Travel News & Deals

Top Ten Benefits of a Hawaii Vacation

2008-07-04T12:00:00.001-04:00

There are many reasons people travel to Hawaii. Some may go for the weather, some may go for the beauty and some may go for the beaches. Actually, there are SO many reasons people go to Hawaii, we can't begin to list them here!

What we can list here are the top ten reasons people visited Hawaii as compiled by the Hawaii Visitors Bureau. They are...

1. The Thrilling Sites and Scenic Beauty - You will never run out of places to go and things to do in Hawaii.

2. The Great Weather - The weather in Hawaii stays just about the same the whole year-round. The high temperatures usually range in the mid-eighties and the low temperatures usually range in the mid-seventies. The trade winds tend to keep the temperature very comfortable.

3. The Famous "Aloha Spirit" - You will not find many friendlier places than Hawaii. The people are very nice and they will make you feel right at home.

4. Some of the Best Beaches Anywhere - Each year, travel magazines conduct surveys about what are the most popular beaches in America. The hands-down winner every single year is always some beach on the Hawaiian Islands.

5. Other Islands You Can Visit - Travelers love going to Hawaii because of the close proximity of the other islands. You can stay on one island and take a day trip to Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui or the Big Island. Each island has a different style and personality.

6. Water sports - If you can imagine any kind of water sport, Hawaii probably has it. From whale-watching to big-game fishing, from wind-surfing to boogie-boarding, from catamarans to kayaking, Hawaii has it all.

7. Great Dining and Entertainment - Hawaii is famous for it's international cuisine. With all it's restaurants, you can find just about any kind of culinary experience you desire. Along with it's great dining, Hawaii has some of the best entertainment in the Pacific. Whether you tastes run toward night clubs or whether you would like to enjoy a traditional luau, you can find it on Hawaii.

8. Relaxation and Rejuvenation - Hawaii is one of the most laid-back spots in the world. There is something about the atmosphere that just causes you to relax and unwind. You will feel all the cares of the world just melt away during your vacation to Hawaii.

9. The Diverse Culture - Hawaii is the 50th state to join the United States but the culture is still old-world. There are the native dances, there are the legends and traditions and there is the music. When you visit Hawaii, you will still be in the United States but you will feel worlds apart from the hurry-up lifestyle of the mainland.

10. Variety of Accommodations - Do you want a budget hotel or do you want a luxury priced hotel with all the pampering? Do you want a privately owned condominium or a large family home? Whatever you accommodations requirements, you will find it in Hawaii.

There you have it! Ten reasons why people like to visit Hawaii. You want to know a little secret? You really don't need a reason to visit Hawaii. Just go and experience, first-hand, the "Aloha Spirit" you won't experience anywhere in the world!

Hawaii Wedding

2008-07-04T11:59:00.001-04:00

The scent of plumeria and jasmine fills the air. The trade winds gently blowing through your hair makes you feel at one with the essence of Hawaii. There is nothing like a Hawaii wedding and it is an experience you will never forget.

Hawaii is the land of romance and it is filled with that unseen force that can be felt by those people who travel to that mystic destination. It is called the spirit of aloha and it means love, kindness and compassion. Just as love, kindness and compassion make up the spirit of aloha, they are also the basis of a lasting relationship that is symbolized by the Hawaii wedding ceremony.

There are so many scenarios that could describe the perfect Hawaii wedding that we couldn't begin to list them here. One couple might take their vows on a private cruise with the dolphins following across the bow. One couple might take their vows at a secluded, private waterfall. One couple might like a sunset wedding followed by a candlelit alfresco dinner right on the beach. You are only limited by your imagination when it comes to planning the perfect Hawaii wedding.

Are you having trouble deciding what you would like to do for your Hawaii wedding? There is plenty of help on any of the Hawaiian Islands. There are wedding coordinators, wedding planners, wedding photographers and much, much more. Since a Hawaii wedding is one of the most popular weddings in the world, you can rest assured that there is always someone who can help you with your wedding planning.

Before you take off for your Hawaii wedding, there are a few rules you must keep in mind. You have to be 18 years old to be married in Hawaii. You have to appear before a license agent to fill out a form and pay a $60 fee in cash. The good news is that there are no blood tests required and there is not citizenship or residence requirement to be married in a Hawaii wedding. Once all the requirements are met, the license is good for 30 days. You can call 808-586-4545 to get the location of the nearest licensing agent to where you are staying.

The sun slowly sets into the sparkling Pacific Ocean as you and your fiancé participate in the ceremony of a beautiful Hawaii wedding. The smell of the sweet fragrance of tropical flowers wafts lightly through the air. The sounds of romantic Hawaiian music flows gently with the winds. Vows are made, promises are rendered and you have just participated in something you will never forget...a Hawaii wedding!

Hawaii Weather

2008-07-04T11:58:00.000-04:00

Hawaii is located on the edge of the tropics which means it has two main temperatures...warm and warmer. In fact, the temperature only varies about 15 degrees all year-round and the water temperature stays a comfortable 74 degrees. You can be reasonably sure what the Hawaii weather is going to be like on any given day.

April through November is the warmer and drier time of the year. The Hawaii weather temperatures typically range from 75 degrees to 88 degrees. December through March are a little cooler and temperatures typically range from 68 degrees to 80 degrees. As strange as it may seem, Hawaii and Alaska are the only two states in the United States that have never hit 100 degrees.

Hawaii weather is famous for it's trade winds that come blowing in from the east. The trade winds flow into the mountains and flow upward. This causes the release of moisture so Eastern Hawaii and Northern Hawaii are always cooler and more moist. Western Hawaii and Southern Hawaii are typically drier.

Are you worried about a little rain in your Hawaii weather forecast? Well, it is usually raining somewhere in Hawaii every day BUT you can always drive to where the sun is shining, too! The rain showers only last a couple of minutes and they are normally pretty light.

Because of the consistent Hawaii weather, Hawaii typically has two tourist seasons. The summer tourist season is July and August. The next busy tourist season is from December to March. A lot of people like to get out of the winter in Canada and the United States to go to Hawaii for prime whale-watching season. In fact, you better make your reservations one year in advance if you are going to Hawaii during Christmas or any time in February. It gets VERY booked up during those periods.

Hawaii is a travel spot that has some of the most pleasant and consistent weather in the world. When we say "consistent" we don't mean Hawaii weather is very dull. In fact, you can travel to the different Hawaiian Islands and experience 11 of the world's 13 recognized climate zones. They only climate zones you won't experience somewhere on the Hawaiian Islands is the Artic Zone and the Saharan Zone.

So, Hawaii weather is rarely an excuse for a bad vacation. From the snow at the top of Haleakala to the wettest spot on earth at Mt. Wai'ale'ale on Kauai, from the rain forests of Koa to the beautiful weather on Kaanapali Beach on Maui, most people can find just the kind of Hawaii weather that pleases them the most.

Tips on Saving Money on a Hawaii Vacation Package

2008-07-04T11:57:00.000-04:00

You are going to Hawaii! The big decision has finally been made and now it is time to do some planning. You start up the computer, go on the internet and start your research. But wait! There are too many choices. How do you know which Hawaii vacation package offer is legitimate and which one is not? How do you know which resort is the best? How do you know where to get the lowest airline tickets? It can all be very confusing but there is hope.

If you want to get the best value for your accommodations, you will want to stay in a privately owned condominium. These are condos that are rented out by the condo owners or a property management company. You just can't find a better rate than the condo owners offer! These condos are worth upwards of a million dollars, they are somebody's investment and they will be well-cared-for.

How do you find these condos? You go into the search engines and search words like "Hawaii property management" or "Hawaii privately owned condo." That will give you enough information to find those great accommodation deals. There are plenty of privately owned condos on all the Hawaiian Islands so you won't need to worry about finding one of them. Now that you have your accommodations for your Hawaii vacation package, let's take a look at airline tickets.

Airline tickets are available all over the internet at various prices. Your first step should probably be to call a travel agent and get a quote for airline tickets and a rental car. Don't let them add accommodations to your quote...we already have those. Your travel agent will get you a quote that you can compare to internet rates. Most travel agents will have better air rates than the internet unless one of the airlines is running an internet special.

To see if there are any good specials on the internet, I would suggest going to an online source like http://www.sidestep.com. Sidestep compares the rates for several different online websites and comes up with the best rates. It can save you a lot of time in finding the best rates for your Hawaii vacation package.

