Vacation miles
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
If a bad case of spring fever has worsened into a travel bug you can’t seem to shake, 225 has just the thing: some great spring getaways.
Whether you wish to go 100 miles or a thousand, we’ve unearthed some hidden treasures, complete with first-hand recommendations on fun, funky hotels, great local restaurants and interesting things to do while you’re there.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or going for longer, our spring picks will put you one step closer to being there.
ST. FRANCISVILLE
It’s one of the true gems in the 225 area code. Just 30 minutes from downtown Baton Rouge, you find yourself in a bucolic paradise of rolling countryside and charming historic architecture.
Where to stay: You can’t go wrong at almost any of the bed and breakfasts in and around the town itself, but one of our favorites is the Shadetree B&B. This enticing little inn overlooking a Mississippi River bluff features three suites, each with a king-sized bed, library, kitchenette and aromatherapy bath products. Cocktails, appetizers and a continental breakfast in the privacy of your suite are included in the reasonable price, which ranges from $100 to $200 a night.
Where to eat: After years of languishing as a culinary backwater, St. Francisville is coming of age, thanks in part to Varnadoe’s Carriage House Restaurant at The Myrtles, which opened last year. New Orleans chef Scott Varnadoe has earned raves for creating a menu that fuses traditional southern dishes with international influences. Prices are moderately expensive, with entrées in the $25 range, but it’s well worth it if you want to treat yourself to a memorable meal. For a casual lunch in a low-key atmosphere favored by locals, don’t miss the Magnolia Café.
Where to hang out: St. Francisville is a great walking town, with plenty of historic homes and antique shops to explore. For those really looking to getaway for the afternoon, however, consider driving 45 minutes north to Tunica Falls or Clark Creek Natural Area. Just across the Mississippi state line, the falls boast seven hiking trails, each of which leads to a different waterfall. Before dinner, head to the new clubhouse at The Bluffs and enjoy a cocktail and a spectacular view of the sunset.
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NEW ORLEANS
The beleaguered Crescent City still isn’t back to her old self, but she hasn’t forgotten how to enjoy life, she hasn’t lost her old world charm, and she sure could use your help. So here’s a good deal: go there and have a great weekend, thus doing your part to help bring her back around.
Where to stay: Take a trip back in time to the Hotel Villa Convento, a cozy, rustic but comfortable guesthouse in the heart of the French Quarter on Ursulines Street. Rumored to be the legendary House of the Rising Sun, this Creole structure dates back to the 1830s. Enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee and chicory and a pastry in the courtyard or wake up early and watch the sun rise over the French Quarter rooftops from your scenic balcony. Prices for a one-night stay are as reasonable as $89, with suites in the $200 range. Note: Take the stairs if you don’t like tight spaces—the elevator is no bigger than a broom closet.
Where to eat: Start your evening off right with a walk down to the Napoleon House on Chartres Street for an aperitif (may we recommend a refreshing Pim’s Cup) then take a cab or a 10-minute stroll to the Marigny Brasserie on Frenchman Street in the Faubourg Marigny. Popular with locals yet unspoiled by tourists, Marigny Brasserie has an eclectic menu and is dripping with atmosphere. If you’re spending more than one night or want to venture to other parts of the city, Restaurant One at Hampson Street in the Riverbend is a must. Not to be confused with the terribly overpriced Table One in the Garden District, Restaurant One represents the best of what New Orleans dining has to offer—and a growing list of awards to prove it.
Where to hang out: You can’t go wrong strolling the streets of the French Quarter, especially if you’re a collector. The galleries and antique shops are offering great deals as they continue to struggle after Katrina. Ditto that for Magazine Street, which is lined from Napoleon Avenue to the lower Garden District with shops selling cutting edge art, timeless antiques, vintage clothing and stylish accessories. For after-dinner fun Frenchman Street will show you what the French Quarter was before tacky T-shirt shops and strip clubs ruined the vibe. Funky jazz clubs beckon visitors with open doors and nary a cover charge. Check Offbeat or Friday’s Lagniappe in the Picayune for the weekend lineup of great music, and be sure to hit The Spotted Cat and dba – and keep an eye out for rock stars and hot young celebrities. They frequent these nightclubs when in town for movie shoots because most tourists don’t know they exist.
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FORT MORGAN, ALABAMA
This quiet little peninsula just this side of Gulf Shores remains largely unspoiled by high-rise beach condos and souvenir shops. It’s pristine, relaxing and the ideal spot for a romantic weekend getaway or an extended family-style vacation.
Where to stay: Rent a condo, villa or full-size beach house at Martinique on the Gulf, a clean and modern development built in a French Colonial architectural style that’s reminiscent of the Caribbean. Its next to a state wilderness area where no development is allowed, creating a surprisingly serene spot to behold the sugary sand and blue-green Gulf of Mexico. Prices vary depending on season and the size of the property, but options are available at most price points.
Where to eat: The concept of fine dining continues to elude the Gulf Shores area. That’s why we suggest venturing out for a shopping trip to Blalock Seafood and Specialty Market, where you can choose from a wide selection of freshly caught seafood. The store also sells enticing bottles of marinating, dipping and basting sauces to make it simple to prepare a really good meal in the comfort of your luxury condo.
