As wedding season approaches, so does finding the perfect honeymoon. Honeymooners searching for an exceptional retreat often turn to the Caribbean, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, serene beaches, and luxurious accommodations. Overwater bungalows are among the most alluring experiences, providing couples privacy, comfort, and stunning views. These unique lodgings have become a hallmark of romance and relaxation.

Luxury resorts such as Sandals Resort Caribbean are perfect for newlyweds seeking a dream getaway after the often stressful wedding planning phase. Many of these accommodations are designed with eco-friendly materials, ensuring harmony with the surrounding marine ecosystem.

The Allure of Overwater Bungalows

Overwater bungalows offer a unique experience where luxury meets nature. Usually reserved for the South Pacific, they are becoming popular in the Caribbean, with more luxury resorts adding them to the repertoire. Imagine waking up to panoramic ocean views from your private deck or stepping directly from your suite into turquoise waters. These accommodations often include upscale features such as glass floors for underwater viewing, infinity pools, and personalized butler service. Honeymooners can revel in exclusivity, enjoying secluded spaces tailored for romance. Many resorts also integrate smart home technology, allowing guests to control lighting, temperature, and entertainment systems effortlessly.

Tailored Honeymoon Packages

Many Caribbean destinations feature resorts that specialize in creating tailored honeymoon experiences. Full-service resorts can plan everything from private dinners on the beach to couples’ spa treatments, and every detail is curated to ensure a memorable stay. Some resorts go a step further by offering packages that include sunset cruises, private snorkeling excursions, and photography sessions to capture those unforgettable moments. These packages often include complimentary champagne, floral arrangements, and a gourmet breakfast in bed to enhance the romantic experience.

Romantic Dining Experiences

One of the highlights for honeymooners is the dining experience these resorts offer. Couples can enjoy intimate dinners in open-air settings, with menus crafted by renowned chefs. The focus often lies on fresh, local cuisine paired with fine wines or tropical cocktails. Think of a freshly caught spiny lobster or a pina colada made with fresh pineapples. For those seeking something even more unique, many properties arrange candlelit dinners on a private pier or sandbank, creating memories that last a lifetime. Additionally, these dining experiences often accommodate dietary preferences, offering vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly menus.

Unforgettable Activities for Couples

Caribbean resorts ensure that couples never run out of activities to enjoy together. Some of the most popular options include:

• Sunset catamaran cruises to explore the horizon.
• Couples’ massages with scenic ocean backdrops.
• Snorkeling or diving to discover vibrant coral reefs.
• Horseback rides along secluded beaches.

Spa and Wellness Retreats

Relaxation is a key aspect of any honeymoon, and the Caribbean delivers exceptional spa experiences. Overwater treatment rooms allow couples to enjoy massages and therapies surrounded by serene waters. Wellness programs often include yoga sessions, meditation classes, and hydrotherapy treatments, ensuring both body and mind rejuvenate. Many resorts incorporate locally sourced organic products into their spa treatments, reflecting the region’s commitment to natural wellness.

Planning Your Caribbean Honeymoon

For couples considering a honeymoon in the Caribbean, early planning is crucial. Popular resorts often book months in advance, especially those featuring overwater bungalows. Choosing the right time of year is essential to ensure optimal weather conditions and avoid peak tourist seasons. Plan a visit between December and May, the region’s dry season, to prevent a hurricane cancellation.

Thanks to its breathtaking scenery and luxurious accommodations, the Caribbean remains one of the most sought-after destinations for honeymooners. Overwater bungalows offered by luxury resorts, such as Sandals Resort in the Caribbean, in locations like Saint Lucia or Jamaica, provide an unparalleled blend of privacy, comfort, and romance, making them an ideal choice for couples beginning their journey together. With curated experiences, world-class dining, and exceptional service, a honeymoon in these promises memories that will last a lifetime.  

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Arlo Hotel opens, complete with Arrels Restaurant and a Rooftop Bar

D.C.’s oldest surviving apartment building, the 1888 Harrison Apartments, has been transformed into a glamorous new 445-room hotel, Arlo Washington D.C. The hotel’s highlights include a gorgeous rooftop bar with indoor and outdoor seating, as well as the flagship restaurant named Arrels. Helmed by Chef Pepe Moncayo, Arrels means “roots” in Catalan to honor the Chef’s Spanish heritage. Standout dishes on the menu include the crispiest patatas bravas, served in a charming cone alongside a puddle of garlicky aioli, grilled gem lettuce crowned with a snowy mountain of Manchego cheese, chewy mushroom fideos, and, of course, flaky, sugar-coated churros served with a dense chocolate sauce.

