HOTEL32 offers five room types from studios to two-bedroom penthouses. (Photo courtesy of HOTEL32)
There’s a reason (probably more than one) that Las Vegas is once again the #1 travel destination for Americans and #2 for foreign travelers, according to the Hotel Price Index (HPI) from Hotels.com. It’s fun; it’s affordable; and there’s plenty to do and see. This summer the sun will be shining bright on the Vegas Strip as travel industry reports point to more people traveling even with a slight increase in hotel prices. 2011 hotel prices were up 11% in Vegas, but at an average of $102 a night – It still an affordable playground for young and old alike. Where else can you stay in a three-star hotel for $15 a night?
One thing that I have noticed about Las Vegas is how many celebrities are always going there. Where do they stay? How are they treated compared to the rest of us checking into Vegas hotels? How can I get such treatment? I recently got those answers and today, I’m sharing a secret with you.
Blu-ray players integrated into the bathroom mirror are just one of the amenities at HOTEL32. (Photo courtesy of HOTEL32)
HOTEL32
Up on the tippy top floor of the Monte Carlo, is one of Vegas’ best kept secrets. HOTEL32 is the new, exclusive boutique hotel where everyone can feel rich and famous. My brother-in-law, Kevin Hockin, and his friends recently spent his 30th birthday at HOTEL32 completing a 30 hours in Vegas marathon (not the running kind). No matter the reason: trip with friends, romantic getaway, or just a reason to getaway, everything about HOTEL32 is designed to cater to your needs. Who wouldn’t like that?
Right from the start, you will know that you are in for a treat because each reservation includes round-trip airport transportation in your own private limo. When you arrive, a personal Bellman escorts you directly to your retreat – checking in privately within the comforts of your room. Goodbye registration lines! HOTEL32 offers five room types from studios to two-bedroom penthouses. And, celebrities aren’t the only ones receiving VIP treatment. A dedicated Suite Assistant makes sure you know every feature of indulgence included in your stay – including a Nintendo Wii, a Blu-ray player integrated in the bathroom mirror, a pre-stocked refrigerator with the guest’s preferences, and complimentary clothes pressing is included. Who would ever want to leave?
Negril, Jamaica has beautiful beaches, hotels, and resorts for an affordable cost. (Photo courtesy of breezes.com)
Spring has definitely sprung. Even here in Denver, March has been unseasonably wonderful…I mean, warm. I just know Mother Nature is not done with one last winter wallop before Mother’s day. But for now, I can’t help but get excited for Spring Break and summer adventures.
Have you already had your Spring Break? Or perhaps you are waiting until school children are through filling up the top destinations to have a vacation (very smart) or are you already planning for the summer? Whatever the reason, peak vacation time is back.
According to the Hotel Price Index from Hotels.com, travelers are booking more last minute deals than in prior years. And I don’t blame them. While it’s important to book ahead if you know what you “have to have” and you don’t mind paying for it; more hotels, airlines, cruises, etc. are boosting their last-minute marketing strategies. The catch is that if you are going to wait for a last-minute deal then you have to be ready to book when you see a good value. Wait too long and you might have to rethink your trip plans.
The HPI also provided some helpful information as it relates to actual hotel pricing. In fact, hotel prices are on the rise, up four percent (4%) over 2010. But don’t fret – I see this as positive reinforcement of an economic recovery and in truth, prices have still not bounced back to the rates that we were seeing in 2005.
Sunshine Solutions for Spring and Summer
Cancunis once again topping every list I can find as the destination for Spring Break. Because of the popularity in combination with the peak season, expect to pay more for accommodations with an average price per night of $186.38.
Acapulco, on the other hand, feels more upscale while the average price is much less. Recent drug-wars in Mexico have become a tourist safety issue in our neighboring country. The Mexican government makes a considerable effort to protect U.S. citizens and other visitors to major tourist destinations. Still, U.S. State Department officials are warning American tourists to stay alert and not to wander far from Mexico’s resort areas.
Nassau, Bahamas is such a pleasing destination. It’s one of those places where couples, families, and friends can all have their vacation needs met. The average cost per night was $207.07 in 2011 according to the HPI, expect that number to be a bit higher this year and definitely in the next few months.
A more affordable option may be Negril, Jamaica with an average price per night at $147.33. It’s home to the all-inclusive resort, which is a great way to know what all your costs will be BEFORE you get the bill.
