Posts Tagged ‘Travel’
Shopping Simplified: 3 Fluid Ounces, 1 Less Worry
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Friday, May 18th, 2012
Sick of airport security threatening the life of your toiletries? Meet 3floz.com. The website stocks the best brands of products for almost every hygienic essential in ultra- convenient, TSA-friendly three fl. oz. or smaller containers for the jet setter, cosmetically curious and commitment phobic.
Every week the site features new brands. (Photo courtesy: 3floz.com)
The site is categorized by product, brand, gender and purpose so it’s easy to find exactly what you need. Products are available for men, women and baby. Brands include Ahava, SpaRitual, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare, Fekkai, La Fresh, Tocca and so many more. There are even kits for sale for every necessity from shaving, to hair, to anti-aging and on!
Go Smile's portable Jet Set Travel Kit includes aromatherapy-enriched AM and PM Toothpastes and a travel toothbrush, packaged in a chic and functional zippered bag all for only $12. (Photo courtesy: 3floz.com)
3floz.com is obviously a great site to score the best travel supplies but it’s also a convenient way to test out unfamiliar brands without having to invest full price on an entire bottle that may or may not fulfill it’s intended purpose. So don’t be afraid to experiment a little!
Fekkai Salon Technician Color Care product kit includes shampoo, conditioner, anti-fade top coat, travel-size sheer hold hairspray and mini comb, all in a little travel bag for $43. (Photo courtesy: 3floz.com)
Happy travels!
-Hilary Adleberg
Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Friday, April 27th, 2012
By Matt Basheda
Lansdowne Resort’s Spring Specials
Courtesy of Lansdowne Resort
If you want to turn a day of golf into a night of fun, but can’t stray too far from home, Lansdowne remains NoVA’s best destination. Their new spring specials prove it. “Swing into Spring” combines two rounds of golf with one overnight stay for two people. Prices start at an astonishing $205 for access to Lansdowne’s luxurious amenities and plush courses.
But if golf is your sole goal during your weekend at Lansdowne, try their “One Pay, Two Play.” Basically—buy one, get one free. Price includes lunch to fuel your fairway foray and 10 percent off your overnight stay.
Lansdowne is bursting this time of year. Kick back in Loudoun’s unique wilderness without leaving civilization.
Distance from Fairfax: 30 minutes
Within Western Maryland’s secluded woods lies a AAA four-diamond resort. Nestled deep inCumberland,Md., Rocky Gap Resort sits on expansive Lake Habeeb.
Rocky Gap boasts the only Jack Nicklaus golf course in Maryland. Emerald and blue intertwine in soothing hills on a deep, cool lake. The course is hardly distinguishable from its silent, wooded surroundings. Sylvan sanctuaries blend with verdant fairways. This is the way golf was meant to be played; not roadside, but as a seamless blend of nature and civilization.
Their golf package is extraordinary. For unlimited golf plus incredible lodging, prices start at $159. Choose your ideal room—lakeside or course-side.
Distance from Fairfax: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Courtesy of Omni Hotels & Resorts
Take a swing at history. Bedford Springs is one of the oldest resorts inAmerica, and one of the first golf courses, too—laid out in 1895.
Its design has been re-sculpted over the years, but the location remains the same. Bedford’s links are as lush as ever. This National Historic Landmark recently underwent a $120 million renovation, and the results show all over the place.
Five separate dining establishments keep you full and happy. Endless amenities fill the resort’s 2,200 acres. Swim indoors or outdoors; they have a pool for each.
And the golf course is a masterpiece. One of America’s most prolific course designers, A.W. Tillinghast, helped shape it. And it still ranks among the mid-Atlantic’s most legendary links.
These hallowed holes spread across the Pennsylvania wilderness like an organic monument. Bedford knows it has a treasure on its hands, but instead of guarding it closely, they open it to all.
Golf packages start at $85 for course access only. Club rentals and overnight stay increase the deal, and time restrictions apply, too.
Still, this is a golf outing for the ages.
Distance from Fairfax: 3 hours
Golf in the Distance
Traveling with clubs used to be a hassle, but you can take it easy with these products.
This modified duffel keeps your clubs nice and tight for even the harshest traveling. It even rolls to remove awkward lifting from the equation.
Second Skin Women’s Full Zip Rain Jacket
Preparation is one of travel’s foremost rules. Stick with that advice and prep for wet weather with this functional rain jacket.
