Girls Run (and Travel!) the World: Ultimate girlfriend getaways
When life hands you lemons – you make lemonade. When life hands you a squad of women who have your back and make you laugh and smile more than you thought possible – well, you go on awesome vacations together of course.
There is no shortage of stress in our world, and it’s been scientifically proven (really!) that time spent with our best friends makes us happier and healthier. Whether it be old friends or new, a mom’s getaway sans kids, traveling with sisters or cousins – when it comes to time with the girls – possibilities are endless.
These 10 cities, and hotels, will give you and your girls memories for life so, call your tribe and start packing. It’s time for the ladies to hit the road and take to the skies.
1. Nashville, Tennessee
The drinking town with a music problem. From boozy brunches to barhopping on Broadway – there is no shortage of a good time in the Music City. Plan your perfect girlfriend getaway in Nashville with a visit to Honky Tonk Highway, where institutions like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge are serving up cool longnecks and country music. Taste the heat at Prince’s Hot Chicken – an original to the city. And take in a songwriters show at the famous Bluebird Cafe.
Where to stay: With a speakeasy-inspired lounge featuring local artists and songwriters seven nights a week, Hotel Indigo Nashville sets the beat downtown. Get the party started from the moment you check-in with the hotel’s Nashville Whiskey package, which includes room accommodations and two beverages from the hotel’s signature cocktail menu.
2. Key West, Florida
Not ready to take an international flight just yet, but pining for a tropical island vacay? Look no further than the Southernmost Point in continental U.S. The charming small town of Key West is packed with everything from great shopping to blue water adventures like snorkeling, diving, catamaran sailing, and fishing. Kick off the weekend meandering through Key West’s welcoming neighborhoods or indulging in the all-day happy hour that is Duval Street (via foot or bike!). And after a long day of ocean-based outings, go refuel from the sun with a slice of Key lime pie – a must do – at Key West Key Lime Pie Co. or the oh-so Instagrammable Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe.
Where to stay:
Spanning a lush, landscaped campus in the heart of Old Town – and named for famous painter and summer resident Winslow Homer – Kimpton Key West Winslow’s Bungalows boasts three private pools, an outdoor bar and vibrant gardens. Guests are greeted with a boozy beverage upon arrival (compliments of the house!) and the idyllic hotel also offers bikes to pedal around town and provides guided off-the-beaten track tours of Duval Street – perfect for those wanting to indulge in revelry and relaxation.
3. Bozeman, Montana
The rare combination of adventure and tranquility. Explore the great outdoors with epic hiking in Hyalite Canyon Recreation Area and Big Sky just 16 miles from Bozeman. Mix it up with white water rafting, zip-lining, kayaking or horseback riding. Then, unwind downtown with great restaurants, boutiques, wine bars and live entertainment.
Where to stay:
A destination like no other in Big Sky Country, Bozeman’s influence can be felt everywhere inside the Kimpton Armory Hotel – originally designed by prolific Bozeman architect Fred Fielding Willson and built in 1941 to house the Bozeman National Guard. Drawing inspiration from the natural panorama of the region itself, you can marvel at the mountain views or the night sky from the hotel’s rooftop pool and enjoy local treats, as well as a selection of beer, wine and spirits from area distilleries and breweries during social hour for an unforgettable stay.
4. Napa Valley, California
Hot air balloon rides, wine country, boutique shopping and five-star eats? Yes, Napa Valley quite literally has all the essentials covered for the ultimate girl’s trip. Start your weekend at an Instagrammer’s wine haven, like Artesa Vineyards & Winery (which was the backdrop for the film Wine Country starring Amy Poehler) and indulge in award-winning wines and artisanal cheeses while snapping pics of captivating fountains and scenic views. And end it with a breathtaking ride over Napa’s rolling hills and vineyards by hot air balloon. Because let’s be honest – there’s so many to visit that this is the next best option!
Where to stay:
Located in the heart of the iconic wine region, Hotel Indigo Napa Valley is perfectly situated to enjoy downtown attractions and nearby wineries. The hotel offers multiple spots to hang out with friends and recap the day, including a heated outdoor pool with a hot tub and a bar with a roaring fireplace, perfect for a crisp fall night.
5. Sedona, Arizona
Sipping and spa-ing or hiking and biking – Sedona is ready for you and the girls – whether seeking a rowdy weekend or a restful one. Kick-off your trip with a tour through Sedona’s wineries followed by a recovery day at the spa (there’s no shortage of them!). Looking for something a bit more adventurous? Take a hike or mountain bike ride along Dry Creek Trail. Then, see the red rocks up close and personal on an off-road Jeep tour.
