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Michigan Holiday Escapes

© Chris Pittman

Christmas traditionally means visits with family, loved ones and close friends. Of course, there's the occasional holiday work party, perhaps a festive show at a trendy cultural spot and, of course, presents. We can't forget the presents. But there are some who long for more out of their holiday season; those who would gladly forsake Aunt Edna's verbal meanderings and Cousin Billy's gastro-intestinal disorder for a more romantic experience -- even if it does mean forsaking the traditional family cheese log. Well, if you find yourself among those feeling a bit more dread than cheer this Christmas, have no fear! Michigan has heard your cry and responded with a delightful offering of enchanting holiday getaways.

First up is the Bavarian Inn Lodge Resort in the Christmas Mecca of Frankenmuth, Michigan. Once inside the amazing seven-acre indoor complex, you'll find yourself surrounded both by holiday spirit and inexhaustible recreational opportunities. First, settle into one of the resort's three whirlpools and feel the stress of family life fade away. When you're ready to cool down and have a little fun, take your pick of one of the five enormous indoor swimming pools. You're sure to find space to swim laps and float about without the intrusion of an overbearing crowd. When its time for a little exercise, you have your choice of the enjoyable 18-hole indoor mini-golf course or, for a more challenging experience, enjoy one of the facility's four tennis courts.

When it's time for dinner, you don't have to leave the Lodge to experience the world-famous Frankenmuth fried chicken. The all-you-can-eat affair includes homemade breads with butter and fresh preserves, soup, house made salads, unique and savory dressing, rich giblet gravy, exquisitely satisfying mashed potatoes, buttered noodles and, of course, the lightly breaded and uniquely seasoned fried chicken. If you like entertainment with your meal, opt for one of the daily dinner shows or just enjoy the soothing music of the strolling musicians.

Before retiring to the intimacy of one of the resort's 357 Bavarian themed guestrooms, relax in one of the two lounges for drinks, conversation or nightly entertainment. After a late evening and a refreshing night's sleep, they'll be plenty of time for shopping at any of the area shops and malls, and to take in the holiday scenery at the world famous Bronner's Christmas Wonderland.

A slightly more romantic destination would be the Victorian Villa Bed and Breakfast in Union City, Michigan. Innkeeper's Ron Gibson and Cynthia Shattuck have succeeded marvelously in providing a charming escape that is truly a feast for all the senses. The inn's website proclaims: "From the elegant & romantic overnight lodging accommodations to the sumptuous 7-course Champagne and Wine Dinners, occasionally hosted by the likes of General George Armstrong Custer, Mr. Mark Twain, Charles Dickens, and Mr. Sherlock Holmes, the Villa is an Inn of all Seasons and for all Reasons."

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