Unique Boutique Amenities at Denver’s Halcyon Cherry Creek Hotel

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Denver’s Halcyon Cherry Creek Hotel

It’s certainly not a secret I love all things Denver. It’s just a fantastic city, especially during the summer. Last month, I spent a week at Halcyon Hotel Cherry Creek (pronounced Hal-see-uh n) and I could not have been more impressed (not just with the hotel and all its uniqueness, but the overall vibe and amenities around Cherry Creek).

Check-in at HALCYON, a hotel in Cherry Creek

You’ll notice at check-in it’s almost hard to find. Off to the right side of the lobby sits an unassuming kitchen counter with laptops at a coffee bar serving drip coffee, espresso drinks, lattes and more (pretty much 24/7) with super friendly staff waiting to get you into your amazing room. It’s also the same spot that serves complimentary beer and wine from 3-9p every day, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself hanging around the Kitchen Counter throughout your stay (guilty right here).

Another fun feature – their front desk agents are called “hosts,” because just like the entire vibe around the hotel, they are hosting you. That’s why you hang out in the kitchen or sit in the living room and play games (which I noticed groups doing every night we were there). It feels like home, but obviously so much cooler (and if you have a home this cool, I’d like an invite please).

Unique Amenities Unlike Any Other Hotel

Unique Hotel Amenities like the Gear Garage

Y’all know I travel a lot, so when I say it’s a unique amenity it absolutely is. Like the Gear Garage, which is exactly what it sounds like. In

fact, it’s like a dream garage with all sorts of tools, toys and gadgets you’d want at your home. Things like a Piaggio Scooter, Cruiser Bikes, Longboards, Adventure Kits, Cameras, Board Games and more – all complimentary for hotel guests. Not only does it make the perfect prop for Instagram photos (sorry, guilty!), but also a fun and adventurous way to scoot around Cherry Creek and the nearby neighborhoods. And you know I love unique fitness while traveling, and they won a 2017 Shape Healthy Travel Award.

The hotel also has an activity guide in the room with walking and running trail maps, which is probably my favorite way to get to know a new city. I have a rule when traveling (usually) and that’s anything under a mile, I tend to walk there. Of course Halcyon has a house car (a beautiful Range Rover) that will take you within 2-3 miles, which is great for bad weather, but if not,  embrace the beautiful surrounding areas!

Halcyon Rooftop Artwork

You’ve also got an amazing rooftop pool with a super unique eye wall (you’ll definitely want to take your picture in front of this bright beauty).

Probably my favorite part about the hotel (get ready to call me a nerd…) was the unique doormats at each room. They all had unique messages and I literally walked around the entire floor taking pictures of all of them.

I loved the gym (basement level) because both times I visited I had the entire space to myself and they had kettle bells, which I hardly ever see in hotel gyms. Hotel guests also get complimentary day passes to Pura Vida Fitness & Spa just around the corner. If you’re not into the gym to get your workout, don’t forget the hotel is set in one of the most beautiful neighborhoods to go for a run or a long walk.

Rooftop Pool at Halcyon Hotel, Cherry Creek

Hotel Activations

Another unique thing about Halcyon are the activations they do. Sure, usually when you travel, you have your own agenda, but sometimes it’s fun to just sit back and let a local or a guide take you on a local adventure. For instance, they do fly fishing, which is also open to locals who sign up in advance.

Cherry Creek Shopping Center

In the same area is one of the most diverse and walkable shopping areas in the city – Cherry Creek North and the mall just across the street. You know I love to shop when I travel, but this has the best of both worlds – the locally owned boutiques as well as the mainstream stores (even the high-end ones I love like Louis Vuitton).

It’s also a fun little bonus that during this stay we noticed that not one, but TWO of the bands that were playing at Red Rocks during the week were staying at Halcyon, so you know it’s a fun place to stay with amazing and friendly staff – all things Denver should be!

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5 Reasons to Visit Baton Rouge for a Girls Weekend

Baton Rouge’s Wine on the River

We all need to get away with a gal pal every so often, and sometimes jumping on a flight or going into full-on planning mode chockfull of itineraries and Internet searches defeats the purpose.

Last month I decided to take a last-minute road trip from Houston to Baton Rouge (277 miles), and I was pleasantly surprised at what the city had in store (other than LSU’s Death Valley, of course).

