aug 28 2010

·        Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Lake Living at Sheboygan Hotels

Right by Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Sheboygan River lies a city with a charming history and people. The city’s collection of pastimes and indulgences promises a visit filled with interest and adventure. First, check into any of the many Sheboygan hotels. There are all kinds of accommodations—from a grand resort to bed & breakfasts. Enjoy their luxurious or unique amenities. Each is dedicated to providing an amazing stay in the city.

Charm in the City

What’s your pleasure? Sheboygan has miles of beaches for those who love to hang out by the shore of Lake Michigan. You can surf, swim, or make sandcastles to your heart’s content. You can also opt to charter fishing services and try your luck at nabbing a bite. The more leisurely-inclined can enjoy a walk around Maywood Environmental Park. For ease and convenience, there are plenty of hotels in Sheboygan located near or right by the lake.

Culture buffs have their fill of museums and theaters of performing arts. The city is home to the John Michael Kohler Arts Center. Book a Sheboygan cheap hotel near these places and ask locals what shows to catch. As Sheboygan is known to be the bratwurst capital of the world, expect many restaurants to list the erstwhile sausage as a specialty. A variety of cuisines—Italian, Spanish, and more—can give your taste buds a world-class tour. If you’re looking for small-town charm in a city, Sheboygan is your destination of choice.

·        Shimla, India

Postcard-pretty Shimla Hotels

Against the snow-topped Himalayan mountains and forests, and surrounded by lakes and pastures, Shimla is one of India’s most popular destinations. Long ago, this capital of Himachal Pradesh was considered the country’s summer capital. Shimla is often called the “Queen of Hills” or described as India’s Mount Olympus. Shimla hotels offer rooms with the view of this spectacular vista so visitors enjoy it every morning.

History and Charm

This hill station is known for having many well-preserved example of colonial architecture. Structures such as the Viceregal Lodge and Gorton Castle make for pretty sights. Visitors often take walking trails leading to areas like Prospect Hill and Chadwick Falls so they can fully appreciate the scenery. If that’s more to your taste, you can book a heritage Shimla hotel nearer these places. The more adventurous have their choices of day or overnight treks.

Woolens, handicrafts, and other curios are readily available in The Mall, Shimla’s premiere shopping area. Want to mingle with the locals? Make your way to the bazaars where they sell items like pottery, wood sculptures, and other specialty products. Exploring these maze-like districts, you can interact directly with the locals and see a more bustling side of the city. After your stay in a Shimla cheap hotel, consider visiting the other areas of Himachal Pradesh like Solan and Sirmaur. 

·        Shizuoka, Japan

Romance and Adventure at Shizuoka Hotels

A unique, rich culture permeates every inch of Shizuoka. Many of the city’s attractions are around its spectacular scenery. Shizuoka boasts one of the world’s most unique sights: Mount Fuji. Forests, a coastline, hiking trails, and campsites make it an ideal spot for an adventure. There are plenty of Shizuoka hotels with various amenities for the kind of stay you envision.

Sports and Hot Springs

Whether you’re here to relax or let your inner outdoor enthusiast out, Shizuoka is all set to help. Work on your tan by the beach or windsurf away; water-ski, scuba-dive, or go white-water rafting. Away from the water, the city offers treks and rock-climbing sessions to Japan’s highest peak. In the winter, skis and snowboards come out as Mount Fuji becomes a snow haven. Want to do all these activities? Find a Shizuoka hotel and inquire on what itineraries are best for your stay.

If you aim to do some sightseeing, historical sites such as the Kunozan Toshogu Shrine are examples of standout architecture. Shizuoka is also home to craft making like gold- and silver-leaf lacquer and the manufacture of Hina dolls. After all these physical attractions, the best way to truly enjoy Shizuoka’s scenery is to soak in its hot springs. There are many outdoor baths that have amazing views, and some hotels in Shizuoka that are a short distance away from them.

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·        Shreveport, Louisiana

Historical Charm and a Modern City Vibe at Shreveport Hotels

Combine good old Southern charm with a cosmopolitan vibe and you have Shreveport, Louisiana’s third-largest city. Besides the multitude of tourist attractions, Shreveport carries an eventful history. Entertainment, the arts, and friendly folk describe a visit to this fascinating city, and the variety of Shreveport hotels alone is worth a closer look.

