TRAVEL ME NOW

DON'T DELAY

Recent Posts

Most Used Categories

Month: January 2023

HOTEL
7 Resorts In Texas For The Ultimate Lone Star Escape

From lakeside bliss to Hill Country adventure, these are some of our favorite resorts across the state.

<p>Jack Hollingsworth; Courtesy Lajitas Golf Resort</p>

Jack Hollingsworth; Courtesy Lajitas Golf Resort

It should come at no surprise that Texas is full of spectacular stays. The Lone Star State’s wide open spaces, scenic lakes, small towns, and bustling cities beckon for adventure. While you can always pitch a tent or check out a charming bed and breakfast, there’s nothing quite as relaxing as unwinding at a resort without worrying about any logistics.

Whether you’re looking for a resort weekend getaway for pure R&R or a vacation full of adventure, you can find it all in Texas. Here, we’ve highlighted some of the best resorts across Texas that allow you to breath easy and explore.

La Cantera Resort and Spa

<p>Courtesy La Cantera Resort&nbsp;</p>

Courtesy La Cantera Resort

San Antonio, Texas

Inspired by the King Ranch in South Texas, La Cantera Resort & Spa wows with its rustic lobby decor and sweeping Hill Country views. The resort sits on 550 acres and includes nine restaurants, five heated pools, a championship golf course, and an adults-only floor for those looking for some solitude. Loma de Vida, the resort spa, is a must with its 25,000 square feet of space for massages, facials, pool time, and reflexology. Experience a local and organic dinner from chef John Carpenter at Signature, where seasonal menus include dishes such as Maine scallops with pork belly and a pear puree or herb gnocchi with butternut squash, pepita pesto, and and tomato. Rent a luxury cabana at the adults-only pool, where TVs, a safe, fully stocked refrigerators, and VIP service keep you relaxed all afternoon.

The Houstonian Hotel, Club, & Spa

<p>Courtesy The Houstonian Hotel, Club &amp; Spa</p>

Courtesy The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa

Houston, Texas

Located in the former home of President George H.W.

… Read the rest
Read Time: 10 Min

0

Related Posts

TOUR
Searching for travel deals can be painstaking. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the changing landscape.

These days, Alaska travelers are searching. And searching. In fact, many travelers are becoming experts at searching for the flights they want.

They’re asking questions, too. Each day I get emails about mileage redemption, premium seats, travel insurance and credit cards. Everything, it seems, is changing.

Under the category of “what’s old is new again,” there are more travelers asking for a referral to a travel agent who can sift through the options to find the best flight. And we haven’t even started on a car, a place to stay or a tour.

Some travelers really enjoy the hunt. I fall into that category. I know there’s a deal out there and I’m going to find it.

One of my best resources is the Google Flights tool. The site offers a good overview of which airlines fly on a particular route, plus there’s a price graph function where you can see prices on different days.

When you find a flight you like, the site offers a button that takes you to the airline’s website to book. Or, sometimes, it says to call the airline directly. Often, I’ll just go to the airline site anyway and find the deal.

Scanning for airfares, it’s simple to drill down for the cheapest-ever fare. Everyone wants to look for that. But the airlines have caught on to this and now offer what can only be called “economy minus.” This is the collection of Saver fares, basic economy or economy light rates. Frequent flyers eschew these rates — because they aren’t practical for most flyers. Restrictions include: no changes, very limited pre-assigned seats, last to board, no access to upgrades and so forth.

Alaska Airlines’ Saver fares aren’t even available on in-state flights. The Saver fares are specifically designed to capture comparison shoppers with

… Read the rest
Read Time: 12 Min

0

Related Posts

TRAVELLING
Solo Travel Tips

7 recommendations for venturing out alone

MISSION, Kan., Jan. 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — (Family Features) Whether you’re a lone wolf at heart or looking to broaden your sense of independence, traveling solo can be a richly empowering and satisfying experience.

Photo courtesy of Overseas Adventure Travel

Photo courtesy of Overseas Adventure Travel

Setting out on your own has many practical advantages. You’re not worrying about accommodating another’s schedule, interest or needs, and you’re free to decide what you want to do and when. Solo travel also elicits some mental and emotional benefits, as you experience a unique sense of freedom, liberation and self-sufficiency.

