the Flavors of Philly Tour, and a Philadelphia Treat that will be given on the tour.

See The Starr(s)

Haven’t been to one of the new Stephen Starr restaurants?  Haven’t been to one at all, you say?!  Well, you need to enjoy one of Philadelphia’s staples…A STEPHEN STARR RESTAURANT!  With our Wine and Dine Independently package you’ll receive inclusive overnight accommodations for two, a complimentary bottle of wine from the hotel, and a $50.00 gift certificate valid at any 12 Starr Restaurants scattered throughout the city.  This package is great for a weekend getaway, a gift for a friend or loved one, or even for yourself if you’re travelling on business.

http://reservations.WineandDinePackage

Parking Wars

Parking in the city can be difficult, but no worries, with our Philly Overnight Package, and our Vist Philadelphia with Love Package, parking is included.  Of course, there are other specials that go with this package; for example: in addition to the complimentary parking for two nights, the overnight package includes gifts upon check-in, and the “Philly’s More Fun” Teddy Bear!  This package is available 7 days a week, because remember, Philly is more fun when you sleep over! And now your weekend is whenever you want it to be.

http://reservations.PhillyOvernightPackage

Our Vist Philadelphia with Love package also includes a welcome gift and complimentary parking, but it also includes  a $20.00 gift certificate to Reading Terminal Market, one of the most popular spots in the city for food and fun.  For a true Philadelphia experience, this is a great package.

http://reservations.VisitPhillywithLove

All of our signature packages are great for any occasion, and for any person, couple, or group.  For more information regarding our packages, visit the reservations section of our home page:

https://reservations.ihotelier.com/istay.cfm?hotelid=15322

Or call us directly to talk with a Guest Service Representative, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year!!  Call us today at: (215) 772 -1440

We’ll be seeing you soon!!

Advancing GLBT Rights.

1964 marked an extremely imporant milestone in American History, and the world, for rights of human beings.  First lauded by the late President John F. Kennedy as new era for America, the Civil Rights Act was a major legislative accomplishment for the country, and it continues to this day as one.  Began by Kennedy, and seen through by the late President Lyndon B. Johnson, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was, and still is, missing an extemely imporant part of equality within its wording in America…sexual orientation.

It wasn’t until October 28th, 2009 (not even 6 months) that the Matthew Shepard Act was signed into law by President Barack Obama.  Although this law challenges the legality of hate-crimes as extended to the GLBT community, it still doesn’t challenge the inequality of rights for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered Americans pertaining to discrimination.  Technically, a person of homosexual orientation can be denied services within an establishment, and there is no legal backing oppossing such acts of discrimination.  Members of the same sex are not legally allowed to enter into a marital agreement (with the exception of a few states, but not on a federal level), and up until this Census, there was no choice for a citizen to identify his or herself as a homosexual, bisexual, or transgendered individual.

Enter the Equality Forum in Philadelphia.  For a few days in the middle of spring, healthy debate, initiatives, idea-sharing, and overall fun is shared amongst the GLBT community.

From April 26th until May 2nd of this year, visit Philadelphia to support equal rights for the GLBT community.  Join community leaders, organizers, fellow members and supporters of the GLBT community, politicians, artists, and be witness to one of the most peaceful, organized, and interesting forums in the world.

Experience a special GLBT art exhibit, a special performance by Brian Sanders, panel discussions, fun parties around town, and mingle with the city’s GLBT community during this week. 

Situated within the “Gayborhood” of Philadelphia, and near every single location involved in the forum, The Independent Hotel is the perfect place to stay during this impressive gathering of GLBT supporters.  Stay with us and enjoy the greatness of Center City, complimentary wine and cheese Mondays through Thursdays, complimentary internet, phone calls, DirecTV, and complimentary breakfast while visiting.  We’ll have you prepared, from start to finish, for each event, meeting, panel, and party the Equality Forum has to offer.  You’ll be steps away from every event the forum has to offer.

You’ll have to hurry, because our rooms won’t last long.  Book your room today, and enjoy the 2010 Equality Forum how it’s supposed to be!

For more information on the 2010 Equality Forum, please visit:

http://www.equalityforum.com

To review availability, rates, and book your room, visit our website:

http://www.theindependenthotel.com

Max Yesgur, a local of Bethel, New York, one day decided that something needed to be done.  Something (actually, someone) needed to bring a list of the world’s greatest musicians to one place, and introduce them under one bill.  Max Yesgur took this idea, threw in some peace, love, and a splash of color(s) and the Woodstock Music Festival was born.  The idea was receated in 1994 and 1999, but it never held the same promise as it once did in 1969.

Max Yesgur didn’t create something new, he just made it a lot better.  Since those three days in New York, festivals in America have never been the same.

Festivals have become a staple of Philadelphia culture, especially during the summer months.  So, now that you know of a great place to stay while visiting (The Independent Hotel, of course), why not plan a trip revolving around one (or more!) of the great  festivals the City of Brotherly Love has to offer?

