Ring in the Holidays Down South 

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Krewe of Boo, the official Halloween parade of New Orleans, takes place on Oct. 22 this year. (Photo credit: Richard Nowitz)
Krewe of Boo, the official Halloween parade of New Orleans, takes place on Oct. 22 this year. (Photo credit: Richard Nowitz)

This holiday season, three hotels in the American South are offering the ideal location to celebrate Halloween, Christmas and the New Year.

Halloween in New Orleans
What better place to travel during the spookiest time of year than one of America’s most haunted cities? In October, suggest your clients take a trip to New Orleans to get in on all of the ghoulish festivities taking place there, including ghosts and spirits nighttime walking tours through the French Quarter and the official Halloween parade of New Orleans, Krewe of Boo, taking place on Oct. 22. Of course, there are many more reasons to visit New Orleans in the fall—festivals, events and outdoor activities—in case your clients aren’t in the mood for a scare.

Pair your clients’ visit with accommodations at The Troubadour, a Joie de Vivre Hotel opening this fall in the city’s Central Business District, a short distance from the French Quarter. The property’s central location near revived local theaters, including the Saenger, Orpheum, and Joy theaters, and next to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome and Smoothie King Center, makes it that much more attractive. However, the real draw is inside. Think street food inspired bites at the onsite bistro restaurant and live shows from local musicians. There is even a rooftop bar serving beer and cocktails, where guests can catch unparalleled views of the city. Call for rates. For more information, call (504) 518-5800 or visit jdvhotels.com/hotels/louisiana/new-orleans-hotels/the-troubadour.

The French Quarter Inn in the heart of historic Charleston, South Carolina, is offering a holiday package with all the fixins.
The French Quarter Inn in the heart of historic Charleston, South Carolina, is offering a holiday package with all the fixins.

Christmas in South Carolina
Your clients can enjoy the delights of the “most wonderful time of year,” boutique shopping, seasonal menus, holiday decorations and all, at the AAA four-diamond French Quarter Inn in the heart of historic Charleston, South Carolina. Old world charm meets authentic southern hospitality at the 50-guestroom property, where guests can book the Heighten the Holiday package, starting at $564 per night. The package includes accommodations; a handcrafted brass holiday ornament; and a $75 gift card to High Cotton, SNOB, or the Old Village Post; plus 1-night valet parking; artisan continental breakfast in the lobby or delivered to guests’ room; an evening wine and cheese reception; port wine night cap service; freshly baked cookies and milk before bed; and an evening turndown. To get into the holiday spirit guests can also sip hot apple cider, hot chocolate and eggnog at the Sweet & Savory Holiday Bar or use their $100 VISA gift card (included in the package) to experience Charleston’s Christmas traditions such as tours of the city’s decorated mansions and plantations, James Island Festival of Lights, holiday shopping on King Street or live Christmas theater performances at the historic Dock Street Theater. For more information, call (843) 722-1900 or visit fqicharleston.com.

The new 454-guestroom and -suite Westin Nashville opens on Sept. 27.
The new 454-guestroom and -suite Westin Nashville opens on Sept. 27.

New Year’s Eve in Nashville
Your clients can count down to the New Year in Nashville, Tennessee during the Jack Daniel’s Music City Midnight: New Year’s Eve in Nashville at the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. In addition to watching the traditional Music Note Drop and accompanying fireworks display, guests will ring in the New Year against the backdrop of the city’s iconic State Capitol building with a unique view of the Nashville skyline. Pair this event with a stay at new Westin Nashville, a 27-story, 454-guestroom and -suite property next to Music City Center featuring two signature restaurants, Decker and Dyer and Oak Steakhouse, the Rhapsody Spa, and the city’s highest rooftop bar L27. Opening Sept. 27, the highly anticipated Westin Hotels & Resorts property’s casual rooftop restaurant and lounge L27 will be led by chef Jacob Strang and executive sous chef Mark Vuchovich who invite guests to take a seat at the 15-ft. bar to enjoy an eclectic craft beverage and original black-and-white country music videos projected on a special glass wall. Regular room rates start at $299 per night. For more information, call (615) 248-2800 or visit westinnashville.com.