Keep it cool, both literally and figuratively. These pants breathe and keep off moisture while looking rad.
Loudmouth Golf Torrey Lines Skort
Who says golf is uncool? Play anyway—it’ll give you an excuse to wear this flashy, cleverly named faux skirt.
Posted by Geoff Nelowet / Monday, April 9th, 2012
by Matt Basheda
Travel in style… By getting your friends and family to chip in. Set up a myTab account and never again foot the bill on your own. MyTab creates an online piggy bank towards which you can solicit donations—or simply save up, bit by bit. These guys have been getting a ton of coverage lately, and there are a lot more features. This is one of the new best travel websites.
April 2012
Vera Bradley Laptop Travel Tote
Posted by Geoff Nelowet / Friday, February 10th, 2012
By Lindsey Leake
Photo courtesy of Vera Bradley
Most of us fly with laptops these days and it can be a real hassle to dig your computer out of your carry-on bag at each stage of airport security. With Vera Bradley’s new Laptop Travel Tote, you can now zip through security checkpoints in style. The tote’s interior splits in two, revealing a roomy, zip-top compartment on one side and a padded laptop sleeve on the other. Unzippable sides make it easy to slide out your laptop as you make your way through security and lock into place when you’re ready to board. The bag also boasts an exterior zippered pouch for added storage.
Features:
• A divided interior has a padded laptop sleeve on one side and a zip-top section on the other
• Sides unzip, dividing the tote in half for quick and easy security inspection
• Easy-access zipper on side locks into place
• Dimensions: 11 ¼” x 14 ¾” x 3” with 12” strap drop
• Available in Spring 2012 prints: Camellia, Ellie Blue, Island Blooms and Rosy Posies
Laptop Travel Tote, www.verabradley.com, $85
Image depicts tote in Rosy Posies.
EatSmart Precision Voyager Digital Luggage Scale
Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Monday, January 9th, 2012
- Photo Courtesy of EatSmart
By Lexi Ramage
No one likes biting their nails at the airport, hoping their baggage will be under the 50-pound weight limit so they don’t have to pay overweight baggage fees. The EatSmart Precision Voyager Digital Luggage Scale clips onto the handle of a suitcase or bag and allows for easy lifting of heavy items, up to 110 pounds. Once lifted, the scale weighs the bag and beeps when done. The weight will appear on the large backlit LCD, making over-packing a thing of the past!
Features include:
• EatSmart SmartGrip two-handed design for easier lifting of heavy luggage
• 110 lb./50 kg capacity; Graduation of .1 lbs./.1 kgs
• Easy-to-read backlit LCD display
• Compact and lightweight design, perfect for any traveler
• Auto Calibated; Auto Power-Off; Runs on one long-life lithium battery (included)
• 100 percent EatSmart Satisfaction Guarantee
EatSmart Precision Voyager Digital Luggage Scale, was $29.95 and now is $19.95.
Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Friday, January 6th, 2012
By Lexie Ramage
Getaway this January and catch some snow on these beautiful international slopes.
Photo Courtesy Courchevel
Courchevel
Located in the largest ski area in the world, the 1,304-acre French resort Courchevel in Les 3 Vallées has it all–restaurants, family activities, nightlife, shopping, gorgeous slopes and more. Enjoy the breath-taking views of Mont Blanc massif in the North, the Les Ecrins massif in the South and the Swiss and Italian Alps. Regardless of your past skiing experience, Courchevel has runs for both the beginner and expert. It has a variety of accommodations such as studio apartments, five-star hotels, residences and holiday villages. Their ski equipment is state-of-the-art, which allows for less waiting and more skiing. Of course Courchevel offers the very meaning of après ski with all of their bars, pubs, tearooms, restaurants and night clubs. But Courchevel does not forget the kids; there are plenty of activities for them as well, such as bowling, cooking and learning how to fly.
Courchevel, France; www.courchevel.com; prices start at $431; 4,126 miles from Fairfax
Standouts: Shopping, Nightlife, Kid-friendly activities
Photo Courtesy Gstaad Palace
Gstaad Palace
Gstaad Palace attracts the rich and famous from all over to this luxurious village in Switzerland. Gstaad is one of the top three cross-country ski areas in Switzerland. It is one of the leading hotels in the world and has built this reputation since its opening in 1913. Experience wondrous views of the Swiss Alps from Gstaad Palace’s 104 rooms and suites. Indulge in Gstaad Palace’s spa, five restaurants, bars, night club and numerous year-round activities. Many members of their concierge staff have worked there for decades and are there for your every need. The children’s program is new each year and includes activities like going to a petting zoo, playgrounds, ice skating, sledding and more. Children under 9 can travel for free on the mountain railways and enjoy a bouncing castle or go tobogganing in the summer. Gstaad has both summer and winter sports, making the stay fun no matter when you go. The tennis and squash courts are located near the hotel and guests can sometimes learn from tennis stars like Roy Emerson, Marc Rosset and Frédéric Bouvier. From May 13 to October 31, guests can even play golf!