If you’re considering a solo journey, consider these tips from the book “101+ Tips for Solo Women Travelers,” which is offered by Overseas Adventure Travel in free digital and print editions.

Make Sure Your Passport is Updated
Many countries now require your passport to be valid for six months after your return to the United States. If you don’t have a passport, or need to renew one, apply for one as soon as possible. Ideally you should have your application in six months before you depart.

Look for Trips with No Single Supplement
Often, quoted rates are “per person, based on double occupancy.” This is because travel hosts know they can make more from a couple traveling than an individual. You can avoid paying a single supplement premium by being willing to match with a roommate or traveling with a tour company or cruise line with free or low-cost single supplement fees.

Use the ATM
As an affordable and convenient way to get cash, you can avoid wasting time in line at a bank or currency exchange bureau by visiting an ATM. While you’ll likely incur a fee for using an ATM that’s not part of your bank, it

… Read the rest
Read Time: 6 Min

0

Related Posts

ADVENTURE
This weekend is your last chance to ride Splash Mountain at Disney World before it closes for good

Splash Mountain closes for good at Disney World after this weekend: What you need to know

If you want to take one last ride with Brer Rabbit and his friends on Splash Mountain, you better hurry: this weekend is your last chance before it closes for good at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park.

ORLANDO, Fla. – If you want to take one last ride with Brer Rabbit and his friends on Splash Mountain, you better hurry: this weekend is your last chance before it closes for good at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park.

Disney announced last month that Splash Mountain would officially close on Monday, Jan. 23 to begin its transformation into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which is based off the popular animated film “The Princess and the Frog.” In 2020, many people called for Splash Mountain to be re-themed because of its connection to the film Song of the South, which has been the subject of much controversy as many critics have described the film’s portrayal of African Americans as racist and offensive.

The film was criticized for its view of the post-Civil War south. Theme park blogger John Saccheri weighed in, saying “if it gives anyone any oppressive memories, ideas or feelings, it’s Disney. It should be changed. We go to Disney for an escape.”

Splash Mountain opened in Frontierland inside Magic Kingdom Park on July 17, 1992. At the time, several milestones were reached in the history of Disney attractions when Splash Mountain made its debut, including having one of the biggest animated props ever built with its 35-foot-wide showboat and the 52 ½-foot drop that sent guests down at 40 miles per hour, one of the fastest speeds achieved at a Disney attraction.

Now, Tiana will take over. 

73256fe3-76caf20e-tiana-bayou-adventure.jpg

According to Disney, guests ridingdisney

… Read the rest
Read Time: 5 Min

0

Related Posts

ADVENTURE
Denver space working to create inclusivity, spark conversation

“Town Hall Collaborative was really born out of this desire and need to create space that was not just focused on a bar but really focused on activism,” Day said. “Town Hall was really about having a space to gather either for fun or to have hard conversations.”

The pair settled on the name “Town Hall Collaborative,” after deciding they wanted the space’s patrons to involve themselves in politics and help shape the world around them.

“We’re taking back this idea that politics is outside of us as a community,” Day said. “We, as a community and as a group of people, need to be involved and we wanted to make space for that.”

On separate, personal levels, both owners said they know how it feels to be excluded from more traditional bars and coffee shops. Day’s son has Autism Spectrum Disorder, and throughout his life, Day said she has noticed how few establishments are accessible for people with disabilities, which Town Hall Collaborative hopes to change.

“We always said that we would be a space that was safe and inclusive and we would do everything in our power to make it that way,” Day said. “Communities are meant to be together and to gather together and challenge each other, and there aren’t enough spaces that are intentional in doing that.”

While the location in the Santa Fe Arts District was something of a lucky coincidence, the owners said the space also hopes to connect artists and help them share their work with the community.

“To have a space where you can come listen to a lecture on race, gender or sexuality and also listen to live music and have trivia or karaoke, I feel like that’s not only encompassing of how I feel and show up in this

… Read the rest
Read Time: 4 Min

0

Related Posts

TOUR
6 adventure travel tour trends for 2023

Much like last year, people are eager to get out and see the world in 2023. And many travelers want to do that while pedaling a bike, hiking through breathtaking landscapes, or paddling down a river. That’s why active and adventure travel tours are a popular choice for visiting bucket-list destinations near and far. 

