I’m a romantic at heart and love to hear stories of couples stealing away for a few days of romance. In fact, my travel writing career began by writing about romantic destinations and honeymoons. One thing many couples forget as they become parents, is that one day their kids will grow up and its just the two of them again. Just because you are parents doesn’t mean romance should go flying out the window.

There are a few elements that make a place romantic in my book. There has to be a touch of luxury, with plush bedding, a big bathtub, a shower for two. There has to be Champagne and good wine available. The atmosphere is full of love and a hint of mystery. And the place needs to be downright dreamy. Keep in mind that when these elements combine, the price is not always for those on a budget. But who can put a price on love? Here are some of my favorite romantic destinations I’ve visited over the years:

The Florida Keys, FL - One of the most romantic places I ever visited was the very private Little Palm Island. You can only get there by boat and the bungalows are to-die-for gorgeous. There are a limited number of guests allowed on Little Palm Island, giving you the ultimate in privacy. The Florida Keys offer a number of romantic places to overnight, but Little Palm Island is the tops of them all. Rates run between $800-1500 per night, depending on room choice and season.

Natchitoches, LA - Any true Southerner knows of Steel Magnolias, but did you know that Natchitoches, LA is the site where the movie was filmed? There’s a B&B on every corner, and the downtown area on the Cane River is adorable. Two of my favorites are the Queen Anne Bed and Breakfast and Andrew Morris House Bed and Breakfast. Both offer intimate luxury, yet with an affordable price tag. Rates at these two properties run from $130-$185 per night, breakfast included.

London, UK - The Capital Hotel London located in Knightsbridge is full of warmth and discreet elegance in the middle of this posh area. The accommodations are sumptuous and located a few steps from Harrod’s. The wine list at The Capital Restaurant is supposedly one of the best in London. My room of choice? The two bedroom suite, which offers a private entrance and all the luxury one would expect for such an exclusive property. Room rates vary, starting at around $270 per night for a single room.

Saint-Tropez, France – Pink Champagne, onsite spa, guazey white bedcurtains, and sweeping views  all set inside a chateau. This is romance at Chateau de la Messardiere. I was fortunate enough to spend a few nights in a Junior Suite, which offers a private terrace for breakfast or sun worship, a spa-like bath, and even a small sitting area. This exclusive property is the ultimate in privacy, set on 10 hectares of gardens and lavender fields overlooking the Port of Saint-Tropez.

Moab, UT – I was blown away and surprised by Moab, Utah so much that I had to return for a second visit. It’s an outdoor enthusiast dream set near a number of US National Parks. Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa is set riverside on the Colorado River in the outskirts of Moab. The River View Deluxe Suites are rustic elegance with plush bedding, a romantic porch, and a gorgeous picture window in the bathroom, framing the large tub. Combined with the fine dining onsite and the area’s best spa, this red rock mesa resort is mountain romance at its finest. Rates start at $425 per night.

Taos, NM – There’s just something about Taos that pulls at one’s soul. I enjoyed a nice stay at El Monte Sagrado, one of the most sacred places in the area. Numerous celebrities steal away for privacy and romance at this Kessler property. Dreamy tub? Yes. Plush bedding? Yes. Balcony with stars? Yes. Onsite spa? Yes. Does all this make for one romantic getaway? I say yes. Room rates for a mountain king room start at $189 per night.

Victoria, BC – Victoria’s Inner Harbour is romantic all the way around. A walk around Butchart Gardens is like stepping into a fairytale. For lodging, the Magnolia Hotel and Spa is one of the top hotels in Canada. The rooms are decorated in Old World elegance, with soaking tubs complete with a full line of bath amenities. An onsite spa and delicious dining in the steakhouse roundout this small hotel with big amenities. Rooms start at $169 per night for a standard room.

I could go on and on about romantic destinations for Valentines or anytime. If you are looking for a romantic escape, be sure the destination is a place that offers something that both of you like, be it activities, room amenities, or a romantic view. No matter where you decide to go on your romantic escape, being with the one you love is truly what makes the place special.

One hundred hot air balloons will fly over Albuquerque, New Mexico on Valentine’s Day weekend. You and a guest could win a romantic getaway for two and celebrate during the Friends and Lovers Hot Air Balloon Rally.

