travel

Frank Lloyd Wright House on Crystal Bridges grounds to open Nov. 11, 2015

Posted by | Blog | No Comments
1-FLW-House-in-New-Jersey

Bachman-Wilson House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in its original New Jersey location
Photo: TarantinoSTUDIO © 2013; courtesy Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas

Originally published by Group Tour Magazine – September 18, 2015

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — In 2014, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art announced the acquisition of a rare Frank Lloyd Wright house originally built in 1954 along the Millstone River in New Jersey. Since then, the house has been disassembled, transported 1,200 miles across the country and meticulously reconstructed on the grounds of the museum.

Construction is now in the final stages and the house is scheduled to open to the public on November 11, 2015, the fourth anniversary of Crystal Bridges’ opening.

Crystal Bridges Executive Director Rod Bigelow said, “We are excited to share this historic object that embodies our mission to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that unites art and nature. As the only Frank Lloyd Wright house in Arkansas, it enhances our region’s offerings with unique engagement opportunities for schools, families and individuals with an interest in architecture, all at no cost to the public.”

Known as the Bachman-Wilson House, the home was threatened by repeated flooding at its original location. The previous owners, architect/designer duo Lawrence and Sharon Tarantino, determined that relocating the house was the best option for preservation. After their multi-year search, Crystal Bridges acquired the house in 2013, and the house arrived in Northwest Arkansas in April, 2014.

The house is now situated a short distance from the museum, along the trails, with views overlooking the native woodlands and Crystal Spring. 

The Frank Lloyd Wright house will open to the public on November 11, 2015, with no admission cost, during the same hours as the museum’s art galleries.

“Our goal is to provide as much access as possible while being responsible stewards of the house,” said Crystal Bridges Chief Engagement Officer Niki Stewart. “To that end, we will welcome visitors to see the house on their own with general admission, or take a guided tour. Because of the intimate size of the house, we are requiring reservations to enter, while the grounds around the house are accessible without a ticket.”

Beginning November 2, tickets may be reserved online or by calling 479-657-2335. Crystal Bridges’ members will have an opportunity to preview the house in advance of the public opening. Member preview tickets may be reserved in person at Guest Services or by calling the Member Priority Line at 479-418-5728.

Guided tours will be offered five days per week (no tours Tuesday or Friday) as an hour-long indoor and outdoor experience led by specially trained volunteer tour guides.

General admission will be a self-guided experience, available each day except Tuesday.

Tis the season to fall in love with Little Rock

Posted by | Blog | No Comments

River Market - full sign-tolleyNothing is more exciting than feeling the summer temperatures slowly begin to drop and seeing the leaves begin to turn. What better way to enjoy the beauty of fall than by experiencing the changes in the beautiful state of Arkansas? From numerous trails and picnics to comedy clubs and concerts, Little Rock offers something for everyone.

Begin your fall get-away in the heart of Little Rock, the River Market. From May to October, the Farmer’s Market opens at 7am on Tuesdays and Saturdays to provide you with some of the freshest fruits and vegetables you’ve ever seen (let alone tasted)! Next stop is breakfast at one of the best places in town! The Root Café is open Tuesday-Friday from 7am-2:30pm, Saturday 8am-3:30pm, and Sunday 9am-2pm. Don’t let the drab-looking exterior dampen your spirits or fool you. It’s the only way the owners could disguise the awesomeness that awaits inside! The unique atmosphere is best for smaller groups, as the dining area is not the largest in Little Rock. Even though the Eggs Benedict and pancakes are definitely worth the wait, it’s best to get there early to avoid a long line! If you happen to miss breakfast, no worries! You won’t be disappointed with the fried okra appetizer as you wait for a mouth-watering mushroom sandwich or a burger like you’ve never had before!

While in the River Market area, make sure to check out some of the great local museums such as The Historic Rock Museum, The Arkansas Arts Museum, The MacArthur Museum of Military History, and The William J. Clinton Presidential Library & Museum. Many of these museums offer free admission. The Clinton Presidential Library & Museum sits on almost 30 acres that it shares with The Clinton School of Public Service and The Clinton Foundation. The museum contains over 100,000 artifacts, documents, and pictures. At any given time, the museum has on display over 500 artifacts, 200 documents, and 1400 pictures pertaining to the life and presidential career of former President Clinton. There are 3 exhibit levels containing fascinating history surrounding the timeline of Clinton’s career, letters and gifts, his limousine while in office, events and celebrations during his time at The White House, replicas of The Oval Office and Cabinet Room, and more! Excluding major holidays, this museum is open Monday- Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 1pm-5pm. Senior adults 62+: $5, Adults 18+: $7, Children 6-17: $3, children under 6 and active military: free admission. Admission rate for groups of 20+ is $5/person. College and retired military admission is $5 with ID. Hand-held audio tours are available for an extra $3 and are extremely worth the additional fee! The museum also houses a small restaurant, Café 42, which overlooks the Arkansas River. It is open weekdays from 9am-4pm for coffee and lunch from 11am-2pm.

