Monday, April 15, 2013

Make Sonesta ES Suites Your Home Away from Home in Myrtle Beach

Reviewed by Ashley of ReserveDirect.com The Sonesta ES Suites is your home away from home while on vacation in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.  The large property strives to make each and every guest feel welcomed and relaxed during their stay, which is made easy by their all-suite accommodations and family friendly amenities.

Rooms at Sonesta ES Suites Myrtle Beach are spacious and have an apartment-like layout, perfect for travelers who might be in Myrtle Beach for a longer stay.  The units are also perfect for families who want enough space to stretch out after a wonderful day at the beach, located just four miles away.  You can choose from studio, one or two-bedroom suite accommodations but each suite makes you feel right at home with pillow top beds, complimentary high-speed wireless internet and a full kitchen.   Plus, the rooms are very clean and the attention to customer satisfaction was evident throughout my entire stay.  Sonesta ES Suites is also pet-friendly so if you can’t bear to leave Fido at home this Myrtle Beach hotel is an excellent option for you.
Sonesta Suites Myrtle Beach gives guests everything they need during their stay, including a complimentary buffet breakfast to start your day.  This is a standout feature as most Myrtle Beach properties charge for their daily breakfast buffet but at Sonesta it’s free!  You can also go for a swim in their seasonal outdoor swimming pool and whirlpool, get in a quick workout at the 24-hour fitness center or play a round of basketball on their sports court.   A small 24-hour business center is equipped with computers and printers for your convenience.  Another reason families enjoy staying at Sonesta ES Suites is the large common spaces.  From a library area to courtyard seating to an expanded lobby area, there are plenty of spaces to relax in at Sonesta ES Suites.

Make Sonesta ES Suites your choice for a stay in Myrtle Beach.  You’ll be pleasantly pleased at what this all-suite property has to offer. 

Saturday, April 13, 2013

Horizon at 77th a Unique Myrtle Beach Escape

Reviewed by Ashley of ReserveDirect.com Horizon at 77th is an oceanview property providing upscale accommodations and unique amenities.  Located in a quiet yet convenient section of Myrtle Beach, a stay at Horizon at 77th is tranquil and relaxing.  

Upon arriving at the resort I found my One Bedroom Oceanview Condo to be exactly the retreat I was looking for.  The floor-to-ceiling windows provided fantastic views of the coastline, which stretches on endlessly.  The rooms, while not technically oceanfront, still provide a pristine view of the Grand Stand.  In fact, the view is more exceptional than other oceanfront rooms I’ve seen in Myrtle Beach which speaks highly of the design of Horizon at 77th.  Inside my room I was also pleased with the level of quality and comfort paid to every detail, big or small.  The décor was stylish, the kitchen featured stainless steel appliances and granite counters, flat screens televisions were available in each bedroom and the living room, and the bathrooms were large enough to give you room to breathe while you readied for the day.  The two bedroom units are outfitted with an even larger bathroom, complete with jetted tub and dual sinks, which is a nice convenience.  The two bedroom units, which are over 1,000 square feet, have a king, two queens and sleeper sofa so you’re able to sleep a lot of people in a condo at Horizon Myrtle Beach.  All of this means you get a lot of space, comfort and elegance for a price that won’t break your vacation budget.

Away from the rooms at Horizon at 77th Myrtle Beach I found a roof top pool and sundeck I fell in love with.  Its location provide breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and, let’s face it, there’s something about a rooftop pool that entices us all.  A rooftop lazy river and hot tub added to the elevated recreation area, but for those that prefer an indoor pool there is a large indoor pool to enjoy as well.  If you don’t want to miss a workout during your vacation there’s also a well-equipped fitness center, with a nice view, on-site. 
Choose to stay at Horizon at 77th for an upscale escape on the Grand Strand. 

