travel
Oceanfront Inn Virginia Beach, VA
Pg 2 Pg 3 Pg 3-4 Pg 5-7 Pg 8-9 Pg 9 Pg 10 Pg 11-12
Virginia Tennessee Maryland South Carolina West Virginia Pennsylvania Florida North Carolina
The Oceanfront Inn is an oceanfront hotel, with an ideal location to relax and enjoy all Virginia Beach, VA offers, from nearby seasonal events to delicious dining outlets, unique shops and attractions like the everpopular Virginia Aquarium, The Adventure Park and Military Aviation Museum. Located right on the beach in the heart of the oceanfront resort area, The Oceanfront Inn offers comfortable oceanfront rooms including a refrigerator, coffeemaker, in-room safe, flat screen television, hairdryer and iron with ironing board. Every room offers a private balcony, which overlooks the boardwalk, expansive beach and the glistening Atlantic Ocean. Hotel features include a heated indoor pool, casual oceanfront dining, complimentary WiFi throughout hotel and fitness privileges at our local gym. Discounted tickets to choice attractions are available from our friendly front office staff. Special Winter and Holiday
offers include Whale Watching, Beach Holiday Escape, Winter Value Getaway and Virginia is for Lovers Package. Visit our website or call for details. The Oceanfront Inn 2901 Atlantic Avenue Virginia Beach, VA 23451 888-826-2326 www.oceanfrontinn.com ¤
Your Virginia Beach Vacation Rental Awaits GuestQuest Traveler Vacation Guide takes you on a guided tour to various vacation locations. We feature information about accommodations, attractions and activities in many travel and vacation destinations.Providing you with article coverage on our advertisers, their amenities and services will assist you in making the right decision on choosing your accommodations, recreation, entertainment and more. Please visit our web site www.GuestQuest. com for additional advertiser information and links to their web sites. Distributed three times a year, Spring, Summer and Winter, with separate editions to Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Illinois/ Indiana, North Carolina, Georgia/ Alabama, Tennessee/Kentucky and Virginia/Washington D.C.. Serving our advertisers and readers since 1984. For advertising information, questions or comments, call 1-800-644-8460. P. O. Box 33547, Cleveland, OH 44133. The accuracy of the information contained in these listings is the responsibility of each individual advertiser. Every effort has been made to offer upto-date information. Reproduction of editorial or graphic content in any manner without written consent of the editor is prohibited. 2
Perfectly situated along the southern part of Virginia Beach, Sandbridge Beach is a family’s premier vacation destination. Sandbridge is nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Back Bay Reserve, giving guest the unique opportunity to have multiple waterfront experiences. Often referred to as the “Outer Banks of Virginia,” Sandbridge offers a secluded coastal retreat with five miles of expansive, beautiful beach. The area is located just 20 minutes south of the Virginia Beach boardwalk. Close to all the major local attractions and restaurants; but without the hotel and crowds, allowing guests to experience the serenity of staying at their own beach
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home. Whether you’re looking for a magnificent multi-level beach mansion, an intimate cottage or a condo with an impressive list of amenities, Siebert Realty can accommodate your rental needs. The Siebert Realty website provides multiple ways to find and book your vacation home; along a variety of payment options. Browse the rentals, search by your preferred amenities, explore floor plans and photo galleries and get excited for your dream beach vacation at Sandbridge Beach! Discover more at www.siebert-realty.com. Siebert Realty (757) 426-6200 ¤
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ WINTER 2019
tennessee / maryland
TENNESSEE
Morristown, Tennessee. Your Next Destination.
