TravelAwaits

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Gift of Florida Program: Expedia & Florida Are Offering 20% Off Hotel Stays Until Dec 22

Gift of Florida Program: Expedia & Florida Are Offering 20% Off Hotel Stays Until Dec 22

The season of savings isn’t over yet.

The powers at Expedia and the Sunshine State have banded together to offer up to 20% off select hotel stays until December 22.

They’re dubbing it their ‘Give the Gift of Florida’ program.

I’m not usually a fan of spending the winter in tropical destinations—but I’m a huge fan of savings. I’m sure you are, too.

Want to take a closer look at the best hotel deals in Florida from Expedia? Here’s what you need to know. Remember—you have until December 22 to book.

Should you take advantage?

If you fit the criteria listed below, then this Expedia deal is probably great for you:

  1. You’re planning a trip to Florida and haven’t booked lodging yet
  2. You’re looking for an experiential travel gift for someone this holiday season
  3. You want to escape the winter chill up north
  4. You’re intrigued by a tropical Christmas
  5. Florida doesn’t pique your interest but the hotel savings intrigue you (it’s me)

Gift of Florida program details

The Gift the Gift of Florida program venture is a joint project from the State of Florida’s Visit Florida tourism board and Expedia. It includes 20% off select hotels in Florida, which you can easily explore by region from the Gift of Florida page.

You can also shop around for cultural and outdoor experiences around the state, which are promoted by Visit Florida. Visit Florida has a separate Deals page where you can also look for savings on tours.

Altogether, you can book and bundle Florida vacation offers for savings across both Expedia and Visit Florida.

Now onto my favorite hotel deals in Florida from Expedia. Keep in mind that the selections below are those that piqued my interest—but you can find many more straight from the Expedia page.

Best hotel deals available from Gift of Florida program

Best classic hotel: Ponta Vedra Inn and Club

Ponta Vedra Inn and Club

You might not want to reinvent the wheel while on your Florida vacation—and who would blame you? The Ponta Vedra Inn and Club is a luxury beachfront resort with a country club-style atmosphere.

With its long list of solid amenities, high ratings for its attention to service, and tons of activities available for guests, you’ll be able to unwind in the lap of luxury.

Best for friend trips: Hotel Effie Sandestin

Hotel Effie Sandestin

This brand-new hotel from the Autograph Collection is one of the area’s most effortlessly elegant new hotels. It’s stylish, chic, and understated, letting guests soak up the relaxing beach vibes of Miramar.

I’m a huge fan of the Emerald Coast and its laidback, tropical vibes—start here if you want to take your first Florida trip nice and slow.

Top tropical pick: Cheeca Lodge & Spa

Cheeca Lodge and Spa

I know I just raved about the Emerald Coast (the water is actually green, y’all), but the Florida Keys are a close second.

Instead of those gorgeous and clear emerald coastlines, the Florida Keys feels like a Caribbean escape. And the Cheeca Lodge & Spa looks like a masterclass paradise. Think: towering palm trees overlooking a massive pool as sunsets over the ocean far in the distance.

Most unique offer: The Riding Academy Hotel

The Riding Academy

Some Florida hotels let you earn your scuba diving certification; others let you flex your equestrian muscles. Welcome to The Riding Academy Hotel from the World Equestrian Center, the largest competition venue in the US.

Whether or not you’ve spent a lot of time on horseback, this is a gorgeous and stately hotel. As a bonus, it’s also pet-friendly.

Best Hotels in Mexico City: Where to Stay in CDMX

More and more frequently, I hear rave reviews of Mexico City (aka Ciudad de Mexico or CDMX) from my traveler friends.

They talk about the culture, from streetwear to nail salons to music. They gush about the food, the drinks, and the dancing. They dream about going back; some even talk about moving to CDMX.

Here’s what I can tell you about the city off the top of my head: it’s massive.

Mexico City isn’t just the capital of the country—it’s also the world’s fifth-largest city in terms of total population in its urban areas, which are home to almost 22 million people. (And that’s just an estimate.)

Tokyo takes first with 37 million, followed by Delhi (32 million), Shanghai (24 million), and São Paulo (23 million). For context, New York City comes in 11th place on this list with just over 20 million.