Another great scenic attraction is the Big Dam Bridge. It’s free and full of beauty! It’s the nation’s longest bridge specifically built bicycle and pedestrian bridge. It took 8 years from design to finished structure. There are approximately 20 miles of scenic riverside trails through Little Rock and North Little Rock that the outdoors person will love! Being easily accessible to the River Market and museums makes it in a great location, too!

Hungry, yet? Another great dining option in the River Market is Dizzy’s Gypsy Bistro. This local restaurant will quickly become a family favorite! Open Tuesday-Thursday 11am-9pm and Friday-Saturday 11am-10pm, this colorfully casual restaurant has a menu item for everyone! The patio area overlooks the market and is the perfect place to snack on Dizzy’s infamous cheese dip or homemade salsa! Yum! Craving something specific? If you’re in the mood for some famous Arkansas BBQ, I know just the place! Whole Hog Café offers the best BBQ beef, pork, or chicken you can imagine! With 7 different sauces and 6 sides, the options are endless at this award-winning restaurant! Open Sunday- Thursday from 11am-8pm and Friday-Saturday from 11am-9pm.

Ready for some night-life options? The Loony Bin is a must for comedy lovers. Shows performed Wednesday-Saturday at 7:30pm with an additional 10pm show on Friday and Saturday nights. Great food and drink menu available. Ticket prices depend on the comedian performing, but are always very reasonable. Be prepared to laugh yourself breathless! All shows are for ages 18+ or 21+.

If the bar/dance scene is more to your liking, Willie D’s is calling your name. Open Tuesday-Saturday 7pm-2am, Willie D’s offers more fun than you can imagine! Reservations are available to ensure room for your entire group of friends, family, or coworkers!  Please make sure to give 48 hours advance notice for reservations. Split into 3 spaces, Willie D’s has a section for whatever mood you and your group are in. The main area offers dueling piano shows where you and your friends can make requests and sing along to your favorite tunes. With 2 full-service bars, a kitchen that serves until at least 11pm, nightly specials, and great service, what’s not to love? Prost is the name of another happenin’ section of Willie D’s that has a full-service bar, big screen TV’s, pool tables, and beer pong tables available. Don’t miss karaoke on Friday night! The last section, Deep, is only open on Friday and Saturday nights. If you love to shake your booty to Top 40 hits and hip hop, this is where you should be! This Little Rock favorite has been recently renovated to be better than ever before and the dance club is 100% smoke free!

When you’re finally ready to call it a night, staying in the area would be wise! Little Rock Marriott, Holiday Inn Presidential, Hampton Inn & Suites, Residence Inn, and DoubleTree are all great options in the River Market District. The Capital Hotel is a definite historic luxury hotel favorite! Many online booking sites have rates for these hotels listed from $85-$200/night. Most offer group rates and other discounts. Enjoy your stay in Little Rock and be sure to check back for more food, fun, and future adventure ideas!

Sip Your Way Through Southern Minnesota

Posted by | Blog | No Comments

While researching different areas for things to do – we came across this great blog post from our friends at Explore Minnesota.  Many travelers might not realize that Minnesota boasts over 34 wineries and 75 breweries.  Grab your friends, hop on a motorcoach and sip your way through southern Minnesota.  Your tastebuds will thank you for it!

 

Sip Your Way from Minnetonka to Waconia

By Grant Erler

The southwest corner of the Minneapolis-St. Paul area is well known for its many scenic lakes and attractions like the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. And in 2016, the Ryder Cup will come to Hazeltine National Golf Course in Chaska. But did you know this area is quickly becoming a hot spot for beer, wine and spirits connoisseurs?

Check out all eight establishments, located between Minnetonka to the east and Waconia to the west, and get a taste of the local libations.

