Lodging

Desert flowers Photo courtesy of John-Morgan

Experience an exclusive five-acre oasis in the Sonoran Desert. Redbuck Ranch, in Scottsdale, Arizona, is like your own private luxury resort. Did I say private? You’ll be the only guests!

At the ”Hideout” you have a panoramic mountain view and abundant desert wildlife. Quiet sunrises are only surpassed by magnificent sunsets, and that’s only because at sunrise you’ll likely still be sleeping peacefully in your own four-room suite.

Arizona Highways magazine has coined the “Hideout” at RedBuck Ranch the ultimate Bed and Breakfast. Maybe that’s because it’s different. Where else can you have your own private veranda overlooking the Sonoran Desert and a casita with two fireplaces all to yourself? That’s right! You don’t have to share with anyone else. This place is yours alone while you’re there.

Desert sunset Photo courtesy of Scottsdale Visitors Bureau

The location is perfect for daytrips. Experience the beauty of Sedona, the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, the wild west of Tombstone, or the high desert of Tucson. They’re all accessible from here. On the other hand, why bother leaving your private “oasis” in Scottsdale? You could spend the day around the pool, go for a sunset hike, go horseback riding, or on a jeep tour. And the selection of nearby golf courses, restaurants, and shopping will keep you busy just choosing where to go next.

For the ultimate romantic hideaway try the “Hideout” at RedBuck Ranch. 

Red Clawfoot Bathtub Photo courtesy of RedBuck Ranch

The “Hideout” at RedBuck Ranch in Scottsdale has those extras that you won’t find just anywhere. When is the last time you soaked in a RED clawfoot bathtub with a view of the Sonoran Desert? 

For those who can’t make it to Sweden to see ICEHOTEL, there’s a runner-up in Kissimmee, Florida: ICE!, a kid-friendly winter wonderland created by Gaylord Palms Resort. 

ICE! at Gaylord Palms Resort

From now until January 4, 2009, resort guests and visitors can experience what artists have hand carved from two million pounds of ice: a walk-through igloo, ice slides, an oversized “Santa’s Knee” attraction designed for photo opportunities, life-size nativity scene and more.

Because this is Florida, many residents don’t have the parkas needed to stay warm inside the exhibit, which is chilled to 9 degrees Fahrenheit. Thankfully, Gaylord Palms provides coats.

And right now, Gaylord Palms Resort is offering “The Best of Florida Christmas Experience” packages. Starting at $199 per night (minimum two nights), guests receive unlimited tickets to ICE!, a complimentary photo and a gingerbread experience. Chefs will be on hand to help guests create gingerbread house souvenirs.

Gaylord Palms Resort is located in the greater Orlando area and is close to theme parks and other attractions, such as themed restaurants. Plus, the resort serves up its own fun at places like Sunset Sam’s Fish Camp, a restaurant where guests can nibble appetizers aboard a 60-foot-long sailboat in the Key West Atrium. And if you’re looking to chill out away from the kids, try a treatment at the Canyon Ranch SpaClub.

ICE! attraction courtesy of Gaylord Palms Resort.

Key West home adorned in lights

Enjoy holiday lights over the harbor of Key West, Florida, starting Thursday, November 27, and continuing through the holiday season. The Harbor Walk of Lights stretches from Greene Street to Grinnell Street. Restaurants, watering holes and shops along the waterfront will participate in the festivities. Many home owners also go all out with lights and decorations. Contact the Official Tourism Council for the Florida Keys for more information.

Islamorda Tree Lights

Islamorada will host a tree-lighting ceremony at Founders Park near mile marker 87 on U.S. Highway 1. Continue celebrating as the holiday parade streams past. Arriving via fire truck, Santa will make an appearance before the gift bazaar. This event takes place over two weekends: December 5 and 6 from 5 to 8 p.m., and again on December 12 and 13, from 5 to 8 p.m. Call (305) 664-4503 for more details.

The San Remo Hotel was a boarding house for sailors and artists after the 1906 quake.

On the edge of North Beach in San Francisco, this European-style pensione is a little slice of maritime and bohemian history.  Built in 1906 after the devastating earthquake, the stately Italianate Victorian with a lively street-level restaurant gave refuge to sailors and longshoremen who worked in the nearby shipyards as well as Italian immigrants, poets, artists and writers. Free room and board was offered to a transient labor force that helped rebuild the city, and according to San Remo legend, penniless artists paid for lodging with their paintings.

Today, the 62 rooms feature lovingly-restored details from that era — beveled leaded glass windows, redwood wainscotting, stained glass skylights and decorative wood carved fretwork. In the hallways are little nooks for conversation or reading, overstuffed bookcases and vintage photos and ephemera on the walls. Impeccable shared bathrooms have clawfoot bathtubs, pedestal sinks and brass pull-chain toilets.

