Cityscape of downtown Copenhagen city skyline in Denmark at famous old Nyhavn port at sunset
Mother’s Day is just around the corner but it’s never too late to plan a meaningful trip, even if the excursion happens over the summer or much later in the year. Surprise the special lady in your life with a well thought out vacation that you will enjoy together. Whether you both love to bike, sip wine, soak in natural hot springs or go shopping, here are top international getaways that will create enduring memories.
Rotorua, New Zealand
Pohutu geyser in Te Puia therrmal reserve in Rotorua, New Zealand. The adjacent smaller geyser to … [+]
If you love the outdoors, lake activities, and quirky adventures, then consider a trip to New Zealand’s North Island and stay in the small town of Rotorua, a destination well known for its geothermal activity and vibrant Māori culture.
No matter what your skill level, go mountain biking in the Whakarewarewa Forest with Mountain Bike Rotorua. The extensive trail network here has something for everyone, whether you’re a novice or a pro.
Afterward, when you’ve had enough and need a break, pop into Secret Spot Hot Tubs, a fern-filled haven for the weary. The private cedar hot tubs are situated on well landscaped grounds. Push the built-in button and a steward will come and offer you a beverage like a local craft beer or cider.
For the evening, head to Te Puia, where you’ll enjoy a buffet dinner before heading to a large meeting house for an enlightening cultural experience like no other. You’ll hear singing and chanting and watch traditional dances with instruments and elaborate costumes. Lastly, you’ll be able to wander the geothermal grounds with bubbling mud, back lit geysers, and native plants on a guided tour. Your guide will tell you about the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, home of the national schools of carving, and the Kiwi Conservation Centre.
Other not-to-be-missed activities that should be integrated into your Rotorua itinerary include Skyline Rotorua Gondola and Luge, which offers some of the best views of Lake Rotorua from the summit; Volcanic Hills Winery, a lovely escape with fantastic wine selections; Redwoods Nightlights, the world’s longest suspended walkway in the tall trees; Velocity Valley, where you can cross off many big thrills in one exciting locale; Rotorua Canopy Tours, the ultimate zip lining destination; and ZORB, an odd and fun adventure that involves a massive inflatable ball that rolls down four different tracks on Mt. Ngongotaha, with you squealing inside.
Chicago, U.S.A.
Aerial View of Lincoln Park – Chicago, USA
This vibrant city full of grit and midwestern charm is a food lover’s dream. Stay at Hotel Lincoln, located on Clark Street in the popular Lincoln Park neighborhood. This building, originally erected in the 1920s, is situated within easy distance to North Avenue Beach, The Second City, Chicago History Museum, and Lincoln Park Zoo. What’s truly amazing about this locale however, are the surprises that hide inside and on top.
For a truly whimsical and distinct experience, treat the mom in your life to a private 17-course Omakase dinner in Sushi Suite 202, a speakeasy cleverly hidden inside Hotel Lincoln. The tiny 500 square-foot space is where you’ll find a velvet couch and chairs, plush ottomans, a modern chandelier, and a six-seat sushi bar positioned where there was once a hotel bed. The chef will expertly and swiftly prepare each course while you watch and taste—it’s an eye-opening experience that everyone will talk about long after the dinner is over.
For spectacular Lake Michigan and Chicago skyline views, look no further than The J. Parker, situated on the rooftop of Hotel Lincoln. Enjoy small plates and craft cocktails around a fire pit on the outdoor terrace or indoors in the comfy lounge with the special woman in your life and celebrate all the wonderful things you love about your relationship.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Colorful vibrant street in Copenhagen, Denmark
The beautiful European city of Copenhagen, where bicycles outnumber vehicles, will delight the special mother in your life—in spades. Known for its toothsome food, culture, history, outdoor gardens, and colorful architecture, this vacation will surely be one of the long-standing greats.
No matter what the weather is like during your visit, make sure you spend time walking in Nyhavn, a 17th-century district that is home to colorful row houses that flank the canal. If you visit in the summer months, you’ll be rewarded with sunshine that seemingly lasts forever.
Get a guided tour of CopenHill, a ski hill expertly and thoughtfully constructed upon a waste management center. In the warmer months, visitors can go on an urban hike, test their mettle on the outdoor climbing wall, and photograph the city from a new vantage point.
Be sure to see the second oldest amusement park in the world, Tivoli Gardens, open since 1843. Not only are their fun rides and thrills, like the wooden roller coaster from 1914 that is still operated with a hand crank, but also, you can enjoy live entertainment and performances as well as some of the best eateries in the city.
For truly remarkable accommodations, located in the heart of the city, choose Villa Copenhagen, part of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts lineup. Beyond a fabulous courtyard and restaurants, there’s a heated rooftop swimming pool, terrace bar, and sauna. In short, this is the perfect spot to rest your head after a long and wonderful day of exploration.