• Christmas in Chicago • Smoky Mountain Winterfest • New Year’s getaway
TO PIGEON FORGE, TN FOR A FAMILY OF 4!
GETAWAY INCLUDES: 2 nights lodging, tickets for 4 to Christmas at the Smoky Mountain Opry, Hatfield & McCoy Christmas Disaster Dinner & Show, and Dollywood, as well as a $50 gift card for Hard Rock Café!
ENTER TO WIN AT SEEPIGEONFORGE.COM
GETTY IMAGES
WIN
A WINTER GETAWAY
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Table of
CONTENTS Winter magic in Chicago.......................................
3 Smoky Mountain Winterfest......... 6 New Year’s beach getaway.........................
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PUBLISHER AND PRESIDENT Laura Hollingsworth VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES John Ward ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Emily Daniel EDITOR & WRITER Diane Hughes GRAPHIC DESIGNER Crystal Elliott
2 | Sunday, November 23, 2014 | DESTINATIONS
Find winter magic on the
Magnificent Mile
If you love the idea of bright lights in the big city, we have the perfect winter getaway for you:
CHICAGO
Christmas lights on Michigan Avenue GETTY IMAGES
When it comes to American cities that set the tone for the holidays, it’s hard to beat Chicago for winter fun (and holiday shopping!). From the sparkling lights and stores on Michigan Avenue to the food, festivals and ice skating, the Windy City is filled with an appropriate wintry chill — plus an abundance of Christmas cheer and excitement. With plenty of restaurants, museums and other attractions — plus more than 460 shops on its famous Magnificent Mile — Chicago is an ideal holiday destination. With so much to do, where do you start? Well, we’ve made it easier by breaking it all down for you. Here are some highlights from around the city…
WHERE TO SHOP Michigan Avenue Whether you’re shopping for parents, friends, children or grandchildren, a shopping excursion along the Magnificent Mile is sure to be mesmerizing. You’ll find everything from Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom and Gucci to Neiman-Marcus, Crate and Barrel, and Saks Fifth Avenue. Shopping complexes along the avenue include Water Tower Place (Accent Chicago, Atlas Galleries, the LEGO store, Coach and Clarks), The Shops at North Bridge (Armani Exchange, Louis Vuitton, Stuart Weitzman, Kiehl’s, Vosges Haut-Chocolat and Sephora) and the 900 North Michigan Shops (Gucci, Michael Kors, Lululemon Athletica, Montblanc, Williams-Sonoma, L’Occitane, MaxMara). Other retailers are found all up and down Michigan Avenue, including Apple, Disney, Gap, Columbia and more. themagnificentmile.com/shopping, shopwater-
tower.com, bit.ly/BloomChicago, bit.ly/CrateBarrelChicago, theshopsatnorthbridge.com, shop900.com.
Macy’s on State Street If you want to shop at Macy’s, skip the small store at Water Tower Place and head to the flagship store on State Street. At Christmastime, shoppers flock to see the holiday window displays and view the “Great Tree” decked out in the Walnut Room (see Where to Eat section). Plus, the fifth floor of the store becomes Santaland for the season. In addition to shopping and holiday fun, there’s also the architecture and history of the building. Home of the former Marshall Field’s, the building retains the iconic clocks at the corners of Randolph and Washington streets, the Tiffany ceiling on the fifth floor, and the three-tiered Burnham Fountain in the store’s atrium. South State Street, visitmacyschicago.com. > > CHICAGO, 4
DESTINATIONS | Sunday, November 23, 2014 | 3
>> CHICAGO, FROM PAGE 3
Block 37 & State Street stores Across the street from Macy’s, you’ll find an entire city block packed with shops, plus many more shopping opportunities up and down State Street. Satisfy your passion for fashion at shops like Michelle Tan, American Apparel and Akira. Buy beauty products at Sephora and gifts for the kids at Disney. Other retailers include Forever 21, Urban Outfitters, Old Navy, Nordstrom Rack and Burlington Coat Factory. block37. com, choosechicago.com.