“Throughout the pandemic, as people got active through walking, hiking, biking, or on their Peloton, more people are wanting to keep that movement going even when on vacation,” says Graeme Montgomery, brand manager for luxury travel tour company Butterfield & Robinson. “Multi-active trips (a mix of biking, hiking and other activities) are really popular, as people are looking for well-rounded itineraries that bring the adventure, change pace from day to day and showcase the best of the region. Think rafting in Northern Greece, camel riding in Morocco, riding horseback in Iceland, or kayaking in Uruguay.”

With 2023 shaping up to be another banner year for travel, active and adventure travel tour companies are seeing some trends emerging. Here’s what to expect in the active travel tour space in 2023:

TOP TOUR OPERATORS: 14 best group travel companies for guided tours

1. Active and adventure travel tours will book up quickly

Active travel company Backroads has already seen a 60% increase in bookings more than nine months out for 2023 departures and the company expects to see its highest customer numbers of its 44-year history in 2023. The story’s the same at many other tour companies.

WOMEN-ONLY TRIPS: 9 best women-only travel groups and tour operators

“2023 is going fast,” says Heather Heverling, president of AdventureWomen, which offers more than 50 trips in more than 65 countries designed by and for women. “Guests are eagerly booking adventures and not just for travel in

… Read the rest
Read Time: 13 Min

0

Related Posts

ADVENTURE
This weekend is your last chance to ride Splash Mountain at Disney World

Splash Mountain closes for good at Disney World after this weekend: What you need to know

If you want to take one last ride with Brer Rabbit and his friends on Splash Mountain, you better hurry: this weekend is your last chance before it closes for good at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park.

ORLANDO, Fla. – If you want to take one last ride with Brer Rabbit and his friends on Splash Mountain, you better hurry: this weekend is your last chance before it closes for good at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park.

Disney announced last month that Splash Mountain would officially close on Monday, Jan. 23 to begin its transformation into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which is based off the popular animated film “The Princess and the Frog.” In 2020, many people called for Splash Mountain to be re-themed because of its connection to the film Song of the South, which has been the subject of much controversy as many critics have described the film’s portrayal of African Americans as racist and offensive.

The film was criticized for its view of the post-Civil War south. Theme park blogger John Saccheri weighed in, saying “if it gives anyone any oppressive memories, ideas or feelings, it’s Disney. It should be changed. We go to Disney for an escape.”

Splash Mountain opened in Frontierland inside Magic Kingdom Park on July 17, 1992. At the time, several milestones were reached in the history of Disney attractions when Splash Mountain made its debut, including having one of the biggest animated props ever built with its 35-foot-wide showboat and the 52 ½-foot drop that sent guests down at 40 miles per hour, one of the fastest speeds achieved at a Disney attraction.

Now, Tiana will take over. 

According to Disney, guests riding Tiana’s

… Read the rest
Read Time: 5 Min

0

Related Posts

TRAVELLING
Responsible Flushing Alliance Offers #FlushSmart Tips for Fun & Healthy Winter Travel

Sanitizing Wipes Keep Hands & Surfaces Clean while On-the-Go; Always Look for the “Do Not Flush” Symbol on Wipes Packaging for Disposal Instructions

SEATTLE, Jan. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — 2023 rang in with extreme winter weather, from torrential flooding to massive snowstorms. Families are looking for ways to escape the winter doldrums for some family fun.

The Responsible Flushing Alliance (RFA), a consumer education nonprofit, offers fun family travel tips for staying healthy while enjoying the best of winter vacation destinations.

And whether traveling to a snowy ski destination or a tropical beach, keep in mind that germs can stay on hard surfaces, making it important to disinfect common high-touch surfaces like handrails, doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls.

Remember, just because the family is on vacation, doesn’t mean good hygiene habits stay at home:

  • Wash hands frequently using water and soap for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose
  • Use the “Dracula” method by coughing or sneezing into the elbow rather than hands
  • Use non-flushable wipes to sanitize hard surfaces and hands
  • Always look for the “Do Not Flush” symbol on wipes packaging and if you see it, always dispose of that wipe in the trash and never the toilet

What’s the Big Deal?

