Posts Tagged ‘weekend getaway’

Refined Rural Retreats – The Timeless Appeal of Country Hotels

March 9th, 2012 Tushar Mathur

It’s almost nine o’clock on a weekday morning and you’re stuck in traffic or sitting on a crowded commuter train that’s been delayed; you’re going to be late for work. You emerge into a rush-hour crush of people, at least half of whom seem to be bawling into their mobile phones or texting furiously, heedless of their surroundings. Hurrying your way through the noise and traffic fumes of your town or city you eventually arrive at work to face another demanding day. Sometimes the pace of modern urban life can seem suffocating, and you deserve a relaxing escape. A break in a country hotel is the perfect solution.Whether it’s for a weekend getaway, a special occasion or a longer holiday, a stay at country hotel provides the opportunity to unwind in comfort and enjoy some peaceful time out from the hubbub and hassle of everyday routine.

The benefits of country hotels are numerous; you don’t have to travel any great distance to find a welcoming stay in a beautiful location. A stay at a country hotel is more convenient and affordable than a break overseas, there’s generally a wealth of leisure pursuits for you to enjoy (anyone for a round of golf? Croquet on the lawn? Or perhaps a relaxing stroll amid gorgeous landscaped gardens or a picturesque country estate)? And, of course, country hotels offer a level of four- or five-star luxury, plus tranquillity and excellent dining that will quickly ease away your stresses and cares.

Many country hotels also feature their own fully-equipped spas, so if you know someone who would thoroughly enjoy being pampered from head to toe a spa break at a country hotel could be the perfect, unforgettable gift. And in the thoroughly metrosexual twenty-first century spa treatments, massages and facials are no longer the exclusive provinces of ladies! In fact, his and her spa treatments at a country hotel could be just one aspect of a wonderful romantic break.

Whether it’s for Valentine’s Day, a birthday or an anniversary, what could be better than waking up with your loved one in a sumptuous four-poster bed to the sound of birdsong instead of traffic, succumbing to the indulgence of a delicious traditional breakfast and then spending time exploring the grounds and surrounding countryside together, enjoying a massage each or taking advantage of sporting facilities such as a gymnasium, swimming pool or tennis courts? And who knows where a romantic break at a country hotel might lead? After all, country hotels make idyllic and unforgettable venues for those extra-special weddings, wedding receptions and honeymoons…

Country hotels offer something for everyone to enjoy, all year round.

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Fun Things to Do in Dublin

September 7th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

Dublin is undoubtedly one of the most exciting and enjoyable cities in the world. Whether you’re visiting the capital for a quick weekend getaway or you’re planning a long vacation, there are an endless number of fun activities that are sure to keep you entertained. Below you will find a selection of some of best things to do and see while you’re visiting this fine city.

Temple Bar

Temple Bar is perhaps Dublin’s most famous neighbourhood and it is here you will find a great number of things to keep you entertained. Along the cobblestone streets you will find lots of little cafes, restaurants and bars all with real character and history. Additionally, there are a number of interesting art galleries and unique shops that will no doubt add bit of variety while you’re wondering around.

Jeanie Johnston

The Jeanie Johnston is a replica of the famine ship which famously never lost a soul in its 16 separate voyages to America (something unheard of at the time), transporting over 2,500 famine sufferers. This working replica of the ship is a must visit for anyone wanting to experience a slice of Ireland’s history.

St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patricks Day is celebrated worldwide but it can only truly be experienced in Dublin itself. The annual party in honour of the patron Saint of Ireland is a five day event lasting from the 12th to the 17th of March. During the celebrations you will get to see Dublin in its finest form which culminates with large street parade and fireworks show that marks the end of the festival.

Dublin Zoo

Dublin zoo was originally founded in 1831 and is one of oldest in world that’s still in operation. Here you will find over 700 species of wild and exotic animals including elephants, tigers, lions and gorillas to name but a few.

Dublinia

Dublinia is an exhibition that recreates Dublin in medieval times offering visitors a chance to understand what life was like living in the city during that period. The mix of life sized and scale models give visitors a detailed overview of Dublin and is a great place to visit for both adults and children alike.

