The Ultimate Hotel Tipping Guide

BY ArnabAug 10, 2023

Sevierville, Tennessee, is a charming city nestled in the breathtaking beauty of the Great Smoky Ranges. With over 10 million people coming to Sevierville each year to enjoy a plethora of fun-filled activities, Sevierville is the ideal location for anyone seeking a unique and memorable vacation experience. Every traveler can find something to enjoy in the city of Sevierville, whether you want to engage in thrilling experiences or immerse yourself in the culture and music. Here Are Ten Prime Things To Do On A Vacation In Sevierville Discover Sevierville's top features as we guide you through a number of thrilling attractions that will make your trip genuinely unforgettable. 1. Go on the Zipline at Foxfire Mountain Adventures For adrenaline junkies seeking a thrill, Foxfire Mountain Adventures is the place to be. Home to the Goliath Zipline, this tourist attraction offers an exhilarating ride at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour!  As you soar 475 feet off the forest floor, you are sure to make some amazing memories gliding through the lush green views from this one-of-a-kind vantage point. This two-hour zipline tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst the Smoky Mountains. 2. The Perfect Retreat after a long day After a long day full of adventure and excitement, you will need a place where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy some quality time with your friends and family. With over 1,459 hotels and places to stay, choosing the right hotel in Sevierville TN, can be taxing. However, looking at user reviews can streamline the decision-making process and help you to highlight the better choices for your stay. The Lodge at Five Oaks, for example, is voted number 1 on trip advisor and is an excellent choice for those looking for a stunning location with exceptional services.  3. Exciting Water Adventures at the Smokies’ Wilderness  If you enjoy water parks, then Wilderness at the Smokies is a must-visit destination. This expansive resort boasts three distinct waterparks, offering a plethora of thrilling experiences for all ages. The "Wild Vortex," a near-vertical, looping body waterslide, will leave you breathless with excitement as you soar down at exhilarating speeds. The Timber Rattler is considered the longest tube slide in the entire state. It is further followed by the "Smokies Surf Rider," which gives you an ultimate surfing experience. It will guarantee hours of laughter, joy, and endless fun. Families with little adventurers can also head to "Cubs Climbing Den," an interactive playhouse designed to engage a younger demographic with the excitement of adventure. 4. Take a Selfie Around the Statue Of Dolly Parton  A trip to Sevierville isn't complete without paying homage to the Queen of Country Music herself, Dolly Parton. Head to the Courthouse lawn at Sevier County, where a magnificent bronze statue of Dolly stands tall. Crafted by local artist Jim Gray over 30 years ago, this six-and-a-half-foot-tall sculpture is a tribute dedicated to the legendary performer's roots. 5. Discover Underground Beauty across Forbidden Caverns Delve into the fascinating world beneath the Earth's surface around Forbidden Caverns, boasting the most extended rare cave onyx wall. A guided tour will take you through a mesmerizing underground journey, passing unique formations with towered chimneys and grottos. 6. Animal Encounters at “Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo” Embark on a unique animal adventure offered by the classic Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo, home to more than 600 animals and representing over 130 species. Among the highlights are the adorable golden-headed lion tamarins, one of the smallest and rarest species of monkeys. Visitors can also meet other exotic creatures, such as African crested porcupines, poison dart frogs, and rose hair tarantulas. This fascinating zoo offers a rare opportunity to encounter and learn about diverse and rare creatures from around the world. 7. Breathtaking Panoramas from Clingmans Dome For nature enthusiasts and avid hikers, Clingmans Dome is an unmissable destination. Standing at 6,643 feet, it is the topmost point in and around the “Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” Tennessee, and along the entire Appalachian Trail. A short but steep paved trail leads to an observation tower, offering a sweeping 360-degree perception of the majestic Smoky Mountains and beyond. If there are clear days, one might be able to view the nearby vistas stretching more than 100 miles across all directions. Embrace the serenity of the surrounding wilderness as you stand at this remarkable peak, taking in the vastness of nature's beauty. 8. Exciting Baseball Action at Smokies Stadium Sports enthusiasts will find themselves at home in Sevierville with a visit to Smokies Stadium. Watch the Tennessee Smokies, the “Double-A Affiliate” belonging to the Chicago Cubs, in action at this friendly ballpark. What sets it apart is the timeless inspiration from Wrigley Field; the stadium provides an intimate setting to maximize closeness with the game and players. Between innings, enjoy outdoor games and activities to keep the excitement going. An afternoon at Smokies Stadium promises a memorable experience, celebrating America's favorite pastime. 9. Explore Ancient Treasures at Smoky Mountain Relic Room History buffs and collectors will find their haven at the “Smoky Mountain Relic Room.” Step into a treasure trove of artifacts spanning over 3.5 billion years, representing various geological eras and human history. Browse through tons of relics as well as fossils, each with its own unique story to tell. From prehistoric fossils to ancient artifacts, this collection is guaranteed to ignite your curiosity and appreciation for the past. The epic Relic Room, nestled within “Smoky Mountain Knife Works,” also offers an impressive array of knives and blades, from historical pieces to modern marvels, making it a haven for collectors and outdoor enthusiasts alike. 10. Tennessee Museum of Aviation's Sky-high Adventure Sevierville is home to one of America’s most prominent aviation locations; the Tennessee Museum of Aviation! This marvelous location is home to hundreds of historical artifacts and exhibits that bring the fascinating history of flight to life. You can even climb into an A-4 Skyhawk Cockpit and look at the world through the eye of an experienced pilot. The aircraft collection at this museum is stunning in its own right! Featuring airworthy warbirds and vintage planes, this museum is the only one in the U.S. housing two airworthy P-47 Thunderbolts. Conclusion Tennessee's Sevierville offers visitors an unbeatable combination of breathtaking natural scenery, fascinating history, and exhilarating experiences. Everything about being here is exciting, from paying homage to the legendary Dolly Parton to flying through the treetops. ‘ Whether you are traveling with family or seeking solo adventures, Sevierville offers an abundance of unique experiences that will leave you with cherished memories for years to  Read Also: Eight Outdoor Attractions In Pigeon Forge For Thrill-Seekers Your Guide To The Perfect Pigeon Forge Vacation Six Things To Do If You’re In Pigeon Forge

