Wild Women Afloat on the Tennessee River

Every year my sister and I take a long weekend away together and just have fun.  It's something we both look forward to greatly: we bond, we laugh, but mostly we just relax.  We have had some "complications" in the past couple of years--both my children decided to get married two summers ago and her daughter graduated from high school last year--no expenses there right?  But this year we were right on track with our planning, with the Gaylord Resort in Nashville being our choice for this summer.  I have never been but always wanted to and looked forward to sharing it with her and then with you, my readers.  Unfortunately Mother Nature decided to nix that idea with the Resort as well as significant parts of Nashville experiencing extreme flooding and damage.  So I got out my pile of Southern Living Magazines, (otherwise known as the "bible" for Southern travel, gardening, decorating, and entertaining) and lo and behold there was a newish article on my sister's hometown, Chattanooga, TN with several really cool hip and historical things to see and do right there.  So our plans have changed--we're going for an adventure on the Tennessee River!

Our first destination is an overnight stay at the Delta Queen.  The Delta Queen was the last surviving steam powered paddle boat to carry passengers overnight until just recently when she was docked  in Chattanooga.   The Delta is so significant, she was inducted into the Marine Hall of Fame.  I didn't even know they had such, did you?  We can stay in a passenger cabin with private bath and luxurious sounding linens and appointments.  I am a sucker for high thread count aren't you?  In addition to unique, historical accommodations, we are going to enjoy paddle boat type evening entertainment, just as passengers have enjoyed for decades.

As well as fun times and a great room, a complimentary breakfast is served to guests each morning.  A floating bed and breakfast, how about that?

To finish off our Tennessee River adventure, I think we should take a dinner cruise or a daytime sight seeing cruise on the Southern Belle Riverboat that operates up and down the River.  A great dinner, scenic views, music, dancing--you don't get much better than this.

I will keep you posted on our trip which takes sail in mid-July.  I'm pretty excited as you can tell and will be full of descriptions and pictures when I return.  If you are a local, please send me pictures or recommendations of things to visit in the area--I am always on the look out for fun things for the gals!

Until later, Sandy

Sandy, thedivacruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler, an independent consultant with Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser or on her website www.SandyWheelerTravel.com.

My Visit to the Sanderling Resort and Spa,Outer Banks, NC ! Part I

WOW! was my first thought when I  entered the "lobby" of the Sanderling on the sunny but cold (40-50) Friday in February.  I had driven by the Sanderling for almost ten years on my way to Corolla, putting it on my to do list every time.  When a group of gals requested information about a long weekend get away there, I decided to was time to make my way to the Outer Banks for an explore.  Now back to the wow! 

I was greeted by a two story staircase that led up to a large seating area complete with couches, chairs, bookcases, fireplace, and two different glorious views.  The Sanderling property is fourteen acres uniquely situated on both sides of Highway 12 with some of the buildings having views of the Currituck Sound and the others looking out onto the ocean.  The registration desk is tucked into the right corner of the lobby so as not to detract from the beautiful symetry of the staircase.  After checking in, I immediately hit one of the porch rocking chairs overlooking the sound--short but sweet--as I was reminded by the nip in the wind it was still February.  I was disappointed that I was not offered concierge services, although there was a sign that said they were available.  As a woman traveling alone (my husband came in that evening), I was in need of help with my bag and laptop case. 

But let's move on, I have a massage to get to!  The North property is perfect for a girls' getaway weekend, with 2 queen beds in each room, so I chose that room type to get the look and feel for my recommendation.  The room was decorated in what I would call "beach chic" with cool and comforting furnishings and linens,  and sea shells, lots of sea shells!.  The private bathroom was well suited for women too--I was instantly in love with the glass enclosed shower.  My hubby has no clue why I was so impressed, but girls you know.  The towels where thick and thirsty and there were two great robes in the closet ready for a cozy evening.  The vanity and mirror were large enough for two women getting on their makeup and doing hair, but two sinks would have been an even better idea.  The certified organic soap, shampoo, and other toiletries were just one more piece of the feel good experience. 

The dresser seemed adequate for two ladies clothing and doubled as the TV table.  The middle section of the bureau held a small frig and room safe.  We need to feel our baubles are going to be safe while we are  walking the beach or dancing the night away right?  The best thing about the room was the deck or porch depending on the floor you were on,  complete with wicker chairs and a built in bench for talking with friends or just communing with the sounds of the beach.  The room we had directly faced a gorgeous looking and sounding waterfall.  There is no more pleasant sound to me than trickling water--I spent some really quieting and restful time there sipping hot tea and listening to the waterfall.  Unfortunately, the North Inn is not handicapped accessible.  While the steps have more than adequate handrails and a good spacing between the steps, (I was fine since this was a "good day" with my silent handicap) the steps were there  making this girl friendly, less expensive part of the property not accessible by people with problems climbing stairs or wheelers. 