Located between Cherokee and Douglas Lakes, and just a short drive from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Morristown is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Boating, fishing, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and disc golf are just a few of the outdoor activities that beckon. A true jewel in the Tennessee State Park system, Panther Creek State Park has something for everyone. Boasting 17 different hiking trails that cover more than 30 miles of terrain at all levels of difficulty, hikers won’t be able to get enough. They can enjoy magnificent views of Cherokee Lake and the Cumberland Mountains from Point Lookout Trail, which reaches 1,460 feet above sea level. There are also more than 15 miles of mountain biking trails, as well as horse trails, camping sites, picnic pavilions, a boat ramp, an 18-hole disc golf course and a swimming pool for everyone to enjoy. Panther Creek hosts several mountain bike races, the Panther Creek Xterra Triathlon, and a multitude of special events and activities throughout the year. Beautiful Cherokee Lake, a
fisherman’s haven, was recently ranked No. 12 on BASSMASTERS’ list of 100 Best Bass Lakes in the United States. As one of the premier bass fishing lakes in the region, several highly successful angling tournaments are held on the lake annually. Cherokee’s 400 miles of shoreline is dotted with a variety of public access areas, county and municipal parks, commercial boat docks, Panther Creek State Park, and a state wildlife management area. And, with a temperate climate, anglers can enjoy fishing nearly every day of the year. How serious does Morristown take disc golf? The city boasts five championship disc golf courses at four different venues, which has made it the premier destination in Tennessee for competitors of all skill levels. Morristown hosts the annual Tennessee State Disc Golf Championships, a United States Disc Golf Association qualifying tournament each June. All courses are free to play and open during each park’s posted hours. After you’ve hiked, biked, fished,
or golfed, be sure to head downtown to visit one of the many unique shops or restaurants found in Morristown’s historic district. Anchoring the south end of the district is the Downtown Green and farmers market pavilion, the site of the free Downtown Green Music Series held on the third Thursday in the months of April through September. At the north end of the district you’ll find the historic
Rose Center for the Arts. The restored Victorian schoolhouse is the cultural arts hub of the area and hosts a wide variety of concerts, art exhibits, classes, and theatrical performances. It’s also the location of the annual Mountain Makins Festival, one of the Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20 events and a two-time winner of the Southeast Festival & Events Association’s Best Festival award.
If you’re looking for a quick get-away for some outdoor adventure, fun on the water, or a stroll through a quaint downtown then make Morristown your next destination. Visit Morristown TN 423-586-6382 www.visitmorristowntn.com
fought brother in the cornfields around Sharpsburg, a battle that afterwards turned whole towns into makeshift hospitals. Armies clad in blue and gray skirmished through Maryland’s countryside on their way to an epic battle at Gettysburg. A wounded assassin escaped Washington, D.C. into the Southern Maryland countryside in search of a doctor named Mudd. The Civil War soldiers, spies and
villains didn’t have signposts to point the way, but today’s visitors can follow colorful bugle “trailblazer” signs of Maryland’s Civil War Trails. The bugles lead to waysides where interpretive markers tell both military and anecdotal accounts of war and its effects on the people of Maryland. Find information by logging on to www.visitmaryland.org. This article courtesy of Maryland Office of Tourism. 1-866-639-3526 €
tourism@morristownchamber.com
MARYLAND
Maryland ~ You’ve come to the right place! Maryland offers a wealth of possibilities, depending on your interests. Here are just a few… Isn’t It Romantic? The answer is yes, no matter where you go. Snuggle up in front of a roaring fire in your mountain cabin, or wake to the sound of seagulls after spending the night in a romantic retreat at Maryland’s beach resort, Ocean City. Pack a perfect picnic and set out for the beautiful views provided by green
pastures or cloud-topped mountains, or hop aboard a historic sailboat and enjoy a sunset cruise for two. Go Outside and Play. How many times did your parents tell you to “go outside and play?” Here in Maryland, we also urge you to get outdoors to experience some of Maryland’s natural wonders. Step into a sea kayak and paddle through the marsh grasses of the lower Chesapeake Bay. Hop on a mountain bike and
pedal through pristine forest trails in Western Maryland. Cast a line for blue marlin, brook trout, smallmouth bass or striped bass (known as “rockfish” to the locals) in bodies of water all around the state. Pitch a tent, climb a rock, hunt for fossils or prowl for owls on a night hike. We promise great adventures in our great outdoors. Retreat to a bygone era on Maryland’s Civil War Trails. Brother
Discover Caroline County, Maryland! Nestled on the Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay, less than two hours from Baltimore, Philadelphia and Washington, DC, Caroline County is a refreshingly unhurried destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will relish our rolling landscapes and the meandering Choptank River outlined by fields and forests. You can do your own thing or contact one of our outfitters or guides. Two State Parks offer rustic accommodations and activities. You can visit farms, vineyards, flower fields, pick-yourVIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ WINTER 2019
