Okay, so it's blurry. It was 11:30, outside, dark and there were secret service agents ready to murder me if I so much as sneezed in Hillary's direction. So you can't REALLY tell who it is. I know who it is - possibly the next president of the United States, Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Photos from filming set in Travelers Rest, SC in 2007
George Clooney was here. The girls in the newest issue of Girlfriend Getaways may have missed seeing George on their recent stalking trip to Italy but I've seen him twice within 30 minutes of MY home!
Want to walk in George and Renee's footsteps? Check out these filming locations in the Carolinas then continue your journey into the mountains of NC and visit Asheville.
Just last week, George and Renee were in town again to promote this film. Thanks, guys! This photo was taken on the front steps of the Westin Poinsett Hotel in downtown Greenville, SC. Clooney was said to have eaten in many of the local restaurants on Main Street so be sure to stop in and try some of the local fare. Maybe you'll even be lucky enough to sit in George Clooney's same chair!
George Clooney and fan in Greenville, SC 2008
This information was just too good not to include. Consider these your tips of what NOT to wear for your next girls weekend or girls night out.
Did you know that March is National Women's History Month? You did? Good! Well, in case you didn't know, there are some great places to find more information about this month. A favorite site is Smithsonian Magazine but you can also find great information at the National Women's History Project. This month, let's be sure to celebrate the women in history who made our lives what they are today.
Friends Bennie and Ethel (their travel names)just returned from a 40th birthday celebration in Philly. Yes, I thought the same thing - "Fun in Philly in February???" "Yes!", they said. Though cold, there were no crowds at major attractions and no waiting lists at popular restaurants. If you are willing to bundle up, Philly can be fun in February. Items not to be missed include Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and the Museum of Physicians (Mutter Museum) if you can stomach it. Read more about Bennie and Ethel's trip to Philly and how you can save on hotels and attractions if you take a trip there at www.girlfriendgetawaypackages.com or learn more from the Philly Visitors Center:
Independence Hall :: gophila.com - The Official Visitor Site for Greater Philadelphia
So you've decided it's time to get the gang together for a bonding trip but you're unsure where to begin? There are a number of ways to go about planning a girlfriend getaway, girls weekend or vacation with your sisters. Here are just a few things to help you start your brainstorming and planning.
1. Determine the goal of your get-together.
Is the goal to reconnect with old friends - college roommates or a high school clique? Is it to celebrate a significant event - a 40, 50, or 60th birthday? How about a get together to bond before someone in the group starts chemo, has surgery or even has a baby? Determining the goal is a critical first step in successful planning. Once you have established a goal, you can start to fill in some other blanks.
2. What level of activity are you interested in?
If some in your group are looking for adventure while others want to spend the day at the spa, you either need to reach a compromise early or pick a destination with wide-ranging offerings. Ask the members of your group what their ideal getaway would entail and compare notes.
3. How far are you willing to travel?
Great escapes can take you on road trips to nearby towns or can encompass planes, trains or ships for longer treks. Are you looking for a destination get-together away from where you all live or would visiting your old haunts and stomping grounds be more fun?
4. Are you financially on even ground?
Nothing can spoil a trip faster than stifling or stressing a checkbook. Agree ahead of time who will pay for what, where you will eat and how differing budgets can be handled. Getaways are not the time to flaunt your wealth or chastise a pal for being froogle. This is supposed to be a time for bonding, remember?
5. What type of accommodation are you looking for?
Many hotels structure girlfriend packages so you can all share a room. Is that something you are comfortable with? If not, perhaps a cabin or house rental would work - you can hang together in the common areas but retreat to your own rooms for private time.
6. Don't be discouraged if you don't see packages that fit your needs.
Many "romance" or "couples escape" packages can easily be adjusted to fit a group of gals. Couples massages,sunset cruises and wine and chocolate don't have to be enjoyed by pairs. These can become wonderful opportunities to slow down the pace, relax and rejuvenate together. So if you see something that piques your interest, shoot an email to the property or pick up the phone.
Keep checking back for more ideas and tips on planning great getaways and be sure to leave your own comments. Check out my website at www.girlfriendgetawaypackages.com for packages, gifts and more.