Dupont Circle Hotel’s Pembroke Sunday Suppers

In the fall of 2024, The Pembroke, the gorgeous, glass-enclosed restaurant located on the first floor of D.C.’s Dupont Circle hotel, launched a new Sunday Supper series. Each month, a different member of The Pembroke’s talented culinary team will curate a prix-fixe, family-style meal, using fresh ingredients from the market, that honors their own personal culture. Guests can choose to dine just with their party, or,  in the dinner’s spirit of gathering, sit at the community table with whomever else is there that evening.

We were lucky enough to attend the inaugural supper, which had a Sicilian theme. (And as you know, we at the Dining Traveler love all things Sicilian!) The family-style meal included sfincione, a garlicky parmesan-dusted Sicilian pizza, panelle, crunchy chickpea flour crackers, stuffed cabbage, grilled romano beans, roasted cauliflower with almonds, mint, lemon, and chilies, and hearty braised beans. Dessert was a marvel; not-too-sweet ricotta cake arrived topped with warm roasted plums and peaches, and the creamiest chocolate chip gelato was too good not to finish. This is a D.C. hotel experience you don’t want to miss!    

Hotel Heron’s Debuts New Cocktail Bar, Francis Hall

Old Town Alexandria’s Hotel Heron, right outside of D.C. just opened Francis Hall, a craft cocktail bar offering a boozy D.C. hotel experience. The menu features about 30 drinks, including gems like Frank’s Punch, a strong combination of corn whiskey, mezcal, clementine, and suze, and a Negroni that is served as a frozen sorbet with mezcal, vermouth, citrus, and chocolate, and made table-side with liquid nitrogen for an extra special experience.

The Fire Garden at Park Hyatt’s Blue Duck Tavern

Lots of local outdoor patios have closed for the winter, but if you love to enjoy the fresh air even when temperatures are low, visit the new fire garden at Blue Duck Tavern for a super seasonal D.C. hotel experience. The newly created outdoor oasis features firepits and cozy blankets on the terrace and a fun menu of seasonal cocktails like a gingerbread martini, made with vanilla vodka, Irish cream, and ginger, and a chai white Russian, featuring chai-spiced cream, spiced rum, and cinnamon. There is also a series of drinks that incorporate at least one ingredient or garnish that was sourced directly from the hotel’s rooftop garden, like the sweet potato old fashioned with rum blend, sweet potato syrup, angostura bitters, and pecan bitters, garnished with dehydrated orange and two charred meringue cubes. Also part of the series are the golden pear with pear ginger vodka, lime juice, elderflower liqueur, ginger syrup, and angostura bitters, garnished with dried pear, and the Park DC cider with apple, cinnamon- and clove-infused bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, cranberry and ginger syrup, served in a cider mug and garnished with a cinnamon stick. 

Kimpton Hotel Monaco’s Winter Chalet

Dirty Habit has transformed its outdoor patio into a cozy winter chalet with fire pits, blankets, and a snow cannon, offering a lovely festive D.C. hotel experience. Seasonal beverages include warm concoctions like hot toddies, hot chocolate, and mulled wine. Don’t forget to order some of their famous truffle frites!

Visitation Hotel Frederick is the first new hotel to open in Frederick, MD in 50 years

Visitation Hotel Frederick, the first new hotel to open in Frederick, Maryland in the last 50 years, is housed in a space that was formerly a convent and Catholic school, which has been renovated into a 65-room boutique hotel. Celebrity chef siblings Bryan and Michael Voltaggio are opening their first joint restaurant in their hometown inside the Visitation, called Wye Oak Tavern, and the venue is a great spot from which you can explore historic downtown Frederick.

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Where to Stay When Visiting Dubrovnik

The Pucic Palace: We chose this historic hotel for a number of reasons, and we were thrilled with our choice. First of all, it is one of the very few hotels that is located right in the middle of the heart of Dubrovnik’s old town, so we were able to step out the door of our hotel and start exploring the historical part of the city and all that it has to offer without using any transportation. Second, it only has a handful of rooms, so it felt personal and cozy, unlike some of the huge resort-type hotels around Dubrovnik outside of the old town, which count dozens or even hundreds of rooms.