own harvesting, and friendly people! History buffs can travel the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway and walk in Tubman’s footsteps. Car lovers will find the annual Soapbox Derby Regional, Tour the Shore Road Rally, the Ridgely Car Show, and Friday night cruise-ins. Creative folks can explore artists’ studios, galleries or take a class. Enjoy dining and entertainment in one of Caroline’s small towns. Wake up to birdsong and realize you belong here! Caroline County, Maryland www.visitcaroline.org ¤
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maryland
You’re Going to LOVE Kent County, Maryland
St. Mary’s County, Maryland
Have you ever visited a place where you immediately felt welcome and knew that you would come back again? Kent County, Maryland is just that place. This scenic peninsula kisses the shorelines of the Chesapeake Bay and the historic Chester and Sassafras Rivers. Kent was bestowed with the honor of being designated as part of Maryland’s first National Scenic Byway, “Chesapeake Country.” Whether you are driving or cycling, you will discover calming landscapes, rolling farmland,
Welcome to St. Mary’s County where boundless adventure awaits! Outdoor adventure, history, food, culture and everything in between await you. Explore our history, technology, and everything in between. We invite you to explore our County, where history is constantly in the making. Travel back to 1634, a time of adventure, when the first English settlers came to our shores to start a new life. Explore the
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dramatic sunsets, scenic beauty, nature and rich heritage. Kent County invites you to experience Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Betterton and Millington. Whether you are happiest exploring historic architecture, enjoying visual and performing arts, feasting on a burger or local seafood, shopping along red-brick sidewalks, hiking a trail at Eastern Neck NWR, taking a public sail or cruise, fishing or kayaking, there is so much to see and do in this charming destination. ¤
technological marvels and unique exhibits at the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum, celebrating over 70 years of naval air research and American military history. From history and culture to outdoor activities ranging from hiking, biking, or water related activities; St. Mary’s County is the place for you. Come enjoy the breathtaking views and the many activities and events that keep us busy year-round. Enjoy the local opportunities that the county provides from shops, food, wineries, and distilleries that provide an enjoyable experience for everyone. Find Inspiration, adventure, and excitement where the Potomac and the Chesapeake meet. Whether you’ve come to explore the past, savor the beauty of the moment, or imagine the possibilities of the future, you’ll find that you are always welcome in St. Mary’s County. Check out St. Mary’s entire line-up of 2019 and 2020 events and find info on historic sites and attractions, plus dining, shopping, lodging, and more at www.VisitStMarysMD.com ¤
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VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ WINTER 2019
south carolina
SOUTH CAROLINA
Sun, Surf, Sand and South Carolina Tempt Travelers A mix of easy public access, private retreats and natural preserves highlights the 200 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline that South Carolina calls its own. For generations, beach trips to millions of Americans and Canadians has meant an easy drive to Myrtle Beach and later, Hilton Head, while expanded air travel has added more international travelers in recent years. Reliable, decent weather year-round and a burgeoning menu of attractions and amenities continue to drive that growth in popularity. Starting from the north, Myrtle Beach anchors the 60-mile crescent
of shoreline known as the Grand Strand. Characterized by long, sweeping stretches of sand and surf, the Strand offers both bustling and less-boisterous choices for plopping that plastic chaise lounge and propping the umbrella. In Myrtle Beach proper, hotels old and new, restaurants and shops line the beach, with public access points interspersed. Then there are the quiet ocean-side beach communities such as Cherry Grove, Atlantic Beach (considered perhaps the nation’s first predominantly African American beach town), Garden City and “elegantly shabby” Pawleys Island.
Each offers varying degrees of public beach access and wide choices of hotel, cottage and condo rentals, as well as package deals with many of the more than 100 golf courses on the Strand. Cozy Myrtle Beach and expansive Huntington Beach state parks also offer beach access, camping, environmental education programs and more. Much of the coast is protected wildlife refuges until the Charleston area, itself a world-class destination for lovers of history and architecture but also home to popular beach destinations such as Wild Dunes Resort and the Isle of Palms to the
north of town and Folly Beach and its popular public beach just to the south. Next up going south is storied Edisto Island. Live oaks draped with Spanish moss overhang the narrow highway across the big island to Edisto Beach, long beloved for its great shelling. The park also has a robust environmental education center, camping and cabins. Then there’s the Beaufort area. The big park has four miles of beach, cabins and thousands of acres of maritime forest and marsh for exploring. It even has a historic, 100foot lighthouse.