You can put together a fantastic Hawaii vacation package with just a little research. The time and effort you put into research can save you hundreds, even thousands, of dollars.

Hawaii Islands

2008-07-04T11:55:00.000-04:00

When people think about Hawaii, they tend to think of it as one destination. It is, however, six major islands. While all of the islands have many things in common, they also have their own unique personalities.

Kauai is the oldest Hawaii island and it is full of unspoiled nature. It is 522 square miles and it has a population of 58,303. The highest spot on Kauai is Kawaikini and it is 5,243 feet in height. The average temperature on Kauai is 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. There are 9 golf courses on Kauai and it has 90 miles of coastline. Kauai is the only Hawaii island that has navigable rivers and the largest, Wilua River, is 12 miles long.

Maui! Who hasn't heard of Maui? Maui is the most popular Hawaii island of all the islands and, if you have been there, you know why. Maui is a tropical paradise whose unparalleled beauty and splendor leave it's visitors wanting to come back again and again. Maui has 727 square miles of unspoiled beauty and it has a population of 117,644. It's highest point is the famous Haleakala and it rises 10,023 feet above sea level. Maui have 9 golf courses and 120 miles of pristine beaches. Maui has won MANY awards from travel magazines and it continually ranks as the most popular island vacation spot in the world. Maui was voted "The Best" vacation spot in the world by readers of Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure magazines. Kaanapali Beach on Maui has consistently been named the most popular beach in the United States. D.T. Fleming Beach and Kapalua Beach have been rated two of the top beaches in the world. If you have ever been to Maui, you will know why!

Molokai is one of the more laid-back Hawaii islands. It takes you back to a simpler time and you won't find a single traffic light on Molokai. It just doesn't have them! You, also, will not find any buildings which are taller than a coconut tree. Again, they just don't have them. Molokai is very small and it is only 38 miles long and 10 miles wide. Molokai is famous as the island where Father Damien set out to minister to those people who had been exiled to the island. They were exiled because they had Hansen's Disease, also referred to as Leprosy.

Lanai is a small Hawaii island which is 141 square miles in size with a population of 3,193. It's highest elevation is 3,366 feet and it has a coastline of 47 miles. The average temperature ranges from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Lanai is famous for having one of the country's best sporting clay ranges. This facility also has a 12-station archery range. Kaiolohia Bay, sometimes called Shipwreck Beach, is a great spot for whale-watching from November until April. It is called Shipwreck Beach because there are the remains of a ship dating back to World War II at the beach.

Oahu is the most settled Hawaii island of all the islands. Oahu is 597 square miles in size and it has a population of 876,151. There are 36 golf courses on Oahu and it has 112 miles of coastline. The average temperature, just like all the Hawaii islands, is 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Oahu has the "world's best known beach" in Honolulu. Waikiki Beach is one of the world's most popular beaches but it is certainly not the only beach on Oahu. Oahu has many beaches and a lot of them are so isolated that you won't see another person anywhere around you. There are far too many things to see and do on Oahu to list them all here. The more popular sites are Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, Maunalua Bay; along with smaller towns like Kahaluu, Waikane, Kaaawa, Kahana, Punaluu and Hauula.

Big Island Hawaii is the newest island and it is currently the only island with volcanic activity. Many people take helicopter tours of the island just to see the volcanic eruptions and the flow of lava. Big Island Hawaii has 4,028 square miles of beautiful landscape which makes it larger than all the other Hawaii islands put together. It has a population of 148,677 and it has 266 miles of coastline. The highest point on Big Island Maui is 13,796 on Mauna Kea and the island has 17 golf courses. The terrain is lush and green on the Northern side and dry and sunny to the South. Big Island Hawaii is the site of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is the state's most popular attraction.

It's hard to sum up each Hawaii island with just a few words. They all have their own characteristics, ambience and culture. People have their own opinions about which island is the best but they all agree...Hawaii is the land of Aloha!

Big Island Hawaii

2008-07-04T11:54:00.002-04:00

According to Polynesian legend, the goddess Pele gave birth to the islands of Hawaii. The Big Island of Hawaii is her latest creation. Big Island Hawaii is larger than all of the other Hawaiian Islands put together and it continues to grow each day.

Kilauea is an active volcano on Big Island Hawaii that sends lava streaming into the ocean. As the lava hits the water and cools, more land is added to Big Island Hawaii. A nice after-effect of the active volcano are the thermal pools heated by the volcano at Ahalanui Beach Park near Pahoa.

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the oldest state parks in the United States. One of Kilauea's vents started erupting in 1983 and it has been spewing lava ever since. You can drive up to 300 feet below the rim of the crater and you can hike up even closer to the top of the volcano. The higher you go, the warmer your shoes will become.

Big Island Hawaii is 4,028 square miles in size and it has a population of 148,677. It has a fantastic 266 miles of coastline and it's highest elevation is at Mauna Kea at 13,796 feet. If you are a lover of the game of golf, you will love the 17 golf courses on the island. The average temperature is 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Another feature of Big Island Hawaii are the coffee plantations where the best coffee beans in the world are produced. Most of the plantations have centers where visitors can sample this fabulous coffee. If you are a coffee-lover, this is one treat you won't want to miss.

Hilo is the biggest city on Big Island Hawaii and it is the gateway to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Hilo also has Liliuokalani Gardens, which is the largest Japanese garden this side of Tokyo. They also have a Farmer's Market, Suisan Fish Market, Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls.

Kailua-Kona is another of Big Island Hawaii's large towns. It is on the leeward side of the island and it gets plenty of sun. If you are a person who loves sport fishing, you will love Kailua-Kona. Nearby, you will find some of the world's best Marlin fishing. The town is also close to Kealakekua Bay where you will find many different varieties of fish, sea turtles and spinner dolphins. It is also the spot where Captain Cook died and it is marked with a historical marker.

If you are a historically-minded person, you will enjoy Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park. Here you will find fishponds, temple ruins, burial sites and petroglyphs. There is a temple located here with a rock wall 1,000 feet long, 10 feet high and 17 feet thick and you can tour the grounds.

There is so much to see and do on the Big Island Hawaii that you can never experience in one trip. Once you have visited this island, you will want to return again and again.

A Hawaii Vacation - Where Else Would You Go?

2008-07-04T11:46:00.001-04:00

Where can you go to find excellent weather, outstanding beauty and that famous "Aloha Spirit?" Hawaii, of course!

When most people think of Hawaii, they think of some exotic island in a different part of the world. While that is true, Hawaii is still the 50th state to join the United States. When you take a Hawaii vacation, you can still speak to the native Hawaiians in English. You will still use American money and you don't need a passport. Hawaii is exotic, yet it is very familiar!

People who take a Hawaii vacation give it a 97% approval rating. What does that mean? It means, when people go to Hawaii, 97 out of 100 of them want to go back. There are not many vacation spots in the world that can make that claim. With an approval rating that high, Hawaii must be doing something right!

Did you know that Hawaii has one of the lowest crime rates of any vacation spot in the world? It has been rated as one of the safest spots in the United States so you can take a Hawaii vacation and feel safe and secure while you are there.

While some people think a Hawaii vacation is too expensive, it is really one of the best values in vacation travel. There are over 21,000 hotel rooms that are available for under $100 per night. They also have the lowest car rental rates in the country and you can enjoy a nice breakfast for under $3.

Too expensive? Some of the best things about a Hawaii vacation are absolutely free. You can sit on any number of beautiful beaches, just relax and forget all your troubles and cares. You can visit one of many beautiful waterfalls. Rainbows, swimming, snorkeling, hiking, rainforests...they are all free and they are yours to enjoy anytime you wish.

One thing you need to remember about taking a Hawaii vacation is that you will want to leave your pets at home. Hawaii has a 120-day quarantine requirement for most pets and a lot of plants are also restricted. If you have plans to take a pet on your Hawaii vacation, you will need to call the Animal Quarantine Station at 808-483-7151 to find out what will be required.

All in all, a Hawaii vacation is a vacation that you will never forget. You will find yourself dreaming of the time that you will be able to return to Hawaii and enjoy that "Aloha Spirit."

Airline Ticket Deals To Avoid

2008-06-15T10:18:00.000-04:00

Free airline tickets. Do they really exist?

You may have been curious about ads or websites that
promise no strings attached airline tickets to a great
place like Orlando or Hawaii. Some of these might even
include hotel rooms!

