Vacation Getaways

Win a Trip to Italy!

2010-05-31T12:18:00.000-07:00

Want to win a trip to Italy? Well, if you live near a Buca di Beppo restaurant, go there and ask for an entry form to enter their "Letters to Juliet" sweepstakes. All entries must be filled out and given to the manager of a Buca di Beppo restaurant by June 15, 2010. If your entry is selected, you could win a trip worth $8,000. The Grand Prize includes:

Round trip economy airfare for two (2) from the closest major airport to Grand Prize Winner’s residence to Verona, Italy
Hotel accommodations for two (2) persons for five (5) nights at the Relais de Charme Il Sogno di Giulietta ("The Charming Inn of Juliet's Dream", juliet-dream.com) in Verona, Italy
Five (5) days of car rental from AutoEurope (compact class, manual transmission) (In the event Grand Prize winner does not qualify for use of rental car, Sponsor reserves the right to provide alternate ground transportation to/from the airport). Winner may elect to upgrade vehicle at his/her own expense.

Who Can Enter to Win this Trip to Italy?

Only legal U.S. residents who are eighteen (18) years of age or older are eligible to enter. Of course, people working for the sponsor and their advertising agency, as well as members of their immediate families or those living in the same house are not eligible.

Just FYI: You do not have to purchase anything at Buca di Beppo to win. Just go in and ask to fill out an entry form. There is a limit to one entry form per person. For the sweepstakes rules, go to bucadibeppo.com/LTJ

Good luck!

Cave Tours in Pennsylvania

2009-05-22T16:40:00.000-07:00

Pennsylvania is known for many things - historic battle sites, covered bridges, old cemeteries, charming B&B's, rail tours, vineyards and wineries. But, it's also known for some pretty spectacular caverns. That's caverns, not taverns.

Caves and caverns are fun to explore, allowing you to experience something that often feels otherworldly. A couple standout caves you might consider on your next Pennsylvania getaway:

Woodward Cave and Campground
148 Woodward Cave Dr.
Woodward, PA

Woodward Cave is one of the largest caverns in Pennsylvania, nicknamed "The Big One" because of its 5 large rooms. Tours of the cave include visits to these 4 rooms:

The Ballroom, which is used for square dances and banquets
The Dragon’s Den Room
The Hanging Forest, featuring the largest collection of stalactites found in the cave
200-ft.-long Hall of Statues, with its 60-ft cathedral ceiling

Do remember to bring a warm jacket and proper footwear; the temperature in the cave is only 48 degrees.

There is also a 19-acre campground for those of you wishing to stay awhile. The campground is suitable for tents as well as RVs, with electricity and water.

Crystal Cave
963 Crystal Cave Rd.
Kutztown, PA

Located in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Crystal Cave Park is one of the most popular natural attraction in Pennsylvania. Discovered in 1871 and visited by millions of people since, Tours descend 125 feet underground, where the temperature is a constant 54 degrees. Other attractions at the park include a miniature golf course, 125 wooded acres with nature trails, and a rock and mineral shop and museum.

Lost River Caverns
726 Durham St., Box M
Hellertown, PA 18055

The Lost River in the name refers to the clear waters which move through the cave, mysteriously originating from an unknown source, then disappearing beneath the earth's surface. The cave consists of five picturesque cavern chamber, one of which was dedicated as a chapel in 1949. This underground chapel has been the site of over 80 wedding ceremonies and was also used as a ballroom in the late 1800's. An interesting fact about the cave is that it was also used by bootleggers during prohibition.

Enter to Win a Trip to Turks and Caicos

2009-04-23T10:52:00.000-07:00

There's still time to enter and win a a Trip to Turks and Caicos sponsored by TripAdvisor.

Prize:

Two (2) winners will receive roundtrip airfare for two (2) to the major airport nearest Beaches® Turks & Caicos Resort, up to $1,000 in value per ticket, along with seven (7) nights accommodations for two (2) in a suite (single room, double occupancy) including meals and beverages. This trip must be taken within one (1) year from date prize is awarded. Approximate retail value of this prize is $5,000 (remember, you have to pay taxes on your winnings!).

How to Enter and Win this Fabulous Vacation:

Visit tripadvisor.com/Beaches and fill out the entry form. Once you do that you will have entered the promotion.

Deadline to Enter:

The deadline is coming up fast: The sweepstakes ends on ends on Sunday April 26, 2009 at 11:59PM ET.

Who can Enter:

This vacation sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States or the District of Columbia, who are eighteen (18) or older and reside in the United States. Employees of the sponsor and their family members are not eligible.

Enter to Win a Trip to Costa Rica

2009-02-17T17:31:00.000-08:00

The vacation sweepstakes are starting to heat up! Around this time each year many different companies hold sweepstakes with trips as the grand prize, and we think you're going to love the following:

Win a Trip for 2 to Peninsula Papagayo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica!

This vacation sweepstakes is sponsored by FX Networks, and is called The FX Network - Damages Giveaway Sweepstakes, after, of course, their brilliant show, "Damages."

The Prize:

The winner of this sweepstakes will receive a trip for 2 to Peninsula Papagayo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. The prize includes round-trip First Class airfare, for the Winner and 1 Guest to Liberia, Costa Rica, as well as 5 nights hotel accommodations in a hotel of the Sponsor’s choosing AND 1 elegant dinner for 2, meal not to exceed $400.00 (yeah, that's elegant) AND 1 $5,000 gift card for Winner to a store of Winner’s choice and a $5,000 hotel credit that may be used between both Winner and Winner's Guest. The approximate retail value of this prize is $21,200.00. Not bad!

How to Enter:

To enter to win this fabulous vacation, do the following:

Go to www.DamagesGiveaway.com and complete the entry form

You may enter only once per person.

Sweepstakes Ends:

March 31, 2009.

Who Can Enter:

Legal residents of the 50 United States and District of Columbia who are 18 years of age or older (or the age of majority in their state of residence, whichever is older).

So, go enter. And, when you win, drop us a comment and tell us how you liked it!

Thanksgiving Getaway - Northern California Coast

2008-11-13T10:36:00.000-08:00

Saw this little blurb from iLoveInns.com and thought I'd pass it along to all those looking for a lovely, yet relatively inexpensive Thanksgiving getaway along the Northern Coast of California.
The Country Inn Bed and Breakfast in Fort Bragg is offering a Thanksgiving package which includes the following:

three nights lodging
home-cooked Thanksgiving meal
two tickets to the Mendocino Botanical Gardens

This special is only $340 for a non-fireplace room and $430 for a fireplace room.

The Country Inn Bed and Breakfast is located in Fort Bragg, along the Mendocino coast in Northern California, within walking distance to Glass Beach and the Skunk Train, which takes passengers on a sightseeing tour through coastal redwoods. Antiquers will also love the close proximity to some of the wonderful antique stores in Fort Bragg.

If you care for a walk after Thanksgiving Dinner, you're also close to the Ten Mile Coastal Trail, which offers a great spot for ocean-front walking, jogging, or cycling.

Mendocino Botanical Gardens

This special offer includes two tickets to the Mendocino Botanical Gardens, which is the only public garden in the continental United States that sits directly on the Pacific Ocean. There you will find, manicured gardens, as well as a coastal pine forest, with bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

For more information about this Thanksgiving Special, you can email them at info@beourguests.com

Top U.S. Hotels According to Conde Nast

2008-10-21T12:15:00.000-07:00

If you wanted to vacation at one of the top 3 U.S. hotels, you might want to take a look at what the readers of Conde Nast have chosen in the latest Conde Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards:

The Peninsula - Chicago
Elizabeth Point Lodge - Amelia Island, Florida
Stephanie Inn - Cannon Beach, Oregon

What better way to get to know some of them than to sample one of the many specials, promotions and packages they offer:

Elizabeth Point Lodge Package

The Elizabeth Point Lodge on Amelia Island also offers many wonderful packages. One I like is the “Thanksgiving Package” which is a 4-night vacation package in an oceanfront King Superior room for $1,551, and includes (among other things):

Wine and hors d’oeuvres reception each evening

Full oceanfront breakfast each morning

Thanksgiving dinner for two at Beech Street Grill with choice of preferred seating (dinner, gratuity, and tax included)

You can find more packages at Elizabeth Point Lodge by going to ElizabethPointeLodge.com. Their phone numbers are Toll Free: 800-772-3359 800-500-9620 and 800-544-2704. You can also email them at info@elizabethpointelodge.com

Stephanie Inn Specials

The Stephanie Inn offers numerous specials and packages, including

Good Things Special

This special runs from October 1, 2008 through October 31, 2008, and is as follows: Stay one night at full rate Sunday through Thursday and receive the second night at half price. This special includes a country-style breakfast buffet, afternoon wine and evening night cap. Minimum 2-night stay. There is a 7% lodging tax.

This special must be requested at time the reservation is made. , so be sure you mention the October Internet Special to the reservationist at the Stephanie Inn.

The Golden Sand Dollar Special

Exclusively for seniors 55 years or older, and is as follows: For $189-$199 per night plus tax, you can choose from a $25 dinner credit in their dining room, a bottle of champagne, wine or cider, a "Stephanie Inn Cookbook", or a one pound box of chocolates in your mountain view guest room on the first night of your stay.

This includes a complimentary country-style breakfast buffet, afternoon wine gathering and evening night cap. This special is available Sunday through Thursday, October 16, 2008 through December 30, 2008.

For more info on Stephanie Inn specials and packages, go to: stephanie-inn.com. You can also call The Stephanie Inn at 1-800-633-3466 or email: info@stephanie-inn.com

Things to do in Scottsdale, AZ

2008-10-14T12:30:00.000-07:00

Visiting Scottsdale, Arizona any time soon? Well, Scottsdale.com has come up with a list of "10 Best Things To Do In Scottsdale Arizona." What do they recommend?

Golfing at one of the numerous golf courses around Scottsdale: Troon North Golf Club with two 18-hole courses and fabulous views and JW Marriott Wildfire Golf Club come recommended by them.
Humvee and ATV Tours of the surrounding Sonoran Desert.
Viewing open houses around Scottsdale.
Scottsdale FBR Open beginning the end of January through the beginning of February. The Scottsdale FBR is one of the first PGA golf events of the calendar year.
Visiting the Scottsdale Desert Botanical Gardens.
Taking a ride on a hot-air balloon.
Attending a Phoenix Suns, Arizona Diamondbacks or Phoenix Coyotes game.
Helicopter Tour of the Grand Canyon. They recommend Papillon Helicopters Tours.
Hiking the local mountains in Scottsdale. Camelback Mountain offers hikers of all levels fabulous desert mountain hikes.
Visiting Old Town Scottsdale & Art District. If you're there on a Thursday night from 7-9PM, you can take part in ArtWalk, which allows you to experience the galleries of Old Town, "one of the most prominent and respected art districts in the nation."

What did they leave out? Well, restaurants, of course! What are some of the top restaurants in the Scottsdale area you won't want to miss? (Unless otherwise indicated, the restaurants are located in Scottsdale)

Furio
7210 East Second Street

Centro Paninoteca
7120 East Becker Lane

La Torretta Ristorante
16640 North Scottsdale Road

Medizona
7217 East Fourth Avenue

Capital Grille
16489 North Scottsdale Road

Un-Bacio Ristorante
7704 E. Doubletree Ranch Rd.

Gardunos of Mexico
8787 N. Scottsdale Rd, Ste. A-102

Asia de Cuba
7353 E. Indian School Rd.
(Inside the Mondrian)

Pink Pony Steak House
3831 N. Scottsdale Rd.
(between 1st St. and Main St.)

Zinc Bistro
15034 N. Scottsdale Rd.
(Scottsdale Rd. and Greenway Pkwy.)

Binkley's Restaurant
6920 E. Cave Creek Rd.
Cave Creek, AZ

Rancho Pinot Grill
6208 N. Scottsdale Rd.
(Scottsdale Rd. and Lincoln Dr.)
Paradise Valley, AZ

Win a Trip to Australia - SoCal residents only

2008-09-30T11:01:00.000-07:00

Normally I wouldn't promote a sweepstakes with so limited entry qualifications, but, since there are so many Southern California readers who visit this blog, I decided to include it.

The sweepstakes is put on by Qantas Airlines and awards five (5) grand prizes of:

Round-trip Economy airfare for two (2) aboard Qantas A380 from Los Angles to Melbourne
$1,000 in cash
Seven (7) nights accommodations in Melbourne, Australia

Who can enter:

Sorry, but only legal U.S. residents of the following Southern California counties are eligible to participate:

Los Angeles
Orange
Riverside
San Bernardino
Ventura

How to enter:

just go to www.qantas.com/win and enter online. (remember, that's qantas.com, not quantas.com). You'll have to act fast because the deadline for entering is 11:59PM on October 5, 2008. You can enter once per day.

Celebrate Oktoberfest in Tempe and Renew Your Vows

2008-09-20T10:04:00.000-07:00

Oktoberfest celebrations are coming up fast! And, this year's celebration in Tempe, Arizona (near Phoenix) is including a new festivity: vow renewals.

Why vow renewals? Well, it seems Oktoberfest started out in 1810 in Munich as a wedding celebration, when Bavaria's Crown Prince Ludwig married Therese of Saxon-Hildburghausen. The celebration lasted five days (imagine that wedding bill!), and they had so much fun they repeated the celebration the next year, and the next, and, well, you know the rest of the story. Now we all celebrate Oktoberfest.

For the celebration in Tempe, couples are invited to register for a chance to renew their vows on Saturday, Oct. 4, at 5 p.m. in the Oktoberfest Polka garden at Tempe Beach Park. (Tempe has a Beach Park? Yeah, that surprises me too.)

To be part of the vow renewal, couples have to register at ArizonaWeddings.com by Monday, September 22, 2008. Thirty-six couples will be chosen to win food and drink at the festival, plus gifts and a entry into a drawing for a special prize. You have to a legally-married couple in order to participate, as well as be a resident of Arizona. When you go to the website to register, you'll find the Oktoberfest banner at the bottom right of the page. Click it and go to info on how to register.

But, even if you don't plan to renew your vows, you still might want to check out the Oktoberfest festivities. Tempe Beach Park at Tempe Town Lake is located at 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway near downtown Tempe and near Arizona state University.

Win a Car, a Cruise, or a Bunch of Other Stuff

2008-09-03T15:36:00.000-07:00

Okay, all you "win a vacation" aficionados, I've got a real gem for you this time!

Here is a sweepstakes which has a car as the First Prize and a cruise (4 in all) as the Second Prize!

How Do I Enter to Win These Fabulous Prizes?:

You can go to the following websites and enter online (You are allowed to enter one time per day):

http://www.bhg.com/win

http://www.lhj.com/win

www.parents.com/win

www.fitnessmagazine.com/win

www.more.com/win

www.betterrecipes.com/win

www.hearthealthyonline.com/win

www.countryhome.com/win

www.remodelingcenter.com/win

www.kitchenbathideas.com/win

How Long Do I Have to Enter?:

This fabulous sweepstakes begins on August. 15, 2008 and ends on February 15, 2009 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

Who Can Enter:

This sweepstakes is open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States (including District of Columbia) who are at least twenty one (21) years old at the time of entry. Yes, that means you Alaska and Hawaii! Many sweepstakes are only open to the "lower 48," but not this one!

What Can I Win?:

First Prize:

Car or cash equivalent of $25,000. Winner must be a licensed driver and will be required to provide proof of insurance at time of delivery.

Second Prize:

Four (4) second prizes of a cruise for the winner and one (1) guest to the Caribbean valued at $12,500, or $12,500 cash. If you choose the cruise you will be awarded: roundtrip, coach-class air transportation for two (2) to Miami, FL (port of departure); seven (7) days and six (6) nights accommodations aboard a Cruise ship; and $7,700 spending money that can be used toward taxes. Your travel companion must be 18 years of age or older, unless he or she is the child of the winner.

Other Prizes Include:

25 shopping sprees or cash equivalent of $1,000
500 BP gas cards valued at $50
150 Cooking.com gift certificates valued at $50
300 Tastebook.com gift certificates valued at $29.95
2,250 Coverleaf Digital Magazine gift certificates valued at $25
710 Decorating Inspiration memberships valued at $14.85

These are the same people who put on the $50,000 Dream Vacation sweepstakes a few months back, but there are tons more prizes. And, what's better than a new car or cruise to the Caribbean? One you don't have to pay for! So, go and enter.