Casinos and Culture

Old-World charm plays a part in the city’s bed & breakfasts and other Shreveport cheap hotels. Even with their historic feel, they come with modern amenities and service comes with good old-fashioned Southern hospitality. The city has plenty of places to soak up culture—from the R.W. Norton Art Gallery to the Barnwell Garden and Arts Center. Visit the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium and bone up on your Elvis knowledge—he got his big break right here. For a change of pace, flex those shopping muscles at the Louisiana Boardwalk. Its slew of outlets, entertainment places, restaurants, and even a bowling alley make it perfect to take the kids.

Besides a healthy share of major sporting events happening in Shreveport, the city has plenty of riverboat casinos where you can try your luck. They can either be inside hotels in Shreveport like Sam’s Town Hotel and Casino or a stand-alone structure. While you’re there, check out the restaurants for decadent things like champagne breakfasts or steak specials. Other casinos also offer video poker and live entertainment shows.

·        Siem Reap, Cambodia

Exotic History at Siem Reap Hotels

Mystery and history inspire many to make the trek to Siem Reap, Cambodia. The country’s most prosperous city, its name (translated means “defeat of Siam”) refers to a historic bloodbath often seen in monuments around the area. Thanks to booming tourism, Siem Reap hotels are plentiful and cater to the million visitors that come every year. If you’re on a budget or aim to relax in luxury amidst Siem Reap’s striking scenery, you’ll find options for your stay.

Exploring Siem Reap

The city’s biggest tourist draw is the Angkor Archeological Park, also considered one of Southeast Asia’s most important archeological sites. A network of ancient structures peppered with forested areas, the park contains the remains of the Khmer Empire. The most famous are the temples of Angkor Wat and the Bayom Temple. If you’re booked in a Siem Reap hotel, it’s an easy matter to take a day trip to the park for some serious sightseeing.

A unique experience in Siem Reap is the Kampong Phluk Floating Village, set on stilts. Inquire at your Siem Reap cheap hotel for a trip to visit. Other places worth exploring are the Silk Worm Farm, the Angkor National Museum, and the Landmine Museum. If you’d like a place to relax, visit the reclining Buddha and have your fortune told by a priest. These all showcase Siem Reap in all its beauty and history.

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·        Siena, Italy

Enjoy the Scenery at Siena Hotels

History, architecture, and culture come together in Siena, one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany. Built on three hills, its well-preserved walls contain amazing examples of Gothic design. Its Piazza del Campo carries the unique shape of a seashell, complete with scalloped edges. Many Siena hotels are nearby and cater to a variety of visitors.

As you pass through the city’s narrow streets to your Siena hotel, it’s as if you go back in time. It’s surrounded by olive groves and with alleys winding their way in and around the city. You can embrace the feeling of historic Italy by taking a tour around on foot, a bicycle, or even on horseback. Visit structures like the Siena’s Duomo and the Palazzo Salimbeni for their preserved architecture. For a change in scenery, enjoy the botanical garden maintained by the University of Siena. If you’re lucky, you can even catch the Palio di Siena, a folkloric horse race that draws many locals in to watch.

Being in the city means you also have access to the smaller towns in the province. Charming haunts such as Montepulciano and San Gimignano offer more picturesque scenery and unique cuisines to try. Whether you prefer to meditate within a garden or soak in a thermal bath, book a hotel in Siena which gives you easy access to where you want to go. Inquiring with the concierge on recommended itineraries will help you maximize your time in the city.

·        Sierra Vista, Arizona

A Little of Everything at Sierra Vista Hotels

There’s something for everyone in Sierra Vista! While the city’s striking vista of mountain ranges and proximity to the San Pedro River means there’s much for the typical outdoorsman, they offer a lot more. When looking for Sierra Vista hotels, look for the best deals around the places you prefer to visit. You have the choice between luxury accommodations, charming bed & breakfasts, or even the roughing-it appeal of RV parks.