60-foot long Sliding Rock, a natural water slide with a 7-foot deep natural pool at the base (Photo courtesy of travelandleisure.com)
Asheville, NChas been popping up on more lists as a top vacation destination. I don’t know if I should be happy or sad to let this best kept secret spot out of the bag. I’ve been going to Asheville and nearby cities, like Brevard, since I was a kid. With the average hotel price around $108 per night, Asheville is an affordable vacation destination with an abundance of activity to keep you interested.
Amazing restaurants and art galleries abound in the North Carolina resort town. Guests to this town have a variety of options including: trekking the Big Fork Ridge Loop in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; whitewater rafting on the Class IV rapids on the French Broad River; or sliding down the 60-foot long Sliding Rock, a natural water slide with a 7-foot deep natural pool at the base (don’t worry, lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day).
Lihue, Hiis located on the island of Kauaiand is a bit more affordable than nearby Maui and Honolulu, where prices are up 10% from the year before.Enjoy the beaches, the surf, and a traditional Hawaiian hula. Here are a couple of helpful tips when visiting the Hawaiian Islands. I’ve also noticed some amazing airfare deals for Hawaiian destinations on Twitter. So follow the major airlines that fly there and get the jump on super savings.
Do you have a best-kept secret spot you would be willing to share with us here on the Travel Smart Blog? Tell me all about it. I’m always looking for a new adventure! I’ll be heading to the Florida beaches in a few weeks with the kids and I already have Zac Brown Band playing in my head constantly “Toes in the water…Life is good today.”
If you are looking for a Spring Break locale that is warm, boasts mountains and water, history, culture, outdoor adventure and entertainment then point your compass toward Vancouver, British Columbia.
Vancouver is an interesting mix of city and surroundings with speedy and easy access to Whistler Resort, Victoria, Vancouver Island, and the Canadian Rockies. It’s also the home port for Alaska cruises May through October. Canada has two official languages – English and French. English is the predominant language in British Columbia. And Canada does have its own currency. While some places accept US currency, you should try to use Canadian dollars and coins.
Vancouver sits above the U.S., warmed by Pacific Ocean currents and protected by a range of mountains. Its weather is mild year-round from high 70’s Fahrenheit in summer to a mild mid 40’s Fahrenheit in winter, the climate is always welcoming. And as our winter turns to spring, Vancouver comes alive with 40,000 cherry trees bursting with beautiful blooms.
There is so much to do outdoors and festivals are aplenty, too and truly make for a Spring Break like no other for visiting families. There are events for every taste in music, art, film and more.Vancouver’s summer signature event is the Celebration of Light, the city’s annual free fireworks tradition, held over four evenings at English Bay. It’s the largest international fireworks competition in the world held every year.
Things to Do In Vancouver
Sewell Marina. Creating memories for over 80 years with the largest boat fleet in Vancouver, Sewell Marina is located just 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver. You can take a guided eco-tour, drive your own speed boat or take a guided salmon charter.
Explore the lush Pacific Northwest rainforest from the unparalleled vantage point of Capilano Suspension Bridge, a 450-foot bridge that stretches over the Capilano River and through emerald green treetops. Afterward, venture through the rest of the 27-acre park, which touts colourful totem poles, a cantilevered walkway above Capilano Canyon and other forest adventures.
Cycle City Tours offers daily bicycle tours through some of Vancouver’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Riders can visit attractions such as the Stanley Park seawall, Granville Island Public Market, Chinatown and Gastown. Tour prices (@ $65-$85 per person) include the use of a cruiser bike, helmet and bike lock.
Vancouver has some amazing accommodations from luxury and large to boutique and remote.
Romantics and families will like the Rosewood Hotel Georgia. Even the youngest guests (and parents) can enjoy their stay by taking advantage of Rose Buds. This special program offers amenities such as Baby Primrose skincare products, full-size cribs and linens, child-sized bathrobes and slippers, a children’s menu for in-room dining and more.
At The Westin Bayshore, guests can make an eco-conscious choice. All guest rooms have energy-saving appliances and in-room recycling bins, and visitors can take part in the “Make a Green Choice” program, where each day of declining housekeeping will earn them a $5 voucher. The Westin Bayshore also composts organic food waste from the kitchens and donates servable food leftovers to Vancouver Food Bank
Your kids will enjoy meeting the Disney princesses at Cinderella’s Royal Table Fairy Tale Dining.
There’s a small window in our lives when Pixie Dust makes you fly and meeting giant mice wearing clothes is better than winning the lottery. With a trip to Walt Disney World, we get a chance to channel our inner child and experience that magic.
