Author: Admin01

Oh to be a fly in that room…

There’s something special about a hotel room – and not just your ordinary Motel 6. You walk in, and suddenly your shoulders drop.

The bed is made.

The lights are soft.

There’s no clutter, no laundry pile, no to-do list taped to the wall.

Just a peaceful, inviting space that whispers, “You can relax now.”

Wouldn’t it be nice if your own bedroom felt that way?

The good news is – you don’t need a fancy resort to make your bedroom feel like a relaxing retreat.

A few thoughtful touches can turn your everyday space into something that feels calm, cozy, and just a little bit luxurious.

Here’s how to create a hotel-style bedroom sleep sanctuary that feels like a mini-vacation.

You Deserve This

1. Use Soft, Indirect Lighting (and the Right Bulbs!)

Hotels never blast you with harsh overhead lights – and for good reason. Use lamps, sconces, or string lights to create soft pools of light instead. It is usually indirect lighting. And stick with warm bulbs (look for 2700K–3000K on the label). They cast a golden glow that instantly makes a room feel cozier and more restful.

2. Invest in High Thread Count Sheets

There’s something about sliding into smooth, crisp sheets that just feels like vacation. Especially with freshly shaved legs. (You know what I am talking about.)

Look for cotton or bamboo sheets with a thread count of at least 300. You don’t need to spend a fortune – just choose ones that feel cool and soft to the touch. Bonus points for white or neutral tones to get that clean, hotel look.

3. Bring in a Fluffy Rug

While most hotels may not have something soft underfoot, I believe everyone should step out of bed onto something soft.

A fluffy rug instantly adds warmth and texture. It doesn’t have to be big – just something cozy for your feet to land on in the morning.

4. Add Plants for a Touch of Life

Even one little plant can shift the energy in a room. It adds color, life, and a hint of nature – which is great for your mood. Snake plants, pothos, or peace lilies are easy to care for and thrive indoors, even in low light.

Also read, 5 Unique and Beautiful Houseplants to Cheer Up Your Home.

5. Embrace Minimalism

This might be the biggest “hotel secret” of all: less is more. Fewer knickknacks, fewer piles, fewer pieces of furniture.

A clear surface sends a signal to your brain: there’s nothing here you need to deal with. It’s time to relax.

6. Cool It Down

Hotels tend to keep rooms cool for better sleep. I know adjusting the thermostat to the lowest setting possible is my first task when getting into my room. If you can, turn your thermostat down a few degrees at night – or try a fan or portable A/C.

A slightly chilly room paired with warm bedding can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

7. Use a Heavy (But Not Hot) Blanket

There’s something comforting about a bit of weight on your body at night. Look for a breathable weighted blanket or a quilt made from cotton or bamboo blends – something that feels cozy without trapping too much heat.

Think: gentle hug, not sauna.

8. Hang Blackout Curtains or Shades (and Try a Night Mask!)

One reason hotel sleep feels so deep? No light sneaking in. Blackout curtains block headlights, street lamps, and early morning sun.

If full blackout isn’t your style, try light-filtering curtains layered with a roller shade. Either way, keeping it dark makes a huge difference.

And here’s a small addition that really works: a sleep mask. Even if you have curtains, a soft, comfy night mask helps block out every bit of light – plus it’s great for travel. Some people find just putting one on sends a signal to the brain that it’s time to rest.

9. Use an Oil Diffuser for a Signature Scent

Many hotels use a signature scent in the lobby or guest rooms – it’s part of what makes the experience feel so special.

I bet most didn’t even know that!

You can do the same with a diffuser and a few drops of essential oil. Try lavender, eucalyptus, or vanilla before bed to signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down.

10. Add a Sound Machine or Soothing Background Noise

A sound machine can muffle distractions like barking dogs or ticking clocks. A white noise has literally been a Godsend with a partner that doesn’t always wear his CPAP. Choose white noise, ocean waves, gentle rain – whatever helps you relax. Some even turn off automatically after you’ve drifted off.

Bonus Tip: Hang a Picture of a Beautiful View

If you think about your favorite hotel stays – chances are, there was a window with a view. Even if your real-life view is your neighbor’s fence, you can still create a visual escape. Try hanging a photo or painting of a calming landscape: a misty forest, a quiet beach, or even a city skyline at night.

It gives your eyes somewhere peaceful to land and subtly shifts the mood of the whole room.

Why Hotel Rooms Feel So Relaxing

It’s not just the soft bedding – hotel rooms feel good because they’re calm, uncluttered, and free of distractions.

No chores, no mess, no mental noise. That kind of space tells your brain it’s okay to rest.

With just a few small changes at home – softer lighting, less clutter, a cozy blanket – you can create that same peaceful feeling right in your own bedroom.

I truly hope everyone can have a hotel-like experience every night.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Where have you slept the best? Is it at home or was it at a resort or special place? Please share how you make your home comfortable and peaceful!

