Hotel History - The History of Hotels Throughout Time

The word hotel originated from the French word hotel, derived from the word hote - meaning host. The term originally referred to any building that has frequent visitors. Today, a hotel is an establishment that provides lodging, meals and other services to travellers for a fee.

The earliest record of any mention about paid lodging would be during biblical times. According to the Bible, Mary and Joseph were unable to get accommodations because "there was no room at the inn."

It was during the Roman Empire that hotels began to proliferate. These were established for the purpose of encouraging visitors to the empire.

According to the Guinness World Records, the oldest hotel that is still in operation today is the Hoshi Ryokan located in the Awazu Onsen area of Komatsu in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. It was founded and is still operated by the same family for 1,292 years. The hotel has been with the family for forty-six generations since 718. The hotel was built near a hot water spring which is believed to have miraculous healing properties. Locals still claim this to be real, up to this day. The hotel has 100 rooms and it can accommodate up to 450 guests.

In America, the first inn was recorded to have been established in 1607. In 1792, the City Hotel, the first publicly held hotel, opened in New York. The Tremont opened in Boston in 1809. It was the first modern hotel in America. The Buffalo Statler, the first business hotel in America began its operations in 1908.

Throughout the years individual tastes have changed and it was inevitable that hotels changed according to what the customers wanted. These days, customers can choose from a greater selection.

Customers can choose to stay in a luxury hotel or a budget hotel, depending on their budget or available funds. Hotels can also be classified by service type:

   1. Full Service Upscale
   2. Full Service
   3. Select Service
   4. Limited Service
   5. Extended Stay
   6. Timeshare
   7. Destination Club

For people who want some adventure, they can try out some unusual hotels like the Null Stern Hotel in Teufen, Appenzellerland, Switzerland which used to be a nuclear bunker that was transformed into a hotel. There are also cave hotels in Cappadocia, Turkey and Spain. Costa Rica has Treehouse hotels and Japan has capsule hotels where people sleep on top of each other in rectangular containers. Since it is cold for most of the year in Canada, Finland and Sweden, these countries have hotels that are made out of ice and snow. There are also underwater hotels in Sweden and Florida, USA.

The largest hotel according to the Guinness Book of World Records is the First World Hotel located in Genting Highlands, Malaysia. It has 6,118 rooms. The tallest hotel is the Rose Tower which is located in Dubai. It is 333 meters tall.

Article Source: Ezine Articles

Romantic Luxury Honeymoon Locations To Consider

There are many places you can go to have a luxury honeymoon. This is the time when you can finally go to that one place you have always wanted to go to. It is a time to spend quality and romantic time with your new husband or wife, whether it is while relaxing in the sun or going on an exotic adventure. Here are some ideas as to where you can go for your honeymoon.

One place you could go to for your honeymoon is Hawaii. Five unique islands make up Hawaii. They each have their own special features and things to do. The names of these islands are Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, and Maui. Most of the people in Hawaii live on the Oahu Island, where there are several beaches, museums, and monuments. If you want more of a quiet atmosphere, go to Kauai, Molokai, or Lanai to experience real nature and the love of the outdoors. Maui is known for their famous beaches and whale watching.

If you were thinking about leaving the country for your honeymoon, you could go to Paris, France. This is a very famous city where the Eiffel Tower is located. They have a train station that will take you anywhere you want to go, including areas in London and other parts of England. You can also take a boat cruise down the river and do a little sightseeing. There are tons of tourist attractions such as famous buildings, parks, gardens, and monuments. There is really a lot see in the city so you will not ever get bored. In addition, at the end of the night, you can head back to your luxury hotel complete with swimming pools, hot tubs, and room service, the perfect luxury honeymoon!

Your honeymoon should be perfect, so go somewhere that will truly make you happy and satisfy your expectations. With all the places you can go, it is hard to narrow it down to one location. If money permits, it might be exciting for you to take on a few different locations so you can experience different areas together. Swim in the beaches in Miami, Florida or San Francisco, California. Go on a two or three day cruise to Puerto Rico and experience a different culture. You could even go to Atlantic City, New Jersey to experience nightlife unlike anything you have ever experienced. All of these locations can give you the luxury honeymoon you have always wanted.

Article Source: Ezine Articles

Florida Luxury Vacations - How To Choose A Vacation Place

Going to Florida for a vacation or a honeymoon can be one of the most exciting things that you will ever do in your life. Nicknamed as the "sunshine state" Florida has one of the best beaches in the world. If you are one of those people who love the beach, Florida luxury vacations by the beach will definitely be best for you.

Booking Your Florida Luxury Vacations. Before booking your Florida luxury vacations, you should do a little research first. Although most of the Florida luxury vacations destinations are outstanding, there are certain places in this state that are simply perfect for you.The best ways to find these perfect places for your vacation are to, go online and launch a search. The internet can offer you a lot of valuable information when it comes to Florida luxury vacations. When searching for the best Florida luxury vacations, you need to consider the prices, the location of these resorts and your lifestyle.

