travel

My needs are quite specific when it comes to a suitcase. It must be expandable, have a front zippered section large enough for my laptop, be lightweight and in any color other than black. Oh, and it has to have four wheels.

We have a really nice Tumi bag we bought years ago at Costco, but it only has two wheels. Once I had a bag with four, I couldn’t go back.

I found everything I needed in this suitcase, which weighs 5.5 pounds and cost less than $60. It comes in black, blue, grey, olive, purple and red.

– Jan Schroder, The Travel 100

While you may think of camping sites, lodges and cabins for park accommodations, some offer lodging a bit more out-of-the box. We recently stayed in a 1970s barrel cabin in Unicoi State Park in North Georgia, so named because it’s shaped like a giant barrel.

Other unique accommodations include teepees, yurts, tiny homes, treehouses and Airstreams.

The more adventurous park-goers can check out cliff camping with Kent Mountain Adventure Center in Estes Park, Colorado at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park. There you’ll spend the night on a nylon cot suspended 100 feet in the air.

For more on Unicoi State Park and our other favorite state parks, visit Barrels of Fun.

– Jan Schroder, The Travel 100

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority’s (OTA) construction of the Gilcrease Expressway continues to move forward at a record pace. The project connects L.L. Tisdale to I-44 and completes the western loop around the Tulsa metro area. The project was first envisioned nearly 60 years ago.

It involves a funding partnership between OTA, City of Tulsa, Tulsa County, Indian Nations Council of Governments, Oklahoma Department of Transportation, which provided a loan through the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act, federal government and private investors.

OTA is seeking a project company for construction and financing. Visit Driving Forward for more information.

– Nicona Lane, Jones PR

Preparing for a trip can be daunting. Here are a few things that should be at the top of your packing list, no matter where you’re heading this summer:

Cash: We’ve all been stuck without an ATM before. Carry around $50 in case of emergency.

Maps: When your phone loses charge, don’t lose your way.

The right clothes: Weather can change suddenly, consider a light rain jacket or extra shorts for the heat.

First Aid: Sunscreen, allergy/pain meds and Band-Aids can go a long way while traveling.

Power: Extra chargers or adapters for all your devices, especially abroad.

– Dustin Mascorro, Jones PR

With warmer weather and summer break, more people will be going on road trips and vacations. Many of these travelers will take a turnpike to get to their destinations faster.

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority reminds us to stay alert, avoid distractions and drive carefully, especially in road work zones.

There have already been a number of accidents and casualties in the state this year that could have been prevented, and OTA is encouraging everyone to pay attention while driving. Your life and the lives of others are counting on you to buckle up, stay focused and not text and drive.

– Nicona Lane, Jones PR

Springtime and sunshine call for a windows-down cruise along historic Route 66 (with “Life is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts playing, of course).

Starting in Illinois and traveling through the Midwest before ending on the West Coast, Route 66 has several must-see destinations near Oklahoma City.

Visit the Seaba Station Motorcycle Museum in Warwick, get a sensory experience at the Chandler Route 66 Interpretive Center and stop in Arcadia for a soda at Pops or to see the 100-year-old Round Barn!

Pile in the car and see what else you’re missing out on down Route 66!

– Carolyn Taylor, Jones PR

For many Oklahoma football fans, OU-Texas weekend in October is comparable to a holiday.

Thousands make the drive south to Dallas for the rivalry game held in the heart of the State Fair of Texas at the Cotton Bowl. While you’re in town, check out some other attractions to visit in the Dallas area.

1. Grab dinner and drinks in Uptown Dallas

2. Two step at Billy Bob’s in Ft. Worth

3. Brunch at one of these popular eateries

4. See Foster the People at the House of Blues

5. Shop at NorthPark Center or the Galleria

6. Take a tour of AT&T Stadium

– Holly Hoehner, Jones PR

I went to check in for a flight recently and located my confirmation number on my calendar. Then I hit a snag: I didn’t remember which airline I was on. But my days of searching for flight confirmations are over.

I recently discovered the wonderful world of TripIt, an app that functions as my own personal travel assistant. It keeps my reservations for flights, hotels, airbnbs and hotels in one place. It also sends me check-in reminders and travel alerts.

Try the free version, but if you travel a lot, you’ll want the added benefits of the pro version.

– Jan Schroder, Girl on the Go

Traveling with a baby has turned parents into sherpas, transporting mountains of gear for their little ones. Lighten that load when you stay with a Destination Hotels property. This collection of independently owned hotels and resorts in the US and Caribbean has partnered with Babierge to offer parents the option of renting baby gear instead.

Parents go on the website prior to the visit and select the equipment they’ll be using from inventory that includes cribs, strollers, swings, books and toys. The equipment will be set up for them when they arrive. And Destination Hotel guests get a 10% discount.

