Posted March 11, 2010 by Jamie Moore
Get a natural high and soak up some California sunshine at Squaw Valley ski resort. After navigating 4,000 acres of skiable terrain, plot your way to great deals on non-skiing adventures. And don't miss uncorking boutique bottles at a hip wine bar or the Olympic Inn, which puts you in the heart of Squaw's nonstop action.
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Squaw Valley: Sure, 450 inches of annual snowfall, 300 days of sun, and breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe could make any ski resort spectacular. But forgo the slopes and you'll unearth lots of other winter fun. Take the cable car 2,000 feet up and try out your skating moves on the high-altitude rink ($29 for both). Or, zoom down the mountain on a snow-tube ($16). You can even leave the mountaintops behind and explore the resort's namesake valley on a snowshoe adventure.
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Uncorked at Squaw Valley: Sample fine wines and delectable cheese plates at Uncorked, located in the Village at Squaw Valley. This hip wine bar is the perfect place to relax after a long day on the slopes. Come learn more about winemaking and listen to live music at the weekend tastings, or simply purchase a bottle of boutique wine to take back to your room.
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Olympic Village Inn: This homey inn offers easy access to Squaw Valley's chairlifts. When the slopes close, soak off skiing aches in the five outdoor spas. In the outdoor heated pool, you can marvel at panoramic views of the valley and mountains. Or, spend a free afternoon sledding or snowshoeing with the inn's complimentary equipment.
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(Photo: Squaw Valley USA)
Posted March 10, 2010 by Kate Hamman
Situated in the shadow of the 12th-century royal fortress where Joan of Arc first met the future King Charles VII, the city of Chinon exudes history everywhere you turn. Come immerse yourself in its past without paying a high price. Learn all about the city's fascinating history, taste regional wines in a cave, and stay in a surprisingly charming chain hotel.
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Royal Fortress of Chinon: Sitting high above the city, the Royal Fortress of Chinon stands as a reminder of the city's intriguing past. Today, visitors can immerse themselves in the area's history by learning about the lives of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine, who lived and died here; seeing the Royal Lodge where Joan of Arc met the future King Charles VII; and touring the apartments filled with the Flemish tapestries and furniture of the castle's heyday. There is also a Joan of Arc museum, which offers insight to the life and death of this heroic woman. Admission costs €3 (about $4 U.S.; check XE.com for current exchange rates).
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Plouzeau Chateau de la Bonneliere: At Plouzeau Chateau de la Bonneliere's tasting cave, you won't have to dig too deep to unearth a wealth of wines. Built into the foundation of the fortress, the cellars are the perfect place to store and sample wines of the Chinon and Loire valleys. Open from April through September, the shop sells a variety of reds and whites.
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Best Western Hotel de France: It may surprise you to learn that this Best Western is more like a charming historic inn than a basic chain hotel. Located in a 16th century building in the heart of the city, Hotel de France transports you back in time. Enjoy the view of the famous fortress or listen to the fountain below your room's balcony. Rooms start at about €75 per night.
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(Photo: iStockPhoto/Jowita Stachowiak)
Posted March 9, 2010 by Kate Hamman
With several plans in the works, including an eco-bridge, that will make the city greener, Chicago is well on its way to becoming a top environmentally friendly destination, but without the high prices. Come shop for goods made from recycled materials and grab a slice of organic pizza before saving green by going green at a eco-friendly boutique hotel.
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Grasshopper 510: If the words repurpose, recyclable, vintage, organic, sustainable, reclaimed, and all-natural speak to your greener side, then this eco-boutique is right up your alley. The name—inspired by the prosperity and wisdom of a grasshopper, as well as the color measurement of green—conjures a sense of appreciation for the natural world. Here, you will find an array of environmentally-friendly items spanning a slew of categories, such as home decor, baby necessities, jewelry, and beauty essentials. Prices vary by product.
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Crust: Don't be fooled by the name. There's more to this pizza joint than just its crust. As the first certified organic restaurant in the Midwest, Crust adheres to a strict policy of no antibiotics, no growth hormones, and no genetic engineering in any of its products. Come enjoy a flatbread pizza fresh from the wood-burning oven. Pizzas such as the wild herb and cheese start at $12.