Even if you have a lot of money to spare on your Florida luxury vacations, you still need to work within a certain budget bracket. Note that there are certain destinations in Florida that could cost you thousands of dollars a day so you need to define what type of luxury you can afford.

For instance, if you want lots privacy and you are prepared to pay a lot of money for it, you can go for those villas that are located in a very exclusive area. On the other hand, if you want luxury but are not prepared to spend a fortune on your accommodation, there are many five start hotels and resorts around Florida that offer their services for reasonable prices.

Furthermore, if you intend to spend a few days or weeks in Florida, it would be a good idea for you to look for a place that offers weekly or monthly rental rates.

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4 And 5 Star Luxury Resorts - How To Find Luxury For Less

Now, with the downtown of the global economy, these rooms are going unbooked. Unused. Nights sitting alone, all by their lonesome, cold and cavernous. For awhile, the hotels left them that way. Now, things are changing. Hoteliers are realizing they'd rather make some return, even if it's short, then no return on these high end accommodations. Next time you're booking your room, it doesn't hurt to inquire about upgrades. In fact, more times than not, it pays off.
Believe it or not, there are rooms above yours that are empty- and if the hotelier can make you happy, they will usually do their best to.

Also look for deals and coupons from the major hotel brands and third party management companies alike. These companies are offering outrageous nightly room rates on rooms you might not think they would offer. Check newspaper ads, internet searches and sign up for email blasts from the major players. Getting on VIP player cards in Las Vegas, for instance, gets you 'in the know.' Find markets that are strong year round- markets such as Miami Beach, Florida, New York, NY, Las Vegas, Nevada, Italy, Costa Rica and the strongest yearly market on the planet- Hawaii. Hawaii is so saturated with luxury hotels, resorts and condo hotel timeshares, there is always a deal there. Never go to the Pacific Islands without knowing your getting a great deal on a high end luxury hotel room. Realize that now is the time to seize the day.

Capitalize on the downturn- switch the tables and live like a king, even if for a day. Call that hotel you always wanted to stay at. Have your Pretty Woman moment. Research third party management companies- oftentimes these companies have very high end luxury access that they can book for less.

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Naples, Florida: Laid-Back Luxury

Although Naples may be known for its 10 miles of pristine, white sandy beaches, a more accurate description might entail endless relaxation and a sophisticated atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic vacation. Away from the kids, basking in the warm Florida sun, everything moves at a much slower pace and you simply cannot help but escape the stress of daily life when you retreat to picturesque Naples.

While you might expect a stuffy atmosphere and an off-putting level of snobbery from this region of Florida, Naples is actually quite welcoming and charming compared to its east coast counterpart. There are certainly sprawling waterfront mansions and upscale boutiques and restaurants, but the locals offset any of that upper-crust feel with a laid-back atmosphere that feeds off the abundant sunshine and swaying palm trees. Rather than flaunting their riches and success, the people here prefer to showcase their lovely tans and create an environment that is inviting to all.

To head to Naples means you are in search of something a little less family-oriented, where adult activities reign and children's attractions are scant. Although there is the Teddy Bear Museum and the Naples Zoo, this is a place for adults, and particularly couples, who want to surround themselves with the finer things in life and not have to worry about endless entertainment. A day in Naples may simply be spent strolling along 3rd Street South, window shopping or picking up a few art pieces, and then resting at a nearby café for a little people-watching. While this is perfect for a couple who wants to enjoy each other's company, it is not so great for a child who wants to be constantly amused.

Well-known for its wide selection of fine dining options, no trip to Southwest Florida is complete without a stop by some of Naples' best restaurants. If you are looking for an excellent steakhouse, Chops City Grill features some of the finest meats along with an upbeat atmosphere. Seafood lovers can rejoice at either the Bay House Restaurant, which offers not only delicious cuisine but also stunning views of Osprey Bay and the Cocohatchee Wildlife Preserve, or the Bayside Seafood Grill, where the sautéed pistachio snapper and oak-grilled mahi mahi are top-notch.

The good life is never-ending in Naples where beyond the exquisite cuisine and stellar boutique shopping lies some of the most picturesque and challenging golf courses in Florida. The two best courses, Calusa Pine Golf Course and Naples National Golf Course, are both private, so it certainly helps if you have a local friend who is a member at either one of them. However, there are also several excellent semi-private and public options to fill your itinerary, including any of the Lely courses, Tiburon at the Ritz Carlton, and the LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort.

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Hotel Rooms Scarce as Miami Prepares for Super Bowl XLI

The greatest spectacle in American sports returns to South Florida as Miami makes final preparations to host Super Bowl XLI on February 4, 2007, when the top teams in the National Football Conference (NFC) and American Football Conference (AFC) will battle for the National Football League (NFL) championship. More than 125,000 people are expected to descend upon Miami for Super Bowl XLI and - just as Super Bowl tickets are a rare commodity these days - Miami area hotel rooms have been filling up fast and many top online hotel providers are already running low on inventory.