Taking children to Disney should be on everyone’s list of life to-do’s because there is something truly special about experiencing the “Happiest Place on Earth” through their eyes. That task can also be a bit overwhelming if you are not sure what you are doing. After all, it is an investment. Tickets, dining and lodging are not cheap and you certainly want to get the most bang for your buck.
So here are a few tips for a successful Magic Kingdom vacation. When you finish reading this, if you still have questions – just ask me. I’m glad to answer any questions; we’ll post the answers here on the Travel Smart Blog.
Let me begin with the MOST IMPORTANT TIP OF ALL: Have fun and don’t overschedule your family to the point that you aren’t having fun. It can almost be sensory overload – in a wonderful way, of course – so slow down and take it all in, especially on your kids level. Smaller kids will move slowly and that’s fine. Tweens and teens may want to hit ride after ride – and that’s great too. Depending on how much time that you have allowed for your visit, you may not get to everything, but that just leaves opportunity for you to come back again some day.
PLAN YOUR ROUTE
The lines for favorite and new attractions at any of Disney’s Parks get very long very quickly so head to those first and/or grab your Fast Passes.
You don’t have to be militant about your daily agenda but you should look at park maps and decide with your group what you want to see/ride each day. Then you can loosely plan a course of attack. I am a big fan of allowing for spontaneity but navigating Disney does require some strategy in order to not spend the bulk of your time in line. If you don’t have an agenda, then it’s a good idea to head to the back of the park first and work your way to the front. This way you’ll get the shortest lines, at least during the beginning of your day, as everyone else will be starting from the front.
USE FASTPASS
Master the FastPass system! Your park admission tickets do much more than just gain you entrance to Disney theme parks. They also enable you to get FastPasses, which keeps you riding rides instead of waiting in lines. They are FREE, simple to use, and will save you tons of time in line for the most popular rides. Get the most out of FastPasses– and your whole Disney World vacation– by using them strategically. Check out these Tips for Using Fastpasses.
Expert Tip: Have one person keep all the tickets for your group. 1. You don’t want to lose them and 2. You need them to get a FastPass.
MAGIC KINGDOM: Go Early – Leave – Come Back
The earlier you start your day, the better. Eat an early breakfast (or grab a yummy waffle sandwich at Liberty Park inside the MK) and then head over to the Magic Kingdom 30 minutes before the stated opening time. You can be first in line and catch the Magic Kingdom Welcome Show. You’ll never forget the look on your kids’ faces when they see the steam engine pull into Main Street Station with all the characters aboard waving at them.
Disney novices tend to sleep late, arrive at the park midmorning and then exit by early evening, exhausted by the heat and the crowds. My advice? Go early, have lunch at the park and then return to your resort for a nap or a swim. Re-enter the park around 5 PM when many families with young kids are on their way out. The dinner rush at the parks is between 6:00 – 7:30 PM. Eat before you go back or as soon as you re-enter the park; then hit the rides while everyone else is eating their dinner. Plan to stay for the night parade.
When you first enter the park in the morning, head for the attractions that are most important to your group. If you have bigger kids or you are a big kid yourself then make a beeline for Space Mountain, Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Hitting these early might even get you multiple rides. For the little ones: head to Fantasy Land and hop in line for a ride on Dumbo or fly off with Peter Pan. If your kids are brave and over 44 inches tall, Goofy’s Barnstormer is a great first coaster for preschoolers. And don’t forget to make your way to Frontierland and Pirates of the Caribbean.
Skip Main Street for the Parade
If you’re returning to the Magic Kingdom at night for the parade, head toward Frontierland for a spot on the parade route unless you want to be out of the park as soon as it’s over. People start holding their places on Main Street, in my experience, very early, which isn’t really necessary. There is lots of “front row” room in Frontierland. If you have seen the parade before then take the time while the parade is making its course to also ride a few more rides.
For Little Princesses: Cinderella’s Royal Table Fairy Tale Dining. Little girls, dressed like their favorite Disney Princesses, will think they have died and gone to princess heaven when they are treated to a dining experience inside Cinderella’s castle complete with her and all her friends. Speaking from experience, the meal is surprisingly excellent, which helped to justify the cost. However, it was all worth it to see my daughter’s reaction to the whole experience! Throughout your dining experience, the Princesses visit each table, are on hand to pose for photos and sign autographs. For a sweet finale, desserts include a sampler trio and other irresistible treats. Reservations and pre-payment are required. To make reservations, book online or call (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463. If they day/meal you are looking for is full – KEEP CHECKING. I didn’t get in on my first, second or seventh call but we finally got five seats at the special event.
