Traveling with children is no joke. I can tell you from being a mother of two that there are lots of things that you need to have in order before even thinking of booking a flight, an RV, or a hotel room. I want to share with you a few of my top travel tricks, favorite hotel spots, and items that will help you not need a vacation from your vacation.
Emily’s Top Ten Tips for Asheville N.C.
Asheville is just two hours away from Charlotte, but can seem like you’re in a whole different state. It has it’s own charm, sense of community, and some amazing restaurants. So I left the kids behind to give you my top ten tips when planning a trip to Asheville N.C.
Eat:
There are so many places to eat in Asheville, but my three favorite North Carolina restaurants are conveniently located in Asheville.
I cannot put into words how much I love Curate. The decor and cuisine is unlike anything you think you would find on a mini-getaway, it felt like I flew to NYC (first class) for this meal.
I have been a big fan of Bartaco ten years ago when it first made it’s way to NY, right down the street from my small studio apartment. So when I saw it had made it’s way to NC, I was excited to get back to my favorite dishes. Make sure to order the street corn, guac, and of course a margarita.
Another James Beard award winning restaurant. Make sure to order the Butter chicken, okra fries, and takki rolls! It was so delicious I did not have enough time to take pictures of the food as I devoured each one of them as they were served.
Stay:
We ended up renting from the Carlonia’s Morning rentals as we wanted to basically drink wine, eat cheese, and enjoy the peace and quiet. So we didn’t want a hotel or resort, we just wanted a log cabin and all the quaint decor that went with it. I did not get to take a photo or the gorgeous outdoor kitchen, two patios, and Jacuzzi but the indoor photos sum up how peaceful one of these rentals can be.
It’s known for it’s history, massive fireplaces, and restaurants. I have stayed at the Omni Grove many times and fell in love every single time. You can dine at a five star restaurant or pick up a simple cup of coffee while staying here. No matter where you choose to dine you’re guaranteed to soak up breath taking mountain views.
This boutique hotel is so aesthetically pleasing! The decor is spectacular and makes each room unique.
Do:
Go outside! Head out for a hike in the mountains, sip on delicious tea, or sit downtown and do some amazing people watching. You can’t go wrong with just heading out into the heart or off the beaten path and explore all Asheville has to offer.
Shop:
If you follow my Instagram stories you know how honey obsessed I am. I put it in and on almost everything. So when we stubbled upon Asheville Bees Charmer I was beyond excited. They have a honey tasting bar, honey body butter, and apparel.
I bought the best romper from Minx for only $30! They have the best selection of trendy women’s fashion for all budgets, styles, and body types. While I was shopping I was a 40+ women, a new mom, and a few millennias.
Be sure to stop at these locations and let them know Visionary sent you! Enjoy Asheville and let us know what colorful adventures you endeavor! If you can’t make it to the mountains, I’ve gathered a few items that will give you that Asheville feel without the travel.
What’s 2019’s hotel hottest design trend? Industrial Chic decor. Think wood, sleek concrete, brass finishes, and art that pull colors from natural metals. My family and I went on a little road trip and stumbled upon Renaissance Allentown Hotel. This hotel was recently renovated and I think has the definition of the 2019 trend of Industrial Chic decor.
Everything has a raw, industrial look, but it’s anything but shabby chic. Rather, the entire hotel reflect a minimalist aesthetic by adding details – textures, colours and other furnishings.
The hotel features lots of local inspiration. The hotel includes artwork from local artists paying homage to Lehigh Valley businesses, and even has the grill of a Mack truck on the second floor lounge, which the kids loved!
Emily’s Picks
Get some Industrial design inspiration for your own home with my top picks below.
The Clock
The Tray
24″ Brick Bone Tray – Blue/Nickel – Bradburn Home
The Wall Clock
Metal Art Studio RF Walnut Gray Atomic Wall Clock – 23 in. Wide
The Chair
The Art
Wendover Art Group Painted Abstract Wall Art
The Ottoman
Benzara Ravishing Styled Wood Leather Ottoman
If you’re ever in PA and need some visual therapy or decor inspiration stop by The Renaissance Hotel. Take in all the rich colors and local designs.
610-820-6694
Location: Seventh and Hamilton streets, attached to PPL Center
Rooms: 170
Suites: 15, one luxury suite
Meeting space: 11,000 square feet
Ballroom: 4,000 square feet
Employees: 150, 80 percent from Allentown
Standard room rate: $159 weekend Jan. 30; $179 weeknights Jan. 27, 28
Amenities: fitness center, business center, The Dime restaurant
Of note: There are 79 Renaissance hotels in the U.S. including three in Pennsylvania.
