Planning a Trip Tips

Tips for Romantic Weekend Getaways

Sometimes life can get so hectic that it’s difficult to plan for a long romantic vacation. Romantic weekend getaways are becoming more and more popular with busy couples who are often tied up with careers and parenting. Here are some tips to make the most of romantic getaways:

Book vacation packages that include airfare. If you need to travel on weekends, you’ll save money booking the flight and hotel at the same time.

Pack thoughtfully. Bring a new piece of lingerie, a special romantic playlist on your MP3 player, and some bubble bath.

Visit resorts and upscale hotels close to home. When you’re short on time, cut down on travel time. Sometimes a fancy hotel room and a nice quiet meal are all it takes to inspire romance.

Stay unplugged. Leave your cell phone off and leave your computer at home. Never check work mail and resist the urge to check in with the kids at home.

Find a hotel with character. Try a rustic lodge, a boutique hotel or a beachside villa. Look for an atmosphere that draws you away from your everyday routine. If you plan on staying in your room most of the time, check to see if the hotel offers room service.

Denver Hotels: Luxury Hot Spots

Whether you’re in Denver for art, food, sports or culture, you can spend the night in luxury at one of these incredible upscale Denver hotels. Splurge on the finest accommodations, views and amenities at one of these hot hotels:

Hotel Teatro: The Teatro opened a little over ten years ago and was recently fully renovated to the tune of over 1.5 million dollars. The boutique hotel is located near the areas top performing arts, sports and convention complexes. But it doesn’t feel like a convention area hotel or chain. The guest rooms are absolutely luxurious, with gentle gold and soft sage tones that inspire relaxation. Enjoy top of the line Aveda products in the guest bathrooms.

St. Julien Hotel and Spa: Located in Boulder, this hotel is a favorite of outdoorsy travelers looking for a zen-like atmosphere to chill out between hikes. The construction itself was meant to blend with and complement the surrounding nature. The guest rooms are decorated in pale colors with fine dark hardwoods. The arguably best feature is the amazing view of the local mountains.

Brown Palace Hotel and Spa: This hotel, Denver’s only four star and four diamond hotel, was recently named one of the Top 500 World’s Best Hotels. With guest rooms ranging from Art Deco to Victorian and a handful of fine dining venues right on property, this hotel is equipped to please a variety of travelers’ tastes. Business travelers prefer this hotel for the state of the art meeting and conference facilities.

Tampa Bay Sports Guide: Tampa Hotels

The Tampa Bay area is home to several exciting sports franchises. Find out where to stay in Tampa hotels to get close to the action.

Hockey: The Tampa Bay Lightning play at the St. Pete Times Forum in the Channelside District of Tampa. Head to the game early to enjoy a casual dinner at one of the local sports bars or right at the forum at one of the high-class vendors. Stay at a hotel in nearby Ybor City so you can enjoy the area’s vibrant nightlife after the game. Public trolleys offer nighttime transportation from Ybor to Channelside.

Baseball: The Tampa Bay Rays play across the bay in St. Petersburg at Tropicana Field. The nearby area features a few sports bars, but the real action takes place on Beach Drive just a few miles away downtown. Take the Central Avenue trolley after the game and stay in downtown St. Petersburg on the waterfront or just a quick drive away at one of the beach communities like Treasure Island or St. Pete Beach.

Football: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers play at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. The nearby area is bustling with residential neighborhoods, businesses and restaurants and can get fairly congested before or after games. Splurge on a hotel in downtown Tampa. You’ll need to drive from the stadium, but you’ll enjoy waking up in one of the area’s most beautiful hotels.

Not going to the game?

• Spend time at International Plaza and shop at Nordstrom, Macy’s and Z Gallerie.
• Head to Hyde Park to visit the gorgeous Anthropologie store.
• Visit the Florida Aquarium and cool down next to the calming blue tanks full of tropical fish.

California Vacation Tips: Adventure Travel

California offers an expansive array of activities for every type of traveler. If you’re planning an adventurous California vacation, check out these amazing fitness and outdoors activities:

Camping: With 13 campgrounds to choose from, Yosemite is paradise for hikers and campers. The rates are great, making this a frugal choice for a California vacation. Due to popularity, reservations generally need to be made several months ahead of time.

Horseback Riding on the Beach: In beaches like Oceano Beach, south of Pismo Beach, recreational stables rent horses or offer guided tours right alongside the water. Appropriate for all skill levels, this activity is a great way to add romance to a California vacation for couples.

Snowboarding and Skiing: California offers dozens of seasonal ski areas and resorts. Try Dodge Ridge in Central California or Cedar Pass in Northern California. In the off season, many ski resorts offer challenging hiking trails.

