Travel – Page 11 – Footloose Forever

Flagstaff’s Boutique Stays – Promise for an Extraordinary Vacation in Arizona

January 11, 2016January 11, 2016Posted in World City ToursTagged Arizona, boutique hotels, Boutique hotels in the US, Flagstaff, Flagstaff boutique hotels, Flagstaff hotels, Grand Canyon, Painted Desert4 Comments

painted desert, arizona, flagstaff hotels, flagstaff

Flagstaff, a small, peaceful city in northern Arizona, has no dearth of hotels and accommodation for all budgets. The city experiences an influx of tourists almost year-round as it serves as the gateway to the famous Grand Canyon and Painted Desert. If you wish for a memorable vacation in Arizona, below are some of Flagstaff’s top boutique stays to consider while you shortlist hotels before booking.

Image via Flickr by Kool Cats Photography over 6 Million Views

Canyon Inn Flagstaff Arizona

Canyon Inn Flagstaff is a budget-friendly hotel conveniently located near North Arizona University. It ensures quick access to some of Arizona’s top tourist attractions and recreation centers such as Sunset Crater, Grand Canyon, Painted Desert, Petrified Forest National Park, and Snowbowl Ski Resort. Hotel amenities like car parking, wireless internet, local and long distance calls, and continental breakfast are offered free of charge at Canyon Inn Flagstaff Arizona. The hotel’s air-conditioned rooms feature queen beds, cable TV, rollaway beds and baby cribs. You can also have microwave, refrigerator, and iron with ironing board on request.

Highland Country Inn

Highland Country Inn is another value for money hotel offering comfortable, modern accommodation in Flagstaff. Complimentary amenities including breakfast, car parking, Wi-Fi internet access, and local calls will help you save money on vacation. The hotel’s standard rooms come with one king bed, cable television, direct dial phone, and laundry service. Its convenient position ensures easy access to popular local eateries, museums, historic landmarks, and tourist attractions. Moreover, Highland Country Inn is a pet-friendly hotel charging a little extra per night for your furry friends.

Wyndham Flagstaff

Wyndham Flagstaff Resort is a perfect place for an idyllic vacation. Spacious and nicely furnished guest rooms have large beds, separate sitting area, wireless internet, bathroom with bathtub, washer-cum-dryer, private balcony, and a well-equipped kitchen. In addition, an array of upscale amenities including outdoor Jacuzzi, fitness center, and fine dining restaurant are on site to make sure you experience the best of leisure time in this sprawling resort in the lap of the mountain. Kids can have fun at the resort’s mini golf course and children’s pool.

Little America Flagstaff

Set in the middle of Arizona’s famous Ponderosa Pine forest, Little America Flagstaff promises a peaceful, relaxing escape in the lap of nature. The hotel houses upscale accommodations, restaurants, heated outdoor pool, and a fitness club. Services include travel desk, concierge, garage service, and room service. Pastel shades, carpet flooring, and deluxe furnishings creates a relaxing ambience in the air-conditioned guest rooms while soft beds, a mini refrigerator, a coffee maker, and an LED television with satellite channels are there to make sure you enjoy all the comfort of home.

Hotel Aspen InnSuites Flagstaff/Grand Canyon

While Flagstaff’s historic downtown is a couple of miles from Hotel Aspen InnSuites Flagstaff/Grand Canyon, top tourist attractions such as Grand Canyon, Sunset Crater, and Oak Creek Canyon are a short drive from the hotel. The hotel’s swanky suites and studio rooms are equipped with plush queen beds with pillow-top mattresses, cable TV, Wi-Fi internet access, fridge, microwave, and coffee maker. Start your day with free buffet breakfast and enjoy walk along the scenic Urban Trail System near the hotel.

