Virginia Beach Lodging in a Nutshell |
Wendy Maxey, Managing Editor |
 It turns out that Virginia Beach is an older, smaller version of Myrtle Beach, complete with the usual suspects - saltwater taffy, t-shirt shops and calabash buffets. The big difference between the two areas, besides size, is rejuvenation.
While Myrtle Beach has experienced a rampant revitalization, with the addition of Broadway on the Beach, several new hotels, Hard Rock Cafe and other tourist magnets, Virginia Beach has been aging quietly, leaving its visitors with old restaurants and even older hotels.
BUT, before I completely change your mind about ever visiting Virginia Beach, let me tell you the good news. During my trip, I found out that a local developer is planning to build two upscale oceanfront hotels and retail projects that could raise the bar for quality along the main drag. According to a recent article in the Virginian-Pilot, the president of the Virginia Beach Hotel and Motel Association agrees that the resort area is in need of "more and more upscale hotels." Plus, not only is a makeover planned for the strip, but visitors need to keep in mind that Virginia Beach is right next to Williamsburg - home of the Old Country and Busch Gardens - making the area an ideal vacation spot. That, in addition to the fact that it's a cheaper resort area than Myrtle Beach.
When creating a lodging guide for Virginia Beach, I found it essential to include information on nearby Norfolk, which is the area hub for most business travelers. Most folks traveling to this area on business will find themselves in Norfolk. This port city is also home to the largest naval base in America and boasts more than 5,300 hotel and motel rooms. If you're planning a visit to Va. Beach, Lodging.com recommends you spend a day or two in Norfolk (as well as Williamsburg), which is only a 20-minute drive from the waterfront. Other than business, Norfolk is known for its extensive maritime history and recently renovated historical district.
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