epica Travel Blog

The forgotten Balearic – Formentera

Jacob Taylor — Wed, 08 May 2013 15:37:11 +0000

When you think of the Balearics you think of Minorca, Majorca and of course, Ibiza.

But most people forget Formentera. It can be easy to forget it as it is one of the smallest of the Balearics, as well as being the most southerly.

Beaches

What it lacks in size it makes up for in its pristine white beaches. At only 12 miles long this island is truly compact. But it is well known for at least one thing. Its nude beaches. Most of the beaches on Formentera allow nude sunbathing. So, if you are someone who likes to revert back to the way ‘nature intended’ then this is the island for you.

Getting around

Being so small it is very rustic. Although it has roads most people who visit the island choose to cycle or rent mopeds. This has allowed the island to retain as much of its natural beauty as possible. The island has metalled roads as opposed to ones made of tarmac and a dune regeneration programme has meant that it feels extremely remote. You can quite easily forget that you are mere miles from the party island, Ibiza.

Formentera doesn’t have an airport, so it can only be reached by boat. On a day when the tide is low you can also reach the smaller island of Espalmador, which sits north of Formentara by foot. Yes, you can simply wade from one island to the other.

If you like the idea of enjoying nature, then Formentera is the Balearic island for you. It has plenty of cycles routes. hiking trails and is also a great place if you are into water sports. In 2007 it was host to the Techno 293 OD World Championships in windsurfing for those under 17, making it the perfect place to learn to windsurf.

Getting back to nature

It is also the ideal place for bird watchers, with over 200 species of birds, from Eleanora’s Falcon and Warblers to Ospreys and Cormorants. And if you fancy letting your hair down for the night you can always hop on a ferry and head to Ibiza for a night of partying. In fact, it is the perfect place to unwind after partying into the wee hours of the morning.

32 square miles of white beaches, cliffs and stunning countryside awaits. Why not head to the jewel in the Balearics on an all inclusive package and see for yourself?

The forgotten Balearic

How to avoid the Egyptian Hustle

Jacob Taylor — Tue, 07 May 2013 15:57:09 +0000

This is a tricky one because you need to be able to identify those Egyptians who are being genuinely friendly and those who are hustling. Get it wrong and you could offend an Egyptian who was just offering their hospitality.

Who’s being genuine and who’s not?

Well if you’re staying at an all inclusive resort or hotel then the staff are just being hospitable and helpful. If you’re at a very touristy spot or near to hotels in Egypt, the Pyramids or a souk for instance, then there’s a big chance that your ‘new friend’ will see you as fair tourist game. Whatever their intentions always be polite, especially if you are declining their invitation or an offer of merchandise.

So how do you avoid an awkward situation?

Well let’s get some perspective on this. Just because you are in a foreign land it doesn’t mean that the situation is completely alien. We’re basically talking sales here and we’ve all faced the hard sell before. The only thing that is different is the language; the tactics and strategy will be all too familiar. So how do you deal with unwanted attention and pushy salespeople back home? Hopefully politely but firmly. The same applies here.

Sunglasses are your best friend

So with that in mind, apply the same tactics as you would elsewhere. We all know that eye contact is key to engaging with people, so don’t make it. Hopefully you will be wearing sunglasses against the strong Egyptian sun, so use them to your advantage. Don’t hang around for the sales pitch, move on.

Idle hands

These hustlers are savvy people and see an open hand as a great receptacle for their goods. Once you have hold of their wares this is a perfect opportunity to hassle you into a sale. If you’ve got pockets, use them.

One lump or two?

The offer of a refreshing cup of Egyptian tea may sound like a fab idea, but it’s probably a ploy to take you somewhere else. In most cases to a shop where your will be heavily encouraged to buy something. Yep not many things in life are free and generally tea in a tourist hot spot isn’t.

Spot the tourist

http://www.flickr.com/photos/dieter_titz/5995436934/

Enjoying the Lakes of the Okanagan in Summer

Carol Atkins — Wed, 01 May 2013 20:39:47 +0000

Ed and I had thought about going to Kelowna to enjoy one of several wine festivals the area is known for.

But since the kids really couldn’t participate nor Sadie, our beloved Lab, and vacation is not the same without them, we decided instead to take a tour around the amazing lakes of the Okanagan.

Echo Lake

Echo Lake is a tree fringed lake southeast of Lumby preferred by solitude-seeking swimmers and sunbathers. We stopped to listen for the echo that gives the lake its name and were rewarded with the sounds of our voices reverberating along the coastline. The best part was when Sadie started barking at the sound of her own echo across the lake. We had to put her back in the mini van and keep moving. Poor Sadie was so confused.

Beaver Lake

Beaver Lake is just north of Kelowna. I’ve never seen such enormous and colorful rhododendrons; they were beautiful! Ed and the boys took Sadie for a walk along the beach while I ran the 10K loop. I was as excited as the dog to get out of the car and be unleashed. The sun reflecting on the lakes made them shimmer in sync with my shoes pounding the pavement. I was in trail heaven until I got lost, but even that little 1.5 mile detour was along a pretty residential road shaded by tons of trees. I followed a pair of guys running with their black standard Poodle before passing the dog and joining them. I told them I’d gotten lost and they said, “It’s impossible to get lost here”. When I told them where I got lost they said, “Oh, except for that spot, oops”. My 10K loop turned into about 8+ miles which was great for me. I could have run another loop if I’d had the time, but Ed and the boys were waiting for me when I got back.

Schushwap Lake

Shushwap Lake was one of the largest lakes we have ever seen! Ed’s favorite part was jumping into incredibly warm water from the deck of a houseboat. Then, we all walked the short trail in Sunnybrae through tall trees and cliffs to enchanting Margaret Falls, where 61 m of water cascades into Reinecker Creek. We took a few hours out to witness the amazing migration cycle of the salmon, since it’s a family favorite. In Sicamous, we took the boys out on every water sport imaginable: boating, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, waterskiing, wakeboarding. Sadie and I drew the line at fishing and windsurfing, and cheered everyone on from the sandy beach.

Paul Lake

We started with an easy short hike through a forest of Douglas-fir trees, pine and aspen. Once we got to the top, we were rewarded with spectacular views over Paul Lake and Harper Mountain, as well as a bird’s eye view of ospreys, swallows and the rare white-throated swift. There are two access points to the hike, one from parking lot and the other from the campgrounds. When we came back down, Paul Lake and its 400m of sandy beach were perfect for relaxing. We had heard about the occasional UFO sighting, and made a point to watch the sunset in the hopes of seeing a stranger from another land. All we saw were thousands of sparkling stars in the crystal clear nighttime sky; perhaps Sadie’s barking scared them all away.

Okanagan Lake

Okanagan Lake has 30 beaches ranging in size and scope. Many are equipped with playgrounds, concessions and bathrooms. Kelowna sits about half way and the wondrous 5-lane William R. Bennett Bridge connects to both sides of the lake. We rented a boat and went out for a day of water skiing and wakeboarding. One time the boys decided they wanted to water ski one end of the lake to the other, but it is 68 miles long. After we told them that, I didn’t hear much more about the long distance ski idea. The ever faithful Sadie got involved by splashing around in the lake and cheering the kids on as they skied past us. A bath was needed by all when we get back to our rooms at the Accent Inns hotel; which thankfully is pet friendly.

Why Everyone Should Experience a Turkish Bath

Jacob Taylor — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 20:29:02 +0000

Turkey, crossroads of East and West, steeped in history, is the exotic European neighbor.From the grandeur of its mosques and minarets to the narrow warrens of the bazaars and the dramatic countryside, there’s so much to do on Turkey holidays.

In between all the sightseeing, you would be remiss if you didn’t take the opportunity to visit an authentic Turkish bath, known locally as a hamam.

Along with a massage, scrubbing and soap down, you’ll come out feeling brand new.

Turkish Bath

Turkish baths have been around in different incarnations since the Greeks and Romans, although the modern iteration of the baths grew out of the overlay of Ottoman rule on old Byzantium. Historically important as social places, particularly in for women in a closed Islamic society, hamams often served the same purpose as coffee houses and other social meeting spaces farther West. They were places not only to relax, but to meet with friends, catch up on news and gossip, and even make business deals. Today’s baths tend to cater to either tourists or the modern Turkish sensibility, one disposed more to relaxation and pampering, much like that sought at Western spas.

Hamam

The experience of going to a hamam can vary depending on its reputation (and price), but the basic aspects of your visit will be more or less the same. After changing into your wrap (some may opt to leave swimwear on underneath), you first enjoy a series of increasingly warm rooms. At the end of the series, you may also be encouraged to douse yourself with cold water. Following your warm up, a full body wash, exfoliation, and massage are in order. Lastly, retire to a cooling down room to relax, chat, snack, or even nap.

In Istanbul and most other cities across Turkey, today, you can have your pick of a wide variety of baths. While hamams have declined in their daily popularity among the local population in recent centuries, they are still incredibly popular among tourists and locals alike. From upscale hotels that cater to more of a ‘spa day’ experience to the historic hamams of the mosques in town (including the Aya Sofia), to hard to find hole-in-the-wall places, there is a Turkish bath experience for everyone and every budget.

Visit the baths early during your holiday so you have plenty of time to go again – can you think of a better way to start your trip than putting yourself in a relaxed state?

Three Top Romantic Getaways For Couples

Ella Mason — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 19:12:12 +0000

There’s nothing more romantic about going on holiday with your loved one; whether you opt for a beach holiday or an inner city break, there’s just something about getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life with a romantic stroll on the beach together, or being able to have dinner overlooking a city’s spectacular architecture.

And, now with the doom and gloom of winter starting to give way to the bright season of spring, the change in weather has given you a little spring in your step – it’s time to book a break away with your loved one and enjoy the rest of what 2013 has to offer.

But, where should you go? With so many destinations to choose from, you’re not too sure where would be best – you want something that’ll be both romantic and exciting.

Well, to help you choose the a truly romantic holiday for 2013, here are our top picks to help and get you started:

Hvar, Croatia

The island of Croatia is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Now, I know what you’re thinking, it’s not exactly the first place that would spring to mind, right? Well, with its authentic food, stunning surroundings and culture, there’s plenty on offer for a romantic holiday.

The island of Hvar has been noted as the most romantic island town to visit, with its vast array off boat trips and plenty of offshore islands to explore. And, what’s more, with its plethora of sleek bars, you can opt to have a night of drinking and dancing with your loved one after an a-la-carte meal at one of the country’s top restaurants,

The Seychelles

If you’re looking for something a little hotter than Croatia and don’t mind travelling a little further afield or spending a little more to get it, then the Seychelles should definitely be at the top of your list when you’re looking for an ultra romantic holiday. After all, there’s a reason why it gets it chosen as a top honeymoon destination year after year.

With its white sandy beaches, palm trees, cool cocktails and crystal blue seas, you really can’t beat the Seychelles if you’re looking for a place where you and your partner can just relax and unwind, and leave all your troubles beneath the scorching sun.

Zurich

As well as a long romantic holiday, if you want to get away quickly and more conveniently, then cheap city breaks have the ability to be just as romantic as a long holiday – they allow you take only a few days off work and they’re perfect if you and your loved one are in desperate need of some R&R.

And if you’re looking for a long weekend break, then Zurich should most definitely be a first point of call. Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and with it being home to some of the most stunning architecture, breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, buzzing culture, as well as being nestled next to Lake Zurich, there really is plenty to do and see. And, what’s more, with the international airport only being 10 minutes away from the city center, it’s so easy to get in and out of the city in no time at all.

Oh, and if you’re a chocoholic like me, then you certainly won’t be disappointed with the copious amount of Swiss chocolate on offer in the city!

Touring New England – Four Sites You Need to See

Jacob Taylor — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 17:56:38 +0000

When visiting New England, you simply must put these spots on your list of must-see destinations. They represent some of the most beautiful, interesting, and fun locations in the Northeast.

Wiscasset, Maine

Image via Flickr by Dougtone

The Town of Wicasset is like many other areas of mid-coast Maine. There’s something especially charming about this village, though, that keeps bringing people back year after year. Perhaps it’s the town’s terrific antique shops, the splendor of Sortwell Forest, or just its ability to transport people to a simpler time that embodies some of New England’s best features.

Regardless, it’s a place worth visiting if you want a relaxing vacation away from the city, but you don’t want to get bored in the middle of no where.

Six Flags New England in Agawam, Massachusetts

Image via Flickr by ReneS

Looking for fun things to do in Boston? Hop in a car and take a short road trip to Agawam, Massachusetts, where you’ll find Six Flags New England. The amusement park has over a dozen thrilling rides, including:

Bizarro, which was voted the second best steel rollercoaster of 2011
Batman: the Dark Knight
Mind Eraser

There are also plenty of rides for kids and family members who aren’t looking to get their brains scrambled. If you visit Boston in summer, you have to stop by Six Flag’s water park, where you’ll get wet and experience plenty of adrenaline rushes.

Roseland Cottage, Woodstock, Connecticut

Image via Flickr by Dougtone

Woodstock, Connecticut might not have a history quite as exciting as Woodstock, New York, but it still has plenty of sites worth visiting, especially if you love Gothic Revival architecture. The Roseland Cottage is one of the area’s best examples of Gothic Revival. The “cottage” (it’s a mansion by most people’s standards), has intricately designed chimney pots and steep gables.

Inside, visitors will find a mixture of impressive items, including colorful rugs and stained glass from the Victorian Age. Outside, you can enjoy beautiful gardens that seem to nestle the building perfectly. You can even visit the original gardens planted by the owners in the 1850s.

Hancock Shaker Village, Pittsfield, Massachusetts

Image via Flickr by dicktay2000

Many cultures have called New England home. Members of the Shaker community settled in Pittsfield, Massachusetts after two farmers donated a parcel of land to the believers in the 1780s. By the early 1800s, the community had grown to
about 300 people and 3,000 acres of land.

The Shakers held religious beliefs that many people find peculiar. Regardless, they had an interesting way of living life and organizing their communities. You can catch a glimpse of their Spartan lifestyle at Hancock Shaker Village. Archeologists have uncovered and restored many of the village’s original buildings. The museum also features living exhibitions, where you can watch people reenact the Shaker approach to living.

What historic and modern sites do you plan to visit the next time you go to New England? Do these destinations interest you, or do you have other places in mind?

Six Flags New England Hiring 3,000 People For Summer Season

Six Unusual Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss Along Route 66

Jacob Taylor — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 17:29:28 +0000

Route 66 is the most famous road in America and is full of zany, weird, fun tourist stops and attractions that make this the favorite trip for anyone who wants to hop in their car and take a road trip to remember.

Meteor Crater – A Large Natural Attraction From Space

Image via Flickr
by Glamour Schatz

Past Winslow, Ariz., you’ll find a souvenir shop next to a large meteor crater, which was formed about 50,000 years ago and is 4,000 feet wide and 570 feet deep. This is also home to the largest map of Route 66.

Make a stop at Earnhardt Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram to tune up your car before making the rest of the stops along Route 66.

Round Barn – A Round House for Animals and Fun

Image via Flickr
by openroads.com

Arcadia, Ok., is home to William Odor’s round barn, which he built by soaking green lumber in water and molding to fit the exact curve of the roof. While the lower part of the barn was used to house animals, the loft was a hopping place for dances and social events. Today, the barn is a visitor’s center.

Blue Whale of Catoosa – An Attraction All Its Own

Image via Flickr
by TexasExplorer98

In the early 1970s Hugh Davis transformed his private pond into a water park, where he built the blue whale as a gift to his wife on their wedding anniversary. Even though the park closed in the 80s, members of the community preserved it as a hit attraction. Go visit the massively stunning blue whale and experience the same excitement that Davis’ wife felt on the day of their surprising wedding anniversary.

Cadillac Ranch – A Millionaire’s Eccentric Creation

Image via Flickr
by waxhawian

Texas millionaire Stanley Marsh asked the art collective from San Francisco to design a unique creation for his ranch outside Amarillo. Their creation resulted in ten Cadillacs buried in the ground. Visitors autograph the Cadillacs as part of a growing tradition. Go stamp your signature on the landmark and be a part of the culture for the rest of time.

Wigwam Village Motel – Sleep as the Native Americans Did

Image via Flickr
by Ken Lund

People flock to these wigwam hotels in Holbrook, Ariz., to experience spending a night in one rather than a regular old hotel. The 15 concrete and steel structures are each 21 feet wide and 28 feet high. The stop is complete with a museum of Route 66 memorabilia.

Totem Pole Park – Home to Oklahoma’s Oldest Folk Art

Image via Flickr
by KB35

Ed Galloway, one of Oklahoma’s most acclaimed folk artists, designed various colorful totems, including the world’s largest concrete totem pole that rises from the back of a giant turtle as a monument to Native American culture.

Route 66 is legendary for its quirkiness and many more unusual attractions that draw tourists from all across the country to experience the joy of a road trip and the fun of seeing zany and weird stops that can’t be found anywhere
else.

Top Rides at PortAventura

Jacob Taylor — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 19:24:35 +0000

PortAventura is one of the most visited theme parks in Spain. Located in Salou, PortAventura first opened in 1995.

Since its conception it has passed 3 owners and at one point was branded “Universal’s Port Aventura”.

So are you planning a trip to Spain? Want to find out more about PortAventura before purchasing tickets? Read on to learn all about the top rides.

Furius Baco

PortAventura is divided into 6 themed sections. When you enter the park you will arrive at Meditterania, a themed section modeled after a typical Catalonian coastal town. Meditteranea features the Furius Baco, the second fastest roller coaster in all of Europe. Furius Baco is 850 meters long and lasts 55 seconds. The roller coaster is a hydraulically launched steel roller coaster that reaches speeds of 83.9 mph, which the roller coaster reaches in 3.5 seconds. What makes this roller coaster different from traditional rides is the seating plan. Seats are arranged in barrels over the sides of the track which give the rollercoaster a floorless feeling. Someone on this ride wouldn’t see tracks above or below them!

Shambhala: Expedicion al Himalaya

Shambhala: Expedicion al Himalaya is the newest rollercoaster to open in PortAventura, it is the tallest rollercoaster in all of Europe. It also has the tallest drop and longest hyper coaster track. The ride sits in the China themed area of the park, however due to its size extends out to the Polynesian themed areas. The ride slowly climbs passengers up 76 meters before dropping them down to the ground at a 77.4 degree angle. The ride reaches speeds of 134 km per hour and features 5 camelbacks, one of which is crossed at super high speed (which is new for hypercoasters).

Stampida

Last but not least is Stampida. Stampida is a wooden rollercoaster that first opened in 1997; it features 2 drops and several tunnels. While the rollercoaster isn’t the fastest (74km/k) there’s something genuinely terrifying and authentic about riding a rickety wooden roller coaster!

Hopefully we’ve given you a good overview of the rides available at PortAventura and gotten you excited about your visit to the park. Check out AttractionTix for more info about PortAventura where you can book you tickets online today!

Things to Know About Getting a Pilot’s License

Jacob Taylor — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 19:55:58 +0000

First, figure out what kind of plane and what type of flying you want to do.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) website, the available options are airplanes, gyroplanes, helicopters, gliders, balloons, or airships.

This choice may strongly depend on your interests and budget as flight school can be REALLY expensive!!!

Secondly, learn as much as you can about the parts of that type of plane. Again, this varies by aircraft, but for average planes, the crucial parts to know before enrolling in classes would be:

Fuselage (the main body of a plane)
Cockpit (pilot steers plane, usually the interior front of fuselage)
Powerplant (engines)
Undercarriage (landing gear)
Wings
Slats
Flaps
Ailerons (moving flaps on the edges of wings to increase or decrease lift)
Tail–horizontal stabilizer, vertical stabilizer, elevator (helps horizontal stabilizer), rudder (important for turns)

Airplane Engines

You may also want to know names of common engine models, such as the PT6A, considered “the world’s most popular engine.” As with any machine, it’s important to know model types so that if a repair or other alteration needs to be done, it happens as quickly and effectively as possible. Manufacturers recommend overhauling a specific engine after a certain amount of time (TBO or time between overhaul) in order for it to run safely. For instance, many places offer a PT6A overhaul, which is actually basic maintenance for the engine regardless of its quality.

Of course, there are a couple test parts for receiving a pilot’s license. There’s a written test and a practical test consisting of oral questions and during actual flight.

Ground section: flight theory and regulations to know
Dual flight training: you and instructor
Solo training: by yourself

Obtaining Your License

You probably want to give yourself a season’s worth of time (3 months), at the least, to complete your training. The thing is, flying is a skill and you want to give yourself enough time to pick it up and practice so that you feel comfortable. Taking 2-3 lessons a week for about an hour a piece will get you the practice you need without overwhelming you with new information.

Flying

Once you obtain your license, you can simply fly private planes, or go on with your training to fly for commercial airlines. With a private pilot’s license (PPL), you can fly most kinds of aircraft and can travel throughout the United States. Other countries have regulations which differ from those here, so you would have to make sure you’re qualified for international trips. Also, you must not get paid for flying these trips unless you already have your commercial pilot’s license.

So, if you have dreamed of becoming a Wright brother, or just simply flying your own plane, remember that it’s possible to make this a reality! Imagine soaring over the Rocky Mountains or landing amongst the coastal beauty of Savannah, Georgia. Some dedication, time, and money are required, but becoming a pilot seems to be more accessible than ever. Now get out there and spread your wings!

Take Over Atlanta in a 3-Day Weekend

Jacob Taylor — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 17:30:57 +0000

Take over Atlanta in three days with a mad rush of Broadway, history, and entertainment.

While you can’t see everything, you can see three shows, three museums, and several parks and restaurants with this three-day weekend itinerary.

Fish, Hawks, and Laser Show

Image via Flickr
by Photomatt28

Morning: Georgia Aquarium. As the 2^nd top aquarium in to United States, the Georgia Aquarium offers an interactive Beluga show, touch pools where you can pet various sea creatures, and many, many other exhibits. Whales, manta rays, and the largest vewing window in North America are some other perks.

Afternoon: Stone Mountain. The most visited attraction in the state, Stone Mountain offers rides, games, hiking trails, and camping in addition to an amazing laser show. You can even spend the night in one of two hotels.

Evening: Atlanta Hawks Game. With a couple of Atlanta Hawks tickets, you can enjoy the great players, great concessions, and the amazing half-time acrodunking tricks of SkyHawk. No Friday game? Try Saturday or Sunday night as well.

Farmer’s Markets, Frontier History, and Broadway

Image via Flickr
by ne_atl

Morning: Piedmont Park. Dotted with summer festivals during the warm months, you can catch a park tour, a Saturday farmer’s market, or a rainwater or canning workshop. This park is also home to the beautiful and exotic botanical gardens.

Afternoon: Atlanta History Center. Signature exhibits on the American Civil War, golfer Bobby Jones, and the frontier history of Atlanta offer insight into the past. Meanwhile, historic houses like Swan House, Smith Family Farm, and Margaret Mitchell’s home allow you to take a breathtaking walk through history with gardens, elaborate rooms, and other farm structures. Costumed interpreters at some locations offer programs and workstations to experience the history for yourself as well.

Evening: Fox Theatre. Restored to its 1920’s beauty, the theatre now shows Broadway shows, ballets, and concerts. Catch Les Miserables or Swan Lake for a bit of cultured entertainment.

MLK, Shakespeare, and a Bobby Jones Cocktail

Image via Flickr
by Todd Mecklem

Morning: Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Site. Visit the birthplace of MLK and understand more about his childhood with a free guided tour. The beautiful Ebenezer Church and memorial site offer further insight in his life, as does a visitor center. Tours can be full, so come early in the day to secure a spot.

Afternoon: Georgia Shakespeare. Catch a Sunday Matinee performance of “Much Ado about Nothing” or “The Importance of Being Earnest” with this dedicated group of actors. If you like an evening production more, you can even catch a Shakespeare at the Park performance in the fresh evening air at Piedmont Park.

Evening: Six Feet Under. Relax from the hectic sightseeing at this laidback location with a Bobby Jones, made with Sweet Tea Vodka and fresh lemonade. Twinkle lights, a wood patio, and great food make it the perfect place for locals and tourists alike. Not to mention it overlooks the famous Oakland Cemetery.

This is our dream Atlanta weekend. What did we miss?

Saving Money on Your Super Las Vegas Holiday

Jacob Taylor — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 13:40:44 +0000

Las Vegas may be the City of Sin in the United States but it is also the city of big price vacations that can blow any budget family friendly or not. The city has it all, shows, dining, gambling, and each and every attraction from the slots to the hotels is designed to suck extra money out of your wallet.

It’s true the house always wins and Vegas is place to make and lose a fortune in a single night, but you can help curb your bets and get luck back on your side a little. Gives these suggestions a try to rebuild your potential losses and save a buck or two.

Photo credit: Wikipedia

When to stay

Season and time of the week are important factors that contribute directly to hotel prices. Weekend prices are much higher than prices for rooms during the week (Monday thru Thursday, Friday is part of the weekend to Las Vegas). So if at all possible stay a week and leave on the weekend, if you have to stay consider a hotel switch, prices go up across the board but if you can stand sleeping in a lower tier hotel you can avoid the worst of the price hike ups.

