Edaville's Christmas Festival of Lights- Now Until January 1st

Christmas Festival of Lights Nov. 28-30, Dec. 1-Jan. 1

Edaville's Christmas Festival of Lights is arguably the most-loved festival of its kind, having earned generations of loyal fans. Passengers relax comfortably in warm and dry coaches while riding through a spectacular holiday setting featuring an explosion of lights.

Kids of all ages will enjoy an array of vintage amusement rides and a visit with Santa in one of our indoor play areas.

Stay for a delicious full meal or enjoy seasonal treats while roaming our sprawling and beautifully decorated grounds featuring thousands of Christmas displays.

Trains typically run on an hourly schedule beginning one hour after opening and the last train is at 8pm.

Celebrate the Holidays at Edaville's Christmas Festival of Lights Now-Jan. 1


This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

Here Are The Winners Of The 31st Annual North Carolina Holiday Flotilla

Crowd favorite - "Yellow Submarine" - photo by Brad Austin Butler

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC - Named one of the Top 20 Events by the Southeast Tourism Society in 2013, the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla celebrated its 31-year anniversary in Wrightsville Beach over Thanksgiving weekend.

An estimated 50,000 visitors, gathering on water and land, cheered on the parade of yachts and motorboats, each decorated with a holiday theme and thousands of glittering lights. The flotilla followed a 4-mile route through Motts Channel, Banks Channel and the Intracoastal Waterway, passing the judges' viewing stand at Blockade Runner Beach Resort.

A panel of judges, including John Boy, of John Boy and Billy's Big Show, carefully selected the winners, all competing for $10,500 in cash prizes plus holiday bragging rights. Text voting continued this year, with Crowd Favorite and People's Choice Awards determined by spectators.

The evening ended with a stunning 21-minute, 4,000-round fireworks display by Zambelli International, illuminating the night sky, and showering the waterway with sound and color.

Fall weather conditions were favorable with mild wind, clear sky, and fall temperature in the upper 40s.

2014 winners include:

Best Overall - "Good Tiding to You, Turtle" - photo by Beth Watson Hedgepeth

Category: Best Overall
Captain: Mike Spivey
Vessel: Angler Management
Theme: Good Tidings to You, Turtle

Category: Peoples Choice
Captain: Ava and Scott Werstlein
Vessel: No Name
Theme: Furtilla

Category: Crowd Favorite
Captain: Skip Wilson

Vessel: The Bottom Line
Theme: Yellow Submarine

Category: Best Powerboat 31ft. and over
Captain: Bob Bleecker
Vessel: J&B
Theme: Salt Life Santa

Category: Best Powerboat 23ft. - 31ft.
Captain: Eric Burns
Vessel: Chuck Norris
Theme: Sleigh Surfing

Category: Best Powerboat 22ft. and under
Captain: Brent Jernigan
Vessel: Craig Cat
Theme: Christmas Hummingbird

Category: Best Costumes & Crew Spirit
Captain: Castle Branch
Vessel: The Jolly Roger
Theme: Peter Pan

Click here for list of winners and photos

Flotilla website: www.NCHolidayFlotilla.org 

NC Holiday Flotilla Fireworks - photo by Brad Austin Butler

This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

Howard Johnson Is Looking For Former 1960's Employees #HOJO

In celebration of 60 years of hospitality, Howard Johnson is launching a nationwide search for former employees who were once the stars of the brand’s 1960’s ad campaign, “Spotlight On You”, with the hope of bringing them into the orange limelight once more.

The iconic Howard Johnson chain is looking back at the milestones throughout the years: from Howard Johnson’s drugstore ice cream counter— with its infamous 28 flavors— to the opening of the restaurant chain, the first hotel in 1954, and ultimately the expansion of the brand internationally, the Howard Johnson brand has become synonymous with Americana.

Through the end of the year, Howard Johnson is searching for the 14 former hotel and restaurant employees featured in the “Spotlight on You” ads. These former associates will receive a free stay at a Howard Johnson hotel, and may also be invited to participate in an upcoming company ad campaign.  For additional information, visit www.hojoadsearch.com.