BY Abdul Aziz MondalDec 28, 2023

Houston provides its visitors with a refined assortment of places to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing, regardless of whether they are in the city for business or pleasure. And may we offer location as a tried-and-true starting point if you're unsure of even where to start your search? These hotels, which provide amenities and experiences to enhance your stay, have shaped the distinct personalities of each area of The Space City. Read on for our list of the best hotels in Houston, which includes the trendiest new hotels in downtown, accommodations close to the Astros stadium, and hip neighborhoods like Montrose. Best Hotels In Houston Here are some of the best hotels in Houston that you simple can't miss: Four Seasons Entering the Four Seasons is akin to entering a private club that has been in existence for a very long time. The interior, which is entirely composed of marble and mahogany, successfully blends traditional and contemporary Texas design elements. The hotel is incredibly kid-friendly, offering activities like mommy-and-me yoga, movies by the pool, and pizza-making classes. The recently renovated gym is open 24 hours a day. The Four Seasons is the best hotel in The Bayou City with regards to staff, amenities, and accommodations, so it makes sense that business travelers frequent this prime downtown location that is only a short distance from the convention center. Post Oak Hotel Billionaire and businessman Tilman Fertitta of Houston put his heart and soul into creating the 250-room Post Oak Hotel. He filled it with hundreds of original artworks and meticulously crafted each element, down to the custom chocolates served at turndown and the flip-flops at the pool with the hotel's logo emblazoned on them. A few people exclaimed, "It is by far the most beautiful hotel I've visited," and "the finest in luxury living." Nevertheless, readers gave the "first-class" service the most appreciation. One person remarked, "You are treated like a VIP guest from the moment you walk in." One more person described a "unforgettable experience" that can only be had with five-star accommodations: “They upgraded my room at no additional charge — and service was above and beyond my expectations.” Lancaster Hotel The famed Lancaster Hotel in Houston is redefining contemporary hospitality. The Lancaster emanates a cozy, classic elegance, from its collection of more than 200 pieces by well-known contemporary Texans to its prime location in the center of the city's renowned Theater District. The historic boutique hotel from the 1920s era was recently voted Houston's best hotel by Conde Nast Readers. It has a rich history of serving a diverse and illustrious clientele that includes writers, poets, actors, musicians, dancers, business and leisure travelers, newlyweds, circus and rodeo performers, and even a horse. The Lancaster Hotel would be delighted to have the chance to treat you to our special brand of hospitality and service. Hotel ZaZa Nestled near the Houston Museum of Fine Art, Hotel ZaZa is an elegant and seductive venue that seamlessly blends business and pleasure. One of ZaZa's so-called Concept Suites, the Houston We Have a Problem suite, goes all out with a moon-inspired couch and a life-size astronaut statue dominating one corner. The room is enormous—it is over 1,000 square feet—and has a large executive-style table that can accommodate up to eight people. ZaSpa's Have No Mercy deep-tissue massage is to die for, and the fitness machines have individual TVs (hallelujah); an extensive poolside menu offers adult popsicles and drinks by the pitcher. Meanwhile, the restaurant's terrace offers good views of the Mecom Foundation and the Museum of Fine Arts, drawing a mix of locals and hotel guests. St. Regis The opulent St. Regis, which is sandwiched between The Galleria and the affluent River Oaks neighborhood, resembles a glitzy high-rise condominium. Junior suites feature floor to ceiling windows overlooking River Oaks and the pool, as well as a separate sleeping area. No, this isn't your normal Houston hotel; the bathrooms are appointed with marble and granite, and the king-size beds have pillow tops. Observe that The St. Regis, wherever it may be, has a long-standing tradition of serving afternoon tea. JW Marriott Situated in one of Houston's most popular business districts, the JW Marriott draws a discerning clientele of business travelers looking for first-rate amenities and service without the fuss that boutique hotels sometimes bring. The rooms are remarkably modern and roomy, with free wifi, an iPad for booking spa treatments or ordering room service, and Nespresso machines as amenities. The Spa by JW provides a variety of intriguing treatments, such as massages, facials, and foot soaks. How Hotels Are Judged? Readers are asked to rank their favorite hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. The 2023 survey was completed by nearly 165,000 readers, a nearly 25% increase over pre-pandemic voting levels. Across more than 8,500 distinct properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.), more than 685,000 votes were cast. Based on their location and amenities, hotels were categorized as either safari lodges, city hotels, or resort hotels. They were also evaluated according to the following criteria: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value Respondents could select an option for excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor for each characteristic. These responses are averaged to determine the final scores. Wrapping Up Located in the center of Houston, Texas, and only a short distance from Discovery Green Park and the George R. Brown Convention Center, the Marriott Marquis boasts an outdoor pool that is open year-round and a lazy river shaped like a Texas. The hotel has a 24-hour fitness center, a full-service spa, and six restaurants on the premises. A flat-screen TV with premium channels and cable is provided in every room. There is a refrigerator, coffee maker, and ironing facilities available. A hair dryer and complimentary toiletries are provided in the private bathroom. A few rooms offer views of Discovery Green Park or the lazy river. Diners can choose to eat at Biggio's, which serves American cuisine, or at Xochi, which serves Mexican food and drinks under the direction of award-winning chef Hugo Ortega. Around 200 varieties of wine and tapas are served at Cueva Wine Bar. Walker Street Kitchen and Texas T Coffee House both serve breakfast. The Marriott Marquis Houston is only 250 meters from Minute Maid Park, which is home to the Houston Astros baseball team. It takes five minutes to walk to Toyota Center and BBVA Compass Stadium. William P. Hobby International Airport is the closest airport, located 15 kilometers away. Read Also: Luxe Living: The Best Hotels In Dallas Sin City Stays: Here Are The Best Hotels In Vegas! Taste Of Houston: A Culinary Adventure In Diversity