We already knew we’d be spending quality time at L’auberge Casino, but had no idea how much the city had in store for a girls weekend like a perfect spa day at Bumble Lane and much more.

1. The Food
It’s a southern city, so I’m not sure why the food and drink in Baton Rouge surprised me, but I’m not complaining.

Add these to your meal-time adventures on your next Baton Rouge visit:

– Jolie Pearl Oyster Bar: Go for the Bird on a Wire (cocktail made with Wheatley Vodka, Muddled Strawberries, Lemon Mint, Simple Syrup, Orange Juice and a Splash of Soda) or get a cheap and tasty glass of rosé and don’t skimp on the fried oysters. This small and quaint little joint has all the southern hospitality you could ever want and the fun vibe inside or on the patio bar is perfection.

– City Pork: Go here for an amazing lunch and great cocktails. This unassuming little spot pleasantly surprised me – I am still dreaming of the dishes here like the Crispy Gulf Shrimp Salad and then of course a side of something salty like house-cut chips or cheese grits! The calories were well worth the adventure, I promise!

– District Donuts: Go here for the obvious: amazing donuts! It’s a 100%

Andrea and I loving Donuts in Baton Rouge

scratch restaurant specializing in donuts, sandwiches and coffee, and obviously famous for the variety of donut flavors like Cinnamon Role, Maple Bacon and Fluffernutter.

– Bin77: Go for the Lobster Mac & Cheese or Poached Jumbo Shrimp & Grits and enjoy walking around the rest of shops and snacks at Perkins Rowe. Or go for the simple fact they have more than 60 wines by the glass so if you’re indecisive, you’ve got options (but maybe just ask for a recommendation so you don’t spend the whole day debating!).

– French Truck Coffee: Go for the most absolute adorable coffee shop in all of Louisiana and be sure to snap a super cute Instagram photo outside while you’re there!

– The Gregory: Go for the amazing décor (it’s located next to The Watermark Hotel – an old bank) and enjoy a few cocktails while here! If you’re hungry, try the Searsucker Flatbread pizza and pair it with something cold and refreshing.

Hey Baton Rouge, You Look Good

2. The Art (and Street Murals)
If you follow me on Instagram, you already know this is my jam and Baton Rouge did not disappoint. As silly as it sounds, I feel like being able to document a visit to a new city or even a new ballpark with a creative and memorable picture just adds to the trip.

Check out this super helpful map of where to see artwork and street art in Baton Rouge. This “You Look Good” mural was my absolute favorite and it was super easy to take pictures at (not a lot of cars, especially if you go on the weekend).

3. The Southern Hospitality
Though I live in Houston and it’s definitely still southern ‘round these parts (said in my Texas accent), it was such a welcome experience to enjoy great customer service and politeness at nearly every stop on our trip.

We stayed at Hotel Indigo (major bonus for being pet-friendly so Denali could join us, free bikes to rent and more!) in Downtown Baton Rouge, and I’m no stranger to an IHG Hotel, but the service and friendliness we experienced was next level and made the trip all the more enjoyable. We even found an immaculate neighborhood to take photos and all the residents just smiled and waved (even though our car was probably parked in the way the entire time), and I feel like that says a lot about Baton Rouge.

4. Baton Rouge’s Unique Event Calendar
For instance, First Annual Baton Rouge Oyster Fest, taking place June 30, the local (and one of my favorite spots!) Jolie Pearl Oyster Bar, which will celebrate the legacy of oysters as both a coastal asset and culinary delight. The festival will feature well-known musical acts such as the Spin Doctors (reminds me of high school!) and Southern Louisiana food vendors. And the festival wouldn’t be complete without an oyster-sucking contest, an oyster eating contest and an oyster cook-off.

We got to check out Wine on the River during our visit and it was a blast

Baton Rouge lunches for the win

(and not overcrowded like many other wine tastings I’ve been to). Wine On the River is a ticketed ‘Around the World’ wine-tasting event where attendees can sample local, national and international wines all in one place along with amazing food from local restaurants and live music.

5. Add a Day for New Orleans!
Although we didn’t on this visit, I would probably add one more day and visit New Orleans. After all, you’re so close (80 miles), and New Orleans is

Girls Weekend in Baton Rouge

another one of those perfect towns for a girl’s getaway. Plus, having experienced NOLA a few times, I personally can only handle one or two nights, so it’s the perfect addition to this Louisiana road trip – as long as you plan ahead who is driving home because that can be a nightmare (speaking from experience!).

