The 5 Best Boardwalk Hotels in Ocean City

The 5 Best Boardwalk Hotels in Ocean City

If you want to experience the true vibrance and character of Ocean City, there's no better place than the boardwalk. While you can easily access the boardwalk from several area hotels, there's something special about staying right "on the boards." Try these options for doorstep access to some of the best attractions in the area.

The Grand Hotel & Spa - For Pampering Treatments

Step out on the balcony of one of the spacious oceanfront rooms at The Grand Hotel & Spa and it's easy to understand why this hotel's location is so popular. Rooms feature microwaves and mini-fridges for convenient in-room snacks and small meals. When it's time for a more luxurious meal, guests have several options ranging from the Buona Vita Pizzaeria to the Grand Terrace Restaurant. The on-site spa offers ample opportunities for relaxation and pampering with massages, facials, nail treatments, and hair services. For an affordable Ocean City hotel with ample amenities, this is a prime choice.

Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel Ocean City Oceanfront - For the Comforts of Home

Howard Johnson hotels are well-known for offering guests a comforting home away. Rooms at this hotel feature microwaves and refrigerators so it's easy to keep favorite snacks on hand. The on-site Brothers Bistro and Lounge offers a convenient option for dining out. Adjoining rooms, cribs, and roll-away beds are available to easily accommodate large parties. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi and keep up with the latest happenings with a complimentary newspaper. Guests here feel right at home on the boardwalk.

Plim Plaza - For Unparalleled Views

The Plim Plaza Ocean City Boardwalk Hotel is an iconic site in its own right. This hotel is best known for the large front porch that overlooks the boardwalk, offering an ideal spot for guests to take in the sights of Ocean City. The second floor pool deck is home to the Caribbean Pool Bar & Grill where live seasonal entertainment is on hand for an unforgettable afternoon. Guests can start the day with free coffee, tea, and fruit, and end with the affordable all-you-can-eat Paul Revere Smorgasbord. 

Harrison Hall Hotel - For Family Friendly Amenities

Like the Plim Plaza, the Harrison Hall Hotel offers a wide front porch with boardwalk views. Soothing rocking chairs offer the ideal spot for relaxing with little ones. This hotel also caters to the smaller set with its shallow baby pool. Rooms feature refrigerators so keeping kid-friendly snacks or baby food and milk on hand is easy. Umbrella and chair rentals will keep the whole family comfortable on the beach. When the adults need a grown up afternoon, the poolside bar is happy to accommodate.

Quality Inn Boardwalk - For Poolside Fun

The Quality Inn Boardwalk offers two outdoor pools so there's plenty of room to relax between the pool and ocean. The hotel features a heated indoor pool as well, complete with a hot tub and waterfall. An on-site restaurant and in-room kitchenettes make dining easy at this relaxing retreat.

Share these suggestions for your next oceanfront vacation, and add your own hotel suggestions in the comments below.

Mandi Rogier is a resident of sunny central Florida who regularly contributes to several travel blogs and websites. In her free time she enjoys visiting nearby theme parks, taking family road trips, and planning girlfriend getaways. She is currently working on the #HipmunkCityLove project.

Our day in Madri Gas World in New Orleans

Our day in Madri Gas World in New Orleans was fabulous. My  family and I had a chance to see the so called "behind-the-scene" of different floats, the processed of making the Madri Gas was one of a kind.

Before our tour started,it was funny how we ended-up in the tour. My family and I had no plan on that day. We woke up so early and walked around the downtown in New Orleans. It happened I saw  the name and  curious about it. With my surprised we walked too far and husband was tired-so do I. I kept talking to him we almost there and we have to take the tour since we're on the area. Well, husband is so good with me, without any complaint, he agreed and arrived in Madri Gass World with sore feet.

The tour started in a small room were you can watch  the short and brief history of Madri Gass, then the  tour guide given us the  chance to wear the traditional Madri Gas costume for us to be photographed in custome next to the sculptured (if you want) after that, served with a slice king cake- the traditional Madri Gas snacks then headed to the factory for more exciting.

The story was interesting.My daughter was  excited to see some  sparkle and breathtaking floats.Being on the festival is phenomenal but one thing I knew I can't handle the crowd with my little ones with this kind of activities. 

Good thing, one woman asked us about the free shuttle which brings you in downtown locations. After the tour we just waited  at the front door, around 10 minutes the bus arrived  and headed back to our hotel without walking for many miles under the sun.

Six Best Modernist Marvel Hotels in Palm Springs, California

Image via Flickr by Randy Heinitz

Palm Springs, California is like a living textbook of midcentury architecture. You'll find examples of midcentury modernism almost everywhere you turn. Whether you're a student of architecture or just want to experience a bit of the desert modern style for yourself during your Palm Springs vacation, browse this collection of the six best midcentury master hotel designs in Palm Springs.