Approximately 90,000 hotel rooms are available throughout South Florida - from Miami to West Palm Beach. However, the NFL has already reserved approximately one out of five hotel rooms in South Florida to accommodate its staff and sponsors, as well as the media, for Super Bowl XLI. In addition, many Miami hotels have imposed a 3- to 4-night minimum stay during Super Bowl XLI week (and at least one luxury hotel in Miami has imposed a seven-night minimum!). Some hotels also have doubled - and in some cases tripled - their normal room rates for guests during Super Bowl XLI week.

Location is definitely a key consideration when you research the appropriate hotel to book during your stay in Miami for Super Bowl XLI. The Super Bowl itself will take place at Dolphin Stadium (the home field of the Miami Dolphins) in Miami Gardens, which lies 16 miles Northwest of downtown Miami. Therefore, Bal Harbour, Coconut Grove, Miami Beach (including bustling South Beach), downtown Miami and other Miami area locales provide easy access to Super Bowl XLI, while offering a myriad of recreational opportunities during your stay.

Super Bowl XLI will be the ninth Super Bowl hosted in Miami since 1968 and the fourth to be played at the 75,000-seat Dolphin Stadium. Annually the country's highest-rated TV program, Super Bowl XLI will be televised by CBS. Last year's telecast was watched by more than 141 million viewers. Pre-game activities begin at Dolphin Stadium at 5:40 PM Eastern Time with Prince set to perform during the Pepsi Super Bowl XLI Halftime Show. The Super Bowl returns to South Florida in 2010.

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Escape to the Old City: St. Augustine, Florida

As the temperature climbs, the mind drifts to thoughts of relaxing days spent by the ocean - white sand between your toes, a soothing lullaby created by the gentle surf, and the tranquil azure-blue water that seems to stretch infinitely before you. The appeal of the ocean is universal and beach vacations have been a favorite of travelers for generations. As pristine beaches become harder to find, St. Augustine remains absolutely beloved by travelers for one very simple reason - here you feel a sense of renewal and peace that can't be found anywhere else.

St. Augustine was discovered in 1513 when Juan Ponce de Leon, sailing along the Atlantic coast in search of the fabled fountain of youth, came ashore somewhere in the vicinity and claimed the continent for Spain. Nicknamed "The Old City," it is the oldest continually inhabited settlement in America - that's right, it was settled before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock - and remains one of the most charming and quaint beach towns in America. In addition to its historical ties to the Spanish Empire, the town also boasts many remnants from the Flagler Era, when Henry Flagler's vision of a luxury resort community added marinas, golf courses, and luxury hotels to the landscape in the late 19th century.

Each day, the area's delightful historic district, with its cobblestone streets and its quaint cafes, bars, unique shops, and bed-and-breakfast inns, comes alive with locals and tourists setting out on foot to explore the multiple landmarks located in St. Augustine. Five you won't want to miss are:

* The Castillo De San Marcos, a national monument with an elaborate double draw-bridge entrance, has been both a mighty fort and a fearsome prison. An outstanding reminder of the power and might of the early Spanish empire in the New World, it is commonly referred to as "The Fort." The Castillo de San Marcos is entirely made of coquina, a virtually indestructible limestone comprised of seashells and coral, and took more than 23 years to complete. Since its completion in 1695, the monument has remained impenetrable to both enemy fire and violent pounding by hurricanes.

* The Casa Monica is once again a luxurious landmark hotel, blending contemporary pleasures with a legendary past. Built in 1888 and restored in 1999, the hotel offers visitors an inspired Spanish décor. Both elegant and opulent, the hotel surrounds guests with jewel-toned velvet, elaborate tapestries, and luminous chandeliers.

* Colonial Spanish Quarter, a living museum where costumed interpreters relive a time when St. Augustine was a remote outpost in the Spanish Empire, will interest both young and old. Visitors experience how families lived, how they grew and cooked their food, and how they tended their livestock in 1740 St. Augustine.

* The St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum, built in 1874 and still in use by the U.S. Coast Guard, preserves the history of the St. Augustine Light Station and its associated maritime, coastal, and social history. Those daring to climb the 219 steps to the top of the lighthouse are rewarded was a spectacular 360-degree view of downtown St. Augustine and the beach areas.

* The Fountain of Youth, where Ponce de Leon used stone markers to draw out a cross whose center marked what he believed to be its exact location. The spring still flows and, whether seeking relief from the Florida heat or the secret to eternal youth, visitors are invited to sample to cool waters. The grounds also include a village that was home to the Timucua Indians for more than 1500 years, a planetarium where visitors journey through the night sky, and pathways that visitors can stroll idly while examining the native plants and historical artifacts along the way.

