Staycations vs Vacations – 5 Places to Go for 2022
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(photo: Tron Le, Unsplash)
1.Big Bear
The jewel of the San Bernardino National Forest, Big Bear Lake is Southern California’s premiere four-season mountain lake escape destination. Located in the heart of Southern California – and close to Phoenix and Las Vegas – Big Bear invites travelers from near and far to enjoy such attractions as the pristine and fish-filled Big Bear Lake, countless mountain and lakeshore hiking trails, Bear Mountain ski resort (featuring terrain parks and learner slopes), the family-friendly Snow Summit ski resort and a diverse array of boutiques, gift shops and restaurants that line the streets of charming Big Bear Lake Village.
Designer Sarah Salvatore designed majestic (and dog-friendly!) Midnight Moon Cabins. Stylish yet homey, elegant yet bucolic, and supremely romantic yet eminently family and dog-friendly, Midnight Moon Cabins represents the best of all possible worlds to anyone visiting Big Bear – comfort, natural authenticity and stunning design all a short walk, drive or cross-country ski hike away from Big Bear Village and Big Bear Lake, as well as the star attractions for winter sports enthusiasts – Bear Mountain and Snow Summit.
Located in different but equally picturesque areas of Big Bear, Midnight Moon Cabins comprises three vacation destinations that each have their own distinct sizes, settings, features and personalities but share the common goal of making vacationers feel both at home and yet a million miles away from home at the very same time.
Offering mid-century modern decor that celebrates minimalism and sustainable luxury, Midnight Moon’s three dog-friendly cabins include Moondance, Firefly and Moonshine. So let’s put on our parkas and ski boots and visit all three Midnight Moon Cabins now!
2. Catskills Inns
Whether you’re honeymooning or leaving the kids with the grandparents, make it a weekend at one of the Great Northern Catskills’ many romantic inns and lodges. Pine Ridge Farm Guest & Carriage House, on 110 private acres, offers guests the comfort of private, two-bedroom homes with well-equipped kitchens so you never have to leave the house. (But if you do, there are over 4 miles of hiking trails in the meadows and woods bordering Sunny Hill Golf Course.) For a truly romantic B&B experience, the historic, antique-furnished Greenville Arms 1889 Inn is set among six acres of gardens, lawns and woodlands. With whirlpool tubs, fireplaces and made-to-order breakfast, it’s the perfect place to indulge in a romantic winter getaway. For adventurous lovebirds who need some outdoor action, boutique hotel Glen Falls House is surrounded by miles of hiking and skiing for snowy outdoor activities. Curl up by the fire or visit the on-property farm-to-table restaurant to unwind at the end of an active day.
3. Historic Pub Crawl Tour along the Freedom Trail in Boston
Wander along the same cobblestone streets as Paul Revere once did, pass through bustling markets where Sam Adams peddled the idea of revolution. Visit historic bars that have been frequented by Bostonians for hundreds of years. Revisit the story of America’s birth and raise a glass as you learn the importance of beer in the founding of America. This historic pub crawl reveals hidden history about the events leading up to the revolutionary war and takes you where it all started: taverns.
The four historic taverns visited on the tour are in the Faneuil Hall area and provide a wonderful backdrop as expert guides tell stories about Boston’s rebellious past that helped lead to America’s independence. Each tavern dates back at least to the 1800’s, several even further which includes America’s oldest tavern! At each tavern your guide will recommend beer as unique as the history of the city. Most of the beers are exclusively served in Boston and several can only be found in the taverns visited on the tour!
4. Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle in Austin
Meet your guide in downtown Austin at the visitor center, then board your shuttle bus for the day and head out into the sprawling Texan countryside.
The first stop of the day is Austin’s most famous BBQ joint, Salt Lick BBQ. At the BBQ, enjoy a tasting session of some of the very best meat and food that Texas has to offer, and soak up this friendly atmosphere. The tour does not include the cost of the tasting. It’s recommended to budget $35 per person for your meal, however, you can bring your own alcohol to enjoy with your food.
After the BBQ, you’ll wind through the hills and stop at two different wineries so that you can sample delicious Texas wines – all while taking in those gorgeous hill country views.
5. Sunset Cruise through Biscayne Bay and South Beach in Miami
Take a break from the bustle of Downtown Miami and watch the sunset from the water. Cruise across Biscayne Bay and admire incredible views of the city skyline. Enjoy refreshments along the way, available for purchase from the onboard bar.
Relax on a luxury yacht with open windows and shaded deck, as you listen to commentary from your guide. Sail past famous islands, catch a glimpse of Al Capone’s mansion, and cruise down to South Beach. Head back to shore at the end of a beautiful evening.
