Story and Photos by Celina Colby

Cerulean Farm in Shelbyville, Kentucky, sits at the end of a gated drive lined with maple trees. The historic horse farm, dating back to the 1860s, is now a charming bed and breakfast and the home base of a nonprofit that rescues horses from difficult circumstances.

Cerulean encapsulates the magic of Shelby County: it’s rich in history, spilling over with natural beauty, and it’s female-owned. It turns out, women run Shelby County and the region is better off for it. We’re not just talking girl power bumper stickers and power suits. A visit to Shelby County inevitably means benefiting from the hard work and kindness of the female entrepreneurs dotting the district.

Shelby County is conveniently located 40 minutes from Louisville and an hour from Lexington. It’s smack dab in the middle of the Bourbon Trail and is home to a number of distilleries, including Bulleit. With just shy of 100,000 people, it’s the largest of Kentucky’s 95 counties and it strikes a perfect balance between expansive farmlands and urban conveniences like tasteful accommodations and au current restaurants.

Strolling along Main Street in Shelbyville, a boulevard so scenic it practically looks like it’s a movie set, visitors will take in the warm sunshine and note the beautiful dogwood trees lining the sidewalk. Those very dogwood trees are the subject of a town-wide festival in April featuring local craft vendors and artists, live music and delectable Southern cuisine.

A picture-perfect scene like this could only benefit from one thing: ice cream. Well, gelato to be more specific. Spotz Gelato is nestled in the heart of downtown and it’s pretty hard to miss. The bright pink polka-dotted interior is topped only by the taste of their award-winning banana pudding flavor. Owner Beth Richardson pioneered Spotz out of love for the depth of flavor found in gelato and the special charm of small-town ice cream shops. She now operates six locations in Kentucky, one in Las Penitas, Nicaragua, and a fleet of mobile gelato trucks, wagons and bikes.

Derby Hats and Horses
Once your sweet tooth is satisfied, pop across the street to The Polkadotted Pineapple Boutique. There’s no doubt you’re in Kentucky when you stroll into this women’s clothing boutique, because every spare corner or mannequin is sporting an elaborate Kentucky Derby hat. Shop owner Dori Lewis makes many of the hats herself, piling feathers and flowers onto fascinators in true Derby style. The tradition of wearing hats to the famous horse race was brought over to the U.S. from English and French horse races and some say the bigger the hat, the bigger the luck.

But long before you don your Derby hat and order a mint julep, the horses that race the Derby are training. Melanie Defler, owner of West Meadow Farm in Eminence, has been training thoroughbred winners for years. Visitors can tour the farm and meet some of the soon-to-be Derby competitors. Though Defler breeds and houses race horses, she also accepts rescues and finds new careers for horses that are past their racing prime.

The Derby is an important part of Kentucky’s history and culture, but some of the side effects have been less than productive. Jeanette Aumon, the owner of Cerulean Farm, is using her own rescue program not only to rehabilitate horses but also to preserve original horse breeds. Native quarter horses are much healthier in their original foundation breed than when bred with thoroughbreds in order to race. Watching so many happy horses gallop across Aumon’s fields, it’s hard to believe some of them could barely walk when they arrived in her care.

Not all souvenirs from this trip are horses’ kisses and dusty boots. The Shoppes at Blue Gables is a complex of small shops by local vendors and artists. Built in an old motel compound, the shops include clothing, handmade bath products, an art gallery and much more. Shelby County is also home to The Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass, the only outlet in the entire state.

Bourbon? Of Course!
Alternatively, you could bring home a bottle of bourbon. After all, is it really Kentucky if you haven’t sipped a locally made Old Fashioned? Jeptha Creed is a unique stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour. Co-owned by master distiller mom Joyce Nethery and marketing manager daughter Autumn Nethery, the bourbon is distilled from bloody butcher corn grown by the Nethery family. The red corn, an unusual style for bourbon distilling, adds a richness of flavor to the beverage.

Start your visit to Jeptha Creed with a barrel tasting. You’ll be brought out to the barrel rooms where all the bourbons age. Sitting in leather armchairs, wrapped in furs in the cooler months, you’ll sample limited edition bourbons and learn about the company’s history. If you visit on a Sunday, Jeptha Creed’s lavish brunch Bloody Mary is a must. It comes with the distillery’s hot pepper vodka and enough skewered food to feed four people. Your Instagram will never be the same.

