· Sumter , South Carolina
Journey to the Past at Sumter Hotels
Once called the “Carolina Backcountry,” the city of Sumter has an eventful 200-year history. It attracts close to 800,000 tourists every year keen on discovering more about its past. At the same time, the forests and lakes of Sumter appeal to those who love the outdoors. Depending on your itinerary, there are many Sumter hotels to choose from.
If your visit takes you mostly to downtown Sumter , you’ll enjoy historic structures that are at least 100 years old, like the Sumter Opera House. Located at the heart of the city, it still houses live performances and films. Many visitors opt to stay in a Sumter hotel right on Main Street or its nearby environs. In and around Sumter are also four historic churches that pre-date the American Revolution, like the Episcopal Church of the Holy Cross and High Hills Baptist Church. Enjoy their beautiful Victorian Gothic architecture and the stories on how they were used also as meeting places for the townspeople.
Enjoying the Outdoors at Sumter
Once you’ve enjoyed the tales from the past, relax by Sumter ’s popular Swan Lake and Iris Garden. The lake is the only place in the United States to feature all eight different species of swans. The garden is home to stunning flowers like the Japanese iris, azaleas, magnolias, and more. For the more adventurous, explore the other parks in the county—the concierge from your hotel in Sumter can point you to where the best fishing, birding, and hiking spots are.
· Sun Valley , Idaho
A Luxurious Escape to Sun Valley Hotels
Picture this: Striking mountains, cozy lounges, and a virtual winter wonderland all in one city. This is Idaho ’s Sun Valley , touted as the United States ’ first destination ski resort. It has long had the reputation of being a celebrity favorite for vacations—the likes of Jamie Lee Curtis and Clint Eastwood have enjoyed its environs. The city itself is split into two sections: the northern (called Sun Valley ) and southern (called Elkhorn ). Each has their share of Sun Valley hotels to choose from.
It’s possible to comfortably walk around the entire city. Most hotels in Sun Valley , be it full-service resorts or condominium units for longer stays, are located within walking distance of the iconic Sun Valley Village in the northern part of town. Here you’ll find a more classic resort feel with places like the Sun Valley Lodge and Sun Valley Inn.
In Elkhorn , there is an entire complex of accommodations for visitors, from cheap Sun Valley hotels to more luxurious lodgings. Some have easier access to cross-country skiing trails along Dollar Mountain and the iconic Bald Mountain . The latter has some of the most challenging ski runs in the country.
Outside of skiing, Sun Valley has four 18-hole golf courses, dozens of boutiques for shopping, and around 80 tennis courts. The family can enjoy world-class ice show performances or relax in hot springs . After your day activities, settle down to eat in any of the 70 restaurants around the area before you head back to your Sun Valley hotel.
· Sunshine Coast , Australia
A Tropical Haven in Sunshine Coast Hotels
Unspoiled rainforests, miles of white-sand beaches, and the laidback vibe of the locals make the Sunshine Coast a favorite tropical destination. There are over 3,000 square kilometers of the area bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the east. Even with this rural setting, the Sunshine Coast is near Brisbane , so you don’t sacrifice the comforts of the city. It’s more laidback than the better-known Gold Coast of Australia, but still carries world-class appeal in its attractions and Sunshine Coast hotels.
This coastal getaway has every kind of accommodation for its many visitors. Start with Caloundra, an hour away from Brisbane . It carries the striking scenery of the mountains tapering off to the fine sands of their beaches and deep blue waters of the ocean. Travel up to the Sunshine coast Hinterland with its Glass House Mountains and towns of Melany and Montville . The crisper weather here allows for extra cuddling in your Sunshine coast hotel.
Take your pick of beaches to enjoy in the area, such as Golden Beach in Bribie Island —perfect for swimming, fishing, and water sports. There are plenty of cheap Sunshine Coast hotels perched along the hills of Kings Beach , many with fantastic views of the ocean and access to the sea breeze. For your pick of restaurants and boutiques, head to Sunshine Beach and immerse yourself in destination dining and shopping.