Friday, April 12, 2013

NASCAR Racing Experience a Thrill of a Lifetime

Reviewed by Ashley of ReserveDirect.comReady to experience an adrenaline rush in Myrtle Beach?  Then head to NASCAR Racing Experience, located at the Myrtle Beach Speedway.  There are several options available at the attraction so guests can choose between a ride along and a timed driving session.  Both give you a glimpse of what a real NASCAR experience is like!

I chose the ride along experience during my visit as I didn’t have time for the full driving session.  The driving sessions – which give guests the opportunity to race for five to eight minutes – takes about three hours for drivers to prepare before they can hit the track.  During the training session a Crew Chief teaches you everything you need to know prior to driving and it includes an instructional video, safety training, and question and answer session.  If you’d like to drive a real NASCAR, some of which have been driven by Jimmie Johnson, Jeff Gordon, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Michael Waltrip, be sure to plan to spend an afternoon at the raceway.

 
Gearing up for my ride along session, I watched as cars raced by on the track and could feel the excitement hit me.  Soon enough, it was my turn.  I put on the sanctioned racing helmet and jumped into the window on the passenger side.  Yep, this is a real NASCAR car so the doors don’t open.  Once I was safely inside one of the crew members secured my five-point seatbelt, the engines revved and we were off!  Zipping along the track I could feel the power of the car as it pulled us along the banked raceway.  I’ve got to tip my hat to my driver who, although young, was certainly a pro at maneuvering the powerful car.    I could really feel the speed as we accelerated along the straightaways and my adrenaline really pumped as we hugged the inside of the track along the curves.  The trip, which lasted about 10 minutes, had me yearning to do the drive session on my next visit.  After experiencing what the inside of a NASCAR car is really like, and enjoying the speed and power they possess, I knew driving one had to be a rush!
No matter which option you pick at NASCAR Racing Experience Myrtle Beach you’re sure to have a good time.  Race to the track today to experience NASCAR at its finest.  

Avista Resort an Amenity-Filled Retreat in North Myrtle Beach

Reviewed by Ashley of ReserveDirect.com Choose Avista Resort for exemplary service, quality amenities and a quiet retreat in North Myrtle Beach.  The large resort offers everything a guest might need while on vacation. The rooms are spacious and inviting and the on-site dining options, water features and pristine oceanfront setting adds a lot of value to your stay.

At Avista Resort oceanfront and oceanview condos are available ranging in size from one to three bedrooms.  During my vacation in Myrtle Beach, I stayed in One Bedroom King Oceanview Condo and was pleased with not only the beautiful view but the level of comfort provided too.  The bedroom, which is located towards the entrance of the room, had a flat screen television and sleep-worthy bed.   A private bath situated off the bedroom was much larger than a standard hotel bath which made preparing for the day much easier.  Plus, tiled floors, a pedestal sink and a jetted tub made the bath area much nicer than a typical hotel.  For your convenience, all units at Avista Resort Myrtle Beach are equipped with full kitchens.   Stocked with basic pots and pans, kitchen utensils and plate ware, the kitchen allows you to save on eating out during your visit.  If you’re traveling as a family, it’s also nice to have a full size fridge to store snacks and drinks.   The living area, decorated in ocean blues and yellows, is outfitted with a murphy bed, sofa, café table and chairs, and flat screen television.  It’s a great place to kick your feet up at the end of a day spent at the beach.  A private balcony provides a nice space to enjoy ocean breezes and views.  Try to wake up early one morning and watch the sun rise from your balcony.  It’s worth it!
 
One can enjoy a variety of things to do at Avista Resort.  The water features, which includes outdoor options as well as indoor, total three pools, two lazy rivers, kiddy pool, and three hot tubs.  I especially enjoyed the outdoor poolscape.  Its design created a sprawling space to play, soak up some sun and splash around.  There are plenty of loungers too, so relaxing is a breeze.  A poolside grill makes grabbing bite to eat easy, and if you want to hit the beach it’s just steps away from the pool area.  You can also grab a drink at the end of the day at Treetop Lounge or have dinner at Just Off Main.  If you want to keep up with your fitness routine, the on-site gym is well equipped to help you do so.  You really can do it all at Avista Resort North Myrtle Beach. 