In addition to the charming waterfront reflecting the glories of Imperial Spain, St. Augustine has something for every member of your family. Children will enjoy the St. Augustine Alligator Farm, the only place in the world where 23 species of crocodile can be observed. Historic tours of the Old City are available in a myriad of forms. Visitors can choose to watch the world go by from a helicopter, open trolley, or horse-drawn carriage. If you're looking for something unique, those with an interest in the paranormal can even take a ghost tour of the city's historic attractions and cemeteries in an authentic hearse.

Article Source: Ezine Articles

Luxury Villas - Compared to Hotels and Motels

Traveling would involve making a lot of decisions, like whether to travel with your family or have a romantic vacation, which place to travel and in that place the places to travel and so on. Joining this list of decisions will be an important one i.e. accommodation, where to stay. Choosing the accommodation will depend on a variety of factors like the number of people traveling, cost and amenities required etc.

Before choosing an accommodation, it is necessary to know the available options because there are varieties of options available. In this article, we will discuss briefly about one of the most famous tourist spot Florida and how to accommodate there. Let's have a look at the three types of accommodations available at Florida.

Florida Motels

Motels are nothing but motor hotels, they are designed in such a way that the front door opens directly to the parking space, so you can always have an eye on your vehicles and loading, unloading your baggage can be done with ease.

Florida motels are just like other motels, it can be the perfect accommodation for those who wish to stay just for a night or a short duration of time and are traveling with their private transport(like car, motorbikes).

They are available at low costs and provide you with decent accommodation facilities like free daily newspaper, coin operated laundries etc.

Florida Hotels

Hotels are similar to motels and also more comfortable then motels.

Florida hotels are one of the options preferred by travelers as they are located somewhere in the center of the city and are accessible to all locations. Also lodging in the hotels could mean you could use their restaurants for eating.

The hotels in Florida provide one with a lot of facilities like room service, laundry facilities, 24 hour front desk service, conference halls, renting cars at lobby and much more.

Small families or just a couple of people will find these hotel accommodations highly comfortable at affordable costs.

Florida Luxury Villas

Villas or holiday rentals are those which are available with a kitchen facility that is the basic difference between the villas and hotels.
Florida luxury villas are the luxury accommodations true to their name, they are accommodations so perfect for the vacation that some would prefer to stay and enjoy the luxuries over there.

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Condo Rentals Offer Advantages Over Hotel Rooms and Timeshares

Condo rentals offer many advantages over hotel rooms and timeshares besides the enormous cost savings. The luxury condos are available in various sleeping accommodations and it is a great way to take your family on an affordable vacation whether it is skiing in Colorado, or riding the waves in Hawaii.

There is almost 4 times as much space in a condominium as a hotel room, so there is plenty of privacy and space for the entire family to spread out. You can enjoy additional cost savings by using your fully furnished kitchen to cook your favorite cuisine.

You can sip on hot chocolate and roast marshmallows while sitting in front of your fireplace and watching the snow fall on the mountains in Colorado. For those that are thinking tropical, drink mango nectar from a pineapple while overlooking the panoramic ocean and Hawaiian sunset on your private balcony overlooking the beach.

It used to be that if you wanted to take a yearly vacation, the most popular way to do it and be guaranteed a place at your favorite vacation spot was to buy a timeshare week. Of course, that didn't take into account the total financial commitment, which was often paid throughout the year in monthly payments, the maintenance fees, the exchange fees, and the hassle of changing locations, if they were available.

Luxury hotel rooms can be expensive, especially in the most exotic places. Condo card memberships offer luxury condo rentals at top, exotic destinations for up to 75% off of retail, and many weekly condo rentals are only slightly more than a single night in a luxury hotel room! There are no gimmicks or timeshare tours involved, just a nominal lifetime membership fee.

Now, for a nominal fee, you can enjoy the luxury condo rentals in places like the Bahamas, Acapulco, Mexico, Las Vegas, Europe and many other places for as little as $249 a week, using Condo Hot Deals, if you are flexible with your vacation dates.

Because the Condo card company can buy volume reservations at thousands of resort condos, during all times of the year, they receive wholesale pricing. They pass these savings on to their Condo card members, who enjoy the most luxurious condo rentals in the top tourist destinations throughout the world. This has financial advantages over timeshares and hotel rooms that can amount to thousands of dollars in some locations and time periods.

The enjoyment that comes from the luxurious amenities of the well-appointed condos, the extra living space, and the ability to choose whatever exotic location you want, anytime you want is something that is immeasurable. Most people only dream of a mountaintop getaway or a lush tropical, beachfront condo, when they don't realize they can find condo rentals for a little over $90 a night in Hawaii and less in Colorado.

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Orlando Set To Dominate Condo Hotel Market

As one of the world's top vacation destinations, Orlando offers beautiful weather, unparalleled theme parks, incredible shopping, championship golf and close proximity to top-notch beaches.

In the hospitality field, the city has long been noted for its many hotels and timeshares. But now, it has also taken a leadership position in the condo hotel market with more properties under development than any other city in the country.

