Best Places to Visit

U.S. News & World Report and its readers recently voted on the top 20 places to visit in the U.S.  Here I highlight four of my favorites from the list. 

1. San Diego, California

San Diego is full of opportunities for everyone from families to singles to enjoy a diverse range of springtime activities. The San Diego Natural History Museum, the world famous San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND California, SeaWorld, home of Shamu and other Orca wales, and not to mention the city’s gorgeous beaches and 300 days of sunshine.  Stay at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, which is centrally located to the beach, with April rates as low as $179/nt. Book with Royal Travel and receive full breakfast buffet for two daily, complimentary in room Internet access, and a welcome amenity.  RT airfare from Chicago to San Diego as low as $379/person through United.

2. Anchorage, Alaska

The largest city in Alaska, Anchorage, lies between the mountains and the sea and boasts many natural sights and historic landmarks.  The best way to experience Anchorage and the beauty of Alaska is with a sea-land combo tour.  I suggest you hop aboard the Celebrity Millennium in Vancouver and embark on the journey of a lifetime. You'll cruise to places like Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway; you'll see Alaska's Inside Passage and Hubbard Glacier, a wall of ice at 76 miles long and 40 stories high. Discover whales, brown bears, and other amazing wildlife in their natural habitat. Brave the world's largest zip line, experience dog sledding or take a helicopter ride that lands on a glacier. Once you debark the ship in Seward, your land-based Cruise tour into Alaska's interior begins. You'll immerse yourself in the wilderness of Denali, visit picturesque Talkeetna, and hop aboard the Wilderness Express, a glass-domed train car, which will transport you to Anchorage. While in Anchorage, visit the Alaska Native Heritage Museum or enjoy a fresh lunch of wild Alaska Salmon or Alaska King Crab. Book a Veranda stateroom aboard the Celebrity Millennium for Summer 2016 with a 10-night vacation for as low as $2,549 per person. Book by March 31 and enjoy the benefits of Spring into Savings - you'll save up to $300 off your cruise, and you can choose to receive Free Classic Beverage Packages, Free Gratuities or up to $300 to spend on board. Contact Royal Travel for available 2015 sailings and special offers.

3. Washington DC

Cherry Blossom season is the best time to explore and visit our Nation's Capitol. From food truck tours to exploring historical monuments, the city is buzzing with things to fill up your weekend. For ladies looking to shop until they drop, The Collection at Chevy Chase (dubbed the East Coast version of Rodeo Drive) features 112,000 square feet of high-end boutiques on Wisconsin Avenue. Stay in the heart of DC at The Mayflower Hotel, which is completing a $20 million room renovations project in April. The hotel is offering a special "Make History With Us" 2-night minimum stay package for $179/night in honor of the property's 90th anniversary, which includes: $90 hotel credit; Washington DC’s Mayflower Hotel book; The Mayflower’s famed banana bread (complete with recipe). RT flights from Chicago to DC start at $300 in April. Valid for travel through December 31, 2015. To book, call 1-800-834-7282.

4. Austin, Texas

Springtime in Central Texas is beautiful without the summer heat or the winter rains so families, singles and couples can enjoy all that the “Live Music Capitol of the World” has to offer.  The city is home to plenty of activities: swimming in the natural Barton Springs Pool, kayaking on Town Lake or a day spent at the Austin Zoo or Zilker Park. Stay at the Driskill Hotel right in the heart of downtown and the restaurant/nightlife district with April rates starting at $279/night. Book with Royal Travel and receive full breakfast for two daily, upgraded room (if available) and welcome wine and cheese amenity.  RT airfare starting at $243/person through Frontier.

Winter Escapes

1. Beaver Creek Resort, Colorado

An easy 1.5-hour drive from Denver Airport and suited to families and skiers who like to be pampered, Vail Resort’s Beaver Creek mountain is the place to be this winter.  Site of the Alpine World Ski Championship this month, the resort is a winter wonderland both on and off the mountain (there’s snowshoeing, tubing, ice-skating, and amazing dining options galore) and it boasts a world-class ski and snow board school. New to Beaver Creek this season is the mid-mountain, ski-in-and-out Candy Cabin, designed to be an old-fashioned candy store. For those who hate to carry their skis, The Ospry at Beaver Creek, A RockResort is ideal lodging since it’s the closest hotel to any chairlift in North America (26 feet-right out the back door). The hotel features rooms/suites right on the slopes with ski valet, fantastic dining for all meals at The Osprey Lounge, outdoor heated pool, hot tub and more. Book a 2-night stay by March 6 (for stays up until March 9) and you’ll get the third night free.  Rates start at $260/night.  Flights to Denver as low as $185/person through Frontier Airlines.

2. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Leave the cold behind and explore the sunny island of Puerto Rico by staying at the Ritz-Carlton, San Juan. Located on eight acres of pristine beachfront property in the chic neighborhood of Isla Verde, this hotel provides an unforgettable escape at one of the most elegant beach hotels in the Caribbean, and is the perfect launching point to explore the quaint cobblestone streets of Old San Juan. The hotel’s spa treatments are inspired by ancient rain forests and the property boasts excellent dining options influenced by local Caribbean ingredients plus a dazzling casino. The resort is running a special “Comfort You” package valid through March 31 that includes: Buffet breakfast for two daily and a $100 resort credit to be used for spa treatments, dining at the hotel’s steakhouse, or beach activities.  Rates start at $439.00/nt.  Round-trip, airfare from Chicago as low as $332pp through JetBlue.

3. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Couples and families that want a true escape from the winter weather will find that Dreams Villamagna Nuevo Vallarta is the perfect getaway destination with its spectacular views of Banderas Bay, the Sierra Madre Mountains, a gorgeous stretch of beach, and elegant pools. Kids will love the Explorer’s Club with supervised activities including sand castle competitions, arts & crafts, and weekly campout adventures on the beach. Enjoy from a selection of five international restaurants and five lounges for unlimited food and beverages. Located only 20 minutes away from the historic colonial town of Puerto Vallarta, the resort also offers nearby whale watching, golfing, shopping, and nightlife. Book this winter special through Royal Travel for an Apple Vacations Unlimited Luxury® package includes round-trip airfare, 3-nights hotel accommodations, all food, drink, and entertainment for $878.34/pp; good for travel between March 3-April 18.

4. Kauai, Hawaii

The St. Regis Princeville Resort on the island of Kauai, said to be one of the most glorious resorts in the world. The ocean-side property offers endless options for pampering, fun, and relaxation with two championship golf courses, swimming pools, private beach cabanas, and an array of activities from snorkeling and kayaking to horse back riding. The Princeville Shopping Plaza and the town of Hanalei are located within a short distance of the resort, offering a wide range of charming retail opportunities, including art galleries, gift stores, restaurants, and fashion boutiques. Since it’s Oscars week it’s fun to note that many scenes from the movie The Descendants were filmed at this hotel. Book a 5-night package with Royal Travel that includes airfare and hotel accommodations through Apple Vacations for $2,329/pp. Package does not include meals/drinks.

5. Godfrey Hotel, Chicago

The Godfrey Hotel is Chicago’s newest 4 ½ star independent boutique hotel. The Cubist-influenced style adds to the chic feel of each room. Centrally located at the epicenter of River North downtown, just a short walk from Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile. The hotel is offering a “Friends Don’t Let Friends” package when it snows in downtown Chicago. The second it starts to snow, The Godfrey’s Facebook page will post that the package is available and anyone who secures a room at the hotel during the promotion receives 20 percent off. This helps commuters and travelers that might be stuck in the city due to a cancelled flight or anyone that wants to stay warm in The Godfrey while it’s snowing outside. The Winter Blizzard promo rates start at $99/night. The flash sale only takes place when it snows and it is for 20% off the best available rate at the time.

 

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.

Travel Trends Getaways

Choice Hotels, one of the largest global hotel companies with more than 6,300 hotels worldwide, conducted a survey to get a better understanding of the key travel trends happening in America in 2015.

One out of four (24%) Americans say they would like to visit Western National Parks in 2015.

1.    Yellowstone National Park

Stay at Hotel Terra Jackson Hole located on the slope-side of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and at the gateway to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Enjoy the exploration and adventures that Yellowstone offers during the day then relax to a fireplace, stunning view, plush hotel amenities and top of the line service. 

Rates starting at just $269.10/night. Book with Royal Travel and receive full breakfast for two daily, $75 credit to spa, and welcome amenity. Airfare starting at $438/person roundtrip through United Airlines from Chicago. Visit www.hotelterrajacksonhole.com for more information.

 Despite being budget conscious, American Travelers are willing to splurge for unique travel experiences.

