covid travel – Vacation Like a Local

Uniquely Romantic Lofts for Two that are Perfect for Valentine’s Day

January 19, 2021January 16, 2021 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Local Businesses, Travel, Where to Stay

Everyone’s favorite romantic holiday is less than a month away! Have you and your significant other started making plans for your next romantic getaway? Thankfully, this year, Valentine’s Day falls on one of the most perfect days of the week. Sunday. For those of you with children, this allows you the perfect time to let the kids spend the weekend with their grandparents and have a romantic weekend getaway with just you and your spouse/partner. Matt and I have done some digging on Airbnb and found some unique lofts that are within a 4 hour drive of Frisco.

Rose Capital Studio

Photo Courtesy of Airbnb
Photo Courtesy of Airbnb

This uniquely decorated studio gives you the urban conveniences of home, yet with a rustic flare that makes you feel like your are in Marfa (without the 8 hour drive)! This cozy loft includes some fun features such as projector and screen for watching some of your favorite romantic comedies, an open reading nook, a standing desk, and even some smart lights. If you and your significant other like to go out, there are plenty of things to do while in Downtown Tyler. For the foodie couples some great places to visit include: True Vine Brewing, Culture ETX, Rick’s on the Square, or the Janie’s Cakes. For shopping, there are a few boutiques and salons in town including a couple antique shops and a flower shop 😉 .

Downtown Tyler | Directions

Travel Time: 2 hours

Loft ZaZa

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

Now, this is a rather large loft with 3 beds, 1.5 baths and it can fit up to 10 guests. However, this loft should not be written off solely based on the number of guests it can accommodate. The fantastic Loft Zaza is located just above the Boutique One Eleven in Downtown Gainesville. For those who like to shop there are a couple of unique boutiques in town, including: Boutique One Eleven, Cahoots Handbags, Amelia’s Attic Antiques, Kinne’s Jewlers, and Bungalow 123. There are also a few unique eateries in the area like: Fried Pie Co. & Restaurant, Sarah’s on the Square, and the Red Fox Lounge.

Downtown Gainesville | Directions

Travel Time: 1 hour

Nid d’Amour

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

If you do not want to take a road trip, then definitely consider having a staycation in the beautiful Wilson Building in Downtown Dallas. As always, there are plenty of things to do for couples in Downtown Dallas. For example: there are plenty of great events going on in the Arts District! On Friday, February 12th, Titas/Dance Unbound Doug Varone and Dancers will be performing live at the Winspear Opera House. Also, within a few blocks of the Wilson Building Apartments, there are several restaurants including: The Woolworth, Chop House Burger, and Porta Di Roma. For some other romantic ideas include a couples massage at the Spa at the Joule Dallas or shopping at Neiman Marcus.

Downtown Dallas | Directions

Travel Time: 30 minutes

Recess on Cypress Creek and Wimberley Square

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

Just a few minutes Southwest of Austin, in the town of Wimberley, there is an adorable bohemian styled loft that is perfect for a romantic weekend! This loft is in an old home, but fully up to date with a kitchen, private bath, and living area. Of course this loft was furnished with the environment in the forefront owner’s thoughts, the accents in this loft include live indoor plants, 100% cotton towels, bamboo blankets, and hand made wooden accents. There are a few great little places to see while you are there, including: Ino’s Brew & Chew, Community Pizza & Beer Garden, and Wimberley Cafe.

Wimberley | Directions

Travel Time: 4 hours

Artists Loft in San Antonio

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

Granted San Antonio is a little over a four hour drive. However, the city of San Antonio is every bit worth the extra 30 minutes. After all, between the unique sites along the Riverwalk, Rich Texan History, and amazing Latino culture; what is there not to like about San Antonio. This Artist Studio is every bit as unique as the city itself. It is decorated with stunning area rugs, beautiful antique furniture, live plants, and one of a kind art work. For those who are unfamiliar with the Southtown Neighborhood of San Antonio, there are some great small businesses in the area. While you are there, be sure to visit: The Friendly Spot Ice House, La Frite Belgian Bistro, and Maverick Texas Brasserie.

