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The Best Hot Springs Resorts for Rest & Relaxation

the best hot springs resorts

Photo: Zocha Group – The Best Hot Springs Resorts for Rest & Relaxation

 

 

Experience Rest & Relaxation at the Best Hot Springs Resorts

The water that flows from deep within the cracks of the Earth, rich in minerals from volcanic bedrock, was relied on by ancient civilizations for its therapeutic properties. Hot springs offer a unique environment for wellness and healing, and the resorts that sport them are among the most relaxing in the world. Get in touch with the Earth and take a dip into bliss at some of the best hot springs resorts in America.




the best hot springs resorts in america

Photo: Zocha Group

Indian Springs Calistoga, California

Your first instinct for a California getaway might be Palm Springs, but these natural Northern waters make a compelling case for your new favorite destination. Four geysers on the grounds of this beautiful resort feed into an Olympic-sized pool, chock full of minerals, sitting at 90°+ year round, guaranteed by the heat of the Earth. The spa’s volcanic ash mud treatment is soothing and rejuvenating, and the spacious rooms are perfect for a restful sleep, exactly what you’d expect from a world-class hotel spa.




hot springs resorts

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Castle Hot Springs, Arizona

Just a few hours south of beautiful Sedona, these gorgeous springs are a veritable oasis. The springs are the hottest non-volcanic natural springs in the world, and the amenities make for an outstanding spa retreat. Guests can choose from a variety of lodges, cabins, and bungalows, all nestled in a pocket of lush flora, for a perfect balance of cool comfort and warm Arizona sun.




girl in hot springs

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Dunton Hot Springs, Colorado

This revamped 1800’s borough features luxe, cozy cabins, and 6 ways to take in the warm, healing waters of Colorado’s finest natural hot spring. There’s the original outdoor spring, two quaint pools, the restored bath house, the private spring in the Well House Cabin, and even the river, known as Christoph’s spring. Whether you’re being pampered with a massage or relaxing by the fire, you’re never more than a minute away from a rejuvenating bath in the verdant Colorado Rockies.




Chena Hot Springs, Alaska

Although this getaway might be far-flung, the journey is entirely worth it. Guests can expect a hot spring lake sitting at a balmy 106°, an indoor heated pool, and a massage therapy cabin boasting hot stones and deep tissue treatment. If the warm waters aren’t enough for you to enjoy the scenic snowy landscapes, the on-site dog sled rides, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are sure to.




Ojo Caliente, New Mexico

One of the country’s oldest health spas, the private pools of this luxurious resort are complemented by the cozy rustic suites, many featuring balconies with private hammocks for lofty relaxation. The acclaimed spa features treatments crafted locally with Southwest botanicals, including blue corn, prickly pear, and desert sage. Repeat guests love the signature Cactus Flower Massage and Scrub, as well as the long-loved Rio Grande Hot Stone Massage. 




Quinns Hot Springs, Montana

For warm waters in snowy mountains, look no further than Quinn’s Hot Springs. The rustic luxury of the lodges is relaxed and cozy, and the on-site restaurant is a delightful place to enjoy a locally-sourced steak or carefully selected wine. The tavern is a lovely casual dining space to enjoy a game of pool, a craft colorado beer, or simply an armchair by the fireplace. Between the pine trees, welcoming cabins, and simmering natural springs, this getaway is a picturesque mountain vacation. 




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    For booking spa and wellness retreats, contact [email protected] or inquire in the chat box below.

    The Most Beautiful Beaches in the United States

    the most beautiful beaches in the united states

    Photo: Zocha Group – The Most Beautiful Beaches in the United States

     

    Explore the Most Beautiful Beaches in the U.S.

    While travelers rave about the Amalfi Coast and islands of French Polynesia, we tend to forget that some of the best beaches are right here in the United States! From romantic east coast sunsets to rocky west coast cliffs, there are beautiful sandy stretches all over this country. Check out our list of the most beautiful beaches in the United States, then start daydreaming about which trip we can help you book.




    the most beautiful beaches in the US

    Photo: Zocha Group

    Ocracoke Island – North Carolina

    North Carolina’s Outer Banks have been the backdrop of many beachside movies and T.V. shows. There’s no bridge to Ocracoke Island, so you’ll have to load your car onto the ferry and prepare to enjoy a secluded paradise. Ocracoke prides itself on laid back culture, untouched beaches (really—there are no oceanfront properties!), and quaint village feel.




    Ocracoke Island north carolina

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    St. George Island – Florida

    This barrier island in Florida’s panhandle offers 22 miles of natural beauty and quiet island living. Watch wildlife from untouched marshes, visit the island lighthouse, and spend your days shelling and sunbathing. You won’t find any highrises here, but we recommend a pleasant beach cottage or room at one of the island’s two inns.




    st george island florida beaches

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    Coronado Island – California

    Coronado Island is a true west coast fairytale. The legendary Hotel del Coronado stretches along the beach, offering prime lodgings for luxury beachgoers. Choose your own stretch of white sand to watch surfers and enjoy the sun and San Diego skyline views. There’s also the Coronado Dog Beach nearby!