Join us later this spring for the Brandywine River Blues Festival.  Have a night out on the town, take the elevator home with us that evening, and venture off to the Chaddsford Winery the very next day.  Enjoy the area’s signature wines, pack a picnic for the day, and enjoy some great blues music.  With Chaddsford Winery less than an hour away from us, there is no reason not to make a weekend that includes the city and the country all in one trip.  You’ll have to hurry fast, because this secret will get out sooner than you think.  Book your room now for May 30th and 31st, and catch this great winery estate in the middle of the most beautiful time of year!

For more information on the Brandywine River Blues Festival, please visit their website:

http://www.chaddsford.com/root/home/index.htm

Spring has already sprung, but witness the “springing” Philadelphia style at the annual Rittenhouse Spring Festival on May 1st, 2010.  Enjoy creative local art, fashion, food, and let the WXPN family bring you some of the best local music in the area.  This festival is only one day, and attracts over 50,000 people.  Streets are closed around Rittenhouse Square for this event, so staying the night on April 30th with us, and taking a short stroll to the festival is the best way to visit!

For more information, vist:

http://www.visitphilly.com/events/philadelphia/rittenhouse-row-spring-festival/

The XPNoential Music Festival is the most popular music festival in Philadelphia every year, and attracts over 300,000 people every year.  The festival has not been scheduled as of yet, but it always occurrs in July.  Stay tuned for the latest details as they become available!

The other very popular music festival is just becoming a staple of the region.  The Roots Picnic will host some of the most popular musical acts today, including Vampire Weekend, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Mayer Hawthorne, and of course our very own The Roots with ?questlove!  This picnic has attracted more and more people every year since it’s inception in 2008, and it looks to only get bigger this year.  With many rooms left on June 5th, it’s a no-brainer to stay with us at the Independent and take a small trip to Penn’s Landing’s Festival Pier, a walk, or short ride away from the hotel! 

For More information, visit:

http://www.billboard.com/news/vampire-weekend-anchors-third-roots-picnic-1004071930.story

Are you a fan of smooth jazz like we all are here at the Independent?  Then you will love Penn’s Landing’s Smooth Jazz Summer Nights.  Enjoy the smooth sounds that only Penn’s Landing can offer every Friday night in August.  This extremely popular series is back by popular demand, and it looks as if it’s turning out to be a great month.  Let the cooooooool sounds of Jazz flow over your body on a hot August night, and then come unwind and let the music sink in while you stay with us overnight!!  Smotth Jazz Summer Nights are presented on August 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th.  Look ahead now for our rates and availability:

https://reservations.ihotelier.com/istay.cfm?hotelid=15322

For more information on Smooth Jazz Summer Nights, and other Delaware River Events, vist:

http://www.delawareriverevents.com/index.php?module=calendar&month=8&year=2010

Philadelphia has so much to offer you during the Spring and Summer months, it would be a shame not to take advantage of it.  Revel in cool music, art, food, and fashion.  Let The Independent be your guide!

Spring and Summer is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than to get out and search for adventure?

Well, look no farther…Urban Adventures will bring the adventure to you!  The new kids on the block will set you up perfectly, and do all the work.  As of right now, with three tours to choose from, there is no better way to experience the city…as an adventure!

There are three unique tours to choose from:

Essence of South Philly:

A true gem of a tour that allows the lesser known areas of the historic city to be seen, including Jewish Delicatessens, italian markets, mosaics, and much more!

4 Hours in length.

Historic Distric: The authentic historic district Philadelphia is known for.  See where America was born, meet the figures that shaped our nation, witness the awe inspiring beauty of the colonial period, and enjoy treats at some city hot spots!

3 Hours in length.

All Day, All Philly: An all day adventure where the only boundary is your imagination.  Soak up every last drop of Philadelphia.  Run up Rocky’s steps, stroll around local favorite Rittenhouse Square, and enjoy lunch at the city’s busiest market!

7 Hours in length.

STAY TUNED FOR GREAT PACKAGES!  A GREAT NIGHT’S STAY BUNDLED WITH A TRUE URBAN ADVENTURE!!

For more information regarding Urban Adventures visit the tour’s website:

www.philadelphiaurbanadventures.com

Our very own defending National League Champions, The Philadelphia Phillies, have already begun their season on the road yesterday in Washington, D.C.  An 11 - 1 drubbing of the Nationals.

Our boys of summer eventually make their way back to the City of Brotherly Love next week for their home opener against the Washington Nationals on April 12th…first pitch 3:05P.M.  Unfortunately, this game is sold out.  No need to worry, there are still 80 home games to follow, and every one of them is primed for excitement.

Stay with us and follow the Pennant Race all season long!  With easy access to the Broad Street Orange Line, and in the heart of Center City, it’s easy to understand why Phillies’ Fans love to stay with us! 