The Pucic Hotel also offers a wide variety of amenities, such as two restaurants, outdoor seating right next to the city’s lively daily farmer’s market, and a concierge who will assist you with suggestions and bookings for local restaurants and activities. Finally, the history of the hotel really added to our overall experience. Constructed in the 17th century as a palace for the Pucic family, it changed owners many times and survived an earthquake and two world wars. Eventually, it was fully restored, converted into a hotel, and opened to guests as the Pucic Palace in 2002.

What to Do

Tour the Old City of Dubrovnik: Walk along and atop the famed walls, visit the famous Pile Gate at the entrance to the old town, take pictures of the gorgeous Rector’s Palace, and take pictures of the cathedral you may recognize from Game of Thrones. You can spend hours wandering the old city, and we recommend doing it the day you arrive, to appreciate this historic city.

Take the Cable Car to Srd Hill: The cable car is affordable and fun–the views from the top of the hill are spectacular. You will revel in the sight of the gorgeous Adriatic Sea, the islands around Dubrovnik, and the walled city and surroundings of Dubrovnik. It’s the perfect low-key activity to do when visiting Dubrovnik.

Embark on a sunset cruise: We booked a boat tour with Explore Dubrovnik to watch the sunset, and it was truly spectacular. It was a private ride past old and new bridges, seaside towns, and summer villas and included a bottle of sparkling wine, blankets, and dreamy sunset views.

Where to Eat

Bowa: True to its name, the best place we dined while visiting Dubrovnik was easily Bowa (which stands for ‘Best of what’s around’). It is actually more of an experience than just a lunch! Through their website, you book an entire afternoon excursion. This includes pick up by speedboat from a small harbor called Brsecine, which we took an Uber to. Our VIP transport ferried us to a stunning bay called Vrbova, where we were escorted to our private open-air cabana, complete with a large dining table, chairs for sunbathing and lounging, and glasses of champagne. Our lunch consisted of several courses of food: fresh oysters, cheese and fruit platters, salads, marinated vegetables, fried tofu, and wine. In between courses, we walked down to the shore and swam in the warm waters, and enjoyed sweet, refreshing frozen pina coladas that were made to order even though we did not even have to order them. It was, quite honestly, the most perfect day.

Arsenal Restaurant: This picturesque restaurant in the old town serves gorgeous Mediterranean fare, including burrata with homemade pesto and greens, marinated zucchini drizzled in balsamic vinegar and sprinkled with hunks of tangy feta cheese and decadent truffle pasta drenched in a cream sauce.

Pizza Mirakul: For a casual pizza dinner while visiting Dubrovnik, stop by this spot in the old town. They have cheesy pizzas, baked lasagnas, fresh salads, and loads of Croatan wine.

Stara Loza: The salon at Stara Loza, also in the old town, has a gorgeous interior with floor-to-ceiling windows, an exquisite chandelier as the dining room focal point, a terrace, and equally stunning food. The views of the old town from the terrace are magnificent. For the food, indulge in items like tempura fried vegetables with savory bell pepper cream, spinach and ricotta gnocchi, local cheese, and delicious desserts.

Posat: For a fine dining experience outside of the old town, visit Posat. The elegant venue has a charming atmosphere and the most delicious Mediterranean dishes, including mushrooms au gratin, ravioli in an herb sauce,

Gelateria Dubrovnik: The perfect evening ends with a scoop of heavenly gelato from this family-owned business. The Toblerone flavor is magical, as is the white chocolate with biscuit and fig with hazelnuts.

Where to Drink

D’Vino Wine Bar: Stop by for a glass (or two!) or Croatian wine at this old-town wine bar.

Buza Bar: This charming cliffside bar in Old Town was our favorite; we stopped by several times for a beer or cocktail and views of the Adriatic. It’s literally built into the rocks below the fortified walls, so skip the high heels and enjoy the views!

Cave Bar: If you want to check out some of the surrounding areas while visiting Dubrovnik, visit the Cave Bar in Lapad, an upscale neighborhood that is full of resorts and restaurants. The Cave bar is glamorous and fun, with good spaces for Instagram-worthy pictures.

Visiting Dubrovnik: The Verdict

Dubrovnik is the perfect place to visit if you want to explore the streets of a historical city: indulge in copious amounts of fresh Mediterranean fare and marvel at the shimmering Adriatic sea.