Hiking: Nearly every region of California offers amazing hiking trails. Book time with a guide or research trails ahead of time. The coastal trails are famous for Oceanside views while inland mountain and desert areas offer a more challenging hikes.

Whitewater Rafting: Stick with the experts and book a trip with a safe whitewater rafting tour group. The season occurs when snow packs begin to melt and the rivers get wild. Try the Truckee River or East Carson River.

Surfing: Few sports are as iconic as surfing in California. The various beaches of California offer beginner level and expert surf. Learn to surf on your California vacation or find the best hot spots if you’re already a pro.

Five Unique Bars in Philadelphia

Visiting Philadelphia on business or on vacation? You’re in luck. The main Philadelphia hotels are within easy walking or taxi distance from the surprisingly hot nightlife scene in this historic city. Take a break after dinner and get ready for a great night out on the town at one of these five unique bars.

Ortlieb’s Jazzhaus: If you’re looking for excellent live music, head to the Northern Liberties neighborhood for this authentic jazz bar. It’s a great bar to stay at all night thanks to the extensive menu of Southern food and the reasonably priced beers.

Walnut Room: As mysterious as a speakeasy, this trendy bar hides behind an unmarked door. Don’t let the exterior fool you—the inside is sumptuous and the big windows keep you from feeling too crowded. This is a great place to end a date night.

Lucy’s Hat Shop: Featuring a mostly college-aged crowd, this fun bar features dancing on most nights. Head in for a game on one of the big TVs or come later in the evening when the dance floor gets crowded and the drink specials are still cheap.

Gayle: If you’re looking for something more quiet and refined, check out the bar at Gayle, one of Philadelphia’s swankiest restaurants. Expect to see a mix of professionals and well-dressed couples. Whether you enjoy the bar before dinner or to wind down at the end of the night, it’s a nice calming place to enjoy fine wines and local beers.

Bob & Barbara’s: It might be a little bit of a dive, but this bar is undeniably fun. Between inventive gaming tournaments (think drunken ping-pong) and drag shows once a week, you won’t be bored here.

Las Vegas Vacations: Beyond Casinos

If you’re not a fan of gambling, don’t worry. There are still plenty of attractions to visit on Las Vegas vacations. Here are some exciting things to do in Sin City:

Check out Live Entertainment: From magic to big Broadway musicals, Las Vegas has an abundance of live entertainment options. You can find family-friendly shows or adult shows with a risqué element. Look for discount tickets when you book ahead of time.

Climb the Stratosphere: If you’re not afraid of heights, take a trip up to the top of the Stratosphere. If you’re really brave, try one of the terrifying rides at the top of the attraction. The Big Shot is a traditional free fall ride. The X-Scream dangles you 866 above the ground. Get an all-day pass if you plan on scaring yourself silly more than a few times.

Drive an Exotic Car: Head to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway for a once in a lifetime chance to zip around a real racetrack behind the wheel of a Ferrari, Aston Martin or Lamborghini.

Go to the Circus: Visit the world’s largest circus at the Circus Circus hotel. The show goes on all day long, so it’s easy to fit a showing or two into your schedule. Afterwards, visit the midway to check out over 200 games.

Ride a Roller Coaster: Keep your eyes open on this thrilling roller coaster. Otherwise you’ll miss some of the best views of the strip. Whisk by models of NYC sights and buildings on this sleek hanging coaster.

Go Outdoors: Dozens of tours are available to check out the areas surroung Las Vegas. You can take a helicopter, rent a car, or head on a guided Jeep tour. Don’t miss a chance to take in the stunning sights and views around Las Vegas.

New York vacations: How to Get Around

Nervous about traveling to the Big Apple? Don’t be. It’s one of the easiest cities to travel around. New York vacations are perfectly appropriate for couples, families or singles. Here are some tips to help you get where you’re going in New York City.

The Subway: Don’t be intimidated by NYC’s subway system. It’s actually very easy to use. As long as you’re not traveling alone super late at night, it’s also very safe. Here are some subway tips:

• Don’t get in people’s way. Locals are usually in a hurry. If you’re lost, step aside against a pillar or wall while you get your bearings.
• Consult maps. Ask your hotel concierge for a subway map. Don’t buy one on the street. If you have an app-enabled cell phone, you can also download free subway maps.
• Ask for help. Not sure if you’re supposed to be traveling uptown or downtown? Ask someone. If you’re unsure about asking a stranger, as a transit employee.
• Pre-fill your Metrocard. Use the automatic machines to put money on your metrocard right away so you don’t get stuck in lines later when you’re in a rush to get somehere.
• Relax: If you miss your train or miss a stop, relax. Your mistake can be easily reversed. Get on the train going the other way, or simply wait. The next train will arrive soon.