· Surrey , British Columbia
The Center of Everything is at Surrey Hotels
Right at the apex of Greater Vancouver, the US , and the Pacific Rim lies a haven filled with history and natural delights. Surrounded by 6,000 acres of green fields and forest trails, Surrey is known as the City of Parks . It also has more modern conveniences—for instance, many Surrey hotels have luxury amenities.
Being in such a location means easy access to two international airports, border crossings into the United States , and rail and sea ports. It’s an easy bus ride to Vancouver and other neighboring areas. If you’re booked in a Surrey hotel in the city proper, public transport or privately hired vehicles can get you in and around town.
What to See in Surrey
Even with its modern attractions, Surrey has several well-preserved historical sites such as St. Helen’s Anglican Church and its very first town hall, built back in 1881. The Historic Stewart Farmhouse has vintage agricultural farming tools, taking visitors back to the era of pioneer farming in the 1800’s. After your tour around these sites, visit Tynehead Regional Park for its wildlife before returning to your hotel in Surrey .
· Syracuse , New York
From the most top-of-the-line luxury suites to more affordable accommodations, there are plenty of Syracuse hotels to choose from for your stay in the city. Syracuse has that perfect balance of historically quaint attractions and cosmopolitan city comforts. Sites well-preserved with their colonial architecture, bustling shopping centers, parks, and markets all come together in an area designed to delight the senses.
Tourists bent on exploring the city’s history will enjoy visits to the 1856 Octagon House in Camillus, with its Victorian architecture. From there head to Erie Canal State Park in DeWitt and have a picnic. For a rustic experience, book a quaint Syracuse hotel in the town of Lafayette . Several orchards allow visitors to relieve a genuine apple-picking experience, similar to what the first settlers of Syracuse did. One of the city’s prettiest spots is in Onondaga Lake Park within the village of Liverpool . Here you’ll also find the Salt Museum (featuring Syracuse ’s most popular product).
Are the glittering lights of the city what you prefer? Downtown has some of the best hotels in Syracuse thanks to its proximity to the city’s business center and public plazas. Modern structures are juxtaposed with historic buildings. In the Northside area is the Regional Farmer’s Market, so you can get a fair pick of the freshest produce. Westside has Burnet Park , which houses a zoo and its own 18-hole golf course.
· Tacoma , Washington
Find Your Destiny at Tacoma Hotels
The third-largest city in the entire state of Washington , Tacoma is nicknamed the “City of Destiny ” due to it being the western terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad, back in the 1800’s. Many museums here document the city’s eventful history and ties to various industries. At the same time, the area is very upscale, reflected in its office buildings and in Tacoma hotels.
Exploring Tacoma
At the heart of the city is the Museum District and the historic Union Station. These museums—Washington State History Museum, the Museum of Glass, and the Tacoma Art Museum—are an easy one-block walk from each other and linked together by the Chihuly Bridge of Glass. There are plenty of hotels in Tacoma easily accessible to this neighborhood. The museums showcase the spectacular glass art of the city. The bridge itself is walkway filled with glass art displays.
Beyond the Museum District are Tacoma ’s special interest museums like the LeMay : America ’s Car Museum . Here, more than 400 vintage cars from owner Harold LeMay’s collection are on display for visitors. Another favorite spot is the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium; they house animals from the Pacific Rim like polar bears and Beluga whales. If you’d like some fresh air, take a stroll or ride a bike down the Ruston Way Waterfront. There are also restaurants that offer al fresco dining. End your day by returning to your Tacoma hotel and relaxing with a glass of wine in your room—most offer breathtaking views of Mount Rainier .
· Tahiti , French Polynesia
Island Adventures at Tahiti Hotels
Are you mesmerized at the idea of black-sand beaches and deep aqua waters? In the middle of the South Pacific Ocean you’ll find a paradise of 118 islands spread out over five archipelagos. Amongst these, Tahiti stands out as a queen with its green peaks, clear streams, and waterfalls. Within this island are amazing escapes in Tahiti hotels, world-class resorts, and charming inns. Go pick your piece of paradise.
