Head to the Tropics, in Florida!

Written in cooperation with Hipmunks Boutique Hotels 2016 campaign.

When many people dream of their fantasy getaways, they dream of the tropics: turquoise blue water, powder sand beaches, and exotic cocktails. What makes southern Florida wonderful is that such a paradise exists right here in the United States. If beaches and bikinis are what fuels your vacation fantasies, you only need to head to Miami and the Keys!

image via Flickr by Photonoumi

Coconut Grove

Start your tour of the area in Coconut Grove, a community that boasts history to spare. Originally settled by the Bahamians, Coconut Grove has the honor of being the site of the first hotel in south Florida. To make your stay a home away from home, consider the Sonesta Cocounut Grove Miami. This hotel features basic amenities, such as large screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, marble bathrooms, and luxury linens, and adds more to your comfort with a kitchenette, making morning wake-ups a breeze. For those traveling on business, there’s a business center, and everyone will appreciate the pool and fitness center after a day of work or sightseeing.

image via Flickr by leoncillo sabino

For clients interested in Coconut Grove AND luxury, check out The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Miami. It doesn’t get much more luxurious than a room featuring balconies, iPod docking stations, high thread count linens, designer toiletries, and premium satellite channels. The property features a pool, fitness center, and spa where a massage or facial may be just the thing after a day of touring the area. There’s even a high-end restaurant, the Lazuli Lounge, on site for a romantic dinner.

image via Flickr by Tips for Travellers

Biscayne Bay

South Florida travel is all about the water. The Doubletree by Hilton Grand Hotel Biscayne Bay offers waterfront views of the gorgeous water of Biscayne Bay. Ideally located near the transportation hub of Miami, this condo hotel features all the comfort of home in one and two-bedroom units with kitchenette, all while placing guests in the center of the action to hit the water or explore the beauty of the region. Pillowtop mattresses, in-room coffee makers, and free Wi-Fi add to the enjoyment of the stay, while the lap pool overlooking the bay will soothe the soul at the end of the day. Numerous restaurants are within walking distance of the hotel, making it easy to try out all the local delicacies.

Miami

Miami is the hub of all things south Florida, from the water of Biscayne Bay to people watching on South Beach and the electric vibe of the Cuban culture and food. The Conrad Miami hotel is centrally located to all of this and more. The hotel offers guest rooms, studios, and one and two-bedroom condo units. Every room offers premium linens with pillow menus, designer bath accessories, and soft robes. If a day of sightseeing doesn’t wear you out, enjoy tennis at the courts next door or a workout in the fitness center before taking a dip in the pool. The hotel also features the Altrio restaurant and an on-site wine room.

image via Flickr by sumit_sachdeva

Whether it’s business or pleasure that takes you to south Florida, look to Hipmunk to provide the best in lodging options.

 

Experiencing the Diversity of Europe’s Music Festivals

One of my favorite aspects of traveling to Europe is the sheer diversity of the continent. While the formation of the European Union and the opening of borders has made traveling between countries a breeze, it has not altered the differences in language, in history, or food.

In an ever-shrinking global world, Europe is still the place to be to experience a broad range of activities, interests and cultures, all within a short distance of one another. Nowhere is this more evident than in the diversity of the summer music festival scene.

Tomorrowland: Belguim

One of the largest festivals in Europe, the Tomorrowland Festival, sees over 300,000 visitors each year. Focused on electronic music, Tomorrowland’s massive venue features 15 stages with extravagant decorations, and globally celebrated DJs work their magic at each one. This festival’s campground, Dreamville, is almost as big of a draw as the music, and this festival sells out in minutes each year.

image via Flickr by wuestenigel

Download Rock Festival: United Kingdom

Regularly voted one of the best rock music festivals in all of Europe, the Download festival in Donington Park gives heavy metal and hard rock lovers three days of amazing music on five stages. A mix of old-school masters and new-generation musicians provide the background for an event that also includes an ale house and inflatable wedding chapel among its attractions.

image via Flickr by Spider.Dog

Weather Festival: France

International artists flock to the futuristic Le Bourget airport, which lies north of Paris, for this three-day tribute to the best of electronic music. In this true open air environment, the unique location and multiple after-hours events keep the party marathon going nonstop.

image via Flickr by Xi WEG

Lucca Summer Festival ~ Italy

For family-friendly fun, head to picturesque Lucca, Italy, for its renowned summer festival. For over 19 years, spectators from all over the globe have flocked to the Piazza Napoleon to listen to Italian and international acts perform. This festival has developed a bit of a cult following, and one interesting fact is that the Dave Matthews band performed their longest concert ever — lasting over three hours — here in 2009.

