Tag: hotels

things to do in Cartagena

8 Things To Do in Cartagena, Colombia

On my most recently visit to Cartagena, I stayed at the incredible Casa San Agustin hotel – one of the top boutique hotels in the city, a member of both Leading Hotels of the World and Virtuoso. It was so wonderful being back in Colombia – the friendliness of the local people, the vibrancy of the culture, the incredible culinary opportunities, and the gorgeous architecture of this colonial walled city remains just breathtaking!
Read my article to find out more about this beautiful hotel as well as my top tips for things to do in Cartagena.

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What to do in Central Portugal

Central Portugal is one of the most visited areas on day-trips from Lisbon, but it deserves much more than a cursory eight hour tour in just one day.  History and church lovers will delight in visiting the monasteries, cathedrals, and castles that abound in this lush, beautiful area.  If you’re interested in the history of the Knights Templar (and their Portuguese successors, the Order of Christ), this area is rife with locations built by/for the Templars – your imagination will sure to be inspired!  I’ve visited this area more times than I can count, and there’s still something new to be discovered each time.

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Best hotels and resorts in the USA to replace your international vacation 

There are an incredible number of fantastic vacation options right here in the continental USA. If your nest-egg for your annual European vacation has gone unused this year, why not think about making reservations at one of these American properties instead?
In this article I’ve assembled a list of some of the most fantastic properties for all styles of travel – seaside escapes, rural retreats, wellness-focused getaways, desert ranches, mountainous adventures, and more.

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Puerto Vallarta: Eight Reasons to Visit

 Puerto Vallarta is more than just a beach vacation. It’s a vibrant, stunning juxtaposition of golden beaches, green jungles, meandering mountains, and intriguing culture. After returning from a fantastic stay in Puerto Vallarta,  I’m in love with this …

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10 Days in Portugal: Client Itinerary

10 days in fairytale Portugal, staying in boutique hotels and castle-hotels, covering most of Portugal’s major areas and taking you from beaches to mountains, palaces, national parks, medieval towns, castles, and bustling cities!

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Trip Review: Weekend in New Orleans

New Orleans far exceeded our expectations, and we certainly had a wonderful long weekend there. The people-watching, the joie de vivre, the delicious food, stunning old architecture, historical plantations, and complete differentness from any other city we’ve visited in the USA makes New Orleans a great destination if you’d like a weekend getaway!

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Hotel Review: Hotel Bantu, Cartagena, Colombia

Some say “a hotel is just a place to sleep,” but I maintain that staying in the right hotel can enhance and complement your travel experience! Hotel Bantu did exactly that.   The friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, its wonderful location in the old city, beautiful courtyards, rooftop pool, and of course Tado the Toucan all combine to offer an extraordinary experience in the Old City.   I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this hotel to any of my friends, family, or clients.

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Anchorage: What To Do Before Your Alaskan Cruise

Overall, I really liked having an extra day in Anchorage to start relaxing and get a small taste of the area before our cruise, and I would recommend it to anyone, regardless of whether or not you are visiting Denali before your cruise. Although we didn’t squeeze them into this trip, there are a variety of other things we could have done, including a trip to Aleyska Ski Resort, a cruise on Portage Lake, a trek on Matanuska Glacier, and even booking a charter tour to see Denali via plane in one day! If we had more than 2 days, I wouldn’t choose to stay the whole time in Anchorage, but for one extra night, it was a great beginning to a wonderful trip!

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Guest Post: Trip Review – Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos

I worked with the DeCrosta family to decide whether to stay in a boutique hotel or an all-inclusive resort during a family vacation to Los Cabos, Mexico.  After comparing the options and considering their multi-generational family trip,  they …

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Trip Report: Staycation in Pittsburgh & Hotel Review: The Renaissance

Our staycation in Pittsburgh. PA, plus hotel review of the Renaissance.
If you ever have a chance to take a staycation I highly encourage it. Even just one night in your own city, giving yourself permission to relax and to explore interesting activities and events, can rejuvenate you. You don’t have to spend money on transportation and getting a sitter for your pets – just pack pajamas and a toothbrush and plan a nice dinner and special activity out.