2.    Cancun

Swim with the Whale Sharks in Cancun during your stay at the Grand Oasis Cancun. Your encounter begins with an orientation and instruction on swimming with the sharks. Then the expert guides swim with you alongside the surprisingly gentle creatures. They are docile giants who migrate to the waters off Cancun between May and September. After your encounter with the Whale Sharks, you’ll stop at Isla Mujeres’ beautiful northern shore to enjoy a freshly prepared ceviche lunch with some well-deserved refreshments before going back to port. Package includes round-trip airfare, hotel transfers, all means and drinks, and taxes and fees. Package is $1,312/person for 4 nights and good for Tuesday departure dates of 6/2-6/23. Book with Royal Travel and you’ll receive a free bottle of wine, private lounge area with internet access, and Oasis Plus Concierge service. For more information visit www.royal-travel.com.

Culinary Tourism (food-inspired travel), 30 percent increases over 2014 respectively.

3.     Houston, Texas

Hotel Granduca is located in the heart of the Uptown/Galleria district. Enjoy world class shopping, dining, and entertainment just steps away at Uptown Park. A short drive from the hotel is the original Ninfa’s on Navigation-a 40-year-old restaurant that prides itself on its infamous fajitas and creamy avocado sauce. Locals have said it’s one of the last places where you can eat fajitas that taste the same as they did in the old days. Current chef Alex Padilla has updated the menu with modern dishes, but the famous fajitas, homemade tortillas, and green sauce remain the exact same.

Rates starting at just $238/night. Book with Royal Travel and receive continental breakfast for two daily, $100 food and beverage credit in hotel restaurant, and welcome in room amenity. Airfare as low as at $135/person roundtrip through American Airlines out of Chicago. For more information visit www.royal-travel.com.

When asked which event they’d most like to attend in 2015, Mardi Gras in New Orleans (25%) ranked just ahead of the Cherry Blossom Festival (24%).

4.    New Orleans

Bluegreen Vacations Club La Pension is a collection of six historic buildings located on the edge of the French Quarter. Guests can feel relaxed and at home in stylish rooms featuring boutique-style decorations and upscale amenities that reflect the heart and soul of the city. The hotel is conveniently located near New Orleans’ top attractions including: Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, Royal Street, Preservation Hall and St. Louis Cathedral. Enjoy the best of the Big Easy.

Rates starting at $119/night. Airfare starting at $275/person round-trip through United during Mardi Gras or prices as low as $107/person roundtrip for other dates through United Airlines. Go to www.ascendcollection.com for more information.

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

New Year's Eve Packages

1. Hard Rock Hotel Chicago

Image via: Hard Rock Hotel Chicago

Image via: Hard Rock Hotel Chicago

The Hard Rock Hotel and Playboy are partnering for a New Year’s Eve formal gala. Tickets include:

  • Playboy Masquerade Lounge hosted by 2013 Playmate of the Year, Raquel Pomplum, and DJ Crystal Ellis.
  • A treasure hunt with one guest winning a stay in the Penthouse and a Playboy swag bag
  • A 4-hour top shelf cocktail reception, buffet, Horst D’oeuvres, and delicacies
  • Complimentary party favors, multiple ballrooms of entertainment, and over 30 staffed bartenders and servers.

Tickets start at $125/person and hotel rooms are just $189/night when event tickets are purchased (Rate is $259/night without tickets) Visit www.HardRockHotelChicago.com for more information. To book this NYE package email Kendra.

2. JW Marriott Chicago

Image via: JW Marriott Chicago

Image via: JW Marriott Chicago

With a $396 million restoration, the historic JW Hotel is perfect for a luxurious celebration for New Year’s Eve. Located downtown near Willis Tower, you’ll experience the refined style of the city. Book this New Years Eve Soiree package for $397/night and you’ll get:

  • Two General Admission tickets (per room) to the New Year's Eve hotel party featuring two DJ's and live music
  • Top shelf drinks, lavish appetizer spread, pasta buffet and champagne
  • Complimentary Pre and Post party
  • Luxurious overnight accommodations

For more information go to www.marriott.com/hotels. Want to book this NYE package? Click here to contact Kendra.

