Orbitz Blog

Articles for ‘Family Travel’ Category

Biz-friendly historic hotels in Charleston and Savannah

Wednesday, January 25th, 2012

History in the making: Circa 1886 restaurant, at the Wentworth Mansion in Charleston.

By Mark Chesnut

The cities of Charleston, South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia are tourism magnets, thanks to their Southern hospitality and beautifully maintained historic attractions. But they can also be great places to hold a business meeting, as many of their most attractive landmarks are also available for private events. And that includes hotels in both cities, where Southern charm and stunning settings combine to create unique venues for a variety of gatherings. (more…)

Cruise control: 3 incredible cruise shore excursions

Thursday, January 19th, 2012

The haunting skies above the Misty Fjords make a perfect day trip. Credit: controltheweb.

By Rich Mahoney

One of the best perks of cruising is the view as you sail into incredible destinations like Alaska, Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico and Bermuda. While the stunning scenery is great from the boat, shore excursions allow you to experience those unique and stunning locations first hand. From thrilling adventures like off-roading and zip-lining to wildlife tours and snorkeling, shore excursions help build the lasting memories and stories to pair with those million-dollar views. (more…)

On deck: winter cruises with Mickey and friends

Monday, January 16th, 2012

Deck party: Fight the winter doldrums with the fam aboard the Disney Dream. Credit: Matt Stroshane.

By Deborah Bowen

Many people, especially at this chilly time of the year, crave the warm sun and golden sands of the world’s welcoming beaches. I appreciate these natural wonders, but as a Florida native and current resident, I sometimes like to appreciate them while wearing a sweater. (more…)

Residence Inn grows, eyeing business and family travel

Friday, December 30th, 2011

By Mark Chesnut

This year has been a big one for Residence Inn by Marriott. The extended-stay hotel chain debuted its very first European property while announcing its expansion into South America — all while strengthening its position as a favored brand for both business travelers and families.

The Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Pompano Beach offers amenities for business travelers and families.

The Residence Inn made its entrance into Europe with the opening in October of the Residence Inn by Marriott Munich City East in Munich, Germany, within walking distance of the city’s Ostbahnhof train station. The 125-room property has one meeting room for eight people. In addition, Marriott plans to introduce the chain in South America in 2012 with the opening of its first property in Guayaquil, Ecuador. (more…)

Spring Break 2012: 5 under-the-radar destinations

Friday, December 30th, 2011

Paradise in Punta Cana: The Dominican Republic is an affordable spring break destination. Credit: Blane Bachelor.

By Blane Bachelor

With the holidays over and winter in full force, it’s not too early to start thinking about spring break ideas for 2012. But this year, how about considering a destination a little more original than Padre Island or Cancun? Here, five places that are under the radar in terms of crowds, but over the top in their value and fun factor. (more…)

Caterpillar years: Fun for teens at Walt Disney World

Wednesday, December 28th, 2011

Is your tween or teen past the princess phase? Treat her to high tea at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort.

By Jill E. Cooper

I think it’s safe to say that every parent of a newborn has received the sage advice from a more seasoned parent –  enjoy each minute with your son or daughter because the years that child will spend under your roof will pass all too quickly.  “Remember,” they’ll say, “just like a butterfly, she too will spread her wings and fly some day. Enjoy her caterpillar years.”  If you have a high school senior in your household, I don’t need to tell you how eerily accurate those words can be. (more…)

Atlanta escape: An artful getaway to the South

Friday, December 16th, 2011

Art on high: Visit Atlanta's High Museum to view famous pieces on loan from the Museum of Modern Art. Credit: Sapoague.

By Erin Behan

With the High Museum of Art’s “Picasso to Warhol” exhibit showcasing more than 100 world-famous works of art through April 29, 2012, it’s time to make a modernist-inspired weekend trip to Atlanta. (more…)

Majesty in the mountains: Clyfford Still Museum opens

Tuesday, December 13th, 2011

View of inaugural exhibition. Credit: Photo by Raul J. Garcia, image courtesy Clyfford Still Museum.

By Erin Behan

Denver, city of the arts. If that phrase doesn’t ring true, you haven’t seen the new Clyfford Still Museum, which opened on Nov. 18 in Denver’s growing Cultural Arts District. (more…)

Bike the Big Easy: Exploring New Orleans on two wheels

Monday, December 12th, 2011

Two-wheeled tourists are increasingly common in New Orleans. Credit: HolyWhiteShirt.

By  Blane Bachelor

As it rebuilds, New Orleans has quadrupled its miles of bikeways, and more and more people have taken to pedaling. The League of American Bicyclists has taken note, awarding the city a Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community Award for the first time ever. For your next New Orleans vacation, here’s how to explore the Big Easy on two wheels. (more…)

Bright lights, Windy City: Holiday retail highs in Chicago

Friday, December 9th, 2011

Power hours: Combine Chicago's world-class shopping with a holiday getaway on the Mag Mile.

By Angie Fratto

While the cold in Chicago may send us locals hibernating until spring, it’s a great time to take in the city and its surrounding neighborhoods.  With world-class shopping in both the city and ‘burbs, thie Windy City is poised as a retail mecca for everyone on the holiday list without busting the budget. (more…)