'tis THE SEASON OF LOVE - valentine's staycation guide

Hey Lovers, Valentine's Day is this week! But it's not to late, for you too plan a romantic staycation. Check out my recommendations for a romantic staycation at these local Black-Owned B&B's and Resort.

They say "Virginia is for Lovers" and in the small historic town of Middleburg, Virginia, you'll find the Salamander Resort & Spa. This Forbes Five Star resort features 168 guest rooms and suites all with scenic views of the countryside, a 23,000 square foot spa that includes 14 treatment rooms and a private outdoor courtyard with heated pool.

The Salamander Resort & Spa, is the epitome of luxury combining artfully designed facilities with unparalleled experiences, all resting on 340-acres framed by Blue Ridge Mountains, lush vineyards and horse farms. It's the perfect place to "pop" the question or fall in love all over again.

If you're booking a stay at the Salamander I recommend, the resort "Season of Love" package. It includes the following:
The offer includes luxurious accommodations, a bottle of sparkling wine, a special welcome amenity of Cocoa Orange Blossom Macarons with Caramelized Cocoa Nibs from our Executive Pastry Chef, and a $100 nightly resort credit to be used on romantic dining, couple's massages, intimate trail rides and so much more.
www.salamanderresort.com

In the heart of one of my favorite cities in the U.S., is where you'll find an eclectic yet romantic Bed & Breakfast, Akwaaba Washington, DC. Akwaaba DC, a historic townhouse  located in fashionable DuPont Circle, walking distance to the White House and two Metro stops from the museums on the mall. 

This jewel of bed and breakfast features a welcoming fireplace, a grand dining room where a hearty and delicious breakfast is served, and elegantly appointed guest rooms with all the amenities. What's so unique about the guest rooms at Akwaaba, DC is they're all designed with a literary theme in mind.

Each guest room features the books of the author or genre it's named after. You can choose from the Zora Neale Hurston, Langston Hughes, Toni Morrison or Walter Mosley rooms. You also have the choice of the Romance or Poetry rooms.  I recommend either Zora Neale Hurston or Langston Hughes rooms for a romantic stay. Both rooms have a romantic jacuzzi tub for two and the rooms are very spacious.

To complete your romantic stay at Akwaaba, DC make sure you add the Whipped Cream & Pleasant Dreams package. The package includes the following: We’ll deliver a bottle of Chandon Champagne or Martinelli’s Sparkling Cider to your room at night along with strawberries and our delicious homemade whipped cream. A special turn-down with candles and rose petals completes the experience. Cheers! $60 with cider / $75 with champagne.
​www.akwaaba.com

In Pennsylvania's Poconos Lake Region, what was once an exclusive estate, is now your personal escape, The Mansion at Noble Lane. This boutique bed and breakfast resort is a two hour drive from New York, few minutes more from Philadelphia and 4 hour drive from the Maryland/DC area.

With 14 unique guest rooms, The Mansion at Noble Lane is perfect for rejuvenation and reconnecting, romantic rendezvous, spa vacations and relaxation. The possibilities are endless just like the scenic views on The Mansion at Noble Lane's 22 lush acres.

I recommend the "Love Unlimited" package with your stay. The package includes: Steal away for a romantic rendezvous with your honey, and we’ll help stoke the flames with candles, bath salts, rose petals, chocolates and toasting champagne. Complimentary for two-night stays Monday – Thursday.
www.mansionatnoblelane.com