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Ten Sunny Destinations: Escape the Winter Blues

Ten Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter Blues

As the cold winter weather continues with the icy conditions and piles of snow it is that time of the year to consider a winter escape to somewhere warmer and sunnier.  Right now with February here I am sure you are thinking like I am that the winter will never end, and if it does will you survive it?  Each time I look at the weather report and see another snow storm coming or a sub-zero spell on the way I long to get away from it all with a soothing warm break.  To be where it feels like summer and I can feel refreshed and renewed.

Imagine leaving the winter gloom behind and feeling the warm sun on your skin again.  Well the TMT gals have found several sunny spots around the globe where you can escape to.  Whether you are interested in the beach, hiking, a cruise or just relaxing we have a few gems for you.  Enjoy!

Princess Cruises

Ten Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter Blues

If you’re like Robyn and I and have not taken a cruise yet, this year might just be the time for you to take the leap and try a cruise.  More and more families, couples, and singles are discovering the joy of all-inclusive cruising.

Princess Cruises recently launched service from the new Bayport Terminal in Houston. These convenient and affordable seven-day adventures include ports of call such as Costa Maya, Roatan, Belize City and Cozumel.

In late 2013, Houston’s recently opened Bayport Terminal became Princess Cruises’ newest port of call.  A short drive from both downtown and Hobby Airport, Bayport offers a convenient option for passengers seeking to optimize their cruise experience by exploring the nation’s fourth largest city, where mild winters typically offer daytime highs in the 60s and 70s.  From Space Center Houston at NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the expansive Museum District to cultural oddities like the Beer Can House and Art Car Museum, plus an incredible range of ethnic dining opportunities, there is a lot for families, friends and couples to discover together.  With cruise departures and returns on Saturdays, visitors can also enjoy Friday and Sunday night hotel stays that won’t break the bank.  Upscale, acclaimed properties like Hotel ICON and the Royal Sonesta usually offer weekend rates well under $200 per night.

Ten Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter BluesTen Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter BluesTen Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter Blues

Once onboard, guests will enjoy a relaxed ambiance and wealth of amenities that has made the Grand class Caribbean Princess such a popular ship in the Princess Cruises fleet.  Renovated in 2011, the nearly 3,100 passenger vessel was the line’s first ship to introduce Movies Under the Stars, a giant poolside theater featuring first run films, concerts and sporting events.  Travelers can also watch a variety of street performing acts in the Italian-inspired Piazza, indulge in a soothing massage from a cabana at the adults-only Sanctuary, cozy up with a cocktail in Churchill Lounge, take a spin on the dance floor at Club Fusion or Skywalkers, try their luck at the casino or savor a premium steak cooked to order in the Crown Grill.

Ten Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter BluesTen Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter Blues

Outdoor offerings will appeal to those looking to check out or step it up.  Highlights include a putting green, jogging track, four pools, several hot tubs and even a half-court basketball court.  And youth and teens have plenty in store too with centers that are fully equipped with everything from the latest video games and movies to arts and crafts. The seven-day Western Caribbean itinerary brings more fun and surprises with stops in Cozumel, Mexico, Roatan in Honduras and Belize City, Belize.

Leave your winter blues behind be pampered and spoiled, experience a relaxing cruise.

The Disney World Swan and Dolphin

Ten Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter Blues

Florida is an ideal place to get away from the February blahs  – with average daily temperatures of 75 degrees it will make you forget the snow and cold weather Florida is always popular with families so if you want to feel most welcome and get some of the best hospitality at an incredible location, then the award-winning Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel is the place for you. Located in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort, it is the gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions.

The hotel is located between Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and nearby Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and Magic Kingdom Park. Guests can discover 17 world-class restaurants and lounges, sophisticated guest rooms with Westin Heavenly Beds and the luxurious Mandara Spa.

Ten Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter BluesTen Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter BluesTen Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter Blues

The hotel features five pools, two health clubs, tennis, nearby golf, complimentary transportation throughout the Walt Disney World Resort and the Extra Magic Hours benefit, where each day, one of the four Walt Disney World Theme Parks offers additional time for guests to enjoy select attractions. (Valid Theme Park admission and Resort ID required).