One-Tank Trip from Cleveland, Ohio

2008-08-29T14:13:00.000-07:00

Okay, all you folks from Cleveland looking for a little one-tank trip this Labor Day weekend (or, any weekend for that matter).

Here are a few choice places you could go that won't cost you much in gas, and that will be fun for you and your family:

Toledo

Yes, Toledo. It's only a couple hours away by car, and has some fun things to do, like:

Toledo Lake Erie and Western Railway Museum

Like trains? Then you have to stop at the Toledo Lake Erie and Western Railway Museum to take a ride on the historic Bluebird passenger train. This train takes passengers on a 90-minute journey through the scenic Northwest Ohio countryside, passing the Maumee River and historic buildings. Ticket prices are $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, and $6.50 for children 3-12.

SS Willis Boyer Museum Ship

From trains to ships. The SS Willis Boyer is a restored Great Lakes ore freighter which has been turned into a museum, docked in downtown Toledo. Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, and $4 for children under 16.

Maumee Bay State Park

A little camping, a little fishing, a little hiking. Then top it all off with a little golf or a swim in Lake Erie. While the camp sites and cabins are probably all taken this Labor Day weekend, there looks to be many availabilities in September.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Another one-tank trip from Cleveland to consider is to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where you'll find:

Pittsburgh Family District

If you have kids you'll want to check out the Pittsburgh Family District, which is a collection of kid-friendly activities all within one neighborhood. Your kids will love the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh; the National Aviary, which is the premier bird park in the U.S.; the Carnegie Science Center (check out the Miniature Railroad & Village and the USS Requin submarine); and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History.

Kayak Pittsburgh

Want to try your hand at kayaking? Then head on over to Kayak Pittsburgh Downtown (nearest PNC Park) and Kayak Pittsburgh North (North Park Boathouse along North Park Lake) to rent a flat-water kayak for fun on the water. There's no better way to see Pittsburgh than from a kayak.

Mt. Washington

Well, actually, there might be a better way to see Pittsburgh. From atop the beautiful 367-foot-high Mt. Washington! A great way to climb Mt. Washington is to take one of the funiculars to the top; the Mon Incline and the Duquesne Incline. Once there grab a bite and a fabulous view of Pittsburgh at one of Mt. Washington's many restaurants.

Detroit, Michigan

Huron-Clinton Metroparks

A collection of 13 different parks covering almost 24,000 acres, located along the Huron and Clinton rivers. If you're looking for something outdoorsy to do, you can find it at one of these 13 parks. You can explore many different hiking and biking trails, golf courses, camping, canoeing, etc. Oh, and nature and activity centers with activities going on all year long. If you are longing for some winter activities, you'll be pleased to know that 10 of the 13 Metroparks offer cross country ski trails, with 5 of those renting ski equipment.

Henry Ford Estate - Dearborn, MI

Okay, not technically Detroit, but close enough; just 8 1/2 miles away. Here you'll find the Henry Ford Estate, with an amazing mansion built in 1914. But, there's not only the mansion, there are sculpted gardens and riverwalks, all available to visitors. If you only want to tour the grounds it's just $2. Otherwise, the regular house tour (including grounds) is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, and $6 for children 5-12. Children under 4 get in free.

BugFest Sponsored by Terminix - Raleigh, NC

2008-08-21T11:55:00.000-07:00

Saturday, September 20, 2008
9AM - 9PM
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Raleigh, North Carolina

Okay, you gotta love a festival devoted to bugs sponsored by a company that kills bugs. But, here you go, BugFest, billed as "the nation's largest single-day bug event," held at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in downtown Raleigh.

This event is perfect for a weekend getaway for families with kids, or anyone who enjoyed watching people eat bugs on "Fear Factor." Personally, I never like watching people eat bugs, especially when they're still moving around.

But, if you want the experience of eating bugs, you can taste some dishes featuring bugs as a major ingredient at Cafe' Insecta. Their 2007 offerings included such dishes as:

Buggy Bean Dip with Crackers
Hoppin’ Hunan Stir-fry Grasshoppers over Rice
Mealworms Marinara
Hush Grubbies
Critter Fritters
Waxworm and Watercress Salad

But, that's not all, for dessert, you could choose from:

Wormy Watermelon & Mint
Bug Bite Cookies
Ants in Amber

Hmmm, hmmm, hmmm. Wonder what's on the menu for 2008?

Of course, food's not the only highlight of BugFest 2008. There will displays, exhibits and presentations all geared towards arthropods (bugs). Their website, bugfest.org, didn't have a schedule for 2008, but did give 2007 exhibits and presentations to give you an idea of what to expect this year.

2007 Presentations and Exhibits included:

Cooking with Bugs
Alberti Flea Circus
The Bug Doc: Veterinary Medicine for Arthropods
Creeping Crawlies: Centipedes and Millipedes
Pine Stakes Thoroughbred Termite Races
Tarantulas and Other Spiders

If it was me, I'd definitely check out the Termite Races; so I hope their included this year.

Win a Trip to the Pepsi Smash Concert in New York

2008-08-13T11:24:00.000-07:00

You have until August 28, 2008 to enter this sweepstakes for a getaway to New York to attend the 2008 Pepsi Smash Concert on October 4, 2008. If selected you will receive:

>> Two (2) round-trip coach class airfares to New York City from the closest major airport

>> Two (2) nights hotel lodging (double occupancy)

>> Two (2) tickets to the Pepsi Smash Concert

Approximate Retail Value of this trip is between $1,000 to $2,500. (If the winner lives within 75 miles of New Ork City, then you'll receive ground transportation.)

Who can enter:

Those 21 years or older as of Monday, June 16, 2008, anad who are legal residents of the United States (excluding Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and other commonwealths, territories, and possessions).

How to enter and win:

The rules state you go to www.bet.com/Contests, but if you go there you will get an error page. The correct page is Enter to win

Sweepstakes is limited to one entry per person.

African Photo Safari Tips

2008-07-24T15:21:00.000-07:00

Considering an African photo safari? Here are some things you may wish to consider:

1. When choosing a camera safari travel package, make sure you book at least a 10-day trip so that you can really experience all that Africa has to offer for your camera.

2. Try for a package that includes some of these great spots: The Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Amboseli National Park, Arusha, Lake Nakuru, Thompson’s Falls, The Rift Valley, Mt. Kenya, Samburu, and Tsavo National Park.

3. Definitely you'll want to go to Lake Nakuru, located in Central Kenya, 140km north-west of Nairobi. The special treat here are the numbers of pink Flamingos you'll see - perhaps in the thousands, walking along the shore. And, these are not the plastic kind. They're real. And, they fly. And when they all take flight at once it's a photo that's definitely worth the cost of the trip. You'll also be treated to white rhinos and the Makalia waterfall.

4. Ngorongoro Crater is another must-see. Located at the eastern edge of the Serengeti in northern Tanzania, it's home to thousands of wildebeests, lions, zebras, elephants, rhinos, and Thompson’s gazelles.

5. Try for a package that includes a night at the Treetops Hotel, overlooking a waterhole and salt lick (not for you, for the animals!) in the Aberdare National Park in Kenya.

The Treetops Hotel is literally built on treetops and offers excellent viewing of the animals that come to the waterhole. In addition to its open balconies, they also have an underground passage where you can look up at the waterhole. If you like, they give you a buzz during the middle of the night when the animals can be seen. Who knows, you may get a great photo of a rhino, elephant, buffalo, lion,or waterbuck.

The original Treetops Hotel was built in 1932, burnt down in 1954, and rebuilt in 1957. A visitor there not only gets great photo opportunities, but also gets a chance to stay in a hotel which played a great role in British history: in February 1952, while staying at the Treetops Hotel, Princess Elizabeth became Queen upon learning of the death of her father, King George VI.

Thinking of a Beach Getaway? Think Aruba

2008-07-03T14:35:00.000-07:00

It's summer. Must be time for a trip to paradise. Well, of course I'm talking about Aruba, where you can find one of the best beaches in the world (according to Travel + Leisure), casino action, and great food.

Approximately four and a half hours from New York, you can wing your way to a tropical paradise and hit the beach upon arrival. The Americana Aruba Beach Resort and Casino is only three miles from Oranjestad airport. The hotel is nestled further inland than most hotels, which decreases the amount of wind that is associated with Palm Beach.

The rooms are wonderful and the hotel has such amenities as a pool, Jacuzzi, and open air dining with entertainment. You can settle in and never stray far from your hotel while still enjoying the benefits it has to offer.

But, if you want to explore...

There are fabulous beaches, as well as great spots for scuba diving, and some awesome places to explore nature, like Arikok National Park, or perhaps take a tour on horseback.

I just added a page on Aruba on my destinations website, so if you want to find out more about what Aruba offers, and why it should be added to your list of "must see" destinations, go to things to do in Aruba.

Best Places for Beginning Surfers in U.S.

2008-06-30T12:42:00.000-07:00

For those of you just learning to surf, here are a few surfing spots you might want to consider:

Cowell's Beach, Santa Cruz, California
Some say Cowell's Beach in Santa Cruz is one of the best places in the world to learn how to surf, with long, gentle, easy waves.

Corolla Beach, Corolla, North Carolina
Located on the northern end of the Outer Banks. Nice, warm water; gentle surf during the summer.

Folly Beach—South Carolina
Located twelve miles south of Charleston, Folly Beach's surf is perfect for beginner's learning to surf.

Sebastian Inlet, Florida
The Sebastian Inlet in Florida has a beautiful beach known for its small to medium sized waves, which range from 4 feet all the way up to 10 feet. The beach is great and the waters can be rather warm, the average temperature remains around the 80s F. Great place for beginners and intermediate surfers.

Malibu Beach, Malibu, California
Malibu is definitely a prime surfing location, with almost-perfect conditions for beginners to learn how to surf. The waves are not extremely high and in most places vary between 4 feet and 6 feet. The conditions may vary according to the weather of course.

San Onofre State Beach, California
Some call San Onofre State Beach the "Waikiki of the California Coastline," offering the beginner gentle breaking waves and long sandy beaches.

Cocoa Beach, Florida
The average temperature at Cocoa Beach varies from the mid 70s all the way up to the high 80s so the weather in this area can be classified as subtropical which is a great surfing combination.

A Few Things to Consider for Beginning Surfers:

1. Try renting your board at first. At the surf shop ask for a foam longboard to start out on. These are sometimes called foamies or softboards and are far safer and easier to start out on than a short fiberglass board. The foam boards are wider and longer and therefore more stable. This makes them easier for a beginner to be able to get up on and stay up on.

2. Wearing a leash which ties you to your board is important because it keeps it from becoming a hazard to other surfers.

3. Avoid surfing in crowded areas if you are a beginner, this will keep others away from your board if you lose control.

4. Never try to ride a wave which is beyond your abilities. If you feel uncomfortable try to stay away until you gain more experience. This will help you avoid injuring yourself or someone else.

5. If you are paddling out you need to know that a surfer who is actively riding a wave has the right of way. Try to avoid crossing his path for your safety and his. Incidentally, do not try to position yourself in front of a surfer who has the right of way (sneaking).

6. Always pay attention to weather conditions. If you constantly visit your local beach you know how fast the weather can change. This is highly relevant in places with huge waves such as Hawaii.

7. All surfers should know CPR.

Fun Stuff to do in San Francisco

2008-06-13T15:47:00.000-07:00

Looking for some fun stuff to do this summer, and a fun place to do it in?

Go to San Francisco.

The real appeal of San Francisco as a vacation destination is that it has a little something to offer everyone. From families with small children, families with teens, young couples, older couples, gay couples, gay singles, girlfriends on a getaway, etc., etc., etc.

What's happening during the months of June, July and August in San Francisco?

Stern Grove Festival
Sundays, 2:00 p.m.
June 15 – August 17, 2008

For over 70 years now San Franciscans and visitors alike have been treated to free concerts in Stern Grove, located at 19th Avenue and Sloat Boulevard. This year's concerts include the San Francisco Symphony on June 29, Allen Toussaint on July 6 and Voices of Latin Rock on July 27.

Dolores Park Movie Night 2008
Once a month during the summer

Enjoy free movies in Dolores Park, located in the Mission District at Dolores and 20th St. Future dates are July 10, August 14, September 11, and October 9. As of this writing the future movie titles have not been released, but you can check doloresparkmovie.org later and see if they're up there.

Yerba Buena Gardens Festival
From May to October

The Yerba Buena Gardens is a two-block complex bordered by Mission, Folsom, 3rd and 4th Streets, and is a great place to enjoy some free entertainment all summer long, including music, theater, dance, and children’s programs. Parents with children under 10 will enjoy the Children's Garden Series on Fridays and Saturdays in the Children's Garden, Howard and Fourth Streets, near the Zeum Carousel. Programs are approximately 30 minutes, two performances each day. Adults will enjoy the Latin Jazz Series which take place throughout the summer, including Homenagem Brasileira on Thursday, August 7. You can find a more complete schedule at ybgf.org.

San Francisco Pride 2008
June 28 and 29, 2008

This 2-day event is one of the largest lesbian and gay pride celebration in the world, with a festival as well as a parade, which takes place along Market Street on June 24, 2008. The festival takes place in the Civic Center area of San Francisco, starting each day at noontime. The parade begins at 10:30AM. You can get more information at sfpride.org.

4th Annual Pinot Days Grand Festival
June 29, 2008 - 1p to 5p

Do you love pinot noir? If you do (and if you don't, why not?) then you'll have to head on over to Fort Mason in San Francisco to taste some really fabulous pinots. The cost is $65, and you'll be able to sample up to 400 pinots from California and Oregon.

For more great things to do in San Francisco all year long, do check out our website for
things to do in San Francisco.

Dog Days of Summer at Laguna Beach

2008-06-10T14:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, it's really too early for the "dog days of Summer," but you'd never know it looking at these three relaxing on a recent summer day at Laguna Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Win a Golf Getaway Vacation to Orlando, Florida

2008-06-05T13:11:00.000-07:00

Love golf? Need a getaway? Don't want to pay for it? Then enter to win a 3-night, 4-day getaway to the 2008 Golf World Invitational on November 13-16, 2008. Included in this prize are 2 round-trip air tickets to Orlando, Florida, 3 nights at the Ginn Reunion Resort, and participation in the 2008 golf World Invitational you and your guest.

How do you enter?

By going to www.golfworldreaderschoice.com and following the entry instructions.

Who can enter?

Legal residents of the 50 United States and Distric of Columbia who are at least 18 years of age at the time of entry.

When does the sweepstakes end?

September 1, 2008 at 11:59 PM ET (yeah, they're that precise!)

Golfing in Florida is always a treat, but even better when you don't have to pay for it, right? So, go now and enter. Who knows, you just might win!

Fast Flying Fish Video - See it Here!

2008-05-24T10:15:00.000-07:00

Okay, now, isn't fishing supposed to be somewhat relaxing? You know, just like the beginning of Andy Griffith, where he and Opie have their fishing rods, walking along a country path to the local creek (crick as some people say?)

Imagine many people's surprise when they saw that now famous video of the "fast flying fish" on their local news. The video was taken in Southern Japan, and recorded a flying fish sailing by a ferry, airborne for 45 seconds. They say that's the longest recorded flight of a flying fish. Amazing. To be honest, however, if I saw one of those flying fish zipping by my canoe I think my moment of "fishing zen" would be broken.

But, yes, it was interesting to watch. And, in case you haven't seen it, here it is - the infamous "fast flying fish" of Japan:

Hey, I Apologize About the Beaches Lists

2008-05-17T09:14:00.000-07:00

Recently I posted a few top beaches lists. One of those lists included beaches where one was free not to wear anything. (meaning top (plus the word) less).

Well, guess what? The very next day my blog traffic fell by over half!!! And it's still low, a couple weeks later! Sure, there were some people who came looking for those types of beaches. But the other people stopped coming by! Some search engines stopped sending me people! So, I can only conclude that somehow that post was the culprit.

Anyway, I WANT MY VISITORS BACK! So, yes, I've dropped that list in my beaches list. Not that wanting an all-over tan is wrong! So, if you came looking for that particular list, I do apologize that it's no longer on this site.

Yeah, I know what you're thinking: what a weenie. (Uh, oh, weenie, will that lose me people too?)

Win a Trip to Chicago!

