Orange County – Your Next Vacation Destination in California

Corona Del Mar, Newport Beach, Orange County, California

Beaches, hills, museums, theme parks, and sports arenas, Orange County awaits you with its diverse attractions.  The county comprises large and small cities including Anaheim, the home to Disneyland. The spectacular beach towns of Newport Beach and Seal Beach promise luxurious retreats. Huntington Beach is a surfers’ paradise. The botanical gardens and wilderness parks in Laguna Niguel offer ample scope for outdoor adventure. Explore the beauty of the place and stay in some of the best hotels in Orange County.

Disneyland, Anaheim, Orange County, CA

Image via Flickr by occhietto

Hyatt Regency Orange County – Enjoy Vacation with Family

With spectacular settings, spacious rooms, and pet-friendly policies, Hyatt Regency Orange County is an ideal getaway for families and vacationers. The hotel’s proximity to Anaheim and shuttle service to and from the Disneyland Resort makes it a convenient choice for vacationers. Orange County beaches, shopping centers, and Anaheim sports stadiums are also a short drive away from this hotel. After a busy day at the theme parks, return to the hotel’s guest rooms featuring luxurious beds with pillow-top mattresses, televisions with favorite entertainment channels, and complimentary Wi-Fi access or unwind at the heated outdoor pool.

Hilton Irvine Orange County Airport – Work and Unwind

Located within walking distance from John Wayne Airport, Hilton Irvine Orange County Airport offers quick access to Newport and Huntington beaches. The hotel’s convenient location makes it easy for travelers to explore the local attractions such as South Coast Plaza and Spectrum Shopping Center. The rooms come with the hotel’s signature bedding, 42-inch HDTV, large work desks, Wi-Fi, telephones, and room service. Business amenities include photocopying and printing services, video conferencing, and audio/visual equipment rental at the hotel’s business center.

huntington beach, orange county, hotels

Image via Flickr by Eric Demarcq

Wyndham Irvine Orange County Airport – Combine Business and Leisure

Wyndham Irvine Orange County Airport is another convenient option for business travelers. The hotel offers quick access to John Wayne Airport and several corporate offices in the county. Free Wi-Fi, work desk with ergonomic chair, HD television, plush beds and premium bath accessories are some of the room amenities to help you stay productive and relaxed. The hotel’s business center is also open 24 hours. Other amenities include fitness center, outdoor sports courts, heated indoor pool, and free shuttle service to local attractions.

Atrium Hotel – Walk and Explore Local Attractions

Located close to the Orange County airport, Atrium Hotel offers quick access to the beaches, museums, and shopping centers. Elegantly decorated rooms come with king or queen beds, televisions, and private balconies. A range of leisure amenities includes a heated outdoor pool with pool lounge and private cabana, restaurant, and bar. Business travelers can take advantage of the hotel’s private executive business center, free Wi-Fi, and transportation to and from the airport.

Torrey Pines, Orange County, california, pacific

 Image via Flickr by Easterly Photography

Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines – Stay Close to Nature

Nestled at the Torrey Pines State Reserve, Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines offers spectacular views of the Torrey Pines Golf Course and the Pacific Ocean. The hotel offers an excellent opportunity for hiking in the nearby villages of Del Mar and La Jolla. Enjoy the spa services, play a game of tennis, relax in the outdoor pool, or get out and explore the beaches of Del Mar, there are many ways to unwind at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines. Business amenities include fax, photocopiers, printers, modems, Wi-Fi, and office rentals.

Festivals, Outdoor Adventures and the Boutique Hotels in Austin, Texas

lady bird lake, austin, texas

Austin, the “Live Music Capital of the World”, bustles with music, art, film festivals, Formula One racing, and a series of events throughout the year. The city’s numerous parks, lakes, and nature trails offer excellent opportunity for biking, hiking, swimming, and boating. However, autumn and spring are the two seasons when tourists rush into the city. If you’re planning a vacation in Austin during the festive seasons, book your hotel early. Here’s a list of popular hotels in Austin, Texas, to help you choose the best accommodation.