Leave your winter blues behind and head straight to the happiest place in the world!

Citrus County, Florida – Swim With The Manatees

Ten Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter Blues

If you want an experience of a lifetime then Citrus County, Florida is a place to go. It remains one of the only places where you can swim with manatees and the only place in North America where that is legal.  Hundreds of manatees call the crystal clear water of Crystal River and Homosassa Springs home, and even more migrate to this area during the winter months.

Swimming with the manatees is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience for anyone, but that’s not all there is to do here.  There are several activities that are not only fun to do, but educational as well.

Ten Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter BluesTen Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter Blues

Want to know what Citrus County was like 1,600 years ago? Then a visit to a National Historic Landmark should be on your travel itinerary. The Crystal River Archaeological Park is home to a 61-acre, pre-Columbian, Native American site that has burial mounds, temple/platform mounds, a plaza area. The six-mound complex is one of the longest continuously occupied sites in Florida. For 1,600 years the site served as an imposing ceremonial center for Native Americans. People traveled to the complex from great distances to bury their dead and conduct trade. It is estimated that as many as 7,500 Native Americans may have visited the complex every year. Although primarily an archaeological site, the park sits on the edge of an expansive coastal marsh. Anglers may catch saltwater and freshwater fish. As part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, the park offers bird-watchers the chance to observe a variety of birds.

A great way to begin your Citrus County exploration is with one of the area’s best known attractions: The Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. Open every day, Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park showcases Florida fauna —from key deer to red wolves, reptiles birds and more—in a natural setting along a 1.2 mile boardwalk. Several manatees call the park home and can be observed in the underwater observatory along with teeming schools of fish. While not a native Floridian, park resident Lu the Hippo was made an honorary citizen of the state by Gov. Lawton Chiles. Fascinating educational programs are offered daily on manatees, snakes and alligators, and the Children’s Education Center will entertain the little ones.

Ten Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter BluesTen Sunny Destinations: Escape The Winter Blues

These are just a few great things to do in Citrus County. There is so much more. Biking, Canoeing, Fishing, Shopping, Great Festivals and Monkey Island. They’ve got it all!!

Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort – St. Thomas, VI

Frenchman's Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort - St. Thomas, VI

For something a little more exotic there is Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort on St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands.  The resort is offering a great array of packages to choose from for winter getaways.

An ultimate family vacation for all ages is available with its new “Family Island Adventure” package.  This fun package allows travelers to experience activities such as night kayaking, snorkel excursions, and a stand up paddle board safari with a guided tour of marine life.

Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach ResortFrenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach ResortFrenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach ResortFrenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort

For a more romantic getaway, the resort is offering “Frenchman’s Reef’s Romance Package,” which is valid through March 15, 2014 and includes:  Delicious breakfast buffet daily for two people; Complimentary luxurious resort logo robes; Dinner for two in one of our restaurants; Bottle of champagne and seasonal fruit during stay; and Room and tax.

To cater to the smart travelers who like choices while traveling, the resort has the “Discover the Best of St. Thomas for Less!”  package, valid through March 15, 2014. Guests can choose three activities from the experience categories below (maximum one per category):

Relaxation: 50 Minute Aromatherapy Massage; 25 Minute Reflexology; 50 Minute Couples Massage

Adventure: Turtle Cove Sail & Snorkel; Night Kayak Tour; Kayak/Hike/Snorkel Eco Trip; Paddle Boat or Paddle Board Rental

Dining: Breakfast for two; $100 Food and Beverage Credit; Italian Buffet at Aqua Terra or Prime Rib and Lobster Buffet at Coco Joe’s

Romance: Turn down with champagne and strawberries; Two rounds of cocktails for two at Sunset Grill and Picnic for two

Leave your winter blues behind and discover why a vacation in the tropical Virgin Islands will make the rest of your winter pass easily.

Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

Atlantis, Paradise Island is established as the ultimate family vacation spot but it truly has something for everyone, of every age. Activities at the “hot-spots,” such as CRUSH (for teens), Club Rush (for tweens), Atlantis Kids Adventure (for kids), and the Atlantis LIVE concerts provide a never-ending itinerary for kids while adults get to have more than their fair share of fun too!