Sounds too good to be true right? Well, unfortunately, it
is. These scams are usually set up by time-share companies
and what they don't tell you is that you will be required
to attend their seminars every day. You can live with a
short seminar right? Think again.

These -seminars- last at minimum 4 hours each day you are
there. If you don't attend them, you may not be able to get
your free airline ticket home or even have your hotel room
canceled.

Sure it's sneaky but legally these companies are doing what
they say. They provide free airline tickets with the
promise of vacation and in a way they do comply.

If you think you can listen to 4 hours of sales pitches
every day and still try to have a good time later, go for
it. If you know it's a bad idea, stay away.

Many airline deals center around bad times of year. In the
fall, you can see ads for very cheap Caribbean airline
tickets.

Hmm..What is it that happens in the Caribbean every fall?
Oh yeah! Hurricanes! The chances of a hurricane coming to
the exact place you are visiting is pretty slim but if it
does happen, you are stuck there for the duration of the
storm.

Be very careful when drooling over these cheap airline
tickets in the fall. The same applies for Japan and nearby
islands in the spring.

Touring the Wine Regions

2008-04-26T16:00:00.003-04:00

The great grape escape? It’s a mouthful alright but that is exactly what a vineyard tour means – a chance to sip and stay in the most scenic places of the world and at the same time exalt in the face of a fine bottle of excellent wine.

If you are up for a relaxing vacation where nothing is required of you besides to enjoy the grand view of the rural landscape and a glass of your favorite bubbly or red, then a tour of the wine regions of the world might just be what you are looking for.

With areas that are located away from the hectic urban life, vineyards present you with the ideal escape, whether you are in the mood for a simple but enjoyable walk through rows and rows of grape vines or a quiet evening over an excellent dinner, and wine, of course.

A vineyard tour is a great way for you to sample the authentic vineyard life. Many tour operators offer demonstrations of how wine is made – from the time the grapes are handpicked (to avoid crushing the fruit and squashing the inner part against the purply red pigment of the skin) to when they are actually crushed and finally bottled.

And if this is not included in the package, many vineyards are more than willing to show you an impromptu display of how grapes travel a long way from vines to the wine glass.

Wine tasting is yet another perk to touring the wine regions. It is a whole new experience tasting wines with you standing in a relaxed atmosphere on the very soil where the vine was cultivated and with the very people who helped grow these vines.

Certainly, it is different from tasting wine in some hotel in some part of the city with strangers all around, wine snobs and wine wannabes included. In a vineyard tour, you get to savor the wine and the place where it was born.

In many wine region vacations, vineyards usually offer guided tours of their facilities, lasting anywhere from an hour to half a day, before concluding with a wine tasting.

Traditionally, vineyards offer wine tasting only as a complimentary, but as more and more people begin to appreciate the subtleties of wine and oenology in general, wineries are also beginning to charge a small fee for a broader range of wines to taste.

Going on a tour through the wine regions of the world gives you a chance to learn about the wine making process. As a result, wineries benefit from the publicity. Offset the two and you get a guided tour with tremendous value.

Vine and Wine for an Excellent Time

The best time to visit the wine regions for a vineyard tour is, of course, during harvest season. This is when the vineyards are most alive as workers start picking the grapes and loading them in waiting trucks to be brought to the winery.

However, most wineries are open year-round, giving you more leeway in terms of when to leave home for a sip and a taste.

Visiting vineyards during off seasons is a good idea. There are fewer people so you won’t feel cramped and have a real good time relaxing in the quiet scenery of rolling hills and valleys.

As an added benefit, off season is also the time to take advantage of lower airfares, reduced room rates, and other bargains one can find at low peak.

Top Wine Regions to Visit

From the elegance of France’s classic castle scenes and Tuscany’s sun-kissed vineyards to Western US soils where America’s marvelous wine regions stretch from California to Oregon and finally to Canada’s Niagara region, a lesser known wine producing area but touting scenic wonders to rival many of European sherry and port centers.

And if that is not enough to satisfy your appetite for more wine regions to visit, head on to the Southern Hemisphere where the coveted harvest season springs forth as the winter in the north draws to a close.

Here are the top wine regions to visit when you go on your next vineyard tour:

Andalucía

The sun is not the only thing that sizzles during Spain’s summer season. Andalucía, Spain’s most famous wine region, also sizzles, in the way glorious sunset does, as the prime tourist season draws to a close and bottles of the finest sherries are uncorked to cap the season off.

The vinicultural tradition of Spain owes much to this southwestern province and its best product – sherry. Sure, the English may be credited for making this drink such a success overseas, but Andalucía is the birthplace of this much revered drink. Its official name? D.O. Jerez-Xérès-Sherry-Manzanilla de Sanlúcar de Barrameda. A mouthful to pronounce but its moniker, Jerez, is thankfully short.

But Sherry is not the only wine that you can find here. With more vineyard acreage than anywhere in the world, Andalucía offers you some of the most diverse wine region tours in Europe and the finest arrays of wines.

So where do you start?

Most Andalucía vineyard tours start off in Seville and head to Jerez de Frontera, the Sherry capital of the world. Traveling through the snaking mountains offers you a unique chance to experience Spain’s warm Mediterranean transform into the frozen north. And at the end of the road, you find the famous Andalucían Pueblo Blanco (White Village), appearing like great white apparitions nestled against a backdrop of black mountains.

Wine tours in Spain are virtually untouched by tourists so if you want a hassle-free, tourist-free Andalucían vineyard tour, this is it.

California

Known for its wine tasting tourism and sublimely flavored vintages, California is the largest wine producing area in the United States.

Its prime wine regions, Sonoma and Napa Valley, are internationally recognized not only for their excellent bottles but for their explosive wine tourism, a fact that is bolstered yet again by the release of the popular film Sideways (2004), showcasing the state’s Santa Barbara wineries.

So why do people love to visit California’s wine regions?

Once you see the place, the answer is obvious. Many of California’s wineries are family-owned and small enough to give that quaint country appeal. Neatly tucked away in the scenic rolling vineyards, the word to aptly describe the whole atmosphere is: cozy.

Most visitors discover these wineries only by stumbling over them as they tour the whole region, looking to sample many of California’s excellent vintages.

Loire Valley

This is arguably the most beautiful wine region in the world – France’s Loire Valley that is famous for its regal chateaux and excellent choices of white and red wines. The great Loire River sinuously makes its way through the famed fertile valley seeped in rich history and viticulture and more than seventy appellations.

But for the best vineyards in the Loire, head on to the almost exclusively south-facing slopes where the vines get a chance to capture the last glimpse of the sun’s rays.

Vouvray and Savennières are the first two locales that come to mind but there are also many great vineyards found on the left bank of the Loire, such as the ones at Coteaux du Layon, Passavant-sur-Layon down Chalonnes, and Sèvre-et-Maine.

People used to consider the Loire Valley as the “northern limit of wine” but with global warming, that may no longer be true.

Today, the Loire continues to produce excellent wines, throwing forth a vibrant plethora of whites in all styles – crisp, refreshing, rich, oak-influenced, fine, mineral, sweet, hedonistic, and botrytised – and many fine reds.

Hunter Valley

Spring comes to the Down Under state as the northerly winter closes. As such, this is often the best season to visit some of Australia’s great wine regions. Hunter Valley is located in the South Wales Valley just two hours north of Sydney.

With first-rate vintages and over 60 wineries, this wine region also offers fantastic views of verdant vineyards and their shops and restaurants.

Most of the wineries in Hunter Valley offer free wine tasting, boutique-style, and guided strolls through the vineyard.

But if you feel like you want to sit back and let someone else take the reins, then you are also going to enjoy the horse drawn carriages offered. And at the end of it all, a picnic lunch served with authentic Australian wine.

Champagne in the early morning while on a hot air balloon is a great way to take in the sunrise. You will get a view of this scenic wine region like no other and even spot kangaroos hopping about as you soar over their sleeping area.

There are also mini coaches, mini buses, vintage cars, limousines, bicycles, or even double decker buses, all available for you to explore this beautiful location and enjoy the fruit of Australia’s vines.

There are, of course, several more wine regions dotting the whole world that if we were to create a multi-colored map of them, the result would be a fine mesh of colors and lines. So for the unforgettable scenic route to discovering the bounties of the world’s wine regions – take a wine tour now!

