November 19th, 2008
It’s not impossible to enjoy a quick getaway in the South this holiday season. So, instead of giving the usually gift this year, why not surprise everyone with a trip. I promise that no one will be disappointed.
Take a look at the following offers:
Myrtle Beach, S.C.’s bailout package will not only put a smile on your face, but make your wallet feel less tight as well. A handful of property are offering various discounts that are good through the end of the year to next year.
- From one popular beach destination to another, this time on the Gulf Coast as hotels, attractions and restaurant in Panama City Beach, Fla., are offering all types of packages and deals for the winter season.
– Guests can take 50 percent off in-season rates at the Towne of Seahaven, and every third night is free at Origin at Seahaven, Seahaven Beach Hotel and America’s Best Value Inn. Plus, children 12 and under eat free, and grownups buy one meal and get one free at nearby Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant. The “Buy-One-And-Get-One-Free” offers also are available on-beach activities, including parasailing and wave runner rentals. The rates are valid through February 26, 2009.
–Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort is offering a “Stay Three Nights, Get One Free” through February 20, 2009, at this beachfront resort located in the heart of town. The hotel offers a new SunSet martini lounge, three restaurants, a fitness center and Pirate’s Den game room.–Shores of Panama has a “Stay Two Nights, Get the Third Night Free” package that is good through the end of February 2009.
– Now through December 31, 2008, stay two nights, and get the third night free in a one-bedroom condominium with private gulf-front balcony at Pinnacle Port. Also included is free WiFi, DVD rentals, canoe and kayak usage, and more. Use code MHE when booking.
– Now through the end of Feb. 2009, stay two nights, get the third free in a new one-, two- or three-bedroom beachfront condominium at Cabana Cay. Include your four-legged in family getaways with Cabana Cay’s pet-friendly units that feature full baths, kitchens and private beach access.
– The third and seventh nights are free now through March 1, 2009 on a 2,300 square-foot condominium with fully equipped kitchen , upscale décor and expansive private balcony overlooking the Gulf at Hidden Dunes Condominiums. Plus, guests get 50 percent off a one-time housekeeping fee, a savings of $100.–Paradise Palms, A Seaside Inn, Panama City Beach, is offering a “Buy One Night, Get One Free”through Feb. 20, 2009.
–Through February 20, 2009, Days Inn Beach is promoting special weekly rates. Enjoy family-style suites feature WiFi and private gulf-front balconies.
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November 18th, 2008
When you think about of some of the holiday season, what typically comes to your mind? Ornaments? Wreaths? Lights ? Candy Canes? The Pink Pig?
Wait a minute - did that last line read The Pink Pig? Now, what does that have to do with the holidays?
Actually, a lot; especially if you’ve spent some of your holiday season in Atlanta, Ga.
The Pink Pig, named Priscilla, is a loved icon of Atlanta. The ride debuted in 1953 at the downtown Rich’s store, and took children to a “new height” as they travel around the toy department. Retiring in the 90’s, Priscilla was brought 
back to the Macy’s Lenox Square Mall for the 50th anniversary. Such a hit with the young and the old, she continues to offer rides every holiday season.
Okay, so the setting has changed. Instead of being inside of a department store, she has her own 170-foot themed tent, located at the Macy’s upper-level parking deck. No longer circling the roof, she now take riders on a journey through a storybook where they can meet some of her friends. And it’s not .25 anymore, but $3 (a portion of the fee is donated to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.) 
You can’t leave without purchasing your own stuffed pink pig or other pink pig item so you can always remember your ride on this Atlanta favorite.