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Allerton Hotel: After serving guests for 85 years, the Allerton Hotel recognizes the importance of preservation in all areas of life, and has become one of the city's leading green places to stay. The property started a "green team" to maintain its environmental initiatives, including using only energy-efficient lighting and equipment, as well as biodegradable and recyclable products. Plus, the hotel rewards guests who help in its cause by offering a 10 percent discount if guests forego housekeeping services during their stay. Rooms start at $80 per night during the low season.
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(Photo: iStockphoto/Jim Jurica)
Posted March 8, 2010 by Kate Hamman
Montreal celebrates its past with a flair unlike any other, which is evident in its tours, restaurants, and architectural preservation. And during the winter, the city glows with the spirit of the season and sweet hotel discounts. Spend the day learning about Montreal's history, and then enjoy a dinner-and-show that takes you back in time.
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Montreal Tourism's Sweet Deal: Get a sweet deal on lodging, with the help of Montreal's tourism board. You can save 50 percent off the second night at participating hotels, and some include extra perks, such as breakfast buffets, room upgrades, and free Internet. For instance, rooms at the Auberge de la Fontaine cost $139 CAD (about $135 U.S.; check XE.com for current exchange rates) for the first night, and $70 CAD the second night. Though this offer is good until May 31, Montreal tends to offer similar deals throughout the year.
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Stewart Museum History buffs will rejoice in the authentic setting of the Stewart Museum, housed in original buildings of Montreal's only fort on Île Sainte-Hélène. The museum's collection of more than 30,000 man-made objects provides insight into the history of New France. Here, you will not only view artifacts from history, but walk in its footsteps, and quite possibly encounter a few costumed guides to help lead the way. Admission costs $10 CAD. (Editor's note: The museum is temporarily closed for renovations, but will reopen in May 2010)
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Le Cabaret du Roy: Stepping through the doors of Le Cabaret du Roy is like stepping back in time to the 18th century. The lively, costumed entertainers add new meaning to dinner and a show, where most meals can last up to about three hours. The lively dinnersl come with the added bonus of comedy and musical acts. Each dish is prepared from native and regional produce to recreate Amerindian (Quebec's First Nation people) specialties.
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(Photo: Le Cabaret du Roy, Martine Hebert)
Posted March 5, 2010 by Kate Hamman
With a red covered "honeymoon" bridge leading to its small colonial village, Jackson, New Hampshire, may be the quintessential New England town. However, a blanket of white in the winter turns its charming exterior into a playing field for cross-country skiers and snowshoers. Come experience the trails, and then fill up on hearty dishes before falling asleep to the sounds of a river at a romantic inn.
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Jackson Ski Touring Foundation: As one of the top destinations for cross-country skiing in the Eastern U.S., the Jackson Ski Touring Foundation (JSTF) will get your heart racing with nearly 96 miles of trails that wind through the village, over covered bridges, and into the forest. Here, you can rent snowshoes for $12 per day and cross-country skis for $16 per day. A daily membership, which allows access to the trails, costs $19 for skiing and $10 for snowshoeing. If you arrive after 2 p.m., you can ski for $12 or buy a Go-Ahead pass for $30 that includes skiing the next day as well.
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Red Parka Steakhouse & Pub: After traipsing through the snow-covered valley, there's no better place to warm up than the Red Parka. For more than 30 years, this après-ski restaurant and pub has been a favorite among winter enthusiasts for its tender steaks and ultimate comfort foods. Entrees start at $10.95, and the mud pie can't be beat.
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Inn at Ellis River: Nestled alongside, you guessed it, the Ellis River, this inn screams romantic retreat. The morning is a delight with dishes like cinnamon crepes stuffed with apple filling and orange croissant french toast with fresh strawberries. Each room is unique, and some come with whirlpool tubs or fireplaces, or both. The inn offers packages throughout the year, such as the Midweek Stay & Ski, Ski, Ski package that includes one- to four-nights' lodging, daily breakfast, afternoon refreshments, and skiing for two from $199 for a one-day ski package. Room rates typically start at $119 per night, and include breakfast.
To search for flights and compare prices to Portland, Maine, the nearest major airport, please use our price-comparison tool.
