Next time you stay at a participating Country Inns & Suites By Carlson, in the U.S. or Canada check out the complimentary lending library! Through the Read It & Return program, guests are invited to choose a book from the lobby bookshelf and return it at any Country Inns & Suites hotel once they’re done reading. You’ll find a variety of books, including mysteries, fiction, non-fiction and children’s books. These are a few of our favorites—check out the full list of titles!

Sight Hound
by Pam Houston
Dog lovers in particular will be charmed by Pam Houston’s debut novel (she has previously published short story collections). Rae is a Colorado playwright who is learning about hope, love and faith from an unlikely source—her Irish wolfhound, Dante. Though Dante is diagnosed with bone cancer and loses a leg, his strength and serenity impacts everyone in Rae’s life.

Each chapter is narrated by a different character in the story, including animals. Rae’s complicated life is anchored by Dante and, in his own chapter, he offers insight into how he wants Rae to learn to trust love and keep hope alive in a world without him.

Crashing Through: A Story of Risk, Adventure, and the Man Who Dared to See
by Robert Kurson
Mike May lost his sight at age three, but thanks to a revolutionary stem-cell and cornea transplant, he regained his vision at age 46. After decades of blindness, he embarks on a physical and emotional journey as he adjusts to his ability to see.

Although this is a true story, May’s life seems at times unbelievable. He was a CIA analyst, champion skier and entrepreneur before ever undergoing the procedure. As he weighs the physical risks of the transplant, he also struggles with how his identity and self-image are changed.

Shem Creek: A Lowcountry Tale
by Dorthea Benton Frank
If you’re in the mood for a good narrative, try this one from Frank’s Lowcountry Tales series. Linda Breland is a single mother who decides to pack up and move, along with her two teenage daughters, from New Jersey to Mount Pleasant, S.C. Her sister Mimi is waiting with open arms and endless advice for the three women.

Linda is hired to work at a local restaurant, and the owner seems like a refreshing departure from the men she left in New Jersey. The story unfolds as the likeable cast of characters all learn to depend on one another and find a new life together in this small Southern town.

Still looking for that perfect gift? We’ve got even more hotel shopping packages to help you get away and find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Bloomington, MN
Spend the weekend taking on America’s largest mall, the Mall of America in Bloomington, MN. With more than 400 stores to explore, you should have no problem finding that perfect gift. The Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Bloomington’s “Shop ’Til You Drop” package includes a Mall of America coupon book, shopping bag (to fill up with all your great purchases) and two bottles of water to quench your thirst while power shopping.

Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Bothell, WA
For shoppers on the hunt for deals in the Pacific Northwest, look no further than the Country Inn & Suites, Bothell, near Seattle. This package includes a $10 dining voucher for room service, discount coupons to Country Village Shops and Seattle Premium Outlets and a pedicure at Blooming Nails & Spa (because your feet are going to be super tired). And don’t forget, after you’ve had your fill at the mall and the spa, make sure to relax your mind and body in your room (or upgrade to a suite)—where else are you going to store all your shopping bags?

Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Deer Valley, AZ
Shopping isn’t a treat for everyone. Which is why Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Deer Valley (outside of Phoenix) wants to help you make it an enjoyable experience. Their shopping package comes with an Arrowhead Towne Center goody bag that includes a $40 gift certificate to spend anywhere in the mall! And when you’re all shopped out, the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service will pick you up and bring you back to your room where you can relax and take a dip in the heated pool and whirlpool.

Ready to shop ’til you drop? The holidays are here, along with the best sales of the year! Several Country Inns & Suites By Carlson hotels offer shopping packages to help you save even more at some of the best destinations in the country. Make Country Inns & Suites By Carlson your home away from home as you breeze through your holiday shopping list and enjoy some great perks along the way (such as a complimentary hot breakfast to start your day out right) and to help you unwind after your shopping is finished.

Westfield Mall in San Diego
Marathon shoppers will be in heaven at Westfield Mall in San Diego. With 114 stores, including Macy’s, Nordstrom and the Apple Store, you’ll have no problem finding something for everyone on your list.

The shopping package from Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, San Diego North, makes your day even sweeter with a $100 gift card to the mall and a welcome bag with an energy bar, bottled water and more! A complimentary shuttle with take you from the hotel to the mall and back.

Legends Outlets in Kansas City
See the savings stack up at Legends Outlets in Kansas City. The stores and restaurants stretch over 1.2 million square feet! Your shopping package from Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Kansas City at Village West includes a $50 gift card you can use at any of the stores or restaurants. After a day of exploring Legends, rest your tired feel at the hotel’s heated indoor pool and hot tub.