2008-05-17T09:11:00.000-07:00

I came across this vacation sweepstakes and was totally "jazzed."

Enter to Win:

Enter to win a trip for two to the Chicago Jazz Festival (August 28-31, 2008), including round-trip airfare, four nights lodging, tickets for two to all evening performances in Millennium Park and Grant Park, two Chicago Jazz Festival t-shirts, and, as the rules state "other surprises." (No, I don't think they're going to let you play at the Festival).

Who Can Enter:

The "usual suspects," legal U.S. residents, 18 years or older.

How to Enter:

You can enter to win this great getaway prize by clicking on the "Sweepstakes" link www.jazztimes.com. Just follow the on-line instructions.

How Many Times Can I Enter:

Just once.

When Does the Sweepstakes End:

You have until 11:59 a.m. Eastern Time on 6/27/2008.

Hey, and while you're at the website, enter to win a saxophone. Two, actually.

My Savannah, GA Vacation

2008-05-12T12:41:00.000-07:00

Just got back from a week in Savannah, Georgia and thought I'd share a few photos.

First, we stayed on Tybee Island, just about 20 minutes from Savannah. Coming from the West Coast, it was a little shocking how warm it was at the beach. In California you go to the beach to cool off. No cool ocean breeze there! But, the water was gentle and warm, and the view was gorgeous!

When in Savannah you gawk! There are historic buildings everywhere, all surrounding lovely city squares. And, no picture represents Savannah more than this fountain in Forsyth Park, which is a copy of one in Paris.

Another thing you do while in Savannah is take a tour. There are tours everywhere in the historic area, whether they be walking tours, bus tours, trolly tours or carriage tours. You can't look anywhere in Savannah without seeing some sort of tour. That's good news for people who like tours. Bad news if you're taking your own walking tour of the city and constantly being bombarded by competing tours.

Two of the most popular types of tours are the foody tours and ghost tours. One tour takes you to some of Paula Deen's favorite places (yep, that's Paula Deen from Food Network fame), with a stop at her brother's restaurant Uncle Bubba's Oyster House on the road from Savannah to Tybee Island. Another takes you to different food destinations, including Paula Deen's restaurant, Lady & Sons.

There seem to be more ghost tours in Savannah than there are ghosts. I think they're all pretty much the same, although some are walking tours and some are by trolly. We took a walking ghost tour and bumped into several other walking ghost tours. You're supposed to take your camera and hope you catch an orb in the photo. Orbs are supposedly the energy of a ghost which can show up as a spot of white light, or other colors. They say Savannah's the most haunted city in America, so it follows that orbs should show up everywhere. Some people in our group reported several orbs in their photos. No such luck in my photos. But, it was fun snapping pictures and learning about Savannah history.

What restaurants would I recommend you go to? Definitely check out The New South Cafe, 2601 Skidaway Road. The food there was outstanding and the service was incredibly friendly. If you're a meat eater, try the coffee crusted tenderloin of beef. Truly outstanding.

Woman's Day Boston Getaway Sweepstakes

2008-05-01T08:41:00.000-07:00

Here's one more Women's Day vacation sweepstakes to tell you about (those people love sweepstakes!)

This one is a quick getaway to Boston, with the winner receiving two nights at Boston's historic Park Plaza Hotel & Towers, including a complimentary meal at celebrity chef Todd English's Bonfire Steakhouse. It doesn't look like airfare is included, so getting there is on you.

How to Enter:

You can enter by going to WomansDay.com/giveaways.

Who can Enter:

Legal residents of the 50 United States and Washington D.C., 18 years of age and older, except the employees of the sponsors and their immediate family members.

When Does Sweepstakes End?

You must enter by noon ET on May 30, 2008. You can enter once per day.

Remember, you will have to pay taxes on the amount of the prize, which is between $800 and $900.

Poppy Reserve - Antelope Valley, California

2008-05-01T08:23:00.000-07:00

A Couple days ago I found out another reason why California is called "the Golden state." It's the poppies! Thousands of them. Millions of them! Okay, I have no idea how many poppies there are, but if you want to see the golden side of California, now's a great time of year to go to the Poppy Reserve in the Antelope Valley in Southern California (Los Angeles area).

There are many miles of trails to walk to view the fields of poppies, ranging from mild to moderate. Do bring sunscreen and definitely bring a camera.

That last picture shows three monks in orange robes walking the trails. The Reserve is located at 43779 15th St. West, Lancaster, CA. You can get more info at californiapoppies.com

Top 10 Beaches Lists

2008-04-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

Hello, all! Just a quick note about TripAdvisor's newest Top 10 Spring Beach Destinations list. They are:

1. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

2. Maui, Hawaii

3. Outer Banks, N.C.

4. Bahamas

5. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

6. Key West, Fla.

7. Bermuda

8. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

9. Santa Monica, Calif.

10. Turks and Caicos

Other "Best Beaches" lists of note include:

Yahoo Travel's Best Beaches list:

1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
2. Miami, Florida
3. Cancun, Mexico
4. Kaanapali, Hawaii
5. Honolulu, Hawaii
6. San Diego, California
7. Boracay Island, Philippines
8. Key West, Florida
9. Sydney, Australia
10. Santa Barbara, California

New York City Bus Tour Savings

2008-04-30T11:12:00.000-07:00

If you plan on going to New York anytime soon, you'll want to save some money on a combo New York Pass and double-decker bus tour. If you're not familiar with the New York Pass, it's a pass you buy which lets you into the most popular New York City attractions, such as:

• Empire State Building
• Statue of Liberty
• Madame Tussaud’s
• New York Skyride
• Circle Line River Cruise
• Guggenheim Museum
• Natural History Museum
• Museum of Modern Art
• Rockefeller Center Tour
• New York Aquarium

What's great is that you can buy the pass to cover many different days, such as a 1-day pass or a 3-day pass or 7-day pass, which means you can tailor it to your own New York City Getaway. And, at some of these attractions, you can even skip the wait in line!

Well, now, New York Pass has teamed with some of the New York City tour bus companies to bring you a combo tour! You can choose from a 2-Day Grayline Double-Decker Hop-on Hop-off combo tour with 2-days of unlimited hop-on, hop-off bus service, or a 3 Day CitySights NY tour, which gives you a downtown tour, Harlem tour, Brooklyn tour and a night tour. And, remember, you still have the New York Pass which lets you in on all the attractions as well.

To get a special combo price, just click the following link:

Save big on our New York Pass and Double-Decker Bus Tour combo!

Shopped for Mother's Day Yet?

2008-04-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is just around the corner. If you haven't bought your gift yet you might consider giving her the gift of a getaway. Get her a hotel gift card from Travelocity that she can use wherever she pleases. Here's the link for you:

Get Mom a Gift She'll Love for Mother's Day with Travelocity's Hotel Gift Cards!

Whether you get her a hotel gift card, jewelry or whatever, just put a little thought into it. You know those people who stand on the street corners on holidays selling those cellophane-wrapped baskets with a cheap stuffed animal and who-knows what else? Don't be one of those last-minute people and get your mother one of those! Really. She gave birth to you. Give her something better than a cellophane-wrapped afterthought. Just my little commentary. Carry on!

TravelSmith Vacation Sweepstakes

2008-04-18T12:54:00.000-07:00

Another fabulous vacation sweepstakes for you to enter, this one called "TravelSmith Outfitters $20,000 Custom Trip of a Lifetime Sweepstakes"

What do you win?

There will be one grand prize winner, who will win his or her choice of:

a) a $20,000 dream vacation package, which consists of $20,000 in travel services from R. Crusoe & Son travel and $2,000 gift coupon worth of TravelSmith products, or

b) a $17,000 dream vacation package, which consists of $17,000 in travel services from R. Crusoe & Son travel, $3,000 spending cash, and $2,000 gift coupon worth of TravelSmith products.

The Winner will work with R. Crusoe & Son to design and book his or her dream vacation to any destination in the world. The value of this trip will not exceed $20,000.

Just in case you were wondering: If you (you hope you're the winner, right?) selects a trip which costs less than $20,000 or $17,000 depending on the prize option you select, you will not receive the difference between the actual cost of the trip or $20,000 or $17,000. Meaning, you can't book a trip to Boise for $1,000 and pocket the rest.

Now, if it was me, I'd choose option B, the $17,000 vacation. With that option you get $3,000 cash. Whenever cash is offered, take it. Remember, you have to pay taxes on the total amount of your winnings, which in both cases total $22,000.

Who can enter?

Legal residents of the 50 United States (including District of Columbia) who are at least 18 at the time of entry. So, you people from Alaska and Hawaii, this one's for you, too. Employees of the sponsors are ineligible.

When does the sweepstakes end?

You have to get your entry in by May 31, 2008 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

How do you enter to win?

You can enter to win this fabulous prize by going to www.travelsmith.com/greatescape or travelsmith.eprize.net/dreamtrip

Good luck!

Win a Vacation to St. Lucia

2008-04-17T10:20:00.000-07:00

Who wants to enter to win a trip to St. Lucia? That makes two of us.

Luckily, I happen to have come across a vacation sweepstakes with the fabulous grand prize of:

5 days, 4 nights for two at The Landings St. Lucia, including air transportation on American Airlines, a 50-minute massage, and breakfast for two at the Beachfront Club Lounge.

You will love The Landings St. Lucia. A new resort (opened in December 2007), The Landings is located on the absolutely gorgeous beachfront property of Rodney Bay in St. Lucia. The Landings offers 62 one-, two- and three-bedroom suites with kitchens and water views.

Do bring a good book to read while you're lounging around the pool, although you may not finish it because you'll be too busy with all the other activities St. Lucia offers: hiking, diving, snorkeling, sailing, getting spa treatments, etc.

So, how do I enter this fabulous sweepstakes?

Go to www.shape.com/bikinibodycountdown. Once there, go to the very bottom of the page and you'll see a notice about the sweepstakes on your right. Click on the link and you'll have to fill out a short survey, then enter. That's it. Remember, you don't have to buy anything or agree to receive their mailings to win. So, if you don't want to be bombarded by their emails, just click that you don't want any further info.

Who can enter?

Legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia, 21 years or older. Certain employees of certain companies can't enter (but, you'll read that when you enter).

When does the sweepstakes end?

You have to enter by 11:59 p.m. (EST) on June 8, 2008.

10 Best Places to Visit in the USA

2008-04-14T13:10:00.000-07:00

Let's be frank. With the dollar as weak as it is, a European vacation this year may not be in the cards for many people. What to do? Well, visit one of the many wonderful places in the U.S.!

Here is my list of "10 Best Places to Visit in the USA"

Savannah, GA

History, mystery and food. The city made famous with the book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" is a top destination for those into great architecture, good food and interesting walking tours. Be sure to take in one of the many ghost tours. Top off your visit with a day on Tybee Island.

Sedona, AZ

Sedona is one of my all-time favorite places, not so much for the "New Age" vibe (I do believe that's a bit overdone), but for the red rock and Oak Creek Canyon. You can just bring a chair and a book and sit by Oak Creek all day, or take a creek-side hike. It's just a couple hours to the Grand Canyon, which makes a wonderful day trip. Be sure to explore nearby Flagstaff while you're there.

San Francisco, CA

San Francisco really suits all budgets. If you're flush stay in Campton Place or Grand Hyatt on Union Square. If your budget's tight, pick a hotel or motel on Lombard Street going towards the Golden Gate Bridge. There are many moderately-priced hotels and restaurants which give good value for your money. Great shopping on Union Street and Chestnut Streets. Many walking tours in this great city. While you're there, take a ferry to Angel Island for wonderful walking and views of San Francisco.

San Juan Islands

Never been to the San Juan Islands? Then go! When you do you'll be visiting a destination which is consistently ranked high by Conde' Nast Traveler and Travel and Leisure. The islands are part of the San Juan Archipelago, which is split into two groups, the San Juan Islands, which are part of the state of Washington, and the Gulf Islands, which are part of British Columbia. While there are a number of named islands, the most popular are Lopez, Orcas, Shaw and San Juan Island. If you're into whale watching, the best time and place to spot Orcas is May through September at Lime Kiln Point State Park on the west side of San Juan Island.

Mount Desert Island, ME

Why is Mount Desert Island so special? Among other things, Mount Desert Island has consistently been voted one of the top islands in North America by Travel and Leisure and Conde' Nast Traveler magazine. There you'll find Acadia National Park and the town of Bar Harbor. There are many different types of accomodations on the Island, from the expensive and ritzy to camping spots with million-dollar views.

Santa Fe, NM

There are many reasons to go to Santa Fe, New Mexico. I go for the food. But, you might also enjoy the many galleries and the Native American jewelry you'll find. There's also a great deal of history in Santa Fe, as well as ancient ruins nearby. Take a side trip to Bandelier National Monument, 48 miles miles north of Santa Fe, where you can view Anasazi cliff dwellings. There are 70 miles of trails, so bring your hiking shoes.

San Diego, CA

A visit to San Diego provides something for everyone. Families with small children have LEGOLAND close by, and people of all ages will enjoy SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, Old Town and, of course, the beaches. Take a side trip to Coronado Island and visit the Hotel del Coronado, a historic resort which has hosted numerous presidents. If you're in the mood to propose to your sweetheart, do it on a gondola in Coronado Bay at sunset.

Asheville, NC

Asheville, North Carolina is beginning to make it on many a travel-lover's radar. In fact, the Asheville area has been named a must-see destination by Frommer's in 2007. Attractions include the Biltmore Estate, which is not only America's largest home, but has also just been named one of the top 10 architectural wonders by the American Institute of Architects. Outside Magazine has also ranked Asheville as “Best Southern Town” in August, 2007. What makes Asheville a great destination includes its location near the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountain National Park, where you can hike, explore waterfalls, bike, fish, and just take in the beauty of the mountains. Asheville has also become quite the artists' community, with numerous art galleries and art events.

Chicago, IL

I never had a desire to visit Chicago until I did some research and found out all the many different things there are to do there. Stay within the Magnificent Mile in downtown Chicago. Here along North Michigan Avenue (and the streets that intersect) you have a mecca of shopping, dining and cultural experiences, with theaters, museums and galleries. When the weather's right, go relax and get some sun at one of Chicago's many beaches. One of the more popular beaches is Oak Street Beach at 1001 N. Lake Shore Dr. You'll find a wide, sandy beach for sunning, and a lakeside path for biking and running. Just north of Chicago is Illinois Beach State Park which you'll definitely want to visit. The beach features 6 1/2 miles of sandy shore along Lake Michigan.

Boston, MA

Don't just take it from me; Boston is one of the most popular cities in America to visit, receiving over 16 million visitors a year. Most tourists visit Boston between May and September, with the best weather in early to mid summer. What's the best way to see Boston? Start with one of the many different tours available, from walking tours to trolley tours to boat tours. My favorites include the Old Town Trolley Chocolate Tour and walking the Freedom Trail. The Freedom Trail is a 2.5 mile red-brick walking trail which takes you to 16 historic sites, including the Paul Revere House. The Chocolate Tour? That's pretty self-explanatory. But, you can get more info at trolleytours.com. Sorry to say, but the chocolate tours are only available from January through April.

I'm sure I missed some favorites on my "10 Best Places to Visit in the USA" list. If I missed yours, drop me a comment and let me know some of your favorites.

Hurry and Enter to Win a Vacation

2008-04-11T10:48:00.001-07:00

Time's running out to enter the $50,000 vacation to Florida sweepstakes put on by Family Circle and several other magazines. You have until April 15, 2008, which is also tax day. So, if you have to choose to do your taxes or enter this sweepstakes, what will you do:) Okay, okay, you'll do your taxes. The sweepstakes doesn't take that long to enter, so you can do that too.

Anyway, if you win you and three guests will have use of a 9,000 sq. foot home in southerm Florida. Of course that comes with a private chef and housekeeper. Oh, and you'll get $20,000 to spend (which you'll have to claim on your taxes, don't you hate it?) So go and enter now before the deadline. Here are the links:

www.familycircle.com/win

www.bhg.com/win

www.traditionalhome.com/win

www.countryhome.com/win

www.kitchenbathideas.com/win

La Jolla California Getaway

2008-04-11T10:32:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again. Time for a beach getaway! And, what beach getaway is one of my favorites?

La Jolla, California.

