Daytona Beach Vacation – Oceanfront Hotels and Luxury within Budget

daytona beach boardwalk, florida beach vacation

Daytona Beach is one of the most happening leisure destinations in Florida. Stunning views and wild waves of the Atlantic beckon beach lovers and adventurers to indulge in activities like beach volleyball, surfing, parasailing, boating, scuba, and more. In addition, an array of beachfront hotels offer all the modern amenities you would like to have on a tropical vacation.

Daytona Beach, Florida

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Wyndham Ocean Walk

A short walk from Daytona Lagoon Waterpark, Wyndham Ocean Walk stands tall overlooking the Atlantic. The beach is just outside the resort. You can count the waves sitting right in your room as well. Spacious studio rooms and suites come with private balconies, small kitchens, and bathrooms with tubs for enhanced living experience. The resort ensures quick access to the pier, shopping arcades, and other nearby attractions. Inside the resort, chill out at the indoor or outdoor pool or float along the Lazy River.  A mini golf course, a pool table, and a game room are only a few of the many recreational amenities offered at Wyndham Ocean Walk.

Daytona beach, florida daytona beach hotels

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San Marina Motel

It’s not that you always have to spend the extra bucks to get a nice beachfront  accommodation at Daytona Beach. If you want to curtail expenses on lodging, San Marina Motel on 1001 North Atlantic Avenue is a good option. The hotel offers non-smoking, air-conditioned rooms with king beds, mini refrigerators, microwaves, cable televisions, and complimentary Wi-Fi in the room at $50 a night (excluding tax). There is an outdoor pool to relax anytime. Moreover, the Daytona Beach boardwalk, shopping center, movie theaters, and restaurants are within walking distance from this economical hotel.

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The Plaza Resort & Spa

The Plaza Resort & Spa offers luxury within any budget. Elegantly decorated mid-range rooms come with queen beds, large flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, telephones with free local calls, and kitchen areas with a mini fridge and a microwave. The resort houses an outdoor pool with poolside bar and dining, a full-service spa, fitness center, and a basketball court. Special activities such as Yoga sessions, pool games, and poolside movie nights are organized for guests during high seasons.

outdoor pool, poolside fun

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Hilton Daytona Beach Resort/Ocean Walk Village

With a range of recreational amenities for adults and kids, the Hilton Daytona Beach Resort/Ocean Walk Village is a favorite among family vacationers. The hotel offers pet-friendly accommodations with luxurious beds, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, work desks with an ergonomic chair, a table lamp and electric plugs, free printing, and telephones so that you can carry out business activities in the privacy of your room. Other room facilities include TV with premium sports and movie channels, housekeeping, laundry, and evening room service. An outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a luxury spa are there for you to relax at the end of a busy day.

Daytona Beach, florida beach vacation

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Mayan Inn

Located next to Daytona’s famous Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Club, Mayan Inn offers neatly appointed rooms with private balconies overlooking the ocean. The rooms have one king bed or two queen beds along with televisions, small refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, hairdryers, and irons with ironing boards. You can get a room and amenities, such as complimentary breakfast, coin-operated laundry, and access to the hotel’s outdoor pool, bar, and sports lounge at a modest rate at Mayan Inn.

Top Fabulous Nature Travel Spots in Branson

log cabin branson, missouri, forest park

Aside from family vacations of lazy summer road trips and sophisticated cities, Branson, Missouri is known for great Ozark Mountains, which is a home for some of the best nature travel and outdoor adventures. The city has earned its reputations as one of the best weekend getaway destinations for family and friends. This charming town in the Midwest is accessible, yet provides a sense of seclusion for its guests out-of-town guests.

branson, missouri, tourist attractions

Though this city is largely known for its bright lights and live entertainment, it’s also the home for some of the best nature travel spots in whole Missouri. Strategically located at the foots of the Ozark Mountains, nature lovers and outdoor adventure enthusiasts will never run out of things to see and do in this city. Here are some of city’s awe-inspiring spots and views of great outdoors.

