September 2016 – Sydney Aaliyah Michelle

Experience New Orleans

Published on September 27, 2016September 25, 2016 by Sydney Aaliyah Michelle2 Comments

I love New Orleans. It was my first high school Spring Break trip, my first college experience. It didn’t last long, but that’s another story. I visit New Orleans at least once per year and it never gets old. Whether you stay out near the airport or in the heart of party city, no two trips to New Orleans will ever be the same.

Airport Stay

Images provided by Mike from Mandeville via Trover.com.

New Orleans is an easy city to get to and once you land, you are inundated with the feel of the landscape. Near the airport, check in to the Hilton Garden Inn New Orleans Airport. It’s about 15 minutes from downtown. Lake Pontchartrain is in your backyard. If you like bridges, water, or Guinness Book of World Records stuff, take a drive on the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, the 23.83-mile road over the lake.

Real World

If New Orleans is fantasy land, Metairie is the real world. Located 8 minutes outside of New Orleans, the Sheraton Metairie – New Orleans Hotel is a beautiful modern property and a great base to experience all the region has to offer. When the weather is good, check out the hotel’s rooftop pool. It’s close to shopping and dining and if you are a gambler, the casino is not far away.

Conventions and Meetings

Every year, hundreds of companies converge onto New Orleans under the guise of a convention or annual sales meeting. To further legitimize the company-wide “meeting,” they stay at hotels such as the Hilton Garden Inn New Orleans Convention Center. It even has it in the name. The hotel is reasonably priced for its location. It’s close to the St. Charles Street Car Line, the Aquarium and the famous River Walk with its views of the Mississippi River.

The Party

Images provided by JP Thompson via Trover.com.

If you show no qualms about getting your party on, book a stay in the French Quarter. The Hyatt French Quarter on Iberville Avenue is a block off Bourbon Street and close to jazz clubs, lounges, and restaurants, including my favorite, the Quarter, Acme Oyster Bar. The unique location pulses with the energy of the French Quarter and offers easy access to downtown and the Garden District. The historic hotel offers a modern and elegant decor. The courtyard is a beautiful space to hold an elegant wedding or host a cool party.

The Heart

Image provided by Francis Petitclerc via Trover.com.

If southern Louisiana is a body, then the famous Bourbon Street is the heart. You haven’t partied unless you’ve partied on Bourbon Street. Bourbon Orleans Hotel is in the center of the action. The hotel looks and feels like New Orleans. If you’re lucky enough to visit New Orleans during Mardi Gras, make sure and get a room with a balcony. You can watch the craziness at a safe distance.

New Orleans remains one of my favorite places in the world. Each visit offers a new experience.

Have you been to New Orleans? What’s your favorite part of town?

Hipmunk Hotels: Find convenient accommodation in Rosemont, Troy, Kansas City, and More

Published on September 24, 2016September 23, 2016 by Sydney Aaliyah Michelle1 Comment

This post was originally published on Montenegro.comBlog – English on August 2, 2016.

Visit the City of Chicago and Stay in Rosemont, IL

Rosemont, Illinois has all the characteristics of a small community, but due to its excellent location, which means only five minutes from O’Hare Airport and twenty minutes from Chicago’s downtown, the place earned the reputation of a flourishing touristic and commercial place. Attractions in Rosemont such as the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, the Allstate Arena, Rosemont Theatre, the amusing district MB Financial Park, the new Fashion Outlets of Chicago, as well as extensive array of hotels and excellent restaurants accommodates 75,000 visitors on a daily basis. Hotels, like Chicago Marriott Suites O’Hare and Hilton Rosemont Chicago O’Hare, offer special deals on rooms starting from $79 per night. Why waste your time in traffic when you can be accommodated right next to major attractions like The Rosemont Theater, and for a competitive price?

Image via Flickr by Michel Curi

The Adventurous City of Troy, MI

Troy is known for a considerable number of summer camps and outdoor activities for all ages. Also, it is an attractive business district since many large companies like Bank of America, The Woodbridge Company, and SAE International have their central office here. Weekdays are the most requested period, and for obtaining a good price for hotel accommodation it is recommended to plan your trip ahead. The Courtyard by Marriott Detroit Troy and The Met Troy are always a good choice.

Image via Flickr by Dave Hogg

Outstanding Kansas City, MO

As the largest city in Missouri, Kansas City has plenty of available accommodations for every budget. The rich history of this town makes you want to explore all of the areas, from farmers’ markets to the Vine District, as well as the Spanish-styled architecture and upscale shops of the Country Club Plaza in the south. Best months for visiting Kansas City, due to outstanding deals, are from January to May or in October. We recommend places like the Capri Motel Kansas City northeast of downtown or America’s Best Value Inn and Suites Kansas City Downtown.

