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Idlwilde Inn in Watkins Glen, NY

Idlwilde Inn in Watkins Glen, sunset
Idlwilde Inn in Watkins Glen at Sunset

On a recent trip to the Finger Lakes in upstate New York, we stayed at the Idlwilde Inn in Watkins Glen. The bed-and-breakfast inn, perched on a hill above the town, provided a quiet, Victorian-style retreat. Owners Marcus and Elin Dowd offered warm hospitality and delicious breakfasts.

For us, the Idlwilde Inn ended up being near-perfect for what we wanted.

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Hotel Estheréa in Amsterdam: Review

Hotel Estheréa in Amsterdam: Bar and restaurant area
Hotel Estheréa in Amsterdam: Bar and restaurant area

The delightfully quirky Hotel Estheréa in Amsterdam earns a spot as one of my favorite hotels of the year. The lobby’s eclectic décor entices hotel guests to look and linger. Each day, the staff puts out a tier of Dutch cookies and chocolates that guests can accompany with complimentary espresso, cappuccino, or tea. Plus, the location can’t be beat. Our trip to Amsterdam was made that much more special by this hotel.

Décor: Eclectic Dutch

Location: on the Singel Canal

Room Size: Small, but large enough for two to move around

Most surprising: the riot of disparate objects in the public spaces creates an elegant, relaxing ambience.

Advantages: Excellent staff and location

Disadvantages: Popular with tour groups

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Review: Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia

Lobby of the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia
Lobby of the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia

The Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia has historically been one of my favorite hotels in downtown Center City. This time, however, we experienced a few glitches that took it down a notch in my estimation. Not that I wouldn’t return, because I would. It just won’t be my obvious first choice when I stay in the Rittenhouse Square area. Still, this luxury hotel in the heart of the city offers a comfortable haven from the bustle of the city.

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Two Days in Historic Philadelphia

Two Days in Historic Philadelphia:  Independence Hall
Two Days in Historic Philadelphia: Independence Hall

Two days in historic Philadelphia works well for ambitious tourists like me. Because the historic district is compact enough to sightsee on foot, you can easily hop from one attraction to another. Of course, if you have three days, you’ll be able to see a bit more. And if you really want to see Philadelphia as a whole, including its world-class museums, then you’ll want to add at least another two days.

Most iconic sight: The Liberty Bell

Sight that requires the most planning: Independence Hall

Best Museum: The National Constitution Center

Newest Addition to the District: The Museum of the American Revolution

Best historic district restaurants for foodies: Buddakan and Amada

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Wellington New Zealand

Te Papa Tongarewa museum, Wellington New Zealand
On the pier near Te Papa Tongarewa, the premier Maori museum of New Zealand.

My husband and I traveled to Wellington New Zealand for spring break, which was, of course, the country’s early fall. We arrived exhausted but ready to explore.

Most Memorable: Eating oysters and drinking champagne on the waterfront

Best Food: Logan Brown

Most Surprising: The intimate feel of the capitol city

Most Disappointing: I wanted to stay one more day.

Although the seat of the government was originally located in Auckland, South Islanders complained about the distance. In 1865 it was moved to Wellington, located at the tip of North Island and the geographic center of the country. The Wellington Harbour, as seen above, is a bustling shipping and boating hub with restaurants and “sheds” lining the waterfront.