UNIVERSAL’S ENDLESS SUMMER RESORT – SURFSIDE INN AND SUITES IS NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS

Be Among the First to Stay at Universal Orlando’s Newest and Most Affordable Hotel – Book Today!  

ORLANDO, Fla. (June 13, 2018) – The most affordable hotel option at Universal Orlando Resort is now accepting reservations. Opening in August 2019, Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites will be the first hotel in the destination’s new Value hotel category, with rates starting at less than $100 per night. It will offer a hotel option for families looking for theme park thrills, exclusive benefits and a seamless Universal Orlando vacation experience at the destination’s most affordable rates.

Seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels Offering “Summer is Incredible” Rates June 15-Sept. 3

. . . Special room rates provide a terrific way to take in

the Incredible Summer at Walt Disney World Resort,

experience the new Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and take advantage

of the Extra Magic Hours benefit at the Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla (June 2018) – Looking for a fun family vacation? Then you should consider a visit to Central Florida, which has something to please everyone in the family. Take advantage of the special “Summer is Incredible” rates being offered by the seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels. Available for stays from June 15-Sept. 3, 2018, the special room rates provide the opportunity to take in the incredible new offerings at the Walt Disney World Resort this summer.

COLORADO - DUNTON RIVER CAMP NOW OPEN

Dunton Life redefines "glamping" for sixth consecutive year with the reopening of its seasonal Colorado resort

New York - June 7, 2018:  Located four miles downstream from Dunton Hot Springs and steps from the West Fork of the Dolores River in Colorado, Dunton River Camp, the seasonal resort comprised of eight ultra-luxe canvas tents, is now open for its sixth summer season. The pinnacle of "glamping," Dunton River Camp is nestled in an alpine clearing in the Colorado Rockies and offers discerning guests an opportunity to experience more than 1,600 acres of unspoiled wilderness with all the amenities of a five-star resort. Each 640-square-foot tent features a gas heating stove, spacious en-suite bathroom and private lounging porch and comes equipped with two mountain bikes ideal for exploring; four tents are set on the bank of the Dolores River, the other four against the stunning backdrop of the San Juan Mountains. At the heart of the one-of-a-kind resort sits the gathering space for guests, an original 19th-century farmhouse situated just 20 feet from the Dolores River. The restored house, still in its original location, features a guest salon, a wraparound deck with breathtaking views of the Wilson Mountain range, and a dining room serving locally inspired cuisine by Executive Chef Basil Yu.

REVIEW: B Resort & Spa - A Disney Springs Resort Hotel

Every year, we feature a few select recommendations for your Central Florida summer vacation. In our case, this is typically a staycation, of course... and we have had a few firsthand experiences with the Disney Springs Resort Hotels - which never fail to impress. This time around, we're spotlighting the B Resort & Spa!

The B Resort features 394 guest rooms and suites. Select rooms include bunk beds, kitchenettes, and/or wet bars; and all rooms feature exquisitely comfortable beds, 47" HD LCD TVs, Aveda bath products, in-room safes, iron/ironing board, mini-fridge, and ultra-modern power hubs with USB, HDMI and international outlet plug-ins to keep everyone connected (this goes well with the FREE WiFi throughout the resort). Compared to many area hotels, B Resort has an impressive selection of television channels and media options. Even the most basic rooms are spacious, sleek and inviting. The bathrooms feature dazzling, top-of-the-line elements and exceptional accommodation for cleanup after the parks before a night out, or a relaxing extended soak in the jacuzzi tub. These rooms are so comfortable that you'll need a little added motivation to make your way to the nearby Disney parks (and if your room is properly positioned, your fireworks view will make being there even more appealing as night falls)!

That extra motivation may come in the form of the Disney-styled amenities you'll receive... even though you smartly avoided the Disney resort price tag! As a B Resort guest, you can take advantage of the complimentary shuttle to all Walt Disney World® Theme Parks and Disney Springs™ as well as Disney's Extra Magic Hours!