WHAT TO DO OUTDOORS Christkindlmarket Now in its 19th year, this popular annual event draws crowds to Daley Plaza for authentic German food, drink and crafts. Shoppers will find one-of-akind handblown and handpainted ornaments, nutcrackers, cuckoo clocks, beer steins and other German wares. If shopping leaves you hungry, you can snack on traditional German fare such as potato pancakes, schnitzel, sauerkraut and stollen (traditional German holiday cake). And, if you’re game, wash it all down with a little Glühwein (German hot spiced wine). In case you’re wondering, the market is named for the Christkind, Germany’s female version of our Santa Claus. Through Dec. 24. Free admission. 50 W. Washington St., www.christkindlmarket.com.
Millennium Park This impressive park has become a cultural centerpiece in downtown Chicago. The area’s natural beauty is enhanced by expert landscaping and architectural elements like the BP Bridge (which connects the park to Daley Plaza). During the winter months, special events add to the park’s appeal. There’s Caroling at Cloud Gate on Fridays through Dec. 19 and ice skating (through March 7) at the park’s McCormick Tribune Plaza. Open daily. Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., millenniumparkfoundation.org/places/mccormicktribune-plaza/ and www.choosechicago.com.
Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier Navy Pier becomes a winter wonderland with ice skating, slides and rides, hot cocoa, a zip line, snowman bouncer and, of course, the Ferris wheel and carousel. There’s live entertainment, a whimsical village with characters, and visits and photos with Santa. Admission is $3.75 online, $5 at the gate and includes Jingle Jym Jr., Kringle Carousel, Reindeer Express Train Ride and photo ops at Holiday Howdy Horse and Snowglobe Live! An activity ticket ($17-$25) is required for other access. If you visit at the end of the Christmas season and stay in the city for New Year’s, check out the New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Navy Pier or take an evening dinner cruise with on-board entertainment and a front-row seat to the pyrotechnics. Dec. 5-Jan. 11. 600 E. Grand Ave., winterwonderfest.com. 4 | Sunday, November 23, 2014 | DESTINATIONS
Lincoln Park Zoo This is a fun and educational destination any time of year, but during the holiday season, the facility goes all out with ZooLights, a free family-oriented celebration that includes light displays and seasonal activities like holiday crafts, photos with Santa, nightly ice carving and musical light shows. There’s also ice skating (fee for admission and skate rental). Zoolights runs through Jan. 4. Ice skating is available through March 1. 2001 N. Clark St., www.lpzoo.org.
WHAT TO DO INDOORS Field Museum of Natural History Permanent exhibits include Sue, the T. rex, Inside Ancient Egypt and the DNA Discovery Center (just to name a few). The Field always has a number of special traveling exhibits as well as 3D movies screening in the museum’s impressive D3D large-format theatre. Sue is arguably the museum’s main attraction. Known as the largest and best preserved T. rex ever discovered, Sue’s reconstructed skeleton strikes an impressive pose in Stanley Field Hall. On Dec. 6, 13 and 20, kids can enjoy Breakfast with Santa and Sue (limited seating; reserve tickets in advance). 1400 Lake Shore Drive, www.fieldmuseum.org.
Museum of Science and Industry Don’t let the name fool you; there’s plenty here to amaze both kids and adults. Current exhibits include Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives and Earth Revealed, but the holiday highlight is the museum’s Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light (through Jan. 4). Holiday photos are another option in the special Radio Disney photo booth. 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, www.msichicago.org.
John G. Shedd Aquarium See whales, dolphins, jellies and much more. Experience a rain forest. Adopt a penguin. Touch a stingray. You’ll find a multitude of exhibits, special shows and amazing experiences. 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, www.sheddaquarium.org
John Hancock Center or Willis Tower When it comes to getting a bird’s eye view of Chicago, the question becomes: Hancock or Willis? Well, here’s what we can tell you. Lines at the Hancock Center tend to be shorter than those at Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower). Because it’s positioned near the lakefront, some prefer the view at Hancock’s 360 Chicago (formerly known as the John Hancock Observatory), and it was voted Best View in America for 2014 by Travel + Leisure. The Hancock Center is also situated on Michigan Avenue within easy walking distance of other attractions. The Willis Skydeck has The Ledge (which allows you to stand out and away from the building on a glass ledge) while Hancock has The Tilt (which provides a > > CHICAGO, 11
(TOP TO BOTTOM) State Street Bridge and the Chicago River. GETTY IMAGES Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park. GETTY IMAGES Christmas Around the World exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry. SCOTT BROWNELL, MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY
Tradition holds that the 25th anniversary is celebrated with sparkling silver. In the Smoky Mountain towns of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville and throughout Sevier County, we celebrate with a different kind of sparkle—–lights … millions and millions of twinkling, colorful, welcoming lights. More than 14 million lights shine from displays throughout the three cities. You’ll see light displays that are more than 40 feet tall in Gatlinburg, experience Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland in Sevierville and travel through the lighted covered bridge in Pigeon Forge. Our celebration is more than lights, however, as each city presents a series of special events throughout Winterfest. You’ll find award-winning shows, family friendly attractions, unique shopping, delicious dining and plenty of options for lodging for your winter visit. Join us from November through February and become part of the celebration of Winterfest, our Smoky Mountain winter tradition.