Texas Capitol Building, Austin, Austin hotels

Image via Flickr by StuSeeger

Hilton Austin Airport for Business and Leisure

Only two minutes from the airport, the Hilton Austin Airport ensures easy access to the downtown area with frequent shuttle service from the hotel. The hotel is also close to Austin’s famous Formula One circuit. Sound-proof rooms with luxurious king-sized beds, spacious bathrooms, and a range of modern amenities guarantee a comfortable living experience at Hilton Austin Airport. The guest rooms have Wi-Fi, work desks, and cable TVs. Suites come with other features like boardrooms and exercise rooms. An outdoor pool along with hot tubs and a lounge café are also there for recreation. If you’re traveling with your family, check out family packages and special offers on breakfast and Wi-Fi access to save on your stay at the hotel.

Crowne Plaza Austin to Enjoy the Outdoors

Tucked away in a suburban neighborhood on North IH35, Crowne Plaza Austin promises a quiet stay as well as quick access to the downtown hub and the University of Texas at Austin. Elegantly designed guest rooms come with flat-screen televisions, Wi-Fi, work desks, separate living spaces with sofas and coffee tables, and luxurious bathrooms. The hotel offers dedicated Quiet Zone rooms that keep out all the noises and help ensure good night’s sleep. A range of outdoor recreational amenities on site can keep you busy all day. Outdoor activities nearby include hiking, biking, horseback riding, and tennis.

ladybird lake, Austin, texas, Austin hotels

Image via Flickr by notevenathing

Hampton Inn & Suites Austin – Downtown/Convention Center

A contemporary hotel in downtown Austin, Hampton Inn & Suites Austin – Downtown/Convention Center is only a short walk from the entertainment center and nightlife of Sixth Street. Due to its central location, the hotel serves as a convenient base for exploring the city. The rooms and suites are equipped with modern amenities, including large writing desks with ergonomic chairs, lap desks, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Free breakfast, a fitness center, and a rooftop pool will keep you energized. Amenities like laundry service, valet parking, and multi-lingual staff add to your comfort and convenience.

downtown Austin, Texas, hotels in Austin

Image via Flickr by ejmc

Habitat Suites for an Organic Living Experience

If vacationing is your sole intention to visit Austin, Habitat Suites is the place for you. Surrounded by lush vegetation in a North Central Austin neighborhood, Habitat Suites is like an oasis in the city. Experience eco-friendly living in a hotel that offers non-smoking, hypoallergenic rooms, uses solar energy to generate electricity, and serves organic food without compromising taste and quality. Luxurious rooms with private patios and a range of complimentary amenities (including free breakfast, on-site parking, and your choice of wines and beverages in the evening) can make your holidays special at this eco-conscious boutique hotel.

Explore Virginia’s Historic Attractions and Stay at Some of the Best Boutique Hotels

Virginia wine country tour, Virginia hotels

With expansive farmland, rivers, and mountains, Virginia offers scenic landscapes and ample opportunities for outdoor fun. As one of the oldest English settlements in America, places like Alexandria, Georgetown, and Charlottesville exude a touch of colonial charm. Explore the historic districts and beautiful wine country, and enjoy your stay at some of the best boutique hotels in Virginia.

Hilton Alexandria Old Town – Stay in One Hotel, Explore Two Cities

Nestled in the historic Old Town district in Alexandria, Hilton Alexandria Old Town is only two minutes from the Washington Metro King Street station. Not only can you access Alexandria’s historic attractions from here, but you can also take a quick trip to Washington, D.C.

The hotel offers stylish accommodation with a range of world-class amenities. Rooms come with luxurious king beds, armchairs with ottomans, televisions, and work desks with ergonomic chairs. The hotel also has a meeting space with state-of-the-art technology. If you want to unwind, hit the lounge or the bar, or visit the fitness center to continue with your fitness regime.

Christ Church, Alexandra, Virginia, hotels in Alexandria

Image via Flickr by Fotomoe

Holiday Inn Rosslyn at Key Bridge, Arlington – A Value for Money Hotel

With an array of well-appointed rooms, a convenient location, and kid-friendly policies, the Holiday Inn Rosslyn at Key Bridge offers great value for your money in Arlington. Located near the DC metro area, the hotel offers quick access to the city’s historic attractions, such as Georgetown, the Washington Monument, the Smithsonian Institution museums, and the National Mall.

The hotel’s spacious rooms feature sleeper sofas, roll-away beds, writing desks, and flat-screen TVs with cable channels. Kids up to 19 years old can stay for free when sharing rooms with their parents. Cribs and extra bedding are provided on demand. Kitchen amenities include a mini fridge and a coffee maker.