1. The Saguaro Palm Springs, a Joie de Vivre Boutique Hotel

It looks like someone got happy with paint cans at The Saguaro Palm Springs, a Joie De Vivre Boutique Hotel. Architects Peter Stamberg and Paul Aferiat weren't afraid of using bold colors in the guest rooms. The hotel is like a living, lodging epitome of a PANTONE color swatch book—a one-of-a-kind attraction in the Coachella Valley.

2. Parker Palm Springs

Renowned renovator David Mann and interior designer Jonathan Adler's personal, modernist stamps are all over the interiors and infrastructure of the Parker Palm Springs. Located on East Palm Canyon Drive, this posh retreat features incredible gardens and a five-star spa on the premises. And here's something you probably didn't know: The famed "singing cowboy" Gene Autry lived on the property in one of the villas that now bears his name.

3. Viceroy Palm Springs

Here's a glam, 1930s-era resort worth exploring. Situated on South Belardo Road, the Viceroy Palm Springs guest villas are infused with the personal aesthetic of fashion and interior designer Kelly Wearstler. Wearstler is known for packaging unique materials in extraordinary ways. Just as attractive as its design, the Viceroy Palm Springs boasts one of the city's top restaurants, Citron.

4. Riviera Palm Springs – A Noble House Resort

When it opened in 1958, the Riviera Palm Springs – A Noble House Resort made waves for its spoke-wheel shape construction, the only hotel in the country at that time to bear such a look. The Starlite Lounge is truly a work redolent of '50s architecture and home to an award-winning cocktail bar. At night, the Bikini Pool comes alive with lights, people, and drinks in a scene reminiscent of a Hollywood movie.

5. The Curve Palm Springs Hotel & Resort

Recent renovations to The Curve Palm Springs Hotel & Resort didn't take away of the midcentury charm from this hip boutique hotel and resort. Located only a mile from the downtown area, it's close enough to explore all the shopping, dining, and doing in Palm Springs.

6. Movie Colony Hotel

Noted Palm Springs architect Paul Frey embarked on the design for the Movie Colony Hotel soon after his arrival in the city from his architectural tutelage under Le Corbusier in Paris. The simple, clean lines and restraint in making this hotel part of, not in opposition to, its surroundings continue to put this place high in the annals of midcentury American architecture.

Check out some photos of these modernist marvels in my guide to finding affordable hotels in Palm Springs on Hipmunk.com. And if you have a modernist marvel in Palm Springs you can't stop talking about, we want to know about it, so share it with us.

 Michael Vyskocil is a travel writer who enjoys writing about unique people, places, and things to do in locales across the country. His tourism and travel industry experience includes writing for Hipmunk. Michael's tourism career spans more than seven years in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, at visitor destinations such as the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center, and the Gettysburg Seminary Ridge Museum. He is currently working on the #HipmunkCityLove project.

New Hobby!

If there is one thing I wanted to learn these days is learning how to play guitar. I think it is pretty cool to strum a guitar.I know its not late to learn a new hobby but being a stay at home and have so many things in my hand it would be impossible for me. 

If ever I can't learn how to strum a guitar, I'll be happy to enroll if my daughter would be interested someday.Looking some guitar center is not a problem since I live in the city of music and  I know there would be good choices when my daughter is ready to start a new hobby. As of now, I will be content watching.

What do you think?

It's been rainy in my end over a week. I've been under the weather for many days and so my family. Last couple days there was interesting light that I caught. My husband doesn't know what it called either so I came up this title " What do you think? 

It's pretty cool, I do my best to take photos an it is an epic fail so I just video instead, pretty much you will hear my husband timing it.

How to choose a good music instruments?

My daughter wants to learn musical instrument and we don't know what is best for her. The first question I have in my mind, How to choose a good music instruments, I don't have any knowledge of a good instrument neither.It was  frustrating as a mom, but I do my best, with the help of my husband, we find the good instrument for her even the teacher was impress with our selection considering she seen the eagerness of learning.

Choices:

This is challenging, there are so many out in the market now a days and it's getting harder to pick which one is the best for you. 

Price:

Whether we like it or not price is the biggest factor in buying an instruments. 

Reviews:

Reading reviews and recommendation is my top notch in buying an instrument. I see this websites and you can order now if you decide to buy the instrument.

Flowers on Fall

It's officially fall and I could feel the weather changes rapidly. My boots are all out and ready to use any time. Yesterday we went in the zoo considering it's my daughter fall break.

I was surprised to seen some of the flowers  blooming.

It caught my attention but sad to say, I don't know what kind of flower it is.

What Can You Do on a Galapagos Cruise?

Visiting the Galapagos Islands is an experience that you'll never forget. Whether you plan a trip with your significant other, or you plan to bring your kids with you, you might want to think about what you plan to do once you arrive. Taking a cruise offers a number of fun opportunities for couples and families. You'll find plenty of things that you can do and experience on one of those cruises.