Gstaad Palace, Switzerland, www.palace.ch; prices start at $286; 4,121 miles from Fairfax
Standouts: Shopping, Nightlife, Sports, Spa, Kid-friendly activities
Photo Courtesy Alta Badia
Alta Badia
Alta Badia is one of the top ski resorts for beginners and one of the best for families. Although the majority of slopes are geared for the beginner to medium experienced skier or snowboarder, the views of the Alps more than make up for the easy trails. Take advantage of those gorgeous views by hiking and nordic walking on 50 miles of beaten tracks. Go on a moonlight snowshoe walking tour, go sledging, ice skating and enjoy other winter activities. Give your legs a break and go horseback riding or enjoy a carriage ride. Take a relaxing break from all the activity and enjoy the multiple spas that range in services. Naturally, being an Italian village, Alta Badia has numerous farm restaurants, gourmet restaurants, snack bars, pizzerias and more to keep your stomach satisfied. Alta Badia has many different types of accommodations, perfect for every traveler – hotel, bed and breakfasts, apartments, campsites and more. This is truly the place for la dolce vita.
Alta Badia, Italy; www.altabadia.org; prices start at $50; 4,313 miles from Fairfax
Standouts: Shopping, Nightlife, Sports, Spa
Samsonite Black Label Cosmolite Luggage
Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Friday, December 9th, 2011
Samsonite’s new Curv technology is incredibly light, and absurdly tough. Don’t fall victim to random luggage deterioration. Protect your stuff without straining your arms.
• Hardside exterior
• Samsonite exclusive Curv material
• Unique design inspired by nature
• Monotube with smart sleeve bungee
• Fixed TSA combination lock
• Wheel-handle has carry-handle-position
• Cross ribbons in the bottom
• Zipped divider pad
• ID Tag
• Zipper protection
• Weight: 4.9 lbs.
• Dimensions: 20.0″ x 15.0″ x 9.0″
Samsonite Black Label Cosmolite Luggage, http://shop.samsonite.com, $450
Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Friday, December 9th, 2011
Winter’s Overlooked Secret
By Matt Basheda
Winter is majestic. Snow sets off Christmas lights, and the frosted ground exudes moonlight. But one of the most underrated aspects of winter is the views—with the leaves off the trees and the air drier and clearer, you can see more and farther than in other seasons. So in honor of winter’s little-known treasure, we’ve compiled three of the best views in the area.
Catoctin Mountain Park
Climbing through Catoctin Mountain Park in the winter is cold, but immensely rewarding—one look at the view and you’ll agree. Catoctin Mountain Park delivers the highest views in the area. With three peaks above 1,000 feet, the park lets you experience the region from a completely new perspective. Find yourself at the top of any of its overlooks and gaze down on the sprawled-out Maryland suburbs. Take in all kinds of scenery on the way—secret waterfalls, stark rock formations and a profusion of wildlife. The tallest overlook is Hog Rock, at about 1,600 feet. But if it’s a challenge you’re after, try Chimney Rock. Chimney Rock is 1,400 feet high, and it’s the toughest hike available to park visitors. Also amazing is Thurmont Vista, at around 1,500 feet. Sure it’s winter, but the sights are at their most glorious with the clear winter air. There’s no summer haze or smog to restrict your view. 
Catoctin Mountain Park
Thurmont, Md.
www.nps.gov/cato
Free
Distance from Fairfax: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Amenities:
• When weather permits, cross country skiing
• Year-round hiking trails
Sheraton Premiere at Tysons Corner
Survey one of the busiest areas on earth from the middle of it all. The Sheraton at Tysons stands about 210 feet tall, which means you’ll be looking down on most of the Tysons skyline. The view is incredible. Office buildings gleam like beacons; streetlights glow like miniature flames, while cars dance endlessly. Thoughts of winter won’t exist; the rooms are as cozy as can be, and their glimmering indoor pool includes a sauna. And to ensure you’ve got the best view in town, several types of rooms are available on the hotel’s top four floors—Club Rooms, Tower Suites, Governor’s Suites and Presidential Suites. The latter two are quite luxurious, and located on the hotel’s top floor, the 24th. Also on the 24th floor is the Club Lounge, with incredible panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Sheraton Premier at Tysons Corner
8661 Leesburg Pike
Vienna, VA 22182
www.sheratontysonscorner.com
Prices vary.