(Photo: Mt Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce)
Posted March 4, 2010 by Sarah Pascarella
For the past 100 years, young girls have fallen in love with the adventures of Anne Shirley, the heroine of Lucy Maud Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables series, and her home on Prince Edward Island (PEI). Beyond literary attractions, PEI lures in travelers with beautiful vistas, red-sand beaches, world-class golf, fresh seafood, and a laid-back atmosphere.
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Tourism PEI, the official tourism website of Prince Edward Island, offers an encyclopedic guide to the area. Maps, lodging information, suggested itineraries, up-to-date events, and more are available with just a few clicks. Great choices include visiting all things Anne in Cavendish, taking in a show in Charlottetown, traversing the island by bicycle on the Confederation Trail, or just relaxing on a quiet beach.
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St. Ann's Lobster Suppers: PEI is famous for its lobster, potatoes, and other fresh local specialties. Enjoy the best of the island's harvest with an evening at St. Ann's Lobster Suppers. Open from June until late September, St. Ann's serves up five-course meals daily, including seafood chowder, steamed mussels, lobster, haddock, and more. There are also lobster rolls for the kids and a variety of other summer feast choices. The church/eatery is located on Route 224 near New Glasgow, not too far from Cavendish National Park. A five-course supper with a one-pound lobster costs $31.99 CAD.
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The Country House Inn: Located right in Cavendish National Park, The Country House Inn will make you feel like you've stepped into Green Gables. Rates range from $55 CAD to $65 CAD per night and include a daily breakfast buffet and free admission to the park. The inn's grounds have gardens, barbecue facilities, and a children's play area.
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(Photo: Tourism Prince Edward Island)
Posted March 3, 2010 by Kate Hamman
Cape Breton boasts one of the most scenic drives in North America along its Cabot Trail, and the island strives to preserve its natural and unspoiled beauty. Come get acquainted with the animals that live here, eat organic at an inn, and stay in a resort where you can forage for your own dinner.
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Whycocomagh Eco-Centre: You can appreciate nature through hands-on activities at the Whycocomagh Eco-Centre year-round. By learning about the different species of animals and aquatic life that inhabit the area, as well as getting an up-close-and-personal view of starfish, crabs, and sea urchins in the touch tanks, you will become more aware of the need to preserve the surrounding land and waters. The center offers interactive nature hikes in the Whycocomagh Park and along the Bras d'Or Lakes shoreline.
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Chanterelle Country Inn: Located on the Artisan's Loop on the Cabot Trail, the Chanterelle Country Inn is the ideal spot to watch bald eagles soar or listen to the chickadees from the screened-in verandah while you dine. The restaurant serves fresh organic ingredients, including mushrooms collected on the property, and all dishes are prepared using Slow Food principles. The menu changes each night, and entrees cost $20 to $28 CAD. There is also a four-course prix fixe for $38 to $45 CAD.
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Crown Jewel Resort Ranch: Situated in the Baddeck River Valley, the Crown Jewel Resort grows all its own organic meats and produce, and takes great pride in conserving energy and reducing waste. Go on an eco-culinary foraging expedition, where you will pick your own edible wild plants and then create a four-course dinner from your discoveries. The eight suites are decorated with yellow birch furniture and sheepskin rugs that provide a comfortable place to unwind. Rates start at $345 CAD per couple, with three meals included.
To search for flights and compare prices to Halifax, the nearest major airport, please use our price-comparison tool.
(Photo: iStockPhoto/Denis Tangney)
Posted March 2, 2010 by Kate Hamman
From mountain peaks to sweeping countryside, Wales is a land of natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Come experience the land and all it offers for less than you'd expect, given the pound. Take a ride on an eco-friendly roller coaster at a green theme park, eat freshly boxed organic meats and veggies from a farm, and stay at an environmentally aware inn.
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GreenWood Forest Park: With a roller coaster that produces more power than it uses, GreenWood Forest Park has something for kids and earth-loving adults alike. The 20-person Green Dragon Roller Coaster travels a 250-meter track, including a 360-degree horizontal loop, simply by harnessing the power of people. The park also incorporates many other eco-friendly practices such as recycling, energy conservation, and carbon offsetting. Admission starts at £7.60 (about $11.35 U.S.; check XE.com for current exchange rates) for adults and £6.35 (about $8.59 U.S.) for children.
