Sweet Home Alabama
When I got the call to head over to Alabama for leadership training with my company I was not extremely excited. Things had been insane with work and the last thing I wanted was to leave my team for a full week to add more to my plate. A full week of non-stop training is not high on the list of a relaxing get away.
Fortunately I listened to those who had been to this training before and packed my bags. I landed in Pensacola and made my way over to Point Clear, Alabama. I turned up the music, found a Starbucks on the way, and arrived in no time.
Marriott Grand Hotel – Point Clear
When I arrived to the Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa, I was greeted at the gate by one of the nicest men I have ever met, which immediately made my day and put a positive spin on the entire trip. My training was to take place at the hotel for the next five days, so as soon as I checked in I decided to take a tour of the historic hotel.
The hotel was built in 1847 and you can feel the history everywhere you turn. The historic hotel has a very strong military history. You can visit the monument which honors the 300 soldiers that were buried at the on-site cemetery, Confederate Rest, and attend the daily military tribute and canon firing.
I also learned that the hotel was a Maritime Training School for the Army Air Force during WWII. Over 5,000 Army Air Force servicemen were trained on ship orientation, sail making, swimming, signaling, operations, and more.
Once I traveled around the hotel, I made it to my room. The hotel has done an outstanding job staying updated without losing its historical heritage. The one recommendation I highly suggest is to ask for a room with a view of the white sands of the Alabama Gulf Coast. This is well worth the upgrade if you love to sit outside in the morning for some fresh air or enjoy the beautiful sunset at night.
Scenery
This hotel was by far one of the most beautiful hotels I have been too. The hotel itself is full of southern charm throughout its beautiful, expansive, and extremely well maintained grounds.
Walking through the landscape, the trees took my breath away. I would sit for hours and just admire the beauty and the age that was behind each tree. Every where you turn there are trees that would span the walkway and lead you down another path.
The hotel offers more than just its natural beauty. From swimming in the gorgeous pool, the amazing golf course, or renting bicycles and kayaks, there are an endless amount of opportunities for the family.
Last but not least, you can not forget the adorable ducks that walk around the hotel land making friends with all of the visitors.
I was blown away by the landscape and heritage that the hotel had to offer, but the customer service I experienced was the cherry on top. The southern charm and hospitality was abundant in every employee I met at the hotel. All of the employees were extremely helpful throughout my trip and always made sure that you were enjoying yourself and getting the most from the hotel.
Step Away From Everything
Dealing with stress has always been a hard thing for me to conquer. When I become stressed I either workout, eat, or sleep – I know it makes no sense and I never know which one I am going to do – and let’s be honest, it is not healthy.
I do not know if it was the gorgeous scenery and nature around me or just being away from home, but walking around the hotel brought a sense of calm. One day we were let out of training early and I decided to try and just relax, and for the first time in a long time, it worked.
With a drink in my hand, I walked down to the beach and buried my feet in the sand. I turned off my phone, left all my worries in my room, and just looked out at the water and the beautiful scenery around me. I realized that after all the years of growing up, being so busy with work and life, I forgot to just take in nature and the amazing world around me.
On A side note, I also took this opportunity to try out my adorable bathing suit from Torrid. I have fallen in love with their bathing suits. Torrid does an amazing job at creating bathing suits that are extremely flattering while being very supportive.
After was all said and done, I have a new-found appreciation and love for Alabama. The hotel was breathtaking, customer service was outstanding and if I was to go back to Alabama, this would be where I go. Take the time to find a place, step away from everything, and relax – You will thank yourself later – I promise!