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What is Vermont’s Inn to Inn Walking Tour

Vermont’s Inn to Inn Walking Tour is a four-day package featuring a walking tour in the south of Vermont, where guests stay at four different inns and spend the day hiking from one inn to the next!

What’s included

The Vermont Inn to Inn tour includes four nights in delightful southern Vermont bed and breakfasts, breakfast and dinner each day, snacks for each day’s walking tour, maps for each day’s hikes, and transportation of your luggage from each bed and breakfast to the next so you can hike without carrying all your luggage.

The Hotels

We loved each and every place we stayed in during our Vermont’s Inn to Inn tour. The Colonial House offers one of the best breakfasts in town, and the owners have the sweetest pets who will love to meet you! The Inn Victoria can only be described as elegant and relaxing, with a soaking tub in your room to relax in after hiking all day. The Golden Stage Inn includes fireplaces in each room for an extra layer of coziness and The Pettigrew Inn is classic and charming.

The Food

Our favorite meal of each day was the breakfasts, which included items like breakfast burritos, freshly basked muffins, pancakes and hot waffles served with the famous Vermont maple syrup. The meals are hearty and filling, enough to sustain you for each day’s lengthy walking tour! For dinner, we enjoyed home cooked meals with dishes like spaghetti in marinara sauce, enchiladas, and cauliflower steak with couscous.

The Hikes

The best part of this trip is the walking tour! The scenery in Vermont is simply spectacular. We went during fall when it was especially gorgeous. Each day’s hike is 10-15 miles. Along the way, stop at the General Store for a maple creamie, which is Vermont’s famous maple-flavored soft serve, or the Outer Limits Brewery for one of Vermont’s delicious craft beers. Fun fact: Vermont has the most number of breweries per capita of any state.

Recommendations

Practice walking in advance of our Vermont’s Inn to Inn Walking Tour! It sounds like a short distance but you WILL get sore. Wear good sneakers or hiking shoes, and stay hydrated. Soaking at the end of the day is helpful too. I also recommend stopping at a store to get a sandwich to go. Small snacks are provided by your bed and breakfasts, but I was happy to have a sandwich. I recommend bringing a small backpack to use while you hike for your camera, water, snacks, and extra layers in case you get cold. And finally, have fun!!! Cell phone service is limited which is the best part – you will truly get to enjoy the sensational nature that Vermont offers while on this walking tour.

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I have not done much travel in the Middle East, so a layover in Doha, Qatar seemed like a good opportunity to see a different part of the world. While I didn’t really know what to expect, Doha was lovely surprise – there was delicious food and plenty to do for a day. Here are my tips is you happen to have an overnight layover in Doha as well.

Where to Stay

Al Bidda Boutique Hotel: Downtown Doha is mostly concrete and skyscrapers, so I recommend staying in the Souq Waqif, which is the old part of town. Souq Waqif means “standing market” which is fitting because the area is consists of a huge market with shops selling clothes, handicrafts, ornaments, spices, jewelry, and more. The area also includes a series of Tivoli hotels called the Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels.

The group of nine hotels are all walking distance from one another; all of them are opulent and Arabian-themed. We chose to stay in the Al Bidda boutique hotel, which featured a gorgeous lobby restaurant, massive rooms with a sitting area, walk in shower and stand alone tub. Service was impeccable, and all of the Souq Waqif hotels have any kind of amenity you could possibly want. It’s the perfect place to stay during a long layover in Doha, Qatar.

Where to Eat

 
There are plenty of places to eat during a long layover in Doha, Qatar. Most of the Souq Waqif hotels have a restaurant. Since you can walk in between the hotels you can choose to eat any of the restaurants. Considering how hot it is I do recommend that you take advantage of the free golf cart transport between hotels. Hotel staff will make a quick call and a chauffeured cart will appear in front of the hotel in a matter of minutes!

Al Terrace: We took a ride over to the Al Mirqub hotel from our hotel, where we had a decadent lunch at Al Terrace. The Lebanese restaurant serves delicious Middle Eastern fare; we stuffed our faces with hummus, pita, fresh salads, falafel, potatoes, fresh juices and more.

Spice Market: Because we wanted wine with our dinner, we jumped in an Uber to downtown. Qatar is largely a dry country, but Western-owned hotels are permitted to serve alcohol. We enjoyed spring rolls, dumplings, curries, fried rice and wok fried vegetables in an ornate, romantic setting.