Life On Tahiti
It’s obvious why this island is a favorite for honeymooners and couples—its nicknames “Great Tahiti of the Golden Haze” and “Land of the Double Rainbow” create an image full of romance and mystery. How about scuba-diving around a plane wreck? Maybe book a luxurious cruise and leisurely explore the archipelago? For a different point of view, how about a flight-seeing tour around the islands? The concierges of hotels in Tahiti will know the best places to book these activities.
You can also revisit Tahiti ’s past by visits to the Marae Temples and other historic sites like the anchors of Captain Cook and Bougainville. The Black Pearl Museum offers insights to one of Tahiti ’s wonders: the art, history, and mythology around its pearls. Some of these sights are readily accessible from your hotel in Tahiti .
After your island jaunts, relax tired muscles with treatments from a Polynesian spa. A massage or bath in view of the beach is just the kind of rejuvenation you need. Once you finish, head back to your Tahiti hotel and fall into bed for blissful sleep.
· Tallahassee , Florida
Memorable Holidays at Tallahassee Hotels
Touring Tallahassee
One of the first things you’ll notice in Tallahassee are its canopied roads. Once old Indian trails, they are now lined with tall oak trees. Enjoy a scenic drive through more than 70 miles of such a sight as you head to your hotel in Tallahassee . In the city proper there are Capitol buildings, history museums, and university research facilities. You’ll appreciate how history and the contemporary blend together.
If you aim for adventures of the more nature-driven kind, you can visit freshwater springs, plantations, and even a wildlife habitat. There are beaches near Tallahassee cheap hotels and the stark forest scenery of the Apalachee Regional Park Trail. Book any of the city’s acclaimed hunting and fishing adventures. Then wind down with a drink and a meal of fresh seafood at the restaurants in and near Thomasville Road .
· Tampa , Florida
Sunny Side of the West Coast at Tampa Hotels
Get set to get comfy—Tampa , Florida ’s Gulf Coast bay city , is blessed with much sun, sand, and surf. Add a laidback vibe and unique culture and history, and you have an escape worth many stories to come. It starts right where you’re staying—Tampa hotels run the gamut of luxurious accommodations to charming bed & breakfasts. Many are ideally set with beachfront views so you never forget you are in paradise.
Take In Tampa
Enjoy the outdoors from any of the three beaches in Tampa , or practice your driving skills on any of the dozens of golf courses. Book yourself a cruise and leisurely visit the city’s outlying areas on the coast. More family-friendly spots include Tampa ’s theme parks like the Busch Gardens . Here thrilling rides, a zoo, and live entertainment combine into one hot spot. Dinosaur World takes you to a place millions of years ago, while the Florida Aquarium shows off the marine creatures 2,000 feet below sea level. From your hotel in Tampa , ask the concierge for recommended itineraries.
For a dose of culture, take in a show at the David E. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts. If you prefer to mingle with the locals, hit the areas of downtown Tampa or Ybor City , which have plenty of bars and clubs. Have a drink, dance, or play—afterwards, head back to your Tampa hotel and get set to do it all again tomorrow.
· Taormina , Italy
Cliffside Charm at Taormina Hotels
High on a hill and perched on cliffs sits the town of Taormina on the island of Sicily . Looking down you get a breathtaking view of the Ionian Sea . Looking up, it’s the top of Mount Etna , one of Europe ’s most active volcanoes. Taormina ’s location and ancient structures lend romance, mystery, and charm to itself. At the same time, the town has a vibrant nightlife and very modern Taormina hotels.
The Magic of Taormina
Much of Taormina ’s charm comes from the perfect blend of its centuries-old culture and modern amusements. For instance, try snorkeling or fishing in the Ionian Sea . In the Castiglione di Sicilia, you can play a round of golf while enjoying the view of Mount Etna . Even the shopping brings its own delight: there are shops selling unique souvenirs and antiques, while in the Corso Umberto are more popular Italian designer brands. Most of the hotels in Taormina are well-preserved buildings with refurbished interiors, giving visitors that Old World feeling couched in contemporary comfort.