    Coronado Island san diego beautiful beaches

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    Cape Cod – Massachusetts

    Go whale watching and seal spotting in Cape Cod. You could spend weeks soaking up Cape Cod’s east coast charm, and there are tons of beaches to choose from. Our favorites are Nauset Beach, Marconi Beach, and Herring Cove.




    cape cod nyc beautiful beaches

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    Poipu Beach – Hawaii

    Named America’s Best Beach by the Travel Channel, Poipu Beach on Kauai is a hotspot for snorkeling, surfing, and floating on blue water. There are technically two beaches on Poipu, and one has lots of wading pools that families will enjoy.




    Poipu Beach hawaii beautiful beaches

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    Cumberland Island – Georgia

    Only accessible by ferry, this barrier island is a hotspot for hunting shark teeth and beautiful shells. There are no human residents on Cumberland Island, but visitors are invited to admire wild horses from afar and explore remnants of the old Carnegie mansion. Camping is the only overnight accommodation, but we recommend daytripping from nearby (and also beautiful!) Fernandina Beach. 




    Cumberland Island Georgia beaches

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    Nantucket – Massachusetts

    Nantucket sets the scene of all of your beach romance novel dreams. Stroll around the picturesque village, stay at a historic B&B, and pack a picnic to watch the sunset on one of Nantucket’s fantastic beaches. We love Madaket for soft sand and a chance at seeing seals.




    Nantucket beaches united states

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    Cannon Beach – Oregon

    Just 90 minutes from bustling Portland, Cannon Beach boasts mossy rocks, picturesque cliffs, and lots of wildlife—like tufted puffins who hang out on Haystack Rock! The town nearby is known for a great art scene, wonderful cocktails, and luxury lodgings. 




    cannon beach oregon beaches

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    Kennebunkport – Maine

    Beach towns don’t get much more quaint than Kennebunkport. Visit Goose Rocks Beach to soak up the sun or take a kayak tour around Porpoise Cove. We also recommend a whale watching tour before retiring to your oceanside resort or charming bed and breakfast. 




    Kennebunkport beaches united states

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    Coopers Beach – New York

    They say it’s one of the best beaches in the Hamptons, and we have to agree. Cooper’s Beach is a city dweller’s dream escape, and a quintessential spot to visit if it’s your first time in the area. You’ll share the beach with other sunbathers, but it’s not a rowdy spot. Take a stroll in the sand and relax in the water before heading into town for fresh seafood.




    southampton nyc coopers beach

    Photo: Zocha Group

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      From coast to coast, there’s always a stretch of sand waiting to be discovered in the United States. When you’re ready to book your American beach vacation, contact [email protected] or inquire in the chat box below.

      The Ultimate Guide to Glamping

      the ultimate guide to glamping

      Photo: Zocha Group – The Ultimate Guide to Glamping

       

      Our Guide to Glamping Around the U.S.

      Sometimes the outdoors are best appreciated from a distance. Enter Glamping, the luxury camping trend that makes staying in the woods as glamorous as the name promises. Glamping offers the opportunity to breathe crisp mountain air, take therapeutic hikes and swims, but never more than a walk from featherbeds and a glass of wine. Whether you’re looking for mountaintop grandeur  or a charming getaway by the ocean, get comfy in nature with the ultimate guide to glamping.




      guide to glamping in the united states

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      Fireside Resort, Wyoming

      The Teton wilderness has never seemed so welcoming at these luxury lodges in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Each cabin has a cozy fireplace, full kitchen, private furnished deck, and fire pit. The resort offers Jeep rentals, on-site laundry, and pet-friendly options. For thrill seekers, summer guests can try whitewater rafting and horseback riding, while winter visitors might be more interested in skiing and snowboarding. Either way, you can return to a plush bed after a long day of exploring the mountain. 




      guide to glamping wyoming

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      Collective Yellowstone, Montana

      The picturesque scenery, on-staff chef, and stunning sunsets are sure to be a source of Instagram envy for the friends of guests at this one-of-a-kind retreat in Big Sky Montana. Between the gorgeous interiors and stunning decks, it’s one of the most exclusive glamping experiences, and undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience Yellowstone National Park.




      guide to glamping montana

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      Dunton River Camp, Colorado

      Dunton Hot Springs is an acclaimed luxury boutique resort is fashioned from a real old west ghost town, for long hot spring soaks in a private secluded corner of the woods in Dolores CO. The Hot Springs are much more glam than glamping, but the new seasonal (June-October) sister camp offers luxury tents, with incredible amenities, like private soaking tubs, towel warmers, and even private mountain bikes. The luxury tents are situated right on the edge of the Dolores River, for those who might be interested in some world-class fly fishing.




      glamping in colorado

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      Camp Comfort, Texas

      Camp Comfort is a boutique bed and breakfast on the beautiful Cypress Creek in Comfort, Texas. Boasting cabins with luxury king beds, communal fire pits, a coffee bar, and fresh cookies served daily, Camp Comfort embodies coziness, while tucked away in a verdant landscape with revitalizing country air. 




