We stumbled upon the enchanting world of Hammam during our adventures in Morocco a few years back, and boy, did it leave us spellbound! We did it with our kids (8 and 9 yr old), and the rejuvenating treatments captivated us, making us want to experience it again. So, while in Istanbul, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to immerse ourselves in this age-old tradition once again. This time, why not go for a bit of history? So we dive into the legendary Hagia Sophia Hurrem Sultan Bathhouse or the Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamami. It preserved its unique structure for 450 years, opened a new era in Turkish Bath architecture, and has the title of the first structure where women and men sections are on the same axis. Our experience was like stepping into history in a world of luxury and pampering fit for an emperor and/or empress!
Spring Break Staycation at Omni PGA Frisco Resort
As Spring Break approaches, many families are eagerly anticipating a family getaway. While some may fly out of town or go on a road trip, others may find paradise right in their backyard. For those seeking an unforgettable staycation, look no further than the Omni PGA Frisco Resort!
Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the former Fields Ranch, Omni PGA Frisco Resort is a haven for those seeking to unwind and reconnect without straying too far from home. From world-class amenities to an array of exciting activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
And hey… are you a residence of Frisco, TX? Well if you are then you’re one lucky resident because you get a special rate. Just show your ID when you check-in at the front desk. That rate can be booked here or check this link for other Special Offers.
Mexican Independence Route
My family has visited several Mexican beach destinations, and we’ve love all our experiences! Yearly millions of visitors go to the bustling beach towns of Mexico, like Cancun, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta, these hot spots are full of 5-star resorts. But Mexico is a large country with much more to offer than just margaritas by the beach. So, when I was planning our family summer getaway this year, my kids asked if we could go somewhere in Mexico that is not a beach destination and a short non-stop flight from DFW. I was super excited they said that, primarily since I have only been to one non-beach destination in Mexico; that being its capital, Mexico City.
First thing that came to mind was that Mexico has a rich history of both the Old World and the New World; of when the Aztecs ruled the region to the 300 years under the Spanish flag. Thus, I thought of visiting the historical destinations in Central Mexico. And since both kids are learning Spanish at school and they have touched on Mexican history, I thought it an excellent opportunity to dig deeper into this beautiful country of Mexico!
With that said we decided to follow the Mexican Independence Route – well sort of – and visit some of the cities and towns where it all began. Below is a map of the area, with Miguel Hidalgo’s war campaign route, which started in Dolores (in blue); and our family vacation of the area in red, which started in Queretaro.
Citation: Melish, John, et al. Map of the United States of America: with the contiguous British & Spanish possessions. 1820. Map. Retrieved from the Library of Congress, <www.loc.gov/item/2008622175/>
Queretaro
We started our journey from the City of Querétaro, the capital of the state with the same name. There is a non-stop flight from DFW to QRO, which makes it a lot better, especially these days when there are so many delayed/canceled flights. The last thing you want is to get stranded in the middle of your journey. Read More
Casa de Campo Lo Tiene Todo (HAS IT ALL)
Have you heard of a place called Casa de Campo? Well… if you haven’t, then I guess you haven’t been reading the tabloids on celebrity whereabouts or luxury travel mags like Condé Nast Traveler spotlighting getaway locations for the rich and famous.
Casa de Campo is one of the world’s most exclusive resorts and located on the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic. DR’s own designer, Oscar de la Renta, himself did the original interior designing for the resort. Since then, it has hosted so many Very Important People.
Alas, we didn’t see any VIPs during our visit, but I am sure there were some hiding in their luxurious villas. The top reasons VIPs love to stay here are the security, the discretion of staff, and all the available activities within this massive, 7,000-acre resort community. In addition, they offer renowned golf courses, pristine beaches, a marina to dock yacht, the famous “town” of Altos de Chavon, an equestrian center and polo club, and a shooting center.
Casa de Campo has it all! You can have your ultimate getaway with plenty of things to do within the property. Here are a few of the activities that we did during our visit:
Horseback Riding
You can’t visit Casa de Campo without going for horseback riding.
Their equestrian center offers extensive activities and is one of the best in the Caribbean.
Celebrating Life at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa
“Life should not only be lived, it should be celebrated!” – Osho
I couldn’t agree more with this quote, hence we decided to celebrate life at the Omni Barton Creek Resorts & Spa. It is an easy 3.5 hours drive from where we live in the Northern ‘burbs of Dallas.
We were all excited to experience the luxury that Omni Barton Creek has to offer to guests. We last stayed with them in 2017 and since then they have had some major renovation. Those of you who didn’t know, they spent $150M on renovations, which they unveiled in the spring of 2019. Renovations were designed to highlight the history and the breathtaking view of the Texas Hill Country.
Celebration Staycation – Grandscape at The Colony
Considering the Covid-19 pandemic, everyone’s worry about their safety, and many are opting for a staycation. So, when I got my US citizenship (Yay for that😊), my family decided to have a quick weekend celebration. We couldn’t think of a better place near us than the Grandscape at The Colony. The first time I visited a couple of months back, I felt that the kids would definitely love this place.
Grandscape is a new kind of destination that offers unique experiences for the whole family – from its outdoor entertainment to adrenalin-pumping karting, dining, and shopping – you are in for a great time!
Where to STAY?
Although our house is only a 20 to 30-minute drive, we wanted to stay overnight at a hotel to get the whole experience of “travel” and make it a special occasion (plus we wanted to celebrate with a little bubbly and not have to drive home). The Hampton Inn & Suites – The Colony didn’t disappoint.
Hampton Inn & Suites The Colony is just a few minutes walk/ drive to Grandscape. It offers convenience and comfort for the family, and as usual, Hilton properties always deliver value, consistency, and service to their customers. Read More