image via Flickr by lucadex

OFF Festival: Poland

If you are looking for an inexpensive and unique festival, look no further than the OFF festival in Poland. What started as an alternative music festival has morphed into an all-arts experience. Exhibitions, workshops, and movie screenings all combine to make this the biggest festival in Poland. A unique facet of the event is the promotion of volunteer projects connected to the festival.

image via Flickr by DrabikPany

Regardless of which type of festival is right for you, Europe’s broad spectrum of venues, countries, and music sounds will offer an amazing experience. Many of the festivals can be reached by public transportation, and most offer camping. Wi-Fi and phone charging stations are common, and food and drink is readily available.

From an airport in France to historic Italy and from alternative to jazz, the music scene in Europe is alive and well, so enjoy the experience!

The Ties that Bind

We miss our people, our tribe. Especially now, during in what is low season in central Mexico (although why that is I am baffled), among empty campgrounds, we are missing those we love. With no new overlanders to connect with, our thoughts turn, even more, to friends back home.

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Discovering Disney ~ and Beyond!

Written in cooperation with Hipmunk’s Boutique Hotel Campaign 2016.

The state of California is vast, and encompasses one amazing site after another. For many, San Francisco is the bomb. The architecture, the stunning vistas from nearly everywhere in the city, the restaurant scene, the Embarcadaro, and Alcatraz offer just a few reasons for its popularity. Days or weeks could be spent touring it all.

Embassy Suites San Francisco Airport Waterfront

One thing San Francisco also has is a lot of very expensive hotels. If the city by the bay is your choice for your California dream vacation, consider staying near the airport. This city has a wonderful array of transportation options. By choosing a hotel near the airport, such as the Embassy Suites San Francisco Airport Waterfront, you will receive suites, many with water views, and all the amenities expected of the Embassy Suites hotel group, while being just a short ride from the city on BART. Before a full day of touring, enjoy a free, cooked to order, breakfast and return to enjoy a dip in the pool before retreating to your comfortably appointed room.

image via Flickr by smswigart

Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort

As wonderful as San Francisco can be, when many people around the country think of California they think of one thing; Disneyland! One excellent choice for lodging may be the Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort. Located just blocks from the Convention Center and the park, the Sheraton features a pool, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi, as well as discount passes for all the Disneyland attractions. All rooms have sweet sleeper mattresses and are sound proof for a great nights sleep before another exciting day.

image via Flickr by designsbykari

La Quinta Inn & Suites Anaheim

Families traveling will surely appreciate the thoughtful amenities of the La Quinta Inn & Suites Anaheim. Microwaves, coffee makers, refrigerators, and a separate seating area create a comfortable atmosphere. Free buffet breakfast and Wi-Fi will make mom and dad happy, while a covered pool will entertain the kids in between visits to the park. Reasonably priced, the hotel is even dog friendly if you are traveling with your furry companion.

image via Flickr by Roller Coaster Philosophy

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Anaheim Resorts~ Convention Center

Convenience and free parking are two big draws at the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Anaheim Resorts~ Convention Center.  Disneyland, Knotts Berry Farm, and California Adventure are all close by. When back at the hotel, guests will appreciate the plush mattresses and soft linens as well as the microwave, refrigerators, and coffee makers that are standard. Kids, both young and old, will want to take advantage of the in-room game consoles and refreshing pool.

image via Flickr by www.pa-ul.net

Alamo Inn & Suites Hotel

For a budget friendly choice, check out the Alamo Inn & Suites Hotel offers free parking and Wi-Fi with comfortable rooms, all just one block from the attractions. Rooms feature comfortable accommodations with mini-fridge and microwaves. The pool is a delightful place to unwind after a day on your feet visiting the multiple parks nearby.

image via Flickr by vl8189

Whatever hotel choice suits each traveler, know that Hipmunk offers options in all price ranges and categories. California will continue to offer up excellent choices across the state for family vacations or romantic getaways. The choice is yours.

 

Seeking Silence

Lesson learned. Do not, and I repeat, do not, rent an apartment prior to arriving in town. Our three months in Puerto Vallarta was wonderful.. until it wasn’t. So much of our time was great; We got a lot of work done, writing for me and the launch of Jim’s first amazon product. We had visitors in the form of Jim’s parents and friends Dave and Anne. We swam and practiced yoga nearly daily. We enjoyed an extended time in one of our favorite cities in the world.

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A Boutique Hotel for Any Taste in Maryland

Written in cooperation with Hipmunk’s Boutique Hotel Campaign 2016.

