The Holidays are a busy time for everyone; attending parties, seeing friends and family, giving gifts. If you’re anything like the main characters Amanda and Iris from The Holiday, you’ll be planning a getaway for yourself by the end of the year. Whether it’s to have a vacation after your family ‘vacation’ or a solo trip come new year, consider taking inspiration from the holiday classic with our recommendations below:
Travel like Amanda: Escape to the Idyllic Countryside in Upstate New York
We know, it’s not the UK, but it is the *New England* Countryside. Just over two hours from New York City is the quaint town of East Chatham, bordering Massachusetts. Similar to the movie, the directions to the Inn that you’d receive when reaching Downtown Chatham would be to “keep going, alllll the way down the road” - luckily you have GPS. It’s an easy drive, about ten minutes of picturesque rolling hills and you’ve arrived at Silver Maple Farm.
The golden glow of the windows welcome you inside to warm your feet at the stone fireplace hearth, cozying up with a cup of tea and a good book. In the scenario that you are following the footsteps of Amanda, you’ll want to pop into town for provisions. The Chatham Real-Food Market Co-op is a local favorite, filled with baked goods, groceries, and lots of food-sensitivity-friendly options. If you feel like a bit of mingling, grab an appetizer at The Chatham Grill or a pint at Chatham Brewing (you never know, you may meet your very own Jude Law type).
Travel like Iris: Escape to a Mansion and the Warm Breeze of the Florida Keys
Rather than California, take a trip to sunny Key West! Just off of Duval Street you’ll be welcomed by Marrero’s Guest Mansion, and we wouldn’t blame you to react just like Iris! This enormous property was once a family home, but has been converted into a boutique hotel. You’ll still feel like it’s a mansion of your very own, with a personal terrace attached to your room and access to a private pool.
That Old Hollywood feel will be in the essence of this trip, just like Iris’ adventure. Not only is Marerro’s design inspired by the Hollywood Regency Era, but it’s also an old town of the film-industry! Many films and television shows have been shot in The Keys, and many interesting characters have walked the cobblestone streets. Reminisce for The Golden Age and stop by the Tropic Cinema to see a film - with an overall Old-Hollywood aesthetic and a life size statue of Marlin Monroe, you may feel similar to Iris exploring Hollywood’s soundstages. Of course, there’s no lack of live-entertainment: the Green Parrot, The Bull & Whistle, and Durty Harry’s (Ricks) are among our favorites. Keep your heart open and you never know what could happen… legend has it, when the Florida breeze blows - all bets are off.
We hope you have the happiest holidays and the safest travels.
Thanks for reading - we look forward to hosting you at The Silver Maple Farm & Marrero’s Guest Mansion.
Try visiting one of our sister properties with {verdigreen} hotels: Traveling elsewhere Upstate NY? Visit our properties in Tannersville NY and Woodstock NY. Craving a little sand and sun? Visit our sister property Treasure Island FL.
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