Destinations Reached Travel Consulting and Services: July 2012

It's a city known for reality shows and luxurious estates, but it's primary angle is maintaining a love for families and southern charm. My recent family trip to the ATL was a vacation to remember, forming lasting memories and taking in wonderful sites. Our stay at the Hampton Inn - Cumberland was quite satisfying. There were no discrepancies upon check-in and they anticipated our arrival with true hospitality. While we did experience some construction noises during the day as lobby renovations were underway, by early evening the noise ceased. The standard rooms and suites met company standards as well as our own expectations. The standard rooms offer two queen beds, a full size bathroom, a workstation with free Wi Fi, and a cable television with movie rentals. The suites include a full size living area with a pull-out bed, a separate sleeping area with either a King bed or two Queen beds, a full bathroom, and a kitchen. The hotel offers complimentary breakfast consisting of belgian waffles, sausage, eggs, cereal, and fresh fruit. Housekeeping was timely and manerable, and each day I looked forward to my Hershey kisses on my pillow upon return.

Our vacation started with a visit to Centennial Park. Jaya (our lil' angel) loved the fountain and playing with the other children. Children definitely remind you of what it means to just have fun! The park hosts a live jazz concert on Wednesdays during the summer. The featured band - the 911 Band - did their thing, while swooning the ladies with Usher and R. Kelly ballads. And they didn't forget the "oldies but goodies" of Frankie Beverly and Maze. In unison, "Joy and Pain...Come on, come on, come on!"

The next day, we visited the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Site. It was not my first visit, but it's always a great experience reeducating myself about the history of such a great leader and the civil rights movement, as well as taking in the culture of the Sweet Auburn district. Later that evening, we visited Stone Mountain National Park to witness the laser show at night. Unfortunately, a major storm made its way through and cancelled the show, but the park features many recreational/water activities for all ages. Overnight accommodations at the phenomenal Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort are available, also. Be sure to contact me for great family packages.

Friday lead us to the Georgia Aquarium. It definitely holds the title for the world's best aquarium. The exhibits, display of exotic fish, and screenings were wonderful! And to top it all, the Dolphin Tales dolphin show is out of this world! The story of a sailor being rescued by his fellow dolphin companions was a tale worth seeing. This is truly a must-see show!

That evening, me and the "fam" experienced a bit of the ATL nightlife. We headed to Indigo Rooftop Lounge. To be straight to the point. It wasn't close to being posh, but it definitely had a "down home" vibe. There was no room for being a snob, but it was simply an environment for having a good time. And for your convenience, food was sold outside on the deck. Let me just say that the barbeque shrimp kebabs were superb! Okay, I confess. I had two! : )

Our last day consisted of the Atlanta Zoo, Cascade Family Skating Rink, and our family dinner at Paschal's. Paschal's is a city landmark acknowledged for it history and famous soul food. It well deserves its title.
If it's not clear, our recent family vacation to Atlanta was wonderful and a trip to remember. I always enjoy visiting the ATL, but taking it all in with family makes it all worthwhile!

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historial Site