The Forest Park

Built on the grounds of the 1904 World Fair, the Forest Park is a city park that houses the original buildings with various attractions around, such as gardens, ponds, as well as the St. Louis Zoo. They have plenty of places to spend a whole day with your family and loved ones. Those who are interested to know more about the place’s art, culture, and history can visit the St. Louis Art Museum.

log cabin branson, missouri

Shepherds of the Hills

This place is near Table Rock Dam, which is a great attraction of its own as well. The Shepherds of the Hills Fish Hatchery offers hiking trails and a unique wildlife experience from its tower. Their hatchery produces brown and rainbow trout for the ever-beautiful and abundant Lake Taneycomo.

This place also offers tons of great activities for nature lovers. Aside from the forest trail they also have lots of picnic tables, boat ramps, pavilions, and fishing access.

log cabin branson, missouri, forest park

Table Rock Dam

As said earlier, Table Rock Dam is also a great tourist attraction in Branson, and it’s definitely the place you can’t miss if you love the waters. This place will let you camp, swim, boat, and fish. And if that’s not enough, then look around and appreciate the beauty of the Ozark Mountains. Aside from the various recreational activities, you will certainly find yourself busy taking pictures of this photogenic place.

table rock dam, table rock lake, branson, missouriImage via Flickr by Branson Missouri

The Marvel Cave

This tourist attraction dates all the way back to the late 1800s. This cave features breathtaking formations of limestone, which you will have the chance to see up close through its guided tour that will take you 500 feet below sea level.

Also, this place is near the biggest and most popular attraction in the Branson – the Silver Dollar City amusement park, which is the home of some of the most exciting rides and fun activities for the whole family.

marvel cave, branson, missouri

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Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area

Still looking for more trails to conquer? Check out the Lakeside Forest Wilderness area and experience the beauty of the wooded and hill country that spans 140 acres. Ready your camera for the beautiful landscape, forest with big cedar-like trees, glades and waterfalls. You will be awed right from its entrance-way, as you will be greeted by a large log archway complete with ornamental iron gate.

branson missouri, forest, wildernessThese are just five of the many great nature travel spots in Branson. Book your vacation and see more of the beauty of the Ozark Mountains in your vacation.

 


This is a guest post by April Yap. April is an online publisher for The Cabins at Grand Mountain in Branson, MO. She often writes about camping, Midwest traveling, and log cabin experiences.

Boutique Hotels in San Jose that Won’t Pinch Your Pocket

downtown San Jose, California, capital of silicon valley

Dotted with century-old colonial architectures, green nature trails, and parks, San Jose, ‘the capital of Silicon Valley’, hardly gives the impression of a tech-savvy city, which is home to some of the world’s leading technology corporations. Rich in history, culture, and technology research, San Jose attracts all kinds of travelers year round. This prosperous city has several upscale hotels to welcome its visitors. Whether it is a business trip or a vacation, the boutique hotels in San Jose promise comfort and facilities tailored to meet your specific needs.

san jose river trail

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Arena Hotel

If a gracefully appointed room with one king or two queen beds, a work desk with ergonomic chair, a flat-screen TV with your favorite channels, and a bathroom featuring a Jacuzzi for two is what you are looking for within budget, Arena Hotel is the place to stay.  Located centrally, near SAP Center and Diridon Train Station, the hotel offers value-for-money accommodation with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. Rooms come with microwaves, coffee makers, and mini-refrigerators so that you can save money on eating out. A self-service business center is also there for carrying out your business transactions uninterrupted.

Dolce Hayes Mansion

Surrounded by lush green lawns lined with palm trees, Dolce Hayes Mansion’s quaint Spanish architecture is one of the most notable historical landmarks of San Jose. The sprawling estate by Highway 101 houses an outdoor pool, a conference center, tennis courts, and a fine dining restaurant. This award-winning four-star property is all set to offer tastefully decorated rooms with classic wood furnishings, plush beds, dual-line phones, refrigerators, coffee makers, work desks, and Wi-Fi. The private bathrooms are equipped with bathtubs and toiletries for a luxurious bathing experience.

dolce hayes mansion san jose

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Extended Stay America – San Jose – Airport

Think of a hotel, which is only a few minutes from San Jose airport. A hotel that offers modern amenities along with pet-friendly accommodations suitable for extended stays. And a hotel that ensures quick access to many of Silicon Valley’s technology firms. You can get this all in one place at Extended Stay America – San Jose – Airport. Laundry, housekeeping, filtered drinking water, free Wi-Fi and business services, and a well-equipped kitchen in the room are some of the amenities that ensure homely comfort and convenience while cutting down on expenses during traveling.