Maryland may not come to mind for many travelers when choosing a vacation destination, but this miniscule state in the Northeast offers up abundant waterways, historic cities, and a vast array of outdoor activities. In addition, the proximity to other major tourist stops along the East Coast makes a base in Maryland make perfect sense.  While any number of hotel category options exist, why not spoil yourself with one of the many boutique hotels dotting this small region?

If a cruise around the vast waterways of the Northeast is on your bucket list, consider the Best Western Plus Hotel & Conference Center. Located very near the Baltimore Cruise Terminal, this lovely hotel offers up free breakfast, parking and Wi-Fi, and has a pool to relax in before or after your cruise. Nearby attractions such as the B&O Railroad Museum will entertain guests, and the Eastpoint Mall is a handy spot to pick up any necessary items or simply people watch.

image via Flickr by yeahbouyee

Long an important seaport, Baltimore is seeped in history. The Star Spangled Banner was written at Fort McHenry, and multiple attractions draw travelers, whether they are interested in touring the U.S.S. Constitution or visiting the Babe Ruth Museum. To soothe the spirit at the end of a long day of sightseeing, perhaps consider the Hotel Monaco Baltimore, A Kimpton Hotel. Always popular, the Hotel Monaco chain enchants visitors with animal-print robes, minibars stocked with organic products, and luxuriously appointed rooms with designer toiletries. Pets are always warmly welcomed at the hotel, so your furry family members can enjoy the stay as well.

image via Flickr by chriswsn

Baltimore’s Inner Harbor area is teeming with sightseeing, activities, and restaurants. A home base at the lovely Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore may be just the ticket. Rooms are well appointed with plush linens, luxury bath products, free Wi-Fi, and 30-inch televisions. Pets are welcome, and the property boasts an on-site restaurant, pool, and fitness center. However, what will really sell travelers on the property are the floor-to-ceiling windows in rooms overlooking the harbor!

image via Flickr by sabreguy29

One of the largest tourist draws in the country is Washington, D.C., and one smart way to spend your time there is to spend your nights across the border in Bethesda, Maryland. The Hyatt Regency Bethesda Hotel is the perfect location to take in the sights of Bethesda itself, but is also right on the Red Line metro access to Washington, D.C. The rooms themselves are generously sized and feature marble bathrooms, mahogany furniture, and excellent business features such as free Wi-Fi, docking stations, and good-sized desks.

image via Flickr by rcgtrrz

Whatever brings you to this exciting and historic area of the country, Hipmunk has the hotel choices that will make the most of your trip!

 

First Class Cabins Bigger than Your Apartment

Written in cooperation with Hipmunk’s Tailwind blog. Originally published by The Hipmunk on January 18, 2016.

Airplane cabins aren’t always known for being roomy, comfy, or luxurious, but the newest crop of first class suites are stunning travelers with their size and opulence. New Yorkers who get by in tiny 100 square foot apartments and Londoners who would pay $145,000 for a shoe box next to Harrod’s may consider moving in when they see how gorgeous and extravagantly large the new cabins seem by comparison. Here’s a roundup of the best and biggest first class cabins that money (or airline miles) can buy.

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Photo: Wikimedia Commons via Travelarz

Etihad Airways: The Residence

In December 2014, Etihad Airways introduced The Residence on its Airbus A380 planes. The three room suite is a whopping 125 square feet and can be occupied by up to two people traveling together. It includes a living room, a private bathroom, and a bedroom with a bed large enough to share. Etihad hasn’t skimped on the amenities either: It comes with a 32-inch television, a cabinet for chilled drinks, and Christian Lacroix pajamas. The leather on the seats is made by Poltrona Frau, which also makes leather seats for Ferrari and Maserati.

The suite also comes with exceptional service. It includes a luxury chauffeur for transportation to and from the airport, and a Savoy Academy-trained personal butlerto meet you and the airport and anticipate your every need. The Residence is available on A380 planes between London and Abu Dhabi, and soon to New York and Sydney, Australia as well. A ticket in The Residence can cost about $20,000 one way. If you’ve always wondered what it would be like to travel like an oil magnate or a Russian oligarch, this is the way to go.

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Photo: Wikimedia Commons via Altair78

Singapore Airlines: Suite Class

The Singapore Airlines Suites may only feature one room rather than three, but it’s certainly not much of a step down. Running about $18,000 each way, the Suites were introduced in 2007 and are available only on the Airbus A380. Flights are offered from Singapore to 14 destinations, including New York, London, and Hong Kong, so there’s plenty of opportunity to experience the best of Singapore Airlines.

