By: Mizz Lori

 

Baby, Its hot outside!  It’s time to take a trip and get some R&R.

Take out your map and look around at where you can get to in a 2 hour flight or a 6 hour drive.  That’s close enough to get back in a hurry and far enough away to forget your troubles.  Here are a couple of places that I would love to go or have been.  Just pack an overnight bag and go!

Austin

The capital of Texas and one of the fastest-growing, most vibrant cities in the United States. Say the word "Austin" and a myriad of images come to mind: Hip, cool, trendy and high-tech.

But Austin is also a city with a rich historic past. Originally a buffalo hunting ground favored by Tonkawa Indians, the original name of the city was "Waterloo". This name was chosen because of the abundance of springs and creeks in the area. The city's history comes alive in such places as the Texas State Cemetery, the final resting place of many prominent Texans; Bremond Block, an area of stately 19th century mansions; the antebellum Governor's Mansion; and more than 220 other landmarks. The new Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum also helps chronicle the colorful history of the state.

Niagra Falls

Just an hour and a half outside Toronto is a natural wonder renowned the world over.  On the border of Ontario and New York sits Niagara Falls, plunging thirteen stories down in a plume of mist, and offering a slew of fun activities for visitors from near and far.
Visitors to the falls can experience its misty wonder for free from the expansive observation deck, but that’s not the only way to see this amazing spot.  Guests can get up close and personal with Journey Behind the Falls, descending 150 ft by elevator to portals located behind the Falls.
A slew of tourist attractions are also offered nearby to make sure the entertainment doesn’t end.  A Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum, Guinness World Records Museum, several wax museums, haunted houses, play lands, funhouses, go-karts, bowling and mini-golf are there to thrill guests old and young.  And there are also dozens of restaurants, cafes and snack shops serving foods for every palate imaginable.

Napa Valley

Whether you are visiting family and friends, vacationing, or here on business the wine country is a wonderful place to stay. Lodging accommodations are plentiful and as varied in style as they are in price making it easy for everyone to find the perfect pied-a-terre that corresponds with their style. And, it is so easy to get started. Just select the region where you will be staying and browse the listings provided. You are sure to find the perfect Wine Country accommodation for your budget and needs!
It is no surprise that the popularity of spas has grown along with our collective interest in increased health, vitality, fitness, relaxation and beauty. Face it, most of us are stressed. Fortunately, the Wine Country offers a cure for what ails you. Take a look at our Spa Offerings by region. You are bound to uncover a treatment or perhaps a wrap that is perfect for you!
It is no surprise that the popularity of spas has grown along with our collective interest in increased health, vitality, fitness, relaxation and beauty. Face it, most of us are stressed. Fortunately, the Wine Country offers a cure for what ails you. Take a look at our Spa Offerings by region. You are bound to uncover a treatment or perhaps a wrap that is perfect for you!
Wine is meant to be enjoyed, especially with food. It is thus no surprise that there is an incredible wealth of fine restaurants spread across the various regions of the Wine Country. A sumptuous Italian Dinner or French feast, steaming seafood or tangy BBQ ribs, these and many more gastronomical delights await you!