We totally enjoyed a small seating area two doors down from our room that shared the gorgeous view of the waterfall, complete with comfortable seating and a fireplace.  Hubby and I sat and propped our feet up near the fire and nibbled complimentary gourmet cookies--I can totally see this property as a honeymoon spot too!  Besdie this cozy couch was a dining table and chairs--great for a snack or family conference.  At one point I did find this area taken over by the maids/waitresses ? for a meal and what appeared to be a break time.  Somehow this was a bit disappointing,  was there not an adequate space for break or dining for the staff?  My husband says I am too picky, maybe so--just reporting my findings, dear readers. 

Soon it was time for my massage.  See the lengths I go to for you my readers?  I'm really taking one for the team here girls.  The Sanderling Spa was across the street on the Sound side and I couldn't wait for the pampering to being!  That ends this installment; check back soon for the rest of the story. 

Gals remember you need to "Relax, Restore, and Realize Your Worth".

And another old adage "If Momma Ain't Happy, Nobody's Happy"

Love you, Sandy

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is in reality Sandy Wheeler, Independent Agent for Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow Sandy's adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser and on her web site www.SandyWheelerTravel.com.   Email Sandy for more information about this or any other of my blog entries! 

Flashy Red Polish

Don't run off, this will be a very short installment of my blog.  I do have a few questions.  Ok, here goes!

• why is my Santa hat the warmest one in my closet?
• why does the bright red OPI "Christmas Cheer" fingernail polish which looked so sleek and festive last week look so lame now?
• why do the Christmas lights ALWAYS come off the tree all tangled no matter how hard you try?
• why is it I always find the 75% off bows and wrapping paper I bought last year when I am putting the current year's stuff away?

If you have answers to these and any other of the great mysteries of life, drop me a line.  In the meantime,  please let me know if I can help you with any of your travel needs in 2010.  It has been my pleasure to work with some awesome clients in 2009, I thank you for your business and your friendship.  So, ponder these questions and remember whether it's a great gal's getaway, a fantasy honeymoon, or a special Valentine's treat for you and your sweetheart--I am your girl!

Blessings for the new year!

Sandy

Sandy, the divacruiser, is in reality, Sandy Wheeler, an independent contractor for Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser or her website http://www.sandywheelertravel.com/.  Email Sandy @Email for Sandy 

Gold Stars For My Girls!

I ran across some little gold stars in the back of my desk drawer the other day and had to laugh. I’ve used them for a number of “teacher” type activities through the years, but the laugh came from a memory, way back in the day when my daughter was in Sunday School. The girls received gold stars for memorizing verses and the competition was hot and heavy for these special tokens. While listening to one little girl recite her verses I had to stop and ask her to repeat. I tried hard not to roll with laughter when I realized she was using the words “barn dance” instead of the word “abundance”. Since her whole family was into square dancing, I can see how the error occurred. I still laugh when I hear the word abundance. Actually though, it’s a pretty good word, don’t you think?

Abundance brings to mind having enough money to have a comfortable existence. Enough of the green stuff to pay all the bills, save some, and enjoy some. But that’s certainly not all that we aspire to, and I speak here for and to baby boomer aged women in particular. It also means good health for ourselves and our grown children, love and romance, meaningful friendships, a chance to make a difference and give back. A sense of accomplishment, a career we love, hobbies that ease our stress and open our minds and a little more time and fewer responsibilities in which to enjoy the mix. It’s time to start treating ourselves to a few special things we may not have had money or even time to do before. Things like a cruise or trip with gal pals, an afternoon in the hammock with the latest in chick lit, gym membership, or getting ourselves those flowers we admired so much in the florist window. It’s our time and it’s very much OK to treat ourselves well.

It bothers me when I see women still trapped in the role of victim or feeling as if they have to put themselves last every time. A well nourished, relaxed, and happy woman makes a better mother, wife, worker, and citizen. The abundant life is for everyone, even you girlfriend. And heck, who knows, a barn dance might be fun too!

Sandy Wheeler, the diva cruiser, is in reality an Independent Contractor for Connie George Travel Associates who sponsors the Chicks At Sea cruises especially for women. Follow Sandy's adventures at www.SandyWheelerTravel.com and on Twitter @thedivacruiser.

