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browardcountyfl-blog · 5 years ago

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Benefit from the calm lifetime of Broward County With This Must See Places

Broward County, Florida, is the most effective destinations to relax and luxuriate in recreational activities. In case you are skeptical, be the map: beyond just the west you’ll find the storied Everglades, the biggest tropical wilderness within the U.S.; much better east, you’ll see beautiful Florida beaches like Fort Lauderdale’s, Hollywood’s or Pompano’s; and south you’ll wedding ceremony splendorous Miami.

But the map isn’t if your goal is to tell you the finest things to give time when using the family, that’s why we gather for you the next range of Must Go Ideas to benefit from the calm life of Broward County. Search to your current whole family and bear in mind for years to come vacation in Florida.

Fort Lauderdale Beach

While nature procides you with breathtaking views swapped Atlantic Ocean, a big selection of outlets, restaurants, hotels, sidewalk cafes and entertainment venues are guarding the greater than 7 miles of clean blue waves irregardless of Fort Lauderdale Beach. And, if you are feeling adventurous enough, participate in a plenty of activities from boating, windsurfing, jet skiing and volleyball to snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing and rollerblading.

Flamingo Gardens

Of course, Broward County has plenty of green areas for everyone. End up being proximity to the storied Everglades, Flamingo Gardens this may be a 60-acre Botanical Garden and Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary that may amaze every local and tourist regardless of their age. Over 3000 species of rare & exotic, native plants and trees definitely is in the botanic area; because of the wildlife sanctuary is proud of the most important multitude of Florida native wildlife including alligators, eagles, otters, panthers, and of course, flamingos.

Pompano Beach

Titled “The Center of the Golden Coast”, Pompano Beach of course has warm waters and sandy beaches but also many attractions that tourists and residents would see equally. Town is well known for its excellent boating and fishing, togerher with its offshore living coral reef available with scuba divers and snorkelers. Although, if a calming and chilling afternoon is the things you’re on the lookout for, discover new places by applying the Water Taxi.

Sawgrass Mills

One in all the largest outlet shopping malls within the United States with more than 329 retail outlets and brand discounters at knockout prices and an outdoor restaurant area. Located just 30 minutes elude Miami International Airport, Sawgrass Mill has something for your chosen tastes: beauty products, electronics, fashion, sports equipment, home accessories, and more. Recommended for getting gifts and relax in this space with air-conditioned.

Wiener Museum of Decorative Arts

An impressive combination of European ceramics and glass art awaits for you situated on the Wiener Museum of Decorative Arts. Whether or not aren’t a very “artsy” person you could possibly get the sweetness and extravaganza of the varied exhibitions. Be sure you book a tour guide and have time to appreciate all galleries.

Las Olas Boulevard

Meaning “The Waves” in Spanish, Las Olas Boulevard is the preferred thoroughfare that every resident values and every tourist should visit. Running from Andrews Avenue to A1A and Fort Lauderdale Beach, in Las Olas you’ll find lots of these eateries, art galleries, boutiques, cafes, and nightclubs. Even though you just wonder if walking, Las Olas it may be street with architectural and historic value, quality your time.

Hollywood Beach

Located just 18 miles from Miami, Hollywood Beach is a convenient area for a southern Florida vacation. For walkers or bikers, the award-winning Hollywood Beach Broadwalk makes an ideal promenade, with 2.2 miles of brick-paved thoroughfare freshly-picked and relaxing beach scenarios. Of course, there’s loads of luxury hotels to have, and yow will discover the Hollywood Beach Theatre, a children’s water playground at Charnow Park, and many other attractions.

Bonnet House Museum and Garden

What better technique to study history than are some of a historical Florida house? The Bonnet Home is a non-profit museum and garden with splendid trained guides, art exhibitions, and delightful natural landscapes. A place that may magically transport you to the beginning of the twenties and let you know the storyline of past Florida, a captivating and growing state.

C.B. Smith Park

The proper spot for spending twenty four hours or so considering the family. This 299-acres park has everything: RV sites with electricity and water; picnic tables, playgrounds for youngsters, racquetball courts, batting cages, even a party of miniature golf. From the lake, you’ll look for the Paradise Cove water park. C.B. Smith Park also offers rental shelters and one-air amphitheater.

Everytime you would definitely be a tourist or resident, your family deserve 2 days for enjoying the calm life of Broward County. When you’re afraid of the upkeep of the home when you’re gone, contact us in your cleaning house service.

eMaids Broward County 7980 Wiles Rd b2, Coral Springs, FL 33067 (954) 519-4094

#Broward County Travel #Broward County #Places in Broward County

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edandjasonrealestate · 2 years ago

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It's Travel Tuesday!

Big Bear Mountain Resort offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding terrain in Southern California. The resort is made up of two resorts, one at Bear Mountain and the other at Snow Summit. Between the two, there are 26 lifts and 55 runs across 400 acres of terrain. The ski resort also features a family-friendly tubing park with 300-foot-long lanes. If you visit during the warmer months, you can take advantage of the climbing wall, a Euro bungee trampoline, a zip line, a nine-hole golf course and more.

[US News & World Report]

The town is relatively small, so you can find a hotel or vacation rental just about anywhere. Krause Real Estate may help you find a vacation cabin in Big Bear.

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aureliasaid · 5 years ago

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Billings, Beartooth Pass, Yellowstone River, Big Sky

Montana - August 12-18, 2019

Monday, August 12

Flights were perfect coming into Billings, the largest city in Montana. Unfortunately that was not the case on the ground when a massive hail storm the night before left no cars at any car rental place. Hm. Let’s think about our options over lunch at local brewery called Uberbrew as recommended from our local transplants sending advice from France. We rented a car from a local rental/used car dealer in town and headed to Red Lodge and our same local family’s vacation cottage on Hauser St. Got the last car at AA&A Car rental in town and set off to Red Lodge. TIp: if in a pinch, look at the app Turo, an Air BNB for cars type thing.

Red Lodge - Cute little town with everything to do such as skiing in the winter, mtn biking, hiking, etc. Fav hike is the Glacier Lake hike. Our pals home is a super cute old clapboard historical home complete with pot belly stove with Broadway, the main drag of Red Lodge, an easy walk. Because of our travel woes, our time to do anything active was consumed, so it left little time for anything except to actually consume at shops, bars and restaurants. Darn. Here is the scoop from our fav local:

Hey Aurelia!

Bear spray is a must if you go hiking. The Beartooth Market is down the street towards town if you need anything. There is also a nice little gourmet food and wine shop, Babcock and Miles, 105 12th Street West, that also makes good coffee, but not open until 9. That is also a fun place to pick up picnic items if you need lunch for a drive up the Pass. For breakfast, we like Regis Cafe at 501 South Word, open at 7 am. It’s nice to sit outside in the back if it’s good weather. The Cattail Bakery, 203 Broadway, is good for picking up baked goods. They are open early and close when they run out of croissants.

Mas Taco is a short walk from the house, on the other side of the main street, Broadway. It is great for a quick lunch or dinner, closes at 7 pm. Our other favorite is Prerogative Kitchen at 104 Broadway, fun atmosphere and serves small plates that you order at the counter. (Our choice and it was excellent!) There is a pop-up Sicilian restaurant at Ox Pasture (7 Broadway). The atmosphere is wonderful, and the staff is mostly Italian (they come for just the summer)...It’s good, but not fabulous. It is a fun experience, though. We think the Sicilian specials at the top of the menu are the best choices. You might need a reservation. Carbon County steakhouse on Broadway is good if you want a steak. They also own Natali’s Front Bar next door, good for a drink on the patio. (Yep, we did.) The Pollard Hotel is a historical landmark, Calamity Jane and such hung out there back in the day. I do not recommend the restaurant, but their pub is pretty decent and sometimes has live music. Best ice cream is Jubilee, close to Prerogative Kitchen and the Roman movie theater on Broadway.