Back at Cerulean Farm you can nap off your trip along the bourbon trail or enjoy tea and homemade cookies on the year round porch. Aumon may join you to check in on your stay or she may be out caring for her horses, photographing local animals, educating students about equine health and generally saving the world. That’s women’s work in Shelby County.

visitshelbyky.com

The post WOMEN MEAN BUSINESS IN SHELBY COUNTY, KY appeared first on Travelgirl.

Atlanta has almost an embarrassing amount of fun things to do. From professional and college sports teams, to world-class museums, to parks, innovative restaurants, the BeltLine to concerts and festivals, we humbly admit that we have it all.

And, now even more! Yes, a number of new and exciting restaurants and activities have entered the city so that no matter where one is located — Westside, Eastside, Midtown, Buckhead and Downtown — there is more to do than ever to have a great time in the ATL.

RESTAURANTS
Atlanta has a firm grasp on what’s happening in the restaurant biz. First off, let’s congratulate Terry Koval of the Deer and the Dove for being awarded the Restaurant industry’s Oscar. Koval was just named the 2023 Best Chef Southeast by the James Beard Foundation. Other local 2023 James Beard semi-finalists include: Clinton Gray, Derrick Moore and Emanuel Reed for Slim & Husky’s Pia Berria, Lyla Lila (for its wine program); Ticonderoga Club (hospitality); Buena Gente Cuban Bakery; and Ronald Hsu and Aaron Phillips (Lazy Betty), Jiyeon Lee and Cody Taylor (Heirloom Market BBQ), Sahar Siddiqi (Chai Pani) and Deborah VanTrece (Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours).

Among the big news for the area was the opening of Nobu, the famous celebrity-favored sushi restaurant, and the Nobu Atlanta hotel. Both became instant hits among locals and outof-towners. Nobu is located across from Phipps Plaza, one of the country’s most exclusive shopping malls, which recently underwent a renovation. Part of the renovation was the recently opened Citizens Market Atlanta, a 25,000-square-foot immersive culinary destination that includes a culinary market with eight chef-driven brands and a full, indoor and outdoor bar. The variety of food offerings are fast casual options ranging from modern American to Asian-fusion.

Speaking of celebrities, Marcus Samuelsson, the acclaimed chef behind restaurants including the Red Rooster Harlem, and winner of eight James Beard Foundation awards, recently opened Marcus Bar & Grille, which serves elevated comfort classics and signature dishes. Located in the funky neighborhood of Edgewood Avenue (don’t forget to go to the nearby Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium), the restaurant shows why Samuelsson has prepared dishes for former President Obama.

We’re excited by downtown’s R3 Rosendale Concepts, a restaurant by award-winning and Certified Master Chef® Rich Rosendale (only one of 72 in the country) with menus inspired from local cuisine, seasonal ingredients and the personal experiences of the R3 team. Everything about the restaurant is impeccable: the flexible and creative menu, the service as well as the decor. There’s also live music every night.

Deborah VanTrece continued her history of fabulous restaurants with the opening of La Panarda, which showcases her love of Italian cuisine, in the revitalizing Cascade Heights area. Follow the yellow brick road (literally) to Amore e Amore, a Ponce Highland restaurant that takes its themes, well, very seriously. Currently it’s a Wizard of Oz theme, complete with Dorothy, the Tin Man and lots of Wicked Witch hats decoratively and literally filling every inch of this great Italian restaurant. Themes change, so you must keep going back.

Other new restaurants making waves are: Zakia Modern Lebanese Restaurant in Buckhead, Brassica in the Waldorf Astoria, Wicked Wolf Sports Pub & Club and Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles, both in Midtown. Last but not least, we need to give a nod to the Fishmonger, named one of Esquire’s best new restaurants, with two locations.

Check out the Summerhill neighborhood near the former Turner Field, (now the Georgia State Stadium) for a variety of great food and drink options such as Little Bear for international fare, Wood’s Chapel BBQ or Halfway Crooks Beer for great craft beer.

Of course, we can never forget Atlanta’s favorites including the Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, the Livingston Restaurant & Bar (which re-opened after three years), Bazati on the BeltLine, Ray’s in the City, Aria, Thumbs Up Diner, The Optimist, Atlas, and Nan Thai Fine Dining.