      glamping in texas

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      Camp Long Creek at Big Cedar, Missouri

      This boutique resort is inside the much larger Big Cedar Resort in Ridgedale Missouri, one of America’s most celebrated vacation destinations. The 18 glamping tents are each furnished with a king bed crowned by a chandelier, a wood stove, heat and air conditioning, free-standing tub and shower, as well as a private wooden deck with a fire pit. Guests are offered the unique experience of a vacation deep within the breathtaking Ozarks, but with full access to resort amenities, like Wi-Fi, an infinity pool, food and beverage outlets, and five golf courses.




      glamping in missouri

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      Open Sky, Utah

      Zion National Park is one of the most beautiful landscapes in the States, if not the world, and the brand new African safari-style-style tents at Open sky put guests in the middle of that unbridled tranquility. The raised wooden decks with fire pits, soaking tubs, and even dedicated spa tents are perfect for relaxing and unwinding among the steep red cliffs and waterfalls Zion is known for. 




      glamping in utah

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      Mendocino Grove, California

      For glampers who want to have it all, these luxury tents in Mendocino have easy access to both the woods and the ocean. Luxury tents, bathhouses, and bonfires are just the tip of the iceberg in this cozy corner of California’s most beautiful woods. Whether you’re relaxing from a hammock or a comfy leather butterfly chair, a cup of cocoa and fresh forest air are sure to relax and rejuvenate. 




      glamping in california with friends

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      Westgate River Ranch, Florida

      Country lovers will be right at home at this upscale resort, which is actually an authentic dude ranch on the shores of Lake Wales, Florida. Cowboy-inspired lodging, Saturday night rodeos, and a variety of activities on horseback are available for guests looking to make the most of the great outdoors. 




      glamping florida

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        For more information or booking reservations, please contact [email protected] or inquire in the chat box below.




        The Most Beautiful Pools in The World

        the most beautiful pools in the world

        Photo: Zocha Group – The Most Beautiful Pools in The World

         

        Explore the Most Beautiful Pools in the World

        With summer in full swing, everybody’s got their minds on all things aquatic. A cool dip in a quality pool really is a thing of beauty, the perfect compliment to sunny skies and warm weather. If you’re looking to spend your summer luxuriating in calm, crystal clear waters, then splash into the most beautiful pools in the world.




        the most beautiful hotels in the world

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        Perivolas Hotel – Santorini, Greece

        The gorgeous waters of Greece include more than the beaches of Mykonos, given the large number of incredible pools under the warm Greek sun. This pool in Santorini is a mediterranean daydream, with sweeping city and water views, perfect for starting your day with a dip or finishing it with a cocktail. 




        Four Seasons Safari Lodge – Central Serengeti, Tanzania

        The Four Seasons Safari Lodge sits in the center of Serengeti National Park, a jaw-dropping World Heritage Site. Four Seasons is a brand known for doling out hefty doses of luxury, but the Safari Lodge’s exceptional free-form infinity pool offers mind-blowing views of the park, and exotic wildlife. 




        Queens Bath – Kauai, Hawaii

        Hawaii is a treasure trove of wonderful places to swim, but for gloriously untouched nature Kauai is the place to be. Queen’s Bath is a natural pool of healing mineral waters, surrounded by lava rock and overlooking the mighty Pacific. 




        queens bath kauai hawaii natural pool

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        One&Only Reethi Rah – Maldives

        The alluring islands of the Maldives have some pretty alluring pools as well. The pool at One&Only Reethi Rah exudes natural elegance, surrounded by tropical plants and views of the resort’s 12 pristine beaches. 




        Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc – France

        The majesty of the French Riviera and magnificent Mediterranean vistas are at your fingertips from the pool at Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc. The calm swimming waters are perched exquisitely on the Côte d’Azur, one of Europe’s most enrapturing coastal paths.




        Amangiri – Canyon Point, Utah

        The scenic views at Amangiri resort are among the best you’ll find in Southern Utah, if not the world. The incredible rock formations that surround the enormous pool make the perfect space to relax and detox in the resort’s healing natural surroundings. 




        The Cambrian – Adelboden, Switzerland

        Avid skiers know there’s nothing better than sliding into a steaming bath after a long day of skiing. The pool at The Cambrian, a high-end ski and wellness resort, offers premium relaxation with an unrivaled view of the Swiss Alps. This Switzerland gem is reason enough to make a trip, but guests should definitely stick around for the hotel’s award winning spa




        Havasu Falls Natural Pool – Supai, Arizona

        Deep into the Havasupai Resort in Arizona lies the natural pool of Havasu falls. It’s a bit of a hike to get to the scenic outlook, but the pool’s soothing mineral waters are worth the journey. 




        havasu falls arizona

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        Grand Hotel Tremezzo – Lake Como, Italy

        For cool Italian waters one’s first instinct might be the Amalfi coast, but feet in the water on the shores of Lake Como, a glass of wine in hand and a sunset to watch is essentially the Italian dream. The unique and luxurious pool at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo is water-on-water, a refreshingly luxurious pool floating in the middle of the lake. 