Top Rated All-Include Mexico Resorts

2008-04-06T12:47:00.000-04:00

Mexico is often referred to as a vacation “hotspot.” The popularity of Mexico has led to an increase in the amount of tourists that visit the area. To cater to tourists, of all financial standings, a number of popular resorts have developed all-inclusive vacation packages.

Each year, more Mexico resorts make the decision to develop all-inclusive packages. For many, these packages are a great way to save money. If you are interested in saving money while vacationing in Mexico, you may want to consider staying at an all-inclusive Mexico resort. Below is a summary of five of the most popular and top rated resorts.

(1) The Moon Palace Resort is located in Cancun. This all-inclusive resort is owned and operated by Palace Resorts, which operates multiple resorts throughout the Cancun area. Upscale hotel accommodations are ideal for those planning a business trip or a romantic getaway.

While the upscale hotel accommodations may leave you feeling like the resort is only for those without children, it is not. The Moon Palace resort is open to adults and children, of all ages. Popular onsite activities include swimming, golfing, exercising, drinking, and socializing. Whether you are taking a romantic vacation, a family vacation, or you are on your honeymoon, the Moon Palace will be able to accommodate you.

(2) The Sunscape Tulum Riviera Maya all-inclusive resort is located in the Maya Rivera. The resort is said to be one of the most beautiful resorts in all of Mexico. Unlike many resorts that have limited hours on the use of all-inclusive purchases, the Sunscape Tulum Riviera Maya does not. Most onsite facilities are open all day and night.

If you are interested in scheduling a romantic vacation then the Sunscape Tulum Riviera Maya may be just what you are looking for. The coastal views, obtainable from most rooms, create an exotic and romantic environment. In addition to romantic adventures, the Sunscape Tulum Riviera Maya is also an ideal location for family vacations. There is no age limit in place and a large number of “kid friendly,” activities and facilities can be found nearby.

(3) The Dreams Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa is located in Puerto Vallarta. This all-inclusive resort is located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. As with many beachside resorts, the Dreams Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa is ideal for romantic getaways and family vacations.

If you are interested in booking at stay at this all-inclusive resort, you will find a number of onsite activities and facilities that make your vacation enjoyable. Amazing restaurants, a fitness center, a spa, and kid-focused facilities are open for daily and sometimes nighttime use. Located within a short distance from the local airport, you may find yourself not needing to travel anywhere else.

(4) Secrets Excellence Rivera Cancun is located in Cancun. Unlike the above mentioned resorts, this all-inclusive resort has an adults only policy. With beautiful costal scenery and the lack of children, Secrets Excellence Rivera Cancun is known as one of the best places to schedule your next romantic getaway.

Located close to the beach, Secrets Excellence Rivera Cancun offers a wide range of beach activities. Popular activities include swimming, boating, snorkeling, or scuba diving. Elegant and romantic dining restaurants and bars, along with a spa, can be found onsite. For an exciting, yet romantic getaway, Secrets Excellence Rivera Cancun may have everything that you need and want to get out of your Mexico vacation.

(5) The Adventure Spa Palace Resort is located along the Riviera Maya. This all-inclusive resort is ideal for those wishing to experience a romantic vacation in Mexico. As with the Secrets Excellence Rivera, the Adventure Spa Palace Resort only caters to those that are adults. To vacation at this popular resort, you must be at least eighteen years of age.

The atmosphere created at the Adventure Spa Palace is something that many can only imagine. All rooms have a view of the ocean and in room Jacuzzis make the Adventure Spa Palace one of the most sought after resorts in the area. Dining in upscale restaurants, relaxing by the beach, or snorkeling tours are enjoyed by many.

The above mentioned all-inclusive vacation resorts are just a few of the many that can be found in Mexico. Each resort is likely to have different rules and restrictions in place. To make the most out of your all-inclusive vacation, you are encouraged to research these rules and restrictions before you make your reservations.

Staying Safe While Vacationing in Mexico

2008-04-06T12:46:00.001-04:00

Taking precaution for your safety is the best way to prevent a tragedy from occurring while vacationing in Mexico. By taking the time to familiarize yourself with safety precautions, you should be able to have a safe and enjoyable vacation while in Mexico.

When traveling, it is important to make sure that you do not bring large amounts of cash, excess credit cards, or flashy jewelry with you. You will already draw attention to yourself, just because you are a tourist; don’t draw additional attention to yourself by flashing large amounts of cash when out on the town. There are many people who are looking for unsuspecting targets. You need to protect yourself from those who are out to rob or hurt you. Use common sense and behave wisely while in Mexico. Doing so will likely lower your chances of becoming a victim of crime.

Though it is very important to make sure that you are using good judgment and common sense to protect yourself from becoming a victim of a crime, it is also important to make sure that you protect yourself physically while in Mexico as well. One way to prevent an illness is to watch what you are drinking. When you are traveling to Mexico, be sure to only drink bottled water. The water found in the United States is different than the water found in Mexico. To protect yourself and prevent any serious illnesses, you urged to only drink bottled water.

Along with water, you should also make sure that you use safety precautions with the food that you eat. If you are staying in a hotel resort or taking a cruise, your food will most likely be covered with your package. These foods are deemed safe. However, there are times that you may want to take advantage of the local food. When doing so, you should practice safe handling instructions for food, like you do back home. Take the time to thoroughly clean fruits and vegetables before eating them. If you are going to eat dairy products from the locals, there is a good possibility that the products are non-pasteurized. This means that you should always use caution when choosing what foods you eat in Mexico.

Health insurance is another important factor to consider when you are visiting Mexico. If you become sick or injured, you will need to know if your insurance will cover the costs of your healthcare. Not all health insurance companies provide coverage to those vacationing in Mexico. You are advised to check with your individual insurance carrier to see if you will be covered while in Mexico. If not, it may be possible that you can add additional coverage to your policy. You can also purchase temporary health insurance that will cover you while you are on vacation. Whatever health insurance method you choose, make sure that you take care of your health insurance needs before you embark on your journey.

When vacationing in Mexico, it is always important to remember that things are not the same they may be back at your home. To stay safe, on a number of different levels, you are encouraged to keep the above mentioned precautions in mind. For additional information on staying healthy in Mexico, you may want to speak with your family physician. When dealing with your health, it is better to take extra precautions than no precautions at all.

Shopping in Mexico: Tips for Travelers

2008-04-06T12:42:00.001-04:00

Mexico is a wonderful place to visit and is known for its wonderful resorts, beaches, and rich history. It is also known for great bargains and exquisite boutiques. When visiting Mexico, many tourists are excited to browse through the various shopping centers.

When shopping in Mexico, it is important to understand that there are strict rules that are enforced regarding the purchases that can be made in Mexico, as well as what can be brought back in to the United States. Before you leave, it may be wise to review the United States Customs and Border Protection rules. These rules will let you know what you can purchase in Mexico and bring home with you.

Endangered species are not allowed to be purchased and brought back into the United States. Since Mexico has such a wide range of wildlife, there are many products that are available for sale there. Many of these products are considered illegal and will be taken by United States Customs and Border Patrol. You may be given a fine if you purchase these items and try to bring them over the border; however, additional action may be taken. When it doubt you are encouraged to stay away from wild animals that are for sale. In addition to the animals themselves, you should be wary of goods that may have been made by these animals.

Crocodiles are on the endangered species list. Though it may seem enticing to have a new pair of Crocodile boots or a purse, you should avoid these items at all costs. You will find that the government takes these violations seriously. They will make routine checks at inspection points looking for any items that are deemed endangered. Stuffed wildlife is also forbidden, so if you see any of these and they look appealing, resist the urge to purchase them and leave them be.

Mexican birds are colorful and exotic. For those who deal with live trade, it may seem that purchasing exotic parrots from Mexico is a wonderful idea, but you need to think again. Purchasing birds from Mexico is also considered violation. To remain on the safe side, you should avoid purchasing any wildlife or wildlife products. Even stuffed birds are against the law. Even you may see these in abundance at shops and street markets, do your homework, and pass them up. There are many other wonderful souvenirs that you can purchase that are legal and will pass through the border.

Antiquities and glazed ceramics are beautiful and appealing to many tourists. Yet, Mexico considers their antiques to be property of the government. This means that if you uncover any artifacts and try to bring them back to the United States, you will be prosecuted for theft and maybe even face additional charges. It is best to leave any authentic looking artifacts in Mexico where they belong.