If you want an interesting something to take back to your daughter, Paris Montana on Broadway has unique, funky “western” clothes and accessories. The owner designs and makes a lot of the items herself.

Tuesday, August 13

The Beartooth Pass Drive is incredible. It takes about an hour to drive up to the Pass at 10,497 ft. You can make a loop out of it by coming back to Red Lodge (or Billings) as was the case for our hail storm dictated journey) through Wyoming on the Chief Joseph drive through the Sunlight Basin. All together this was about a 5 hr jaunt with minimal stops. Probably 4 if you go back to Red Lodge. We got picnic supplies at the Beartooth Market and left at 8am after breakfast at the Honey Cafe.

The Beartooth is fantastic with incredible 360 degree views of the jagged Beartooth Mtns, and the other ranges in the distance. Alpine lakes are everywhere at the top and you level out onto grassy plateaus. There are hikes along the way, lots of scenic pull offs, Beartooth Lake rec area and the Top of the World stop for snacks, gas and outhouse. Really gorgeous.

The terrain on the Chief Joseph scenic drive is not as dramatic as the Beartooth Highway, but full of vast valleys, grassy plains, igneous dikes and rocky plateaus. The highlight is the Clark Fork Yellowstone river and canyon that runs through most of the Basin.

Would have liked to have gone on to Cooke City, but we had return to Billings to return our local yocal car rental. Luckily, Enterprise had a car for us so off we went to Pray, Montana and the Sage Lodge in the Paradise Valley below the Paradise Range.

The Sage Lodge, which clearly is geared around fishing as it is a partnership of Sage fishing gear along with other fishing brands, sits high on a grassy plain and is quite nice with spa, gourmet restaurant, casual restaurant, hot tub area, mtn biking trails, and lots of fishing stuff. We hopped on two bikes and took a 5 mile ride around the property before having dinner in the grill.

Wednesday, August 14

Fly fishing on the Yellowstone. A beautiful day starting in the 50’s and up to the low 80’s quickly. Craig Boyd was a spectacular guide with lots of fish tales while being a good instructor and oarsman. It was an A+ day as we snagged probably 30 fish. Mend, strip out and strip in, set that hook were all terms of the day on a 12 mile float from to Side ?? to Livingston. The Yellowstone River is a gorgeous, wide river, which interestingly flows north to the Missouri River, with some nice small rapids, but generally a swift current, but gentle feeling river going through the Paradise Valley.

After our float, we explored the area visiting the famed Chico Hot Springs Lodge, which is quaint and historic National Park feeling with the hot springs contained within a swimming pool setting. The bar has lots of character and the food is supposed to be James Beard material. We were glad to see it and glad to be staying at the Sage. Also drove over to the Yellowstone Valley Lodge which could be a good option for staying with cabins overlooking the river and a well known gourmet restaurant. (Book way in advance.) Ended our touring with a cold Rainer beer at The Saloon in Emmigrant, a “suburb” of Pray....Soaked in the scenery in the hot tub and a lovely dinner at the Fireside Room.

Thursday, August 15

It’s a car tour day as we cruised to Ennis, Montana which is a beautiful drive through the Madison Valley and beside a gorgeous Madison River, which is very similar to the Yellowstone. Ennis is a cute little town with typical Main Street full of fly fishing shops and s smattering of restaurants. With some time to kill, we decided to drop in on some friends and their Ruby RIver Ranch near Alder, Mt. A lovely compound of log cabins and main lodge right on the Ruby River which is a large creek known for its fishing and tubing. A bonus is going through Virginia City and Nevada City, which are historic gold mining towns that are still so authentic western looking that I thought I might be on a movie set.

We headed back to Moonlight via the private shortcut on Jack Creek Road and landed just in time for dinner at the Moonlight Golf Club.

Friday, August 16

Enjoyed a few days at Moonlight & Moonlight Music Fest!

Other good areas:

Boulder River Valley and Big Timber area are great for fly fishing. (Red Lodge to Timber is 1.5 hrs) Paradise Valley near Livingston is good as well. (Red Lodge to Livingston is 2 hrs and another hour from Livingston to Pray.)

#montana #usa

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sentrava · 6 years ago

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Canada’s Big 3: A Guide to Skiing in Banff + Lake Louise

My first foray into the beauty of Banff was more than a decade ago in the height of summer. I took the train from Vancouver through the Canadian Rockies, then ended my tour with a few days in the bustling ski town. A year ago, I returned in winter: this time with my mom, my best friend and her mom in tow. It was one of the best trips to date—and far less crowded than in summer months, I might add—but I missed out on one of the area’s greatest draws: skiing in Banff.

So when Travel Mindset invited me back for a weekend of skiing “the Big 3”—that’s Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise and Mt. Norquay—I rearranged my schedule, dusted off my ski gear, grabbed my favorite travel buddy and flew to Calgary.

Getting to Banff

As far as ski destinations go, Banff is one of the easier ones to access. You fly into Calgary, an extremely manageable airport, pick up your car—the rental services of which are on-site (again, convenient!)—then head due west to the town of Banff. It took us exactly an hour and 25 minutes from the time we left the airport, and we had zero traffic coming or going. For my American friends, note that you do need a passport to enter Canada.

We rented a larger SUV with snow tires from Enterprise’s airport location for $378 for the five days, though we didn’t wind up experiencing any precarious driving conditions whatsoever. All the roads, both the highways and the smaller ones that went up the mountains, were completely plowed and ice-free, and the driving could not have been easier. Not to mention, the views weren’t shabby at all.

We opted to fly through Minneapolis instead of Toronto. I’d recommend this route (or another U.S. hub like Seattle) if you want to avoid guaranteed delays, as Toronto is one of the more confusing airports I’ve ever flown through when transiting back to America. From Nashville, it was about 90 minutes to Minneapolis, an hour layover, then just under two hours to Calgary. The flying-and-driving part of the trip could not have been easier. I’ve taken similar ski vacations to Colorado, and while I love the resorts there, the traffic getting to them is a turn-off. During all three of my trips to Banff, I’ve never run into any traffic on Canada’s Highway 1 (also known as the Trans-Canada Highway).

Where to Stay in Banff

First things first: You need to book your hotel. This was my third overnight trip to Banff, but my first staying in the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs. I’d been to this castle in the Rockies a few times before for meals, but as a bona-fide Fairmont Hotels fan, it had always been my dream to spend a night there.

But there are a couple things you should know about this palatial property. For one thing, the hotel first opened in 1888—the original structure burned down nearly 40 years later, and it was rebuilt and reopened in 1928—as the vision of railroad tycoon William Cornelius Van Horne. It sits smack within Canada’s first national park, established in 1885.

Which brings me to this: You cannot enter Banff National Park without a pass, which costs around $30 for family access (or per car). You can either purchase one online or stop at the gate on Highway 1 when you enter the city. We stupidly didn’t realize you needed one just to get into the town and had planned to pick one up before we ventured into the mountains—then got a ticket on our car. But in true polite Canadian fashion, it was simply a warning and we were able to pick up our pass on the way into Lake Louise and make good on our rookie mistake.