Omni Charlottesville Hotel – Immerse Yourself in Luxury

Only 20 minutes from Charlottesville Airport, the Omni Charlottesville Hotel offers swanky accommodations in vibrant downtown Charlottesville. A short walk from the historic pedestrian mall, this hotel allows quick access to the University of Virginia and the city’s premier shopping malls and entertainment hubs.

Luxurious guest rooms come with plush beds with down pillows, TVs with movie options, work desks, and complimentary newspapers. Enjoy the views of Blue Ridge Mountains from your room, relax in the lush green atrium, or chill out in the pool. Fitness kits are available in the rooms, and the hotel also has a fully equipped fitness center.

Virginia wine country tour, Virginia hotels

Image via Flickr by JakeBrewer

Linden Row Inn, Richmond – A Blend of History and Modernity

Built in the 19th-century Greek Revival architectural style, Linden Row Inn is a three-star boutique hotel in the heart of Richmond. The hotel’s Victorian interior is accented with antique furniture, but you can expect plenty of modern amenities, too. In the guest rooms you’ll find TVs with premium satellite channels, writing desks, complimentary high-speed internet connectivity, coffee makers, and luxurious spa-style bathrooms. A business center, valet parking, local shuttle service, and laundry and dry cleaning facilities further add to your convenience at this classic hotel.

Richmond, virginia

Image via Flickr by Sky Noir

Omni Richmond Hotel – Experience the Warmth of Southern Hospitality

Located in the Shockoe Slip district in downtown Richmond, the Omni Richmond Hotel awaits with warm hospitality and upscale accommodations. The hotel’s non-smoking guest rooms are tastefully decorated with luxurious furnishings and fine linens. You’ll find plush beds with down pillows, work desks with power outlets, large flat-panel TVs with a LodgeNet system for on-demand movies, and coffee makers. With innovative programs for kids, pet-friendly policies, and amenities like a heated indoor pool and fine dining restaurants, the Omni Richmond Hotel promises a great stay.

Hipmunk Hotels: Affordable Options in The Less-Traveled South (Myrtle Beach, Richmond, and More)

richmond, virginia

The post below was originally published on This Life in Trips by Shaun Robertson.

hipmunk hotels

When thinking of cities in the Southern states, New Orleans, Charleston, and Savannah come to mind — and with good reason. These cities offer some of the best culture, cuisine, music, and laid-back living that famously comes with this region. Of course, because of this, these popular tourist locations can be expensive to visit and crowded in the peak seasons. With that in mind, check out these great Southern city alternatives and the hotels to stay in for those looking for an affordable and less crowded stay.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg is a unique tourist destination, to say the least. Located on the doorstep of the Smokey Mountains, this eastern Tennessee town is a great jumping off point for exploring the great outdoors. That said, it’s also a great spot for family fun. With amusement rides, the Space Needle, and great restaurant choices, Gatlinburg has plenty to see and do within its city limits. Although not as popular as Nashville or Memphis, Gatlinburg receives its share of visitors. For thinner crowds, visit in the winter season or during the week in the summer. Either way, for a great mix of the outdoors and city fun, book your hotel in Gatlinburg in advance for the best savings. Furthermore, Reagan Resorts Inn is a nice option for budget travelers.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach may seem out of place on this list, but it can be enjoyed on the cheap year-round. Due to its famous beaches, great seafood, and spectacular golf courses, Myrtle Beach draws in over 14 million visitors per year — the majority of which are guests from the North seeking refuge during the cold winter months. Still, with popularity comes plenty of affordable hotels in Myrtle Beach no matter the season, like the Plantation Resort. With festivals year-round and plenty of free activities, Myrtle Beach truly is a budget-friendly destination in the South with much to see and do.

Midland, Texas

Due to its size, Texas is less crowded than other states in the South. Still, Midland, Texas, can provide an authentic Texas experience without the crowds of Dallas, San Antonio, or Houston at a fraction of the cost. Enjoy horseback riding in the sun or stay cool inside one of the city’s great museums. Aviation enthusiasts will enjoy the American Airpower Heritage Museum, and those interested in how the area came to be will enjoy the Museum of the SouthwestHotels in Midland range from high-end chains such as the Hilton Garden Inn and Four Points by Sheraton, to budget brands like the Comfort Inn and Super 8. Regardless of the star rating, hotels in the city, like TownePlace Suites Midland, can be found at a lower rate than those in Texas’s major hubs.