3. Hotel Allegro

Image via: Hotel Allegro

Image via: Hotel Allegro

Celebrate the New Year in the heart of the Chicago loop in a hotel that combines old world glamour with modern amenities. Hotel Allegro is adjacent to the opulent Cadillac Palace Theater, which has shows running on NYE - A Rock n Roll Christmas Tale (book online at TicketMaster and use code “Thanks” to get $49 tickets) and Rogers and Hammerstein’s Broadway musical of Cinderella.

  • All Hotel guests staying at the hotel will be offered an exclusive Bloody Mary and Cold Pizza recovery Station from 9:00am-12noon on New Year’s Day in the lobby. 

Rates start at just $169/night on NYE. Go to www.allegrochicago.com for more information. Email Kendra to book this NYE package.

4. The Peninsula Chicago

Image via: The Peninsula Chicago

Image via: The Peninsula Chicago

Celebrate the New Year with the whole family on the magnificent mile at the only hotel that has a skating rink in Chicago, The Peninsula Sky Rink. Package good on NYE and through March, includes:

  • A 50% reduction off the cost of an adjoining room for children under 12.
  • Kids eat for free and enjoy a range of amenities and programs tailored just for junior guests, including The Peninsula Kids’ Academy’s collection of fun activities.
  • Ice Skating on top of the hotel for only a $15/adult and $10/children donation to charity, where you can enjoy an outdoor menu including hot chocolate, spiced wine and warm pretzels.
  • New Year’s Eve Gala from 7:30pm-1:00am, a black tie event beginning with a Champagne reception followed by a six-course dinner with live band performance, dancing, and a balloon drop at midnight. Tickets are $325/guest.

Rates start at $495/night for the Superior King Guestroom. For more information go to: www.chicago.peninsula.com. To book this NYE package email Kendra.

5. The American Club in Kohler, Wisconsin

Image via: the American Club

Image via: the American Club

The Red Carpet Retreat package is perfect for a relaxing New Year’s getaway. On New Year’s Eve, enjoy the following:

  • Special 4-course dinner menu at the restaurant
  • Food and beverage credit of $50 per night
  • An In-room movie each evening and dining delivery of movie amenities including candy and popcorn
  • Discounted Kohler Waters Spa services at 20% off

Starting rate is $142/per person, per night.  To learn more visit www.americanclubresort.com. To book this NYE package email Kendra.

6. Occidental Grand Xcaret in Riviera Maya

Image via: Occidental Grand Xcaret Riviera Maya

Image via: Occidental Grand Xcaret Riviera Maya

Bring in the New Year with an all-inclusive getaway to the Riviera Maya Mexico and stay at the beachfront Occidental Grand.  Package through Apple Vacations includes:

  • Round-trip airport/hotel transfers, all meals and unlimited drinks with access to 11 restaurants and 10 bars.
  • Non-motorized water sports, daily activities and nightly entertainment.
  • Supervised kids club and access to 5 pools including kids and adults only pools. Hotel is adjacent to the family friendly Xcaret Park.

Package is $1,529/per adult for 7 nights including non-stop airfare from O’Hare on Frontier Airlines departing on Jan. 1 and returning January 8.  To book contact Royal Travel & Tours or go to www.applevacations.com or  email Kendra.

For your next trip, contact Royal Travel at www.royal-travel.com or call 1-800-747-7695.

You can watch Kendra's segment on WGN-TV Chicago by clicking here.

Take Advantage of these "Cyber Monday" Travel Deals on Dec. 1

1. St. Lucia

Image via: The BodyHoliday

Image via: The BodyHoliday

The BodyHoliday, Saint Lucia’s premiere health and wellness resort is offering:

  • 40% off bookings; minimum stay of 5 nights
  • Rates start at $390 per person per night (normal rates start at $650 per person per night).
  • Available to book on Cyber Monday only (December 1, 2014)
  • Travel window is from March 1st, 2015 – October 2015
  • The resort offers a variety of activities for exercise enthusiasts. Stay busy with activities including Scuba diving, Pilates, Tai Chi, archery, golf, and many more that the resort offers. Wind-down at the Wellness Centre, open from dawn until dusk, with a day filled with specialized massages and signature treatments. Dine at one of 5 restaurants and relaxing bars.

