Those looking for a summer vacation don\'t need to take time away from work, or even travel for more than an hour to have fun and achieve full relaxation. Travel expert Jean Newman Glock, director, global relations for Connoisseur Travel, says there are some great destinations close by. \"This is a region of world-class spas, wine and family opportunities,\" she says. So the next time you get the itch to travel, forego the plane tickets and venture in your own backyard.
The Homestead Built in 1766, The Homestead is a historic, southern resort that has hosted 22 presidents. According to Glock, the Hot Springs, Va. destination just completed a $25 million transformation, which includes a Canyon Ranch spa and a two-acre Allegheny Springs water park. "Parents won't mind spending a whole day at the water park and kids get a little bit of history," Glock says. (Courtesy The Homestead)
Courtesy The Homestead
The Four Seasons, Baltimore For those headed a new miles north, Glock recommends staying for a night or two at the Four Seasons Hotel in Baltimore. "People don't realize what a new addition this is," says Glock, highlighting the hotel's spa services and central harbor location. "It makes Baltimore a destination." (Courtesy Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore)
Courtesy Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore
Winterthur For the history buffs, Glock recommends a visit to Winterthur in Wilmington, Del. Founded by Henry Francis du Pont, Winterthur offers an impressive American decorative arts collection, as well as a garden set in 1,000 acres. (Courtesy, Winterthur Museum, photo by Laszlo Bodo)
Courtesy, Winterthur Museum, photo by Laszlo Bodo
Doukenie Glock says one of the best local trips is to Virginia's wineries.
"Virginia is home to (around) 200 wineries and most of them are in the Shenandoah Valley," she explains. Glock says Doukenie, located in Purcellville, Va., is a great boutique winery to visit because of the events it offers, such as "A Taste of Science."
Glock explains the program walks participants through the science behind making wine and explains why Virginia's landscape and climate work well for producing wine.
Additionally, many Virginia wineries are close to bed and breakfasts and inns, which offer a unique experience at affordable rates. (Courtesy Ken Garrett)
Courtesy Ken Garrett
Mandarin Oriental, D.C. Just need to get out of the house and embrace the vacation mindset? Glock says to pack your bags and head to the Mandarin Oriental in Southwest, D.C. "It's a hidden retreat in the center of the city," says Glock, who adds that the hotel's spa is the best in the area. (Courtesy Mandarin Oriental, Washington D.C.)