CONDO HOTELS OFFER HASSLE-FREE OWNERSHIP
Because condo hotels are a new type of vacation home ownership, it's not surprising that they're popular in Orlando, the vacation capital of the world.

These fabulously-furnished condominium suites in luxury hotels and resorts offer visitors fantastic amenities like full-service spas, state-of-the-art health clubs, resort-style pools, extravagant clubhouses, upscale restaurants and 24-hour concierge services.

Owners can use their condo hotel vacation homes when they want and place them in the hotel's rental program the rest of the time. They'll receive a share of the revenue their unit generates, typically about 50%. Because the onsite hotel management company takes care of finding guests and maintaining and operating the property, condo hotels offer hassle-free ownership.

EXPANSION OF THE HOSPITALITY SECTOR TO INCLUDE CONDO HOTELS

Greater Orlando has approximately 120,000 hotel guest rooms. While that's far more than most U.S. cities, many hotel and condo hotel developers are confident there's still room for expansion in this popular tourist and convention destination. They cite the following facts about the Orlando market as the reasons for their optimism:

· Approximately 50 million visitors come to Orlando each year, and that number is continually growing.

· Orlando is the vacation capital of the world. With new attractions continually being built, it shows no signs of relinquishing that prestigious title.

· In addition to theme parks, Orlando attracts visitors with its 200+ championship golf courses, 800+ tennis courts, numerous world-class shopping venues, and a high concentration of lakes ideal for fishing and water sports.

· Hotel occupancy rates in Orlando are historically 73%, although many properties report occupancy rates of over 83%. These rates are among the highest occupancy rates in the country.

· Orlando's average daily rate for rooms is 4% above the national average.

· The Orange County Convention Center in Orlando is the third largest in the country, enabling it to attract major trade shows and conventions and keep hotel rooms filled year-round. Over one billion delegates attend conventions at the Orange County Convention Center each year. In 2005 and 2006 Orlando was able to absorb many of the conventions and trade shows planned for the Louisiana Superdome.

· Attendance at Orlando's theme parks grows annually, and their reach extends far beyond U.S. borders. The theme parks spend millions of dollars each year on worldwide marketing and promotions. Attendance at Disney's Magic Kingdom, the area's largest theme park, is estimated at over 15 million annually.

· Orlando is strategically positioned in the center of the state, making it an easy visit from Florida cities north, south, east and west.

· Orlando International Airport is seeing annual increases in traffic of approximately 20%, making it one of the top 20 busiest airports in the U.S. and within the top 30 for the world. It is ranked #1 by JD Powers in passenger satisfaction.
Article Source: Ezine Articles

Fall In Florida - Turn Over A New Leaf And Try A Florida Vacation Rental

Most people think of Florida as a summer destination, but the fall season is also a wonderful time to visit. The weather is a bit cooler but still warm enough for a trip to the beach. Plus, fall is considered "off season," so the costs of flights go way down.

Love the charm of small-town festivals? Art, food, music, and crafts - it's an afternoon of laidback fun. Fall is festival time all over Florida. Here are some of the best:

    * Mount Dora Craft Festival
    * Key West's Fantasy Fest
    * Florida Seafood Festival
    * Old Florida Festival
    * Winter Park's Autumn Art Festival

Some of Florida's top festivals are held in small towns, where hotels aren't as plentiful as they are in big cities like Orlando. Vacation rentals are a delightful alternative. With a vacation rental, you won't miss the fancy resorts for one second.

Fall is a great time to cuddle up in front of a fire or enjoy a soak in a hot tub. Lovely vacation homes, cottages, condos, and much more are available throughout Florida; you just have to know where to look. Luckily, there are a number of vacation rental websites that have already done the looking for you. They've scouted out top quality vacation rentals across the entire state. Some of the more popular sites include: vacationrentals.com, homeaway.com, and vacationrentalhotspots.com.

If it's amusement parks your heart desires, fall is the perfect time to visit Disney, Universal, and Busch Gardens. The weather is still warm, but the lines are much shorter. You can hop on Space Mountain two or three times if you like! Plus, Busch Gardens gets in the spooky spirit of October with "Howl-O-Scream." You can even trick-or-treat with Shamu and friends at Sea World.

Also, should fall weather keep you away from the beaches, Florida has plenty of museums for indoor fun. There are science, art, aviation, and sports museums. For something out of the ordinary, visit one of Florida's two "Ripley's Believe It or Not" museums or the Potter's Wax Museum.

There's so much to do and see, and you'll want to fit all of it into your vacation budget. Florida vacation rentals in the fall are one way to stretch your dollar. It's off season for vacation rental owners, too. Many of the vacation rental search engines previously mentioned provide you with detailed information about daily, weekly, and even monthly rental rates. That way, you're able to compare prices and find the best deal available.