So, how will that huge population affect your trip?

To be blunt, I tend to avoid hectic cities with overwhelming crowds and levels of noise. (I like to relax, okay?) But given Mexico City’s sterling reputation, I’d hate to bar myself from a great experience.

The balance lies in knowing where to stay, where to eat, where to visit, and which places to avoid. Don’t just toss yourself into the madness and hope for the best, in other words.

If you really want to pierce the veil of the second-largest city in the Americas, I suggest being mindful about which hotel you book.

At their most basic, the best hotels in Mexico City give you a comfortable place to rest and recharge. But some of the best hotels in Mexico City will also help you make sense of the city’s amazing neighborhoods and idiosyncrasies while putting you close to some of its best eats, bars, clubs, and more.

Here’s where I think you should stay the next time you head to Mexico City. (If you want my pick of the bunch, I vote for Casa Decu.)

Best hotels in Mexico City

Best hotels in Mexico City

Best location in historic downtown: Hotel Zocalo Central

TripAdvisor

Renowned for its gorgeous rooftop views, you won’t get a better vista of Mexico City’s most historic streets than at the Zocalo. In fact, many locals and tourists head to the rooftop for after-work drinks and first dates.

With plenty of elevated decks that let you soak up the views, you might actually spend more time at your hotel than you previously thought. I think the rooms are a little plain, but that’s not a big deal if you’ll be busy on your trip.

The main appeal here is the views and immersion in the city’s oldest district.

Most beautiful architecture: Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico

TripAdvisor

Speaking of old architecture, the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico lets you take another up-close look at the city’s heritage. In this case, you’re treated to a stay in a 20th-century Art Nouveau masterpiece.

From the lobby to the elevators to the bathrooms, you’re going to feel like you’re walking through a Gilded Era movie set. Though Casa Decu (below) is my favorite pick for the best hotels in Mexico City, the Gran Hotel is a very close second.

The best part? This hotel also has a fifth-floor terrace where you can have a bite to eat and soak up views of the surrounding area.

Best location in trendy area: Mondrian Mexico City Condesa

TripAdvisor

If the picks listed above felt a little too austere for you, then you’ll love the Mondrian Mexico City Condesa.

Condesa is one of CDMX’s most popular neighborhoods, bordering Roma and close to Polanco—two other trending neighborhoods you should know about. (I know about them after hearing multiple friends rave about their experiences in the city.)

At the Mondrian, you’re treated to a clean, comfortable stay that has plenty of artwork and other colorful accents that perfectly fit the atmosphere outside.

Best no-fuss boutique stay: Casa Decu

Booking

Want a cozy spot to hang up your hat after a long day—no frills needed? Casa Decu has a gorgeous and simple setup, full of black-and-white accents and greenery that will let you unwind in total peace.

As someone who’s a little bit sensitive to madhouse hustle-and-bustle that’s common to cities like CDMX, this is my first choice thanks to its tranquil atmosphere. I also like the simple, clean design and its flora.

Nothing relaxes me more after a long day of eating street tacos and shopping than staring at a hibiscus.

Most social hotel: Casa Sabina

Booking

Want to meet like-minded travelers while you explore the city? I’ve left my social butterfly era behind (for now, at least), but many of the positive takes on CDMX that I’ve heard are based on its easygoing atmosphere, which makes it easy to make friends.

Casa Sabina makes it easy for guests to hang out and get to know one another.

It also has the type of experimental design that creative and Instagram-happy travelers tend to like. Even the rooms are highly unique, with multiple floor plans emphasizing vertical space.

Best BnB choice: Stella Bed & Breakfast

Booking

Similar to Casa Decu, Stella Bed and Breakfast is ideal for anyone who really wants a sanctuary to escape Mexico City’s vibrancy.

The only reason I prefer Casa Decu to Stella is its location; Stella Bed & Breakfast is a little bit further off the city’s tourist track.

The design is nature-centric, letting you feel fully removed from the bustling urban world outside. The décor is more home-style and relaxed, letting you get cozy after a long day or wake up at your own pace when the sun rises.