www.ComeExperienceTheSmokies.com. TN-0001020194
DESTINATIONS | Sunday, November 23, 2014 | 5
Experience Smoky Mountain Snowflocked trees on Clingman’s Dome. GETTY IMAGES
Winterfest
By DIANE HUGHES Tennessean Custom Publications
If you’ve lived in Middle Tennessee for a while (and even if you haven’t), you’ve probably visited Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. GSMNP is the country’s most visited national park with more than 9 million annual visitors. Perhaps you’ve enjoyed a spring camping trip there or a fun summer getaway. But have you visited the Smokies near Christmastime? While many tourists are drawn to the area for its spectacular fall foliage, once winter sets in and the deciduous trees are stripped bare, it’s easy to dismiss this as a dreary destination. But that would be a mistake. From early November through the month of February, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville come alive with a celebration that transforms the drabness of winter into a sparkling winter wonderland. From parades and shows to light displays and (heated!) trolley tours, Winterfest offers something for everyone. Here’s a look at what you’ll find.
COURTESY OF RVILLE TS CENTER SEVIE TANGER OUTLE
SHOP TILL YOU DROP
Whether you’re looking for cheap souvenirs, affordable Christmas gifts or upscale goods, there are plenty of places to shop in the area. Here are a few worth special mention.
ARROWCRAFT
Sevier ville Tanger Outlets,
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It’s likely some of the highest-priced goods you’ll find in all of Gatlinburg, but if you’re looking for top quality, this is the place. From hand-woven baskets and handmade jewelry to fine pottery, art prints and clothing, these artisan-made goods are crafted by members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. They are well worth the price. 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, www.southernhighlandguild.org/pages/guild-shops/arrowcraft.php.
TANGER OUTLETS, SEVIERVILLE From Ralph Lauren and Michael Kors to J. Crew and Swarovski, there’s a little bit of everything here. Before you shop, be sure to check the website for coupons. 1645 Parkway, Suite 960, Sevierville, www.tangeroutlet.com/sevierville.
GREAT SMOKY CHRISTMAS ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW Dec. 1-7, Gatlinburg Convention Center. Unique handcrafted items from Tennessee artisans. From quilts, pottery and paintings to baskets, jewelry and dulcimers, these are items you won’t find at any shopping mall. Great place to Christmas shop. Admission is free. www.gatlinburg.com.
SEVIERVILLE CHRISTMAS PARADE Dec. 6, 11 a.m. Viewers are encouraged to gather at the intersection of Court Avenue and Forks of the River Parkway. www.pigeonforgewinterfest.com.
SEVIERVILLE WINTERFEST KICKOFF
s Winterfest light
GATLINBURG ANNUAL FANTASY OF LIGHTS CHRISTMAS PARADE Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. Starts at Traffic Light #1A (on Highway 321 near Alamo Steakhouse) and goes through downtown to Traffic Light #10. City officials expect upwards of 80,000 parade viewers, so head out early to stake a claim on a good viewing spot. www.gatlinburg.com.
GATLINBURG TROLLEY RIDE OF LIGHTS Through Jan. 25, 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. Enjoy Gatlinburg’s festive light displays from the comfort of a heated trolley car. You’ll take an evening tour through downtown Gatlinburg for a look at the city’s brand-new $1.6-million custom light show. The ride begins and ends at Traffic Light #5. $5 per person. www.gatlinburg.com.