Believe it or not, some people do come to Orlando without spending every waking moment in a theme park. If you want to take advantage of a little vacation on your vacation, you'll appreciate the B Resort's zero-entry pool, B Indulged® by AVEDA full-service spa, and the benefit of preferred tee times at Disney championship golf courses. Children are sure to love the Kids' Zone - a great place for games, movies, and socializing. In-room dining, the quick service "Pick-Up", and American Kitchen Bar & Grill offer a diverse array of reasonably priced dining options on-property to appease every palate. Sure - you're technically at the Walt Disney World Resort, but if you're smart enough to realize that not everything you do or buy needs to happen within the park gates, you'll find treasures and experiences of equivalent quality at a much less dramatic cost right at your resort.

The Disney Springs Resort Hotels are regularly offering fantastic specials to cut costs even further. Why not extend your stay by a day or two with the money you'll save - and make sure you plan time to take full advantage of the resort itself. This one is the kind you'll want to return to year after year!

Highlights: Views were stellar - staff very helpful, attentive, and pleasant - lobby smells AMAZING!

Drawbacks: Parking is a bit convoluted here, and there is a fee for self-parking that isn't much less than the valet cost. 

CALIFORNIA - Palo Alto’s Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Clement Palo Alto Adds Ridge Vineyards Experience to its Special Packages for Guests

PALO ALTO, CA. (May 2018) — The Clement Palo Alto All-Inclusive Luxury Hotel has partnered with an acclaimed Central Coast winery to offer the Ridge Vineyards Experience package for its guests.

Guests can experience the number one winery in America with an exclusive private tasting and tour for two at Ridge Vineyards’ Monte Bello Estate. Nestled high in the northern reaches of the Santa Cruz Mountains and surrounded by historic vineyards, Monte Bello offers guests an unparalleled opportunity to experience exceptional single-vineyard wines, including the celebrated Monte Bello Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Ridge Vineyards Experience includes:

>Overnight accommodations at The Clement Palo Alto

>Reservations for an exclusive two-hour private tasting for two at Monte Bello Estate, any day of the week

>Daily breakfast for two in the comfort of your guestroom or in The Clement dining room

>Overnight valet parking and resort fee

The two-hour private tasting experience includes a tour of the vineyard, where guests will see the petite verdot, merlot, and cabernet vines, as well as the historic knoll covered with 66-year-old cabernet sauvignon vines. A dedicated host will present a customized five-wine flight and library pour of Monte Bello, which also includes the most current vintage. A cheese-and-tapenade plate completes the experience.

Seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels in Florida Offering Special “First Responders Rates” May 28-Sept. 15

. . . Special room rates are extended to

U.S. Police Officers, Firefighters, EMTs, Doctors, Nurses & 911 Dispatchers,

to take in the Incredible Summer at Walt Disney World Resort, experience the new Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and take advantage of Resort Benefits at the Walt Disney World Theme Parks

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla (May 2018) – If you are a U.S. police officer, firefighter, emergency medical technician (EMT), paramedic, 911 dispatcher, doctor, or nurse, you should consider taking advantage of the special “First Responders Rates” that are being offered by the seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels in the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Available for stays May 28-Sept. 15, 2018, the special room rates provide the opportunity to take in the many exceptional new offerings at the Walt Disney World Resort this summer.

CALIFORNIA - Hofsas House Hotel in Carmel Announces Its Tail Wagging Package

The Hofsas House Hotel, a 38-room boutique family-owned inn in the heart of Carmel, is pleased to announce the launch of its Tail Wagging Package. To book this package during your stay, call (831) 624-2745 or email info@hofsashouse.com.

Tail-Wagging Package

Hofsas House is one of the most dog-friendly hotels in Carmel. Guests receive a complimentary “Doggie Welcome Package” upon arrival that includes:

• Hofsas House dog Frisbee
• Hofsas House collapsible dog bowl
• Special dog bed
• Letter from Tank, our onsite Pet Concierge
• Special dog amenities package
• Tips and recommendations for your four-legged friend’s stay
• Walking trail and hiking guide
• A package of treats
• Coastal Canine Magazine: offering the best four-legged options for visiting Carmel

MEXICO: New Skip Gen Experience of Mexico’s Cultural Heritage Sites Offered from Grand Velas Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya, Mexico (May 1, 2018) –  The “Beyond-All Inclusive, Beyond All Compare” Grand Velas Riviera Maya now offers grandparents unique experiences with the grandkids to visit two of Mexico’s best cultural destinations while mom and dad are in the office. The experiences, one to Chichén Itzá and the other to Uxmal and the colonial city of Merida, include transportation in private plane from the resort for a seamless itinerary.