Best Mexican flair: Soy Local CDMX

Booking

Looking for a hotel that oozes Mexican style and flair? Soy Local CDMX offers a colorful and unique layout, from its gorgeous painted accents to its dark wood furniture.

I always love those faithful design elements; they enrich a trip by adding an extra dose of culture. And in Mexico, that usually involves color, craftsmanship, and cheerfulness.

As a bonus, staff at Soy Local are known for being friendly and helpful, while guests have also raved about its location in Zona Rosa. If you want to get off the tourist track in Mexico City, start here.

Holidays in Iceland: Best Hotels in Reykjavik for Families

Iceland is high on my travel list—and I’m not alone.

The country is rich in natural wonders, from its famous lagoons to its stunning northern lights displays and even its black-sand beaches.

In terms of culture, it also packs an oddly medieval punch, from its dishes to its language to its folklore. That’s doubly true during the holidays when the country celebrates events like the Winter Lights Festival, Þorrablót (pronounced thor-a-blot), and the Viking Festival.

With snowy weather almost guaranteed and a strong possibility of seeing the Northern Lights weave through the stars, it’s almost an unbeatable pick for families looking for a familiar-but-unique Christmas and New Year’s experience.

The only catch is that you won’t have too much daylight. (Seriously, I recommend thinking twice about booking a trip to Iceland during winter unless you’re a friend of the darkness, like me.) The closer you visit to the Winter Solstice (December 21), the less light you’ll have.

Looking for the best hotels in Reykjavik for families this holiday season? I recommend staying at the options below. They have added amenities for kids, a few extra features for parents, and fantastic ratings from holiday-seekers.

Best hotels in Reykyavik for families: short list

Best hotels in Reykyavik for families

Best for longer stays: Reykjavik Residence Hotel

TripAdvisor

The Reykjavik Residence Hotel is spread across multiple historical buildings with a reception available 24 hours. The flexibility in room types makes this a popular choice for families, as the hotel offers units with living rooms and kitchenettes.

Breakfast baskets are also delivered every morning, making it easy for parents to start the day. Toss in a central location and the Residence Hotel has all the trappings for a comfortable and longer-term stay.

Best central location: Sand Hotel

TripAdvisor

Located smack in the middle of Reykjavik’s most popular streets, it doesn’t get better than the Sand Hotel for any families who want to be close to the action.

From restaurants and bars to museums and shops, families can leave the grounds and immediately find something to do. Just keep in mind that this hotel might be a little noisier than others thanks to its prime location.

Best luxury pick: Tower Suites Reykjavik

TripAdvisor

Want to kick back with your family in the lap of luxury? I’ve found one of the coolest options for families heading to Reykjavik.

The Tower Suites offer the highest viewpoint in the capital city, making it easy to marvel at Iceland’s natural wonders from the 20th floor.

On top of that, families are treated to luxurious services like delivered breakfast platters and all types of personalized care, from birthday cakes to chilled champagne. While expensive, the rave reviews justify the price—especially for families with kids who love skyscrapers.

Best family-friendly service: Storm Hotel by Keahotels

TripAdvisor

This modern hotel is both stylish and comfortable. It’s also one of the largest in the city, meaning you can find a room and setup that works for your family.

They offer connected rooms along with apart-style rentals. Plus, it’s centrally located like the Sand Hotel, letting you easily explore the local park, zoo, and some of Iceland’s largest pools. I imagine that’s top of the list for families, especially during the holiday season.

But the top feature here that families will enjoy is the quality of service. Guests have raved about staff friendliness, especially when it comes to arranging plans for families and helping them find things to do.

Best rooms for families: Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik or Hilton Reykjavik Nordica

Canopy by Hilton (TripAdvisor)

Both Hilton projects offer dynamic room options that will suit just about any type of family. For example, the Canopy lets you rent apart-hotel-style rooms in its small home-style units that make it comfortable for a larger family to stay a few days.

The Nordica, by contrast, is a much larger hotel that includes a sauna, pool, and connected rooms that will work for most families.

Coolest stay for older kids: CityHub Reykjavik

Booking

This is an oddball pick—but I wanted to include it for families with older kids, as this hotel has my inner child very intrigued. That’s because this highly unique and retro-style, modular hotel isn’t like anything I’ve seen before.