Oh to be a fly in that room…

Oh to be a fly in that room…

Braids are a fun way to play with your hair and give it an interesting shape and texture. Braids are worn by women of all ages and races. There are various ways to braid your hair.

Braids can be elegant and styled for an event like a wedding or they can be used to keep your hair out of your face while you exercise.

I have long hair, and, on those days when it is unruly or I don’t have time to style it, I reach for the hair ties and create two quick braids and I’m out the door in no time.

That’s me walking the dog on the beach after quickly braiding my hair. I’m not 60 yet (in a few years), but I’m quite positive that I will be braiding my hair well into my 60s and beyond.

Seamless Hair Ties

Here is my list of braided hairstyles for women over 60:

1. Long Box Locks Braids – Great traditional look for black women.
2. Side Braid with Bangs – Girly and fun look.
3. Bob Box Locks – For a Cleopatra look.
4. Long Back Braid – Great if you have long thick hair.
5. Single French Braid – French braids can be worn tight or loose.

Keep reading to discover many more braided style ideas.

Long Box Locks Braids

Box braids are typically worn by black women and can be styled in numerous ways. This beautiful woman has chosen long and light colored braids and they look amazing on her.

Side Braid with Bangs

A side braid looks great if you have medium to long hair and bangs. It’s an easy everyday style and can make you look youthful and playful. Try matching the hair ties to your outfits for a unique look.

Bob Box Locks

Another way to have fun with box locks is to bring them to chin level to create a cleopatra-looking bob style. Here she has pulled her locks into a ponytail and let them fall down to her chin.

Long Back Braid

A single back braid is a great idea if you have long thick hair. Place hair clips on the side of your head to keep the style neat and in place minimizing flyaways.

Single French Braid

I love french braids. My mom used to style my hair this way a lot when I was a little girl. They are a little tricky to learn to do alone though. A single french braid can be braided tight with small segments of hair or more loosely with larger segments creating a more carefree look like the woman in this photo.

Double Braids

This look is great if you are lucky and have thick hair. Easy go-to hair styling look that also looks great when wearing a hat.

Tip: Try applying a frizz control product to your hair before braiding it to keep the flyaways at bay.

John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Hair Serum

Side Braid with Flower

This is a great vacation look! Doesn’t she look like she is happy and carefree? Match a fabric styling flower to your outfit and feel and look like a million bucks.

15 Pieces Flower Hair Clips Rose

Reversed Double French Braid

Reversed french braids look great and can even be done as an updo for a special event. You can even style it all around your head for a braided crown look.

Single Fishtail Braid

A fishtail braid is basically a french braid on steroids. You use only two strands of hair instead of three and weave across from side to side. You can make it tight by crossing smaller strands or looser by using larger chunks.

Watch the tutorial video below to learn how to make fishtail braids.

Cornrows with Long Braids

Traditional cornrows are a tried and tested way to keep hair well styled. Choose long locks and even different colors to suit your personality.

Half-Up Crown Braid

This romantic style works well with medium to long hair. It keeps hair out of the face while still allowing some length to flow freely. Add decorative pins or soft waves for an evening look.

Braided Low Bun

Twist a classic braid into a low chignon for an elegant updo that works for weddings or dinners out. You can braid just one side or both for a symmetrical finish.

Accent Braids

Perfect for short to medium hair, small braids added to one or both sides of the head. These can be pinned back or incorporated into a half-up style. Ideal for adding a subtle detail without needing a full braid.

Can You Braid Thinning or Fine Hair?

Yes, absolutely, you can still enjoy braids even if your hair isn’t as thick as it once was. The key is choosing the right style and prepping your hair to give it a little extra body and hold.

Start with a volumizing mousse or lightweight texturizing spray before braiding. This will give your strands more grip and prevent the braid from slipping out or looking too flat. If your hair is freshly washed and very soft, a bit of dry shampoo at the roots can add texture and fullness.

Stick to looser, chunkier braids like a side braid, crown braid, or fishtail done with larger sections of hair. These create the illusion of more volume and avoid pulling too tightly on fragile roots. You can also gently pull at the sides of the braid (a technique called pancaking) to make it look thicker and more relaxed.

Don’t shy away from creative solutions either, clip-in hair pieces, braid headbands, or lightweight extensions can add fullness when you want to dress up your look. Just be sure any added hair is soft and not too heavy, especially if your scalp is sensitive.

Braids are not only stylish but also protective. They help reduce daily manipulation and can prevent breakage, especially important for fine or aging hair. The best part? Once you find a braid style that works for your hair type, it can become your go-to look for busy mornings, travel days, or even special events.

Read 15 HAIRSTYLES FOR WOMEN OVER 50.

Also read EXPLORING THE BEST MEDIUM LENGTH HAIRSTYLES FOR OLDER WOMEN (VIDEO).

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you like to braid your hair? What style suits you best? Do you have braid styling ideas you want to tell us about? Write your comments below.