Southtown Neighborhood of San Antonio | Directions

Travel Time: 4 hour 30 minutes

Loft on 6th Street in Austin

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

This loft is absolutely perfect for anyone who loves the nightlife! If you choose to spend your romantic holiday here, you will find that you are within walking to distance of some of the greatest venues that the Live Music Capitol of the World has to offer. The best part of this loft is the floor to ceiling windows on every external wall (except in the Bedroom) which allows the loft to be filled with natural light during daylight hours.

Downtown Austin | Directions

Travel Time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Windmill Loft

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

It does not sound like there is much in the city of McGregor, TX. However, it is a very small town about 20 minutes Southwest of Waco. Therefore, you have access to all of your favorite locations in Waco, including: The Silos and Baylor University. But if you and your significant other are just looking for some quiet, private time; the Windmill Loft is the perfect place your the two of you to spend your Valentine’s Day. This lovely loft is inside the newly renovated Historic Masonic Building in Downtown McGregor. All of the hardwood in the loft (including the cabinets, floors, and wainscoting) are all original to the building and has a large TV, comfortable beds, couches, and 14 foot ceilings.

McGregor | Directions

Travel Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes

The Urban Cowboy Loft

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

The Green Door Lofts is a really cool renovated building in the heart of the Historic District of Waco. This spacious and airy loft allows you and your life partner to relax and spend a great night in watching Netflix or Direct TV. It is also worth noting that there is a heated pool on the grounds of the the apartment complex, in case the two of you would like to go for a late night swim. However, if you would like to go out and see the sights; the Hippodrome Diner Theatre is right next door. Other options in the area for food and entertainment is the Dr. Pepper Museum, the Waco Farmer’s Market (only open Saturdays 9am to 1pm), and Union Hall.

Downtown Waco | Directions

Travel Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Behrens Lofts Downtown Waco

Photos Courtesy of Airbnb

This is another beautiful loft right in the heart of historic Downtown Waco and within walking distance to the Silos District. The Behrens Lofts are located in the recently renovated Behrens Warehouse. The owners of this loft have kept the brick exposed brick walls and industrial air vents that have added a wonderful antique, urban flair to the property. If you are looking for a quiet night in, this is the perfect place to eat some of your favorite comfort food, lounge on the couch and watch your favorite movies on the 70-inch Smart TV. There are plenty of fun places to visit (all within walking distance) during your stay in Waco, including: Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits, Ninfa’s Mexican Restaurant, and the Clay Pot Restaurant.

Downtown Waco | Directions

Travel Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

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Where to Stay While Honeymooning in French Polynesia

January 8, 2021January 8, 2021 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Destination Weddings, Travel, Travel Photography, Where to Stay

_{Prior to writing this article, Matt and I would like to send our special thanks to Rhonda who was our Travel Agent with Park Cities Travels. With the Covid pandemic, Matt and I had absolutely no idea where to start or what to do when the time came for us to start planning our Honeymoon. Rhonda was an excellent travel agent and has a worldwide network of resources (literally), she was such a huge help to us as we planned our trip. We highly recommend booking your next big trip through Rhonda at Park Cities Travels!}

We started planning our wedding and our honeymoon prior to COVID-19 pandemic. Originally, our plans was to take a small trip a few days after the wedding and a BIG trip to New Zealand later in the year. Then the COVID pandemic arrived and like many things our hopes on going to New Zealand were thwarted. To further complicate our goals, many other countries (like New Zealand) had also closed their borders to tourists. At that point we were stuck in a quandary and did not know what to do or where to start. Our Travel Agent, Rhonda, was such a huge help. Once we finally decided where we wanted to go, we just gave Rhonda our final budget and she did all the rest. She booked our hotel, transportation, excursions, meal plans and more! What is better, is she also was able to meet all our needs and desires and still come up a few hundred dollars under budget!

InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa

The Lagoonarium

Aerial view of the Lagoonarium

On the Island of Tahiti Nui, we stayed at the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa. First, my absolute favorite feature of this resort was the Lagoonarium. This lagoonarium is an artificial (man-made) lagoon that is fed by sea water and is filled with some of the most colorful fish that are native to the area. So when you go to swim in the Lagoonarium, you are literally swimming with the stunning fish that are native to the area and some of the most beautiful coral in the world. I highly recommend bringing a snorkel and goggles when you visit the Intercontinental Tahiti Resort & Spa, so that you can observe these sights as you swim! There are also two other swimming pools on the complex. One pool is right next to the Lagoonarium. Then there is a smaller infinity pool that overlooks the South Pacific and includes a swim up bar as well.