• If you’re at a hotel or restaurant, the doorman will direct you.
• These days, you don’t need cash, but you should consider using it. The drivers are paid more quickly if you use cash.
• Don’t forget to tip.

Five San Antonio Hotels Near Riverwalk

San Antonio is famous for the Alamo, but these days, visitors head to the lively Riverwalk area for charming restaurants and a rich sense of history. Stay near Riverwalk so you can walk along the waterfront and watch the barges float by. Here are five fun San Antonio Hotels for vacationers:

Omni La Mansion del Rio: Walk from this highly rated hotel to the Alamo, El Mercado, La Villita District and all of the attractions along Riverwalk. Don’t leave without making reservations at Las Canarias for a taste of local game meats and indigenous spices.

Hotel Indigo San Antonio: This historical boutique hotel is known as a quiet retreat for guests who still want to stay close to the main tourist attractions in San Antonio. Room interiors are plain but stately, giving the entire property a calm, relaxing atmosphere.

Westin Riverwalk: This favorite among San Antonio hotels has local charm and all the luxurious amenities associated with the upscale Westin brand, including spacious bathrooms and soaking tubs. Relax from a day of walking on the signature Heavenly Bed®.

Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk: Located across the street from the Alamo, the Hyatt Regency is a pretty standard Hyatt property. But this means you have access to the great service and quality expected from the brand. Walk nearby for a riverboat cruise.

O Brien Historic Riverwalk: Looking for a boutique property? The O Brien has 39 rooms, free wireless internet and a quaint atmosphere. Just a block away from Riverwalk, it’s a great place to stay if you want to get swept up by the historic energy of San Antonio.

How to Prepare for a Ski Vacation

Unless you live in a snowy climate, you probably don’t own lots of snow gear and cold weather clothing. Here are some tips for packing your family for a ski vacation—without breaking the bank.

Ask for help: Do your neighbors go skiing every year? Do you have friends with a time-share ski chalet? See if you can borrow ski bibs, boots and other outwear for your vacation. In exchange, offer babysitting, a home-cooked meal or a gift certificate.

Check thrift stores: Most thrift stores have a few ski items in stock, even in warm weather locations. Look for heavy coats, gloves and ski bibs at a fraction of the cost of buying new or even renting.

Buy only essentials: Pick up undergarments, new socks and face and ear protection. These items stay directly against the skin and should be purchased new. Consider sports-quality sunglasses as well.

Rent your gear: Ski shops will rent outerwear as well as gear like skis, boots and snowboards. Check for discounts for multiple days or big groups. Get a thin pair of gloves to wear under heavy gloves if you feel weird renting gloves.

Pack sunscreen and ointment: Avoid inflated prices at your ski vacation destination by purchasing sunscreen and face and lip ointments ahead of time. Don’t forget first aid basics like blister relief bandages and antibiotic ointment.

Research discounts: Before you leave, find out if your ski vacation resort offers discounts on other attractions, meals, or rentals. If you put some extra time in before your trip, you’ll be more likely to find savvy ways to save money.

Florida Vacation Tips: What to Pack

Whether you’re traveling to Orlando theme parks or Miami beaches, you need to prepare for unique Florida weather. Here’s a list to help you get started on your Florida vacation packing:

Shorts or Capris: Don’t worry about looking like a tourist. Sometimes it’s really hot in Florida. Shorts are totally fine during the day, especially if you’re visiting an outdoor attraction or the beach. If you’re not comfortable in shorts, wear light material and avoid heavy denim.

Comfortable Sandals: Open-toed shoes are a must, especially if you’re visiting the beach. No one wants to try to get sand out of sneakers. Try easy-to-clean shoes (such as Crocs) for kids.

Sunscreen and Sunblock Clothing: Pack your best hats, sunblock clothing and your favorite sunscreen. Even in the winter, sun protection is a must in Florida. With a healthy dose of sunblock, you can enjoy the gorgeous sunshine on your Florida vacation.

Layers: Indoor theme park attractions and shopping centers are heavily air-conditioned in Florida. Prepare for climate changes by keeping a light cardigan or sweatshirt with you for a little extra warmth, especially if you chill easily.

Umbrellas or Ponchos: Don’t get stuck in the rain or worse—stuck buying an expensive poncho at a theme park. Shop for a travel umbrella or foldable travel ponchos for those just-in-case occasions. Florida rain is generally brief but very heavy.