        Ik Kil Cave Pool – Chichén Itzá, Mexico

        The Ik Kil Cave Pool is a natural sinkhole once used by the ancient Mayans for sacrificial offerings, but now attracts visitors from all over the world looking to swim in its gorgeous waters. With cool blue water, tropical plants and a certain air of sacredness, Ik Kil Cave is not only one the most beautiful pools in Mexico, but one of the most beautiful pools in the world. Don’t worry about jumping in- there’s a carved stone staircase that leads to the swimming platform.




        Ik Kil Cave pool mexico

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        Bondi Icebergs Club – Sydney, Australia

        Bondi Icebergs Club, a luxury Australian resort, offers an iconic saltwater pool with unobstructed  views of Bondi beach. Thanks to some idyllic weather, the pool is open year round. 




        bondi icebergs club australia

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        Erawan Falls – Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand

        In Erawan National Park deep in the jungles of Thailand lies a dramatic 7-tiered natural pool, with jewel-toned waters that can only be described as magical. For a swim like no other, it’s worth seeking out the majesty and solace of Thailand’s Erawan falls. 




        erawan falls thailand

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        Neptune Pool at Hearst Castle – San Simeone, California

        The famous Hearst Castle in California’s central coast is known through the Golden State for its opulent pool. The Vermont marble lining every inch of the pool makes for a swim fit for a Roman emperor. 




        neptune pool hearst castle california

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        Blue Lagoon – Grindavík, Iceland

        Considered one of the 25 Wonders of the World by National Geographic in 2012, the unbelievable turquoise waters of Blue Lagoon make a compelling case for Iceland as a top vacation destination. If you’re lucky, you might even see the Northern Lights. 




        blue lagoon iceland

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          For more information or booking reservations, please contact [email protected] or inquire in the chat box below.




          beautiful pools around the world

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          The Best Places to See the Northern Lights

          best places to see the northern lights

          Photo: Zocha Group – The Best Places to See the Northern Lights

           

          Explore the Best Places to See the Northern Lights

          Nature’s most spectacular light show needs to be seen to be believed. The vibrant hues of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky are truly ethereal. All the top viewing spots offer little to no light pollution, and clear skies over crisp mountain peaks. If you’re ready to make the trip, experience the unbelievable majesty for yourself at the best places to see the northern lights.




          places to see the northern lights

          Photo: Zocha Group

          Fairbanks, Alaska

          The bitter northern cold is what keeps most travelers from witnessing aurora borealis’ incredible beauty. Enter Chena Hot Springs Resort, and its warm mineral waters where guests can enjoy the light show from the warmth and safety of a natural hot spring. Fairbanks lies directly under a bed of aurora activity, so between August and April, guests are guaranteed a magical display of green, yellow and purple. 




          northern lights alaska

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          Svalbard, Norway

          There’s no shortage of fantastic vantage points in Norway, but Svalbard is exceptional. The area experiences polar night, or perpetual darkness. So between mid-November and February, Svalbard is the only inhabited place in the world where visitors can witness the phenomenon during the day. 




          northern lights norway

          Photo: Zocha Group

          Finland

          Finland experiences aurora borealis roughly 200 times a year, making it a prime destination to gaze at the northern sky. The glass igloos at the romantic Kakslauttanen resort are the perfect place to fall asleep each night watching the dancing display. Then, hunt down the lights on a reindeer-drawn sled ride through the enrapturing wilderness.




          northern lights finland

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          Greenland

          With near-perfect visibility in many places, a trip to Greenland guarantees exceptional odds to see some northern sky magic. Hotel Arctic’s cozy igloos on the edge of Ilulissat Icefjord have all the elements needed to make your stay hospitable, so you can enjoy the northern lights without interruption. 




          northern lights greenland

          Photo: Zocha Group

          Yukon, Canada

          When cloud conditions and low-light pollution align, the Canadian territory of Yukon provides shades of green and yellow light for hours each night. At resorts like the Northern Lights Resort and Spa, you can follow up your long night of stargazing with a lazy day of pampering and massage. 




          northern lights yukon canada

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          Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

          The 218,000-acre national park is one of the most remote spots in the country, with perfect dark skies every night of the year. Pitch a tent at one of many isolated campgrounds, or stay in a bed in the town of Ranier, just 10 minutes from the park’s entrance. Whatever you choose, the views inside the park are worth the hike, every time.




          northern lights Minnesota

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          North Pole Igloos Hotel

          For a northern lights viewing that’s practically guaranteed, and a trip that’s even more out of the way, the luxury igloos at this pop-up glamping concept are as far north as it gets. The all-inclusive hotel package offers a one-night stay in the North pole, two nights in Svalbard, plus transportation, meals and guides. 




          northern lights dog sledding

          Photo: Zocha Group

          Icelandair

          Travelers who fly on Icelandair might get a taste of the phenomenon before they even land. The magnificent Hekla Aurora plane takes passengers on a stopover through Iceland on flights between Europe and America at no extra cost, so travelers can easily experience the lights for themselves without any inconvenience. The plane’s interior is also decorated with one-of-a-kind mood lighting meant to mimic the aurora borealis, for what is perhaps the most immersive in-flight experience yet designed. 