Skip generations can experience Chichen Itza, undoubtedly the most famous Mayan ruins inclusive of a private tour guide to explore the complex. This pre-Columbian city was built by the Maya people between 750 and 900 AD. Also at the site, the family will be treated to a lunch of regional favorites and swimming in a large, natural sink hole.

Seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels Offering Special “Teacher Appreciation Rates” May 28-Sept. 15

. . . Special room rates provide a great way to take in the fun

Incredible Summer at Walt Disney World Resort, experience

the fantastic new Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and take advantage of

Resort Benefits at the Walt Disney World Theme Parks

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla (April 2018) – In recognition of teachers and school support staff, the seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels in the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida are offering special “Teacher Appreciation Rates.” Available to preschool, daycare, kindergarten – college teachers and support staff in the U.S. and Canada, for stays May 28-Sept. 15, 2018, the special room rates provide the opportunity to take in the many exceptional new offerings at the Walt Disney World Resort this summer.

DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld Unveils Transformation Completion

Official Hotel of SeaWorld® adds 40,000 square feet of modern event and conference space

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 19, 2018) – Spanning 28 acres within the heart of International Drive, DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld unveils today a massive meeting space expansion and renovation, elevating the property to accommodate even more business and leisure groups with new, state-of-the-art venue space and services, complemented by new outdoor lawns, complete renovations to public areas and 1,020 refreshed guestrooms. Adding to the existing footprint, the property ‘branched out’ with this multi-million dollar transformation, building an additional 40,000 square feet of conference center and event space, bringing the property’s total meeting space square footage to more than 100,000 square feet. Nestled within lush, native palms and tropical fountains, DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld offers a relaxing oasis tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, while conveniently situated in the heart of Orlando, providing guests steps-away access to SeaWorld® Parks, as well as ideal proximity to Universal, Disney and The Orange County Convention Center.

Eco Convergence Group Launches World's First HyCube™ Hydroponic Production System at Orlando World Center Marriott

Innovative technology and structure changes how produce will be sourced by hotels and restaurants

Eco Convergence Group, Inc. (ECG) unveiled the first HyCube™ modular hydroponic vegetable production system last night at the Orlando World Center Marriott. The HyCube’s data-driven, precisely controlled, patent-pending hydroponic system is constructed in an illuminated modern structure right next to the hotel’s main kitchen. Orlando World Center Marriott is the first hotelier to utilize the revolutionary HyCube growing system, growing produce for its nine dining outlets and 450,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space.

The hotel’s Executive Chef Eric Martinez and his culinary team will have a constant bounty of fresh, healthy produce, such as lettuce, baby spinach, arugula, herbs, microgreens and edible flowers, as well as other leafy greens, all grown from organic, non-GMO seeds. The innovative production method – involving semiconductor industry-inspired techniques for precise control of the micro-environment, including air and water quality, temperature and humidity, light conditions and nutrients – allows for a steady yield of crisp, flavorful, and nutritious produce without seasonal and regional limitations. Additionally, when compared to traditional farming, the HyCube consumes up to 90 percent less water and will reduce crop cycle by 20 percent without the use of harmful chemicals like pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, etc. Plant extracts will be used to create fresh green drinks and probiotic drinks, and the water filtration system will provide purified water that will be bottled and offered in the Central Pantry, a “grab-and-go” outlet within the hotel.

HOLIDAY INN® Orlando Airport Hotel Completes Multi-Million Dollar Renovation and Transformation into Brand’s New H4 Design Concept

Orlando, Florida (April 16, 2018) – The Holiday Inn^® Orlando Airport hotel has recently completed a multimillion-dollar renovation to the property’s 290-guest rooms, conference facilities, lobby and other public areas to reflect the Holiday Inn brand’s innovative H4 design concept.