DISNEY HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS
If you are starting your day at Hollywood Studios then you want to head straight for the Toy Story Mania ride. Ride it and then grab a Fast Pass so that you can do it again. It’s one of my favorite rides in Walt Disney World.
For Star Wars fans: Jedi Training Academy. If you are visiting Hollywood Studios, you want to get to the park early and let “the Force” navigate you to the Jedi Training sign-up line. Kids ages 4-12 can participate and it is FREE to do it. There are multiple shows throughout the day but only 15 training spots per show. So be sure to sign up for a time early – check out the video of Travis, my son, taking on Darth Vader – just return at your scheduled time. You can even get your FastPass for the new Star Tours attraction. It is a great experience for the kids, entertaining for the adults, super photo ops and participants get a great certificate at the end.
SNACKS!
Eating in the parks is not cheap so to avoid a potential financial hemorrhage you should stop and buy snacks when you get to Orlando. Fruit snacks, crackers, juice boxes, etc. – carry them in a backpack around the parks. Your wallet and the kids you are with will thank you. Dole them out while standing in line for rides.
WEATHER
It can actually be cold in Florida especially in the evenings. Check the weather and make sure to pack jackets for your visit.
CHARACTER MEET & GREETS
A great, affordable souvenir that also has a function during your visit to Walt Disney World is an autograph book. Buy one for each child at any Disney store (and a pen) and begin collecting character autographs and photo memories of your visit. Character locations are displayed on maps of each theme park. Mickey’s Toontown® Fair at the Magic Kingdom is a great place to meet Characters like the Princesses and Tinkerbell and her fairy friends. To see Mickey, go to the Judge’s Tent. You can take your own photos or get a photo pass card from a Disney photographer and review your photos post-trip.
USE DISNEY TRANSPORTATION
The Disney buses, monorails and watercraft make it easy to get around and can be part of the fun. I hate to say it but I think my kids looked forward to the “free” bus and monorail rides most of all.
RIDER SWAP PROGRAM
Theme Park “rider swap” program gives both mom and dad a chance to enjoy the latest attractions without the double wait. A parent who waits with a young child while the other parent rides the attraction can get on the ride with minimal wait time once the first parent comes off.
NEW ATTRACTIONS
2012 will have some fun new attractions for Walt Disney World. The Magic Kingdom will introduce the new Fantasyland later this year complete with a new Under The Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid ride.
Thanks to 2012 being a Leap Year, Disney announced that there will be an extra day of magic called “One More Disney Day.” For the first time ever, both Magic Kingdom Park and Disneyland parks will stay open for 24 hours straight. From 6 AM, February 29 to 6 AM, March 1, 2012, local time, you can fill the extra day with a marathon of Disney Parks fun!
Wow! I could go on and on but as they say…”Now it’s time to say good-bye…” Share with me your best Disney tips. I’d love to hear them and we’ll share them right here on the Travel Smart Blog!
The Riverwalk is a great place to shop, eat, and spend some time in Ft. Lauderdale. (photo courtesy of web.timesharejuice.com)
As the cold weather sets in across most of the U.S., I thought I would feature a destination that exudes warmth both literally in its annual temperature and figuratively in its charm and hospitality. Fort Lauderdale, Florida sits on the Atlantic coast with its calm, welcoming sophistication that feels a world apart from the frenetic culture that is only about an hour’s drive away – Miami.
Fort Lauderdale isn’t just another sleepy beach town. Sure, it has 23 miles of Blue Wave certified beaches, but it also has a thriving arts and entertainment scene, and exceptional shopping and dining options. I could eat my weight in fresh seafood when I am visiting this Florida coastal city!
AN EASY VACATION DESTINATION
This might be one of the best compliments I can give a vacation destination. Ft. Lauderdale is easy. Easy to get to, around, and depart from. Its airport (FLL) is easy to fly into. FLL offers the lowest fares in South Florida with 300 daily departures to over 100 destinations in the U.S., Latin America, Canada, the Caribbean and Germany. No-frills Spirit Airlines recently announced that it will begin daily service from Phoenix to Ft. Lauderdale.
Can’t resist Caribbean cruises? The city also boasts a thriving cruise port. Why not spend a few days on its beautiful beaches and then embark on a cruise out of Port Everglades? In fact, many area hotels have shuttles to the port for pre- or post-trip delivery.