ENTERTAINMENT
Pullman Yards, in the Kirkwood neighborhood, has come on strong lately as a fun spot with two great restaurants (Fishmonger and Dailies & Sides), pickleball, as well as concerts, and special events such as Jurassic World the Exhibition. But its latest addition is AlcoHall, a food hall for drinks. AlcoHall features seven stalls with different alcohol brands offering everything from wine, whiskey to beers on tap.

Föwling Warehouse, located on the Westside, is the only place in Georgia to play föwling, a combination football, bowling and horseshoe game. There’s also a great bar, games, pub food and has a dog-friendly outdoor patio. Located at The Works on the Westside, Your 3rd Spot has it all — great food and drinks and games — lots of games — more than 80, in fact. Explore the shops, restaurants and activities over at Atlantic Station.

PuttShack in the Interlock complex on the Westside still delights with tech-infused mini golf and great food and drinks. While on the roof is L.O.A. Rooftop, which offers some of the best views of the city, a beautiful pool (day pass or membership pass) and Restaurant L.O.A., a fantastic restaurant. Other new entertainment entries into Atlanta include the Sloomoo Institute, a slime and sensory play experience, Painted Pickle, a boutique bowling bar, Beat the Bomb and Flight Club Atlanta, an interactive social darts destination.

Explore the wonders of the ocean at the Georgia Aquarium where you can have an immersive shark, sea lion and ray interactions. The Aquarium inspires, educates and entertains guests about aquatic biodiversity through its hundreds of exhibits and tens of thousands of animals across seven galleries.

Westside Motor Lounge is a dynamic indoor-outdoor culinary and entertainment experience near the Westside BeltLine Connector. Westside Motor Lounge is an adaptive resuse project that features a restaurant We could go on and on… but we really (honestly) don’t want to brag.

Be sure to explore bustling Brookhaven where you will find a wealth of locally owned restaurants, exceptional shops and a vibrant arts scene. Don’t miss the opportunity to shop at Brookhaven’s Farmer’s Market. Open every Saturday morning, 9AM – 12PM at 1375 Fernwood Circle NE, 30319, stalls are filled with fresh fruits, vegetables and more. Brookhaven also sports Food Truck Nights. Join the crowds flocking to try the fare on the last Wednesday of the month and enjoy live music, food trucks, and activities for the kids. Be sure to bring blankets and chairs and check the weather before you head out.

Trendy restaurants, including Haven and Petite Violette, savvy shops and a fabulous vibe make Brookhaven the place to see and be see.

The post HOMETOWN: ATLANTA, GEORGIA appeared first on Travelgirl.

No, you can’t see Russia from your window but you can see a lot more — and you won’t want to miss it. A trip on Celebrity Cruises’ Millennium is a treat one should take — for themselves, for their family, to renew their lust for life and marvel at the wonder of nature. It’s all there.

This was our fourth trip to the Last Frontier and our first on Celebrity. In both cases, it won’t be our last. While the Millennium is awesome (more on that later) the true star is Alaska. From our balcony we simply sat in awe as snow-capped mountains passed by. We wanted the Northern Lights to show up (nope) but the sun and its shadows presented a visual display especially at sunset, which was well past 9 p.m. The air was fresh, the scenery pristine and nature was all around and glorious.

The Mendenhall Glacier
The first day was blustery so we weren’t sure we could get close to the Mendenhall Glacier, which is almost 14 miles long and unfortunately receding. The captain made a valiant attempt to navigate the icy waters and then turned around. Suddenly, there was an opening and he reversed course to give us as close a view of this blue-tinged wonder as possible. Bravo to the captain and crew!

Juneau
Alaska’s capital was our first stop as our group dispersed to explore. Some went up the Tram for a bird’s eye view of the port and a quick hike. Others went whale watching, visited a dog sled summer camp or panned for gold. We chose to get our land legs back and walked around the colorful town, checking out the many jewelry and souvenir shops and the infamous Red Dog Saloon, which has welcomed miners and their lady friends for food, drinks, honky-tonk piano playing and overall adult frivolity, for decades. Located on a prominent waterfront spot is King Crab Shack with giant crab legs cooking outside. We were tempted but the price of $70 for a pound of crab leg led us scurrying back to the ship’s restaurants.

Icy Strait Point
The Huna Tlingits have called Icy Strait Point home since the Little Ice Age and in the 1880’s it was populated by fur traders followed by schools, churches and shops. Around 1912 it was the home of the largest salmon packhouse in the territory producing a mind-boggling 152,505 cases year.