– Jan Schroder, Girl on the Go

Cloverleaf is a one-of-a-kind shopping experience in Oklahoma. Visitors can’t miss the bright pink castle decorated with rainbow-colored bicycles, old Dairy Queen signs, teal dragons and a bright pink RV.

The owners travel all over to find the items that make their shop unique. Inside, shoppers can find a charming boutique with printed flip-flops, denim, jewelry, beach towels and funky T-shirts displayed with velvet headboards or on mannequins with large wigs. The items range in cost but most are priced under $75.

Stores are located in Ardmore, Nichols Hills and inside WinStar World Casino.

– Ashley Ross, Jones PR

In 2004, the International Air Transport Association began pushing airlines to issue electronic tickets. Prior to that, most passengers received their tickets through the mail from a travel agent or from an airline ticket office.

Soon we may not even need electronic tickets or scans on our smartphones. Delta is testing a pilot program at Reagan National Airport for SkyMiles members to use their fingerprints to check bags and board their flight.

JetBlue is testing facial recognition technology that uses images verified through the US Customs and Border Protection database to allow passengers to board flights from Boston to Aruba.

– Jan Schroder, Girl on the Go

Take the road less traveled in Oklahoma, and you’re bound to stumble upon some quirky roadside attractions. Weird statues and kitschy museums dot the state, but here are some must-sees:

World’s Largest Peanut — Located in Durant, this nutty statue is dedicated to peanut farmers in Bryan County.

Quan Am Bodhisattva Statue — The tallest Buddhist statue in America is located in Tulsa and is part of the Tam Bao Buddhist Temple.

Spider VW Bug — Located off the beaten path in Lexington, this mechanized arachnid gallantly stands 15 feet tall and is constructed from the body of a classic Volkswagen Beetle.

– Page Jones, Jones PR

Years ago, travel agents were the ideal way to book vacations. Today, with online resources coupled with our ever-growing desire for personalized service, we need a new kind of partner to help with our holiday plans; we need a travel advisor.

Travel advisors use personal relationships to learn about exclusive offers and design holidays specific to individuals’ needs. They ensure it’s a candid, two-way conversation and that they can understand each person’s preferences, expectations and budget. Travel advisors add an additional layer of personalization for vacations, from specific VIP experiences to added value that matter to every traveler.

– Stephanie Miller Murphy, The New Orleans 100

A popular place for families to catch parades is on St. Charles Avenue near Napoleon. Viewing ladders are lined up like wooden soldiers, providing the perfect vantage for catching coveted spears, plush and beads. From princesses to cowboys, kids in costumes capture the spirit of Mardi Gras — as well as the throws.

Neighborhood establishments, such as New Orleans Hamburger and Seafood, welcome parade goers, offering beignets to burgers, as well as a place to rest weary feet and gather nourishment through the last Carnival parade. This popular spot has become a Mardi Gras tradition for New Orleanians young and old.

– Betsie Gambel, Gambel Communications

The Washington Times’ Eric Althoff recently visited Oklahoma City and was surprised by what he found.

Althoff enjoyed the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Additionally, he ventured to newer joints, including Anthem Brewing Company, Waffle Champion and the American Banjo Museum.

Of his experience Althoff wrote, “Oklahoma City is not what I expected it to be, and it will not be what you expect either. Allow yourself to be enveloped in its undiscovered, untouted wonders of food, history, adventure and some of the kindest, most welcoming people on either side of the Mississippi.”

– Emily Long, Jones PR

Traveling can be stressful, but these great gadgets make life on the go a breeze.

• Ostrich Pillow: Our personal favorite, the Ostrich Pillow provides a micro sleeping environment featuring polystyrene filling and soft interior allowing you to power nap anywhere.

• Steripod: This toothbrush protector kills germs of any kind. Each clip-on pod lasts three months.

• World’s Smallest Travel Steam Iron: It may be mini, but this 420-watt travel steamer packs a mighty punch to your wrinkled clothing; a must-have for Business travelers.

• Loop Worldwide Travel Adapter: Stay charged worldwide. Loop’s charging ports work throughout 150 different countries.

– Jake Pasdach, Jones PR

Going somewhere this Labor Day? Keep these five Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) safety tips in mind on your way to Grand Lake or wherever your holiday weekend plans might take you:

1. Always buckle up.
2. Avoid cell phone use while operating your vehicle. Remember, it’s against the law to text while driving.
3. Be attentive in work zones and keep both hands on the wheel.
4. Plan ahead to allow ample time to reach destinations.
5. Keep water on hand when traveling in the heat.

For updates on the latest turnpike travel and/or weather conditions, call 1-877-403-7623 or visit here.

– Tim Gatz, Oklahoma Turnpike Authority

Central location within walking distance of many attractions. Check. Gorgeous, historic, recently renovated common areas. Check. Spacious accommodations and friendly service — the Palace Hotel has it all for a stay in San Francisco.

The hotel opened in 1875, but like 80% of the city, was destroyed by fire caused by the massive earthquake in 1906. It was rebuilt in 1909, underwent a massive renovation in 2015 and now has 556 rooms.