Atlantis has the following options to choose from for kids and teens:

  • Atlantis LIVE concert series: The Atlantis LIVE concert series brings in top performers from every music genre, from Justin Bieber to Michael Bublé; on March 22, Emblem3 will be performing at Atlantis – a complimentary concert for Atlantis guests!
  • Aquaventure: the 141-acre waterscape includes an impressive 12 pools, snorkeling lagoon, lazy river, and over 10 thrilling water slides. From Atlantis’ iconic life-sized Mayan Temple to the mile-long The river loop, Aquaventure creates a water experience that provides guests with excitement and energy.
  • CRUSH: Atlantis’ 14,000 square-foot modern teen club boasts a variety of innovative options, including: a Dance Club, interactive Internet Lounge, and Gaming Stadium. The private cabanas and “no parents” factor allows teens to have fun in a safe environment all while creating an experience unlike anything else.
  • Club Rush: This fully-supervised “no adults” private club setting is similar to CRUSH, but caters to tweens (ages 9-13).

Atlantis, Paradise Island, BahamasAtlantis, Paradise Island, BahamasAtlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

Atlantis, Paradise Island, BahamasAtlantis, Paradise Island, BahamasAtlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

While the kids are busy trying to cross off every slide on their list, parents can choose their own fun too. Not only do adults have the Atlantis Casino’s new Race & Sports Book at their fingertips, but gaming options are also available at Seaglass, The Cove Atlantis’ upscale bar/lounge. Cain at The Cove’s adults-only ultra-pool for guests is complete with outdoor gaming and daybeds. While kids play at CRUSH, adults get to play at Aura – the luxurious and decadent nightclub.

For a relaxing experience, Mandara Spa’s wide range of therapies and healing treatments is nothing short of perfect. At Atlantis, there is never a shortage of activities, for both kids and adults!

Antara Palace – Cyprus

Antara Palace - Cyprus

Located on the miraculous shore of Cyprus, the romantic island of the ancient goddess of love Aphrodite, Antara Palace, Wellness & Destination Spa is an ultra-exclusive five-star palace of equilibrium and revival for spirit, body and soul. Recalling the luxury of the days of kings, the Palace is based on the noblest architectural traditions of Hellenistic culture, established in a majestic form. Antara Palace is surrounded by unspoiled nature and lush, exotic gardens, and with 330 days of sunshine a year, you cannot go wrong!

Antara Palace - CyprusAntara Palace - CyprusAntara Palace - Cyprus

If you are looking for a winter getaway that offers more than sun and sea, look no further: having a rich mythological and cultural heritage, wherever you go on the island, you are surrounded by a piece of the ancient Hellenistic culture. You cannot miss to go on a safari tour or trekking to the Akamas Mountain: choose the legendary Aphrodite trail to visit the famous Baths of Aphrodite, a natural grotto where Aphrodite used to meet her beloved Adonis. Don’t be surprised to see other tourists hugging the several-century-old oak trees along the trail: it is believed that these oak trees have significantly positive energies on people, revitalizing the tired hiker. Why not try it for yourself?

And if you long to have some me-time, indulge in the spa treatments and retreat experiences Antara Palace has to offer!  Based on the basic principle that given the right environment, our bodies are innately able to heal themselves, Antara provides a supportive holistic well-being experience that allows you to unfold, grow and transform.

Antara Palace - CyprusAntara Palace - Cyprus

For the ultimate winter getaway experience that nurtures your body as well as your soul, book one of the seven uniquely designed palatial suites, choose from a hand-picked list of spa treatments and wellness retreats, and soak up the sun!

Bannisters – NSW Australia

Bannisters - NSW Australia

Bannisters is a luxe boutique hotel on the south coast of NSW Australia on the coastal hideaway by the sea in Mollymook with just 32 guest rooms.

