2015 Inspirational Travel

1.    Crystal River, Florida

A hidden gem tucked along Florida’s Nature Coast, the Plantation on Crystal River, a member of Choice Hotels’ growing Ascend Collection of distinguished properties, is surrounded by the natural springs of Kings Bay and more than 25,000 surface acres of pristine lakes, rivers, wildlife refuges and state parks. This is the only place in the world where people can learn about and swim with the West Indian Manatee. The Plantation Dive Shop offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim alongside the endangered species. Choice Hotels Ascend Collection

Enjoy the Rainbow River & Swim with Manatees Package, which includes:

  • One night accommodations
  • Welcome Bag with fun Manatee information inside
  • One manatee tour for two people at our Adventure Center/Dive Shop
  • Breakfast for two people in our restaurant
  • Additional night may be added

Rates starting at just $188.42 for two nights. Airfare as low at $107/person through Spirit Airlines. Visit www.plantationoncrystalriver.com for more information.

2.    Monument Valley, Utah

The View Hotel offers located in Utah provides an overwhelming sight of the Monument Valley Tribal Park. The Wildcat Trail is the only hiking trail inside the Tribal Park that visitors can hike unescorted by authorized Navajo guides – it departs from The View Hotel. This 4-mile hike, starting from the hotel, is one of the most beautiful trails that you will ever follow. Sunrise at Monument Valley greets you with a myriad of different colors. It’s as if the skies were made of molten lava. The panoramic view is different than from your hotel room. As you descend nearly 900 feet to the bottom of the valley floor, you will be in awe! Rates starting at $99/night. Roundtrip airfare starting at $138/person through Frontier Airlines. For more information go to www.mountainvalleyview.com.

3.    Santa Fe, New Mexico

Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa has many adventures to add to anyone’s bucket list. The resort offers a southwest sensory experience; the views of the desert, the smell of cedar, the sounds of the desert wind, and taste of the exotic flavors or New Mexican cuisine. With a day filled with hiking, on-site hot air ballooning, and wild west cowboy horseback riding-the spectacular red-orange sunset is a perfect backdrop to a night of relaxation.

Rates start at $209/night. Book with Royal Travel and receive $100 resort credit, complimentary breakfast for 2, daily, early check-in/late check-out, and a room upgrade. Roundtrip airfare as low as $350/person through United Airlines. For more information visit www.royal-travel.com.

4.    Costa Rica

Stay at the Allegro Papagayo and enjoy a drive around Arenal Lake in the deluxe, air-conditioned vehicle, then walk through the rainforest that surrounds a volcano. Visit the magical hot springs of healing waters that sit within well-manicured tropical gardens. This is the ideal tour for travelers that want to relax and replenish in one of the most stunning places in the country. Enjoy dinner in the evening with panoramic views of the volcano. Package includes round-trip airfare from O’hare International Airport, hotel transfers, all meals and drinks, taxes & fees. Stay for 7 nights for $1,799/person and depart on a Friday on 2/6 or 2/20. Go to www.royal-travel.com for more information.

 Watch Kendra Thornton discuss these packages on WGN-TV here.