travel – Page 2 – Sydney Aaliyah Michelle

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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Hipmunk Hotels: Offbeat Attractions in Flagstaff, Page, Yuma, and more

Published on September 13, 2016September 11, 2016 by Sydney Aaliyah MichelleLeave a comment

This post was originally published on Tripper by Sandra Henriques on June 29, 2016.

By means of a strange acculturation process while growing up, I’m more connected to the American culture than I am to the Portuguese. As a result, the United States is high on my list of countries to visit (and the list of offbeat attractions grows with it). I’m still in the romancing phase, but I’m already liking my odds in Arizona and in Pasadena. I have my eye on several attractions in these areas and more, and I’m interested in the best hotels in each area.

1. Experience Space, the Final Frontier in Flagstaff (Arizona)

I love a good alien story, especially if it mixes an “X-Files” vibe with some futuristic storytelling like H.G. Wells’ “War of the Worlds”. However, you can visit some “other-worldly” attractions without leaving this planet. The Lowell Observatory and the Cinder Lake Crater Field are two offbeat must-sees in Flagstaff. I wonder if I can find an alien-themed hotel in Flagstaff? Or at least one with a mysterious alien story behind it.

Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff Arizona

Photo by James Jones via Flickr.

2. The Most Famous Canyon in Page (Arizona)

The Antelope Canyon is hardly a secret and it’s very high on my list of beautiful sights. The most photographed rock formation in the American Southwest is one guided tour away when you visit Page. To continue exploring the scenery beyond the Canyon, check with your hotel in Page for tour recommendations.

Antelope Canyon in Page Arizona

Photo by Todd Petrie via Flickr.

3. A Bridge (Not) Over Troubled Waters in Yuma (Arizona)

Do you know the Talking Heads’ song “Road to Nowhere”? Well, in Yuma, things go a little further with a “bridge to nowhere”. No, it’s not a metaphor. The Gila River was diverted in 1968, and today the McPhaul bridge crosses (oddly) over sand and rocks. I have a series of postapocalyptic-themed photos for that bridge in mind, meaning the visit could be emotionally draining. Finding a hotel in Yuma for some well-deserved R&R would do the trick.

4. London Bridge in Lake Havasu City (Arizona)

Did London Bridge really fall down like in the nursery rhyme? Technically, it was sinking due to structural problems, and in the late 1960’s, the City sold the bridge to the highest bidder — a local entrepreneur in Lake Havasu City. Booking a romantic stay at a Lake Havasu City hotel and a stroll on the bridge shipped overseas, block by block, sounds like a great story to tell.

London Bridge in Lake Havasu City

Photo by Ken Lund via Flickr.

5. Doc’s House and Strange Sodas in Pasadena (California)

Hoverboards are not a real thing (yet) but Dr. Emmet Brown’s house is. Fans of “Back to the Future” wouldn’t the Gamble House be an offbeat must-see? This could (probably) only be topped by a Buffalo Wing soda. I’m not entirely sure I would handle the sugar rush at the Rocket Fizz, the place where these strange soda flavors come from. Tasting wouldn’t be a problem; narrowing down the weirdest ones to taste would. How do you top this off? Perhaps with a stay at a Hollywoodesque hotel in Pasadena, where you can pretend to be a star with a quirky taste for strange sodas.

The Gamble House in Pasadena California

Photo by Ken Lund via Flickr.

Hipmunk Hotels: Affordable luxury hotels in West Hollywood, Pismo Beach and Dana Point

Published on September 11, 2016 by Sydney Aaliyah MichelleLeave a comment

This post was originally published on Savored Journeys by Laura Lynch.

If you’re seen popular towns like West Hollywood and Pismo Beach on television shows, you already know how swanky and luxurious these areas are. As a traveler, you have many options for affordable luxury hotels in the midst of some of the best shopping, dining, nightlife and beaches the west has to offer. You can’t go wrong with a stay at any of these affordable luxury hotels right in the heart of the action.

