For a great getaway for all ages, head to Bryson City, NC and discover a host of outdoor adventures within the Great Smoky Mountains. Enjoy breathtaking views whether trekking the Appalachian trails, rafting on the Nantahala River or gliding on a zipline through the Nantahala Gorge and Smoky Mountains. Highly recommended is a whitewater rafting adventure through the Nantahala Outdoor Center. The guided tour is one of the most spectacular ways to take in the scenic beauty and biodiversity of the area. The Nantahala River is a dam-controlled river with water pulled from the bottom of Lake Nantahala about 250…
Author: Renuka Christoph
For a weekend getaway at a prime location, head to Hotel Effie Sandestin / Hotel Effie Sandestin, Autograph Collection for the perfect spa experience within the panhandle of Florida. The Spa Lilliana brings respite and relaxation, offering an array of personalized experiences. Highly recommended is the Sea of Life facial, which consists of a restorative mask along with organic algae extracts and natural botanical oils. I melted in a state of pure nirvana as an expert masseuse nurtured my skin, leaving me with a radiant glow. Effie is located in Choctawhatchee Bay, where scenic views can be enjoyed on the…
I have been travel writing for well over a decade and must admit I was a skeptic when it came to cruising. I love to go off the beaten path, explore the land, eat with the locals and be on my own time frame. I figured a cruise would limit discovery time and feel confining. However, upon entering the Viking Sky, I was mesmerized by its stunning beauty, exquisite Scandinavian design and impeccable detail at every corner, and ultimately approaching each country from sea. Guests were warmly welcomed into a lap of luxury within The Living Room on Deck 1…
John Fogerty, lead for Creedence Clearwater Revival, performed at the FirstBank Amphitheater in Franklin, TN on July 25. Fogerty entertained for two hours on a perfect summer night, cranking out his numerous hits. He opened with proudly proclaiming his ownership of all songs from CCR, after fifty years. There was a celebratory uproar, applauding this iconic musician of winning the battle for his prized songs. That set the tone to an uplifting night of classic tunes. From “Old Man Down the Road” to “Fortunate Son,” he had the crowd engaged. His rich spirited songs captivated all in attendance, especially with…
Escape to a picturesque fairy tale land within minutes outside of Knoxville. The Ancient Lore Village, a magical place, awaits discovery. I ventured to the village with my two adult sons and we found pure tranquility and mutual joy in what was truly pages from a storybook. The luxury resort spares no expense as every inch captures the descriptions from the book Bokees Trek, Outcasts to the Inner Earth by author Tom Boyd. The features of the village mimic Lord of the Rings, with whimsical homes offering distinct characteristics. There are six themed cottages to choose from. We stayed in…
Fly cheap from Nashville to Orlando for as low as $40 one way. That is a huge savings which will help offset the theme park costs or whatever activities you will do. I did a quick weekend with one day at Universal and one at Walt Disney World’s Epcot. Here’s a quick comparison. Dealing with crowds A big stress factor is the long lines and crowds. Both parks offer passes you can purchase to bypass the long lines at highly sought attractions. Disney once offered a Fast Pass, which has been replaced with the Lightening Lane as well as the…
Discover paradise along the shores of the Atlantic at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Tranquility is unearthed in this luxurious beachside property located on a barrier island along the Atlantic Coast of northern Florida. The Ritz lives up to its name where hospitality abounds. It’s a perfect family, girls or couples getaway offering various activities for all ages from golf to the Fire in the Dunes nightly bonfire to an enormous family pool and play area for younger guests. Dine There are an array of dining options, from casual poolside to formal. Each has a distinct seaside charm with a variety…
For a great weekend getaway, head to Atlanta’s hopping district of Buckhead where high end shopping, boutiques, art galleries and dining abound. Make getting there part of the total experience with a plush bus ride aboard Nashville’s new luxury bus Vonlane. The bus offers convenient pick up service at the Omni Nashville downtown and drop off at the Grand Hyatt Buckhead. Relax and ride in comfort as assiduous attendants cater to your every need. They frequent the aisles with snacks, beverages. The service provides complimentary breakfast and lunch. Alcohol can be purchased. There is also WiFi available. It’s the perfect…
Renuka Christoph Experience a lavish getaway at French Lick Casino and Resort which offers an expanse of luxurious comforts and historical elegance. Whether getting pampered at one of the spas, golfing on a scenic course or trying your luck on the casino floor, the resort is a choice destination for rest and relaxation. Choose from accommodations at either French Lick Springs Hotel or West Baden Springs Hotel, which offer equal marvel but distinct architecture. Unwind Get recharged with a hot stone massage at the French Lick spa. It is by far, one of the most relaxing treatments to choose from,…
Make this a memorable holiday with High Tea at the exquisite Tennessean Hotel. It is located next to the World’s Fair Park, along the banks of the Tennessee River, in downtown Knoxville. Southern hospitality welcomes guests as they step into luxury. Sip in elegance as top notch service caters to you every need, offering expert tips on the art of tea drinking. The quintessential experience is heartwarming, as guests are served a variety of teas served on iconic British Wedgwood China within The Drawing Room. Extend the pampering with an overnight a stay in luxurious comfort within the boutique hotel.…