One-hundred-and-thirty years after its initial debut, Fairmont Banff Springs now bears the designation of being both a National Historic Site of Canada and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are 764 rooms, so it’s very easy to get lost in the labyrinth comprising this hotel (and we did, I’ll admit, a time or two). Since this is one of the brands oldest properties, it definitely has a more old-fashioned feel than some of the newer Fairmonts we have stayed in, and rooms are on the smaller size. I love that despite its opulence, pets are welcome, and we saw several dogs roaming the hotel with their owners. Ella would be so jealous!

While the Fairmont Banff Springs feels remote, tucked up against the mountains in a very regal fashion, it’s actually less than a mile from Banff Avenue, the main drag in town, and just 15 minutes by car from the nearest ski resort. We easily could have walked, but it was a wee bit chilly, so we took advantage of the hotel’s complimentary shuttle to get into town and the city’s free bus service to get back.

Like every Fairmont I’ve ever visited, it has a gorgeous Willow Stream Spa with various plunge pools and a larger mineral pool perfect for soaking in after a long day on the slopes. In addition to the regular massage and facial treatments, there’s a host of other spa offerings like saunas, steam rooms and a salon.

We ate the majority of our meals at the hotel, simply due to ease before leaving in the morning, as well as fatigue when we returned at night, not wanting to shower, get all dressed up and venture out again. And with 13 different restaurant/bar concepts, as well as in-room dining, we could have eaten every single meal at the Fairmont Banff Springs without repeating once.

Most mornings, we grabbed food to eat on the go at STOCK, the cafe-style restaurant and bakery in the lobby of the hotel. I don’t like to fill up too much before hitting the slopes, so we usually had avocado toast or yogurt and granola before taking off for the day.

On the lone morning we got a leisurely start, we took advantage of our added time in the hotel and dined at the Vermillion Room, which had a very Art Deco look to it and was quite different from the aesthetic throughout the hotel.

One night, we did après at Grapes wine bar with a group of friends and gorged on wine and cheese, charcuterie plates and Old Fashioneds. Another evening, just SVV and I settled in for a bite and round of cocktails (OK, two) at Rundle Lounge, which despite its size still feels fairly intimate and had live music to boot.

We did not, however, get to partake in Fairmont’s famed afternoon tea, so this will be the first thing I do when next we return. There’s also a golf course for those traveling during warmer months.

Buying the SkiBig3 Pass

A big perk of skiing in Banff is the fact that you can buy the SkiBig3 pass and get access to all three resorts, which lay claim to nearly 8,000 acres of skiing, two gondolas and 26 chairlifts. Definitely buy the pass online before you leave on your ski trip, as there are often substantial savings on the pass, as well as offers for ski-and-stay packages. You can bring your own gear or rent it from SkiBig3’s Adventure Center in downtown Banff.

A three-day ski pass for this month, which is good for three days on any of the mountains over a five-day stretch of time, runs just $250 (or about $83 a day, which is less than half of what I paid for a single day on the slopes on my last trip to Colorado). That also includes complimentary shuttle service to/from all of the resorts. I honestly couldn’t believe how much more affordable it was to go skiing in Banff than resorts of comparable size in the United States; of course, it also helps that the U.S. dollar is strong in Canada right now.

Like all ski resorts, there are seasoned pros available for lessons for adults and kids, as well as a ski school that I’d advise any family with little ones to take advantage of. New to SkiBig3’s offerings is the Guided Adventures, which we made use of when a ski instructor toured us through the three resorts in back-to-back-to-back ski days.

While I was living in California and had my Tahoe annual ski pass, I often employed an instructor to go with me simply to cover more terrain in a day, and this option at SkiBig3 is a game-changer, particularly for those who are new to skiing in Banff and Lake Louise and/or have a limited amount of time; you see a lot more of the resorts than you would if figuring out the ropes on your own. I love that we didn’t waste any time trying to navigate the mountain on our own, as we had one of the ski instructors, Jamie or Carlo, guiding us almost the entire time.

Once you’ve tackled all three resorts during your time in Banff, be sure and redeem your ski pass at SkiBig3’s Adventure Center for a complimentary pint of beer at the Elk & Oarsman, as well as a trail sign souvenir.

Mt. Norquay

What it’s all about: Mt. Norquay is a great place to get your ski legs and warm up before tackling a more serious mountain like Lake Louise. Dubbed “the locals’ mountain” by ski bums and featuring eight lanes of a tubing park with a magic carpet towing system in addition to four lifts, this resort is on the smaller side, while still sporting fairly challenging blues and blacks, particularly on an icier day.

It also has a readily accessible and wide-open trail on the four-chair Cascade that is perfect for beginners and younger children just starting out, plus is home to one of the largest ski and snowboard schools in Canada, with training levels at all stages of skill and age.

Mt. Norquay has daycare, a terrain park, downhill race course and night skiing until 9pm—it’s the only resort that offers this—in addition to on-site rentals.

The food experience: At Norquay’s Cascade Lodge, you have the option of more grab-and-go pub food downstairs or gourmet fare in the Lone Pine Pub on the second level. If you have the time, I recommend the latter, as the menu is very elevated for a ski lodge with seasonally diverse bites from Executive Chef Morne Burger like bao buns, arancini and salads.

At the very top of the mountain is Cliffhouse Bistro, where we ended our final afternoon of skiing with craft beer and s’mores over the fire.

Not only does Cliffhouse have some of the best views in the area, but we got to ride a two-person chairlift up (and down!) without skis that reminded me a whole lot of being in the Alps. 10 out of 10 recommend doing this, whether you’re a skier or a lodge bunny.

The benefits of Mt. Norquay ski resort: You can land in Calgary in the early morning and be on the slopes in the afternoon to get a practice run or two in before going hard in the coming days. It’s one of the smaller mountains, but it’s also the closest to town, so very easy to access if you only want to squeeze in a couple hours on the slopes on any day during your trip. Family excursions will particularly benefit from a visit for the convenience alone.

Distance from downtown Banff: 4.6 miles or 14 minutes

Lake Louise

What it’s all about: Lake Louise Ski Resort used to be the biggest in all of Canada, and it’s definitely my favorite place to have skied ever. It’s about five miles from the lake itself with the most picturesque views and variable trails in this section of the Canadian Rockies.

Massive terrain parks for skiers and snowboarders coupled with front and backside lifts on 4,200 acres of alpine forest make the crowds, particularly during a weekday, seem insignificant.

Keep an eye out for lynx and their children on the deserted gondola runs, particularly Juniper where a mama and her two cubs were spotted the day we arrived.

The food experience: Being one of the biggest (and best), Lake Louise has a dozen dining options, spread throughout the sprawling resort. We had fully planned to have ramen at Kuma Yama at the resort’s Lodge of Ten Peaks, but instead found ourselves mid-mountain at Sawyer’s Nook around lunchtime, not wanting to waste any time trying to ski back down to base camp. This wound up being a very happy mistake, as Sawyer’s was one of the best meals we had all trip, with a decadent burger served on a pretzel-style roll with a pepper aioli and a bit of a kick. I’m still dreaming about that burger.

Once you’re done skiing, I highly recommend hitting up the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise before heading back to Banff for a bite at Alpine Social, a drink in the ice bar and a mosey onto the frozen lake. It’s one of the most iconic spots on Earth.

The benefits of Lake Louise ski resort: There’s a lot of intermediate terrain that crisscrosses both the front and backside of the mountain. Even if you’re a beginner to intermediate, there are plenty of green and blue runs that leave from the very top and there’s always an easy way down.

On the flip side, it’s got some of the best terrain for experts, as well. The Back Bowl is essentially filled with mini-helicopter drop-in spots that have rocky chutes and steep slopes surrounded by the beginner trails. Everything is clearly marked and is absolutely epic for an adrenaline junkie (or the spouse of one who wants to make sure his/her other half makes it to the bottom).