QUICK TAKE
What: The Pink Pig at Macy’s Lenox Square
When: through January 4 (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas)
Where: in a 170-foot themed Pink Pig tent at Macy’s upper-level parking deck
Time: hours vary (PDF file)
Cost: $3 for one ride; $5.50 for two rides; $7.50 for three rides
tickets can be purchased at the ticket kiosk
you can also download a 2-for-1 coupon (PDF file) that’s good through January 1 (not valid for November 24 - 27 and December 22-25)
Tip: try to ride Priscilla early or late in the evening! The lines can get long in the afternoons and early evening
Photo credits: (top left) Pink Pig, Pink Pig, flickr, creative commons by rex libris; (top right) Pink Pig Baby! flickr, creative commons by hyku; (bottom left) Neon Up-Close, flickr, creative commons by hyku
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November 17th, 2008
Here’s a bit of trivia for you. What state, in 2008, has 37 beaches that have received Blue Wave certification by the Clean Beaches Council (CBC)?
Obviously, if you’re reading this blog, it must be a southern state, so that should narrow it down for you.
Still unsure?
Well, the answer is Florida. 
And did you know that nearly half of those 37 beaches happen to be in the Beaches of South Walton. That’s right, the 14 beach communities as well as the three state parks have been certified through the CBC’s Blue Wave Ethic Program - or the past eight years. Yes, eight years. Surprised? Well, you shouldn’t be, because it only makes sense that some of the most beautiful beaches would be environmentally sound.
“We wave our blue flags with pride,” says Tracey Louthain, director of public relations and visitors service with the Beaches of South Walton. She adds that it’s important to to assure travelers visiting the beaches that it’s a clean and pristine environment.
Beaches of South Walton has to apply every year for certification and according to Louthain, it’s quite a detailed process that include testing the sand and taking a water quality sample.
And it doesn’t end with the testing. The beaches have implemented a handful of green-conscious programs, such as the “Leave No Trace.” This focuses on visitors (and locals) responsibility (PDF file) of taking everything with them after their visit to the beach.
“Leaving that tent or chair overnight has ramifications,” she points out. “Not only is it challenging for the beach maintenance team to groom the beach, but also can have an affect during sea turtle nesting periods. That item may prevent the turtle from laying a nest.”
Back to the beach maintenance team that she mentioned above. The team oversees the health of the beaches 365 days a year. Not only are they responsible for the upkeep of the beach, but also they constantly replant sea oats, which are vital to the endangered beach mouse.
In addition, the Visitors’ Center also provides free recycled garbage bags for visitors to use throughout their stay. At the end of the visit, they can place the bag on the curbside for pick-up. For a green souvenir, you can even purchase a recycled tote bag for a $1. Louthain comments the tote bags are really popular, and not only fun, but useful too.
“This is all a natural extension of the green lifestyle that is practiced at home, and we want it extended to the beach vacation as well.”
From the Blue Wave certification to the eco-friendly programs, it really comes down to the visitors’ experience on the Beaches of South Walton. And the visitors are the only one benefiting either; Louthain says that locals love it.
“They’ve see the impact year around and really support it.”
Photo credit: All photos are courtesy of Walton County TDC/Beaches of South Walton
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November 15th, 2008
The Grinch has taken over Gaylord Opryland in Nashville, Tenn., during ICE! featuring the How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, happening through January 4, 2009. But don’t worry, this Grinch isn’t going to take anyone’s Christmas away, because it’s all a part of the property’s 25th annual A Country Christmas.
Around 1.5 million pounds of ice were sculpted by 35 artisans from Harbin, China. Working in shifts, starting around mid-October, the team created a one-of-a-kind icy wonderland with larger-than -life scenes from the story. Food color is then added to bring “life” to the sculptures.
Amanda Taylor, ICE! coordinator at Gaylord Opryland, says the sculptures are “indescribable. (It’s) nothing you can imagine.”
“It’s whimsical and fun. It’s the only place in the U.S. to see something like this.”
The exhibit includes Grinch’s mountain-top lair as well as 
20-foot high slides (Taylor says this is her favorite) as well as Max, Grinch’s dog and Who-ville, including little Cindy-Lou.
Taylor adds that it does feel as if you’re walking through the book.
This is one of the many events happening at the Gaylord Opryland during the holiday season. Honestly there is a little bit of everything for kids of all ages. There’s the property’s Christmas lights, featuring over 2 million; a special Breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays with the Grinch himself, and the Hall of Trees that begins on November 23 and runs through December 20.