Shop Your Style in Covington, LA
Browse through the antique shops in search of a one-of-a-kind gift, or hit the new shopping districts for the latest designer fashions. Your shopping package from the Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Covington, LA, includes a $50 Visa Gift Card you can spend wherever you’d like. The hotel is convenient to fantastic shopping, and you’ll get coupons and shopping guides to help you navigate the deals. Warm chocolate chip cookies will be waiting upon your return. And you’ll have plenty of room for all of those shopping bags in your upgraded suite.

No matter where you’re traveling, winter weather can cause unpredictable delays. Flight cancellations, poor driving conditions and closed businesses can be a major headache, especially if you’re far from home.

Even warm-weather regions aren’t immune to winter weather: Last year, major airports across the Southern United States were closed for days due to unexpected snowstorms. And since these parts of the country are less equipped to deal with ice and snow, you shouldn’t count them out when anticipating delays, either. The good news? With a little patience and preparation, you can make the best of less-than-perfect travel weather.

Air Travel Delays
All may be clear at your home airport, but if snow is bearing down on another part of the country, you still might suffer delays due to backlog. Before leaving for the airport, be sure to check your airline’s website to confirm your flight status. Many airlines and travel websites offer text message alerts or emails to keep you informed even when you’re en route.

Speaking of text messages and emails, keep chargers on hand for all of your electronics. If you get stuck in an airport, you’ll want to keep the batteries for your phone, laptop or tablet charged—and you don’t want to find out that what you need is in the bag you checked. And really, it’s best to not check any belongings at all, if you can help it. If you end up with an unplanned overnight stay, you’ll want to have your clothes and essentials with you. Plus, delays and cancellations are practically the perfect recipe for getting separated from your checked luggage.

It’s important to remember that airlines may not be required to compensate you for cancellations or delays due to weather. Some airlines will provide food vouchers or cots for stranded travelers, but it varies and you should be prepared to fend for yourself. If your flight is affected and you don’t mind picking up the tab, get rebooked for the next day and try to get a good night’s sleep at a nearby hotel.

Winter Driving Conditions
The best tip for driving in extreme wintry conditions is not to do it. But if you must be on the road, be sure to take precautions and consider sticking to driving during daylight hours on well-trafficked roads as frequently as possible. Review driving tips from The Weather Channel and winter storm advice from FEMA in advance. And before you head out to your destination, listen to local weather forecasts and always make sure someone knows your route.

If you’ve rented a car, make sure a representative from the rental company reviews essential safety and handling features with you before you leave the lot if you aren’t already familiar with them. If you’re driving your own car, check to see if it should be it serviced before taking it into uncertain driving conditions. Be prepared by always keeping your gas tank as full as possible, and keep a blanket and water in the car in case you get stranded.

Packing Advice for Winter Wear
Winter weather also means dealing with bulky, winter clothing, which can be hard to pack. If you’re flying, wear your winter coat and boots on the plane. It may be a pain going through security, but you’ll save room (and weight!) in your luggage, and won’t have to go digging for it once you’ve landed. When you board the plane, just ask a flight attendant to hang your coat in one of the closets.

Layering is key for winter wardrobes. It may be frigid outside, but as soon as you’re indoors, you’ll want to strip off those extra layers. Silk long underwear goes a long way in keeping you warm, plus it’s lightweight and easy to pack. A scarf is also a must-have and can double as a neck pillow for your flight. Can’t live without your chunky knits? Purchase a set of compression bags to help get everything in your suitcase.

Today we celebrate Veterans Day, the annual U.S. holiday honoring military veterans and the end of World War I. Known as Armistice Day or Remembrance Day in other parts of the world, Veterans Day is an opportunity for all of us to join together in service and celebration.

Country Inns & Suites would like to recognize and thank the courageous men and women who willingly serve to defend the freedoms and rights of others.

When the weather is mild and the trees are draped in crisp, fall colors, it’s hard to resist the urge to squeeze in as much time outdoors as you possibly can, especially before winter hits. Our solution: Plan a vacation that includes some fresh-air fun! Many Country Inns & Suites By Carlson^SM hotels offer special packages designed just for outdoors lovers.

Go Caving in Kentucky
Lost River Cave offers Kentucky’s only underground boat tour, taking visitors through some of the largest caves east of the Mississippi River. While at the park, you can hike nature trails, go bird watching or visit the butterfly habitat—a whole day’s worth of fun activities.

The Country Inn & Suites, Bowling Green, is only four miles from Lost River Cave, and has an indoor pool and fitness center. The Lost River Cave Package includes an overnight stay in a quality suite, plus two adult tickets to Lost River Cave.