Book by calling 1-800-544-2883 and providing the offer code: TBHCYBER15

2. New York City, New York

Image via: The Jade Hotel

Image via: The Jade Hotel

The Jade Hotel, located in Greenwich Village is offering:

  • a $500 deal with a 2 night consecutive stay
  • Receive a $150 food and beverage credit redeemable at the hotel’s restaurant, lounge or room service and a complimentary bottle of Prosecco upon arrival
  • Available to book November 28th-December 1st
  • Valid for stays between January 2nd, 2015-February 28, 2015

This hotel is the perfect way to absorb the energy of the city, while also getting to relax. Greenwich Village is home to the creative, rebellious and Bohemian culture. This hotel provides everyone with an authentic New York experience with neighborhood guides, and an expert concierge. Book online at www.thejadeNYC.com and use promo code “CYBERMON”, or call the hotel directly at 212-375-1300

3. San Diego

Image via: Paradise Point Resort and Spa

Image via: Paradise Point Resort and Spa

Paradise Point Resort and Spa, features comfortable bungalow-style rooms amidst lush, tropical gardens, tranquil lagoons, and one mile of sandy beach. The great deals they are offering include:

  • 45% off Bayside Bungalows and 40% off all other room types
  • Available to book on Cyber Monday only (December 1, 2014)
  • Travel window is through April of 2015

Scattered across the 44-acre island, you'll find plenty of room to roam and relax with five swimming pools, beach bonfire pits, a marina, five dining venues, and an award-winning spa. Perfect for families and couples with a location that is secluded, yet centrally situated to the airport, downtown San Diego, and top attractions including Old Town, the San Diego Zoo, and Balboa Park. Book online at http://www.paradisepoint.com

4. Puerto Rico

Image via: Copamarina

Image via: Copamarina

Copamarina, located on the white sand shores of the Caribbean Sea on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway.

  • 30% off Room bookings with their Winter Paradise Escape; 2 night stay minimum
  • Receive 2 welcome drink coupons, 2 welcome gifts, and 20% off Enterprise Car Rental, and upgrade upon arrival.
  • Rates start at $135 per night (normal rates start at $194 per night)
  • Available on Cyber Monday only (December 1, 2014)
  • Travel window is from December 1st, 2014-March 31st, 2015

The historic town of Guanica is minutes away, and the major city of Jan Juan is 90 miles from the resort. Nearby attractions include Gilligan’s Island, Guanica Dry Forest and numerous scuba diving spots. Amenities include swimming pools, fitness center, water sports and equipment rental, tennis courts, and an Activities Desk. Book online at www.copamarina.com and use code “CYBER15”

5. Cancun

Image via: Hotel Riu Caribe

Image via: Hotel Riu Caribe

Hotel Riu Caribe in Cancun, Mexico on beach with turquoise water and white sand.

  • $100 off per couple for a 7-night stay
  • Book an ocean view room, all-inclusive package for $1229/person.
  • Must be booked between November 28th-December 1st (Cyber Monday)
  • Departure dates on January 18th, January 19th, or January 26th for 3 nights Rates include hotel accommodations, food, drink, and airfare. 

Along with this hotel’s exceptional views, you will find something exciting to do whether you’re traveling as a family, couple or friends. Enjoy sports like volleyball, cycling, golf, windsurfing, or snorkeling during the day and live music and dancing at night. You can also discover inland Cancun where to see impressive places like the archaeological museum, the Turtle Conservation Centre and many other sights. Book online at www.applevacations.com using code: CODE

6. Punta Cana

Image via: Breathless Punta Cana Resort and Spa

Image via: Breathless Punta Cana Resort and Spa

Breathless Punta Cana Resort and Spa situated in the Uvero Alto region of Punta Cana, offers a vibrant and modern experience for sophisticated singles, couples, and friends.

  • $50 off per couple for a 3-night stay in the Junior Tropical Suite
  • $1,099/person for this Unlimited Luxury experience with food, drink, activities, hotel accommodations and airfare.
  • Must be booked between November 28th-December 1st(Cyber Monday)
  • Departure dates between January 7th-January 28th on a Wednesday or Sunday

Guests will enjoy access to thirteen dining venues and eight bars and lounges, all without limit or reservations. Experience exciting pastimes of nighttime and daytime activities including snorkeling, kayaking, sunbathing on the palm-studded beach, live nightly music, the on-site casino, dancing and more. For a more relaxing day, enjoy getting pampered at the full-service spa. Book online through www.applevacations.com using code: CODE

Watch Kendra's segment on WGN-TV Chicago here.

To book these trips and more, contact Royal Travel at www.royal-travel.com or call 1-800-747-7695.

Follow Kendra on Twitter at www.twitter.com/KendraThornton