While it doesn’t look suitable for a stay longer than a few days, I’m sure it will be a memorable experience for older kids with an adventurous and imaginative spirit.

Best BnB pick: Reykjavik Treasure B&B

Booking

This cozy and highly rated bed-and-breakfast has earned top reviews for families thanks to its welcoming atmosphere. (That’s why I love a good BnB… there’s nothing like knowing you have a relaxing space to return to after a long day.)

Like any quality boutique stay, there are plenty of common areas to hang out—and the Reykjavik Treasure goes above and beyond to make sure families feel welcome. It also has a small garden for any tots that need a little morning run.

Best Holiday Rentals in South Carolina for Families

When I think of South Carolina, I think about family vacations.

That’s for good reason. South Carolina is home to a handful of towns and cities that take pride in their family-friendly atmospheres.

While the state is better known for its expansive beaches and range of summer-centric activities, there are plenty of ways to have fun in autumn and winter.

In fact, South Carolina is a perennial favorite for families that like to travel for the holidays.

Every year, I hear about at least one family vacation in South Carolina. Some stories are from friends whose families seek out more temperate Christmas holidays. Others show up for the state’s most charming and re-visitable Christmas events.

For example, North Myrtle Beach comes alive with festive lights and exciting holiday floats for its Christmas parade. There are other large parades in cities like Carillon and Aiken, along with unique events like the Nights of a Thousand Candles and Christmasville.

But let’s not lose sight of what matters most for families heading to South Carolina for the holiday season: spending quality time together.

As someone who regularly rents Airbnbs and aparthotels to visit family, I can tell you that soaking up downtime is just as important as sight-seeing. Choosing the right rental gives you the power to do absolutely nothing while surrounded by loved ones.

Want a family-friendly Airbnb in South Carolina for your Christmas plans?

Below, you can find options that I would rent over the holidays to spend time with my own family. Each rental has a minimum of three bedrooms, along with extras like game rooms, massive living rooms, and outdoor patios perfect for roasting marshmallows.

Best family-friendly Airbnbs in South Carolina for Christmas

Best lakeside rental: Luxury 2BR on Lake Saluda

Airbnb

With lakeside views and multiple fire pits for soaking up that brisk winter breeze, this is a top-notch selection for any family that likes a rustic atmosphere.

In terms of kid-friendly amenities, there’s an outdoor playground, boxes full of boardgames, and canoes and paddleboats that are lake-ready. With brand-new furnishings and plenty of interior space, it’s also a great pick for adults who want a chic setup.

Just keep in mind that there are only three bedrooms and three beds, making this ideal for single-family use.

Best for fans of putt-putt: The Stay & Play Retreat

Airbnb

Didn’t think putt-putt would get its own selection? Sounds like you don’t play enough putt-putt with family. (When my brother and I took my dad around Norway for his birthday a few years back, one of our favorite memories was getting a little tipsy at an indoor putt-putt bar in Oslo. Just saying.)

It’s games galore at this unique Airbnb. The three-bedroom setup might not sound spacious, but there’s a unique double bunk in one room. The hosts also offer a cute theatre setup for the big screen, including popular movie theatre treats.

Beyond a great setup with plenty of open space for communal lounging, this Airbnb offers an unmatched gaming spirit. Out back, you’ll find a putting course along with a neon-lit hot tub and family-friendly fire pit. Nearby, there’s also a massive public playground for any added play-sessions.

Best for casual families: Lakefront Cabin

Airbnb

This cabin has a fully wood-paneled interior, giving it a classic feel—especially when coupled with the gorgeous woodlands outside.

There’s also a private dock out on the water for those who want to soak up the natural tranquility. That being said, you might prefer to hang out inside. Not only does this cabin have a game room with foosball and ping pong, but there’s also a massive board game collection.

The only catch is that the décor and bedroom arrangements are a little basic, meaning this is best for families that will be spending plenty of time outdoors.

Best for large families: Near Beach

Airbnb

This huge beachfront property is geared for summertime adventures thanks to its outdoor pool and beachy décor.

That being said, it’s a fantastic setup for large families (it sleeps up to ten in five different bedrooms) that want to soak up the winter sunshine. There’s a large game room that includes ping-pong, foosball, and cornhole.