If you’re digging my tan in the photos, that’s thanks to Andrea at FaceForward – not only did she accompany me to Baton Rouge, she tanned me with her organic spray tan goodness in Houston!

Read more about The Blonde Side’s latest travel adventures and where to stay, play and slay.

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Lionel Richie in Las Vegas

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Photo Credit: Denise Truscello

If you follow me on social media or have ever met me in real life, you know that I am obsessed with Lionel Richie. Seriously, it’s almost an unhealthy obsession.

When I went to Vegas earlier this month, my timing was perfect and I was able to catch Lionel Richie’s “All the Hits” tour during his residency at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. The show takes place at Zappos Theater, which showcases other resident headliners Jennifer Lopez, Pitbull and Backstreet Boys. Trust me – it’s a fun and intimate atmosphere.

Known for his mega-hits such as “Endless Love,” “Lady,” “Truly,” “All Night Long,” “Penny Lover,” “Stuck on You,” “Hello,” “Say You, Say Me,” “Dancing on the Ceiling,” and one of the most important pop songs in history, “We Are the World,” and his song catalog also includes early work with The Commodores, penning smashes such as “Three Times a Lady,” “Still,” and “Easy.”

Seriously – how can you not be obsessed with this man and these hits?

As a travel writer, I get a lot of people asking about Vegas; where to stay, tips for balling on a budget, the best pool parties, etc. A top tip for Vegas (although I do have many) is to see a show. It’s part of the Vegas vibe. It’s a must. I’ve seen many shows, and catching a residency from a famed artist like Lionel Richie is seriously at the top of my list. (If you’re asking for other shows to see, I cannot say enough good things about Absinthe.)

If you’re in Vegas (or looking for an excuse to book a trip) August 15 – October 20, be sure to look into tickets for this iconic show.

Here are the dates he’s scheduled to perform in August and October later this year:

Aug. 2018: 15, 17, 18, 21, 24, 25, 28

Oct. 2018: 3, 5, 6, 10, 12, 13, 17, 19, 20

How a man of his age (he is 68!!) can move around stage like that and perform so many hit songs is beyond me. Lionel Richie is like a human Red Bull and I want all his secrets.

What shows have y’all seen in Vegas or what artists or celebs do you have an unhealthy obsession with? Let me know in the comments below and let’s chat!

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New Nonstop Flight From Houston Makes Bahamas a Breeze

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When Houstonians crave a coastal getaway, there are myriad quick and easy flights to Mexico’s various beaches. But if you’re ready to try a different beach this year, a jaunt to The Bahamas just got a whole lot easier.

Getting to Nassau

Thanks to the all-new nonstop flights from Bahamasair directly into Nassau‘s Lynden Pindling Airport (NAS) from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), channeling your inner Bahama Mama (or Bahama Man) is easier and more affordable than ever. You’ll be on the beach sipping on daiquiris in no time after the quick three-hour flight, enjoying the 21 miles of tourist paradise. (United also offers a season nonstop flight from IAH on Saturdays.)

Make it a long weekend

Houston travelers can now enjoy Bahamasair convenient nonstop service to The Islands of The Bahamas, with twice-weekly flights departing IAH at 8 am every Monday and Thursday, arriving in Nassau by 11:10 am, and departing from Nassau at 4 pm every Wednesday and Sunday, arriving in Houston by 7:10 pm.

The airline is offering a special introductory rate of $445 (round trip including taxes), making the island getaway inexpensive and convenient. If you’re in the mood to explore beyond the white sand beaches of Nassau, the airline also offers connections to thirteen Bahamas Out Islands including Grand Bahama, Abaco, Eleuthera, Bimini and Exuma (home of the famed swimming pigs).

Staying in Nassau, from kid-friendly to luxe
Boasting some of the Caribbean’s best resorts, there are plenty of all-inclusive, family-friendly, ultra-exclusive and other options when visiting Nassau.

One of the most familiar and kid-friendly is the sprawling Atlantis, but the latest and greatest to hit the island is the $4.2 billion integrated beachfront resort development Baha Mar, which redefines adult luxury. Located along the beaches of New Providence, this grandiose hub is comprised of three hotels — Grand Hyatt, SLS, and Rosewood (set to open spring 2018) — with 2,300 rooms, 40 restaurants and lounges, an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Royal Blue Golf Course, more than 30 luxury retail outlets (Rolex, Tiffany & Co., and Hublot to name a few), and more.

