Orbitz Blog

Articles for ‘Romance’ Category

Edens for 2: Where to spend Valentine’s Day weekend

Monday, February 6th, 2012

Tucked in Nantucket: Hole up with your sweetheart in the classic Americana inn The Wauwinet.

By Erik Torkells

Valentine’s Day is approaching, which means hotels are announcing themed packages. These packages are increasingly about sexiness more than romance, however, with extras like complimentary copies of the Kama Sutra and what used to be called “marital aids.” (Not that there’s anything wrong with that.) But you don’t have to be Carrie Bradshaw to know that sex and romance are hardly the same thing, and Valentine’s Day is about romance. We’re not talking about heart-shaped candy boxes and flowers, but the feeling that tends to happen early in a relationship, when it’s as if you’re the only two people in the world. How do you re-create that? (more…)

Yacht rides & fireworks: A Disney vacation for Valentines

Friday, February 3rd, 2012

Skip the chocolates -- sprinkle spontaneity into your Valentine's Day celebration with a Disney vacation.

By Jill E. Cooper

Ah, love.  Some say “it makes the world go round,” while others insist that it is “what makes the ride worthwhile.”  In either case, Valentine’s Day gives us the chance to celebrate those who bring love into our lives.  If you and your loved one are fortunate enough to spend Valentine’s Day this year at Walt Disney World, you’ll find a full range of ways to make your day extra sweet. (more…)

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…)

I do! (Or, do I?): Getting hitched in Las Vegas

Thursday, January 5th, 2012

Couples say their vows, and their prayers, before riding the Big Shot at the Stratosphere Hotel. Credit: Cashman Photo.

By Amy Drew Thompson

It’s 2012, young lovers, and Valentine’s Day is around the corner. Thinking about popping the question? Not only are scads of  Las Vegas hotels primed to host your dream wedding – whether that means formal elegance or ushers dressed like Stormtroopers – The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will even let you “try” marriage risk-free. But more on that later…

(more…)

The Royal treatment: Prince Harry’s Las Vegas

Wednesday, December 21st, 2011

Cover at XS is $30 for gentlemen and $20 for ladies, but tables like this command a princely sum. Credit: Barbara Kraft.

By Amy Drew Thompson

Sure, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas …unless you’re a member of the British Royal Family, in which case the world is sure to find out. Take Prince Harry’s recent break from military training in Arizona. After a relaxing desert cruise on a rented Harley-Davidson, the future king’s brother cut loose in style, giving us a stellar model on how to vacation like royalty in some fabulous Las Vegas hotels.

(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…)

Scene stealers: Best places to soak in a Hawaiian sunset

Monday, October 10th, 2011

Surf's up, but sun's down: Another beautiful sunset in Hawaii. Credit: Christian Hollingsworth.

By Blane Bachelor

A beautiful thing happens late every afternoon in Hawaii: Everybody, from locals to tourists to even the island dogs, takes a few minutes from their surfing, shopping or scurrying about to take in the sunset. It’s an enchanting experience and a must-do for any visit to this island paradise.

While you don’t need to stress yourself out over your sunset-watching strategy –you’re here to unwind, after all! — here are a few tips to keep in mind to maximize your experience. You  can say “mahalo” by sharing your pixel-perfect sunset photos. (more…)

Stealing beauty: $50 treatments during Spa Week

Monday, September 26th, 2011

Melt with a hot stone massage at The Peninsula Spa by ESPA in Chicago during Spa Week (Oct. 10 to 16).

By Valerie Moloney

To-dos: Schedule 6-month dental cleanings for both my girls. Order two years’ worth of photos. Buy birthday present for 5-year-old’s classmate. Get hair did and dyed. Sleep, if possible, for eight straight hours. Schedule a facial or massage during Spa Week, to be held Oct. 10-16. (more…)

3 prime Bangkok hotels for under $100 a night

Thursday, September 15th, 2011

By Vince Font

Rooftop pools. Moody, club-like lighting. Courtyards with private villas. Definitely not the level of amenities to expect at a budget American hotel, but such luxury is standard at some Bangkok hotels for a modest $100 per night. Here are three beautiful, high-quality Bangkok hotels with wow features that you’ll never get used to paying so little for.

For under $100 a night, the posh Dream Hotel Bangkok is no dream.

Dream Hotel Bangkok
Imagine trying to land a five-star boutique hotel a mere stroll away from the nightlife district in any American city for under $100 a night. Not only would you have a tough time, you’d come back empty handed. But believe it or not, this isn’t anything that’s too far out of the ordinary in Bangkok. You’ll even find places that have a dash of eccentricity thrown in, like the Dream Hotel. Its exterior neon façade is just a hint of what you’ll find inside. I’ve heard some people describe this place as “oddly decorated” but if you ask me, there’s nothing odd about eternally retro, inimitably funky design. Think a cool room with plasma TV and free Wi-Fi is all you get for around $60 per night? Think again. This place even has a rooftop pool. If that’s not enough to tickle your fancy, you can try the on-site spa or restaurant. If you’re into saving money, this is one place that’s appropriately named. (more…)

Orbitz 50 Faves: 50 vacations, 50 lucky winners

Monday, August 22nd, 2011

Play Orbitz 50 Faves on Facebook for the chance to win one of 50 luxury vacations worth up to $15,000.

By Valerie Moloney

It’s time to play for a stay.

Today through Sept. 18, play Orbitz 50 Faves on Facebook for a chance to win one of 50 drool-worthy vacations to luxury resorts around the world worth up to $15,000. Like Orbitz on Facebook to enter the game, and invite your friends to play. The more friends you invite, the sweeter your chances. (more…)