THINGS TO DO IN FORT LAUDERDALE
You can’t ignore the indigenous surroundings unique to Fort Lauderdale. Immerse yourself in the heart of the swamp with a tour from Billie Swamp Safari and learn about the unconquered Seminole Tribe of Florida on the Big Cypress Indian Reservation. Swamp buggy eco-tours and airboat adventure tours depart daily through 2200 acres of everglades.
Fun for the whole family includes visits to Butterfly World and the Flamingo Gardens. Scooter, canoe, jet ski and other watersports are sure to thrill. Snorkel (no boat needed) from shore along Lauderdale-By-The-Sea’s three-tiered reef system and discover the many underwater treasures. Sea turtles nest along Greater Fort Lauderdale’s beaches. From May through October these creatures will return to their home beaches to lay eggs.
Downtown Fort Lauderdale Stroll, people watch, dine at an outdoor cafe and shop the chic boutiques along Las Olas Boulevard, a sophisticated mile of fashion, art and sidewalk cafes. Then “follow the red brick road” of Riverwalk, the landscaped park, to the Arts & Entertainment District.
IIGFA Fishing Hall Of Fame & Museum World-class state-of-the-art facility includes seven galleries, an outdoor marina, living wetlands, a theater, virtual fishing and indoor/outdoor demonstrations. Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun noon-6pm. Adults $8, seniors and children 3-16 $5, under 3 free.
COMING UP IN FT. LAUDERDALE
The A1A Marathon on February 19 is the perfect setting for runners and spectators. The 26.2-mile course attracts athletes from South Florida, 40-plus states, and 12 foreign countries.
The Sistrunk Parade and Festival on February 25 is presented by the Sistrunk Historical Festival – a cultural organization that celebrates the accomplishments of people of African descent – featuring floats, marching bands, drill teams, step dancers, and vibrant Caribbean Carnival dancers.
From the sea grass to the saw grass, Greater Fort Lauderdale offers thousands of lodging accommodations at a variety of hotels, luxury spa resorts, and small inn/motels.
This hotel continually receives excellent guest reviews. Its staff is courteous and helpful, the rooms are well appointed and comfortable, and the restaurant is delicious. Be sure to arrange for an oceanfront view. The Atlantic is perfectly situated to walk to restaurants and nightlife.
Owned by the Seminole Indian Tribe, the hotel features a four and one-half acre lagoon style pool complete with waterfalls and a 182-foot waterslide. A 130,000 square foot casino adds the fun that includes 17 restaurants, 11 nightclubs, a European-style spa and 22 shops.
Set on the Intercoastal Waterway, this hotel will not disappoint. Take a convenient water taxi right from the hotel to experience fun in Ft. Lauderdale. This hotel offers five restaurants, three pools, an aquatics center, private cabanas, and a lot of relaxation.
Phoenix is the perfect warm weather getaway for winter. (Photo courtesy of iab.net)
If the thought of the impending winter is giving you the chills, then plan a trip to sunny, sumptuous Phoenix. With its unseasonably warm weather, world-class sports stadiums (it was just named the home of Super Bowl 2015), outdoor adventure, art and culture, and a wealth of spas, resorts and hotels, Arizona’s largest city is as inviting as a gorgeous sunset over the desert. Oh, it has those too!
Phoenix passionately embraces its Wild West past and desert surroundings. Wander among an ancient adobe village at Pueblo Grand Museum and Archaeological Park, or mosey down the dusty streets of aWild West theme town.Beginning in January, you can bring a picnic basket to outdoor concerts at theScottsdale Center for the Arts. By foot, by bike, even by horse there is so much to do in Phoenix; or do nothing but relax in one of the areas renowned spas.
Here are a few of the current happenings at Phoenix Hotels. Thanks to my friends at the Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau for the scoop on these specials!
For the Girlfriend Getaway
The Arizona Biltmore has launched the Winemaker Dinner series, which runs through May 3, 2012. On eight separate occasions, guests can taste bold, innovative menus paired with wines from California and France as they watch haute couture fashion shows sponsored by Saks Fifth Avenue. Arizona Biltmore Executive Chef Todd Sicolo and Sous Chef Conor Favre will create the four-to-six course menus. The wines’ creators will attend to socialize and answer any questions. Admission- Single Ticket: $95, Season Pass: $665.
Cocktail lovers can get expert teaching from “Good Libations” cocktail-making class at JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. The class starts with a tour of the resort’s organic herb gardens, where guests can pick their own herbs. It ends with a cocktail class taught by one of the resort’s mixologists, incorporating the handpicked herbs into a freshly made cocktail. This “how-to” class highlights the resort’s extensive variety of desert botanicals, organic herbs, and highly regarded beverage program. This class is an exciting way to learn more about spirit and herb pairings, desert ingredients and at-home herb gardening. A complimentary seed packet brings the fun home. Price- Guests: Free, Non-Guests: $25.