Mehrangarh Fort and Umaid Bhawan Palace – the brightest gems of Imperial Jodhpur

December 29, 2015January 30, 2016Posted in RajasthanTagged architecture, Jodhpur, Mehrangarh Fort, Rajasthan, Takat Singh, Umaid Bhawan Palace27 Comments

Jodhpur, Mehrangarh fort, blue city, Rajasthan

Jodhpur was the last stop in our journey through Rajasthan as per our itinerary – Jaipur – Pushkar (via Ajmer Sharif Dargah) – Udaipur (via Chittorgarh) – Mount Abu (via Haldighati) – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur.

We had only one and a half day to explore the place that has so much to offer to its visitors. Therefore, we targeted two must-see attractions of Jodhpur – Mehrangarh Fort and Umaid Bhavan Palace. Jodhpur is, perhaps, the best place to witness the royal heritage of Rajputana. While the palaces in Mehrangarh Fort and its in-house museum tell you about the grandeur and glory of the royal Rajputana in the middle ages, Umaid Bhavan Palace presents the kingly aura and a tradition of luxury living that Jodhpur still carries on in modern times.

Mehrangarh Fort

Our first stop was Mehrangarh Fort. Nestled on a hilltop outside the town the fort overlooks the “blue city” Jodhpur and the rugged landscape of rural Rajasthan. The fort bears the mark of architectural elegance of medieval India. Its palaces, windows, pillars, corridors, and halls, everything has a story to tell.

I listened to the little facts and anecdotes about the royal Rajput lifestyle and culture that our guide shared with us while exploring the fort and its heritage museum.

The museum exhibits the weapons, armours and accessories used in battle at that time. Fine robes, jewellery, decorative items, and golden palanquins used in carrying kings and queens, are also on display in the museum. I came to know that straight swords belonged to the Hindu Rajput warriors while Muslim fighters used curved swords in battle.

While we were passing by Maharaja Takat Singh’s mahal, a colourful chamber decorated with stained glass and golden embellishments on pillars and walls, our guide told us an interesting story about the king and his private life, which I would like to share here.

The king, Takat Singh had thirty wives living with him in the palace. He used to meet four of his queens at a time at the chamber. The queens played ‘pasha’ and the one who beat others in the game would get the chance to spend time with the king the next day. I was really amazed by the story – how clever this man was to manage thirty wives in one life! 😉 😀

On the contrary, the life of queens and princesses in the palace where sunshine barely entered, were not so colourful. I heard that the daily activities and entertainment of women in royal families were mostly restricted within the palace and areas meant for them.

Umaid Bhawan Palace

Our next destination was Umaid Bhawan Palace. The palace, built in 1943 and currently the “world’s largest private residence,” is a wonderful instance of neoclassical architecture with excellent blending of eastern and western styles.

Image Source

The iconic architecture, named after Maharaja Umaid Singh, is partially open for visitors. Compared to Mehrangarh Fort palace and other old palaces in Rajasthan, Umaid Bhawan Palace is more spacious, airy and glamorous with contemporary luxury decor.

A small portion of the palace houses a museum where the entire family line of Maharaja Umaid Singh is depicted with portraits of the royal family members. It also displays an exclusive collection of precious artefacts, crockery, porcelain vases, and expensive clocks owned by the royal family. The vivid frescos depict the events of royal coronations.

Check out my post – The Colours of Rajasthan for more on Rajasthan travel.

Colorado’s Top Independent Hotels for Unforgettable Winter Vacations

December 12, 2015December 12, 2015Posted in World City ToursTagged aspen hotels, boutique hotels, Boutique hotels in the US, Colorado hotels, colorado winter vacation, denver hotels, hotels in colorado, rocky mountains, USA Hotels and Destinations5 Comments

colorado, colorado hotels, hotels in colorado, usa

Image via Flickr by Jasen Miller

Dense forest, frozen lakes, and the snowy slopes of the Rocky Mountains — what can be a better place than Colorado for an adventure-filled vacation this winter? Check out Colorado’s top independent hotels that promise the most memorable winter escapes.

