Travel Blogger/ Insider
and Delta mainline.
The Delta Sky Club Executive membership starts at $845, or 84,500 Sky Miles. To apply for membership, visit Delta Airline’s website for terms and conditions.
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By Jorge Gerardo Travel Blogger/ Insider Happy new year and may all of your travel wishes come true in 2020! Recently, I made good use of my travel experience and Delta Sky Club membership. The Delta Sky Club is one of the most prestigious airline clubs in the United States and is a notable hot spot for travel insiders. In Chicago, the club is located in terminal 2 near the E Gates, in between regional United Express f and Delta mainline. Upon entering the club, you are warmly greeted by a wonderful staff of impeccably dressed men and women. You enter this light slice of heaven and immediately see high-def flat screen televisions advertising the latest Delta routes. Care for a bit of pre-flight delights? The gourmet offerings in the Delta Sky Club vary each day: today’s selection included savory chicken tortilla soup as an appetizer and buffalo chicken with a side of fresh garden salad. The taste of the chicken tortilla soup is both fresh and fragrant: the flavors are bold and are a great alternative to the stale airport food found outside the club. The buffalo chicken was not my favorite because I prefer my chicken well-done, but the nonetheless the flavor was spicy and herb were quite delectable. The fresh garden salad with black beans and chickpeas really was the winner because I felt not only healthy eating it but also felt good: the vegetables are all locally sourced from regional farmers. If you’re in the mood for some dessert, the club offers a wide range of sweet options, including freshly baked cookies, patisserie style cheesecake minis, and more. To savor the fun, there is also a state of the art espresso machine which brews Starbucks coffee and craft beverages. If one is craving something with a bit of a relaxing elixir, there are also alcoholic options that include a make-your-own martini station as well as premium wines, craft beers, and savory champagnes. While the Chicago ORD location of the Delta Sky Club isn’t the biggest or the most ornate per se when compared to the New York or Detroit locations (both Delta hubs), the Chicago premier club still graciously provides first class service while offering both business and leisure travels a luxury experience at one of the world’s busiest airports.
The Delta Sky Club Executive membership starts at $845, or 84,500 Sky Miles. To apply for membership, visit Delta Airline’s website for terms and conditions.
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By Travel Bromo Lifestyle Specialist For some, Atlanta is a difficult place to navigate: the bustle of the big, vibrant city coupled with a plethora of places to call home for the night can be a bit daunting. However, the Hyatt Place Atlanta, Airport North gives us hope that there are places among the coming and going that allow one to unwind in style. This recently-remodeled hotel is one of the Hyatt Place’s most strategic and hospitable options. Conveniently nestled between downtown and Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, the Hyatt Place Atlanta, Airport North is known for its southern hospitality with that lovable Atlanta twist. The front desk staff are some of the most welcoming and truly caring individuals within the Hyatt brand, and their emphasis on client relations while maintaining a beautiful lobby and quality rooms is impressive. The rooms are spacious and can accommodate up to four people comfortably. The ultra-chic yet simplistic design of the room allows the business traveler to feel extremely en casa while also allowing a work-from-home feel. Complimentary WiFi is available in every room, which is quite fast and convenient. The rooms boast a mini-fridge, separate sink, European-style shower, and high-def television. For the traveler that’s been sitting on a plane all day or for tne corporate gal that needs to unwind after a full day of meetings, the hotel offers a boutique fitness center that includes a full set of weights, treadmills, and ellipticals. While not the largest fitness center in the system, it is a very good gym for the bro that needs a quick lift and sweat game before using the hotel’s convenient shuttle to the MARTA and heading downtown, The Hyatt Place Atlanta, Airport North is an ideal location for business travelers and those on a layover between flights. It is also a great location for those wanting to experience Atlanta without having to be surrounded by the ecstasy of the vibrant city 24/7. For guests who are interested in venturing into the city, the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to guest at all hours of the day, twice an hour. The shuttle takes you within a 3 mile radius and to the airport. For guests wishing to use the MARTA, Atlanta’s public transportation rail system, one can get on the shuttle to the airport and walk to the train (located before security in terminal 1). One of the distinct aspects of this hotel is the attention to detail that the front desk staff provides guests. Each guest is treated with superb service and attitude and you truly feel welcomed with every greeting they provide. Did I mention the hotel also offers complimentary breakfast for guests between 6a-10a? It is way more than a standard hotel buffet breakfast: this Hyatt Place location creates local delicacies, such as Cajun potatoes and grits, which is an Atlanta staple. Hungry, anyone? Hyatt Place Atlanta, Airport North, rates start at $135 a night.