Fior d’Italia moved into the restaurant space downstairs in 2005 after fire chased the self-proclaimed “oldest Italian restaurant in America” from its anchor position on the southeast corner of Washington Square Park.

Rooms are small but charming, some with brass beds or antique oak armoires. Many rooms have sinks but there are no private baths, TVs or phones. Though the vibe throughout is decidedly Old World, WiFi is available in the hallway. The funky rooftop penthouse has amazing views of Coit Tower and Telegraph Hill and amenities including a refrigerator and private bathroom.

A view of Coit Tower from the rooftop penthouse.

Prices are from another era as well, starting at $65. The San Remo also offers special package deals that include reduced rates for extended stays and discounts at Fior d’Italia, the Wax Musuem and on the cable cars.

The location on the fringes of North Beach, at the foot of Telegraph Hill and next door to Fisherman’s Wharf is unbeatable. Legions of travelers from all over the world found bargain-priced lodging at this affordable gem, adding to its groovy, bohemian ambiance.

Rainbow over Maui Photo courtesy of randy son of robert @ flickr

As many times as I go to Hawaii, and the many different types of places I’ve stayed, I still keep yearning for Puamana in Lahaina.

There’s something that keeps drawing me back to Lahaina. I love the other islands; the quiet beauty of Kauai, the excitement of Oahu, the vastness of Hawaii. And I get annoyed by the crowds on Maui, but I understand, because there’s something special about Maui, and especially about Lahaina.

For some reason Lahaina gives me more of a feeling of being in Hawaii than any other city. And the location of Puamana is so convenient, within walking distance of town, unlike most of Maui’s resorts. The maids are friendly, and it’s right on the ocean, with fabulous views.

Admittedly, some of the rooms are a bit dated, and a little tattered, but many are freshly refurbished. And the pools, the beach, the gardents, and the proximity to a huge selection of restaurants make Puamana my favorite choice for a couple of weeks in Hawaii.

I always like to take the drive to Hana, and to visit the Seven Sacred Pools. I love the fabulous restaurants in Kahana, and the activities around Kaanapali, but when I return to the little whaling village of Lahaina I can imagine what this paradise was like a hundred years ago. It’s a feeling that is unique to me, and only in Lahaina.

Now it’s time for me to  get on the web and find my next condo at the Puamana in Lahaina, Maui.

Historic Dahlonega, Georgia.

I grew up in New England, lived in New York City after college, and then moved to Colorado, where I’ve made my home for the past 15 years. While my family regularly visits either coast (and Hawaii) for our beach fixes, I readily admit there’s a whole lot of the United States I haven’t seen.

So, last year when I was invited to join a group of journalists on a media trip to Dahlonega, Georgia, about an hour north of Atlanta, I jumped at the chance. Nevermind the giggles at my expense when I asked my colleagues, “What’s a hushpuppy?!” I also had my first taste of okra on this trip. (I think I slightly preferred the fried dough of the hushpuppies!)

Indeed, I found not only Southern cuisine, but also Dahlonega as a whole, incredibly appealing. And there’s no denying that Southerners have hospitality down pat. I found that especially true at Lily Creek Lodge, just outside of town, where owners Sharon and Don Bacek made me feel like family over the course of the three nights I spent there.

Lily Creek Lodge, just outside Dahlonega.

Lily Creek Lodge is an Alpine-style bed-and-breakfast set in the forest, with a  Swiss Family Robinson feel. In fact, guests can choose to take breakfast in a wooden, above-ground “treehouse” or gazebo in the woods. Also on its seven acres you’ll find a swimming pool with waterfall — tucked neatly back in the woods — a pavilion for kicking back and sunbathing, a hot tub, bocce court and hammocks. Or spend time relaxing inside, in the warm and comfortable gathering room. At check-in, nibble on homemade cookies and sip hot cider, hot chocolate or wine at check-in.

The 13 rooms at Lily Creek Lodge are basic but lovingly decorated, and each includes a private bath with shower — except for the Tango Suite, which features a marble Jacuzzi tub as well as a shower. Each room has a clever name that accurately describes the decor. Consider the Asian-style Geisha Suite, the exotic, third-floor Afrique Suite or the Victorian Secret Garden. Admire the Baceks’ photos of Antarctica in the all-white Antarctica Suite.

Take breakfast in the two-story treehouse.

Breakfast is a highlight of each day. Sharon bakes breads, pastries and muffins from scratch, and the morning menu varies daily. You might enjoy delectable French toast, egg dishes, pancakes, breakfast burritos or other filling entrees. Don’t hesitate to ask for seconds. Much of the fruit served at the morning meal is harvested on site: apples, blueberries, blackberries, pears, peaches and figs. Surplus fruits are frozen and then used in baked goods all winter long.