Lucid Brewing

As one of the premier new breweries in Minnesota, Minnetonka-based Lucid Brewing is a great place to start your trek. Be sure to sign up for the Saturday tour on the brewery’s website to get a fascinating look at the brewing process and, of course, some free samples. Lucid is well known for its wonderfully hoppy Foto IPA, as well as the crisp and zesty Silo Belgian Saison.

Excelsior Brewing Company

Located in the historic town center, Excelsior Brewing Company has quickly become a local favorite. The taproom has a wonderfully friendly atmosphere and is a great place to relax with friends after a day out on the lake or strolling on Water Street. Try the full-bodied Bridge Jumper IPA.

Not far away is the Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail, which runs from Hopkins to Victoria and also passes near Enki Brewing.

Enki Brewing exterior

Enki Brewing

Located in the 100-year-old creamery building in Victoria, Enki’s taproom offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere in the winter and a relaxing patio in the warmer months. Enki has a full range of brews, from the citrusy Tail Feather IPA to the indulgently rich Cacao Porter.

Waconia Brewing Company

Just two blocks from the shores of Lake Waconia in the heart of the city’s vibrant downtown, you’ll find the latest addition to the southwest metro’s brewery scene. Waconia’s first brewery since 1890 offers a wide variety of taps including its flagships: Amber, Witbier, Kolsch and West Coast IPA, plus a rotating number of seasonal offerings.

Parley Lake Winery

Located among the rolling hills near Parley Lake, this winery offers a variety of wines including the ever-popular Frontenac Gris. The winery is right next to the Carver Park Reserve, which has a number of trails through the woods and prairies for hiking in the summer and cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the winter.

Schram Vineyards Winery & Brewery

Schram is the state’s first combination winery and brewery, located on a six-acre vineyard overlooking Reitz Lake, just southeast of Waconia. Enjoy a glass or bottle of wine or mead (honey wine), as well as the continuously rotating selection of beers in the tasting room. You can even try your hand at some bocce ball while you’re there

Sovereign Estate WinerySovereign Estates Winery

Situated on the north shore of Lake Waconia, along the popular Dakota Trail, Sovereign Estates features both indoor and outdoor tasting rooms, as well as an elegant bistro. The vineyard is on a south-sloping hill, offering beautiful views of the lake. A popular choice is the award-winning Talon Crest, a dry and fruity La Crescent white.

J. Carver Distillery

The Waconia-based distillery is named after Jonathan Carver, one of the first Europeans to explore and chart the area in 1766. Just like their namesake, the folks at J. Carver Distillery are exploring uncharted territory as they are set to become the first legal distillery to operate in the history of Carver County. Initially, they will produce gin and vodka and will eventually offer barrel-aged whiskey, bourbon, brandy and liqueurs.

Download a map of the “SW Minne Beer, Wine & Spirits Tour” and start your adventure, or learn more about the area from the SouthWest Metro Chamber of Commerce.

For more information on these communities, please visit:

GoMotorcoach to Comic Con? Why not?

Posted by | Blog | No Comments

comicconThe days of a simple convention for comic book fans are long gone.  With the increased popularity of comics, science fiction, gaming and the like, the comic con has become a huge spectacle across the country.  Allow me to share a story of once comic con experience and let you know why we should have chartered a bus.

If you have ever attended a Con you know that they tend to be quite crowded with all sorts of people.  People enjoy dressing up in imaginative costumes based on their favorite characters, books, movies, etc.  This is known in the industry as Cosplay and the costumes can get very elaborate.

It was not all that long ago when my friends and I decided we wanted to attend a Con that was about a four hour drive from us.  Since none of us owned a vehicle large enough for everyone we looked at two options; charter a bus or rent a large van.  I can tell you now we made the wrong choice with the van.  If only we had spent a few dollars more we’d have had a much better experience.

First of all the gas was expensive and the fuel economy was awful in that van.  A charter bus would have alleviated our need to fork out all that cash each time we had to stop for fuel.  Although the charter would have needed to stop as well, it most certainly would have done so while we were inside and enjoying the festivities.

But that really was not even the main concern.  When we arrived the line to get into any of the nearby parking lots was longer than the lines inside to see an actor that once played a villain on an old Star Trek episode.  We arrived in what we thought was plenty of time to park, get our costumes together and start enjoying ourselves.  Instead we spent almost 90 minutes trying to park this huge van.  Nearby we could see busses pulling up to the entrance to the convention center and dropping off their guests while we sat idle.  It was frustrating to be sure, but at the end of the night the frustration was at its peak when we tried to leave and go to our hotel.  Had we just chartered a bus like some of those other groups we’d have been well rested for the second day of the Con.