At the south end of South Carolina’s coast is Hilton Head, a golf and tennis haven. Hilton Head is world famous for its plantation resorts, which combine beachfront dining, pools and cabanas with tennis, a range of accommodations and public and private golf. There are literally thousands of hotel rooms, condos, campsites and other accommodations along the South Carolina coast, as well as a myriad of dining, entertainment and educational options to help spice up the trip. -Marc Rapport
Thomas Beach Vacations Offers Spacious Myrtle Beach Vacation Rentals in SC Thomas Beach Vacations: Make it Memorable – When is the last time you took a real family beach vacation—the kind that results in sunburned noses, ice cream in the middle of the day, and evenings watching fireworks over the sea? The ultimate result is lifelong memories and photos viewed over and over for generations.
Thomas Beach Vacations of North Myrtle Beach, S.C. wants to exceed your expectations in service and quality accommodations and make those special escapes with family and friends extraordinary. Our large selection of properties—oceanfront homes, villas and condominiums—is sure to put the perfect rental at your fingertips.
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ WINTER 2019
Whatever the size of your group, select from one to eight bedrooms with amenities such as private pools, lazy rivers, spas, workout rooms, game and theater rooms, hot tubs, and grills. Many of the rentals are within walking distance of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. Wait, Fido is a part of the
family vacation, too. No worries, we also have pet-friendly rentals. The toughest part will be deciding where to stay—waterway or marsh view, golf course villa or oceanfront and steps from that beautiful sand and Atlantic Ocean. Thomas Beach Vacations has been in business since 1962, many of our guests return
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year after year and are a part of the Thomas family. We look forward to welcoming you at Thomas Beach Vacations and turning your vacation into a lifetime of wonderful memories and traditions. Be sure to book your next vacation now with Thomas Beach Vacations at NMBVacations.com. ¤
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south carolina
South Carolina’s Hammock Coast – Vacation Destination with Southern Charm
Where is South Carolina’s Hammock Coast? Well, take a peek at the coastal area between Myrtle Beach and Charleston. For generations, Georgetown County, known as South Carolina’s Hammock Coast, has quietly given beach lovers, golfers, families, outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs a vacation destination infused with Southern charm and natural beauty. The Hammock Coast is made up of the beach communities of Pawleys Island, Litchfield Beach, Murrells Inlet and Garden City and the historic cities of Georgetown and Andrews. Each area has its own distinct personality, but when combined as the Hammock Coast, they all form a unique attraction that has drawn visitors for years. You won’t have trouble claiming your spot on our beaches. Garden City, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield and Pawleys Island all have spacious beaches and pristine salt marshes for soaking up the sun, exploring or catching some fish and blue crabs for dinner. Pawleys Island is, in fact, the
oldest seaside resort in America and continues to be a great place to enjoy a quiet, laid-back vacation. As the birthplace of the rope hammock, relaxation has a long history here. The actual island has no commercial development; however, just over the short causeway, there are first-class restaurants and boutique shopping for when (if!) you want a break from relaxing on the beach or the porch. But Pawleys isn’t the only place for dining, as Murrells Inlet is proudly known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” Originally a fishing village on a protected inlet, the community boasts some of the best seafood in the entire South! The Murrells Inlet Marshwalk is a half-mile-long boardwalk on the banks of the Inlet, allowing visitors to truly experience the salt-marsh ecosystem along with restaurants, shops, parasailing, jet skiing and fishing excursions. Just off the Marshwalk is a small island that’s not home to vacationers, but, rather, a host of goats. The four-legged critters have lived on the island for
