A trip to the spa is a perfect for a girlfriends’ getaway. On a recent weekend in Atlanta, I found the perfect place to relax and unwind; its exhale Mind Body Spa at the Loews Hotel.
While the massage choices seemed endless, I opted for the Fusion massage with Kristen. She used a Swedish based therapy combining the best known therapeutic massage practices to offer an unparalleled hour of relaxation.
Another massage that caught my eye for the future was the four-handed massage. Imagine two therapist and four hands. That would have to be the ultimate self-indulgence.
[Full Story »]
Top travel moments from the past year
What makes a great trip for me is when I try something new and different and going on adventures that are unique and fun where I discover something about the place and myself. During 2012, I encountered many new adventures as I traveled from the mountains to the beach to the city.
With a new year under way, I took a look back at my travels in 2012 and picked the top 10 travel moments, which are trips I would highly recommend.
My top 10 list includes:
•Visiting the charming town of Mount Airy, North Carolina, the inspiration for Mayberry, and stopping by the Andy Griffith Museum where a statue of Andy and Opie heading to the fishing hole greets visitors out front. What made this trip even more special was visiting at the museum with Betty Lynn, the actress who portrayed Thelma Lou, Barney’s girlfriend on “The Andy Griffith Show.” She’s delightful and has found memories of her days as a Hollywood actress. She now lives in Mount Airy and is at the museum on the third Friday of each month to meet with visitors. [Full Story »]
With a new year under way, I took a look back at my travels in 2012 and picked the top 10 travel moments, which are trips I would highly recommend.
My top 10 list includes:
•Visiting the charming town of Mount Airy, North Carolina, the inspiration for Mayberry, and stopping by the Andy Griffith Museum where a statue of Andy and Opie heading to the fishing hole greets visitors out front. What made this trip even more special was visiting at the museum with Betty Lynn, the actress who portrayed Thelma Lou, Barney’s girlfriend on “The Andy Griffith Show.” She’s delightful and has found memories of her days as a Hollywood actress. She now lives in Mount Airy and is at the museum on the third Friday of each month to meet with visitors. [Full Story »]
Alpine Christmas in Helen includes German market, lots of lights, special events
A little bit of Germany can be found in the heart of North Georgia and it is especially magical at Christmas.
German food, arts and crafts and music can be found in Helen year-round but it is at Christmas time that visitors will find a Christmas market, thousands of sparking lights and other special events to celebrate the holiday.
Just a short drive from Banks and Jackson counties, Helen makes for a great day-trip or weekend get-away. If you have more time, plan a longer stay and enjoy all that is offered in the area or take time to just relax and unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of the area. [Full Story »]
German food, arts and crafts and music can be found in Helen year-round but it is at Christmas time that visitors will find a Christmas market, thousands of sparking lights and other special events to celebrate the holiday.
Just a short drive from Banks and Jackson counties, Helen makes for a great day-trip or weekend get-away. If you have more time, plan a longer stay and enjoy all that is offered in the area or take time to just relax and unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of the area. [Full Story »]
‘Euphoria’ celebrates dining and entertainment in Greenville
By Sherry Lewis
The picturesque scenery, fine dining, first class entertainment and Southern hospitality of Greenville, South Carolina, are available any time of the year. Still, there is one special weekend when it all comes together creating a magical combination called “Euphoria.”
Once a year, the community rolls out the red carpet for nationally renowned food, beverage, and musical experts. They are coupled with Greenville’s finest culinary artists, beverage professionals and passionate musicians. Next, they invite thousands of people from near and far, making this an impressive celebration of food, drink, and song. [Full Story »]
The picturesque scenery, fine dining, first class entertainment and Southern hospitality of Greenville, South Carolina, are available any time of the year. Still, there is one special weekend when it all comes together creating a magical combination called “Euphoria.”
Once a year, the community rolls out the red carpet for nationally renowned food, beverage, and musical experts. They are coupled with Greenville’s finest culinary artists, beverage professionals and passionate musicians. Next, they invite thousands of people from near and far, making this an impressive celebration of food, drink, and song. [Full Story »]
Mountain get-away to Hiawassee: The Ridges Resort and Marina perfect for family destination
Relax by the lake surrounded by the rolling ridges of the North Georgia mountains… Spend some time out on the lake to enjoy the natural beauty of the area…Visit with friends in the large comfortable lounge area of the resort or relax in a private corner with a book. Want to play checkers, play the piano or nap by the huge fireplace, you can do that too in the open lounge area facing the lake…Hungry…Head over to The Oaks for fine dining in a scenic setting.