Sarona Holdings of Orlando, Florida, the hotel’s ownership and management group, has transformed the seven-story, dual-tower property to meet the needs of the today’s guest with a modern open living-room concept, increased technology and comfortable guest-rooms that adjust to the travelers’ needs. InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, is the parent company of the Holiday Inn brand.

The Holiday Inn Orlando Airport hotel welcomes guests with a light and contemporary lobby area with three reception desks to ensure that guests are given quick access to their rooms while the needs of groups and IHG^® Rewards Club members are met. The open floor plan throughout the property makes it easy for guests to move naturally from registration to relaxing in the hotel’s multiple lounge areas after a day of travel.

OREGON - Glamping Enhanced for Vacations at Oregon's Loon Lake Lodge

REEDSPORT, Ore., April 6, 2018 - Vacationers seeking the tent camping experience with the comfort of a cabin are choosing Yurts for their Glamping in 2018. To meet the increasing demand, Loon Lake Lodge and RV Resort in Reedsport, Oregon, just a few miles from the Oregon Coast, has added four Deluxe Yurts.

The Deluxe Yurts are located in the upper-forested area of the Resort, near the lodge. The heavy canvas circular exterior provides the atmosphere of a tent, yet the interior is furnished with a trundle bed plus bunk beds to accommodate up to four people. And to make the "Glamper" even more comfortable, the Yurts have air conditioners and heaters, a counter top refrigerator, microwave, coffee pot and bed linens.

TEXAS - First-Ever Luxury Space Hotel, Aurora Station, to Offer Authentic Astronaut Experiences

Launched by Orion Span, Aurora Station Will Host Immersive 12-Day Trips Beginning in 2022; Now Accepting Deposits

HOUSTON, April 5, 2018 - The first-ever luxury space hotel was introduced today during the Space 2.0 Summit in San Jose, California. Named after the magical light phenomenon that illuminates the Earth's polar skies, Aurora Station is being developed by Orion Span and the company's team of space industry veterans, who have over 140 years of human space experience.

The first fully modular space station to ever debut, Aurora Station will operate as the first luxury hotel in space. The exclusive hotel will host six people at a time – including two crew members. Space travelers will enjoy a completely authentic, once-in-a-lifetime astronaut experience with extraordinary adventure during their 12-day journey, starting at $9.5M per person. Deposits are now being accepted for a future stay on Aurora Station, which is slated to launch in late 2021 and host its first guests in 2022. The fully refundable deposit is $80,000 per person and can be reserved online here.

SPECIAL EXTENDED FEATURE - MARGARITAVILLE RESORT ORLANDO

Inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of singer, songwriter and best-selling author Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville Resort Orlando is a one-of-a-kind vacation escape situated in the heart of Orlando along U.S. Highway 192 near Toll Road 429 in Western Osceola County. This $750 million development will be a welcome addition to the Central Florida area.

Once open, Margaritaville Resort Orlando will feature an extensive array of amenities and an unparalleled degree of hospitality, service and attention to detail. This waterfront property will bring an entirely different vacation opportunity to Orlando with its unique, authentic, “no worries,” tropical vibe and the feeling of escapism that will be experienced immediately upon arrival. 

Key aspects of the complex include a 187-room Margaritaville hotel, 1,000 Margaritaville-inspired residential units, 30,000 square-feet of function space, 200,000 square feet of festive retail space, a dining and entertainment district, 12-acre water park, wellness center, miles of wooded fitness trails, a water taxi system and the most unique feature of all –  a three-acre swimming area. The swimming area will feature natural sand beaches, the first and only in Central Florida, surrounded by cabanas and water activities, including paddle-boarding, snorkeling and more. 

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an unforgettable adventure with family and friends, Margaritaville Resort Orlando will open the door for you to Escape to Your Paradise.

Seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels Offering “Spring into The Incredible Summer” Rates April 10-June 15

. . . Special room rates provide a great way to take in

The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival and

The Garden Rocks Concert Series at Epcot;

experience new offerings at Disney Springs; and take advantage of

2018 Disney Resort benefits at the Walt Disney World Theme Parks

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL (March 2018) – Ready to put the winter behind you? Then what better way than a visit to the Sunshine State? 