Music

Dublin is well known for its musical heritage which can be sampled throughout the city on any given night. If you really want to experience Irish folk music the way it was meant to be enjoyed then your best bet is to visit one of the many traditional pubs and ask around as to when there will be live music on.

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The Worlds Best Romantic Weekend Break Destinations

July 28th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

If you want to spend a nice and romantic weekend break with the one you love, there are many places around the world that will offer you the perfect getaway. Here are some of the best destinations in the world for couples to have a romantic weekend.

Venice, Italy

venice
One of the most romantic places in the world is Venice, Italy. This ancient city is full of canals, bridges and historical buildings that are fascinating. In this amazing city, you and your special someone can take a romantic gondola ride, which will make your heart pound. Other romantic places in Venice include The Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs. The city has many romantic hotels and restaurants where you can get cozy with your sweetheart. Probably the best time to take a romantic weekend break in Venice is in the summertime, which includes the months of May and June. There are many airlines that provide direct flights to Venice from the United States, London or Paris. You could also take a romantic train ride to the city.

Aspen, Colorado USA
Another romantic destination for couples is Aspen, Colorado in the United States. Aspen consists of breath-taking mountain views, amazing cuisine and lively ski resorts. The town is also well-known for its chalets, which offer excellent dining facilities. There are three ski areas in Aspen that are known for their lift rides, Olympic-sized super pipe and a gondola plaza. Winter is not the only time that provides a good weekend getaway, as summer does as well. You can hike or fish in the gorgeous mountains in Colorado, providing you with a great atmosphere for romance. Aspen is an ideal destination for a romantic weekend.

 

New York City, USA

nyc
Don’t underestimate the potential of a romantic weekend in a large city. New York City provides a quality atmosphere if you want a romantic weekend. You can take a romantic carriage ride through Central Park, or you can enjoy stunning views of the city from the top of the Empire State Building. You can take your sweetheart to see a fabulous Broadway play, or you might love to see a performance of the New York Ballet or The New York Philharmonic. New York City has everything that you need to experience a romantic weekend for two.

Bora Bora
Bora Bora, a tiny island in the South Pacific is a great place for a romantic getaway. It is known by many to be the most beautiful island in the world, as it has awe-inspiring beaches, jungles and coral reefs.

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Houston Travel Guide

July 5th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

Houston, Texas is known as the Energy Capital of the World, and it sure lives up to that name—it is one of the most energetic and vibrant large cities in America today. Extraordinarily diverse with world-class museums, sports, and entertainment, Houston is known around the country as a great place to live (it was recently voted third most livable city) as well as, increasingly, a great place to visit. So whether you are planning a quick weekend getaway or will be staying in Houston for a while, the Bayou City has plenty to offer every kind of visitor.

Houston’s summers may be infamous for their hot, muggy weather, but winters in Houston are pleasant and warm, with 65 degree days and slightly cooler nights. Even in the summer, Houstonians claim that the amount of air conditioning pumped through every building in the city compensates for the heat outdoors.

If you are looking for world-class hotel experience in Houston, consider staying at the Hotel Icon, a truly iconic hotel housed in a hundred-year-old bank building. Hotel Icon was recently rated one of Conde Nast Traveler’s Top 100 New Hotels, and it is also home to the swanky Voice Restaurant.

If you would prefer to eat somewhere more true to Texas’ Southern roots, head to Hugo’s, a Houston establishment with authentic Mexican cuisine whose clientele includes energy moguls, models, and former President Bill Clinton. Cafe Annie is another Houston classic, a 26 year old establishment with classic Southwestern cuisine. Finally, Goode Company provides authentic Texas-style barbecue, served at picnic tables to the accompaniment of genuine honky-tonk music.

Far from the sleepy oil town it once was, Houston now boasts a world-class level of art museums and performing arts venues. The Menil museum compound includes two buildings by legendary architect Renzo Piano, the famed Rothko chapel, and an outdoor sculpture garden. The Museum of Fine Arts and the Contemporary Art Museum of Houston both boast an extensive regular collection as well as temporary exhibitions on almost every kind of art.