           

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            For more information or assistance booking your trip, please contact [email protected] or inquire in the chat box below.




            northern lights fairbanks alaska

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            The Ultimate Nantucket Travel Guide

            the ultimate nantucket travel guide

            Photo: Zocha Group – The Ultimate Nantucket Travel Guide

             

            Experience the Ultimate Nantucket Travel Guide

            While Nantucket sure looks like a set from your favorite summer movie scene, it’s a wonderful destination year-round! A stone’s throw from the coast of Massachusetts, Nantucket is known for hidden beaches, quiet luxury, and slowing down by the sea. Take a quick ferry from Martha’s Vineyard (or a longer one from New York City), or fly in and enjoy the view. 




            nantucket travel guide

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            ─ Our Favorite Nantucket Stays ─

            The Wauwinet

            It’s an island icon for a reason. Tucked between the ocean and the bay, you have your own private access to (and incredible views of) both. Choose to stay in the main house or one of the private cottages and enjoy complimentary breakfast and other refreshments throughout the day. The Wauwinet is adult-only and set a few miles from downtown, making this the perfect stay for true relaxation. You’re also already on site of one of the most renown restaurants on the island, Topper’s. 




            nantucket travel east coast beaches

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            The Nantucket Hotel & Resort

            The Nantucket Hotel offers 1-to-4-bedroom suites or 1-or-2-bedroom cottages. This is the only year-round hotel on the island, and it’s full of tradition. At the Nantucket Hotel, even new guests are made to feel like family, and you’re guaranteed to book your second stay even before the first one’s up. Walk a few steps downtown, enjoy the heated pool, take a yoga class, and order the lobster tacos at Breeze Restaurant. 




            nantucket sunset travel

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            White Elephant

            At the White Elephant, choose between staying at the Residences, the Inn, the Hotel, or the Garden Cottages. Any accommodation here ensures chic Nantucket style and endless modern comfort. Take a yacht excursion from the hotel’s dock, stroll to the nearby Brant Point Lighthouse, or enjoy a couple’s massage. The White Elephant is also home to one of the best spas on Nantucket.




            Hotel Pippa

            Hotel Pippa is the newest boutique stay on Nantucket, and she’s bringing a fresh version of luxury to the island. Perfect for a girls’ trip, Hotel Pippa is the ideal backdrop for your beach days and late nights. It’s just steps away from the best downtown dining, drinking, and essential Nantucket travel destinations. Rooms are uniquely designed and outfitted with crisp linens, natural light, Dyson hair dryers, and spa-grade skin care products.




            Best Food & Drink on Nantucket

            How does a quarter pound of lobster in your bloody mary sound to start the day? Brant Point Grill at the White Elephant hotel serves up some of the most decadent breakfast on the island, and you don’t want to miss it. Then, you have to try a Terry Terrific from Something Natural for lunch. Their trademark sandwich includes turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce—a flavor combination that satisfies year-round! We also recommend lunch at Galley Beach to enjoy fine afternoon dining with your toes in the sand.

            As the evening approaches, start with champagne and oysters at Cru and then head off to Sayle’s Seafood for a traditional Nantucket clambake: mussels, clam chowder, lobster, corn, potatoes and beyond! Or, if you’d rather something a bit more formal, enjoy the prix fixe menu at Straight Wharf. It’s different every day to accommodate the island’s freshest fare.

            Unwind after dinner with cocktails at the Nautilus, Tree Bar, or Club Car. If you’re not in the mood for cocktails, have a beer at Cisco Brewers or swing by the champagne vending machine at the Gaslight. Then, enjoying live music at the endearingly divey Chicken Box is the only way to say goodnight to Nantucket. 




            lobster nantucket

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            Nantucket Beaches & Activities

            You’ll want to carve out plenty of beach time on your Nantucket travel itinerary. Jetties Beach is a favorite for good reason. It’s easy to get to, there are volleyball nets and a playground, well-kept showers and bathrooms, and the Sandbar nearby for food and drinks. For an adventurous beach day, drive on to Great Point to enjoy 1,100 acres of nature preserve, or to Smith Point which lies between the ocean and the sound. You also can’t miss the sunset on Madaket Beach.

            When in Nantucket, do as the locals do—and that means spending lots of time on the water. Take a lesson at Nantucket Island Surf School, or take a boat charter out to sail the waves in style. If you’ve spent enough time outside, you can’t miss the local boutiques, independently owned bookstores, or artisan craft markets in downtown Nantucket.