If you can’t make it to Gaylord Opryland, Gaylord Texan in Dallas, Texas, which runs through January 3, 2009, celebrates Lone Star Christmas with their own ICE! exhibit featuring a life-size Santa’s lap. It’s the Best of Florida’s Christmas, 
November 17 - January 4, 2009, at Gaylord Palms in Kissimmee. Their Ice! sculptures include a life-size Nativity. Even though Gaylord National in Washington, D.C., will have an ICE! exhibit next year doesn’t mean the property isn’t celebrating the season. Some of the highlights of Christmas on the Potomac includes the Voices of Gaylord National Christmas Show, and the Tree of Light, a 60-foot tall tree made of synthetic glass.
Photo credits: (top left and middle right) courtesy of Gaylord Opryland; (bottom left and bottom right) courtesy of Gaylord Hotels.
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November 13th, 2008
Can you believe another week of November is almost to an end? Well, this can be good news because there are a lot of fun things happening around the South this weekend.
Here’s a preview on what’s on tap this weekend:
If you love sampling food (and really, who doesn’t), then you’ll enjoy the…
- 1st Annual Chili Cook-Off at Cedar Hill (Texas) State Park on November 15.
- Houston (Texas) Championship Chili Cook-Off on November 15.
- Lydia (La.) Cajun Food Fest on November 14-15.
- Wild Gourmet Thanksgiving Dinner in Mistletoe State Park, Appling, Ga., on November 16.
- Blues, Brews and BBQ at Harborwalk in Destin, Fla., on November 16.
- Orlando (Fla.) Food and Wine Fest on November 15-16.
- Taste of the Season in Hilton Head Island, S.C., on November 14.
- Highlands (N.C.) Culinary Weekend through November 16.
- Bright Leaf Brew Fest in Danville, Va., on November 15.
Looking for that one-of-a-kind piece of work, be sure to attending the…
- 28th Annual Craftsfest on November 14-15 in Mountain Home, Ark.
- Oak Cliff Artisans’ 6th Annual Fall Show and Sale on November 15-16 in Dallas, Texas.
- Old Gruene Market Days in New Braunfels, Texas, on November 15-16.
- 10th Annual Charis Crafters Craft Show in Wetumpka, Ala., on November 14-15.
- Foothills Craft Guild Fine Crafts Marketplace in Knoxville, Tenn., on November 14-16.
- Merritt Pottery Show and Sale in Knoxville, Ga., on November 15.
- Fall Art & Craft Festival on November 15 in Marco Island, Fla.
- 35th Annual Fall Harvest of Art on November 15-16 in Spring Hill, Fla.
- 15th Annual Fox Lake Fest of Crafts on November 15 in Titusville, Fla.
- Madonnaro 2008 in Pier Park, Panama City Beach, Fla., on November 14-16.
- 2nd Friday Art Walk in Chapel Hill, N.C., on November 14.
- Holiday Rock Gem Show on November 14-16 in Morganton, N.C.
- Holiday Craft Fair at Southern Virginia Artisan Center in Martinsville on November 14.
- Caledon Art and Wine Festival in King Georgia, Va., on November 15.
- Waterfowl Festival in Easton, Md., on November 14-16.
- Potters Guild of Batlimore’s (Md.) Annual Holiday Show on November 15-16.
Enjoy the great fall weather with the…
Want more fun? Why not go to the…
- 2008 Lone Star International Film Festival in Fort Worth, Texas, happening through November 16.
- 13th Working Ranch Cowboy Association World Championship Ranch Rodeo in Amarillo, Texas continuing through November 16.
- 11th Mountain Man Weekend on November 15-16 in Grand Prairie, Texas.
- 7th Annual New Orleans (La.) Book Fair on November 15.
- Main Street Memories on November 15 in Opelousas, La.
- GI Museum Living History Event on November 15 in Ocean Springs, Miss.
- Christmas in the Country on November 15-16 in Tuscumbia, Ala.
- Elvis Day on November 15 in Sheffield, Ala.