Originally built in 1970s as a seaside motel, a succession of upgrades and refurbishments now sees the accommodation offering 4.5 star rooms with panoramic ocean views and private balconies.  They offer a choice of ocean deluxe, spa rooms, luxury suites, Jacuzzi decks and penthouses. With close proximity to local surf beaches, and the renowned Rick Stein at Bannisters restaurant, Bannisters makes an excellent choice for a coastal retreat. Rick Stein is an international chef specializing in fresh-off-the-boat local seafood.

Bannisters - NSW AustraliaBannisters - NSW AustraliaBannisters - NSW AustraliaBannisters - NSW Australia

Bannisers also have a wet edge pool set upon the stunning clifftops of Mollymook.  Enjoy gourmet pizzas by the infinity pool or cocktail overlooking panoramic views of the Pacific.

Bannisters - NSW AustraliaBannisters - NSW AustraliaBannisters - NSW Australia

The fantastic location means there’s plenty to do in and around the area including golf, fishing, dolphin watching and visits to local wineries.

Don’t forget that while it’s winter in the northern hemisphere it summer down under! They have glorious weather at present – knock-out summer days and balmy nights.

Spice Island Beach Resort – Grenada

Spice Island Beach Resort - Grenada

With a reputation for providing spectacular five-star amenities and unparalleled service, it is no surprise that Grenada’s lavish Spice Island Beach Resort has been recognized by Islands Magazine among “15 of the World’s Greatest Escapes” in the publication’s February 2014 issue. “At Spice Island Beach Resort, we provide our guests with the ultimate in luxury and private seclusion to nurture complete relaxation,” said Sir Royston Hopkin, KCMG, the resort’s chairman and managing director.  ”Our dedicated staff spares no effort in providing the finest hospitality, making our property the ideal Caribbean retreat,” he added.

Spice Island Beach Resort - GrenadaSpice Island Beach Resort - GrenadaSpice Island Beach Resort - Grenada

Spice Island Beach Resort - GrenadaSpice Island Beach Resort - GrenadaSpice Island Beach Resort - Grenada

Tucked away on pristine shorelines just 10 minutes from the airport, Spice Island Beach Resort is surrounded by immaculate tropical gardens and offers a world-class spa featuring treatments using local herbs and spices. The resort also offers an unmatched culinary program serving seven-course dinners ranging from diet-friendly to decadent.

The property recently completed a multi-million dollar renovation project to ensure the boutique resort remains at the forefront of the luxury tourism market. All suites are air-conditioned and outfitted with spectacular five-star amenities including a large whirlpool, LCD flat panel televisions with cable and dvd player, the softest and smoothest Italian Frette bathrobes and linens, Molton Brown bath and body amenities, mini-bar, IPod docking station/clock radio, iron, ironing board, hairdryer, direct dial telephone with Internet access, safe, coffee/tea facility, toaster, chaise lounges and patio or balcony. Several suites feature a private pool.

The Ritz-Carlton – Naples, Florida

The Ritz-Carlton - Naples, Florida

As the rest of the country deals with temperatures below zero Floridians are basking in high 70-, low-80 degree weather. This winter escape the cold and warm up in Southwest Florida at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples.  If the weather, luxe amenities and first-class service aren’t good enough reasons to plan a trip to Naples, here are few more:

The Re-mastered Ritz-Carlton, Naples: After completing a multi-million dollar renovation in October 2013, the Ritz-Carlton Naples now boasts 450 new guest rooms and suites, as well as three innovative dining options, which join local favorites Bites and Gumbo Limbo.

The Ritz-Carlton - Naples, FloridaThe Ritz-Carlton - Naples, FloridaThe Ritz-Carlton - Naples, Florida

The Ritz-Carlton - Naples, FloridaThe Ritz-Carlton - Naples, FloridaThe Ritz-Carlton - Naples, Florida

New & Innovative Culinary Offerings: – Terrazza – This Italian-inspired restaurant brings the flavors of coastal Italy to coastal Florida, featuring a wide variety of dishes using fresh ingredients from locally sourced farmers and fresh, hand-made pasta.

Dusk – One of the new remastered dining options, this modern bar offers a menu of cleverly-crafted cocktails and light fare. Its extended balcony provides outdoor seating, which offer breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of Mexico.