Extended Stay America – San Jose – Edenvale – North

Like the above-mentioned Extended Stay America hotel the Extended Stay America – San Jose – Edenvale – North offers similar types of accommodations and amenities in a quiet neighborhood of South San Jose. The hotel’s studio-style rooms have flat-screen TVs with premium channels. Besides, there are hot tubs and outdoor pools for relaxation and recreation. The hotel chain offers discounts on early booking and longer stays. Military people and senior citizens can enjoy discounted rates at San Jose’s Extended Stay America hotels.

San jose state university

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E-Z 8 Motel San Jose I

Located close to San Jose International Airport, E-Z 8 Motel San Jose I offers pet-friendly accommodation within $100 a night. Santa Clara Convention Center, San Jose State University, and California’s Great America are some of the nearby attractions. The hotel’s guest rooms have televisions with top entertainment channels, wireless internet, work desks, refrigerators, microwaves, and irons with ironing boards. Recreational amenities include an outdoor pool, hot tubs, and a game room. On-site laundry, copy and fax machines, and complimentary parking facilities help business travelers save more on extended stays.

Sun, Sand, and Fun at the Boutique Hotels in Hilton Head Island

sunset, coligny beach, hilton head island, south carolina

A tiny piece of land by the Atlantic coast, Hilton Head Island is a popular family vacation destination in South Carolina. With pristine beaches and lush vegetation, the island offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. In addition, the boutique hotels in Hilton Head Island promises luxurious accommodations and amenities, which will make your vacation an unforgettable one.

Beach, hilton head island, south carolina

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Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

One of the most popular luxury hotels in Hilton Head Island is Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort. Sprawling over an extensive area, the resort has 20 oceanfront suites, eight resort view suites, and 295 studio-style suites. The amenities include rooms with separate bedrooms and kitchenettes, allowance for pets, and concierge, child care, and handicap services. Recreational amenities include multi-cuisine restaurants, tennis courts, a full-service spa, golf course, pools, beach-side Jacuzzi, and a private lagoon system where guests can enjoy kayaking and canoeing.

Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort

If you’re wondering where to stay in Hilton Head Island on your vacation with your kids and pets, what can be a better choice than Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort? Designed after hunting and fishing lodges of yesteryear, the resort offers villas and deluxe studios for accommodation and almost 12 miles of private beaches. Elegantly appointed rooms come with flat-screen TVs, microwaves, in-room safes, mini-refrigerators, DVD players, and coffee makers. Amenities offered at the resort include wireless internet, shuttle service, free parking, laundry, swimming pools, a fitness center, and various recreational activities for kids.

hilton head island sc, boat pier

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Shipyard Resort by Spinnaker Resorts

Designed like a home away from home, Shipyard Resort by Spinnaker Resorts features well-equipped townhouses, which have amenities like DVD players, complimentary Wi-Fi, kitchens with microwaves, phones with a free local and long distance call facility, flat-screen TVs with cable connectivity, and more. Adults can relax at the on-site tennis courts, hot tubs, pools with poolside cabana, picnic tables, waterside barbecue, and a golf course. Kids can have their share of fun at the Kiddie Pool and on-premise playground. Shopping centers and restaurants are also in the vicinity of the hotel.

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island

Surrounded by lush greenery, Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island provides an opportunity to immerse your senses in scenic beauty and natural splendor. Whether it’s a walk in the tropical gardens or dining in one of the many restaurants that the resort has; getting pampered at the Arum Spa; or enjoying life in the lagoon swimming pool, this resort offers everything under one roof. The award-winning resort is also ideal for hosting weddings and other programs, including business events. The rooms are done in a style that offers the best of modern amenities for luxurious living, such as plush beds with fluffy pillows and mattresses, pull-out sofas, internet TV with movies and video games, refrigerators, and electronic safes.

boardwalk, hilton head island, sc

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Hilton Head Metropolitan Hotel

Only a block from Forest Beach, Hilton Head Metropolitan Hotel offers ocean-view rooms within budget. Coligny Plaza shopping mall, restaurants, and pubs are within walking distance from the hotel. The guest rooms feature king-size beds, televisions with cable channels, coffee makers, microwaves, refrigerators, hair dryers, and irons with ironing boards. Family rooms and suites have an additional kitchenette where you will find double burner stoves and other commonly used kitchen utensils for cooking.

