Hotel Patrol

Rumi means “stones” and Punku means “door” which is exactly what you will see at the threshold to this hotel. This Inca doorway is considered a Historic Monument of the City of Cusco and it was once the entrance to a very sacred place. Feel the energy of this ancient civilization as you enter the building.

When I showed photos of this area to my friends, I had them try and guess the location. The answers ranged from Switzerland to Fiji to California – that's how incredibly beautiful this island is on the Adriatic. It is part of the Elaphiti Islands and only one hour away by boat from Dubrovnik.

What’s green, near music and loves your pets? The answer is – the Hutton Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee. It’s a charming boutique hotel located about 15 minutes from the airport in the West End/Midtown Area. They have a car that can transport you to downtown and you are about 15 minutes away from Music Row. You are also a quick and cheap cab ride away from just about anywhere. The Hutton has been named Nashville’s greenest hotel and I know we as Boomers have become very conscious of this. They have dual flush commodes, a recycling program and bamboo furnishings and flooring.

Accommodations come in all varieties and I promised to cover as many options as I can – Yurts in Turkey were on the list, so let's go!

Huzur Vadisi is a Yoga Retreat situated on the coast of Turkey referred to as the Turquoise coast. By definition, “a yurt is a portable tent dwelling structure traditionally used by nomads in the steppes of Central Asia.”

Here at Huzur Vadisi, the yurts come equipped with either twin or double beds, electricity, wooden floors and bedside lights for reading. The roof is open to the sky and referred to as the “eye of heaven” so as you fall asleep, you are gazing at the stars.

Where can you mingle with Tunis Sheep, bird watch right out of your window and walk through 50 acres of woods? How about the middle of Amish country in Millersburg, Ohio? I’m talking about the Inn at Honey Run. This is an adults-only property located somewhat in the middle of the state between Cleveland and Columbus. There are 40 guestrooms with a two person maximum per room.

So I'm guessing you've been to New York on numerous occasions and have stayed in various hotels around the City, and you know there are many surprises here. In case you haven't had the pleasure, let me tell you about a BandB in the City. The owners refer to it as an “Urban BandB.” As you traipse around the concrete jungle, wouldn't it be nice to come “home” to a library stocked with wonderful books, great art and a piano, not to mention a house cat? If not, stop reading. If so, this is a great find with lots of charm and character. The rooms are themed and some can feel kitschy, but it will be an experience like no other you've had with a stay in New York, unless you are lucky enough to have a friend with an apartment and lots of extra room.

I have always loved glamour, luxury and castles. I am a true romantic and do believe that all of us, if just once in our life should stay and dine at a castle. Even if you could just dine here that would make me happy for you! You can tell by the photos that this is a must while in Scotland.

Susie was pleased to find an inn in the United Kingdom that really speaks to dogs and their human companions. On the web site of the Joiner’s Arms one of the main menu items is “Man’s Best Friend.”

Generally, I write about hotels that stand still, however, this time, you get to take your hotel with you! If you can drive a car, you can captain a boat on a canal. After a short demonstration and briefing, you get the keys to your own floating Villa. You don’t ever have to worry about getting seasick, because these boats are so stable, you won’t spill your morning coffee. 

Raise your hand if you love, wine, great food and truffles. Well, then this is the place for you. Le Moulin du Roc is a unique property overlooking the Dronne River in the Perigord region of southwest France. It is just northwest of Bordeaux between the Loire Valley and the Pyrenees – go ahead and look it up on Google maps – we have a link to the maps at the bottom of the homepage. This area is well known for its truffles – in fact, there is even a Truffle Museum, so you really must check it out.

Susie has visited, heard from and covered a wide-range of pet friendly properties, restaurants and places. She has noted the places that are pet-friendly as well as the places that are pet-centric and human friendly, and she thought she had seen it all – until now.

A handsome border collie in the UK told Susie about another great place in the countryside of Worchestershire where both humans and canines can unwind and relax their frazzled nerves from the hectic life of modern times. Take a step back in time by spending some slow time in Long Cover Cottage in rural England.

If you want a great Florida get-away for you and your dog at a reasonable price, check out the Low-Key Hideaway at Cedar Key, Florida. Cedar Key is an island off the west coast of the Florida peninsula on the Gulf of Mexico. Cedar Key is 57 miles southwest of Gainesville and 143 miles north of Clearwater and Tampa.

Looking for a luxurious country retreat in the English countryside? The Lower Fifehead Farm is a deluxe bed and breakfast that fills the bill. Located in the south of England in Dorset and close to the town of Sturminster Newton the property is just about 50 miles west of Southampton via A31. 

Vietnam evokes many thoughts and memories for the Baby Boomers. I remember watching the draft lottery with my college classmates knowing that a lot of my male friends would not make it home. I was so passionate about this war that I wanted to cover it as a news correspondent since I majored in Radio and Television, but it was the 60's and I was told, “no place for a woman to be.” This was a pivotal moment for our generation and somehow, time heals, seasons change and life perseveres. I never dreamed I would be writing a review of a tranquil Lodge 150 km northwest of Hanoi.

Mai Chau Lodge offers the peace and serenity we never thought was possible.

It's always great fun to tell you about these hidden treasures that I find in various locations. This one happens to be in sunny Florida – Ft. Myers to be exact. I find the gulf side to be more serene and I am partial to white sand.

I am also partial to great hospitality and that's exactly what you'll find at the Mango Street Inn. Here you arrive as a guest, but leave as a friend and let's face it, as Boomers, these types of experiences sometimes mean more than fancy amenities.

Located in the Paradise Valley section of Scottsdale, Arizona on 125 acres is the spectacular Camelback Inn surrounded by cacti and desert flowers with terrific views of the Camelback and Mummy Mountains.

I love to tell you about hidden little gems around the world and Mary's Boon is one of the pearls. Located in the Dutch West Indies in the town of St. Maarten, this is a family owned and operated establishment since 1970. And yes, the same family still owns and runs it today. There are 37 rooms that sit directly on the beach on Simpson Bay. Is it 5 minutes from the airport – yes. Can you almost feel the airplanes – yes. However, the airport is closed at night, so if you have enough cocktails during the day as you sit on the beach, you'll never know the difference! This beach is so pristine and private that you will gladly put up with the noise during the day. If that would be an issue, just be forewarned.

So why am I telling you about a place in Florida that's not on the beach? Because it's really cool and is located in the “best walking town” in America according to “Walking Magazine.” Dunedin sounds like it should be in Scotland, but it is about 45 minutes from the Tampa Airport and believe me, you'll be pleasantly surprised at what this area has to offer.

When you pull up to the Moonrise Hotel, you have the feeling that you just arrived in Miami’s South Beach, well, except for the beach part. There’s an art deco/neon sign kind of vibe – very funky and cool and very George Jetson! This is such a find in St. Louis that it’s worth a trip to this city even if you have no reason to be there. Now, there’s plenty to see in St. Louis, so I’m sure you will want to visit anyway.

In the past year, I’ve written many articles and hotel reviews and thought I’d share my top 10 choices for summer fun. In case you’ve missed reading some, here is your chance to find that special spot before summer makes it’s exit.