Distance from downtown Banff: 36 miles or 44 minutes

Banff Sunshine

What it’s all about: Banff Sunshine comprises three craggy mountain ranges and feels like a surrealist painting of another world. The views are spectacular, distracting and will have you yanking off a glove for a selfie or landscape picture for at least the first half day on the slopes. With 3,300 acres of accessible snow terrain, eight high speed quads, a gondola and a literal anomaly in the chilly world of snow-filled adventures, a BUBBLE-ENCLOSED HEATED lift, you’ll be blown away at the elevated nature of this Canadian wonderland.

We actually started our ski week at Sunshine Village, but if I were to do it again, I’d do Mt. Norquay first to get my ski legs back, Lake Louise on the second day as it’s undoubtedly the toughest terrain, and Sunshine on the final afternoon as there are plenty of wide-open groomers, perfect for lazy cruising or a muscle-burning, 15-minute speed run.

Note: You have to take the gondola up to the chairlifts, which was about a 20-minute trip. If you leave a half-hour before dark by skis or snowboard, you can cruise all the way to the bottom from the village, and it was one mighty fun and scenic ride down.

We took a black diamond for part of it, but if you’re more comfortable sticking to green, there’s one that goes all the way down to the base.

The food experience: We had lunch at the hotel’s Eagle’s Nest Bistro, which was mainly salads, sandwiches and the like, then snacks and après drinks at Mad Trappers following our afternoon skiing.

The benefits of Banff Sunshine ski resort: We’ve played on mountain slopes across the northern hemisphere, from California to the Alps in Switzerland, and both of us agree that this is top of the list for amenities, views, crowd size and diversity of runs. Most of our trips down the mountain (albeit mid-week) were completely devoid of other human beings. One of the guides gave us a neat trick, too: shift around from the top of the mountain to middle mountain at mid-day so you beat the half day crowd. It totally worked. Genius!

Distance from downtown Banff: 11.5 miles or 20 minutes

Where to Eat in Banff

There’s no shortage of delicious places to eat in the town of Banff, but one mistake we made last year was not making reservations, particularly on the weekends. So be sure and call to reserve your dinner table at least a few days in advance.

For breakfast, I’m a fan of Wild Flour Bakery, while our ski instructor friends tell us Juniper Hotel Bistro boasts one of the best brunches in town. Park Distillery has a great weekend brunch, though it doesn’t open until 11am.

Chuck’s Steakhouse is your place for all things meat—don’t pass up on the corn bread pudding or cheesy garlic bread either—while Banff Ave. Brewing Co. is a prime spot for a quick bite and a few pints. Craving pizza? Bear Street Tavern has some of the best pies I’ve sampled in ages, while High Rollers bowling alley is also ace at both pizza and craft brews (be sure and book your lane weeks in advance; this place is always packed).

On site at the Fairmont, we had our best meal in all of Canada: a Bavarian feast at Waldhaus. Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, I’d recommend you plan a dinner at this German-style restaurant; it’s divine, and you can’t leave without the chocolate fondue for dessert. If you’re a Fairmont guest and dining here during winter months, opt for the free shuttle, as it’s a bit of an icy walk down to the restaurant.

Overall, our trip to Banff lasted four full days, which was sufficient enough for a sampler of the area, but I’m convinced I could have spent a full week skiing the Canadian Rockies and not grown bored with the varied terrain (plus, all those restaurants and bars to try!). Note to self: Next time, stay longer!

This project was in partnership with Travel Mindset, SkiBig3 and Fairmont Hotels. All opinions and ski-related injuries are my own.

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Canada’s Big 3: A Guide to Skiing in Banff + Lake Louise published first on https://medium.com/@OCEANDREAMCHARTERS

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lamoille-house · 5 years ago

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Things to Do in Manitoba- A Star Attraction of Canada

If desiring a take a break and go on a trip then you should pick up Manitoba as your destination for a wonderful holiday. Manitoba is often overlooked as a tourist destination in the heart of Central Canada. There are so many Things to Do in Manitoba.

There are 61 major tourist attractions across the province, from iconic destinations and historic hot spots to cultural centers, and outdoor gathering spaces. There are almost more than 50 National and Provincial Parks. Along with outdoor adventures such as polar bear viewing, beluga whales, horse riding, camping, and hiking through national parks, Manitoba offers more things to do and also offers its fair share of festivals, museums, markets and more.

There is a lot of enticing things to do in Manitoba.

Things to Do In Manitoba:

The Forks, located at the junction of three Red, and Assiniboine Rivers near Winnipeg’s downtown core is the best place to be in summer and winter. The Fork market and the Johnston Terminal Building restore historical buildings with interesting shops, restaurants, and casual food stalls. In winter the outdoor skating rink is, particularly for families. The Forks market provides an exceptional shopping experience to the locals and visitors. Handmade jewelry, clothes, toys, and historical souvenirs are available.

Seeing the northern lights dance across the sky is what draws visitors from all over the world. The peak viewing time is from January to March. The best time to see an aurora is in the heart of winter when the skies are dark, and the weather is cold. Head outside to the city’s provincial parks to increase your chance of seeing the lights.

Hecla Island: for a nice escape to nature and a relaxing getaway in Manitoba, Hecla Island is a favorite things to do in Manitoba. In summer, you can hike the trails, play golf, and enjoy the beaches and lakes in winter. Head on the cross-country ski trails, book a treatment at the spa and relax around a fire.

See Polar bears in the wild at Churchill where you can witness polar bears and beluga whales in their natural habitat. The best viewing time for Polar bears in October and November.

More Things to Do In Manitoba:

Beaches: Grand Beach is one of the top beach destinations during summertime where you can also enjoy your evening stroll. You can escape to a corner of Grand Beach where large dunes and plant life allow privacy and quietness that you crave for.

Asessippi Ski Area and Resort is a family resort. This is the largest ski resort in Manitoba with downhill ski/snowboard runs, night skiing, terrain parks, kiteboarding, dog sled, snowshoe trails, and down snow tubing parks. For adrenaline junkies snow biking or kiteboarding on the slopes is famous. There’s a food court, pun, rental shop, and gift store at the resort as well.

Assiniboine Park Zoo is a popular place for family fun. The kids visiting this zoo can have a great time exploring and learning about the different animals. The real highlight of the zoo is the journey to Churchill’s experience. Watch the Polar bears swim and play above your head in the underwater viewing tunnels. The zoo also has all three species the tigers, leopards, and bears.

Fun Things to Do In Manitoba

Hit the slopes: Manitoba is known to be a prairie province, but many mountains allow for some super downhill fun, from bunny hills to double black diamonds. There are games for all skill levels and interests. So take advantage of the snowy days at Manitoba’s ski hill.

Entertainment along with your family: make memories on a family trip to music or cultural festival. Manitoba’s Museums makes the kids explore different topics. Manitoba offers a load of family-friendly vacation options. Enjoy camping at one of the parks. There are tons of other fun outdoor adventures like hiking and boating. Visit the beach on a sunny summer day splashing and building a sandcastle. There is wildlife viewing for kids.

Tinker town Fun Park is an amusement park. It is a place of great fun and pleasure for kids. The park includes rides and various attractions to please visitors. Adults have the opportunity to play mini-golf in the park. After enjoying the rides visitors can cool themselves in water wars.

Festivals in Manitoba:

Manitoba has tons of festivals. There are so many to choose from, music to culture from Winnipeg to the edges of Riding Mountain National Park.