Birthdays and Bucket Lists

This year marks a milestone for me-my son turns 30. We mothers celebrate every birthday of our children with tender memories and this one will be no different. This birthday has a lot of significance for two reasons. First, I can no longer lie about my age. Having a 30 year old son puts me out of my 40’s forever. Secondly, I remember vividly the year he was six and I was 30. It was at his birthday party that I finally decided I had to get help and find out what was wrong with me. I struggled badly to entertain my family and a few of his friends for the birthday bash, I was fatigued, constantly, and no amount of rest seemed to help for more than a few hours. There were times when I couldn’t stand I was so weak, and even breathing was labored. My job as a classroom teacher was in jeopardy; heck, my life was in jeopardy. I knew that day if I wanted to see another birthday party for my kids I had to find answers.

Many specialists, diagnoses, and 3 years later I had an answer. It was an incurable neuromuscular disease called myasthenia gravis. No cures, but lots of treatments existed and were available to me. It took another three years to pull myself out of the physical and emotional valley I was in. There were times I wasn’t sure I would make it, but I fought for reasons big and small. One thing that sustained me then and now is a deep faith. I was pretty sure God wasn’t done with me yet at 33 years of age. And the thought of not being there for my kids was something I was not going to accept. Birthdays, high school, weddings, and now looking toward those grandkids! One small but significant encouraging factor was my “dream trip” list, a bucket list if you will; of all the places I wanted to visit when (not if) I got well. I checked out every book on travel in the library twice, clipped magazine articles, searched through phone books, and scoured brochure racks. I was an armchair traveler extraordinary, even planning out itineraries for myself and my friends. Is it any wonder I became a travel agent? Now, I am doing great and still enjoy planning trips, particularly as girl’s getaway travel consultant for our agency.

I gave you the above background so you will know where I speak from when I say what an honor it is to work with two noted disability specialists, Connie George, and Vicki Thorpe. These two gals work tirelessly with the tiniest of details to make sure that people with disabilities have the chance to say “I can go too”. Ladies, I salute you for your dedication and experience and the opportunity you give everyone to fulfill their own travel bucket list.

Happy traveling,


Sandy

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is in reality Sandy Wheeler, the Chicks at Sea lady. Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser, @ladiestravel, and www.ChicksAtSea.com.

Communication!! (Part One)

It’s no surprise to my friends that I saw the new Star Trek movie twice within the same month and that I would see it again if I could find where it was still playing. Yes, I am a trekkie, my favorite being the Original TV series. In one of the episodes, the crew finds itself aggravated by a buzzing sound which is actually an alien race trying to communicate. Supposedly they move and speak so rapidly they can’t be understood or even perceived. The problem is solved, communication is achieved, and all is well.

I thought of the episode this week while spending all morning on the phone to Philadelphia and New York trying to arrange a girl’s getaway trip to NYC for some shopping and theatre and a BFF weekend for another group in the Caribbean. Since I speak “deep south” and these gals were speaking “high north”; the conversations bordered on hilarious. I would ask a question or make a statement and they would answer me accurately—but I didn’t get it. We were not communicating. I had to ask twice and then repeat it back to be sure I had the correct information. When I would answer their questions, I am pretty sure they were nodding off. Neither side was unskilled, being contrary, or lazy. Just a bit of a communication lag, patience won out and the trips are ready to book.

One of the joys of cruising is the ability to communicate with so many different people. People from all countries, nationalities, religions, dialects—it’s awesome. Every breakfast and lunch I head for the dining room and ask for a big table. There I have met a red-headed South African physician whose voice was like music it was so pretty; an Indian physicist teaching at MIT for a year; a couple from Mississippi who rode their Harley to Ft. Lauderdale to depart; a French waitress who called me “Madame”; a Canadian gentleman who led a good-natured argument with me on religion vs. education that the whole table of eight joined in on. Where else can you find this kind of diversity and fun?

I am closing this blog entry with a couple of my favorite sayings: YOU DESERVE A CRUISE and Cruise on my sisters Cruise on!

Ya’ll call me ya hear? (I couldn’t resist)

Sandy

Sandy Wheeler, aka the diva cruiser is in reality an independent contractor for Connie George Travel Associates. Follow us on Twitter @ladiestravel, @thedivacruiser, and @ChicksAtSea. I can be reached at 252-339-9614 or email me.

Cruise Menu Items Demystified-Chicks and Husbands at Sea!

