Travel – US
Martha’s Vineyard is The Perfect Vacation Spot
Author Alexine
If you make a plan to visit the north eastern part of the United States this summer, save a day or two for a trip Martha’s Vineyard. This little island south of Falmouth Massachusetts is a wonderful getaway for families and friends. With ocean views abundant and lots of little places to see there is sure to be something for everyone. Here are some helpful tips to make your trip to Martha’s Vineyard more enjoyable.
Cape Cod Vacation Things to Do
Author admin
Cape Cod Vacation Things to Do
If you are looking for a change of pace summer vacation this year, look no further than Cape Cod Massachusetts.
Renowned for its beautiful beaches, Cape Cod has an atmosphere all its own that has charmed many visitors over the years.
One of the best parts of vacationing in Cape Code is the number of fully furnished homes to rent. This home away from home adds to the charm and makes you feel more a part of the island.
Combine the natural beauty of the place with excellent restaurants and a variety of summer activities, and you’ve found the vacation spot that will satisfy all your families vacation desires.
If you have never visited Cape Cod you are in for a treat. Here are a few ideas on things to do to get your started.
Island Beaches
The long extended arm of Massachusetts that makes up Cape Cod is scattered with beautiful light sand beaches and wildlife. You can spend every day at the beach if you choose and no matter where you stay there is a beach nearby. Plan to bring your bathing suit and plenty of sun block to ensure you do not burn to a crisp while swimming and playing at the beach.
Golfing Cape Cod Style
For those of you who love a good game of golf Cape Cod is the perfect place to vacation. There are golf courses all over that are lush and green with beautiful surroundings. Make sure you plan ahead to reserve yourself a time in case you come over a busy holiday week. This will make your golfing experience more enjoyable while you are on vacation in Cape Cod.
Ocean Fishing
Whether you like to throw a line in on a pier or spend the day on the ocean fishing with the pros you have plenty of options in Cape Cod. There are companies that offer guided fishing experiences if you choose to take that route. On the other hand if you want something more low key you can always go to the shore, climb some rocks or sit on a pier to fish.
Boating
There are plenty of boat rental companies on Cape Cod that are the perfect fit for people visiting from out of town. However, if you have your own boat in tow than you can arrange for a dock space at the marinas near where you are staying. Then you do not have to worry about loading and unloading the boat every day and can take it out bright and early.
Shopping
While there are plenty of fun outdoor activities to take part in there is a lot of shopping to be done in Cape Cod as well. The area is full of adorable little shops and boutiques along with many outlet stores and shopping centers. You will find lots of shops that sell Cape Cod goodies and T shirts to take home for your family and friends.
Dining
Due to the location of Cape Cod fresh fish is abundant and there are plenty of places serving seafood. While chicken, steak and vegetarian dishes are also available, seafood is one of the best things about visiting a coastal place. Be sure to try a fresh lobster or fish steak while you are visiting.
Enjoy Your Stay
While it may be just a short drive or a long plane ride to Cape Cod, this is the perfect destination for summer vacation. If you have time make a reservation for a weekly rental home and move in for a week or two. You will not be disappointed and the whole family is sure to enjoy their vacation.
Nantucket Island Travel Tips
Author admin
Travel Tips for Your Nantucket Island Visit
The island of Nantucket is one of the most beautiful places to visit during the warm months in Massachusetts. With panoramic ocean views and plenty of outdoor activities, this is the perfect escape for your summer vacation.
To help plan your summer trip to Nantucket, here are some of the wonderful options you have available.
Arriving on Island
There are two primary ways for visitors to arrive on the island of Nantucket. Small planes fly into the Nantucket Memorial Airport and several ferries depart from Hyannis Port. Check with the different companies before showing up for a boat to make sure you have correct times and prices.
Transportation
Once you arrive on the island it is important to determine which type of transportation you will need. There are taxis, limousines and shuttles for when you first arrive. However you will want to determine if a car rental or bike rental is more appropriate if you plan on staying for several days or more. This will give you more flexibility when it comes to sightseeing and recreation.