Icy Strait Point is the only privately owned cruise port in Alaska and is owned by about 1,350 Alaskan natives, many of whose ancestors were the original Tlingit settlers. It’s a beautiful little area where packhouses and canneries are now shops, restaurants and event rooms. The shops are less touristy, more authentic and you can get great selections of spices, art, jewelry and clothing not found elsewhere.

Instead of careening down the world’s largest zip rider (at a 1130-degree vertical feet, that’s taller than the Empire State Building), or kayaking on the mirror-calm waters, we opted for a local culinary experience with an elderly Tlingit woman delightfully reminiscing about her childhood, showing us pictures of an upright bear she saw that morning and fixing Halibut Italian sausage, salmon burgers and smoked salmon dip. A young man demonstrated the art of filleting a halibut and then we took a slice of halibut and salmon outside to grill. Delicious!

Skagway
Skagway is cool. From the White Pass railroad to a “brothel” where the madams stick a leg outside the second-floor window, this center of the Klondike Gold Rush takes its somewhat shady past with a grain of salt and a bit of a giggle. The oncelawless town was the home of thieves, madams, shoot-outs and prospectors who only really found out how difficult it was to reach their goal when it was too far to turn back. More than 35,000 prospectors died (mostly from disease) and Gold Rush cemeteries can still be seen. The historic district is impressive with more than 100 buildings, including the 1899 Arctic Brotherhood Hall whose facade is covered with more than 8,800 bits of wood. Like we said, quirky!

We opted for a trip on the White Pass Scenic Railroad, a long scenic railroad with climate-controlled, old-fashioned rail cars (to flush the toilet, you have to use a pump). Oh what majestic beauty! The train took us through tunnels, over sky-high trestles going all the way up to the 2,865-foot summit of the White Pass. Trail highlights include Bridal Veil Valls, Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch and a black cross memorializing two workers who were crushed by a falling boulder, which is still there. As the train slowly climbs its way up the mountain, you hear about the heroic efforts of railroad workers and miners as well as view waterfalls and take pictures at almost every turn. Travelgirl tip: Sit on the left side of the train; it’s more scenic.

Ketchikan
Our final stop was the salmon capital of the world, Ketchikan. We chose the Best of Ketchikan by Land and Sea tour where we spied bald eagles on the boat ride, learned about how salmon was caught and processed (the workers were treated horribly) and, after a brief walk through the nation’s largest national forest, the Tongass National Forest (and the world’s largest temperate rainforest), on to the Saxman Native Village to view magnificent totem poles.

Our group of eight all chose different excursions with some coming back thrilled at seeing orca and humpback whales while others cuddled up to husky puppies or watched a lumberjack show. Many went kayaking while some simply explored on their own. Whether you are adventurous or more on the subdued side, there is an activity waiting for you at each port — even if it’s a restaurant with fresh salmon and a local beer.

Meet the Millennium
We boarded the Millennium in Seward for the seven-day Southbound Glacier cruise that ended in Vancouver. Other Alaska Celebrity cruise ships with different itineraries include the Solstice, Edge and Summit. All offer the amazing amenities found on any Celebrity ship.

The Millennium, which is being assigned to Asia after the season, has an occupancy of 2,218 and is one of the first cruise ships to receive a Four-Star rating by Forbes Travel Guide. We stayed in the AquaClass, which featured a private balcony, complimentary dining at the health-focused Blu and unlimited access to the Persian Garden, a private spa that featured a hammam, infrared and steam room. The cabin was roomy, but we would have preferred losing a few feet of stateroom for a few more in the shower, which was unbelievably small.

Nevertheless, there was a well-balanced list of activities to keep one busy, including gambling, yoga, wine tastings, sports, movies and contests such as Deal or No Deal. There were also plenty of quiet spots to read and have a morning coffee.

Two of the best parts of cruising are the food and entertainment. The Millennium had several restaurants including the Metropolitan, the main dining room, and Oceanview, the cafeteria-style eatery. Both, as well as the others, had a varied selection including glutenfree and vegetarian. The specialty restaurants lived up to their names with the Tuscan Grille offering Italian food and steaks.

Travelgirl tip: Order a quarter-size portion of pasta and then a terrific steak.

