When Harry Met Karen

This year will be my 13th Girl*friends trip...my 10th to the Equinox.  Over the years, I've worked with 4 or so Sales Manager, seen 3 or so General Managers come and go, learned of a couple of different ownerships, but one person at the Equinox remains consistent...HARRY!

Harry is the bellman of all bellmen.  When I pull up to the circle in front of the hotel, I know I'm "at home" when Harry comes out and greets me.  A wonderful Yankee (fabulous New England accent) gentleman in his 70's or so, Harry has a way of making each and every guest feel special.  He especially adores the "Girl*friends"!

Harry & his Girl*friends

In addition to Harry I also look forward to seeing Jane, a banquet waitress, that has served the Girl*friends at their Friday night reception for years! One year she worked closer to home (she commutes 30 - 40 minutes) and she was sorely missed.  In addition, Ruth, the Catering Manager, with her wonderful British accent, is a delight as well. She and I always chuckle about the time (about 12 years ago) that we were served the "display" dessert in error.  Let's just say lard is NOT tasty, but the mistake made our drink bill go away!  Astri, the concierge, is always available to assist the Girl*friends and she & I remember the year we met, when she was the personal concierge at the Charles Orvis Inn, and the Reluctant Panther, the Inn next door burnt to the ground.  That was something to witness!

Jane & Karen

So as this years trip approaches, I find myself looking forward to not only seeing Girl*friends from all over, but also seeing my "Equinox" friends, Harry, Jane, Ruth and Astri (& all the staff).