Overwater Bungalows

The InterContinental Resort & Spa in Tahiti does have amazing Overwater bungalows available to rent. They also have a few different types of Overwater Bungalows so that you can pick the perfect one for you. The smallest bungalows are called the Jr. Suite Overwater Bungalow Lagoon. the prices for these start at ~$520.00/night. This bungalow is a perfect location as it is right next door to the lagoonarium and has fantastic views of Mo’orea Island. However, if you are looking for an overwater bungalow that is a little more high end get the Overwater Motu Villa Suite. This suite can sleep up to 4 people and includes a balcony with stunning views, a luxurious bathtub, and is perfectly secluded. The price of Villas start at ~$650.00/night.

Early Check-In & Courtesy Rooms

It is also worth noting that most flights coming from the United States arrive in Papeete either early in the morning (ours arrived at 5:04 am) or late in the evening (around 09:00pm). Also the hotel is only about 10 to 15 minutes away from the airport. Therefore, if you are arriving early, be sure to request an early check in. The hotel does have courtesy rooms (which include toilets and showers) for their guests who arrive earlier than the check-in. I highly recommend making use of these courtesy rooms while you are waiting to check-in. These courtesy rooms include showers (with shampoo and bodywash), towels, toilets, and sinks. However, if you are arriving late. Check-in is a 3:00 pm. Be sure to call the front desk before you board you flight to Papeete and let them know that you will be arriving late in the evening.

Manava Beach Resort & Spa Hotel

Mo’orea Island

Island as a whole reminded me of the French Polynesian version of a small sea side town in Florida, USA (like Seaside or Key West). While Tahiti Nui had more of an urban feel, Mo’orea was more quiet and felt more rustic. Due to the size and slower paced lifestyle of the island, Matt and I found the that we more and better access to beaches and the ocean. So if you wanted to go for a swim in the ocean, it was definitely much better.

Rooms and Bungalows:

Manava Spa and Resort (compared to the InterContentental Tahiti) was also smaller and and more quaint. However, Matt and I really enjoyed our time here! There are plenty of different styles of bungalows and rooms. While the Overwater bungalows seemed wonderful; they were not what Matt and I really wanted. We felt that they were a little too close to the other overwater bungalows around them. We also did not think that they gave us the privacy that we really wanted. With it being our honeymoon, Matt and I really needed something with much more privacy than what the Overwater bungalows could provide. Instead, we stayed in the Garden bungalow. These bungalows were fenced off and had a small private dunking pool. This bungalow ended up being everything that we needed it to be. If you are travelling with a family with kids, the Overwater and Beach Bungalows would be better suited for your needs. For couples definitely go with the garden bungalows during your stay.

Dinner and a Show

When booking your trip to Manava Beach Resort & Spa, be sure to make sure you are there on a Saturday night. Every Saturday night at 7:30 pm there is a show featuring Traditional Polynesian dancing! Dinner is included and but it is by reservation only! Make sure to be sure to make reservations as soon as you can for dinner on Saturday.

Paraoro, Mo’orea

In town there are a few restaurants Restaurants, a Tahitian Black Pearl shop and a small grocery store. Also if you are searching for a second home in a stunning destination there is a Sotheby’s Reality office just a five minute walk away from the Resort. Other souvenir shops are also in town.

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Airbnb’s Perfect for your Thanksgiving Holiday

November 2, 2020November 2, 2020 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Travel, Where to Stay

Thanksgiving is only three weeks away. This Thanksgiving Holiday, after everyone has been confined to their homes for nearly seven months, we are all in desperate time away. With the Pandemic this year, it has become clear that we all need to spend more time with those we love this Holiday Season. One of the best ways to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Frisco Metroplex would be by renting a relaxing Airbnb home to retreat to this Thanksgiving holiday. We have specifically chosen great rentals with great views and are perfect for you and your family (or group of friends) to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday.

Arrowhead Lodge (Montana)

What better way to escape the insanity of Dallas life than by heading West out to Yellowstone Country, Montana. The Arrowhead Lodge is a perfect location for anyone who wants to escape to the Rocky Mountains for Thanksgiving. This rental property is a great option for any family get together because it has spacious rooms each with landscape windows and amazing views. The kitchen could comfortable fit five adults working to create an amazing Thanksgiving meal. For day trips, Yellowstone National Park is only 1.5 hour drive South. There are also some fun little shops in Downtown Livingston, including: The Obsidian Collection, The Gourmet Cellar, and Neptune’s Taphouse and Eatery.