When my husband announced he wanted a cruise for his retirement gift in September, I smiled. As realization dawned across his face, we both began to laugh out loud. As he well knew, I have spent a great deal of time and energy getting ready for our September sailing of Chicks at Sea girls getaway cruise. I told him I would be happy to take him sailing with us on Chicks at Sea. His one stipulation was that I not embarrass him at dinner by letting it be known that he didn't know what the menu items were. He, like many people, doesn't know Coq au vin from Nestle's Coco, so I thought a series of articles on menu demystification might be in order.

Many of the menu item descriptions you will see at fine dining establishments and on a cruise ship menu are derived from French, Italian, Greek, Spanish, Thai, Indian, German and a multitude of other languages. Naturally, if you don't speak these languages, you like Marv, may lean over to your spouse and say: beef, chicken, pork? Let's start with French terms and start to simplify a bit.

Soup choices in French:

Bisque (BISK) French thick cream soup consisting of shellfish and spices
Bouillon (boo YON) clear broth
Consomme' (kahn soh MAY) clear, seasoned broth
Vichyssoise (vee shee SWAHZ) a cold cream, chicken stock, leek, and potato soup


Meats in French:

Beofu (BUHF) beef.
Chateaubriand (shah th bree AHn) French for a thick cut of grilled sirloin or Porterhouse steak served with vegetables and sauce
Filet mignon (fil LAY meen YAWN) French for a small, thick steak from the beef tenderloin.
Poisson (pwah SOHn) French for fish
Poulet (pooLAY) French for chicken
Saumon (soh MAHn) French for salmon
Veau (VOH) French for veal

and finally Viande (VYAHND) French for meat
and Escargots (es kahr GOH) French for snails. I didn't put it in the meat section, because, well it's snails.

Now foodies, this list is not for you, it's for the average person, so no negative comments! There are more French categories to explore, so look for the next installment soon. And, remember, the food will be just as tasty if you don't pronounce it perfectly! And, your waiters stand ready to assist you with your selection and will allow you to try any dish or dishes on the menu at no extra charge. A cruise is a wonderful place to try new things and spread your culinary wings a bit. Until our next installment, happy eating!

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is in reality, Sandy Wheeler, The Chicks at Sea lady, an independent contractor with Connie George Travel Associates. Email me with any questions or comments.

Women Traveling Alone or With Other Women

Women Traveling with Other Women or ???Alone????

My hubby and I were having lunch at an awesome deli in town, Pineapple Cafe, during a busy time last week. The tables were pushed very close and seated just behind me were two obviously professional women who were discussing their business travels among other things. Honestly, I tried not to hear. Finally one lady said, "You know the really nice spa on Glenwood Avenue, what's it called"? I turned around (I couldn't help it) and said, it's the Umstead. She squealed "Right, the Umstead!" I knew how wonderful the property was because my daughter and son n law spent the first night of their honeymoon there. I had used the almost sinful beauty products my daughter brought home. I have the place on my to do list for certain.

Seeing these ladies made me think about safety and my duties as your ladies travel coordinator. Traveling alone for business or for fun has some serious implications these days. Having experienced violence in my own family, I know that problems can happen anywhere and at anytime.

My first advise to lady travelers is: don't do anything away from home that you wouldn't do at home and then err just a bit more on the side of safety. When at a club, dance, or party I don't get drunk and dance barefooted on the table. Don't at home, don't on the road. A couple of drinks, a few dances with my hubby or close friends and I am perfect. However, let me give you a more concrete example. Last summer I had to travel alone for business and made a reservation at a Hampton Inn in Morehead City. When the reservationist answered the phone (thankfully a woman) I asked point blank about the configuration of the rooms since I was traveling alone on business. I had already checked the hotel out online, looking for recommendations from other women business travelers and it passed the test with flying colors. I highly recommend this practice. The reservationist said she had many women travelers and actually had a hall on the first floor that was very visible from the front desk.

Later that evening I walked across the courtyard to a restaurant and had awesome shrimp and grits while indulging myself on a mystery thriller. There was a band playing in the bar area. I love live music with a passion and wanted to get closer to see and hear, but all the seats available were at the bar. Had I been at home with my girlfriends that I know have my back, yep, we would have sat there. But common sense told me a single woman sitting at the bar in a strange place could be a problem. So I opted on the conservative side and switched my seat to the other side of the table and just listened from the restaurant.

'What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas' may be a cute saying and may work for some travelers. But for a women traveling alone, if you wouldn't do it at home--maybe you shouldn't do it while away from home either.

Email me for more questions about ladies travel or to tell me about any spa experience you have encountered.

Happy travels,

Sandy, the diva cruiser