Baha Mar is also home to the largest casino in the Caribbean — Baha Mar Casino — with 100,000 square feet of gaming space, featuring state-of-the-art slot machines, table games, race and sports betting, plus five reserved and exclusive high roller gaming salons.

The pools and beaches at Baha Mar are pristine, expansive, and breathtaking. Grand Hyatt Baha Mar boasts five large resort pools, luxury poolside cabanas, swim-up bars, and endless Instagram photo-opps. Customize and tailor your experience to best suit your needs.

If you’re in desperate need of rumrunners and relaxation, grab a spot in the sun then meander down to El Jefe, the beachside retro-styled airstream featuring open-faced corn tortillas and more. If you’re looking for something more upscale and fancy, make a dinner reservation at Katsuya where you’ll be treated to Master Sushi Chef Katsuya Uechi’s classics along with sleek and sultry interiors. Afterwards, finish off the night with a glass of bubbly at the casino. If you’re into the late-night scene, you’ll surely become acquainted with The Swimming Pig, which is open 24/7 to satisfy your cravings, no matter the time.

Exploring Nassau and Paradise Island
Guaranteed if you stay at Baha Mar you’ll have no reason to leave the property once, but if your curiosities get the best of you and you want to explore the island and culture a bit more, here are a few spots you’ll want to check out

John Watling’s Distillery
Located in historic downtown Nassau, you can tour the distillery and taste the namesake rum (if you’re not a big rum fan, try their frozen pina coladas). Not only are the famed grounds picturesque, a bottle of the “Spirit of the Bahamas” makes for a perfect souvenir or keepsake to bring back.

Downtown, Straw Market
If you’re looking for a truly authentic shopping experience, this world-famous market has an unseemingly endless supply of handmade Bahamian crafts, gifts and souvenirs. Open seven days a week, the local vendors are friendly, willing to negotiate — and persistent. Be sure to bring cash (U.S. or Bahamian).

Graycliff Hotel
Keeping with the theme of authenticity, this colonial mansion is a must-see. Located next to the Government House, you can meander around these historic grounds where the two pools and gardens are worth the trip alone. Don’t miss Graycliff Restaurant — the Caribbean’s first 5-star restaurant, which also happens to be where Jay-Z reportedly popped the question to Beyoncé.

Queen’s Staircase
Easy to miss, but you’ll be glad you didn’t. Located in the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex, this awe-inspiring staircase (it’s only 65 steps, but a fantastic background for a photo) is a major landmark with its captivating beauty.

Houston pro travel tip
Visitors returning home to the U.S. go through customs in Nassau at Lynden Pindling International Airport, saving on time once you land — making it an even quicker and more enjoyable experience. Even though the kiosks at IAH are fast, this is key for maximizing your coveted vacation time.

This article originally ran in the travel section of CultureMap Houston.

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Oahu is an Art Lover’s Paradise (Thrillist Article)

HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY / DAEJA FARIS

OAHU IS THE ART LOVER’S PARADISE YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU NEEDED

A colorful life on Oahu extends far beyond its beaches. Known as “The Gathering Place,” the island has long been home to artists from every genre. The bronze statue of champion swimmer and surfer Duke Kahanamoku on Kuhio Beach stands for the spirit of aloha, symbolized by his open arms — and the landmark is just one of many welcoming works across the island. Creativity and culture abound beyond Waikiki, though, so check out these luminaries of art and culture.

To read this full article, visit Thrillist. 

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Rice’s Experience in Australia Was a Good One

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Courtesy Photo

The Rice Owls lost their season opener to Stanford 62 -7, which was the second straight stomping at the Sydney Cup College Classic. California crushed Hawaii 51-31 at last year’s inaugural event.

Sunday afternoon’s game (local time in Sydney, though the game was broadcast live on ESPN in Texas at 9 pm CST on Saturday) was a rematch between the two teams at Stanford last November where the Cardinal came out on top 41-17. Stanford again dominated the Owls in all categories, with 656 total yards of offense compared to Rice’s 241 yards and two turnovers.

If you are wondering whether Allianz Stadium had more Rice or Stanford fans in attendance for college football’s opening game in Sydney, the correct answer would be: the NFL.