What to Do During a Long Layover in Doha, Qatar

Experience the Souq Waqif

Take your time and wander through the souq at your leisure. Even if you don’t buy anything it is fun to wander through the market and see all of the interesting items for sale. Stop for an ice cream… or an iced coffee! I highly recommend a cold treat because Doha is brutally hot! Even in October it was 107 degrees! The market opens up at 4pm, due to the heat, so it’s a great pre-dinner activity.

Visit a Spa

One of the best things you can do during a long layover in Doha, is to get a massage! During the day, when it is too hot to be outside, I highly recommend treating to yourself to some spa treatments at one of the Souq Waqif hotels. I got a massage and it was delightful. There are steam rooms and gyms you can use, and the quality of the massage was surreal. I got to choose the scent of oils used, and the atmosphere was tranquil and relaxing.

The Verdict

The opulence of Doha alone is something to marvel at. From service to cleanliness to art and architecture, you will marvel when visiting this city. A long layover in Doha, Qatar is certainly not a waste and is undoubtedly an incredibly unique experience!

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As it turns out, the salt flats were amazing, but La Paz was also a fun, interesting city where three days goes by in an instant. There is plenty to marvel at, consume, and imbibe. I highly recommend spending at least three days in La Paz before heading to the flats. Not only will you get to enjoy La Paz but taking time to acclimate is very helpful…the altitude in Bolivia is no joke!

Where to Stay

Hotel Rosario La Paz: Located in the center of town, close to a teleferico line (the city’s aerial cable car urban transit system), this hotel was clean, comfortable and accommodating. It has a colonial style architecture, with an open-air courtyard and a restaurant which serves a great breakfast, complete with fresh-squeezed juices. Hotel Rosario La Paz also has 24 hours a day front desk staff who are helpful with directions and calling taxis.

What to Do

Red Cap City Tour: I always recommend kicking things off with a walking tour to orient yourself with the city. Our tour started off with a visit to Lanza market, where we visited small local shops serving freshly fried empanadas and apo, a warm breakfast drink made of purple corn. From there we went to San Pedro prison, a jail run as a small city by the inmates.

Afterwards, we hit up the famous witches market, calle jean which is a colorful colonial street, Murillo square, the central plaza of the city, and the famous San Francisco church. We walked through local street food markets, different neighborhoods and really got a feel for La Paz. One warning: it is a hilly city! Combined with the high altitude you may find yourself out of breath. Drink plenty of coca tea to ward off altitude sickness.

Cholita Wrestling: Historically, indigenous Bolivian men and women were treated poorly, disenfranchised and discriminated against throughout Bolivia. When President Murillo was elected in 2006 that began to change because of his role as a champion for the indigenous people. As such, cholitas were empowered to showcase their culture and they developed a theatrical type of wrestling called cholita wrestling. It is a must-see if you’re spending three days in La Paz, Bolivia. 

It involves cholitas as luchadores or fighters where they are dressed in their traditional garb and engage in wrestling and fighting with men dressed as monsters. The cholitas fight back when thrown and beaten by the monsters, and symbolically defeat their oppressors. It is as comedic and entertaining as it sounds. You will laugh, cheer and scream throughout the show, which of course includes snacks and plenty of beer. I highly recommend this uniquely Bolivian experience. We booked our tickets through Red Cap, which provided us with transportation to the show as well as tickets and coupons for drinks.

Coca Museum: This museum is dedicated entirely to the study of the coca leaf. Learning about the medicinal uses, as well as the illicit uses, of the coca leaf was deeply interesting, as we understanding the impact of the coca leaf on the Bolivian economy. The museum also has a café where you can enjoy coca tea, coca ice cream, and even coca brownies.

Ride the Teleferico: We bought tickets and just rode around on the cable cars for hours. It is a fantastic way to see the city from a bird’s eye view. This is probably the most cost-effective way to get some amazing views while spending three days in La Paz.

Where to Eat and Drink

This is always the most important question! Bolivian food is simple, with an emphasis on potatoes, corn, bread, and vegetables that can grow in difficult terrains such as carrots and corn.

Gustu: For a local fine dining experience, Gustu is the place to go. The venue offers exquisite dishes such as locally foraged mushrooms with a poached egg, native potatoes roasted and served with pickled onions, a dulce de leche inspired mango custard dessert and an impeccable local wine list. Prepare to dine for hours and if you are lucky, the staff will treat you to a tour of the kitchen and pantry, where you can learn about local Bolivian herbs, plants, and spices.