La Jolla is an upscale beach community located 12 miles north of downtown San Diego. Yes, it's often referred to as the "Beverly Hills" of San Diego, but don't let that turn you off. (Oh, it didn't? Sorry, just not that fond of Beverly Hills).

La Jolla is more than just an upscale resort area to shop and eat. You can do those things, but you can do a whole lot more. My favorite: Relaxing and playing on the spectacular sandy beaches, like Windansea Beach, La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Beach, and La Jolla Shores.

If you're into exploring, you'll want to take one of the tours offered by Hike Bike Kayak of San Diego. One of their more popular tours is the kayak tour of the well known La Jolla Sea Caves. Or, you can experience La Jolla from the air. The Torrey Pines Gliderport offers instruction on hang gliding, pargliding and sailplane flying. If you want just a taste of it, you can also sign up for one of their tandem flights with an instructor.

As you might expect, you can find some pretty pricey hotels. But, you'd also be surprised at some of the more modest offerings in La Jolla, such as the La Jolla Village Lodge and the Travelodge La Jolla. FYI, the La Jolla Village Lodge is ranked higher in user surveys on TripAdvisor than Travelodge La Jolla. Don't know if that means anything to you or not. You'll find more hotels in our post on La Jolla lodging at

http://vacation-getaway.blogspot.com/2007/07/best-hotels-in-la-jolla-california.html .

We also have more information on La Jolla and the entire San Diego area on our website. Check out our pages on:

San Diego Attractions

San Diego Beach Vacations

You really will find a great amount of things to do in La Jolla and nearby San Diego. But, at the end of the day, it's the sunsets you'll remember the most. I'm including this YouTube video on La Jolla sunsets just to give you a taste of what to expect. If the music's a bit much, you can just turn it down.

Magnificent Mile in Chicago

2008-04-07T15:21:00.000-07:00

Searching for a great place for a girlfriend's getaway? A spring vacation? A place to just shop till you drop? A place to go yachting in the morning and take in a great play at night? Then you must make it to Chicago's famed "Magnificent Mile." Magnificent Mile is the term used for a mile of North Michigan Avenue (and the streets that intersect) north of the Chicago River in downtown Chicago, with over 460 exclusive stores, 200 restaurants and a host of other cultural and recreational activities.

What will you find along the Magnificent Mile? Well, besides the usual upscale suspects (Bloomindales, Saks, Nordstrom's, Cartier, Burberry, Armani and Nieman Marcus) you'll find such specialty clothing stores as Ermenegildo Zegna, Fogal of Switzerland, Luca Luca and Anne Fontaine. Not to mention something for the chocolate addicts: Lindt Chocolates and Vosges Haut Chocolat.

You'll also find something for the pet you left back home at "Tails in The City," a pet boutique. You'll find everything from dog sweaters to gourmet dog treats. Surely Max (one of the most popular dog names, by the way) would love a carob peanut butter pie made just for him. Or maybe Fluffy would like little treats shaped like martini glasses. That way you two can toast your return.

Magnificent Mile in Chicago also offers an antique store, 6 art galleries and too many museums to mention (and you'll get bored reading them and click out of my site, and I don't want that, right?) Okay, I'll list some of them: The Field Museum, John G. Shedd Aquarium, Museum of Contemporary Art and the International Museum of Surgical Science (seriously, you should check out their gift shop where you'll find "giant microbe plush toys" and the "Mr. Thrifty Skull with 8-Part Brain" model).

If you're in the mood for a show, there are also numerous theaters to choose from. Now playing at the Drury Lane Water Tower is "Shout - the Mod Musical," which is a musical celebration of the 60s. "The Ballad of Emmett Till" is playing at the
Goodman Theatre from April 26 - June 1. If you're into comedy there's also The Second City.

The Magnificent Mile is also full of tour companies if you want sightseeing tours of Chicago, as well as boat charters for tours of Lake Michigan.

Where to Stay Near Magnificent Mile

Take your pick. You have choices within the Magnificent Mile area for all budgets, from the Holiday Inn to The Four Seasons to the Omni. We took a look at Frommers.com and found they gave 3 stars (the most they give) to several hotels in the Magnificent Mile: the Park Hyatt Chicago, Ritz-Carlton Chicago, and Four Seasons Hotel.

For all you into quality and lower prices, they also gave 2 stars to a couple more moderately-priced hotels: The Tremont Hotel in Chicago and the Chicago City Center Hotel and Sport Club. For the lowest-priced hotel in the Magnificent Mile area, Frommer's suggest you go with the Red Roof Inn, which they say "is your best bet for the lowest-priced lodgings in downtown Chicago."

Win a Trip to Kissimmee, Florida

2008-03-31T13:00:00.000-07:00

Who wouldn't want to win a vacation to Kissimmee, Florida? Well, okay, maybe people who live in Kissimmee, Florida. But, if you're not one of those people, then listen up. Women's Day is sponsoring a sweepstakes with the grand prize of a 6-day/5-night Kissimmee vacation for four, which inlcludes the following:

..:: Lodging in a fully-furnished, two-bedroom, two-bath condominium at Parkway International Resort.

..:: Tickets for four (two adults, two children) for the following activities: one day at one Disney theme park of winner’s choice, golf at Falcon's Fire Golf Club including lunch, Gatorland, Boggy Creek Airboat Rides, Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, Full Speed Race & Golf, Fun Spot Action Park, and Skycoaster of Florida.

There is no purchase necessary, but you do have to be over 18 years of age to enter, as well as a legal resident of the 48 contiguous United States and Washington, D.C. If you are an employee of the sponser, Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S., Inc., or are an immediate family member, you cannot enter.

Your entry has to be received by the end of the day (Eastern Time) on April 25, 2008. Here's the good part. You can enter to win once per day at www.womansday.com/wdextras.

Good luck! We list other vacation sweepstakes on this blog at: http://vacation-getaway.blogspot.com/search/label/win%20a%20vacation

Hot Air Balloon Ride Over California Wine Country

2008-03-24T11:50:00.000-07:00

I saw this YouTube video about hot air ballooning over the wine country of California and just had to put it on this site.

Several years ago I tried to take a hot air balloon ride over Northern California wine country leaving out of Santa Rosa, but it was cancelled due to rainy weather. Later that year I did take a sunset hot air balloon ride outside of Del Mar in Southern California, which was absolutely gorgeous.

For those of you who are leary of taking a hot air balloon ride, let me say that the one I took was very gentle. A little too gentle for me. I was kind of hoping for a bit of a thrilling ride. But, hot air balloon rides are actually really calm and peaceful. The views, though, are really nice.

The ride I missed was a sunrise flight, while the one I took was a sunset flight. If you don't like getting up at an unGodly hour, then you may want to choose a place which allows for sunset flights.

Win a Mediterranean Cruise

2008-03-12T13:11:00.000-07:00

Have you always wanted to go on a Mediterranean cruise, but couldn't afford it? Then try winning a cruise! Holland America is having a sweepstakes, with the winner receiving a 10-day Holland America Line Mediterranean Enchantment Cruise for two aboard the MS Noordam departing in 2008. (If you're here looking for the Family Circle sweepstakes info, scroll down, you'll see my entry about that sweepstakes. Or, you can click this link: http://vacation-getaway.blogspot.com/2008/02/vacation-sweepstakes.html).

The lucky winner may select any one of 6 HAL Mediterranean Enchantment cruise departures on the Noordam between May 9, 2008 and September 14, 2008, subject to availability at time of confirmation.

This sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the United States, District of Columbia and Canada (with the exception of Quebec) who are 21 years of age or older, and who register to win by april 30, 2008. You can enter online, but you can only enter once, by going to www.requesthal.com/europe.

The winner is responsible for non-discountable amounts and taxes (as those terms are used in the HAL brochure) before the tickets will be issued. The prize includes stateroom accommodations for 2 guests in the same stateroom and most shipboard meals. The cruise prize DOES NOT include airfare, ground transfers, shore excursions, hotel services charges, other onboard expenses, and applicable passport, visa and entry/exit fees. (Is it just me, or is Holland America cheap for not paying your airfare? Oh, well, a free cruise is still a nice way to spend a vacation).

Oh, one odd thing about this sweepstakes is that if it's won by a Canadian, he or she will have to answer an unaided, time-limited math skills question by phone before he or she can claim the prize. So, if you're from Canada, enter then hone up on your math skills. Have no idea what the test is all about; have never seen such a requirement before.

So, there you go all you cruise lovers. Go there now and enter.

Win a Trip to Santa Monica, California

2008-03-03T13:31:00.000-08:00

I know, I know, another vacation sweepstakes for you to enter. (see my previous entries of the Family circle sweeptakes and the Frommer's Sweepstakes). But, who knows, maybe you'll win a free trip, right?

Okay, this one is for a trip to Santa Monica, California. Not that exciting for people who already live in Los Angeles, but a great trip for all the rest of you.

This sweepstakes looks pretty cool, co-sponsored California Tourism and Conde' Nast Publications. Here's what you get if you win:

**2 coach roundtrip airfare ticket/s from the winner’s primary residence in the U.S. to Los Angeles and 1 standard hotel room (double occupancy) for 2 nights at the Viceroy Santa Monica.

**Dinner for 2 at Katsuya in Brentwood - not to exceed $300 (that's right, $300 dinner for 2)

**2 tickets to the latest show at The Pantages, not to exceed $500

**A private, 1-hr. yoga session for 2 at Maha Yoga

**1 $500 American Express gift card for a Katharine McPhee–inspired shopping spree

**Dinner for 2 at Il Ristorante de Giorgio Baldi, not to exceed $250.

The sweepstake's open to U.S. and District of Columbia residents 18 and older. Now, here's how you enter. Go to www.visitcalifornia.com/vanityfair and enter. That's it. The sweepstakes ends on 4/30/08, so go there now to enter.

Enter to Win a Trip to Australia

2008-02-25T15:55:00.000-08:00

Hey, we have another vacation sweepstakes to tell you about, with an opportunity to win a trip to Brisbane, Australia. This one does end on March 8, 2008, but you can enter once a day, so you have the opportunity to put in a few entries before the end of the sweepstakes. And, you never know...

The sweepstake's winner will receive a four-night getaway for him/herself and a friend, and includes roundtrip economy class tickets from the US to Brisbane on Qantas, plus 2 nights accommodations at Mantra Circle on Cavill, Surfers Paradise, then 2 nights at Mantra Mooloolaba.

The sweepstakes is open only to legal residents of the 50 United States (and the District of Columbia) and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are at least 18 years of age. The sweepstakes ends at 11:50 p.m. ET, February 29, 2008, so go to www.frommers.com/register and follow the links to register.

Now, I'm a big believer in sweepstakes, having won several in my life. You may not win, but you definitely won't win if you don't enter. Australia can be an expensive place for Americans to visit, so if you can visit for free, take the chance. It doesn't cost anything.

Vacation Sweepstakes

2008-02-14T20:16:00.000-08:00

How would you like to win a vacation to Florida? I just opened up a copy of "Family Circle" and found this vacation sweepstakes you might like to enter. If you win you will get the use of a 9,000 sq. foot home in southerm Florida for you and three guests for 5 nights, complete with a private chef, chauffeured limo airport service and a housekeeper. The home has over an acre of gardens, with multi-level pools. On top of all that you'll get $20,000 to spend. The whole thing's worth $50,000, so you will have to think about that for taxes (yes, I think about those things).

Anyway, go on over to www.familycircle.com/win and enter. Good luck! Oh, and entries have to be received by the end of the day (Eastern Standard Time) on April 15, 2008)

You can also enter at:

www.bhg.com/win

www.traditionalhome.com/win

www.countryhome.com/win

www.kitchenbathideas.com/win

Bodie Ghost Town in California

2008-02-07T11:50:00.000-08:00

Are you into ghost towns? If you are you must, absolutely must
make it on over to Bodie State Historical Park, located northeast
of Yosemite, 13 miles east of Highway 395 on Bodie Road.

I haven't thought about Bodie for awhile, but when I saw a
question posed in my Squidoo Group (my Squidoo lens is, by the
way, http://www.squidoo.com/thingstodoinlosangeles ) about your
best travel experience in California, I immediately thought of
Bodie.

Bodie is one of the largest, and certainly most preserved, ghost
town in America. It's kept in a state of "arrested decay,"
meaning it won't deteriorate any further. There are numerous
streets with buildings as they were when they were deserted; you
can look inside and see things left as they were. Really
fascinating, and a little spooky. Some say it's haunted.

The streets go into the hills, so it's weird to look up at the
buildings on the hillsides in the distance and know they too sit
abandoned. There are also a couple cemetaries on the outskirts
of town. The last time I visited there were fresh flowers on
some of the graves.

When you visit be prepared to walk. It can get windy at times,
which just adds to the surrealness of it all, as the wind howls
through the deserted, haunted (again, some say) town.

Bodie was a booming gold mining town at one time. And it had a
reputation of being a mean town. Really mean. How mean? There
is this famous quote by a little girl in her diary after learning
her family was moving to Bodie. She wrote: "Goodbye God, I'm
going to Bodie." And so should everyone. It's a great visit.

The town is open all year round, from 8AM to 7PM in the time
between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and from 9AM to 4PM the rest
of the year.

Found this great YouTube video about Bodie. It focuses mostly on
the haunted side of Bodie, but you get a good idea of the town by
watching it. Enjoy.

Most Romantic Weekend Getaways

2008-01-31T15:09:00.000-08:00

Anytime's a good time for a romantic getaway. But, with Valentine's Day just around the corner, it's an even better time.

What are the most romantic weekend getaways?

How about Whidbey Island, Washington, or Lovers Key, Florida? These two destinations are on the list of "Top 10 Romantic Retreats" by Coastal Living Magazine.

And, do you know what the "Most Romantic B & B" in America is? Well, according to BedandBreakfast.com, that would be:

Mount Victoria Bed & Breakfast Inn
28 Fairmount St.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas

What about the most romantic hotel? According to Mobile Guides that would be The Point at Saranac Lake in New York.

These are must a few of the most romantic weekend getaways you and your sweetheart might consider. Want more? Go to our website page at Romantic Vacation Getaways. Enjoy.

Pacific Grove Getaway

2008-01-30T10:56:00.000-08:00

Looking for an interesting California getaway? Try whale watching. A whale watching tour can add excitement to any California getaway.

One place you might consider is California's Monterey Bay area. Monterey Bay is situated near the mid-section of California's coastline. The bay not only has a shallow shelf by the shore, it also has an enormous and deep submarine canyon. These extremes in habitats permit a large variety of marine creatures to live there.

The entire Gray Whale population migrates past the Monterey coastline every winter and spring, and are present off Monterey from mid-December through mid-May. This time is also perfect for spotting several species of dolphins and porpoise, as well as sea lions, sea otters and harbor seals.

To ensure a pleasant trip, do be sure to dress in several layers of warm clothes as it can be pretty windy and chilly on the ocean.

There are certainly plenty of places to stay in the Monterey Bay area, but I prefer to stay in Pacific Grove, which is a little quieter and less touristy than neighboring Monterey, yet close enough to enjoy all that Montery Bay has to offer, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Point Lobos State Reserve and Fisherman's Wharf.

Another reason to stay in Pacific Grove is for a chance to see the Monarch butterflies. You see, whales aren't the only creatures you can spot migrating. The beautiful Monarch butterflies migrate to Pacific Grove from October until March, so if you schedude your getaway from January through March, you can witness grey whales in addition to Monarch butterflies. That's right, a 2fer. Oh, and yes, Pebble Beach is nearby too.

Where might you stay in Pacific Grove? One place to consider is the Martine Inn, a 24-room villa built in 1890 that Bon Appetit magazine has considered "one of the best B&B’s in historic homes." The Martine Inn offers authentic Victorian-era antiques, with some rooms boasting fireplaces, claw foot tubs and Bay views. And, it's only 3 blocks from the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Fun Stuff to do in Arizona

2008-01-28T18:35:00.000-08:00

I just had a couple friends go to Phoenix for a week getaway and they wanted to know of some fun stuff to do in Arizona. There's plenty to do, but here are my "Top 5 things to do in Arizona," all of which can be done on a day trip from Phoenix. (Oh, and you'll want to read the end of this post as I just added some fun stuff to do in Phoenix this June and July):

1. Visit the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 North Kinney Road, in Tucson. It's really a fabulous place, with a zoo, living desert museum and botanical garden. You'll walk a lot, so wear good shoes.