BY Abdul Aziz MondalMar 18, 2021

When it comes to international travel, it's critical to have a well-thought-out plan for preparation and how to conduct yourself while on holiday. There are so many possibilities for experiencing different tourist hot spots across the globe-; even more than you might experience traveling to the different states across the US. And for the most part, you can expect relatively standard foods, laws, and language across continental America. Imagine how much more variety you can expect traveling outside our borders. The following is a list of useful tips from i49 that will help you prepared for international travel no matter the specific destination: Travel Visa: It's not only your passport that you need to start processing well in advance of your trip. Many countries require a travel visa for US citizens who are planning to visit. Even our neighbors to the south, Mexico, require a visa if the expected stay will be more than 72 hours or too far inland from the border. Every sovereign country has the right to establish its own requirements, so with every country, you expect to add to your agenda, check for the most current visa requirements. The last thing you want is to spend your valuable vacation time stuck in customs. Vaccinations: While you're looking up logistical information, look to see if there are any recommended vaccinations. Our bodies are very accustomed to life as we know it. When we venture outside our everyday experience, we may encounter diseases or sicknesses that our body is just not well-suited to fight off. This is another effort that you can't afford to wait till the last minute. Some vaccinations may require a series over a prescribed amount of time, so you'll need to count back from your intended travel dates to be sure you meet this health goal if you intend to inoculate yourself. Currency Exchange: Most places you visit will expect you to use the local currency. Some of the more popular tourist attractions worldwide may accept your US Dollar, but it's easier just to pad your wallet with the local currency. The exchange rates fluctuate constantly, and the various vendors who offer the service of making the conversion also may vary their fees significantly. The easiest and most affordable way to gather foreign currency is at a bank or by using the local ATM. As long as you're not visiting a third-world locale, there's a good chance that you'll be able to use your credit card for most purchases. If this is your plan, give your credit card company a heads up so that your international charges don't inadvertently trigger a precautionary freeze on your ability to make changes.  Culture: What is considered normal in one place could be considered offensive in another. Do some research to learn what the norms of politeness are for where you are going. There are many travel blogs, travel guides, and websites out there with lots of suggestions on conducting yourself in an international company. Not only will this enhance the experience among the local populace, but it will also bode well for any other American travelers who may travel to the same location. Basically, making an effort to conform to the local culture is a universal way of communicating respect for the hosting country. You need to plan and prepare so many things when it comes to any vacation travel but even more so with international excursions. These reminders should help to make you're planning a bit easier as you navigate these considerations. Bon Voyage! Read Also: 5 Secrets On How To Travel Light – Travel Hacks 10 Tips For Traveling Across Europe 5 Backpacking Tips For An Unforgettable Euro-Trip