Big events such as music artists, temporary shows, conventions and tournaments, are fun but if you are looking to save best avoided especially prize fights! This tip alone will save you up to ¾ the price of a hotel on the weekend!

Comps

This relates into getting drinks. Casinos want you there; they want you to stay in them as long and often as possible and bend over backward to make sure you are comfortable and will stay. The floor manager will be more than happy to tell you about the complementary services and rewards you can get for playing and staying at the casino. This can apply to more than just drinks; for example, high rollers pay for almost nothing as part of this program. However, remember that the house always wins, so while these bonuses are free, you stand to lose more than you do gain by gambling just for the sake of this program.

Drinks, food, tickets, even lodging and transport to and from the airport are possible comps for playing.

Shows

Las Vegas has a lot of shows of all kinds. Let’s focus on the more family oriented ones for now. The key to saving on these is twofold; booking ahead was already covered so the other tricks are promotions. Shows especially in the off season need to fill as many seats as possible. The ads and magazines from your hotel and around the town will have discounts and vouchers for many of these shows. Comps are can also get you free or discounted tickets but run the risk of costing you in gambling loss. Take advantage of these deals and coupons to maximize the amount you can save on the shows you want to see.

Photo credit: Wikipedia

Transportation

If you want your Las Vegas holiday to start cheap have a look at fares you can get from online travel agents, as they are usually the cheapest, and when you get to Las Vegas despite the casino and hotel’s attempts to keep you cloistered away inside you will eventually need to travel around. You could take a cab, but they are expensive and not above taking a scenic route if you are not paying attention. For travel around the Strip walking and the monorail is the best option.

The monorail is often cheaper and faster than almost anything else. Public buses are a good choice if you are venturing farther off the strip. Many popular locations will have a free tram to and from them from specific pick up points. Of course just going up and down the Strip the best method if not the fastest is walking especially since several casino hotels now put on free shows just outside the front door you may miss otherwise,

Avoid Gift Shops

The hotel gift shops will have almost everything you will need for your stay and specialized gifts, for a price. For general shopping from snacks, food, or clothing it is worth skipping the hotel store and instead going to a local shop or mall. Everything in these stores is at an inflated price so unless it is simply something you cannot get at a local store avoid these shops. There are the occasional exceptions of course but on average these shops are designed to keep you in the casino and squeeze you even a little bit more.

So why pay the extra cost when you can just go to mall or drugstore by walking a little more? Unless the item you want is a hotel promotion you can’t by at a general store the skip this money sinks.

The Top 5 Beaches in Wales

Jacob Taylor — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 19:00:56 +0000

Wales has a surprising amount of coastline – more than 750 miles of the stuff, in fact – and has some of the best beaches in the world, with 42 of them having received the Blue Flag Award, something that’s only given to the beaches with the very best safety and water quality.

If you live in Wales, or even if you’re just visiting for a while, make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to take a day at the beach, especially when summer (finally) gets here.

As there are so many, you might feel a tad bewildered at the choice, so we’ve tried to narrow it down to just five of the best. Enjoy!

Llandudno North Shore, Conwy

One of the most popular seaside resorts in Wales, Llandudno attracts tourists from all over. The sand is beautiful and the water is clean, but one of the main attractions in Llandudno is the famous Victorian pier, complete with shops, cafés and a traditional arcade.

There are also a number of great independent shops nearby, and make sure you don’t forget to take a trip up the Great Orme on the old school tramway! There’s a Bronze Age mine up there, but what you really can’t miss is the view from the top – it’s spectacular.

Amroth, Pembrokeshire

Down on the south coast, Amroth is one of the very cleanest beaches in all of Wales. It attracts swimmers from up and down the country due to its clean, clear water, and you can even hire jet skis from the seafront!

It’s half a mile of beautiful, flat sand, with rock pools down the western end. Amroth is unique in that, at time of extremely low tide, you can see petrified tree stumps in the sand. These are all that remains of an ancient forest, flooded when the sea rose roughly 7000 years ago.

Whitesands, Pembrokeshire

Near the tiny city of St David’s, with its 12^th Century cathedral, Whitesands is watched over by Carn Llidi, an extremely craggy hill. It is one of the best beaches in the United Kingdom for surfing, so it can be rather busy in summer!

Come to go surfing, canoeing or even body boarding, or just relax in the calmer bay on the southern end.

Talacre, Flintshire

The beach at Talacre is great for the whole family. Anyone with the faintest interest in history will love the fantastic lighthouse, constructed almost 350 years ago. There are also the remains of a number of WWII pillboxes on the beach, which itself won the 2012 award for Best Beach in Wales.

As an added bonus, any ghost hunters will love the lighthouse for a different reason – it is well known for all manner of spooky sightings!

Port Eynon Bay, Swansea

Voted Britain’s Best Beach by The Daily Mail in 2011, Port Eynon Bay sits on the Gower Peninsula, surrounded by idyllic scenery, typically beautiful Welsh hills and traditional seaside shops.

There’s an old lifeboat station nearby, as well as a former salt house (which is said to have been a front for smuggling in the 18^th Century), and plenty of great pubs and restaurants just a few minutes’ walk away.

Five Amazing Outdoor Adventures in North Wales

Jacob Taylor — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 18:54:37 +0000

North Wales has a surprisingly diverse array of different activities available for tourists and habitual explorers alike, the vast majority of which are perfect for the entire family, from little Jimmy all the way up to Grandma Dot.

Of course, most people associate Wales with castles (and sheep, but they’re hardly a tourist destination…), and it’s true – there are plenty of magnificent examples of castles in Wales, in varying states of decay.

But there are a number of other fun activities in Wales, North Wales especially, so if you’re looking to get out of the house, we’ve rustled up this list to provide some inspiration!

Conwy Castle, Conwy

Okay, we said Wales has more than just castles, but bear with us – this is a particularly well-preserved example! It gives off an authentic medieval atmosphere with its dark stone, and the eight huge towers are overbearing and impressive.

The views from the castle – currently a World Heritage Site – will take your breath away, looking out over the mountains and sea, and the town walls which accompany the castle are some of the best in the world!

Tree Top Adventures, Snowdonia

Set in the beautiful Snowdonia park, Tree Top Adventures is perfect for any thrill-seeking family! From gorge walking to abseiling, scrambling to kayaking, there is a little something for everyone.

Deep in the Betws y Coed forest, Tree Top Adventures is also home to the awe inspiring Powerfan Plummet – the world’s highest Powerfan Parachute Simulator! There’s also a fully licensed bar and a Tree Top Trail, designed for the little ones. Visit their website for more information.

Llechwedd Slate Caverns, Blaenau Ffestiniog

Proud winners of all the biggest tourism awards, Llechwedd Slate Caverns offer a number of activities, both above ground and beneath! Firstly, you have the Deep Mine, where you’ll take a trip on the steepest passenger railway in the country, with the ghost of a Victorian miner as your tour guide!

After that, you can go on the Miners’ Tramway, then take a stroll through the Victorian Village – maybe you’ll grab some old sweets from the Corner Shop before popping into the Village Pub for a swift half!

Llangollen Wharf, Llangollen

There are many canals around the country such as Llangollen, but this one is unique. For a start, you can hop in a canal boat and get pulled along by Togg and Geordie, the resident horses, all the way up to Horseshoe Falls!

Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwyn Bay

With panoramic views of the beautiful Colwyn Bay, the Welsh Mountain Zoo is a unique experience fit for the whole family. One of the most popular attractions in North Wales, the zoo is home to brown bears, red pandas, Sumatran tigers, snow leopards and Albert and Nancy, the Mississippi alligators.

There’s also a children’s zoo, where the little ones can get to know their goats, ducks, rabbits and guinea pigs. Who would have thought all this was in Colwyn Bay?

Get in Touch with Nature – Five Natural Destinations

Jacob Taylor — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 02:58:23 +0000

For most people, traveling is all about seeing things that take your breath away, whether they are man-made, like the Empire State Building in New York, or a completely natural occurrence, such as the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia.

There are many great things to see in this world; so many amazing, natural sights that it is almost not worth your time to bother visiting any of the man-made ones.

If you’re into your nature and are looking for some destination inspiration, we’ve made a list from a random selection of some of the top sights.

In the UK – The Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim, Northern Ireland

Named after the Scottish giant, Benandonner, the legend of the Causeway says that it was created as he fled from the Irish warrior, Fionn mac Cumhaill. In reality, the Causeway is made up of roughly 40,000 interlocking columns, made from basalt created when a flow of lava met the sea.

Although that’s not quite as exciting, the Giant’s Causeway is still a remarkably beautiful sight, and remains Northern Ireland’s most popular tourist attraction, and is well worth a visit.

Victoria Falls (Photo credit: ebel)

Abroad – Victoria Falls, on the Border of Zambia and Zimbabwe

Named after Queen Victoria by David Livingstone, the first European to see the now famous waterfall, Victoria Falls is also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “the Smoke that Thunders”. You’ll see why when you get there, especially if you come in April, its most active month.

The largest waterfall in the world, it creates both a deafening roar and massive clouds of water vapour, coming together to form one truly spectacular sight.

In the UK – Ness Botanical Gardens, Merseyside, England

If exotic plants and flowers are more your cup of tea, then Ness Gardens is the place for you! With more than ten thousand different varieties of plant, you’re guaranteed to see many that you’ve never even heard of!

Enjoy a picnic with the family overlooking the majestic Dee estuary, but make sure you don’t miss the wildflower meadow! For more information, including the monthly plants of interest, click here.

Abroad – Uluru, Northern Territory, Australia

Uluru – also known as Ayers Rock – is perhaps the most iconic and recognisable of all Australia’s landmarks. Believed to be more than 500 million years old, it has a special mystical importance to the local Aborigine Aṉangu people, and is a home to various waterholes, ancient paintings and rock caves.

Due to its spiritual significance, climbing Uluru is not encouraged, but it is a beautiful thing to behold nevertheless, especially at sunset when it appears to glow a vivid red.

In the UK – Snowdonia, Gwynedd, Wales

Snowdonia was Wales’ first National Park, having been designated so in 1951, and covers more than 800 square miles of land. Obviously, it is home to Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, which was used by Sir Edmund Hillary to train for his ascent of Mount Everest.

Known as Eryri in Welsh, there are a number of things to see and do, including beaches, forests, lakes and even a handful of steam railways! It’s also the perfect place for bird watching – ornithologists and enthusiasts alike will love the whooper swans, merlin and rare grebe!

Rapid Roulette Takes Australia’s Casinos by Storm

Jacob Taylor — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 02:10:18 +0000

Australia has long been known as a nation with a very different culture than that of the rest of the world. Much of this surely has to do with their isolation in the Land Down Under. However, this has provided the world with many different aspects of life. One of these would include the types of entertainment we enjoy.

Gambling has become a popular pastime all over the world – and even more so in Australia, where an overwhelming percentage of adults enjoy the pastime.

Rapid Roulette

IMG_5819.JPG (Photo credit: joolie)

A new game was developed and introduced first at Melbourne’s Crown Casino. Known as Rapid Roulette, this game has attracted many players who frequent table games, as well as slots.

This game includes all the well-loved traditional features of roulette. This would include identical odds, a real roulette wheel as well as a dealer.To this some features have been added. These would include touchscreen terminals and expanded wagering.

Touch Screens

By adding the touchscreen terminals, the amount of labour needed to operate Rapid Roulette decreased. On the other hand, the number of players who could bet on one game increased thanks to the touchscreens. The game moves rather quickly, ranging from 36 to 45 games in one hour. This also has helped to maximize floor space in the casino, a problem that online casinos like Lucky Nugget rarely face.

Another benefit to Rapid Roulette is that it is helping to draw some players from the slot machines to table games by adding a technology element to traditional roulette.

It is expected that given the success of Rapid Roulette in Australia, that the video company holding the patent will likely put their product out into a global market expanding the game’s play. As Australia attempts to go from an isolationist view to more of a global one, the world will no doubt see more and more of Australia’s influence on the world.

Places to chill out and relax in Bali

Jacob Taylor — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 05:08:51 +0000

Bali has been called the ‘Spa capital of Asia’ and almost every hotel has its own spa facilities (usually open to non-residents) with day spas also widespread across the island. Many different treatments are offered, from basic massage in a small local salon to extensive treatment programmes in Bali’s new luxurious spa resorts. There are beachside spas, spas in mountain retreats and spas in beautiful river valleys, in fact everywhere tourists are found there will be a spa.

Many travellers to Bali spend some time enjoying health, beauty and relaxation treatments as part of their holiday. Prices vary quite widely, but are generally fairly low compared to other countries.

Bali’s spas offer an enormous range of treatments from basic massages and facials, to exotic body scrubs, wraps and polishes.

Traditional Balinese massage is an ancient healing system relying on deep pressure massage to break down tension in the tissues, improve blood flow and promote harmony of body, mind and spirit. It claims to improve circulation and calm nerves. Other traditional treatments include spice baths, herbal baths and milk baths, all of which can also be offered after a massage.

In addition to Balinese massage, Thai, Swedish, Lomi Lomi and Japanese Shiatsu massages can also be enjoyed in spas on the island, as well as many other varied treatments.

Anika Spa

Anika Spa in the Kuta district has been called the best spa in Bali. The range of treatment offered here includes ayurveda packages, stone massage and chocolate treatment as well as traditional Balinese massage.

Jari Menari

This spa in Seminyak specialises in quality massage techniques with an emphasis on rhythm, rather than other treatments and staff here have won many awards. Here you can experience gourmet massage which combines massage for a group followed by lunch or dinner in the rooftop dining area. Jari Menari means ‘Dancing Fingers’.

Bali Samadhi Spa

This spa in north Bali is situated in a mountain resort above the north coast. It is renowned for the rebalancing massage which lasts 90 minutes and can be tailored to individual needs. Ayurvedic and Thai massage are also available and non-residents can take advantage of packages which include the use of swimming pool and lunch or dinner.

Mango Tree Spa

The Mango Tree Spa at Kupu Kupu Barong Villas, Ubud has five different treatment villas, each with its own specialist treatments. You can enjoy a massage in a traditional bamboo tree house overlooking the breathtaking Ayung River Valley and the rice paddies.

Ubud Sari Health Resort

Here you can experience a ‘total tissue cleansing’ with organic and natural ingredients. There is a wide range of treatments including various programmes featuring raw foods, sometimes combined with juice fasting in this resort set among lush tropical gardens.

Jamu spa

This spa at Alam Kulkul Boutique Resort is set in calm surroundings with lovely gardens. The treatments on offer here include traditional massage, body scrub, flower baths and tropical nut facials.

The spas mentioned above are just a sample of what is available on the island and with all this choice Bali is definitely a wonderful destination for a re-energising spa holiday.

We hope you enjoy your stay in Bali and if you’re looking for flights where better to look than http://www.cheapflights.com.au/flights-to-Bali/ where you can compare for the best deal.

8 Reasons To Go On A Fitness Holiday

Jacob Taylor — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 05:00:07 +0000

Fitness holidays and bootcamps are a popular choice for holidaymakers looking to overhaul and rejuvenate themselves.

Here are 8 reasons why choosing a holiday that focuses on diet and exercise is the sensible option.

Group motivation

An exercise holiday means that you will be in close proximity every day to a number of other people who all share the common goal of wanting to improve their health and fitness. Individuals who may lack motivation and will power when going it alone may well find that the group mentality persuades them to stick with the program when they would give up if they were on their own. Not wanting to let the group down gets many people through a tricky patch.

Structured exercise programs

Exercise DVDs in your front room and visits to the local gym rely on you making a regular commitment which can be hard to do, particularly at the beginning of your new regime. A moment of weakness could allow you to skip a class or choose exercises that do not really suit your level of fitness. Having a well-structured exercise plan devised by committed professionals means that you will be exercising safely and properly.

Well planned nutrition

Wellness and fitness vacations focus on all aspects of health, not just exercising. Good nutrition will be built into your fitness holiday meaning that you don’t have to worry about choosing the right options on the menu as meals will be carefully designed to deliver the nutrition that your body needs in order to promote good health.

Promote good habits

The discipline that holidaymakers acquire during a fitness holiday has the potential to enable them to stick to a healthy lifestyle once they return to their homes. Filled with enthusiasm at the end of the holiday, many people choose to continue the commitment to a healthy diet and lifestyle with the knowledge they have gained.

Learn about your body

Professionals employed by fitness holiday companies are highly skilled and enthusiastic about health, fitness and wellbeing. Many of them will have studied for years to achieve their level of knowledge and understanding which they are only too keen to pass on to clients. A fitness holiday offers time to get to know your instructors allowing you to benefit from their experience.

Have fun and make friends

A shared passion is a wonderful basis for making new friends and many people who attend a fitness holiday speak about the camaraderie and happy atmosphere amongst fellow guests. Staying in touch with new friends also helps to motivate people to maintain their new healthy lifestyle.

Glow with good health

People returning from a fitness holiday often speak of the positive comments from friends and associates on their return. Toned muscles, glowing skin and shiny hair will tell everyone that your holiday has rejuvenated and refreshed you.

A Huge choice of destinations

First and foremost a fitness holiday is a welcome break from the usual routine. With the massive rise in popularity there is an increasing number of companies offering fitness breaks all around the globe. Choose from Britain, Europe, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and even the Far East. A fitness and wellness break can be as exotic and as culturally diverse as you could possibly wish for, with benefits that could stay with you forever.

Recommended bucket list 2013

Jacob Taylor — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 02:40:23 +0000

When it comes to travel, everyone has a list of places that they want to visit; luckily, the term ‘bucket list’ is no longer just associated with those things to be done before death. It is simply a list of things that a person wants to do.

To create a bucket list, all a person has to do is think about the types of places in the world that interest them and work out the ones that they want to see the most.

European destinations

France is filled with beautiful locations and Arles is one that should feature on any bucket list for travel. There are Roman ruins that have World Heritage Site status and the area also has an important place in art history, so there are galleries here that are worth the trip.

The Greek city of Athens is filled with ancient ruins, such as the Parthenon, and the opportunity to see these at close quarters should not be missed. Alternatively, a trip to Spain might be preferable to take in sights such as the Alhambra, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

The city of Vienna is one of the most beautiful in Europe and there are many reasons to go there, even if it is only to try one of the amazing cakes. It is filled with parks, galleries and museums, meaning that there is something for everyone. Austria is also home to cities such as Salzburg, where there are many attractions and beautiful sites to visit.

The rest of the world

The pyramids in Egypt are also a must for anyone who is interested in ancient history. As the Great Pyramid has the distinction of being the only surviving ancient wonder of the world, it has a strong attraction. Tours of the pyramids take place regularly and a cruise down the Nile might also appeal to some travelers.

Turkey might count as a European destination for some people, but it is actually officially part of Asia. The city of Istanbul is filled with exotic marketplaces and ancient buildings, yet it is also becoming a very modern and cosmopolitan place to be. Shopping here is a must and those who want to immerse themselves in local culture will find a large number of great restaurants to try.

Planning the trip

The bucket list can include things that the traveler wants to do once they arrive at their chosen destination. Working out even a sketchy schedule in advance is a good idea for those desperate to make sure that the most important things are not missed. For example, if a certain museum is one of the reasons for the trip then check the opening times and days in advance. If a certain restaurant appeals, book a table in advance to avoid disappointment. If the trip involves more than one destination, the help of a hotel booking agent is a good idea. Simple hotel booking will ensure that there is accommodation ready and waiting for the traveler once they arrive at their chosen destination.

Tarzan’s Treehouse vs Monsters, Inc: Differences Between Disneyland & Disney World

Jacob Taylor — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 14:44:19 +0000

Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Disneyland in California is the original home of the Disney experience and was opened to great acclaim in 1955. Walt Disney went on to plan another park for the East Coast – Walt Disney World, which finally opened in Florida in 1971 some five years after his death.

Though the two sites are closely acquainted, they are different in many respects. Here are a few examples of what to expect when visiting each one.

Size and scale

Hotels and other tourist attractions surround Disneyland, so its potential for expansion is hindered by its confined location. For this reason, Disneyland is smaller in scale than Disney World and contains fewer attractions. Nevertheless, Disneyland is still comprised of two theme parks, three hotels and a shopping zone, so there is plenty to see and do. Disney World, on the other hand, has four separate theme parks, 32 hotels, two water parks, five golf courses, a sports complex and two shopping zones.

Rides and attractions

Bigger is not necessarily better when it comes to the space taken up by rides and attractions – the more intimate Disneyland has 57 different attractions and rides, compared to Disney World’s Magic Kingdom theme park, which has 41. This means that Disneyland is easier to navigate – there are just 100 yards between the entrances to its two theme parks, whereas visitors to Disney World need to take a 10 to 30 minute car ride to travel from one theme park to another.

Unique attractions and special rides

Disney tickets will provide families with different experiences at each of the two sites. There are certain attractions which both parks have in common – for example, Pirates of the Caribbean. However, whereas Disney World has the Legend of the Lion King puppet show, the Hall of Presidents and Galaxy Search, Disneyland has Indiana Jones, Alice in Wonderland and the longstanding favorite, Matterhorn bobsleds.

Tarzan’s Treehouse in Disneyland is popular with kids who love to climb and play at having an adventure and is also a hit with moms and dads who like their children to have lots of exercise so that they sleep better at night. Built like a giant jungle gym, there are no height restrictions and kids can spend as long as they like in Tarzan’s treetop home.

Over in Disney World, the Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor provides a very different interactive experience. Exhibited in a 400-seat theater, the performance features animated digital puppets voiced by live actors who are hidden from audience view. Kids can contribute jokes to the largely unscripted show or chat with the characters and performers.

Photo credit: Wikipedia

Best time to visit

Families may need to consider geographical location when deciding on the best time to visit the parks, but since both Florida and California enjoy warm summers and mild winters, it’s possible to take a trip during almost any time of year. At the height of summer, temperatures average between 85 to 87 degrees in Anaheim, California, which some very young children may find uncomfortable. In Florida, the humidity is greater and rain is more likely to fall between June and August.

Best Valentine’s Day Vacation: Paris, France – The Place You Wanna Be!

Jacob Taylor — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:46:32 +0000

One of the most popular holiday and weekend break destinations is the city of love, Paris. Valentine’s Day is just around the corner too, so why not whisk your significant other to the most romantic destination in the world?

Take a trip up the wonderfully constructed Eiffel Tower and take in the incredible views from the top. Paris is renowned for its rich culture, from art galleries to cuisine, from beautiful architecture to great festivals; this city will fulfill everyone’s desires.

Have a look here for some great cheap flights to Paris and we will see you for some fantastic food and culture soon.

Paris Workout (Photo credit: Nimages DR)

Culture

If you are a culture vulture, you’ll think you have died and gone to heaven. Visit the Louvre gallery, home to the Mona Lisa, and then take in Picasso’s work at the Musee Picasso, finishing off the day enriching yourself with some modern art at the d’Art Moderne.

If you still crave culture, spend an evening at Paris’ biggest opera house, Opera Garnier and the modern Opera Bastille, soaking up the ballet and classical music. Theatre is another huge part of Paris’ lifestyle, the Bobino and Theatre Mogador having seen legends such as Georges Brassens and Charles Aznavour playing there.

French Cuisine

French cuisine is some of the finest food you’ll ever experience, especially tasting Michelin Star quality fare from the top chefs in the world. There are many superb restaurants in Paris where you’ll find mouth-watering menus, and if you like a good glass of vino, then you’ll be taken care of – virtually all restaurants have experts that can select a decent wine to match with your particular dish. If you are hungry an on the go, you’ll find unique little shops that sell the finest pastries and chocolates, spices and cheeses, perfect for picking up a snack.

Photo credit: Wikipedia

Designer Fashion

After a day spent shopping in designer shops, join in the Paris Festival, its history going back to the Middle Ages. If you visit Paris in October you can experience the Paris Motor show and the Nuit Blanch, a celebration of art, food and culture. Visit Paris in the summer and you have a choice of Bastille Day (France’s National Day) and Rock en Seine, a celebration of pop and rock.

Women will love the fashion Paris has to offer. With top designers such as Chloe, Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent and Givenchy having there design houses here, the choice for top fashion is endless.

Whatever your desires, Paris will satiate with its rich history, culture and modern forms of entertainment.

5 Best Things About Travelling in the USA

Rudy Fischer — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 23:56:47 +0000

What makes America one of the most popular countries for holidays is the sheer variety this country has to offer. Whether you love to explore the history of the places you visit or love to lie on the beach with a cocktail, you will find the perfect destination for you!

Here are 5 destinations well known for the variety they bring!

New York City and Restaurant Week

There is no way you can do a list of top destinations in America without mentioning NYC! Full of diversity, you can visit the Statue of Liberty for a history lesson, shop on 5th Avenue for your spending fix and watch a musical on Broadway.