Red Lion Inn & Suites Denver Airport

A short drive from the Denver International Airport, Red Lion Inn & Suites in Aurora awaits travelers with nicely appointed guest rooms featuring contemporary decor and modern furnishings. Plush king bed, comfortable bedding, separate living and kitchen areas, en suite bathroom with premium bath amenities, and excellent in-room amenities make this Colorado hotel ideal for a leisure vacation with the family. Rooms are also equipped with an LCD TV, fridge, microwave oven, coffee maker, and iron with ironing board, so everything is there to ensure your comfort. Complimentary amenities include breakfast, Wi-Fi internet, and an airport shuttle service.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch

Tucked away in the scenic village of Beaver Creek and overlooking the Rocky Mountains, The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch offers a perfect setting for a romantic escape for city dwellers. The snow-covered mountain trails in the resort beckon travelers for adventure and outdoor activities such as skiing and mountain biking. Other recreational amenities include an award-winning golf course, fine dining restaurant, luxury spa, fitness center, and heated outdoor pool. The resort’s spacious guest rooms and suites come with king beds and designer linens, a fireplace, and a work desk with cushioned chair, table lamp, and internet access.

Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk

If you are thinking about a fun-filled, luxurious retreat, then Isle Casino Hotel Black Hawk near Denver awaits you with a range of gaming options and upscale hotel amenities for a memorable vacation. Enjoy a variety of games at the casino, including video poker, slot machines, and table games. The hotel’s standard rooms come with a choice of either one king bed or two queen beds with pillow-top mattresses. Room facilities include a 32-inch LCD television with cable channels, safe, executive desk, Wi-Fi internet, coffee maker, and iron with ironing board.

The Sky Hotel

With an on-site spa, hot tub, heated outdoor pool, ski rental shop, and ski-in access, The Sky Hotel in Aspen can be a perfect winter getaway for adventure lovers. Exclusively designed guest rooms come with soft beds that have down comforters and luxurious linens, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, mini bar, in-room climate control, and of course, stunning outdoor views. This pet-friendly boutique hotel at the foothills of Aspen Mountain is a part of the Kimpton Karma Rewards program that allows guests to earn exclusive offers, so it definitely pays to stay!

Keystone Lodge

Nestled in the lap of the Rocky Mountains, Keystone Lodge offers ample opportunity for mountain sports such as cat skiing, night skiing, snow tubing, skating, and sleigh rides. Whether you’re flying solo, a couple, or traveling with family, you can choose your accommodation accordingly from a variety of lodging options, such as Lakeside Village, Mountain House, River Run, and East, West and North Keystone. Pamper yourself at the resort’s full-service spa or unwind in the heated pool at the end of an activity-packed day. The cozy guest rooms come with modern furnishings, fluffy beds, a television, wireless internet, and DVD player to make sure you enjoy every moment of your stay at Keystone Lodge.

Bask in the Warmth of Southwest Hospitality at these Top Boutique Hotels in Albuquerque

December 10, 2015Posted in World City ToursTagged Albuquerque, Albuquerque hotels, boutique hotels, Boutique hotels in the US, Hotels in Albuquerque, New Mexico6 Comments

Albuquerque Hotels, Hotels in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Boutique hotels in USA

After the Balloon Fiesta, Albuquerque is warming up for winter. The largest city in New Mexico has all the potential to serve as a tourist hotspot. For a happening winter vacation here is a list of some of the top boutique stays in Albuquerque to help you select your accommodation.

Image: Fest300

Hotel Cascada

If you want to enjoy the fun of water rides in a family vacation, Hotel Cascada is the best option. This beautiful resort has 300 spacious rooms and suites featuring distinctive interior decorated with deluxe furnishings. The effect of luxury is further enhanced with king beds, expensive linens, in-room climate control, 42” television, work desk, high-speed internet, large closet with drawers, and many more. Be their guest and you are offered cashless wristbands to use the onsite water park during your stay. There are no extra charges for kids under 18, staying in the same room with parents.

