Do you ever feel like you just need to get away? Since my last blog post, it was high time we took some time to practice some self-care and get away from the chaos called LIFE. Last month was rough, experiencing the loss of the family cat Sushi, and the timing for our pre-planned getaway was right on time. So, I bet you are wondering. Where did we go? We traveled to the Mt. Airy Casino Resort and Spa in Poconos, Pennsylvania.
This trip was our second time at the resort, and although everything didn’t go as planned, we still had a lovely time. If you missed my first post about my trip to the Poconos, you can learn more about it here.
Celebrating our wedding anniversary
To celebrate our 11-year wedding anniversary, we decided to have a relaxing, chill weekend of shopping, exploring, and good eats! It’s not very fancy; however, compared to last year’s vacation, we needed some much-needed rest and relaxation.
Upon checking in, the hotel staff was friendly and greeted us warmly at the reception desk. The front lobby is stunningly decorated with lighted tree branches among a colorful, backlit waterfall.
Hotel room and amenities galore
As we made our way to our hotel room, upon entry, we were greeted with a spread of chocolate-covered strawberries and balloons.
Room details
The hotel room is modern and simple in design. With ample space for our luggage and belongings, our non-smoking King size bed was just perfect for our needs.
The bathroom décor is modern, with glass shower doors and a separate door partitioning off for the commode.
The closet features shelving along with hangers for hanging clothes. Additionally, a safe is provided if you choose to put your valuables inside for safekeeping.
The temperature-controlled room provided a constant stream of air throughout in the bed/living area with big flat-screen TV affixed to the wall.
Entertainment & Amenities
The all-adult resort provides entertainment on the casino floor with plenty of table and slot games in addition to a lounge. If playing slots is not your cup of tea, there are other amenities on-site, including a golf course, pool, spa, and gym.
Dining Options
If you are hungry, you have a selection of five restaurants to choose from, including the hotel Buffet, Guy Fieri’s Mt. Pocono Kitchen, Bistecca by Il Mulino, Lucky 8 Noodle & Sushi Bar, Pizzeria Montagna, and a Starbucks.
Our favorite restaurant to visit our first time around was the Buffet and Guy Fieri’s Mt. Pocono Kitchen. This time around, we enjoyed the basic buffet and room service! Believe it or not, we were so tired that’s as far as we ventured out to eat.
On our first evening at the hotel, we indulged in the many selections and eats at the Buffet. With a spread of food from salads and seafood appetizers to veggies, pizza, mac n cheese, and potatoes and cuts of meat on the buffet line, there was something for everyone.
Don’t forget about dessert either! One of the great things about Mr. Airy Casino Resort is their dessert buffet includes ice cream, pies, cookies, brownies, and more, including options that are sugar-free for those watching their sugar.
Change of plans!
After dinner, I planned on playing the slots with my preallotted budget. However, despite the hotel being non-smoking, due to the timing of the impending holiday weekend, there was a huge crowd of patrons on the casino floor, and that section of the floor was open for smoking.
With this smoking inconvenience, I decided to just head up to our room. Although disappointing, I saved my $50 bucks. No money was lost. I guess that’s a win, right?
Poconos Premium Outlets
After a good night’s sleep, we had it in mind to visit the nearby Snake & Animal Farm 20 minutes away from the hotel; however, after reading a few of the online reviews, I was underwhelmed and decided against that idea.
So, now plan B! We hit the pavement and decided to go shopping. We ventured out and had Dunkin Donuts for breakfast on our way to stop at the Pocono Premium Outlets in Tannersville, PA. The outlets are a short drive, about 2 miles from the Mt. Airy Casino Resort.
Shopping Options Galore
At the Pocono Premium Outlets, they have over 100 stores. From Michael Kors to Tommy Hilfiger to Gap and Adidas, they have a little something for every budget. They also have a few eateries to catch a bite, including Dunkin Donuts, Auntie Annie’s, and Johnny Rockets.
After stocking up on some workout gear, new pair of Sketchers, and some hot sauce (literally), we took a short drive to explore the neighborhood.
Hubby stopped by a Jamaican restaurant to inquire about some lunch options, and then we were off to the local town to pick up a few necessities to bring back to the hotel. Why pay $7 for a one-liter bottle of water at the hotel minibar when you can get a case for $4.99, right?
Winding down
After a day of shopping, we were pooped! I ordered room service, and hubby kept his brochure from his pit stop earlier in the day and decided to try some Jamaican pulled Jerk pork which he had delivered to the hotel lobby.
Room service at the hotel was prompt and just perfect. I ordered a Caesar salad and cheesecake for dessert! It’s all about balance, right? LOL
Both were abundant and delicious! After a long day and some good eats, we turned in for the night.
Times up!
On our last day, we slept in, then woke up, got showered, and were ready for departure. But before leaving the property, we took a few moments to enjoy the nature and fresh air. Ah! There’s just something about the Poconos that’s so relaxing and calming. We knew we’d have to return again soon!
With time against us, we check out on time and ventured back home to Jersey. Returning home was bittersweet, as we wished we could stay longer, but reality awaits.
Final thoughts – Two thumbs up!
That’s how we decided to treat ourselves and practice some self-care last month.
How about you? With the warmer weather upon us, what do you have planned for this season?
If you are in the northeast and looking for a calm getaway for adults, I’d highly recommend visiting Mt. Airy Casino Resort & Spa. Although the hotel does not permit pets, I can attest the customer service, staff, and amenities are delightful. It’s a great place for a quick (or long) getaway.
If you are interested to learn more about Mt. Airy Casino Resort, visit their website.
As an alternative, check out the pet-friendly resort Camelback in the Poconos here.
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6 Comments
Nancy
Kamira, you look absolutely beautiful!!! Relaxed !!! Will keep Mt. Airy in mind ☺️
Admin
Thank you! Yes, it’s definitely a great spot for a getaway!
Cat and Dog Chat With Caren
OMG I’m living vicariously through you!!!! What a wonderful get-away and you look sooo beautiful!!!! Dear God my husband and I have not been on a bona fide vacation since 2010 with NONE in sight. Can’t afford it. We are going to Denver in September for a wedding but that is going to be arriving on Thursday and leaving Saturday. As for room service, I’m with you! There are many times I much prefer room service! I would love to go to the Poconos sometime and stay in a cabin in the woods! Oh and HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! xoxo
Admin
Caren,
Oh! Thanks so much! I totally know what you mean about budget. It’s part of the reason we stayed the weekend BEFORE Memorial day weekend. The price cut in 1/2. I’m glad you and your husband will be able to make a longer weekend out of the wedding invite. Safe travels and enjoy yourselves and have a great time when it comes. Thanks again for the well wishes!
Marjorie Dawson
OOh wow, were you spoiled! Nothing fancy eh?? It looks the perfect treat away and the food all over sounds totally heavenly! This sounds the perfect place for a break.
Admin
LOL A few add ons never hurt nobody! Cheaper than a full on big suite. Hubby is very crafty with getting more for less. No complaints here! We love the simple slower pace of life in the Poconos for sure and it’s a great place for a break.