The Albuquerque Convention and Visitors Bureau is sponsoring a contest and giving away:

• Two nights accommodations at the Crown Plaza Albuquerque

• Balloon ride for two at the Friends and Lovers Hot Air Balloon Rally

• A $200 Visa card–useful for either airfare, gas, dinner or shopping

Contest entries must be received by 11:59 pm MST January 31, 2012.
Enter online at www.ItsATrip.org/valentines.

The winning entry will be drawn on February 1, 2012. The winner must be available to fly in the balloon at 7am on either February 11th or 12th.

Albuquerque hotels are offering tons of Valentine Day packages and romantic meals– details are online.

Happy Holidays!

Travel can be stressful, but when you add the aspect of family travel during the busy holiday season and many of us are overwhelmed. We’ve put together our best travel tips and ideas to help you make the most out of this crazy holiday travel season.

• Take a Tip from Santa – Make a packing list (and check it twice).
• Weather Check – Check the weather at your destination and pack accordingly.
• Documents – Make sure to have your passport, ticket information and other photo ID BEFORE leaving home. Keep those documents handy when going through security as well. Place them in an outside pocket of a carry-on.
• Carry-on Gifts – If flying with gifts, place them in a carry-on unwrapped. Bring along wrapping paper and tape to decorate once you reach the final destination.
• Pack an Extra Bag – Pack an extra bag so you can bring back gifts or items purchased while traveling. I like the new Lands’ End FlightWise Carry-on Trip Tote. It is lightweight and easy to shove into a larger bag.
• Ship Ahead – When possible, ship gifts ahead of time or look for a gift retailer that will ship direct. Lands’ End will ship gifts directly to recipients and even wrap them for a small fee.
• TSA Guidelines – Be sure to check with the latest TSA guidelines and pack your carry-ons accordingly. If you plan to carry your bag on rather than incur luggage fees, consider looking for a lightweight bag that will fit in overheads such as the Lands’ End FlightWise Carry-on Upright ($169.50). We’ve reviewed the entire line of this carry-on luggage collection.
• Get Packing – Make the most out of packing your luggage. Pack large items in your suitcase first, and fill gaps with small items such as socks. Soft-sided bags work great to maximize space and packing. We’ve got 10 packing tips for a carry on.
• Toiletry Items – Squeeze excess air out of toiletry items before packing. The air expands during the flight, which can cause items to leak. Better yet, transfer toiletries to small containers when possible. Read about a green way to pack reusable travel containers.
• Stay Charged – Are all of your chargers packed? Batteries? You’ll need these for cameras, computers, phones and handheld games. It’s also a good idea to pack a mini power strip so everything can charge at the same time.
• Calling All Credit Cards – Let credit card companies know you are traveling. Sometimes charges out of the ordinary get flagged and companies may freeze the account.
• Helping Hands – Let the kids get involved by allowing them to pack an activity backpack. Just be sure to check and make sure all items will make it through security.

Here are our holiday travel tip videos to help make your holiday travel easy and stress free. Happy Holidays from all of us at TravelingMamas.com.

CajunMama‘s Holiday Travel Tips

ThemeParkMom‘s Holiday Travel Tips

CarolinaMama‘s Holiday Travel Tips

OneMomsWorld‘s Holiday Travel Tips

There’s nothing I love like hitting the road to see a new place, and it’s even better when my husband can come along.  This weekend’s destination?  San Antonio, Texas, home of the Riverwalk, the Alamo, and a brand new Home2 Suites, Hilton’s newest brand.

We arrive in San Antonio for a long weekend and head straight to our hotel host for the weekend, Home2 Suites by Hilton.  The property opened only one month ago, meaning that everything at this property is fresh and eye-popping fun. In the urban neighborhood of downtown San Antonio, this adaptive reuse project has breathed new life into a local historic landmark building to create the latest hip and humble hotel.

Built inside the Beaux Arts style South Texas Building (originally a bank), the 14-story, 128-suite hotel is located in San Antonio’s central business district, next to the San Antonio Children’s Museum and just a few minutes’ walk from the Riverwalk.   The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the hotel made it a priority to maintain the integrity of the historic and beautiful structure throughout the construction process.  Says General Manager Andy Rodriguez, “We preserved the exterior and only made a few minor modifications to the interior  . . . The building is a pier and beam structure, which we incorporated into our design, and we were able to salvage all of the original windows and elevator doors.”

