Thank You National Geographic

You can count on National Geographic for great traveling ideas and tips, and they have come through for us once again.

This month their Intelligent Travel blog has been featuring the best of holiday travel around the world. So far, it has covered cities such as Rome, Montreal, New Orleans, Berlin, Paris and many more. If you're searching for an idea for next season's vacation look no further!

Leave Your Worries at Home

Planning your holiday vacation beforehand is equally as important as picking the perfect destination. My mom always had our family vacations planned to a tee, and because of this our trips always went off without a hitch. Well, almost every time. Let's face it, with three kids things will not go perfectly.

The point is, by doing a little research and pre-planning your vacation you can leave your troubles at home, giving you a little more time for rest and relaxation. Here are some sites with good tips on planning your holiday vacation:

Traveling for the Holidays? Read this First!

The Travel Rants' Planning Guide for Holidaymakers

Holiday Travel 101

Asheville's Winter Wonderland

In keeping with the holiday spirit of my previous post, I've decided that the rest of this month's posts will be dedicated to places to vacation during the holiday season.

If there is any place that radiates with a magical seasonal spirit it's Asheville, N.C. Although it's a heavenly place year-round, there is something majestic about the city during the holiday season.

Asheville is home to America's largest house and possibly the most Christmas decorations you'll ever see in one place. The Biltmore's Christmas experience is truly unique and not to be missed in one's lifetime. I have made many trips to the Biltmore and my favorite time to visit is while it's halls are decked for the holidays.



Upon entering the house for a tour one year, snow flakes began to dust the front of the estate. By the time we circled back to the front entrance of the house the lawn was coated with a thick layer of white powder. Being from South Carolina I grew up deprived of snowfall, so for me any snow is spectacular. To see the Biltmore house glistening in the snow was a surreal experience.

While at the Biltmore be sure to check out their enormous gingerbread house.If you don't get enough gingerbread inspiration there don't worry, that is just the beginning. Grove Park Inn, a local resort, hosts an annual National Gingerbread Competition and displays the houses until January 11, 2009 this year. With four age groups (adult, teen, youth and child) there is a nice range of skill. From the pearls on the sleigh to the minute snowflake border, grand prize winner Billie Mochow did not miss a single detail on her house.



If you're looking to do a little Christmas souvenir shoppping, my favorite place in Asheville is the Biltmore Village just outside the entrance to the Biltmore house. This quaint village is like the cherry on top of the 'Asheville during Christmas' sundae.

The period architecture used throughout the village is a large contributing factor to the picturesque feeling of the area. Illuminated with Christmas lights, the Biltmore village is home to businesses, art galleries, home furnishing and craft stores. Did I mention the amazing art galleries? Asheville is an art lover's paradise. Galleries can be found with almost every turn you take in the city.



My last tip for a Christmas vacay in Asheville is to do a little research on your lodging before booking anything! You could be the typical tourist and book a room at the Inn on Biltmore Estate paying outrageous amounts, or you could do a little research and find a good deal! For a change of pace, I recommend looking into Bed and Breakfasts in Asheville. There are plenty in the area that are not the old lady with cats ambiance, rather updated and well-kept. My husband and I stayed at the Biltmore Village Inn as a sort of pre-honeymoon, my only comment- perfection.

Christmas decorations galore, art galleries aplenty, shopping and historic sites that compete with the natural beauty surrounding you-- a Christmas oasis to get lost in. You'll be booking your next trip to Asheville before you even get back home. Happy planning travelers!

Tis the Season to visit the Big Apple

With Thanksgiving and Black Friday behind us it's time to focus on Christmas. There's no better way to kick your Christmas season off than picking out your tree and decorating it from top to bottom!

Decorating a tree is not just a tradition for the individual American, but also for America as a nation. On Dec 3, Al Roker hosted the 76th annual lighting of the tree at Rockefeller Center.
For many, the lighting of this tree is a sign that the Christmas season has officially begun.

Just the thought of Christmas gives us a warm, happy feeling and evokes thoughts of stockings hanging on the mantel and cherished memories with loved ones. But there is one Christmas dream of mine that has yet to come true.

The dream: spending Christmas in New York City.

Over the years I have visited the Big Apple several times, but it's been far too long since my last visit. Now, more than ever, I have been daydreaming about my ideal Christmas in New York City.

Here are my must see and do items for the ultimate Christmas vacation to the city:

In the past I have been to New York in the summer, because of this I have never witnessed the perfection that is Rockefeller Center during the Christmas Season. Needless to say ice skating at Rockefeller Center is on the top of my to do list! Since its opening in 1936, this skating rink has become one of the most popular attractions in the city. I've also been told that when visiting during the holiday season you should hit the rink early morning to beat the crowds.

After a few laps around the rink, why not explore Rockefeller Center a little more. I've heard that the "Top of the Rock" observation deck has better views of the city than the Empire State Building. You even get a great view of central park, which you can't see from the Empire State building. After checking out the website I decided the combo "Rock Pass" would be perfect for me and my husband. Not only do you get the pass to the observation deck but also admission the NBC studio tour and the Radio City Music Hall's Stage Door tour. All for $46!