The Grill – Known as the resort’s classic establishment and popular local favorite, The Grill steakhouse offers a selection of dry-aged beef and fresh seafood, as well as an extensive collection of international wine.

Bites – Located in the lobby, this tapas, small plate-style cocktail bar serves up traditional and familiar fare with creative twists. Menu favorites include the crab cakes and beef short rib sliders, along with classic and innovative cocktails, which can all be enjoyed while listening to live entertainment.

Gumbo Limbo – This Naples beachfront favorite is so close to the ocean that it’s the perfect spot to watch a beautiful sunset. With menu items such as Floridian Conch Chowder, Lime Marinated Shrimp Cocktail, to the popular Ritz-Carlton Burger, Gumbo Limbo offers great food in a casual, tropical ambiance.

The Ultimate in Pampering:  The Ritz-Carlton Spa Naples offers an indulgent escape to relax, unwind and rejuvenate in a 51,000 sq. ft. sanctuary. With a selection of signature and seasonal treatments such as the Drift to Sleep, Organic Warm Spiced Mud Wrap and Hydra Facial, healing steam rooms, saunas, aqua lounges and more, the Spa offers the ultimate pampered experience to invigorate the mind, body and soul.

Eco-Exploration: For the budding environmentalists in the family, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples’ “Nature’s Wonders” program invites young ones to discover nature in an educational and fun way. A master naturalists guides tykes ages 5-12 through 11 aquariums that house sharks, crabs, turtles, alligators and eels, while a science curriculum and a kid-sized lab offer cool ways to explore and learn about the environment.

Walking New Zealand: Splendor of the South Island​

Walking New Zealand: Splendor of the South Island​

If you are like me and each time you take a vacation you put on a couple of pounds the TMT gals have the perfect vacation idea for you.  If you are reasonably fit and enjoy being out in the open air seeing nature then a walking trip is the perfect vacation for you.  Imagine getting to see the Splendor of The South Island in New Zealand. Remember that it’s summer in New Zealand now.

Small wonder Kiwis have perfected the art of “tramping”: With its soaring mountains, crystalline lakes, verdant meadows and pristine beaches, New Zealand is truly a walker’s paradise.

On a walking tour of the South Island with VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations – you’ll discover invigorating walks in the foothills of the Southern Alps and along the scenic shores of the Marlborough Sounds.  As you “tramp,” you’ll enjoy closer looks at fascinating plants and wildlife, many unique to New Zealand.  And you’ll stay in remote, intimate lodges with splendid settings, including a two-night stay in the heart of Abel Tasman National Park.

The tour features a combination of easy terrain mixed with moderate hills.  You walk primarily on dedicated footpaths, which may be rough at times and can become wet and muddy on rainy days. While in the Marlborough Sounds, you travel via water taxis, which require stepping over a transom. The VBT on-tour support vehicle is available at specific meeting points for those who need assistance.  It is ideal for both enthusiastic beginners and experienced walkers. Several of the walks require a transfer from the hotel to the start of the walk. The tour leaders often use this time in the van for the morning route review, so you can enjoy a more leisurely morning at breakfast.

Walking New Zealand: Splendor of the South Island​

Highlights

  • Delight in the alpine landscapes of Nelson Lakes National Park
  • Gaze skyward to view the Southern Cross, visible only from the Southern Hemisphere
  • Hike the spectacular Abel Tasman Coastal Track, passing by secluded coves and palm-fringed beaches
  • Savor the flavors of the South Island, from fresh Greenshell Mussels to award-winning Sauvignon Blanc
  • Step outside our lodge’s door and kayak through the Marlborough Sounds’ scenic inlets
  • Enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the thermal, mineral-rich waters of Hanmer Springs

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We have provided a variety of winter getaway ideas above that range from adventures in the New Zealand wilderness to elegant luxury in the Naples, Florida Ritz Carlton. At the core a warm sunny winter vacation is a de-stressing renewal process. Reinvigorate with some time in a lovely location where you can walk around outside in shorts and a t-shirt and feel yourself regain that happy equilibrium that can be lost during our long cold northern winter.