Destinations Diva

I recently had the opportunity to accompany my husband on a business trip to the capitol of Arkansas, Little Rock.  The pity of it all was that is was only for one night, but I was able to squeeze in a few activities and sight seeing while there. We had stayed in downtown Little Rock once before for an LSU/Arkansas football game.  At that time we stayed at the downtown Marriott Courtyard hotel which was very nice with a gallery of local art on display.  On this trip, I was very excited to learn we were staying at the Capital!  This is the most historic hotel in the city and probably in the state.  The Capital sets the tone for the revitalized downtown area.  The multiple story lobby is anchored by dozens of Greek revival columns.  A grand staircase flanks the south end of the Lobby across from the entrance.  We were greeted by name and were taken to our Superior Queen Room which had two beds with luxurious bedding and fluffy pillows. ...

My husband and I recently had the opportunity to spend some time in the port city of Galveston, Texas.  He was traveling there for a convention (who knew there was a convention center in Galveston?).  Nevertheless, we headed out to the big state of Texas from Louisiana.  On the great advice of a friend, instead of going through Houston, we headed south at Beaumont for the scenic drive past coastal neighborhoods to Port Bolivar to catch the free Galveston Island Ferry.   Be sure to notice the picturesque Port Bolivar lighthouse on your right. Port Bolivar Galveston Island Ferry This ferry service departs every 30 minutes but during the summer it departs every 15 minutes.  If you're traveling during the busy summer season or weekends, plan to leave early to avoid a wait time that can extend past 2 hours.  This 20 minute ride is just what you need to put you in the relaxed mood of Galveston Island.  Head upstairs on the ferry to the viewing ...

Second Bar A gem on the landscape of the great state of Texas is Austin.  This city has a great geographical position being close to other tourist destinations such as San Antonio, New Braunfels, Houston and the Texas Hill Country.  It is one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the country, but still has the feel of a small town.  The bohemian arts element of Austin proudly boasts, "Keep Austin Weird." Charcuterie Block Beer Menu If you get the chance to stay in downtown Austin, you might just think you've landed in downtown Chicago or even the French Quarter.  The Sixth Street entertainment district is home of some of the best music venues and restaurants in the country.  If you're looking for live music, you're in the right place.  Stubbs BBQ, known for their smoked meats and amazing sauce is also a music venue which has hosted such artists as Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Robert Cray, George Tho...

This year's season of Halloween Horror Nights 2015 at Universal Studios Florida is going to be quite a spectacle as it is gearing up and doing it big for the 25 Anniversary Celebration.  Jack the Clown, an original HHN character and frequent visitor, is back this year!  According to Universal Orlando's website, "He's your master of ceremonies, your host - and your worst nightmare." Jack's refreshed look. The season will run 30 nights from September 18 through November 1, 2015.  This is a separate ticketed event which is NOT included in your Universal Studios admission.  Here is a listing of HHN dates: September 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 27 October 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31 November 1 HHN generally draws large crowds, however the largest crowds are expected to be in October on Friday and Saturday nights.  Since this is a late night event, closing around 1:00 am, staying onsite is recommended...

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando is a magical place.  As described by the clever witch, J. K. Rowling, the Leaky Cauldron sign is not noticed by most muggles.  The wizards at Universal are clever indeed to recreate such an authentic place including lots of secrets to be discovered by muggles from around the globe! A first stop on your tour should be Ollivanders.  Watch and possibly be chosen for "The Wand Chooses the Wizard Ceremony."  As you exit through the wand shop, choose your interactive wand (or at several other locations) and use the enclosed map to cast spells and watch the magic happen! Enter Diagon Alley through the magic brick opening (muggles view it a little differently because of their non magical limitations).  As you enter the Wizarding World, all outside views of non magical parts of the theme parks magically disappear.  Total immersion is at hand.  You won't find muggle cola brands and brews here. ...

     I recently visited Universal Orlando with my problem feet.  I have chronic foot pain and paratenonitis.  Theme park guests walk an average of no less than 5 miles per day.  If you are like me, that equals much of your day wasted in pain and "sit breaks."   Here are tips for guests with mobility issues to get the most out of their day at Universal Orlando: Rent an ECV.      Electronic Conveyance Vehicles (ECV's) otherwise known as electric scooters, give a feeling of independence and freedom to the guest with trouble walking or standing.  The average price at most Orlando theme parks is $50 per day (you can park hop by turning it in at each park and getting a new one at Disney).  At Universal Orlando, park hopping is allowed with your rented ECV. Get and Attraction Assistance Pass .  Visit Guest Services after entering the parks.  Tell them you have a medical issue which prevents you from standing in a long q...

When planning a trip to Orlando, you could just go to the Disney website, book a vacation package and you're done, right?   Have you considered crowds, weather, park hours or dining?   These are elements that can make or break your vacation.   Over the many years of traveling to Walt Disney World in florida, one thing I have witnessed on every trip is seeing a frustrated family at the park, screaming parents, teens and toddlers.   Advance planning a research can make a big difference in your trip.   Here are some factors that can affect your dream vacation: Season:  Temperature and humidity are your enemy when visiting Orlando in the summer.  Search your kids’ school calendar for a 3 or 4 day weekend in the spring or early fall.  At these times, you can still enjoy water parks and wet rides.  If you must go during the summer, make sure you plan for plenty of time at the hotel pool or visits to water parks to cool off in the hot summer ...

View from the Trump Tower Few American cities have more to offer than Chicago, Illinois.  This windy cosmopolitan city offers a rich range of cultural activities, dining, theater and architecture. It’s hard to decide what to do first upon arrival in the windy city.  I recommend taking an architectural river cruise at sunset.  Board an open air boat and listen as the knowledgeable tour guides highlight the city’s architecture and history.  The as it gets darker, the light begin to shine with different colors for spectacular views. The front desk at the Mile North Hotel We opted to stay in a boutique hotel instead of a larger hotel.  The Mile North Hotel is a half block from Michigan Avenue with Gino's famous pizza right next door.  The location couldn't be better with Nordstrom on the corner.  We found the rooftop bar on our first night with fantastic views of the city.  This place is popular with locals and a great spot to unwi...