Luxury

Last night travelers pulled out all the stops - to talk about VIP travel! American Express sponsored Travelers' Night In  #TNI and three lucky travel loving tweeters won $200 gift cards for their next VIP vacation! Want to learn how to VIP your travel? Read on for the best tips on how to upgrade your travel to VIP status.

Paradise is closer than you think no need to escape to Bali or plan an elaborate trip to Fiji – real paradise is in the U. S. Virgin Islands! Have you ever seen water so perfectly clear and blue?

The Virgin Islands are famous for fresh caught seafood, but if you dig a little deeper they have much more to offer than that. I admit, I did eat most of my meals at my hotel during my lovely stay in the Virgin Islands, but every time I ventured out I was more than pleasantly surprised with the cuisine.

Although I can’t complain about the weather in Ohio this winter, last week I escaped west to Phoenix, Arizona where the sun welcomed me and the flowers were in full bloom. What struck me as I pulled into the Phoenician Resort and Spa was the beautiful color of the flowers!   In Ohio we have had several months now of grey scenery, it’s amazing how much you miss the beautiful colors of the landscape in the spring and summer!  Seeing the vibrant colors instantly put me in a better mood instantly.

South Africa is one of the most majestic places on the planet, rich in history, unique landscapes and biodiversity. It's high on most traveler's lists of places to see, luckily Kirsten Keun, a local tourist guide and nature expert has shared her insights on the best places to see, stay and dine. 1.    What makes you an expert on Southern Africa?

I recently rediscovered the property where my husband and I got married 10+ years ago.  At that time it was the Maui Prince, a beautiful resort located in Makena on the island of Maui.  The price was right - it was not the most well-known property on the island or a “luxury brand” with the glitz and glamour, which made it the perfect place for us!  What we loved about the hotel was t

Ever wonder where all the celebrities are vacationing in Italy? They wander the beautiful Amalfi Coast! Read more about the historic and scenic southern coast of Italy and get insider information from Lisa Fantino, who specializes is vacations and destination weddings to the area. 1.    What makes you an expert on Amalfi Coast?

After Thursday's Travelers' Night In all about hotels I was inspired. Hotels can be so much more than just a place to lay your head after a long day of adventure. They should embody the place you are visiting, and show off what the destination has to offer. So much of a hotel experience can be in the view from the room, something often overlooked. I know I have picked a cheaper 'garden view' rather than splurge for what could have been stunning scenery. But what better way to wake up and be reminded why it is we travel?

Hotels are a huge part of travel, whether they are the main event of the trip or not. Travelers' from around the globe gathered and discussed the best properties in the world, shared their favorite views, and gave tips on getting deals and negociating rooms. Room 77 who specializes in a great deal with a great room, sponsored the event and gave away travel swag packs and three lucky people got $100 credit to the site!  Read all for all about glorious hotels.

Before I go any further, I will admit that I am not a gambler, and don’t really have any use for clubs these days. I love really healthy food, and local specialties. So right off the bat, I am not The Venetian Las Vegas' normal customer. I may also be a customer service connoisseur. Whew. Now that that’s off my chest….