West Hollywood, California

Hollywood, California (Photo: CC0 Public Domain/Pixabay)

Consider staying in West Hollywood for affordable luxury. It’s right in the heart of Los Angeles, with swanky bars, restaurants, and nightlife, right outside your door. This area is home to high-end shopping outlets and celebrity restaurants. You might even spot a celebrity, if you’re lucky. The Andaz West Hollywood Hotel is in the center of the action on Sunset Strip. It has a rooftop pool and is within walking distance of some of the hottest nightclubs on the strip.

Pismo Beach, California

Pismo Beach (Photo: Laura Lynch/SavoredJourneys)

As far as beach locations go, you can’t do any better than the small, quaint town of Pismo Beach, located just a few minutes from the college town of San Luis Obispo. The pristine beach stretches for miles, which is perfect for a long stroll in the sand or a day of relaxing in the sun. You’ll also find incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic sunsets, and dozens of wine tasting rooms nearby. There are many beachfront hotels to choose from, and most come with incredible views.

Dana Point, California

Dana Point, California (Photo: CC0 Public Domain/Pixabay)

Another great beachfront town is Dana Point, in southern California. Dana Point is a surfer and paddleboarder’s paradise, with over seven miles of coastline to enjoy and great weather year round. If you’re not out participating in water sports, hiking, or admiring the views, you can relax at one of Dana Point’s extraordinary hotels, like the St. Regis Monarch Beach or the Laguna Cliffs Marriott, both of which have a high standard of luxury.

Fullerton, California

Disneyland, California (Photo: CC0 Public Domain/Pixabay)

When visiting Disneyland or one of Northern Orange County’s other amusement parks, Fullerton offers affordable luxury accommodations in a quiet and charming historic town. Three of the Disney hotels are in Fullerton – Disneyland Hotel, Disney’s Paradise Pier, and Disney’s Grand California Hotel and Spa. All of these luxury options have a pool and give early access to the park.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe, New Mexico (Photo: CC0 Public Domain/Pixabay)

While California is a great location for affordable luxury stays, don’t underestimate other trendy places in the West, like Santa Fe. With a rich Native American history and evidence of early Spanish settlers still visible in the architecture, Santa Fe has a distinct appeal. There is a vibrant art and music scene, as well. Stay at the Hacienda & Spa at Hotel Santa Fe or La Fonda on the Plaza for an affordable luxury stay with many great amenities and a truly local feel.

A New Life Wandering: Places to Stay in North Carolina — Durham, Charlotte, Wilmington, Asheville and Chapel Hill

Published on May 22, 2016May 22, 2016 by Sydney Aaliyah Michelle4 Comments

Durham Duke Gardens — Image via Flickr by Yumian Deng

North Carolina has a diverse landscape ranging from beaches, mountains, and cool cities in between with lots of history. If you haven’t gotten to know this state yet, you will not regret a visit. If you don’t know where to start, the cities of Durham, Charlotte, Wilmington, Asheville, and Chapel Hill all have plenty of things to do. Each have their own charming personality.

Below, you can learn a little bit about these three cities and find ideas of where to stay if you decide to visit.

Durham

This is where I spent most of my three years in North Carolina. Home to the prestigious Duke University, Durham has a lively energy to it. One of the best things about Durham is the food scene; it was crowned the The South’s Tastiest Town by Southern Living, and I can vouch for that title.

A great hotel to book here would be the The King’s Daughters Inn, which offers the best combination of an elegant and luxurious hotel with a bed & breakfast style. It is centrally located near most of Durham’s best places including the Duke Gardens. For more hotel options you can browse cheap hotels in Durham.

Durham NC — Image via Flickr by Mr. Jincks

Charlotte

Charlotte is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States and offers countless activities, including browsing the NASCAR Hall of Fame, learning about post–Civil War history at the Levine Museum, and interacting with science at the Discovery Place. You can browse the city’s hotel guide to find a place to stay, or look no further than The Dunhill Hotel — a historic, vintage hotel that will make you feel like you walked into an old photograph.

Wilmington

I fell in love with Wilmington just minutes after strolling around downtown. The town has a strong history, and it shows along the mile-long downtown Riverwalk and along the waterfront. If you like movies, Wilmington houses the largest American television and film production facility outside of California.