Number of Guests: 16

Cost (for 16 guests): $57.75/night/person

Travel Time: 3 hour flight (DFW to BZN) + 45 minute drive from airport

Eagle Lake Estate (Idaho)

Who would have thought to vacation to Idaho would be a good idea? But really, Idaho does have one of the prettiest landscapes in the Continental United States. In fact, Idaho was listed among the top 20 most beautiful states in the USA by Thrillist. This stunning Airbnb property in Idaho is definitely no exception! The Eagle Lake Estate is on a beautiful, yet secluded property in the small town of Hailey. Along with five large, wonderfully decorated bedrooms, the property also has a naturally lit living/dining room with floor to ceiling windows and high vaulted ceilings, a very comfortable media room. The kitchen is large enough to allow a few people to work on the Thanksgiving feast. If you would prefer to do other things on Thanksgiving day, a Chef (or two) can be provided to you for an extra cost. For day trips, lodge is only five minutes away from Sawtooth National Forest.

Number of Guests: 12

Cost (for 12 guests): $166.67/night/person

Travel Time: 5 hour flight (DFW to IDA) + 2.5 hour drive from airport

Heartwood Lodge (Wyoming)

The Heartwood Lodge is great for any family who is looking to spend some time in Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Teton National Park. Both of these parks are just a short drive due North. Not only is this six bedroom lodge just outside of the second oldest National Parks in the world; it is also perfect for anyone who is an avid skier, as it is within walking distance to Après Vous. Other fun accommodations include: an outdoor hot tub and fireplace (for the adventurous few in the group), a large media room (perfect for football fans) and a pool table. Other features available for an extra cost include various members of household staff (chef, butler, driver, restaurant concierge, or childcare), Villa pre-stocking, activities and excursions.

Number of Guests: 18

Cost (for 18 guests): $444.45/night/person

Travel Time: 3 hour flight (DFW to JAC) + 22 minute drive

Movie Star Mansion (Utah)

This is another great option for any group that loves to ski or snowboard, as this rental has a ski-in/ski-out feature. For those who would do not like to ski as much, Historic Park City is just a short drive away and has many fun shops like Atticus Coffee Books & Teahouse, No Name Saloon & Grill, and La Niche. Or if you are looking more for a night in, there are some wonderful activities available at the house to engage in. These activities includes: a pool table, a poker table, fully equipped exercise room, media room, jacuzzi, a sauna, a wet bar, and seven very spacious bedrooms. If you and your group are planning on making your own Thanksgiving dinner; do not fear, as the kitchen in this lodge is large enough to accommodate at least six people. However, if you find that you are in need of some extra hands on Thanksgiving day, some additional services are provided to the group for an extra fee, including: food pre-stocking, household staff (chef, driver, food and beverage services, housekeeping, childcare and a butler), car rental, and restaurant concierge.

Number of Guests: 18

Cost (for 18 guests): $225.95/night/person

Travel Time: 3 hour flight (DFW to SLC) + 1 hour drive

“Our Place” (Idaho)

This is a great option for a very large family or a family would like to have lots of space during this Thanksgiving season. You are guaranteed extra privacy and quiet as the property has no neighbors. Never fear though, there are plenty of activities while at the lodge including ping pong, pool, a jacuzzi, an outdoor firepit which is perfect for making s’mores. If you are looking to get off the property for the day, both and Idaho Falls and Jackson, Wyoming are only an hour away. For those looking for a quiet night in, the lodge has three fire places, a jetted tub in the master bathroom, and a TV. On Thanksgiving day, do not worry about the size of the kitchen as it can comfortably fit six to seven people.

Number of Guests: 22

Cost (for 22 guests): $54.55/night/person

Travel Time: 5 hour flight (DFW to IDA) + 1.5 hour drive from airport

****All photos (including Cover photo) courtesy of Airbnb.

What to do with 24 Hours in Washington D.C.

September 28, 2020September 27, 2020 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Diving in to Culture, Travel, What to Eat, Where to Stay

My husband is a pilot for a commercial airline. While there are many benefits to his job, one of my favorites is being able to travel so that I can meet him in for some of his longer layovers in a few American cities. I love traveling and seeing local sites and I love getting to be with my husband. I have been to Washington DC twice (once on a solo trip and once with Matt), it is a wonderful city to visit for anyone and for any reason.