Sightseeing Opportunities

The Galapagos tortoise is just one of the animals that are native to this part of the world. While on your cruise, you might see a few of those tortoises sunning themselves on the beach or even lazily floating by your boat. Depending on the tour that you choose, you might have the chance to get off the ship every now and then. This lets you explore the nearly uninhabited islands nearby. Many tourists also like taking in some of the historic sites on the island, including older churches and museums. Some cruises also feature hiking day trips and other excursions. 

Water Activities

When choosing your tour, you might look for one that includes some water activities. Even if you have no scuba experience, you can get certified at your hotel before jumping in the water. Snorkeling gives you another chance to see the islands. You can hop right in the water and see the fish and marine life darting by in the shallow water. Galapagos tours offer romantic excursions for couples and fun activities for the whole family.

Charlotte: the Southern Paradise

Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina and one of the most bustling cities in the South. It is home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame as well as the NFL's Carolina Panthers. This ideal tourist location draws people with its gorgeous tree canopies, famous fried chicken, cornbread, and southern made calamari. There are plenty of affordable hotels, modes of transportation, and scenic attractions that a visit can practically turn into paradise.

Visit Charlotte in the Spring

Friendly southern charm has made Charlotte a popular tourist destination. Its high season is in the summer when people come to golf at the Pawtuckett Golf Club. There are fabulous hotels to stay at in the Pawtuckett neighborhood, like the Sheraton Charlotte Airport Hotel, Wingate by Wyndham Charlotte Airport South, and the Holiday Inn Charlotte – Airport Conference Center. Each one puts you near the popular links.

Though summertime is fabulous, you do pay higher costs for accommodations. The spring is the best time to visit because the weather is gorgeous and the prices haven't reached their peak yet. Besides, by visiting in the spring you'll avoid the 100-degree-plus temperatures that can occur from mid-July through August.

Hop on the Gold Rush Trolley

There are many inexpensive ways to get around in Charlotte. Once you arrive in the Charlotte Douglass International Airport, choose from several convenient travel options. If you can't find one of the many hotel courtesy shuttles, there are car rental companies, taxis, and the city center Sprinter buses to get you where you want to go.

In town there are inexpensive transportation options as well. The LYNX Light Rail system will take you around town for just $2 each way. But for maximum enjoyment take the Gold Rush Trolley. It travels up and down Trade Street and is perfect for sightseeing, and is cheap – because it doesn't cost a thing!

Charlotte's Affordable Hotel Options

If you've decided to stay in downtown Charlotte, don't worry about the high cost of hotels. There are many excellent places to stay that will offer terrific amenities at affordable prices. The Omni Charlotte Hotel is four-diamond rated and close to dining, shopping, and nightlife, and is just a trip across the sky bridge to the Epicentre entertainment district, and the Blumenthal Arts Center.

Other excellent choices in the heart of the Queen City include the Charlotte Marriott City Center, and the Hyatt House. A little further out, the Red Roof Inn, and the Budget Inn will keep you comfortable and not shock your pocketbook.

Inexpensive Activities

If you're coming to Charlotte for nature in all her splendor, then you've made the right choice. To begin with, there are the magnificent grounds at Biltmore Estate, the Anne Spring Close Greenway, and the Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens.

Family fun is also available at Carowinds Theme Park, and the excitement builds from there at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Charlotte is truly an Eden on earth that any nature lover has to visit. And when it's this affordable, it's practically a sin if you don't.

Gabriel Winston likes to write about unusual places, when possible about caves in South America, though fashionable digs across North America are also interesting. He lives in Alberta, Canada and loves hiking and recording his trips on film and his blog Where the Dog Never Lies. She is currently working on the #HipmunkCityLove project. 

Six Cities That Start With the Letter ‘R’ You’ve Never Considered Traveling To

Hodags and Harleys, mummies and UFOs, race cars and rapids. They're all found in these six U.S. cities beginning with the letter "R" that you've never considered traveling to.

Rapids in Richmond, Virginia

Image via Flickr by Ron Cogswell

It's not just all about history in Richmond, Virginia. The city's Civil War heritage juxtaposes a present-day façade of shopping, dining attractions, and outdoor adventure. Feast on New Zealand fare at the pub-like Burger Bach. Enter a toy land treasure box at House of Mirth. Hardcore adventurers can explore the James River by kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or tube.  To get to this awesome city, check out Richmond flights.  

Did You Know? Richmond is the only U.S. city with Class III and IV rapids running through it.

Revelry in Rancho Cucamonga, California

From hiking and equestrian trails to NASCAR action at Auto Club Speedway, outdoor adventure awaits in Rancho Cucamonga throughout the year. And when you've had enough fun in the California sun, shop, eat, and explore Victoria Gardens Regional Town Center. More than 150 restaurants, entertainment venues, and shops call Rancho Cucamonga home.