For the Golf Enthusiast
The Four Seasons Resort at Troon North offers time-crunched golfers the new Monument Express, a 9-hole golf course designed within the layout of the famous Monument course. The course is short and offers two PAR options based on skill level. Beginners, juniors, active adults, and children are all perfect fits for Monument Express, and at just $20 per player. Reservations can be made seven days in advance.
Golfers should attend one of Boulders Resort’s new Golf Academy Programs taught by PGA and LPGA professionals. The programs encourage golfers to get back into the swing of things and include a Ladies Only Mini School, Golfers Guide, Buddies Share Day, and even a 2-day “Golf Academy Vacation package”. A new ‘short’ course will be offered beginning Nov. 1 and is ideal for amateurs or professionals with a tight schedule.
Need a few more ideas about things to do in the Valley of the Sun? Check out these Phoenix travel guides from hotels.com. And if you haven’t done it yet, be sure to download the new Hotels.com App for iPhone®, iPad® or Android® that makes planning and booking your next trip simply convenient.
Have you been to Phoenix? What other attractions would you recommend?
One of my favorite places to visit in the fall is the city of Boston. (Photo courtesy of boston.com)
If you leave a comment at the bottom of this post and let me know why you love Taylor Swift, you could receive two free tickets to her San Diego or Phoenix shows THIS WEEK! Read through the post to find out how.
If you are: seeking changing leaves and cooler weather, a sports enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for some authentic Halloween adventure, then set a course for Boston for an autumn weekend getaway.
Boston is a breathtaking mix of historic and modern architectural wonders coupled with vibrant culture, dining and shopping. According the Hotel Price Index from Hotels.com, Boston is the 5th most popular East Coast City amongst both American and international travelers.
Fall Foliage in Boston is at its peak during the last few weeks of October. You can take in the vibrant leaves all over the city. Turn your kids’ fall break into some educational fun as you stand along the waterfront where the Boston Massacre took place or take in the Bunker Hill Monument site of the famed Revolutionary War battle. Be sure to cruise (by foot or rent a bicycle) the 2 ½ mile Freedom Trail where you can take in 16 historic sites including the USS Constitution and Paul Revere’s house.
Savings on Site-Seeing
The Family-Friendly Value Pass available through the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau through the end of October makes it easy to stay and play affordably in Boston. It is a free pass, which offers substantial discounts and freebies at a variety of venues and eateries throughout the city. Another avenue of savings is the Boston City Pass, which gives you admission to five signature attractions and a significantly reduced cost.
A Brew Tour or Two
For fans of authentic New England brews, tickets are available for the Freedom Trail Pub Crawl every Tuesday at 5:30 P.M. from the ArtsBoston Booth at Faneuil Hall. Call (617) 357-8300 for more details and to make a reservation.For a suggested donation of $2 – all of which goes to support local charities – beer enthusiasts can also enjoy an affordable tour of the Sam Adams Brewery, including product samples and historical factoids about the famed brewer himself.
Haunted Happenings
Boston is one of the most haunted cities in America and with Halloween right around the corner, the tricks and treats are around the city.
Head up the coast just 16 miles north of Boston to the town of Salem, the infamous site of the 1692 witch trials, and join the town’s popular one hour outdoor candlelit tour, led by well-known historian and author Jim McAllister. The tour explores the sites and story of the witch trials, Salem’s darkest hour. Catch the tour Thursdays through Sundays through October 30th at 7pm.
Get your scare on at the The Fear at Fenway at historic Fenway Park with three ‘spooktacular’ attractions and even a lights-on version for the kiddos. Another popular attraction is the Ghosts and Gravestones Tour around Boston led by a host of ghoulish characters.
A wonderful hotel for its location and service is the Omni Parker House Hotel. It’s also Boston’s most haunted hotel. Plan a visit with some of the hotel’s more bizarre and permanent guests. Prices of hotel rooms in Boston are going up, HOWEVER, Americans are also spending more, both domestically and overseas –spending an average of $5 more a night on U.S. properties and $11 more at hotels internationally over last year.
Traveling during the fall is one of my favorite times to explore a new city but don’t let the season keep you from seeing Boston. And when you go: be sure to brush up on your New England speak. If you want to sound like a local in Boston, take some tips from The Wicked Good Guide to Boston English.