However for a more unusual NYC break, why not come during Restaurant week! Lets face it, New York boasts some of the worlds best dining establishments that come with a hefty price tag. However for 1 week of each season you can come and enjoy Michelin star food at a fraction of the price. With over 200 restaurants participating you can go on a culinary trip around the Big Apple!

Eateries include Michelin-starred Café Boulod and the Fleur de Sel

Las Vegas to LA

Ok so this is technically 2 separate destinations, but they are 2 of the most popular so why not include them both in your trip rather than having to choose!

Start with Las Vegas! The lights, sounds and the sheer decadence of the strip is not to be missed! Whatever your budget you can stay in the 5 Star MGM Grand or a motel off the strip and still enjoy the casinos, desert and fun! Why not spend the evening simply wandering the strip, dine at the Triple Georg Grill- the best steaks and fun dining, and then hit the Bellagio for some high rolling fun!

After your Las Vegas fun, rent a car and take the desert drive to LA. The drive will take you past some of the most impressive canyons on earth and stop off at Bodie – a Wild West ghost town that is not to be missed!

Once in LA you can tour the Hollywood sign and possibly see some famous faces.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu is renowned for surfing – some of the biggest waves ever recorded have been right here! But there is more to Honolulu than meets the eye, with a rich history, there are many magical historical sites that cry out to be investigated!

Take a trip to Shangri La to enjoy Dorris Dukes 1930’s historical home/museum filled with exquisite Islamic art or hike up to the Koko Head Crater and take the climb to the top to see magnificent views of the island.

Alaska and Whale Watching

Ok so the freezing temperatures may not be everyone’s first thought for a holiday, but imagine waking up in the morning to views of humpback whales, seals and even bears! For those who love getting back to nature and enjoy learning about local cultures, then Alaska is definitely for you.

Stay in one of the beautiful princess Lodges, found throughout Alaska and enjoy a warm welcome and a romantic atmosphere!

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is the perfect destination for all history lovers out there! With a fantastic blend of traditions from native America, the Wild West and Old Mexico, there is a fantastic diversity to all of the sites to be seen here!

Note worthy places to visit during your stay are the Mission San Jose; a mission founded in 1720 by the Spanish that is now a stunning historical museum, or have a meal at the Colonial Room Restaurant (in the Menger Hotel) for a classic take on good, wholesome food!

5 Cheap Winter Ski Holiday Destinations

Jacob Taylor — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 03:59:05 +0000

Are all your funds tied up in bills and other necessities such as food and fuel?

Do you need a getaway that will not break the bank, some place that will rejuvenate your soul?

Don’t worry, there are plenty of New Year’s Holiday Loans still available out there, so if Skiing, skating, snowboarding, shopping and more are what you’re searching for, check out these less expensive destinations.

Kopaonik, Serbia

Among the largest mountain range in central Serbia lies Kopaonik, a historical town rich in mining heritage and trading. The area is filled with old churches, monasteries, and fortresses beckoning for your imagination and discovery. The main reason to visit Kopaonik now is for the skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.

The resort lies at 6,617 feet (2017 meters) above sea level and features Pancic’s Peak within the National Park system of Serbia. There are 27 trails, with 18 kilometres of cross-country trails, and multiple lifts. The entire park is characterized by its extraordinary natural beauty: vast expanses of grassland, forests composed of a wide variety of tree species, beauty spots, and deep river gorges.

Poiana-Brasov, Romania

Considered the most attractive ski resort in Romania, Poiana-Brasov is in the Prahova Valley. There is snow for about six months of the year and is often compared to the beauty of Chamoix, Zakopane or Cortinia D’Ampezzo.

The resort features modern facilities – an artificial skating ring, Olympic ski-track, 9 slopes and low cost options compared to Italy, Germany or Switzerland. When you are ready to kick off your skis, Poiana Brasov is fun, lively and great value for money. There are a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and discos as well as swimming, horseback riding and bowling. For authentic Romanian evenings, visitors should try to experience “Sura Dacilor (Dacian’s Shed) or “Coliba Haiducilor” (The Outlaws Hut). Both restaurants have a lively atmosphere with Romanian folk music and serve delicious local and plentiful cuisine.

Popova Shapka, Macedonia

The Priest’s Hat, Popova Shapka was named for the legend of the orthodox priest who was killed and martyred while visiting parishioners in the area but now welcomes tourists to the mountain for winter fun and adventure. In the northwest of Macedonia, Popova Sapka is in the beautiful Sar Mountains at 5840 feet (1780 meters).

The resort often hosts the European and Balkan Ski Championships as well as the Sar Cup with 6 ski lifts, slopes and a capacity of about 8,000 skiers per hour, offering ski-schools, services and rentals. Convenient and affordable lodging await visitors to this breathtaking mountain.

Livigno, Italy

With 74 trails, of which 60% can be enjoyed by virtually anyone, one of the most economical Alpine style ski resorts on earth with an old world flare can only be found in Livigno, Italy. Nestled in the Italian Alps at an altitude of 2797 meters, with a vertical drop of 981 meters, this exceptional area offers almost 6 months of high altitude skiing, with over 200 shops, hotels, bars, and restaurants, as one of the most preferred ski destinations favoured by globetrotting skiers and snowboarders alike. Its prices are far below the rest of Europe due to its “Duty Free” status.

For the more adventurous snowboarders, you can hike up to find some of the most beautiful open powder fields on both sides of the valley. For the newcomers, they offer ski-schools, short lifts and heaps of immaculate “beginner” terrain. Outdoor activities include a half pipe and fun park full of jumps, snowmobiles, horse-riding, sleigh rides, ski disking, tobogganing, ice go-carting, husky sledding, Bormio Baths (hot springs) and paragliding (from February onwards.) Plus with loads of indoor fun like discos, karaoke, bowling, solariums, swimming, massages, spas and an arcade with climbing walls, Livigno, Italy is sure to capture your heart.

Borovets, Bulgaria

On the Rila Mountain in Bulgaria (formerly known as Chamkoria), Borovets offers an alpine type resort with well-groomed grounds for skiing, snowboarding, night-skiing, cross-country, ski jumps and biathlon.

The resort always features luxury, comfort, and affordability for visitors from all over the world. At an elevation of 4429 feet (1350 meters), Borovets offers 18 ski lifts, a snowboard park, indoor pool, bowling, skidoo, walking trails and exciting after ski entertainment. Bulgaria offers a little bit for everyone, especially those visitors looking for skiing and winter fun on a budget.

Break away from the pricey slopes in your usual haunts, and try these slopes throughout the world, you might just find a new home away from home.

The Finest Driving Destinations in Europe

Jacob Taylor — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 03:49:26 +0000

When foreigners think of driving in Europe, they tend to picture ancient cities with cramped and crowded streets. The reality, however, is far more breath taking.

Europe is home to a mix of charming countryside, sweeping vistas and grand cities. With so much to see, the best way to take in Europe is from the seat of a comfortable, and preferably powerful, car. These are some of the best driving destinations in Europe, based on beauty and road quality.

The Black Forest, Germany

Germany’s Black Forest is an area steeped in history. It served as the setting for many of Grimms’ Fairy Tails and is still home to quaint villages that seem removed from time. The forest itself is a mixture of black firs, meadows and snow-capped mountains in a region famed for its cuckoo clocks and tourism.

The roads of the Black Forest travel down river valleys and along mountainsides, offering both stunning views and magical backdrops straight from a children’s story. Jump in the BMW and head down the Hochstraße, which winds some 100 kilometres past many villages and inns along the way.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Italy’s Amalfi Coast is a dense tangle of cliffs and the houses that perch along them, overlooking the glittering Gulf of Salerno. The region smells faintly of the many lemon trees lining the roads, which twist and turn perilously over staggering drops. The risks of dodging buses and other tourists along the Amalfi Drive, which dates back to the Roman Era, are well worth the experience, but public transportation is a more relaxing experience for uncertain drivers.

Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning its historical centre and atmosphere has been preserved for the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike. Nestled among the Alps, it is a popular skiing destination, as well as the birthplace of famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and home to many fine examples of Baroque architecture. Much of “The Sound of Music” was filmed in and around Salzburg.

The stunning Grossglockner High Alpine Road begins in Salzburg and is a twisting route that takes you past the Pasterze Glacier and Groblockner, Austria’s biggest mountain.

Bergen to Oslo, Norway

The rail line from Oslo to Bergen is one of the most popular in Europe, but taking the road can be just as rewarding. The drive lasts approximately seven hours of meandering through lush mountains, flowing waterfalls and snowy peaks. Although it can be done quickly in one continuous drive, it is better to take things slowly and stop in at the many villages along the way to absorb the scenery.

La Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos, Spain

Translating to “the route of the white villages,” la ruta de los pueblos blancos is a drive through the Cadiz province of Spain. The towns have gained their distinctive name because of the lime coating their walls to protect inhabitants from the hot sun. Standing out against the beautiful Spanish countryside, these former frontier outposts against the Moors are a step back in time to an older Spain. Many of the streets are so narrow that large cars have trouble driving down them, but exploring the plazas and marketplaces are worth the effort of finding a parking space.

Skiing Off the Beaten Track

Jacob Taylor — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 17:33:52 +0000

Everyone thinks of the Rockies and Appalachians in the United States and Canada, The Alps in the Pyrenees in Europe.

Slopes in Hawaii, Lebanon, South American, and Africa are not the first holiday paradises that fill the imaginations of skiers. Let’s get off the known path and take a turn in the woods to seek out the path unknown.

Mauna Kea, Hawaii

Sand, sun, surfing, and bikini-clad babes are usually the images invoked when thinking of Hawaii; not skiing. At 13,803 feet (4207 meters) Mauna Kea (White Mountain) volcano stands proudly on the big island of Hawaii boasting a height greater than Breckenridge, Colorado in the continental United States. There is not a ski resort at Mauna Kea but rather a beach resort but Mauna Kea that can occasionally be skied.

The backcountry of Mauna Kea is a well kept secret of the locals, probably because there are no groomed slopes, ski lifts, or lodges to retreat to during the winds that can reach speeds of 80–110 km/h (50–68 mph). East of the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory, visitors will find the Poi Bow, the popular site for competitions held once or twice a year, depending on weather conditions. The mountain beckons visitors to it from its snow-covered summit, guiding them up the one road that leads to its heights.

Mzaar, Lebanon

Leaving behind the thoughts of the Aloha beaches of Hawaii, adventurers turn their attention to Mzaar Lebanon. Once considered the war capital of the world, Lebanon pulled itself from the rubble and ashes. Well known for its confectionery Lebanon hides a sweet slope of sugary powder in the resort of Faraya-Mzaar, the largest and most developed of Lebanese skiing resorts.

Years of war left Lebanon with scars, but it is increasingly safe and healing in a centre of beauty and winter fantasy land The resort has 42 hills that extend 50 miles (80 kilometres), 11 lifts that expand to Jabal Dib (7531 feet, 2296 meters; mountain of the wolf) to the north and Mzaar (8085 feet, 2465 meters) to the south. Along with traditional alpine skiing, people can practice ski-doo, night skiing, snowboarding. Live shows include ski and fashion events that feature G-string models hired to promote the resort.On the top of Mzaar slope, upon exiting the chairlift, there is a view over the Bekaa valley, Mount Hermon of the Anti-Lebanon and other peaks like Zaarour, Laqlouq and the Cedars.

There may be some special requirements for entry into the country for Americans, Canadians, and some Europeans, so be sure to check before travelling.

Cerro Catedral, Argentina

In the southern hemisphere, Cerro Catedral (Mount Cathedral) offers snowy refreshment in June through August and summer escape December through February for those on their much-needed ski holidays. Just 12.5 miles (20 kilometres) from Bariloche Cerro Catedral is a house of worship for skiers and snowboarders that visit the resort to worship the snow gods. Name after the granite spires that jut out of the mountain Cerro Catedral reminds visitors and locals alike of a gothic church.

The resort boasts the largest ski terrain in South America, about half of which is off-piste (back country) skiing. While lift lines are a challenge at Cerro Caterdral the resort is in the process of modernization and updating. Currently there are 37 lifts, some high speed, some old slow double chairs, and a handful of T-bars, but in comparison to other lifts in South America, Cerra Catedral is flying high.

The village at the base of the slopes is a quaint home to locals and visitors alike with a range of hostels and 5-star luxury accommodations. Bariloche has nightlife, chocolate confectioneries, a range of restaurants and various shopping areas.

AfriSki, Lesotho

In the Maloti Mountains of the southern African region of Lesotho boarding South Africa, AfriSki is the only skiing resort in the heart of the Maluti-Drakensbery Transfrontier Park. Rich in the history of Africa, Lesotho is a democratic, sovereign, independent country surrendered by the republic of South Africa.

The resort offers a wide variety of accommodations including luxury chalets, lodges, hostels (backpackers), wedding suites and conference facilities. AfriSki has 2 snow runs, a terrain park, and a vertical drop of 1000 feet (305 meters). Visitors will find the design of AfriSki similar to that of a European ski village.

Oukaimeden Resort, Morocco

In Morocco, the Oukaimeden Resort is just south of Marrakech in the high Atlas Mountains, which boasts snow-covered peaks in January and February. The accommodations do not feature too many catered ski chalets but there are two hotels to spend a night or two at, while you feast on the slopes. The rustic backcountry will surely inspire the adventurer in you.

Top 5 Scandinavian Ice Hotels You Can Enjoy Year Round

Jacob Taylor — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 17:21:24 +0000

Taking a trip to Scandinavia is exciting and unique.

In order to make your trip even more unique and unforgettable, you could consider staying in one of several Ice Hotels.

Icehotel, Kiruna, Sweden

Staying in the Icehotel is a great experience. When you think of ice, you may think that it is going to be extremely cold, but it is not as cold as you may be thinking. Dressing in layers is a good way to ensure that you stay warm on your winter sun holidays.

There are also rooms within the hotel that are warm and cosy. Ensuring that you have the warm clothing and boots that you need is a priority in the Icehotel. If you do not have your own, they do have extras for you to use. There are numerous excursions you can go on as well, including dogsledding and snow biking.

Alta Igloo Hotel, Norway

The Alta Igloo Hotel is a beautiful place to stay. So much time and effort is put into the ice sculptures that look like creative works of art.

The Ice Hotel is kept cold to ensure that the ice will not melt, but all of the guests that stay within the hotel sleep in sleeping bags that are rated for -30 degrees on top of reindeer hides, so they will not get cold. There is a restaurant, showers, sauna, hot tubs, and more in a service centre next to the hotel.

Bjorli Ice Lodge, Norway

The Bjorli Ice Lodge is in a perfect location for any nature lover. It is settled within a national park and has the river Rauma running near it and all of the wildlife, such as moose and reindeer, surrounding it.

The suites have been created with great attention to detail and artistic design. While laying warm and cosy in your sleeping bag, you can look around the icy room and see all of the amazing artistic work that has been put into its design. When you are ready to warm up a bit you can head to the round fire hut or Ice Lodge’s Ice Bar.

Ice Hotel in Hunderfossen, Norway

The Ice Hotel in Hunderfossen is a great hotel to spend a night in. When it was built, they used more snow than ice, making it different from many others that are built from more ice than snow.

There are numerous winter activities to take part in as well as an ice bar and fairy-tale castle within the same park. For anyone that would like to see the hotel but would prefer not to spend the night within the hotel, there are tours available.

Igloo Village in Saariselka, Finland

Igloo Village is unique in the way that it boasts igloos and not hotels. Each igloo is created out of snow and is sure to give you many memories and an experience that you will never forget.

Guests that stay within an igloo are given a warm down sleeping bag along with woollen socks and a hood to ensure that they will remain warm throughout their stay.

Holiday in The Wonderland, Nassau | Activities, Shopping & Sightseeing Ideas

Jacob Taylor — Fri, 28 Dec 2012 04:19:49 +0000

Nassau is one of the finest holiday destinations in the world, where you can experience the flawless beauty of nature. Nassau is the capital and largest city in Bahamas. You can call it as a paradise on earth.

The city is known for its rich culture and tradition. The city has its local festival – Junkanoo, a colorful festival filled with street parades, drums, and whistles. The festival occurs on December 26 and January 1. The city also offers plenty of attractions starting from colonial architecture to modern eye-pleasing attractions. Some of the most popular attractions include Bay Street, Ardastra Gardens, National Art Galleries of Bahamas, Atlantis Casino, Crystal Palace Casino, Fort Charlotte, Queen’s Staircase, Versailles Gardens and Cloisters, and many more. Look for economical airline deals to Nassau and enjoy a fantastic vacation on the city.

Enjoy activities & shopping

You can also enjoy plenty of interesting activities, while vacationing in the city. Shopping is the foremost activity you can enjoy in Nassau. The city has variety of shopping venues from high-end shopping malls to chic boutiques. You can shop for trendy items at a reasonable rate in the city. The top shopping venues in the city include Kennedy Gallery, Straw Market, Bahamacraft Centre, The Plait Lady Straw Work, Bay Street, and lots more. Book airline offering cheap tickets online and enjoy an economical trip to the city.

Straw Market, Bahamas (Photo credit: Sam Beddoes)

Visit Straw Market

Don’t forget to visit the Straw Market, which is popular among visitors. As a tourist to the city you can shop for trendy handmade merchandise, local antique crafts, and other local items. Search cheap flights to Nassau and book cheap tickets to the city. Book your tickets in advance. Early booking attracts several discounts and offers.

Also, make sure you visit Bay Street at least once during your stay in Nassau. You can shop for designer clothing and other luxurious items in Bay Street on duty-free prices. Bay Street is Nassau’s prime shopping district.

You can also try plenty of water-sport activities in Nassau. Enjoy deep water swim at Dolphin Cay, try scuba diving, try Exuma Powerboat Adventure, enjoy SUB Bahamas Adventure, swim with dolphin in the blue lagoon, and several others. Search for cheap flights to Nassau online and book tickets immediately.

Nassau, an island city is blessed with plenty of glittering beaches. Some of the popular beaches you should visit include Cable Beach, Western Esplanade (Junkanoo Beach), the beach of Atlantis, and lots more. Book cheap tickets to Nassau and enjoy a wonderful trip to the city.

You can reserve seat in Aeromexico airline, since they are on of the most famous one offering world-class flying amenities at cheap rates. Make Aeromexico flight reservations and be relaxed. It is good to book air tickets in advance to avail number of discounts and offers. Book Aeromexico flight tickets and enjoy your trip to Nassau.

Before, visiting the city, make sure you do some research. If you are traveling in an unknown city, it s good the general etiquette about the city. Happy Vacationing in Nassau!

Best Time of the Year to Go on a Cruise, Cheaply

Charli Radke — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 16:56:28 +0000

The best deals on cruises are during non-peak times when kids are busy in school and the weather is cooler or wetter. But travelers willing to be flexible can snag super off-season rates and often enjoy surprisingly good weather. Another advantage to traveling off-peak is avoiding huge crowds and long lines, which are often less pleasant than a brisk breeze.

When to Get Cheap European Cruises

Image via Flickr by Kenneth Cole Schneider

Cruises in Europe include several packages. Generally, the cheapest are available in the late spring and early fall, at the beginning and end of the season. Mediterranean cruises offer the best deals in April and November. March and December are the best times to score a deal in the Greek Islands or Canary Islands. Book your Northern European and Baltic cruises in May or October.

When to Get Cheap Hawaiian Cruises

Image via Flickr by Flying Cloud

The best deals on Hawaiian cruises come up November through February. However, avoid the busy holidays if you’re looking for the best prices. Book early, at least six months ahead of departure, to assure the lowest prices. Calculate all costs, including airfare, before budgeting your trip.

When to Get Cheap Mexican Cruises

Image via Flickr by Gorski

Mexican cruises offer their best prices in fall. Often, travelers can get super last-minute deals. Since cruise lines aren’t sure how many cabins are booked until after the final payment deadline (60-90 days before departure) they often find openings after this date. You can get super deals when ships are trying to fill up empty slots.

When to Get Cheap Alaskan Cruises

Image via Flickr by Kiskadee 3

The best time to snag great deals on Alaskan cruise packages is in May and September. If you’re trying to snag one of those last-minute deals, be flexible about departure dates, what type of cabin you prefer and other details. People willing to overlook some things get the best prices.

When to Get Cheap Bermuda Cruises

Image via Flickr by Wendy Piersall

Since Bermuda enjoys a temperate climate and fewer hurricanes than the Caribbean, there are more times when travel is both cheap and pleasurable. You can get the lowest prices in April through June (earlier is better) and in September and November (later is better).

When to Get Cheap Caribbean Cruises

Image via Flickr by Nouhailler

There are two times during the year to score cheap cruises in the Caribbean, late summer through fall and again in December through early spring. If you’re booking during the fall, keep in mind hurricane season can always rock your plans. Check the cruise line’s policy regarding cancellations, rescheduling and other potential mishaps.

When to Get Cheap New England and Canadian Cruises

Image via Flickr by Hub

The best deals on these cruises are offered in May through October. You might have heard that you can score super deals by showing up at the ship on departure and grabbing up unsold cabins, but this is no longer possible. Post 9/11 laws require cruise ships to have a complete listing of passengers days before departure. Always make your plans ahead of time.

Finally, be sure you’re considering overall value when booking a cruise, not just the bottom-line price. Take into consideration available discounts, such as upgrading to a nicer cabin, extra on-board credits, prepaid gratuities and free or discounted shore excursions. Above all, plan ahead and be open-minded. The best trips are the ones we fuss and fret over the least.

References:

Top Ten Ways to Spend your Costa Rican Vacation

Jacob Taylor — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 03:11:20 +0000

Looking to plan your next family vacation and can’t seem to decide which dream location is right for you?

Why don’t you take a little advice from “The Happiest Country On Earth” and visit the celestial paradise of Costa Rica. Known for years as a safe, adventure filled, tropical travel destination, newest studies show that the people of Costa Rica are actually the happiest people, in the WORLD!

I’m sure its not hard to imagine why but here are 10 great reasons why you should chose Costa Rica as your next family adventure vacation destination.

10. Have you seen the face of a monkey up close? If no, then that should be a great reason right there. A Costa Rica Vacation boasts some of the most diverse wildlife from wild cats, monkeys, sloths, tropical reptiles, birds, and more. Get up-close and personal with the animals that cover the pages of National Geographic magazines at your dentist’s office, and see for yourself what all the fuss is about.

9. You can actually visit a 5,437-foot volcano. Sure, Arenal is a resting volcano but that doesn’t make it any less interesting. It has still been the most active volcano of Costa Rica for the past 43 years. The volcano hosts some of the most divine hot springs you could imagine, varieties to fit every budget and style. You can also check out the volcano at a quicker pace by joining a zip-lining canopy tour through the treetops. If you love Arenal be sure to check out the other six active and more than 60 dormant volcanoes of the country. Now that is a HOT tourist destination.

8. The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica offers the local Caribbean styles, with delicious coconut seafood fares, mellow pura vida lifestyles, and lots and lots of snorkeling. The beautiful reefs of the Caribbean offer spotted rays, nurse sharks, lionfish, puffers, and some of the most magnificent reefs you can imagine. Just a short trek across the country is well worth it to visit the white sand beaches and crystal blue waters of Puerto Viejo.

7. Speaking of crystal blue waters, you have to check out Rio Celeste. Located in Tenorio Volcano National Park is some of the bluest water you will ever come across. Tenorio Volcano National Park is one of the newer National Parks and is making a lot of noise as a must see tourist hot spot. The frothy blue cascading waterfall and lagoons are caused by the natural combination of sulfur mixed with the calcium carbonate combining in the streams above. A must see slice of natural beauty, preserved from tourists, to be maintained in all its beauty.

6. Another tourist destination not too far from Arenal and Rio Celeste is Monteverde. Also known as the cloud forest, for the constant cloud cover that this rainforest receives, is a beautiful way to experience the real meaning of “rain” forest. The misty cover engulfs coffee plantations, monkeys, and the small town of Santa Elena. At the altitude of 4,662-ft, the fog helps supply water to over 100 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, tens of thousands of insect species, and over 2,500 species of plants, 420 of which are orchids. Take a canopy tour, trek the trails, visit the museums, or walk the skylines. It is a great way to see the forest whether it’s from above the clouds or below the treetops.

5. If you want to see how the city works in a developing country you should check out the capital, San Jose. Surrounded by the lush green mountains and valleys makes this a beautiful city to visit. With the major international airport located there you can check out some of the city life on your way to your Costa Rica Vacation Rental.

4. While in San Jose you should check out a local soccer game. Whether you choose to support last years champs La Liga, Alajuelnse, at their home stadium in Alajuela or are a fan of their bitter rivals Saprissa, at the new and vibrant stadium in San Jose. Either way you are sure to have an amazing time. Remember no alcoholic drinks allowed in the stadiums, so do as the locals do and enjoy your adult beverages before hand. You can also pick up a jersey for the kids at a great price from any of the many vendors on the streets the day of the game.

