Within the past two months, my family has become best of friends with the state that claims the name, "Virginia is for Lovers". Both Williamsburg and Virginia Beach have shown us their “southern charm” over the past two weeks offering wonderful accommodations and local attractions to not only keep me and my husband entertained, but also our over-exuberant two-year old, "Princess Jaya".
Our first trip was to Williamsburg. Here, we stayed at the Wyndham property, Patriot Place. It's a beautiful timeshare offering a quaint historical community, lush gardens and simple, yet comfortable, lodging. Each family has their own individual town home offering a living room, a separate bedroom, kitchenette, and full bathroom. The kitchen definitely came in handy when it came time to making breakfast and not having to run to McDonald's and IHOP every morning. Behind each complex, there are shared grilling stations for those evenings when you want to grill that favorite brat sausage or well-marinated patty. My brother knows how to marinate his just right!
This particular property holds intricate landscaping high on their priority list. They definitely feel the need to keep up Williamsburg's reputation for pristine gardens and colonial aura. They offer great space for a group volleyball tournament, two beautiful crystal lakes, a playground, and a gated pool with a wonderful sundeck (towels are provided poolside - how convenient!). My husband couldn’t help but to point out the full basketball court. I admit, he still has that jump-shot on lock!
With so many things to do, the week flew by before we knew it. Our week consisted of enjoying all the main attractions such as,
Busch Gardens (Jaya and Logan absolutely ADORED Sesame Street's "Forest of Fun"), miniature golfing, outlet shopping at the
Premium Outlets, all-you-can-eat seafood buffet at
Captain George's Seafood, and
Riverwalk Landing (historical Yorktown).
Williamsburg definitely offered a good time for me and my family, but I have to admit that Jaya was in complete overdrive when it came time to head home. It’s amazing how love from family can take you on a natural high...literally!
Before I knew it, we were headed
back to Virginia. This time we were looking forward to spending time with the other half of the family: The Creeks. This time we stayed at the
Ramada on the Beach. While staying on the northern end, we experienced a more private, settle atmosphere versus the southern end offering more nightlife and late-night partying.
Note: I wouldn't stay out past 1:00 a.m. as you head further down Atlantic Ave. Once the clubs/bars let out, you'll see quite a few who can't hold their own if you get my drift. I would recommend the northern end while traveling with children and possibly seniors. As for the oceanfront, the tide is much higher on the northern end particularly around noon. So, if you're not one for jumping waves, I would recommend looking for lodging closer to the middle of the strip or going early morning/late afternoon. But if you're anything like me and Malik and can handle the waves, you'll have a blast! While most of our time was spent soaking up the sun, we made time for some other activities to bring it all in. Of course I had to get my hands on some more butter-drenched Alaskan crab legs at the local
Captain George’s. I almost had Jerome on the go karts at
Motor World until the track manager confused me while waving the checkered flag too early. Otherwise, my husband can't see me! I definitely had to see what this
MacArthur Center was all about. It offered your everyday shops - Aldo, Nordstrom, The Men's Wearhouse - but it wasn't anything I couldn't find at home. I enjoyed some late night cocktails and wings with Jerome and Bro/Sis-in-Law at the
Deja Blu Supper Club, but I wouldn't recommend this spot for a Thursday night. It may lose its license for using the word "jazz" in it's name if recommended as the best night to go.
Virginia has treated my family quite nicely these past couple of weeks with its southern charm, good eating, and laid back vibe. And while Virginia may not be where I reside, it certainly deserves its mantra. It’s where the heart is!