3415 Norman Berry Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30344 By Travel Bromo Lifestyle Specialist The Galt House is one of Louisville’s local treasures to the rest of the Union. It’s an ode to the old, and a bourbon toast to the new. According to hotel representatives, in the early 1800s the original Galt House was a residence owned by Dr. W.C. Galt. In 1835, a 60-room hotel was opened as the Galt House Hotel across the street from the residence at the northeast corner of First and Main. In 1865, the hotel was destroyed by fire; but within weeks, noted architect R. Whitestone began plans for construction a block away from the original site. The new Galt House Hotel opened in 1869 and operated until 1919. It was razed in 1921. Over half of a century later, in 1972, Galt House Hotel was reestablished by developer Al J. Schneider as part of Louisville's Riverfront Urban Renewal Project. It remains Louisville’s only waterfront hotel. The hotel is a delicate balance of old luxury and modern decadence. The Galt House suites are some of the most impressive in Louisville, and are perfect additions to those wishing to visit the city for a bourbon tasting or the Kentucky Derby. As the official hotel for derby days, it is a must while in Louisville. Additionally, the bourbon trail is a cab ride away and plenty of local distilleries and breweries boast some of the city’s top culinary and beverage options. Our favorite nearby is the Evan Williams Experience, which is walking distance from the hotel. The Galt House’s suites are decadent in the 1920’s fashion: big suede couches, handmade furniture, and large comfortable beds. While the decorations are left to a minimal, the space of the suite itself is incredible and great for both entertaining and sleeping. Rumor has it that the suites also come with paranormal friends during derby days, but during our stay we missed out on the action: no friendly ghosts to greet us, just a divine pillow to lay our heads on.
By Travel Bromo Lifestyle Specialist Serious chillaxing in Charlottesville, in particular at the Holiday Inn. The recently renovated hotel centrally located 2.5 miles from the airport and walking distance to the University of Virginia is ideal for a great overnight when visiting the college kids or attending a homegrown football game. With shuttle access to the university (limited) and regular trips to and from the airport, this hotel is perfect for a comfortable need with access to everything a college student and business traveler could desire: trails for running and hiking, boutique grocery and fashion shops, and local brew pubs. The rooms at the Holiday Inn Charlottesville offer unfuzzy and comfortable beds, spacious environment for bringing the college son or daughter some much needed school supplies (or beer), and quality shower amenities from Bath and Body Works. The bathrooms are awesome and feature some amazing light for exceptional selfies and post-shower admiration. One of the best features of the bathroom is also how quick the hot water runs, and how you can adjust the pressure of water to offer a very relaxing massage. Talk about a spa experience!
Whether you’re visiting for a college tour, making business deals happen, trying to connect with a friend in university village, or need a comfortable bed before heading to Charlottesville Albemarle Airport, the Holiday Inn Charlottesville is the best place to spend a night or two. This hotel receives a 4.1/5 stars and is a great place to start an adventure in C’Ville. Holiday Inn Charlottesville, rates start at $101.99. 1901 Emmet Street, Charlottesville, VA 22901 435-977-7700 By Travel Bromo Lifestyle Specialist When in Milwaukee on a short business trip or a quick visit to meet relatives, make sure to book a room at the Sleep Inn and Suites Milwaukee Airport. A convenient step from General Mitchell International Airport, this conveniently-located hotel is only a short ride away from the airport and numerous bar and restaurant options. It’s a great balance of price, comfort, and fun. This location, at an amazing $75 a night, boasts a complimentary breakfast buffet (yum, waffles!), an updated business center, and access to numerous nearby shopping options. For the business traveler, it’s the best choice for visiting the General Mills corporate offices in Milwaukee, as it is located across the street. The beds at the Sleep Inn and Suites are incredible and the service by the wonderful staff exceeds expectations: definitely a must-stay when on a business trip or quick leisure trip in Milwaukee.