years and delight visitors who watch from the Marshwalk and the string of restaurants overlooking the water. Between the business districts of Murrells Inlet and Litchfield Beach are two of the Hammock Coast’s most famous locations – Brookgreen Gardens and Huntington Beach State Park. Recognized as one of the top birding spots in North America, the state park offers camping and access to a pristine undeveloped beach. Just across U.S. Highway 17 (also known as Ocean Highway) is Brookgreen Gardens. Since 1932, Brookgreen, a 9,127acre botanical and sculpture garden, has drawn visitors from around the world. It boasts one of the most significant collection of figurative sculptures in a beautiful outdoor setting and the only accredited zoo on the South Carolina coast. There are more than 2,000 sculptures from more than 425 artists on display. Brookgreen’s “Live Oak Allée” is comprised of 250-year-old live oak trees that were planted in the early 1700s when today’s Brookgreen Gardens was four thriving rice plantations. Interestingly, both Huntington Beach State Park and Brookgreen Gardens would not
exist without the philanthropic and foresight of Archer Milton Huntington and his wife, Anna Hyatt Huntington, whose own magnificent sculptures are part of the collection. The Huntington’s former home, Atalaya Castle, can be visited at Huntington Beach State Park. Award-winning golf, with more than 13 courses within a 15-minute drive, dots the Hammock Coast. Many are built on former rice plantations giving a graciously Southern golf experience. Three of Golf Magazines’ “Top 100 You Can Play” are here, and Pawleys Island was named one of the top 10 “Golf Islands” in the world by Links Magazine. For the history buff, Georgetown is South Carolina’s third oldest city, founded in 1729. It is also the probable site of the first European settlement in North America in 1526. It boasts a charming downtown historic district with restaurants and boutique shopping along the Harborwalk. Local tour companies provide a glimpse into the history of the area by land and by river. Andrews, located 18 miles inland from Georgetown, offers the perfect place to experience the natural world. From sporting clays to kayaking along
the winding Black River, Andrews is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. For the foodie, you won’t have any trouble finding an amazing meal on the Hammock Coast, our area is dotted with great little restaurants, staffed by award-winning chefs. Fresh seafood, fresh produce and wonderful culinary talent equal many “blog-worthy” meals. Fishing, hunting and outdoor recreation are plentiful. With five rivers coming together to meet the ocean, and vast undeveloped land holdings, wildlife is plentiful. A number of guides and outfitters are available to get you out on the water in a boat, kayak, paddleboard or surfboard. Come visit the Hammock Coast and rediscover life with no schedules, rediscover your family, rediscover nature and rediscover yourself. The only itinerary you may need is a tide chart! South Carolina’s Hammock Coast 531 Front Street Georgetown, SC 29440 and 28 Wall Street Pawleys Island, SC 29585 866.570.4238 www.HammockCoastSC.com ¤ See ad next page
Oceanfront in Myrtle Beach! Open every day of the year, Ocean Lakes Family Campground in sunny Myrtle Beach, SC offers camping and beach house rentals with a variety of planned activities, outstanding amenities and lots of southern hospitality! Ocean Lakes features 300 beach house rentals that sleep 4 to 21 people. Our 859 campsites are large, pull-through, with full hook-
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ups, including Wi-Fi. Concrete pads Ranked in the Top 1% of are available on 649 campsites. campgrounds in America, we hope While the kids are still in school our you come stay with us! pace is mellow, but the fun and sun Ocean Lakes never stop. Relax in our pools, shop in Family Campground our store, let us do the cooking! Need Myrtle Beach, SC 29575 RV and golf cart service or supplies? Campsites: 877-506-1053 We have you covered. No RV? Book Rental Houses: 800-845-2229 one of our vacation rentals to enjoy www.OceanLakes.com ¤ our park!
