Experience the Old-World Charm of Biltmore Estate

Visit Biltmore Estate to tour one of America’s grandest estates, all while being immersed in the breathtaking beauty of Asheville, North Carolina.  The Biltmore experience centers around America’s largest home, a sprawling 250-room French Chateau located on 8,000 secluded acres.  George Vanderbilt created Biltmore as an escape from everyday life. Now, you are invited to explore that escape for yourself.

During my visit to Biltmore Estate, I had a day exploration before me.  My Biltmore admission included self-guided tours of the Biltmore House and Gardens and the Antler Hill Village—featuring the Winery, The Biltmore Legacy, Village Green, and Farm.   You’ll want to take an entire day to really take in all Biltmore has to offer.  Touring the Biltmore House is an intriguing look into the life of the Vanderbilt’s, who built a home for entertaining and relaxing.  The house, which takes about 1 ½ hours to tour, spans three floors and a basement.  Throughout the floors of the home you’ll see the Biltmore as it was in its prime, with displays of vintage clothing, accessories and period pieces illustrating the lives of the Vanderbilt family.  You’ll see masterpieces from China, Japan and Europe, along with original art by Pierre Auguste Renoir and John Singer Sargent and magnificent 16th century tapestries.  If that wasn’t enough to impress me, the library with 10,000 volumes, 65 fireplaces, banquet hall with 70 foot ceiling, and basement with indoor pool and bowling alley surely were.  Take a minute to stop on the back terrace and admire the view of the surround Blue Ridge Mountains before strolling the gardens of the estate. 

Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, who designed Central Park in New York City, the gardens are a serene yet enchanting escape.  Vibrant colors paint the Walled Garden, and are especially beautiful in the spring when it blooms with thousands of tulips.  The Italian Garden feature classic statues and formal water gardens, and was a nice place to relax, while the Rose Garden and Azalea Garden blossom with over 50 varieties of roses and over 15 acres of Azaleas. 

After enjoying the lush beauty of the Gardens I made my way to Antler Hill Village.  Home to dining, shopping, historic exhibits, a winery and outdoor adventure center, Antler Hill connects the estate’s present and past.  Stop in for delicious bite to eat the Bistro, serving contemporary American fare with fresh and local ingredients are highlighting dishes.  Then, take a trip to the Winery were you can sample the wines created on site at Biltmore Estate.  Live entertainment is offered on the Village Green and you can explore farm life of the early 1900s at the Farm.  If you’re looking to play in the Biltmore Estate’s magnificent backyard head to the Outdoor Adventure Center. They offer an array of activities, including river float trips, biking, fly fishing, and horseback rides.

Let the Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville inspire you as you discover all that Biltmore Estate has to offer.

Prepare to be Amazed at Illusions of Magic in Myrtle Beach

Prepare to be amazed when you see Illusions of Magic in Myrtle Beach.  The show, which is performed at the Palace Theatre, is hosted by skilled magician Dale Scott.  He has spent years honing his craft and now he wows crowds nightly with his astonishing illusions.

The fast-paced, entertaining two hour show is loaded with action, special effects and performances by amazing dancers.  Starting with human cyber-bots, floating orbs and light sabers, the show immediately astounds as Dale makes his stunning assistant Ana levitate, disappear and reappear to the glee of audience members. During one number two girls reappear in place of one, which definitely had the audience asking “How’d he do that?”  Dance numbers set to backlight backdrops and even a “Gangnam Style” dance number added to the fun on stage. 

A nostalgic look back at classic magicians Cardini and Houdini were some of the standout segments of Illusions of Magic Myrtle Beach.  Sleight of hand tricks and a metamorphosis illusion paid homage to the history of magic and magnified how, even with technological advances, some of the simplest illusions are still the best.  A jungle themed routine featuring a beautiful Bengal tiger was dramatic and engaging but you need to see the show to believe the magic performed.  Audience participation is a large part of the show, too.  One of the best audience participation moments occurred during Chop-O-Matic, where an audience member may or may not have lost his head (side note: he lived.) 