Image via Flickr by Brian Hillegas

Check Arrangements in Grand Forks, ND

Planning a trip to Grand Forks can be effortless if you know which hotel offers fantastic prices. Occasions for traveling in Grand Forks are various because this town is known for sports events, business, recreational activities, and concerts. In Econo Lodge Grand Forks and Red Roof Inn TownHouse – expect to find enjoyable rooms from only $43 per night. For a more upscale experience, check accomadtions at the Staybridge Suites. Hotels like Marriott Grand Forks and Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Gran give breezy arrangements from a starting price of only $79.

Image via Flickr by Victory & Reseda

The Fascinating Town of Columbus, OH

To experience the fascinating town of Columbus, in the best way possible and on a budget, choosing hotels in the center or close to fun attractions is a must. This city offers an abundance of suitable and modern accommodations at convenient locations. There are a variety of interesting things to apprise and explore here, starting from the famous Scioto Mile Fountain that was pronounced one of the world’s 15 most astonishing fountains. Also, another impressive thing to see is the Arch at McFerson Commons, which is a 100-foot red metal art sculpture. We also recommend visiting the historic German Village, or if you are a foodie, savor Katalina’s famous pancake balls or Harvest Pizzaria’s wood-fired pizzas. Hotels like The Courtyard by Marriott Easton-Columbus and The Blackwell offer proper balance of quality and price.

Image via Flickr by jpmueller99

Hipmunk Hotels: Spending Fall in Virginia Cities Like Richmond, Harrisonburg, and More

Published on September 23, 2016September 23, 2016 by Sydney Aaliyah MichelleLeave a comment

This post was originally publishing on The Girl and Globe by Becky on September 12, 2016

Fall in Virginia is the best time to visit. The state bursts with natural color, events, weather too good to be true. I’m lucky enough to take advantage of weekend getaways, but it’s worth the trip even if you fly in.

TRICK OR TREAT IN RICHMOND’S FAN

As a former resident of “The Fan” neighborhood in Richmond, I can attest that most area residents are college students or adults without children. You’d think that means Halloween trick or treating is a quiet event…and it is, for the most part. The exception is on Hanover Avenue and Strawberry Street where junior terrors and princesses are high on sugar. The haunted homes, fall harvest scenes, and other elaborate decorations are worth seeing. You’ll want hotels in Richmond in walking distance, like The Museum District Bed and Breakfast.

CHEER ON HARRISONBURG’S HOME TEAM

jmu football

Photo by Smackk via Wikimedia

Football in Virginia is a thing. Until I moved here, I wasn’t aware that college football is so popular. Everyone is loyal to the local schools! JMU — that’s James Madison University, if you don’t follow sports — is in Harrisonburg and definitely a Virginia favorite. If you’re attending a game, be sure to book Harrisonburg hotels in advance. Not only do they sell out, but deals disappear quickly.

SIP YOUR WAY THROUGH SEPTEMBER

Head north to Arlington County, a part of Virginia that visitors can’t tell if it’s a home for D.C.-commuters or Virginia locals (don’t worry, you’re correct either way). With comfortable temperatures in September, it’s the perfect time of year for outdoor movies at the Crystal Screen. Show up at sundown on Tuesday evenings for movies like Bottle Shock,Chocolat, and Sideways. I’ve stayed at a handful of Arlington hotels, and the Hilton Crystal City is my favorite that’s still walking distance to the event.

WASHINGTON D.C. AMENITIES OUTSIDE THE CAPITAL

Reston is this weird part of Virginia that I haven’t figured out yet, but it’s a great base for visiting Fairfax County. Hotels in Reston put you in spitting distance of the Frying Pan Farm Park, for fall carnival weekends and Sunday evening bluegrass. Head east to Wolf Trap National Park for live performances or west to the Smithsonian National Air & Space Udvar-Hazy Center. If you’re the type of traveler who normally heads straight from Dulles airport to Washington D.C., it’s time to take the scenic route.

COME TO ALEXANDRIA WEEKEND AFTER WEEKEND

mount vernon trail

Photo by Discol via Wikimedia

Old Town Alexandria is a treat to visit all year-long, but in fall, I can’t get enough. First there’s the King Street Art Festival (a shopping and decorating paradise for a new homeowner like me!). After that is Mount Vernon’s Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour and a chance to snoop around George Washington’s former home. By the time those weekends are over, you’ll be back for leaf peeping and bike riding the Mount Vernon Trail and ghost tours in Old Town Alexandria. Sounds like a good excuse to be a regular at hotels in Alexandria!

I always think Virginia’s worth a visit, but without a doubt, autumn is a great time to come.

Budget Trip to New Jersey

Published on September 15, 2016 by Sydney Aaliyah MichelleLeave a comment

I hope I don’t insult anyone, but let’s face it, ever since The Sopranos and Boardwalk Empire, New Jersey has gotten a bad wrap. It’s not all mobsters and seedy casinos. I found a few cool spots to stay and iconic sites to see all on a budget. Historic or modern, nature or city, boardwalk or beach, New Jersey has it all.

Image provided by Andy Sawieljew via Trover.com.