Accommodations
The three types of accommodations offered to visitors include single family home rentals, bed and breakfasts and hotels. If you plan on staying for a week or more with your family you may want to schedule a home to rent. This allows you to prepare your own food and store cold beverages for the days at the beach.
Food and Beverages
You will find many different types of restaurants, specialty food shops and catering businesses on Nantucket. The restaurants include stop and go places to grab a bag lunch to take to the beach and other more fancy places to dress up and dine out.
If you would like to throw a party while you are on island the catering businesses are also available to help. While it is nice to purchase food already made there are also grocery stores to help stock the pantry of your rental home.
Boat Rentals & Tours
To take advantage of the prime location you can participate in plenty of water sports when you are on Nantucket. There are many different types of boat rentals and boat tours of the island and surrounding attractions.
Whether you enjoy fishing on a motorboat or relaxing on a sailboat there is something for everyone. Whale watching is also a wonderful activity for the whole family so plan on making a reservation before you arrive.
Beaches
For those of you who are not big on water sports or spending the day at sea there are plenty of beautiful beaches to visit. Make sure you bring an umbrella to create shade if you plan on a long day because the heat can be intense. With a cooler in tow and plenty of sunscreen you are sure to enjoy the beaches of Nantucket.
Visit Soon
To give your family and friends a great place to meet this summer break plan a vacation to Nantucket. This beautiful island is full of fun things to do for all ages and is the perfect place to take advantage of warm weather. Pack your bags and make reservations so you can enjoy a trip to Nantucket this summer.
Great Road Trip Destinations in Eastern United States
Author Alexine
While road tripping might be at the top of your list this summer it can be tricky to make it to the destinations on the western half of the country.
To give those of you on the east side of the country some fun destinations to seek out, lets explore some great road trip destinations in the eastern United States.
Acadia National Park
Located in Maine the Acadia National Park is a great place to take a day trip or spend a week camping and exploring nature. With lots of wagon trails you can get far on a bicycle or just by hiking around Maine’s coast. There are plenty of mountains and bodies of water to explore as you venture throughout the park. Make sure you have reservations for camping during the busy summer months to ensure you can stay as long as you expected.
White Mountain National Forest
If you want a fun outdoor destination in eastern United States then look no further than the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. With plenty of activities to take part in and scenery to enjoy you are sure to have a great time visiting this beautiful place. You can go fishing, climbing, hiking, biking, horseback riding and lots of different water activities. There are even adorable cabins to stay in if you do not want to stay in your own tent.
Washington D.C.
While visiting Washington D.C. there is not a lot of nature to explore but there is plenty of rich history and lots of monuments to admire. You can take tours of the area or be your own tour guide as you travel throughout the area by taxi, bus and on foot. Do not forget to stop and admire the White House, Washington’s Memorial, Lincoln’s Memorial and the World War II Memorial. These are some of the largest attractions in the area along with many other important historical displays.
Great Smoky Mountains
Located in eastern Tennessee is a fabulous National Park filled with wildlife and outdoor activities for everyone in the family. The Great Smoky Mountains are home to over seventeen thousand plant, animal and invertebrate species. Some of the mountain peaks rise over six thousand feet above sea level making them a great day hike for any mountain climber. Take the time to plan your visit and make camping reservations for summer as it is busy that time of year.
Everglades
If you plan on taking a trip south down to Florida then you will want to make sure that the Everglades are in your itinerary. This is the largest subtropical wilderness in the country and has some of the most beautiful scenery in the entire southeast filled with reptiles, amphibians, mammals, birds and fish. Take your time in the Everglades National Park as there is so much to see and explore that you need more than just a day to visit.
Have Fun Road Tripping
While these five places along the eastern side of the United States are great to explore there are plenty of cities and small towns along the way. Plan your trip accordingly so you can visit the more time intensive sights without being rushed or trying to make a reservation far down the road. Enjoy driving and remember to take your camera and binoculars along to be able to take in all the sights.
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Great Road Trip Destinations in Western United States
Author Alexine
This summer will hopefully come earlier than last year and when is there a better time to hit the road with your family.