Here are some future home games to help you decide when you will visit!

April 12th, 14th - 15th - Washington Nationals

April 16th - 18th - Florida Marlins

April 30th - May 2nd - New York Mets

May 3rd - 6th - St. Louis Cardinals

May 7th - 9th - Atlanta Braves

Check out the Phillies “Phanatic” visit to The Independent Philadelphia Hotel!

 Photo by M. Edlow for GPTMC

FOLLOW HIM AROUND TOWN!!

http://www.visitphilly.com/articles/philadelphia/phanatic-around-town-summer-promotion/

Known as the largest 10-miler in the United States, the Broad Street Run has become a staple of Philadelphia spring events for over 30 years now. 

Come and stay with us at the Independent Hotel before and after the 31st Annual Broad Street Run on May 2nd, 2010.  Relax with us the night before, wake up, and take a short stroll to the starting line.  How convenient is that?  It is easy!!

With rates starting at $229.00 + Tax, there is no better way to refresh yourself for the run the night before on the 1st.  Don’t get lost in the crowd!  Wake up, get to the starting line first, and enjoy your run!

Reserve your room today!

https://reservations.ihotelier.com/istay.cfm?hotelid=15322

For runner’s information, please visit the Broad Street Run website below:

http://www.broadstreetrun.com/info.htm

Spring is a peculiar time of year.  This season has many traditions and generational meanings attached to it, and that means there is always something new to discover.  Before it was known as Spring, this particular season was known as Lengten, or, Lenten.  This word literally means “Lengthen”.  As the days get longer, and the ground starts to sprout new life, the season moves steadily along, helping all of us forget the misery that sometimes is Winter.

As the Winter season comes to a close, the snow melts, and the ground begins to sprout, there is a buzz in the air around the city of Philadelphia.  Sure, that could just be the harassing bee announcing his presence in your ear, but it could also be the City of Brotherly Love whispering to you:”Visit Me”.

We, here at the Independent Hotel, know all too well how many great specialties the city has to offer during this season of rebirth.  That is why we would be ecstatic to welcome you to the city of Philadelphia during this most beautiful of seasons.

Island life is great in the winter, but in the Spring there is just too much the city offers for you to pass over.  In just a few short weeks our boys of summer, the Philadelphia Phillies, will be officially kicking off their season on April 12th at 3:05P.M. at Citizen’s Bank Park against the Washington Nationals for their home opener.  Staying in the heart of the city, enjoy a walk, some shopping, and some breakfast or lunch, and then in the late afternoon head down to the ballpark to witness the defending National League Champions in action!

http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/schedule/index.jsp?c_id=phi

Miss the flower show earlier in the year?  Have no fear, Macy’s will come through for you for only the second time in its history as it hosts its 2nd Annual Flower show between March 28th and April 11th.  With Macy’s just a few short blocks away from the Independent, it’s almost too convenient!

Take advantage of one of spectacular packages.  The Ancient Rome and America exhibit at the National Constitution Center (also located almost too conveniently from the Independent) is appearing through August 1st.  This package will truly make you feel like a V.I.P.  This includes accommodations at the Independent, two V.I.P. Passes to the Ancient Rome and America exhibit, which includes access to the award-winning theatrical performance “Freedom Rising” and Singer’s Hall.

http://reservations.ihotelier.com/crs/p_prod.cfm?HotelID=15322&ProdID=264764&killcookie=1&LanguageID=1

Feeling charitable?  On April 29th, what many consider the busiest restaurant night of the year (and the most important) is Dining out for Life.  With most of the city’s greatest and most popular restaurants within walking distance of the Independent, make a night out of it and help fight A.I.D.S. by dining out within the city.  Every participating restaurant will donate 33% of the cost of your meal to help fight the virus.  For a list of participating restaurants, and to discover which ones are closest to us, please visit:

http://www.diningoutforlife.com/philadelphia/participating

Located right off Broad Street, the Independent is a great place for you to relax and prepare for the annual Broad Street Run.  This 10-mile run will allow the most competitive, and leisurely runners to enjoy the great sights and history of the city while jogging down broad street.  After you’re finished, unwind with us at the Independent on May 2nd!

Want to the see the Olympians of tomorrow?  Visit the city and stay with us while you attend the Penn Relays.  The Penn Relays are the single most important amateur track and field event in the country.  Witness the athletes who may one day wear the gold right here in our backyard.  Join us during April 22nd through the 24th.  After becoming tired with all the daily activity, unwind with us on property for the complimentary Guest Reception that features our wine picks and cheeses.

Even though it is now known as ‘Spring’, this great season boasts a lot of great opportunities to explore new things.  Philadelphia can be an old friend, or a new acquaintance…no matter, visit the beautiful, historic city and ‘Lengten’ your senses to something truly wonderful.  The Independent is here to welcome you with open arms.