As we navigate our way through the final quarter of this epic year, we can only anticipate that it goes by swiftly and ushers in better days in the near future.
It is becoming increasingly agonizing for people to accept the fact that most government agencies are urging us to avoid big gatherings and to bypass the obligatory customary holiday family gatherings this holiday season. Many of us are simply not prepared to forego the holidays without being surrounded by dear friends and loved ones. However, we know it is a necessary precaution and a closer step to helping us contain and stop the spread of COVID-19, as the winter months are quickly approaching.
Notwithstanding, World Bride Magazine (WBM) has made it our mission to help our readers navigate through these unprecedented times safely, while making travel and celebratory provisions through our well-vetted, safe destination Editorial recommendations.
Here we go, my friends. Although we may not be able to travel outside of or throughout the U.S. without restrictions, we still (judiciously) managed to take the time to discover America the beautiful. We started our road trip with a weekend getaway to the beautiful Finger Lakes region located in New York State. Afterwards, we traveled down Interstate 95 South between the borders of Virginia and Washington DC to discover a hidden gem nestled on the Eastern Seaboard and one of the most beautiful luxury resorts with an equestrian flair in Middleburg, VA – Salamander Resort & Spa. This lovely oasis which shares the property portfolio with The Henderson, Hotel Bennett, Half Moon, and Innisbrook is owned by American businesswoman, co-founder of BET, CEO, and entrepreneur extraordinaire, Sheila C. Johnson.
This exquisite 23,000 square-foot, 340-acres respite is burrowed in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains amid Virginia’s famed horse and wine country. The space is charmingly designed — words can’t describe the sheer tranquility felt when first entering and walking upon the grounds.
From the moment we drove up the tree-lined property, we were greeted by the Porter curbside off of the circular driveway and felt the same anticipated warmth and hospitality extended from a favorite relative when entering their home. The property extends every sort of charming accommodation. Quite frankly, even if you decided to do nothing but relax inside, past the foyer into the living room-inspired lobby with an Irish coffee and snuggle in front of the grand old-world stone oversized fireplace, you can’t help but feel the romance in the air.
During our stay, we discovered that the resort offers exciting adventures, romantic escapades, and plenty of family-friendly activities on the property. The grounds offer a myriad of amenities from indoor and outdoor pools, Spa-Jacuzzi and heated stone lounge chairs, tennis courts, a complimentary putting green for aspiring golfers, to a full equestrian center, lawn games including croquet, bocce ball, corn hole, life-sized chess, and plenty of green pastures to accommodate a mat for sun salutations for the passionate Yoga practitioner. The options for amusement in the quaint town of Middleburg are equally never-ending. During the day, we discovered the surrounding area and browsed the local boutique shops and explored local wineries. If you really feel like being adventurous, the gracious staff found at the Concierge desk can also arrange off property excursions like zip lining and exclusive golf privileges at nearby Creighton Farms.
After we decided that we could visit the property safely, our #1 priority was to quickly ascertain the most prudent and responsible way to recommend Salamander Resort & Spa, while respecting all CDC guidelines in order to not circumvent any contradictory messages while traveling.
Therefore, once we were given the green light to travel to this property, we immediately observed how all guests and staff respectfully engaged with one another by wearing their masks and practicing social distancing. Hands down, this is definitely a perfect property to consider hosting a small, intimate wedding, particularly when seeking a destination that obeys and respects the rules of engagement for safety first.
After several hours of traveling to this magically-delicious destination, the WBM team chose to relax, and enjoy the luxury of being in a beautiful environment with an amazing backdrop offering a kaleidoscope of hues from green, gold and auburn-colored autumn foliage and dreamy sunsets.
During our visit, we took the opportunity to dress up, dine out, meet the chef, and walk around the property. We also took the liberty to enjoy Yoga and the horses on the grounds, relax and unwind with fantastic Swedish massages, all followed with basking in the sun after swimming in the outdoor heated pool.
The international-staffed team was absolutely wonderful and very accommodating. In these unfortunate often racially tense times, WBM makes it a point to ensure that our readers from near and far are treated with dignity and respect when seeking properties that extend kindness and compassion to all guests that visit.
After months of being restricted to where and how we travel, combined with limited good old-fashion human contact, it felt wonderful to finally be outside and able to enjoy the simple things in life. The few days spent at the Salamander Resort & Spa was transformational. After leaving the property located in proverbial “God’s country,” we definitely felt relaxed, refocused, and rejuvenated.
If peace of mind, tranquility and safety are the ingredients that you require to travel during these uncertain times, Salamander Resort & Spa is well worth the drive and harmony you’ll be granted once you arrive. It’s truly a home away from home and highly recommended by the WBM Editorial team.
Safe travels and Carpe Diem!
As World Bride Magazine (WBM) continues to grow our portfolio for WBM Travels, we are elated to share with you another Editor’s choice for a perfect location to host you and your beloved or even a group of girlfriends for a weekend getaway. Either way, the possibilities are endless. We are pleased and elated to share with you our personal adventure at the Salamander Resort & Spa.
Stay tuned. WBM Travels would love to assist you in planning your next trip or an intimate celebration with our WBM Production team.