Hit the Links in North Carolina
There are plenty of blue-sky days to spend on the fairways this fall. Birkdale Golf and Country Club in Lake Norman, NC, is an 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed golf course right outside of Charlotte. This acclaimed course has well-manicured greens and challenging water hazards to keep you on your toes.

As part of the golf package at Country Inn & Suites, Lake Norman, you’ll get a suite with a king-sized bed and 18 holes of golf for two adults at Birkdale Golf Club. Also included is bottled water and various snacks for when you hit the course.

Bike through Lehigh Gorge
The trails that crisscross Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Gorge State Park take you through a railroad bed along the river, making for an unforgettable bike trip. Take the 15-mile ride down the Mid-Way trail, which is 100 percent downhill and takes about 2 to 4 hours to complete. Or for more of a challenge, opt for the 25-mile ride, which takes 3 to 5 hours and canvasses just a slightly downhill grade.

The Country Inn & Suites, Lehighton has biking packages for either route you choose. The packages include overnight accommodations, bike rental and shuttle service for two.

And don’t forget, any stay at a Country Inn & Suites by Carlson hotel always includes our free hot breakfast to help you start the day!

The veteran business traveler hits the road an average of 12 trips per year, according to a survey by the Global Business Travel Association, a trade group for travel professionals. That much time away from home can be isolating, removing the road warrior from connections with family, friends and familiar environments.

There are ways to minimize that sense of dislocation by tweaking your routine and bringing a little bit of home with you when you travel.

1. Don’t live out of your suitcase. By unpacking and putting your “stuff” where it belongs, you’ll give yourself a subconscious cue that you’re in familiar territory.
2. Venture out of the room. Even if you need to bring your laptop with you, make use of the hotel’s welcoming shared spaces, such as seating areas around the fireplace and pool. Being around others can spark conversation or make silence more companionable.
3. Bigger is better. When possible, upgrade from a standard room to a suite for an extended stay. Having more elbow room, an in-room fridge and other conveniences makes a big difference.
4. Travel with your totems. What reminds you of home? Maybe it’s your pillow, a few photos, an iPod playlist. One frequent traveler opts for fresh flowers in a collapsible vase that’s easy to pack. Another listens to e-books to stay connected to the neighborhood book club. Or maybe it’s a comfy robe and slippers to make evenings cozy. Whatever it is, bring it.
5. Stay with your normal routine. Flying, driving and being on the move are disruptive enough. When possible, try to stick with your normal regime of exercise, diet and sleep habits to maintain balance away from familiar turf. Make use of your hotel’s fitness center and check for healthy food options in the breakfast offerings.
6. High tech helps. Kissing your spouse and kids goodnight over Skype isn’t perfect, but it’s better than nothing. Apps for smartphones, such as Apple’s FaceTime, deliver live video calls perfect for bedtime reading and sharing the details of a busy day. Even something as simple as keeping a photo gallery on your laptop to remind you of loved ones is a big help.
7. Membership has its privileges. Be sure to join your hotel’s frequent stay program. Club Carlson^SM rewards with free room nights, airline miles, prepaid cards and more. When you feel like your business is appreciated and the welcome mat is out, you’ll sleep easier, even if you are away from home.

Baltimore, affectionately called “Charm City” by locals, is a sparkling harbor city filled with excitement, history and, of course, charm. Narrow cobblestone streets in historic Fell’s Point are juxtaposed by the clear glass and sheer size of Inner Harbor museums and attractions.

Before heading off to B-More, make sure you add these must-see sites to your itinerary:

• Learn about the Battle of Baltimore and the nation’s history by visiting Fort McHenry. This 18th-century brick fort defended Baltimore Harbor during the War of 1812 and is the birthplace of the American national anthem. Park rangers offer visitor programs and special events that highlight the park’s history.
• The B&O Railroad Museum brings alive the magic and adventure of railroading. Comprised of the oldest and most comprehensive collection of railroad history in the Western Hemisphere, the B&O provides visitors with a unique opportunity to see, touch, hear and explore original 19th- and 20th-century railroad equipment, shop buildings and surviving tracks.
• Historic Ships in Baltimore represent one of the most impressive collections of military vessels in the world. Located within easy walking distance of each other, the US Sloop-of-War Constellation, the US Submarine Torsk, the US Coast Guard Cutter Taney and the Lightship Chesapeake exhibit life at sea from the mid-19th century to the mid-1980s. Also included in the collection is the Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse, which marked the entrance to the Patapsco River and Baltimore Harbor for more than 130 years.
• The Sports Legends Museum at Camden Yards is the state’s sports history headquarters. The 22,000-square-foot museum features exhibits devoted to Johnny Unitas, the Baltimore Orioles, Ravens and Colts, Baltimore’s Negro Leagues, as well as the Maryland Terrapins and college athletics. The nearby Babe Ruth Birthplace Museum showcases material devoted exclusively to the Sultan of Swat.