When non-flushable wipes are disposed of the wrong way and enter the wastewater system, they don’t break down and can cause clogs and damage to equipment. According to the EPA, there are 23,000-75,000 sewer overflows each year. And 98-99 percent of the materials clogging wastewater systems don’t belong there (think baby wipes, cleaning wipes, period products, paper towels).

Not All Wipes are Created the Same

Non-flushable wipes are made with long, often synthetic fibers and are made to be strong and durable whereas wipes marked as flushable are made

… Read the rest
Read Time: 5 Min

0

Related Posts

HOTEL
17 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico 2023: Swim-Up Bars, Spas, and Snorkeling Included

Programming at this well-landscaped Puerto Vallarta resort in Marina Vallarta is largely geared towards families. The kids’ club is a major draw—they host plenty of events for kids and teens, from craft workshops to sports tournaments to pool activities—but programming extends to other parts of the resort, too, such as milk and cookies in your room. Adults and children alike can enjoy other resort amenities like the lagoon-style pool, tennis courts, a rock-climbing wall, and an archery range. For adults, there are plenty of wellness offerings, too, from the spa to yoga and stretching classes.

Mia Reef Isla Mujeres, Isla Mujeres

The vibe: Private island
Top amenities: Spa, swim-up bar
What’s included: Meals, beverages
Price tag: $$

This colorful all-inclusive resort is located on a private island off Isla Mujeres, itself just a 20 minute ferry ride from Cancún. Although it’s not very hard to get to—it’s connected by a footbridge to the main island and is just a few minutes from downtown—it does have a secluded feel. With fewer than 200 rooms, it’s not an overly large resort, so it’s a somewhat quiet atmosphere, but it is family-friendly and the small beach can get a little crowded. It gets even quieter at the small spa, which has just three treatment rooms, including a couples suite.

Iberostar Tucán

Courtesy Iberostar Tucán

Iberostar Tucan, Playa del Carmen

The vibe: Beachfront garden escape
Top amenities: Spa, archery range, kids’ club
What’s included: Meals, beverages, non-motorized water sports
Price tag: $$$

This five-star property is definitely on the upper side of affordable, but you can definitely find good deals for stays outside of peak travel periods like winter break. While it has a fine-sand beach that’s definitely a draw for most guests, the property stands out for its lush gardens. You’ll find

… Read the rest
Read Time: 5 Min

0

Related Posts

ADVENTURE
Live Cycle Delight in Detroit is set to close

Daniels essentially closed the Agnes space in October 2022 — a space she invested nearly $300,000 in to get up and running. Her landlord, Banyan Investments, asked Daniels to continue to operate out of the space, leading the entrepreneur to reopen without a staff and running all the classes herself.

Aside from issues brought on by COVID-19, Daniels dealt with rising rent costs within the city. Rent for the second location, Live Cycle Hot at 1468 Van Dyke in the Coe development, increased by 3 percent each year. Woodborn Partners, the development company that operates the Coe, would not budge on the price, Daniels said. Daniels opened that studio in June 2018, putting $65,000 into renovating the space.

Woodborn President and CEO Clifford Brown on Friday told Crain’s the company has attempted to work with Daniels at every turn to accommodate her situation.

“We’re disappointed in how things played out,” Brown said.

Daniels told Crain’s things became to difficult to manage.

“In 2022, things just got too hard. There were too many holes to fill, too many rising costs, inflation,” Daniels said. “Most importantly, our clients didn’t return in the manner I’d hoped. We have two locations, and the pandemic pushed people to look for more convenient workouts. There are now so many options in the city. We don’t have the corporate offices downtown anymore. I was looking to pivot to franchising, but I couldn’t find an investor who would support the initiative.”

That lack of support led Daniels during the pandemic to take out about $180,000 in loans. Depending on when the loans were distributed, the time is coming to pay the funds back — a task Daniels says may be too tall.

“I was already typically an underfunded entrepreneur,” Daniels said. “I was unable to get funding with

… Read the rest
Read Time: 5 Min

0

Related Posts