Explore the Outdoors and More

Sierra Vista is known as the “Birdwatching Capital of the World,” with the Ramsey Canyon Preserve being the ideal location. Take your pick from the variety of activities—consult with your Sierra Vista hotel concierge to get an ideal itinerary. Caving, camping, mountain biking, ballooning, and hiking will appeal to outdoor buffs. Culture hunters can enjoy watching symphonies and ballets, and taking in a wine tour. Want to hang out with the locals? Catch a rodeo or a mid-Western concert at the park.

Even sightseeing-wise, Sierra Vista stands out—because they offer more than a museum or two. Bone up on the area’s colorful history with plenty of historic and archeological sites. For added thrills, Sierra Vista even has ghost towns! Those lodging at a Sierra Vista cheap hotel will find many of these attractions near or readily accessible. You can get the best deals on accommodations in the city—and with savings to spare.

·        Singapore, Singapore

Cosmopolitan Living at Singapore Hotels

Right on the Southern tip of the Malay Peninsula lies the city-state of Singapore. This small island also happens to be the world’s fourth-largest financial center and is a thriving cosmopolitan city. Singapore blends its unique cultural influences and the most cutting-edge of technology and design perfectly. For instance, Singapore hotels range from the most luxurious of accommodations to charming boutique-style dwellings.

Getting Around Singapore

Traveling around the island is very easy, and depending on where you intend to go, you can plan your visit carefully. One tip is to befriend the concierge in the Singapore hotel you’re staying in. Often, they have the best ideas on where to go and how much time to allot for the sights and activities.

As for what to do, there is a dizzying array: visit Sentosa with its Luge and Skyride, or Universal Studios Singapore at Resorts World Sentosa. Marvel at the feathered friends in Jurong Bird Park. Immerse yourself in the varying cultures of Chinatown and Little India. There are also museums, heritage sites, botanical gardens, and the Esplanade. If you prefer a more polished city getaway, book a hotel in Singapore and hit the shops along Orchard Road and its side streets for some retail therapy. Enjoy the busy nightlife at Singapore’s numerous restaurants and clubs along Clark Quay.  

·        Sioux City, Iowa

Escape to Sioux City Hotels

Want a city getaway full of sights and history? Iowa’s Sioux City fits the bill. This All-America Award winner is a popular tourist stop and a regional hub for business, industry, medical care, and more. Whatever itinerary you plan on having, take your pick from many Sioux City hotels. Even if you simply long to relax, the accommodations and amenities are top-notch. All that matters is where you choose to stay.

The Sides of Sioux City

Fancy some sightseeing? The city has various sites worth visiting like the First Bride’s Grave and Prospect Hill. You can also catch the view by Bruguier’s Cabin and the Pierce Mansion. Soak up some local history and culture with the plethora of museums in the city that include the Mid-America Air Museum and Sergeant Floyd River Museum. Be sure to book a hotel in Sioux City where you can visit the Sioux City Art Center and sites such as the Milwaukee Railroad Roundhouse and the Flight 232 Memorial.

The city shows off its nature-loving side with many parks and gardens. If you crave nature and the outdoors, inquire with your concierge at your Sioux City cheap hotel and ask for help in mapping out the perfect itinerary for you. Stone State Park looks much like an untouched rainforest. Grandview Park is the venue for the famous Saturday in the Park music festival. After the sights, treat your taste buds to local delicacies like ring-necked pheasant and wild turkey.

·        Sioux Falls, South Dakota

A Cultural Getaway at Sioux Falls Hotels

The largest city in South Dakota, Sioux Falls is also the state’s culture hub. Many flock to the city for their various exhibits, performances, and festivals. The influence of art permeates much of the city, from its architecture to literary events. As a result, the city is filled with tourists booked in Sioux Falls hotels and who stay a while to experience its unique culture.

The Streets of Sioux Falls

Much of the culture explosion in the city is by the initiative of the Sioux Empire Arts Council. If you’re booked in a Sioux Falls hotel, it’s likely to be near a number of museums or galleries. For those enamored of history, sites such as the USS South Dakota battleship memorial and Delbridge Museum carry relics of the city and state’s past. Prefer live performances? Take in a show at the Olde Towne Dinner Theater or Orpheum Theater.