Winter packages include combinations of lodging, plus wine tasting, massages or romantic in-room breakfasts. Package deals are detailed on the Lily Creek Lodge website.

Photos by Kara Williams.

From Nancy D. Brown of What a Trip

Green Gables Inn

Usually the word “free” and the phrase “upscale bed and breakfast” don’t go together.  In this case,  free means a second night stay at Pacific Grove’s Green Gables Inn on the Monterey Bay.  Decked out for the holidays, this historic Queen Anne Victorian, built in 1888, overlooks the water’s edge.

My first visit to the Four Sisters family of Inns was the Green Gables Inn. Readers of my What a Trip blog know that I enjoy staying at any of the Four Sisters Inns.  In fact, it would be a fun goal to visit all 12 of the Inns on the west coast. 

My husband and I have stayed in the main house and in the Carriage House, located behind the Inn.  This particular 2nd night free offer is specifically for the Carriage House.  I actually prefer the Carriage House because I think the rooms are bigger and I like the jetted spa tub and fireplace.  The special offer includes a gourmet breakfast, afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres, evening turndown and my personal favorite….homemade cookies.  The $275 Green Gables Inn savings is valid select days, Sunday through Thursday, November 2008 to January 2009. 

Carriage House Room

The Green Gables Inn is located at 301 Ocean View Blvd. in Pacific Grove, California

Call (800) 722-1774 for reservations

Sundial Bridge Photo thanks to rezlab at Flickr

Redding is bursting at the seams. It could be bursting from pride from the Sundial Bridge that’s getting so much press. Of course the Turtle Bay Exploration Park with its museum at one end of the bridge and botanical garden at the other has helped also.

There’s so much to do around Redding that a weekend isn’t long enough to see everything. This is definitely vacation material with Mount Shasta and Shasta Lake to the north, Whiskeytown Lake and the Trinity Alps to the west, and Burney Falls and Lasson Park to the east. Of course, if you don’t feel like getting into the car you can always walk next door to the water park. Your kids will love  you for it.

A trip to Shasta Caverns is worth your while. A ticket includes a short boat ride on Shasta Lake, a short bus ride up the hill on the opposite shore, then a guided tour of a beautiful cave system that reminds me of a small version of Carlsbad Caverns.

Turtle Bay Cafe Photo courtesy of Turtle Bay

Take a guided tour along the Sacramento River Trail on a Segway with Shasta Glide n’ Ride. You’ll see an underwater viewing area to watch wild salmon and hear wild west stories about the gold rush. You’ll be crossing the world-famous Sundial Bridge–a perfect time to take some photos.

See a different part of Northern California and visit Premiere RV Resorts in Redding. There’s so much to do you may decide to stay awhile.

Welcome to Redstone!

A couple of weeks ago my husband came home with a gift certificate that his business partner had given him for Christmas last year. It was for the Redstone Inn, a historic property in Redstone, Colorado, about 40 minutes from our mountain home. With an expiration date looming, we quickly made a reservation to spend a night at the historic property sans kids. (Thanks, Grandma!)

Originally built as housing for bachelor coal miners at the turn of the century, today the Redstone Inn guests range from fall leaf-peepers and hunters to summer hikers to winter snowshoers. The three-story inn sits at the tail end of Redstone Boulevard, a one-street town that is home to less than 100 year-round residents.

Quaint Junior Queen room (#203)

We stayed in #203, a Junior Queen room, which rents for $99/night on a winter weekend. More expensive rooms include the John Osgood Suite ($160/night) with a king bed and semi-private veranda, and the budget option is the “clock tower artist’s garret” for $65/night, which has a double bed and a shared bath.

Our room was tiny — my husband estimated it at about 10 feet by 13 feet — with ancient fixtures in the small bathroom. (It’s so hard to wash your face with a cold-water spout and a hot-water spout!) For us, though, for one night, it was perfectly comfortable — especially after the old-fashioned radiator kicked on quickly. (Temperatures dropped down to 12 degrees that night; winter is here in the Rockies!)

Mountains surround the Redstone Inn.

We had a delicious breakfast at the on-site grill restaurant: Grecian Surprise egg dish with mushrooms, peppers, feta cheese and grilled chicken, and Cowboy Biscuits and Gravy. With tip and tax it totaled about $24 for the two of us. Had we been there on Sunday morning, we would have enjoyed the expansive Sunday brunch served weekly in the more sophisticated dining room.

To burn off some of those breakfast calories, we took a brisk walk up Coal Basin Road, where the government has reclaimed an old coal mine and is replanting ravaged land. Visitors should check out the coke ovens across Highway 133 from the Crystal River and pick up a “Walking Guide of 1903 Redstone” pamphlet at the Inn. The walking tour highlights the original turn-of-the-century cottages that coal-mine owner and Redstone town founder John Osgood had built for his miners and their families. Many are still standing today.