Now, time for some food! I've got three restaurants on my must visit list for this trip. First, a romantic dinner with my hubby at the New York institution Tavern on the Green. Whether or not you think of the Tavern as a tourist trap, there's no denying it is a beautiful site to see. With elegant, ornate walls its a "whimsical, magical" place according to the owner Jeniffer LeRoy. Personally, I believe it is a worthwhile experience. Be sure to check out their special menu's for Christmas and New Year's eve. Second, Serendipity. This little coffee house turned chic restaurant has had my heart for many years. Not only was it Andy Warhol's favorite spot, it was also featured in a 2001 film entitled Serendipity, and let's not forget the amazing entrees and desserts! My taste buds water at the thought of the succulent "Strawberry Fields Sundae." Following my sweet tooth to Time Square to get my cheesecake fix, we'll end up at Junior's most Fabulous Cheesecake and Desserts. A few months ago Junior's was featured on a Food Network show and I have been dreaming if devils food cheesecake every night since. Yes, I have a dessert addiction.

Having saved the best for last, I only have two more places on my must see list for this trip-- the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art. With my sweet tooth satisfied I need to see some exceptional art before leaving New York. In my art history classes many pieces I have studied are exhibited regularly at these museums. I find studying art fascinating, but nothing compares to viewing the works first-hand. It is an incomparable experience that is simply captivating. Luckily, my husband has a passion for art, almost as much as me. Taking guided tours can be a good experience, but often I like to tour the museum on my own. I like for my first round through a museum to focus on quiet contemplation of each work of art. For those of you who don't know much about art I would recommend looking into the tours and audio programs.



So far, these are my must see and do activities for my Christmas vacation. Time will only tell what other exciting adventures will be added to the list before we leave for New York City!

Happy Turkey Day

Although travel is down this Thanksgiving compared to past years, we have seen gas prices steadily dropping the past few weeks. For some of us these lower gas prices were our saving grace for traveling this holiday season. My trip home will end up costing me 90 dollars total(and I drive a gas-guzzler)! I know I'm thankful for that!

I hope you are each getting to enjoy your family traditions and giving thanks for all that you have. Happy Thanksgiving!

Hidden Gem

I was left stunned after stumbling upon this photograph the other day. Admittedly, I am a sucker for great architectural details, especially ones that grab you with great intensity like we see here. This photo reminds me of chapels built in Italy during the Romanesque period, a great time for architecture.

The nave of San Miniato al Monte Chapel built in 1013 is a prime comparison to this Grand Hall with its embellished curving arches and the narrowed appearance.

Believe it or not, this decadent Grand Hall is located in the Crowne Plaza at Union Station in Indianapolis. In fact, the hotel is housed in America's first Union Station.

This Grand Hall can host up to 700 people and is one of the city's most popular venues. My first thought when seeing this romantic room is that it would be the perfect setting for a winter wedding. But for those of you not planning a wedding do not worry, the hotel also offers 30 meeting rooms ranging from 400-13,000 sq. ft.

The beauty of this hotel doesn't just stop with the Grand Hall. Crowne Plaza at Union Station offers a unique experience with their string of Pullman train cars that have been converted into guest rooms. These antique train cars boast a 1900's movie theme and are named after famous personalities. In addition to these train cars are white fiberglass ghosts travelers dressed in period clothing haunting the halls of the hotel.

On top of all these wonderful qualities, the hotel is conveniently located to many attractions. While in Indianapolis be sure to check out Circle Center Mall, Indianapolis Zoo, and the Indianapolis Museum of Art.

Earlry Christmas Present

Normally this time of year we see air fares jumping to outrageous amounts, but not this year.

This holiday season the airlines are struggling just as much as you and me. This week we saw fares drastically drop for the upcoming Thanksgiving break through Christmas. Catch these low fares while you can! I checked them out just 3 days ago and since then they have risen by about $60! I just booked my flights for the holidays for half of what I normally pay! Get on and book yours too!

The Importance of Family

Having been informed of some heart-breaking family news this week, I am simply going to encourage you to travel to see your family whenever possible. Go as much as you can because you never know when things will change. For me, I wanted to get out of my hometown more than anything and when I got the chance I left and didn't want to look back. Don't take your family for granted. Many people compare their friends to family, but with the exception of those few special friends no one can replace your family. So if you haven't been home in a while or spoken to your family, go see them.

Dreaming of Paradise

I find myself daydreaming of my honeymoon as the Fall weather is slowly beginning to cool down our mornings and evenings. As much as I love to see the fall foliage it's sad saying goodbye to Summer and all of its bliss.

Summer is the time we all make our way to the beach, lake, river or whatever summer get-away of you may have planned. This summer my special get-away was my honeymoon to Cancun, Mexico.

I know what you may be thinking, Cancun for a honeymoon? But after months of researching tropical destinations I just couldn't find the right place for the right price. Then a friend suggested that we look into some resorts in Cancun. I was skeptical of this idea to say the least.

When I think of Cancun I picture MTV Spring break, drunken 18-year-olds everywhere, basically the ultimate party city. But my friend assured me that this image is a complete misconception, so I took her word and began researching Cancun.