The indoor pool is glassed in with views of downtown San Francisco, and a Ghirardelli Chocolate shop is conveniently located in the lobby with decadent sundaes and other treats.

Just a two-hour flight from Atlanta, Cancun has beautiful white-sand beaches and access to adventures like exploring ancient ruins, cave-rappelling, snorkeling and zip-lining.

After those activities, I relaxed in luxury at two all-inclusive Palace Resorts. For adults-only relaxation and butler service, try the 260-room, Le Blanc Spa Resort, voted Mexico’s #1 all-inclusive. Rates start at $463 per person.

For a livelier, family-friendly scene, head to Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort. This 1,316-room resort has 10 restaurants, seven pools, nightly shows and a FlowRider. Rates start at $323 per person.

For more on Palace Resorts, please visit the Girl on the Go blog.

– Jan Schroder, @GirlontheGoJan

I counted more than seven museums I could easily walk to from The ART hotel in downtown Denver, which opened summer 2015.

But I didn’t need to leave the 165-room hotel to view art: a 22,000 LED light installation twinkled from the ceiling of the entryway, sculptures welcomed me to the lobby and walls are lined with modern art. Even the elevators feature avant garde video art.

Guests can take complimentary tours of the 40-piece art collection or go on the 3-mile ART Run for a view of Denver’s public art pieces. Rates start at $289.

– Jan Schroder, @GirlontheGoJan

Any trip to Africa isn’t complete without a safari, and in the 23 days I visited the country of South Africa, I experienced three. South Africa is a surprising land, and when I traveled with the Drifters Adventure Tours, I honestly didn’t know what to expect.

But soon, there were many wonderful discoveries, such as the yellow fever trees at the Pongola Game Reserve, giraffes grazing openly and dozens of elephants – a site one never gets tired of seeing in the wild.

Of course, any traveler will enjoy the monkeys that perform acrobatics along the limbs of the African trees.

– Heide Brandes, ionOK

Attend a tea party hosted by the Governor General’s wife in Nassau, feast on a home-cooked meal, listen to their famous rack and scrape music, or enjoy a fish fry with locals. These are just a few of the things available when you get off the typical tourist path with the Bahamas People-to-People Experience.

The Ministry of Tourism pairs tourists with friendly Bahamian ambassadors eager to share their culture and way of life.

This complimentary program is available on 10 islands. Register online, visit a Bahamas Tourist Office or ask at the tour desk of your hotel.

– Jan Schroder, @GirlontheGoJan

Love music? Pop, jazz, blues, country, funk, opera, Western swing, gospel, folk, musical theater and rock – our state has a rich and varied musical heritage worth exploring.

Take a trip on Rhythm & Routes: Oklahoma Music Trail, where you will find in-depth biographies, photos, music clips, videos and personalized itineraries that transport you to the places that shaped our most iconic songwriters, composers and performers.

Each month, a new inductee is added to the map. February features Olympic gold medalist, three-time All-American and NBA great Wayman Tisdale, who retired from the sports world to become a music legend.

– Deby Snodgrass, Oklahoma Secretary of Commerce & Tourism

Celebrating its 300th anniversary, Natchez, Mississippi, is the oldest settlement on the Mississippi River. Tour some of its gorgeous antebellum homes during the annual Spring Pilgrimage March 5- April 5, when 24 homes are open.

Many are privately owned, and costumed descendants of the original owners will regale you with stories of the home’s history.

I visited several homes open for tours year-round. Work on Longwood ceased when the Civil War broke out, and the upper floors remain unfinished. Brave souls can take The Haunting of the Towers Tour and view the numerous collections in this extensively restored home.

– Jan Schroder, @GirlontheGoJan

The new year brings with it new opportunities to explore Oklahoma. Start with a trip to Grand Lake or Fort Gibson Lake in March or April to snag a paddlefish, a species dating back 70 million years.

Spring is also the perfect time to visit Little Sahara State Park, where more than 1,600 acres of sand dunes invite your inner daredevil to race across a shifting obstacle course with vast peaks 25 to 75 feet high. Put the pedal to the metal in your ATV and soar to new heights.

Get your free Oklahoma travel guide at TravelOK.com.

– Deby Snodgrass, Secretary of Commerce and Tourism

A cucumber margarita, Spanish tapas, green chilaquiles rojos, 24-hour deli and Japanese Teppanyaki grill experience are a few of the food and drink options included at the Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos.

After suffering massive damage during Hurricane Odile last year, Hyatt Ziva has reopened with 14 restaurants and bars, 591 rooms that include 34 swim-up suites, and my favorite feature, fire pits in cozy pods that seem to float on water.

Hyatt recently entered the all-inclusive market with Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara (adults-only) properties in Puerto Vallarta, Jamaica and Cancun with several more opening in the next few years.

– Jan Schroder, Girl on the Go