However parking was not the only reason the bus would have been better.  Inside the bus there was room to move around thus giving riders plenty of room and time to get their costumes and make up done.   Instead, we had to wait in line to get into the restrooms to take care of that.  So before we could ever get started in enjoying the show and meeting the stars we had to impatiently wait for our turn in the bathroom.

A typical Comic Con can cost a lot of money to attend especially if you are the type to gather autographs and memorabilia.  And just where is everyone going to find a place for all of that in the van?  Unfortunately Dalek and R2D2 replicas takes up substantially more space than you’d think.

The charter bus experience is perfect for your group to attend a Comic Con.  You’ll have plenty of room to walk around and get ready, you’ll get dropped off right at the front door and there will be plenty of room for a few extra friends on the way home.  Add in the fact that if you have chartered a bus you can partake in a few adult beverages while enjoying the con and you have a win-win situation.  So the next time you and your friends decide to travel across the state to see 100 people dressed like Doctor Who; take the bus.  You’ll be very happy you did.

Music City, USA

Posted by | Blog | No Comments

Live MusicNashville, TN is one of the great American destinations and is a perfect stop for your next chartered bus tour.  Contrary to popular opinion, Nashville is not just for country music fans. The name “Music City” was earned for the many varieties of music that one can enjoy during a visit.  In addition, Nashville has long been known as one of the most affordable cities to visit in the country.  So what makes Nashville such a great destination?  Let’s start with a visit downtown.
Ryman

Your charter coach can drop you off at the world famous Ryman Auditorium.  Originally built as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, Ryman Auditorium was home for The Grand Ole Opry from 1943 – 1974.  It is still used today for concerts and shows, but you can take a tour and see where history was made.  Take a few minutes and stand on the stage where artists such as Hank Williams, Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton made their Opry debuts.  There are plenty of artifacts from the Opry on display throughout the auditorium.  As you walk around you can really feel the history of this national landmark.

Ernest TubJust steps away from the Ryman is Broadway; however it’s nothing like the Broadway you’d find in New York City.  This Broadway is a street where you can hear music from all manner of artists every night of the week.  You can walk down the street and pass a seemingly endless line of restaurants, shops and bars where live music is always being played.  No matter what your taste you are sure to find something to sit back and enjoy. Another must see place on Broadway is the Ernest Tubb Record Shop.  This shop has been located at the same location since 1947 and still sells vinyl records.  If you are a collector of  vintage vinyl then you will definitely want to visit.  And yes, they too will offer live music.

A couple of blocks away from Broadway you will find the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.  All of the greats in the country music industry have been enshrined here with their own bronze plaques.  You seriously do not need to be a fan of country music to appreciate the talents of the individuals honored here.  The museum itself is filled with all sorts of memorabilia from the artists themselves and tells the history of country music.

You’re going to get pretty hungry wandering around downtown and there is no shortage of  delicious places to eat and, of course, hear live music.  Since you are in Nashville then you may want to partake in a bit of BBQ.  There may be no better place than Rippy’s Ribs & BBQ.  Rippy’s is only one block from Ryman Auditorium and they serve up some of the best BBQ in the city, if not the entire south.  Try a slab of ribs with Rippy’s homemade BBQ sauce with a side of onion rings and coleslaw and you will think you were in hog heaven.  Rippy’s can even organize a private party for you and your fellow bus travelers if you wish.  You can enjoy live music in the main dining area, sports on flat screen TV’s in another or try the open air rooftop patio.  Pulled pork, catfish, baked beans; you seriously cannot make a bad choice here.

HermitageNow that you have enjoyed downtown, let your bus take you to see the home of President Andrew Jackson; The Hermitage.  Located just a short drive from downtown, The Hermitage is a fascinating place to visit.  You can start your tour in the museum and then take a short stroll to the home where President and Mrs. Jackson resided.  The tomb of Andrew and Rachel Jackson is located in the gardens by the home.  Numerous log cabins make up the grounds and tour guides take you through the home and provide you with historical facts.

One of the best things about Nashville and the surrounding areas is that it is easily accessed by bus which will make your visit here all the more comfortable and enjoyable.  Why fight for a place to park downtown when the bus can take you there and pick you up when you are done? Get the group together, get on the bus and head to Nashville this summer.  You will have grand ole time.