If you enjoy architecture, stay in a Taormina hotel and prepare for some serious sightseeing. In Taormina , it is an art form—the many historic sites and structures guarantee a trip back in time. There is the Ancient Theater, said to be built by the Greeks, and is one of Sicily ’s largest performance venues. The Villa Comunale was once the private garden of an aristocrat and features rare plants. There are also plenty of churches and plazas within the city and its outskirts.
· Taos , New Mexico
Adventures in Art at Taos Hotels
A diverse culture and deep passion for its art are what best describe Taos . This New Mexico town is just west of the Rio Grande Gorge and crossed by the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge . Taos has a proud 400-year-old Spanish heritage mixed with its American Indian culture. This created a unique community with its standout arts, festivals, and lifestyles. Every inch of the town reflects this exotic mix of cultures, even in Taos hotels. Whether you sightsee, mingle with the locals, or participate in outdoor activities, you’re guaranteed a unique escape.
Exploring Taos
Start your sightseeing at the various historical sites, many of which have their own art galleries and shops. Taos Pueblo is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the historic Taos Plaza has been the center for trade within the community for centuries. Indulge in more of the city’s culture when you visit Kit Carson Road , Bent Street , and Ledoux Street ’s boutiques and galleries. Plenty of hotels in Taos are within walking distance of the city’s shops, galleries, and museums. These accommodations balance Taos culture with luxurious amenities.
There are cozier accommodations for those who prefer it. Some have more customized amenities such as a private oasis or charming touches in their rustic interiors. You may notice that much of the town’s charm starts when you make your Taos hotel another part of your vacation.
· Tarragona , Spain
Embrace the Past at Tarragona Hotels
Imagine the fresh sea breezes off the Mediterranean coast and the striking scenery of nature and Old World architecture? Nestled on the Costa Dorada (Golden Coast ), Tarragona is blessed with golden sands, generous sunshine, and clear waters. Here, Roman, Iberian, and other ancient influences still color much of the culture. From their streets to the Tarragona hotels, enjoy a breath of history unique to this area alone.
Exploring Tarragona
Most visitors to town come to enjoy Tarragona ’s beaches and to sightsee. Many of their attractions are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The most famous landmark would be the remains of a Roman amphitheater where long ago, gladiators fought to the death. Another place would be the Pont Del Diable (Devil’s Bridge), an ancient aqueduct. Sites such as these make you marvel at centuries-old engineering. Even hotels in Tarragona carry the age of the city in their façades and foundations.
One of the city’s extraordinary places is the Museu d’Histoira de les Arms, a museum of old weapons. Here, old swords and guns are displayed and provide a visual history of how the ancients fought. If you’d like to enjoy the outdoors, Tarragona offers sailing, golfing, and swimming activities right by the Costa Dorada. There are plenty of Tarragona cheap hotels or more luxurious accommodations to choose from near the beachfront.
· Taupo , New Zealand
This town right on the shores of Taupo Lake in New Zealand plays host to visitors eager to enjoy it’s natural wonders and relax amidst its attractions. Various Taupo hotels have suggested itineraries on how to explore this lakeside region. Taupo Lake is New Zealand ’s largest freshwater one, and from here tourists have access to various geothermal spots and the famous Huka Falls .
Enjoying Taupo
Created from years of volcanic activity, Taupo’s unique topography includes numerous geysers, craters, and even steaming mud pools. Whether you choose to stay in your Taupo hotel and soak in the scenery from your room, or are eager to try the many outdoor activities offered, this town is full of delights. Try your hand at trout fishing, because Taupo has some of the last wild trout fisheries in the world. Restaurants around the lake can even cook your catch for you. Fancy a game of golf? Try the course at Wairakei. For the truly adventurous, how about skydiving? Taupo has the largest drop zone in the world.
At the Taupo town center are many shops, restaurants, and cafés. South of Lake Taupo is New Zealand ’s first national park (and incidentally is also the setting of Mordor in the famous Lord of the Rings movie trilogy): Tongariro National Park . Within the park are three active volcanoes, said to be gifts to the New Zealand people by the Ngati Tuwharetoa. After your trek through the park, return to your hotel in Taupo town proper to rest and get ready for another day.