The segment showcasing the mysteries of the Orient featuring kabuki dance and thrilling sword tricks was intriguing, and added a nice cultural flavor to the Illusions of Magic show.  The show-stopping, end of the night illusion is too stunning to reveal much about but a motorcycle and NASCAR car are involved and you won’t believe what happens to them as Dale works his magic! 

A night at Illusions of Magic is family-fun.  Be ready to participate in the show, and make your cheers known.  During my visit, the louder the crowd the more stunning the illusions became. Plus, you can have your picture taken with Dasha, the Bengal tiger, for a wonderful memento of your evening. 

Blue Man Group Orlando a Festive, Laugh-Out-Loud Party for All Ages

When one vacations in Orlando, Florida feeling blue is out of the question.  The sunny skies, palm trees and laid back atmosphere simply leave no room for the blues.  The Universal Orlando Resort, however, knows a little blue is just the ticket when it comes to entertaining the masses.  Famous for their thrilling rides at Islands of Adventure and behind-the-scenes fun at Universal Studios, this Orlando theme park excels at providing quality amusement.  CityWalk, their outdoor entertainment complex featuring restaurants, clubs, movies, music, shops and dancing, also offers plenty of ways to entertain, including the Blue Man Group, who perform at the Blue Man Theater.  They provide all the blue one needs while vacationing in Orlando.

Attending a Blue Man Group show is an amazing experience for a number of reasons.  When I arrived at the massive Universal Orlando Resort complex, I quickly headed towards CityWalk and thoroughly enjoyed the sights and sounds that surrounded me.  Because CityWalk has so many things to do, I decided to take part in some pre-show festivities at the Hard Rock Café, which is located very near to the Sharp Aquos Theater.  I’ve been to several Hard Rock Cafes, and this one is definitely one of my favorites.  The rock ‘n roll memorabilia, rotating pink Cadillac and attention to good music created an atmosphere perfect for relaxing and enjoying the company of good friends. 

As my 7pm show time drew near, I made my way to the theater and easily found my seats, which were close enough to see all the action and nuances, but not close enough to have to wear a poncho.  The first couple of rows of seats require patrons to wear ponchos as things can get pretty messy, pretty quickly when paint, food and blue men are on the stage.  Before the show began, my fellow audience members and I took part in what I can only call “Mass Simon Says,” as phrases are scrolled on a digital screen and the audience is prompted to repeat them.  The hilarity ensues when the phrases become pointed at certain audience members, and moreover, signals the high amount of interactivity this show requires from guests.  Throughout every segment, I felt a part of the show as opposed to feeling likeI was watching a show. 

The energetic mix of music, comedy and multimedia theatrics during the Blue Man Group Orlando show create a unique production that leaves an undeniable impression, and yet, it also leaves you at a loss for words as to how to explain the show to others.  How do you explain how simple nuanced facial expressions can make an entire audience howl with laughter?  Or how a girl plucked from the audience to dine on stage with the Blue Men could make a simple scenario one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen?  Furthermore, how can one possibly put into words how gleefully fun it is to have rolls of toilet paper  move over your head as you get covered in mounds of tissue?  And to describe the musical elements of the show, especially the Cyber Café segment, would be bordering on the absurd, as there are simply no words to express what my eyes witnessed. 

The truly amazing thing about the Blue Man Group Show at Universal Orlando Resort is that afterwards you feel like you just watched something special.  You can’t quite put it into words, but you know you liked what you saw and even more, you can’t wipe the silly grin from your face that’s been plastered there for the past two hours. 

Tribute Artists Shine during a Night at Legends in Concert

If you’re looking for a fun and entertaining night on the town head to Legends in Concert Myrtle Beach.  The all-star show features a new line-up of tribute artists each season, performing tributes to today and yesterday’s greatest musical acts.  Plus, the show is held in a state-of-the-art yet intimate theater creating a club type atmosphere on the Grand Strand.