Gimli and the Iceland festival of Manitoba: Gimli is a small resorts town, approx an hour’s drive from north of Winnipeg on the shores of Lake Winnipeg. During summer Gimli comes to life as visitors and cottagers flock to this area to enjoy the beaches. The main highlight is the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba. The festival is meant for adults and children with all kinds of activities and entertainment.

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Festival Du Voyageur at Winnipeg is one of Manitoba’s premier winter events. This festival takes place each year in February in St. Boniface, the French-Speaking district of Winnipeg. It is celebrated in honor of the French Voyageurs who transported furs in birch bark canoes. Adults and children enjoy this festival. Traditional French music, cuisine, and other entertainment are held in outdoor tents.

Zoo light festival: when the sun sets the Zoo light comes on. While you walk through the Assiniboine park Zoo you‘ll enjoy the breathtaking, magical display in Polar Town. Experience the great food, mini market, and interactive installations.

Food festivals: Manitoba celebrates the weeklong festival. Each week is dedicated to Manitoba-themed food. To name a few is Le Burger Week, La Poutine Week, Fried Chicken Fest, and Manitoba Pizza.

Manitoba Cuisine:

Sampling the cuisine of a country is one of the delights of traveling. No matter spending your time in the city or hitting the road on your trip, Manitoba’s cuisine will impress and surprise you.

Most traditional dishes in Manitoba is Smoked Goldeyes, Honey Dill and Schmooze Torte

Family Getaway in Manitoba:

It is not only beaches, lakes where kids can dive or cruise on in a boat. It is much more than that. Manitoba offers so many resorts and campgrounds that cater to families. There are also water parks, zoos, and northern Arctic tours.

Some of the getaways across the province your family will be excited to go on are rubber Ducky Resort and Campground, Lilac Resort, Falcón Beach Ranch, Buffalo Point Resort, Big White shell Lodge, Asessippi ski Area, and Resort etc.

Best Time to Visit Manitoba:

Manitoba’s hottest and busiest season is summer. July and August is the ideal time to visit since it is warm during the day and cool at nights.

At the end of May during springtime, it freezes and turns warm by June.

September is a pleasant season where tree changes color and just cools enough. Time to Relax:

Tourists get busy hopping from one attraction to the other taking advantage of all the cultural and outdoor experiences. So it’s time to take some break and pay a visit to Therma by Nordic Spa nature. The Scandinavian spa is the perfect place to unwind and destress.

Soak for long in a thermal pool, sweat it out in the Finnish Saunas and get a good massage. And last but not least enjoys a good meal. Those interested in visiting Manitoba will find a wealth of unique experiences.

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iqvts · 5 years ago

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880 Villa Grove Avenue, Big Bear City, CA 92314 from iQ Visual Tours on Vimeo.

For more information: cbskyridge.com/listing/217-101645/880-villa-grove-avenue-big-bear-city-ca-92314

Dont miss this 3 bedroom, 2 bath Moonridge cabin that is situated on a treed lot. This cabin comes furnished and has been a very successful vacation rental/getaway. The street to street lot offers convenience. Enjoy expansive mountain and tree views, backing to open acreage to the north, a huge partially covered deck with a spa, and a large patio area!! Hot tub anyone? You'll find one on the deck. Open spaces, great room floor plan with vaulted ceilings, security system, ceiling fans, stainless appliances, laminate wood flooring in kitchen. A quaint a turnkey property. The third bedroom is a large loft with a balcony! Easy access in and out of the Big Bear Valley, just miles to golf, lake and ski slopes. This street offers the feel of living in the mountains with the proximity to all the fun activities that Big Bear is known for.

Contact: Michele Kersey (714) 469-6217 [email protected]

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marymperezga · 5 years ago

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15 Best Romantic Weekend Getaways For Couples In The USA

Nothing keeps the spark alive like a change of scenery, whether you’re a brand-new couple or celebrating a big anniversary. Since it’s not always easy finding the time to escape, we got things started by searching out America’s very best weekend getaways for couples—because if you’re hitting the road with your favorite person, why not go for the cream of the crop?

Romantic Weekend Getaways You’ll Love

We know that every couple is different, from preferred pet names to favorite shows to binge-watch, so when it comes to planning a romantic weekend getaway, your vacation ideas should be as unique as you are. There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all weekend getaway for couples, so we kept it colorful with adventure hotspots, remote islands, glamorous beach towns, and a few offbeat surprises. And maybe we’re biased—our mission is curating the ultimate vacation rental experience, after all—but we’re pretty sure a rental makes the perfect home base no matter where you go. Book a penthouse suite or cozy cottage and it’ll be the perfect starting point for a romantic weekend.

Kennebunkport, ME

Catch the sunrise over the ocean in upscale Kennebunkport, one of the best weekend getaways for couples on Maine’s gorgeous coast. A romantic weekend here is all about the water, whether you’re learning to steer a surfboard, cruising the coast in an old-fashioned schooner sailboat, or going offshore on a whale-watching trip. After a day of sun and salt, head to winding Ocean Avenue for a romantic sunset drive past some of Kennebunkport’s most exclusive inns and mansions.

Find a great place to stay in Kennebunkport!

Gatlinburg, TN

Tucked into the spectacular Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is among the most fun weekend getaways for active couples. Hit the trail on a guided hike to find waterfalls and wildflowers, drive through the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National park, and check out the region’s gorgeous fall foliage. Not that it’s all back roads and rural scenery. If you’re looking for something a little more spirited, Gatlinburg’s got a booming craft distilling scene that’s ideal for an afternoon of tasting moonshine straight from old-school Mason jars.

Find a great place to stay in Gatlinburg!

Winter Park, FL

A romantic couples weekend in Winter Park gives you the best of both worlds, since you’re a quick drive from Orlando’s world-class theme parks, but can finish each day in a picture-perfect town that’s packed with romantic charm. Start your day with some culture by browsing the gorgeous art at Rollins College and Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, then head to Orlando to spend a day in one of Florida’s amazing theme parks: escape to Universal’s Islands of Adventures, or channel your favorite Disney romance at Magic Kingdom.

Find a great place to stay in Winter Park!

Paradise Valley, AZ

If your perfect romantic weekend getaway means a pre-booked tee time and a bit of pampering, Paradise Valley is a luxurious dream trip. Weekend getaways for couples could start with a treatment at one of the town’s top-shelf spas, followed by a trip to nearby Scottsdale for a foodie tour of the historic downtown. Not that everything in Paradise Valley is quite so placid; if your idea of a fun couples weekend is more high-adrenaline than haute cuisine, hit the desert for an off-road tour that explores the best of the Arizona backcountry.

Find a great place to stay in Paradise Valley!

Eureka Springs, AR

Fun weekend getaways for couples in Eureka Springs might be all about getting back to nature, but the town’s beautifully preserved Victorian downtown exudes old-fashioned charm. Animal lovers can spend the day with the big cats at the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, then head to Basin Springs Park for a romantic walk through rock formations and leafy forests. Don’t leave town without snapping an unforgettable couple selfie with the towering Christ of the Ozarks.

Find a great place to stay in Eureka Springs!

Hood River, OR

With a prime location on the beautiful Columbia River, Hood River is among the best weekend getaways for couples ready to explore the beautiful Columbia River Gorge. Join a bike tour that links up the region’s vineyards, then take a spin on the Columbia with a kayak, windsurf board, or stand-up paddleboard. For a romantic activity that’s more about scenery than sweat, hop the Mount Hood Railroad through Oregon’s gorgeous mountain terrain.

Find a great place to stay in Hood River!