The cabins are the work of luxury yacht designer Jean-Jacques Coste, and feature a 35-inch wide bed and a 78-inch long bed with cabin doors that can be shut completely. When your partner is in the adjacent cabin, the wall removes so that a double bed can be folded down for some in-flight pillow talk. Each Suite also features a 23-inch LCD screen, Bose headphones, a Ferragamo amenity kit, and Givenchy sleepwear. To complete the perfect in-flight experience, the Book the Cook service allows passengers to order their meals before the flight and choose between Michelin-starred chefs Georges Blanc and Carlo Cracco, among others.

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Photo: Wikimedia Commons via Altair78

Emirates Airlines: First Class Suites

At around $13,000 one way, the Emirates First Class suites are a bargain compared to the options above, and their most famous feature will seem like a dream come true: an in-flight shower. In a huge improvement on showering over a toilet in your London apartment, each Suites passenger gets 30 minutes in the spa suite with five minutes of hot water conveniently monitored by a light timer. There are two shower spas for the 14 privates suites on each Airbus A380 flight, and the bathrooms also featuresheated floors and designer towels and toiletries. Imagine being able to freshen up at the end of a long flight, enjoy a shave or a steam, and arrive at your final destination feeling impossibly calm and collected. Now that’s luxurious.

Of course, the cabins in First Class Suites are lovely as well. The seats, which are tablet-operated, fold down to 79-inch beds, and there’s an on-board bar where passengers can mingle with business class passengers over a drink. The cabins also have remote-controlled sliding doors and 23 inch LCD screens for entertainment. Emirates offers chauffeur service to and from the airports in over 70 cities, and flights on the A380 available to over 35 destinations. Maybe it’s time to let go of your leaseand take to the skies for luxury and comfort next year.

HIPMUNK HOTELS: THE BEST INNS IN TULSA, GRAND RAPIDS, COLUMBUS AND MORE

Written in cooperation with Hipmunk. Originally published on May 26,2016 by XDAYSINY by Avichai.

Are you riding across America’s Heartland on an epic coast-to-coast road trip? Traveling on business? Visiting some family or friends? Whatever the reason might be that brings you to the Midwest, there’s one thing for certain: you’ll need a place to spend the night. Here are some of the best inns in five Midwestern cities that will surprise you.

DULUTH

Duluth Minnesota
Image via Flickr by tvdxer

As Minnesota’s second largest metropolitan area, Duluth sits on the beautiful shores of Lake Superior. As far as hotels in Duluth go, the Holiday Inn & Suites is a top choice. With views of the Great Lake from your hotel window, you’re right in the heart of downtown Duluth. Go for a dip in the eighth-floor heated pool or visit the city’s famous Canal Park, which is just minutes away.

COLUMBUS

columbus ohio

Image via Wikimedia by Tysto

Making BusinessWeek’s list of America’s 50 best cities in 2012, Columbus, Ohio, is a fun place to visit. It’s home to the Buckeyes of Ohio State, but if you want to get away from the frat scene of the university area, stay at the Drury Inn & Suites by the convention center in downtown. This hotel is a favorite among business travelers, though couples and families will love this place, too, thanks to its romantic packages and awesome breakfasts.

GRAND RAPIDS

Grand Rapids Michigan

Image via Wikimedia by Grguy2011

Nicknamed the Furniture City, Grand Rapids is also the second largest city in Michigan. If you don’t mind staying a bit outside the downtown area, the Residence Inn Grand Rapids West is a little different from your usual inn. All rooms are decorated in classic iconic fashion, and you can even bring your pet along. There’s a swimming pool and a free buffet breakfast, which are perfect ways to start your morning before hitting the road.

TULSA

Tulsa skyline

Image via Wikimedia

Now we head to the true middle of the United States. Hotels in Tulsa Oklahoma offer that warm southern hospitality. A classic choice for business travelers, the Hilton Garden Inn Tulsa Midtown, might be a little tricky to find, but the sleep quality is top-notch. Compared to other hotels in Tulsa, the Hilton Garden Inn offers great value for your money thanks to all the comfortable amenities that come at a very reasonable price. If you’re not visiting Tulsa for business, you’ll be happy to know the hotel is close to all the top attractions like the aquarium, the Big Splash Water Park, and the Air and Space Museum.

