What a great trip to Hilton Head Island we had this year. I am a big fan of Marriott and the resort right on the beach can not be matched. We had friends visit that we had not seen in 2 years and had a great time for the week. If you have never been to Hilton Head and want a relaxing beach vacation I highly recommend it. HHI is not your typical beach resort with high rises and souvenir stands along the waterfront. The resorts and business are tucked away between live oaks covered with moss, Hilton Head has strict zoning limiting signage and requiring limited clearing of the natural beauty. In fact at night there is very low lighting (no neon) and it can be almost impossible to find your way around!
Couple of surprises that were not so great ..... Found out the jellyfish loved my friend Chris who got some minor stings a few times. We found the most disgusting McDonald's ever in Illinois (during our drive). I make it a point not to stop in IL due to the high prices .... this just solidified my 'No stopping in IL' chant to my kids .... they better not have to use the restroom next year.
Now for some great surprises. We think we found the best Hampton Inn ever in Murfreesboro TN. What a great staff, spotless rooms, updated lobby, and lots of dining options nearby. We will be staying here on our next road trip south.
We have driven south from KC about 5 - 6 times since we have been here. All through TN you see signs for the Ruby Falls tourist attraction. For those in the Northeast it is very similar to the South of the Border signs you start to see 200 miles before the attraction while driving south. This year we had some time to stop - so Ruby Falls it was! My assumption was that is was going to be a tourist trap ... but was I wrong. It ended up being a highlight of the trip.
Ruby Falls was discovered and opened in the 1920s. You descend 260 feet into Lookout Mountain by elevator where you reach a series of caves with some great formations and sights. You travel 1/2 mile through the network of caves to Ruby Falls which is 1120 feet underground! It was an awesome sight to see.
So if you are ever in Chattanooga definitely stop by for a visit!
Happy Cruising
No comments:
Post a Comment