- Jepson Live @ Jepson Center for the Arts on November 14 in Savannah, Ga.
- Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show on November 14-15 in Pensacola, Fla.
- Sebastian (Fla.) River Area Chamber of Commerce Blues Birthday Bash on November 14.
- Jensen Beach (Fla.) Pineapple Festival on November 14-16.
- Annual Historic Bridge Street Holiday Prelude on November 15 in Bradenton Beach, Fla.
- Old Florida Festival in Naples, Fla., on November 15.
- Florida’s Creative Coast Getaway Weekend on November 14 in Pine Island.
- 14th Annual Cucalorus Film Festival through November 15 in
Wilmington, N.C.
- Civil War Living History Program at Old Fort Harrod State Park in Harrodsburg, Ky., on November 15-16.
- 27th Annual Kentucky Book Fair in Frankfort, Ky., on November 15.
Photo credit: Fallen Leaves, flickr, creative commons by fourme
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November 12th, 2008
Discovering new places - isn’t that the heart of travel? It doesn’t matter how many times you have visited a certain city or state, or even if you live there, there is always a handful of places that you never knew existed.
For me that was discovering Second Time Around Mini Farm, which is nearly up the road from me. Located in Washington, Ga., about an hour and half east of Atlanta, and between Athens and Augusta, this 13.5 acres farm is different from anything I’ve ever seen or read about.
The farm has always been in the Moses family, but it was Vicky Lyn Moses who converted it into a working farm, with space for her award-winning llamas, 
as well as a safe haven for abused and abandon animals. Along with the llamas, you’ll also 
find over a dozen English baby doll sheep, donkeys, goats, two pot-bellied pigs, rabbits, a Scarlet Macaw, a miniature horse and a peacock.
During the farm’s hour and a half tour, you have the opportunity 
to learn more about the animals and their unique traits.
Moses quickly points out that this is not a petting zoo.
“I wanted to do something different,” she says. “My main goal of the tour is to talk (and show) about the responsibility for animals.”
Other highlights include watching wool-spinning demonstrations, handing feed some animals and being entertained by Mo, the resident Macaw.
You can also stay on the farm, The bed and breakfast part is a private bungalow that includes an outdoor kitchen. Moses says that it’s situated away from the main house, so you have your privacy. Breakfast is served in continental style.
It’s pet friendly and when you do rent the bungalow, you also rent the farm in a way. During your stay, there are no tours given. It’s almost like a two-for-one deal.
With all of this free time, what can you do? Well, anything you want, according to Moses.
“You can work with us on the farm, or just relax. You can take the paddle boat in the morning or go fishing, and we can help dig for worms. We can even go a llama trek.”
Children, along with an adult can go play out in the pasture.
“Everyone has a great time here,” says Moses.
Second Time Around Mini Farm is opened year around, and if you and your family is interested in a tour only, reservations are required. Currently, the farm is birthing crias (baby llamas) through December. In January and February, baby lambs are due.
Photo credits: All photos are courtesy of Second Time Around Mini Farm
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November 10th, 2008
Hotels…
- All eyes will be on Washington, D.C., on January 20, 2009, as the 44th president is sworn into office. While that may seem a little while off; however, in the travel, it really isn’t. Therefore, if you are interested in attending, you need to plan now. Now, some packages may be out of reach, don’t despair, because you can find deals in other places.
- Why not bring a little romance back for the holidays? Romantic Inns & Hotels has highlighted a few deals. Stay three nights at Virginia Beach’s Beach Spa Bed and Breakfast and receive a free Swedish body massage or upgrade to a hot stone massage. Package is good through December 21. The Romantic West Virginia Mountain Holiday package at Elkhorn Inn & Theatre in Northfork includes a two night stay with dinner and breakfast. This package is good through January 5, 2009.
Announcements…
Photo credit: Typewriter 456, flickr, creative commons by sgrace.
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November 10th, 2008
With the holidays just around the corner, you still have time to take advantage of the many travel deals throughout the South.