            Beyond a tee time at Miacomet Golf Course or reservations at the spa, don’t feel the need to schedule your every minute on the island. Rent bikes and meander through Sconset, walk around the Whaling Museum, or simply admire the manicured saltbox homes that line Nantucket streets. 




            nantucket beach travel

            Photo: Zocha Group

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              With so much simple beauty and many opportunities to indulge, beach towns don’t get much better than Nantucket. Please contact [email protected] or inquire in the chat box below to start planning your trip to the island.




              10 Underrated Labor Day Weekend Destinations in the U.S.

              underrated labor day destinations in the united states

              Photo: Zocha Group – 10 Underrated Labor Day Weekend Destinations in the U.S.

               

              Explore these Labor Day Weekend Destinations

              Labor Day is approaching quickly, which means you still have one more chance to plan a weekend getaway before summer comes to a close. Whether you’re hoping for southern shores, midwestern mountains, or city skylines, the U.S. offers endless options for the perfect 3-day vacation! Here are 10 of our favorite underrated Labor Day Weekend destinations in the U.S.




              labor day weekend destinations

              Photo: Zocha Group

              South Lake Tahoe, California

              South Lake Tahoe is California’s go-to destination for stunning golf courses, blue-water beaches, and mountain exploration. If you and your crew are looking for fresh air and outdoor activity, our favorite Lake Tahoe stays are Skyland Estate and Glenwood Retreat. Both offer resort-style luxury in a private, tree-top escape.




              lake tahoe destination

              Photo: Zocha Group

              Portland, Maine

              On a 3-day weekend in Portland, stay at the Press Hotel located in the former Portland Press Herald building. The suites are inspired by 1920’s writers’ offices complete with vintage desks and marble bathrooms. Picture your dream study that just so happens to be walking distance to museums and restaurants, and only three hours from Acadia National Park.




              portland maine destination

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              Sedona, Arizona

              Sedona is the energy reset you’ve been looking for. You can’t beat the other-worldly views, endless spa options, and hiking trails for all levels. Check out our list of luxury resorts and spas in Sedona for your Labor Day Weekend destination. Plus, the Grand Canyon is just a day trip away! 




              sedona arizona destination

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              The Florida Keys

              If your idea of saying goodbye to summer includes the ocean, we’re right there with you. Bungalows Key Largo offers the perfect balance of picturesque and party with floating tiki bars, multiple onsite dining options, daily yoga sessions, and a full-service spa. Check out the Hemingway Bar for an homage to the Keys’ most notable resident.




              florida keys destination

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              Finger Lakes, New York

              Add the Finger Lakes, also known as the wine country of the east coast, to your list of Labor Day Weekend destinations. Stay at the Inns of Aurora for a luxury guesthouse experience with two restaurants, a spa, and plenty of wineries nearby. And don’t forget to enjoy the lakes by boat, kayak, or paddle board!




              finger lakes destination

              Photo: Zocha Group

              Austin, Texas

              Get your southwest city skyline fix in Austin! It’s impossible to get bored in this city full of music and margaritas. We recommend a stay at the Proper Hotel for a fun and funky interior, incredible rooftop pool, and convenient location to restaurants, bars, and Lady Bird Lake.




              austin texas destination

              Photo: Zocha Group

              Bend, Oregon

              Often called the “Palm Springs of the North,” Bend, Oregon offers over 20 golf courses, amazing Cascade Mountain views, and the Pilot Butte hiking trail that leads right up to an extinct volcano. Stay at the Oxford Hotel and take advantage of their complementary cruiser bikes for exploring downtown.




              bend oregon destination

              Photo: Zocha Group

              Lake Powell, Utah

              For a weekend on Lake Powell, we recommend renting a luxury houseboat, or staying in safari-inspired tents at Under Canvas (complete with king beds and hot showers that take glamping to a new level!). You and your crew will enjoy sunny skies by day and shooting stars by night.




              lake powell destination

              Photo: Zocha Group

              Cape May, New Jersey

              As America’s first seaside resort town, it doesn’t get more quaint than Cape May. We recommend a stay at the Lokal Hotel or at one of the cape’s iconic Victorian-era cottages. Spend your days at this Labor Day Weekend destination laying in the sun, whale watching on a boat, or exploring the historic district.




              cape may destination

              Photo: Zocha Group

              Charleston, South Carolina

              A visit to Charleston is the best way to fulfill your seaside romance novel dreams. This charming southern city is full of good food, friendly locals, and beautiful sunsets. Stay at the Dewberry for iconic modern luxury, or choose one of Guesthouse Charleston’s downtown villas for a bigger group.




              charleston south carolina destination

              Photo: Zocha Group

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                We want to help you bid farewell to summer. Which one of these Labor Day Weekend destinations is right for you? Please contact [email protected] or inquire in the chat box below to start planning the perfect weekend.

                The 10 Most Underrated National Parks in the U.S.

                the 10 most underrated national parks in the united states

                Photo: Zocha Group – The 10 Most Underrated National Parks in the U.S.

                 

                Explore the Most Underrated National Parks in the United States

                We know of everybody’s favorite National Parks—Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Yellowstone, Zion, etc.— but there are a whopping 423 National Parks in the U.S. just waiting to be explored. The National Parks are an amazing way to experience the wide array of beauty and wildlife in America, and we don’t want you to miss a thing. Explore our favorite underrated National Parks in the U.S.




                zion national parks in the U.S.