Fans everywhere donned their favorite American football jerseys, claiming allegiances ranging from Dallas to Oakland to Green Bay and the rest of the league. Given the Stanford football program’s success over recent years, there were definitely more Cardinal supporters in attendance, some decked out in head-to-toe “Fear the Tree” gear, but all just wanting to catch a glimpse of American football and the tailgating scene.

Fans were treated to an ill-timed and oft-occurring cannon, which signaled every scoring drive, almost always signaling another score for Stanford. After the first half, most of the 33,181 fans grabbed a spot near one of the TVs broadcasting the highly-touted Mayweather/MacGregor pay-per-view fight. Fans could still hear the cannons just behind the TVs, as Stanford continued to run up the score while Mayweather neared his final victory inside the ring.

Many fans in Sydney said they hope the game will be an annual tradition. “Any chance to see American football is worth it,” one stadium passerby said.

Other fans took the opportunity to explain American football rules to friends and family. “The team has four tackles to make it to that marker,” a fan explained to his girlfriend as he pointed towards the first-down placard.

Stanford continued to dominate Rice the entire game, but the Owls avoided the dreaded shutout thanks to Austin Walter’s lone 23-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter.

Thankful for experience

Lopsided game aside, fans who traveled nearly 16 hours and across continents for the game left happy and thankful for the experience abroad. Dallas resident Kim Whitaker, mom to Rice running back Collin Whitaker, explained this it was the redshirt freshman’s first time traveling with the team.

“This has been an incredible opportunity for him to learn a different culture and get a chance to see other people be excited about American football. He kind of feels like a celebrity as the folks here in Sydney are pretty excited about American football,” she said.

“The coolest experience I’ve had so far was visiting the Blue Mountains, which were beautifully majestic. It was so incredible to see the valley and incredible display of nature. The city of Sydney has been fantastic – they’ve been incredibly welcoming,” she explained, having traveled all the way to Australia with about 55 other parents from all over Texas.

Dian Walter, Houston resident and mom to Rice twin brothers Aston and Austin Walter (both juniors), travels to all the games, but Sydney is by far the furthest she’s traveled to see her sons play.

“It’s been a great experience being able to explore the city and meet some of the locals and to be here with my sons. It’s amazing to be here with my sons considering we have a hurricane in Houston. To be here together, that gives me peace knowing we are together,” she said.

Although the outcome wasn’t what Rice fans had hoped for, they were still treated to a beautiful and iconic destination and all can say they were part of the university’s first international football game.

“There’s going to be some great memories here,” Rice head coach David Bailiff said about the team’s overall experience in Sydney. “It’s not just seeing things like the Sydney Opera House, it’s watching their (the players’) faces light up when you see them interacting together and pointing things out,” Bailiff said.

The team concluded the press conference by letting everyone in Houston know their thoughts and prayers were with them as they were dealing with the devastation from Hurricane Harvey. Now they are headed to Houston, although it’s unclear how long it will take the team to get home.

Next up for Rice Football: UTEP in El Paso, followed by a Houston showdown against the University of Houston Cougars. No passport required.

This article originally ran in the sports and travel section of CultureMap Houston.

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Houston is an Entrepreneur’s Dream (Thrillist Article)

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TRONG NGUYEN / SHUTTERSTOCK

Houston has a lot going for it: An active professional sports scene, two international airports, delicious Tex-Mex. The fourth-largest city in the US (2.3 million residents) has also long held a reputation as a center for big business, boasting 20 Fortune 500 companies. But in recent years, it’s quietly been building one of the most extensive startup ecosystems in the country, too.

To read this entire article about Houston, visit Thrillist. 

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#OwlsDownUnder: Rice Plays in Sydney

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Courtesy Photo

The Rice Owls are opening their 2017 football season on the road with a home game —  and that’s certainly an understatement. The team is in Sydney, Australia, to take on Stanford University in the opening salvo of the 2017 NCAA Division One College Football Championships.

Fans from all over are clamoring at the unrivaled experience of watching American football in such an iconic destination for the second year in a row. Last year’s game saw the University of California triumph over the University of Hawaii 51-31 in front of 61,000 fans in Sydney.

Both Rice and Stanford have brought traveling parties of more than 200, including players, staff, sponsors, fans and cheerleaders, for the big game at Allianz Stadium on Sunday (August 27). Because of the time difference, the game will be broadcast live on ESPN, beginning Saturday night (August 26) at 9 pm CST.