Where to hang out: If you’re staying at Martinique on the Gulf you’ll be tempted to spend the entire time vegging comfortably at the Beach Club, the pool deck overlooking the beach, with its sparkling pool, children’s pool, whirlpool spa, sauna, fitness center, dressing area and covered veranda. If you go in the off-season months like October, you’ll have virtually the whole Beach Club to yourself. If the weather isn’t cooperating and you’re looking for something to do in town, check out Faulkner State College in Gulf Shores, where you can sign up for daylong classes in cooking or wine tasting.
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GREENWOOD, MISSISSIPPI
Where? That’s right, Greenwood, Mississippi, in the heart of the Delta. Not on your radar? Then you’ve obviously never heard of The Alluvian.
Where to stay: The Alluvian is a five-star boutique hotel in the middle of nowhere, and it’s well worth the 4-hour drive from Baton Rouge to spend a pampered weekend there. The Viking Range Corp., which manufactures its world-class stainless steel ovens in Greenwood, built the hotel in 2003. Since then, The Alluvian has earned national raves for offering a level of service and comfort unparalleled in these parts.
Where to eat: The Alluvian has its own pricey restaurant, but Delta natives will tell you that the venerable Lusco’s in downtown Greenwood is really the only place to eat. Waiters in starched white coats serve dishes from a well-worn menu they delight in reciting by heart: oysters en brochette, fried shrimp, broiled pompano, steaks. While the service is exquisite, you’ll have to bring your own wine or liquor. Beer, however, is served.
Where to hang out: The Alluvian has a wonderful spa where you can easily while away a couple of luxuriant hours, then head over to the Viking Cooking School, which offers weekend classes tailored for Alluvian guests. Make sure to check what’s on the schedule if you plan to visit and make reservations in advance. The school also serves an excellent Saturday lunch. After lunch, check out some of the little boutiques in downtown Greenwood, or take a drive through the countryside to get a feel for the Delta, with its flat, green fields and antebellum homes.
If you make it as far north as Marigold, check out Gilbo’s or the Wishing Well, both of which sell fine women’s apparel. Another fun stop is McCarty’s Pottery, a family-run business that sells unique pieces pottery collectors will appreciate.
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ISLA MUJUERES, MEXICO
It’s one of the Yucatan’s best-kept secrets. If you love the landscape of Cancun but hate the crowds, chain restaurants and endless high-rise condo towers, take a 25-minute ferry ride to Isla, where you can enjoy the same azure beaches minus the overdevelopment.
Where to stay: Two good choices. If you want a luxury experience, Hotel Villa Rolandi is your best bet. While there are a couple of five-star hotels on the island, Villa Rolandi is perhaps the best and offers the most amenities. While rooms are pricey, averaging $350 this time of year, it’s still a good deal compared to what you’d pay for similar accommodations in a better-known tropical locale. If you’re working on a more limited budget, you can’t go wrong with Cabanas Maria del Mar, which has a main hotel and free-standing cabanas. Owned by the same family as Villa Roland, Maria del Mar offers luxury service at three-star prices.
Where to eat: The great thing about Isla is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a good meal. The island is teeming with fresh seafood that’s prepared Caribbean style, unlike touristy greasy, cheesy Tex-Mex food. For an upscale meal, the Restaurant at Hotel Villa Rolandi offers the best food on the island, and don’t miss the whole fish. For a great breakfast or lunch, Buhos is your best bet.
Where to hang out: If you enjoy diving, there is no shortage of dive boats for hire, or stay closer to the shore and snorkel at El Garrafon National Park, which has a good reef and scenic hiking trails. Or, rent mopeds and spend an afternoon touring the island. Make sure and stop at Dolphin Discovery, where you can swim with the dolphins, and Isla Contoy, a nature preserve home to more than 100 bird species.
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SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO
This great little city will give you a real feel for the culture of the southwest, and it’s not that far away. Check out the city’s official Web site for a list of the many interesting festivals held year-round and try to schedule a visit around one of them.
Where to stay: There are lots of options, but the Hotel LaFonda is a good choice, particularly if you’ve never been to the city before. Located on the historic square, it’s right in the middle of everything you’re going to want to see and is in a charming old building that provides a perfect example of mission-style architecture. Rates are relatively reasonable, though not cheap, running around $200 a night for a double room.
Where to eat: Locals swear by Geronimo on Canyon Road, which also happens to be a very happening arts district. The menu’s cutting edge and a bit pricey but well worth it. Another good choice is La Casa Sena, known for its grilled meats, southwestern-style seafood and exquisite wine list. If you’re more interested in a good margarita, try The Ore House. It’s always crowded and has the largest selection of margaritas in the area.
Where to hang out: If you’ve never been to Santa Fe, start with the main square. Even though it’s a little on the touristy side, it’ll give you a good feel for the history and culture. Santa Fe is known as something of an arts enclave, so don’t miss the cool galleries near Canyon Road and make sure to check out the world-famous Georgia O’Keefe museum.
History buffs will also enjoy the Palace of the Governors, as well as the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. If you’re spending more than a couple of days, make sure to rent a car and drive to nearby Taos or Albuquerque, both of which are less than two hours away.
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