If you’d like to hang out with the locals, find out from your hotel in Sioux Falls what cultural events you can catch. There is an annual Sculpture Walk, the LifeLight Festival, and the Sioux Empire Fair, among others. Some events are located near the city’s shopping districts so you can indulge in some retail therapy. If you’ve come to the city strictly to hang out without visiting a lot of tourist spots, relax with a book at the Siouxland Library. However you choose to soak up the city’s culture, Sioux Falls will help you create an amazing getaway with its various attractions.

·        Siracusa, Italy

Journey to the Past in Siracusa Hotels

Ever wanted to visit an ancient Greek settlement? Italy’s Siracusa is built right on one, and still retains plenty of its ancient architecture and design. The city’s charm comes also from its ties to Greek mythology. It’s all too easy to imagine that the Spring of Arethusa was once a maiden changed by the goddess Artemis. You can find out more of the legends surrounding the area in different Siracusa hotels.

Medieval Treasures of the City

At the heart of Siracusa is the Isle of Ortigia connected to the city by the Umbertino Bridge. If you’re booked in a Siracusa hotel nearby, there are a number of walking tours you can take to the more popular sights. For instance, the main streets of Siracusa all meet up in Piazza Archimede. The square contains the beautiful fountain of Diana and has several buildings with Baroque architecture. The city’s cathedral was built on top of an ancient temple dating back to before Christ.

What adds to Siracusa’s intrigue are those sights shrouded in myth. The Aretusa Fountain’s legend has inspired poets and writers such as Virgil and André Gide. If you’d like a dose of culture, from your Siracusa cheap hotel you can stroll to places like the Regional Art Museum. In the evening, enjoy city favorites like antipasto with polipo (boiled octopus) or fresh tuna fish.

·        Solvang, California

A Taste of Denmark at Solvang Hotels

Founded by Danes who wanted to establish a Danish colony in the United States, Solvang in Danish means “sunny meadows.” This little slice of Denmark right in the Santa Ynez Valley is a popular tourist destination in California, so many Solvang hotels maintain brisk business in the city. Whether you prefer full-service hotels or charming inn-type accommodations, you have your choice of where to stay.

Walking Around Solvang

Solvang’s greatest charm lies in its authentic Danish touches: windmills, bakeries, horse-drawn carriages, a clock tower, and even a replica of the famous Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen.

The city is known for its Old Word architecture and reflected in the many hotels in Solvang, the museums, galleries, and more. When you hit the shopping district, boutiques offer unique Danish costumes and antiques.

Even as you are within Solvang, you are also in California. That means enjoying a variety of tours around the wineries of the area and sampling their vintages. If you are booked at a Solvang hotel, inquire with your concierge on the best tours you can take. As an added plus, incorporate a visit to the different Danish bakeries and taste delicacies like aebleskiver (Danish pancake). History buffs will appreciate a visit to 1804 Old Mission Santa Inés. Solvang has everything you need for a charming escape.

·        Somerset, New Jersey

Sweet Escape to Somerset Hotels

Right at the hub of Central New Jersey, Somerset is one of the country’s oldest counties. Its history goes back to colonial and the Revolutionary War period. Somerset has a blend of urban residential areas and rural farmland, historic sites and modern businesses and industries. If you aim to stay in full-service Somerset hotels, there are many to choose from.

Around Somerset Neighborhoods

Take a tour around the county’s more colonial sites—around the various townships around and near Somerset are many to visit. Book a Somerset hotel nearest the sights you’d like to see. The Pluckemin Continental Artillery Cantonment, Pluckemin School House, and Jacobus Vanderveer House at Bedminster Township, for instance. There are also farmsteads and rural homes resting amidst lush farmland. If you’re up to it, visit historical parks, train stations, and even the Old Stone Arch Bridge (said to be New Jersey’s oldest bridge).

If you prefer some shopping, Somerset aims to please—it has a regional shopping mall, various shopping centers, and even village districts where you can buy localized handicrafts or souvenirs. Businessmen staying at a hotel in Somerset can opt to relax with a round of golf in any of several courses. Later on, take the family out on a picnic at a park or take in a theater show in the evening. Somerset is a modern city that appreciates its colonial roots—visitors thoroughly enjoy its unique charm.