The Ridges Resort Marina is a wonderful mountain lodge that offers all of this and more in the quaint town of Hiawassee, Ga. Located on Lake Chatuge, the resort is the perfect get-away for family and friends who want to slow down and relax in a beautiful location.
As soon as you drive onto the property, you will leave behind the hectic pace and find yourself in a serene, peaceful setting. Then, entering the huge lobby with the elegant country décor will make you relax even more. The lobby is so inviting and relaxing that you will want to spend time there visiting with family or friends or curling up on one of the comfy chairs with a book or for a quick nap. Coffee and hot tea are always available in the lobby and delicious cookies are offered each afternoon. [Full Story »]
The Ridges Resort Marina is a wonderful mountain lodge that offers all of this and more in the quaint town of Hiawassee, Ga. Located on Lake Chatuge, the resort is the perfect get-away for family and friends who want to slow down and relax in a beautiful location.
As soon as you drive onto the property, you will leave behind the hectic pace and find yourself in a serene, peaceful setting. Then, entering the huge lobby with the elegant country décor will make you relax even more. The lobby is so inviting and relaxing that you will want to spend time there visiting with family or friends or curling up on one of the comfy chairs with a book or for a quick nap. Coffee and hot tea are always available in the lobby and delicious cookies are offered each afternoon. [Full Story »]
Girlfriend get-away: Spas, museums and more await visitors to Jacksonville
BY SHERRY LEWIS
Whether taking a step back in time, relaxing at a first class spa, or spending a day on the water, the Jacksonville area has everything you need for a perfect girlfriends’ getaway. On a recent trip, I was charmed and delighted at my finds in the River City.
One of the best parts of a girlfriends’ getaway is good food and pampering. We found both of those at One Ocean Resort at Atlantic Beach. For a wonderfully relaxing beach-inspired spa treatment, get a hot seashell massage. A warm robe is waiting for you as you let your worries go in the relaxation room. The treatment starts as Traci holds seashells in her hand as she massages your arm and hand. Your feet are wrapped in warm towels. It’s an amazingly relaxing experience that will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated. The spa treatment ended with a wonderful scalp massage. [Full Story »]
Whether taking a step back in time, relaxing at a first class spa, or spending a day on the water, the Jacksonville area has everything you need for a perfect girlfriends’ getaway. On a recent trip, I was charmed and delighted at my finds in the River City.
One of the best parts of a girlfriends’ getaway is good food and pampering. We found both of those at One Ocean Resort at Atlantic Beach. For a wonderfully relaxing beach-inspired spa treatment, get a hot seashell massage. A warm robe is waiting for you as you let your worries go in the relaxation room. The treatment starts as Traci holds seashells in her hand as she massages your arm and hand. Your feet are wrapped in warm towels. It’s an amazingly relaxing experience that will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated. The spa treatment ended with a wonderful scalp massage. [Full Story »]
Exploring Boone Area: Natural beauty abounds in Boone, N.C.
Crossing the bridge at Grandfather Mountain to get the best view to be found of the North Carolina countryside.
Standing atop the rock at The Blowing Rock with the breeze blowing and listening to the tale of the Native American woman whose love blew over the side of the rock only to return to her.
Boone, North Carolina, and the surrounding area is such an amazing place to visit. You will feel so relaxed and at peace surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.
Boone is the county seat of Watauga County and is located in the northwest corner of the state. The town was named for Daniel Boone, who had a hunting camp in the area. [Full Story »]
Standing atop the rock at The Blowing Rock with the breeze blowing and listening to the tale of the Native American woman whose love blew over the side of the rock only to return to her.
Boone, North Carolina, and the surrounding area is such an amazing place to visit. You will feel so relaxed and at peace surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.
Boone is the county seat of Watauga County and is located in the northwest corner of the state. The town was named for Daniel Boone, who had a hunting camp in the area. [Full Story »]
Outdoor adventure and mystery await visitors to Burke County, N.C.
BY SHERRY LEWIS
Water sports, hiking, rock climbing, outdoor concerts and zip lining are just some of the activities which make Burke County “Nature’s Playground.”