2. Hike South Mountain Park in Phoenix. You'll love the view of Phoenix at the summit.

3. Visit Sedona. Sedona's only a couple hours north of Phoenix, and certainly worth the drive. If you love hiking, then you'll want to hike Boynton Canyon in western Sedona.

4. Visit Oak Creek Canyon. Oak Creek Canyon's really part of your Sedona visit, but it's so special that you may want to just devote a day to visit the creek.

5. Visit the Heard Museum, 2301 N. Central Avenue, which has a fabulous collection of Native American art and artifacts.

Last Minute Getaway Deal to Mexico

2008-01-22T10:42:00.000-08:00

I have a link here which will save you $75 off a getaway package to Mexico. The code is valid through 11:59 PM, March 31, 2008.

Where might you want to go on your Mexico getaway? How about Cancun? With its blue lagoons and sandy beaches, it will help banish those winter blaahs. Stop shoveling snow and start building sand castles!

If you do decide to take a Cancun getaway, be sure to tear yourself away from the beach and head to downtown Cancun for some authentic Mexican food and flea market shopping.

If you're into tequilla, you'll also want to do some tequilla tasting while you're there. And, by tasting, I mean tasting, not slugging it down. When you go on a tequilla tasting in Mexico it's like sampling wine, you savor the taste and all the time it took to achieve that wonderful taste.

A great place to sample tequilla is La Destileria. Here you'll find over 100 kinds of tequilla. Ask the concierge at your hotel and you'll be pointed in the right direction.

Australia Travel Destinations

2008-01-12T18:18:00.000-08:00

It may be winter in the Northern Hemisphere, but in Australia, it's still summer, which means it's the perfect travel destination for those of you wanting some sun and fun.

What Australia travel destinations are a perfect fit for you? Of course there's the Gold Coast and Sydney, but did you know that Victoria has some of the finest sightseeing in all of Australia? Go for the wine country, but do plan on staying for a glimpse of a Fairy Penguin on Phillip Island. We have more information for you at our Top Vacation Spots website, so if you're interested in all that Australia has to offer you, go to Australia Travel Destinations.

Parasailing in Florida

2007-07-22T09:45:00.000-07:00

Disney Orlando and Universal Studios aren't the only reasons to go to Florida.

Next time you visit one of the Florida beaches you might want to give parasailing a try. Not exactly sure what parasailing is? Parasailing gives you the kind of feeling that birds must feel when swooping down over beautiful beaches.

Basically, in parasailing, you just need to attach your chute to a moving high speed vehicle which will pull you up the air. In the case of beach parasailing, that would be a boat. Of course, you will have to go through some training to be able to operate the parasail properly.

Still not sure it's for you? Here's a little YouTube video of parasailing at Cocoa Beach, Florida.

Florida beaches are wonderful spots to parasail. In addition to Cocoa Beach, some of the other more popular parasailing spots include:

Brandenton beach in Anna Maria Island
Daytona Beach
Clearwater Beach
Sunny Isle Beach
Sirata Beach
Saint Pete Beach
Beaches on Marco Island
Key West

Go Caving on your Next Vacation

2007-07-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, there are great vacations you can have above ground. But, if you want something really unique to do on your next outing, try caving. You'd be amazed how many caves there are in the U.S. you can take tours of. Some people really get hooked on them.

There's just something magical about entering a cave. The feel of the cave air, the smells, the quite, the utter darkness when the lamps are turned off.

In caving you will discover the beauty of nature and marvel at rock formations and crystals that took thousands, and even millions, of years to shape and develop. Caves come in different shapes and sizes. There are caves that are horizontal, dry, hot, humid and sandy, while others are vertical, cold, flooded and muddy. There are even caves that are located under rivers and seas.

Here are a few caves which offer guided and self-guided tours perfect for the whole family:

Kartchner Caverns State Park - Benson, Arizona

Located in the southern part of Arizona, Kartchner Caverns was discovered in 1974 by cavers and purchased as an Arizona State Park in 1988. What's cool about Kartchner is that it's a "living cave," in that the formations inside are still growing. It also contains 13,000 feet of passages, boasts one of the world's longest soda straw stalactites - 21 feet 2 inches, and is in near-pristine condition. Typical of most caves, Kartchner Caverns has its share of bats. In fact, during the summer the Cave's Big Room becomes a nursery roost with over 1,000 female bats.

Jewel Cave National Monument - South Dakota

Located just east of the Wyoming border, Jewel Cave is considered one of the best caves in the National Park system, and number three on the list of longest caves in the world!

Jewel Cave offers three different tour packages, each requiring a different level of experience. The easiest tour is the Basic Tour, which most people should be able to manage. Of course, you have to remember this is a cave, so there will be some steps to climb. On the Basic Tour there are 723 steps to manage, but you don't have to climb them all at once, they are interspersed throughout the 1/2 mile tour.

The next tour in difficulty is the Historic Tour which enters and leaves the cave through an historic entrance and views the cave from an unpaved trail. You will carry lanterns on this tour, which is considered strenuous. Children under 6 are not allowed on the Historic Tour.

For the experienced cavers, Jewel Caves offers a Spelunking Tour, a 4- to 5-hour tour which snakes through 2/3 of a mile of the Cave. You are provided a headlamp by the park service, but you must provide all your other equipment. In addition, you must be over 16 and pass a number of tests before being allowed on the Spelunking Tour, including proving the ability to wriggle through an 18" X 24" passageway. Reservations are required for the Spelunking tour.

Meramec Caverns - Stanton, Missouri

Like your caves on the commercial side? Then you'll love Meramec Caverns, which has a gift shop inside the entrance of the cave. In fact, Meramec Caverns is the largest commercial cave in Missouri, which is known as the "Cave State" due to it containing over 6,000 surveyed caves. In addition to its natural history, Meramec Caverns has some interesting recent history, as legend has it that the cave was used as a part of the "Underground Railroad" to aid escaping slaves. Legend also has it that Jesse James and his gang hid out in the caves after committing train and bank robberies.

Meramec Caverns also has the distinction of having a ballroom inside the caves which hosts many private and public events, such as an Easter Sunrise Service. The ballroom is an interesting combination of chairs, sound system, lighting and, yes, limestone and stalagmites.

Marvel Cave - Branson, Missouri

If you like your caves on the commercial side, then Marvel Cave is for you. Marvel Cave is another "living cave" with formations that are still growing, and is now part of Silver Dollar City, an amusement park with over 30 rides and attractions, the cave being one of them

Mammoth Cave National Park – Kentucky

Since 1816, visitors have toured Mammoth Cave, one of the world’s longest and most famous cave systems. The name Mammoth was coined not from the prehistoric wooly mammoth, but because the cave system is so huge - more than 365 miles of it has been explored so far.

Cave tour prices range from $4 to $45 and include tours for all levels of experience, from a 30-minute, self-guided discovery tour to a 6-1/2 hour "Wild Cave Tour" for more advanced cavers which involves free-climbing cave walls and crawling through areas as low as 9 inches high. Temperature inside the cave usually stays around 54° Fahrenheit year-round.

Visiting Seattle? Check out Some State Parks

2007-07-16T16:58:00.000-07:00

If you're visiting Seattle, and are into outdoor beauty and activity, you might want to check out some of the State Parks in the area. Some of my favorites?

Lime Kiln Point State Park

Lime Kiln Point State Park is a 36-acre park that is only for day use. Located on the western side of San Juan Island, the largest island of the archipelago, Lime Kiln State Park is considered the best spot in the world for spotting Orca whales cruising Haro Strait, in addition to viewing bald eagles and more than 200 species of birds. June and July are the best for whale watching, but really any time during the months of May throughout September you'll find the possibility of spotting a whale quite good. In addition to whale watching you can go hiking and tour the Lime Kiln lighthouse, which still serves as a navigational aid for ships in the Haro Strait. Diving is possible here but very dangerous as the currents are pretty strong.

Fort Worden State Park

Along with Fort Flagler and Fort Casey, Fort Worden formed a "triangle of fire" to protect the entrance to Puget Sound at Admiralty Inlet, and became a state park in 1955. Fort Worden, on the Quimper Peninsula at the extreme northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula, sits on a bluff near Port Townsend, and anchors the northwest side of the triangle. Fort Worden State Park is a 433-acre multi-use park offering 12 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as 2 miles of saltwater shoreline. Convention and camping facilities are open year round and there is plenty to do to keep you busy. In addition to the traditional hiking, biking, diving, water skiing, swimming, boating, and animal watching, Fort Worden offers baseball, basketball, softball, and volleyball facilities. And, if you're a photographer, or someone who just enjoys a great view, you definitely need to pay a visit, as the park offers incredible views to keep your shutter-finger happy.

Fort Flagler State Park

One of the anchors in the "triangle of fire," Fort Flagler State Park is now a 784-acre marine camping park surrounded on three sides by 19,100 feet of saltwater shoreline, as well as some of the original military structures that tell the history of this island. Unlike Fort Worden, which allows camping year round, Fort Flagler State Park is only open for campers for part of the year. Day visitors are allowed year round, however. It is the stunning view of the Sound and the surrounding mountains, however that makes this park so spectacular.

Deception Pass State Park

Deception Pass is a narrow body of water separating Whidbey Island from Fidalgo Island, in the northwest corner of Washington State, and is surrounded by Deception Pass State Park, the most-visited park in Washington. Though not officially part of the San Juan Islands, the park shares a geologic history: The cliffs of Deception Pass are made of the same rock that underlies Orcas Island. This park has salt water, fresh water, camping, hiking, boating, spectacular views, and a few areas with playground equipment for the kids. There are many activities available: hiking, horseback riding, boating, fishing, swimming, white water kayaking, diving, clamming, crabbing, bird watching, mountain biking, and simply taking in the beautiful scenery. Again, take a camera.

Best Hotels in La Jolla, California

2007-07-13T08:13:00.000-07:00

If you love beach sunsets, you're going to love La Jolla, California, located near San Diego. It's a great place if you want to feel like a million bucks. Yes, you're around the well-heeled, but you don't have to spend like it.

1. La Jolla Village Lodge The La Jolla Village Lodge is a three stories, and offers quite a bargain in price. With 30 rooms,free parking and a free continental breakfast, the La Jolla Village Lodge is a great addition to the La Jolla area.

2. Travelodge La Jolla Beach Located close to the Windandsea Beach, this hotel is in a quiet area. There are 44 rooms here, with a fitness center less than a block away. Travelodge also offers free wireless and internet service, which is great for those who like computers.

3. Redwood Hollow The Redwood Hollow is more of a studio or one and two bedroom cottages, offering full kitchens on 1/2 acre of gardens. Close to the beach, this lodge offers 11 rooms and plenty of views. Located at 256 Prospect Street, you'll be close to what you want to do in La Jolla.

4. Radisson Hotel La Jolla This hotel offers landscaped grounds with waterfalls, gardens, and it's convenient to UCSD and the La Jolla Village Square. The hotel has 252 rooms, with a complimentary airport shuttle. Located at 3299 Holiday Court, this hotel is an excellent choice to stay.

5. Empress Hotel Located in the heart of the town, the Empress Hotel is a well known local favorite. Manhattan's restaurant is located off from the lobby, with a fitness center and sauna onsite as well. The hotel also offers 73 rooms, free local calls, breakfast, and high speed internet. Located at 7766 Fay Avenue, the Empress Hotel is the place to be for those who want to be in the middle of La Jolla.

6. Grande Colonial Located on La Jolla's main street, the Grande Colonial is one of the oldest hotels in the city. With 75 rooms and a European style, Grande Colonial also offers you free ADSL internet and valet parking.

7. Hyatt Regency The Hyatt Regency in La Jolla offers modern design with all the comforts, although it's better for travelers than family vacationers. The Regency is located at 3777 La Jolla Village Drive, offers 394 rooms, and plenty of other perks to keep you entertained and interested.

Best Birding Sites Outside U.S.

2007-07-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

Where are some of the best places around the globe to go birdwatching?

South America - the jungles of South America are home to thousands of beautiful birds. Bird watching hot spots in South America include the Itatiaia National Park in Brazil, which is home to around 350 different species of birds native to the Amazon. The Iguazu National Park is the leading natural reserve in Argentina, with over 400 types of indigenous birds. Other good places to check in South America are the Hato Pinero and Hato Cedral ranches in Venezuela, which are especially popular for birdwatching.

The Caribbean - the Caribbean Islands, while normally associated with vacations of a different sort, are actually another good place to visit on a bird watching world trip. In the Bahamas, Grand Bahama Island is the most popular place to go for bird watching. Bermuda is another good place to visit, as there are seven major natural reserves there sponsored by the Audubon Society. In Jamaica, the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary is popular because the birds there are so tame they literally perch on the bird watchers and eat out of their hands.

Europe - there are tons of popular spots in Europe for birdwatching. In Britain alone there are actually hundreds of birdwatching spots. If you're considering Britain, one thing to look out for are the annual bird fairs and conventions held in various local districts. Scotland and Ireland are also popular bird watching places, as they have little lakes and isles around these two countries are home to many different forms of bird life that are unique solely to these islands.

Asia - if you're willing to range far afield, Asia is a wonderful place to go for bird watching as a lot of different species live there that have no equivalent counterparts in the west. Japan alone is home to around 600 species of birds. The Lake Utonai and Tateyama Bird sanctuaries in Japan are the most prominent wildlife preserves where you can see them. China's main attraction is not only its indigenous species of birds, but the fact that certain places like Beidaihe are a migratory hub for far-ranging birds from all across Asia. Another good place to visit for bird watching is Thailand's Doi inthanon International Park, which boasts 382 resident species.

Ocracoke Island - North Carolina Getaway

2007-07-11T15:33:00.000-07:00

What makes Ocracoke Island in North Carolina a great getaway? Perhaps because it's one of the few places on the East Coast where the sun sets over the water year-round. Or perhaps because over three quarters of the island is protected Cape Hatteras National Seashore property. Accessible only ferry, private boat, or by air, Ocracoke Island seems to make time stand still on it's 16 mile island.

Within Ocracoke Island North Carolina, there are many different houses, schools, parks, and numerous boat ramps and places for beach access. The community is very friendly here, making it a perfect beach vacation spot for the entire family.

For nearly 12 continuous miles, the dunes and marsh lands of the island are untouched, providing a home for birds, deer, muskrats, rabbits, and other wild animals. The several beaches on the island are some of the last pristine beaches left in America. Fishermen and anglers are allowed to drive on the beach, with surf fishing being truly great here.

If you visit Ocracoke Island in the summer, you'll find that there is always something to do. The island has a happening nightlife as well, which is perfect for those who want more than just the beach on their vacation.

If you live close to North Carolina, Ocracoke Island is possibly closer than you may realize, making it a great weekend vacation getaway.

Attractions on Ocracoke Island

A few attractions not to miss while you're on the island are the 1823 Ocracoke Lighthouse, the British Cemetery and Banker Ponies (descendants from the ponies which came with the Raleigh expeditions) and the quaint village of Ocracoke.

Accommodations

Lodging can be had at Edwards of Ocracoke, located in the heart of Ocracoke Village. Choose from 8 motel rooms, 3 efficiencies, 6 cottage apartments and 2 private cottages. Rates start at $48 in the Spring and Fall and $60 and $69 in the summer and peak seasons (peak season is June 1 to August 20). They offer weekly rental rates as well. Call 252-928-4801 for more information.

Another place for lodging is the Anchorage Inn & Marina, a 35-room, four-story hotel overlooking Ocracoke's scenic harbor, offering sunset views as the sun sinks into the waters of the Pamlico Sound. Choose from smoking or non-smoking rooms, with pet-friendly rooms on the first floor. Off season rates are from $79.00 a night to $209.00 a night. In-season rates are from $125.00 a night to $239.00 a night. For more information call 252-928-1101.

Cheap San Francisco Weekend Getaway

2007-07-10T13:32:00.000-07:00

If you’ve ever visited San Francisco, you know it can be a very expensive city. Hotel costs, restaurant tabs, valet fees and cab fares can add up quite quickly. But, if you know where the values are, that weekend getaway to San Francisco can actually fit into your budget quite nicely.

First, let’s start with lodging. Yes, it’s nice to stay at the Grand Hyatt on Union Square or the Mark Hopkins. But, let’s face it, they’re expensive. For budget considerations, I suggest you consider Lombard Street. No, not the crooked part of Lombard Street, but the section of Lombard Street which runs through the Cow Hollow and Marina districts in the northern part of San Francisco, near the Golden Gate Bridge.