· Tavira , Portugal
Return to the Past at Tavira Hotels
Quiet beaches, ancient architecture, and coastal charm encapsulate Tavira, a city within the Algarve in Portugal . Since it’s right across the Gilão river and has its iconic Roman bridge built to connect two sides of the town, Tavira has been called the Venice of the Algarve . Tavira is blessed with green hills filled with fields of orange, fig, and almond trees. Its standout whitewashed houses and distinct chimneys are a pretty sight set against the blue sky and green fields. Once booked in Tavira hotels, visitors spend a lot of time enjoying the view of the coast right from their rooms.
Taken by Tavira
There are plenty of luxury resorts and hotels in Tavira right along the coast, many with private villas and housed in well-preserved structures. From here it’s easy to explore the region’s historic sites like its 37 churches, showcasing their 16th- to 18th-century architecture. Tavira is also known for its scenic Luz de Tavira, where the houses have traditional platibandas borders painted on them and which showcase standout mortar work.
Usually a short ferry ride away from the town proper are the beaches of Tavira. They are mostly unspoiled and favored by those eager to enjoy their solitude. Some favorite beaches include Ilna da Tavira and Conceição. Tavira’s landscape also provides a challenge and striking scenery for avid golfers: Imagine playing a game or even choosing to stay in your Tavira hotel while enjoying the view of the mountains on one side and the sea on the other.
· Tegucigalpa , Honduras
Adventures at Tegucigalpa Hotels
A bustling city nestled within a valley with scattered traces of its colonial past, Tegucigalpa is the capital of Honduras and an unexpected delight. Unlike its surrounding regions, Tegucigalpa has never been devastated by natural calamities like floods or earthquakes, so there was no need to rebuild any ruins. Visitors to the city can appreciate plenty of 1960s-type architecture seen in various buildings, including some Tegucigalpa hotels.
One of the easiest ways to appreciate the city is to book yourself in a Tegucigalpa hotel near the center of town. All within walking distance from there are old churches like the Cathedral of St. Michael Archangel along the central park. The San Francisco Church is possibly the oldest building in the city, estimated to have been built in 1590. After you enjoy these sights, enjoy nature in several of Tegucigalpa ’s parks. The popular Parque La Leona has an excellent view of the city’s downtown. On the northern side of the city is El Picacho National Park with its large statue of Christ and its small zoo.
If you’d like to try your hand at hiking, visit La Tigra national park, which is well-maintained and has good trails. Once you tire of your outdoor adventures, head back to your hotel in Tegucigalpa for a good rest, or to freshen up before you hit its restaurants.
· Tel Aviv , Israel
Urban Escapes at Tel Aviv Hotels
As Israel ’s richest city and its financial capital, Tel Aviv has the intriguing mix of being a cosmopolitan area that also retains and showcases parts of its culture. Its thriving nightlife earned it the nickname of “The City That Never Sleeps.” Visitors looking to stay in the city have over 40 Tel Aviv hotels to choose from, all ranging from luxurious accommodations to more affordable rooms.
Tel Aviv’s Neighborhoods
Depending on where you go, Tel Aviv showcases its colorful past and its vibrant present. Archeological and historical finds are housed in the Eretz Israel Museum and Tel Aviv Museum of Art. The Beth Hatefutsoth is a museum that chronicles Jewish prosperity and persecution. Other historical areas are the variety of parks in the city, like the Hayarkton Park , Charles Clore Park , and Independence Park . From your Tel Aviv hotel, inquire at the concierge for your choice of tours around the city. Tel Aviv has a variety of tours via bus, Segway, or on foot.
Once the sun goes down, the city lives up to its nickname. It gets busy right at Allenby Street and the four streets that run parallel to the beach—Hayarkon, Be-Yehuda, Dizengoff, and Ibn Gvirol. There are numerous nightclubs, pubs, and restaurants open until the wee hours of the morning. After your night on the town, return to your hotel in Tel Aviv to relax and unwind.