A Most Pleasant Journey

Posted by | Blog | No Comments

Point Pleasant, NJ is most often thought of as a summer destination.  And while the weather is often more conducive to swimming after the fourth of July, there is really no need to wait that long.  Point Pleasant is still there in the spring and early summer and with smaller crowds it ends up being just that much more…well, pleasant.

jenkinsons-boardwalk-header1Located in Ocean County, Point Pleasant has long been a popular getaway for those living in Philadelphia and New York City.  It is a family-friendly spot loved by and designed for kids of all ages.  In recent years as families have been looking for more places to go that everyone can enjoy, Point Pleasant has become just that much more popular.  What is the best way to get there?  Well by motorcoach of course.

Your charter motorcoach journey to Point Pleasant can drop you right off at the boardwalk so you can enjoy the crystal clean beach and all the amenities the boardwalk has to offer without the hassle of having to find a place to park or the expense and uncertainty of a local parking lot.  There will be none of that for you because you planned ahead.  But what to do once you arrive?  That is the best part.

Start with Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, the centerpiece of the Jersey Shore.  While there are boardwalks that have more popularity in New Jersey, none are as fun or as well maintained as Jenkinson’s.  It is about one mile long and contains thrill rides, attractions, restaurants and arcades.  If mini-golf is your idea of fun than look no further as there are three outstanding places to play; Rooftop Golf, Castaway Cove and my personal favorite, Lighthouse Point.

Looking for a little adventure and maybe a scream or two?  Then you must try the Dark Ride at the South Beach Arcade.  The Dark Ride is a 7D interactive experience that makes a 3D movie seem as exciting as using a View-master.  They have two movies to choose from; Zombies and the all-new Gigamon.  Why not try both?

If you’re looking for adventure of a different sort then you can check out the Point Pavilion Antique Center.  The center is stuffed to the gills with antiques and collectibles.  You may find more than you can take with you on the bus as you explore the two floors of treasures, but no worries there as you can always ship larger items to your home.

Uncle Vinnie’s Comedy Club provides year-round entertainment guaranteed to make you smile.  While this club may not always be family-friendly, they do cater to groups and offer group discounts for both dinner and show packages.  The top comedians in the nation are always featured at Uncle Vinnie’s.

Speaking of food, there are some wonderful places to dine in Point Pleasant.  Naturally you can find all of the requisite boardwalk style food you could ask for including popcorn, cotton candy, sausage & peppers and ice cream.  However if you want the best ice cream you want to make a stop at Hoffman’s.  Hoffman’s serves up some 40 flavors of delicious ice cream and frozen yogurt and they offer tours as well to see how it is all done.  They have all the traditional flavors, but get a little adventurous and try the Sea Salt Caramel Latte flavor.

When it is time for dinner you want something really good and not another serving of fries from boardwalk.  If Italian food is of your liking then visit Spano’s Ristorant Italiano.  Owned and operated by Chef Joseph Spano for over 15 years, the restaurant features authentic Italian food in an authentic atmosphere. Traditional dishes, such as lasagna and chicken Parmesan are available and very popular.  Named for Joseph’s mother, one of the house favorites at Spano’s is the Chicken Zia Carmela; mushrooms, eggplant and roasted red peppers sauteed in a garlic tomato sauce, served over breaded boneless breast of chicken, topped with mozzarella cheese and their award winning marinara sauce.   You will not leave here hungry.

So why not get the family and friends together, leave the car behind and charter a bus?   You can make plenty of memories in Point Pleasant, NJ before the crowds arrive this summer.  You may not want to swim in the ocean, but there’s absolutely nothing wrong with a nice walk on the beach.

Stop the Bus and Smell the Roses – Portland, OR

Posted by | Blog | No Comments

100_2512Whether you realize it or not, one of the greenest and most economical ways to see the USA is via a charter bus.  And whether you want to travel near or far the motorcoach can take you there.  So with a wink and a smile it is time to literally stop and smell the roses in Portland Oregon.

Portland is known as the “City of Roses” and it has been given this name for a very good reason; Portland is home to the International Rose Test Garden.  The Rose Garden, located in Washington Park, is home to over 7000 rose plants of some 550 varieties.  Your motorcoach can drop you off at the entrance so you can walk through the gardens on paved paths, enjoy the beauty of the flowers and get an outstanding view of the Portland skyline.  There are fountains, statues, plenty of photo opportunities and the park has access ramps so no one is left out.  Public tours are offered free of charge daily at 1:00 PM, but self-guided tours are always available.  Groups of 11 or more can arrange for guided tours in advance.