You can find a nice room on Lombard Street for just under $100 a night, which is a far cry from the hotels on Union Square. But, what kind of room will your $100 get you? Of course, you’re not going to get the luxury of a fancy hotel, but you’re not paying for luxury. You’re paying to enjoy San Francisco. Your $100 will buy you a comfortable, clean room. Also, you will generally receive free parking. If you drive to San Francisco or rent a car in San Francisco, free parking is a big deal. The luxury hotels usually charge for parking, as well as a in & out fees when you retrieve your car for a day trip or night out.

Lombard Street is also a great location. Just north of Lombard Street is Chestnut Street, with a movie theater, shops and wonderful food. To the south a few blocks you’ll find Union Street, with upscale shops and, again, wonderful food. Lombard Street is also a good location for bus service to all parts of San Francisco, eliminating the need for expensive taxi rides.

You have numerous choices for lodging along Lombard Street. I’ve stayed at the Cow Hollow Motor Inn (415-921-5800) and find it to be good, inexpensive choice, with free parking, with a nice, inexpensive Italian restaurant located just north on Steiner Street (Ristorante Parma). One caveat I have about Cow Hollow, which can probably be applied to any of the motels on Lombard Street, is that you will probably want to request an inside room off the main streets, as they can get quite loud. Another motel you might consider would be La Luna Inn (415-346-4664), a recently renovated inn with some luxuries you wouldn’t expect from a budget motel, such as pillow-top mattresses, flat screen TVs, wireless internet access and complimentary muffins, breads, coffee, tea and juices served every morning. All that for just under $100 per night for a single king or queen bed.

Restaurants can also add up to the cost of a vacation. San Francisco has a large amount of wonderful restaurants at inexpensive prices. Of course, you have to know which ones they are. Those would usually be the ones the locals frequent, so if you want to avoid over-priced restaurants, you’d stay away from restaurants in tourist traps like Fisherman’s Wharf and go for neighborhood restaurants, such as those found in Cow Hollow and the Marina District, 24th Street in Noe Valley, or Potrero Hill. One very inexpensive restaurant I’d recommend in Potrero Hill is San Francisco Bar B Que, 1328 18th St., a wonderful little Thai BBQ restaurant that serves great food at cheap prices. If there’s a wait, just put your name on the list and bop into Bloom’s Saloon a couple doors down for a drink and great views of the downtown skyline.

As for inexpensive things to do in San Francisco, check out the free walking tours offered by San Francisco City Guides, a non-profit organization of more than 200 trained volunteers who lead free walking tours in San Francisco. Their website at sfcityguides.org lists all the many different walking tours of such sites as Chinatown, Golden Gate Bridge, Coit Tower, and even ghost walks of supposedly haunted locations.

San Francisco is truly a great city to visit. It’s even better when you know you can visit and experience all the city has to offer without breaking the bank.

Southern California Beach Ideas

2007-07-06T17:58:00.000-07:00

You cannot visit Southern California without stopping at one of its many wonderful beaches and dipping your toes in the Pacific Ocean. However, if you have a limited time on your visit and can only visit one beach, you may have a difficult time choosing. Which Southern California beach should top your list? Well, it depends on what you're looking for:

Sunbathing and Relaxing:

Zuma/Point Dume: Of course, you can sit in the sand and relax at all the beaches in Southern California, but Point Dume and Zuma beaches, approximately 19 miles west of Malibu on Pacific Coast Highway, are the beaches to go to escape the crowded Los Angeles beaches. When driving west on PCH you'll come to Point Dume first, then Zuma. Point Dume is a little quieter than Zuma, so if you want to lie in the sand and sleep, or read a good book, Point Dume is it. Of course, just because Point Dume and Zuma beaches are great for relaxing, that's not all there is to do. Some consider Zuma beach one of the finest surfing beaches as well.

Surfing:

Huntington Beach: With over 50 surfing competitions held each year in Huntington Beach, plus a Surfing Walk of Fame, Surfers' Hall of Fame and International Surfing Museum, Huntington Beach, or "Surf City" as some call it, is the place you'll want to visit to surf and watch surfers in action. Forget your surfboard or boogie board? No problem, you can also rent one in Huntington Beach. You'll want to visit the pier at Huntington City Beach where you can watch the surfers as well as take in the views, which include Catalina Island, 22 miles away (check out the pay scopes for closer views).

Another reason to go to Huntington Beach is that all three of their beaches (Huntington City Beach, Huntington State Beach and Bolsa Chica State Beach) have concrete fire rings which allow you to have nightly bonfires and cookouts.

Swami's Beach: Located in Encinitas below Seacliff Roadside Park, Swami's Beach is also a great place to watch the surfers, as it is considered one of the best surfing spots along the San Diego County coastline.

Fun Out of the Water:

Santa Monica State Beach: If you get tired of sunbathing or playing in the ocean, Santa Monica State Beach is great because you have Pacific Park at Santa Monica Pier with rides, games and restaurants. You have to really try hard to be bored at Santa Monica State Beach. Rides include a carousel, roller coaster, bumper cars, motion simulator and a nine-story Ferris wheel with spectacular views. You can also roller blade and ride bikes on the bike bath along the beach.

People Watching:

Venice City Beach: Want a quirky beach experience? Then you'll have to visit Venice Beach, at the end of Washington Street in Venice. There you'll find skaters, performers and those you're not quite sure if they're performing or not. On any given weekend you can be treated to musicians, acrobats, mimes, magicians and other assorted entertainers. You'll also find restaurants and all sorts of shops along Ocean Front Walk, as well as Muscle Beach, where you can find bodybuilders pumping iron. If you like crowds, you'll love Venice Beach on the weekend.

These are just a sampling of the great beach experiences you can have in Southern California. Just remember to bring and apply your sunscreen, drink plenty of water throughout the day, and enjoy your visit.

Cruise Ship Vs. Private Yacht Charter

2007-06-27T17:33:00.000-07:00

For first-timers and seasoned pros alike, most people assume that in order to sail the world's oceans and rivers you have to sign up with one of the major cruise lines. While cruising with one of the majors is the most common way to sail, there are other options available, such as chartering a private yacht.

Before the money alarm bells start going off in your head, it might help to know that in some cases a privately-chartered yacht might make financial sense, particularly if you have a larger group of people who will split the cost of the charter. And, charters vary widely in price. For example, you can charter a yacht cruising Florida and the Bahamas in the winter and New England in the summer from $15,500 per week for 6 people. That comes out to just over $2,500 per person. Of course, there are pricier yachts you can charter for $385,000 per week for 12 guests and a crew of 13. A yacht like that comes equipped with fishing equipment, snorkeling equipment, water skis, 3 waverunners, kneeboards, 2 kayaks, gym and a Jacuzzi. Again, prices vary widely. You may be amazed at what you'd find in your price range. Some private yacht charters also offer cheaper deals if you agree to cook your own food rather than have a chef onboard.

Benefits of Private Yacht Charter over Major Cruise Line

Privacy:

On a major cruise you have lots of company. Over 2,000 passengers on many cruises. With a private yacht charter it can be just you and under a dozen other people, often times just your friends and family. Besides you and the other passengers, the only other individuals onboard would be the yacht crew or staff. This might not only include a captain and other onboard hands, but it may also include a maid or a private chef.

Perfect for Small Gatherings:

Private yachts are ideal for small business parties, casual business meetings, romantic getaways, honeymoons, weddings, and even family vacations. It's hard to hold a business meeting on a large cruise ship with all the noise and activity going on around you. And, a private yacht charter allows you the opportunity to get closer to your loved ones without other people getting in the way.

Activities:

You may be able to go swimming, scuba diving or snorkeling right off the yacht. Jumping off the ship and into the ocean is not something that's encouraged on a major cruise ship. Neither is fishing. But, on your own private chartered yacht, that is also an activity you, your family and friends can enjoy.

Health Considerations:

Every year it seems there's news of some outbreak of something on a major cruise ship. With all the people aboard, it's much easier for infections to be spread around, no matter how hard the crew tries to keep everything clean and disinfected. With the small number of people on a private chartered yacht, you have less chance of coming in contact with pathogens.

Benefits of a Major Cruise Line over a Private Chartered Yacht

Cost:

While you can find a private yacht charter that won't break the bank, a vacation with a major cruise line is still probably cheaper, even for an ocean-view balcony room. And, if you book early enough, you're often offered an upgrade when your cruise date nears.

Activities:

A major cruise ship offers an incredible amount of activities, such as movies, dancing, yoga, exercise classes. Many have onboard casinos and numerous swimming pools. If you're bored reading or watching the scenery, there's always an activity scheduled.

Escape:

While taking a vacation on a yacht with 8 other people sounds nice, you may not be able to escape these same people during the day on a private yacht. On a major cruise there are so many activities that people can go off and do their own thing without always bumping into each other.

When deciding between a major cruise ship and private chartered yacht it helps to sort out what you really want on your vacation. Do you want the opportunity to see beautiful scenery at a minimal cost, or are privacy and being catered to an important consideration for you?

Should you decide to look into chartering a private yacht, you might wish to go through a yacht charter agent who has knowledge of the different companies offering chartered yachts. Choose an agent who is a member of one of the yacht broker's associations, such as the AYCA, the American Yacht Charter Association, or CYBA, the Charter Yacht Brokers Association.

Visit Boating Vacations website, where you can learn more about whitewater rafting vacations and West Virginia rafting.

Theme Parks - the Not-So-Usual Suspects

2007-02-24T16:56:00.000-08:00

Do you and your family enjoy theme parks? Ok, silly question. What family doesn't enjoy theme parks? Kids love them because there's always something fun to do. Parents love them because they give their kids such joy. And, let's face it, many parents love the roller coasters and other rides as well.

Many families try to visit all the major parks at least once while their kids are young. It's almost like the tradition of putting a sticker on your luggage to show where you've been. You want as many stickers on that suitcase as you can collect. They become badges of honor for your travels. As far as theme parks go, there are the usual suspects:

California

--Disneyland

--California Adventure

--Knott's Berry Farm

--Magic Mountain

--Universal Studios

--Legoland

--SeaWorld

Florida

--Universal Orlando

--SeaWorld Orlando

--Walt Disney World

But what about the Not-So-Usual Suspects? Those are the theme parks you might not know about, but should, particularly if you have younger children. Here are a few not-so-knowns that you might want to consider as well:

Bonfante Gardens - Gilroy, California

Gilroy? Where's Gilroy? Chances are many of you haven't heard of Gilroy, California. Gilroy is the Garlic Capital of the World, located off the 101, approximately 42 miles southeast of Monterey and just over 80 miles south of San Francisco. So, if you're visiting the San Francisco, Monterey or Santa Cruz areas of California, a side trip to the Bonfante Gardens should be on your list.

Bonfante Gardens has the distinction of being California's only horticultural theme park, designed for garden lovers and families of small children. It's like a Legoland, only instead of trees and flowers made of Legos, these trees and flowers are real. Imagine that, a theme park with something real. And, while you won't find the amount of thrill rides you would at the other parks, there are some rides to keep the kids (and ride-loving parents interested). Rides include a sky monorail, a roller coaster billed as a "thrilling mine coaster" surrounded by nearly 600 trees, a carousel which dates back to 1927, and a giant banana which swings back and forth. Okay, maybe not the most thrilling, but definitely appropriate for younger children.

For the garden buffs among you, Bonfante Gardens has several gardens to astound you, such as the Monarch Garden, filled with hundreds of tropical and sub-tropical trees, flowers and shrubs; the Camellia Gardens displaying many different varieties of camellias; and the Holly Garden, which features over 20 different varieties of hollies.

Bonfante Garden's season begins March 31.

Silver Dollar City - Branson, Missouri

Silver Dollar City is an absolute must-see theme park. Why? It has what the other theme parks don't have. An actual living cave. As a matter of fact, Missouri is chock full of caves, and is known as the "Cave State" due to it containing over 6,000 surveyed caves. One of them is Marvel Cave, which is now part of Silver Dollar City amusement park. Admission to Silver Dollar City also gains you admission to the Marvel City Cave tour, a tour which lasts approximately 60 minutes and takes you 500 feet below the surface. You do have to climb 600 stairs down, but will have a cable train to take you the ½-mile trip back up to the surface.

Other rides include a giant swing, which launches you 7 stories into the air; a 20-minute steam train ride; a funhouse called Grandfather's Mansion; an 80-foot tall, high-speed, roller coaster with a great view of the Ozarks; and several water rides.

Dollywood - Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

For those of you not familiar with Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, it’s one of the towns close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most popular National Parks in the United States. So, a vacation to Pigeon Forge will get you close to peaceful vacation cabins and all the outdoor activities you can handle: boating, fishing, hiking, etc. Plus, you can give the kids a day at a fabulous nearby theme park: Dollywood.

Dollywood is a great place for families with children of all ages. The younger children will really like it because of the mix of rides with educational amusements, such as the Dreamland Forest Treehouse full of kid games, an interactive Dreamland Forest playground area, and the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary, which houses the country’s largest collection of non-releasable bald eagles. There are numerous thrill rides as well for parents and older children, including the new coaster ride, Mystery Mine, where you travel on a 1,811-foot track through an abandoned coal mine, and take an 85-foot vertical plunge.

Five of the South's largest festivals occur at Dollywood between March and December, including KidsFest from mid June to early August. Dollywood is open March 31 through the end of December.

While every kid wants to visit Disneyland, Disney World, Universal Studios, and all the other usual suspects, do give some thought to some of the lesser-known, not-so-usual suspects which can delight, educate and thrill you and your family.

Maui Hawaii Vacations

2007-01-22T16:19:00.000-08:00

Maui's my favorite of the Hawaiian islands and home to some of the most amazing beaches. Some beaches offer swimming all year round, while others are best for surfing or snorkeling during certain times of the year. Depending on where you choose to stay, there are always some famous beaches nearby.

West Maui beaches If you drive along the west coast of Maui from Lahaina to Kapalua, you'll see many breathtaking beaches along the coast. Kaanapali Beach will offer you over three miles of white sand with a variety of watersports, including surfing, sailboating, and even catamaran rides. On the north end of the beach is Black Rock, which is where you can get in some awesome snorkeling.

Most people like the sandy beach at Napili Bay, because there are no high rise buildings around, and the bay is well protected from waves. The Kapalua Resort in west Maui is home to Kapalua Beach, Oneloa Bay Beach, and the D.T. Fleming Beach.

South Maui Beaches The rule with Hawaii and is that the further south you travel, the less crowded the beaches will be. I've seen that with Kauai and it's certainly true with Maui.

Kihei offers you a series of beaches along the six mile coastline, some even offering lifeguards, restrooms, and picnic areas. Polo Beach and Wailea Beach offer both restrooms and equipment rentals. Or, if you prefer a more secluded beach, you should visit Maluaka Beach at the Maui Prince Hotel - where you may even come across some green sea turtles.

A few miles past the Maui Prince Hotel is the Big Beach of Makena, which, in my opinion, is one of the best beaches on Maui. It's not called Big Beach for nothing! It's big, and, and best of all, empty. It offers white sand, picnic facilities, and even restrooms.

East Maui Beaches The beaches of East Maui are unlike others in Hawaii. Surround by lush scenery, the beaches are secluded, scenic, and very colorful.

You can't leave East Maui without visiting Hamoa Beach. As you approach the beach from the main road, you'll walk past colorful plants and palm trees surrounding Hamoa Beach. Just off Hana Highway is Hana Bay Beach, which offers blackvolcanic sand.

The Red Sand Beach is difficult to get to, you'll need to find a narrow path along the coast. The beach offers plenty of swimming and snorkeling, and you should be the only one there - which is great for those looking for privacy. Even though it is hard to get to, Red Sand Beach is truly one of a kind. Although great for swimming, you'll want to bring a book, sit awhile and relax.

For more Hawaii trip ideas, go to http://hawaiitrips.blogspot.com

European Vacation Getaway - 7 Travel Tips

2007-01-21T19:49:00.000-08:00

Europe has always been a popular travel destination. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, there are several important things to keep in mind before calling your travel agent and booking your next vacation:

1. Time of year: While "Paris in the Springtime" sounds very romantic, the truth is that you're liable to spend many days indoors, because the weather can be cold and rainy. Why not try the French Riviera instead? The French Riviera in the springtime boasts warm temperatures, sunshine and beautiful places to visit. If you're not sure of weather patterns, check with your travel agent who can advise you on rainy seasons or other weather-related issues for traveling to a specific spot.