Article Source: Ezine Articles

Are You Thinking About Renting Or Purchasing Furnished Panama City Beach Condos

With the beautiful beaches, exciting nightlife, and plenitude of dining and shopping options, it should come as know surprise that the popularity of Panama City temporary furnished rentals continues to be on the rise. Not only do furnished Panama City Beach condos put their residents in the middle of all that the area has to offer, they also offer the convenience of being fully-furnished and ready to move into!

Panama City Beach is one of the most popular beach-going retreats in all of Florida. With a plethora of dining, shopping, and entertainment to consider, it's no wonder that so many consider temporary furnished rentals as their lodging of choice when visiting the area for a long weekend, a week, or more.

The area features amazing landscape, plentiful entertainment options, and beautiful beaches, which help to draw in many tourists and new residents. In fact, thanks to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, it is home to many water-based entertainment options...

* Sailing and Boating
* Swimming
* Windsurfing
* Parasailing
* Tubing
* Fishing
* Water-skiing

These activities are just a few of the many the Panama City Beach area has to offer. Combine this with excellent dining, sunny warmth much of the year, and a great family-friendly atmosphere, it's easy to see why Panama City Beach is one of the top destinations in Florida.

The fresh fish, the pristine beaches, and the easy access to top attractions such as restaurants and shopping opportunities are just a few of the many reasons why furnished Panama City Beach condos are such a hot commodity. Temporary furnished rentals and other real estate options in the area are so popular, in fact, that Panama has consistently ranked in the top 5 of the best places to retire by International Living Magazine for the last seven years. But regardless of your age, will offer something for everyone all year long!

Simply put, Panama City and Panama City Beach have everything a person could ask for, whether looking for a place to retire, a vacation home or a permanent place of residence in warm sunny Florida.

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Daytona Beach, Florida Luxury Vacation

Plan your next luxury vacation in the bright and sunny city of Daytona Beach, FL. "The World's Most Famous Beach" is unique for many reasons, all of which add up to the fact that you can enjoy an incredible combination of beachfront atmosphere and a tropical paradise with city life, theme parks and race car driving! There are so many things to do within and a few short miles of Daytona Beach that you easily spend a week here and never see all there is to see. For that reason, so many people purchase their second home or a Daytona Beach vacation rental in the beautiful landscape of New Smyrna, Ponce Inlet, Daytona Beach and surrounding areas and are affectionately referred to as "Snow Birds" traveling south during their home state's colder winters.

Daytona Beach Vacation: Beach and More!
The Daytona Beach shoreline is one of the most beautiful sites in and around Florida where the moon light shines off the water and the lights from the city itself light up the sky. Driving over the Dunlawton or LPGA Speedway bridge to your vacation home allows for breathtaking view of the (or possibly YOUR) beautiful waterfront homes.

The beaches In Daytona are best known for the fact that you can actually drive and park directly on the sand, which is a once in a lifetime opportunity, even for Florida natives on the other coast! Looking down the coast you can see the shore spans as far as the eye can see curving around the hotels and condos aligning the shore.

Of course, Daytona Beach is absolutely beautiful, but you're probably wondering what else there is to do in this famous city besides sun bathe and swim. Believe it or not, sun bathing and swimming are probably the two least common reasons people vacation in Daytona Beach!

Daytona Beach Vacation: Water Sports

The Watersports in Daytona are endless; Ponce Inlet, New Smyrna and Daytona Beach all have famous waves for surfing, incredible opportunities for fishing, canoeing, water skiing, kayaking, body boarding, parasailing and other exciting water sports that require no prior experience. There are plenty of places to rent jet skis or possibly even take a boat tour on the ocean!

Ocean walk Shoppes and Village

The Oceanwalk Shoppes and Village is a famous center of Daytona Beach attractions because of its family friendly atmosphere and multitude of fun things to do! They have a movie theatre, gaming arcade, great restaurants and famous Florida stores. Try the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and enjoy the themed environment and great food!

The Ponce Inlet lighthouse
The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is a famous historical lighthouse that stands alone as one of the most complete preserved lighthouses in the U.S. as well as one of the most complete. It is also famous because it is Florida's tallest lighthouse and stands tall at 175 feet!

Daytona Beach Vacation: Daytona Lagoon

Daytona Beach has it's very own water park in the heart of city at Oceanwalk Village called The Daytona Lagoon. The park includes waterslides, tube slides, a lazy river and a wave pool.

Daytona Beach Vacation: Disney World, Universal and Wet n' Wild

Only one hour a way is the world famous Disney World Theme Park, Universal Studios, City Walk and Wet n' Wild! The hour trip is a straight shot into the city and is well worth it as you can not only experience the theme parks, but also take in the great night life that City Walk and Downtown Disney in Orlando have to offer.

Daytona Beach Vacation: The Daytona International Speedway

The Daytona International Speedway brings people from all over the nation every year to enjoy the excitement of one-of-a-kind speedway racing!