Orcas Island, WA (San Juan Islands)

Seemingly pulled from a postcard, the scenic Orcas Island is just a ferry—and a world—away from Washington’s mainland. Couples weekend getaways on Orcas Island mean adapting to the leisurely pace of life in a mostly rural community: start with a whale-watching cruise out of Eastsound, taste oysters straight from the sea at the Buck Bay Shellfish Farm, and check out some of the studios of the island’s many artists.

Find a great place to stay in Orcas Island!

St. Simons, GA

Romantic weekend getaways to Saint Simons Island are perfect for long afternoons on the water. Soak up the salty air and coastal scenery with a fishing charter or kayak tour, or climb into the saddle for a laid-back horseback ride along the beach. After all that exploring, treat yourself to some of the region’s freshest seafood on a gourmet tour of downtown, where moss-draped oaks line the historic streets.

Find a great place to stay in St. Simons!

Telluride, CO

An outdoor hotspot surrounded by Rocky Mountain peaks, Telluride was made for couples who love the mountains. Rent a pair of skis or a snowboard to hit the slopes, or launch a Jeep expedition that follows rugged back roads. For a tiny town in the mountains, Telluride’s got a thriving foodie scene and breweries that are perfect for post-trail pints—you can even fuel up for all those adventures with a tasting tour of downtown.

Find a great place to stay in Telluride!

Malibu, CA

With legendary beaches and plenty of Golden State shine, it’s no surprise that Malibu’s one of the best weekend getaways for couples in California. Lounge on the idyllic sands of Zuma Beach, head to the skies and book your spot on a Malibu Canyon and Coast Air Tour, or up the closeness factor on a romantic Tandem Paragliding Experience where you’ll have unforgettable views of the area at its sparkling best.

Find a great place to stay in Malibu!

Monterey, CA

One of California’s top weekend getaways for couples that like wildlife more than nightlife, Monterey is all about coastal scenery. Commune with the kissing fish at the must-see Monterey Aquarium, take a romantic sunset sail, or book a full-day, private tour that explores Carmel and the winding 17-mile drive. Of course, Monterey’s the ultimate couples getaway for golf lovers, too, with easy access to the world class courses at legendary Pebble Beach.

Find a great place to stay in Monterey!

Charleston, SC

Old Southern charm meets vibrant culture in Charleston, one of the most romantic weekend getaways in the South. There are endless ways to experience Charleston’s coast and picture-perfect downtown: hop a private, horse-drawn carriage through the historic center, watch a sunset from the deck of your own personal catamaran, or brush up your fishing skills on a private fishing charter. If your idea of a romantic night is all about sharing spine-tingling ghost stories, head out after dark to hear about Charleston’s haunted graveyards and most famous ghouls.

Find a great place to stay in Charleston!

San Antonio, TX

Couples weekends in San Antonio go from America’s Wild West history to cutting-edge cuisine, and the colorful city overflows with Texas-sized romance. Get your bearings on a cruise down the San Antonio River, then take a deep dive into local lore at the San Antonio Missions, the Alamo, and the rolling landscape of Texas hill country. For a fun mission that’s great for serious bonding, challenge yourself to a couples’ scavenger hunt that winds through the heart of the San Antonio Riverwalk.

Find a great place to stay in San Antonio!

Kauai, HI

Pristine and spectacular, the island of Kauai is the ultimate in romantic getaways (it’s not called the “Garden Isle” for nothing). Okay, so it may require a long weekend to make it worthwhile, but if you live on the West Coast, Kauai is a worthy candidate and makes for a couples weekend you won’t forget. You can move to the rhythms of traditional Hawaiian culture at a Luau, cruise along the remote Na Pali Coast, or treat yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime sightseeing flight that gives you aerial views into Kauai’s rugged mountains. To experience Hawaii’s legendary waves, sign up for a private surf lesson that will get you paddling into your very first break.

Find a great place to stay in Kauai!

Logan, OH

A fun weekend for couples awaits in Logan, a scenic small-town escape where you can leave your stress at home. The forests that surround the old-fashioned community are filled with hidden rock formations, hiking trails, and caves that invite an afternoon of exploring. If you haven’t discovered Ohio’s local wineries, pause for a tasting at Hocking Hills Winery, and don’t even think about leaving town without a visit to Logan’s most delightfully offbeat attraction: the Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum.

Find a great place to stay in Logan!

This post was originally published on the TripAdvisor blog. FlipKey is a TripAdvisor company.

The post 15 Best Romantic Weekend Getaways For Couples In The USA appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

from Tips For Traveling https://www.flipkey.com/blog/2019/07/23/15-best-romantic-weekend-getaways-for-couples-in-the-usa/

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bike42 · 6 years ago

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Colorado. Sept 28 - Oct 3, 2018

Glorious mini-vacation to Colorado. While we’d both been here many times before, it’s been 15+ years since we spent much time in the mountain, and the Colorado Rockies are a particular place where my soul feels at home.

We arrived in Denver early Friday afternoon. It was cloudy and cool and we added layers as we stood outside waiting for our rental car at Enterprise where it seemed they were just randomly assigning whichever car came in, regardless of what you’d reserved! We ended up with a new Subaru Outback, which worked perfectly for our adventure.

We navigated around Denver and headed west on I-70. Much more development over the years, with a Starbucks at every exit ... but other than that, the road hadn’t changed since the days when I’d drive my Saab with the studded snow tires up to the mountains to ski.

After the tunnel, we headed north on Hwy 9 to Hwy 40 - new territory for me and amazing scenery. Near Kremling, there were signs about “fire traffic,” and eventually we passed a camp set up for fire workers... and further down the road we saw the fire in the distance and smelled smoke (learned the next day that ranches had been evacuated and locals were praying for snow to put an end to the smoldering and uncertainty). We passed the “Headwaters of the Colorado River,” where it looked so different than the raging cold river we experienced at the bottom of the Grand Canyon last October! We passed through Steamboat Springs, stopping for Frappes and snacks, then onto Craig. At that point we were pushing daylight, and seeing lots of antelope and deer along the road so we passed through Craig so we’d arrive at our VRBO cabin before dark. We took a few minutes to get settled, then headed slowly back to the Walmart in Craig to load up on groceries for our stay ... careful to avoid the deer on highway!

Jeff’s sister Barb and husband Allan were supposed to join us at the cabin, but a family illness made them cancel their trip.

We got back to the cabin and were baking a pizza when our VRBO owner, Sandra, popped in to ensure all was ok. It was really a fabulous setting. No cell signal or WiFi, which always takes awhile to get used to, but is so relaxing!

SATURDAY

We awoke to a glorious am. At first light, there were mule deer out in front - fun to watch close up, and they knew we were in there! We had breakfast and went out to explore the property with an adventurous hike.

The purpose for this trip was the wedding of grand-nephew Tanner Issacs and Karissa, at the “Y Lazy S Ranch” just north of Craig CO. We arrived early to increase the opportunity to socialize with Jeff’s other sister, Jan and her family ... other than the WIND, it was a perfect day in an ideal setting. Besides the extended family, it was really fun to socialize with Tanners group of friends from a Dude Ranch where he’d worked during college, and others. Karissa is from a ranch in the Craig area, and we learned that many Greek have settled here, and they specialized in raising sheep. The wedding had a cowboy / Greek theme, with gyros for wedding dinner! It was a really fun experience!

SUNDAY

Jan and husband Dave planned on getting an early start for their drive back to MN, so we made a plan on our own (we’ll see them at another wedding in two weeks). We’d asked VRBO owner Sandra about hiking options and she suggested Trappers Lake - her information packet said 1-2 hours drive, Google maps said 2 hours, but a different route than what she’d suggested.

