Orbitz Blog

Articles for ‘Romance’ Category

Top 5 reasons to visit Viceroy Riviera Maya now

Monday, November 12th, 2012

The beach views from Viceroy Riviera Maya never look bad, even on a cloudy day

By Nina Kokotas Hahn

With fall settled in and the winter holidays around the corner, there’s no better time than now for couples to escape on a Mexico vacation. Not just any ordinary Mexico vacation—I’m talking about an all-out luxury vacation at the stunning new Viceroy Riviera Maya.

Forget all inclusive hotels, giant resorts, mediocre food and sub-par service—this 41-villa seaside refuge will knock your socks off in the most unexpected ways. Located just outside of Playa del Carmen on the Caribbean Sea’s Maya coast, Viceroy Riviera Maya delivers the beach, ocean and tropical breezes, and so much more—everything from a deep respect for Mayan culture and an abundance of friendly service to outrageous spa treatments and one of the most remarkable food and beverage programs I’ve experienced this year.

So what’s the big deal about going now? Let me explain. (more...)

9 tips for exploring the maze of Venice

Monday, July 9th, 2012

 

Through tiny canals, picturesque bridges and charming sidestreets, Venice brims with secrets.

By Erik Torkells

I’m just back from my first trip to Venice, and I learned some things you might find helpful. It’s a ridiculously beautiful city — at one point I realized I wasn’t taking pictures because I couldn’t decide what wasn’t photo-worthy — but it’s not the easiest place on earth. (more…)

Southern strolls: 2 cool neighborhoods in Charleston

Thursday, May 3rd, 2012

 

Stop and smell the java -- and jasmine -- at Hope and Union Coffee Co. in Charleston's Elliotborough neighborhood.

By Erik Torkells

In every city, I’m generally convinced there’s a neighborhood where enterprising creative types have opened interesting businesses — unfortunately, this conviction has led me on more than one wild goose chase. So on a recent trip to Charleston, S.C., I was thrilled to discover the neighborhoods of Elliotborough and Cannonborough. A nice long walk from the part of town most visitors hang out in, they can be a respite from the crowds that hang out on King Street and Market Street. (From what I can tell, they’re centered on Spring and Cannon streets, between Coming and Rutledge.) A few shops and restaurants definitely worth checking out….

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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…

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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.

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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…)