As a travel professional who makes a living by sending clients out of town to explore and enjoy new destinations, cultures and make unforgettable memories, it's an understatement to say I'm not a fan of Staycations, otherwise known as "Trips On a Tankful". However, as the Destination Diva, I cannot have one of the hippest concept hotels which adjoins to the World Renowned Mall of America less than two hours away from me and say I have NOT been there. So, my oldest daughter and I packed our slim overnight bags and fueled up the Sandals & Beaches clad car and headed south for a weekend of girl time!
We had the choice of valet or self serve park upon arrival. As a true Midwestern, I opted for the DIY approach, however, I'm trying to change my ways a bit and let others do their job. We were able to pull right in and park in the covered garage on the first level and walk to the front desk. Yes, valet would have been nicer because not only would it have been a shorter walk, but they even spray off the vehicles before returning them!! We were wowed with the grand foyer and overzealous front desk workers who couldn't wait to welcome us. Quickly we were off with our two room keys and ready to see what awaited us on the other side of the door. The room key was unique in the fact we simply had to wave it across the doorknob and it magically unlocked. The rooms were warm and welcoming with all the modern amenities even the most discerning traveler would expect. The large bathroom allowed us to fill the counters with our umpteen girlie products without being cluttered - utopia in my opinion. My personal favorite, Cocunut Lime Verbena Bath & Body Works toiletries were waiting for me to wisk me off to a tropical island, if only for a 10 minute shower.
Since we were connected to the Mall of America, we quickly made the most of what remained in our day and did what girls do best - shop! Did you know they will even come and find you in the mall and take your bags back to your room? After searching for the best new cell phone cover, the perfect pair of espadrilles and even a treat for our German Shorthaired Pointer, Zoe, we headed back to our room so we could freshen up for dinner. We dressed up in our pretty dresses, heels and jewels and headed back to the mall's famous third floor for dinner. While I was anticipating staying in at the Radisson Blu's restaurant, Fire Lake Restaurant or Tucci Benucci, my daughter chose Bubba Gumps. The best part of all of this was Mom was able to have a cocktail and easily walk back rather than the alternative.
One of the great features of the Radisson Blu in my opinion is the attention to detail. I loved the quirky furniture style in the lobby and upscale inclusions. What's not to enjoy about complimentary valet with a wash upon departure or a dedicated staff who will pick up your shopping bags for you before you are finished? My personal favorite was the Starbucks coffee in the room and the very thoughtful cupcakes Jeremy, the sweetheart at the front desk, had delivered to our room after a full day of shopping. These are the extra special touches that make Radisson Blu at the Mall of America not only a great value but also make you want to come back again, even if it is a "Trip On a Tankful".
Jennifer Maki, Destination Diva at Divine Destinations cuts through the clutter of online vacation planning and obscure traveler ratings by using her industry expertise, first hand knowledge of the products and relationships with the resort management. If you want the best vacation with the greatest value:
call us at 218/348-2825
follow us on twitter @4divinedeals
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or simply drop us a line at info@4divinedeals.com
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