Glazed ceramics look beautiful and may be a wonderful addition to your home décor. However, many of the ceramics made and found in Mexico are made with lead. It is for this reason that you should avoid purchasing glazed ceramics from Mexico. If you do make the purchase, you need to make sure that everyone in your household is aware of the potential dangers.

While it may seem as if you are prohibited from purchasing many items sold in Mexican shops, there are additional items that you can purchase. When shopping in Mexico it is important that you follow all rules and regulations. Staying on the safe side will ensure that you can enjoy you Mexico vacation without any complications.

Scuba Diving While Vacationing in Mexico

2008-03-23T17:29:00.000-04:00

Millions of Americans schedule a Mexico vacation. If you are interested in scheduling a vacation in Mexico, or you already have, you may be wondering what you can do while on vacation. In Mexico, there are an unlimited number of activities that you may find exciting. One of those activities may include scuba diving.

When it comes to scuba diving in Mexico, there are many travelers who are misinformed. Many believe that you have to be an experienced diver to enjoy underwater diving. This is simply not true. Before going scuba diving in the ocean, it is advised that you have basic knowledge of diving and strong swimming skills. However, you do not have to be an experienced diver. When vacationing in Mexico, there are many individuals who go scuba diving for the first time.

Scuba diving is a pretty self-explained activity. Scuba divers are featured in many movies and can be found in many amusement parks. While the general idea of scuba diving is the same in Mexico, what you will see underwater is not. There are a number of underwater animals and plants that can only be seen in or around the Mexico area. This in itself is one of the many reasons why you should schedule a scuba diving adventure.

In Mexico, scuba divers are often able to swim with the dolphins and sea turtles. To many, this alone is worth the cost of scuba diving. Aside from swimming with sea animals, you can also spend your scuba diving trip examining the life and environment underwater. Just a few of the many sea animals that you may see in Mexico include lobsters, eels, sting rays, and a large number of different kinds of fishes. The fishes found in underwater Mexico often include puffer fishes, spotted fishes, and parrot fishes.

While the sea animals found underwater are the most exciting part of scuba diving, there are other underwater activities that you can participate in. Many scuba divers enjoy diving along coral reefs that are found along the coast of Mexico. Coral reefs are not only home to a large number of sea animals, but they also make for great adventures. You may find it exciting traveling in, over, or around the many different sized reefs.

Unless you are an experienced underwater diver, you are advised to go scuba diving with a trained professional. These professionals are most commonly found with scuba diving tour groups. Scuba diving tour groups can be found all along the coast of Mexico. Scuba diving is a popular pastime in Mexico; therefore, you are encouraged to schedule your scuba diving adventures ahead of time.

In addition to scheduling a scuba dive with a trained diver, you can learn how to scuba dive at a number of locations in Mexico. Many of these locations also offer guided tours. Scuba diving lessons are offered as group lessons or private lessons. Private lessons may be more expensive, but many first time scuba divers find them rewarding, in more ways than one.

Underworld Scuba operates scuba diving and snorkeling tours in the Manzanillo area of Mexico. It has been said that the Manzanillo area is one of the best places to go scuba diving in Mexico. Underworld Scuba, along with number other companies, state that the area is thriving with underwater life and adventures. Another popular scuba diving tour company is The Puerto Dive Team, which operates out of Oaxaco Mexico. They are most known for their private one-on-one underwater tours.

To find other guided tours that are designed for scuba divers, you are encouraged to contact your local travel agent or do the research yourself. Whether or not you have already selected your Mexico destination, you should easily be able to find nearby tours. The closer you are to the coast, the more tours you will have access to. What you can do and see underwater is absolutely amazing. It is likely what you see will stay with you for years to come.

Mexico Vacations: A Lovers' Paradise

2008-03-23T17:27:00.000-04:00

Mexico vacations are available for individuals of all ages. While many enjoy taking their family on a Mexico vacation, there are others who choose to vacation in Mexico alone with their spouse. With all of the romantic destinations in the world, you may be wondering why you should vacation in Mexico.

Romantic getaways in Mexico are popular for an unlimited number of different reasons. Perhaps, the climate is what draws in most couples. Almost all year long, the climate in Mexico is tropical, warm, and inviting. Many couples schedule a Mexico vacation to escape their cold weather. In addition to escaping cold weather, there is just something about a tropic environment that generates romance.

Aside from the weather, many of the vacation destinations found in Mexico are geared for couples that are looking for a romantic getaway. There are a number of popular vacation destinations in Mexico, the most popular being Mexico’s beaches. If you are interested in scheduling a romantic getaway at a Mexico beach, you have a number of different options to choose from.

When vacationing at a beach in the United States, many couples visit the beach and then return to their hotel room. Similar accommodations are available in Mexico; however, the area is most famous for its beautiful beach resorts. If you are looking to have direct access to the beach and everything it has to offer, you may want to consider booking a stay at a Mexico beach resort.

In addition to having onsite accommodations, many Mexico beach resorts are known for their romantic environments and atmospheres. By directly contacting a beach resort or by researching one online, you can easily determine whether the resort caters specifically to couples. When looking for a romantic beach resort, you may want to consider the onsite activities for children. If children are allowed to stay onsite, many romantic hotels refrain from offering onsite activities; this may help to keep the setting more mature.

The Mexico destination you select to vacation at is important when planning a romantic getaway. In addition to destinations, you will want to consider the activities that you can participate in. Mexico has an unlimited number of vacation activities that can be found all around the country. The best way to bring romance to your vacation is to determine which of the vacation activities brings you pleasure.

Just a few of the many things that you can do while vacationing in Mexico include boating, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and horseback riding. Many couples find beachside horseback riding to be relaxing and romantic, all at the same time. While snorkeling or scuba diving, you may be amazed with what you see and learn. For many, this excitement helps to generate romance.

When booking your romantic Mexico getaway, you may find that the cost of vacationing in Mexico can be expensive. If you are planning a romantic vacation, while on a budget, you can still visit many of the above mentioned destinations and participate in many of the above mentioned activities.

To obtain low-cost reservations in Mexico, you are encouraged to search for vacation packages or all-inclusive packages. Traditional vacation packages often combine hotel and travel accommodations. In addition to including hotel and travel accommodations, all-inclusive vacation packages are likely to include your cost of foods, drinks, and possibly your entertainment. You can easily search for these Mexico vacation packages by directly contacting a vacation resort or by visiting the resort’s online website.

While it is nice to plan your own romantic Mexico vacation, you may want to consider acquiring the services of a travel agent. Travel agents often operate locally or online. In addition to offering you suggestions on romantic vacation destinations, your travel agent will likely save you money. A large number of travel agents are given special deals and discounts on many vacation destinations, including Mexico. Many of these deals are not available to the general public.

Whether you choose to enjoy a romantic getaway at a Mexico beach or you choose another location, you are sure to enjoy your trip. With all that it has to offer, Mexico can easily be considered a lovers paradise.

Honeymooning in Mexico

2008-03-22T10:24:00.000-04:00

Mexico is known for its pristine waters, pure white sand beaches, perfect tropical temperatures, and rich culture. These are the reasons why many people choose to honeymoon in Mexico.

Whether you choose a Mexican honeymoon cruise or luxury resort, a Mexican honeymoon can be filled with romance. A growing trend is to plan a Mexican wedding as well. Through the services of a professional wedding planner, you can plan for a complete package. This package often includes the wedding service followed by a honeymoon. With some of the most popular resort locations in the world, Mexico offers a wide range of options for those who are looking for the perfect honeymoon destination.

A Mexican cruise is perfect for a wedding, as well as a honeymoon. You can plan for an adventurous and exciting luxury cruise ship wedding followed by your honeymoon. There are many advantages to a luxury cruise ship wedding, such as cost and ease of planning. The cruise ship may handle the wedding preparations, as well as the details. You can find different cruise ship weddings by contacting any of the large cruise ship lines. You will more than likely discover that the only downfall to a cruise ship wedding in Mexico is trying to persuade your friends and family members to join you for the wedding.

Choosing a honeymoon package in Mexico can consist of a cruise or a luxury resort. With so many wonderful places to choose from, it may be a difficult decision to make. You should carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of each package to help make your decision easier. First choosing your honeymoon location may help make the decision easier. Considering what type of activities you would like to participate in during your honeymoon is the best way to make the perfect choice. You will also want to consider anything special attractions that you may wish to see.