Taking a road trip is always fun whether it is just you and a friend or your spouse and kids. To help you plan a fun vacation for yourself and the family this summer here are some great road trip destinations in western United States.
Grand Canyon
This spectacular sight is located in Arizona but is very close to Las Vegas, Nevada. You can visit the Grand Canyon National Park and see the canyon from many different angles. There are tours for flying into the canyon which give you a completely different perspective.
Hoover Dam
The Hoover Dam is one of the largest dams in the world and is something you have to see to even believe. From its sheer size to all the mechanics and engineering used to build such a magnificent sight it is worth the money to take the tour.
Zion National Park
This park has some of the most beautiful scenery you could imagine from the rock formations to the sandstone canyons. Zion National Park is defiantly a sight you do not want to pass up if you are driving through the state of Utah or close to the southwestern corner in Nevada or Arizona.
Mount St. Helens
If you are heading north along the west coast or staring somewhere near Washington State then you do not want to pass up visiting Mount St. Helens. This Cascade Volcano is still acting up and when you stop in the visitor center you can watch a movie of the eruption.
Mount Rainier
Further north in the Cascades is Mount Rainier which is one of Washington’s finest sights. Sitting high above the skyline in Seattle and Tacoma you cannot miss this spectacular view. Driving up to Paradise meadows and stopping at the observation areas along the way to admire this beautiful volcano is surely worth the drive.
Glacier National Park
Heading east from Washington along Route 2 you will bump into the Flathead, Montana where Glacier National Park is located. This beautiful park is home to real North American Bison that roam free along with Grinnell Glacier which is one of the last ice formations in the lower forty eight.
Mount Rushmore
Located in South Dakota is the magnificent Mount Rushmore where you can experience part of the United States history first hand. This monumental sculpture is there as a symbol of some of the founding fathers of the United States. Through rich historical information and beautiful sights you will get a little piece of history when visiting Mouth Rushmore.
Rocky Mountains
South west of Mount Rushmore is a mountain chain that has some of the most breathtaking scenery. The Rocky Mountains are home to elk, mule deer, big horned sheep, black bears, moose and more. With miles and miles of hiking trails in the Rocky Mountain State Park you are sure to see plenty of beautiful sights.
Keep on Driving
While you can easily make an entire vacation out of driving to one of these magnificent sights there is always a chance you can stop and two or more. Road trips where you stop at several beautiful locations are always fun and allow you to see more of our beautiful country in one long drive. You can plan your road trip to be like a loop so you drive through many states and experience lots of culture along the way.
Four Fun Places to Take Your Family for Spring Vacation
Author Alexine
If you are looking for a fun place to take your family for spring vacation you may feel a little overwhelmed. There is a lot to think about like the cost of transportation and the activities you can participate in. To help make your decision a little easier here are four fun places that your family would love to visit this coming spring vacation.
Key West, Florida
Whether you take a long road trip south to Florida or fly into one of Florida’s large cities and rent a car it is quite an adventure to get to Key West. Miami and Fort Lauderdale are the closer large airports but there are usually great deals into Orlando Airport from major cities.
While you are in Key West, Florida you can take the family to the beach to snorkel and play in the warm sunshine without leaving the country. There are also plenty of great restaurants with fresh food and tasty drinks for the adults. Then after dinner there are playgrounds and performers in the parks for the whole family to enjoy.
Orlando, Florida
The Orlando area is full of family fun with tons of theme parks, amusement parks and other family activities. Home of Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World and many more fun attractions you will not get bored in Orlando, Florida. Make sure you book your hotels soon though because this is a popular destination for families to visit for school spring break.
Yosemite, California
For a family that loves the outdoors and nature visiting a National Park for spring vacation is the perfect family vacation. Yosemite is one of the most beautiful National Parks in the United States and has plenty of great activities to do together as a family while getting a little history lesson along the way.
If you want to camp then that is always an option but spring can still be pretty cool in the Yosemite Valley. As an alternative to camping there are plenty of beautiful hotels and lodges nearby where you can rent rooms. This allows for the comforts of restaurant dining along with warm beds and possibly a pool.