I can’t believe we’re already halfway through October and nearing November! November’s ‘City of the Month’ post will highlight the wonderful city of Phoenix, Arizona. In honor of November’s ‘City of the Month’ we are giving away two sets of Taylor Swift tickets for her San Diego (Thursday, October 20) and Phoenix (Friday, October 21) shows. If you’ll be in either of these cities THIS WEEK, leave a comment telling us why you love Taylor Swift and what city you would like to see the concert in for a chance to receive two free tickets. Good luck!
I love Chicago in the fall, it's the perfect time to visit. (Photo courtesy of mandy-reimann.blogspot.com)
I♥NY. It’s true. But now listen up because I have to tell you why Chicago is really “my kind of town.”
I do find Chicago remarkably similar to New York City but at a less overwhelming, less frenetic pace. The similarities begin with great architecture, shopping and entertainment. Contrasting the two, I find Chicago more easily navigable, clean, relatively safe and affordable. The city’s central location makes it accessible from many states by car; and thanks to its two monstrous (I will admit that) airports, you can often get quite the airfare deal in and out of the city.
According to the latest Hotel Price Index just released by hotels.com, Chi-town ranks number twelve (#12) on the list of most expensive cities with an average nightly rate of nearly $136 per night. But that’s still an average of $54 less per night than New York City. Despite hotel room rates rising an average of 10% from the last year across the U.S., cities across the country are still lowering rates dramatically to attract vacationers in the midst of the economic downturn.
My husband and I from a past Chicago Oktoberfest celebration.
Staying in Chicago
For those of us who try to make that dollar stretch while on vacation, Chicago is still one of those cities where you get more bang for the buck with hotel accommodations compared to some other large U.S. metropolises. For example, a stay at the 4-star Hotel Felix Chicago, which features a full-service spa and fitness facility, may cost you a mere $115/night. And I hear the beds are super comfy! The perfectly situated Sofitel Chicago Water Tower hotel is plush and refined with rates from $290/night. I hold a special spot in my heart for the Sofitel staff that took care of my every need and request when I was bitten by a stomach bug during a business trip. It’s an experience like that, which builds loyalty!
With so much to see and to do in Chicago, it’s no surprise then that the city ranks number four (#4) as a top destination for Americans behind Las Vegas, New York and Orlando. Even international visitors who typically favor U.S. destinations with sun and surf, ranked Chicago number eight (#8) on their list of top cities to visit.
Things to do in Chicago
Dining in Chicago is an experience as well. Many of the city’s chefs and restaurants are lauded for their culinary masterpieces but none more than the famed Chicago-style deep dish pizza. It’s easy to navigate the city; whether you’re walking to Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile or take your chance on the El train line (their subway system), affordable entertainment abounds in the Windy City as well with many options for visitors of all ages. I like to take the El, which is user-friendly and inexpensive, to Armitage Avenue and spend a leisurely afternoon strolling fashionable Lincoln Park.
Chicago in the fall is the city at its best. It’s completely doable in a weekend and will feel like you had a week and still leave you wanting more. If you get there soon, catch Oktoberfest Chicago, September 23-25th or perhaps take in a Cubs or Bears game.
And do me a favor when you’re there, take an architectural boat tour of the city; you won’t regret it!
Fall is my favorite time of year because of the weather, leaves changing colors, and the festivals. (Photo courtesy of www.bobatkins.com)
All winter long, I dream of warm days. I visualize the hot sun, warm water and lots of sand. And yet, when it gets here (especially this year), it’s too hot and I find myself looking forward to the crispness of fall. If I had to pick a favorite season it would be the autumnal months of September, October and November; that is to say, November in some cities.
Fall ushers in its own brand of excitement with plenty of warm temps wrapped with some cool mornings and nights, changing foliage, football, and lots of festivals! And it’s in these festivals where you can really have some fun, experience a new destination and relish the colors of the season.
Here are my picks for the Top Five Fall Festivals in 2011.
For 17 days each September, New England celebrates the end of summer with The Big E! Set in West Springfield, Massachusetts, this colossal event features top entertainment, like my favorites Darius Rucker, Reba and Blake Shelton, The Big E Super Circus, The Avenue of States, Storrowton Village Museum, animals, competitive exhibits, rides, shopping, crafts, a daily parade and a Mardi Gras parade, and foods from around the world.