There’s nothing like seeing a new place through the eyes of a local. Although you might not have a pal in a city to show you around, taking a walking tour led by a local expert is the next best thing.

Consider that with a walking tour, the legwork is done for you. Instead of spending your time navigating an unfamiliar landscape, you can follow along and soak up the experience.

Another benefit is the opportunity to meet interesting people. Some tours, such as New York’s Big Apple Greeter, actually pair travelers with resident New Yorkers based on language, neighborhoods requested and interests. All that, and it’s free of charge.

Your Walking Guide:

• There’s a tour for that. Is your passion architecture, food, history, gardens or neighborhood culture? Chances are, in most cities and towns, a walking tour awaits. Some tours, such as those offered by Philadelphia’s Mural Arts program, or the Coronado Historical Association in San Diego, are also offered on bicycle.
• Take a foodie tour and skip lunch. Sign up for a stroll through Pittsburgh’s Strip District with ‘Burgh Bits & Bites or San Francisco’s Chinatown with Wok Wiz, and you’ll eat your way through colorful storefronts selling everything from homemade sausage to Peking duck.
• Calling all preservationists. PreservationDirectory.com is a great resource for history buffs. The website is a clearinghouse for history-focused strolls, both guided and solo. Searching by state and region, you may find a route through bewitching Salem, Mass., or along the Art Deco facades of South Beach in Miami.
• Dabble in the weird. If you’re looking for the offbeat, Weird Chicago fits the bill. Follow in the steps of serial killer H.H. Holmes, relive the bloody St. Valentine’s Day mob massacre or chase elusive ghosts for a few hours. With its voodoo-laced past, New Orleans is another city that loves to make you shiver. Explore the shady and sinister side of the Vieux Carré with Haunted History Tours or trek to an above-ground cemetery for a lesson in Big Easy burial customs and a gander at Voodoo Priestess Marie Laveau’s final resting place. (Or is it?).
• All by yourself. Sites like City Slicker (Charleston, S.C.), GPSmyCity (multiple, including Indianapolis and Portland, Ore.) and Trek Exchange (multiple, including Philadelphia and San Antonio) offer self-guided tours you can download to your smartphone and do on your own schedule. Check the city’s local tourism or convention and visitor’s bureau sites for more, and sometimes even free, options. Your job is just to show up with a curious mind and a good pair of walking shoes.

Autumn is the season for romance. The air is crisp and the changing leaves create a beautiful backdrop for a couple’s getaway. Now is the perfect time to explore some of the country’s most romantic cities! Choose a romance package from Country Inn & Suites By Carlson for special touches, such as chocolates and champagne, to make your vacation memorable (varies by hotel).

• New York’s Adirondacks. The Lake George area in New York’s Adirondack Mountains is bursting with yellow, red and amber hues each fall. Get a close-up view of the beautiful scenery as you hike one of the many trails winding through the mountains. Or enjoy the peaceful lakes and charming towns that dot the countryside. This region is known for its fine wines, and you’ll get a souvenir bottle and two tickets to the Adirondack Winery as part of the romance package at the Country Inn & Suites By Carlson in Lake George.

• North Carolina High Country. Wildflowers along the Blue Ridge Parkway and fall foliage against the Carolina-blue sky greet you in Boone, N.C. Relax in a rocking chair and do some people watching at the famous Mast General Store downtown. The mild autumn weather is ideal for taking a hayride at The Orchard at Altapass. This 102-year-old apple orchard is a cultural hub where you’ll find local art and plenty of mountain music and storytelling. For a panoramic view of the mountains, head to Grandfather Mountain and cross the Mile High Swinging Bridge. At the Country Inn & Suites By Carlson in Boone, your romance package includes a Jacuzzi Suite, a bottle of champagne and breakfast in bed!

• Discover Denver. The Mile-High City offers restaurants and attractions to keep you and your loved one busy. Browse the fascinating American Indian art collection at the Denver Art Museum, which includes Pueblo ceramics and Plains beadwork, or look through more than 150,000 titles at the Tattered Cover Book Store. If your sweetie has a sweet tooth, be sure to visit Hammond’s Candy for a complimentary tour. Hammond’s has been making homemade lollipops and candy since 1920. If craft beer is more your style, stop at one of the city’s many local breweries to enjoy a pint. After your day of exploring, watch a complimentary pay-per-view movie as part of your romance package at the Country Inn & Suites By Carlson in Denver.