Where to stay: Nestled against the majestic beauty of the iconic Bell Rock and a short stroll to the many wonders Sedona has to offer, Holiday Inn Express Sedona – Oak Creek is the ideal choice. Here you can take in the awe-inspiring beauty of Arizona coupled with great amenities and a complimentary breakfast to fuel the gals up for a day of exploration, all at a great price for one memorable stay.
6. Paris, France
‘Say oui to new possibilities!’ – if the story of a certain lady living her best life in Paris doesn’t get your travel juices flowing – we’re not sure what will. From classic bistros with red leather lined banquettes and famed art museums like the Louvre (which houses the Mona Lisa), to the Eiffel Tower and the Palace of Versailles, there are endless possibilities in the City of Lights.
Where to stay:
For a true chic Parisian stay, the newly opened Kimpton St Honoré Paris is situated in the heart of the city’s Opera district and just a stone’s throw from Place Vendôme, the Paris Opera, Faubourg Saint Honoré and the Tuileries Gardens. Influenced by the 1930s Art Deco scene, rooms are inspired by Parisian apartments with balconies and floor to ceiling windows.
7. Lisbon, Portugal
Surrounded by seven hillsides overlooking the Rio Tejo – Lisbon is a picture-perfect destination in Europe. The city is filled with maze-like cobbled alleyways merged with ancient ruins and white-domed cathedrals. The surrounding hillsides means that wherever you are in the city, there is a 360-view of rolling landscapes. A must try snack with the girls is bacalhau à Brás, a local delicacy that consists of shredded cod with onions, eggs and potatoes and can be found it almost every corner of the city.
Where to stay: Holiday Inn Express Lisbon – Av. Liberdade is the best home base to explore this city. With a complimentary breakfast included in the price of your stay, you can make sure that you and the girls are well-fueled for a day of exploration. The hotel is within walking distance from Marquês de Pombal Metro Station and just a five-minute drive to the nightlife district of Bairro Alto, which is chock-full of vibrant cafés and fado bars.
8. Venice, Italy
From palaces to piazzas, gondolas to gelato, and canals to carnival – there is no destination quite so magical as Venice. Filled with beauty and world-famous sights, it is no surprise that this city of 55,000 residents draws millions of annual visitors. Despite its immense popularity, there are still pockets of the city yet to be discovered, such as the Sant’Elena neighborhood. Sant’Elena is a global hub for modern art and culture, close to the home of the Venice International Film Festival and the Murano Glass Factory.
Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Venice – Sant’Elena is located in the heart of the iconic Italian city, next to the canal Rio Sant’Elena. Formerly a 1930s monastery, the hotel is a peaceful sanctuary reflective of its past heritage that exudes an almost spiritual calm and is the perfect place to retreat from the bustle of San Marco square. The hotel also has a private garden, a rarity in Venice, where you and the girls can sit and enjoy a refreshing cocktail and relax after a day of exploring.
9. Prague, Czech Republic
Known as the city of a hundred spires – Prague is the perfect destination if looking for an enchanting holiday full of history and architecture. Top attractions include the famous Charles Bridge, historic Prague Castle, Astronomical Clock in the Old Town, and art nouveau Dancing House. After a full day of adventure, Prague is loaded with pubs and beer halls.
Where to stay:
Offering beautiful city views, Holiday Inn Prague Congress Centre is across the street from the historic district of Vysehrad with its 10th century castle and is close to Vysehrad Park’s river. Book a steamboat cruise and chug along the River Vltava while taking in Prague's iconic skyline.
10. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Iconic canals, cobblestone streets and centuries-old charm make Amsterdam attractive to travelers of all sorts. With so much to do, planning a girl’s trip to Amsterdam may be daunting. But we have a solution – canal cruise – it’s the best way to see all that the “Venice of the North” has to offer. Or do as the locals do and bike around! It’s a great mode of seeing the city. Two “must dos” when visiting? See the “Sunflowers” at the Van Gogh Museum (after all, he was born in the city!) and tour the Anne Frank House to learn about life of the Jewish diarist.
Where to stay:
With a unique location on the Amstel River, InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam is for those wanting refined luxury and ultimate hospitality. The hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers a beautiful view with exclusive river boats to explore the city’s historical canals. Prefer to enjoy the water views from land? The hotel bar has a riverside terrace, where you and the girls can enjoy drinks inspired by Amsterdam’s boroughs mixed from premium Dutch spirits.
Now thru December 31, IHG Hotels & Resorts is offering IHG Rewards members the opportunity to enjoy even bigger benefits when staying at any IHG hotel this season. Become an IHG Rewards member and register here to earn 2X points starting on your second stay and then 3X points on three or more stays.
To explore hotels at some of these destinations and more, visit ihg.com.
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