Munich’s Oktoberfest is the ultimate fall celebration, but if you are keeping it stateside then it doesn’t get much better than the Mount Angel Oktoberfest. Settled by German pioneers in the early 1800s, the Oregon town of Mount Angel looks like a scene straight out of Bavaria. Its first Oktoberfest celebration was in 1966, and today about 350,000 excited beer-drinkers flock to check out continuous live music on four stages, traditional beer and wine gardens, and 50 food chalets.
More than half a million people will fill downtown Cincinnati and its historic fountain square district for the two days of revelry. Oktoberfest-Zinzinnati features loads of traditional and not-so-traditional activities like hosting the world’s largest chicken dance (it actually holds the world record) and the world’s largest kazoo band. The rest of the weekend plays host to folk dancers, concerts and contests.
Pack your tent for this four-day event nestled in the heart of the Ozarks. You can even enter the Fiddlin’ and Pickin’ Contest! Sign up for Mandolin, Banjo, Flat-picking, and Fiddle to compete at the festival for a cash prize! The festival features an impressive lineup of musical artists, food vendors, and arts and crafts.
With the Pennsylvania leaves at their peak color in October, the mountains are a show of their own during the annual Fall Foliage Festival held over two weekends in Bedford. There will be entertainment and activities for attendees of all ages. In its 47th year, this annual salute to all things red, yellow and orange just might be the fall getaway you’ve been looking for.
And another event worth noting is the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Dedication on the National Mall in Washington D.C. The event, which was supposed to happen this past Sunday, was postponed because of Hurricane Irene. So be on the lookout for the official dedication ceremony on a date yet determined in September or October. Fall is gorgeous in the Nation’s capital and the Memorial is said to be open now so even if you can’t make the official ceremony; plan a trip to see the newest, and one of the most beautiful, memorial in D.C.
To celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War, go to Mt. Rushmore for an inspiring symbol of democracy. (Photo courtesy of custersd.com)
Perhaps now would be a good time to take one last family trip before returning to school this fall. I am a firm believer that learning should be fun and interesting; and what better way to bring history, geography, science and literature alive than to experience them first hand? And yes! Before you ask me, I do believe that education and fun are not mutually exclusive. Last summer I recommended some of America’s most historic cities, but here are few more destinations to consider when planning a fun, fact-packed vacation.
2011 started a four-year commemoration of the Civil War’s 150th Anniversary. If you are a U.S. history buff or just want to tour some beautiful cities with a story behind them, then consider the battlefields of one of America’s most controversial wars. While 60% of the war was fought in Virginia, I recommend these cities for a trip well worth making.
Visit the spot where the first shot was fired at Fort Sumter in Charleston, SC. Much of the old plantation architecture has been wonderfully preserved and a visit to the city is a great way to further your understanding of pre-Civil War America. Charleston is a walking city and it is, by far, the best way to see it and appreciate its history, architecture and southern charm whether on your own or by guided tour. With great bed & breakfasts in the historic downtown, romance in Charleston is alive and well.
In downtown Atlanta, The Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. had a dream that was instrumental in obtaining equal civil rights for all citizens of the United States, regardless of skin color. A visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site is made up of several facilities, including the Visitor Center, Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, The King Center and the Birth Home. There are several exhibits that document the life and career of Martin Luther King Jr. as well as the progression of the Civil Rights Movement, which began around the centennial year of the Civil War.
The Lore of the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota
Breathtaking vistas, amazing outdoor recreation and Old West history populate the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota. With legendary names like Crazy Horse, Sitting Bull, Red Cloud, General George A. Custer, Wild Bill Hickok, and Calamity Jane; visitors young and old will be captivated by the stories and scenes from the time when this part of the country belonged to the Sioux Indians, the gold rush and the railroad expansion. And don’t forget to see the homestead of Laura Ingalls Wilder, the famed Little House on the Prairie author.
It’s still a secret that the second-longest cave in the world, Jewel Cave, is in the Black Hills. The region notably enjoys Mount Rushmore, one of America’s most inspiring symbols of democracy. And, modern day entertainment options include six theme and amusement parks.
Throughout Philadelphia, you can learn about the founding of America, the history of the original Quaker colony, and even get a tour by “Benjamin Franklin” himself. Rivaled only to Boston, Philadelphia is home to many national historical sites that relate to 18th century and revolutionary America such as the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross house and Independence Hall. Additionally the city has more public art than any other U.S. city.
Next week, I’ll share my tips for preparing a child for travel whether by road, air or sea. Are you planning on taking any historical vacations this year?
0
If you have questions, comments, or want to speak with the author of the Travel Smart Blog, please contact Nicole Hockin at 