The property is decorated in lime and orange, with fun, funky furniture and up-to-date styling, even on a budget.  It features an indoor saline swimming pool and six different room layouts, with 96 king studio suites and 32 queen studio suites. Included in the reasonable room rate?  Free wi-fi and printing, access to bright, inviting community spaces, and the “Inspired Table” complimentary breakfast.

After we settle in and check out the room’s amenities (huge, walk-in shower, flat screen TV, and kitchenette), we head down to the Riverwalk for dinner on a barge.  While a tour guide explains the history and development of San Antonio’s crown jewel, we feast on Caesar salad, prime rib, and lemon pie.  When the evening cools, the lights come on along the river, and the staff offer us wool ponchos to wear.  It’s romantic and unique, the perfect introduction to this Southwestern city.

Dinner Barge on the Riverwalk (photo credit: Richard Nowitz)

Day 2 breaks sunny and cool, perfect weather for northeasterners escaping from a mid-October blizzard (what was up with that?).  Our first stop?    The four beautiful missions (San José, San Juan Capistrano, Espada and Concepción) that make up the National Historic Park established by the Catholic Church’s Franciscan Order in the 1700s. They feature diverse architectural styles and Spanish colonial art;  our tour guide does a great job of explaining the history of the relationship between the native peoples and the Spanish settlers.

Mission San José

Our tour also offers a sneak peek at the River Walk’s new Mission Reach, an eight-mile section extending from Mission Concepción to Mission Espada.  The project restores riverine features, reintroduces native plants and reconnects the river’s cultural/historical features.

After touring the missions, we’re starving – good thing, because Mi Tierra serves up enormous portions of Tex-Mex to its hundreds of lunch guests.  The famous landmark is popular with hometown regulars for its authentic Mexican food and warm Texas welcome, complete with festive décor on the ceilings and walls.  I order the tamale plate, and, even though I’m more than full, I eat the whole thing – it’s that good.  My husband can’t quite make it through his deluxe Mexican meal; he comments that it’s a sin to leave the excellent guacamole unfinished.

After heaving ourselves up from the table, we head just outside to the Farmers’ Market and El Mercado.  It’s the largest Mexican marketplace outside of Mexico, and it offers great bargain-hunting and unique shopping and food opportunities that combine the cultural, artistic and ethnic influences of the Southwest and south of the border.  We pick up a few souvenirs – a straw cowboy hat for me, a couple of ornaments for the kids, and a painted animal for our mantle.

The Alamo (photo credit: Stephanie Colgan)

Last stop of the day?  The Alamo, the city’s first mission (est. 1718).  It was the site where 189 Texan heroes including Jim Bowie, William B. Travis and David Crockett bravely battled General Santa Ana’s army in March, 1836.  Probably most interesting about seeing the Alamo up close and personal is learning about the efforts to restore it and its beautiful painted decorations; we watch as conservationists slowly wash the plaster of the oil and dirt that has accumulated over the years, exposing the original plaster and frescoes.

After the Alamo, it’s back to the Home2 for a much-needed nap.  I snuggle in the huge, comfy bed while my husband watches Texas sports on TV.  Then it’s time for our last big Texas tradition:  a good steak.  We walk two doors down to Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood, where Executive Chef Mark Bohanan brings the famed Texas steak experience to the highest fine dining level with Japanese Akaushi Steaks and mesquite-grilled prime aged center cuts of Midwestern corn fed beef, an array of fresh seafood and flaming table-side desserts. My filet is grilled perfectly, needing no sauce or enhancement to make that great Texas beef flavor come out; Steve’s ribeye is just as good, although he sneaks bites of my filet when I’m not looking.

Dining on the Riverwalk (photo credit: Stephanie Colgan)

We wake up on our last day in San Antonio to a warm and cloudless morning and take a stroll down to the Riverwalk, where breakfast at the Original is the perfect end to a wonderful weekend.  It’s quiet on a Sunday morning, but the ducks swim by on the river, and joggers pass with their dogs.  We read the paper, toss some tortillas to the ducks, and plan our next visit to San Antonio.  It’s not adios for us – just hasta la vista, until we see you again.