Richmond, Virginia

Richmond, Virginia, offers similar history, character, and charm that’s found in Charleston and Savannah but with the added bonus of a lively downtown core and nearby outdoor activities without the crowds. Civil War history can be found throughout the area, and there are plenty of great restaurants, shops, and bars in town to keep you busy. The nearby James River offers guests the chance for some whitewater rafting, and there are plenty of parks in the area — perfect for hiking and leisurely strolls. Hotels in Richmond are affordable and range from modest to luxury, giving the option to enjoy the outdoors or relax in the city. One such budget-friendly hotel is Courtyard by Marriott Richmond Airport.

train station, richmond

Fredericksburg, Texas

Last on this list is the charming town of Fredericksburg, Texas. Located an hour’s drive away from San Antonio and an hour and a half away from Austin, Fredericksburg is a great spot to explore Texas from. In town, you will find an interesting mix of Texan and German traditions. With its German roots, Fredericksburg has many great events and festivals such as Oktoberfest and Schuetzenfests (marksmanship tournaments), with a Texas-sized twist. Due to its obscure path location, hotels in Fredericksburg, like the Econo Lodge Fredericksburg, can be found at a great value compared to those in bigger cities. So break out your cowhide chaps and lederhosen and visit this interesting Texas town.

Top Pet-Friendly Luxury Getaways in Portland for Unforgettable Family Vacations

Mount Hood, Trillium lake, Portland, oregon

Portland, the City of Roses, welcomes you with its beautiful rose gardens, myriad food courts, picturesque neighborhoods, and the meandering river, Willamette, that flows through the heart of this eco-conscious city. The best way to discover Portland’s charm is by walking or biking. Therefore, choose wisely from an array of luxury boutique hotels in Portland for a comfortable, relaxing stay and get out to explore the city and beyond when you can.

portland, oregon, cityscape

Image via Wikipedia

Brasada Ranch in Powell Butte

Immerse yourself in luxury in a rural setting at Brasada Ranch, a nature retreat in central Oregon. Only 20 minutes from Bend-Redmond Airport and a little more than a 3-hour drive from Portland, Brasada Ranch spreads over acres of lush green landscape. You can choose from an array of luxurious suites, cabins, and guest rooms at this award-winning resort nestled in the peaceful community of Powell Butte. A championship golf course, an on-site spa, plush outdoor pools with lazy river, and sprawling equestrian trails are reasons enough to choose this resort as your next vacation getaway in Oregon. From tennis and basketball to white water rafting, fishing, rock climbing, and helicopter tours, Brasada Ranch will keep you busy with outdoor sports and adventures all day long.

Mount Hood, Cascade range, Portland, Oregon

Image via Flickr by @jpcody

Aloft Portland Airport at Cascade Station

Only a few minutes’ drive from Portland International Airport, Aloft Portland Airport at Cascade Station is a swanky hotel with stylishly appointed rooms featuring plush furnishings, spa amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi, LCD TVs with plug-and-play games, mini refrigerators, and free mineral water, tea, and coffee. With various activity programs for kids and pets, a bar, an indoor pool, and a lounge to unwind, there is something for every member of your family at the hotel. Portland Saturday Market and attractions like Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Oregon Zoo, and International Rose Test Garden are about 20 minutes from the hotel.

The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Portland

Located close to Pioneer Square and Portland Art Museum, The Nines Hotel offers trendy, luxurious accommodations along with a range of upscale amenities including pillow-top beds with down pillows, 42-inch televisions with movie channels, dual-line telephone, Wi-Fi, work desks, and room service. Luxurious en suite bathrooms come with bathrobe and premium bath amenities. The hotel’s central location allows you to quickly access Portland’s business district, Tom McCall Waterfront Park, and MAX Light Rail transit. Shopping and dining options are aplenty around the hotel. You can also join day trips to the mountains or wine countries arranged by The Nines Hotel.

Pioneer Square, Portland, Oregon

Image via Wikipedia

Hotel Modera in the Heart of Downtown Portland

Hotel Modera is another centrally located luxury boutique hotel that offers quick access to Portland Art Museum, Portland State University, and Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Choose from a range of elegantly decorated non-smoking rooms that come with high-definition LCD TVs, complimentary W-Fi, technologically advanced heating and air-conditioning, work desks, safes, coffee makers, refrigerators, and premium Italian bath products. A beautifully decked courtyard garden and lounge is the hallmark of Hotel Modera. Relax and satiate your taste buds with authentic Italian and French delicacies in the romantic setting of Nel Centro, the on-site restaurant.