During my visit to Legends in Concert in Myrtle Beach Tina Turner, Johnny Cash, Rod Stewart, Adele and Elvis performed.  Tina Turner (Lori Mitchell-Gay) took the stage first and shimmied her way through sizzling hits like “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” “Simply The Best,” “Good to Me” and “Proud Mary.”  Gay embodied Tina’s signature style and dance moves and hit all of the high notes. 

Johnny Cash (Paul Eve) took the stage next and launched right into “Folsom Prison Blues.”  His voice really carried during selections like “Get Rhythm,” “Will The Circle Be Unbroken” and “I’ve Been Everywhere.”  Capturing the essence of The Man in Black in every song, the highlight of his set for me was certainly “Ring of Fire,” which also showcased the talented Legends in Concert dancers.

By this point in the show the audience was feeling lively, which made the next performer – Rod Stewart (Rob Caudill) – even more of a hit.  His vocals were spot on and his performances of “Forever Young,” and “Have I Told You Lately” were powerful.  The sex appeal was amped up during renditions of “Hot Legs” and “Do You Think I’m Sexy” got the audience on their feet, but the soulful “Maggie May” was my favorite Stewart song performance. 

The surprise of the night was Adele (J.C. Brando).  Her soaring vocals shined on Adele songs like “Skyfall,” “Rolling in the Deep,” “Set Fire to the Rain” and “Rumor Has It.”  Brando has Adele’s mannerisms and inflections down to an art.  Even her talking voice sounds convincingly like the famous singer’s. “Some Like You,” the last song of her set, stole the show for me. It was a moving rendition of a soulful song and she sold every single note.

A night at Legends in Concert Myrtle Beach SC wouldn’t be complete with Elvis (Jay Dupuis) closing the show.  The king took the stage for an energetic and entertaining tribute.  “Burnin’ Love,” “Suspicious Minds” and “Can’t Stop Loving You” were some of the standout performances.  The entire set was hand-clapping, on-your-feet fun, with Dupuis really playing up all of Elvis’ moves.  A patriotic medley ends the set with vocals shining on “America the Beautiful” and “Glory, Glory Hallelujah.” 

Legends in Concert ends the show with a song and dance medley featuring all of the performers.  Its worth noting Legends is one of the only shows in Myrtle Beach that serves alcohol.  This made for a spirited atmosphere where the entire audience seemed to be enjoying themselves. 

Stay at the Holiday Inn Oceanfront in Surfside Beach for a Laid-Back Beach Vacation

The Holiday Inn Oceanfront is located in sunny Surfside Beach, a quaint town just a short drive from Myrtle Beach.  When you stay in Surfside Beach you get a more laid-back, quiet beach vacation but still have access to all of the incredible attractions in Myrtle Beach.  Holiday Inn is one of the only oceanfront hotels in Surfside making it an ideal retreat.

You can start your day at Holiday Inn Surfside at the Shoreline Restaurant which features floor-to-ceiling views of the ocean.  A breakfast buffet is served in season while a la carte options are available year-round.  After breakfast head to the poolscape where a pristine outdoor swimming pool and hot tub provide the perfect place to splash and play.  There’s even a Tike Bar open in season serving appetizers and refreshing cocktails to make your day even more enjoyable.  Plenty of sun loungers are available too, making it easy for you to work on your tan.  Scoops Ice Cream and Café (open seasonally) serves up tasty ice cream treats, snacks and lunch specials.  Squeeze in a workout at the 24 hour fitness center or play a game of pool before you head to the peaceful beach located just steps from the pool deck.  You can end your day back at the Shoreline Restaurant which serves up a variety of dinner entrees.

The hotels rooms at Holiday Inn Surfside Beach are just as exceptional as the amenities offered.  Plush bedding, inviting décor and quality case goods create a warm, inviting place to relax after a day at the beach.  Take advantage of modern amenities such as flat screen televisions, high-speed wireless internet access, as well as the familiar comforts of home including an in-room refrigerator and coffeemaker. Personal balconies, perfect for enjoying morning sunrises or evening sunsets, were one of the highlights of my stay at Holiday Inn.  Greeting the day from the solitude of my balcony was wonderful way to wake up. 