I immediately fell in love with the Sun Palace Resort. I looked into other resorts, but I kept coming back to the Sun Palace. At the time I found the Sun Palace it was ranked number four on Trip Advisor's list of Cancun hotels. By the time our honeymoon rolled around, they were up to number two.

Being a research junkie, I knew basically every detail regarding the hotel and Cancun before we took off for our honeymoon. When we arrived to Cancun all doubts still racing through my mind immediately vanished.

For a girl with high expectations, I must say our honeymoon was perfect. That's right, perfect. I can honestly say that neither my husband nor I have one complaint from our five day vacation to Cancun or our stay at the Sun Palace.

The pool, the bar, the bedroom, the food, especially the service and of course the beach were flawless. Our 10 minute bus rides into the heart of Cancun's hotel zone from Sun Palace were always a new and interesting adventure.

One afternoon we accidentally spent five pesos too much and didn't have enough money for two people to take the bus back to the hotel which was 6 miles away. After about an hour of trying to figure out how to get 5 pesos we managed to get back to the Sun Palace. Even with this small setback, the malls, restaurants, markets and all of locals were worth taking the 10 minute trip into the city.

As I sit here scanning through all of my pictures from the trip I'm wishing I was next to that pool with a cool drink and no worries.

Lounging in that chair overlooking the infinity pool fading into the ocean, you can't help but think you've discovered paradise. Even though these daydreams make me long for a few more weeks of Summer, I'm ready to embrace the Fall foliage and the quickly approaching holiday season.

SEC Football Season = Perfection

To me, the best season of the year is (and has always been) football season. Born and raised in Columbia, Sc, I spent my Saturdays attending the University of South Carolina football games or in my second home of Athens, Ga, cheering on the Dawgs. After high school I headed to the University of Alabama where football is known as a religion, and my love for SEC football grows more and more with every season.

Last week my husband expressed his confusion regarding the "big deal" of tailgating, Gameday and the hype of college football in general. This was a blow to my heart. Then I realized that he had never been to SEC Gameday or any SEC game. Can you believe that?! If you are in the same boat as my husband, JUMP SHIP!!

While I appreciate other football divisions, their football and tailgating just don't compare to that of a SEC team. There is nothing like the smell of burgers on the grill, the sound of the drumline playing for the crowds, and the echoing shouts of a good Roll Tide, Hotty Toddy, Go Dawgs...you get the picture.

SEC fans are some of the most dedicated and passionate people you will ever meet and when it comes to Gameday they don't mess around.

University of South Carolina fans are a great example of how far an SEC fan's dedication goes. In 1990, two men began a business endevor which entailed placing 22 old cabooses on the train tracks adjacent to the Gamecock's Williams- Bryce Stadium. In 2008, old and new cabooses are selling for upward of $200,000 and many customers will put another $100,000 into them. Each caboose is designed as the perfect tailgating oasis, with small kitchen areas, entertainment centers and a cool place for those hot Saturdays. These "Cockaboose" havens are a high end example of tailgating, but surely is tailgating at its best.


Seeing this dedication, its no surprise the fans flock from miles away and often arrive Friday afternoon or early Saturday morning for the game. This makes timing one of the most important factors for tailgating. Be sure to arrive at least 4 hours prior to the game with all Gameday necessities. These include (but are not limited to) a Gameday feast for you and your friends, chairs, a radio or TV, tent, and if you're 21, a case of beer (or two).

Be prepared for a lot of post-game traffic. Its best to just stay for a while after the game and enjoy a little post-game tailgating as the crowds clear.

Just thinking about Gameday puts butterflies in my stomach and a sense of thrill in my heart.

Whichever team you decide to go see, you will quickly understand why so many fans crowd college towns every Saturday. So, whether you are a football fanatic or a tailgating virgin, take the opportunity to go to an SEC football game this season. You too will get hooked on all that is SEC Gameday.

Birthday Bash with Disney

Ever dreamed of spending your birthday in the Magic Kingdom? Well this year Disney is making your dreams come true.

This week Disney announced their national promotion for 2009, "What will you celebrate?" This new promotion highlights free entry to any Disney theme park for guests on their birthday.

To all of you who have never been to Disney World, or any Disney park for that matter, I advise you to take this opportunity!!! So far I have taken over 4 family vacations to Disney World and each was an unforgettable experience.

Even if you can't make it for your birthday, I'm sure you can find something to celebrate.

Take Time to Travel

To me, travel is the second greatest love of my life. I believe learning about different cultures and their history is extraordinarily intriguing. Unfortunately, the majority of us cannot afford to fly off to Rome or Paris on a whim. This shouldn't hold you back from embracing new adventures. Travel can be in your backyard. For example, here in Middle Tennessee we have tons of historic homes to see. Take a day trip to visit some of these homes, you'll be surprised how much more you know about your community by the end of the day.


Check out this site for historical homes to tour in the area:

http://www.nashvillelife.com/travel/page17.html

Inspiration

"I see my path, but I don't know where it leads. Not knowing where I'm going is what inspires me to travel it."
-Rosalia de Castro