Tote Bags: Pack a few collapsible tote bags for quick storage on the go. Use them to drag toys to and from the beach, to carry souvenirs at theme parks, or to store wet clothes after a trip to the splash park. You can never have too many totes.

Celebrate Fine Cuisine in Atlanta

Atlanta is hands down the culinary capital of the South. Home to dozen of celebrity chef owned restaurants and vibrant ethnic districts, this Southern city has everything a foodie could want. Book a few nights at Atlanta hotels and get ready to start eating.

Kevin Rathburn Steak: Check out this Inman Park restaurant for authentic Kansas City style steak. Expect to pay around $100 for appetizers and meals for two.

Flip Burger Boutique: Owned by Top Chef alum Richard Blais, this burger joint is probably most famous for the Krispy Kreme milkshakes. Enjoy one with a Kobe beef burger.

Straights: Inspired by Singaporean cuisine, this slick, modern restaurant has a reasonably priced menu and plenty of atmosphere to soak in. Stop in on a weekend and you might run into some local celebs.

Woodfire Grill: Owned by another Top Chef contestant, Kevin Gillespie, this hot spot focuses on local cuisine. Knowing the head chef’s affinity for pork, xpect to see it cooked in tantalizing ways. Book well in advance.

5 & 10: This well-received restaurant near the University of Georgia features a popular prix fixe menu for just $24. Despite the caliber of the food, the atmosphere isn’t too stuffy. Don't miss the "snackies" like marinated white anchovies with grapefruit.

Where to stay: Atlanta hotels range from quaint bed and breakfast inns to luxurious name brand hotels. For a central location and plenty of comfort, try the Westin Altanta Airport. For access to find dining and nightlife, try the St. Regis Atlanta in Buckhead.

Top Things to Do in Seattle

Don’t be afraid to visit “tourist” locations in Seattle. These attractions are popular for a reason. Whether it’s for the amazing food, stellar views or incredible shopping, the top attractions in Seattle are worth checking out. Check out Seattle hotels near the attractions on your must-see list.

Pike Place Market: Shop for handmade art, eat some incredibly fresh food, and watch people throw giant fish. Don’t forget to grab some coffee at the original Starbucks.

The Space Needle: Take an afternoon to visit the top of this iconic structure. The view is absolutely stunning.

Woodland Park Zoo: Open year-round, this zoo is one of the oldest on the West Coast. While it’s perfect for families, don’t rule it out as a fun romantic destination.

Seattle Museum of Flight: Airplane buffs will love this expansive museum just outside downtown Seattle. Don’t miss the retired Concorde.

Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour: This edgy, fun tour gives you a history lesson you won’t forget. Learn more about toilets than you’ve ever wanted to know—just leave your high heels at home.

Seattle Art Museum: Beginning in October, see original Picasso masterpieces. If you’re visiting before then, enjoy an Andy Warhol exhibit along with dozens of incredible fine art pieces.

Food Tours: Let an expert guide you through some of the best food booths, markets and restaurants in the Seattle area. Tours are usually themed, ranging from gourmet to vegan.

Argosy Cruises and Tillicum Village: Book a cruise tour to get amazing coastal views of Seattle and the surrounding area. Try the cruise to Tillicum Village for authentic Northwest Coast Native American dancing and food.

Seattle Hotels: Try the Sheraton Seattle Hotel, the Hyatt at Olive 8 or Hotel Andra.

Five Ultra Luxurious Honolulu Hotels

When you go to Hawaii, go all out. After all, you’ve probably spent an entire day just traveling to get there. Indulge at a relaxing, luxurious resort to truly take in all that Honolulu has to offer. Here are five high-end Honolulu hotels worth flying for:

Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel: Ever had breakfast on the beach? You can at this four-star hotel in Honolulu. Located just across the steet from Waikiki Beach, this is a classic location for a Hawaiian vacation.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa: This luxurious resort on Waikiki beach is surprisingly affordable. Check for specials including a seventh night free. Great for families and couples, the Hilton Hawaiian Village features a gorgeous beachside lagoon.

Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort and Spa: This historic property offers some of the best spa amenities in Honolulu. Every room is also equipped for absolute comfort thanks to super soft beds and oversized tubs. Try a beachside treatment at the Moana Lani Spa.

Ohana Waikiki Beachcomber: Recently renovated, the Ohana Waikiki Beachcomber has a Macy’s on property so you can hit the beach in the latest swim fashions. This highly rated resort is central to shopping and just across the street from the beach.

Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa: For the best experience, book one of the suites with a private terrace. You won’t be disappointed as you enjoy a private view of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. Shopping aficionados will love the 60 boutiques on the resort property.