The unbeatable balance of comfort, accessibility to business and leisure activities, proximity to the airport, and food and drinks options make the Sleep Inn and Suites Milwaukee Airport a 4/5 stars rating. Traveling goes beyond just packing your suitcase, wearing some fancy clothes, taking your flight, booking a nice accommodation and sightseeing. As much as it is meant to be an all-fun time, it may turn out to be the most boring, frustrating and disappointing travel, especially if you go unprepared. Reviewed below is a list of the most effective traveling tips that will teach you how to be a better traveler so you can enjoy every moment of it.
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In high school and college it is likely that you will receive some kind of encouragement to travel, study or work abroad. It may seem like you have a lot going on so you don’t seriously consider these opportunities or maybe you write them off since you plan on traveling later in life. I would encourage traveling at any age, but the earlier you can learn the lessons travel teaches the better. When you are young you are still finding yourself and preparing for your school and career. The skills and experience you gain from traveling abroad can give you life-long personal benefits as well as a leg up in the professional world. In high school and college you have the luxury of having flexibility since you can study anywhere in the world and have relatively long study breaks. If you are an entrepreneur, like me, then you have some leverage to do traveling at your own pace, if you choose to do so. It is a prime time to take advantage of your freedom and energy. 1. You’ll Get Out of Your Comfort Zone As young people most of us have a pretty established comfort zone. At home with mom and dad, in a community that has known you for probably a good part of your life. You have your established, friends, activities, hangouts and possibly jobs. We become comfortable in these daily roles and the idea of breaking out them can be scary and uncomfortable. The problem is, you learn the most in uncomfortable, unfamiliar situations. In our daily routines, you know how to act and respond to people and your surroundings. Being in a new place, with different people, who hold different values and go about life differently (or not so differently you may find) strips all that familiarity away. It can be scary, but once you figure out that you can connect with people despite differences, and you can navigate foreign environments, you become a smarter, more competent individual. Embrace the discomfort. Search for it, because it is helping you grow. 2. Traveling Builds Confidence As you conquer the obstacles of figuring out how to use public transit in a foreign country, or asking for simple things in a grocery store, you are building a confidence and ability to adapt in foreign situations. I remember moving to a country where I spoke little to none of the language. You realize that you CAN do things, despite the obstacles and suddenly the obstacles seem less obstructive and more like welcomed challenges. 3. You Will Develop Cultural Sensitivity Being culturally sensitive is key in our globalizing world. It is not enough to say “people from X country are like this.” It is important to look for underlying values that may explain a certain behavior in order to practice cultural sensitivity. Being aware of cultural values and norms is not only fascinating, but can help us understand international issues and conflicts, or even relate to the cultural norms of a foreign business partner. It is an important skill to be able to shift perspectives and see where someone else is coming from. Cultural sensitivity will help you with your communication on both business and personal levels. 4. You Can Adapt to Globalization Whether you like it or not, with the internet and social media, we are globalizing quickly. In our globalizing world it is important to be culturally sensitive and it can’t hurt to know a foreign language. In the business world, having lived abroad can give you a competitive edge. Use the confidence and cultural sensitivity that traveling helps you develop and help it make you successful. 5. Be Immersed in a Second (or Third) Language I've always been bilingual. In high school, I learned two new languages at the same time - French and Japanese, making my a polyglot (fancy word, I know). In the United States we don’t always encourage learning another language or encourage it. However, once you travel abroad you realize that especially in Asia and Europe, almost everyone you meet speaks at least two languages somewhat proficiently. This is why traveling, especially for us, is even more important. I would argue that in the globalizing world it really can only benefit you to speak another language. Not to mention, it opens up a whole new world of people you can now connect with and understand that you would never have gotten the chance to get to know had you never learned their language. 