WINTER MAGIC TUNES & TALES Through Dec. 20. Special events take place each Friday and Saturday evening, 5-9:30 p.m., along the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg. Holiday characters and storytellers interact with visitors while caroling along the street. www.gatlinburg.com.
NEW YEAR’S EVE BALL DROP & FIREWORKS SHOW If you happen to be in the Smokies for New Year’s, you’re in for a treat. The city of Gatlinburg will host its 27th annual ball drop at midnight, followed by a spectacular fireworks show from the roof of the Space Needle. To view the festivities, gather at the base of the Space Needle (intersection of Parkway and Historic
AREA ATTRAC TIONS
Nature Trail) late on the evening of Dec. 31. www.gatlinburg.com.
Sevierville Municipal Complex, 5 p.m. Holiday food, entertainment, activities for the kids, light displays and fireworks. Attendees can purchase 3D glasses (intended to enhance the viewing of the light displays). www.pigeonforgewinterfest.com.
SANTA HUSTLE HALF-MARATHON & 5K Sunday, Dec. 14. Whether you prefer to participate or spectate, this event is a festive way to spend a winter day outdoors in Sevierville. Thousands of Santas will fill the streets of Sevierville for this fourth annual event. Begins and ends at Wilderness at the Smokies Resort and Waterpark. Participants get a beard, Santa hat and Santa sweatshirt to wear for the race. Register through Dec. 12. www.santahustle.com.
SHADRACK’S CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND Through Jan. 4. Evenings, dusk till 10 p.m., Smokies Stadium, Sevierville. See this synchronized holiday light/music show from the comfort of your car. Thousands of LED lights, set to holiday music, along a nearly one-mile stretch of the stadium parking lot. $20 per car or family van. Admission to Santa’s Village is free and includes photos with Santa, rides, and treats like funnel cake, hot dogs, hot cider and deepfried s’mores (prices and fees apply to food and activities). shadrackchristmas.com/sevierville.
DOLLYWOOD SMOKY MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Through Jan. 3. Dollywood celebrates the season in style with special events, including the Parade of Lights, appearances by Rudolph and Friends, the Carol of the Trees, Santa’s Workshop, musical entertainment and performances of Dollywood’s A Christmas Carol. The nightly Parade of Lights (through Dec. 23) includes brightly lit floats and holiday characters. www.dollywood.com.
TITANIC’S HOLIDAY SNOW WONDERLAND Dec. 6-27. (Closed Christmas Day.) The Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge is stunning any time of year, but during the winter season special touches are added to the exhibit. Upon arrival, you’ll receive a boarding pass with the name of a real Titanic passenger and learn about the actual passengers as you travel through the exhibit. You can walk a replica of the Titanic’s iconic staircase, all decked out with Christmas decorations. During the holiday season, visitors will also experience falling snow on the bow of the recreated ship. www. titanicpigeonforge.com.
COURTESY OF TITANIC MUSEUM
OPMENT N TOURISM DEVEL SMOKY MOUNTAI
COUNCIL
EVENTS/ AC TIVITIES
Replica of Titanic’s ico nic staircase
RIPLEY’S AQUARIUM OF THE SMOKIES Kids and adults will enjoy the exhibits here. Features include the Penguin Playhouse, Gallery of the Seas, Shark Lagoon and Stingray Bay. Ticket combo packs allow admission to the aquarium and other area attractions, including Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Moving Theater, Dixie Stampede and Mirror Maze. 88 River Road, Gatlinburg, www.ripleyaquariums.com/gatlinburg.
GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK Don’t forget the park. From a picnic at Chimney Tops campground (or a hike to the top!) to a drive around Cades Cove or viewing sunset on Clingman’s Dome, the natural beauty of the park is free. And if you prefer to stay in the car, take a drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. If you’re not into hiking long distances, take an easy stroll down one of the park’s many “Quiet Walkways.” www.nps.gov/grsm.