Sushi on Five offered traditional sushi and rolls as well as delectable dishes such as excellent miso soup, homemade lobster & shrimp wontons and lobster ramen. The real surprise, dare we say mind-bending, was Le Petit Chef. Sit down at the custom 3D table and meet Le Petite Chef, an animated character who pops up on your plate and table and explains the menu and its inspirations. It’s delightful and the food matches the inventiveness of the character.

The Martini Bar is another favorite. The master bartenders literally pour six flavors of martinis into 12 glasses at the same time. They do the same feat with three martini glasses situated on the bartender’s head and shoulders. By the way, the martinis are sublime.

We loved the intimate entertainment with a few musicians, or even a solo guitarist, playing but you could also enjoy loud and caffeinated Broadway-type shows as well as a very funny musician and Cirque de Soleil-type aerial team. In any event, there is plenty to do at night, including dancing, silent disco and karaoke with a live band.

Yes, on this trip you’ll see it all. You’ll witness breathtaking scenery, admire the heritage of the native populations as well as the colorful settlers who (semi) tamed Alaska. It’s about watching the sun set from a hot tub or the delighted faces of cruisers having the time of their lives. It’s quite a view — and it’s waiting for you.

celebritycruises.com
travelalaska.com

The post CRUISING: SOUTHBOUND ALASKA appeared first on Travelgirl.

By Celina Colby

It’s hard to get more quintessential New England than Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The charming town is lined with cobblestone and brick streets, local boutiques, and buildings dating back as far as the 1600s. Restaurants offer up mayo-dressed lobster rolls and clam chowder and the residents have swapped pilgrim collars for Patriots caps.

Located directly on the water, this is an ideal spring and summer getaway when the brilliant yellow forsythia buds are beginning to bloom. Portsmouth is just an hour by bus or car from Bah-stun and most of the same slang applies. Called “one of the most culturally rich destinations” by Dozen Distinctive Destinations, Portsmouth’s history comes alive while seamlessly blending in the modern. A historic working seaport, Portsmouth features art galleries, jazz clubs, chef-owned restaurants, breweries and beautiful red brick buildings. Portsmouth takes pride in the fact that almost all of the shops downtown are independently owned. Did we mention that downtown’s shops are tax free?

For historical background, the Strawberry Banke Museum is a must. Though it’s dubbed a museum, it’s really a 10-acre campus illustrating what life was like for the original native inhabitants and early settlers of Portsmouth. You can tour historic homes and gardens, chat with costumed performers, and engage in hands-on crafting.

But in the spring particularly the Wentworth-Coolidge mansion is an unparalleled way to experience historic Portsmouth. The 18th-century house sits right on the banks of the Portsmouth Harbor on a sprawling property that bursts with vibrant blooming flowers in May and June. You can tour the mansion and learn about upper-crust life in the 1700s, but it’s also a beautiful spot to picnic at and enjoy the waterfront views.

Portsmouth offers a variety of lodging. Hotel Thaxter, newly opened on Middle Street in a former church from the 1860s, provides both the comforts of a modern boutique hotel and a strong connection to Portsmouth’s rich history. The property is named for Celia Thaxter, a writer, painter, and recreational botanist who established one of the first artist colonies in Portsmouth. Plants were one of Thaxter’s passions and her green thumb is evidenced all over the hotel: in the floral printed chairs of the library, the faux flowers outside each room that indicate a guest’s cleaning preference, and the copies of Thaxter’s books that live in each room like a botanical bible.

Local hospitality guru Amanda McSharry, who created the property with her husband, Jay, felt a kinship with Thaxter who was a pioneering creative in her time and the passion for this project is evident in every detail.

In addition to creature comforts, Hotel Thaxter is home to an innovative Japanese restaurant, Nichinan. Here you can sip craft cocktails and sample wagyu beef in a chic, art decoinspired space. The new Sailmaker’s House, Wentworth By The Sea, The Hotel Portsmouth, Water Street Inn, the Ale House and the historic 360-year-old Three Chimneys Inn in nearly Durham, each offer their own charm that will make any visit special. In addition, there are plenty of national hotel chains available.

Though charm and history run heavy in Portsmouth, the contemporary flourishes too. 3S Artspace is a dynamic nonprofit performance and visual art space near the water. The robust events calendar includes film screenings, live music, performance art, hands-on creative workshops like ink painting, and much more. The space has also become a meeting group for other community events like clothing swaps.