On top of that, its multiple living rooms are equipped to handle large-group hangouts—and its open-floor plan makes that even easier.

Best for huge families: Heated PVT Pool

Airbnb

Want a Tiki bar in your rental—one that also includes five bedrooms with space to seep twelve? Despite the unique criteria, I’ve found a perfect fit.

This Surfside Beach selection comes with a neon-lit arcade room, fit with multiple arcade games and foosball. While this rental is decked out with summer beach gear like buckets and chairs, there’s a heated pool out back—meaning you won’t be missing out entirely.

There’s even a mini-putting green, and we all know how I feel about putt-putt.

Best remote escape: Lakefront Getaway

Airbnb

If your family loves rural escapes with peaceful settings, look no further.

This Waterloo rental gives your family plenty of space to roam with three bedrooms and eight beds, along with a large garage-turned-gaming room with arcade titles, shuffleboard, and a pool table. (No putt-putt, I’m sad to say.)

But what has captured my attention is the gorgeous sunroom with lakefront views. Coupled with the cobbled fire pit outside, this Airbnb offers a great way to experience nature in December.

Best Myrtle Beach selection: North Myrtle Beach

Airbnb

Heading to Myrtle Beach for your Christmas getaway? I highly suggest this Airbnb thanks to its gorgeous design and layout, plus its family-friendly features.

The outdoor pool is heated, meaning December swims aren’t off the table. Along with a massive living room perfect for family get-togethers, there’s also an outdoor setup with cornhole and Jenga.

Just keep in mind that it’s a new construction with plenty of white décor, meaning it might not be ideal for little ones.

Natchitoches Christmas Festival: Louisiana’s Best-Kept Secret

I’m a big fan of a classic and snowy Christmas.

Cue the piles of soft snow, the warm fireplaces, the extra-large mugs of Baileys-filled-whatever, and the aroma of freshly baked cookies.

Without that frigid, almost deadly gust of snowy wind, it just doesn’t feel like Christmas.

That being said, I haven’t experienced a white Christmas in over a decade. My strong opinions are the result of too many Hallmark movies and an overly romantic hankering for the past. (We’re all prone to such flaws when the holidays roll around.)

But when it comes to some of the coolest Christmas events in the United States, not all of them involve snow. Or even cold breezes.

In fact, one of the world’s best Christmas festivities is found in the state of Louisiana—and it’s in a town you probably haven’t heard of before.

Natchitoches is the oldest colonial town in the state, dating back to French settlers who came south from Canada.

Today, it’s better known for its charming downtown streets and its annual Christmas festival. This year, the city is gearing up to celebrate its 98th annual Christmas party. Here’s what you need to know about the Natchitoches Christmas Festival.

Getty

What is the Natchitoches Christmas Festival?

The Natchitoches Christmas Festival was first organized back in 1927—and it remains one of the most well-known Christmas events for locals statewide.

As mentioned up top, Natchitoches has a long history in the state, and its historic downtown area is just as picturesque as the French Quarter in New Orleans.

Though you might be picturing one of those larger-than-life parades that are common to NOLA, the Natchitoches Christmas Festival includes dozens of activities across a six-week period.

The festivities kick off on the Saturday following Thanksgiving and conclude on the Catholic holiday of the Epiphany (January 6).

What is there to do at the Natchitoches Christmas Festival?

Over a six-week period, Natchitoches comes alive with pure Christmas spirit. You can enjoy smaller events each weekend or plan to see the big show on December 7th.

During this time, local shops also extend their hours for visiting shoppers.

On December 7th, there’s a small parade and local market with goods from artisans across the parish and state. But if you can’t swing the December 7th party, have no fear.

Every night at dusk, the Natchitoches Christmas Festival comes alive with its light show—which includes over 300,000 little bulbs across the grounds.

Additionally, you can purchase tickets for the Christmas festivities that take place every Saturday. There are live music events, dozens of shops, Santa meet-and-greets, fireworks, and other kid-friendly activities. There are even bonus events like Christmas tours of local homes.

Courtesy of City of Natchitoches

How can you visit the Natchitoches Christmas Festival?