Image: Hotel Cascada

Isleta Resort & Casino

Isleta Resort & Casino redefines luxury with its opulently designed 201 rooms and an array of modern amenities for the guests. The resort houses fine dining restaurant, luxury spa, fitness center, golf club, and a state-of-the-art conference center. The rooms come with soft beds with expensive linens, couches, work desk, and flat-screen TV with digital channels. Fully tiled en suite bathrooms are equipped with bathtub, shower, vanity, and toiletries. You can spend hours of solitude by Isleta Lake and RV Park. In the evening, enjoy music and wine at the Center Bar or try your luck at the hotel’s casino.

MCM Eleganté Suites

Immerse yourself in luxury in the traditionally decorated rooms in MCM Eleganté Suites. The room facilities at this centrally located Albuquerque hotel include luxurious bedding, sleeper sofa, work desk with table lamp and chair, iron with ironing board, and room service. Guests can use Wi-Fi Internet for free. The hotel’s family suite comes with a well-equipped kitchen and separate living and bedrooms. Enjoy the benefit of the hotel’s exclusive Guest Reward programs, which let you earn points that you can redeem in the form of free night stays at the hotel or a Visa Gift Card.

Image: MCM Eleganté Suites

Nativo Lodge

If you want to experience the warm hospitality of the Southwest in its true sense Nativo Lodge is the place to choose. This Native American style boutique hotel in Albuquerque offers non-smoking rooms with high-end facilities. The list includes free Wi-Fi Internet, flat-screen TV, plush beds, private balcony, room service, refrigerator on request, and many more. Guests can also enjoy free access to the hotel’s swimming pools and onsite parking. Pet lovers please note that the hotel has pet-friendly policies.

Image: Nativo Lodge

Albuquerque ClubHouse Inn & Suites

If you are looking for a pet-friendly boutique hotel that offers upscale accommodation and amenities within budget check out Albuquerque ClubHouse Inn & Suites. The hotel houses an array of wheelchair-accessible rooms that are spacious and elegantly decorated for your ultimate comfort. Each of the guest rooms and suites come with a large bed, pullout sofa, work desk with ergonomically designed chair, high-speed internet, 32” flat-screen TV, telephone, coffee maker, and complimentary buffet breakfast. Hotel amenities include outdoor heated pool and fitness center.

Hotel Formule1 – A promise for best stays in HITEC Hyderabad

December 8, 2015Posted in TravelTagged AccorHotels, Hotel Formule1, hotels in Hyderabad, Hyderabad hotels3 Comments

Hotel Formule1, a swanky hotel with trendy accommodations and superior hospitality, is the newest jewel in the crown of HITEC Hyderabad. Located in the heart of Cyberabad, the IT hub of Hyderabad city, this hotel is gradually becoming a popular choice of accommodation for young business as well as leisure travellers.

With an array of upscale amenities, Hotel Formule1 is a rest assured brand in the low cost segment of hotels within your budget.

Let me explain why.

Convenient location

A brand by AccorHotels, Hotel Formule1 awaits you in the heart of modern Hyderabad’s commercial district. The corporate business parks, Hyderabad’s international convention centre and Shilparamam cultural centre are a stone’s throw away from the hotel. Leisure travellers would be happy to find the shopping plazas and restaurants are located in the vicinity.

High-tech rooms and facilities

The hotel houses an array of 150 well-appointed rooms featuring LED television with satellite channels, compact work desk, dresser and attached bathroom. Accor hotels are known to offer excellent sleep experience to their guests. The concept is actualized in Hotel Formule1 with soundproof, air-conditioned rooms featuring large bed with soft pillows and linens. Soothing, minimalist interior design creates an ambiance of peace and comfort as soon as you step inside.

‘Always more’ launch offer

Room price starts from INR 2399 per night. Pay one rupee more and you will be endowed with a handful of complimentary services, which include Wi-Fi internet access, local transport facility and a sumptuous buffet breakfast to start your day.

Technology driven amenities

At Hotel Formule1, amenities are designed in line with the spirit of the high-tech city, incorporating technology to ensure ultimate comfort of its guests. The touch of modern technology is evident everywhere as a hallmark of Accor Hotels. Round-the-clock security, ample space for car parking and special access for differently abled guests are some of the additional facilities that guests can avail at this hotel.

