Silver Reef Hotel Casino Spa - The perfect Shopping Getaway!

Randi has been after me for a while to come down and cross the boarder and experience the Silver Reef Hotel Casino Spa just outside of Bellingham. When driving down the i5 it is hard to miss the huge Casino sign and like a moth drawn to light I was guided into the Hotel Casino.

As I walked into the lobby of the hotel and presented myself to the front desk, I was immediately welcomed by Randi, Hotel Sales Director, and had she had my room key and check in was over in mere seconds. We then headed towards the casino to one of their signature food & beverage outlets: "The Steakhouse at Silver Reef" here we were met by the Casino's F&B director, Rian, and we all sat down for dinner. I knew I would be in for a treat when you consider that Wine Spectator has given the Steakhouse their "Awards of Excellence" and the Wine Enthusiast the "Award of Distinction."

We enjoyed beautiful pairings of wine & port throughout dinner. Some of the specialities we tried included: Carpaccio of Beef with Truffle Oil, baby greens, artichoke hearts and grain mustard ($9), as well as the Jumbo Prawn cocktail served with a zesty cocktail sauce ($14), followed by a Caesar Salad ($8) prepared table side.
Then we were entertained by the incredible showmanship of tableside service of Steak Diane a tender Filet Mignon sauteed with shallots, thyme, mustard seed and mushrooms ($37) and a Steak au Poivre a tender Filet Mignon, in a peppercorn brandy sauce ($37). The steaks were prepared perfectly and just melted in my mouth. The service and the culinary delights were some of the best I have experienced. Just when I thought I couldn't have any more... the dessert cart came out.... OMG, talk about tempting creations... I ended up savouring the Chocolate Rockettes which is a house specialty. It is a souffle-like chocolate cake served warm with a molten center served with vanilla bean ice cream ($7). the Steakhouse is an incredible dining experience and excellent value.

The Casino and Hotel are inspired by First Nations art and artifacts. The guest rooms are well appointed and they have a private floor (6th Floor Diamond Club). I had the privilege of staying in the Emerald Suite (613). It was a one bedroom suite perfect for entertaining. It has two bathrooms, large wet bar and living room complete with your own private massage chair and 50" Flat screen. The master bedroom and ensuite were to die for. Large walk in shower, double man jetted bath and amenities by H2O.

So what was great about this property is it's location. Within minutes you are in Bellingham with all the outlet Malls and BellisFair Mall, within an hour to Seattle... ferry service to Vancouver Island and an hour to Vancouver. Making this destination a perfect city escape or using the property as a base to explore these three great cities (Seattle, Victoria, Vancouver). You could also use the property as an airport hotel considering they now have non-stop flights to Hawaii and other sun destinations!

For more information on the property call 866-383-0777 ext. 254 or visit online silverreefcasino.com Rates start at just US$129
Perfect for last minute Christmas shopping... and unwind after at the Spa, then dinner at the Steakhouse and relaxing in your suite! Christmas made easy!

The Silver Reef Hotel Casino will be at WinterPRIDE Jan 30 - Feb 6, 2011 so make sure you say hi!