Here are a few:
Don’t miss out on The Peabody Arkansas’ (in Little Rock) Special Holiday rate that is good through February 28, 2009.
Arlington Hotel in Hot Springs, Ark., has a Festival of Lights package that is available November 22 -December 24. This include admission for two at Garvan Woodland Garden’s holiday lights display and breakfast for two at the hotel.
- The Dallas/Plano Marriott Legacy Town Center is offering the “Spend Your Weekend Shopping in Dallas” package. This includes a Macy’s discount shopping card as well as a $50 gift card and complimentary shuttle to either The Shops at Legacy, The Shops at Willow Bend or Stonebrier Center. This package is good through December 31. When making your reservation, be sure to indicate the promo code: P50.
- There are too many to list here, so be sure to check out the different packages offered by various hotels and bed & breakfasts throughout New Orleans, La.
- Be sure to check out the two different packages offered by Jekyll Island (Ga.) Club Hotel. The property’s “Golfer’s Haven Package” available December 1, 2008 - January 31, 2008, includes a free round of golf each day during your stay at one of the four courses. The Christmas Package, available November 30 - December 29, features a Christmas stocking filled with goodies and a Jekyll Island Club commemorative ornament.
- And while we are on various packages offered by one hotel, one of my favorite places to stay and play, Sandestin (Fla.) Golf and Beach Resort. The Sensational Golf Package, available December 1, 2008 - February 1, 2009, includes a special rate for a two night stay in a three bedroom Dockside Villa as well as a round of golf at Raven Golf Club and at Baytowne Golf Club. The Sandestin Winter Wonderland and “Christmas on the Coast” package includes possible room upgrades among other amenities. The package is good through January 15, 2009. When making reservations, use the following code: 2263MA. Sandestin’s Sensational New Years Eve Celebration package is available December 21, 2008 - January 7, 2009. Use the following code: 2263MB.
- The Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill, N.C., is offering a “Stay More, Save More” package good through January 4, 2009. Stay one night and get a 15 percent discount off your room stay. Stay two or more nights, get a 20 percent discount and a $25 hotel credit. Must book this package by November 30.
Photo credit: piggy bank, flickr, creative commons by Carol Esther.
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November 9th, 2008
“It’s certainly a sight to see,” comments Lila Wilson, spokeswoman for Pigeon Forge (Tenn.) Department of Tourism, about millions of lights that illuminate Pigeon Forge, but also nearby Gatlinburg and Sevierville as well during the 19th annual Smoky Mountain Winterfest.
You see, in the South, there are celebrations and then there are CELEBRATIONS. This event on November 6 - February 28, 2009, falls into the latter category.
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November 7th, 2008
Vote YES! to shaking those election-is-over blue feelings away at one of the many events happening around the South this weekend.
If you’re feeling hungry, there the…
20th Annual Heritage Syrup Festival on November 8 in Henderson, Texas.
Chile Pepperama on November 9 in Dallas, Texas.
Big Boy’s Thibodaux (La.) Main Street Cook-Off on November 7.
- Sugar Day Festival in Alexandria, La., on November 8.
- Cane Syrup Makin’ Day in Beatrice, Ala., on November 8.
- Foggy Bottom Barbecue Bash and Arts & Crafts Festival in Elba, Ala., on November 8.
- Chili Cook-Off in Bremen, Ga., on November 8.
- Chili Cook-Off and Fall Festival in McDonough, Ga., on November 8
- Chomp & Stomp Chile & Bluegrass Festival in Atlanta, Ga., on November 8.
- Wolf Mountain Vineyards’ 6th Annual Wild Game, Mushroom and Red Wine Fest in Dahlonega, Ga., on November 9.
- Roundhouse Blues & BBQ Festival in Savannah, Ga., on November 7-8.
- Taste of THE Beach various places along Beaches of South Walton and Pier Park in Panama City Beach, Fla. , through November 9.
- Sebastian (Fla.) Clambake Lagoon Festival on November 7 - 9.
- Food Festival at Mixon Fruit Farms on November 8 in Bradenton, Fla.