Ali Pacha: This is another fine dining option, but with a twist – it is plant-based. Truly, it is one of the most creative meals I have ever had.

Berlusca: We loved this little Italian joint that served fresh bread, light vegetable soup and delicious dishes like homemade pasta with zucchini and a sweet Pomodoro sauce. A local specialty is pasta with fava beans and cheese: unusual but divine.

Café del Mundo: This fun, travel-themed café has an extensive international menu where there is something for everyone. From falafel burgers to nachos to pasta, you won’t be short of options. They also have cocktails, milkshakes and coffee drinks, and you can choose from oat milk or quinoa milk.

Popular Cocina Boliviana: One of the more interesting spots in La Paz, this casual restaurant serves a set menu that focuses dishes made with quintessential Bolivian ingredients like potatoes, quinoa, fresh fruit, and bread. The menu will include an appetizer which could be a creamy vegetable soup, an entrée such as a stuffed potato, a local potato stew, a savory quinoa dish, or Bolivian empanadas called salteñas. Dessert, complete with local fruits, is also included.

Café Sol Y Luna: Stop by for a Singani cocktail. Singani is Bolivia’s national liquor, a grape brandy which you can drink on the rocks or in a cocktail.

Three Days in La Paz, Bolivia: The Verdict

South America is truly a fascinating continent to explore. I highly recommend visiting Bolivia, including La Paz. Three days in La Paz only scratches the surface but it’s worth the trip!

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Where to Stay

W Austin: This hotel is seriously fabulous. From the décor to the dining options to the pool to the service, it will exceed your expectations. Rooms are spacious, with huge beds,  sitting areas, and luxurious bathrooms. Be sure to grab drinks in the “Living Room” before or after dinner; it has a fantastic drink list and a DJ spinning tunes daily after 9pm. The location is also ideal: walking distance to restaurants and sites like Congress Bridge. Follow my advice and book a room if this you will be spending a in weekend in Austin anytime soon, it’s THE place to stay!

What to Do

The city is filled with fun activities. The hard part is deciding what to do when you just have a weekend in Austin. Here are my picks:

Barton Spring Pools: If you are visiting Austin in the spring or summer, you need to visit this spot. And by need to, I really mean it because you will want to cool off! The pools are fed from underground springs, so they are delightfully cool. There is plenty of grass for sunbathing, and then you can jump in as often as you like.

Congress Avenue Bridge/Lady Bird Lake: Every evening from March to October, over a million bats hide under the congress bridge, which crosses over Lady Bird Lake. Around sunset they all take off at the same time, which makes for a truly unique site! It is the largest urban bat colony in the world. There are also daytime and evening boat tours on the lake, which are a great way to see the city from a unique perspective.

Daytime pool party at the W Austin’s Wet Deck: Rent a cabana, order some cocktails and get ready for some serious relaxation. You can order snacks like chips and salsa or fresh fruit, sip drinks in the pool, people watch or just doze off on in a cabana. Music, sunshine, and friendly staff are in abundance: the makings for a perfect day.

Where to Eat and Drink

Let’s be realistic: the main reason to spend a weekend in Austin is to eat and drink!

El Naranjo: This is one of the best Mexican food meals I have had the pleasure of consuming. Located on Rainey Street, which is lined with bars and restaurant, this upscale but cozy venue not only offers fantastic, boozy margaritas, but delicious fare from appetizers to dessert. The guacamole is creamy and freshly made, the best way to kick off your meal. The veggie tacos include sautéed veggies doused in a smoky pasilla chili sauce, and mushroom empanadas are buttery, crispy and hearty.

For my entrée, I had grilled veggies smothered in mole sauce and it was divine. You can choose from mole negro, which is a bold, dark, savory, cocoa-infused mole, mole verde which is a green mole, or mole amarillo, a light and herbaceous mole. Desserts change with the seasons, but all of their selections are great – if you saved room. El Naranjo is open for lunch, brunch and dinner.

The Beer Plant: There’s nothing that will cure your hangover like brunch at the beer plant. This vegetarian gastropub has beer, as well as champagne cocktails, and hangover curing dishes like biscuits and gravy, “chicken” and waffles, and a hearty potato and tofu scramble hash, with avocado, mushrooms and tomatoes. For something lighter, get the bagel with carrot lox, avocado toast, or tofu egg sandwich. Really, you can’t go wrong!

