Thursday, February 26, 2015

Hutchinson Island, Florida

Location:

Hutchinson Island is located on Florida's southeast coast, just 45 minutes north of West Palm Beach. Its also 2 hours drive north from Miami and south from Orlando. The perfect spot for a girlfriend trip. Pack, get in your car (or on a quick flight) and you're there in no time at all.



Accommodations:
Remember, budget trips are my specialty so here are some of the best deals in the area:

The Vistana Beach Club is right on the beach and close to local attractions like the Elliot Museum and Savannas Preserve State Park.  The rooms feature kitchens with refrigerators and stove tops. Recreational opportunities include an outdoor pool and a spa tub. Additional features include concierge services and a picnic area.

About 3 miles north of Hutchinson Island, in Jensen Beach is the quaint Caribbean Shores Resort. This waterfront hotel features a 300-foot fishing pier and dock space for guests' boats. Hammocks slung between palm trees sway in the breeze, and the outdoor pool is heated. The accommodations feature furnished balconies and patios with riverfront views. Kitchens include stoves, microwaves and refrigerators, and cookware and dishes. Living rooms are furnished with queen sofa beds. 
 

Things to do:
Try a guided Kayak Tour or rent a boat and have lunch at one of the tiny islands off the intra-coastal. The Florida Oceanographic Center (a 57 acre marine life nature center) on Hutchinson Island is a great way to spend an afternoon and learn about marine life and conservation efforts. Of course, the best way to enjoy a beach vacation is the beach.  

You will want a cozy beach read like The House on Mermaid Point by Wendy Wax.

 

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Orlando, Florida


Here's the secret.....Orlando is not just for kids!  Adults can have the time of their life as well.  Never mind the pictures of my kids I took at Orange Lake Resort in Lake Buena Vista.........there are many fun things that you can do with your girlfriends.....
  • Check in to  Orange Lake Resort with one and two bedroom suites with the right amount of space to be friendly but not awkward. Rates are quite reasonable and you can split the cost with a girl friend.
  • Stock up on groceries at Publix about 3 miles from the resort (will fix a case of the munchies)
  • Enjoy a poolside cocktail (they've got many of each)

  • For dinner, there are lots of options in Orlando.  We prefer somewhere low key for the first evening then Downtown Disney where you can find a great selection of restaurants.
  • Depending on budget, you will want to spend a day or two at one of the Disney or Island of Adventure Parks.  We love Islands of Adventure for the scary rides and Harry Potter world, of course.
  • There is a pretty large Outlet Mall in the area but honestly, there is so much to do that I just don't think Orlando is the place to worry about shopping.  In the event you must go, Orlando Premium Outlet is the place.
For a bargain trip, visit in the off season like Spring or Fall.  Its quite steamy in summer and Winter is expensive.

Book Suggestion:
Down and Out in the Magic Kingdom seems like a fitting read for this trip!

Enjoy!




Monday, July 27, 2009

Southern Charm



When you think of a vacation in Georgia, most people think of Atlanta or Savannah......well, I beg to differ. A vacation at one of the Georgia State parks is a terrific idea for a girlfriend getaway and the best thing is, the rate rocks! By "rocks" we mean "affordable" ......which is the idea behind this blog!


Where to go:
Unicoi State Park - nestled in the north Georgia mountains just two miles from the Alpine village of Helen, Unicoi is one of Georgia’s most beloved state parks. Throughout the year, the park offers outstanding programs which focus on natural, cultural, historical and recreational resources.

Accommodations:Rent a 2-bedroom cottage at Unicoi State Park for $135 per night in September. With tax, cottage totals $310.50 for a 2-night stay. For a group of 4 girls, the cost is $78.00 per person. Cottage is 2 bedrooms with a separate living room, dining room and kitchen fully stocked with all utensils to prepare a full course meal. You may plan your meals ahead of time and bring your own supplies OR grab a few items from one of the Package stores in the area.

Things to do: The plan is to check in on Friday -- catch up on the latest affairs over a few drinks then call it a night! On Saturday, the great outdoor awaits. Enjoy hiking and biking on scenic mountain trails, especially those leading to Helen and Anna Ruby Falls. Try *lake fishing or boating then enjoy a picnic while bird watching from one of the picnic tables scattered around the park. Craft lovers should not miss the lodge gift shop specializing in hand-made quilts and local pottery.
*Fishing Tackle Loaner Program:
The DNR's fisheries management office and several state parks have created a program where visitors may borrow equipment for no charge. Visitors can check out a pole, try their luck, then return the equipment when they are finished

Bring along: Girlfriend getaways are not complete without a book discussion. Bring along a copy of Wendy Wax's book called "Leave It To Cleavage." According to the list author on Amazon, this novel is "Cute, contemporary romance set in the fictional town of Truro, GA. According to the author, it's more correctly in the NC mtns, just north of the GA line, but the book calls the town Truro, GA."

 

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Travel Tips

Sure you are excited about your girlfriend getaway but before you go, here are some tips to keep you on track:
  • Get all your friends involved. Each friend needs to be responsible for a portion of the planning, from hotel to transportation, things to do to overall budget (you catch my drift).
  • Decide on your travel date. To stay on budget, plan weekend trips (shorter = cheaper) and research special deals. TIP: avoid holidays like spring break, summer, memorial day, etc.
  • Arrange Childcare. If you are traveling on the weekend, perhaps dad will be home but for mid week travel, it’s probably a good idea to plan your trip when the kids are in school so they can to stick to their routine. Also, keep in mind family and friends that can help out. Be careful when you give the real reason for going off – some friends may get jealous!
  • Travel. If all your friends are in the same city, carpooling could work. If not, plan to stay at hotels, cottages, etc that have free shuttle to the airport or in town.
  • Plan Meals. Cook for a few days so dads (or baby sitter) can heat and serve
    Write out a schedule of the kids' daily activities to help keep Dad on track while you're away.
  • Before you go: check the Internet for weather, travel warnings etc. Its best to be prepared for any and everything.
  • Have FUN!