·        Sonoma, California

Welcome to Wine Country at Sonoma Hotels

Colonial history and wine culture come together in Sonoma Valley, California. The rich soil of the area gave birth to the state’s wine industry, with miles of vineyards and wineries holding court here. Sonoma hotels are built in and around the idea of taking in the valley’s picturesque scenery and enjoying its fine vintages. Depending on where you decide to stay, there’s much to enjoy in Sonoma.

Sonoma’s Best-Kept Secrets

Sonoma is right between the Mayacamas and Sonoma mountain ranges. Visitors on their way to hotels in Sonoma can catch their first glimpse of the rolling vineyards, parkland, and farms. From there it’s each visitor’s choice on where to stay. There are charming cottages right by vineyards so one can witness the winemaking before enjoying a glass of the winery’s best. There are also luxurious resorts that offer relaxing amenities such as thermal baths and massages.

If you also know who to ask and where to look, you can find Sonoma’s best-kept secrets in well-preserved inns or bungalows to stay in. There are also Victorian bed & breakfasts, or if you’d like a Sonoma cheap hotel with excellent service. Wherever you choose to stay, have your fill of Sonoma’s tours, history, and festivals. Enjoy a gourmet meal paired with excellent vintages. Bring home some of them! All of which add up to a unique cultural escape.

·        Sonora, California

Rush to Sonora Hotels

Once the center of a booming trade and industry within California’s Mother Lode, Sonora retains its mining town heritage and culture. The city (named after Sonora in Mexico) was founded by Mexican miners and brought gold rush fever to California once its deposits were discovered. Various Sonora hotels and other buildings reflect the architecture and this important time in US history.

Inside Sonora

Sonora’s museums grant visitors a glimpse into the way of life in an American mining town. California State Park of Columbia and Railroad 1897 allows one to enjoy a mother lode experience. Stroll to Sonora’s historic downtown district, where many businesses are run in buildings that have been standing since the 1800’s. The city is also known as the regional center for the arts and entertainment, so catch a theater show while you’re booked in your Sonora hotel. Sonora is also one of the most famous cities ever filmed—because about 300 movies and TV shows have caught it on camera. These include The A-Team, Back to the Future Part III, and Bonanza.

If you prefer the fresh air, you can embrace the outdoors in Sonora as well. Book yourself in a Sonora cheap hotel and try a hike on the Dragoon Gulch Trail, which shows off the picturesque oak woodlands. Other activities you can add to the itinerary are horseback riding, swimming, and boating.

·        South Bend, Indiana

Settle Down in Your South Bend Hotel

Getting its name for its location at the southernmost bend of St. Joseph River in Indiana, South Bend is both a modern city and nature refuge. Choosing a South Bend hotel to stay in depends on what you plan for your itinerary and its accessibility. You have choices such as relaxing in full-service accommodations or dozing in a cozy bed & breakfast.

Hanging Out in South Bend

There are plenty of hotels in South Bend that are nearer its nature-heavy environs. Explore the outdoors by a stroll down the East Bank Trail, which has five miles of paved paths along the river. If you’re most adventurous, South Bend also has the East Race Waterway, the first artificially made white-water rafting course in North America. Its rapids are said to rival those on the Colorado River. Kids can enjoy the Potawatomi Zoo, which houses about 500 different animals. If you’d like to bask in natural woodland, the Rum Village Nature Center has 160 acres full to visit.

Those who prefer the convenience of city living can stay in Downtown South Bend. There are up to 70 shops, 58 restaurants with varying cuisines, and 20 arts and entertainment venues. If you care to catch a live performance or have access to unlimited shopping, book any of the South Bend hotels in the area. The city’s nightlife brings a different kind of South Bend thrill—sports bars, jazz clubs, and pubs allow one to rub elbows with the locals.

·        South Burlington, Vermont

Enjoy South Burlington Hotels

Arts, culture, and history drenched in local color—these South Burlington has in abundance. This city is also part of the Burlington-South Burlington metropolitan area. There are plenty of South Burlington hotels one can stay in, for any itinerary or budget. South Burlington’s greatest asset is its accessibility to the other counties in Vermont, so your activities can branch out to the areas around it.