If you want a full-on historic experience, you can stay at the 1913 revival style home Airbnb in the heart of the historic district and within walking distance to many shops, dining, and nightlife. If you would like to stay at a more conventional hotel, you can check out more hotels in Wilmington.

Wilmington NC — Image via Flickr by James Willamor

Asheville

If you prefer a place closer to the mountains with a vibrant arts scene, a laid-back attitude, and historic architecture, then look no further than Asheville. Downtown, you can enjoy the many art galleries, museums, places to eat, and a historical aesthetic like the former factory buildings now being used as residences and art studios. To find a place to stay, used this easy-to-navigate Asheville hotel guide.

Chapel Hill

Last but not least, Chapel Hill owns up to its spirited atmosphere thanks to the local and beloved University of North Carolina. Places to explore here include the following: the Science Center, the Basketball Museum, the North Carolina Botanical Garden, the local favorite and must-visit Top of the Hill restaurant and brewery, and the historical Carolina Inn. You can make it easier to visit this gem by choosing to book your room there! Or, find a different place with the Chapel Hill Hotel Guide.

Whether you pick the foodie and smart town of Durham, the fast growing city of Charlotte, the charming coastal town of Wilmington, the artsy mountain town of Asheville, or the laid-back college town of Chapel Hill, there is no wrong choice.

Hipmunk Hotels: Historical sites in Lake Placid, Revere, Plymouth, Newport, and Hartford

Published on May 14, 2016May 13, 2016 by Sydney Aaliyah MichelleLeave a comment

My father is a history buff and a former history teacher. We both love historical novels and movies. A historically themed trip isn’t far-fetched in our family, and you can’t get more historical than a trip to the Northeast.

Lake Placid, New York

What’s the only US city to host two Olympics? Lake Placid, New York. It hosted the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. The small village has a lot of cool activities no matter what time of the year you visit. You can sail, swim, and fish in the summer time, or ice skate, play hockey, ski, and sled in the winter. You can’t stay in the Olympic Village; they have turned it into a museum. But luckily, there are plenty of hotels in the area to make a stay at Lake Placid a pleasure.

Revere, Massachusetts

A visit to Revere, Massachusetts fits the bill for the dual vacation spot. With Boston so close, you get the best of city and sea in a five miles radius. This small city is located on the Atlantic Ocean. Named after Paul Revere, the city captures the historical significance of the area with museums and historical architecture in the store fronts and the hotels. I have it on my list to stop at Revere Beach, the oldest in the United States.

Image provided by Annie Yao via Trover.com

Plymouth, Massachusetts

Founded in 1620, Plymouth was the first stop on the “discover the new world” tour. You can’t get any more historical in the U.S. This is where it all begin. The Mayflower II, a full-scale reproduction of the original ship, has been restored and turned into a museum. Spend a few days in Plymouth and make sure you see all the other “first” sites, such as Plymouth Rock and the site of the first Thanksgiving. Hotels like the Mirbeau Inn & Spa will make your stay in Plymouth a treat.

Image provided by Brianna Thome via Trover.com

Newport, Rhode Island

Rhode Island is a typical vacation resort. It has historical significance due to its location. Incorporated in 1639, it lagged behind Plymouth by 19 years. Most of the historical buildings, restaurants and hotels in Newport have been restored and look like they did back in the 1700s. Another of its beautiful historical sites, The Breakers Mansion, is on my list. This stunning estate looks like Downton Abbey. Built in 1893, the mansion was originally commissioned and owned by Anderson Cooper’s ancestors, the Vanderbilts.

Hartford, Connecticut

While discovered in 1637, Hartford Connecticut wasn’t incorporated until the late 1700s. The literary significance of Hartford starts and stops with the awesome Mark Twain. You can visit the home where he wrote his greatest work. Mark Twain House is cool, but the Old State House is even more amazing. It is a great example of Eastlake architecture, an architectural style inspired by Victorian England. You can soak in the best of new and old at a Hartford hotel like the Oakwood At Hartford 21.

Image provided by Stephanie Sutton via Trover.com

What historical sites in the United States have you visited?