Unique Places to View NYC’s Skyline

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This content was originally published on IHG’s website

The Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, One World Trade Center…all of offer exceptional views of NYC, but only with some major trade-offs. You could wait hours in line just to reach the top, and the cost of admission is as sky-high as the observation deck. Plus, you’ll find the same exact views in every tour guide and on about half of all NYC postcards. Visiting New York City is breath taking, make sure you are getting the most out of your trip whether your hotel is within walking distance to Times Square or discovering more unique places off the beaten path.

So where should you go to see New York in a new way? Fortunately, there are several other locations which let you see the NYC skyline from a fresh perspective. While they aren’t featured in many city guides, we’ve put together a list of cool and unique locations with unbelievable skyline views. These are more than just tourist trap observation decks; each one doubles as a memorable New York experience, whether you’ll be enjoying a relaxing stroll in the park, learning about natural history, riding a famous carousel, listening to live music, or viewing some of the world’s finest artwork.

Keep this guide handy as you explore New York City from top to bottom. We’ve highlighted some local spots with seriously exceptional views of the city that will remind you why NYC is so special.

NYC skyline, infographic

Hipmunk Hotels: The Best B&B Hotels in the West Inc Renton, Bellingham & Missoula

missoula, mt, hipmunk hotels

The post below was originally published on No Place to Be on April 8, 2016.

There is something for everyone in the West, so whether you’re looking for a big-city experience, a cozy small town, or the chance to get completely lost in some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes you’ll find anywhere, this area offers it all. Luckily for you, there also some fantastic B&B options to make sure your trip is one to remember.

Missoula

Missoula sits amongst breathtaking scenery, and you can spend days if not weeks enjoying the surrounding scenery. Back in town, a visit to Fort Missoula is a must. The area was built in 1877 to protect the local people from Native American attacks, and it also served as a prisoner-of-war camp in World War II.

Make the most of your time by staying at the Gibson Mansion Bed and Breakfast, a B&B in Missoula that consistently receives five-star reviews. Beautiful gardens, friendly welcoming service, and great home-cooked food are the phrases that are continually linked with this B&B. Plus, they even deliver fresh scones and coffee to your room before breakfast each morning.

missoula, mt, hipmunk hotels

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Rapid City

It’s hard to imagine visiting Rapid City without taking a short trip to see the famous Mount Rushmore, especially if it’s your first time in South Dakota. Or, perhaps you are a returning visitor stopping over to catch an event at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center; either way, you should still make time to enjoy the beauty of the nearby Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, and Black Hills National Forest.

Sweetgrass Inn Bed and Breakfast is the perfect choice when deciding on a hotel in Rapid City. A friendly place with a genuine country feel, this B&B is loved for its large bedrooms and comfy beds. Or, check out more from Hipmunk for B&Bs in this lovely city.

Moab

If the talk of all these national parks is getting you excited, just wait until you’ve checked out Moab. With the incredible Hurrah Pass so close, you’ll be set for days. Add to that the Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, as well as Indian Creek, and you really do have everything you could possibly want for a memorable trip.

To really embrace the local surroundings, make sure to stay at the Red Moon Lodge, described as having a rustic, earthy feel. Sitting just off the beaten path, you’ll really feel yourself blending into the surroundings. You are still on holiday though, so despite this authentic feel, you’ll still enjoy comfortable rooms, impressive homemade food, and be within easy reaching distance of the center of town.

canyonlands, utah, moab, hipmunk hotels

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Bellingham

There’s plenty to attract you to Bellingham in Washington, but close to the top of your list should be Whatcom Falls Park, home to four sets of waterfalls and several miles of walking trails. You should also make time to catch a show at Mount Baker Theatre and enjoy a day at Lake Padden Park.

When asking yourself where to stay in Bellingham, check out the Hipmunk guide. Look no further than the Tree Frog Inn. It’s the little things that make this B&B so special including the fresh flowers, homemade cookies, and little chocolates all waiting for you in your room. This quiet, inviting sanctuary with thoughtful, artistic touches throughout is so close to town, yet feels so far away.