DOLLY PARTON’S DIXIE STAMPEDE If you’re looking for good old-fashioned family fun, the Dixie Stampede has been thrilling Smokies’ visitors for more than 25 years. The dinner show includes music, stunt riders on horseback and a four-course meal. For the holiday season, the show is transformed into a “spectacular Christmas extravaganza” with features like falling snow, a live nativity, festive elves and holiday tunes. 3849 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, pigeon-forge.dixiestampede.com. > > WINTERFEST, 10 DESTINATIONS | Sunday, November 23, 2014 | 7
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Experience the pure bliss that could only come from visiting Riviera Maya. An hour away from Cancun International Airport, Riviera Maya is the perfect destination for adventure seekers and relaxation revelers. PLAY: • Get the perfect tan on Akumal’s silky beaches • Catch a ride on the ferry to Cozumel • Spend a day in trendy Playa del Carmen exploring the eclectic shops, galleries, cafes & clubs • Snorkel in Xel-Ha, the largest natural aquarium in the world • Tour ancient Mayan ruins in Tulum Plan your stay at the NEW fivestar Royalton Riviera Cancun resort set to open January 2015!
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>> WINTERFEST, FROM PAGE 7
THE INN AT CHRISTMAS PLACE
TMAS PLACE E INN AT CHRIS COURTESY OF TH
If you check in here, you may not need to leave until it’s time to drive home. With lodging, shopping, dining and activities all on site (or across the street), this Bavarian-style village has everything you need. If you are visiting at Christmastime, just remember
that you can come back here and recover your Christmas cheer any time of year; the Inn at Christmas Place maintains its holiday motif year-round. Amenities include an indoor pool and hot tub, game room, fitness center and Singing Santa. The Incredible Christmas Place shopping village is located across the parkway from the inn and features a variety of Christmas merchandise (Radko ornaments, Possible Dreams Santas, Snowbabies and more) as well as other lines (including Vera Bradley and Crabtree & Evelyn). 119 Christmas Tree Lane, Pigeon Forge, www.innatchristmasplace.com. 2470 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, www.christmasplace.com.
COURTESY OF THE ISLA ND IN PIGEON FORGE
EAT, STAY, P! PLAY & SHO
THE ISLAND IN PIGEON FORGE & MARGARITAVILLE ISLAND HOTEL The Island is another one-stop travel destination that offers lodging, shopping, dining and activities. Anchored by the Margaritaville Hotel (inspired by the works of singer/songwriter/ author Jimmy Buffett), the complex includes a tmas Place The Inn at Chris
10 | Sunday, November 23, 2014 | DESTINATIONS
The Island Pigeon Fo rge Ferris wheel, arcade, carousel, funny cars and other rides/attractions. Or, if you prefer, just chill at the Changes in Latitude Bar. And don’t miss the Island Fountain Show, a choreographed dance of water, lights and music. There are several dining options to choose from and more than 60 retail shops to browse. 131 The Island Drive, Pigeon Forge, www.islandinpigeonforge. com, www.margaritavillepigeonforge.com.
MORE INFO: www.ComeExperienceTheSmokies.com
>> CHICAGO, FROM PAGE 4
downward-facing view of the city). The Willis Tower is taller at 110 stories (observation deck on 103rd floor) versus Hancock Center’s 100 floors (observation deck on 94th floor). For dining with a view, Hancock wins with The Signature Room or The Signature Lounge (both on the 95th floor). Willis has a private dining club on the 67th floor and other options on lower floors. Weigh them both and choose — or do both! John Hancock Center, 875 N. Michigan Ave., 360chicago. com. Willis Tower, 233 S. Wacker Drive, theskydeck.com.
The Art Institute Among the 300,000 works the museum holds in its permanent collection are iconic paintings like Grant Wood’s American Gothic, Nighthawks by Edward Hopper and The Old Guitarist by Pablo Picasso. That’s not to mention Chagall, Magritte, Monet, Rembrandt and Renoir, plus photography, Indian art, textiles and medieval items. Temporary exhibits include The City Lost and Found: Capturing New York, Chicago and Los Angeles, 1960–1980 and Heaven and Earth: Art of Byzantium from Greek Collections. 111 S. Michigan Ave., www.artic.edu.
WHERE TO EAT Allium at Four Seasons Hotel Shop till you drop at Bloomingdale’s and then sit down for dinner. The Four Seasons is located in the same building as Bloomingdale’s, and the hotel’s Allium restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy brunch before shopping, have a break for lunch or sit down for dinner and cocktails afterward. (It’s a little pricey, but it can be your Christmas splurge on yourself.) 120 E. Delaware Place, alliumchicago.com.
