10 Reasons Why The Study is at the Top of the Class – Even Over Summer Break

Sandwiched between the campuses of the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University, The Study at University City caters to visiting parents, potential students and returning alumni looking for upscale accommodations that won’t set them back a semester’s tuition. After cramming for finals and completing the year's extracurricular activities, local college students are finally enjoying their well-earned summer vacation -- and making room for visitors to explore one of Philadelphia’s trendiest neighborhoods. Here are the top ten reasons why you’ll want to spend summer break at this chic boutique hotel.

Early birds can kickstart the morning with complimentary coffee and periodicals at the lobby café.

Or hit snooze and treat yourself to breakfast in bed courtesy of room service starting at 7am.

Bibliophiles can catch up on their summer reading list in the Living Room's overstuffed armchairs. The floor-to-ceiling bookcases are lined with a selection of classic literature and contemporary local authors.

Each room includes a reading nook and free Wi-Fi, the perfect private spot to unwind with a novel or newspaper.

Sweeping views of the skyline are framed atop work desks -- simultaneously inspiring and distracting their occupants.

Visitors can exercise more than their minds when staying on-site – the hotel’s two-room gym offers cardio equipment, weights and fitness classes.

After a tough workout, guests can fill up on locally-sourced, seasonal cuisine in Co-Op's dining room or on the outdoor terrace.

On the corner of Chestnut and 33rd Street, the hotel is within walking distance of parks with sports courts and summer activities like farmers markets and free outdoor movies.

Accommodations outfitted with CO Bigelow toiletries, feather-topped beds and seersucker robes help guests refresh and relax after a long day of sightseeing. 

Grand Opening: Ocean Resort Casino

I grew up going to the Jersey Shore with my family so I was very excited to be a part of the grand opening celebration at Ocean Resort Casino. Starting with a ribbon cutting on Thursday afternoon, the newest resort in Atlantic City treated me and other journalists to a weekend of fun in the sun, fine dining and world class entertainment. I'll share my full review of the property and its amenities soon. 

15 Reasons I Can’t Stop Talking about This ‘Secret’ Nicaraguan Resort

tretching across 1,675 acres of Nicaragua’s western Emerald Coast, Mukul, an Auberge Resort, is a sacred escape for travelers who value privacy. Translating to “secret” from a Mayan language, Mukul is a family-owned, luxury eco-resort with fewer than 40 rooms that those in the know desperately try to keep hush-hush.

Despite guests’ efforts, the upscale resort’s unique opportunities to interact with the indigenous community and environment have landed it on lists like Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Resorts in Central America and Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards -- so we know this property won’t be a secret for long. Here are 15 reasons why we can no longer keep this place to ourselves:

The 5-star resort was constructed by local craftsmen to blend seamlessly into its surroundings and supports healthcare, education and clean water efforts in nearby villages. Philanthropic guests are welcome to volunteer and donate towards the cause.

Suites are tucked into the rain forest canopy with wraparound teak decks and private plunge pools suspended over the shoreline.

Villas are the hidden homes-away-from-home of your dreams -- think direct beach access and private gardens with outdoor lava-rock showers and hammocks.

Private spa suites can be reserved for a few hours or an entire day and offer unique treatments like hydrotherapy, chakra healing sessions and traditional hammam rituals.

Not just a sanctuary for humans, the resort designated part of its beach to repopulating the indigenous sea-turtle population and releases baby turtles between September and May.

The wellness resort nurtures guests from the inside out by dishing up Mexican, French, Mediterranean and Asian-inspired menus curated from local ingredients …

… And from the outside in with complimentary yoga classes hosted daily in the treetop pavilion.

Bottles of Nicaragua’s Flor de Caña rum are an exclusive – and free -- perk when staying at Mukul.

Visitors can explore the surrounding waters above or below sea level with free use of the resort’s kayaks and snorkels.

Or coast down an active volcano by booking an ash-boarding excursion through the concierge.

Arrange for a post-adventure picnic on the beach -- the concierge will have your spread waiting upon your return.

Those looking to stay put can soak up the sunshine – with a side of coconut water – in a beachside hammock.

The resort’s Cigar Lounge educates adults about the country’s tobacco tradition on the beach...

… While the complimentary kids club keeps tiny travelers entertained.

No matter how you fill your days, evenings at Mukul are best-spent getting lost under the stars.

Locals Only: Playing Tourist in New York City

Despite living in arguably the greatest city in the world, New Yorkers don't always do a great job taking advantage of events and landmarks that draw millions of visitors each year. Since my job and lifestyle take me out of town quite often, I find myself making an active effort to visit my favorite museums, wander neighborhoods I hold dear and even brave crowds to see the latest tourist attractions while in NYC. Here are some of my favorite "touristy" spots that locals can enjoy again and again without the usual NYC pricetag:

The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Although the museum asks for donations of $25 per visitor, this is merely a suggestion and patrons of the arts must only shell out what they wish to pay. As a local, you can break up the massive museum and visit different wings on each trip, giving you time to explore exhibits without a time limit.  

The Staten Island Ferry: Running year-round and transporting 70,000 passengers each day, this ferry route predates the bridges that now connect Manhattan to outer boroughs. The 25-minute ride is completely free and offers outstanding views of the city skyline, Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty. On sunny days, grab a spot along the outdoor railing for some of the best sightseeing in town. 

Central Park: In warmer months, Summerstage takes over the city's parks, including Central Park, with free and ticketed concerts. No matter what time of year you visit, its grounds can be explored by bike, foot, even boat, but my favorite way to spend a lazy day in the park is to picnic with friends. 

New York Public Library: The main branch of our spectacular library system looks out over Bryant Park and was one of my first stops when I moved to NYC. The 19th Century Beaux Arts building is a masterpiece in its own right (don't miss the elegant reading room!) and is home to countless works of art as well as rotating cultural and literary exhibits.  Admission is free but some special events do require tickets. 

The High Line: Built atop elevated train tracks, this park winds for 1.5 miles along Manhattan's western shoreline. A favorite for young New Yorkers entertaining visiting parents, this public park can feel more like a parking lot when pedestrian traffic jams on warm days. To avoid crowds and add some romance, come with a date in the evenings and enjoy a stroll at dusk paired with ice cream cones from vendors posted along the path. 

Take a Road Trip through America’s Flyover States

D.C., LA. NYC. The country’s big cities top everyone’s bucket list, but the vast landscape in between is filled with history, scenic locales and adventures for the entire family. Spring and summer are ideal for exploring the heartland, so join us as we stockpile junk food, crank up the tunes and plan a road trip to these great destinations in America’s flyover states