A View of San Antonio (photo credit: Dennis Cox)

 This trip was sponsored by Home2 Suites by Hilton and the San Antonio Convention and Visitors’ Bureau.

The 125-year-old Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans, Louisiana is celebrating its anniversary and giving away a trip to the city.

The grand prize includes: two round-trip tickets to New Orleans,  a two-night stay* in a suite at the Hotel Monteleone, a signed copy of the Hotel’s 125th Anniversary history book,  and a set of limited edition cocktail glasses.

Hotel Monteleone is a AAA Four-Diamond award winner located in the historic French Quarter. The hotel is one of the most popular spots for cocktails in the Big Easy.  Locals and visitors enjoy conversation and drinks at the revolving Carousel Bar with a circus motif

Entering the contest is easy. First, visit the Hotel Monteleone’s Facebook Page and click “Like.” Next, click “Contest” on the left sidebar. Contestants must enter their first and last names, state and email address. The contest ends November 4, 2011. The winner will be announced on Facebook on November 9, 2011.

Contestants must be at least 21 years old and a legal resident of the continental United States. The prize is valid through 2012, but the winner must book the trip before December 31, 2011. *Room dates are based on availability and exclude holidays. Additional details and contest rules are available on the Hotel Monteleone’s Facebook page.

Each year for our anniversary, my husband and I have intentions of taking a romantic getaway to a gulf coast beach. Life always seems to get in the way, but this year, the moon and stars aligned providing us the opportunity to run away for a long weekend of relaxation and romance. We were searching for a place that was on the beach, but also had a spa and room service. We found what we were looking for in the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa, located on South Walton‘s Sandestin Beach.

It’s sometimes hard for parents to find time as a couple for a romantic getaway, but I’ve always stressed the importance of remembering that you were a couple before you became parents, and later on down the road it will be just the two of you again. It’s always nice to make that effort to reconnect, no matter how big or how small your budget might be. During the fall, there are plenty of travel deals to be found for a romantic getaway, including a beachfront destination.

We planned on two nights at the beach, with no agenda and no responsibilities. We packed our essentials: swimsuits, flipflops, a big hat, sunscreen, Community Coffee, and Abita Beer. All our gear was packed in our new truck and we headed east. We listened to XM Radio during the drive, singing and laughing at songs from the 70′s and 80′s. We finally settled on Margaritaville Radio to get us in the beach mood.

The Property

The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa is a full service hotel operated independently inside Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. Sandestin Beach is one of the 15 beach neighborhoods of South Walton and offers a range of activities and attractions for all ages and interests. You get the Hilton Hotels and Resorts service with the advantage of being inside an amazing destination such as Sandestin.

The resort offers a number of restaurants onsite, including Seagar’s for fine dining, Hadashi Sushi Bar, casual dining at Sandcastles, Barefoot’s Beach Bar and Grill, Picnix Market, and The Coffee Shop. There’s also a conference area onsite, along with Serenity by the sea spa, resort golf courses, indoor and outdoor pools, and even a shuttle for guests to explore the 2400 acre Sandestin Resort. Parking is available at $10 for self park and $20 for valet parking.

There are two towers, with one offering family friendly rooms and the other offering a quieter side. We stayed in the quieter tower located in the same building as the spa, in room 348.

Our Room

We stayed in an Executive Beachfront King room, which offered a wrap around balcony and views of the beach from all windows. The room was much more spacious than I anticipated, with a full seating area, dining area, comfortable king bed, and even an area with microwave and fridge. The bathroom area had two sinks, one inside the full bathroom and the other in a dressing area. I was excited to see the Peter Thomas Roth bath amenities in the room. The room was decorated in soothing beach tones. I just loved sitting on that balcony watching the clear aqua water kiss the white sandy shore.

Dining

Barefoot’s Bar and Grill is an poolside venue open until early evening that offers a view of the Gulf of Mexico. The lunch menu offers typical beach fare, including nachos, burgers, and fish tacos, along with a signature cocktail menu. We enjoyed a late lunch our first afternoon, which consisted of Baja Tacos, a cheeseburger, and some adult beverages. The food was good and the service was fast, even during a busy time of the day. The next day as we lounged by the pool, we sampled the Ultimate Nachos and had a few more frozen libations poolside.