TROY

Michigan's Premier Address for Business, Retail, & Commerce

Image via Wikimedia by cadiomals

Our final Midwest destination takes us back north to Troy, Michigan. Located about a 30-minute drive from Detroit, Troy has become somewhat of an affluent alternative to the Motor City. The Hampton Inn & Suites is a great choice for both families and business travelers. The hotel is minutes away from the famous Somerset Collection luxury mall and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate. All rooms are furnished with microwave ovens and mini fridges, and those who like to stay active while traveling will love the indoor swimming pool. There are plenty of other Troy hotels to choose from, as well.

So there you have it. Who said that inns must be dull and boring places to stay? If you’re visiting some of these great cities in the Midwest, keep one of the hotels I’ve just highlighted in mind. They are pampering and comfortable, and they offer great value for your money, whether you’re traveling on business or vacation.

This article is part of the Hipmunk Hotels Campaign 2016

The Key to Happiness

“Uno burrito pollo, por favor… para llevar”. I take a seat at the counter, placing my order in halting Spanish, knowing that in mere days I will once again be leaving the tourist hot spot of Puerto Vallarta to head away from the land of the gringo. Luckily, I have been here before, and the nice waitress takes pity on me and responds in English , “we have no chicken. You want pork?”. Si, I will take pork.

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Hipmunk Hotels: Great Bed and Breakfasts in Missoula, Rapid City, and more

Written in cooperation with Hipmunk. Originally published by Way of Wanderers on April 18, 2016

A bed and breakfast is an appealing accommodation option for travelers visiting just about any city in the world. Offering intimate ambiance, plenty of local charm, and homey guest rooms, bed and breakfasts generally offer a more personalized experience than the average hotel. Here are a few B&Bs to consider for your next trip to the western United States.

 

Missoula, Montana

Photo by Adventurous Amber via Trover.com

Photo by Adventurous Amber via Trover.com

Missoula is a beautiful city set in a valley along the Clark Fork River, that offers a mild climate and a small downtown filled with interesting historic buildings. Home to the University of Montana, as well as a number of well-known Western writers, the city exudes a cultured ambiance. Like much of Montana, outdoor pursuits are a highlight here with excellent hiking in the Selway-Bitterroot and great skiing at Snowbowl.

Goldsmith’s Bed and Breakfast Inn is a wonderful option for travelers visiting Missoula. The B&B is set in a handsome red brick building that was constructed in 1911 for the first president of the University of Montana. The B&B’s wraparound porch offers picturesque views over the Clark Fork River, and several guest rooms feature gas fireplaces.

Rapid City, South Dakota

Rapid City is nicknamed the “City of Presidents” for the life-sized statues of U.S. presidents found on many of its downtown street corners. Often thought of as a jumping-off point for exploring South Dakota’s national parks, Rapid City’s grand brick buildings, excellent restaurants, and interesting shops make it worth exploring.

Visitors to Rapid City should consider the Sweetgrass Inn B&B. Loft Suites at this charming B&B have vaulted ceilings and balconies, while Deluxe Suites have jetted spa tubs. Breakfast is served at the on-site restaurant, Shipwreck Lee’s, which is also an inviting spot to enjoy an evning meal or drinks.

Moab, Utah

Photo by Brendan Caffrey via Trover.com

Photo by Brendan Caffrey via Trover.com

Moab is a popular base camp for hikers, mountain bikers, rafters, and other outdoor enthusiasts venturing into the surrounding red-rock canyon country. It’s a small town with only around 5,000 permanent residents, but it’s one of the only places in the region where travelers can enjoy a warm meal or stock up on supplies. Set in a valley fringed by eye-catching red sandstone cliffs, Moab is a favorite setting for films and commercials.

Consider staying at Cali Cochitta Bed & Breakfast, a quaint B&B set in a 19th-century residence. Guest rooms and cottages are furnished with beautiful antiques and offer features such as French doors or views of the La Sal Mountains. The B&B also provides free bike rentals for guests to explore Moab.

Bellingham, Washington

Bellingham offers an engaging mix of natural scenery and urban culture. Home to Western Washington University, the city’s downtown area offers galleries, microbreweries, independent food co-ops, and cafes in addition to the elegant Fairhaven historic district. Bellingham is also home to a number of parks with connecting trails, as well as a bay front and several scenic lakes.

Axton Road Bed & Breakfast is one of the loveliest B&Bs in Bellingham. The property is set on 20 acres of land, comprised of a tree nursey, vineyard, orchard, goat pasture, and veggie garden. Rooms are decorated with warm woods, and offer striking views of the American Cascades, the Canadian Cascades, and the Coastal Range of British Columbia.

About Jessica

Jessica Dawdy is a Canadian freelance writer who is slowly working her way around the world. She has lived in seven different countries across Europe and Asia, feeding her ever-expanding appetite for food, culture and languages.