You can visit the Natchitoches Christmas Festival however you’d like. If you want to see the big sha-bang, I’d highly recommend buying tickets for the December 7th show as early as possible.

Remember—this is a big deal in Louisiana and in neighboring states.

If your Christmas travel plans are more casual, you can head to Natchitoches on a Saturday. Once again, I’d recommend buying tickets beforehand. While you can usually score some last-minute tickets on a Saturday, that might not be the case every weekend.

Lastly, if you only have a day or two to pass through Natchitoches, you can still soak up the lights and ambiance of the historic downtown area. Not only will shops be open later and showcasing their most Christmas-appropriate goods, but the lights show comes on right when the sun sets.

You’ll fee like you’re walking through a Christmas wonderland even without all the added fanfare.

Best shopping in Palm Springs: Boutiques, Vintage, & More

Palm Springs feels like a Hollywood movie set.

Much of that charm is thanks to its iconic Art Deco architecture and mid-century modern design elements. From its Airbnb rentals to its boutique hotels, you’ll feel immediately intrigued by the 60s-style inspiration.

That being said, Palm Springs hasn’t been left to its own devices since it popped up as a popular getaway for the California elite in the mid-1900s.

It’s been expertly curated since then, slowly becoming a mainstay for winter birds, golf-lovers, and girls’ trips.

They’re after scenic mountain views, endless sunshine, spa treatments, and—in increasing numbers—boutique shops. Like the rest of the city, Palm Springs’ shopping districts are renowned for being both eclectic and upscale.

And with multiple shopping areas to choose from, you might actually struggle to figure out where to go and what to look for. Need a little shopping guide for your next trip to this SoCal staple? Here’s a breakdown of the best shopping in Palm Springs.

Best shopping in Palm Springs

This list focuses on clothing stores and product retail, but I’ve also included a few design stores and vintage shops that encapsulate Palm Springs’ iconic mid-century flair.

Modern Way

Meet one of the oldest antique dealers in the city. You can find items dating back to the 1950s, along with curated collections from designers like Arthur Elrod and Herman Miller. Shop around at two different Modern way locations, both on North Palm Canyon Drive.

Iconic Atomic

A vintage clothing and general store decked out with pieces you won’t find elsewhere. From mid-century home goods to men’s clothing, there’s something for everyone at Iconic Atomic. And, once again, the items available are iconically local.

The Frippery

Vintage clothing and accessories galore are available at The Frippery. I’d keep this boutique shop high on your list—it’s becoming a bit of a cult hit with local hipsters and visiting clothiers.

Bon Vivant

The hardboiled vintage store focuses on home décor and collectibles—but be prepared to shop around. Bon Vivant is a well-known store thanks to its range of goods… but you might need to dig around to find the real treasures.

A La Mod

This upscale vintage store is highly curated. You can find pieces from legendary designers around the world—and the owners of A La Mod probably know the story behind every single item. Just keep in mind that you’ll be paying top dollar for these popular names.

Elizabeth & Prince

The words ‘disgustingly chic’ came to mind when perusing Elizabeth & Prince—but I’d hate to paint the wrong picture. I’m using the word disgusting in a good way, like Rihanna would. This mindful shop is neatly filled with hand-selected pieces that each ring with style and intrigue. Like a museum for coolness.

Just Fabulous

Thrifting is certainly a great way to pass the time in Palm Springs—but this bright boutique shop is great for just about any shopper. You can peruse personalized souvenirs or shop around for home décor at Just Fabulous. Regardless of your selection, it’ll ring with Palm Springs spirit.

The Shops at Thirteen Forty Five

This highly unique collective lets you shop around from multiple brands and designers. From upscale clothing to holistic spiritual items to glassware, you’ll find your ideal hidden gem at The Shops.

Trina Turk

This clothing store highlights the spirited reach of designer Trina Turk—and it’s a brand that fits seamlessly into the Palm Springs landscape.

I have to be blunt… Trina Turk is way too bright and busy for my liking. That being said, I’d probably still buy a piece as a souvenir for my Palm Springs trip. After all, travel is a great way to develop new fashion inspiration, and who doesn’t like to wear their souvenirs?