7 REASONS WHY DISNEY WORLD IS YOUR NEXT VACATION DESTINATION

We can admit it; we're sorta obsessed with Disney. Let's put it this way, if there was a Disney fandom (I'm sure there is) we would be the president. Don't believe us? We took a graduate studies course called "Disney And The American Dream" where we wrote 10 page academic papers on the Evolution of the Disney Princess.

Yeah, our love is an intense one. Anyway...clearly this is a biased post, but what we really hope to get across to you is that Disney World is not just for die-hard fans like us, children, or family units in matching tees (although you'll see those families there), but also that Disney is a vacation that anyone can enjoy!

We'll even prove it with our top 7 reasons to make Disney World your next vacation destination...

1. Let's start off with a bang!

There is nothing more impressive than the firework shows that close the parks every night. Epcot's "Illuminations" and Magic Kingdom's "Wishes" are breathtaking. We were also lucky to see Disney's Independence Day Show. 

[INSIDER'S TIP] While, we don't suggest going to the packed out park on the 4th of July, we do suggest taking a seat and watching it from one of their nearby resorts.

Disney's Independence Day Show

Illuminations & Wishes

2. Drinks Around The World 

The best place to get a drink is Mexico, there freshly squeezed lime margaritas are the best way to start your world trip. There are a couple places to dine inside Mexico, so make sure you go to La Cava del Tequila for the best authentic tequilas. 

3. Food Around The World 
Our personal favorite place to dine is in Mexico, and our favorite food to eat? The French delicacy, the Napolean cake- perfect to share! 

4. Resort Living For Lower Prices

While Disney Resorts range in prices from uber-luxe, expensive, to affordable, there are also a host of Disney affiliated hotels in the surrounding areas like Downtown Disney. These hotels offer amazing deals and packages as well as 

The Caribe Royale, Moderate Hotel Disney Affiliated 

The Grand Floridian: Expensive, Disney Luxury Hotel

Lake Buena Vista Palace Resort & Spa, Moderate Disney Affiliated Hotel 

5. Downtown Disney
Whether it is grabbing an ice cream cone at Ghirardelli, enjoying fine dining next to aquatic seascapes, shopping, or driving a car into water there is something for everyone at Downtown Disney. 

6. Forget Uber, FREE Transportation...Everywhere.

Within the Disney compound all Disney residents travel free from once you step off your plane to all around the parks, water parks, hotels, and Downtown Disney. 

7. Photo Opp Like The Celebs

Celebrities are always visiting Disney World, either with their squads, their kids, or their significant others. Make fantastic memories and capture them easily with Disney's friendly photography staff! They are EVERYWHERE. Plus, the photos if you invest in a Disney Magic Band will automatically upload a digital copy to your Disney App.

We can think of so many more reasons, like the monorail crawl, thrill rides, Epcot's Food & Wine Festival, and award winning shows. And, honestly, this post could go on and on, but we think you get the gist. So, what are you waiting for? Go on and make Disney your next vacation destination! 

Stay Lovely,

D.R

Editor and Curator of

Dusk & Rubies Blog 

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7 REASONS WHY GRENADA IS YOUR NEXT VACATION DESTINATION

This weather! In September we were looking cute in our minimally chic white dresses, and enjoying yoga on the Great Lawn in Central Park under a hot sun. October 1st hits and it's back to sweater weather and trench coats. Now, into November, we have days nearing 75 degrees! Don't get us wrong we love a good over-sized sweater over leather leggings paired with our favorite biker boots as much as the next girl, but what we're not a fan of is this back and forth weather, or when it's cold...and wet. But, then again, who is? 

So, this mercurial weather coming our way has got us thinking of all kinds of escapes. And, the restless and wanderlust filled part of our brains are already dreaming of tropical island getaways. So, if you too are looking for a way to escape and need more than just the change in weather to persuade you, then here are our 7 reasons to make your escape an escape to the island of Grenada: 

1. Restaurants With A View

With the sound of the ocean to accompany your meal, and the feel of staying at your best friend's beach house, it's no wonder The Beach House Restaurant is rated as one of THE best restaurants on the island. 

For more information click: HERE

2. Personal Pies & Live Music

The fact that you can order one or more of these personal specialty pies at Prickly Bay Marina and devour them while you listen to this music is basically everything.

For more information click: HERE

 3. The 360 Degree View

Spin around, do your head-stand yoga move, it doesn't matter. This is your constant view. And, you have at least 80 degree weather all year long to enjoy it. We call this a win-win. 

4. Delectable Dishes:

I know, I know. We just talked about pizza. But, over here at D&R, we love food, so we like to give our readers plenty of options when it comes to dining. Let's say you feel like being a little bit more health conscience, let's say you're not interested in having that pizza belly on the beach while in your bikini, let's say you want something small and shareable. If this sounds perfect for you, then you must visit The Beach Club At Calabash mid-day and enjoy their small plates from 12 PM to 3 PM. Here are a couple of our favorite healthful dishes below: 

 Oh, and let's not forget to top it all off with a fresh squeezed lime juice margarita! (pictured above)

To see a menu click: HERE

5. Places To Rest Your Head Fit For Royalty

The Grenadians do a multitude of things right, but we really have to applaud them for their well placed daybeds. 

Need I say more?

6.  The Random Events:

The Grenadians know how to host a party! Take a look at these images taken by @goprovet! 

Dinghy concert in Calivigny Bay (below). ​

Splash J'ouvert event on Magazine beach (below).