Granted travel restrictions are continuously changing on a daily basis. Unfortunately, those traveling from Texas (as well as 30 other states) will need to quarantine for 14 days after their arrival. Just know, that this will not last forever, I fully suspect that Washington DC to completely open up soon. However, if you are traveling from Maryland or Virginia you are exempt from the order.

Union Station

Granted, Washington DC is best known for being our nations capital. DC has many beautiful site and many beautiful government buildings. However, it would probably surprise most people that one of the prettiest buildings in the city is not a government building at all. Union Station is one of the prettiest buildings in Washington DC. It is open to the public (as opposed to just Amtrak and Metro Passengers) there are quite a few shops and restaurants to try including: Magnolia Bakery, Potbelly, Aloha Poke Co., Blue Bottle Coffee, and more. The best way to get there is to take the Metro subway.

Hiking in Rock Creek Park

Photo Courtesy of the National Parks Conservation Association

Funny story, my discovery of this park was purely accidental. The first time I went to Washington DC was a solo trip. I had some time to kill between checking out of the hostel and arriving at the train station to depart the city. So I rented a car and drove around. At the time, I had no direction and no map, I just decided to take my self on a self-guided driving tour of Washington DC. It was during this driving tour that I stumbled upon this lovely park. This is a great location to get out and enjoy the beauty of nature.

National Mall

It does not matter what you plan on doing, the National Mall is a great place to visit! Of course, if you have never been to the the nation’s capital definitely take advantage of all the free tourist attractions that are there (because there are so many)! If you are traveling with a group of people, this is a great place to do something that will ignite the excitement in every member. For those who love history, you can enjoy any one of the government buildings, monuments, or memorials. The foodie in your group might really enjoy the tons of food trucks and restaurants within walking distance. You could have a picnic on the lawn for the calm, introverted, nature-lover in the group. For the person who wants to dive into culture, there is no better place to go than the Smithsonian Museum.

Stay the Night at Highroad Hostel DC

The Living Room – Photo Courtesy of TripAdvisor

Yes, I realize this is a Hostel and not your typical hotel. However, compared to some of my hotel stays in Washington DC, I enjoyed the Highroad Hostel far more. First off, this hostel is located in a really fun DC neighborhood (Adams Morgan). There are so many fun quirky shops, restaurants, and bars all within a two-block walking distance. Some of these shops and restaurants include: the Amsterdam Falafelshop, Bossa, District of Columbia Arts Center, and Mercedes Bien Vintage Clothing and Decor. Also if you are looking for a cheap ride to drive around Washington DC, there is a Zipcar Parking lot right around the corner (not even a 5 minute walk). Finally, there are several different room options for travelers. For anyone who just wants a cheap place to crash, I would recommend the 14 bed-multi shared dorm. If anyone is traveling with a group or with their children, I highly recommend the 4 bed multi-shared room.

Eat at The Hamilton

The Hamilton is a beautiful restaurant and live music venue on the corner of 14th St. and F St. NW. Fortunately, even with the Covid restrictions, The Hamilton is allowed to have live concerts (just at a reduced capacity). In the coming weeks and months patrons will be able to enjoy live music with their dinner. This fall season they have some really fun concert options to the public, including: Della Mae, Kat Edmonson, Cris Jacobs Band, and a few more. Otherwise, if you are just looking for a great place to eat, The Hamilton offers dine-in, take-out, online, and to-go orders. While you are there, be sure to try the Lobster Shephard’s Pie, No Bull Burger (vegan), or Fire Cracker Sushi Roll.

The International Spy Museum

Espionage has always been a topic from some of our favorite movies, novels, TV shows and even conspiracy theories. Some young children dream of eventually becoming International spies. This museum is perfect for any child (and even children at heart) because it provides their visitors with an immersive and semi-hands on experience regarding espionage. During your visit you will get the chance to learn all about the Culper Spy Ring, the Code Breakers of WWII, the Enigma, and more. The International Spy Museum is open Monday through Friday (even during Covid). They also have some fun programs and workshops for their patrons. For families, they have other fun events including the “Covert Couch Challenge” which is a family game night designed to test your family’s skills at tradecraft.