By Renuka Christoph Finding the perfect spot for large gatherings can be a tough. It needs to be a destination offering plenty of options for all ages, from attractions to dining. All this combined with a place to stay can make it a challenging decision. Perhaps one of the best options is just four hours from Nashville. Scenic Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are certain to entertain all age groups. Find luxury cabins and of course, Dollywood, for guaranteed enjoyment. Where to stay Take in some breathtaking views within a luxury cabin in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg. Recommended is a cabin…
Author: Renuka Christoph
Slow down the pace at Jekyll Island where historical charm and coastal beauty captivate all ages. The historical district, also known as the “millionaire’s village,” holds fascinating tales of its early habitants and their luxurious lifestyles. The good news is you know longer need to be a millionaire to enjoy the island, which is now a great family destination. It is one of four barrier islands in Georgia, offering ten miles of island coastline and tidal marshlands. The Historic District Majestic oaks adorned with Spanish Moss shade the winding paths within the historical district. Prominent cottages were custom built…
Get ready for a vacation full of diverse attractions, festivities and flavor from around the world. A rich collection of cultures converge in Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. offering something for everyone. The four parks at Disney World are Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom and Epcot. Each offers a truly“magical” experience for all. Epcot World Showcase Theme Park One of the greatest appeals of Epcot is the World Showcase, offering a tour of 11 represented countries. Not only is the sightseeing breathtaking, the food is phenomenal. Each country brings authentic cuisine, a marketplace and iconic landmarks within each…
Valentine’s Day Special Couples looking to celebrate the romantic holiday away from home can head to the Maker’s Mark Distillery for an intimate dinner. Valentine’s Dinners will be held on February 10th and 17that 5:30 and 7:30 for $100 per seating which includes a three course communal dinner and paired cocktails by Chef Newman Miller at Star Hill Provisions.
Try your luck at Tropicana Casino, just two and half hours from Nashville in Evansville, IN. The lively 75,000 square-foot land-based casino and entertainment facility opened last year on Oct. 20. Gamers will not be disappointed. There is a great selection including 1,175 slot games, from a penny to $100. Table players will find a variety of games on over 30 live tables including Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Mini Baccarat, Mississippi Stud, Three Card Poker, High Card Flush and Criss Cross Poker. A dedicated Poker Room offers an exclusive gaming experience and players wishing to take winning to a new…
January 2018 Looking for a spirited country adventure? Head to Maker’s Mark distillery in Loretto, KY which is a must see along the bourbon trail. The three hour drive from Nashville to Loretto takes visitors deep into the country, through side roads and small towns. Giant black barns, which are a storehouse for thousands of barrels, suddenly emerge along a country road near Maker’s Mark. Upon pulling into the campus, I was impressed by the countryside luxury and hospitality. The unique architecture is a blend of modern and historical where farm meets comfort. Find The VIP Tour and Tasting are…
Find idyllic stretches of white soft sand along the emerald coast in Fort Morgan, Alabama. It is a heavenly escape, where there the defined norms of a buzzing beach vacation destination are obliterated. It is a quiet and refreshing and getaway, the kind that rekindles the soul. I stayed at a Harris Property rental called the “Fountain of Youth” and had white sand as my front lawn. The three-bedroom unit offered the basics with a full size kitchen and two bathrooms. I was surrounded by views of the ocean whether on the porch or in the living room, where…
Canadian singer/songwriter Abel Tesfaye, aka, The Weeknd delivered a stellar concert on Sunday Oct. 30 at the Bridgestone Arena for the Starboy World Tour. The packed arena was filled with a lively crowd as the diverse audience jammed to the entire show. Opening acts were Gucci Mane and Nav. A spacecraft, made out of geometric shapes, was suspended from the ceiling. As the main act was about to begin, bright lights lit up the center stage and the spacecraft descended. The prop was lit up by laser lights and had video screens within each shape. It was phenomenal stage design for…
By Renuka Christoph We all share the commonality of global origins defined by diverse backgrounds and distinct ideologies. Whether we are first or fifth generation, we have the privilege of having a home built on American soil. It’s the seeds of diversity that have allowed our democratic country to blossom and we must stand together to continue cultivating our garden. Arun Gandhi, the fifth grandson of the great Mahatma Gandhi, addressed the Unity Church in Nashville on Oct. 1, speaking on democracy, unity and nonviolence. He shared firsthand stories and teachings from his grandfather. When Arun Gandhi was 12 years…
September 2017 Enter a majestic land unveiling spectacular gardens, trails and historic charm at the quaint Barnsley Resort in Northern Georgia. The enticing escape boasts of 3,000 acres of land, offering a range of outdoor activities including horseback riding, fly-fishing, clay shooting and more. The resort, located in foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains 60 miles north of Atlanta, enchants visitors with its Southern hospitality and leisurely pace. The story The Barnsley Resort is built upon a story of love, hardship and vision. Godfrey Barnsley, a wealthy businessman purchased the land in the 1840s and wanted to build an Italian…