Author: Renuka Christoph

Tucked away in the enclaves of Asheville is a magical fortress out of a fairytale. Grove Park Inn is a magnificent resort, which will delight all ages. The stone fortress sits on 85 acres of beautiful mountainside overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains. Guests will be awestruck upon entering the Great Hall, framed by two colossal 36-foot stone fireplaces and a picturesque window alluring guests to mesmerizing outdoor views. Hospitable staff await at every corner, making guests feel a warm welcome. Whether the desire is to relax or explore, the Omni Grove Park Inn will meet the needs of all…

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Forgot life’s woes in this charming haven of luxury. The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa make guests feel like royalty with gracious hospitality and turn of the century class. Assiduous staff dressed in period attire completes the Victorian experience. The Grand Lobby is adorned with fine detail such as a Mary Poppins bronze fountain featuring playful penguins and two five-tier custom grand chandeliers. It is a magical place where historical charm meets modern convenience. The Seven Seas Lagoon surrounds the Grand Floridian, setting the stage for the perfect backdrop. Guestrooms are plush, offering fine woodwork, comfortable…

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Experience a magical seaside getaway and the finest in Southern hospitality at Kiawah(pronounced KEE-a-wah) Island Golf Resort in South Carolina. The refuge sits along ten miles of shoreline, inhabited by an array of wildlife including alligators, sea turtles, Bottlenose Dolphins, bobcats and more than 200 species of birds. All ages will enjoy exploring the 10,000 acre island. The enchantment begins along the picturesque road leading the to the island, draped by Spanish moss, majestic oaks and tropical palmettos. Kiawah Island looks like a scene from a fairy tale, with lush green vegetation, lakes, creeks and marshes. A scenic meandering…

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February 2015 For a luxurious country getaway, consider Blackberry Farms. Located in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, the resort offers 69 accommodations, which include 34 cottages, 22 estate rooms and 2 three bedroom houses. It is an escape from urban living, capturing the essence of a luxury country lifestyle. I stayed in the Aracauna, named after a breed of chicken. Each of the custom built cottages offer stunning architectural features. The Aracuana, which is part of the Singing Brooke Cottage suites, offers peace, comfort and tranquility with a wood burning fireplace, cozy interior, a signature king-sized feather bed and…

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Experience a blend of continental flavor from African wildlife to Balinese paradise in Southwest Florida. Get wild at Busch Gardens. The park transports adventurers into a land of discovery and thrill, with abundant wildlife and high-speed coasters. From the Myombe Reserve to the Serengeti Plain to the Edge of Africa, get a close up look at rhinos, wildebeests, antelope, crocodiles, cheetahs, gorillas and more. Each habitat replicates the diverse terrain of the continent. There are several thrill coasters to brave. One of the more enjoyable rides where eyes are recommended to remain open is the Cheetah Hunt. It feels…

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December 2014 No rocket is required to take off for this trip. Head to Jupiter and enjoy a relaxing getaway in charming West Palm Beach county. WHERE TO STAY Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa is tucked away within a haven of lush tropical forestation with easy access to beachfront tranquility. The resort offers the perfect blend of activity and relaxation within and outside of the resort. Rooms are spacious offering total comfort. Stunning balcony views and luxurious accommodations make it feel like paradise. The pool and outdoor bar are stone’s throw from the ocean, with tentative staff ready to pamper…

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Ann Arbor, MI is a haven for the arts and enticing cuisine. The local support and enthusiasm of the arts makes the city a thriving haven for creative talents. Dining Jolly Pumpkin offers Belgian style ales, including farmhouse ales and a great fresh selection of American food. Visit www.jollypump-kin.com to view pub selections. Pacific Rim by Kana is the perfect fusion of contemporary pan-Asian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese and Thai flavors. Although Duc Tang, owner and chef states, “I don’t like the term fusion because it connotates the idea of blending two different elements and forcing them to work…

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October 2014 ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. – Perhaps the most definitive spa experience is one located along the ocean with quality service and exquisite surroundings. This is what One Ocean Resort and Spa offers guests – the totality of relaxation facing the Atlantic. From modern and luxurious hotel rooms to the guest beach, the resort aims to treat each visitor like royalty. As the only full-service oceanfront spa in Northeast Florida, The Spa at One Ocean Resort, a four diamond AAA property, touts more than 40 marine-inspired rituals comprised of specialty treatments, while creating unique massage styles, body wraps, peels, facials…

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Madison, WI is a vibrant liberal college town with strong cultural, political and aesthetic views. Find eclectic shops on a walk down State Street, some of the best pizza made with infamous Wisconsin cheese and one of the nation’s best farmer’s markets around the capitol. There is something for everyone to enjoy. While visiting Madison, the place to stay is the Hilton Madison Monona Terrace hotel. overlooking Lake Monona and within minutes of the University of Wisconsin Madison campus. The friendly staff, cozy ambiance and convenience make this a perfect choice. The award-winning Capitol Chophouse offers its 28-day aged beef…

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