So we set out following her directions, a little scary without any cell service! After about 5 miles, the road turned to gravel (and remained gravel the whole time). But the scenery was out of this world as we followed the Willams Fork river, past beautiful ranches and rolling aspen covered hills.

We entered the Flat Top Wilderness Area (third largest in Colorado, least visited) and crested Ripple Creek Pass at 12,000ft. Trappers Lake is 300 acres, sitting at 9600 ft. In the summer of 2002, over 23,000 acres of the White River and Routt National Forests were burned by the “Big Fish” and “Lost Lake” fires, which we didn’t know - so it really altered the kind of hike we thought we’d be doing, but it was amazing. We saw just two other couples - so having a place like that to ourselves was a little eerie. We hiked about 5.5 miles around the lake, with a good measure of up and down. The affects of the altitude weren’t too bad - just made for a slower pace.

We returned to the cabin via the “google maps” route, further, but still two hours, and only about 15 minutes of gravel road. Since we’d taken the option for the Sirius XM on the car, we were able to listen to the Ryder Cup finish on the drive back to the cabin ... and we arrived safely before dark.

MONDAY

We were up a little earlier, packed up and headed East. We found a cafe in Steamboat, where we had a second breakfast and then did some shopping at Lights (it’s like their own Wall Drug). We both bought new cowboy boots, along with some fancy contraptions to help get them on and off! I really enjoyed Steamboat and could spend more time there!

We hit the road, stopping for a photo at Rabbit Ears pass. On our way over on Friday, Jeff recalled a family road trip from MN to CA, well, he was 3 so it’s more that he recalls the stories of that road trip, and a photo of them at Rabbit Ears Pass with snow on the ground.

Down to Kremling past the fire zone again, then headed to Granby and the western gate of Rocky Mountain National Park (first visit for us both). We stopped at the visitors center and got intel on hiking for tomorrow, then started the drive to Trail Ridge Road - up and up and up and up. We had the radio tuned to the Brewer-Cub play off game - marveled by the technology that allows us to listen to that in such a remote location! Along the way we saw a coyote jogging along the road, and came upon cars parked along the road and people jumping out with cameras (same scene you’ll see at Yellowstone and Glacier), but this one was an “Elk Jam,” and he was a beauty with a large rack!

We stopped at an Alpine visitors center and took a walk to the lookout (after digging out our puffy jackets, hats and gloves). The temperature went from 80 at the gate to 45 on the top! At 12,000 feet, the climb to the lookout was tough, and the clouds were coming in fast, which means it wasn’t much of a view, but it was awesome just the same.

Back in the car just as the rain started, and we continued a harrowing drive along the ridge line ... sure seemed to me that the CCC could have installed some of those great rock guardrails! Was glad to have Jeff driving and I could just work on breathing. When we got down to the meadow area we saw a few elk. We drove on a stretch of the road where it’s closed from 5p to 7a due to the number of Elk present!

Out of the park and into Estes Park to search out accommodations for the next two nights. We settled for a hotel based on location - could walk to town, and also view and hear the Elk on the adjacent golf course! Let me just say that “bugleing” sounds like a squeaky gate ... not what I’d expected! We got settled and wandered into town. I’d forgotten to pack rain gear and I know how fast the weather changes in the mountains as we saw today!

I found a new rain jacket, and we checked out some other stores and restaurants, settling to eat at Claire’s, which was a really great meal. Stopped at the Safeway for bananas and yogurt so we could get an early start tomorrow.

TUESDAY

We did get up and going early - With a quick stop at Starbucks we were back in the park before my latte cooled. Destination Bear Lake Trailhead (9449 ft); traffic was light, deer were plentiful and the drive was beautiful. From this trailhead, there are multiple choices of hikes for varying abilities. We set off for a tougher one to ditch the crowd that was already forming - mission accomplished and we saw less than 20 people until we got back closer to the trailhead where we intersected with an easier trail.

We did an 8.5 mile loop: Alberta Falls, Mills Lake, Lake Haiyaha, Dream Lake (moose sighting), Emerald Lake and back down to Bear Lake. Total elevation gain of 1628 ft. Beautiful day, great temperature and we had all the right gear with the changing conditions. We had just a little rain, nothing like the day before but I was still glad for my new jacket!

Returned to our hotel about 3pm, and there were many people adjacent to our hotel (I mean in the parking lot outside our window) watching the Elk ... apparently it’s normal for them to take over the golf course at this time of year. There were about 100, and they were in various groups. And the males were strutting about, hollering and chasing off smaller males, and collecting their females into little groups. The greens and tees were all fenced off, as was most of the landscaping. But in front of our room, the fence had been pushed in and a guy was herding his girls onto the practice putting green. It was hysterical.

We showered and headed back to town to celebrate our hike with margaritas and Mexican fare. Then back to watch a little more Elk shenanigans!

WEDNESDAY

All night long we listened to Elk shenanigans ... but by the time we packed up and got ready this am, our little herd has disbanded and moved on to a different part of the golf course.

We drove to Longmont and stopped at our favorites kind of local cafe for breakfast. Then early to the airport to start cleaning out the 400 or so emails we’d each accumulated before flying home.

Awesome adventure!

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janetchavezcom · 6 years ago

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15 Gorgeous Small Towns In America’s Mountain Regions

From the Adirondacks to the Rockies, these charming mountain towns deserve a moment in the sun. If you’re planning a visit, consider a vacation rental from FlipKey—like a cozy cabin right on the hiking trails or a modern ski condo.

In a land with hundreds of individual mountain ranges and endless acres of national forests, some of the most exciting vacation destinations in the US boast skylines that haven’t changed in centuries. Home to craggy peaks with steep trails, twisting singletracks and swirling whitewater, this country’s beautiful little mountain towns deserve their own moment in the sun. That’s why we’re featuring 24 scenic communities—each home to less than 10,000 residents—with serious four-season appeal and tons of small-town charm.

Whether you’re planning an adventure vacation or a relaxing mountain getaway, these coast-to-coast destinations show off the most breathtaking vistas America has to offer (not to mention some of the coolest backcountry cabins and rustic ski lodges available for rent on FlipKey).

Bryson City, North Carolina

What Bryson City lacks in size, it makes up for in towering peaks, panoramic views and big natural attractions (namely, the Great Smoky Mountains). For hiking and biking enthusiasts, the Appalachian Trail and Tsali Mountain Biking Recreation Area are both nearby, but the city itself is better known for another outdoor activity: epic whitewater rafting. Don’t miss the opportunity to face some huge drops and rapids on the Nantahala River. Of course, if you prefer to stay on dry land, you can always browse the handcrafted items on display in the area’s artisan-run shops.

Find a great place to stay in Bryson City!

Ely, Minnesota

Ely is a small town that’s easy to overlook: northern Minnesota, population 3,460, set against the stunning backdrop of the Shagawa Lake. So how did it end up on this list of stunning mountain vacations? We’ve got a few good reasons, starting with the town’s recent renaissance and an upswing in tourism. From ice fishing and dogsledding in the winter to late summer canoeing and early autumn hiking, this hidden-gem outdoors hub has a lot to offer, and travelers are taking note.

Find a great place to stay in Ely!

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

For cliffside Victorian homes, quaint galleries and boutiques, meandering mountain roads and 25 miles of backwoods trails, rent a historic home in Eureka Springs and start exploring the Ozarks. This popular mountain vacation destination is surrounded by natural attractions including three lakes, two rivers and a number of public caves, so canoeing, kayaking, fishing and hiking abound. But the fun doesn’t stop after summer ends; nearby spas and outstanding exhibits at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art make Eureka Springs an enchanting winter escape.

Find a great place to stay in Eureka Springs!