Room service is something I don’t always indulge in, but since we were into the ultimate relaxing romantic getaway, we ordered a late night meal from room service. Our ordered was delivered in a timely manner and the food (crab cake sliders and a hot dog) was actually pretty darn good. The price wasn’t outrageous for room service, either.

The Spa

The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa offers an onside spa facility Serenity by the sea. It is located in the lower tower on the ground level and is a luxurious retreat. The spa offers separate men and women’s facilities with steam room, sauna, relaxation room, full dressing area, lockers, and whirlpool. I enjoyed a Spa Pedicure treatment which included use of the relaxation lounge and spa amenities, making for a very relaxing Saturday. This spa is popular with guests, so be sure to book your treatment in advanced. If you’d like to spend the day relaxing at the spa without a treatment, there is a $20 day use fee for hotel guests.

The Pool

There are two outdoor pools and one indoor pool at the Hilton Sandestin Beach. We checked out pool towels from the towel hut and claimed two pool loungers at the smaller outdoor pool. There are cabanas available for $139 per day, which includes luxury lounge chairs, shade, table and chairs, and a luxury ice chest. I was satisfied with my poolside retreat with its view of the Gulf.

The Beach

The reason for the romantic getaway was to relax at the beach. It was wonderful and peaceful to inhale the fresh coastal air, listen to the waves lap the shore, and watch dolphins swim in the clear water. Each morning I watched the sunrise as I sipped my morning coffee, and each evening we watched the sun set. One evening we set out, leaving footprints in the sand as we found our perfect little quiet area of the beach. The sun set as we sipped Champagne while the stars began to peek through the dusky sky.

Overall our romantic getaway at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa was all that I could imagine. We weren’t looking for adventure, even though those activities could be found onsite. We just wanted a quiet weekend away from the everyday craziness that is normal life. We did step off property one evening to explore the other beach neighborhoods of South Walton, but for me, I only wanted to sit on that balcony, sipping a glass of wine, and finding a few days of peacefulness.

To book your own romantic getaway at the Hilton Sandestin Beach, visit www.SandestinBeachHilton.com. There are a variety of packages available and if you are a Hilton HHonors member, you can use points for nights at this beachfront property. I recommend this property if you are looking to stay a few nights at the beach, can book at a good rate, or use your Hilton HHonors points for nights.

Disclosure: Our room was at a reduced rate and the spa treatment was compliments of the property. We planned on staying at this property regardless of any discounts offered.

The world is becoming more aware of people with disabilities.You can hail an accessible cab in London, take an elevator up to the Eiffel Tower, and sleep in a wheelchair-accessible villa in Spain.

Traveling in a wheelchair to a foreign country is challenging, but not impossible.

“Once you leave home, things will be different,” says travel agent Ann Litt, who owns Undiscovered Britain and arranges customized accessible trips. “Be a little flexible and roll with the punches, and it’s absolutely worth going abroad.”

Research the Destination

Unless you are on a cruise or an organized tour with a guide, don’t try to see multiple countries on one trip advises Christine Arnold, a certified travel counselor with Classic Travel, who specializes in disabled travel. Coordinating multiple hotels and transportation is complex.

Arnold, who has multiple sclerosis and occasionally uses a scooter or cane, has visited more than 40 countries.

She says, “African safaris are quite popular for people who use wheelchairs. Guests are seated while they view the animals from an air-conditioned 4×4. The safari lodges are spectacular. They are small and the staff caters to your every need.”

Cruises are also a nice option, says Arnold. “You only unpack once, disability access is good, and there is a doctor on board.” Not every cruise ship is a headed to the beach.

Arnold especially enjoys European river cruises, and recently took one from Rome to Barcelona. If time permits, you can opt to stay a few days longer at the final stop and explore the city.

Do Your Homework

An international journey begins long before you leave home. Arnold tells clients to start planning at least six months prior to the departure date.

Before you pack a suitcase, research the destination you wish to visit. A wealth of information is available on the Internet, so start with the Tourism Offices Worldwide Directory where you can find valuable links from Algeria to Zimbabwe.