About Howard Johnson

Part of Wyndham Hotel Group, the Howard Johnson® hotel brand is a global chain of nearly 440 hotels with locations around the world, most of which offer an array of complimentary amenities including free Wi-Fi and free Rise & Dine® continental breakfast. Many properties also offer meeting and fitness facilities, swimming pools and the opportunity to earn and redeem points through Wyndham Rewards®, the brand’s guest loyalty program. Travelers can join the free program at www.wyndhamrewards.com. This year marks the hotel brand’s 60^th anniversary. 

Each Howard Johnson hotel is independently owned and operated under franchise agreements with Howard Johnson International, a subsidiary of Wyndham Hotel Group and parent company Wyndham Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: WYN). Reservations and information are available by visiting www.hojo.com.

This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

31st Annual North Carolina Holiday Flotilla

This looks like a lot of fun.  I wish I lived closer!!

31^st Annual North Carolina Holiday Flotilla

A Thanksgiving Tradition

NC Holiday Flotilla, photography by Joshua McClure

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC - Named one of the Top 20 Events by the Southeast Tourism Society in 2013, the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla weekend, a coastal Thanksgiving tradition, returns to Wrightsville Beach,Nov. 27-30.

Celebrating a 31-year run, the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla attracts 50,000 visitors to its culminating event, a maritime parade featuring thematically decorated power yacht and sailboat floats. The spectacle, reflected in the Banks Channel, glitters with thousands of twinkling lights.

Located directly on the parade route, sponsor and host hotel Blockade Runner Beach Resort launches the weekend with a gala, Thanksgiving Day feast for early arrivals. Soundside, Cape Fear Naturalist Captain Joe Abbate navigates local waters guiding Masonboro Island, Harbor Island and Sunset Cruises for the family.

Friday brings Santa Claus and the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony to Wrightsville Beach Town Hall Park. Children anxiously await, list in hand, for a personal audience with St. Nick. At 7:00 p.m., The Embers - Featuring Craig Woolard, headline Atlantic Marine's festive Flotilla Launch Party, including dancing, hors d'oeuvres, a cash bar and silent auction of gifts from civic-minded supporters.

"One of the hidden gems during flotilla weekend is Saturday's Festival in the Park for the children," said Pres Davenport, Chairman of the Holiday Flotilla board.

From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the park is bustling with bouncy houses, slides, climbing walls, the Arab Choo Choo, live blue-grass music, an antique auto show, and, an estimated 100 booths featuring local merchants and arts and crafts vendors. Children will have an opportunity to decorate and submit entries in the flotilla boat-coloring contest, and Home Depot will be on site with wooden boat kits, free for young carpenters. Admission is free for the entire family.

2013 Best In Show, Photography by Beth Watson-Hedgepeth

Saturday at 6:00 p.m., a short burst of aerial fireworks will light up the sky announcing the twilight parade of beautifully lit and decorated power and sailing vessels. The flotilla weaves a 4-mile route through Motts Channel, Banks Channel and the Intracoastal Waterway, passing the judges' viewing stand at Blockade Runner, all competing for $10,500 in cash prizes. A panel of judges, including John Boy, of John Boy and Billy's Big Show, carefully select the winners. Text voting continues this year, with the Crowd Favorite and People's Choice Awards determined by spectators.

Immediately following the flotilla, a stunning 21-minute, 4,000-round fireworks display illuminates the night sky, showering the waterway with sound and color. "We have a long show by Zambelli International, one of the most reputable fireworks companies in the world," said Davenport. "We're able to put on a really impressive display that rivals or surpasses most July 4^thshows. Most shows are 15 minutes. That additional five to six minutes puts a great cap on the weekend with an impressive fireworks finale."

"Another thing we're really excited about this year is the fact that the Surfrider Foundation has volunteered to help clean up the waterway and beaches the morning after the fireworks show, to make sure the debris is gone and we are good stewards of the environment," said Davenport.

Flotilla website: www.NCHolidayFlotilla.org

Host hotel accommodations: Click here

 
This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

Tips On Travel Thanks To Mrs. Potato Head

Post by Disney Movies Anywhere.

MRS. POTATO HEAD’S TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

‘TATER TRAVEL TIP #1: MAKE A LIST!