Modern innovation has reached the hospitality industry here as well. The Inn Downtown is part of a group of apart-hotels pioneered by local entrepreneur Doug Palardy. These accommodations are like studio apartments, with efficiency (and sometimes full) kitchens, sitting and sleeping areas, and spacious well-appointed bathrooms. This makes them convenient for both short- and long-term stays.

The Inn is also completely self-managed. Guests are given a code at check-in for their rooms and check in and out independently. The rooms and common areas are cleaned but there’s no central lobby or desk staff. This worked well as a safety precaution during the COVID-19 pandemic but that kind of mobility and independence has remained popular with young travelers.

This property is located directly in the heart of downtown Portsmouth for easy walking access to just about everything, but sister property Great Island Inn down the road in New Castle provides more of a beach experience.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, strikes a special balance between urban hotel amenities and cuisine and coastal small-town history and charm. It has many of the conveniences and luxuries you might find in Boston and all of that quaintness you’ll find in Bar Harbor.

When you visit take advantage of all there is to do, but don’t forget to take a page out of Celia Thaxter’s book and stop to smell the flowers.

goportsmouthnh.com

The post FOR A QUICK BREAK, TRY PORTSMOUTH, NEW HAMPSHIRE appeared first on Travelgirl.

Story and Photos by Celina Colby

New England’s coastal beauty is best experienced in multiples. Multiple oysters, multiple scenic walks along rocky shores, multiple encounters with plaid-clad locals at the Main Street watering hole. Why stop at just one charming, historic town when you can soak up three over the course of the week? The New England Coastal Road Trip package put together by Colwen Hotels allows lobster lovers to experience three quintessential New England towns in one go.

First Stop: Portland
You can structure your trip however you’d like, but we recommend starting north and working your way down the coast. Check in at the Portland Harbor Hotel, a charming and luxurious property nestled in the heart of the city’s historic Old Port district. Decorated in the rich navy blue, red and cream colors of the region, the property is at once cozy and upscale. Highlights of the experience include the lavish breakfast menu served in the restaurant or via room service and the outdoor fire pit that warms travelers year-round.

From the Portland Harbor Hotel it’s an easy walk to the best Portland has to offer. The foodie city is bursting with vibrant culinary experiences. Obviously, you’re going to want to try some of that famous Maine lobster. Head to Eventide Oyster Co. for an upscale, avant-garde experience featuring a huge selection of oysters and a bao-style bun for your lobster roll. Or keep it classic by grabbing a mayo-soaked roll from the Portland Lobster Company and eating it overlooking the water. You can literally watch fishermen pull lobsters out of the water while you eat one. That’s the kind of voyeurism we can get into.

Don’t skimp on culture at this stop as the Portland Museum of Art offers a dynamic collection of local and national artists. Throw any preconceived notions you have of Maine art out the window. Boat paintings be gone. History buffs will also love a tour of Victoria Mansion, a uniquely preserved slice of architectural and regional history.

At each stop along the road trip, you’ll find a package of local snacks in your room to get you in the New England mood. While you stroll the streets of Portland you can nibble on sweet blueberry popcorn and sip a cold root beer.

Second Stop: Portsmouth
Drive (or take the regional bus) just an hour south from Portland to Portsmouth, NH, another quintessential coastal New England town with roots back to the early 1600s. You can’t get much more early-America than that.

Though the city retains its historic charm, we promise there have been significant comfort upgrades since the Pilgrims rolled up to the Portsmouth shore. For example, instead of roughing it like the Pilgrims did, you can now stay in the comfort of the AC Hotel Portsmouth. Don’t be fooled by the Marriott parentage of this hotel, it’s chic with a capital “C” sporting a clean-lined black lobby with multiple gas fireplaces and an upgraded fitness center where you can stream stationary bike classes in a private spin room. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy dinner or a drink in the rooftop restaurant overlooking the Old Harbor.

You’ll want to engage in a New England pastime, strolling down Main Street, or in Portsmouth’s case, Market Street. It’s here that you’ll find a plethora of unique, local shops and restaurants. Those with a penchant for the literary should head to Book & Bar for a cocktail or a coffee and an afternoon of browsing through shelves of used books. Pickwick’s Mercantile is a vintage-y gift shop nodding to Portsmouth’s rich history and offering locally made cards, candles, and other goods.

Top off your evening with an innovative meal on a haute cuisine level but served up in a comfortable, casual environment at Raleigh Wine Bar. The enthusiastic team can recommend a different, unique wine to match each course. After all, you need to be fortified for the final leg of your trip.