Whether you decide to go in on a Daytona Beach vacation rental or purchase a Florida waterfront home in Ponce Inlet, there are never too little things to do in this versatile, beautiful and exciting city. Spend your evenings in the quiet and secluded city of Ponce Inlet, or enjoy the nightlife and excitement of Orlando or Downtown Daytona Beach. Either way, you are sure to find your own niche in this historically rich beachside community.

Article Source: Ezine Articles

Best Luxury Hotel Restaurants in America

In the past, hotel restaurants in America were merely a place to fill up after a long day of sightseeing or a late flight into the destination. Even the most luxury hotels weren't renowned for their eateries - they provided decent enough fare for hungry guests, but outside customers could rarely be tempted in and the food was certainly not a reason for making a booking.

Now, however, things have changed dramatically and they have really pushed the boat out - some of the most elegant and exclusive restaurants in America can be found within the walls of luxury hotels. Here's the lowdown on the latest hotel dining spots to be voted into the top five.

1. French Room - The Adolphus Hotel, Texas

A gorgeous grand dame of a hotel in downtown Texas, The Adolphus tops the bill with French Room for its menu but also its décor and service. The atmosphere is pure old-world romance with subtle lighting and hand-painted ceilings - and the food is an unpretentious yet fabulous fusion of French and American cuisine.

2. Fountain Restaurant - The Four Seasons Hotel, Philadelphia

The Four Seasons is an American institution and a byword for superb luxury. Here in Philadelphia, the Fountain continues to be a firm favourite in the city and beyond thanks to the classic dishes served up by chef Martin Hamann in the New French-Continental style.

3. Dining Room - Little Palm Island Resort, Florida

This romantic getaway hotel is a boat ride away from the keys, set on its own private island. Both the hotel and restaurant promise a magical setting and they don't disappoint. The food is just as exceptional; the French-Caribbean themed menu adds to the exotic vibe of the location.

4. The Inn at Little Washington, Washington

A luxurious Virginia inn, the prestige of the hotel spills over into the dining room where chef Patrick O'Connell uses only the freshest ingredients and seasonal produce for a New American menu. With its romantic décor, the experience of the out of town hideaway is complete.

5. Maestro - Ritz Carlton Tysons Corner, Virginia

This elegant restaurant has all the impeccable style you would expect from the exclusive Ritz-Carlton hotels, but with a modern twist - an open kitchen to watch the master Fabio Trabocchi at work. The wine list (put together by sommelier Vincent Feraud) is something any restaurant in Italy would be proud of, whilst the flavours and dishes bring the kind of depth and subtlety that reflects their Italian heritage to perfection.

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Florida Luxury Vacations - How To Choose A Vacation Place

Going to Florida for a vacation or a honeymoon can be one of the most exciting things that you will ever do in your life. Nicknamed as the "sunshine state" Florida has one of the best beaches in the world. If you are one of those people who love the beach, Florida luxury vacations by the beach will definitely be best for you.

Booking Your Florida Luxury Vacations. Before booking your Florida luxury vacations, you should do a little research first. Although most of the Florida luxury vacations destinations are outstanding, there are certain places in this state that are simply perfect for you.

The best ways to find these perfect places for your vacation are to, go online and launch a search. The internet can offer you a lot of valuable information when it comes to Florida luxury vacations. When searching for the best Florida luxury vacations, you need to consider the prices, the location of these resorts and your lifestyle.

Even if you have a lot of money to spare on your Florida luxury vacations, you still need to work within a certain budget bracket. Note that there are certain destinations in Florida that could cost you thousands of dollars a day so you need to define what type of luxury you can afford.

For instance, if you want lots privacy and you are prepared to pay a lot of money for it, you can go for those villas that are located in a very exclusive area. On the other hand, if you want luxury but are not prepared to spend a fortune on your accommodation, there are many five start hotels and resorts around Florida that offer their services for reasonable prices.

Furthermore, if you intend to spend a few days or weeks in Florida, it would be a good idea for you to look for a place that offers weekly or monthly rental rates.

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The Best Affordable Hotel Deals in Gainesville, Florida

If you are a looking for an accommodation that is clean and comfortable in this side of Florida, then you will not be disappointed. There are quite a number of options for you to choose from. All of them are reasonably price for value and comfort. One hotel in Gainesville is the red roof inn. You can have a nice and decent room for just $75 night. This place is probably the least expensive that you can find. Although this is the case, it garnered good reviews from its previous clients. This place was recently renovated offering clean and cheery rooms. The hotel is located near University of Florida and Shands Hospital. This place has amenities like pool and free parking. The rooms are equipped with internet and satellite television. It is perfect for family or traveler that wants decent place to stay at half the price.

Another is the super 8 found in at 4202 SW 40th Blvd. The room cost about $81 a night. If you are lucky, they even offer rooms for about $47. If you are in Gainesville for business or travel, this hotel can offer good rooms complemented by their friendly staff. In the morning, you will be treated with breakfast. This place undergoes recent renovation in lobby and landscape area. This is perfect for first time travelers because it is near attractions.