Mr. Potato Head can be a klutz when it comes to packing, which is why Mrs. Potato Head loves to make a list of packing essentials for their vacation needs. It’s a good idea for the sweet potato to start planning her list weeks before the traveling ‘taters head off on their journey. By planning so far in advance, you are much less likely to miss off any travel necessities!

‘TATER TRAVEL TIP #2: ROLL UP, ROLL UP!

Who wants to iron an outfit when you reach your destination? Mr. Potato Head doesn't, that’s for sure! Instead of folding your clothes and placing them in your suitcase, try rolling them. Tightly rolled clothes are less likely to get heavy wrinkles from fold creases and they take up less room.

‘TATER TRAVEL TIP #3: PACK LIGHTLY!

Nobody wants to be weighed down with heavy baggage, especially if you’re a tourist ‘tater who wants to wander around with ease. That’s exactly why Mrs. Potato Head suggests everybody packs lightly. Pack layers of clothing that you can easily put on or take off. And think twice about adding that spare pair of shoes to your luggage. Do you really need them?

‘TATER TRAVEL TIP #4: KNOW THE RULES!

Mrs. Potato Head is a stickler for the rules. Get to know them all before you travel, especially if you’re flying! If your journey involves an airplane ride, make sure you pack correctly and don’t place any large liquids (such as a regular-sized bottle of perfume or a can of hairspray) in your carry-on luggage. All liquids brought onto planes must be in 3.4-ounce bottles or smaller. And they must all be placed inside a single, clear, quart-size zip-top bag.

‘TATER TRAVEL TIP #5: CARRY-ON VALUABLES…

What would Mr. Potato Head do without his trusty bowler hat and his angry eyes? Well, every now and then luggage gets delayed or lost – and that’s exactly why it’s a good idea to pack your travel essentials and valuables in your carry-on bag. Never put them in your checked luggage! Make sure your ID, passport, keys, money, credit cards, jewelry and electronics are safe and secure in your carry-on bag, as well as items like extra contact lenses and a spare pair of undies. Happy traveling!

MRS. POTATO HEAD’S PACKING ESSENTIALS

Mrs. Potato Head says: “I’m packing your extra pair of shoes!” 

Don’t be a couch potato on your summer vacation; head outside and explore. When you’re packing your bags, make sure you’ve got comfortable shoes in your luggage. Nobody wants sore tootsies!  

“And your angry eyes, just in case!”

Who wants to get angry-eyed in the blazing sunshine? Nobody! That’s why it’s important to pack your sunglasses. If your eyes need some extra help, don’t forget to take your spectacles and contact lenses, too.

“A dime!”

A few dollars will certainly help ease your summer vacation needs. It also helps to have a credit card for any unexpected incidentals, as well as the purchase of the odd souvenir or two. See if you can seek out a bargain!

“Cheese puffs!”

Don’t forget to pack some snacks for the journey. If you’re a picky eater, it might be wise to add a few of your favorite munchies to your suitcase to ensure you’ve got lots of treats to eat while you’re away, too. Mmmm!

“A spare set of lips!”

Mr. Potato Head can swap his lips with a spare set if they become chapped or sore in the sizzling sunshine. Non-spuds can’t do that, which is why it’s a good idea to pack some lip balm for your travels. Pucker up!

“A key!”

It’s always a good idea to keep all your essentials together in one place, including your keys, money, ID and passport. Be a safe spud on your travels; don’t be a loser this summer!

“Sunscreen!”

Never forget to apply sunscreen in the scorching summer sun… Or, you’ll end up baked!

This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

Maine Reports Gradual Change In Leaf Color In The North #VisitMaine

Great Country Fairs This Weekend!

Augusta, ME September 17, 2014 - There is a hint of color in northern Maine as The Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry reports low 10 – 30%  color change and very low leaf drop. 

 

“We are right on target for a glorious fall foliage season, said Gale Ross, Fall Foliage Coordinator for Maine. “With the low leaf drop we anticipate that the northern part of the state will soon be a tapestry of beautiful colors,” she added.

