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

June 15, 2016Posted in USA Hotels and DestinationsTagged Boutique hotels in the US, Edenvale hotels, san jose, San Jose Airport hotels, San Jose California, san jose hotels, USA travel, USA Travel destinations4 Comments

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.

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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.

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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.

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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

June 14, 2016June 14, 2016Posted in USA Hotels and DestinationsTagged Boutique hotels in the US, hilton head hotels, Hilton Head Island, hilton head resorts, South Carolina, USA travel, USA Travel destinations6 Comments

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

June 10, 2016Posted in USA Hotels and DestinationsTagged B&B Missoula, Bellingham, hipmunk hotels, hotels in USA, Rapid City, USA boutique hotels, USA travel5 Comments

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.

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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.

Image via Flickr Credit: Ken Lund

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 5 Things in Kansas City Your Kids Will Enjoy the Most

April 12, 2016May 27, 2016Posted in USA Hotels and DestinationsTagged Kansas City, things to do in Kansas City, travel destinations worldwide, USA travel, USA Travel destinations9 Comments

Situated on the western border of Missouri, Kansas City serves as the gateway to the state. From history to culture, from music to sports, Kansas City has manifold sides to explore. The city has so much on its platter that you may get confused as to what to see and what not on your first visit. Sometimes, while traveling with kids, parents find it difficult to choose the places where their kids can have the best time. Following is a list of top five things in Kansas City that your kids will enjoy the most.

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Encounter the Wild at Kansas City Zoo

Kids of all ages can enjoy an entire day at the city’s zoological park. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including kangaroos, rhinos, chimpanzees, and tigers. You’ll find zebras and giraffes grazing in the secluded areas resembling the African wetlands. A Sky Safari can take you closer to the relaxing herbivores on the field. The zoo remains open from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you have time after all this, the kids can enjoy a few fun rides, too.

Discover the Creative Genius in Your Little One at Kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope is one of the must-do, free activities for kids in Kansas City. With an array of engaging art-and-craft and do-it-yourself activities, you can discover the artistic genius in your little ones at the art sessions at Kaleidoscope, which opens at 9:30 in the morning. Since the ticket is free, it is better to book your spot in advance.

Let Loose the Child in You at Loose Park

There are many pools and spray grounds dotting the Kansas City metropolitan landscape that offer free access to visitors. Loose Park, at 52nd Terrace and Summit Street, is a place with several fountains and shaded picnic tables placed amid a huge landscaped garden. You can book a table for up to 10 people for $25 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the park.

Learn New Things at Science City at Union Station

Science City at Union Station is a great place for kids to discover the wonders of science and learn more about scientific discoveries and the latest technologies in a fun way. From exploring the exhibits, to joining the demo of science in our daily life activities, to exciting sky-bike rides, kids can choose to do whatever they like. Your chance to explore the grand architecture of the Union Station is a bonus.

Enjoy Movies Under the stars

After a day full of fun and activities, it is time to make the nights special in Kansas City. Instead of spending the evening in the hotel room, take your kids out to the Crown Center, Kearney Amphitheater, or Theater in the Park, where they can watch movies while sitting right under the stars. From the classic fairytale, Cinderella, to the latest science fiction, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, your little ones can choose from a range of movie showings at these open-air theaters.

Accommodations in Kansas City

Just as you pick the tourist attractions selectively for your kids, you are extra careful about where to stay in Kansas City while traveling with kids. Although there is no dearth of accommodations in Kansas City for every budget, Crowne Plaza Kansas City Downtown, Holiday Inn Country Club Plaza, and InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza are some of the family friendly hotels where your little ones would enjoy their stay.

Hipmunk Hotels: Riding the Waves in Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Sarasota, and More

April 12, 2016April 12, 2016Posted in USA Hotels and DestinationsTagged Destinations in southern USA, Florida, florida beaches, hotels in south florida, hotels in USA, USA travel3 Comments

With sunny weather, sandy beaches, and turquoise waves, the coastal cities of Florida are surfers’ paradise. Here is a quick guide to help you select your destinations and hotels in South Florida.

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Fort Lauderdale

Sprawling beaches and wide variety of watersports are the major attractions for tourists in Fort Lauderdale. You can rent a yacht anytime and sail out in the ocean for fishing and dolphin-watching or explore the inland waterways. Adventure lovers can go surfing, snorkeling, or scuba diving in the gulf. If you can take some time off The Strip, there are rollercoasters, airboat ride, and swamp safari to make your vacation even more exciting. While luxury hotels and resorts are aplenty, La Casa Del Mar and Granada Inn are some of the hotels in Fort Lauderdale, FL where you can find the calm and comfort of boutique-style accommodation.

Treasure Island

If you want to experience the charm of Florida beaches without the maddening crowd, Treasure Island is the place to be. Madeira Beach and St. Pete Beach are the major entertainment hubs where you will find many hotels, restaurants, shops, and bars. After a day full of waterfront recreation, take a relaxing walk along the boardwalk at John’s Pass Village. Cruises are widely available here. You can also rent your own speedboat for a thrilling ride to the sea or a fully personalized dolphin-watch tour at your own pace. When it comes to accommodation, there are many hotels in Treasure Island, FL, offering pet-friendly, air-conditioned rooms along with free breakfast and airport shuttle service within $100 a night.

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St Petersburg

St Petersburg boasts of its one of the main cities in the with the third-largest public waterfront system in America. However, with several fine art galleries, museums, and craft centers St Petersburg also has a cultural side to explore. Sunken Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden at the downtown and the adjacent Great Explorations Children’s Museum are must-sees if you are traveling with kids. There are accommodations for every budget in St Petersburg. The Inn on Third and Cordova Inn Downtown St. Pete are some of the centrally located hotels in St Petersburg, FL, which offer complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking facilities.

Pompano Beach

The heart of Gold Coast, Pompano Beach offers excellent jet-skiing, sailing, scuba diving, and snorkeling facilities for adventure seekers. The other major attractions of Gold Coast, Miami and Fort Lauderdale, are also a short drive from the city. The city’s municipal fishing pier with beachside playground and picnic tables is an ideal place for family fun and outdoor relaxation. With so many things to do, vacation in Pompano Beach can be an expensive affair. Ebb Tide Resort Oceanfront and Clarion Inn are some of the hotels in Pompano Beach, FL that offer non-smoking, air-conditioned rooms and swimming pools at moderate price.

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Sarasota

With beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and upscale shopping centers, Sarasota has everything you need for a refreshing break. From history to modern art to nature, you will find a variety of tourist attractions in Sarasota. Whether it is exploring Sarasota Jungle Gardens, watching big cats at Gulf Coast Sanctuary, or learning the history of circus at The Ringling, Sarasota offers plenty of options other than watersports to keep you busy all day. Those who want to splurge, can book any of the several beachfront hotels in Sarasota, FL. On the other hand, Quality Inn or The Inn at Midtown can be your options for low-cost hotels ensuring comfortable rooms with basic leisure amenities and quick access to the famous Siesta Key Beach.