Of course, no matter which type of honeymoon you plan, cost will play an important role in your decision. While examining costs, you may be surprised to find that there are number of affordable packages available for both cruise ships and luxury resorts. With price comparison, the use of the internet, and your local travel agent, you can find a package that will meet your budget and all of your honeymoon expectations.

Top honeymoon destinations, in Mexico, include Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta, Cozumel, Cancun, and Cabo San Lucas. Acapulco is one of Mexico’s top honeymoon locations. It is very similar to Hawaii with its beautiful beaches and turquoise blue waters. Puerto Vallarta is still one of the world’s top tourist attractions. Fortunately, it is also considered one of the lesser populated areas in Mexico. Puerto Vallarta can provide you with a wonderful environment for your honeymoon. With cultural events, fine dining, and the beautiful Sierra Madre Mountains, you are sure to enjoy your stay.

Another top honeymoon location is Cozumel. If you are looking for a secluded deserted island to spend with your new spouse, you should consider honeymooning in Cozumel. You may feel as if you are the only couple on the island. From Mayan ruins, to the majestic Nichupte Lagoon, Cozumel is a feast for the eyes.

As previously stated, selecting a honeymoon destination in Mexico may seem like a difficult decision. By taking the time to compare of all your options, including the cost of each, you are sure to find the best Mexican destination for your honeymoon.

Creating a Travel Plan for Your Mexico Vacation

2008-03-09T17:29:00.000-04:00

Planning is key to enjoying a great vacation when visiting Mexico. Taking the time to plan your trip ahead of time is the best way to enjoy your vacation. Planning is not only needed to enjoy your vacation, but to stay within your budget, have access to entertainment, and have a backup plan should anything go awry.

When creating a Mexico travel plan, it is advised that you include the cost of your trip, as well as your spending money. If you are planning a family trip, you may want to let your children participate in the plan by letting them decide where they’d like to go and what they’d like to see. A Mexico travel plan is also important because it can and should be used to manage your time. Careful planning can prevent burnout. You are encouraged to make a list of the top destinations that you would like to see. Be sure to include museums, beaches, historical landmarks, and anything else that peaks your interest.

Planning your budget will help prevent spending on an impulse. You will find that there are many opportunities to purchase souvenirs in Mexico. With a preplanned budget, you should be able to enjoy the benefits of Mexican shopping. You can easily use calculators to determine the exchange rate between the United States and Mexico. Taking the exchange rate into consideration is the best way to effectively budget your money. You should also plan for tipping when preparing your budget.

If you decide to vacation at an all-inclusive resort, then the cost of airfare, hotel, and food will be provided for. However, it is important to note that certain restrictions may apply. At an all-inclusive resort, you will have to pay for the extras, so make sure that you include anything that you may to purchase. Extra money should be set aside for shopping in the markets and traveling outside of your resort.

Planning for your entertainment ahead of time will help to prevent overspending. You should determine ahead of time what activities you would like to engage in. Planning and budgeting for your Mexico vacation can be difficult, especially when it comes to entertainment. You may find that you and your family will want to make a last minute stop. This is why it is advised that you plan for unexpected stops and purchases. If you have already set aside some money for an unexpected activity, you won’t have to worry about the cost of a last minute decision.

Finally, your plan should consist of contact information and an emergency back up plan. Whenever you are visiting a foreign country, it is important that you create an itinerary with all of your information and the details of your trip. That itinerary should be left with a close friend, family member, neighbor, or co-worker. In addition, you should also register with the United States Embassy or Consulate offices when you arrive. If anything happens while you are in Mexico, seeking the help of the U.S. Embassy or the nearest consulate office will provide the quickest and most effective assistance.

Before leaving for Mexico, make sure that you have up-to-date passports for all family members, as well as other forms of identification. By creating a travel plan, sticking to your budget, and creating an emergency backup plan, you can ensure that you family will have a wonderful vacation in Mexico.

Family Resorts in Mexico

2008-03-09T17:26:00.000-04:00

Vacationing with your family in Mexico offers many benefits. Though many cities are associated with constant partying, there are also many activities that are designed for young children and teenagers. Many children receive discounts at many popular tourist attractions. Selecting an all-inclusive vacation package for the whole family is one of the best ways for everyone to enjoy their vacation in Mexico, without having to worry about the cost.

If you are interested in visiting Mexico with your family, you will want to examine some of the many attractions that are specifically geared towards children. These attractions and activities are ideal for making the most out of your family vacation. Below is a summary of just a few of the many attractions and resorts that you may find exciting in Mexico. For additional information, you are encouraged to contact your local travel agent or use the internet to guide you in your search.

Located on the Mayan Riviera is the Xcaret Theme Park. The Xcaret Theme Park is a wonderful attraction for those who are looking for a family resort. Located in Cancun, Mexico, the Xcaret Theme Park is a theme park that is often compared to Disney World or Disneyland. Similar to Disneyland and Disney World, you can expect to enjoy a fun filled day at Xcaret, thanks to amazing rides and attractions.

An deep underground river is a popular feature of the Xcaret Theme Park. You and your family can see plenty of beautiful tropical plants as you enjoy the river. Xcaret is also host to many wild and exotic animals. There is a butterfly pavilion, a coral reef aquarium, and you are given the chance to swim dolphins. Many children, as well as adults, will be thrilled with this theme park. In addition to the Xcaret Theme Park, Cancun offers many family friendly resorts. To find a luxury resort that offers family oriented activities you may want to check on the internet or speak with your local travel agent.

Cozumel also offers many great attractions and activities that are designed for individuals of all ages, including children. Cozumel is ideal for family vacation, especially because it has one of the lowest crime rates in Mexico, as well as the world. Cozumel is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs. This often creates an incredible adventure and learning experience for children. If your children will enjoy scuba diving or snorkeling, then you will want to plan a trip to Cozumel.

With so many options for families, choosing a Mexican all-inclusive vacation is a great idea. The vacation package will also include items such as snacks, drinks, meals, as well as hotel accommodations and airfare. Teaching children about various cultures and customs and letting them view the Mayan ruins first hand is an amazing lesson in geography and history. While education is nice, the above mentioned locations do not completely just focus on it. There are so many fun filled activities such as snorkeling, diving, swimming, hiking, fishing, sailing, and parasailing. These activities are great for families with active children.

In addition to the above mentioned popular Mexican destinations are that are designed for the whole family, you may want to consider additional sights and attractions.

Budget Travel with a Family

2008-03-02T14:04:00.001-04:00

Traveling as a family can really add to the costs. Children are often charged a lot more than seems fair and the overall price of a family holiday can soon get out of hand by the time you factor in all of the food and activities.

Family Camps

An increasingly popular choice for families is the family camp. Accommodation varies with everything from a basic tent to well equipped log cabins with all of the modern facilities that you would expect in a large hotel.

YMCA offer a range of camps such as the Snow Mountain Ranch in Colorado that spans 5,100 acres and can host 2,500 people in cabins. Activities are available for children aged 3 and over including skiing, climbing and riding. Adults can enjoy use of the gym and health centre or simply enjoy a bit of quiet time while the children are being tired out!

Money Saving Booking Tips

When you are booking with children it is really important to get to know what deals are available. Some companies offer children’s prices right up to 16 years old, others start to charge full price at age 3. Depending on the age of your children, one company may prove substantially cheaper for the same holiday.

Consider your sleeping arrangements carefully. Some hotels will offer adjoining rooms, others will have family rooms that sleep children as well as adults. Most hotels will not allow young children in their own room, so bear this in mind when booking.

If you have more than two children you may find that an apartment offers better value for money and more usable space. A two or three bedroom cottage will often be a lot cheaper than two or three rooms in a hotel.

Use the children as a means of negotiation. For example, ask for a discount on their air fare or accommodation or ask for free entrance to an activity while you are booking.

Keeping a Lid on Spending Money

Traveling with children can be expensive when you add up the costs of activities, food and children’s clubs if they are available. If you are working to a budget then it may well be worth considering an all-inclusive holiday resort. Although these are normally more expensive to book initially, it is easier to anticipate your spending in advance. As meals and drinks are included you will not have to worry about the constant demands from the children for soda!

Find out how much children’s clubs will cost and when they are available, prices can vary substantially, so do your homework if you are not to get stung with a large bill at the end of the holiday.

It may even be worth traveling with another family with children of a similar age, as the adults can then take it in turns to child mind, meaning that everyone gets a break and the children have friends to play with! Also the bigger the group the bigger the discounts, normally, so even if you do not want to spend the whole time with another family, you can still benefit from booking together.