- Society Hill (S.C.) Catfish Festival on November 8.
- BBQ Cook-Off and Shag Festival in Sumter, S.C., on November 7-8.
- Carolina Smokin’ Fall Fling BBQ Festival in Lumberton, N.C., on November 7-8.
- Southern Virginia Chili Cook-Off in Chase City on November 8.
Arts alive! Look at all of these arts and crafts festival, arts tours and more. There’s the…
38th Annual Arkansas Valley Arts & Crafts Festival in Russellville on November 7-8.
Art before Dark on November 7-9 in Fredericksburg, Texas.
- 23rd Annual Downtown Art Walk in Nacogdoches, Texas, on November 8.
- Second Saturday Art Trail on November 8 in Kerrville, Texas.
- The Gingham Tree Arts & Crafts Festival in Lucedale, Miss., on November 8.
- Ron Meyers Christmas City in Biloxi, Miss., on November 8-9.
- 24th Annual Christmas Jubilee in Mobile, Ala., happening through November 8.
- Christmas Village Fest Arts & Crafts Show in Birmingham, Ala., happening through November 9.
- First Annual West End Art & Studio Tour in Atlanta, Ga., on November 8
- 14th Annual Telfair Art Fair in Savannah, Ga., on November 7-9.
- Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival in Pensacola, Fla., on November 7-9.
- St. Simon’s 34th Annual Arts & Crafts Fair in Fort Walton Beach, Fla., on November 7-8.
- Art Prowl Studio Tour in Cookeville, Tenn., on November 7-8.
- Holly Day Fair in Fayetteville, N.C., happening through November 9.
- 29th Annual Richmond (Va.) Craftsmen’s Christmas Classic Arts & Crafts Festival happening through November 9.
- 33rd Annual Holiday Craft Fair in Laurel, Md., on November 9.
Enjoy the fall color and weather this weekend. So many places to enjoy the outdoors, such as…
Walks through History Tour of downtown Magnolia (Ark.) on November 8.
15th Annual Rio Valley Birding Festival in Harlingen, Texas, on November 7.
Hemlock Fest in Dahlonega, Ga., on November 9.
Stool Mountain Day Hike/Table Rock State Park in Pickens, S.C., on November 8.
And there’s more! Don’t overlook the…
- 61st Annual Original Ozark (Ark.) Folk Fest happening through November 9.
- 2nd Annual Rockport (Texas) Film Festival happening through November 8.
- 19th Annual Texas Championship Pow-Wow in Houston, Texas, on November 8-9.
- Spanish Tracks and Trails in Goliad (Texas) State Park on November 8.
- Annual Festival de Bayou in Houma, La., on November 8.
- Main to Main Trade Days in Webster Parish, La., on November 7-8.
- Heritage Harbor Days in Foley, Ala., on November 7-9.
- Battle of Atlanta (Ga.) Reenactment on November 8-9.
- 9th Annual Indian Festival & Pow-Wow at Stone Mountain Park (Ga.) through November 9.
- 22nd Annual American Sandsculpting Championship Festival in Ft. Myers Beach, Fla., happening through November 9.
- Greek Festival in Pensacola, Fla., beginning on November 8.
- Emerald Coast Cruzin’ in Panama City Beach, Fla., happening through November 11.
- Used Treasures & Yard Sale along the Ridge Scene Highway starting in Lake Wales, Fla., on November 8.
- 6th Annual Asheville (N.C.) Film Festival through November 9.
- Heritage Days Celebration in St. Helena Island, S.C., through November 8.
- Western Kentucky Regional Fiddle Festival in Murray on November 8.
- American Conservation Film Festival in Shepherdstown, WVa., through November 9.
- 17th Annual Annapolis (Md.) by Candlelight on November 7-8.
- Explore a Pirate Encampment in Havre de Grace, Md., on November 8-9.
Photo credits: (top) Fork #2, flickr, creative commons by erica_marshall; (middle) More Art Supplies, flickr, creative commons by ujwala prabhu; (middle bottom) Fall Scene, flickr, creative commons kevandem
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