East 6th Street: If you are looking for a rowdy crowd, head to East 6th Street. The street is lined with bars, some with rooftops, some with dancefloors, and even one with a giant jackalope statue. You can easily bar hop, and plenty offer great local beers and picnic bench style seating.

Trace: The W Austin’s signature restaurant has a gorgeous, modern décor, with indoor and outdoor seating. Grab a seat on their patio for brunch, order a mimosa and treat yourself to lemon poppyseed pancakes, grapefruit avocado toast, fresh fruit, or freshly fried donut holes.

Wu Chow: When you get sick of all the Mexican food and BBQ fare, take a break by visiting Wu Chow. This classy Chinese food restaurant has some delectable choices, including noodles and veggies swirled in a peanut and sesame sauce, dry fried green beans, sweet and sour eggplant, Texas okra tossed in a wok with ginger and chili peppers, and veggie fried rice.

A Weekend in Austin: The Verdict

A weekend in Austin is the perfect sun and food filled escape. Foodies will be able to stuff themselves and there are plenty of options for sightseeing or just some r&r!

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Location

Located at Brickell Key, the Mandarin Oriental Miami brings you the best of both worlds. The hotel is away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but a hop, skip and a jump from South Beach, Miami Design District, and Wynwood which are 20-25 minutes away by car. Miami is a bustling city, and it was great to return to my retreat after the day was over.

The Rooms

Our room was spacious with a great view of Biscayne Bay. The big comfortable bed with fluffy pillows was a treat after a long day. The design is classic with clean lines and warm neutral colors. As for the bathroom, I like the separate shower and bathtub accompanied by their fluffy signature robes.

Pool & Beach

The thing about a property such as the Mandarin Oriental Miami is that the amenities are so lovely that it makes it hard to leave! There’s a pool, spa, and private beach area. In addition to the fitness facility, there’s a running trail that circles all of Brickell Key. While we were there, we saw plenty of locals running or walking their dogs in the early morning.

I hung out by the pool area but it was a bit too crowded for me. I found the pool to be quite small for the scale of the property. If you’re looking just to sunbathe, I suggest you head to the private beach area. Order a smoothie at the bar, lay back and enjoy the views of the bay.

The Spa

Even if you don’t stay at Mandarin Oriental Miami, make sure to check out the spa. With a stunning view of the bay, friendly staff, and beautifully decorated treatment rooms, it’s the place to unwind. I still think of the amazing massage I had during my stay. If you go during the month of July, you’re in luck! July is Miami Spa Month and you can get discounted treatments.

The Food

I first dined at La Mar at Mandarin Oriental Miami three years ago and was entirely taken by the menu, service, and fantastic view of Brickell. Chef Diego Oka who hails from Peru has been the executive chef for years, but that does not mean that the menu is stagnant. He continues to push his boundaries with the list.

Chef Oka recently went to Italy for an externship with Massimo Botura, who owns the #1 restaurant in the world. From this experience, he brought a unique taste of ceviche with a creamy parmesan sauce. If you are a purist, do not worry. The ceviche mixto and their causa boat will not be leaving the menu any time soon!

Mandarin Oriental Miami: The Verdict

Miami can be an overwhelming place. There’s so much to do and see and it’s great to have a sanctuary to return to at the end of the day. That’s how I feel about the Mandarin Oriental Miami with its unparalleled service and amenities the brand is known for.

Mandarin Oriental Miami, 500 Brickell Key Dr, Miami, FL, Website 

Disclaimer: I was hosted by Mandarin Oriental Miami but as always, opinions are my own.

 

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Dream Downtown Hotel, Street View

That is the part where Dream Downtown surprises you. Although it is known for its celebrity sightings and its parties, it’s really like staying with a really cool relative.  This experience made me choose it for a fall trip to NYC. This is my story….

Room at Dream Downtown

The view form PH-D Lounge

Snapshot of the Pool Patio

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Room with a view

We arrived to the hotel late at night from our day trip at Isla Mujeres.  We arrived into our cabana room which was rustic and simple with beautiful hand paintings at the wall. Every little detail of the hotel is ecologically minded: limited electricity, water, and no AC.  If you are the resort type of person, this is not the place for you.  We fell asleep with the sound of the ocean and we woke up to a gorgeous view of the ocean.

Room at Hotel Amoreira Tulum Photo courtesy of the Hotel

Beach at Hotel Amoreira

Taking a ride with the hotel’s kayaks

The path to the beach at Hotel Amoreira

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