3. Anyone looking to get in some good waves during their Costa Rica vacation should check out Tamarindo Beach. Located just a 5 minute walk away from your Tamarindo Vacation Rental, you will find the pristine beach break offering perfect lefts and rights all day long. Tamarindo also has smaller areas for the beginners and a river mouth for the more experienced surfer. Tamarindo is one of the main locations where the original Endless Summer was filmed and home of the famous surfer Robert August.

2. You should also check out the stunning Osa Peninsula. Drake Bay and Corcovado National Park, an ecotourism location for tourists looking to really experience the jungle and nature that Costa Rica offers. As one of the most bio diverse locations in the world you will be sure to see tons of unique flora and fauna, animals, reptiles, birds, and insects.

1. Of course you also have to check out Tortugero National Park, a famous breeding ground on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica where four of the eight species of the world’s marine turtles come to lay their eggs. There you can also check out the endangered West Indian manatee. Quite the sight to see all of the moms laying their eggs, and even more amazing watching the little baby turtles hatching and making their way back to the ocean.

No matter what is on your list of places to see, and things to do during you next Costa Rica vacation, rest assured it will be one of the happiest places, you have ever been!

5 Reasons Why South Africa Should Be Your Next Family Vacation Destination

Jacob Taylor — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 03:02:18 +0000

Are you planning your next family vacation, and trying to pick a location that will please everyone?

Well kids aren’t that difficult, we all know that they like the zoo, hands on activities, getting outside where they can run and play, and the beach of course. Now, if only all of these activities could be packed into one, family foolproof vacation! Well now they are.

Take an adventure vacation to Cape Town Africa and give the kids a vacation they will be talking about for years to come. Here are 5 great reasons to plan a family adventure in the south of Africa.

5. You know how kids have that unique quality of fearlessness. Sure they want to be close to mom or dad during the “danger” but all in all if you are close by, they can do pretty much anything! Capitalize on this youthful adventurism and take the kids not to a zoo, but on a real life South African safari. Kids can learn about the wild life as you tour next to zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, lions, cheetahs, hippos and rhinos. Let their next show and tell include photos of them searching for wild beasts in the great outdoors on the best family vacation ever!

4. Penguins, In Africa? What is a real life zoo without a stop at the penguin exhibit? Rest assured your family will get their fill of these cheeky little animals at your visit to Boulders Beach. The sea here is good for swimming and there are giant boulders that make for good shade from the sun. When your kids can tell their friends that their parents took them to swim with Penguins on a South African safari tour, you will officially become the coolest parents in the neighborhood. The penguin colony of about 3000, are flightless birds of course, so you can get fairly close to capture some photos of them. Here you can also teach kids about good tourism. Look but don’t touch, and take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints, and kill nothing but time.

3. Travel through wine country. I know what you are thinking, how is this a family friendly adventure? Just make it a bike tour. Kids will pedal though Stellenbosch through the fields of wine grapes, soaking up some sunshine, enjoying the fresh air, and just touring through the historic sites of Stellenbosch. When you all stop for a break, and a mouthwatering lunch at one of the local wineries, the family can eat, while the parents can sample some delicious African Local Wines. To also enjoy yourselves during your South Africa vacation isn’t an offence; in fact, the perfect vacation can indeed please everyone.

2. Soak up the view from Table Mountain. The great thing about the view from atop Table Mountain is that it is just a short tram ride to the top. While it can be fun to explore with the kids and spend the day hiking, it can also be a bit exhausting, and hard to keep spirits high when the kids get tired, hungry, or bored. The luxury of the tram makes this an easy and spectacular way to see the views below. Table Mountain was also officially declared one of the New7Wonders of Nature back in 2007. The tram also boasts green initiatives so you don’t have to worry about a negative impact on the environment during your relaxing cable ride to the top. Don’t forget your camera, because the views from the peak are simply breathtaking.

1. After the nice relaxing ride up to the top of Table Top Mountain, you can switch gears a bit and take a rafting tour down the Sabi River. A ride calm enough that the whole family can enjoy, with just enough rapids to get everyone’s adrenalin going a bit. With an experienced and qualified team of guides your family will be completely safe, and ready to enjoy their adventure tour down the Sabi River.

So there you have it. 5 great experiences waiting to be explored by you and your family on their next South Africa Safari Tour. Wild African animals, swimming at Boulder Beach with penguins, wine tours, taking in the view of Table Top Mountain, and of course a little excitement during a whitewater rafting ride down the Sabi River. Enjoy the dream destination of a lifetime and take your kids on an adventure they will never forget.

5 Reasons for an Action Packed Vacation

Jacob Taylor — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 02:52:00 +0000

When dreaming of your Costa Rica adventure vacation there of course must be images of beach side cocktails, long relaxing siestas in the poolside hammock, or days and days soaking up the warm sunshine.

5. As much as everyone loves being able to relax and unwind during a vacation, it is important to remember that the body actually craves activity. Not necessarily a 5 AM jog first thing in the morning, but even the most subtle of activities from a nice hike through the rain forest, or a bike ride through the beach town of your vacation rental, or even just the walk along the beach to view the sunset. While we all like to rest during vacation, it’s important not to become completely comatose during your days in tropical paradise.

4. Choose vigorous activities help balance out the more gluttonous parts of a vacation. Sure, who doesn’t like to try all of the different gastronomies of a city, enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, and of course order that plate of flambé! To make sure that you don’t come home looking bloated and puffy, rent a bike rather then a car, take the stairs rather then an elevator, and try hiking the volcanoes rather then boarding the shuttle to the top.

3. Adventurous activities are often times easier on the environment at well. The option of surfing rather then renting a jet ski or taking a boat ride eliminates the need for gasoline, and also gives your body some great exercise. Green activities like mountain biking, snorkeling, zip-lining, and nature tours also show the beauties of nature, which help remind tourists why we need to preserve these amazing ecosystems.

2. Being adventurous is a great way to get out of your comfort zone. Sure, you like boat rides, fishing with friends, and enjoying the nightlife on your vacations, but when you step out of your box and try something new like zip-lining, kite boarding, paddle boarding, or repelling down a waterfall, you just might find some new passions. At first you might have to face some fears, but sometimes the adrenalin, and accomplishing something you never thought you could, makes for the best stories and experiences.

1. Actively exploring nature and searching for adventure is so much more exciting then just showing up for the ride. Take a zoo for example; of course it is cool to see all the animals and exotic reptiles and insects, but how much cooler is it to be taking a hike though the jungle to stumble upon a rare type of tree frog, an adorable howler monkey, or maybe even a jungle cat. It might be harder to get a snap shot in nature, but if you do, it is that much more of an accomplishment.

When visiting a tropical dream destination, and taking a Costa Rican Adventure Tour you are sure to come across tons of beautiful locations, lots of adventure activities, and great opportunities for everlasting memories. As appealing as it may sound to relax poolside reading your favorite book each day, you will be so grateful you got outside to explore a bit when you first sight a national Costa Rican blue morpho, see a spider monkey swing from tree to tree, or stand up on a surfboard for the very first time. Get out and see the country you have come to visit, and explore some adventure activities today.

A Beginners Guide to Cruises: Destinations, Timing, Dining & More!

CheapCruises.com — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 16:00:02 +0000

If you are looking to book a cruise holiday you have probably heard the many misconceptions about these kinds of holidays, such as ‘cruises are for older people’, or ‘cruise holidays are too restricting’. However, it is difficult to truly know what a cruise holiday is like if you haven’t experienced one for yourself.

Here’s what to expect when boarding a cruise ship for the first time:

Visit a number of destinations

One of the best features of a cruise holiday is that you get to visit a number of destinations all for the same price as a standard holiday. Depending on your cruise line and the length of your holiday, you will have the opportunity to experience a wide variety of cultures, cuisines and you may even be able to go on a complimentary excursion.

With a standard holiday resort you are usually confined to that one region, whereas a cruise experience will allow you to organise a range of excursions when your cruise line pulls in to each port.

Another benefit is that there is also a number of cruise deals to be found, whether you are looking for a very cheap cruise or a very expensive one.

A holiday for all the family

Perhaps you are looking for a relaxing break for the whole family? Many cruise lines offer children’s clubs and fantastic water facilities such as swimming pools and water parks that will help to keep your children occupied. This is especially beneficial if you have younger children as all the facilities and activities will be under one roof, ensuring you don’t have to traipse around will your children dragging behind you!

Varied Entertainment

Whether you would enjoy a West-End Theatre show, a trip to the on-board shops or one of the many sporting activities, there will never be a moment of boredom! Most cruise lines offer entertainment throughout the day and during each evening so there’s always something for the whole family to enjoy.

Dining

Do you often come back off holiday and get the feeling that you need another to recover? If you are forever cooking meals for your family on holiday you can sit back and relax whilst the cruise line staff do all the hard work for you. Depending on your package deal you will find that most of the food and drink is all inclusive, however this can vary depending on each individual cruise line.

Istanbul at Night – The 10 Best Places to Party

Lela — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 04:37:14 +0000

Wondering where to party in Istanbul? Turns out the choices are abundant, with a variety of venues offering everything from smooth jazz to rough comedy to bellydancers!

Blackk – (Muallim Naci Cad., 119)

Mingle with Istanbul’s high-society crowd in this “resto-lounge” where black and gold décor embellishes sumptuous comforts. Private sections are tucked throughout this enormous venue, each offering a different atmosphere. Dance till dawn on the lower floor or head upstairs to enjoy the Istanbul view while relaxing on couches and nibbling from the a la-carte menu.

360 SuAda Club (Galatasaray Island)

In the middle of the Bosphorus is the floating village of Kuruçesme that can be reached only by boat. During the day, you’ll find SuAda is a lazy beach club, but at night the action cranks up. The 360-degree view of the city lights from both the Asian and European shores makes an enchanting backdrop for partying and dining on their famous cop sis (‘trash kebap’) made with roasted lamb.

Jolly Joker Balans (Beyoğlu, Balo Sokak, 22)

Guzzle down Istanbul’s best local beer (the caramel brew) with the multinational crowd at this multi-level performance hall featuring glass floors on the third-floor dancing balcony. Artwork portraying court jesters sets the mood for this classy pub where the emphasis is on fun. Live music from solo artists and bands keeps the joint jumping and each evening there’s a happy hour from 19.00-22.00.

Nardis Jazz Club (Beyoğlu, Bereketzade Mh.)

You’ll wonder if you’re still in Istanbul when you hit the New Orleans vibe emanating from this intimate little club named after a Miles Davis song! The historic building has rough brick walls that create a perfect backdrop for the small stage where great Jazz musicians perform everything from pop to fusion. The upstairs lounge puts you just far enough away from the stage for lazy conversations. Reservations are recommended on weekends because of the small capacity.

Bird (Şişhane, Meşrutiyet Caddesi, 103)

Though this trendy SOHO-style restaurant embraces a club/bar/lounge atmosphere all week, on the weekend it morphs at midnight into a sizzling dance club that attracts Istanbul’s beautiful people. Despite the upscale décor, drinks are reasonable and the avant garde music attracts the hip thirty-something crowd.

Nomads Istanbul (Ortakoy, Muallim Naci Caddesi, 65)

Nomads’ “Aladdin’s lamp” décor is a perfect complement to the Arabic and Moroccan cuisine that starts off an evening in this stylish establishment. Once dinner is finished, the tables are removed as the crowd is entertained by male and female belly dancers, after which acclaimed DJs get the joint hopping.

Cahide Cabaret (Kadirgalar, Caddesi Macka Parki)

Sit in swanky round booth tables and enjoy the cabaret performances by drag queens, comedians and song stylists. Be aware, the audience is encouraged to join in the fun and “go wild” while nibbling on the delicious Turkish cuisine served by sexy tuxedoed waiters.

Babylon Lounge (Asmalımescit, Jurnal Sok. 4)

A natural extension of the wildly popular Babylon concert venue nearby, what once started as a cool place to have drinks before the show has turned into a daylight party destination all its own. Open from dawn to dusk, their kitchen pumps out healthy dishes and their bar serves fresh-fruit cocktails and exquisite coffee drinks.

Supperclub (Ortakoy, Muallim Naci Str., 65)

Billed as “a feast for all the senses,” this Istanbul hotspot definitely satisfies many appetites. Before, during and after the serving of the fixed menu, the DJs seduce the crowd by matching music to their moods. The evening becomes an unfolding performance in which even the chefs and servers participate and before you know it, everyone is dancing!

The North Shield Pub (Ebusuut Cad. 2)

When you’ve had enough of Istanbul’s exotic fare and crave a bit of English-style beer with chips and nuts while watching sports games on TV, this pub will fill the bill. Choose between over 40 different styles of beers, malts and whiskeys while nibbling on British faves.

How To Revolutionise Your Holidays

Lloyd Greenall — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 01:46:43 +0000

Were you one of the millions of people who were transfixed by this summer’s Olympic and Paralympic Games? Inspired by the achievements of the British athletes, there has been an increase in the popularity of fitness holidays. But what are the benefits of combining exercise with relaxation and what type of holiday should you opt for?

While you’re enjoying yourself on holiday free from the daily stresses and strains, it can be a great opportunity to take up a new hobby, kick-start a healthier lifestyle or just indulge yourself in something you love doing. Whatever sport you want to take part in, from water sports, horse riding or rock climbing to tennis, cycling and yoga, there are holidays all over the world, from the UK to the Caribbean.

Being active on holiday is far more cathartic than simply exercising at home. It makes it much easier for you to switch off from your day-to-day life and take your mind off all your problems. When you’re just sunbathing or relaxing, you often find that you start worrying about things that are out of your control. However, if you keep your body and mind active you’ll have less time to think about these things.

Take to the Hills

Exercising outside also has a positive influence on your body and keeps your brain working. You could use a fitness holiday to explore your destination by going cycling. This form of exercise has great benefits for your heart and helps to build and tone your muscles. Not only will you be keeping healthy and reducing your stress levels and blood pressure, but you’ll also be able to see parts of the country that most tourists wouldn’t reach. You’ll definitely go home feeling healthier and with a more positive outlook.

Make a Splash

What better exercise to take up on holiday than swimming? You’re in a beautiful location with a luxurious hotel pool and the warm waters of the ocean, so you could wake yourself up in the morning with a nice refreshing dip. If you’re not used to exercise, swimming is a great choice because it doesn’t put too much stress on the joints. If you’re a confident swimmer then battling against the waves takes extra effort, providing further health benefits. However, if you’re taking to the ocean make sure you’re aware of the tides and currents and tell someone where you’re going.

Stretch Yourself

If you’re looking for the ultimate relaxation and exercise combination, then use your holiday to take up yoga. This is well known for helping to de-stress yourself as well as strengthening your muscles and increasing the flexibility of your body. If you really need to get away from the real world and take your mind off everything else that’s happening, then Ashtanga yoga is what you want. There can be nothing better than stretching out on a golden sandy beach with the sound of the ocean in the background.

If you’re looking to do something a bit different with your time off, why not revolutionise your holiday and take up a new sport? The aim of the Olympics was to inspire people to try something new and become healthier and a fitness holiday will enable you to do this while still having time to relax.

Getting to know Guernsey: Traveling Tips, Advice & Pictures

Vanessa Abrahams — Mon, 16 Jul 2012 14:32:06 +0000

Whenever the opportunity arises for me to give my vehement advice on my traveled destinations – Guernsey has always ranked highly on my list and will continue to do so. Generally, I receive very puzzled looks when I mention Guernsey as few people seem to be aware of the island – never-mind its whereabouts. Perhaps Normandy or The Battle of Normandy rings a bell…

This enchanting island is located in the English Channel and is nestled between Great Britain and France. On a clear day France is prominently visible from Guernsey and is accessible via a turbulent trip that will take one hour on a commuter boat. There is obviously both English and French influence throughout the island, along with fascinating warfare remnants strewn across the countryside – owing to Guernsey’s affluent history.

From the moment I stepped onto Guern soil I was besieged with the islands dense forestry and cobblestone appearance, which gives consequence to its over-all cozy ambiance. Guernsey appears to magically retain its composure and elegance, whilst the vigorous waters of the English Channel hurry onto its shores. This is what gives Guernsey its calm and stress-free aire – creating the perfect holiday destination for vacationers who simple want to get away.

Guernsey in all its grandeur

Hedge-veg

Guerns live a relatively simple life. They have a charming little system called Hedge-veg, which was one of my many favorite goings-on in Guernsey.

This is a system whereby residents grow their own fruit and vegetables and sell the produce from their gate. It’s a self-serve system based on honesty, so there is no one selling to you directly. You go up to their hedge or gate, choose what you would like and put the money in the little box next to the produce.

The Little Chapel

If you take pleasure in sightseeing, do make sure you visit the smallest chapel in the world. It was built by a Monk named Brother Deodat, who started its intricate construction just after the Second World War but retired due to ill health before he could complete it.

It was later finished on his behalf by companion Monks. Besides its petite size, the full interior and exterior is decorated with small pieces of colourful broken china, shells and pebbles. A maximum of six people at one time can fit inside the Little Chapel. This masterpiece can be found in St Andrews.

War Bunkers

You will discover that one of the most apparent sightings around Guernsey is the war bunkers. Heavily fortified by the Germans, these forts remain intact and can be see all around the island. Built during the Germanic occupation of Guernsey and in the epoch of the Second World War – their presence is some-what haunting as they seem forlorn and mysterious. Unfortunately they are all locked, but if you would like to go inside one then you’d really enjoy Fort Grey.

Built by the British in 1804 during the Napoleonic Wars and later becoming the site of local witches’ satanic meetings. It was then occupied by the Germans upon their invasion of Guernsey during the Second World War. The many bunkers and Fort Grey in particular, give Guernsey a rich undercurrent of militant objectification of which this beautiful island has been subjected to throughout the centuries.

Cobo Bay

If you’re in the mood for an upbeat vibe then Cobo is great to just relax and take in everything around you. This zesty hang out is in the area of Castel, which is on the west coast of the island and is great for young people and vacationers. There is a strip of charismatic restaurants, bars and coffee shops along the beach, where you can watch the most fantastic sunsets and have memorable sundowners. This is also the place to have the best fish (Cod) and chips. It’s even served in the traditional British style – on newspaper.

Another hot spot is the yacht club in St. Peter’s Port. The yachts are primarily owned by wealthy Guerns, but you do have the option to hire one and sail around the various islands. Or you can simply take the ferry to Alderny and Jersey. You will notice that boating is a very popular sport in Guernsey. The yacht club is also adjacent to a large Castle on an island called Castle Cornet and is a major tourist attraction. Castle Cornet was built sometime between 1206 and 1256 and has not only been besieged a number of times, but was also home to the Guernsey Governor until 1672. The castle also survived the Napoleonic Wars, has served as a seaplane base in the First World War and was occupied by the Germans in the Second World War.

Guernsey Marathon

Guernsey is internationally renowned for its annual marathon, which takes the participants through beautiful scenic views. Runners pass by boastful sandy beaches, valleys and flowery lanes.

It’s a healthy alternative to see the beauty of Guernsey, as the marathon traces the fringes of the entire island. The Guernsey Marathon will be celebrating its one hundred and third birthday this year when the event takes place on the 26th August 2012.

La Piazza – Trinity Square

The setting of La Piazza Trinity Square in Guernsey town is picturesque. Imagine sitting under an umbrella along a cobblestone and mossy arena, sipping that well deserved latte after your eventful day. Be sure to order crumpets and cream. Guernsey cream is delectable and is like no other cream you will ever taste. For the shop-a-holics I have some good news: clothing and accessories go for very affordable prices in Guernsey and also in her adjoining island – Jersey. Whilst you stroll through the town you will hear the echo’s of all sorts of live music protruding from their venues.

Guernsey’s uniqueness has an enduring effect on the traveler and is a getaway option well-worth considering.

A Helpful Resource: www.hctgroup.org/uploaded/busesgg_summer_timetable2_2.pdf

A Guide to London’s Most Beautiful Gothic Interiors

Ben Leeds — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 15:07:46 +0000

Churches provide us with an insight into England’s cultural heritage and here in London we can see these places of historical importance within just a short walk from the city centre. These churches are some of the most under appreciated feats of architectural grandeur that London has to offer.

Here we detail some of the most beautiful Gothic architecture to be found in the city.

Temple Church

The Temple Church was constructed in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1185 and served as headquarters to the Knights Templar, a crusade of soldier monks. The church is renowned for its round shape and its effigy tombs. Despite suffering substantial damage during the Second World War the churches restoration has bought the church back to its former beauty.

The church holds regular choral music performances and featured in the popular novel and film, The Da Vinci Code.

St Pauls Cathedral

St Pauls Cathedral sits at the top of Ludgate Hill, the highest point in the City of London. With its dome and distinctive spires St Paul’s is one of the most recognisable sights in London. At 365ft high, it was the tallest building in London until 1962 meaning that its profile dominated London’s skyline for over half a century.

Along with Temple Church, St Paul’s has had substantial restoration work done thanks to a major rebuild program which took place after the Great Fire of London.

Westminster Abbey

Every year the Abbey welcomes over one million visitors who want to explore the wonderful 700 year old building and thousands more come to worship. The architectural style is considered the finest example of early English Gothic

Besides from the royal graves, keep an eye out for many commoner’s burials, especially in the Poets’ Corner where you’ll find Chaucer, Dickens, and Hardy among others.

Tips and Tricks for Staying Healthy During Your Travels

Ron Thompson — Mon, 02 Jul 2012 15:47:15 +0000

Traveling for holiday or business is an exciting way to see your home country or even the globe.

There are some simple things that you can do to boost your body’s immune system to ensure good health whether you are going across the state or to a foreign country.

Your immune system is the first line of defense against illness, but there are also options that include vaccinations and precautionary medications when traveling abroad.

Photo credit: Earthworm

Your Personal Health

One of the biggest challenges travelers face is maintaining. It is a good idea to take a look at what you currently eat and try to keep your diet similar while traveling. One way to do this is by stocking up on fruits and whole grain options and taking along a cooler if you are traveling by car or in a motor home. For those flying to their destinations, one option is to check local supermarkets for presliced fruits and vegetables that can be eaten in your hotel room. Sticking with a healthy diet rather than resorting to fast food fare will keep your body prepared to fight any invaders that may make you sick along the route.

Taking a daily multi-vitamin or adding an immune system booster to your daily regimen is also an option. For example, the herbs Echinacea and elder berry can be used to improve your immune system and help fight viruses and bacteria that enter your body. There are also a wide range of illness fighters that are added to water to boost your immune system if you know that you have been exposed to a virus or bacterial illness.

Personal Care and Hygiene

While most doctors recommend staying away from antibacterial hand soaps and hand sanitizers, it is highly recommended that you wash your hands frequently while traveling to avoid accidentally ingesting a bacteria or virus. All you really need is warm water and soap, but in a pinch an alcohol based hand sanitizer is better than using nothing at all to kill germs. The best option is to choose an environmentally safe hand sanitizer, however. Not only are eco-friendly sanitizers better for the Earth, they are also better for you and your family.

Taking care of your body also requires that you sleep well while traveling. It can be difficult to sleep enough when you are vacationing and trying to fit in a lot of activities each day. Adults need an average of six to eight hours of sleep every night, while young children and babies can require up to twelve hours of sleep depending on age. Taking along something that is familiar, such as your own blankets, can be a simple way to feel comfortable enough to fall asleep easily in a new environment.

Vaccinations and Medications

When visiting a foreign country, you may need to have vaccinations to ensure you stay healthy during your travels. You will want to visit your personal physician or a local travel clinic to find out which vaccinations you will need based on the country that you are traveling to. Most people will also want to take at least a thirty day supply of all their current medications when traveling abroad, even if the trip is just a for a long weekend. Taking extra medications is recommended. Extra medication can be vital if you are delayed for any reason.

8 Summer Destinations That Will Stimulate You Intellectually [Tan Not Included]

Lela — Thu, 07 Jun 2012 14:44:21 +0000

It has been assumed that geeks spend their summers not on the beach or at the pool, but rather at the library, studying all of the myriad of subject matter they didn’t get to touch upon during the school year. They come to the first day of school with no tans or sordid tales, but boy do they have a head start on show-and-tell and the science fair (not to mention the next Microsoft or Facebook).

Some people crave intellectual stimulation more than others, and would rather be learning constantly than to be bored for even a minute. The following destinations are a geek’s dream getaway: brain-cell boosting and boredom-busting bastions of knowledge.

1. Harvard Crimson Key Tour

Every brainiac dreams of going to Harvard, walking the same steps as JFK, Mark Zukerberg, Obama, Sumner Redstone, and even Natalie Portman. Even if it’s not in the cards (or in the budget) at this time, taking a Crimson Key Tour is a great sneak peek into the inner workings of the institution that’s churned out so many billionaire brains.

Crimson Key Society members, acting as student ambassadors, lead historical walking tours for Free. They start in Harvard Yard, talking about key historic areas of the college, for approximately an hour.

These tours depart from the Harvard Events and Information Center, 1350 Massachusetts Ave.