Each year Portland is home to the annual Rose Festival from late May to early June.  The festival includes activities for all ages.  There are several parades including the nighttime Starlight Parade and the centerpiece of the festival, the Grand Floral Parade.  But the fun does not stop there; concerts, golf tournaments and a rose show are also great activities to enjoy.  A dragon boat race takes place every year on the Willamette River where over 80 teams compete for the title of champion.  However, what may be the most enjoyable activity of the festival is the Milk Carton Boat Race.   Both children and adults enter their homemade human powered boats that float only by recycled milk cartons and milk jugs to vie for the coveted Best in Show Milk Can.  And yes, sometimes they sink.

Located right next to the Rose Garden is the beautiful and tranquil Portland Japanese Garden.  It is a traditional Japanese Garden consisting of five sub-gardens spread over five and ½ acres.  Be sure to put away your cell phones because they are not allowed in this land of peace and harmony.  A stroll through these gardens will give everyone a deep connection with nature. 100_2498

If animals are more of your liking the Oregon Zoo is about two miles away from the Rose and Japanese Gardens and features over 260 species to admire and enjoy.  And right next to the zoo is the Portland Children’s Museum; the sixth oldest children’s museum in the world.  Although designed for children, the museum is a joy for families of all ages.

One of the other benefits of visiting Portland is their unique light rail system known as MAX.  Sometimes getting downtown in a large city is not always easy for a bus and that is where MAX comes in.  MAX has four lines; Blue, Green, Red and Yellow, and all of them run through downtown Portland.  So if you are up in the Washington Park area and want a bite to eat downtown you can easily hop aboard the Red or Green line and find yourself a great meal.

100_2497And speaking of great meals there is no shortage of delicious places to dine in Portland.  Have you ever wanted to try a bison or elk burger?  Well then Deschutes Brewery is where you want to go.  It is a great place for large groups and the food and atmosphere all have a distinctive Portland flair.  Start your meal off with the Fried Pickled Cauliflower and then just try and decide what you should have for your main course.  If you are a fan of beer you will most definitely find several here to your liking.

If a little Italian food is what you are craving and you are not afraid of ghosts then Old Town Pizza is a fantastic place to din  .  Old Town Pizza sits in the original lobby of the old Merchant Hotel.  You place your order at the hotel’s original reception desk.  There is an old legend that tells us this place has been haunted for well over 100 years.  Go for yourself, hear the story and enjoy the food.  The pizza is all natural, local and handmade.  The sauce is made from scratch daily and is indescribably delicious.  If pizza is not your favorite then dive into a plate of spaghetti and meatballs, but whatever you do, do not leave without trying an order of garlic knots.

So why not get your family or maybe those old friends you’ve been meaning to get together with and charter a bus to Portland.  The roses are waiting for you.

The Benefits of Charter Bus Travel

Posted by | Blog | No Comments

For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move. – Robert Louis Stevenson

Sometimes the best part of traveling is not the destination, but the journey itself.  I have often traveled with my family and found myself missing out on things.  I cannot recall how many times I heard someone say “wow, look at that” or “that is absolutely beautiful” and there I am with my eyes glued to the road and missing all the beauty.  However, it does not have to be that way.  Traveling by charter bus is an excellent way to see America and all she has to offer.  No matter where you are headed, there is beauty to be found.  Let’s take a few minutes and look at some of the benefits of charter bus travel.

As I mentioned the most obvious reason to go by bus is so that you can enjoy the journey. Whether it is the mountains, the plains, the wildlife or the stunning architecture of the big cities, you won’t have to miss a thing.  Leaving the driving to someone else leaves you all the time to take in everything if you so choose.  Just relax, sit back and enjoy the views. Don’t be in a hurry to get somewhere, but take the time to appreciate the odyssey.

Naturally weather can be a factor as well.  Leaving the driving to someone else who happens to be a professional bus driver can give one incredible peace of mind.  You see that driving rainstorm coming up ahead?  No need to worry because your driver has everything under control.  He/she has been trained to handle all sorts of situations and you can leave your worries to him/her. Plus there is very little chance of getting lost as your driver has likely taken this same trip many times.

It’s economical as well.  Just add up what you would spend to rent a car and purchase fuel and you will see that going via charter bus will save you money.  Once you stop somewhere for the night your lodging is often already included with what you paid for the tour so no worries in that department either.  You’re not going to have to think about those no vacancy signs because your room is ready and waiting.  In addition it is substantially more economical than airline travel.