 

For more information visit the state’s official foliage website www.MaineFoliage.com and receive weekly reports by e-mails. Visitors and natives can share their photos of the riot of color throughout the state as the leaves gradually change. For information about the fall foliage ranger-led hikes in state parks and public lands visit www.maine.gov/dacf/fallfoliagehikes.

 

Now is the time to plan a trip to beautiful Aroostook County in northern Maine for a ringside seat to experience sensational fall foliage.  Aroostook is so big that it actually covers an area greater than the combined size of Connecticut and Rhode Island.  Aroostook State Park offers hiking trails that provide great views from atop Quoggy Jo Mountain.  http://www.visitaroostook.com/

 

While waiting for the leaves to change, there is still plenty to do in Maine this weekend.  Maine’s Lakes and Mountains Region is a wonderland of hiking and biking trails. The 17^th Annual Harvest Fest & Chowdah Cook-off takes place in Bethel on September 20^th complete with scarecrows and harvest decorations as well as an arts & crafts festival, a farmer’s market, forest-products mill tours, a 50-mile scenic bike tour and the famous Chowdah Cook-off. Location: Bethel Village. Times: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. For more information www.bethelmaine.com.

 

Or travel up to Unity between Waterville and Bangor for the popular Common Ground Country Fair held from Friday, September 19^th through Sunday, September 20^th.  The fair boasts a great farmers’ market, crafts and folk arts, Indian basketmakers, and entertainment on the Maine Folk Traditions stage.   Participate in a 5K foot race, enjoy sheep dog demonstrations, and watch a draft horse show.  This annual celebration of rural living and organically grown Maine produce also offers some of the best festival food in Maine. http://www.mofga.org/theFair

 

For a complete list of activities and events in Maine this fall visit www.visitmaine.com

This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

Bar Boulud, Boston Makes Its Debut At Mandarin Oriental, Boston

Hong Kong, 18 September 2014 – The award-winning Mandarin Oriental, Boston and Chef Daniel Boulud are delighted to announce the opening of Bar Boulud, Boston. The French-inspired bistro and wine bar is Chef Boulud’s first restaurant in Boston, and second partnership with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. The restaurant follows the successful format of Bar Boulud, New York, located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, and Chef Daniel Boulud’s first UK restaurant, Bar Boulud, London, located at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park, both of which have achieved significant acclaim. This approachable restaurant concept is known for its traditional French bistro fare, seasonal New England inspired dishes, signature charcuterie with recipes by renowned Parisian charcutier Gilles Verot, and an impressive wine cellar showcasing Burgundy and the Rhone Valley, well-suited for leisurely dining, business meetings or special occasions.

Chef Aaron Chambers, most recently Executive Chef at Boulud Sud in New York City, leads the daily culinary operations of Bar Boulud, Boston as Chef de Cuisine with a menu that includes an impressive selection of traditional terrines and pâtés, such as: Pâté Grand Mère, chicken liver, pork, cognac and Pâté Grand-Père, foie gras, pork and truffle, along with an assortment of signature sausages such as: Boudin Blanc, white pork sausage with truffled mashed potatoes and apple and Boudin Noir, blood sausage with mashed potatoes, apple and caramelized onions.

A selection of grilled beef burgers adds an American touch to the menu with: ‘The Frenchie,’ topped with pork belly confit, arugula, Dijon, tomato compote and Morbier cheese on brioche bun and ‘The Piggie,’ topped with barbecued pulled pork, jalapeño mayonnaise, and a red cabbage slaw. Additional menu highlights include: the classic Coq au Vin, with red wine-braised Amish chicken, bacon lardons, pearl onions, tender baby carrots and trumpet royale mushrooms; Handmade Chitarra Pasta, laced with local Wellfleet clams, bottarga, fennel and chili garlic; New England Sole Meunière, served with cauliflower, marcona almonds, capers, brown butter and fresh parsley; and a hearty Croque Monsieur, served on house-made brioche, layered with melted Gruyère cheese and house-made ham.

Chef Chambers joined Boulud in 2009. Originally from Yorkshire, England, he has over 15 years culinary experience in top kitchens all along the East Coast including: Indebleu Restaurant and Café du Parc in Washington D.C. and Café Boulud and Boulud Sud in New York City. Prior to working in the U.S., Chambers cooked in the kitchens of Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons, the two Michelin-starred Relais & Châteaux property in Oxford, England, and Al Mahara in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, rated among Restaurant Magazine’s “World’s 50 Best.”

