Grape Occasions:
Your guide to everything wine, travel, and spa.
These are my passions, and I spend a lot of time pursuing them, whether discovering a new wine, planning the next travel adventure, or getting the latest spa treatment. I have a huge collection of information and experiences to share with you… everything from what spa to visit, to great getaways for two, or a bottle of sparkling wine for that special dinner. And that’s what Grape Occasions is all about… a place for exploration and information.
Wine is a theme, a vine that runs through the travel and spa. From discovering the incredible world of Northwest wines while living in Seattle to exploring up close European wine countries while living in Amsterdam and immersing myself in Virginia’s burgeoning wine industry in my home state. It’s always a great moment every time you open a bottle!
Thanks for stopping by. I hope you enjoy what you find and it helps you enjoy the moments…because that’s what life is about, enjoying the occasions as we go! And why not make them grape?
Cheers,
About Shannon
A little about me, Shannon Jones, and how Grape Occasions came to be.
Wine… My wine appreciation began in 1995, working for an event planning firm in the Washington, DC area. Part of the job was enjoying delicious food tastings throughout the town at the best hotels, restaurants, and caterers…always paired with perfect wines. I moved to the Northwest, USA, in 2004, which deepened my appreciation – as so many great wines were grown in Washington and Oregon. Then living in Europe – the wine heart of the world… enough said! And living in my home state of Virginia and its growing wine industry.
Travel… I was ‘bitten by the travel bug’ in 5th grade. My mom was a flight attendant, so we had great, free-flying privileges growing up. Our first big trip was a cruise to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Since then, I’ve been to 40 countries and too many cities to count… from Bora Bora to Barcelona, Istanbul to Ixtapa. And so many more to go!
Spa… My first massages came after a car accident in 1994. Thankfully, I progressed to day spa visits for the escape, relaxation, and stress relief. In 2003, I spent four glorious days at Miraval Resort in Tucson, Arizona – my first visit to a destination spa. That was IT! I’ve been to over 100 spas throughout the Western part of the world, and have experienced more than 60 types of treatments. How many visits and how much have I spent? I shouldn’t count. :) Still on the list – to go East… Thailand!
I’ve spent my career marketing for big brands, Discovery Channel, Starbucks Coffee Company, and Capital One.
Last but not least, I am the founder of KeeKee’s Big Adventures, the kids and family travel entertainment brand.