Park City, Utah

In 2015, two local spots merged to create Park City Mountain Resort, now the largest ski resort in the country. Add 7,300 skiable acres to the 400+ miles of trails accessible to hikers and bikers during the summer, and you’ll understand why this city is a buzzworthy destination year-round. (Of course, if you’re looking to save a little money, steer clear mid-winter when the Sundance Film Festival comes to town.) If hitting the slopes—or trails—isn’t your definition of a good time, the restaurants, galleries and luxe boutiques on Main Street won’t disappoint.

Find a great place to stay in Park City!

Fayetteville, West Virginia

Given West Virginia’s nickname (“The Mountain State”) and motto (“Mountaineers are Always Free”), the state’s rugged peaks are an essential part of its heritage—just as much as the small towns nestled in the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountain ranges. Fayetteville is one of those charming destinations, home to the oldest river on the continent and the world’s second-longest single arch bridge. Aside from the region’s legendary whitewater rafting, Fayetteville is also known for rock climbing, llama treks(!) and Bridge Day, an annual October festival and sporting event centered around BASE jumping.

Find a great place to stay in Fayeteville!

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg is practically synonymous with Great Smoky Mountains National Park and those iconic misty mountain ridges. It’s a regional hub for whitewater rafting, horseback riding, ziplining and a long list of other popular outdoor activities; visit in the winter, and you can even fly down the slopes at Ober Gatlinburg, Tennessee’s only ski resort. Beyond the scenery, though, this entertaining mountain vacation town is known for its boutiques, live bluegrass and a surprising number of distilleries. Ever wondered what apple pie moonshine tastes like? You can sample it here. Make a day trip of it and book yourself a moonshine and wine tasting tour.

Find a great place to stay in Gatlinburg!

Homer, Alaska

Homer has its fair share of nicknames: “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World.” “Cosmic Hamlet by the Sea.” “The End of the Road.” But make no mistake about that last one: this destination is not a dead end. Hemmed in by the mountains and the sea, Homer boasts the best of both worlds, so you can go hiking on Kenai Peninsula trails in the morning and sea kayaking on the Kachemak Bay in the afternoon. Well on its way to becoming the state’s adventure tourism capital, the quaint and quirky mountain town lures Alaskans and out-of-state travelers alike with its mild climate, jaw-dropping scenery, excellent fishing and prime bear viewing opportunities. You can even book a six-hour grizzly bear-spotting tour, including a thrilling plane ride and a hike to get a closer look at these fascinating creatures.

Find a great place to stay in Homer!

Hood River, Oregon

Hood River has been called both “a recreational boomtown” and “an agricultural powerhouse,” because the Columbia River port city is equally famous for its strong winds (a windsurfer’s dream) and good fruit. Located an hour east of Portland, where the Columbia River Gorge meets the Cascade Mountain Range, the area boasts some of the best windsurfing in the world and 15,000 acres of orchards—plus microbreweries, top-notch cycling, scenic gorges and balmy temperatures nearly year-round. Pair a leisurely cycle with some first-rate wine tasting on the Oregon Wine Country Experience, a guided cycle stopping at three wineries and offering some of the area’s best views.

Find a great place to stay in Hood River!

Ketchum, Idaho

Whether you’re a daredevil biker, skier or mountaineer, it’s about time you (ahem) caught up with Ketchum—the self-described home of “one of the lowest resting heart rates anywhere.” Once a Wild West mining center, this central Idaho town is just one mile from Sun Valley, the first American ski resort. Naturally, skiing is an essential part of the fabric of the community (and with 250 days of sunshine each year, it’s not a bad place to visit if you’re craving a little fresh air). Reserve a cabin rental or luxury lodge and prepare for an epic outdoor adventure.

Find a great place to stay in Ketchum!

Killington, Vermont

Best known for its namesake resort, Killington boasts 6 peaks, 22 lifts, 155 trails and 3,000 skiable acres, making it the largest ski area in the eastern US. Eleven miles away, the Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Center offers more than 35 miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails. And while we’re crunching the numbers, here are five reasons—music festivals, mountain climbing, biking, hiking and golf—to visit after the snow melts. Oh, and one more thing: Killington has played host to three Spartan World Championship events. (We think that about sums it up.)

Find a great place to stay in Killington!

Lake Almanor Area, California

In northeastern California, where the Cascades and Sierra Nevadas meet, Lake Almanor offers swimming, tubing, kayaking, canoeing and 52 miles of forested shoreline. If lazy summer lake days aren’t your style, the region’s great trails and beautiful meadows are also perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing when colder weather sets in. No matter when you visit, thanks to the number of smallmouth bass, giant rainbow trout and kokanee salmon, the fishing is great year-round.

Find a great place to near Lake Almanor!

Leavenworth, Washington

For a feel-good comeback story, look no further than the tale of Leavenworth. After the decline of the area’s railway and timber industries in the 1960s, the former logging town remodeled its buildings to create a Bavarian-style alpine village. In the decades since, Leavenworth has become a bustling tourist destination known for its Cascade Mountain scenery and a packed calendar of festivals and performances. If you visit during the summer, don’t leave without catching an outdoor show at the Leavenworth Summer Theater; during the winter, backcountry skiing and snowmobiling are two exciting ways to explore the surrounding region.

Find a great place to stay in Leavenworth!

Red Lodge, Montana

If you don’t know about Red Lodge’s skiing and snowboarding scene, here’s what you’ve been missing: affordable prices, heart-stopping vistas and plenty of fresh powder (around 250 inches of snow each year). Avoid the crowds at big-name resorts and opt in for a cabin rental with stunning views of the Beartooth Mountains. When warmer weather arrives, this desirable mountain towns town becomes a hot spot for climbing, fishing, rafting and horseback riding. What’s more? In Red Lodge’s historic downtown, you’ll find plenty of unique local spots to shop, eat and enjoy a pint.

Find a great place to stay in Red Lodge!

Taos, New Mexico

Perhaps best known for Taos Pueblo, the only living Native American community to be declared both a National Historic Landmark (1965) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1992), Taos is a desert town at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Range. Here, galleries, museums and landmark sites are not difficult to come by—but neither are legendary hikes and unforgettable mountain vistas. For a great introduction to Taos, book a guided driving tour, which includes Taos Pueblo and the Rio Grande Gorge. Craving cold-weather activities? Seventeen miles northeast of the town, Taos Ski Valley offers skiing and snowboarding during the winter.

Find a great place to stay in Taos!

Telluride, Colorado

Welcome to Rocky Mountain High Country. If the skyline is giving you a case of déjà vu, it might be because you’ve seen it before—on a can of Coors beer. Telluride is an iconic spot, home to cabin rentals with soaring mountain views and the dazzling slopes skiers dream of all year. We’re partial to the excellent hikes (don’t miss the trek to 365-foot Bridal Veil Falls), thriving restaurant scene (try the buffalo, venison or elk) and buzzy annual events like the Telluride Bluegrass Festival.

Find a great place to stay in Telluride!

The post 15 Gorgeous Small Towns In America’s Mountain Regions appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

from Tips For Traveling https://www.flipkey.com/blog/2018/10/01/15-gorgeous-small-towns-in-americas-mountain-regions/

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janerchambers88 · 6 years ago

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15 Best Romantic Weekend Getaways For Couples In The USA

Romantic Weekend Getaways You’ll Love

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Charleston, SC

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Logan, OH

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This post was originally published on the TripAdvisor blog. FlipKey is a TripAdvisor company.

The post 15 Best Romantic Weekend Getaways For Couples In The USA appeared first on The FlipKey Blog.

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