Curated by Sommelier Joe Camper, the wine cellar at Bar Boulud, Boston features an extensive list dedicated to the great wines of Burgundy and the Rhône Valley – Chef Boulud’s favorite wine making regions that neighbour his native city of Lyon, France. Within the cellar, guests can find rare gems alongside approachable 'vin du pays'. Beyond France, the wine list travels to new world regions such as the United States, Austria, Germany and beyond, offering unique varietals that pair beautifully with food. Camper, a Champagne enthusiast, is also please to present an extensive selection of crémants – sparkling wines – that complement the New England seafood inspired menu. Camper began his wine career in Boston at Barbara Lynch Gruppo's Menton, and was most recently Sommelier at Boulud's Midtown NYC bistro, db Bistro Moderne.

Bar Boulud, Boston also features a seasonal selection of curated craft beers and innovative hand-crafted cocktails. Highlights from the cocktail menu include: Cranberry Royale, a blend of Champagne and cranberry vodka, served “up” with a cranberry compote ice orb; 8th & Orchard, a twist on the classic Boston cocktail, the Ward 8, which blends rye whiskey with a splash of house-made grenadine and apple cider, served over crushed ice; and the Boylston Flip, with ZU Bison Grass Vodka, fresh pear juice, cinnamon, fig, egg white and a Kübler Absinthe rinse. The cocktail list highlights a variety of 'Boulud Classic Cocktails' from his restaurants around the world.

Adam D. Tihany of Tihany Design has designed Bar Boulud, Boston, and has brought the space to life with a vibrant interior and several signature features, including a seven-seat marble-clad charcuterie counter and a distinctive glass enclosed wine cellar. A glass étagère serves as the focal point for a 17-seat backlit, zinc top bar. Vintage oak, leather and stone form the backdrop for whimsical wine-centric artwork, channel tufted banquette, and a 10-seat communal table. Sliding glass doors facing Boylston Street open to the restaurant’s intimate 55-seat bar and lounge space.

Guests are able to enter the space from Boylston Street or through the lobby of Mandarin Oriental, Boston. Positioned at the entrance, guests are greeted by a host station flanked by feature walls made of French wine crates. In the centre of the 68-seat main dining room, a row of rich burgundy leather booths run parallel to the restaurant’s vaulted wood ceiling, a dramatic design reminiscent of wine barrels. Moving further into the restaurant, guests can enjoy a 22-seat private dining room, which can be separated by a contemporary sliding barn door.


From September 16, Bar Boulud, Boston will be open daily, serving breakfast from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., lunch Monday to Saturday from noon to 2:30 p.m., dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday brunch served from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dining at the bar will also be available throughout the day. Breakfast here will be served Monday to Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to noon, and lunch Monday to Saturday from noon to 2:30 p.m. A daily bar menu will also be available from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., a late night menu from 11 p.m. to midnight and Sunday brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Chef Daniel Boulud is considered one of America’s leading culinary authorities. Boulud’s culinary accolades include James Beard Foundation awards for “Outstanding Restaurateur” and “Outstanding Chef of the Year,” “Outstanding Service,” and “Best Chef in NYC,” among others. He has been named “Chef of the Year” by the Culinary Institute of America, “Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur” by the French government, and “Master Chef” by Maîtres Cuisiniers de France. Boulud owns and operates restaurants in New York City, Miami, Palm Beach, Las Vegas, Toronto, Montreal, London and Singapore.

ABOUT MANDARIN ORIENTAL, BOSTON
An intimate, luxurious hotel, Mandarin Oriental, Boston combines classic New England elegance with refined Oriental touches to create one of the most distinctive hospitality experiences in the region.  Awarded both Forbes Five-Stars and AAA Five-Diamonds, Mandarin Oriental, Boston features 148 guestrooms and suites over 14 floors, delighting its guests with the finest facilities and service, innovative dining experiences and an unparalleled holistic Five-Star awarded spa.  A short, 15-minute drive to Logan International Airport, Mandarin Oriental, Boston connects guests to the city’s finest shopping, cultural venues and business institutions from its prime location in the heart of the chic Back Bay on Boylston Street.