Third Stop: Boston
Another hour in the car or on a bus and you’ll find yourself in Paul Revere’s very own hometown. Well, close by anyway. For the third stop on the New England Coastal Road Trip you’re based at The Row Hotel in Somerville, just outside Boston on the Cambridge side. The artistic and contemporary hotel is located in a newly built complex of shops, art installations, restaurants and entertainment called Assembly Row.

The complex is located right at an MBTA subway stop so you can easily pop into Boston proper for a Red Sox game or a stroll along the Freedom Trail. Satiate your cravings for local oysters and classic clam chowder at Salt and Stone just around the corner from The Row Hotel or just sip craft cocktails at the restaurant’s Instagram-worthy midcentury style bar overlooking their woodfired oven. Further down the street, pop into All She Wrote Books, a local bookshop highlighting historically underrepresented authors, like women, LGBTQIA+ and POC writers. Take your new reading material back to the hotel and enjoy it while lounging by the petite but beautifully decorated indoor pool.

The location of The Row Hotel offers visitors the opportunity to encounter as much or as little of the traditional Boston experience as they’d like. You can go into town every day for classic Boston moments like a walk through Harvard Yard or a Duck Boat tour around the city. Or you can lay low in Somerville’s Assembly Row neighborhood, prioritizing relaxation at the end of your road trip.

The New England Coastal Road Trip caters to the foodie, the shopper, the action-packed tourist and the poolside lounger alike. No matter what your interests, you’ll leave the region pronouncing car as “cah.”

The post ROAD TRIP: NEW ENGLAND COAST appeared first on Travelgirl.

Disney Meetings and Events Team Brings its Special Magic to Every Event

Disney’s charm, charisma and expertise shine in theme parks, cruise ships and weddings. It’s a fact; Disney is known as the happiest place on earth. Enterprises throughout the world including Fortune 500 companies, foundations, corporations, family groups and businesses engage Disney to handle their private functions and these events are something to behold.

With the Disney Meetings and Events team, the client is the star. The magic is instantaneous and begins the moment you start planning your experience. The Disney Meetings and Events team plans it all. From invitations, costumes, staging to themes, each occasion is styled with panache. Invitations are unique and mesmerizing and prepared with magical care. An invite can be constructed of high-gloss paper shaped like a CD. When you open the envelope, the disc plays a song announcing the event! An invitation can showcase a new car about to be placed in production; anything you can imagine can be created by the talented Disney production team. The invitation is just the beginning; these events boggle the mind.

The Disney Meetings and Events team can plan a week-long, weekend, or single event. Anything you can dream can be orchestrated and everything is fashioned to the highest expectations. Your event team produces “Couture by Disney” where the uppermost standards are applied by an immensely imaginative team. Costuming is an art and, if you wish to enrich your function utilizing inventive apparel, the Disney Meetings and Events team will design glorious costumes to match your theme. Want to be Alice Through The Looking Glass, Anna or Elsa from Frozen, or perhaps a Marvel character? The Disney Meetings and Events team can make you believe you are Captain America or turn you into Wonder Woman. Perhaps you wish to recreate a scene from an episode of Saturday Night Live. Capable Disney experts can bring that chapter to life. Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother can and will arrive and make all your dreams come true!

Walt Disney World, located in Orlando, Florida, was the destination of choice for my family reunion event. This amazing amalgamation of parks was enjoying a milestone anniversary and celebrations were in gear. Welcoming children and adults of all ages, the atmosphere throughout was gloriously contagious and this was the perfect place to host my family. Bringing joy, smiles and laughter to a multitude of guests, my group was enchanted from the moment we arrived at the Riviera Resort and checked into our extraordinary rooms. The Riviera offers tower studio rooms and fabulous deluxe one-, two- or three-bedroom villas. This is the perfect resort for families. The tower studios include a microwave, small refrigerator and a uniquely hidden pull-down queen sofa bed. The villas are incredible, replete with kitchens, stainless steel appliances, washer and dryer, and a bubble-jet bathtub. The crème de la crème is the three-bedroom Grand Villa, which sleeps up to 12.