The Bahamas
If you would like to take your family on an island hoping adventure then a cruise of the Bahamas is the perfect family vacation. From the cruise ship amenities and activities to the beaches and hot spots along the way you are sure to all have a wonderful time. Check where the best deals are leaving for the Bahamas so you can book the appropriate flights near the port.
While you may be worried about taking a cruise to the Bahamas due to needing passports that is not a problem if you order them ahead of time. You can use alternative forms of identification while on the ship but you need a passport to get back into the United States at the return port.
Book Soon
While it may only be approaching February break, spring vacation is right around the corner and ticket prices will start going up soon. The dates of spring vacation are well known amongst the airlines so try and fly on specials or drive to your destination or port if possible. Have fun planning your spring vacation and hopefully you and your family will enjoy one of the destinations listed above.
Fun Things to do in Las Vegas Other Than Gambling
Author Alexine
If you are planning a last minute weekend getaway or winter break trip to Las Vegas on a budget then gambling most likely is not on your to-do list.
On the other hand you may be the kind of person that does not believe in gambling or chooses not to take part in such activities. Whatever your reason for not taking part in gambling there are plenty of other activities in Las Vegas. Here are some fun things you can do while visiting Las Vegas other than gambling.
Comedy Productions
If you love to laugh out loud and have a good time without putting a huge hole in your pocket then a comedy production is a great choice. There are plenty of great actors and actresses that put on comedy shows on a daily basis in Las Vegas. Check out show listings to see which productions are in town when you visit as some are touring the country and only pass through for a short while.
Theatrical Productions
Shows that entertain with a mix of emotion or by telling a story are another great choice while visiting Las Vegas. You can get tickets to shows like the Blue Man Group, Disney’s The Lion King and a variety of Cirque du Soleil productions. These types of productions are amazing and draw you into their fun and drama. Do not miss out trying one of them out while you are in Las Vegas.
Comedian Shows
Most professional comedians stop in Las Vegas at some point throughout the year as it is a big vacation spot. You will find a variety of comedians taking the stage every night and depending on your taste there is a comedian for you. There are comedian actors that stop by multiple times per year and comedians that are in Las Vegas all year round.
Animal Shows
Circus acts and animal shows are one of Las Vegas’ most well known entertainment sources for visitors. The men and women who work with those large cats make the audiences sit in awe as the show goes on. With magic and training combined there is not a more breathtaking experience then the danger of these people working with such dangerous creatures.
Tours
With gorgeous natural surrounding just hours from Las Vegas there are plenty of beautiful tours to take part in. There are tours at the Hoover Dam, Zion National Park, Grand Canyon, Colorado River, Lake Meade, Red Rock and Death Valley. These are some of the most beautiful places to experience in the United States so do not forget to book yourself a ticket on one or more of these tours.
Golf
If you love golfing then Las Vegas has what you are looking for when it comes to the weather and courses. Beautiful greens and plenty of space for golf courses that are sure to knock your socks off. Do not forget to bring your golf clubs if you plan on taking part in some of these beautiful courses. It may cost a little extra to check them but the experience is totally worth it.
Exhibits & More
Throughout Las Vegas are plenty of amazing exhibits and activities you can experience. There are aquariums, animal exhibits, roller coasters, indoor skydiving, movie theaters and much more. Do not feel pressured into gambling in Las Vegas as there is so much more to do. You are sure to have a great time taking part in all the other activities that you will not have to worry about all the casinos.
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Celebrate the Holiday Season in Branson, MO
Author Alexine
By Janet Sanders
It’s not too early to be making your holiday plans. This year do something different that the whole family will treasure and talk about for years to come. Visit Branson, Missouri for the holidays. Branson, MO, is a one-of-a-kind family destination nestled among the lakes and peaks of the beautiful Ozark Mountains.
Branson is a wonderful place to enjoy any time of year, but come 1 November, the Christmas spirit descends on Branson and the town is transformed from a sleepy mountain retreat to a spectacular winter wonderland. Branson’s popular Ozark Family Christmas lures visitors from all around the world with a dazzling array of Christmas lights, holiday festivities, unforgettable shows and breathtaking sights.