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VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ WINTER 2019
south carolina
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ WINTER 2019
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VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ WINTER 2019
west virginia / pennsylvania
WEST VIRGINIA
Enjoy a Wild and Wonderful Getaway When You Visit West Virginia
An outdoor playground with rich traditions, epic adventures and mountain heritage, West Virginia’s diverse destinations provide visitors with experiences that will make lasting memories. Drive the winding mountain roads – by car, or better yet, on motorcycle and see the mountains, the state forests and the Monongahela National Forest. Nearly the entire state provides options for outdoor recreation, stunning overlooks and scenic byways. Explore 11 major rivers, many perfect for whitewater rafting, venture down into caverns, and scale rock faces at Seneca Rocks in the Mountain Highlands or Coopers Rock State
Park. Zip line through the treetops on canopy tours, boat, swim or fish at places like Summersville Lake or ride a scenic railroad. Rich heritage is a trademark of West Virginia and you’ll find no shortage of mountain music, fine arts and handcrafts made by local artisans such as glassmakers. If it is live culture that feeds your craving for the arts, enjoy live productions at the theaters and summer festivals. Historic treasures, frontier-era forts, Civil War cemeteries and native american sites connect visitors with long past eras. If it is the thrill of lady luck’s good fortune, you’ll find that on a
West Virginia vacation too! Casinos and Greyhound racing in places like Wheeling, Thoroughbred racing, and other games of chance will fill your appetite for entertainment.
Whether you’re gaming at a casino, hunting for game in the great outdoors, riding the rapids or the rails, reliving history or enjoying live entertainment, a West Virginia
vacation is a getaway that you’ll never forget! Visit West Virginia and make this the year for your epic adventure!
Elk Springs Resort on the Elk River in West Virginia Enjoy Elk Springs Resort and stay in luxurious and well-appointed accommodations on the legendary Elk River where hatches are 12 months a year – a fly fisherman’s dream. Only 13 miles from Snowshoe. 14 cabins and a luxurious lodge with 6 individual private rooms with a magnificent great room. Perfect for reunions and corporate retreats. All
located on 24 acres in the beautiful Springs Resort take you away. Appalachian Mountains. On site is Visit our website a riverside restaurant where the www.ElkSpringsWV.com, menu varies from fresh trout to call toll free at 877-Elk-Springs or grilled hamburgers. Enjoy fly fishing email at ElkSpringsWV@aol.com on one of the East Coasts premier #14 A Dry Branch Road trout streams. Onsite fly-fishing Monterville, West Virginia 26282 guides available for hire or browse ¤ the largest fly shop in West Virginia. Or just relax and unwind and let Elk See ad on page 8
ranks tops for the most small towns in the United States under 5000 population. Many of these unique villages are on or along our historic Route 6. The Allegheny National Forest in north central Pennsylvania has over 500,000 acres of outdoor opportunities. Hikers, backpackers and nature enthusiasts can enjoy wildlife watching and challenging terrain, including 87 miles of the North Country National Scenic Trail, a 4,195-mile trail that passes through 300 miles of the state. Hikers and mountain bikers will enjoy the various trails throughout Pennsylvania, including the multipurpose Allegrippis Trail and the Great Allegheny Passage, a 335-mile link between the nation’s capital and
the Pittsburgh area. There are more than 30 miles of hiking trails in Promised Land State Park and the surrounding Delaware State Forest. Bruce Lake Road offers a hike to a natural glacial lake, the East Branch of Wallenpaupack Trail features several waterfalls, and there’s a hikers’ loop around Conservation Island providing plenty of opportunities for nature study, relaxation and exploration. The “High Rocks” at Ralph Stover State Park are best known for spectacular views and geological features, and are used extensively by rock climbers. The 200-foot sheer rock face of this cliff offers a unique challenge to the experienced climber. A scenic hiking trail, whitewater boating, and two rock climbing and
P E N N S Y LVA N I A
Explore Pennsylvania One of the original 13 colonies to be settled in the United States, Pennsylvania was founded by an English Quaker, William Penn, in the 17th Century: hence the name of the state which literally means Penn’s Woods’. There are certainly woods in Pennsylvania, but a great deal more in this diverse state, which spans more than 300 miles from Delaware Bay to the Great Lakes. Over 83,000 miles of river and streams and 17 million acres of forest provide a lifetime of opportunity. Outdoors enthusiasts will enjoy Pennsylvania’s whitewater rafting, skydiving, hiking, rock climbing, canoeing, mountain biking and more. Harrisburg, the state capital, has its exceptionally handsome capitol building and impressive State Museum, covering Pennsylvania’s 300-year history, and the National Civil War Museum which focuses on the human side of the conflict. Pennsylvania is the most historically significant state in the nation, particularly its main population hub, the eastern seaboard city of Philadelphia, where America’s founding fathers shaped the nation after Independence. The Liberty Bell seldom tolls today, but it draws millions of visitors annually to the city’s Historic Independence National Park. The other main metropolis is Pittsburgh on the western side of the state, where the smokebelching steel mills of the early 20th century have given way to urban