It is a terrific time to take in the new offerings at the Walt Disney World Resort in Central Florida, including exceptional new venues at Disney Springs. Offering a diverse mix of shops, an impressive variety of new upscale and casual dining options and outstanding live entertainment options, Disney Springs now features more than 130 establishments across its four outdoor neighborhoods. Notably, Disney Springs was recently named by the New York Times as one of the 52 Places to Go in 2018 (in the world). Additionally, the 2018 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival and The Garden Rocks Concert Series at Epcot provide even more reasons to visit now.

Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge To Add Two-Acre Short Game Facility

Facility Will Also See Upgraded Driving Range and Irrigation System

ORLANDO, March 22, 2018 – The Arnold Palmer Design Company, a golf course architecture firm under the Arnold Palmer Group, today announced in the spirit of its founder’s constant and never-ending pursuit of perfection, Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge will add an extensive two-acre short game facility and make improvements to the driving range following the 2018 Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard.

The initial enhancements will start with the short-game facility and will feature four greens of varying shapes and sizes along with a collection of bunkers built to different depths and design styles to simulate on-course scenarios.

FLORIDA - KeysCaribbean Resorts Offer Special Discounts for a Spring Escape to the Florida Keys

Indigo Reef Resort Villas & Marina in Marathon

KEY LARGO, Fla. (March 23, 2018) – The Florida Keys offer many events to be found only in the beautiful tropical islands off Florida’s southern tip during the month of April. KeysCaribbean Luxury Resort Villas & Marinas salutes four such events by featuring special offers to enjoy an upscale resort vacation experience in the Florida Keys this April.

KeysCaribbean’s special discounts include "The Longer You Stay in Paradise, The More You Save,” which offers a lower nightly rate for each additional day booked, and guests can receive generous rates of up to 50 percent off, or complimentary night stays at all KeysCaribbean luxury Florida Keys resorts all season. There is also an advance booking special that requires no deposit until two weeks prior to arrival date, plus a 100 percent cancellation guarantee.

FLORIDA - Mission Inn Resort & Club Offers Skill-Special Summer Camps For Junior Golfers, Tennis Players, Families

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS, Fla. (March 21, 2018) – Calling all young golfers, tennis players, and their families to Mission Inn Resort & Club for a slate of specialized summer learning experiences. These summer “camps” will all be held at the resort, which is only 35 minutes from Orlando.

For junior golfers, Mission Inn Resort hosts two different camps with regular sessions:

• June 3-Aug. 5 - The Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy teaches young golfers how to “Train Like A Champion.” The Academy is already the training home for three of the LPGA Tour’s top six players – Lydia Ko, Ariya Jutanugarn, and Shanshan Feng— plus the PGA Tour’s Morgan Hoffmann. The Academy offers single-week camps, multiple-week packages, and a two-week camp that includes competitive play. Boarding and non-boarding options are available. For more: call (352) 484-0787 or visit ggga.com/programs/summer-camp.
• June 10-Aug 12 - The Bishops Gate Golf Academy builds unique programs for individuals based on their goals, aspirations, strengths, tournament schedule, and areas of improvement. Bishops utilizes its own coaching model, which consists of a highly experienced senior coach overseeing a group of coaches and students. The program includes all aspects of student development assessing needs to monitoring progress throughout the year. For more, call (855) 378-8177 or visit https://www.bgga.com/summer-camp/.

CALIFORNIA - The Mayumi Launches in Los Angeles Providing A Flexible, All-Inclusive Residential Stay Alternative and Creative Space to Long-Term Visitors

Los Angeles, CA (March 2018) - The Mayumi, a new residential concept by HQ Development is set to open April 2018 in Los Angeles. Located in the epicenter of Culver City, CA. This new space has been fashioned into a remarkable 35 unit flexible stay residence catering to long-term visitors looking for a monthly all-inclusive residential stay alternative and creative space.

Mayumi gives you the best of both worlds – a private haven and social hub. Created to provide an unparalleled living experience crafted on a foundation of design, flexibility, and community, Mayumi members can enjoy luxurious private rooms and common areas to connect with others.