Distance from Fairfax: 20 minutes
Amenities:
• Fitness facility
• Concierge
• Covered parking
• Racquetball courts
Bluemont Vineyard
If you want the best of both worlds—outdoors and cozy, simultaneously—Bluemont Vineyard is your new favorite place. Bluemont soars 951 feet above Loudoun’s neighborhoods; it’s one of the highest points in the county. “Elevation” is an integral part of the vineyard’s identity—the word appears many times on their website—and they live up to the definition. You’ll be shocked at what you can see from Bluemont’s airy heights—Tysons, Reston and Dulles Airport quite easily. And now in the winter, with no vegetation covering the land, you might even be able to see the Washington Monument’s distant point! Bluemont’s tastes are perfect for winter’s chill. Of course they offer plenty of their own wine, ready to warm you to your core. Choice meats, cheeses, chocolate and lots more are also available to compliment the many wine varieties. Warm up even further on most weekends with hot soup, stews, sandwiches and chowders. There’s even a fireplace.
Bluemont Vineyard
18755 Foggy Bottom Road
Bluemont, VA 20135
www.bluemontvineyard.com
Tasting fee: $5 per person; all other prices vary.
Distance from Fairfax: 1 hour
Amenities:
• Antique shop, called Lore
• Indoor and outdoor seating, covered seating, lawn space
• Group tours
Christmas Countdown: Winter Travel
Posted by Lorin Drinkard / Monday, December 5th, 2011
Monday, December 5, 2011
'Tis the season to travel. / Photo courtesy: Shutterstock/egd
With relatives to visit, trees to buy, Christmas parties to attend and skating to do, the holidays are, well, packed, to say the very least. A lot of the time you’ll spend motoring to and from events will probably cover the congested highways and byways of NoVA. And as the winter months dip lower and lower on the cold scale, it’s important to have your car/SUV/minivan prepped and ready to face anything the soon-to-be-snowy months can bring.
Thanks to Debbi Mayster of Virginia Tire and Auto, winner of Tire Review’s 2011-2012 “Top Shop of North America” award, we have some handy-dandy tips to keeping you and loved ones on the road and out of (car) trouble.
Before you hit the road:
1) Check your tire tread. If it’s been awhile since you’ve had your tires looked at/replaced, don’t forget this crucial element to auto maintenance. Low tread means less traction on any icy roads, which means a possible not-so-good consequences should you hit a slippery patch on the road. At least 2/32″ of depth is what the National Highway Transportation Safety Board recommends.
2) Make sure wipers – and fluid – are winter-friendly. With all the potential branches and snowfall that could be falling on your windshield and blocking your line of vision, it’s recommended to ensure wiper blades are working smoothly. If not, stop by your local auto repair shop and have them replaced with winter blades. Also, switching out your spring/summer fluid for a heavy-duty winter fluid like this one promises protection from freezing down to 20 degrees below zero.
3) Confirm the freezing point on anti-freeze. “You want antifreeze to be at -34 degrees,” says Mayster. Many auto shops have special winter car maintenance deals going on now or can check this out for free. By keeping the anti-freeze at the correct level and freshness (every two years or 30,000 miles), you’ll keep your ride working smoothly and your engine corrosion-free.
If cars could speak ... / Photo courtesy: Shutterstock/Local Favorite Photography
As you go:
Keep in mind this easy-to-remember expression: “Driving in the snow, take it slow.”
By keeping these tips in mind, your annual trip home for the holidays can be a little less stressful and a ton more joy-filled.
Next up: Love Christmas tunes? Then visit our blog tomorrow for all the latest info on NoVA’s caroling, concerts and more. Plus, a post about great seasonal day trips and gift ideas for those travel bugs in your life.