Many tourism organizations post accessibility information. You may need to try several search terms such as “accessibility,” “accessible,” “disabled,” “handicapped,” “special needs,” and “wheelchair” to locate this information. If none of these terms retrieve information, try “senior” and “elderly.”

For example, searching the Visit Britain Web site returned more than 2,000 links to “disability” information. One such link explained that many accessible public toilets in Britain are locked to prevent vandalism.

Before visiting Britain, you can purchase a key that unlocks any of the 7,000 accessible toilets that are registered with the National Key Scheme.

Hire a Travel Agent

Orchestrating travel arrangements—especially when you use a wheelchair—takes tremendous organizational skills and attention to the details.

Try to work with an agent who has experience or specializes in accessible travel. Contact the agent and discuss your specific physical needs. This is also the time to talk about the travel agent’s fees and your budget.

The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) is the largest association of travel agents in the world. On the ASTA Web site you can search for an agent who lists “Disabled/Accessibility” as a specialty. An impressive list of companies that specialize in accessible travel can be found on the DisabledTravelers.com Web site.

A travel agent can book the flight arrangements, transportation, and accommodations. An agent should be able to advise you regarding the accessibility of attractions and some will even help you rent medical equipment.

Howard J. McCoy, III is the CEO of Accessible Journeys, which has been booking accessible trips for 25 years.

McCoy says a destination’s accessibility depends upon each individual’s unique needs. Many people do not know what they are capable of doing and what is available. He has rented a vehicle with hand controls for a client who was vacationing in England and arranged for porters to carry another client to the top of Machu Picchu.

Buy Travel Insurance

Buy travel insurance at the time that you book your trip.  “Most travel insurance companies cover a pre-existing condition, but only if you purchase the insurance within 21 days of putting down the first payment on the trip,” says Arnold.

She warns travelers to buy the insurance from a third party and not the company that is arranging your trip—in the event they go out of business.

A list of travel insurance companies can be found on the U.S. State Department’s Web site. Most medical insurance, including Medicare, does not provide coverage when you are traveling outside the United States.

Pack Like a Pro

Carefully pack only what is absolutely necessary and leave empty room for souvenirs.

Check the airline’s Web site for guidance on luggage size and weight. Medical equipment, such as a wheelchair, does not count as baggage. Bring your physician’s phone number and the after hours phone number. Bring all medication in original containers. Pack these in a carry on bag along with other not-easily-replaced items such as passport, glasses, contacts, and itinerary. Exchange a few hundred dollars into the currency of the country you are visiting before you leave home.

Bon Voyage

Although the idea of traveling to another country when you use a wheelchair may be daunting, it is possible. Thorough planning and research of your destination can help overcome obstacles.

“Travel is very personal and if you nee extra assistance ask,” says Arnold. “I’ve found people want to be helpful. It’s your vacation—don’t be shy.”

Even during the middle of the busy summer season, the Henderson Park Inn is a romantic beachfront cocoon tucked on a quiet side street in Destin, Florida. The gray clapboard bed and breakfast resembles the seaside homes of upstate Maine.

The 36-room inn is on a one-mile stretch of sugar white sand beside the emerald waters of the Gulf Coast. An adults only property, every guest room receives a bottle of wine and flowers upon arrival.

On the Tuesday afternoon we arrive, the sun is shining on the green blue water as storm clouds began to gather. Our first floor Executive Suite is a large room with a king-size four-poster bed, two leather chairs and a small bar-height table with chairs. Amenities include: a microwave, mini fridge, coffee setup, jetted bathtub with shower, television with DVD player (free movies can be borrowed from the front desk), and free Internet.

Two glass doors open onto a covered wood balcony with chairs and a side table. Jim pours the wine, I unpack our books and we both take in big gulps of ocean air–this is relaxing. I could sit out here all day with the sound of the waves splashing onto the beach.

We’ve vacationed in Northwest Florida for years, but only recently discovered the Henderson Park Inn. This Gulf Coast gem is the perfect escape for a couple. The Inn prides itself on service. Breakfast and lunch are included in the pricing.