When you leave the driving to someone else you have more time for yourself.  Maybe you finally want to start reading that novel you’ve had to put off for so long.  Well, by taking the bus you have plenty of time.  Maybe you have a movie on your tablet you have been dying to see or a series you just want to binge watch.  You certainly can’t do that if you’re sitting in the driver’s seat.

These days there are a lot of people that travel alone, not because they particularly want to do so, but rather by necessity.   Once you’ve chosen your destination you can hop on that bus and suddenly you are not feeling like you are by yourself.  What a great time to meet new people and make new friends.  You’re obviously not going to be the only person on that bus and that is a good thing.  Everyone has a story and just about everyone loves showing off photos of their family. You will have the opportunity to meet people you never would have met otherwise.  I can say for myself that I have made lifelong friends from strangers sitting across the aisle.  Maybe you’ll even want to travel together again one day.

Since chartering a bus is less expensive than you probably realize, it is also a fantastic way to get your family together for a special occasion.  Whether you are looking to have a family reunion or to celebrate mom & dad’s 50th wedding anniversary, you can all pitch in together and make chartering a bus your own private party.  Pick a destination, pick a starting point and off you go.  From a personal standpoint, I have to say that doing this was one of the best ideas we ever had.  There is a very good possibility that your driver will become an honorary member of your family as well.

So don’t fear the charter bus.  Yes, like everything in this life, it has its pros and cons.  But just think of the memories you will bring home after a long journey on the road with someone else doing all the work.  I can’t think of a more relaxing way to travel.

Charleston, SC – Something For Everyone In The Group!

Posted by | Blog | No Comments

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page – Saint Augustine

So your group is ready to get together for charter bus tour this spring, but where should you go?  You don’t want anything too hot and you certainly don’t want anything too cold which leaves Charleston, SC as the perfect destination.

Charleston is the oldest city in South Carolina and is certainly the most historic.  The city’s residents pride themselves on their hospitality and welcome visitors with open arms.  It is the kind of place where you will never meet a stranger.

Quite simply, the best place to start any visit to Charleston is with a carriage ride in the historic district.  There are several good companies to go with, but I have found the Old South Carriage Company to be the best.  The drivers are courteous and incredibly knowledgeable and will tell you more about the city than you ever expected.  All tour companies get busy, so an early start is recommended.  All carriage tours begin and end in downtown Charleston and due to the unique system the city uses to direct carriage traffic; no two tours are exactly the same.  Just sit back, relax and let the horse do all the work as you see beautiful homes, gardens and places of worship in The Holy City.  After your tour be sure to take a moment to pose for a photo with your horse.

IMG_2236While on your carriage tour you would have passed by several restaurants, most of which are beautiful homes that have been converted to dining establishments.  One such place is Poogan’s Porch.  Located on Queen Street in a Victorian home built in 1888, Poogan’s Porch has been serving delicious meals since 1976.  The restaurant is named after a dog that used to visit all the porches in the neighborhood looking for table scraps and served as the official greeter until his death in 1979.  As far as the food goes you may never want to leave.  The buttermilk fried chicken is a big favorite and so is the Ribs & Mac, but to me there is nothing better than the Chicken & Waffles.  Crispy chicken breasts served over waffles with blueberry Texas Pete maple syrup?  Yes please!  Best of all, Poogan’s offers group dining so you can keep your group together for a special brunch.

Take a stroll to the Charleston City Market for some unique shopping.  There you will find just about anything you can imagine including antiques, toys, artwork and plenty of souvenirs.  The market is quite large and has many vendors, but be sure and take a few moments to watch the ladies weave the Sweetgrass Baskets.  Originally used on plantations to free dirt from rice, the baskets are now works of art and make a fantastic collectible from your trip.  You will be amazed at the artistry of these baskets and as many times as I’ve seen them made, I still can’t figure out how they do it.

You could literally spend days exploring the beauty of the homes and gardens of Charleston’s historic district, but what if you want to get away and see some other things?   Not far from downtown is Fort Sumter, the site where the Civil War began.  Just take the ferry to the island and start your tour.  You can stand right there on the site where the first shot was fired.  If that is not enough history for you, take your group to Patriot’s Point where groups of all sizes are welcome.  Tour the USS Yorktown, visit the Medal of Honors Museum or see vintage aircraft all in one place.