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Go On a Musical Journey with Good Vibrations in Myrtle Beach

Reviewed by Ashley of ReserveDirect.comGood Vibrations is an outstanding show featuring the best of music from yesterday and today.  Attendees are taken on a musical journey through the 60s, 70s and 80s, with stellar showmanship, vocals and dancing highlighted throughout the two hour production.  From the very first note of “We Built This City,” I knew I was in for an entertaining and energetic show filled with nothing but Good Vibrations.

Located at the state-of-the-art Calvin Gilmore Theater, home of The Carolina Opry, Good Vibrations does an excellent job of engaging the audience and keeping guests clapping and singing along to some of their favorite songs.  The fast-pace of the show allows entertainers to perform a variety of hit songs.  Everything from The Beach Boys to Boston to The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, ABBA and ZZ Top are showcased.  Of course resident comedian Eric Gumm shakes things up a bit and adds lots of laughs to an already stellar show.  Some of his best comedic routines included misunderstood musical lyrics, with songs by Garth Brooks, Eric Clapton and The Who getting the “Gumm treatment.”  There’s even a segment dedicated to Cheech and Chong, two characters that epitomize the good times of the 70s.  The dancers in Good Vibrations Myrtle Beach also deserve recognition – especially clogging group All That.  These gentlemen received some of the loudest applause from the audience, wowing guests with their quick moves.  The group really shined during a “Black Betty” inspired performance which combined the rock edge of the classic Ram Jam song with spirited moves and signature clogging steps.
 
So much musical entertainment is packed into the Good Vibrations show it’s hard to pick favorite selections.  However, renditions of “Rock and Roll” by Led Zeppelin, “Go You Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac, “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles, “Time of My Life” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes and “River Deep, Mountain High” by Tina Turner really stood out.  Vocalists Brad Long, Christie Templeton, Gary Brown and Kim Perry Williams proved their prowess on various songs throughout the night, while guitarist Gary Baker dazzled on lead guitar, especially during a performance of Jimi Hendrix’s Star Spangled Banner. 
Good Vibrations is a show filled with incredible talent, endless energy and amazing performances.  Treat yourself to an evening of nostalgic melodies in Myrtle Beach – you won’t be disappointed!    

Friday, March 15, 2013

Families Love LEGOLAND Florida

Reviewed by Ashley of ReserveDirect.comGeared towards children 12 and under, LEGOLAND Florida is an Orlando attraction where families can visit to build memories and enjoy a day of LEGO-filled fun.  From the moment you arrive at the park you are immersed in a world of giant and colorful LEGO creations.  From interactive shows to engaging attractions, the park is a wonderland of imagination kids absolutely love.

One of the highlights of LEGOLAND Theme Park is the fantastic show “Battle for Brickbeard’s Bounty” at Pirate’s Cove Ski Stadium.  Hosted at 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 3:30pm and 5:00pm, the show is a water-ski live-action performance during which guests are asked to help defeat Captain Brickbeard and his pirate gang.  Around 20 minutes in length, the Pirate’s Cove Ski Show keeps the attention of little ones.  If you sit in the first row you can also use water cannons to shoot at the pirate gang, so try and grab a seat early if you can.  Stay after the show to get your photo taken with one of the LEGO imperial guards, too! 
 
