Orbitz Blog

Articles for March, 2012

Crew is cool: Philly’s Aberdeen Dad Vail Regatta

Friday, March 30th, 2012

Spend May 11-12 in Philly for the Aberdeen Dad Vail Regatta, the largest collegiate regatta in the U.S. Credit: michaelwm25.

By Richard Hammer

Come May 11-12, the City of Brotherly Love just might gain another nickname: the City of Strong Backs. Once again, Philadelphia will host the Aberdeen Dad Vail Regatta, the largest collegiate rowing regatta in the United States with more than 100 universities participating from the United States and Canada. Dating back to 1934, the event continues to be one of the city’s most exciting traditions — and the perfect excuse to book a Philadelphia vacation. The free event runs on both days from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pack a picnic lunch or buy snacks in the food court to enjoy along the Schuylkill River. For more information on parking and shuttles, visit the event site. (more…)

Big Easy, big fun: Unique group activities in New Orleans

Wednesday, March 28th, 2012

Taking it Easy: the Sheraton New Orleans offers multiple options for group activities.

By Mark Chesnut

With its unique heritage, culture and traditions, New Orleans is unlike any other major tourist destination in the United States. And that means that group activities — whether for business travel, conventions or  family travel — in the Big Easy are equally unique, with lots of unforgettable options for visitors. (more…)

First dibs: An exclusive sail aboard the Disney Fantasy

Tuesday, March 27th, 2012

Doodle & dine: Sketches dance on screens at Animator's Palate on the Disney Fantasy. Credit: Matt Stroshane.

By Tim Enstice

In advance of its first official cruise on March 31, yesterday the brand new Disney Fantasy embarked on an exclusive preview cruise to showcase all of the new features and amenities that families will experience throughout their vacation.  From the AquaLab to the Disney Wishes stage show to the Bibbidi Boppidi Boutique, among many other additions, the Disney Fantasy is an entirely new vacation experience that builds upon the success of its sister ship, the Disney Dream. (more…)

Sunshine state: Orlando hotels mix biz and pleasure

Monday, March 26th, 2012
 

Grand style: The Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort, Bonnet Creek

By Mark Chesnut

With interesting new hotels and an array of renovations and new meeting and event space opening at existing properties, Orlando hotels are offering more than ever for business travelers as well as anyone looking to plan a Florida vacation. (more…)

Across the pond: Residence Inn grows abroad

Thursday, March 22nd, 2012

German accent: The Residence Inn Munich City East opened in 2011.

By Mark Chesnut

Residence Inn may be a well-recognized brand of hotels throughout the United States, but if parent company Marriott International has its way, the name will be increasingly familiar to international business travelers as well as anyone planning a Europe vacation or international vacations in the Middle East and northern Africa. (more…)

Homegrown hotels that harvest their own produce

Monday, March 19th, 2012

Sweet treats: Melissa Kelly's PRIMO Restaurant at the JW Marriott Orlando serves honey from its own apiary.

By Mark Chesnut

Just because you’re staying at a hotel doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy truly fresh cuisine. An array of hotels now grow and harvest their own produce on-site, allowing guests to savor tasty home-grown meals, whether they’re enveloped in business travel or enjoying a relaxed Florida vacation. (more…)

Eco-friendly: These hotels make going green a pleasure

Friday, March 16th, 2012

Seeing green: the Proximity Hotel in Greensboro, N.C., is one of the nation's most eco-friendly.

By Mark Chesnut

Yes, we all know that we should protect the environment. But that doesn’t mean that you have to suffer when traveling on business. Happily, hotel companies are making it easier than ever to enjoy great luxury and convenience, while also minimizing negative effects on Mother Nature. (more…)

Springtime at Aulani: An animal lover’s paradise

Friday, March 16th, 2012

 

Swim with tangs, rainbow fish and butterfly fish in Aulani's Rainbow Reef. Credit: Paul Hiffmeyer/Disney Destinations.

By Jill E. Cooper

As spring break crowds head to traditional destinations in Florida and Mexico this year, travelers with a fondness for wildlife should head west  to Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa, the newest and arguably most magnificent resort designed by the magic-makers at Disney.  There, along the sun-kissed southwestern shoreline of Oahu, some of nature’s most awe-inspiring creatures have returned to celebrate spring. (more…)

Orbitz & MADD promote safe St. Patrick’s Day

Tuesday, March 13th, 2012

 

Orbitz will donate $1 for every download of the Hotels by Orbitz app for iPhone or iPad this St. Patty's weekend. Credit: Senor Codo.

By Jeanenne Tornatore

From green rivers to parades and festivals, this weekend revelers around the world will be celebrating all things Irish.  And what better reason to plan a last-minute trip than to partake in some St. Patrick’s Day events? Orbitz editors compiled some of their favorite cities for celebrating and highlight some of the annual festivities around the country.  Here’s what’s on deck: (more…)

5 alternative spring break ideas that won’t break the bank

Tuesday, March 13th, 2012

Batter up to a budget vacation: Hit the diamonds in Arizona and Florida for spring break 2012.

By Jeanenne Tornatore

Families itching for a different kind of getaway are in luck. Check out these five spring break getaway ideas that will suit any lifestyle — from sports enthusiasts to the spontaneous traveler, with an affordability factor that appeals to everyone. (more…)