Experiencing Vidanta

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In the interest of full disclosure, I’ll be honest right up front. I dislike big resorts. Actually, I can’t stand them. Certainly, I can admit I do appreciate a flushing toilet or a shower a few times a week, but when I travel I want to actually experience the culture and meet the locals; and by that I don’t mean just exchanging pleasantries with those bringing me my latest poolside cocktail or cleaning my room. Jim’s parents actually prefer a more “cultured” lodging option as well, however years ago got sucked into the world of timeshares and hence… next thing I knew we were leaving the airport with them to experience Vidanta.

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Experience a Slice of Americana

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Written in cooperation with the Hipmunk boutique hotel campaign.

The United States is incredibly diverse. Each region of the country varies tremendously from the next, making travel eye-opening, even while not traveling far from home. To experience a slice of Americana, you need look no further than Columbus, Ohio. No, there is no “major” attraction there, but this city of just over 800,000 is a prime example of Midwestern regional charm and hospitality.

For the sports fans in the family, Columbus does happen to be the home of Ohio State University and their winning Buckeyes football team, and the city, voted one of the “best places to live”, is working to keep attracting the educated work force the city is known for.

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Walking with the Stars

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Written in cooperation with the Hipmunk Boutique hotel campaign.

Hollywood. That word is, justifiably, world-famous. For decades, young hopefuls have streamed into California, all with the hopes of seeing their name up in lights, and their handprints on the side-walk among the Hollywood Walk of Fame. For travelers, the name is synonymous with glamour. Mann’s Chinese Theater, the Hollywood Sign, the Sunset Strip, and Melrose Avenue.

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The Rise of an Urban Supercity

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Written in cooperation with IHG Hotels.

The story of Dubai is one of change and modernization. One of the seven emirates that makes up the United Arab Emirates, the first mention of Dubai was in 1095 in the Book of Geography. In ancient times, it appears few settlements existed in this desert region, but it was a natural pathway for trade between the East and West.

image via Flickr by Michiel2005

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All of Chicago at your Fingertips

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Written in cooperation with the Hipmunk Boutique Hotel campaign.

The windy city has a little something for everyone. Come for an overnight stay or spend some time, but either way,Chicago will thrill with it’s Miracle Mile, Wrigley Stadium, and deep dish pizza. Set scenically on the shores of Lake Michigan, this vibrant city is one of the largest in the United States, offering up nearly endless sightseeing and dining options.

The cities dynamic skyline dominates downtown and is famous for museums, such as the Art Institute with it’s noted impressionist works, along with many sports teams.

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Unique Places to View NYC’s Skyline

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In cooperation with IHG Intercontinental Hotels Group. Previously published on IHG’s blog.

The Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, One World Trade Center…all of offer exceptional views of NYC, but only with some major trade-offs. You could wait hours in line just to reach the top, and the cost of admission is as sky-high as the observation deck. Plus, you’ll find the same exact views in every tour guide and on about half of all NYC postcards. Visiting New York City is breath taking, make sure you are getting the most out of your trip whether your hotel is within walking distance to Times Square or discovering more unique places off the beaten path.

So where should you go to see New York in a new way? Fortunately, there are several other locations which let you see the NYC skyline from a fresh perspective. While they aren’t featured in many city guides, we’ve put together a list of cool and unique locations with unbelievable skyline views. These are more than just tourist trap observation decks; each one doubles as a memorable New York experience, whether you’ll be enjoying a relaxing stroll in the park, learning about natural history, riding a famous carousel, listening to live music, or viewing some of the world’s finest artwork.

Keep this guide handy as you explore New York City from top to bottom. We’ve highlighted some local spots with seriously exceptional views of the city that will remind you why NYC is so special.

 

Small Town Charm in the Center of the Action

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Written in cooperation with the Hipmunk Boutique Hotel campaign.

Often considered in the shadow of mega-city Dallas- Fort Worth, Irving offers up a vibrant, and fast growing city. Ideally located to all of the highlights of the big city, while offering up a small town feel, Irving is a perfect slice of Americana. By choosing lodging in Irving, you can get the same quality for lower cost than in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Irving, itself, is listed on Forbes Magazine as one of the fastest growing cities in the country, and with it’s own wonderful offerings such as Shin’s Donuts, has much to draw interest in its own right.

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Five Favorite Memories of Sydney

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When I think back on our time in Sydney, a few experiences immediately spring to mind. To us, these moments exemplify OUR Sydney; some touristy, but others much more in line with day to day life. With nearly unlimited lodging options available in Sydney, it is simple to find your own home away from home in this fascinating city. In conjunction with IHG Hotels, I present to you my list of our five favorite Sydney memories.

image via Flickr by BeauGiles

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