By now, we should all be slightly more accustomed to our “new normal” living within the ramifications of COVID. Besides wearing masks and heightening our daily hygiene precautions, traveling has plummeted due to the necessity of slowing the spread of the virus. Luckily, travel bans are slowly being lifted with extra safety measures in place.
As summer ends and we return to being able to travel to some parts of the world, many are anxious for a much-needed vacation. There are thousands, if not millions, of travel deals available now in an effort to promote travel in this new era. If you’re able to take advantage of it, here are some travel options for you to consider during this fall and winter season.
Pocono Mountains
As a PA resident, I’ve never taken advantage of the Pocono Mountains, but I plan to during this fall and winter travel season. It’s a great getaway, equipped with beautiful scenery. Known for their ski resorts, there are lessons for beginners and other winter sports to try out, including water sports and zip lining if the weather permits. There’s also so much to get into throughout the town. Resort managers and locals are always available, and recommend things like guided tours, shopping, and more.
If you’re not interested in any of the outdoor festivities and are looking to relax, the wood cabin lodges are a perfect escape. Similar to tropical vacations, the Pocono Mountains offer fine dining and spa packages. For adult-only activities, try a beer, wine, or spirit tasting. If you want to go outdoors but aren’t too adventurous, there’s plenty of local national parks filled with activities and different exhibits.
The Poconos are also great for families, because several indoor water parks are open year-round. The resorts offer a little something for everyone, whether you’re on a girls’ trip, a couples trip, or with family.
Nemacolin Woodlands Resort
The first time I ever heard of Nemacolin was while watching an episode of ‘The Real Housewives of Potomac’ where the girls went on a cast trip. It’s another PA “hidden treasure”, but depending on where you stay, Nemacolin can be a little pricey. Fortunately, thanks to Airbnb rental availability, paying beaucoup money for the resort and its amenities is no longer your only option.
Nemacolin is an escape meant for people with a true love of the outdoors. The town is known for activities including ice fishing, hiking, rock climbing, wildlife, and winter sports. But, there’s also more relaxed options, including great restaurants, art collection exhibits to view, shopping, and casinos.
Colorado
I remember going to my travel agent and asking her if there were different resort options around the US to stay for a vacation. When she responded that Florida and Colorado were the only options at the time, I was not impressed. This was before the Airbnb boom and, at the time, I was doing a lot of international travel and wanted to explore the US more. Now, I’m itching to get to Colorado.
It’s definitely a place for the outdoorsy type, but there are year-long activities to indulge in. If you’re into the outdoors, bike ride along a trail, go boating, fishing, or water rafting. At least try one outdoor adventure.
For those who prefer to stay inside, the state is filled with award-winning restaurants. There’s also dozens of breweries, gaming and casinos are big in Colorado, there’s plenty of exotic spas in town, and there are always festivals when you need some fresh air.
Deep Creek, MD
My friend and her family stayed in Deep Creek for a family vacation one Christmas holiday, and I was quite jealous. It’s a picturesque town pulled right from a Hallmark movie.
The town is filled with different mini villages that each offer something unique for your trip. If you’re really feeling like trying something new, visit the glassblowing workshop to view the traditional craftsman artwork and leave with a custom piece of your own.
Like most resorts, they offer outdoor water and winter activities such as fishing and boating. The town is also surrounded by mountains and falls for guided tours, hikes, and different events.