Dining

Breakfast is a huge spread. I choose oatmeal with an apple topping–it’s like apple pie without the guilt. Jim’s  made-to-order omelet with tomatoes, cheese and bacon is delicious. We chat with a couple from Bloomington, Indiana who are thrilled with the Inn, love the beach and especially like that you have to be 25 or older to even make a reservation. Jim and I sip on a second cup of coffee and read the complimentary USA Today as more guests assemble for the morning meal.

Each evening, guests place their orders for the following day’s lunch. The selection is a range of sandwiches and salads from classics like ham and Swiss to Mediterranean Veggie. Fresh lemonade and gourmet cookies magically appear from noon to 2. Boxed lunches are a wonderfully flexible idea. You can eat on the beach, the dining room or your private balcony.

From 4 pm to 5 pm, guests gather on the Inn’s outdoor deck for the complimentary Happy Hour. Under the Tiki Bar, beer and wine flow as strangers introduce themselves. Many people choose to sit for the next few hours enjoying the front row seat to a spectacular sunset.

Another great seat is at the Beachwalk Cafe which offers indoor and outdoor dining. Only open for dinner, reservations are recommended. Make it early–if you want to see the view. We dined after dark, but were treated to an amazing lightening display.

The restaurant’s decor is understated with a very attentive wait staff. We ordered a glass of wine and the crab meat spring rolls–a light, airy appetizer with a soy ginger dipping sauce. For an entree, I had a Southern Classic–shrimp and grits. Jim ate every bite of his ribeye cap with mashed potatoes and asparagus. The tart key lime pie with a cheese cake texture is superb.

Diversions

The main attraction is the beach where the Inn has a row of umbrellas and chairs reserved for guests. Beach towels are stored in the lobby. Explore the area on one of the complimentary bicycles and take a ride to the nearby park or even 30-A with it’s funky art galleries and unique shops. Keeping cool is easy–community refrigerators are stocked with bottled waters, sodas and ice-cold candy bars.

Currently, the Inn is providing one complimentary ticket per stay to the Sea Blaster Boat Cruise. The most romantic choice is a sunset cruise.

Details

The Henderson Park Inn is a cozy retreat. I highly recommend it for couples celebrating an anniversary, rekindling the romance, or those in need of a secluded and relaxing escape. Thanks to the Inn for hosting our recent visit. Rates range from $139 to $609 per night. Call 1.888. 836.1105 for reservations and information.

I’ve had a long and elusive relationship with Missouri’s wine country. For years, I wanted to take a Missouri wine tour and even went so far as to book a spot on a trip to see the area firsthand. Unfortunately, a little hurricane named Gustav arrived at my doorstep the morning I was to fly out to Missouri, shutting down area airports for days.

Last year, when my family took a spring break road trip to Missouri, I insisted on stopping at every winery we came across. Our base was in Branson and there were two wineries with shops in the destination. Of course, I dragged my entire family into both of them.

Stone Hill Winery

Stone Hill Winery was established in 1847, along the banks of the Missouri River in the town of Hermann. Since 1986, there has been a Branson location that offers free tours and tastings, as well as a wide selection of their wines. Free tours are offered every 15 minutes and children are welcome to go along. The tour started with a film and then the group went through the aging and bottling process. The kids both seemed interested in the process until we went to the tasting room, where they were made to stand against the wall while the adults tasted. There were some other families in attendance, with little ones who were very active and disinterested in the entire event. That family ended up leaving before finishing any samples. A good idea for this particular business would be to have a small play area in a corner for little ones so that the parents can enjoy the tasting and end up making purchases.

All in all, it was a good tour, but I would not recommend this if you have small children, only to keep yourself from being frustrated. The wines here were good and I left with a six bottle purchase of a variety of blends.

Stone Hill Winery-Branson
601 State Hwy. 165
Branson, MO 65616

Mount Pleasant Winery

Mount Pleasant Winery was established in 1859 by two German brothers who came to the Missouri River region. My family stopped in to check out the wines and while it was a quiet and more intimate atmosphere than our previous wine tasting experience, the kids were made welcome as we walked in the door. Mount Pleasant Winery in Branson offers a basic flight wine tasting at no charge, and premium flight tastings for around $5 per person. The kids were even included with their own flight of grape juice to taste.