ABOUT MANDARIN ORIENTAL HOTEL GROUP
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. Having grown from a well-respected Asian hotel company into a global brand, the Group now operates, or has under development, 45 hotels representing close to 11,000 rooms in 25 countries, with 20 hotels in Asia, ten in The Americas and 15 in Europe, Middle East and North Africa. In addition, the Group operates or has under development, 13 Residences at Mandarin Oriental connected to its properties.


Visit Destination MO (http://www.mandarinoriental.com/destination-mo/), the online version of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s bespoke publication, MO. News about our award-winning hotels, the best dining experiences, spa treatments, travel retreats and interviews with the Group’s celebrity fans is now just a click away. Further information is also available on our Social Media channels.




This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

Last Minute Labor Day Getaways With Booking.com!!

With the end of summer in site, why not get away one last time!!  Here are some terrific destinations to stop the end of summer blues, thanks to Booking.com.

Booking.com (the #1 accommodations website) has pulled out the top accommodations based on last year’s bookings for Labor Day Weekend. Needless to say, Booking.com makes booking a last-minute Labor Day Weekend accommodation labor-free.

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

For those who want to book a wild trip, this hotel is on the Las Vegas Strip and features boutique shopping and fine dining. It has a full-service spa and suites with a private balcony. It offers 3 different pools, a nightclub, and a casino with 100,000 square feet of gaming area, including table games and slot machines. In addition, this hotel features 12 unique restaurant choices and 4 bars and lounges.

Waldorf Astoria Orlando

For those who want to book an adventurous trip, this Orlando hotel is conveniently located next to Walt Disney World and provides free transportation to and from Disney parks. It also features an 18-hole golf course and a full-service spa. For parents traveling with children, this hotel offers a kids club. Spacious swimming pools and an on-site jogging trail are also available. Universal Studios and SeaWorld theme parks are both within a 20-minute drive of the Waldorf Astoria in Orlando.

Myrtle Beach Marriott Resort at Grande Dunes

For those who want a relaxing trip, this beachfront resort features a private beach, outdoor pool with a waterslide, and ocean or resort reviews. It offers a spa with an indoor pool and sauna, as well as a golf course, tennis court, gym, and highly-rated restaurants and bars. In addition, it is conveniently located within 7 miles of Myrtle Waves Water Park, Broadway at the Beach, and NASCAR Speed Park.

With Labor Day just around the corner, now is the perfect time to celebrate all of the hard work you have done all summer and soak up that last bit of sun! Whether it’s a wild trip filled with gambling and clubbing, an adventurous trip to an amusement park, or a relaxing getaway to the beach, Labor Day Weekend is the chance to end the summer right!

This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

Are You Relaxing Enough?? #PrincessCruises #comebacknew

Survey Shows Almost All Americans Believe Relaxation is Essential for Health and Well-Being - But Their Habits Prove Otherwise

Princess Cruises' Annual Relaxation Report Reveals Americans Spend Less Than 5% of Their Day on Relaxation

SANTA CLARITA, Calif., Aug. 15, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Princess Cruises today released results from its fifth annual Relaxation Report, conducted in celebration of National Relaxation Day on Aug. 15. Despite that an overwhelming 99% of Americans agree that relaxation is essential for their overall health and well-being, on average Americans spend only an hour a day dedicated to unwinding.

In honor of National Relaxation Day, Princess Cruises is encouraging all Americans to observe the day with dedicated time spent relaxing.

The national survey also revealed other insights including that 38% frequently feel guilty about relaxing, and that more than one-quarter (28%) of those polled feel stressed out by the mere thought of trying to relax. That figure increases to 39% for parents and 41% among Americans under 40.

"It's not surprising that almost all Americans see relaxation as key to improving their health, however, our survey found that the demands of our daily lives have made only 60 minutes attainable," said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president. "In honor of National Relaxation Day, we're asking Americans to make a concerted effort to take a break today to relax and decompress, which we all know is good for both our mind and body." She added that for those who looking for the ultimate chance to unwind, Princess Cruises offers an array of options for any traveler looking for a relaxing vacation escape.