Responsible travelling

Hotel Formule1 encourages responsible travelling in its effort of reducing carbon footprints. Being a part of Accor Hotels’ Planet 21 Sustainable Development Programme the hotel features a Green Zone where you can rent bicycles for local sightseeing.

Once you check in to Hotel Formule1, one of the best India hotels in Hyderabad, rest assured that you would receive the best of care. For more updates on travel, accommodation and special offers, you can visit their Facebook page here – https://www.facebook.com/FORMULE1Hotel.

Drukgyel Dzong: A haunted monastery in Paro

November 2, 2015November 2, 2015Posted in BhutanTagged Bhutan, Bhutan Tour, Drukgyel Dzong, Paro, Paro Sightseeing17 Comments

It was a partly cloudy day when we started for our sightseeing in Paro.

By the time we reached Drukgyel Dzong after exploring Kichu Monastery the sky was dark, covered with monsoon clouds.

Drukgyel Dzong was built in the 17th century to celebrate victory of the then king against the invaders from Tibet. It is a deserted monastery for years now after it was destroyed in fire in the 1950s. It looked more like a haunted place to me… perfect for shooting horror movies. 😛

The dilapidated walls and tall structure looked even gloomier against the dismal sky.

Our driver told it was a small trek of about 15 minutes up the hill to the main entrance of the monastery. Although the drizzle started as soon as we reached there and most of my companions decided not to go out as it will rain soon, I readily jumped out of the car in search of some mystery. 😉

A giant prayer wheel at the foot of the hill,

and the colorful prayer flags hung over our head looked welcoming at first.

But this canine guard gave a grave look at me as I stepped into its territory.

As I kept walking I could see there was no one except me and my friend. An eerie silence prevailed all over the place. The rustling pines in the cold wind amplified the silence further.

The stoned pathway led to stone steps. We stopped for a moment to breathe some air.

We climbed up the spiral stairs to find what was in store for us… and Drukgyel did not disappoint us. 🙂

Finally we reached at the main gate of the monastery.

A glimpse of the outer courtyard through the half-open door was quite dramatic. Inside, it looked like a fortress with thick brick walls with openings to keep watch over the valley.

The burnt windows, broken walls and the mysterious darkness inside gave an uncanny feeling as if something evil was waiting inside.

Well… I don’t believe in ghosts… but as my friend constantly forbade me to step inside I thought I should honor her wish… 😛 😀

So, how do you like the story of the haunted monastery? 🙂 Do share your thoughts.

P.S: This is Part VII of my Bhutan Tour Photo Essay Series. You can also check out the previous posts of this series for more photos and information on Bhutan travel.

Bhutan Tour: Kichu Monastery in Paro

October 26, 2015Posted in BhutanTagged Bhutan, Bhutan Tour, bhutan travel, Kichu Monastery, Paro21 Comments

This post is a continuation of my earlier post My Rendezvous with Paro.

After reaching our hotel in Paro we dumped our luggage in our rooms and set out to explore the place.

We were back on the road again. Our first stop was Kichu Monastery.

Kyichu Lhakhang or Kichu Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan. It is situated in a secluded place outside the town. The monastery, from its elevated position, offers wonderful views of the surrounding valley.

The monastery houses a golden statue of Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche inside the core temple. However, you are not allowed to take your camera inside.

As we entered the monastery I could see a blast of colors everywhere –

on the front fascia,

on the doors and windows,

on the prayer wheels,

and in the garden.

Even the old monk preaching at the gate of the temple looked quite a colorful person. Isn’t it? 🙂

There were orange trees in the temple courtyard that were full of ripe oranges even in June!

Kichu Monastery is a peaceful quiet place, ideal for spending some time contemplating amidst nature and sacred structures.

Even I tried to concentrate in prayer. But…you know, I found that it’s not my cup of tea… no matter where I am… 😀

P.S: This is Part VI of my Bhutan Tour Photo Essay Series. You can also check out the previous posts of this series for more photos and information on Bhutan travel.