“It’s a great day when you know the kickoff to a new season is finally here. Our players and staff have done an incredible job to prepare for this amazing opportunity to showcase our university and our game to the people of Australia,” Rice head coach David Bailiff said at a sun-soaked outdoor media event overlooking the famed Sydney Opera House Tuesday afternoon.

Bailiff took a look at the surroundings and said, “I think I’m changing where I’m going to retire, I’ve been here five hours and already I’m thinking I’ve got to consider Sydney. You look at the backdrop of this place, driving over here just the architecture downtown, how it’s so much old and so much new and it’s all blended. It looks like a good-natured culture that likes to have fun. Respect them and they’re going to respect you back.

“We’ve got some fun mixed in for these guys, hopefully we’ll get to the zoo we’re going to try to pull that off. But we’ve got to practice every morning. We’re here to play football.”

Although the game will be played in Sydney, the host committee is marketing it as an American event (American food, American beer, cheerleaders, mascots, marching bands, tailgate party and more) with the beautiful backdrop and sights that make the city one of the top destinations in the world.

Both teams arrived in Sydney a few days prior to the game (Stanford came in on

Courtesy Photo

Monday via San Francisco, Rice on Tuesday from Los Angeles) to experience the surroundings and, of course, recover from severe jet lag. They were officially welcomed by New South Wales deputy premier John Barilano, who posed for photos with both teams. The government entity is subsidizing the teams for their travel and expenses as part of a tourism promotion.

Game Day food details aren’t being overlooked

Paying culinary homage to both teams, fans can expect custom-made burgers and homemade donuts at the game. The Stanford Burger is based on California’s famous In-N-Out burger — a triple patty burger served on a Stanford red bun. The Rice Burger will be a double cheeseburger with pulled pork and BBQ sauce — like a true Texas barbecue style.

If you’re a fan with a sweet tooth, you’re still in luck. Try the Stanford Donut — a light and fluffy brioche doughnut, filled with salted caramel, dipped in dulce de leche glaze, and topped with sticky pecans and a red drizzle, or the Rice Donut — a brioche doughnut filled with sticky maple bacon and topped with an original glaze and smoky BBQ sauce.

Fans in Sydney will also have the opportunity to participate in a number of game-day experiences, including a Quarterback Challenge, and much more.

The game will be broadcast live across Australia on Fox Sports as well as in the United States on ESPN. Rice fans can follow along on social media with the hashtags #CollegeFootballSyd and #OwlsDownUnder.

This article originally ran in the sports section of CultureMap Houston.

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Luxurious Wilderness Escape in Texas

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I’ve lost count the number of times I’ve made the drive from Houston to Austin. It’s one of those trips I make so frequently I’m always trying to beat my previous time, so I just skip right past one of the most majestic spots off State Highway 71 on the way in to the Live Music Capital of the World. But this time I decided to stop at a few hidden jewels along the way.

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa

I’ve always been tempted by the small sign pointed just off the highway towards Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa. From the highway it doesn’t look like much, but that’s probably why this AAA Four Diamond resort — and the region as a whole — has been one of Texas’ best-kept secrets since it opened back in 2006. Whether you’re just adding a night on your way to or from Austin or you’re looking for an entirely new Texas destination all its own that feels worlds away, Lost Pines is worth every second of it.

The 405-acre picturesque resort, located just 13 miles from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, has a lot to offer. From golf, horseback riding, kayaking, rafting, an onsite waterpark (complete with a two-story water slide), adult pool, spa, movies under the stars, s’mores at the fire pit, and much more, you’ll have plenty to keep you occupied at the luxurious resort. If sitting in a rocking chair at sunset away from it all is more you thing, you’ve got that option too.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Don’t let your four-legged furry bestie be your excuse for missing out on this weekend road trip. At Lost Pines, they are welcomed with open arms, complete with dog bowls, doggy bags and other dog-friendly amenities awaiting your arrival, plus ample walking and hiking trails to get your workout on together.

Explore and Eat

While you could easily stay at the resort your entire weekend without a need to leave, there are definitely some fun and noteworthy things to check out just a little ways down the road in Bastrop, just 35 miles east of Austin.

It may not be rodeo season, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be on the hunt for another set of cowboy boots. Shopping or not, The Texas Boot Company has every bit of Western wear you could imagine, hat steaming services and even serves margaritas and beers while shopping, if you time it right. Talk about some good ole Texas hospitality.