Saving Money While at Your Destination

2008-03-02T14:01:00.001-04:00

When traveling independently you will almost always do better in terms of price and quality if you veer away from the traditional places to eat and shops that the guide books mention. Going off the beaten track can mean you pick up a real bargain.

Restaurants

Follow the locals; if you head for a tourist orientated restaurant or shop you will find that the prices are substantially higher and often the food is not of the same quality.

Another good tip is to visit the local market where the locals shop. Not only will you get fresh products at good prices but you will also enjoy the experience of mixing with the locals. Ask those around you where to go, after all, it is the locals that are best placed to tell you where to go for a good deal!

A good way of working out whether a restaurant is geared towards tourists or locals is to see when it is at its busiest. Tourists tend to eat a lot earlier than the locals in most foreign countries. Any restaurant that is empty until around 9pm and then fills up is probably frequented by locals.

Car Rental

When it comes to rental cars the costs can vary widely and it really pays to shop around. Sometimes you will be offered good deals as part of your hotel stay or airfare, consider these as combination deals will also be a lot cheaper than you could get on your own.

Booking car rental when you have reached your destination is normally cheaper than reserving in advance if you have not got a good combination deal.

Make sure that you have suitable insurance, as any accident could make a huge dent in your holiday budget! There are good ways to save money, but insurance is not an area that you should scrimp on.

Always select the smallest car that is suitable for your needs, this will be cheaper and will cost less in gas. There is also a reasonable chance that you will be upgraded for free. If you are feeling bold, it is worth asking at the counter if there is any chance of a free upgrade, you never know your luck!

If you are booking car hire from a distance, look at the costs of car hire from the airport as well as from the city that you are staying in. Car hire companies will pay more to have an airport franchise and you may find this reflected in the prices that you are quoted.

Always fill up the gas before you get back to the car rental office. Car rental companies will charge well over the odds for any extra gas that they need to replace on your behalf so take the time to tank up before you get back if you do not want a large bill at the end.

Money Saving Tips

2008-02-24T14:01:00.004-04:00

As well as the usual ways to get a bargain flight or vacation, it is also important to consider other money saving tips for when you are actually traveling. Money saving tips whilst you are away should not be overlooked, as they can save you a substantial amount of money in the long run.

Another issue that you should consider before booking is what potential specialist discounts you may be entitled to; for example, many agents offer discounts to students, seniors or individuals that are members of certain organizations may also be able to get better deals.

When it comes to student travel you may find that the discounts are available for anyone aged 26 or under, regardless of whether they are actually students. If you are a student or under 26 then contact the specialist student agents such as Student Universe, STA and Council Travel to find out what deals they have available.

Similarly there are specialist deals for seniors find out which of the airlines you are considering offer discounts for AARP members. If you are getting a senior rate you may find that your companion can also benefit from the same rate. Be sure to ask about these rates and any coupons or vouchers that are offered to senior travelers.

Clubs and Award Programs

Being a member of an airline or hotel awards program is a superb way of finding out about the bargains and also for making ongoing savings every time you travel. As a general rule there is no limit to the number of award programs that you can join, but normally you will have to decide which of the award programs you wish to assign any points you earn during a vacation.

Frequent Flyer Points

Large airline companies now offer frequent flier incentives as a matter of course. Take some time to locate the best deal based on your own individual circumstances. As well as gaining points every time you fly you can also become part of a mailing list that ensures you are notified of the hot deals of the day!

The largest frequent flyer programs in America are United’s Mileage Plus, Delta’s SkyMiles and American’s Aadvantage. On average they have 20 million members each.

Hotel Award Programs

Hotel chains are keen to ensure that they have loyal customers and as such the larger chains will almost always offer some incentive for repeat bookings. Always ask what incentives are available, particularly if you can’t choose between two different hotels. If one offers a good ongoing program, this may sway your decision. Some of the more popular offerings include a free upgrade if you stay for 10 days over the course of a year, free nights, free wine in your room.

Holiday Inn was the first hotel chain to begin to offer incentives and in the early days it was an impressive offer! After 75 days stay a traveler would get 2 airline tickets to Europe! Needless to say, this program was popular but soon had to be discontinued due to the amount it was costing the company. They do now have a very good awards program, just not quite as generous!

Combined Award Programs

Although some hotels and airlines offer frequent flyer points that encourage you to use their specific company, these sometimes will not offer you the best deal in combination. There are now plenty of companies that allow you to gather points whenever you use transport or goods that are affiliated to awards company.

Affiliates can be anything from hotels and flights to restaurants and clothing. Joining is normally easy and free, and with a bit of careful planning can yield huge rewards. What have you got to lose?

Where to Look for a Bargain Vacation

2008-02-23T17:26:00.003-04:00

Having decided that you want a bargain vacation, you now have to turn your attention to starting your search. Knowing where to look for the bargains is the main part of the battle when it comes to securing that extra special deal.

Traditionally, travelers would only really be able to use local agents to deal with their query. These days however we have a wealth of options available to us including online consolidators, auction sites and direct web sites to peruse.

Deciding on the best place to look will depend on a number of factors such as where you are going, when you are going, whether you need any specialist advice and how much leg work you want to put in yourself.

In reality the best option will be to consult several different sources, even if it is simply to be certain that you are getting the best possible deal from your chosen retailer.

Auction sites

Auction sites are a relatively new concept and one that has still not reached its full potential. Many people are still wary about the concept of bidding for a vacation. One of the most popular auction sites that is used at the moment is eBay; however, bidders should be aware that they are often buying from an individual and the motto ‘buyer beware’ could not be any more appropriate. However, if you browse through eBay you may find that a lot of the tour operators advertise their deals on eBay in a clearance type of fashion. If you do not wish to purchase through eBay, this still gives you a good idea of the types of prices that agents are prepared to let the vacations go for. Similarly, hotels often advertise any spare capacity that they have on sites such as eBay and this can be a great way to pick up a bargain.

There are also sites that are dedicated to auctioning vacations such as biddingfortravel.com, where companies offer their availability and the hotel, flight, or vacation is simply sold to the highest bidder. The real danger with this type of purchase is that it is normally allocation on arrival or limited in terms of options. Auction sites are a great place to look if you are very flexible, however, if you want a specific destination, date or other parameter, think twice! Another thing to bear in mind is that many of the auction sites will add an extra fee on to your winning price, so check out any extras that you will be expected to pay so that you do not get any nasty shocks.

Also if you are traveling in a family group, bear in mind that prices normally reflect double occupancy only and the hotel in question may not be able to accommodate children in the same room. Check these details out BEFORE you bid, as any bid you make is binding.

Travel Agent

Many people have speculated that traditional travel agents are a dying breed as more travelers start to build their own packages. To a certain extent this is true; however, travel agents still have a very valuable role to play in helping travelers to locate a bargain.

A registered travel agency will have necessary insurance so that if something happens to mean that you do not get the vacation that you booked, you will receive some compensation. This security may be particularly important if you are booking a very important vacation such as a honeymoon

Smaller agents also will have a greater discretion than large online chains. When you purchase online you are usually told the price; there is no room to negotiate for extras or further discounts. By dealing with a person in a face-to-face situation, you are in a much stronger position to negotiate.

A vacation is only a bargain if you get the vacation that you will enjoy. If you are looking at a specialist vacation type, such as a cruise, then an experienced travel agent will be extremely valuable to ensure that you get the best possible vacation. True you are likely to pay a little extra for this level of expertise, but it is not worth saving a few dollars at the expense of your enjoyment.

Building up a rapport with a travel agent will mean that they personally keep you in mind and if requested, they will be able to notify of you of any potentially interesting bargains that come into their agency, before they are released to the public. They may also be aware of any upcoming sales that are not generally public knowledge. If you have had a cheap quote online, take the details into your local agent and ask them what they can do, you may be pleasantly surprised!

Online Purchases

Let’s face it; most of us looking for a travel bargain will start their search online. Over the last few years online travel sites have gone from strength to strength. Travelocity, for example, has only been around for 10 years; last year it made a total of $830 million and took $7.4 billion worth of bookings.

Booking online has become incredibly popular; in 2005, 79 million people in the United States made their travel plans online. With so many people going online to book their vacations, it is little wonder that competition between the online agencies is reaching fever pitch. The good news is that a savvy consumer can use this to their advantage.