My family reunion was eventful, magical and almost beyond belief. The crème de la crème highlight was our last night’s celebration. It was an evening to remember with a soiree fit for a king and queen. After a charming and blissful day in the park, my group was escorted into a private group facility where a gifted staff eagerly welcomed and ushered us in. My group was comprised of grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, children and grandchildren, and an infant who had just turned one. Our evening kicked off with a pianist who greeted us with an array of well-known and delightful Disney tunes. I’ve never seen my grandchildren’s eyes opened so wide! A fully stocked bar delighted the adults who ordered a drink, relaxed, enjoyed sensational appetizers while they watched the young ones dance. A grandiose four-course dinner was chosen in advance and served on fine china with silver table service and accompanied by an array of superb wines. The accommodating staff and magical atmosphere made this an evening to remember.

We finished dining and enjoyed several delightful Disney desserts while the children filled their pockets and their bellies with a cornucopia of candy but the best was yet to come. We walked down another hall to private room and a knock on the door was all it took. The children ran into the arms of the one and only Mickey Mouse. Disney had a photographer on hand to record the magic and turn them into memories we will always cherish. We spent 20 minutes taking photos with Mickey and then were escorted to sublime seats near the water to watch the nighttime pyrotechnical extravaganza. The laser and light show was filled with a medley of classic Disney music and an innovative combination of floating giant screens, choreographed moving fountains, lights and lasers. The scenes were inspired by your favorite Disney movies. What a magical way to complete a marvelous Disney day.

When planning your visit, Travelgirl recommends you divide your time between the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Star War’s Rise of the Resistance (located in Hollywood Studios), and Animal Kingdom Park, which is also home to Pandora – The World of Avatar. You must make time to enjoy Disney’s newest ride, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, which is located in EPCOT. This reverse-launch roller coaster projects you into the movie of the same name. You will rock to the music and roll along while experiencing an intergalactic chase through space and time. Travelgirl recommends you schedule a minimum of four days, more if possible, to fully enjoy the enriching activities and inspirational rides each park has to offer. Each day promises to be quite spectacular. Travelgirl Tip: Use the Park Hopper option to purchase tickets; a multi-day ticket is economical and flexible allowing the ticket holder to visit several parks on the same day.

The atmosphere at Disney is divine. If you love to travel and are dreaming of Paris, London, Morocco and Rome but can’t swing it right now, you should head to EPCOT’s World Showcase — no luggage, Euro or passport required. Transport yourself into 11 different countries all in one day. You will find a wealth of authentic items, attractions and restaurants that represent each country’s culture and cuisine. Travelgirl Tip: The Givenchy Shop inside Paris is a must-see, offering the complete collection of coveted Givenchy fragrances and cosmetics. Walk in a tourist and walk out a princess under the careful tutelage of Givenchy cosmeticians. The luxurious products are oh la la!!!

Disney’s cuisine offers a kaleidoscope of imaginative and scrumptious eateries. You can fast food it with hot dogs, burgers, popcorn, candy and ice cream at various stands throughout the parks or dine in style in an array of supercalifragilisticexpialidocious restaurants. You can choose from indigenous cuisine throughout EPCOT or make a reservation for a coveted table at Space 220, the first of its kind eatery. This concept restaurant blasts the diner 220 miles into the atmosphere via a space elevator. Diners arrive at the Centauri Space Station where you enjoy a delectable lunch or dinner Disney style.

You will also love Disney’s California Grille located on the 15th floor of the Contemporary Resort and the Steakhouse 71 located on the first floor. Cinderella’s Royal Table, Cítricos and Topolino’s Terrace headline a host of divine places to dine. Travelgirl tip: Reservations are a must and are available months and months ahead of your visit.

The uber-talented Disney Meetings and Events team did a truly magnificent job. Everything I had envisioned surpassed expectations. Disney created the event of a lifetime, one my family will never forget. Take note: Disney can do this for you, for your businesses, your families and for meetings and incentives. Event enchantment can turn every travelgirl into a fairytale princess. With the wave of their magical hands, the impossible becomes possible and you realize, with sometimes dreams really do come true. For more 411 and to plan your special week or weekend, Contact Disney Events at 321-939-7129 or visit https://www.disneymeetingsandevents.com/social-events/

The post Disney Meetings and Events appeared first on Travelgirl.

The post Travelgirl Glimpse: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina appeared first on Travelgirl.

The post savvy SIX: Roanoke, VA appeared first on Travelgirl.

The post savvy SIX: Amelia Island appeared first on Travelgirl.

The post 2017 Travel Trends appeared first on Travelgirl.