If all the shopping makes you hungry, try some Central Texas BBQ at Southside Market Barbeque, which has been serving some of the best since 1882, making it the oldest BBQ joint in Texas, and has even been featured on the Travel Channel. It’s no wonder since owner/CEO Bryan Bracewell went to school and studied to be a “meat scientist” at Texas A&M.

Downtown Bastrop

Probably the most unexpected part of this getaway is downtown Bastrop, which has been revitalized with a thriving art scene, plenty of locally sourced food options and even a brand new distillery that serves apple pie moonshine (you can ask for a sample before committing). Downtown Bastrop almost gives off that old Austin vibe, before Austin got entirely too overcrowded. No traffic (unless you get stuck at the lone light at Main Street), no valet, no dress code, no one overly worried what others think — just everyone enjoying a night out on the town. If you’re lucky, you may find yourself sitting on a patio with some of the local old-timers just strumming away on their guitars, and yes, they do take requests.

In the heart of historic Bastrop, be sure to check out Lost Pines Art Bazaar, which has an eclectic collection of Persian rugs (home of the nation’s largest collection of hand-knotted Persian rugs, to be exact), home goods, décor and fun little knickknacks that you don’t need but will purchase anyway, because that’s called supporting the local economy.

If you’re looking for a laid-back Texas weekend with or without the kids, check out the Lost Pines Region and Bastrop County. You’ll be pleasantly surprised how the region easily and authentically exudes Texas roots from A to Z.

This article originally ran in the travel section of CultureMap Houston.

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Grand Cayman Getaway from Houston

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There’s something about Seven Mile Beach that makes you want to book a flight, stat. Maybe because it is regularly ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in all of the Caribbean.

The water has a kind of blue that most beaches could only dream of after about 25 photo-editing filters, but this beach, situated on Grand Cayman Island is the stuff dreams (and glorious Instagram accounts) were made of. (Also, did we mention that the average winter water temperate is 80 degrees?)

Another thing that makes Grand Cayman such a unique travel destination is the genuine authenticity and culture that can be seen and felt in every crevice of the island. The island has a population of about 55,000 and more than half are from Caymanian descent, which helps create the authentic culture adding to the overall experience.

What to do in Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman is one of the most sought-after diving destinations, no matter what skill level you are.

The nightlife in Grand Cayman is a tad tamer than your typical Cancun Spring Break, so plan to go all out during the day, taking advantage of the beautiful water and white sandy beaches, and opt for a more low-key night. The accessible and shallow reefs make this a great spot to take in an afternoon of snorkeling at Stingray City, so be sure to check out the Waverunner Snorkel Safari so you can get fast adventures and a snorkeler’s paradise in the translucent waters all in one day.

Camana Bay is also a great option for entertainment while on the island complete with shopping, dining, adventures, a movie theater and even a wine barwith state-of-the-art Napa Technology WineStations. Pretty much all of the hotels in the area offer a free shuttle to Camana Bay, so it’s easy to get to.

You should also make a point to stop by Calico Jacks Bar and Grill for happy hour and hang out with a sun-kissed mix of tourists and locals.

Travel pro tip for carry-on items: The TSA folks at Owen Roberts International

Photo courtesy of Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa

Airport (GCM) are painfully tough. They are major sticklers on one small Ziploc bag and you will be stopped, so pack cautiously. Even if you got into the country with it in your carry-on, odds are you won’t be able to leave with it.

A $50 million panoramic view

The newly renovated Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa is the biggest and most expansive beachfront hotel, with a $50 million panoramic view from the new lobby and the largest fresh water pool in Grand Cayman, with an energized swim up bar to keep the vacation vibes going. Check out the resort’s fresh new look and indulge yourself in the island’s culture in a beach side cabana, a waverunner adventure, snorkeling expedition, a diving tour or something more.

Crystal clear waters aside, it also offers great dining at The Beach House, a AAA Four Diamond restaurant, as well as classic and unique cocktails at the resort’s Catboat lobby bar, perfectly setup with a beachfront view. While you’re at the resort, don’t miss the Beach Side BBQ on Friday nights. It’s an intimate yet casual dining experience – you guessed it – on the beach. No need for shoes, but you will need reservations.

The bartenders are about as friendly and inventive as one could hope for, and make the perfect resource for all things related to the island, whether you are on the hunt for nightlife entertainment (like at Camana Bay), diving tips or other beach activities.

This article originally ran in the travel section of CultureMap Houston.

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