Princess Cruises, which helps more than 1.7 million travelers each year "come back new" aboard its worldwide fleet of ships in exotic destinations, commissioned the annual report to uncover consumer attitudes towards vacation and relaxation habits.

Relax, Just Do It

An overwhelming 85% of those surveyed say sex is better when they're relaxed and can just go with it. Interestingly enough, 16% report that sex is better when they're stressed. For those looking for a relaxing couple's getaway (wink, wink), consider a cruise vacation.

Going Off the Grid in 3, 2, 1

Two-thirds of Americans (67%) reported they would feel completely relaxed if they were entirely "off the grid" (without any electronics or Internet access). And on an average day, 42% of men and women feel completely or mostly relaxed. Additionally, over half (52%) of American's say that having a smart phone makes it harder to relax.

Let the Music Soothe You

More Americans would prefer to use sound over sight when trying to relax. Two in five Americans (40%) of Americans choose music to help decompress and, now in 2014, reading has been shelved with only 5% naming it the best relaxation tool.

Who has it Harder?

Of those with significant others, 52% share they're more stressed than their partner. However, among men, 62% say their significant other is more stressed out.

About the 2014 Survey

The Princess Cruises Relaxation Report survey was conducted by Wakefield Research among 1,000 nationally representative U.S. adults ages 18+, between August 8th and August 12th, 2014, using an online omnibus survey. Quotas have been set to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the U.S. adult population 18+. The margin of error for this survey is +/- 3.1 percent.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company's website at http://www.princess.com.

About Princess Cruises:

One of the best-known names in cruising, Princess Cruises is a global cruise and tour company operating a fleet of 18 modern ships renowned for their innovative design and wide array of choices in dining, entertainment and amenities, all provided in an environment of exceptional customer service. A recognized leader in worldwide cruising, Princess carries 1.7 million passengers each year to destinations around the globe ranging in length from three to 107 days. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE: CUK).

This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.

Wyndham Hotels End Of Summer Deals- South Florida #WyndhamHotels

From South Beach to Sunny Isles to Sarasota, Florida is the place to getaway this fall, and Wyndham Hotel Group is here to make your experience unforgettable!  Below are a few sites and bites not to miss when exploring the sunshine state.

·         Where to stay:

·         Shack up in the recently renovated and spectacular Shelbourne Wyndham Grand, located in Miami’s South Beach and Deco Districts. The Shelbourne is just moments from the trendiest shops, restaurants and nightclubs.

o   Deal Alert:  Honeymoon exclusive - Book 5 nights, get 2 free

·         Further afield, book a stay at Wyndham Hotel Group’s Ramada Lake Placid, conveniently located nearGatorama – where you can get up close and personal with alligators – and in close proximity to top local attractions and destinations.

·         Close to the Everglades and Gulfstream Park, escape to the well-located Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Naples and have all of Naples’ world class attractions at your fingertips.

o   Deal Alert:  Save 30% off the best available rate when you stay 3 consecutive nights

·         Where to eat

·         If you’re too chilled out after hitting up the Shelbourne’s Blue Harmony Spa to leave your lush surroundings for dinner, mosey your way to the hotel’s most special post-renovation features, Japanese-inspired Morimoto Restaurant under celebrity chef, Iron ChefMasaharu Morimoto.

·          If you’re further afield in South Florida, Artisans is an intimate, fire-lit Lake Placid restaurant – perfect for a romantic dinner.

·          For those hitting the beachside town of Naples, you can’t go wrong with the Yabba Bar and Grill for delicious, local seafood.

·         Where to play

·         South Florida has a range of exciting new and recently renovated attractions that are a must to check out on your trip! For those relaxing in Miami with kids, Miami Children’s Museum has undergone a $20 million facelift and now features life-like reproductions and interactions.  If you’re venturing to Naples, spend a few hours in the lush renovated Naples Botanical Gardens before hitting some of the area’s sparkling beaches. For those en route to Ramada Lake Placid, be sure to drop into Gatorama – always a fun family day out!

This post is written by Sarah Coulsey. She is a Wife, and Mother of two boys living in New England. This post may contain affiliate links.