Before summer ends, make one last beach trip. Our bargain pick: Wilmington, N.C. Credit: teresamorgan.
By Jeanenne Tornatore
Back-to-school shopping may be in full swing, but don’t despair, summer’s not over yet! And there are great late-season deals to give you the nudge you need for one last trip to the beach. Orbitz took a look at beach destinations offering some of the best value for the month of August. From family-friendly beaches on the East Coast to a snorkeler’s paradise in the Caribbean, for under $150/night* you can ride the tide into these beautiful beaches: (more…)
Good morning: Breakfast at the Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn, in Santa Barbara, Calif.
By Mark Chesnut
Free breakfast is pretty much the norm at mid-priced hotel chains in the United States and Canada. And it can be a nice extra for both business travel and family vacations. But not every morning meal is the same; while orange juice, muffins and other continental-style offerings are fairly universal, other options vary based on the hotel brand and location. To help you tailor your hotel choice to your palate, here is a sample of what to expect with some major hoteliers. (more…)
Fast forward: Check-in kiosks at the Yotel in New York City.
By Mark Chesnut
Whether you’re heading out on business or enjoying a Europe vacation or New York vacation, you’re more likely than ever to find technology playing a role in making your hotel stay go smoothly. But looking to the airline industry may provide the clearest vision of how hotels will operate in the future.
As with seemingly every aspect of modern life, smartphones are an increasingly helpful resource during hotel stays. Ritz-Carlton, for example, now offers its World Concierge service on Foursquare, the location-based mobile program. Using a smartphone, travelers can now check into locations and landmarks in 25 countries for tips provided by Ritz-Carlton concierge staff from all 75 Ritz-Carlton properties. (more…)
Toast your same-sex marriage on the rooftop bar of the posh Peninsula New York.
By Matthew Link
On June 25, 2011, New York became the largest state in the U.S. to legalize same-sex marriage. It was a real nail-biter until the last minute, with the outcome of the marriage bill far from certain. Impromptu public celebrations erupted in the streets of Manhattan, and the mood was giddy and profound at the same time. (more…)
Family-friendly: The Four Seasons Resort in Scottsdale
By Mark Chesnut
Whether it’s seasoned road warriors, groups of conventioneers or vacationing families with children, the cities of Phoenix and Scottsdale are well versed in serving the diverse needs of a variety of people. And this summer, new options abound for anyone looking to mix family travel with business travel. (more…)
First stop Far East: Royal Caribbean departs on a 5-night cruise from sparkling Shanghai. Credit: SF Brit.
By Kim Windyka
Sure, the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas are all fabulous choices for a cruise getaway, but sometimes you’re in the mood to try something out of the ordinary. And what better way to indulge that interest than by setting out on a one-of-a-kind exotic cruise through Asia, India or Africa? Ports that are off of the beaten path and generally longer itineraries make for an unforgettable experience you’ll be able to savor long after you return home. Take a look at three exotic itineraries that will give you a taste of these unusual and exciting sailings. (more…)
Highrollers' heaven: Play all day on the beach, then play to win at Trump Plaza Casino & Hotel.
By Vince Font
There are few cities in the United States that can lay claim to all of the things that Atlantic City can. Vegas is a killer gambling town, but there’s no beach. You can take gorgeous summer vacations in southern California, but good luck finding any casinos. And the nightlife up in San Francisco may be top notch, but I dare you to dip your foot into the bay on even the hottest day of the year. For all intents and purposes, A.C. is one of the best summer vacation spots in the country — and it’s not just great prices on Atlantic City hotels that keep people coming back in droves. (more…)
By Vince Font
For as much as people await the arrival of summer with bated breath, it sure has a way of sneaking up on us. And if you’re not careful and if you don’t act fast, it’ll pass you by the way it’s done in years past. With that in mind, here’s a rundown of three of the best last-minute beach vacations: east coast, west coast and in-between (the Gulf Coast, in case you didn’t catch it).
Savor the crisp ocean air at your alfresco table at the Sheraton Atlantic Beach Oceanfront Hotel.
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