More history can be seen in the many plantations that surround Charleston. The Boone Hall Plantation, the McLeod Plantation and the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens are three of the best.  All of them are great for tour groups and present a living history of the past.  The Boone Hall Farms Market offers a variety of items including their famous jams and jellies plus they have a delightful café where you can enjoy what may be the best Chicken & Sausage Gumbo ever served.  The signature sandwich at the café is Crab & Pimento Cheese Melt served with a fried green tomato on whole wheat bread.

If you’re looking for a great burger and a cold beer after that long day of sightseeing then stop in to one of the three locations of Sesame Burgers & Beer.  Sesame serves up the best onion rings and hush puppies in all of Charleston, but the burgers are not to be missed.  They have about a dozen burgers on the menu, but feel free to design your own delicious concoction.  And for the vegetarian out there they serve up a black bean burger just for you.

The spring weather in Charleston cannot be beat.  Take your group, hop on that charter bus and make your memories.

Go Motorcoach this Spring in San Antonio, TX

Posted by | Blog | No Comments

All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware – Martin Buber

Getting a group together and deciding on where to travel can be a daunting task.  In the spring the general consensus among many is to hit the beach, but this may not be the best for everyone.  While it may not be foremost in everyone’s mind, one place that is ideal for groups and has plenty to offer is San Antonio, TX.  San Antonio is a large city and there is a lot to see so taking your group via a charter bus is a very viable way to go.

Just about everyone has heard of The Alamo, but many are surprised to learn that is right in the heart of downtown and that it was founded in 1718 as the first mission in San Antonio.   Four other Spanish colonial missions were eventually built; Concepcion, San Jose, San Juan and Espada.  A journey along this mission trail is not only historical, but fascinating as well.  Begin with the visitor’s center located in Mission San Jose and travel the trail visiting all of the missions until ultimately ending up at The Alamo.  Your bus driver can easily make the stops at each destination allowing adequate time to enjoy them all.

Once you are back downtown you can take in the sights of the world famous River Walk.  The River Walk is filled with restaurants, shops, sidewalks and stone bridges.  One thing that makes it unique is its location below street level.  Riding the Rio San Antonio Cruiser is the best way to get acquainted with the area.  The boat ride is 35 minutes long and your tour guide will immerse you in the history of the River Walk and provide a plethora of information.

One of the best times to visit in the spring is during the annual Fiesta San Antonio, which takes place over 11 days each April.  The festival consists of over 100 events and with that many to choose from there will most certainly be something the entire group can agree upon.   Parades, live music and a 10k run are just some of the many activities taking place.

But what if you want to take your group away from downtown and explore other parts of the area?  Have no fear because a multitude of places await your arrival and all of them are well-suited for groups arriving by bus.  Just northeast of downtown is the San Antonio Zoo which features over 3500 animals and the Zoo Eagle Train which has been a favorite of children and adults since 1956.  A little bit further north is the McNay Art Museum; the first modern art museum in the state of Texas and featuring works from such masters as Picasso and Rivera.  The Spanish Colonial style home that is the heart of the museum is a sight unto itself.

If exploring caverns sound like a fun way to spend a few hours with your group then the Natural Bridge Caverns are for you.  The caverns are a 30 minute drive north of downtown and contain fascinating geological formations and are a constant 70 degrees inside.  They have several tours to choose from, but whichever you choose be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

No trip would be complete without sampling the culinary delights of the region and San Antonio is no exception.  When you’re in Texas three items come to mind; barbecue, steaks and my personal favorite, Tex-Mex.

There are several great dining choices on the River Walk where dining outside is the preference.  The County Line BBQ is an exceptional choice on the river for real Texas BBQ.  Smoked sausage, brisket, ribs and chicken are the specialties of the house and with the large portions you will never leave hungry.  Add in the peach cobbler for dessert and you have one spectacular meal.

If a steak is what you are after then head to The Barn Door which has been a San Antonio classic for over 60 years.  Using only the finest, aged beef this place is a favorite of both locals and visitors.  The chicken fried ribeye is a one of a kind experience and the homemade hot rolls are to die for.

But no visit would be complete without a taste of Tex-Mex and there is no shortage of excellent choices.  However two stand out above the rest; La Hacienda de Los Barrios and Los Barrios Continental Mexican Cuisine.  Both are owned by the Barrios family, but each has a distinct menu.  At La Hacienda be sure to go for the fajitas or try the puffy tacos.  At Los Barrios the Classic Enchilada Assortment, featuring five different enchiladas, is simply fantastic.

No matter what sights your group chooses to see or where they choose to dine your San Antonio vacation will be one to remember.