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                Big Bend National Park – Texas

                You’ll find true solitary solace at Big Bend. It’s one of the hardest National Parks to access, but also one of the most biodiverse. Here, you’re surrounded by the Chisos Mountains, Chihuahuan Desert, and the Rio Grande. A 90-minute drive to the iconic artist’s town of Marfa, Big Bend is a great day trip for hiking and dipping in the hot springs. The best time to visit is fall or spring, or early morning if you’re visiting in the summer. Accommodations include yurt, camping, or drive-in options.




                big bend national park texas

                Photo: Zocha Group

                Great Sand Dunes National Park – Colorado

                Who knew the tallest sand dunes in the U.S. would be in southern Colorado? With peaks up to 14,000 feet tall, it’s no wonder this park has been called a “sandbox of epic proportions.” There are no motorized vehicles allowed on the dunes, but you can hike up and slide down on a sand sled (available for rent at shops nearby). There’s not much by way of restaurants or nightlife surrounding the park, but Colorado Springs, Durango and Santa Fe are all within a 3-hour drive. A special trip to the park is worth it to see these natural marvels.




                great sand dunes national park colorado

                Photo: Zocha Group

                Biscayne National Park – Florida

                Just 45 minutes from Miami is the largest coral reef in North America, tons of marine life, and evidence of human life dating back 10,000 years. 95% of Biscayne National Park lies underwater, making it one of the most unique National Parks in the U.S. and accessible only by boat. Take a guided tour, paddleboard through mangroves, snorkel over shipwrecks, or boat, dive, and fish in clear waters. 




                Biscayne National Park

                Photo: Zocha Group

                Isle Royale National Park – Michigan

                This island in the middle of Lake Superior is accessible by a ferry, 3-hour boat ride, or 45-minute seaplane and only open in the summertime. But, much like Biscayne, even (and maybe especially) the most remote National Parks in the U.S. are worth visiting. Enjoy a quiet hike, a refreshing swim, and a beautiful spot to camp overnight. At Isle Royale, you might spot a group of moose or even the elusive wolfpack that the park helped repopulate! 




                 

                isle royale national park michigan

                Photo: Zocha Group

                North Cascades National Park – Washington

                Known as the “American Alps,” you won’t believe the landscape views at North Cascades National Park. With over 500 lakes and ponds, there are endless opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and more. The park is only open in the summer, but when it is, there are endless opportunities for hiking, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and enjoying the park’s 500+ lakes and ponds. Don’t miss Colonial Creek Falls, the tallest waterfall in the U.S.!




                North Cascades National Park

                Photo: Zocha Group

                Saguaro National Park – Arizona

                Fill up your water bottles and head straight into the scene of wild west movie. Just outside of Tucson is Saguaro National Park, home to the tallest cacti in the U.S. And by tall, we mean that the park’s tallest-ever Saguaro was 78 ft.! From April to June you can enjoy beautiful cactus flowers, but desert landscape and wildlife is fascinating and breathtaking all year round.




                Saguaro National Park

                Photo: Zocha Group

                Channel Islands National Park – California

                Visit the Galapagos of North America just 90 minutes from Los Angeles! You’d never know you were near civilization at Channel Islands National Park. There are no cars or nearby restaurants, just an all-natural island escape where you may spot whales, bald eagles, miniature foxes, and sea lions. Kayaking through the park’s unique sea caves is a favorite of Channel Islands visitors.




                channel islands national park

                Photo: Zocha Group

                Kenai Fjords National Park – Alaska

                Alaska has some of the most National Parks in the U.S. of any other state, but most of them are hard to access. Not this one, though—Kenai Fjords National Park is just a quick drive or train ride from Anchorage! Wilderness in Alaska is unique, and this park offers a front row to all of it: glaciers, fjords, breaching whales, sea otters, puffins, eagles…the list goes on.




                Kenai Fjords National Park

                Photo: Zocha Group

                Carlsbad Caverns National Park – New Mexico

                Hundreds of millions of years ago, caves formed within the Guadalupe Mountains, and now they’re accessible for you to explore! Home of the largest cave chamber in North America (and lots of migrating bats), some caves at Carlsbad Caverns National Park go as deep underground as high as the Empire State Building is tall. The hike through the caverns takes about an hour to complete, and you won’t soon forget the incredible rock formations and gigantic “rooms” made of limestone.




                carlsbad caverns

                Photo: Zocha Group

                Voyageurs National Park – Minnesota

                Nestled along the Canadian border is Voyageurs National Park. This Dark Sky Park is one of the best places to stargaze, and it’s so far north you may even see the Northern Lights! The dense forest is perfect for long hikes, and there are many lakes for boating and swimming. Guests may stay on a campsite (though some are only accessible by canoe), or on the water in a houseboat if you have a permit.