· Telford , England
Chic Getaways at Telford Hotels
Thoroughly modern and polished, the town of Telford sits right in the county of Shropshire and is one of the fastest-growing in the entire United Kingdom . It is nicknamed the “Birthplace of Industry,” given its proximity to the areas near Coalbrookdale, known for being key places during the Industrial Revolution. Visitors can get a taste of its history in various Telford hotels at the center of town.
The area is full of modern city attractions such as museums, parks, and a sports center. An icon of Telford is the Ironbridge Gorge, which was formed by the River Severn. The bridge itself was the first of its kind when it was built in 1779. It was here where much of the mining for valuable materials such as iron ore, coal, and clay were mined during the Industrial Revolution. In this district there are about 10 different museums that showcase its pivotal history. Clustered around the area also are many restaurants, shops, and Telford cheap hotels.
If you’d like to stay within the confines of the city proper, visit Telford ’s shopping center with its 145 stores and outlets. Nearby are hotels in Telford that are also easily accessible to family-friendly places like Wonderland in Telford Town Park and the Hoo Farm Animal Kingdom. The kids will enjoy the maze and tractor grand prix race while they’re there.
· Telluride, Colorado
Mountain Holidays at Telluride Hotels
Nestled in a box canyon with the steep, forested San Juan mountains surrounding it, the town of Telluride offers scenery so striking and unique from any place else. Staying at Telluride hotels instantly means you wake up to the amazing view. Besides this, Telluride’s colorful history and the legends surrounding it show off its enduring Rocky Mountain spirit and culture.
Telluride’s Charm and Elegance
Once a mining town, Telluride is now best-known for its skiing and natural wonders. There are over 2,000 acres of ski terrain, expanded since it opened as a resort in the 1970’s. The town gets over 300 inches of snowfall a year, and at the same time enjoys about 300 days of sunshine a year. In the summer, visitors enjoy biking, hiking, rafting, and horseback riding around the area. Depending on when you visit, various hotels in Telluride can offer suggested itineraries.
· Temecula , California
Create Your Own Adventure at Temecula Hotels
With its natural wonders, rich history, and friendly community, Temecula has become a fast favorite vacation spot for many, who return again and again. This city blends the best of small-town charm and spirit with larger-than-life attractions. Start your adventure here by choosing among the variety of Temecula hotels—from full-service chains to charming bed & breakfasts.
Exploring Temecula
Here, there’s plenty for the outdoorsman in you to enjoy. Temecula is well-known for its championship golf courses in Temecula Valley . For a unique thrill, how about a ride on a hot-air balloon? Experience a change in your point of view when you explore the city this way. If you’d like another kind of thrill, visit Temecula’s wine country and its over 3,000 acres of wineries. The view of rolling hills covered in vineyards will take your breath away. Your Temecula hotel will know where to book these kinds of tours.
In Temecula’s Old Town district, historic buildings are juxtaposed with unique shopping boutiques and restaurants. There are even several tasting rooms for their wines. Here you can embrace the city’s past by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride or strolling on the boardwalk. Enjoy more of the city’s history by visiting the Temecula Valley Museum . What makes it all convenient is you can easily return to your hotel in Temecula after you’re done sightseeing.
· The Dalles , Oregon
Unique Getaways at The Dalles Hotels
Located along the waterway of the Columbia Gorge, the city of The Dalles carries a history of being a commercial hub for roughly 10,000 years. It is here where Fort Dallas was constructed, which helped protect immigrants from a historical massacre. The city attracts many curious about the area’s past and those eager to enjoy the outdoors. If you’re booked at The Dalles hotels, expect a stay rich in history and adventure.
Adventures at The Dalles
Relive the eventful past of the city with a visit to the Gorge Discovery Center . Here, you’ll discover how it was formed over the years and who lived near it. At the Discovery Center and Museum, you’ll enjoy the cultural and historical significance of the gorge’s history. Near this are plenty of hotels in The Dalles , so sightseeing around town is easy—just take a walking tour.
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