Did You Know? Golf legend Arnold Palmer designed Empire Lakes Golf Course. Don't miss a tee time at this Par-72 Championship golf course.

Reading, Pennsylvania Resurgence

Image via Flickr by RiverRatt3

Reading, Pennsylvania, once a manufacturing mecca, is now enjoying an arts and culture resurgence. Witness glass blowing at GoggleWorks Center for the Arts. View a mummy at the Reading Public Museum. Experience world-class entertainers live at Santander Performing Arts Center. Plus, don't forget this Pennsylvania Dutch treat: fresh-baked pretzels from Reading Hard and Soft Pretzel Bakery.

Did You Know? Perched atop Mount Penn, Reading's signature, landmark 1908 Pagoda offers stunning views of the city.

Home to the Hodag—Rhinelander, Wisconsin

Image via Flickr by Lanyap

Ever hear of the hodag? Venture to Rhinelander, Wisconsin, and let Wisconsinites describe the folkloric, lizard-like woodland creature "inhabiting" the area. All hodags aside, though, Rhinelander makes a cheap family vacation destination. Biking, fishing, hiking, and swimming are among some of the leisure activities you'll enjoy. Catch Broadway musicals, live entertainment, and more courtesy of Tommy O's Playhouse.

Did You Know? According to local legend, Eugene Shepard first spotted the infamous hodag in 1893.

Rocking in Rockford, Illinois

A short distance from Chicago, Illinois, Rockford is one happening town. It's home to Kegel Harley-Davidson, scores of sporting venues, and even dinosaur Jane—see her at the Burpee Museum of Natural History. Rockford AirFest attracts more than 75,000 people to witness acrobatic feats from some top performing aerial artists.

Did You Know? Sukiya Living Magazine: The Journal of Japanese Gardening recently ranked the Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford the top Japanese garden in North America.

Far Out Fun in Roswell, New Mexico

Infamous for its 1947 UFO incident, Roswell, New Mexico, is generally off the mainstream travel radar. Shrouded in history and mystery, Roswell offers more than intergalactic novelty shops alone. Art, music, and cultural attractions celebrate the region's Spanish-American heritage year round. Plus, boating and fishing at Bottomless Lakes State Park can't be missed.

Did You Know? Roswell boasts one of the world's largest mozzarella cheese manufacturing plants—Leprino Foods.

Regardless of which city you explore, don't forget to make time during your travels for two more Rs—rest and relaxation.

Inside San Antonio Tours

One of the United States' historical cities is San Antonio, Texas. Even visitors from other nations have heard of the great courage shown at the Alamo here. That is just the beginning of the wonders of the city of San Antonio. We love our city and look forward to showing the city off to visitors. Our company has prepared a one day tour that highlights our historical sites, rich culture, our restaurants, museums, unique residential areas and great nightlife centers. And, let's not forget Sea World, the San Antonio Zoo, Six Flags over Texas and the famous Breckenridge Golf Course. We explore areas including the famed River Walk, downtown, Missions Concepcion and San Jose and the extensive downtown area.

All of our tours are conducted in small groups of no more than 14 people. We use very comfortable vans with large windows and air conditioning/heating as needed. The tour breaks for lunch in an area with a variety of outdoor and indoor restaurants. Plus, our tours are small enough for the tour operator to focus on special interests of the group. And, if you don't have time for the complete day tour, our company also has an option of a 1/2 day tour.  

This is clearly the type of tour that you would give visiting friends and relatives of your community. To learn more about Inside San Antonio Tours and San Antonio, give us a call today and you will fall in love with our city, too.

Find the Latest in Ecuador Real Estate

Be in the Know About Ecuador Real Estate

If you're thinking about real estate in Ecuador, you want a go-to source of information where you can find the latest listings in Ecuador Real Estate. Choose a real estate classifieds site like Realty that will keep you posted at all times, bringing you up to date. Whether you are looking for residential property or want to branch out into business, you've come to the right place to discover if there is anything that will peak your interest in Ecuador.

It's a Convenient Way to Shop for Real Estate

When you opt for website that specializes in realty, you can always count on having a helpful source of information. Choose your area of focus, like Ecuador, and begin your search. You will pull up a list of all properties that are available in the area. From that point, you can view the different types of properties that are available, narrowing your selection until you find what you like best.

Find Out What's in Your Price Range

Buying real estate in Ecuador is a price game. You want to be able to pinpoint properties that fit your budget. Cut out the middle man, such as dealing with a real estate agent to do your hunting for you. You can browse the selection of properties that are available with ease, locating those that have a price tag that works for you. With online browsing, your shopping for real estate in Ecuador just became much easier.