                Voyageurs National Park

                Photo: Zocha Group

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                  Which National Park is next on your list? Let us help you explore. Please contact [email protected] or inquire in the chat box below to start planning your trip to the island.

                  Top 10 Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations in the U.S.

                  the top 10 dog-friendly destinations in the U.S.

                  Photo: Zocha Group – Top 10 Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations in the U.S.

                   

                  Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations in the United States

                  Taking a family vacation means taking the whole family, including man’s best friend. Luckily for those who can’t bear the thought of being away from their furry companion for more than 24 hours, there are a host of vacation spots across the states that are more than happy to accommodate your pooch. Find adventure and relaxation for you and your furry friend at these dog friendly vacation destinations across the United States.




                  dog friendly vacation destinations

                  Photo: Zocha Group

                  San Diego, California

                  Sunny San Diego is a vibrant city by the water, but many of its beautiful beaches are open to dogs. The aptly named Dog Beach is an off-leash paradise for your canine pal to splash around, while Fiesta Island at Mission Bay Park offers large sand dunes to run around on. If you find yourself near downtown, the Grape Street Dog Park is 5 acres of unfenced doggy heaven. Hotels like Hotel Solamar San Diego allow dogs unattended in rooms, so you can hit the beach and drop your pup off for a night on the town.




                  dog friendly vacation san diego

                  Photo: Zocha Group

                  Bar Harbor, Maine

                  This small town on Mount Desert Island is a phenomenal place to bring your canine companions, especially if you plan on hiking at the breathtaking Acadia National Park. The island has a little something for everyone, with mountains and sandy beaches within the park, and pet-friendly patios for eating around the town. Many of the town’s cottages and bungalows are pet-friendly, so you and your pup can easily hit the trails at one of the country’s premier dog friendly vacation destinations.




                  dog friendly vacation destination maine

                  Photo: Zocha Group

                  South Lake Tahoe, California

                  There’s no shortage of scenery for your barking best friend in the picturesque Sierra Nevada mountains. Your dog can splash around at Kiva Beach with a view of the mountains across the lake, or you can hike over on the Rubicon Trail to see them for yourself. Hotel Azure, just a short distance from the lakeshore, is a great option for pet-friendly lodging.




                  dog-friendly vacation in the field

                  Photo: Zocha Group

                  Bend, Oregon

                  This treasure of the Pacific Northwest is seemingly obsessed with dogs, so much so that they are allowed practically everywhere. Dog-friendly hiking trails litter the foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range, and within the city you’ll find many outdoor food carts, food truck parks, and breweries, all of which welcome dogs.




                  dog friendly vacation bend oregon

                  Photo: Zocha Group

                  Austin, Texas

                  The lively city of Austin is perfect for a city vacation with your favorite travel buddy. Red Bud Isle Park has swimming spots for swimmers with two or four legs, and beautiful views accessible by foot, paws, or kayak. The Domain is a shopping neighborhood that is completely dog-friendly, so you and your dog can find everything you need to enjoy your vacation. 




                  french bulldog in austin texas

                  Photo: Zocha Group

                  Charleston, South Carolina

                  The cobblestone streets of this storied city are more than welcoming to dogs, with many pets-allowed restaurants like Brown Dog Deli and Poogan’ Porch. If you’re looking to take in some of Charleston’s history and scenery, Charleston Carriage works offers historical tours, and allows dogs to ride along in style. As far as dog friendly vacation destinations go, this city has it all. 




                  dog in charleston south carolina

                  Photo: Zocha Group

                  St. Petersburg, Florida

                  The camping around the scenic gulf coast is spacious, beautiful, and more than accommodating of four-legged friends. The Fort De Soto Campground features a dog beach, and over a thousand acres of land to run around in. Whether Fido is hanging out on the white-sand Paw Playground, or making friends in one of two fully fenced dog parks, he is welcome for no extra fee.




                  dog in florida with guy surfing

                  Photo: Zocha Group

                  Block Island, Rhode Island

                  Your dog will love the fresh air and cool water of this charming locale. Go on scenic walks with your pup by the towering Mohegan Bluffs, or relax on the quiet and serene Mansion beach. For quality fresh seafood, make sure you bring your dog along to the waterfront Kimberly’s.




                  dog on vacation on hotel bed

                  Photo: Zocha Group

                  Indianapolis, Indiana

                  With many breweries, outdoor restaurants, and outdoor spaces like the lovely White River State Park, Indianapolis is a veritable puppy playground. Hotels like Le Meridien Indianapolis even let dogs in rooms unattended, with beds and bowls provided.




                  dog on boat vacation destination

                  Photo: Zocha Group

                  Kula, Hawaii

                  For a tropical vacation with your canine friend, Maui is home to the Hosmer Grove Campground in famous Haleakalā National Park, a gorgeous space where you can pitch your tent and stargaze with Fido. The trails might not allow dogs, but sharing a view of the sunrise or sunset is not an experience to miss.




                  dog in hawaii vacation destinations

                  Photo: Zocha Group

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                    For further recommendations or help with reservations, please contact [email protected] or inquire in the chat box below.