Photos by Kara Williams.

From Nancy D. Brown of What a Trip

Macy

With the holiday season ahead, shoppers are pulling out their credit cards, creating their shopping lists and getting ready for a bargain-based shopping extravaganza.

Are you ready for Black Friday holiday shopping?  These shopping centers are known for the best selection, best deals and best name brand shopping in the USA. Of course, we included some of the best hotels with the best shopping deals on our list. Everyone is entitled to a good night sleep.

Check out our Top 10 Hotel List.  Did your hotel make the cut?

Mall of America,

Bloomington, Minnesota

The most visited shopping mall in the world, with over 40 million visitors annually, the Mall of America is one of the largest shopping malls in the world. With over 520 shops, restaurants, a park and a church, Mall of America has got it all. TIP: Minnesota doesn’t charge sales tax on apparel or shoes.

LODGING Guests of the Crowne Plaza in Bloomington, Minnesota, have access to free mall shuttle service.

Newbury Street, Photo courtesy of z.about.com

Newbury Street, Boston, Massachusetts

Shopping is one of the top reasons people visit Boston.  High-end Newbury Street, an eight-block stretch of cutting-edge and upper-crust shops, is sure to please.  For budget savvy shoppers, check out Wrentham Village Premium Outlets.

LODGING: The Fairmont Copley Plaza, overlooking Copley Square, is centrally-located one block from Newbury Street.  TIP: The century-old hotel offers a Midnight Madness Shopping package November 27-28, 2008 for Black Friday holiday shoppers.

Chicago, Illinois Magnificent Mile

Chicago, Illinois “Magnificent Mile” stretches along North Michigan Avenue from Oak Street to the Chicago River.  From Armani to Louis Vuitton, you’ll be able to shop-till-you-drop.  TIP: For a quick sugar high, stop by Garrett Popcorn shop, 670 N. Michigan Ave. (312) 944-2630, a 50-year-old landmark famous for its caramel corn.

LODGING: Chicago’s Omni All-suites Hotel is located on the Magnificent Mile and offers a Girlfriends Getaway package.  TIP: Join the free Select Guest reward program and get Wi Fi, express check-in and check-out, complimentary morning beverages and turn-down service.

Westin Galleria Dallas

Galleria Dallas, Texas

From dining with your American Girl to ice skating with friends, Galleria Dallas has over 200 stores to shop.

LODGING: For those who prefer to wake up, roll out of bed and proceed directly to shopping, Westin Galleria Dallas is located within the Galleria shopping center.  TIP: For shoppers wanting a little Mother/Daughter bonding, select the Westin’s American Girl getaway package.

Socialite Sabrina Parisi

Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, California

If you want to shop like a rock star, you’ll want to head to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California.  The real estate in Beverly Hills gets a little star studded between Santa Monica Blvd. and Wilshire Blvd.  Considered one of the most exclusive shopping streets in the world, you’ll find French fashion, Italian designer boutiques and plenty of bling to keep you happy.

LODGING: Continue your rock star experience with a stay at Chateau Marmont at 8221 Sunset Blvd. in West Hollywood, California.  Built in 1927, the Hotel of the Stars is the perfect getaway in the center of the city.  TIP: The Beverly Hills Hotel is close to the golden triangle of shopping and is also a celeb spotting location.

Fifth Avenue, New York

Fifth Avenue, New York

Located in the center of the borough of Manhattan, New York’s 5th Avenue is one of the premier shopping streets in the world. The shopping district between 49th and 57th streets is ranked as having the world’s most expensive retail spaces. Fifth Avenue originates at Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village and runs through midtown, along the east side of Central Park and ends at the Harlem River.

LODGING: Kimpton’s The Muse, a boutique hotel located blocks away from 5th Avenue, offers a “Head over Heels” shopping package for the sole. Trump Hotel offers the “Ultimate Shoe Lover” package with Bergdorf Goodman.

Macy's

Union Square, San Francisco, California

I left my heart and my wallet in San Francisco at Union Square. A 2.6 acre plaza, Union Square is bordered by Geary, Powell, Post and Stockton Street. The area is also known for its hotel, dining and theater district.

LODGING: The Westin St. Francis, located on Union Square, offers a Macy’s Shopping Package with accommodations starting at $234 per night.  Hotel Nikko, located at 222 Mason Street, offers a Serenity Package at a nearby day spa for tired shoppers.

Thanks to Frank Lynch for his Flickr photo of Macy’s NY Black Friday. Thanks to Thomas Dyllan for his Flickr photo of Sabrina Parisi. Thanks to MikeO for Lights of 5th Ave.