As an English Teacher in Korea, I’m often asked for recommendations about where to go and where to stay in the United States. I’m Canadian, but since Korea is such a small countr,y sometimes I think the fact that I’m from an entirely different country gets overlooked. The Commonwealth of Virginia is rich in history. It was the first colony in British North America. There are plenty of rivers, mountains, and national parks to keep the nature lovers busy, and its proximity to Washington, D.C. makes for a relaxing stay with plenty of educational opportunities.

There are tried and true hotels all over the world, and Virginia is no exception.  If you’re looking for a unique hotel stay, the possibilities are endless.  Here are five “best bets” in Virginia!

Old Southern Elegance in Richmond, VA

In Richmond, you’ll find history (the hotel is full of antiques from the Victorian and Empire periods) and elegance in the charming Linden Row Inn Hotel.  It’s 15 minutes from the airport, so it’s close to all the attractions and activites, including the Edgar Allen Poe Museum and the Museum of Confederacy. The hotel offers a free shuttle service within two miles and you’ll have the added benefit of access to the local YMCA. They provide complimentary continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi. The cost ranges from $129 to $279, but they offer package deals and membership discounts so it’s well worth a look!

Southern Charm and Convenience for the Working Traveler in Richmond, VA

If you’re traveling for business, the Richmond Marriott Hotel is in the heart of downtown with a skywalk to the convention center. There’s an indoor pool, a fitness center,and  free Wi-Fi, and breakfast (a buffet!) is included. They have comfy beds, a sports bar, and a Starbucks on the corner. The whole hotel is smoke free, too! As this is a hotel preferred by convention guests it’s not exactly one for a quiet getaway; however, if you’re in town on business, the Richmond Marriott Hotel is a great choice!

Shop Your Heart Out in Charlottesville, VA

If you’re heading to Charlottesville, make sure to check out the various packages at the Omni Charlottesville Hotel.  A deluxe room will cost approximately $319 per night; however, for $353, you can get the Bed and Breakfast package, which includes a complimentary breakfast. This hotel is close to the downtown mall area, so you’ll be walking distance from shops and amenities. Your stay at the Omni Charlottesville Hotel will be one for the books as it’s quite a luxurious hotel.  Plus, you can bring Fido along on your travels — pets are allowed!

Tried and True in Arlington, VA

I recently spent time at The Holiday Inn in Bangkok, Thailand, where the lobby was impressive and the amenities plentiful. I can always depend on a great stay at the Holiday Inn, and the Holiday Inn National Airport/ Crystal City is no exception! With free wifi, an airport shuttle, a fitness center, and a restaurant, it has everything you need for a comfortable stay. It’s also close to the Potomac River, the old town, and the shops in Crystal City. Kids eat free here too!

Affordable Elegance in Alexandria, VA

Another brand on which I can always depend is Hilton! In Virginia, the Hilton Alexandria Old Town hotel is actually quite affordable! For about $149 per night, you can stay in the exciting old town region, close to the metro and Reagan National Airport. It’s also walking distance from the Amtrak Station for convenient rail travel.  There are many museums as well as a convention center about 20 minutes away. Free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, a restaurant, and pets allowed make for a great stay!

Have you been to Washington, DC? Did you visit The Commonwealth of Virginia on your trip? Let us know in the comments!