I ended up purchasing four bottles of wine to bring home and even returned during my last Branson visit. Our hotel was within walking distance to Mount Pleasant Winery and I was able to procure a few bottles to share with the other Traveling Mamas in attendance on the trip.

Mount Pleasant Winery
3125 Green Mountain Drive
Branson, MO  65616

Tips for traveling with Wine

Be sure to treat your wine bottles gently while traveling home from your destination. I travel with a few Bottlewise wine bottle travel bags, but wineries do offer easy carry containers for packing home.

Don’t let it overheat. Traveling with wine, especially during the hot summer months, can effect the overall quality once you get home to enjoy your blends. Be sure to store your wine inside the passenger area of your vehicle to keep the temperature moderate and don’t place your wine in direct sunlight.

If traveling by air, remember that you cannot bring your wine purchases as a carry on through security. It will be confiscated. Instead, pack your wine carefully in a checked bag, or arrange for the winery to ship your purchases home, depending upon your state’s liquor laws.

Be sure to enjoy your wine purchases responsibly and don’t drink and drive. To plan your own visit to Branson, Missouri, be sure to check out ExploreBranson.com. The best part about wine tasting in Branson? It’s free!

I’m a dreamer and can sometimes be found scouring the web and luxury magazines for unbelievable places to visit. Let’s face it, vacations are about getting away from everyday life, and what a better way to take a break during a monotonous day at work than by dreaming of the amazing.When one thinks of a true escape, sometimes a private island destination is the first thought.

A few years ago I explored the Florida Keys, researching all this destination had to offer. It’s a place where you don’t need a passport (if you’re American), but you feel like you’ve stepped into another world where everything is laid back and relaxing. I had the opportunity to spend an afternoon at a place that was on my dream list – Little Palm Island.

Getting There

Little Palm Island is a private island off Little Torch Key. Guests arrive at Island Customs and step onto a motor yacht that is straight out of a Ralph Lauren dream and are transported to one of the most peaceful places to be found on US soil. This 5 1/2 acre paradise has been the escape for presidents, celebrities, and those in the know for over two decades.

The Bungalows

There are 30 Balinese inspired bungalows located around the property, with each one different from the other. Some are suites, some larger, but they are all fabulous and amazing. I walked through the various bungalows, and they are all very private. Each bungalow has a thatched roof and plush kind bed, complete with a romantic mosquito netting. There are soaking tubs and even private, outdoor bamboo showers. Hidden here and there around the bungalows are hammocks and lounge chairs.

Of course, there are larger suites available, which offer outdoor hot tubs, and even the Grand Suite with the most amazing view. But really, even the basic accommodations at Little Palm Island are to-die-for.

The Activities

Little Palm Island is the ultimate in relaxing destinations, with star gazing, book reading, or just lounging around the most active you’ll need to be.  However, adventure seekers can get their fill of fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, kite boarding lessons, or exploring the nearby marine sanctuaries.

There is a pool on the island, but don’t think to bring your mobile phone as this is a quiet area. No phones allowed. Of course, if you need to take a day trip to Key West for some excitement, that can be arranged. Me? Well, I had my eyes on Spa Terre, the onsite spa at Little Palm Island.

The Dining

I enjoyed a fabulous lunch at Little Palm Island, watching the waves lap the shore as Key Deer rustled in the nearby bushes. Romantic evening meals can be arranged, and I have to admit that seeing the table for two in the sand was the dreamiest thing I’d ever laid eyes on. It made me want to go on a honeymoon all over again.

My Mama Moment

Since I was only on Little Palm Island for the day, I took some time to walk around and explore alone. I fell in love with this luxury destination and private island resort and made a vow to save my money so that I could have the full Little Palm Island experience. Kids under the age of 16 are not allowed on the island and it is a peaceful haven from our busy world, unlike many beach destinations I’ve visited. I sat on a lounge chair, closed my eyes, and imagined myself coming back for a longer stay.

Little Palm Island Resort and Spa is the perfect destination for someone looking to truly get away from it all. Whether solo or on a romantic escape, this place will enchant you. The island offers destination wedding packages and vow renewals. The rates are pricey for the average traveler, but is definitely one of those places to put on your list of dream vacations. Even if you can only stay two nights, it’s worth the experience.