South Burlington’s Neighborhoods

Yearning for nature? Take an easy hike along a few state parks. These are still very accessible to hotels in South Burlington and aren’t too challenging for the kids. Rent a powerboat or canoe and enjoy the water. If some sightseeing is more your style, visit the variety of historic and cultural sites like the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum and Historic Site, in honor of Vermont’s founder.

Enjoy some local color and flavor at agricultural fairs—nearly every county in Vermont has them. The thriving arts and culture scene is evident in the many theater performances, art galleries, outdoor concerts, and variety shows of the area. These are an excellent way to hobnob with the locals. Consult the concierge of your hotel in South Burlington if you want to add these activities to your itinerary. South Burlington has all the attractions you’ll need to relax into a vacation in Vermont.

·        South Padre Island, Texas

Let Loose at South Padre Island Hotels

This once-sleepy fishing village is now one of the top beach destinations in the United States. South Padre Island is right on the tip of Texas and flanked by the Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre Bay. Rest and recharge right by the beach or in various South Padre Island hotels. When the sun sets, the island becomes a hip party place.  South Padre Island encourages visitors to just be themselves and let loose.

Paradise Found

Make full use of the islands white sands and turquoise waters—enjoy surfing lessons, sand-castle building (It is an art form here!), parasailing, dolphin watching, and more. Just for fun, try horseback riding right on the sands. Kids will love a Black Dragon Cruise, onboard a ship and interactive fun like sword fights and storytelling. There are independently owned hotels in South Padre Island as well as charming bed & breakfasts. For those planning on a longer stay, there are condominiums and homes for rent.

After a full day of activity, rest up in your South Padre Island hotel. You’ll need the extra energy because when the stars come out it’s time to party on this island. Dance, sing, play, and relax—there are plenty of restaurants, bars, clubs, and lounges to choose from. Enjoy the live music at Club Pelican West or kick back at the Coral Reef Lounge. Most have beautiful waterfront dining. South Padre Island knows the best ways to celebrate by the beach.

·        Southampton, England

Relax at Southampton Hotels

The largest city in Hampshire county on the southern coast of England, Southampton is a modern maritime destination filled with history and charm. Whether you’re visiting for pleasure or for business, take your pick from Southampton hotels—they range from four-star luxury accommodations to family-run guest houses. Southampton also has two universities where it’s possible to stay in as well.

Getting Around Southampton

There are many ways of exploring Southampton—whether by organized or self-guided tours, on a boat, or even by taking a stroll about the city. Enjoy one of several parks, some of which have rose gardens, fountains, and sculptures. One of the cities prettiest areas is the Historic Old Town. Here you’ll find architecture that spans centuries and walk past buildings that literary greats like Jane Austen and William Shakespeare have traversed. The Medieval town walls give the impression of time standing still. As it’s a popular spot, there are plenty of Southampton cheap hotels for every budget.

The nightlife in the city is extra-fun, because of Southampton’s traditional and historic pubs and funky bars. Enjoy the entertainment at Leisure World on West Quay Road, spend some time at the tables of Grosvenor Casino, then catch a ride back to your Southampton hotel on the Nightstar buses, which ply their routes until the wee hours of the morning.

·        Space Coast, Florida

Coastal Living at Space Coast Hotels

Where else can you enjoy a drive down a beachside highway and enjoy space-themed attractions? This region in Florida has a reputation of being an open secret for beach lovers. Just 35 miles from Orlando, visitors in Space Coast hotels can either settle down by the miles of beach or explore virtual galaxies from far, far, away.

Tropical Getaway

If all you’re after is some shut-eye right by the beach, opt for a hotel in Space Coast with luxury amenities. If you’d prefer to rough it a little, ask around for favorite campgrounds. Couples may prefer the intimacy of a charming bed & breakfast. Find out how you can avail of special packages for wherever you decide to stay (Some are cleverly named like Snooze and Cruise). Make your way to the Sebastian Inlet, which has three miles of beach providing opportunities for snorkeling, scuba-diving, or fishing.

Eager to discover a new world? Space Coast is near the Kennedy Space Center and Canaveral National Seashore. Visitors booked in hotels in Space Coast have accessibility to several themed attractions of the area. Go back in time and relive moments such as the first landing on the moon. There’s also the US Astronaut Hall of Fame, which has exhibits, training simulators and memorabilia of the men and women who ventured to the stars.