redevelopment highlighting the region’s natural beauty. Pennsylvania, bordered by six other states (New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia and Ohio), offers everything from honeymoon retreats, family style resorts, ski-lodges, an eclectic mix of architecture, scrumptious home-style fare, historic treasures, panoramic cityscapes, pastoral pleasure, artists’ colonies and country inns. Whatever visitors want in Pennsylvania, they are bound to find it. Even chocolate lovers will discover paradise here, for this is the location of Hershey, home of the world-famous Hershey Bar. With more than 400 miles of natural beauty and scenic overlooks, Route 6 was named one of America’s most scenic drives Pennsylvania
Your Story Begins with the Susquehanna River Valley Explore and discover treasures in Pennsylvania’s pristine Susquehanna River Valley. Spend the day hitting the trails - snowmobiling, cross country skiing, or snow shoeing in our State Parks and Forests. Take time to visit our awardwinning wineries and breweries found throughout the Susquehanna River Valley. Attend a seasonal festival, visit a historical museum, go antiquing or shop local at our fine retailers and unique stores. Finish the day with a romantic dinner for
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ WINTER 2019
rappelling areas can be found at McConnell’s Mill State Park. Visitors can also tour the restored rolling gristmill and covered bridge within the park. Pennsylvania is home to over 120 public biking trails and over 800 miles of Rails-to-Trails property. Amateur, professional or family outing, cyclists at any level can find a great place to ride in the rolling hills, beautiful fall foliage, choice of paved or rugged trails and endless opportunities for discovering nature at its finest in Pennsylvania. For more information call the Pennsylvania Tourism Office at 1-800-VISIT-PA (847-4872) or visit www.VisitPA.com ¤
two or share your day’s adventures with friends and family at one of our world-class pubs or restaurants located in one of our picturesque downtowns. Plan a trip for the day or turn it into a get away by staying at one of our cozy hotels, cabins, cottages or bed and breakfasts. At every turn you will find something to amaze and inspire you. VisitCentralPA.org or 877-207-8599 ¤
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FLORIDA
The Sunshine State Offers Something for Everyone Known as the “Sunshine State” because of its balmy, sunny weather, Florida has more theme parks, entertainment centers and sport activities than any other part in the country. Its fantasy theme parks and attractions, exciting nightlife and leisurely days on the best beaches in the world make it an ideal place for vacations. Thousands of beautiful
lakes and magnificent rivers and its 1,350 miles of coastline make it ideal for boating, sailing, fishing, diving, snorkeling and swimming. For a sportsperson, Florida is a vacation paradise. Its warm summers and mild winters make it possible to enjoy boating, camping, golfing and water sports. The beaches are some of the
finest in the world and have been rated among the top ten each year in Dr. Beach’s America’s Best Beach list each year. They are rated among the best for beauty, facilities and ease of access. Families, couples or singles enjoy year round sunshine and soft white sand and clear water. The waters along its beaches are generally warm in comparison to the
rest of the country. Beaches are a great way to get out in the sun, to play, to stroll and look for shells or to relax on a beach chair in the warm sunshine while reading a good book or just enjoying the companionship and the activity all around. With the many miles of coastline and the hundreds of natural lakes, Florida offers much for boaters. It
is ideal for power-boating, sailing, kayaking, water-skiing, wake boarding, wind surfing and canoeing. Like fishing? You will find bass fishing, inshore saltwater and flats fishing and offshore saltwater fishing if you want to catch the “big ones.” To avoid large crowds and packed attractions, make plans to visit Florida during the off-season. ¤
Old Florida Charm at Bungalow Beach Resort on Anna Maria Island, Florida Arriving at the Bungalow Beach Resort on Anna Maria Island changes your mood almost immediately. Just past the parking lot on this quick little bend of a gulf front road, you find yourself passing through the property’s gazebo entrance. It’s an almost ceremonial rite of passage that requires you to leave your worries behind, live in your bathing suit and sandals and relinquish yourself to peace and serenity. To the unsuspecting guest, it’s an oasis within an island. Most guests are surprised to learn the property is actually a former army barracks. Today, each of the 15
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charming cedar bungalows has been magically transformed into a romantic little getaway that preserves its 1930s clapboard construction and old Florida island charm. It’s a very relaxing place to stay. This beautiful place has bungalows that range from one room studio to three-bedrooms, and feature white wicker furniture, and the original architectural design of hardwood floors, bead-board walls and woodbeamed cathedral ceilings. Stepping inside one differs from most hotels. The white and beige interiors convince you immediately that the place is impeccably clean and fresh.