The Walnut Room at Macy’s Dining with the “Great Tree” makes for a festive meal event. A little trivia: the Walnut Room was the first restaurant to open in a department store (in the original Marshall Field’s and then known as the South Tea Room). The space gets its name from the Circassian walnut paneling. The Great
Tree, by the way, stands an impressive 45 feet tall. 111 N. State St., macysrestaurants. com/walnut-room_holiday.
Russian Tea Time Located just off Michigan Avenue near The Art Institute and Millennium Park, this quaint little tearoom has been serving dishes from the former Soviet Union Republics for 21 years. Stepping inside is like stepping into another culture. Be bold; sample something new. Try a bowl of borscht or some potato piroshkies; the extensive menu includes everything from chicken and pork to beef and eggplant. 77 E. Adams Street, russianteatime.com.
Popcorn, chocolate & mint All that shopping and sightseeing is bound to leave you famished. You may need snacks to get you through. Stop at the Garrett Popcorn Shop (be prepared — there may be a line) for popcorn made in old-fashioned copper kettles using the family’s special recipe. 625 N. Michigan Ave., garrettpopcorn. com. Ghirardelli and chocolate. What more can we say? Oh. And ice cream! Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop, 830 N. Michigan Ave., bit.ly/GhirardelliChicago. T T E GARR Y OF HOPS Hershey’s Chicago S RTES COU PCORN PO turns buying a candy bar into an entertainment experience. For a modest fee, you can pretend to be a Hershey factory worker (photo ID and worker hat included) while you mix your own candy or personalize your own chocolate bar wrapper (Wrap Happiness) with a photo of yourself. 822 N. Michigan Ave., bit.ly/HersheyChicago. And for some folks, it just wouldn’t be Christmas in Chicago without a box of Frango mint chocolates. Originally made by Marshall Field’s (in the same building now occupied by Macy’s), these popular chocolates are a holiday favorite. After purchasing Marshall Field’s, Macy’s took over production and distribution of the delectable treats. Grab a few boxes (or collectible Christmas tins) for yourself and your friends.
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Or call (270) 522-3892 for more information. DESTINATIONS | Sunday, November 23, 2014 | 11
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New Year’s on the beach Ancient Mayan ruins in Tulum overlooking the Caribbean. GETTY IMAGES
By DIANE HUGHES
Tennessean Custom Publications
Celebrate the new year on the Riviera Maya It may be cold in Tennessee, but the beaches of Mexico are warm and inviting. And they’re just beckoning for you to book a romantic getaway to celebrate the New Year. If the holiday season has you too busy to worry with planning that getaway, Vacation Express has some package options that will make it all a breeze. Book a stay at one of several Sandos resorts near Cancun, and you can spend your days scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and exploring Mayan ruins and your nights enjoying live entertainment, fine dining and romantic walks on the beach.
MAYAN RUINS The Yucatan Peninsula is rife with archeological sites and ruins of the Mayan civilization. From Tulum to Coba to Chichen Itza, these areas offer a unique glimpse at how these Native Central Americans once lived. Climb to the top of Coba, the highest pyramid on the peninsula. Swim on the beach near the Tulum ruins. See one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World at Chichen Itza.
NATURAL BEAUTY In addition to the historic archeological features of the area, the natural beauty of the Yucatan takes center stage at places like Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and Xel-Ha, a natural aquarium park. At Sian Ka’an, you can fish, swim, snorkel and view the area wildlife. Or you might want to venture to Xel-Ha, where you can experience caves, archaeological sites and cenotes (underground caves with stunning rock formations). About those cenotes. A cenote is a pit or sinkhole formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock. The result of this natural phenomenon is stunning swimming holes where you can snorkel and view exotic fish. You’ll also find stalactites and stalagmites. > > MEXICO, 14
DESTINATIONS | Sunday, November 23, 2014 | 13
In Tune with Music City. Everywhere you are.
There’s a lot going on in Middle Tennessee today. Count on The Tennessean’s unmatched team of reporters and columnists to keep you in touch, including: Jamie McGee JIM MYERS – inviting you to experience our growing food and dining scene. JAMIE McGEE – helping you see what’s Jim Myers next in the Middle Tennessee area. BRAD SCHMITT – introducing you to the people that make our area unique and those shaping the future.