6. Infinite Opportunities to Network I have volunteered and worked abroad and made some incredibly valuable connections. If you are interested in working internationally or even just having a couch to stay on in a country that you love, never underestimate the value of networking wherever you go. One thing I have learned in my time abroad is that people are generally very friendly and love to talk about their home and culture. This is not always the case, but more than often it is. Making friendships abroad can make this big world seem a little smaller and help you feel more connected wherever you go. The best advice I can give is to meet as many people on your travels as you can. It will definitely make your time abroad more enjoyable since the locals know best! Plus you never know when these connections will come in handy in the future whether visiting each other for fun or otherwise. By Tiffany San Roman | Media Specialist, Travel Guru I'm not much of a writer: I embrace that. However, I do take great pictures and I thought I'd share some of them with my favorite lifestyle and society agency, PdM. I recently took a brief vacay to upstate New York to visit family and captured a bit of everything on my weekend there. Here are some of the shots I enjoyed the most (and that I can publicly share). Enjoy! At 7:30am, please give me the cruel tea, you evil wench. Family. Chelsea and her new beau, Guillermo. A patriotic pup, just in time for summer! While I admit I didn't "go out" out as much as I'd wanted, we did make a few cocktails infused with rum, tequila, and plenty of ice tea lemonade. Fresh fruit was added to the top to give it some class. Sometimes, hanging by the dock is all you really need to contemplate the next step in life.
xo By Alexandra Howe | Travel Writer All images by Alexandra Howe In 1755, Lisbon suffered an earthquake so massive it literally rocked Europe into the Classical Age. It was a disaster so enormous it scarred the entire European psyche with the destruction it wreaked on the historical port city. One piece of the extensive infrastructure destroyed was the Praça do Comércio, a sea-front plaza dating back to the Romans that was crucial to the city socially and economically. Following its destruction, it was rebuilt with a vengeance, giving way to some of the most grandiose monuments I've ever seen, swaggering inside a plaza so big that it can easily fit Madrid's Plaza Mayor with room to spare. Everyone says that Lisbon is charming and they're right - it is the most charming city I've visited as yet. For me, the key to Lisbon's charm lives in these paradoxes: it is simultaneously crumbling and glorious, mid-crisis and flashing its peacock feathers. When I visited Lisbon I stayed in its oldest neighborhood, Alfama, where many buildings escaped the earthquake and date back to the Moors, decorated by the tiles typical of Lisbon that also originated in that era. Immediately on beginning your tour of Lisbon, these tiles alert you to the fact that you're not in just any European city. What fascinates me about Europe is the visibility of its lineage: the patchwork of novelty and innovation sewn into and around what pieces of ancient history still remain. Much of this visible history has been erased in the Americas - mercifully, architectural wonders still remain from Mexico on down. But in the US, on top of the shameful tragedy of genocide, our history is less of a patchwork and more like a concrete layer laid across your basement floor - clean, fresh, shiny, and more comfortable if you don't think about what you destroyed to get it. Don't get me wrong, we've built our own, diverse and flavorful wonders on that concrete floor, but in Europe that history, both the grand and the tragic, is out in the open: Grandma's patchwork blanket with all the rips and reworked threads of different colors that don't always match but are more beautiful for it. Lisbon's patchwork is indeed endlessly charming: intricate tiles covering timeworn buildings; lively murals spray-painted the length of narrow, ascending side-street staircases that house minuscule specialty book stores and cutting edge fashion boutiques alike; old brothels converted into trendy bars on the famous Pink Street; ancient trees reaching toward the sea from the mountaintop Castelo, where peacocks roam freely; the ostentatious Arco da Rua Augusta crowning the once-destroyed Praça do Comércio. For me, Lisbon's charm lies in its paradoxes, the way the ancient muddles with the new, the humble with the flashy, and more than anything, the way disaster is met with unwavering resolve. Earthquakes and economic quandaries bring out Lisbon's charm at its full wattage as it sews another square into that patchwork blanket and wraps you up in it.
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