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Aberhyddnant Organic Farm: At Aberhyddnant in Brecon Beacons, you'll see animals grazing freely, wildlife nesting in the surrounding trees, and vegetables growing in chemical-free soils. At the shop, you can purchase holiday hampers, or a box filled with enough produce and meats for a meal or weekend. Hampers start at £22 for a breakfast box that includes free-range eggs, organic bacon and sausage, a loaf of bread, organic butter, cheese, and jam, Welsh honey, and organic Welsh apple juice.
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Bryn Elltyd Guest House: The Bryn Elltyd Guest House offers sustainable accommodations set against the backdrop of the Moelwyn mountain range in Snowdonia National Park. By reducing energy consumption, conserving water, and getting heat from solar collectors, the guesthouse is doing its part to leave a small footprint. Choose from the inn's six rooms that come with fair-trade hospitality trays. Rooms start at £30 (about $44.83 U.S.) per person per night.
To search for flights and compare prices to Cardiff, the nearest major airport, please use our price-comparison tool.
(Photo: iStockphoto/Rene Mansi)
Posted March 1, 2010 by Amy Westervelt
May is arguably the best time of the year to visit Memphis. The summer humidity hasn't kicked in yet, plus the month-long
Memphis in May festival is underway, the highlight of which is the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. And once you've had your fill of barbecue, you can experience all things Elvis or visit any of the amazing venues that introduced blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll to the world.
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World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest: Thanks to the annual World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, the city is wrapped in the smell of grilled pork and chock-full of barbecue lovers from May 13 through 15 this year. After sampling some barbecue, head to any one of the clubs on Memphis' famous
Beale Street, the birthplace of the blues. On Fridays for just $10, you can get a wristband at the Handy Bar at W.C. Handy Park that will let you bounce between the Beale Street clubs the way Elvis once did.
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Bar-B-Q Shop: The tiny, funky Bar-B-Q Shop (1782 Madison Avenue) has built a reputation for serving the best barbecue in the city. In addition to classics such as barbecue pork shoulder with the shop's infamous
Dancing Pigs sauce, it also serves Italian dishes such as barbecue spaghetti. Although this spot won't win any awards for its decor, the food coming out of the kitchen more than makes up for it, especially given the huge portions and rock-bottom prices.
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Elvis Presley's Heartbreak Hotel: What is Memphis without an Elvis experience? If you don't have the time or the patience for Graceland, consider booking a night at Elvis Presley's Heartbreak Hotel right across the street. Decked out with Elvis photos, memorabilia, and pieces of Elvis kitsch, it's hard to walk through the lobby without doing an Elvis impression. Rooms start at $112 per night.
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(Photo: Memphis in May International Festival)
Posted February 26, 2010 by Jamie Moore
Need an adrenaline rush? Head to Sandusky, Ohio, where one of the best amusement parks in the world has 17 heart-stopping roller coasters. Ride them all, if you dare, then grab some downtime at a funky bistro and a local store with a country touch.
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Cedar Point Amusement Park: Indulge the kids (or your inner child) at an amusement park with more roller coasters than any other park in the world. For unsurpassed views of Lake Erie, hop on the Top Thrill Dragster, one of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the world. At 420 feet high, it whisks passengers around at speeds up to 120 mph. If roller coasters aren't your thing, there are mellower rides and a chance to get your feet wet on water rides. Check The Point Online for special deals on passes, regularly $43.99.
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Zinc Brasserie: Sandusky's downtown is home to Zinc Brasserie, a popular French-style bistro. Save some cash and forgo the pricier dinner menu for a delicious lunch. The stars of the lunch menu are the mouthwatering sandwiches. Try the Cuban panini with Black Forest ham, Swiss cheese, roast pork, and dijonaise or brasserie burger on toasted ciabatta.
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Lake Erie Gifts & Decor: If you're into country, nautical, or Victorian decor, don't miss this charming shop. Country Sampler Magazine featured Lake Erie Gifts & Decor's starry snowman doormats and pinwheel quilted bedding. You can also take home Amish jams and salsas, country quilts, placemats, bedding, braided rugs, and lighting.
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(Photo: Cedar Point)
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