2. Deutsches Museum

Science lovers from around the world flock to the Deutsches Museum in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, for its almost endless displays of objects (100,000 and counting) from the fields of technology and science. Topics range from Stone Age to the future, and include atomic physics, mining, biology and so much more.

Highlights include the first motorized plane by the Wright brothers, Conrad Zuse’s Z3 (first computer controlled by programming), Karl Benz’s first car and the U1 submarine.

There are thousands of interactive displays, as well, so children will enjoy being able to actually manipulate tools to see how things function.

3. The Winchester Mystery House

This San Jose, Calif., mansion took 38 years to build and currently has 160 rooms.

Owned by rifle heiress Sarah Winchester until her death, mystery surrounds the Victorian house with its stairs to nowhere, miles of meandering hallways, secret passages between walls, and even a Séance Room.

This house is a must-see for wanna-be architects or those fascinated in both geometry and the paranormal.

4. Anne Frank’s House

This is not optional for true historians of WWII and Europe in the middle of the 20th century. Directly in the middle of Amsterdam, Anne Frank’s House is a generally non-descript townhouse facing the water…except for the throngs of visitors streaming down the walkway.

Anne Frank’s diary is required reading for much of the Westernized world’s students, and to visit the hiding place from where she was taken and where she wrote her incredible diary is both a tragic and inspiring experience.

5. Victoria and Albert Museum

This London museum is the world’s greatest showcase of art and design, featuring architecture, books, ceramics, china, design, dance, fashion, furniture, glass, Middle Eastern art, jewellery, textiles and performance art…and that’s the tip of the iceberg.

Art represented includes Art Deco, Baroque, Contemporary, Gothic, Medieval, Modernism, Neo-Classicism, and more.

For those who need a break from the sheer magnitude and volume of arts represented at the V&A, have a bite at the cafe, visit the National Art Library, or visit the connected Museum of Childhood.

6. Library of Congress

Ever feel like your local public or university library is just not big enough, with not enough selection? Here’s your answer: the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. You’ll never look at a shelf of books the same way again.

The Library of Congress is over 210 years old and is a large part of America’s historical significance. It is open to the public, and besides books has a great deal of fascinating exhibitions…all for free.

There are also guided tours of the Jefferson Building, gallery talks, concerts, lectures, films and more. Souvenirs and library gifts can be found at the Library Shop, too.

7. The Marfa Lights

Before dismissing this as quite a way to go to just look at the pitch-black sky, check out Marfa online, a town quickly becoming the new Austin. Once known only as the town where James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor filmed “The Giant” way back when, Marfa is attracting artists from all over the world, visual and musical. Its nightlife is taking off, and we’re not just talking about the bars.

You see, the Marfa Lights have been around for decades, and they’re a major draw to this burgeoning tourist town. The Marfa lights, or the Marfa ghost lights, have been seen near U.S. Route 67 east of Marfa, and witnesses swear they are paranormal phenomena (although naysayers say they’re reflections of campfires and headlights).

Whatever the source, the lights, when viewed, are eerie and jump up and down, move side to side, and defy all logic.

Consider yourself lucky if you see them, as only about 15 sightings are reported each year. They’ve even been featured on the TV show, “Unsolved Mysteries.”

8. The Science Museum

This London science extravaganza has way too much to see in one day. Give this at least two days to explore the plethora of subjects and sights. Exhibits include: Atmosphere Gallery, Agriculture, ERNIE, Medical History, Health, Math, Energy, Computing, Space, the history of Science, Telecommunications, Veterinary History, Psychology and much more.

There is also an impressive IMAX theatre, café and gift shop to bring back those souvenirs to make your friends envious of!

For more Geek Travel Tips, visit Hostelbookers Geek Travel Map with recommendations from Top Celebrity Geeks! Hostelbookers provide cheap hotels in London and in over 2500 destinations around the world.

Great Mother’s Day Getaway Ideas

AzAkers — Sat, 12 May 2012 02:02:18 +0000

For Mother’s Day, why not surprise mom with something she’s not likely to forget anytime soon. Does she have a favorite band that’s playing soon? Is she spontaneous? Does she like to sit back and relax? There are any number of ways to make your mom happy and excited this Mother’s Day. Why not:

Day Trip Down Memory Lane

Just taking mom for a simple car ride down memory lane can be an adventure for both of you. If your mom doesn’t live in the same house or area of town that you grew up in, why not take a tour of the old neighborhood and share fond memories of your childhood. Afterwards, you can take mom out to dinner or ice cream; any place where you can share even more of your lives with each other.

Take Mom on an Out of Town Trip

Surprising mom with a short out of town trip is a sure way to make her happy. If you live in a crowded urban area, why not take her somewhere quiet, perhaps at a nice bed and breakfast or a local resort. Or, if big cities are your thing, take her somewhere nearby where the two of you can have a wild and fun-filled weekend together.

Make Her Queen for a Day

Even a mother with grown children can have plenty on her plate. Why not send her to a day spa while everyone else pools their resources and cleans her house spotless. When she comes home she’ll be surprised and thrilled. As a bonus, you could have a nice dinner waiting for her.

Go to a Concert

Mom was young once too. Taking her out to see a band or an orchestra she loves is a fun way to spend time together while enjoying something she’s into.

There are hundreds of great ways to surprise mom this Mother’s Day. Be original and make this a day that she’s not likely to forget!

Have ‘Cash on Hand’ When Travelling Abroad!

Remarkable Holidays — Mon, 07 May 2012 20:53:28 +0000

Photo credit: Wikipedia

In recent months there have been major complaints lodged against banks that charge exorbitant rates for using cards when traveling abroad.

Also, in December of 2011, a major complaint was leveled against banks for the high cost of purchasing foreign currency. The OFT announced that six of the major UK banks had agreed to drop debit card fees for transactions abroad but there is still a great deal of discontent over the fees associated with purchasing foreign currency prior to taking a holiday overseas.

As a result, there has been a rebirth in the practice of purchasing Travellers Cheques when planning a holiday to certain countries. Although there was a time in the not so distant past when cheques were the safest way to take money whilst traveling, the advent of bank cards and credit cards pushed cheques far into the background. In fact, for a time it appeared as though Travellers Cheques would be done away with completely.

However, there are still many developing countries where holidaymakers are hard-pressed to find ATMs and banks are few and far between.

Source: http://download-a.com

Without an adequate supply of local currency, there isn’t much which can be done. Since the currency exchange rate can be quite high in many cases, a great number of travelers still find that Travellers Cheques provide a less expensive means of bringing money with them and a safer way as well.

As long as the serial numbers are written down and kept in a safe place, most companies issuing worldwide cheques have a 24 hour replacement guarantee in case they should become lost or stolen.

Even so, unless traveling to remote regions of Africa on a Safari or to the mountains of Tibet to visit Buddhist monasteries, most developed countries do have an abundance of ATMs and local restaurants and accommodations accept major credit cards. American Express suggests that when traveling abroad, it is wisest to have cash, cards and cheques on hand to be prepared for any eventuality.

Enjoy a Family Holiday Vacation Right in Devon

Independent Cottages — Mon, 07 May 2012 14:39:04 +0000

While many families would love to travel abroad for holidays, tugging along a host of little ones can be a costly and highly stressful endeavor. In this time where disposable income is at a premium, many Britons are choosing rather to explore the beauty of Great Britain.

Although this may seem like a sacrifice, it is amazing to see just how little the average person truly knows about other regions the UK.

Source: Darren Waters

For example, did you know that Devon is the fourth largest county in England but has the lowest population density? And, has anyone ever told you that the open space in Dartmoor, Devon is the largest open space in Southern England and the only county to have two distinct coastlines?

All of this is interesting, and these facts could be used to teach children a bit of geography but that is not what attracts so many families to the area for family holidays. Not only are there beaches where it is possible to enjoy some summertime ‘fun in the sun,’ but there are also fun attractions such as zoos and petting farms that will captivate the little ones for days on end.

Pennywell Farm & Wildlife Centre

One attraction which is becoming more and more popular by the day for children of all ages is Pennywell Farm and Wildlife Centre which is located in South Devon.

There are a host of independent self-catered cottages in a very close proximity and the area is not very distant from the South East coastline of Devon. Seasonal rates may be a bit higher than off-season rates, but that is to be expected anywhere you holiday and staying close to home is certainly a lot less expensive than traveling abroad.

Think Outside of the Box

Explore the National Parks, petting zoos, beaches and shops in Devon and have a family holiday to be remembered for years to come.

Discover Mid Devon on a Cottage Holiday (findcottageholidays.com)
Have a delightful holiday in Devon (savemoney247.co.uk)
Favorite Family Attractions in Devon (italianenglishblog.wordpress.com)

Lanzarote´s Top Five Attractions That You Can’t Miss When Visiting!

Nick Ball — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 14:11:07 +0000

View to Los Lobos and Lanzarote (Photo credit: palestrina55)

Lanzarote is a hot favourite with sun starved tourists from northern European nations such as the UK, Eire and Germany. Especially during the winter months – as this small Canary Island is in fact the closest sunshine destination for British based holidaymakers at that time of year, with flights taking just four hours from all main airports.

Like the other six Canary Islands, Lanzarote is owned by Spain and is part of the EU, so it also feels pretty familiar to anyone who has explored the Spanish mainland, with similar customs and cuisine.

However the scenery here is markedly different, forged in fire as a result of massive volcanic activity which has left large swathes of the island looking like something out of a science fiction film.

Timanfaya National Park

Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Nowhere is this more evident than in the Timanfaya National Park, a region which is also known locally as the Fire Mountains. Timanfaya lies at the epicentre of a six year long eruption that rocked Lanzarote to its core during the 1730´s – an event that created a lava carpeted wilderness, covering about one quarter of the island, that is both eerie and surreal.

Tourists can explore this volcanic wasteland on guided coach tours before visiting the El Diablo Restaurant, one of the many unique creations of the famous local artist César Manrique, where chicken and fish is cooked on massive grills by geo thermal heat emanating from a now dormant volcano below.

Jameos del Agua

Manrique had a massive impact on his birthplace, campaigning against over development whilst also creating ecologically friendly attractions that work in harmony with Lanzarote´s volcanic terrain.

The Jameos del Agua is arguably the greatest manifestation of this philosophy, as here he transformed part of an enormous lava tunnel some 6km long into a multi faceted events and performance space, featuring a concert auditorium, underground lagoon and beautifully planted tropical gardens. This really helped to put Lanzarote on the map in the late 1960´s – winning publicity for the island in magazines and newspapers around the world and attracting VIP visitors such as Hollywood legend Rita Heyworth and actors such as Peter Sellers and Omar Sharif.

LagOmar

The Jameos del Agua also provided the inspiration for Omar Sharif´s very own residence on Lanzarote, called LagOmar (Omar´s Lake), which was built into the side of a mountain and former quarry in the small village of Oasis de Nazaret in the centre of the island.

The actors didn’t get much time to enjoy his new holiday home however, as shortly after taking possession he lost the property in a high stakes game of bridge, leaving Lanzarote never to return. Today LagOmar is open to the public as a house museum and restaurant.

The Valley of 1000 Palms

Lanzarote is a dry and arid island. There are no natural water sources, rainfall is minimal and lava fields predominate, restricting the growth of plants and trees. So a visit to the north can come as a bit of a shock, as here there is a beautiful green valley packed with Canarian palm trees.

The Valley of 1000 Palms is the legacy of a centuries old tradition in the village of Haria which sits on the valley floor. As here locals have been planting a palm every for every new born baby for hundreds of years, resulting in this amazing, verdant oasis.

Breathtaking Beaches

Lanzarote (Photo credit: vertigojff)

Along with its hot, dry climate Lanzarote’s beaches are the key to the islands enduring popularity. There are around 90 of these to explore and some are real jaw droppers, most notably the huge 7km long beach and bay at Famara and the stretches of bright white sand located close to the village of Orzola and known collectively as the Caletones Blanco.

You´re never more than fifteen minutes from the beach at any point on the island, making Lanzarote an ideal choice for anyone who likes their holidays to feature plenty of sunbathing as well as sightseeing.

Make Your Euros Go Further in Amsterdam

Victoria Philpott — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 17:49:19 +0000

There’s so much to do in Amsterdam you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a good time.

The number one thing you can do to save money is book one of the cheap hotels in Amsterdam from Hostelbookers, and then you can spend your savings in the bars, cafes and coffee shops instead.

Eating on the cheap

For a tasty dinner under €10 Gartine is a top choice. Every little thing has been thought about carefully in this place, down to the carefully selected antique chinaware. Go for the scrambled eggs on toast – it’s as fresh as it gets as the hens are out the back clucking them out.

Another popular Amsterdam cuisine – especially for the post coffee shop munch – are the Febo Snackbar machines. These are basically vending machines that dispense fried meat and cheese in unidentifiable forms. Your mum would not want you to eat from these, but they sure are tasty.

Food markets are always a good option for eating on the cheap and the Avondmarkt is the best one in Amsterdam. Check out the hot spare ribs for a gastronomic delight. You should also try Falafel Dan – go between 3pm and 5pm and take advantage of the all-you-can-eat happy hour on falafel balls.

Know where to drink

Café Karpershoek is Amsterdam’s oldest café – now it’s one of the city’s favourite bruine kroegs. Or try Werck – it’s a café, restaurant and bar all rolled into one and a great place for a drink any time during the day. It’s housed in the incredible Westerkerk Church in the cool Jordaan Quarter. As the smallest pub in the city the Café Belgique is another must, it specialises in Belgian beer – save your pennies and stick to Vlo beer for €2 a pop.

And if cocktails are more your thing, get yourself to Vesper in the Jordaan.

Cool bargain shopping

For contemporary Dutch souvenirs Saskya & Co is the best place to be. You can choose from a range of soft slipper clogs and traditional fabrics to take back to the folks at home. Other good places to pick up a treat include the area known as the Nine Little Streets: Reestraat, Hartenstraat, Gast-Huismolensteeg, Berenstraat, Wolvenstraat, Oude Spiegelstraat, Runstraat, Huidenstraat and Wijde Heisteeg. You’ll find all the coolest gifts, tea rooms and galleries here.

Off the beaten path museums

No doubt you already know about the Rijksmuseum, Rembrandt’s House, Stedelijk and the Van Gogh Museum, but have you heard of the Foam Fotografiemuseum? Pioneers, established and emerging artists come together to show off the best in photography in Amsterdam. There’s also a café with coffee and cake too.

It might as well be a museum – the Openbare Bibliotheek is the largest library in Europe and is spread over 10 floors. There are more than 600 PCs inviting you to surf the net for free and the cool furniture and piano in the foyer makes for a super cool library experience. If that’s not enough for you, you can also enjoy wonderful panoramic vistas of the city from the huge windows.

The NEMO Science Centre is a cool spot to enjoy the sun after all the culture and education – the sloped roof makes for an ideal sunbathing spot.

Beaches in Amsterdam

Speaking of sunbathing, any sun worshippers will be pleased to know there are a few beaches in Amsterdam worthy of your bikini/speedo body. When the sunshine beams on the city Bloemandaal aan Zee is the place to be, and best of all it’s free! Although you’ll probably end up getting through some cash at the clubs on the seafront – keep an eye on local posters to see if there are any beach parties under the stars while you’re there.

There’s also the Blijburg aan Zee City Beach to check out on the Ljburg Island complex. Make the most of the sunbathing by day and wild parties by night.

Seven Things You Must Do to Protect Your Home While You are Away

Bill Weston — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 14:02:22 +0000

Whether for vacation or work, leaving your home empty for extended periods of time can leave it vulnerable to crimes or disasters.

It is important to make sure you have guarded against these problems before you leave so that you can rest easy while you are away and come back to a safe and secure house that is exactly the way you left it.

Let’s dive into 7 ways you can protect your home:

1. Set timers

To give the appearance that someone is home, set your indoor and outdoor lights on timers so that they turn on and off at different intervals. These timers can be bought for relatively cheap and will help disguise the fact that you are away to would be burglars.

2. Arrange to hold mail/newspapers

Nothing will tip people off to the fact that you are away faster than a pile of newspapers and an overstuffed mailbox. Even if your house is not broken into as a result of these obvious signs, your mail could be stolen which could contain your personal and financial information. This could lead to your identity being stolen. So put a hold on your mail and newspapers for the duration of your absence to protect your home and identity.

3. Get someone to watch your house

Having someone you trust drive by or visit your house every few days is a really good idea. Just the activity of someone parked in front of your house and entering and exiting is helpful to ward off criminal. This is also beneficial for spotting problems before they become bigger. If a pipe broke or the power to the fridge went out, having it caught after a couple of days versus a week or more could mean savings of significant time and trouble later.

4. Turn off water

It is also a good idea to turn off the water to toilets, sinks, and washing machines if you are going to be away for more than a few days. This will prevent damage should a pipe break while you are gone. It is also a good idea to make sure outdoor faucets are completely turned off as well. In the summer, leave automatic sprinklers on so the lawn does not die, but have the person checking on your house check the yard for broken sprinkler heads or lines when they check on your house.

5. Unplug unused devices

Unplugging unneeded electrical devices is a good practice as well. This will not only save you money on energy costs, but will help protect the devices from power surges and reduce the chance of electrical fire. Make sure to leave the lights that you have on timers plugged in though.

6. Empty freezer/fridge

If you will be gone for an extra long time, it is a good idea to empty or reduce the amount of food in your freezer or fridge. This will prevent the food from spoiling over time or should the power go out, prevent your house from being filled with the stench of rotting food. Another benefit from emptying your fridge completely is that you can unplug it to save on energy costs.

7. Make sure to pay your insurance

It is critical to make sure you are up to date on your insurance payments and have arranged a way to continue paying them while you are away. Should the worst happen, at least you will be covered by your insurance as long as you have kept the payments up.

Recreate your favorite The Hangover moments: visit Las Vegas

Rodney Muspole — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 17:20:58 +0000

If you are looking for a way to enjoy a party poker bachelor weekend then the movie The Hangover should provide some great inspiration for a fun packed time.

If you are not familiar with the movie The Hangover, it is the 2009 tale of four guys on a Bachelor party to Las Vegas and all the inevitable mayhem that ensues. The film was released in 2009; it was directed by Todd Phillips and features Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms and Zach Galifianakis.

The movie provides lots of iconic moments that boys on a bachelor party could recreate, and places they could visit. While you may not be able to reenact the toasting scene on the roof of Caesars Hotel, have a car chase through Sin City or take Mike Tyson’s tiger back to your hotel room, there are still plenty of escapades left for you to try.

Caesars Palace Hotel provides the main location for the film. There are scenes in the lobby, on the roof, in the rooms, hallways, and around the pool. While it is doubtful that you would be able to recreate the early toast scene on the roof, with its magnificent views across Las Vegas looking down on the mock Eiffel Tower, you can at least get the party started with a shot of the German schnapps Jagermeister.

The hotel lobby features in the guys’ check-in and in the photomontage at the end of the movie. Breakfast around the hotel pool provides the setting for the morning after the night before, with some thoughtful attempts at recollecting the evening’s events.

Gambling, poker, craps and roulette are all essential parts of any Las Vegas trip and the film makes much of the card tables. As the trio try to retrace their steps to find their buddy, they reel off a list of locations to visit. They eat dinner at the Palms Hotel, pay a visit to the Hard Rock Café, and shoot some craps at the tables in the magnificent Bellagio Casino; although The Riviera at the north end of The Strip provided the actual setting for all of the interior gambling scenes during the film.

Some of the venues are not possible to visit, such as the Police HQ. This is because they were filmed in LA; the Best Little Chapel was purpose-built for the movie on an empty lot on Las Vegas Boulevard.

You can, however, have the true The Hangover experience by hiring a car, preferably a 1969 Mercedes Benz convertible, and taking a road trip into the Mohabi Desert to Big Rock, or to the dry lakebed just outside the city of Jean if you prefer. Here you will also find the gas station scenes where the boys get accosted.

For comic effect, The Hangover might go a little over the top for a bachelor party, but you are nonetheless guaranteed to have a great time exploring the locations around Sin City. Just try not to get too hungover.

Top Five Attractions in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

David Angotti — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 17:50:42 +0000

When you are vacationing in the Smoky Mountains there are hundreds of attractions and activities to choose from. Here is a list of the top five attractions in Gatlinburg to visit during your stay:

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Visiting Ripley’s Gatlinburg Aquarium is a wonderful way to experience marine life from around the world in a variety of unique settings. There are several different exhibits for you to enjoy, including a coral reef, a tropical rain forest, a penguin area and a shark lagoon.

You can also walk through a clear tunnel and watch as sharks circle around you. There is even an interactive area where you and your family can handle horseshoe crabs and gently pet stingrays.

Gatlinburg Sky Lift

You can ride to the top of Crockett Mountain on the Gatlinburg Sky Lift and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the world. At a height of over 1,800 feet, you will have impressive views of the Smokey Mountains and the valley down below. While the scenery is incredible during the day, the entire area is especially beautiful when it is lit up at night.

There is a gift shop at the top of the mountain, and you can enjoy a variety of food and beverages while you are up there. You can also get a souvenir picture taken while you are in the lift.

Gatlinburg Space Needle

The Gatlinburg Space Needle is another way to see the city from above. You can ride to the top of this steel tower in a secure glass elevator and get an incredible panoramic view of the Smoky Mountains and the Gatlinburg area.

You can also enjoy a closer look at the scenery by using one of the many free view finders that are strategically placed around the observation deck. If you are interested in learning more about the area, you can listen to a detailed history of the Smokies and Gatlinburg while you are at the top.

If you are looking for some fun, there is an amusement park that is located at the base of the tower.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum

If you are looking for a completely different experience, and you are interested in things that are unusual and bizarre, you may want to visit the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium.

This museum was the basis for the popular TV show of the same name and features rare and uncommon exhibits from all over the world. While you are here, you can view a variety of oddities, including a two-headed calf, a mermaid, a gigantic tire and a shrunken head. The museum has been around for over 90 years and is open daily.

Hillbilly Golf

Hillbilly Golf is a zany miniature golf course that is built directly into the side of a mountain. If you are looking for a fun way to spend the day, you won’t want to miss this unique experience

To get to the beginning of the course, you must first ride the incline up the mountain. Once you arrive at the top, you can begin the game and work your way down to the bottom. The course’s distinct hillbilly theme includes old moonshine stills, outhouses and lots of twists and turns.

5 Solutions to Delight in Gatlinburg with a Budget(microphone-film.net)
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad(southernserenity.wordpress.com)

Traveling Alone? Look into Singles Tours Down Under

Erica Gustafson — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 18:20:13 +0000

Traveling on your own these days can be risky. When you’re single, though, you don’t have much choice unless you want to stay home and live vicariously through a friend of yours who flies planes for a living (technically called a pilot).

Let’s pretend for a moment that you want travel through – say – Australia. Can you actually achieve that as a single person? The answer is yes. You just have to choose how to do it, and then shop wisely.

There is a growing momentum in singles’ tours, and there is a reason why: If you book the right one, you can end up having a safe trip and actually meet other single people (that were like you enough to book the same tour). If you want to travel Australia, there are some things to look for when you book a tour.

Safety

Safety is obviously the most important thing when you are alone on a trip. Make sure when you book your tour that you will have at least access to a staff member should you like/need one. Most touring companies provide that service automatically, but it’s still worth mentioning. Find one you like and make him “yours’ for the entire trip.

In addition, there are some single tour companies that have a 24-hour hotline; if you have an unexpected emergency, they are just a phone call away.

Perfect for Anyone

When you go on “these things” as people sometimes refer to them, going all by your lonesome can be intimidating. Try and read the fine print on the websites of these tour companies. A lot of them tell you exactly what to expect when you arrive, depart, and everything in between. The really good ones have honed in on the single mind set, and really understand the need for an enjoyable time, the sometimes-difficult attempt to meet someone new, and the times when you just have to be alone.

For touring in Australia, the tour groups tend to be anywhere from 10 to 20 people.

Convenience

Booking the right accommodations can be tricky, but hang in there; you’ll find what you want. A lot of tour companies insist on bundling you up with someone else (a temp roommate, if you will) and if you are single who values time alone and doesn’t want to sleep with someone that you don’t know in your room (gee, what a surprise), this is not a viable option. Opt for a company that will let you sleep in peace.

Exciting Activities

When you are looking for a singles tour, choose an activity that you really like, check the company and go for it. One company that specializes in singles tours offer everything from camping to snorkeling. All your transportation is by private vehicle, and your cost will usually include all National Parks and Aboriginal sites.

For instance, if you want to snorkel, scuba dive, or just get into the water experience, then you will probably have access to many kinds of pools, reefs, bays, etc. You may be able to travel in a glass bottom boat or take a swim with a manta ray for an extra fee.

There are bike tours, trekking tours (a particular favorite), camping tours, and sight-seeing tours that take in New Zealand, as well as Australia. With a scrupulous company, there are all kinds of extras that a company will provide. Sometimes they will set you up in your own room where a bottle of champagne is waiting in your room when you arrive. When you fly, you will usually get some kind of complimentary airport lounge pass, where you can meet other nervous singles like yourself.