>> MEXICO, FROM PAGE 13
Depending on the hotel you choose (Sandos Caracol Eco Experience Resort, Sandos Cancun Luxury Experience Resort or the Sandos Playacar Beach Experience Resort), your package may include a variety of on-site activities and special New Year’s Eve celebrations. From live bands and circus performers to a relaxing spa experience, you’ll find plenty of ways to ring in the New Year. This Caribbean paradise offers everything you need for a romantic winter getaway. Whether you decide to relax on the beach, explore ancient pyramids, swim in a subterranean cenote or shop at the local market, the Riviera Maya offers a wealth of special treasures to explore.
LEARN MORE To learn more about this and other great destinations, visit vacationexpress.com.
(TOP) The head of the snake at Chichen Itza. (BOTTOM) Diving in a cenote on Riviera Maya. GETTY IMAGES
Win a Winter Getaway TO THE SCENIC CITY
Brad Schmitt
Tennessean.com/Subscribe 14 | Sunday, November 23, 2014 | DESTINATIONS
Enter to win at
chattanoogafun.com/contest
TN-0001019774
Get it All! – Subscribe Today.
• VIP pass for 4 people to 25 area attractions including Tennessee Aquarium, Creative Discovery Museum, Rock City Gardens, Ruby Falls, Tennessee Valley Railroad, Hunter Museum of American Art and more! • 2-night downtown hotel stay for 4 • $100 restaurant gift card
GOD, COUNTRY,
DESTINATIONS | Sunday, November 23, 2014 | 15
100â&#x20AC;&#x2122; of V c o ! EXCLUSIVE
Non-Stops from Nashville from 5 Nights AIR + HOTEL
LOW $100 D o per person
$749*
all p c i cl d Exclusive Non-Stop Flights ¡ All-Inclusive Resort ¡ Meals ¡ Drinks ¡ Local Representative ¡ Taxes ¡ Free 1st Checked Bag
Winter All-Inclusive Getaways from $899* 5 N gh s, PuNta CaNa ........................from $899* 6 N gh s, CaNCuN ...................................from $999* 6 N gh s, RivieRa Maya ......................from $999*
< Messages
Amy
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Just what we need! But what about the kids How about Memories Splash Punta Cana? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got a great waterpark for both the kids and us plus itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just a short walk from the beach.
easter All-Inclusive Deals from $869* 5 N gh s, PuNta CaNa ........................from $869* 6 N gh s, CaNCuN ...................................from $999* 6 N gh s, g RivieRa Maya ......................from $999*
spring All-Inclusive Specials from $749* 5 N gh s, PuNta CaNa ........................from $749* 6 N gh s, RivieRa Maya ......................from $879* 6 N gh s, CaNCuN ...................................from $899*
And itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all included? I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait! Did I tell you itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a non-stop flight? No layovers!
summer All-Inclusive Steals from $779
*
6 6 6 6
N gh s, N gh s, N gh s, N gh s,
PuNta CaNa ........................from $799* JaMaiCa..................................from $869* CaNCuN ...................................from $899* RivieRa Maya ......................from $899*
Sold! Bags already packed Booking now at www.vacationexpress.com! Take a look at the site so we can plan our next trip to Cancun!
*Advertised prices available for bookings made electronically through your travel agent or on vacationexpress.com; small service fee of $10 applies when booking through Vacation Express Call C ll Center. C Prices P i are per person, based b d on double d bl occupancy. Winter prices are based on 3/20-3/22 travel, Easter prices are based on 4/3-4/5 travel, Spring prices are based on 4/17-4/19 travel, Summer prices are based on 5/17-5/18 travel. For full terms and conditions, hotel and description of all services, please refer to the Vacation Express 2014 Brochure or visit vacationexpress.com. Some upgrades are subject to availability upon check-in. Packages at the above prices are limited and are subject to change without prior notice. Vacation Express public charter flights operated by Sunwing Airlines, Interjet or Swift Air, LLC. Airfares are per person, reflect lowest available airfare at time of printing, are subject to change and based upon availability of class of service. Baggage charges and allowances vary by carrier, most major carriers are charging a fee for checked baggage. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Must book by 11/30/14.
vacationexpress.com | 800.486.9777
16 | Sunday, November 23, 2014 | DESTINATIONS