Rivertide Suites Hotel on the Shores of Necanicum River

Rivertide Suites Hotel, a relaxing riverfront hotel, is just three blocks from the ocean and a few minutes’ walk from the Seaside Aquarium in Portland, Oregon. Live in a spacious, luxuriously furnished suite and enjoy amenities such as complimentary breakfast, a cable TV with premium entertainment channels, telephone with free local calls, a fully equipped kitchen, and a bathroom with jetted tub. The private balconies offer river or mountain views.  A 24-hour business center, a heated indoor pool, hot tubs, and a rooftop terrace garden are there for your work and relaxation.

Washington Vacation: Boutique Stays, Outdoor Adventures, and Natural Retreats

waterfalls, columbia river gorge, oregon

A vacation in Washington means loads of adventure and outdoor fun. The spectacular river gorges, scenic mountains, fertile national parks, and picturesque coastal towns are ideal destinations for nature lovers. Moreover, there are boutique hotels and resorts, which can serve as a perfect base for exploring various scenic areas in the state.

Skamania Lodge, Stevenson – Escape into the Wilderness

Only a 45-minute drive from Portland, Oregon, Skamania Lodge – Destination Hotels & Resorts awaits you with modern amenities right in the middle of Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area in Stevenson, Washington. Guests can enjoy uninterrupted views of the river and the Cascade Mountains from the hotel rooms. Nestled in the wood of Douglas firs, Skamania Lodge’s newly built tree houses promise an exceptional living experience for solitude seekers. Your stay at the resort entails access to hiking trails and a range of outdoor recreation opportunities including golf, tennis, basketball, volleyball, zip line tours, and excursions into the wilderness of the Cascade Mountains.

Multnomah falls, washington, columbia river gorge

Image via Flickr by Michael Matti

Watertown Hotel, Seattle – Bring Your Pets Along

Located in the University District of Seattle, Watertown Hotel – A Piece of Pineapple Hospitality  welcomes tourists and their pets. Keeping with the vibrant urban culture of the U District, Watertown Hotel offers studio rooms with stylish interiors, king beds, bathrobes, slippers, flat-panel TVs with premium channels, Wi-Fi, microwaves, coffee makers, and refrigerators for modern living. Enjoy complimentary shuttle service to downtown and nearby attractions. Complimentary bicycles are also available for guests.

University of Washington, Seattle

Image via Flickr by biotour13

Cave B Resort, Quincy – Soak in the Scenic Beauty

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, Cave B Inn is the place. The resort’s well-appointed cavern rooms exude a rustic charm, while private balconies overlook the estate’s vineyards and the Columbia River. Rooms feature plush beds, satellite televisions, work desks, and private bathrooms with separate showers and bathtubs. Explore the resort’s wine country and gardens on bicycles, available to guests for free. After a busy day, soak in the outdoor pool while enjoying the view of the river gorge, or rejuvenate your senses with the resort’s signature spa treatments.

Woodmark Hotel, Kirkland – Experience Lakefront Luxury

Situated by Lake Washington, this Kirkland hotel is hardly 10 miles from Seattle. Due to its strategic location at Carillon Point, business travelers may find this hotel convenient. With amenities like kayaks, boats, Jet Skis, and watersports equipment rentals, you’ll have ample opportunity to enjoy your favorite waterfront activities at Woodmark Hotel and Still Spa. Pet-friendly accommodations come with luxurious beds and furnishings, LCD televisions with movies on demand, bathrobes, minibars, work desks, and free access to fitness facilities.

lake Washington, kirkland, WA

Image via Flickr by Cynthia.Lou

Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino, Fife – Entertainment on Weekends

With live music, fine dining and casino games, the Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino in Fife aims to provide unlimited entertainment. In your room, watch movies on a 42-inch TV, or use the high-speed internet connection to carry out business transactions. If you want something more than casinos and gaming, Fife Square and other attractions such as the Museum of Glass, LeMay Car Museum, Point Defiance Park, Pacific Bonsai Museum, and Wild Waves & Enchanted Village are easily accessible from the hotel.

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

Image via Flickr by Motapics

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

Image via Flickr by sdobie

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.

daytona beach boardwalkImage via Flickr by treytitone

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

Image via Flickr by mathewingram

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

Image via Flickr by jared422_80

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.