2. Your Budget: Decide how much you've got to spend, and don't forget to include extras like tourist attractions, getting around, souvenirs and meals (which are typically more expensive in Europe than in the states -- dinner can cost upwards of 50 Euros per person, especially in metropolitan cities). If your budget is smaller, consider visiting Eastern Europe, looking for packaged tours, or, if you're flexible, book a "last-minute" trip, which can often save you 30% or more. Check out the current exchange rate between your currency and that of the country you'll be visiting, to have a better idea of what your vacation is going to actually cost you. You’ll have more fun if you’ve budgeted for a reasonable amount, rather than run out of money on your trip and have to miss out on some sights.

3. Political Climate: While most countries that rely on tourism make every effort to ensure the safety of tourists, these days it's always a good idea to keep up on the current political climate of the country you're planning to visit, especially if there have been problems in the past.

4. Know our own "internal clock" or level of tolerance for structured travel: If you prefer sleeping in in the mornings, and "doing your own thing" then a guided tour is probably not for you. Most guided tours start early in the morning, and you're on the go until evening. You may visit several cities in a country or countries within a specified amount of time, and you're required to stay with the group. Make sure you don’t spend money on something you’re not really going to enjoy.

5. Use the resources that are available to make your trip special and save money: Today's travelers have numerous options when planning their vacation. You can use the Internet to find out more about the cities or countries you want to visit, check out prices; even book your flight or hotel room. On the other hand, don’t assume the internet has the best rates. Double check with the airlines or a travel agent to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

6. Get organized: You can use trip-planning software, or your own favorite organizing system to organize and plan your trip. Don't forget things like making sure your passport and picture ID are up-to-date, finding out if travel insurance is something you need, and how and where to exchange your money. The more organized you are in the beginning, the better vacation you'll have. While on the topic of passport, give yourself plenty of time to get your passport, especially with the new passport regulations taking place. There’s going to be a flood of people seeking passports, so it may take longer than you expect.

7. Pack lightly: When planning your trip, look at your wardrobe and pack as lightly as you can. Most of us take too much on a vacation, and end up lugging heavy suitcases and other bags along filled with items that we either don't use or don't need. Take only what you'll really need, and remember that if you forget or end up needing something, chances are you can get it once you reach your destination.

Mt. Shasta Vacation

2007-01-20T15:59:00.000-08:00

Want a trip that will please anyone in the family? Mt. Shasta, California certainly fits that bill, appealing to almost anyone, from golfers to skiers, and yes, to those seeking a more spiritual path.

Mt. Shasta is home to, well… Mt. Shasta, a 14,179-foot volcano, the second-highest peak in the Cascade Range. Yeah, it’s big. And beautiful. And,home to a vortex which attracts “New Age” types. A drive down Mt. Shasta Blvd. in Mt. Shasta City reveals a vast array of spiritual shops and assorted healers. You can buy singing bowls and tuning forks, divination tools, yoga supplies, vibrational sprays and magical jewelry. You find can all types of spiritual healers, such as those offering psychic hypnotherapy, reflexology, Reiki and energy work, vibrational healing and massage. If you’re into mineral baths, you can drive a few minutes north of Mt. Shasta City to Weed, where you’ll find therapeutic mineral baths at Stewart Mineral Springs (530-938-2222). (They also have some cabins and motel rooms. But, unless you want something truly rustic, you might want to stay elsewhere. The cabins, as of summer of 2006, could use some updating and sprucing up.)

Those of you wishing to take vortex tours are definitely in luck, as there are numerous guided tours to choose from, including Shasta Vortex Adventures, which offers Mt. Shasta Guided Tours all year round. You can choose from guided hikes, healing earth journeys, bus tours and winter outings, such as snowshoe, cross country or telemark ski outings. Call them at 530-926-4326 for more information.

For those seeking outdoor activities and adventure, Mt. Shasta does not disappoint, no matter what season in which you’re visiting. During the warmer months you can hike or visit the many lakes which dot the area, including, of course, Lake Shasta, 10 miles north of Redding, the second largest lake in California, after Lake Tahoe. Shasta Lake is a very popular destination for boating, water-skiing, camping, and fishing. They also claim to be the houseboating and wakeboarding Capital of the World. Lake Shasta is also home to the Lake Shasta Caverns, which is open all year round. In order to view the underground caverns, visitors are taken on a 15-minute catamaran cruise across Lake Shasta, where they then board a bus which carries them up a mountainside, more than 800 feet above the lake, where the caves are accessible. All this for only $20; $12 for those 3 to 15. Call 1-800-795-CAVE for more information.

If the size of Lake Shasta is too overwhelming for you, as it was for me during one visit, you might want to visit a smaller lake near Mt. Shasta City, Lake Siskiyou, a 430 acre recreational and sailing lake, which offers some of the best bass and trout fishing in Northern California. You can purchase a cheap day pass and swim, picnic or rent pedal boats, or you can rent RV or camping space, or a cabin at Lake Siskiyou Resort and Camp (1-888-926-2618). The resort is open April 1st - October 31st and is very family friendly, with a great swimming area, sandy beach, and nightly movies in an outdoor amphitheater. The lake is actually closer to Mt. Shasta than Lake Shasta, and you can swim with the beautiful snow-covered mountain looming in the backdrop.

Close to Lake Siskiyou you’ll find Mount Shasta Resort, home to a championship golf course, as well as luxurious cabins and a day spa.

Skiers will delight in skiing Mt. Shasta at the Mt. Shasta Ski Park, where you’ll find 31 trails on 425 acres of skiable terrain. Night skiing is also provided on 14 trails and 3 lifts. The terrain level of difficulty is 20% beginner, 55% intermediate, and 25% advanced. There is also a cross country ski and snowshoe center for those wishing something other than downhill skiing. And for beginners, the ski park offers ski, snowboarding and telemark lessons.

If you want information on summer vacation spots, visit www.topvacationspots.net .

Housing Exchange

2007-01-18T12:41:00.000-08:00

House Swapping – the Ultimate in Budget Travel

How would you like to stay in Umbria for two weeks and not have to pay a dime for your accommodations? That would sure save you money on your vacation, wouldn’t it? And, let’s say your accommodation was a 4-bedroom, 3-bath stone building which dates back to the 14th century, with a kitchen with all you need to cook fabulous meals? That would save money on dining out, now, wouldn’t it? Of course, with the house costing nothing, who needs to save money by eating in?

Where can you find such incredible savings? It’s called house exchange or house swap. The recent movie “The Holiday” used the notion of a house swap to help the leading characters find romance. One woman from England swaps houses with a woman from the United States over the Christmas holiday and they both find romance in their new surroundings. Will their new romance become permanent and lasting true love? Who knows, but at least we know they saved money. And, you can too.

Here’s how it works. If you decide you want to exchange homes with someone, you sign up with a house exchange company, which can typically cost around $60 to $80 per year, choose which destination you wish to visit and the dates, and see if there are any potential exchange partners who you match with. If they agree to stay in your house during the time specified, you’re on your way to a vacation in Paris, Florence, San Francisco, or wherever there’s a match. And the cost? Just your membership fees to the exchange company. Your only costs, then, are your airfare, dining out and recreation. Considering that lodging can run about $150 a night and even higher, you stand to save hundreds to thousands on your vacation.

House swapping is nothing new, and many of the exchange companies have been in business for decades, with more popping up all the time.

Aside from the savings, you get the opportunity of living like the locals do. You get the opportunity to try restaurants that aren’t near the tourist hotels, see places you otherwise might pass up.

In addition to the benefits you receive in your “new home,” your old home is being looked after by your exchange partners, which means you don’t have to pay anyone to water your plants or check up on your house. And, if your arrangement with your exchange partner allows for it, your pets will be cared for as well. Some things to consider before posting your request with your chosen company include:

Will you allow for the use of your car? Many times the exchange partners exchange cars as well.

Do you agree to care for the exchange partner’s pets?

How many people do you allow to stay in your house?

Will you allow children?

Will you allow pets?

One question you may have is – is home exchange safe? Obviously there are unscrupulous people out there, so you can increase your safety by making sure you keep your valuables locked up. It’s also a good idea to have your mail held by the post office. Also, you could choose only those homes which have had prior exchanges. If someone’s had 10 successful exchanges you should feel pretty secure. However, if at any time during the process you feel uneasy about the exchange, trust your instincts and stop the process.

House swapping is definitely one option to consider in order to cut down on vacation costs. Who knows, it may open you up to a new way of travel that you’ll return to year after year after year.

Go to http://www.topvacationspots.com/ for vacation destination suggestions. Who know, maybe a Canary Island holiday is in your future.

(One new housing exchange I was just alerted to in my comments is http://www.jewettstreet.com/ . Check it out.)

Walking Tours of San Francisco

2006-12-13T10:10:00.000-08:00

While it's said that "nobody walks in L.A.," it's known that everyone walks in San Francisco. Having been a resident and frequent visitor to San Francisco, I can tell you that the very idea of walking in the City has always seemed odd to me. Let's face it; it's not the flattest town in which to walk. Yet, that's what everyone does. Walk, and huff and puff, and walk some more. There's just something about San Francisco that makes you want to step outside your hotel and walk. Perhaps it has something to do with the many different fascinating neighborhoods and buildings that compel people to slow down and take it all in.

If you're planning a vacation or holiday to San Francisco one of the best ways to actually experience the city is to take a walking tour. And, when it comes to walking tours, both free and fee-required, San Francisco has more than its share (it must have taken some from L.A.).

Free Walking Tours

First, let's begin with the free tours offered by San Francisco City Guides, a non-profit organization of more than 200 trained volunteers who lead free walking tours in San Francisco (donations, of course, are gladly accepted). If you visit their website, sfcityguides.org, you'll notice an interesting array of free walking tours offered every day of the week, tours like "1906 Earthquake and Fire," "Art Deco Marina," "Chinatown," "City Hall," "Downtown Deco," "Financial District" and "Gold Coast Architecture." A few of the more interesting walks include:

"Bawdy & Naughty"

This downtown two-block walk explores the arrival of "professional" women in San Francisco during the Gold Rush. And, no, we're not talking about women doctors or lawyers.

"Castro: Tales of the Village"

The Castro area in San Francisco is a predominately gay area of town. But, it wasn't always that way. This tour explores the early years of the Castro.

"Coit Tower Murals"

This tour takes visitors to Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill to view the Murals created by some of California's leading artists of the 30s depicting life in the Great Depression. The murals are definitely worth seeing, either as a tour group or on your own. San Francisco City Guides say their tour shows you some murals not shown to the general public, so I recommend you consider the tour for this San Francisco landmark.

"Ghost Walks"

Here are a couple fun walking tours. The "Ghost Walk at City Hall" and the "Ghost Walk at the Palace" are held in October only, and explore, what else, ghostly occurrences.

The tours typically begin in easy to identify and very public places and most of them even meet near access to public transportation in order to accommodate visitors coming from other areas of the city.

Fee-Required Tours:

While you do have plenty of opportunity for free walking tours, you might also consider some of the fee-required tours. One such fee-required tour is Hobnob Tours, a walking tour of Nob Hill, often times referred to as Snob Hill due to the number of wealthy people who live there. This two-hour tour costs $30 and takes you to an elegant ballroom where Tony Bennett belted out "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," through spectacular Grace Cathedral, through Huntington Park, with a cable car ride up Nob Hill. There is an optional breakfast, lunch or high tea at added cost. You can call for more information at 866- 851-1123.

Another Fee-required tour is a tour of Chinatown which includes a visit to a fortune cookie factory and herbal pharmacy, as well as a hosted 10-course Dim Sum lunch at a Chinatown restaurant. The tour-only price is $28 for adults, $15 for children 6-17. With the added Dim Sum lunch the price is $40 for adults, $27 for children. You can call for reservations at 415-982-8839.

Whichever tour you decide to take you will probably leave you feeling satisfied, either with a greater insight to San Francisco, or with great Dim Sum.

This article courtesy of Top Vacation Spots, where you can learn more about things to do in San Francisco.

Arizona Skiing

2006-10-26T19:07:00.000-07:00

Ah, Arizona. Land of sun, scorching summer days and winter skiing fun. That’s right, skiing. Yes, Virginia, Arizona, known for tumbleweed snowmen, actually gets snow.

There are four ski areas to choose from in Arizona, all within a few hours drive from Phoenix, the capital of Arizona.

The most well-known of the ski areas in Arizona is located in northern Arizona, 7 miles north of Flagstaff. The Arizona Snowbowl offers 4 lifts and 32 trails for skiers and snowboards of all levels, and 2,300 feet of vertical drop. You can also test your freestyle skills at their Sunset Terrain Park which includes obstacles and spines. Lodging available in nearby Flagstaff or you can choose to stay at the ski resort at the Ski Lift Lodge & Cabins located at the base of the San Francisco Peaks. For reservations, call (928) 774-0729.

The largest ski resort in Arizona is located in McNary in Eastern Arizona. The Sunrise Park Resort is owned and operated by the White Mountain Apache Tribe, and is just a 4-hour drive from Tucson and Phoenix. You have for your skiing and snowboarding pleasure 800 acres on three interconnected mountains. Base elevation is 9,200 feet extending up to 11,000 feet. They offer 8 lifts and 65 runs for skiers of all levels, as well as a separate snowboarding area, cross country ski trails, and a Terrain Park featuring a snow half pipe, implanted wood and metal rails. The Sunrise Ski Resort is open from the first week of December through the first weekend of April. Night skiing begins January 2. Lodging is available at the 100-room Sunrise Park Lodge located on Sunrise Lake. Winter rates begin at $124 per night. Call (800) 772-7669 for more information.

Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley is located on Mt. Lemmon just outside Tucson, which is the largest city in Southern Arizona. Though smaller than the Arizona Snowbowl and Sunrise Park Resort, Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley offers 80 skiable acres, 3 lifts, 18 trails and a 907-ft. vertical drop. The longest run is 8,500 ft. Their trail ratings are: Easiest at 20%; More Difficult at 38% and Most Difficult at 42%. There is no cross-country or heli skiing available.

For those of you learning to ski, you might want to head up to the Elk Ridge Ski Area, formerly the Williams Ski Area located in Williams, Arizona, approximately 30 miles west of Flagstaff. The Elk Ridge Ski Area offers two lifts and seven trails. Elk Ridge is typically open Thursday through Monday, starting mid December. Thursdays is “skiing only” day. For more information call (928) 814-5038.

If you’re planning a visit to Arizona this winter, or if you live in Arizona, it’s nice to know a day of skiing is within driving distance. Who needs to hop a plane to Colorado or Utah when winter fun is right in your own backyard?

Vacationing on a Budget

2006-07-29T09:40:00.000-07:00

If you are like most other individuals and families, your finances may be tight. There are many families who are just scraping by and others are the on the border of debt. If this situation sounds all too familiar, a summer vacation may be the last thing on your mind. If you and your family are interested in taking a summer vacation, you can, no matter what your financial situation.

When selecting a summer vacation destination on a budget, it is important that you do not limit yourself. There are too many individuals who search for a vacation destination solely based on price. Instead of first searching for low-cost vacations, you are encouraged to find the vacation destination of your dreams. Once you closely examine the hotels, restaurants, amusement parks, or beaches that your selected destination has to offer, you can easily learn how and where to save money.

If the beach sounds like the perfect summer vacation destination, you have a number of options. Popular beaches, that are designed for those on a budget in the United States may include, but are not limited to, Virginia Beach, Pensacola Beach, and Long Beach. You can plan a beach vacation in the Caribbean or overseas; however, the cost of travel will likely increase the cost of your vacation.

Virginia Beach, Long Beach, Daytona Beach, Myrtle Beach, and Long Beach are all known as vacation “hotspots.” Many individuals automatically assume that the most popular beach destinations are too expensive. While some facilities and activities may be high priced, there are ways for you to vacation there on a budget. Instead of staying at an ocean-side resort, you could save a large amount of money by booking an inland hotel. The same can be said for restaurants, bars, and event centers. Almost everything is more expensive on the shoreline.