The rocks, mountains, and gorges in Burke County are a magnificent sight to see. A novice or a hard core hiker will be amazed at the scenery along the Table Rock Mountain trails. They will see plants, flowers, towering rock formations, wildlife, and majestic overlooks along the way. Once on top, at 3950 feet above sea level, the rolling mountains seem to touch heaven.
Table Rock Mountain is the landmark of the Pisgah National Forest and it’s a feast for the eyes whether looking from nearby Morganton or climbing to the very top and gazing at the spectacular views overlooking Linville Gorge. The gorge has been given the name “Grand Canyon of the East.” It’s the deepest gorge east of the Mississippi River. The area is a magnet for hikers, rocker climbers, and nature lovers alike.
Catawba Meadows Park offers many outdoor options. In additional to the premier softball and baseball facilities, residents and visitors can enjoy 2-5 miles greenway along the Catawba River; and 18-hole disc golf course, sand volleyball courts, corporate picnic shelters, acres of open space for picnics, and many special events. [Full Story »]
Water sports, hiking, rock climbing, outdoor concerts and zip lining are just some of the activities which make Burke County “Nature’s Playground.”
The rocks, mountains, and gorges in Burke County are a magnificent sight to see. A novice or a hard core hiker will be amazed at the scenery along the Table Rock Mountain trails. They will see plants, flowers, towering rock formations, wildlife, and majestic overlooks along the way. Once on top, at 3950 feet above sea level, the rolling mountains seem to touch heaven.
Table Rock Mountain is the landmark of the Pisgah National Forest and it’s a feast for the eyes whether looking from nearby Morganton or climbing to the very top and gazing at the spectacular views overlooking Linville Gorge. The gorge has been given the name “Grand Canyon of the East.” It’s the deepest gorge east of the Mississippi River. The area is a magnet for hikers, rocker climbers, and nature lovers alike.
Catawba Meadows Park offers many outdoor options. In additional to the premier softball and baseball facilities, residents and visitors can enjoy 2-5 miles greenway along the Catawba River; and 18-hole disc golf course, sand volleyball courts, corporate picnic shelters, acres of open space for picnics, and many special events. [Full Story »]
Exploring Elkin: Outdoor adventure, shopping and history found in North Carolina town
The charming town of Elkin, North Carolina, offers outdoor adventure, downtown shopping and plenty of history.
One of the best reasons to visit Elkin is the outdoor adventure surrounded by the scenic beauty of the area.
A great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area is to take a canoe and kayak river trip with Yadkin River Adventures. Two, four and six hour trips on the river are offered, providing plenty of family fun in a scenic area.
Nature lovers will enjoy this relaxing stretch of river where you can spot birds and other wildlife as you float down the river. The Yadkin River Trail offers opportunities for beginners to experienced paddlers. [Full Story »]
One of the best reasons to visit Elkin is the outdoor adventure surrounded by the scenic beauty of the area.
A great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area is to take a canoe and kayak river trip with Yadkin River Adventures. Two, four and six hour trips on the river are offered, providing plenty of family fun in a scenic area.
Nature lovers will enjoy this relaxing stretch of river where you can spot birds and other wildlife as you float down the river. The Yadkin River Trail offers opportunities for beginners to experienced paddlers. [Full Story »]
Spas, shopping, scenic views await visitors to Dahlonega
A delightful afternoon at the spa for a holistic massage that soothes and relaxes aching muscles and leaves you relaxed and refreshed.
Winding along the scenic trails on the property and spending time rejuvenating in the outdoor Jacuzzi.
Then, spending a delightful afternoon discovering the unique shops and boutiques on the historic downtown square. Ending the shopping with an amazing Cajun dinner dining on the outdoor balcony at the wonderful Bourbon Street Grille.
All this and more awaits visitors to Dahlonega, only a short drive away yet a world away from the hustle and bustle. It’s a great girlfriend get-away, as well as having options that make it a great choice for a family destination, romantic jaunt or even a guys get-away. [Full Story »]
Winding along the scenic trails on the property and spending time rejuvenating in the outdoor Jacuzzi.
Then, spending a delightful afternoon discovering the unique shops and boutiques on the historic downtown square. Ending the shopping with an amazing Cajun dinner dining on the outdoor balcony at the wonderful Bourbon Street Grille.
All this and more awaits visitors to Dahlonega, only a short drive away yet a world away from the hustle and bustle. It’s a great girlfriend get-away, as well as having options that make it a great choice for a family destination, romantic jaunt or even a guys get-away. [Full Story »]
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