You’ll find something for everyone in Branson, MO and the holiday season offers extra special events. Here are a few of the most popular special holiday activities.
Festival of Lights
This is a holiday light show like no other. Bundle the kids in the car with hot chocolate and candy canes then head out to explore the breathtaking scenery of the Branson Area Festival of Lights drive through. You’ll be amazed at the gorgeous settings of twinkling lights against a black background. Cruise the one-mile path at your own pace to fully take in the brilliantly illuminated scenery created with more than 175 displays including gingerbread houses, toy shops, and the 12 Days of Christmas.
Adoration Parade
Everyone loves a parade. If your family has never experienced the thrill of an old-fashioned Christmas parade, the 62nd Annual Adoration Parade will surpass your expectations. On December 5, 2010, thousands of spectators will enjoy this extravagant and much-loved production. Watch the wonder of the season unfold as 34 floats and 13 bands decked out for the occasion make their way past. The parade finale is something you and your family will cherish as an annual tradition: the reverent lighting of the nativity scene atop Mount Branson.
Silver Dollar City
You can’t truly experience a Branson, MO Christmas without making a stop at Silver Dollar City where holiday sights, smells and sounds greet you at every turn. An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City will delight you with more than four million twinkling lights, grand holiday stage productions, rides and attractions, the Gifts of Christmas Lights Parade, lunch with Santa and an array of unique gifts available for that someone special.
Christmas Shows and Entertainment
For relaxing seasonal entertainment check out Branson’s many live shows. In the evening, come in from the cold and dress your family up in their holiday best as you get ready to enjoy one of the many exhilarating Christmas shows and live entertainment productions. You’ll have a tough time choosing which performance to see as the more than 50 venues and 100 live shows in Branson convert to seasonal holiday shows. Any one of them will wow and delight everyone in your family!
Branson Landing
Haven’t finished your holiday shopping? Cross off everyone on your Christmas shopping list with a visit to the outdoor mall at Branson Landing. Known as Branson’s newest “Winter Wonder Landing,” this waterfront shopper’s paradise features hundreds of boutique, brand name and specialty stores. Your family will enjoy the unexpected treasure of one of the landing’s highlights: a water, fire and light spectacular choreographed to the sounds of the season.
Accommodations Galore
Branson boasts more than 22,000 lodging and hotel accommodations, so there are options for every budget this holiday season. Do you long for the coziness of a bed and breakfast inn? Want the rustic feel of cabin rentals in the mountains? From luxurious lodging of five-star hotels and resorts to budget-friendly motels, Branson is a convenient drive for 50% of the U.S. population. If you prefer to fly, the new Branson airport is located just 10 minutes from town.
Few other places can lift your spirits and remind you of the true meaning of the holidays like Branson, MO. Come enjoy the experience of a Branson family Christmas and create rich memories you’ll cherish for years to come.
Experience the Rich History of San Francisco
Author Alexine
By Barbara Wade © 2010, All Rights Reserved
If all you’ve ever seen of California are beaches and nightclubs, you owe it to yourself to spend a few days in San Francisco. Luxury hotel accommodations share the waterfront with historic buildings; boutique shops vie for space among the fish stalls of the famous Fisherman’s Wharf; and jutting proudly from the bay is the island prison known simply as The Rock. This wonderfully diverse city offers something for every traveler, but for history lovers, the waterfront is not to be missed.
Board an Historic Ship at San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park
In January of 1887, the newly christened Balclutha set sail from England carrying nearly 3,000 tons of coal bound for San Francisco. In June, after having made the months-long trip around Cape Horn, she sailed into San Francisco harbor, where she would take on a load of California wheat before making the voyage back to England. Balclutha’s long and distinguished career included stops at such exotic ports as New Zealand, Chignik Bay, Alaska, and Catalina Island, where she had a supporting role in the movie, Mutiny on the Bounty. Today, she’s been fully restored and welcomes visitors at the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park.
As you board Balclutha, you’ll be transported back to a time before trucks and planes, when the movement of goods relied on fickle winds and temperamental seas. You’ll discover how the crew lived for months at sea, often with their families and even their pets along for company. Follow your guide as he shows you – through the many photos and exhibits – what it was really like to earn your living as a sailor. You might just find, as they often did, that adventure isn’t always as romantic as it seems.