You get the idea. You can meet people when you want to, go where you would like to, see things that you have never seen before, and be safe while doing all of it. And you’re single!

How much does all of this cost? It obviously depends on the company and where you want to go, how long you want to go for, where you want to stay, and what you want to do.

The following is an example of a “lodging” trip; that means that you want your lodging in a building, not out with the sheep.

Sample 5-day, 4-night Lodging Tour:

Services of a professional tour leader
All transportation by private adventure vehicle
All 4 nights multi-share hostel accommodation
Visit natural wonders: The Blow Holes, Natural Bridge & The Gap
Valley of the Giants
Cape Le Grande & William Bay National Parks
Margaret River Wine Region
Excellent hiking opportunities
4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners

Total price: $746.00 US dollars. No optional activities are available.

Here’s an example of a “camping” trip (the one with the sheep):

Sample 4-day, 3-night Camping Tour:

Services of a professional tour leader
All transportation by a private 4 wheel drive vehicle
3 nights camping (all camping equipment is provided except sleeping bags)
3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners
Hiking at Uluru (Ayers Rock)
4 wheel drive experience at Palm Valley

Optional Activities (Paid while you’re there)

Camel riding $10 US dollars
Nature Walks
Kings Creek Station Helicopter Flight AU$50-$400
Harley Davidson Ride (Uluru) AU$90-$345
Uluru Helicopter Flight AU$120-$260

So now you know. You are a single person that can meet people and still stay to yourself, all the while being safe and happy. You can see Australia in a comfortable way, one that you can plan yourself – for you.

You don’t have to stay home and live vicariously through anyone now.

Simply the Top 5 Best Places to Play Bingo

Seth Bromberg — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:22:47 +0000

Bingo has been a hugely popular game for most of the 20th century, and though its popularity waned in the 80’s and 90’s there has been resurgence of interest in the beginning of the 21st century thanks to the vast proliferation of online bingo across the globe.

It is not unreasonable to assume that many of these new (and young) bingo enthusiasts have never had the experience of playing bingo in a traditional bingo hall setting.

So if you are a fan of the game and you are thinking about planning a vacation then the following are places that you should definitely consider paying a visit to.

5) Red Rock Casino, Las Vegas

Image via Wikipedia

Unsurprisingly one of the must-visit places of the bingo world is the world’s biggest adult playground, Las Vegas Nevada.

The Red Rock Casino’s bingo hall seats up to 600 players and is divided into smoking and non-smoking sections, a welcome relief for non-smokers who otherwise have to endure unsegregated gambling areas (equally a welcome comfort to smokers who would otherwise have to take their cigarettes outside back home).

Red Rock provides large colorful displays for the bingo, and large plasma TVs for sporting events and such. The plush amenities that the hotel provides also constitute part of the draw, and Red Rock Casino is renowned for the food and quality of lodgings provided to guests

Also, if you have the time, a tip to the spa is a definite must.

4) National Stadium Bingo, Ireland

First established in 1938, National Stadium Bingo in Dublin seats up to 2,000 players—though average turnout is anywhere between 600-800, so there’s never a need to pre-book your seats.

The hall promises €9,255 total in nightly pay-outs and sells card books for €14 and €16. Bingo has been an integral part of life in the British Isles and so is worth your time checking out if you happen to find yourself in their neck of the woods.

3) Oneida Indian Bingo, New York

Rated in the top 10 bingo halls in the North America, this bingo hall (situated in fair Verona, New York) can seat up to 1,400 participants and regularly features promotions like double pay-out nights and triple pay weekends.

Like the Red Rock Casino, it offers seating for smokers and non-smokers respectively. Also, the bingo hall is part of the world class Turning Stone Resort and Casino.

Aside from bingo, the casino offers tennis, golf, a spa, and even host Las Vegas style shows.

2) Foxwoods Casino Resort, Connecticut

Image via Wikipedia

Mashantucket, Connecticut is the home of this great casino and resort that can hold up to 4,000 players. Originally founded in 1986 as a bingo hall, Foxwoods expanded to include table games in 1992, and now encompasses a resort that offers fine dining, golf and a spa.

Interestingly, the Foxwoods Casino Resort also holds the record for having the most slot machines (7,200) of any casino in the world.

1) San Manuel Indian Bingo & Casino, California

Located in sunny Highland, California, this hall tops the list due to its ability to make you quite rich. Running promotions such as the Late Game Jackpot that can snag you $10,000 and even the Do-It-Yourself Jackpot that sometimes reaches up to $50,000, this bingo hall can help make you a very happy person.

As with the other resorts, they offer a spa, golf and Vegas style shows as well.

These locations are some of the best locations to play bingo in the whole entire world. Any of these five places is sure to satisfy the appetite of a bingo player. These venues go to show that the online world of bingo doesn’t even begin to compare to the best bingo halls around the world.

The game of bingo is very alive and well in these five locations, with many more great venues all around the world. What are your favorite locations?

Top Things to Do and See in Edinburgh

Jack Oldham — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:38:38 +0000

Anyone who travels to Edinburgh for a short break won’t be lost for things to do. No matter what’s on your agenda – be it history, walking, eating or drinking – Edinburgh has a number of attractions and facilities to cater to your needs.

1) History, artifacts and such

Downtown Edinburgh (Photo credit: Extra Medium)

Let’s start with history. If you’re looking to take in a bit of culture, then the popular and affordable National Museum of Scotland will be right up your street. Spending a few hours in here will allow you to brush up your knowledge of Scotland, as well as seeing a comprehensive collection of many memorable artifacts, including those from Charles Darwin’s adventures.

If this doesn’t quench your thirst for museums, then you could also pay a visit to the National Galleries of Scotland to see some art. Finally, weather-permitting you could also pay a visit to the stunning Royal Botanic Garden.

2) Activity & Sightseeing

Image via Wikipedia

If relaxing isn’t your thing and you want to spend some time on your feet then Edinburgh can also accommodate that perfectly. The Royal Mile is a lovely street which plays host to some nice bars and shops which you could spend hours in. Perhaps more important is the fact that the Royal Mile leads up to Edinburgh Castle, – arguably the focal point of Edinburgh sightseeing.

If you’re there for a weekend, then paying a visit to the castle at 13.00 on Saturday will allow you to present for the firing of the field gun. If the walk up to the castle didn’t tire you out then hiking to the top of Arthur’s Seat will allow you the best view possible of Edinburgh. Not only is this Edinburgh’s tallest hill, but also an extinct volcano.

3) Eating and Drinking

Image via Wikipedia

As you would expect, there are also a number of places to eat and drink when in Edinburgh. One place that is a must-visit for lovers of Scotch whisky is the Scotch Whisky Experience – situated on Castlehill in the old town area of Edinburgh.

Not only is this an excellent scotch shop, but it is also a learning experience as you are introduced to the history and the process involved in making whisky. Your admission to the Scotch Whisky Experience also entitles you to a dram, which allows you to taste the whisky before deciding whether to buy more.

4) Events and Shows

Image via Wikipedia

Whilst there isn’t a bad time to visit Edinburgh due to the vast amount of indoor attractions, summertime in Edinburgh really is a delight.

What’s more, if you time your break right then you could be present for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

This festival of comedy, music and theater runs in 2012 from the 3rd-27th August and really does offer something for everyone. One thing to bear in mind is the fact that many tickets and Edinburgh hotels do sell out months in advance of the festival, so it’s important to plan your break well in advance to avoid disappointment.

However, if your lucky enough to catch this great event while in Edinburgh, you’ll enjoy every minute of it!

Edinburgh Festivals to offer high-profile tickets to tour operators | British Airways – Travel Industry News (travelnews.britishairways.com)
United Kingdom: Top 7 To Do List for Edinburgh (hotelclub.com)

The Top USA Holiday Cruise and Stay for Britons

Lisa — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 16:08:49 +0000

As we Brits get more adventurous and experimental with our annual holidays, there is higher demand for what may have once been considered extravagant getaways. Cruise and stay holidays and multi centre holidays are an incredible and surprisingly inexpensive way of seeing a couple of destinations, and in many cases several completely contrasting places, in one unique trip.

Florida is one of our most favored holiday spots, predominantly Orlando holidays not least because of its reputation as the theme park capital of the world.

As a long-haul destination from the UK, Florida often necessitates one or more weeks’ stay and many repeat visitors now wish to try something different on their next visit. For example a week in Orlando combined with a week’s cruise or a week’s stay absorbing Florida’s relaxed beach side culture along the Gulf or Gold Coasts.

Cruise and stays that combine Florida and the Caribbean are becoming increasingly well-liked. They are a perfect option particularly for first-time cruisers who want to sample life at sea, yet enjoy the comforts of their hotel or villa in Orlando or one of the State’s beautiful coastal resorts. Holidays in 2012 can be easily intermixed with a 3-, 4- or 7-night cruise amid the sparkling waters and laid-back vibes of the Caribbean. A variety of ships with top cruise lines including Royal Caribbean International and Norwegian Cruise Line depart almost daily from Port Canaveral or Fort Lauderdale, heading for the exotics of the majority of Caribbean Islands, the Bahamas and even parts of Central America.

Generally the itineraries for each ship vary between Eastern and Western Caribbean but don’t differ greatly in price so it’s down to personal taste and preference. Your cruise travel specialist will be able to offer advice on popular islands and things to do on the various ships as all are of them are quite different, varying dramatically in size and facilities.

All this moving around from airport to hotel or villa to port and cruise ship may seem like a hassle but if you book a great-value cruise and stay holiday with a reputable independent tour operator you’ll benefit from transfers, well-chosen flight times and of course security for your whole holiday package.

5 Ways to Get Great Deals on Holiday Travel

Reader Contribution — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 04:41:13 +0000

Holiday is the time of the year to take a visit, reunite and spend time with family and friends. Airline companies and hotels know this and take advantage of it that is why they also increase costs.

For this reason, traveling during the holidays can be very expensive. Although it may be a bit of a challenge to find deals on holiday travel, there are still ways to do so.

5 Ways to get great deals on Holiday Travel:

Be stradgic in your travel planning

For the most part of the year, the cheapest airfare rates fall on the earliest flight every Tuesday, Wednesday or Saturday. On the contrary, flying on Sundays will oftentimes be the most costly travel schedule. However, this general airfare trend may change during the holiday season. Even if it is a Tuesday, Wednesday or Saturday, if the peak dates like 22nd, 23rd, 26th of December and the 2nd of January fall on those days, you have to make a different plan.

During the holidays, the dates rather than the day of travel determine airfare rates. Try to avoid flying on peak dates because they are the most expensive. If you cannot avoid it, you can fly one way on any of those expensive dates and choose a less costly date for your second flight.

Take advantage of early deals on holiday travel

When it comes to holiday travel, it is a common dilemma if it is better to book flights early or wait for last minute deals. However, travel experts say that it is best to grab the deal as soon as you can for as long as you can afford it. For the holidays this 2011, it is more costly to fly and the deals are very limited. Data shows that the average costs of domestic flights from Dec 16 to Jan 1 are pricier by 5% compared to the previous year.

Similarly, international fares are also up by 6%. During the weekend of the New Year’s Eve, domestic fares are higher by 6% while international airfares by 12% versus 2010 prices. The high prices are mainly attributed to the move of many airlines to reduce seats in order to fly full and be more profitable. This does not mean however that getting last minute deals on holiday travel is impossible. It is just more difficult because the demand for flights during the holiday greatly increases so there is a lesser possibility of getting a good deal.

Travel light

Airfare is not the only cost that you should think of when traveling. Some airlines today have very affordable airfare rates but charge a lot on baggage. Since you are on a holiday trip and you will most likely give gifts, minimize your luggage costs by sending them through ground service a few days ahead of your scheduled trip.

Try your best to only bring a small piece of luggage for hand carry. If you can pay for early boarding fee which only costs around $10, do so. This will give you the chance to find a good space for your carry-on luggage. The small amount you spend will make you more comfortable when traveling.

Check different sources

People today immediately go to the web when booking flights. However, you may get good deals on holiday travel by calling the airline and directly talking to a representative. Note that you can negotiate the cost of airfare with a representative but you cannot do so through the internet.

Also, there are some airline deals that are not reflected on the web. The wisest thing to do is seek for a good deal over the phone, reserve it and use the 24 hour window to pay for your ticket to check the web. Compare the rate that the representative gave you and the one reflected in the internet then choose the better deal. By checking both sources, you will surely grab the best deal for holiday travel.

Look for an affordable accommodation

The least expensive accommodation you can have is to stay at your relatives’ place. But, if this is not an option, you can still get a good deal on holiday hotel accommodation by checking different travel sites. Unlike airlines that can reduce their seats to be able to increase airfare costs, hotels cannot cut their capacity. Thus, they still need to fill in their rooms so your chance of grabbing a good deal is higher.

For more information:

Five Essential Items Needed On Any Holiday Road Trip

Mark Martin — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 15:08:39 +0000

For some people, relaxing on a sunny beach with a cold beer is the best way to spend their holidays. However, this isn’t the case for an increasing number of holiday makers who are in search of excitement and adventure.

This has resulted in road trips becoming an increasingly fashionable holiday choice; popularized by television programs such as Ewan McGregor’s ‘Long Way Round’ and films like Robert Downey Jr’s ‘Due Date’.

However, as proven by both McGregor and Downey Jr; things never go completely to plan when you are facing the unknown. It is therefore essential that you are prepared for every eventuality before setting off on your journey.

Let’s look at the five essential items needed on any holiday road trip:

5. Breakdown cover

The UK’s largest breakdown cover provider the AA reports that its roadside fleet attends to a different breakdown every nine seconds. It is therefore essential to make sure that you are covered for such eventualities by purchasing a breakdown cover package which can be bought for as little as £28.50 according to price comparison company Money Supermarket.

This is particular important when you are traveling in a foreign country where you may not be fluent in the local language; making arranging for repairs and even transportation to the nearest garage incredibly difficult.

However, not all breakdown cover packages will cover for this eventuality. If you are planning on taking your vehicle on a road trip into a foreign land, it is therefore essential that you find a policy that ensures protection in different countries. You should also check on the number of days you will be covered for travel outside of your native country. It will cost a little bit more for this added level of protection, but there is no doubt that you would consider it worthwhile if the worst case scenario occurs.

4. Car insurance

Most people mistaken assume that all car insurance policies will cover them in both a variety of countries and in a variety of different vehicles. On the back of the credit crunch and the subsequent increase in the number of fraudulent insurance claims being made by consumers, insurance companies have been forced to tighten their belts; ensuring that this is no longer the case.

It is therefore essential to make sure that your insurance policy guarantees that you will be covered for international travel in your particular vehicle. Failure to ensure this will not only result in your not being financially covered if an accident occurs; but also means that you would be breaking the law.

Remember that if something isn’t mentioned on policy documents; then it probably isn’t included. If you are unsure whether or not you have the required level of protection; then phone up your insurer to make sure.

3. Mobile Phones

The most comprehensive breakdown cover package available to man would be useless unless you had a means through which to contact your breakdown cover provider when a failure occurs. It is therefore vital that you have a good quality mobile phone which is covered by a network which permits international calling.

Of course it isn’t just car failures that could prompt emergency phone calls; with medical emergencies also a possibility.

You must also remember to bring a phone charger along with you on your travels that is compatible with the wall sockets used in other countries.

2. Wheel repairs or replacement

Punctures are responsible for 1/5^th of the total number of breakdown call outs received by Green Flag every single year. Even with a comprehensive breakdown cover policy covering you; it is still a wise move to make sure that you are prepared for this inevitability with either a spare wheel or a puncture repair kit; or preferably both.

Punctures will be an even greater possibility if you are planning on traveling in countries with poor road surfacing and an inadequate a relative lack of garages to conduct the necessary repairs or replace damaged tires. Having a spare tire or puncture repair kit will therefore potentially help you avoid unfortunate time delays and inconveniences.

1. First aid kit

It isn’t just your car that can be on the receiving end of the odd scratch or bump, and you should therefore prepare for any injuries that you may sustain on your travels. Bandages, plasters and anti-septic creams are all essential items for road trippers.

You may also need to consider insect repellents if you are traveling in countries where this may become a problem; and last but not least, do not forget to take any prescribed medications along with you on the trip.

What’s on your road trip list?

Please share in the comments below!

Top 10 Best Road Trip Movies EVER

Kristy Ramirez — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 23:40:15 +0000

Ah, road trips – hasn’t everyone dreamed of exploring vast continents by car at some point or another?

There’s no denying that Hollywood certainly has an obsession with road trip movies: from comedic road trip hijinks to scary movies that involve sinister hitchhikers, the proverbial road trip has fascinated mankind since cars were first invented.

There’s just something so freeing about pulling out onto the open road, with nothing ahead of you but miles and miles of empty pavement. Additionally, road trips allow you to truly explore a country that you might otherwise miss when traveling by air.

Hollywood’s unrivaled fascination with road trips has certainly permeated every generation’s film selections – and when it comes to picking the ten best road trip movies ever, it’s certainly not easy to do. Classic films and modern entries have battled it out to see who won out, but in the end, only ten could be claimed as the ten best road trips movies of all time.

Whether you want to get inspired for a road trip of your own or you’re just content to watch your favorite film actors explore miles of empty highway, here are the ten best road trips movies that will continue appealing to generation after generation:

10. TransAmerica

This modern classic is at once both heartbreaking, effortlessly funny and incredibly touching. In the film, Bree (played by a talented Felicity Huffman) receives a call from her long-lost son just a week before she undergoes a sex change operation to become a full-fledged female.

Bree flies to NYC to bail her son out of jail and takes him on a cross-country trip back to Los Angeles – and each character learns something crucial about love and family along the way.

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

9. Breakdown

Road trip moves are often about a character finding themselves as they travel across similarly unknown landscapes. But in 1997, “Breakdown” came along and completely reinvented the classic road trip movie by turning it into an action-adventure marathon.

Kurt Russell plays a man who is desperate to find his wife after she’s kidnapped during a cross-country trip from Massachusetts to San Diego. Expect to be on the edge of your seat the entire time.

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

8. Mad Max

Australia’s answer to the classic road trip movie came in 1979 in the form of “Mad Max”, which was Mel Gibson’s breakout role. In a futuristic world where gasoline is precious and lawlessness runs wild, Gibson drives down the gang who murdered his wife and son.

The video cannot be shown at the moment. Please try again later.

7. It Happened One Night

In this 1934 classic, Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert play a mismatched reporter and wife-on-the-run traveling across the country back to her useless husband.

Gable’s character thinks he’s in it for a juicy newspaper story, but as the two clock up the miles, they realize that they’re hopelessly in love. Make no mistake, this is the film that completely started the genre.

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

6. Duel

Directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg, this is the road trip movie that made audiences in 1971 think twice before heading out on the open road. Dennis Weaver plays an ordinary man traveling to a business conference; yet when he unknowingly passes a truck driver with a serious case of road rage, he becomes a man who’s driving for his very life.

Fans of Steven Spielberg and road trip movies alike will enjoy this classic thriller.

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

5. Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Who can forget this 1987 comedy gem, which was directed by the late John Hughes and starred Steve Martin and John Candy? Two bumbling men attempt to navigate American by the movie’s namesakes, only to wind up experiencing a wealth of hilarious hijinks and outrageous obstacles.

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

4. Smokey and the Bandit

A crazy sheriff. A runaway bride. A reckless Southern cowboy with a truck full of beer. A car chase across the southeastern United States. Road trip movies just don’t get much more fun than this 1977 classic.

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

3. Vanishing Point

While this movie certainly might not register on everyone’s ultimate road trip list, there’s no mistaking it – Vanishing Point is an absolute cult classic.

Directed by Richard Sarafian in 1971, Vanishing Point revels in its chase scenes, flippant attitude towards sexuality and it’s unwillingness to back down from social commentary – all encased in a muscle car, of course.

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

2. Easy Rider

No list of the top road trip movies of all time would be complete without an entry from Easy Rider.

Starring some of the biggest celebrities names of all time (Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper and Jack Nicholson, to name a few), Easy Rider bravely captured an alternative side to America that hadn’t yet made it on the big screen.

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1. Thelma and Louise

Admit it, you’re not surprised to see this cult Hollywood hit top the list.

Thelma and Louise is the quintessential road trip movie, and it’s no secret as to why: a ’66 Thunderbird, two women on the run, and a thirst for revenge make this movie the ultimate road trip movie you could ever hope to get your hands on.

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

Whether you want to take a road trip of your own or just want to indulge in the fantasy, be sure to get your fill of these classic road trip movies!

Share your favorite road trip movie below!

Planning a Grand Canyon Hiking Trip

Samantha Wilson — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 08:06:59 +0000

The Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most awesome places to visit on the planet. The park is also a great place to enjoy an inexpensive excursion, especially when hiking is the chosen activity.

When planning to take a hiking trip, packing the proper gear is important. Temperatures around, and definitely inside the canyon, can get extremely hot during the warmer months of the year so when planning a summer trip, take clothing appropriate for hiking, like durable shorts, tops made from breathable materials, and sandals.

Often you will see women in hiking sandals and the rest of the family in sneakers or boots. However, even for guys who might think otherwise, well-fitting men’s sport sandals are the most practical and comfortable Grand Canyon hiking footwear.

The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is just what the name says, a huge, vast canyon, but it is so much more. Words fail to describe the experience of being in the presence of this amazing, ancient natural monument.

While scientists do not agree on how the crevices and rock formations were formed, many love to study the canyon, rocks, and layers.

People from all over the world come to visit the area and explore the chiseled depths with the Colorado River running through it.

When to Go for Hiking

Any season is perfect for hiking in the Grand Canyon National Park. Of course inside the canyon, precautions should be taken for the heat during the summer. The South Rim is open all year, but the North Rim is only open between mid-May and mid-October.

Trail Options

With the many trails the Grand Canyon National Park has, the trail options are numerous. All hikers should read through the park hiking information as well as safety and park rules. Then, individual ability and interests as well as weather and the time available for hiking influence the decision of where and how far to hike.

Hard – No trail entering or coming up out of the canyon is easy, and no one should attempt to reach the river and return to the top in one day. Vigorous descent requires a long climb to return, but can mean rich rewards in achievement and finding hidden canyon treasures.

Easy – The South and North Rims have many rim trails, and many paths are almost entirely level. These pathways offer some of the most impressive views of the canyon. The North Rim has fewer visitors and provides quiet trails for wildlife viewing. Rim trails are the paths best suited for day hikes.

Guided Canyon Tours

Guided canyon tours are offered both in the North and South Rims. Rangers lead hikes in all seasons of the year. The park entrance station will hand guests the park’s newspaper and inside the paper are the schedules of ranger guided walks and hikes. Additionally, you can chose to do a guided rafting trip, mule ride or even an air tour. The options are endless.

5 Must See Wonders of South America

Nisha — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 18:05:26 +0000

With such an expansive continent comes some of the most wonderful sights for even the most hard to please!

Perhaps for some, a visit to see 5 of the must see wonders of South America may be a once in a lifetime trip. For some it could be a first holiday, to where you will return again and again to see not just five but even more of the wonders that this diverse continent offers.

So here are our best 5 wonders that you absolutely must consider traveling to see:

1. Christ the Redeemer – Rio de Janeiro

Rio is a party place but it’s still steeped in history. Its own wonder – the huge statue of Christ the Redeemer – is an opened armed tourist attraction that has been in place for years and has been officially named as one of the actual Seven Wonders of the World.

It has lifts for visitors to take in panoramic views of the city and the surrounding water. A symbol of faith and sympathy, no visit to Rio is complete without properly viewing the Christ.

2. Galapagos Islands

A target for scientists and other experts, the Galapagos Islands are made up of volcanic material and have their own species of animals that seem to enjoy its barren habitat.

Known as a ‘living museum’ the Islands are cut off from the mainland around 600 miles from Ecuador, situated in the Pacific ocean.

Most of us have at some point learned about Charles Darwin and his interest in how living things evolve. Darwin Finches, Red Footed Boobys, Vampire Finches and Marine Iguanas can all be witnessed living here.

3. Easter Island

Famous for the statues that were carved from volcanic rock, Easter Island has no less than 1,000 maoi yet their purpose remains unknown.

It is situated around 2000 miles away from the nearest populated continent, the nearest South American region being Chile.With its unique archaeological heritage, Easter Island is a must visit for those wanting to take the long journey to see this wonder.

4. Guacharo Caves

Located near to the town of Carape in Venezuela, the Guacharo National Park is home to over 6 miles of caves that flow through the forest eco-system and is home to the large nocturnal Oilbird. The reservation areas have preserved their biodiversity and delicate eco system, perhaps due to the fact that this is the wildest most difficult to access part of the national park.

Visit the magnificent caves and see stalactites and stalagmites for yourself.