–Lorin Drinkard
Getaway: Where Movies Are Made
Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Friday, November 11th, 2011
By Lexie Ramage
It’s often said that movies can take people away from the little dramas of their lives. Getaway this November, and celebrate all the amazing movies that are coming out, such as “Breaking Dawn Part 1,” “The Muppets” and “My Week With Marilyn.” Escape to the places where these movies were made. Live, shop and dine like a movie star in Forks or Los Angeles. And if you have some more vacation time saved up, check out London and Surrey, England, too.
Forks, Wash.
Many Twi-hards recognize the town of Forks from the pages of Stephenie Meyer’s “Twilight” series. It may be far, but it’s definitely worth the drive (or flight). This small town has embraced the fame with open arms (or fangs). “Breaking Dawn Part 1” premieres on Nov. 18, so be the ultimate Twilight fan and check the town where the story was based. Despite its small size, there’s still a lot to do. Twilight Tours will show popular Twilight sites and throw in some information about Forks itself, too. Take pictures with Bella’s truck outside of the Forks Chamber of Commerce, stay at the Cullen House, eat “Twilight”-themed food, get all of your “Twilight” souvenirs and reenact your favorite “Twilight” scene at real-life places from the book. If you’re on Team Jacob then visit First Beach in La Push for some more photo ops (and hopefully some werewolf sightings). Even if you’re not a “Twilight” fan, Forks will show visitors small-town hospitality in a beautiful setting. Forks is also a scenic place for hiking, but beware of the rain (and the occasional vampire/werewolf war).
Places to stay:
The Miller Tree Inn Bed and Breakfast looks suspiciously like the Cullen house that Meyer wrote about in her series. Rates range from $115-230 per night.
“No Vampires Beyond This Point” says a sign at the Three Rivers Resort–obviously they’re for Team Jacob. Tent sites are $14 and up. Single cabins start at $89. Double cabins start at $99.
Jacob Black’s House Vacation Rental has the perfect name for anyone on Team Jacob and it’s modeled after the movie version of Jacob’s house. $198-250 per night.
Los Angeles, Calif.
You can now relive the nostalgic days of familiar characters like Kermit, Miss Piggy, Animal, Gonzo and countless others by visiting the newest home of the Muppets. The newest installment of the Muppet movies, “The Muppets” will be released on Nov. 23. Fans can visit plenty of settings from the LA-based movie like Hollywood Boulevard, Disney’s El Capitan Theatre and The Jim Henson Company lot. Similar to the old Muppet movies, the new movie will include a few surprise celebrity cameos and, of course, lots of songs. “The Muppets” will include some new characters such as Walter (the world’s biggest Muppet fan), Walter’s friend Gary (Jason Segal) and Gary’s girlfriend Mary (Amy Adams). In this movie, Walter, Gary and Mary must help Kermit reunite the Muppets to save the old Muppet Theater from being torn down by a businessman looking for oil. Disney’s El Capitan Theatre also has a Muppets-themed menu and pre/post shows when you see the movie there.
Places to stay:
The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is located on Hollywood Boulevard and Disney’s El Capitan Theatre is only a couple minutes away. Rates start around $189 per night.
This Comfort Inn is very close to The Jim Henson Company lot and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Rooms start at $90.
The Rodeway Inn Hollywood is about halfway from the El Capitan Theater and The Jim Henson Company lot. Rooms start at $58 and up.
London and Surrey, England
Who wouldn’t like to be Marilyn Monroe for a day? “My Week with Marilyn” shows a somewhat different side to the Hollywood goddess. She’s falling apart during her filming of “The Prince and the Showgirl” when Colin Clark, an assistant on the set, spends a drama-filled week with her in the English countryside. See the movie on Nov. 23 and spend whatever your vacation time allows in London to celebrate. Follow in Marilyn’s footsteps and take in a show at the Lyric Theatre, do some serious shopping on the streets of London and relax by cycling in Windsor Great Park. Drive to the county of Surry, where Marilyn stayed while filming “The Prince and the Showgirl.” Or even book an introductory flight lesson at the White Waltham Airfield, which was transformed into London Heathrow Airport for “My Week with Marilyn.”
Places to stay:
If you’re a theater lover, stay at the Thistle Piccadilly, which is only a couple minutes away from the Lyric Theatre. Rooms are $167 and up.
If you’re a shopaholic, stay at The Courthouse DoubleTree by Hilton since it’s in the midst of the best shopping London has to offer. Rooms start at $319.
If you’re in the mood for relaxation, stay at the Savill Court Hotel & Spa near Windsor Great Park. Rooms start at $127.