Renton

Being so close to Seattle, they’ll be plenty of things already coming to mind for your trip to Renton but be sure not to miss the attractions right on your doorstep. The Jimi Hendrix grave site is a must for and rock and rollers, while the Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park is also a great place to enjoy a picnic during the summer months.

While not a B&B, Larkspur Landing is a great place to stay while visiting Renton, and guests return to this hotel again and again. The king suites, in particular, with their well-equipped kitchen and cozy living areas, are very popular. The best news? You can even bring your four-legged friend along with you to this dog-friendly hotel.

Top Boutique Hotels in Miami for a Dream Vacation in the Tropical Paradise

south beach, miami, florida, miami hotels

Excellent amenities and impeccable hospitality blend with a typical laid-back, relaxing ambiance of the beachfront lifestyle at boutique hotels in Miami. The following recommendations offer everything you need for a memorable tropical vacation.

Miami, Florida, tropical vacation

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Sonesta Coconut Grove Miami

Tucked away in a quiet corner at The Grove, Sonesta Coconut Grove Miami offers elegantly appointed rooms with panoramic views of the sprawling Biscayne Bay. Guests can also enjoy the bay views while savoring delicious Latino dishes at the hotel’s onsite restaurant. Sonesta Coconut Grove Miami’s strategic location ensures quick access to CocoWalk and the downtown shopping plazas, coffee shops, eateries, and of course, Miami’s effervescent nightlife. You can choose from the city-view and bay-view rooms and suites. Rooms are cozy and comfortable, while suites are spacious and come with a separate living room and a fully equipped kitchen.

DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Hotel Biscayne Bay

Overlooking the Sea Isle Marina, DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Hotel Biscayne Bay is only 3.5 miles from South Beach. The hotel’s guest rooms feature king-size beds with down-filled duvets, work desks with chairs, LDC televisions, coffee makers, mini-refrigerators, and private balconies from which you can enjoy the views of the waterfront or the city anytime. If you are planning an extended stay, then choose from the hotel’s premium condominiums, which are more spacious and come with a separate living area, a private balcony, and a well-equipped kitchen.  From a plush swimming pool to a full-service spa to a state-of-the-art business center, this Biscayne Bay hotel has everything to satisfy your leisure and business needs.

South Seas Hotel

Located right on the South Beach, South Seas Hotel welcomes leisure seekers with uninterrupted ocean view, a lush tropical garden with hammocks, swimming pools lined with coconut palms, and a poolside restaurant and bar. A beautiful white-sand beach waits just behind the palm groves and South Beach’s lively entertainment district is only a brief walk from the hotel. The guest rooms are designed to ensure pure tropical bliss with soft beds, white linens, bright interiors, stylish furnishings, and orchid arrangements. Room amenities include a flat-panel television, Wi-Fi, work desk, safe, fridge, and continental breakfast.

The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Miami

Set amidst a verdant tropical garden to keep out the hustle and bustle of the city life, The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Miami ensures a quiet, relaxing retreat with a promise of the ultimate luxury. The boutique hotel close to Coral Gables’ shopping district, houses a luxury spa, a plush swimming pool, a fitness center that is accessible 24 hours, and a huge meeting space with business services including fax, photocopy, translator, and staffs for assistance. An array of elegantly appointed rooms come with plush beds, down-filled pillows, a TV with popular movie channels, a computer desk with chair, complimentary coffee/tea, a private balcony overlooking the beach, and a deluxe bathroom with premium bath amenities.

Conrad Miami

Overlooking the Biscayne Bay, the 36-storey hotel Conrad Miami stands tall on the Brickell Avenue, Miami. With modern rooms featuring minimalist decor to soothe your eyes, a luxury spa to pamper yourself anytime, a plush rooftop pool to soak in, and a bar with signature cocktails and wines to unwind, Conrad Miami is a perfect casual weekend getaway at the heart of Miami. The guest rooms feature premium bedding, flat-panel HDTV, work desk with a table lamp and ergonomic chair, a mini bar, a coffee machine, and a spacious bathroom with bathtub, shower, bathrobe, and toiletries.