5. Machu Picchu

An amazing Inca trail will take you to the heights of Machu Picchu which as well as its breathtaking views, is a spectacular way to see the evidence of the Incas existence. Adventurous vacationers looking for an incredible experience need look no further than this ancient sprawling metropolis.

If you are interested in hiking, there are many organized trails, some of which are around 43km and include an overnight camping stay.

Nisha writes on behalf of amra palace.com – she has represented the business for the last 2 years. Please check out the latest deals on petra hotel.

Making the Most Out of Business Travel

Amber Daniels — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 10:27:24 +0000

Whenever you travel for business, whether it’s Los Angeles, New York or somewhere in between, do you ever wish you weren’t too busy to enjoy yourself? Here are a few tips to help you make the most out of your business trips.

Hey – you’re traveling already, and you don’t have to pay. That in itself is a great reason to do everything that you can to enjoy where you end up. But so many of us when we travel get bogged down by the business aspect of the trip that we forget to enjoy and explore the place that we are in. Obviously you need to prepare for your presentation or attend the conference, but beyond that, you’re free.

There are a few simple things to keep in mind when you’re traveling for business that can really help you get even just a taste of the local area.

Arrive Early or Stay Later (If You Can)

If you are traveling for a conference and it’s book ended by weekends, take that opportunity to arrive early, get comfortable and explore the location. You can impress your conference colleagues with your knowledge of the city when they arrive.

Eat Out

Instead of crashing in your hotel room after your conference is over and ordering room service, or going downstairs to the (typically) generic and (usually) overpriced restaurant, run down to the front desk, grab a map, and ask the clerk behind the counter to give a recommendation for a local restaurant. Go. Enjoy. You’ll get to try the local food, and get an opportunity to people watch. And if you feel like grabbing some company, all the better – but eating solo is not the end of the world.

Actually Explore

It’s always so tempting to just remain in the cocoon of the hotel when you’re traveling for business, and sometimes that is the only practical thing to do – say, if you’re in a city for only 24 or 36 hours. But even then, you are bound to have some down time that you can use to explore an area. So come prepared. Find a travel guide and follow it’s pages and maps and recommendations – and if you have time – get lost!

These are just a few suggestions on how to enjoy business travel when you arrive at your destination. Hopefully you take them to heart and are not like those mind-numb zombie business travelers who have all those stamps in their passport but nothing of worth to show for it.

The Best Boating Holidays in the UK

Nisha — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 07:06:18 +0000

Boating holidays are one of the best ways to unwind; a perfect antidote to the stresses and strains of modern life. Whether you choose a leisurely canal boat holiday through inland waterways and picturesque countryside, a motor cruiser vacation in Britain’s famed wetlands or an exhilarating sailing adventure off the UK coast, being on the water can be a relaxing, invigorating and memorable experience.

England, Wales and Scotland boast over two thousand miles of canals and rivers that wander beautiful countryside, quaint towns and bustling cities. It’s no wonder that canal boat holidays are so popular in the UK. You don’t need a license or even any experience to operate a canal (narrow) boat. They glide through the water at about four miles an hour and are very simple to operate. You can moor almost anywhere along the way, visit local attractions, have a picnic or drop by a pub. Two of the favourite canal boat holiday routes are:

The Thames Ring

a circular route that takes two to three weeks to explore in its entirety. The route takes you through London past some of the city’s most famous landmarks and on to Oxford. Along the stunning route there is plenty to see and do.

The Llangollen Canal

Considered by many to be the most beautiful canal, it stretches from the Cheshire region of England up into the Welsh hills. You will pass through the breath-taking Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, where you feel like you are suspended in mid-air, one hundred and twenty-eight feet above the valley floor. The trip there and back takes a week.

Norfolk Broads

One of England’s favorite boating holiday destinations is the Norfolk Broads, the country’s largest protected wetlands. With one hundred and twenty-five miles of navigable waterways and not a lock in sight, it’s an ideal place to hire a motor cruiser and explore the rivers, lakes, nature preserves, unspoiled villages and market towns while taking in the picture perfect scenery.

Ocean Sailing Holidays

For a completely different boating experience, you can venture out into the ocean on a sailing holiday. The waters off Scotland’s west coast and the Hebridean Islands are one of the best places in the UK for a yachting vacation. You’ll be surrounded by stunning seascapes and the islands, mountains, lochs and inlets that give this unique area its legendary mystique.

You’ll no doubt encounter some the areas spectacular marine life including whales, dolphins, porpoises and seals. You can visit remote communities, ancient archaeological remains and stop by one of the bustling village pubs where the locals are likely to treat you to an impromptu ceilidh.

There are numerous yacht charter companies that cater to every taste and skill level. They generally offer three types of charter, bareboat, flotilla and skippered. Bareboat charters afford you complete freedom to sail wherever you like but you must be a qualified, experienced sailor.

A flotilla charter allows you to man your own boat, but you travel in a group of yachts under the guidance of an experienced skipper. And of course a skippered charter comes complete with a crew. Several charter companies also offer learn to sail holidays where novices can earn their Royal Yachting Association certification.

Boating holidays in the UK are a great way to explore the country, get in touch with nature and take in some stunning scenery. You are sure to return relaxed, refreshed and looking forward to your next chance to get back out on the water.

Nisha wrote on behalf of bestholidayparks.co.uk Check out their latest Devon holiday parks deals

5 Must Have International Air Travel Accessories

Mariana Ashley — Sun, 21 Aug 2011 10:45:02 +0000

As a traveler who considers herself the rugged and independent type, I absolutely hate products that cost much but prove to have little value when you hit the runway. Still, after years of traveling experience, I’ve learned there are a few indispensable items that make traveling infinitely more convenient.

1. Neck pillow

Before investing in a neck pillow, traveling on long flights was a nightmare. Flaps on plane seats are never substantial enough to serve as a prop for sleeping, and trying to fall asleep sitting straight up always ended in disaster in which I would wake up on my neighbor’s shoulder, drooling. A neck pillow is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to improve the quality of your flight. You’ll sleep well without having a neck pains once you disembark.

2. Converter

For international travel, an international adapter converter is absolutely essential. Especially if you are traveling to several different countries at once, ensuring that all your gizmos and gadgets are in working order necessitates having a converter that adapts to the many different plug types that different countries may use.

3. Standard Carry-On

One thing that drives me crazy when traveling is intending to carry on a specific item on the plane, only to be told that my suitcase or bag is too big. Purchasing a standard carry-on suitcase is perfect because it adheres to most major airlines regulations on dimensions for carry-on bags. This way, you’ll never have to check another carry-on again.

4. Passport/Boarding Pass Holder

When traveling abroad, having all your documents in order can be a huge hassle especially if you have a huge purse or backpack that carries all your essentials. Showing your passport and related documents to customs officials and others at the airport becomes so much easier once you have a special holder designed to carry these items.

5. Travel Phone Charger

I don’t know about you, but I always have problems keeping my phone charged, even when not traveling. If you will be taking plenty of long flights on your journey, your phone will invariably run out of battery, which can be extremely inconvenient if you use your phone to keep in touch with family or to respond to emails from work. A travel phone charger uses a battery that recharges itself, and it is usually small enough to fit in any pocket.

Having traveled internationally for decades now, I can say without hesitation that these items I never leave home without.

Great American Attractions

Nisha — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 08:34:20 +0000

Every year, millions of visitors flock to America’s many attractions spending millions of dollars on hotels, airfare, rental cars, dining and souvenirs. Here are just a few of the world’s favorite American attractions.

Grand Canyon National Park

One of the world’s most amazing natural wonders, the Grand Canyon is a four hundred and forty-five kilometer chasm, up to twenty-eight kilometers wide at some points, which the Colorado River has been carved out of the Arizona landscape over several million years, exposing nearly two billion years of the earth’s geological history.

The strikingly beautiful ribbon hues of rock walls in shades of red, purple, yellow, orange and brown are awe-inspiring, but views of the canyon at sunrise and sunset are nothing short of spectacular. There are numerous areas along the rim where you can view the canyon, including the new glass bottomed skywalk. The more adventurous can view the canyon by helicopter, hike down into the canyon, or raft down the Colorado River.

Las Vegas

The infamous “Sin City” with its acres of neon, rhinestone-encrusted showgirls and outrageously opulent casinos offers non-stop entertainment. You don’t have to be a gambler to enjoy the glittering Las Vegas Strip. Here you’ll find unique shows like Cirque du Soleil, world-renowned concert headliners, Broadway-caliber productions, amazing cuisine from some of the world’s top chefs, a vibrant nightlife and one of the best shopping experiences to be had in America.

Niagara Falls State Park

America’s oldest State Park has been a major attraction for decades. Sitting on the border between the US and Canada, Niagara Falls is a natural wonder formed over several millennia. It is actually three separate waterfalls, the American Falls, The Bridal Falls and the Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side. The breathtaking views, the deafening roar and the shear power of the falls is something you won’t soon forget.

An observation deck, just eighteen meters from the top of the American Falls, lets you get a close view. Other ways to get a close-up experience are the Maid of the Mist Boat tours that take you to the bottom of the falls or the Cave of the Winds, a walkway at the bottom of Bridal Falls.

Disney World

The Magic Kingdom, built on several thousand acres of former swampland in Florida, is a fantasy world that encompasses four separate theme parks, two water parks and the Downtown Disney entertainment district. Disney World has something for everyone; thrill rides, kiddy rides, high-end shopping, late night entertainment, championship golf courses, excellent dining, deluxe spas, wonderful Kissimmee villas, and beautiful beaches.

Universal Studios in Hollywood

You can immerse yourself in movie-making magic on a tour of Universal’s backlot. There you will visit actual movie and television sets including Steven Spielberg’s War of the Worlds and Wisteria Lane from ABC’s hit series Desperate Housewives, roam through the prop warehouse and maybe even spot a star or two.

The adjacent theme park features movie themed rides with in-your-face special effects, 3- D movies, live shows and much more. Universal CityWalk offers indoor skydiving at iFly Hollywood, a vertical wind tunnel where you can soar on a column of air in a simulated free fall.

These are only five of the unforgettable attractions that America has to offer. There are many more treasures in every state of this vast country.

Nisha’s post is sponsored by a site called kissimmeehotels.co.uk. Check out our latest offers on Kissimmee hotels.

Picking the Perfect Day to Evening Outfit for the Office when Traveling

Katelyn Roberts — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 18:43:49 +0000

It’s Friday afternoon, and you’re clocking out for the weekend. You’re traveling to a meeting with some coworkers at the local cocktail bar in thirty minutes. There’s no time to run home and change clothes, so do you wear your work clothes for evening? Of course not! By choosing the right outfit, you won’t have to worry about this fashion faux pas.

Of course you want to keep your work clothes professional; nobody in the office wears their best party dress to work. But you don’t have to look so buttoned up, even while working. Think layering for day-to-evening outfits. A ruffled satin blouse would look stunning under a neutrally colored business jacket, paired with an A-line skirt and pumps. If you love wearing dresses, then it’s even easier. That little black dress can be made work-appropriate with a jacket and wide belt.

When you choose this route, make sure that you can cover enough to stay within your office’s dress code.

Keep in mind that not all potential evening wear is over the top. On the contrary! Some of the best day-to-evening outfits are simple in concept. Instead of a flashy, sequined, lace up ball gown- inspired dress, choose a dress (or skirt, for that matter) that is knee-length. Anyone can pull off a black dress with the right lines, especially if it is accessorized correctly.

Think outside the box…

Don’t be fooled though; dresses aren’t the only way to dress your work clothes up. Skirts can instantly become classy with a shiny wide belt and fancy blouse. Patterns and prints shouldn’t be discounted, either. Paisley is the ultimate work to evening transition pattern. It’s fun, but can be covered up enough by a jacket to be professional at work.

Think about keeping a few evening essentials in your car or work bag. Transforming your daily grind ensemble into a belle-of-the-ball look is all about how you accessorize. Think about what compliments your chosen outfit. If you love how your shoulders look in your cocktail dress, consider a shawl, wrap, or shrug to emphasize them in your big reveal. Include a pair of strappy sandals in your beauty emergency kit. Think neutral colors for this; you can’t go wrong with gray or black shoes in most color palettes. If your office doesn’t allow long or dangling earrings, bring a pair along with you, especially if you wear your hair in an up do.

Evening Wear Kit

In your evening wear kit, make sure that you don’t leave out makeup. Over the course of the day, makeup can get smudged, smeared, or wipe off. It’s a good idea to freshen up cosmetics before heading out with friends. A few basics can do wonders for fading work makeup: black eyeliner, mascara, and highlight shadow are great pieces to keep in your purse. When in doubt, keep a small palette of makeup with you; if it’s in a brown or gray category, then there’s a good chance that it, along with your jewelry and accessories, will compliment your work to night life ensemble.

5 Amazing Destinations for a Great Stag Do

Richard Patterson — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 23:28:18 +0000

Let’s face it; we men are typically not good at party planning. We often do things last minute, and end up with something that resembles a party we threw when we were 17. The fact of the matter is, that these poorly thought out parties usually end in disaster.

If you’re planning to let your testosterone roar in your hometown, it may become a night to remember for reasons other than what you intended. So, get together with a few friends and organize the ultimate weekend of freedom in one of these five proven hot spots.

New Orleans Lousiana

New Orleans, Louisiana – Mardi Gras, or not, exploring the bead giving hospitality of New Orleans makes for an excellent stag trip. Spend the days golfing, fishing, boating, or just enjoying some awesome surf-and-turf at one of The Big Easy’s famous eateries.

But when night rolls around, be sure your crew gets down to Bourbon Street where you’ll get a true idea of what New Orleans is all about. Gamble at Harrah’s, enjoy music at the Blue Nile, mingle at a night club, enjoy a cabaret, or just hang out at a sports bar like Bayou Beer Garden. No matter how you slice it, New Orleans is the place you want to be.

Las Vegas Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada – No matter what you have in mind, Sin City has it to offer and Vegas might just be the ultimate destination for stag weekends! Despite its reputation as a place to get hitched, Vegas also seems to amply supply bachelors with everything their hearts desire. Learn how to drive a 600 hp. race car, take a helicopter tour, earn yourself a par at Desert Palms, or place your bet at one of the hundreds of casinos.

The night life there is also no dud; make sure to hit the Playboy Club, the Vegas Strip, and the Freemont Street Experience, as this is where you’ll make memories you can hound your friends about for years to come.

South Beach Miami Florida

South Beach, Miami, Florida – If you’re looking to be tantalized by a little eye candy; don’t worry, beach babes abound on this busting Miami sea coast. Take a dip at the beach, hit the gym, parasail, explore the Everglades, or catch a gut busting comedy show.

Miami is best known for their nightlife, so don’t miss out on the Purdy Lounge, the Sky Bar, and all the other clubs that can be found on Washington Avenue. Wrap your trip up by checking out the action at the Dolphins, Sun Life Stadium, and your buddies will be wondering when you guys get to do this again.

Hollywood California

Hollywood, California – You’ll feel like true movie stars while rubbing elbows with California’s most desirable women. Clubbing in Hollywood is exciting and you’ll find yourselves totally thrown back by the atmosphere at the Forbidden City, Boulevard 3, Halo, and Goldfingers.

The strips on Sunset, and Hollywood and Vine will definitely keep you rocking you nights away. During the day you can relax on Venice Beach, visit the Capitol Records Building, shoot pool at Hollywood Billiards, play paintball, or mosey through your favorite movie sets at Universal Studios.

Manhattan, New York, NY

Manhattan, New York, NY – The heart of the big apple can entertain a group of guys out to have fun. Have lunch at the Pearl Oyster Bar, play horseshoes at Chelsea Pier, check out time square, or catch a boxing match at Madison Square Garden.

The club scene will also blow you away; just follow the trail of nicely dressed women and you’ll likely to end up at a NYC hotspot like the Sapphire Lounge, Sin Sin, or the Temple Bar. No matter where you go in Manhattan, you’ll find a good time waiting round the corner.

Images Courtesy of Flickr User: jshyun, Moyan Brenn, L1mey, AtomicPope, nickmilleruk

Desperately need a vacation but have no cash, help!

Reader Contribution — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 22:03:20 +0000

We have all been in the situation in our lives when we need a vacation extremely bad, but do not have the funds to finance it. Whether you just completed a year-long project at work that consumed every once of your time or if one simply has overcome a difficult period in your life, a vacation often allows one to transition into the next phase of their life in a healthy and effective manner.

Vacations do not need to be lavish, luxurious or expensive to be productive and mind-enhancing. They simply take you out of your stressful environment and allow you to decompress somewhat.

Funding a vacation can be hard even when one is seeking a frugal, inexpensive trip. The tips below may provide ideas for obtaining the funds to make that impossible vacation become possible overnight.

1. Obtain a payday loan

Payday loan companies do not pry into your credit report or conduct lengthy reviews before telling you if you are approved. Many times customers are approved in a few short minutes or hours from the time they applied online. Online payday loans range in amounts as well but it’s typically based on your income.

2. Get a credit card increase

In today’s financial climate, may consumers have used their entire credit card balances and have very little available credit. If this is the case with you or if you need more than what you have available, this may be a remedy. Simply call your credit card company and ask for a credit line increase. Of course, increasing credit card debt is never a good thing, but if you are in a predicament where funds are needed immediately then this may be a viable option.

Although banks have been known to lower credit lines and decline increases due to the economic climate, some banks still keep their customers needs in mind regardless. Some banks truly will take your payment history in mind when considering a credit line increase. Some look at how long you have been a customer. So there is a good chance that you may qualify for a credit line increase.

3. Do a volunteer vacation

Many exotic, international destinations offer volunteer trips that entail travelers vacationing at the destination, but will be taking part in a volunteer opportunity while there.

For example, a trip to a certain region in Africa may be complimentary because you will sleep in very frugal quarters and will be helping construct a school house while staying there. These types of vacations can offer more than one ever imagined. Yes, you may need spending money or even money for airfare on some programs, but consider the philanthropy that takes place and the goodness that comes out of it. Note: If you do need airfare, do some checking around because you can generally find cheap flights that will take you where you want to go.

Many times, travelers return with a new outlook on life; certainly a better experience then simply traveling beach side somewhere. One can find numerous websites online that offer programs of this sort.

Any more ideas?

These are obviously just a few ideas to help you getaway when you desperately need that vacation but don’t have the funds. Please share any ideas you guys have as well – we all are in this situation at one time or another and could use all the options possible.

How to enjoy a little Vegas Nightlife

Aslyana — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 08:09:42 +0000

Thinking of taking a vacation, just you and your friends? Why not a trip to Sin City, yep Las Vegas! Las Vegas has so many great places to offer fine dining, entertainment and casinos.

In order to plan a trip to remember, let us help give you some great pointers on the “Hot Spots” for Nightlife in Vegas!

Where do you start?

Check into your hotel and just be spontaneous! When in Las Vegas there should be no rhyme or reason to what you do or where you go. The nightlife really is nonstop on the Vegas strip. Casinos and clubs open all hours of the night. There is no limit to where you can go or do.

All the hardcore Vegas lovers know that the real fun starts once the sun goes down & the big lights come on down on the strip – so don’t rush, walk where you want to go and enjoy yourself!

Blackjack Anyone?

If gambling is what you are in the mood for there truly is more slot machines and craps tables than you can count. Playing the tables are a given in Las Vegas, but be sure to bring your poker face. There are some players like you that are just doing it for fun, but then there are the more serious players that mean business.

Have an idea of what to expect before you sit at a table, maybe even watch a game or two. It will give you an idea of how the dealer works and the other players at the table. If your not careful and watch who your playing with, you’ll have some fun but loose your shorts and all the money in those shorts within just a couple hours. Have fun but be smart and play with people your own size!

Want to avoid the noise and enjoy a peaceful night in that luxury Vegas hotel? Consider heading over to party poker and enjoy a little poker online! It’s fun, easy and allows you to relax conveniently in your room while watching a little TV or a nice Movie.

Time to Dance it out!

There are so many places that offer a variety of music, DJ’s, bands, etc that it is hard to choose just one. What are you in the mood for? Light Jazz or something funkier like Motown? Whatever you choose there is sure to be a club within walking distance that is offering such playing. Go out, shake your groove thing. Remember what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas, right?

Again, can’t stress this enough. One of the biggest benefits of the great Vegas Strip is everything is literally within walking distance! Unless you find something more interesting several miles away, save the taxi bills and save it for the casino by walking.

VIP Treatment, why yes

Are you looking to be treated like a VIP? Well, clubs like Lavo offers tickets for VIP tables, seating and more. Some of the VIP perks is being waited on instead of having to go to the bar, complimentary items like food or snacks and usually great seats to the stage or dance floor. Spend the money one night and get treated like a VIP, it is well worth it!

Another way to feel VIP & all special is to get some personal messages! Almost every hotel on the strip has a local message floor within walking distance of your room and even though it can be a bit pricey, you’ll feel like a King/Queen by the end of the day.

Nightlife Events

Be sure to do a little research before you go out on the town. There are so many clubs and restaurants that offer Nightlife specials each day of the week. Whether it is drink specials or fine dining specials or even personal entertainment. Whatever you are looking for the Las Vegas Strip has it!

The nightlife really is endless in Las Vegas. The hardest part is deciding where to get each night of your stay. Las Vegas offers a great variety of casinos, food, and entertainment so be sure to have fun and unwind. Life is too short to not let your hair down, so have fun no one will ever know!

Vegas Nightlife Resources

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

Useful Tips to Remember when Traveling with Kids, from Mom

Aslyana — Sat, 02 Apr 2011 08:55:20 +0000

Traveling is a part of our lives. It can be business travel, family things, and vacation travel that we may encounter in our lifetime. However, out of all of those the toughest one can be vacation travel because of traveling with kids. There is no reason to kill you trying to accomplish this. We are here to make that chore an enjoyment and for you to enjoy that vacation!

Where’s the Snacks?

The first rule of thumb when traveling with children is always has snacks available! From the dawn of time, children have been bribed, quieted, and calmed with food. So why not give it a try? This is especially true for car rides. Parents get so tired of hearing “Are we there yet?” and “I have to go to the bathroom” but sometimes food can calm the senses.

Pack a bag full of healthy, fun snacks for the kids to enjoy
Gummy bears and apple slices can be a big hit!

Don’t forget the Nintendo DS!

In this day and age kids love their handheld electronic games. This has to be the best distraction ever when traveling kids. Of course, these electronic games had to be designed by a parent because, well they understand kids! These games keep the children’s mind busy and off of the long trip. The handheld games are great for flying also, but be sure your airline allows it.

Games to distract the mind are important it keeps kids from driving their parents crazy!
The smallest of brainteasers can be the best way to keep them occupied!

Flying with a car seat? Really?

If your trip involves flying and your child still sits in a car seat it is important to bring that with you. However, the first thought that comes to mind has to lug that car seat through an airport. What a hassle right? It does not have to be with the traveling toddler car seat accessory. This allows the car seat to be attached to rolling luggage so all you have to do is wheel your child through the airport. There is no awkward lifting or carrying of that car seat. Let your child ride in safety without killing yourself with getting it there.

A traveling toddler car seat accessory is a must have for that frequent flyer!
Seat safety is important on planes, just like cars. Make your child safe by bringing that car seat!

Mom, I got to go to the bathroom…

Yes, we all know this happens more often than not. Children have to go to the bathroom ten times more often than adults. That is just a part of life. Do not be discouraged if you have to stop often for them. Pit stops are something that should be planned in the trip when driving a long distance. So before you child starts crying in the back seat, stop and stretch your legs and let your child use the restroom.

Plan for the pit stops, it will make the drive more enjoyable!
Always remember that accidents do happen and bring extra clothes just in case.

Traveling with kids can be fun; you just have to make it that way. There is no reason to kill yourself over getting your children to the destination safely. Plan, plan, and plan some more. It may seem like a lot before your trip to do it, but in the end you will be saving yourself a lot of time, stress and well sanity!

Top 16 Las Vegas Restaurants You Must Visit

Aslyana — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 05:30:04 +0000

Chilling in Las Vegas, great room, great gaming tables, but where is the great food? Most people want to have fun spending their money at the slots or playing blackjack so saving money on food is important. We will help by offering the Las Vegas restaurants that are affordable and good!

In-N-Out Burger

This is a landmark for Las Vegas. The In-N-Out Burger offers a great quality burger for a cheap cost. If you ask any local, where is the best burger, hands down they will send you here!

Morels at Palazzo

Morels at Palazzo are out of this world good and cheap! The hours are from 9pm to midnight in the bar, but what better time to munch down on some awesome flat-breads to go with your cocktail at a great price? Morels at Palazzo has great bar food at a great bar price!

Serendipity 3 Vegas

This place really does have it all! Huge portions, great atmosphere, booming entertainment all very inexpensive. Serendipity 3 at Caesar’s Palace is a on stop shop for all your Las Vegas needs, but if nothing else try the food and come hungry!

Margaritaville Las Vegas

From the laid back flip flop atmosphere, to the sand between your toes, Margaritaville Las Vegas makes business casual seem like a black tie affair. This restaurant has a great selection for breakfast at a great price. We all know a good breakfast will set the standard for the day, so eat here and let the boat take you!