Tour the World’s Most Famous Prison
From sailing ships to rocky islands, San Francisco has a great deal to share with history buffs. Alcatraz Island served as a prison from 1859 until 1963, and since the early 1970s has been a favorite tourist destination. Visitors can see the cell that housed Al Capone, view the tools prisoners fashioned for use in the many escape attempts, and hear the story of the inmates who might just have made it out – though no one knows for sure. You can take a self-guided tour of the grounds by renting an Alcatraz Cellhouse Audio Tour, or if you prefer, take part in one of the many special events the National Park Service hosts.
There’s more to this island than an abandoned prison, though. The staff at Alcatraz not only worked here, but they and their families lived on “The Rock” as well. In an effort to make the hostile surroundings more comfortable, they introduced a wide variety of non-native plants and flowers to their gardens. In the decades between the island’s occupancy and the gardens’ restoration in 2003, many of these colorful plants flourished. Brilliant blooms cover the island and make Alcatraz’s gardens nearly as popular a tourist destination as the prison itself.
Since the discovery of gold in the hills surrounding San Francisco, the area has seen tremendous growth. Where once was a tiny village, there now stands a thriving metropolis with a vibrant cultural center. Proud of her heritage, the city of San Francisco encourages diversity while maintaining strong ties to the past through historical exhibits like Alcatraz and the San Francisco Maritime Park. Plan a stay in a luxurious San Francisco Embarcadero hotel and you too can enjoy the best of both worlds.
Author Bio
Barbara Wade writes for the Argonaut Hotel, a San Francisco luxury hotel just steps from the historic waterfront. Visit them online at www.argonauthotel.com.
Winter Survival Kit: Don’t Leave the House Without One
Author Alexine
If you plan on driving in the cold of winter it is important to plan for the worst possible scenario. If your car were to break down in a blizzard or you got into an accident there are certain items you need. Without the engine running and heat blowing you will become cold very fast. While you may not travel too far from home, you still need to be prepared. Here are the items you need to build a winter survival kit for your vehicle.
Large Duffle Bag
This is a really important part of the kit as it holds all of the contents together in one compact place. This keeps all your necessities in one place so there is no searching when the time comes to use it.
Bottled Water
Store about four to six liter bottles of water in the duffle bag to ensure you have plenty of water to drink and cook with. This will come in handy if you get stranded for longer than expected.
First Aid Kit
Buy a complete first aid kit for your survival kit that includes more than just bandages and ointment. Make sure it includes wrapping and wound wash along with rubber gloves to treat others around you.
Road Flares
These are critical for cops and passing vehicles to see you in poor visibility or if your vehicle has slid off the road. Make sure you have a pack of road flares in a sealed plastic bag with a couple of lighters in case they need to be used.
Flashlight
In a separate sealed plastic bag you should pack a couple of flashlights and extra batteries. These are good for finding your way through the duffle bag or first aid kit when it is dark outside.
Warm Blankets
Make sure you store a couple warm blankets in the duffle bag to keep yourself and others warm. It is preferable to have wool or fleece blankets as they take up less space and are very warm.
Food
Make sure you pack a good amount of protein bars, nuts, dried fruits and camping meals in your duffle bag. They are higher in calories and will keep you warm if you are stranded for long periods of time.
Camp Stove
The most compact and convenient camp stove I recommend is the Jet Boil. It is the size of a child’s thermos and is perfect for boiling and measuring water. With all the parts included you don’t have to mess with a large camp stove with screw on gas tanks.
However, if you have a different small camp stove that works as well put it in your kit. Make sure you can use it easily in case the weather is really bad outside.
Dishes and Utensils
Make sure you have camp mugs that can be used to drink and eat food, spoons and forks. These are important for making your camping meals.
Make sure you buy a large enough duffle bag to fit all of the contents in and put this is your car before winter hits. You never know when you might need to use it for yourself or to help a stranded car on the side of the road. Good luck this coming winter and be safe in your travels both close and far.