Historical Jersey

Step into history and book a stay at the Congress Hall in Cape May, New Jersey. I’ve traveled in Europe and in Asia and never stayed in a 200-year-old hotel. Built in 1816, the Congress Hall Hotel has recently been restored, but stepping through the doors takes you back in time. With comfortable, spacious rooms and all the amenities of any modern hotel, Congress Hall combines the best of the present. Take paddle board lessons as the beach is just steps away or stroll down to the historical society and learn about the origin of America.

Natural New Jersey

Don’t let the fancy name fool you. The Wilshire Grand Hotel is a beautiful but approachable hotel near the famed Verona Park. The hotel is locally owned and a sense of pride for West Orange, New Jersey. It’s a pet-friendly hotel, so bring your dog to explore the walking or jogging trails in the nearby park. If you like water, canoe and kayak in Verona Lake. The park offers educational walks for adult and kids, so it’s a great sport for families. When the weather is good, the park offers outdoor concerts and programs in the gazebo.

Budget New Jersey

Image provided by Jackie Grenier via Trover.com.
Located minutes away from the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk sits the quaint Royal Lodge. Since your going to lose all your money in the casino anyway, the hotel offers rooms of varying sizes all at a low rate. Choose the number of beds you need, and each comes equipped with a refrigerator and microwave. With just 25 rooms to concentrate on, the staff goes out of their way to make sure the guests enjoy their stay. The rooms are clean, and the hotel is quiet. It’s near to the beach, and the excitement of Atlantic City makes this a great hotel option for the budget minded traveler.

Nightlife New Jersey

Image provided by Joe Vickiana via Trover.com.
You can’t beat the Atlantic City/Absecon area for options for a budget conscious traveler. The Superlodge Atlantic City/Absecon is a small, clean and convenient place for your stay. What makes this hotel different is the staff’s knowledge of Jersey nightlife and evening attractions. They brag on the website how they create the perfect vacation stay for any traveler. They know the best places to eat and the best places to dance, lounge or just people watch.
It may be New York’s ugly cousin, but it has some amazing places to play and to stay. Sometimes Jersey gets a bad wrap, but to me, it’s just another cool city to explore on the east coast. What do you think of New Jersey?

Unique Destination in California

Published on September 14, 2016September 12, 2016 by Sydney Aaliyah MichelleLeave a comment

California is an anomaly, expensive and a little pretentious, but the amazing weather, the unique destinations, and the cultural attractions make for a pleasant place to visit.

The Gold Rush

Image provided by Rick Barlupi via Trover.com.

Casinos have come a long way, and the Gold Country Casino & Hotel has the right mix of old and new. The hotel offers spacious rooms with soaking tubs, a comfortable size for long-term stays. The Casino includes four on-site restaurants, gaming, and meeting rooms. Don’t spend all your time in the hotel. Get out and explore Oroville. The Chinese Temple, built in 1863, is a museum and worship center that celebrates the 10,000 Chinese immigrants that came to Oroville in search of gold. Let’s hope I’m half as lucky in hitting the jackpot.

Beautiful Desert

Image provided by Paige Spee vial Trover.com.

South of Los Angeles, in the middle of the desert, is the wealthy retreat of Palm Springs. Luxury Hotels with high-price rooms pepper the landscape. If like me you’re on a budget, check out the Caliente Tropics Hotel. Besides having a cool name, it boasts a fresh, rustic, beachy, vacation vibe. Enjoy a tropical drink in your own private cabana. Cool down in the resort pools and make time to explore the city center of Palm Springs, a short stroll from the hotel.

Luxury Desert

If you have a little more in the bank, check into the Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs. The Hard Rock is a mini version of a Las Vegas casino, with all the same amenities. Their signature restaurant, Simon Kitchen + Bar, focuses on local cuisine. Book some time at the renowned Rock Spa, which combines the music theme with desert rich treatments. The casino is a venue for local and international musical acts throughout the year. Hard Rock is minutes away from the Aerial Tram that offers sky-high views of beautiful Palm Springs.

Relaxing Oasis

On my bucket list is the Coachella music festival, now a stay at this hip hotel brings my dream even closer. A few nights at the V Palm Springs is the perfect pre- or post-festival retreat. A comfortable, yet modern hotel it features calming desert inspired decor and sleek dark wood accents. The sophisticated vibe isn’t fussy or pretentious. With two outdoor pools and the Elixir Restaurant, where non-hotel guests are seeking reservations, the V is a destination.

Beach Retreat

Image provided by Adventure Never Ends via Trover.com.

You can’t go to California and not spend time at the beach. A little out of the way on the 101, sits Pismo Beach. In the middle of Dinosaur Caves Park is Pismo Lighthouse Suites. This hotel is an experience. With its nautical theme and location, you get caught up in the beauty and tranquility of the water. It’s an all-suite hotel, perfect for large families and extended stays. Within walking distance is the Price Historic Park, the perfect place to absorb Pismo history. Most rooms offer a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean, and the white sand beach is only a few steps away.

What’s on your California trip list?

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