7. The Grade-A Resorts:

As someone who has visited Grenada more than once, and had a family member live there for three years I've seen my fair share of resorts. Here are some of my favorites:

Calabash for more information click: HERE

The Raddison Grenada Beach Resort for more information click: HERE (Pictured Above)

Sandals LaSource Grenada Resort & Spa for more information click: HERE (Pictured Above)

Were these seven reasons enough to convince you that Grenada should be your next island getaway? We're convinced, but then again, we didn't need that much convincing to begin with; Grenada had us at the mention of pizza on the beach.

What can we say? We love the simple pleasures!

Don't forget to follow @duskandrubies on Instagram to view even more photos from our travels!

Stay Lovely,

D.R

Editor and Curator of

Dusk & Rubies 

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Hello Weekend : Bayard Cutting Arboretum, Long Island

Ever covet the perfect peaceful outdoor setting, while you're working hard in your cramped office space? So maybe the workplace isn't that stuffy, but still it's Summer and we want to, excuse me, we need to be outdoors! If you're the outdoorsy type, who is ready for an adventure with secret islands, amazing animal watching, hiking and breathtaking foliage, then you're in luck; we found the perfect place to shrug out of your work week slacks and put on your happy weekend short shorts. 

To find out more about the Bayard Cutting Arboretum keep reading!

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Where To Stay: Sweetwater Farm Bed & Breakfast

“This place looks somewhat decent,” and “We won’t be in the room that much” are two phrases I hear uttered by friends far too much when their booking a place to stay. Now we have nothing against hotels, some of our favorites are right here in NYC, but if you’re itching to explore and want to stray away from the same-old-same-old then give your travel time a real face-lift  and choose to stay in a bed & breakfast. We recently stayed at the Sweetwater Farm Bed & Breakfast, so take a look and see what you’re missing. We have compiled a list of our top 7 reasons as to why you need to B&B and why you need to B&B soon! 

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10 Movies To Help Cure Your Wanderlust

So, you're snowed in...yet again. You've already cleaned your place, baked three different types of cookies, liked just about everything you could on Facebook, and now you're going stir crazy. Being cooped up like this has caused me to suffer from some severe wanderlust. So what to do? What to do? How about traveling to far away lands in the comfort of your pajamas? We are talking about taking you to the movies. We admit that after the enchantment of the movie wears off you may want to travel even more, but that is when we suggest watching another one of our travel themed movies. You'll be in Paris one hour, and Milan the next. Bon voyage! 

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City Living: Snow, Snow & More Snow!

I love the snow, but traveling in it is another story. How can something so beautiful, bright and fluffy be so dangerous? Snow in the city usually means delays, but if you have the good sense to leave earlier than usual and check your train times you will arrive on time! But if you don't have the good sense, or you're usually late we have the solution for you...and it will fit in the palm of your hand. 

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Where To Stay: The Essex Resort & Spa

Weekend getaways save my spirit. Truly, they do. Traveling takes me to my happy place, a place where I can act like a wide-eyed child who can't possibly eat anything because she is filled with her own raw excitement. I have always loved to explore, and have never been tentative about going behind the door that says do not enter. Now, as an adult, I still open the door but I bring along my Canon. 

Last weekend my adventurous spirit traveled to Burlington, VT, where I lodged at the Essex Culinary Institute and Spa. It was the perfect setting, twinkling lights and snowy sights greeted us (Brian and I) as we pulled up to the main house to check in. 

To say the resort exuded warmth and hospitality is an understatement. The receptionist's last name was Bliss, and she was everything blissful and more. She upgraded us to a Manor Suite with a fireplace and kitchenette, handed me an activities calendar, and took the time to point out everything happening in the resort, and what she recommended. 

Miss Bliss (not to be confused with the Miss Bliss from the early episodes of Saved By The Bell) also showed me the map of the extensive grounds, pointing out the underground tunnel that runs from under the Inn (the main building) to The Mansion where the bake shop is located, the spa, the outdoor hot tub, the bonfire circle for complimentary campfires, the two restaurants Amuse and The Tavern, and where they served free coffee, tea, cider, and cookies. The staffs' undeniable positive energy was infectious, so with a cookie (I ate it) and cider for Brian in one hand, and our key cards and room information in the other I headed back to the car. 

When you enter the lobby of the main building, called The Inn, there are so many comfortable nooks to relax with a complimentary beverage, and each area has with their own fireplace. 

And, what would a culinary institute be without a few well displayed desserts?

And for your pups!

The Manor Building. 

The comfortable lounge area.

Our suite's kitchenette came with a Keurig!

Huge bed with extra pillows!

The fireplace warmed the room and was on a timer.

There is so much to do, and so many places to go within the resort! Which way?

To the spa!

The grounds.

The Mansion.

 The Tavern.

Amuse.

Hey brides this place was chosen in 2013 by the knot for best wedding venues!

This resort was clean, the staff friendly and knowledgeable, and the location was prime for visiting Burlington shops, breweries, and dining. I strongly recommend this resort for couples, and families. I can't wait to return! This hotel is moderately priced, and can often be found on Groupon (what a steal) because it is under new ownership. So snatch your Groupon while you still can. We love deals! 

To book a reservation visit the Essex Resort Website: Here

Have you stayed at the Essex Resort & Spa, or another hotel in the Burlington area? Tell us about it in the comments below.

Stay lovely,

D.R

Editor and Curator of

Dusk & Rubies 

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