After the Pirate Show, I suggest quickly touring through the botanical gardens LEGOLAND preserved from its predecessor – Cypress Gardens .  A sprawling banyan tree over 70 years old, a tranquil gazebo and lush, vibrant plants and flowers create a horticultural masterpiece worth your time.   It’s also a nice place to take a rest with kids if they start to tire or get fussy. 
There’s a lot to see at LEGOLAND Orlando, what with the numerous displays built entirely of LEGOS and the exciting attractions built just for kids.    Plus, there are even LEGO factories where you can design your own LEGO creation.  Attractions at LEGOLAND put kids in the driver’s seat – literally.  One of the most popular attractions is the Ford Driving School at LEGO City, where kids earn an official LEGO license after they maneuver through the test track.  Kids can also get their flying and boating license at LEGO City.
With ten different lands to explore, LEGOLAND brings to life not only scenes from across these United States but also faraway lands.  Two of the most popular lands include LEGO Kingdoms and Land of Adventure.    At LEGO Kingdoms, kids grin ear to ear while they ride the Dragon Coaster and Royal Joust.  The smiles get even bigger at Land of Adventure where kids can go on a Safari Trek or brave the Egyptian desert during a Lost Kingdom Adventure.  Of course, no trip to LEGOLAND Orlando is complete without a trip to Imagination Station.  Build, test, explore and create while you let your imagination run wild!  Don’t miss the Factory Tour at Fun Town, either, as you can see how LEGO’s are made – a must for any LEGO enthusiast!
A day at LEGOLAND is pure entertainment for those young and young at heart.  Visit the Orlando theme park today to build memories with your family. 

Monday, March 4, 2013

Star Island Resort a Spectacular Orlando Vacation Destination

Reviewed by Ashley of ReserveDirect.comIf you’re looking for a unique vacation experience that puts you just minutes from Orlando attractions yet encompasses you in an amenity-filled resort, choose Star Island Resort and Club.  A Mediterranean design, along with spacious villas and a private setting create one of the best places to stay in Orlando.  The prices at Star Island Resort are also appealingly affordable too.

Upon arriving at Star Island Resort Orlando you immediately know you’re in for a treat.  A private, palm-tree lined drive leads you to the registration and club house building – a place you’ll want to spend a lot of time while you stay at the resort.  The Club House is home to the full service Celebrity Spa, the Star Island Hair Salon, a massive and well equipped fitness center and Chillie Hillie’s gift shop and snack shop (open from 8am-9pm).  Of course, the star of the club house is the pool deck which is one of the finest in Orlando.  Featuring two expansive outdoor pools, indoor/outdoor whirlpools and a kids splash fountains as well as plenty of lounge space, it’s easy to soak up some Florida sun and enjoy your vacation time while staying at Star Island Resort.  The poolside snack bar, which opens at 11am, was a convenient amenity that made my day at the pool even better.  An upstairs bar – The Star Bar – opens at 4pm daily and is a fantastic place to take in the vistas of the resort. 
 
During my visit, I also enjoyed the numerous activities available at the resort.  Nine tennis courts, a large game room, golf driving range and putting green, child’s playground, miniature golf course, nature trail and walking paths, basketball and volleyball court provided plenty of things to do.  Star Island Resort Kissimmee also offers water activities on beautiful Lake Cecile.  Wave runners, paddle boats, kayaks and fishing boats and pole rentals are all at your ready when you stay at this full-service resort.  Supervised children’s activities like noodle races, hula hoop contests and arts and crafts are also scheduled daily.  The location of the resort, which is only four miles from Disney World, is certainly a bonus as well.
The spacious, luxurious villas at Star Island impressed me from the minute I walked into my room.  Every detail, from décor to comfort, was covered.  Villa options range from mini-suites to three bedroom deluxe villas and each villa has a private patio or balcony with fan perfect for enjoying those balmy Orlando days.  Units surround the pool and wrap around the resorts beautiful, landscaped grounds with ponds and water features, creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere.  All villas except the Mini-Suites are equipped with a full kitchen and dining area, washer/dryer, queen sofa sleeper and flat screen televisions.  (Note: The Mini-Suites do feature a kitchenette).  Designed for the ultimate in comfort, the furnishings were light in color and modern in concept and the spaciousness of each unit was an added bonus.  The luxury suites at Star Island have just what you need for to enjoy a vacation in Orlando.