A variety of personal touches make you feel at home when staying at Bungalow Beach Resort and its sister property, Siesta Key Bungalows – located on pristine Herron Lagoon on Siesta Key. From plush linens, to your basket full of embroidered towels, flowers and candy . . . each visitor
enjoys simple, upscale niceties that yourself. make this place special . . . without Bungalow Beach Resort crossing the line of big, pretentious 2000 Gulf Drive resorts. In fact, calling the place a Anna Maria Island, FL 34217 “resort” at all seems out of sorts, 800-799-3601 since the homey feel and air of www.bungalowbeach.com ¤ privacy leaves you often wondering if you might have the entire place to
A Tropical Island Getaway on Florida’s Gulf Coast Located approximately 55 miles south of Tampa on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Siesta Key is an eight-milelong barrier island connected to Sarasota by two bridges. Founded in 1846, there are now approximately 24,000 full- and part-time residents of Siesta Key. Siesta Beach was named one of America’s Top 10 beaches for 2004 by the Travel Channel and Best Sand Beach. It is ranked second of Florida’s top 10 Beaches for 2003 by the Travel Channel and is one of the top 10 beaches in the U.S., according to the Scientist Dr. Beach, who rates beach cleanliness. While all the conveniences of modern life are easily accessible, Siesta Key is still remote enough to give one a feeling of old Florida. Bursting with lush foliage, mature trees and tropical flowering shrubs line the winding routes to the village and the beaches. The beaches are refreshingly natural, with protected wild sea oats and mangroves providing a protective habitat for the scores of native island birds that share the island, as well as the dolphins, manatees and other aquatic wildlife living just offshore. “White quartz sand perfect for castle building,” and stays cool on hot days! A variety of personal touches make you feel at home when staying at Siesta Key Bungalows and its sister property, Bungalow Beach Resort. From plush linens, to your basket full of embroidered towels, flowers and candy . . . each visitor enjoys simple, upscale niceties that make this place special . . . without crossing the line of big, pretentious
resorts. In fact, calling the place a “resort” at all seems out of sorts, since the homey feel and air of privacy leaves you often wondering if you might have the entire place to yourself.
FREE TRAVEL INFORMATION ~ www.GuestQuest.com
Siesta Key Bungalows 8212 Midnight Pass Rd. Siesta Key, FL 34242 888-574-3782 www.siestakeybungalows.com ¤
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ WINTER 2019
north carolina
NORTH CAROLINA
Everything for the Ideal Hatteras, North Carolina Vacation Breakwater Inn is located at Oden’s Dock, in the heart of Hatteras Village, North Carolina – Oden’s Dock is home of great food, first class accommodations and the best sportfishing on the East Coast! Our hotel is located right next to the marina, giving our guests beautiful views of the Pamlico Sound, where you can watch the boats bring in their
catches or enjoy the famous Hatteras Wind down and relax after a day sunsets. of exploring the waterways around Our sound front facility features Hatteras at Breakwater Inn. guest rooms with coastal décor. Breakwater Inn Choose from sound front deluxe 57896 NC Hwy 12 rooms or sound front king suites. King Hatteras, NC 27943 suites include a full kitchen, sofa and 252-986-2565 dining area. Or kick back and relax in www.breakwaterhateras.com ¤ our cozy and convenient fisherman’s quarters – right on the marina. See ad below
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ WINTER 2019
FREE TRAVEL INFORMATION ~ www.GuestQuest.com
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FREE TRAVEL INFORMATION ~ www.GuestQuest.com
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ WINTER 2019