Five Charming New Orleans Hotels

New Orleans is a city known for art, food and culture. The people of New Orleans have a unique, hopeful perspective. It’s impossible to visit the city without being swept up in the energetic, musical atmosphere. Here are five New Orleans hotels that will get you in the mood to embrace the Big Easy:

Royal Sonesta: This landmark French Quarter hotel has dining and nightlife right on site. But you’ll still be tempted to stroll around the neighborhood for great food and life music.

Crown Plaza Hotel: Located in a great central location between the French Quarter and Bourbon Street, the Crown Plaza is an upscale hotel that mixes old world charm with modern luxuries. Grab dinner at the Bourbon House for authentic local seafood.

Hotel Monteleone: This historic, 570-room hotel has attracted socialites and artists for decades. Tennessee Williams and William Faulkner both used the hotel as a temporary residence. Absorb history in an European-style luxurious setting.

Place D'Armes: As the only hotel located at Jackson Square, this is the best place to stay for a quick walk to famous destinations like the Café Du Monde and French Market. Make it your home base for a walking culinary tour of New Orleans.

Bienville House Hotel: Looking for a unique atmosphere? This elegant bed and breakfast style hotel is right on the edge of the French Quarter. It’s pet friendly, and perfect for guests who want to feel like they’ve moved right in. Don’t miss the quaint swimming pool.

Three Destinations for Great Romantic Getaways

Want to escape on a romantic getaway with your loved one? Here are five places to indulge in romance.

The Caribbean: Cancun isn’t just for young spring breakers. Caribbean destinations are famous for sumptuous adults only resorts that offer amenities designed specifically for adult couples traveling on romantic getaways. Slip into a private pool together, have champagne on the beach, and indulge in endless gourmet meals. In Jamaica, book a tour with your resort and head on a romantic adventure to waterfalls and dramatic cliffs.

Florida: Florida boasts hundreds of beautiful beachside resorts and upscale hotels. Try a quaint beach community, the energetic Orlando area or fiery hot Miami Beach. Romantic getaways in Florida can include eco-tourism and adventures like canopy zip line tours and mangrove preserve kayaking. Hit the famous theme parks like the Walt Disney World Resort or Universal Orlando or simply kick back in a beach community like Siesta Key.

California: California offers a variety of vacation opportunities for romantic couples on the go. Wine country inspires lovers from around the world. Stay in a unique bed and breakfast or on site at one of California’s gorgeous wineries. Head to the San Francisco area to experience fresh seafood and fine culture, or discover the nightlife in Los Angeles. Outside of San Diego, explore historic architecture or quaint mountain villages.

All Inclusive Resorts Offer Last Minute Vacation Packages

Last minute vacation packages don't have to be last minute travel offerings.There are plenty of fantastic destinations that can be booked at a moment's notice, and among them are last minute all inclusive vacation deals at fabulous resorts throughout Mexico, the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

Last minute all inclusive vacation deals are a great way to plan and pay for a trip all at once. Many of the participating resorts include airfare, accommodations, meals and additional on-site and off-site activities. Utilizing last minute all inclusive vacation deals can make last minute travel faster and easier.

While some last minute vacation packages may be difficult to arrange due to conflicting schedules, lack of availability or deadlines, the last minute all inclusive vacation deals cover all variable with one simple purchase.

The last minute vacation packages available will occasionally include additional discounts or deals due to the mere fact that they are last minute travel options and the airlines, hotels and other participating parties involved understand that available space is a loss of potential income.

Many resorts that offer last minute vacation packages will cater to everyone, but others may target select groups of travelers, such as golfers, singles and/or adults-only (minimum age may vary).

Last minute travel may be short on planning, but the last minute vacation packages don't have to be.

Cruise With Last Minute Vacation Packages

Plans often change and opportunities may arise without notice, which makes finding last minute vacation packages feel stressful. However, last minute travel doesn't need to be a difficult and trying experience. Consider a cruise for those last minute vacation packages.

Cruises leave at various dates throughout the year and cabins are often available for last minute travel. Not only are cruises full of entertainment and wonderful experiences, not to mention the exotic ports in which they anchor, but they are often all-inclusive, which means that last minute vacation packages may wind up saving travelers money.

Last minute all inclusive vacation deals are available on many of the biggest cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Norwegian, either due to the trip not being fully booked or the last minute travel plans changing for those who had reserved a space on the ship.

Popular getaways that may be available for last minute vacation packages include the Caribbean, Bahamas and Bermuda, among others.

Last minute travel does not need to be fraught with stress and worry when there are last minute all inclusive vacation deals sailing on a regular basis. Plans may change, but last minute vacation deals are always available.