For families with children, Houston offers many museums and attractions, including the Children’s Museum of Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and of course, the legendary Space Center, home of NASA.

The Midwestern region of the United States is not usually known for world-class shopping facilities, but for avid shoppers, Houston is the one bright spot on that map. Houston proves its shopping credibility beginning with the Galleria, an enormous shopping and entertainment with over 400 shopping and eating destinations.

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Atlanta Zoo-A Great Weekend Getaway

July 22nd, 2010 Tushar Mathur

When in Atlanta, the zoo of Atlanta is definitely worth visiting. It is located in Grant Park, a few minutes drive from the downtown. The parking is free and the ticket rates are not really exorbitant. The zoo remains open on all days except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Atlanta zoo opens for the visitors at 9:30 a.m. in the morning up till 5:30 p.m. in the evening on weekdays. On weekends, it closes down at 6:30 p.m. Atlanta zoo is a perfect getaway.

The zoo of Atlanta, boasts of numerous varieties of animals and birds. There are nearly 50 species of birds found in the zoo. Zoo is home to several endangered species like African lions, tigers and African elephants. It is also fun to watch monkeys, lemurs, gorillas, giraffes and many other animals. There are approximately 1000 species of reptiles in the zoo. Rare species of lizards, and snakes can be seen. Besides, some endangered species of frogs are also housed.

The safari day camp organised by zoo Atlanta during the holidays can be a memorable experience for the children. It is an interesting way by which children learn about their environment, flora and fauna around them. Many schools bring their children on excursion trips to the zoo. Amazing live shows are held over the weekends. Visitors can also look forward to many other fun activities like Elephant talk, Giant Panda talk, bird show etc.

Zoo Atlanta has taken several research initiatives. The authorities are actively working on the preservation of certain species of plants and animals .The Species Survival Plan (SSP) is one such initiative. Research programs are being conducted on giant Pandas in collaboration with china.

The wild life enthusiasts can even make their own contributions in the conservation of flora and fauna and bring about a difference in the environment. People can sponsor an animal and make donations. The sponsors can enjoy certain privileges like getting a free ticket to zoo etc.

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Review: Westin Hilton Head Resort

July 10th, 2008 Tushar Mathur

Westin Hilton Head ResortThis 4th of July weekend, we (along with my wife and daughter) went to Hilton Head Island, SC for a weekend getaway. Our lives were getting too hectic and breaking the routine was kinda important. So we decided to visit the island which was a 5 hour drive from Cumming, GA (suburb of Atlanta). Since we were not planning to do touristy stuff, the best way to enjoy was to stay in a resort. So that’s what we did. We decided on the Westin Hilton Head Resort. The price of the room per day was $350 including a $50 “resort fees”. Yeah it was pricey, but we wanted to pamper ourselves.

The drive was very comfortable and as we approached Hilton Head the scenery was just gorgeous. You could see all the major stores and restaurants that you would expect to see on a tourist town, but they were all tucked in behind beautiful palm trees and greenery.

We quickly checked in Westin since indoor parking was located conveniently and there were elevators to take us to the lobby.  The room was a good size and the KING bed was very comfortable.  Soon it was time for dinner and we decided to order Room Service. Of course the prices were a little steep , but hey, we were not here on a budget vacation. So I ordered a meat pizza and fish sticks for my daughter. When the food arrived, it was hot and pretty good.

Then we decided go down and explore the resort a little. There were 2 outdoor pools that full of vacationers and there were hotel staff giving out marshmallows to toast them in the fire, to make S’mores. That was awesome. We then moved on to go to the beach. It was just a few steps from the pool. It was quite windy, but it was very beautiful.

Once back in our room, we decided on going to bed early (It never happens when we are home).  Now for the annoying part. In our room, whenever the air conditioning turned off it made a clunking sound loud enough to scare my daughter. We didn’t report it though (which we should have done right then), since we were tired and just wanted to sleep and once asleep the noise didn’t really bother us.

The next morning we ordered some breakfast from Room Service. Eggs, bacon and some various breads including muffins, danish, toast etc. It was very good!

Later in the day we had spa appointments at the ‘Westin Heavenly Spa’ that I review in a later post.

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