If you are more interested in spending your vacation golfing, you may want to examine the golf resorts in and around the Untied States. Many popular golf courses are located in Myrtle Beach, Newport Beach, and Scottsdale. If you are on a budget, you can easily benefit from purchasing a resort package. Many popular golf resorts, in the United States, Europe, and the Caribbean offer packages that offer accommodations that may include travel, hotel stays, golf course visits, and dining.

Golf resorts are popular vacation destinations for many individuals, but many can be expensive. If you are unable to obtain a discount vacation package, but you still want to your vacation to have a focus on golf, you have a number of options. Many golf resorts allow vacationers to play on their courses, even if they are not staying at the resort. It is also possible to golf at well-known golf courses that are not considered resorts. As with a beach vacation, you may be able to save a large amount of money by staying at a hotel or dinning away from a golf resort.

Theme parks and amusement parks are popular vacation destinations, especially for those with children. If you and your family are interested in vacationing at a United States theme park, you have a number of options. Theme park resorts are similar to, the above mentioned, golf resorts. A large number of well-known theme park resorts, including Orlando Studios, Disneyland, and Disney World can be selected, even if you are on a budget. Many of these resorts offer vacation packages that include hotel stays, theme park use, onsite dinning, and much more.

Theme park resort packages are a great way to save money, but you could save even more by not paying for services that you will not use. If you do not have to fly to reach your destination you should not have to have travel accommodations included in your package. You may also be able to find cheaper hotel accommodations that are located a short distance away from the theme park of your choice. In addition to theme park resorts, you can find days of fun at smaller parks, such as Six Flags, Sea World, and Bush Gardens.

You may recognize many of the above mentioned summer vacation destinations. Popular vacation destinations do not have to be financially out of your reach. Simply by cutting a few corners, you could be vacationing along side the rest of America, even while on a budget.

Another Great Smoky Mountains Getaway

2006-07-29T09:22:00.000-07:00

In addition to Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg is a wonderful place to experience the Great Smoky Mountains. (Maybe you'd like to consider it for Labor Day weekend in September.)

Adventures in Gatlinburg

Author: Caitlin Moore

Typical vacations might consist of fun in the sun or a day at the beach, but if you're feeling a bit unconventional these days, why not embrace the pure wilderness and historic charm of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Heading inland will allow you to escape the trials and tribulations of your modern schedule by discovering an older and simpler way of life.

As the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is the place to be for tourists of all kinds. Only about 3,500 people actually live here, but it seems like much
more thanks to the thriving arts scene, nighttime entertainment, and constant merry-go-round of visitors looking to explore this lush and beautiful part of the country.

The park itself is unimaginably diverse, dense, and difficult to describe in simple terms. The citizens who once fought to protect them saw the inherent beauty and value of these 800
square miles of untamed land, and today over 9 million people show their agreement by visiting. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has received a number of lofty designations,
including International Biosphere Reserve, World Heritage Area, and State National Heritage Area.

Park rangers, visitor centers, and a number of roadside exhibits help to educate sightseers, but true awe comes during those moments of silence that occasionally fall during a hike, picnic,
or nature stroll. This preserved area is 95% forested and contains trees up to 20 feet in circumference. Rare plants can be spotted everywhere you look, and there are over 60 species of mammals and 200 different types of birds. This is the only place in the world that you'll find Jordan's Red Cheeked Salamanders, and you'll see them as part of the most diverse salamander
population in the world.

After you've had your fill of the more secluded parts of the Great Smokies, be sure to spend a little time in Gatlinburg. This town tries to buck the image of sleepy mountain settlement
by offering diversions of all kinds and playing host to festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies contains marine creatures of all shapes and size in its 1.4 million gallon operation, and the Guinness World of Records Museum will surely show you a few surprises.

As far as special events go, Gatlinburg loves a good party. The Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival lasts for over a month and celebrates autumn with hay rides, fall decorations, and local
crafts. Gatlinburg Heritage Days focuses on the local traditions by encouraging everyone to learn about and participate in a number of activities. The Craftsman's Fair showcases the work of
dozens of craftspeople from around the country and is one of the largest gatherings of independent artisans anywhere.

Take things up a notch by visiting Ober Gatlinburg, an amusement park and Tennessee's only ski resort. Perched above the town, you'll find, among other things, an alpine slide, miniature
golf, a black bear habitat, and skiing in the winter. Shopping and great food is also available up here, so take some time to enjoy the sights as you while away the day above the city.

If you need a few more reasons to visit Gatlinburg, be aware that there's plenty of trout fishing, a mountainside golf course that will challenge the savviest of players, and for all you lovebirds, this cozy little hamlet has earned the reputation as the Honeymoon Capital of the South. Don't forget horseback riding, whitewater rafting, and nighttime shows for people of all ages.

Lodging options in this tourist-loving town abound, and the scenery and rolling hills make it the ideal spot for renting a cabin or chalet to make your stay the complete mountain experience. A little seclusion will make you feel like a true adventurer, but the presence of so many easy access roads will never leave you feeling isolated. Check into renting a vacation home in or near Gatlinburg and you'll certainly have everything you need; plenty of space, lots of great amenities, and close proximity to whatever it is that you'd like to see.

Families who'd like to do a bit of hiking can find a place just minutes from the park entrance, and for evenings filled with fun and relaxation, a game room, entertainment center, and nearby
swimming pool will leave everyone satisfied. For those just seeking solace from the constant spinning of the outside world, a cozy mountain retreat complete with hot tub and stellar panoramic views will be all that you need to achieve inner peace.

No matter what you plan to do in Gatlinburg, make sure to scope out a great place to stay. Go online to start looking for your Gatlinburg Vacation Rental, and get ready for a taste of
something different.

About the author:
HomeAway.com holds the key to your next vacation. Take a look at all the great vacation rentals listed here, and prepare for a fabulous trip.

Pigeon Forge Vacation Cabin

2006-07-29T09:14:00.000-07:00

Want a great place to experience the Great Smoky Mountains? Try renting a cabin in Pigeon Forge.

What To Expect From Your Pigeon Forge Cabin Vacation

Author: Jeff Linaker

Have you decided on Pigeon Forge for your family vacation? You've made a great choice. Get ready for lots of relaxation mixed with a ton of fun and adventure in this ultimate vacation. This is a perfect choice for a family get-away.

Most of the cabins in Pigeon Forge are more luxurious than many hotels. Shove aside images of "roughing it" in a cabin with no electricity or modern indemnities. Think luxury. Think Jacuzzi. Think spacious with great views and lots of "extras".

The best part of it is that outside your window is a virtual paradise. The mountains offer a picturesque backdrop for this vacation of a lifetime. Waking up in your bed will be a joy because when you gaze outside, you are treated to a picture that rivals anything you've ever seen hanging in an art gallery.

Your Pigeon Forge cabin vacation is sure to be packed with activities. There are so many things readily available to tourists. One of the most popular attractions for the family is white water rafting. Both kids and adults will love riding on the raft across the river, enjoying the scenery and the thrill
of the bumpy ride.

Pigeon Forge also offers Dollywood, a wonderful amusement park that's perfect for the thrill seekers. This isn't an ordinary amusement park. Roller coasters, rides, and attractions are just the beginning. Set amongst a theme of country music, the park is a definite treat for the whole family.

If you are looking for a relaxing form of entertainment, the city offers a multitude of shows. If you are a country music aficionado, you will be in your element. The shows are a lot of fun for both children and adults and definitely something you'll want to include on your itinerary.

The bottom line is that if you've chosen Pigeon Forge as your vacation destination, you won't be disappointed. There truly is something for everyone in this dream vacation spot. Whether you enjoy the thrill of amusement parks, the excitement of rafting, or just love down-home country music, you're in for a treat.

About the author:
Jeff Linaker has an interest in Travel & Holidays related topics. To access more information on pigeon forge hotel or on cabin in pigeon forge, please click on the links.

Mexico Vacation Spots for the Family

2006-07-27T17:29:00.000-07:00

Mexico is often viewed as a popular vacation destination for young adults and couples. While it is true that Mexico has a large number of attractions that are designed for adults, it is also a great place to vacation as a family. If you and your family are currently searching for your next family vacation getaway, you will want to take Mexico into consideration.

Below is an overview of five popular Mexico vacation spots that offer services, activities, and facilities for all of your family members, no matter how young or old they are.

Acapulco

Mexico is home to some of Mexico’s most famous beaches. Beach resorts line the coast and offer surfing, sunbathing, boating, and swimming. While Acapulco is most well-known for their beaches, there are a wide range of other nearby activities that you and your family may enjoy, like golf or maybe a water tour. Try one of the guided tours that takes you to Mexico's islands and lagoons.

Also, make sure you check out CiCi Waterpark, along the bay of Acapulco. It's a family theme park with wave pools, toboggan, water attractions and a swimming with dolphins program.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a large costal city set inside a beautiful cove on the Pacific Ocean. Besides the beaches, the temperate, tropical weather is what attracted me to Mazatlan. You can go any time of the year and have good weather. If you get tired of the beach (yeah, right) you might want to take the family to the Mazatlan Aquarium (Acuario Mazatlan), one of Latin America's finest aquariums. You definitely won't want to miss the trained seal show.

Guadalajara

Guadalajara is the second largest city in Mexico. It is not located along the beach, but it is an ideal Mexico vacation spot for those traveling to Mexico with their families. If you are interested in learning about the history and culture of Mexico, then Guadalajara is the place to be. Guadalajara is most well-known for its culture and historic attractions. You and your family may enjoy an area tradition known as Charro. Mexican men, dressed as horse riders, will put on rodeo shows for tourists. While sightseeing or shopping in Guadalajara, you will enjoy the many fountains and parks that can be found along the way.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is located along the Mexican Riviera. This area has a large number of well-known beach resorts. While Puerto Vallarta is known as a romantic getaway, there's still alot there to interest the kids.

The most interesting activity I found for older kids is the Canopy Tour, which takes you to the rainforest where, with the aid of pulleys, you move from tree to tree, sailing through the treetops. You and the kids will feel like Tarzan. Kids must be 8 and older to take part. If you and the kids are into horses, you want to go on the Waterfall Ride, where you ride horses to a waterfall.

Michigan Vacation Getaway

2006-07-26T13:26:00.000-07:00

I have a friend whose summer wouldn't be complete without a getaway vacation to Michigan. He says it totally helps him unwind. I couldn't agree more. Here's another fan of Michigan trips:

Getting Away From It All In Michigan

By Richard Rspad

Most people think of the beaches on the coast as the most popular getaway locations. In truth, getting away to beauty of Michigan is one of the more popular trips around.

Getting Away From It All In Michigan

Michigan, a state in the heart of the United States' Midwest, is a beautiful location. Full of lakes, rivers, mountains and other interesting geography, Michigan is a great place for those who love the great outdoors. Michigan gets all four seasons, and with its varying climate, there's sure to be a perfect time of year for your trip.

One area of Michigan that is definitely worth investigating is Harbor Country. This area of the state, located alongside Lake Michigan on Route 94, is comprised of many different towns and vacation spots that are well-suited to water lovers. Just 75 miles from Chicago, Illinois, Harbor Country is the closest area for Michigan beaches and an easy trip for Chicagoans planning a Michigan vacation getaway. Whether you prefer sitting on the beach and relaxing or water sports and boating, Lake Michigan is a great place to do it all. Harbor Country also offers winery tours, antiquing, galleries, fine shops and more, all in an area that's welcoming to tourists.

When you are looking for accommodations in Harbor Country, one place that is sure to please romantics and couples is the Garden Grove Bed and Breakfast in Union Pier, Michigan. This resort/bed and breakfast offers rooms that are close to the sugar-sand beaches of Harbor Country (less than a mile away) as well as being close to outlet shopping and even a casino. With four guest rooms and a newly redone carriage house available for your stay, as well as delicious daily breakfasts, you'll be sure to enjoy the friendly, family atmosphere.

If you are looking for more of a family-friendly spot for your trip, the Grand Beach Motel and Cabins in New Buffalo is perfect for you. This resort offers 14 motel-style rooms with a clean and inviting atmosphere, as well as log cabins. An outdoor heated pool and close proximity to the beach (less than three miles) make this an affordable and friendly spot to stay. Daily and weekly rates are available.

Michigan is the ideal state for your next vacation. Whether you enjoy beaches, hiking, shopping, art galleries, Michigan is home to all these and more. Choose summer for your lake getaway or winter for a trip to the mountains for skiing and fun. No matter when you choose to come to Michigan, you will be happy you did.

Richard Rspad is with ResortSpaDestinations.com - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Rspad

Family Beach Vacation Getaway to the Bahamas

2006-07-24T08:22:00.000-07:00

Think you'd have to give up trips to the Bahamas after you had kids? Think again. I found a place in the Bahamas perfect for you and the kids.

Located on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, the Atlantis Paradise Island offers so many activities that it's probably one of the only resorts in the world where you'll need a map to even get around!

The accommodations here range from moderately priced to very expensive. Families on vacation here should consider staying in the Coral Towers, which is the most centrally located tower at Atlantis. The Coral Towers is also closest to the Predator Lagoon and the Lagoon Pool as well.

Atlantis Paradise Island Resort is also packed with activities for guests of all ages (that means you). The eleven pool areas, miles of sandy beach, and Neptune's Water Toys Hut give guests access to many water based activities. Neptune's provides non-motorized water sports which include water bikes, pedal boats, kayaks, and even snorkeling equipment rentals.

Atlantis has two different programs for children, the Aqua Tots program and the Discovery Channel Camp. The Aqua Tots program was designed for children 3 years old and up, while the discovery camp is for kids 4 - 12 years old and ranges from a 1 hour program to one that includes lunch and even dinner.

All kids love the six different water slides and the marine exhibits. This can keep kids busy for hours and hours, and are pretty fun for the parents as well. In order to enjoy the slides, kids must be at least 48 inches tall.

A beach vacation at Atlantis is something your entire family will love. There is something here to keep everyone occupied, from the beaches to fun on the slides.

Great Beach Vacation Getaways

2006-07-22T09:06:00.000-07:00

All across the world, there are several locations you can choose for your beach vacation getaway. Below, you will find many different locations, and what they will offer.

Maui

Throughout the West Coast of Maui, you'll have many choices for your beach vacation. If you plan to enjoy golf, the Kapalua Resort is a great choice, as guests will receive 30% lower golf rates than those who don't stay at the resort. The resort also includes the Kapalua Bay Hotel, Kapalua Villas, and the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua.

One bay over from the Kapalua Bay is the Napili Kai Beach Resort, which is a low rise family resort that offers comfortable beach front condos. The Napili Kai also offers complimentary programs for children ages 6 - 12 from mid June to the end of August, during Easter and Christmas. The condos are seconds away from the beach, and they include kitchens as well as laundry facilities.

If you prefer a more secluded area, the Maui Prince hotel is located in a quiet setting surrounded by two scenic golf courses and a large sandy beach that kids never seem to get enough of.

Mololai

The island of Molokai is filled with empty beaches, no traffic lights, and few tourists. Many tourists visits only for a day or so, with some going to the island because they assumed they were going to Molokini (which is a snorkeling site near Maui).

The island of Mololai is accessible by ferry from Maui or by plane from Honolulu. The island is ideal for those who like the outdoors with a twist of adventure. When you visit here, you shouldn't expect shopping or nightlife.

Florida

The Breakers Hotel in sunny Palm Beach Florida has a spa, golf course, and a 1/2 mile sandy beach. There is also a seperate pool for the kids, a family entertainment center, and a kid's program. Families can reserve up to five adjoining rooms while
children under the age of 16 can stay for free in the same room as their parents.

If you decide to take your beach vacation in Orlando, the Loews Hard Rock Hotel offers you plenty of beach and amusement rides, with a 240 foot slide and a white sandy beach.

California

With several family beach vacation resorts in California, the Hotel Del Coronado is among the most famous. The hotel offers many different facilities for families, including lessons in kayaking, surfing, tennis, and biking.

Georgia

The barrier islands in Georgia offer ambiance, sandy beaches, and a laid back prospective to life as you know it. Jekyll Island offers you miles of paved bike path with three 18 hole golf courses, which is perfect for golf enthusiasts.

Love to Travel?

2006-07-21T08:22:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love to travel. Okay, there probably are people who don't love to travel. But, for those who do and those who'd like to find out interesting places to travel to, you've come to the right place. Future posts will share with you places you might not even think about.

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