Cheers to my Sippin Gypsy team Tequila! This post comes to you while enjoying the Jalapeno Margarita from La Cava del Tequila while sippin and strollin around Epcot at Disney World!  I love spice and I love tequila and what a perfect pairing.  My pallet really enjoys the twist with the muddled cucumbers, I sometimes order it extra spicy.  This sip goes down easily.  La Cava del Tequila is well air conditioned and inside the Mexico Pavilion.  This spot usually starts my Epcot adventure (and if the line isn't too long it might see me a second time as I finish my trek around the world).  If spicy isn't your thing, La Cava del Tequila is still worth the stop, they have a truly beautiful assortment of Tequila and other delicious libations to enjoy.

Cheers to my Sippin Gypsy team Rum! This post comes to you while enjoying a refreshing Sippin Gypsy Mojito!  Although I've been a resident of Orlando for the better part of ten years, I still have enjoyed being a tourist here from time to time.  Orlando offers a competitive market for accommodations.  Your hotel or resort of choice should be centrally located to what you will be doing the most while in Orlando.  If your visit to our City Beautiful includes an extensive stay at one of the parks, you really should consider staying on that parks property.  You will be doing enough walking in the heat and crowds and hopefully lots of sippin, the last thing you will want to do is have to battle the traffic to drive yourself back to your hotel.

1) The Gaylord Palms Resort
This actually one of my favorite hotels in Orlando.  I typically prefer smaller intimate hotels when traveling, but this hotel is so unique and offers so much to do.  This particular property celebrates Florida.  There is an area that highlights the natural charm of the everglades, another that takes you back to the time of conquistadors and still another oasis that takes you to the relaxing docks along Florida's gulf coasts. The pools and water park are enjoyable for the whole family, and the rooms are comfortable and elegant.  Should I mention my husband and I chose to get married here.  

2) Animal Kingdom Lodge at Walt Disney World
Wake up and look at wild African animals outside your window...check.  Free transportation to Disney Parks....check. Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is well worth the splurge unless your travels allow you to frequent the African Serengeti.  One of Disney's top resorts, the Animal Kingdom Lodge offers one of the most unique experiences in lodging decor and wildlife interaction. 

3) The Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Studios
If you're enjoying Universal studios for a few days, I love the Portofino.  I find the nod to classic Italian architecture and ambiance very soothing after a day fighting heat and crowds.  Of all the properties on Universal Orlando Resort, this one feels the most calm and relaxing away from the parks.

4) Bohemian Hotel in Celebration or Grand Bohemian Hotel in Downtown Orlando
I'm a fan of the Kessler Group.  Each visit to a Bohemian is always pleasant and leaves me just happy.  I appreciate the eclectic art that each property showcases. The staff is always pleasant and feels like they go out of their way to ensure their gusts feel special and welcomed.  The properties offer well appointed bars with bartenders that love their craft and boast artistic menus.  

Cheers to my Sippin Gypsy Team Vodka! This post comes to you while enjoying a Sippin Gypsy Sorbet Sparkler with peach sorbet (gotta love those Georgia peaches!)
Savannah in all her southern hospitality offers some amazing  and progressive spots for tastin' and sippin'.  Just a quick reminder: Savannah doesn't party all night, enjoy live music at a lot of the bars along Bay Street, River Street or the City Market area, but grab a bottle of your favorite spirit for the hotel room so you can keep sippin' if the city slumbers before you do.

1. 220 Congress St Up
Step back into the roaring 20's with classic cocktails reminiscent of the flavors and combinations from the Prohibition Era in America.  The bar is small and intimate with historic paraphernalia and well placed details.  The cocktails are delightful and well crafted.  The bar often hosts live music that truly sets the mood. The bar is also accessible through The American Prohibition Museum, however some of the cocktails are not available when visiting this bar during the day, so see it once for a cocktail during the day with your museum tour, but stop in again at night for a whole other experience!

2. Artillery Bar
My new favorite bar in Savannah and definitely one of my top three bars in the South! The Artillery Bar delivered cocktail after delicious cocktail that was each impressive in flavor depth and presentation.  The Artillery Bar is swanky and chic and beautifully positioned between the quiet charming historic streets of Savannah's impressive homes and the trendy Broughton Street and Bay Street.  This is the ideal place to start you evening out in Savannah.  Opening around 4pm, lounge and enjoy a cocktail or two (or three) before heading to dinner.

3. The Grey
Greyhound Bus Station turned into a hip retro style bar and restaurant with delicious food and incredible cocktails.  Details are carefully placed to pay homage to the buildings past as a bus station,  but what stays with you is the elevated concepts in classic southern comfort food and a drink menu that is well thought out and inspired by travel and experience.

4.  Alligator Soul
Few restaurants wow me with every dish.  Alligator Soul left a lasting impression on my pallet that I still think about a quick get away to Savannah just to visit this spot again.  I have visited Alligator Soul several times now, and a couple of times, I was bold and tried unique proteins available seasonally under their "Exotic Specialty", and I was delighted both times.  Please indulge yourself.

5. Treylor Park 
Progressive, modern and unique.  This is what I love about cities that celebrate food and art.  Unique and bold flavor combinations in a quirky comfortable environment.  Please just try the Peanut butter and Jelly Hot Wings or Nachos Grande! This spot is also usually very busy.  Set a reservation if possible.  A few blocks up is their sister location Hitch.  Either one offers great portions and those artistic flavors that make this a spot I visit every time I'm in Savannah

6. The Pirates House
What would a trip to Savannah be without a bit of pirates and plunder!  This historic building is at the far end of the historic district.  But its also a stop on either of the Trolley Tours.  The gift shop is fun and offers unique trinkets that celebrate all things Savannah and Pirates.  One of my favorite Bloody Mary's in Savannah is from Pirates House.  Even though its out of the way, make time for it on your trek, especially since you can grab an extra cocktail to go and keep sippin and strollin. 

7. The Gryphon
Enjoy true tea service in a most charming location.  The Gryphon celebrates her past as a apothecary and library and indulges guests in delicious cuisine amidst elegant details.  Student of SCAD learn the art of hospitality as only the South can teach.  The Gryphon is the ideal spot for lunch before starting your afternoon exploring around historic Savannah.

8. The Olde Pink House
Yes, the building really is Pink!  One of Savannah's most celebrated restaurants, this is a must do in Savannah for classic Southern Cuisine in a charming historic setting.  Each room is elegantly appointed and offers a delightful experience for lunch or dinner.  Most evenings the restaurant is booked, so the moment you know your travel dates, make a reservation!  If your travels to Savannah are more impromptu, try the downstairs bar for great music and cocktails.

​9. Vic's On The River
Celebrating in Savannah? Vic's offers an elegant environment with a beautiful view of the river (especially at sunset!)  Classic southern cuisine and an impressive bar, this location adds to your southern  charm experience.  As a huge fan of comfort food from the south, I was really impressed with Vics Shrimp and Grits plate.