If you’re looking for a tranquil yet exciting beach vacation stay at Holiday Inn Oceanfront Surfside Beach.

Grande Shores Ocean Resort a Unique Retreat in Myrtle Beach

Grande Shores Ocean Resort is a unique retreat in Myrtle Beach.  The oceanfront resort offers a prime beach location and the best in comfort and amenities.  From on-site restaurants to rooftop pools and quality suites, this Myrtle Beach Resort is the perfect place to stay on your vacation.

I was impressed with the array of resort amenities available to guests.  You can start your day dining on a delicious breakfast buffet at the Shore Café, then take advantage of the aquatic options including three pools, two lazy rivers, and five Hot Tubs.  One of the pools is indoors while the other is rooftop and has endless views of the coastline.   A seasonal Pool Bar and Grill makes your day in the sun even better as you can grab a quick snack and refreshing drink poolside.   Amp your cardio and strength routine at the small but efficient Fitness Center, equipped with new state-of-the-art exercise machines.  From there, hit the beach or enjoy the nicely landscaped hotel grounds outfitted with numerous sun loungers.  During the day you can keep the kids busy with Children's Activities, available June 1 through Labor Day.

Complementing the amenities at Grand Shores Resort Myrtle Beach are the exceptional accommodations that feature recent updates and a fresh, inviting appeal.  Oceanfront and ocean view units range in size with options available for whatever your vacation needs may be.  One of my favorite elements of the hotels rooms at the resort are the floor-to-ceiling windows highlighting the amazing oceanfront setting.  Spacious private balconies, many of which can be accessed from both the living room and main bedroom were also a definite bonus of my hotel room.  I also appreciated the quality of the furnishings and case goods and found the full kitchen a real convenience.  It allowed my save on food and it was easy to keep cold drinks and snacks on hand for my days at the beach.  Note that full kitchens are available in the efficiency units only, while the standard rooms have fridge, microwave and coffee pot only. 

Choose a vacation at Grande Shores Ocean Resort for a relaxing and fun beach getaway. 

Cruise into the Harbourgate Marina Club in Myrtle Beach

Tucked away in a secluded location on the Intracoastal Waterway, Harbourgate Marina Club is a choice property for boat and water lovers.  The resort features spacious suites and aquatic amenities you can’t get anywhere else in North Myrtle Beach.  Plus, reasonable rates and quality service make a stay at the Marina Club perfect for any visitor to Myrtle Beach. 

When you stay at the Harbourgate Marina Club Myrtle Beach you’ll have access to an outdoor pool and whirlpool, small fitness center waterfront restaurant and Tiki bar, and full service marina with boat slip rentals (100 slips total).  The pool area is a highlight of the Club, as it faces the Marina and has exceptional views of the waterway.  At the Marina, you can rent jet skis and even reserve deep sea fishing cruises.  Cruise over to Filet’s Steak & Seafood Restaurant and Dilligaf’s Tiki Bar.  Dine on delicious food and sip on refreshing drinks while you enjoy a scenic view of the marina and Intracoastal Waterway.  The top rated menu at Filet’s has signature steaks, fresh seafood and an all-new sushi bar for visitors to choose from to satisfy their hunger.

Harbourgate Marina Club features one, two and three bedroom suites, each with a small yet suitable living room with sofa sleeper, full kitchen and balcony overlooking the waterway.  Free internet access and a washer/dryer combo are also available in each suite.  Updates like tile in kitchen and bathrooms, new case goods, flat screen televisions and furniture added to the quality of the units.  I stayed in the one bedroom suite during my vacation and was pleased with the comfort I found.  Plus, the private balcony with views of the quaint waterway made for a great start to my day.

You can easily access the beach when you stay the Marina Club, too.  Cherry Grove beach is only five minutes away.