The Food Court at the Venetian Vegas

How many food courts can you get a Turkey burger, pizza, or Panini’s for under $10? The Food Court at the Venetian offers a variety of different foods from around the world for an awesome price. For the people who cannot make up their minds easily, this is not a great option.

Table 10

So it is 4 o’clock and you want an ice cold beer and some good food, where do you go? Table 10 has many great offerings on the cheap. From the beer, to the sandwiches, to the sports on the TV’s who can ask for anything more?

Hash House a Go Go Las Vegas

Be sure to make a pit stop at the Hash House for one of your meals during your stay in Vegas. This restaurant was featured on a TV show and with the large portions and great prices, it is hard to pass up!

SEA Vegas

This restaurant gives many other Thai restaurants a run for their money. Why not try Drunken Noodles or even the Duck Lettuce Wrap. Both of these entrees will tantalize the taste buds without hurting the wallet!

Oyster Bar

This is a great quick stop for a lunch on the go. They have a grand selection of soups, salads and sandwiches for just a couple of bucks. Service is fast; food is great and leaves more money in your pocket.

Canter’s Deli at Treasure Island Las Vegas

Canter’s Deli has some top notch sandwiches and more. Most of the portion sizes are big enough to share which cuts down on the cost. The sandwiches here should be outlawed!

Bacio at Tropicana

If you are in the mood for a little Italian cuisine then Bacio is where it is! Bacio has a menu that would make any drool for some pizza or salad! The prices are more than affordable; they are outstanding for Las Vegas!

Hussong’s Las Vegas

Hussong’s Cantina and Taqueria is where you can find some authentic Mexican eats for cheeps! Whether you want a beer, taco or margarita you will not leave here dissatisfied in the least. The prices are great, the food is great and the atmosphere is original!

Skybox Sports Bar and Grill

Who does not like a place to grab a burger, fries, beer and a game? The Skybox has it all! From the hand crafted burgers to the drink specials during happy hour no one can beat it! Great place for a late night snack at a great price too!

Pink’s Hot Dogs at Planet Hollywood Hotel

If you are looking for a casual dining experience and eating outside then Pink’s is the place to be! Pink’s Hot Dogs have been crowd pleasers and hands messy for many years!

The Cheesecake Factory

This restaurant is located in many states across the country. The Cheesecake Factory has salads big enough to feed more than two people and specials that can feed two for fewer than ten dollars. Awesome entrée’s and of course who can leave without getting a piece of the cheesecake?

Florida Café

The Florida Café is a little drive from the Las Vegas strip, but worth it! If you like Cuban food and want a truly one of a lifetime experiences you must stop here! So take the bus or a taxi and head up to the Florida Café!

Other Las Vegas Restaurant Resources

Las Vegas Restaurant Image Gallery

7 Simple Walt Disney World Vacation Tips & Tricks to Remember

Aslyana — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 02:43:33 +0000

The family has decided on a summer vacation to Disney World. Disney World truly is fun for the whole family! Now the list making starts so you will not forget anything. Let us help with this guide of seven Disney world vacation tips!

Image via Wikipedia

On the road again

Let us begin with the road trip. Whether you are flying or driving being prepared to ride with children can be tricky. The most important thing to remember here is bring snacks and games!

Food is always a hit with kids; it keeps them happy and satisfied. Pack games that are easy to transport, books or hand held games too; games like cheekybingo while on the road will keep the kids occupied and you happy!

All of this will save you a headache when they get bored in the car!

Another line to wait in?

If you want to avoid a line as soon as you get to the park, buy those tickets in advance. You will be able to save some money doing it along with yet another line to wait in.

When your family arrives at Disney World and the kids see those gates they are going to be so anxious to get into the park so do not delay buy them early!

That bottle of water is how much?

Speaking from experience food and water can be so out of the world expensive at Disney World.

It is always amazing to see just how many people will spend $3-$4 on a bottle of water. Really, it does not make sense to pay that much when you can bring your own. Let the adults in the family wear backpacks that have snacks, water and juice. This can truly put a hinder into the cash at the park if you do not pack your own. Easy, convenient, and money saving are always a hit!

Hotel choices, be smart where you book

There are many hotel choices within the park, near the park and farther away. All the hotels offer an array of amenities so choose one that best fits your family’s needs and budget. There may be a discount available if you buy tickets and book a room at the same time. Never hurts to ask!

Bring strollers & save your back

Yes, yes, and yes again. Be sure to bring strollers for young children. The park is huge and although they will want to walk to start with, there will come a time when they get worn out. It may seem like a hassle to drag around in the beginning but it will save you in the end!

Be prepared to get wet

Carry with you a couple of baggies to store your cell phones or wallet in. You will be getting on rides that will get you wet. These rides are too much fun to pass up so don’t fret and take a bag.

You’ll want to check before getting on but most ride nowadays have lockers that you can secure your personal items in but this does cost a little. Be sure to bring some pocket change if you decide not to bring some baggies.

Speaking of the Log Flume

When planning your route in the park, be sure to make the water rides last. Everyone hates walking around the park soaked through your pants. However, if it is a really hot day it is a great way to cool off!

More Walt Disney World Tips & Info

Disney World Vacation Tips (travelinsurance.org)
How to Save on a Disney World Vacation (travelinsurance.org)
Planning a Trip to Walt Disney World (trifter.com)
How to Save on a Disney World Vacation (travelinsurance.org)
Planning a Trip to Walt Disney World (trifter.com)

Top 2011 Spring Break Destinations

Aslyana — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 07:45:28 +0000

It is that time of year again, Spring Break! Spring break allows us to relish in the warmth of the sun after a long winter’s nap. So where are you taking your family this year? There are so many great places within driving range or if you want to fly too! We will discuss the best places to take your family for Spring break this year!

M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E

Yep, that is right, Disney World. Now who does not like a great walk in the park with Pluto or a cup of tea with Cinderella? Disney World has been making Spring Break memories for many years for thousands of children around the world.

There is something for everyone in the family from Space Mountain to Epcot Center. Disney has always been and will remain an ultimate spring break destination.

A Dip in the Pool might cool you off!

Think slides. Think water. Think park. Yep, that is right a water park! A destination that is always a crowd pleaser! Kids of all ages can bask in the lazy river, enclosed slides or even high speed water slides. The best part is, if spring break is a little cooler than you would like, find a water park that is indoors. Enclosed water parks are great for any time of the year for a quick get-a-away.

When it comes to Spring break though try to find something that is safe, highly rated, and of course is loaded with fun!

The Great Outdoors!

For something rustic and different take the family camping! There are so many great camp grounds that have access to fishing, trails and wildlife. This vacation can be fun and educational at the same time!

Leave the computers and cell phones at home and bring out the camp fire and marshmallows. Let the kids use their imagination and learn to appreciate the great outdoors!

Is that waves I hear?

Another great route for Spring break is the beach! There are so many great beaches along our coast lines that it really is hard to decide which one to go to. Do some research though and make sure the water temperature will be good for swimming.

Also, there are a lot of beach areas that also have nature walks and trails close by. This will be a great adventure for something different.

Great Wolf Lodge

This spring break destination is great for any time of year, but why not hit it up this 2011 spring break? The Great Wolf Lodge is catered to families and has an array of amenities to enjoy. From the outdoor pole, sports areas and of course an indoor water park does not leave any rock unturned here! There is so much to enjoy with so little time.

Great Wolf Lodge takes pride in their safe, child friendly environments and knows the importance of family time.

Where is the White House?

The hustle and bustle of the city can be thought of as not really a vacation. However, every spring Washington DC has a spectacular event, the annual Cherry Blossom Festival. This is a great destination for family Spring breaks because of all the culture and history in the area. Take a day to enjoy the Cherry Blossoms, and make a rainy day for the museums.

Spending time in Washington DC can teach a child more than the classroom. Actually being by the history and the art of many centuries ago is intriguing. Make this stop one year for fun!

Is this a land of Chocolate?

Another great destination for families on spring break is Hershey Park! This theme park has rides, games, and adventures around every corner. Hershey Park, of course, has lots of chocolate and it is a kid’s dream world of candy!

There is also a lot of history that goes with this park so be sure to check it out sometime.

Gitty Up Horsey

How about a trip to a ranch? Kids love horses and a dude ranch is a perfect spot to take a family at Spring break. A dude ranch will teach the children manners, responsibility of owning animals and so much more. It gives children a sense of ranch living and most allow the kids to be ranch hands. So let your horsey do the walking and talking this spring!

There are so many great places to go for spring break it can be a hard choice. Sit down as a family discuss the options and take a vote! Never underestimate the power of a great family vacation. Come make some memories that will last a lifetime! Spring break is supposed to be a relaxing time for the whole family so go and have fun!

2011 Spring Break Wrap-up

2011 has and will continue to be a great year so why not enjoy it with some of these top spring break destinations that the whole family will enjoy? We obviously know these are JUST a few, so please feel free to comment below on all your favorite spring break destinations for 2011.

3 Wrinkle-Free Business Travel Packing Tips

Reader Contribution — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 08:44:25 +0000

The trip is planned, clothes are ironed and your ready to head out to that business meeting and need to keep the nice, crisp clothes from getting wrinkled on your trip – whew, what a challenge.

The fact is, making clothes in a little suitcase 100% wrinkle-free is nearly impossible but there are a few business packing tips you can do to make the impact much less, let’s jump right in…

1. Wear the Bulkiest Items

Jackets or blazers are not kosher in a suitcause simply becaus they are bulky and tend to squeeze everything else together tighly by over-packing the suitcase. Wear the biggest stuff while traveling and leave your suitcase for smaller, important items and give them room to breath.

2. Use Plastic, it’s your friend!

We don’t notice it but once our clothes are packed away, we generally forget about them and tote the suitcase around without hitting things, bumping it here and there, forgetting that are clothes are in there moving around. Simply put, friction causes wrinkling and plastic helps reduce the amount of friction on each piece. The cheapest way is to use plastic bags your crips clothes just came in from the dry-cleaners.

3. Rolling vs. Folding, which one is best

Both. Some clothes work better when folded while other do better when rolled. For example, sweaters work best when folder when items like jeans, t shirts, socks and undershirts work better if rolled. Keep in mind that rolling can also save a TON of space so it’s a win/win if used on the right items.

Other Great Business Packing Tips

Business travel tips with about.com
Fodors 6 tips for wrinkle-free packing
Business travel packing list from USATODAY
7 easy business packing tips

Discover Five of the Best Romantic Getaways

Reader Contribution — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 02:13:47 +0000

Sunset on a beach, massage in a spa or champagne in a private Jacuzzi?

With work pressures sky-rocketing and most couples not spending enough time with one another, a romantic getaway is an excellent option. They give you alone time with your partner and pamper you with luxuries that can add love and spice to your relationship. The question is where? Read on to discover the best romantic getaways and save yourself some time so you can start enjoying yourself.

Some of the very best romantic getaways in the US:

Maui, Hawaii

It is said that Hawaii is Romance, and at Maui that is absolutely true. This romantic getaway paradise offers couples spas, resorts, exotic treks and adventures, and pristine beaches to get a great sun tan. The breath taking island of Maui is the second largest among the Hawaii islands and has won many awards for the ‘Best Island in the World.’ It is also the place where folks go for watching whales that migrate about 3500 miles to mate and give birth here in the winter months.

Key West, Florida

A four mile long island at the south-most tip of Florida Keys is the perfect place to celebrate an anniversary or make any occasion especially memorable. Not too hectic, not too adventurous, the Key West is known for its relaxing rejuvenation. While there are historical monuments and architectures that some rent a bike to visit, most couples enjoy soaking in the sun on the beautiful beaches. Scuba diving and snorkeling are other activities that one can enjoy on the beach and in the evenings there are several great options for fine cuisine and dining. A walk down the pleasantly lit streets is perfect for a romantic evening.

Charleston, South Carolina

The southern charm of horse carriages tick-tock-ing on cobblestone streets fills romance even in the stones of this city. It is recommended that one stay in the city’s large number of holiday inns or Bed & Breakfast places to experience the culture to the fullest. Water parks, museums, churches, gardens and historical steeples dot the landscape of the city. Watching the sunset on the city’s harbor and walking over the romantic Ravenel Cooper River Bridge under the stars at night is simply to die for.

Napa Valley, California

Known for its wineries, locals will proudly tell you that the name roughly translates to “you will always return.” About an hour away from San Francisco, the valley is postcard perfect. The hills, vineyards and quaint restaurants make this a place you never want to leave. The Bed & Breakfast lodges are your best option here. Napa Valley boasts of approximately 300 wineries and hosts about 5 million tourists annually.

Savannah, Georgia

Visited by millions each year, this historic city has its own special romantic touch to it. Victorian architecture, churches, synagogues, and the beautiful riverfront have earned the city the name – ‘Hostess City of the South.’ The historic district has 22 squares and is a place best experienced by walking around. Classic homes of yesteryear’s, sidewalks and Spanish moss clad oak trees add a poetic essence to the city. Enjoy a romantic stay in the city filled with options for great dining, including authentic seafood and barbecue.

We’d love for you to share your favorite romantic getaways below in the comments section!

Top 5 Driving Vacations in the United States

Reader Contribution — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 19:57:50 +0000

An impromptu, vacation by road is sometimes just the right excitement needed to spice things up in life. Whether alone, with friends or family, the United States gives us ample opportunity to explore the picturesque landscapes, breath taking coastlines and yet-to-be-commercialized little town jewels – all just a drive away.

From the never-ending list of possibilities, here are the top five driving vacations in the US:

#5, Route 66, Chicago to Los Angeles

This route is termed as the Original Mother Road as it was the road taken by young men in the 1930’s from the Midwest to Los Angeles in search of better livelihoods. The drive still shows the authentic old road but one needs to prepare a personal map as maps nowadays do not plot Route 66.

The Route 66 driving vacation is a 2448 mile journey through 8 states and 3 time zones. The drive should ideally start from Lake Shore Drive passing through the Illinois covering The Sears Tower, Navy Pier, Ozark region, Petrified Forest and Grand Canyon National Parks, Meteor Crater, and if you haven’t seen it yet, The Strip in Vegas.

#4, Landscapes and National Parks of the West, California

The fourth largest state in the U.S., California, has some of the most gorgeous natural sights in the world. When you couple it with a few neighboring states, a wondrous road trip is born.

Starting from Los Angeles, covering the mighty 800,000 acre Joshua Tree National Park, Heard Museum and Botanical Garden in Phoenix, the cactus collection at Saguaro National Park, Grand Canyon, Death Valley and the Yosemite National Park you can make your way to San Francisco and enjoy one of the best driving vacations in the US!

#3, Canyons, Springs and Cliff of Rocky Colorado

Starting in Denver, you can drive to the top of the highest peak in the west, Pike’s Peak. Admire the beauty of the scenic Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods, Florissant Fossil Beds, Black Canyon and visit the Mesa Verde National Park to see ancient cliff dwellings. Then, drive into the bombastic flamboyance of the Rocky Mountain Park sprinkled with cool water lakes, soothing flowers and majestic peaks.

#2, Upstate New York

There’s more to the State than just the Big Apple – New York City. Wondrous landscapes, farmlands and cultural heritage can be found in addition to breath taking sights such as the 1000 islands sparkling in the St. Lawrence River.

Starting in Manhattan, make your way to the Hudson Valley to appreciate the Highlands, castles and historic towns. Drive to Albany, the state’s capital and the fourth oldest city in the U.S. and then go horse-back riding in Saratoga Springs.

From the crystal blue waters of Lake George, enjoy a peaceful walk in The Adirondack Park before driving to Thousand Islands. You can meander through Syracuse, Rochester and Buffalo before reaching the awesome Niagara Falls. Many return from here but if you’re interested you can continue to Catskills for fly fishing and hiking.

#1, Pacific Coast Highway, California

The best driving vacation is termed as America’s ‘Most Beautiful Drive’ and as the ‘Best Free Attraction’ this highway runs along the northern coast of California and has some of the best views in America. Officially named California Highway 1, its enthralling beauty makes it better known as the Pacific Coast Highway. Hugging the west coast, you find blue waters with crashing waves and barking seals on one side, while towering cliffs and lush forests on the other.

Taking the road between San Francisco and Los Angeles, your to do list should include the classic town of Monterey, agricultural town of Half Moon Bay, spectacular 17 mile drive at Pebble Beach, Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row, the magnificent Hearst Castle and the sky kissing views of Yosemite National Park.

Top Five Tips When Traveling with Pets

Reader Contribution — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 19:29:47 +0000

There is no greater stress buster than a pet. Gone are the days when pets were kept only for performing laborious tasks or for some kind of financial benefit. Today pets have become a beloved companion, a member of the family, and without whom a vacation isn’t a vacation.

Here are a few suggestions to keep in mind when traveling with pets;

Tip 1: Conduct a Thorough Examination before Hand

Would you travel if you were sick? Your pet shouldn’t either. It is highly advised that you consider your pet’s health before you travel. Is he or she recovering from an illness or in a condition where rest is a better option? A trip to the vet is advised even if your pet is healthy; this would ensure that you don’t encounter health problems while traveling with pets.

Tip 2: Invest in a Comfortable Pet Carrier

You should invest in a comfortable carrier before you travel with pets. Even if your entire travel is via car, it is a good practice to have a carrier in case you need it. If you are flying, a carrier is a must and should consider the fact that the pet would spend its most difficult part of the vacation in the carrier.

The carrier should be large enough for the pet to lie down and turn. The ventilation should not be blocked by latches or hinges. Keep an absorbing material on the floor of the cage and ensure that it doesn’t leak. The carrier will be handled by others so a strong handle on the outside would keep the personnel secure from being bitten. It is good practice to get your pet comfortable in staying inside the cage before the actual trip.

Tip 3: Use Tags & Leashes

You can be extremely careful when you travel with pets but the possibility of the two of you getting separated is always there. Ensure that your pet is wearing a tag with essential information like your name and contact information on it. Some people are known to include vaccination updates as well. Never leave a leash inside the carrier. There is a possibility of your pet getting entangled and even suffocating because of it. Chokes and training collars are also not something that goes in the carrier; carry these separately with you.

Tip 4: Research Hotel Policies

If you are going to stay in hotels or lodges, inquire before leaving that where you want to stay is a pet-friendly vacation rental. Some do not entertain pets at all, while others are known to dissuade owners by levying hefty fees. Some hotels give pet owners a smoking room only or a street view only. Make the trip comfortable for your pet and yourself.

Tip 5: Don’t Forget Essentials

An extra leash, collar, blanket, bedding, wipes, fresh water, medicines, tranquillizer shots, tweezers, toys, treats, brush, waste removal bags, first aid kit, flash torch are all highly recommended for the unexpected when you travel with pets. It is better that you pack a little extra because your pet is almost like a baby; very lovable but needs extra attention.

Other Tips When Traveling with Pets

Traveling with your pet
Traveling with Pets by seniors-site
Traveling with Animals Tips by Continental Airlines

In general it is a good idea to keep checking on your pet if a carrier is used. In case of flights, in transit ask if you can walk the pet (if applicable). It is good exercise as well as a much needed reunion.

Five of the Best Family Beach Vacations

Reader Contribution — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 21:32:28 +0000

Crystal clear turquoise waters kissing the golden white sands… tangy flavored breeze brushing your hair… a cool sip from the glass gently soaking your senses… serenity that you can close your eyes & slip into…

A day like this at the beach with family is a dream right? No. There are spectacular family beach vacations which are relaxing for kids and adults alike.

5th is Kanaha Beach Park

Kanaha Beach Park located along the north shore of Maui, Hawaii is a golden carpet of sand.

The publicly owned beach is a recreational haven for windsurfing enthusiasts. Activities such as diving, surfing and canoeing keep the adults engrossed but Kanaha is a complete family beach vacation spot offering sandcastle building and seaweed designing for the kids. The large shaded grassy spots cupping the warm sands are the perfect excuse for a relaxing nap.

4th is Magens Bay Beach

Magens Bay Beach, proclaimed as one of the Top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world, is in the Caribbean on Saint Thomas, United States Virgin Islands.

This one mile long stretch of white sand has clear calm waters with tall palm trees, making this a postcard perfect beach for families. Beach chairs and floats are sprinkled all over the beach with several popular snack bars and souvenir shops. There is a nominal entrance fee and the place hosts parties on the weekends; but on weekdays the secluded feel of the beach make it a perfect getaway.

3rd is Ala Moana Beach Park

The Ala Moana Beach Park on the south shore of Oahu, Hawaii, is an excellent destination for a family beach vacation.

The ‘Path to the Sea’ (English translation for the Hawaiian name of the beach) is protected by a shallow outer coral reef and provides calm waters for swimmers. However, there are strong undercurrents and children should not venture too far out in the waters. When combined with the neighboring park area, it provides about 100-acres of complete recreation, picnicking, gaming, sunbathing, swimming and relaxing all rolled into one place – the Ala Moana Beach Park.

2nd is Coronado Beach

Coronado Beach in San Diego is the place for kids to have a merry time. The winter months get chilly and may not be suited for a family beach vacation, but the other months see tourists flock to this and other beaches in San Diego. If sand sculpting and surf smashing doesn’t catch your fancy maybe whale watching and seal spotting will do the trick.

The photogenic beach has a cordoned off Dog Beach for your favorite pet. The sparkling beach is perfectly complimented by the Victorian Del Coronado Hotel, voted in the top resorts of the world.

1st is Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach located on the Florida Space Coast, east of Orlando, is a popular destination for a family beach vacation.

The effervescence of the place is simply engaging. While the beach offers a good sun-tan and loads of kids to create a party-like ambiance, there are also adventures like deep sea diving and para-sailing that one can partake in. At a stone’s throw is the Kennedy Space Center where kids and grown-ups can play out their astronaut fantasies. A wide range of taverns and restaurants assures good deals and bargains during the stay.

Top Five Most Expensive Resorts in the World

Reader Contribution — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 20:32:00 +0000

Travel planning for most people is an activity that requires time and effort. While resorts, even the expensive ones, attract tourists via deals and offers splashed on the internet, there are a few select patrons who eclipse the norms to opt for only the most expensive resorts in the world.

Generally people are satisfied with a clean, comfortably sized room with a shower and a TV, but these ridiculously expensive resorts boast of rooms that cover an entire floor and are loaded with customized services such as a personal chef, dedicated masseuse and a helicopter or yacht to ferry you around!

Here’s a peek at the top 5 most expensive resorts in the world;

#5 – The Bridge Suite at the Atlantis

With a price tag of $25,000 USD per night, the Bridge Suite at the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort, Bahamas, comes in at the bottom of this list. Atlantis is an ocean themed resort and has two Royal Towers. The 10 room Bridge Suite connects the two Royal Towers and is at a height of 16 stories. It boasts of a majestic view of the lagoons and pools from the 800 foot balconies on either side.

While the pricey stay is not exactly a steal, this very popular suite has a waiting list of over 2 years!

#4 – The Ty Warner Penthouse

Second to last, but no cheap buy, The Ty Warner Penthouse, Four Seasons, New York costs the patron $34,000. The nine room suite is said to float in Manhattan. Imperial views of the Gotham City are always for the taking from the cantilevered balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows.

With the choice of a Rolls Royce Phantom or a Mercedes Maybach to chauffeur you, the distinctively designed suite has a Thai canopy bed threaded with gold and a waterfall in the Zen Room.

#3 – Hugh Hefner Sky Villa

What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas, but this got out – each day you stay at the Hugh Hefner Sky Villa, Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas your pocket is lighter by $40,000.

The suite is playfully themed on Playboy and has a cantilevered $700,000 jacuzzi with glass walls that showcases a view of the entire Las Vegas strip. Live grand in this two-story suite with gym, spa and a rotating bed!

#2 – The Royal Villa at Grand Resort Lagonissi

Carrying a price tag of $50,000 per night is The Royal Villa at Grand Resort Lagonissi Athens, Greece. Beautifully camouflaged in a 72 acre peninsula in South Athens, this runner up most expensive resort has every luxury served to you on a silver platter.

The trance of the tranquil waters of the Aegean Sea along with Greek hospitality liberates you from all tensions and worries. While your personal butler, chef and trainer pamper you, a heated pool and private deck perfectly indulge the majestic side of you.

#1 – Royal Penthouse Suite, President Wilson Hotel

A staggering $65,000 will get you one night at our winner – The Royal Penthouse Suite, President Wilson Hotel, Geneva, Switzerland. While the price tag mentioned is the best estimate, The Penthouse Suite is indisputably at the top of the charts of the most expensive resorts.

The suite occupies the entire top floor of the hotel and can be accessed by a residents-only elevator. With four plush bedrooms and six enormous bathrooms, the suite can host a party of about 40 people. Once inside, you get a spectacular view of the city and of Lake Geneva. The living room and cocktail lounge are beautifully decorated in contemporary style and the bulletproof windows plus state of the art security system keep the crème de la crème safe from trespassers.

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