Extended StayAmerica is for people who came a long way but don't want to spend a lot of money. It has about 120 guestrooms. The rooms are filled with internet access, microwaves, refrigerators and coffee makers. Although this place is far from fancy, the rooms are well furnished. Reitz Union Hotel is situated in the University of Florida. The room costs about $119 a month which is great value. You can have the view of the whole university.

Sleep Inn & Suites is considered the best in terms of price and quality. The rooms are well furnished with staffs that are friendly. The package includes complementary breakfast. It is ideal for business travelers. With just $117 a night, another great hotel is the Comfort Inn West. Everyday rates are much lower. It is near some Gainesville attraction. Amenities include fitness room, pool, free parking and other business service. You won't find quality hotel like the comfort inn west

Try checking the websites for coupons that can provide discounts. This would surely make you enjoy your journey even more.

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The Very Best Luxury Hotels on East Coast USA From Maine to Key West

The east coast of the USA stretches for about 1800 miles from scenic Maine on the Canadian border to colorful Latino-influenced Miami, providing a host of experiences along the way. Whatever type of vacation you are looking for there are plenty of luxury hotels along this East Coast shoreline to provide it in style.

The northerly states of New England offer some of America's oldest history and the fall foliage colors are legendary. Boston has a compact historic center which can be explored by following the red line of bricks around the main sights. The Eliot Hotel, a Condé Nast Gold List contender and one of the classiest luxury hotels in Boston's elegant Back Bay district, makes a great base for discovering the city.
The Mid-Atlantic States of New Jersey and New York draw thousands of international visitors each year to see the sights of New York City. Luxury hotels in New York City can be found on every block and all are within easy walking distance of the Empire State Building, the shops of Fifth Avenue and the attractions in Central Park. The Pierre stands out above the rest - literally - as it looks down on Central Park and Museum Mile on Upper Eastside. Those wanting to cut costs but not standards should consider luxury hotels in New Jersey, just a short train ride from the Big Apple. The Robert Treat Hotel offers excellent luxury hotel accommodation in Newark's Arts District at very accommodating prices.

Further south on the US East Coast is the capital city, Washington DC with its government buildings and attractions including the White House, the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial. The Four Seasons Hotel is at the posh end of town in Georgetown and is ideal for business and leisure guests in search of centrally located luxury hotels with good amenities in the capital.

The Carolinas, Georgia and Florida are known for their sunshine and mild winters. Popular with vacationers, winter snowbirds and retirees all year round, the sandy beaches and natural wildlife are a big attraction. Families flock to Orlando's theme parks before sinking down on the beaches around Canaveral or Tampa for a quiet reprieve in the sun and surf. For those staying in Orlando, the only place of note to stay is the Westin Grand Bohemian, one of the few luxury hotels in Orlando that treats guests as proper adults and dispenses service accordingly.

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Florida Investment Property: A Revolution to Save Visitors Big Dollars

Those who travel to Florida for a holiday from the UK are wasting well earned pounds on holiday homes and hotels rooms.
The regular Florida holidaymaker should seriously consider becoming a Florida home owner and have access to their very own holiday accommodation. UK home owners tend to be cash rich from retirement and the spoils of the generous UK property market. Sensible investment in Florida property can make investing in Florida real estate very profitable. 

Buy a hotel 

Instead of paying to stay in a luxury hotel with all the facilities you would wish for, why not buy one.Florida property investors are showing the overseas property investor a new way to make this dream come true. This dream is turned unto a reality via the condo hotel concept.

About Florida property investments and the Condo Hotels concept.
Property developers and Florida property investors can both benefit from the condo hotel concept. The arrangement provides a real estate investment for owners and gives hoteliers an increasingly popular vehicle for financing hotel projects. Property investors typically purchase an apartment being built in a prestigious hotel development. These apartments or condos can be fully fitted with furniture and all the trappings of a luxury apartment. The apartments are then managed by a hotel management group who will work to fill your hotel condo. The money raised from each hotel booking forms part of your income. The management company will expect to be paid for their service however in most cases investors are set to benefit from the arrangement. This type of investment property in Florida is going to make the property desirable and where there is demand their is capital growth.

This concept makes the location essential

The very fact that property investors buy hotel accommodation means that a good location is essential. Florida is ideal because of its many attractions. State of Florida.com provides the following information: "Florida tourism is increasing - with 76.8 million visitors in 2004 (a record number), Florida is the top travel destination in the world. The tourism industry has an economic impact of $57 billion on Florida's economy" Florida is an ideal location for overseas property investors and very suitable for condo hotel opportunities. Some of the attractions the huge attractions in Orlando and central Florida include

Armchair investors get out of that seat
The condo hotel is ideal for the armchair investor. Investing in Florida busy tourists area is sure to make for a relaxing but profitable investment.

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