Consolidators

Companies such as Orbitz, Travelocity and Expedia are among the best known sites available for online purchases. One of the great benefits of these sites is that they cover the whole spectrum of options and often offer discounts on hotels and flights booked together. These are a great place to start the bargain hunt as they will alert you to the airlines that cover certain areas and will also tell you which flight times are the cheapest.

At the time of going to press, there is not one consolidator that covers ALL of the airlines. For this reason, it is likely that you will have to go to several sites before you are able to get a true picture of the bargains that are available.

Other sites such as priceline.com and hotwire.com will often offer enormous bargains. However, they do not always tell you whom exactly your booking is with until it is too late. Therefore, if you have a preference in terms of airline or hotel, these sites are not likely to be the best option for you.

Many of the consolidator websites are affiliated to a particular airline. Check out any affiliations that your chosen site may have, as this may have an effect on what they offer to the customer.

Buying online is often the cheapest way to get a vacation. However, bear in mind that as a rule, complicated requests or specific vacations will be better booked through a traditional agent who can offer the safety net and expertise that you desire.

Specialty Vacation Bargains

2008-02-18T15:26:00.004-04:00

Adventure Travel

Adventure travel has always been regarded as the expensive option. This need not be the case, although adventure tour operators invariably are expensive as they pay developed world prices to their sales, marketing and organizational staff.

If you consider a typical adventure vacation, you will find that only a minimal portion of the overall cost will end up going on the actual adventure part of the trip. By organizing your own trip directly, you could save literally thousands of dollars.

Booking an adventure vacation for yourself can be quite tricky so follow these guidelines to make sure you get it right!

Word of mouth is invaluable when you are considering going off the beaten track. If you can find someone that you know who has done your trip before, you may be able to get some excellent tips on what to do and what not to do. First hand experience is the best sort of experience you can hope to get!

Get ahold of a couple of guidebooks on the areas that you are considering. While travel book writers may vary in opinions, any underlying themes should be taken seriously!

Look at message boards online. The internet is a superb resource and will allow you to contact many people who have first hand experience of your destination.

If you are going on a guided tour once you reach your destination, make sure that you get everything straight before you depart. Ensure that you discuss with your guide what is included and what is not. Agree upon a price before you leave as you will be in a much weaker position once you are halfway up a mountain!

Generally booking a tour once you arrive at your destination will mean that you get a better deal. However, this will not work if you are traveling to a very tight schedule, want to do a specific route or you do not speak the local language. In these cases it is would normally be worth booking from home before you travel.

'Round the World

Traveling around the world may be the last thing on your mind if you are looking for a budget vacation. However, bear in mind that once you are on the move, the incremental cost of an extra stop will not be as large as the cost of traveling that destination from home on a different occasion.

Many operators will also often offer a discount for travelers who want to make several stops, so if you really fancy a couple of nights en-route, enquire about options. You may be pleasantly surprised.

Another possible option is to simply book a one way ticket to your first destination, this will allow you the flexibility to decide when you want to travel on, and will also allow you to benefit from buying locally, which will almost invariably mean you get cheaper rate. One of the main disadvantages of this method is that you are in effect stranded and if you cannot find a cheap flight, you will have to buy one anyway! Immigration officers are also a little more fussy when it comes to admitting someone with only a one way ticket and no obvious onward plans.

Cruise Bargains

Very few people ever pay the full brochure price for a cruise. This is a fact, so getting a discount from the advertised prices should be relatively easy.

One thing that visitors should consider with cruises is that you are going to be on board this ship for the duration of your vacation. It is not like a package vacation where if you dislike the resort you can simply leave; here you are captive. If you love the ship this is wonderful, if you hate it is the holiday from hell.

The first thing you should do once you have narrowed down the cruise liners that you are interested in, is to look at what prices the cruise lines themselves are offering the holidays for. This will give you an idea of when you are facing a bargain.

Last minute bargains are few and far between on cruises, so do not rely on this in the same way that you would for a flight or hotel.

When it comes to cruising, finding a specialist travel agent will normally be a good move. Contact suitable looking agents and ask to be put on their mailing list. If you are interested in a specific line or destination make this known to them.

There are also plenty of websites such as CruiseMates that have a bargain finder, where you can say what you are looking forward and agents will then contact you with the best deal.

Another thing to bear in mind is that children often pay full adult price on cruises if they are taking a full adult berth. Look out for child-specific deals if they share your cabin. Some cruise lines offer the option of booking a cabin grade but not a specific cabin. This will often mean that if they have spare space you are upgraded to the next grade or even beyond. Of course the down side is that you could end up in one of the worst cabins of the grade that you have paid for.

Cruise lines like to keep their customers and many lines will offer you incentives to book for the following year when you are onboard. Typically you can expect to get a decent amount of money as onboard credit which will mean that you get the benefit of your early booking next year. Most lines also offer loyalty programs, so inquire about these on board, too.

Bargain Package Vacations

2008-02-18T13:43:00.001-04:00

Package vacations are simply vacations where the travel operator offers the whole trip, including the flights, hotels and in some cases the transport when you arrive at your destination. Bearing this in mind, a lot of the tips for getting cheap flights will be the same as they are for package vacations. Having said this, there are some specific ways of bagging a package vacation bargain.

The reason that many tour operators offer such cheap deals for packages is because they buy a certain number of flights and hotel rooms which they then try and sell throughout the year. By definition, they will have more possible vacations during peak season, but then there will also be greater demand meaning that the bargains may not be what you would hope.

Last minute package vacations are readily available if you are not fussy about destination and can wait until the very last minute. If you simply want somewhere hot, tomorrow, you will almost certainly bag a bargain; if you want a specific type of destination or resort then you may find that you are not able to get that last minute deal.

Optional extras are big business for package tour operators and they will often make most of their profit from these extras such as insurance, excursions and transport at your destination. Whilst these will often be available elsewhere cheaper, you may find that purchasing these from your package vacations operator will allow you to negotiate a discount on your vacation. You may even be able to get a ‘free’ extra if you agree to book on the spot.

Another thing to bear in mind is that accommodation is not the expensive part of the package and you will sometimes find that a package vacation to a particular destination will end up as a cheaper alternative to trying to book flights on your own. Last minute package deals are often so cheap that you can take the point of view that even if you hate the accommodation you can always phone around for your chosen hotel. On a similar note, the best bargains are often those that are classified as ‘allocation on arrival’. This simply means that you will be allocated accommodation when you arrive.

Some operators offer a halfway option where you will be told the resort, the type of hotel or the grade but the final selection will be done when you arrive.

Booking a Cheap Flight at the Last Minute

2008-02-18T11:37:00.001-04:00

Buying a last minute flight is actually quite tricky. Many charter airlines will deal primarily with packages and as such the flight-only option can actually end up costing more than a simple package.

All is not lost though! There are still plenty of ways to pick up a flight bargain. Bear in mind that if you are going for a do it yourself option on your holiday, it is wise to book the flight first, as this is likely to be the largest expenditure and there is generally less of a variety of carriers meaning less room for negotiation. Almost without exception finding a cheap hotel will be easier than finding a cheap flight.

Trawl the websites of those flight operators that cover the location which you wish to travel to. Join their mailing list. OK, so you may end up with endless junk mail, but you will also get to hear about all of the deals that they are currently offering.

As a general rule, the best deals are available for flights leaving Monday to Thursday and on domestic flights many bargains can be found on a Saturday. Travelers will almost invariably pay more for a Friday or Sunday flight. Most holiday operators will offer the best deals for those who purchase a set time in advance, normally at least 14 days. If it is possible to stay a Saturday night, this will also normally result in a lower fare.

When searching, if possible, entertain the possibility of a flight that involves a connection. Airlines often place a large premium on non-stop flights and if this is not vital for you, you are likely to be able to save many dollars.

A further premium is normally placed on ‘nice’ flight times, i.e. ones that will not involve a particularly early start or involve traveling over night. Again if you are prepared to compromise slightly on your flight times, you may find that you can make huge savings.

Try not to stick rigidly to your destination. It may be possible to fly into a nearby airport and drive the last hour or so; this may offer you a better price overall.

Whenever you are considering buying a flight, it is always worth going to a consolidator such as Orbitz or Expedia. This will give you some excellent background information, such as the operators that offer the destination you are after and the typical prices. By doing your homework you will be able to act quickly when you see a bargain in the future. Very good deals often only appear for a very short period of time so it is important that you learn to recognize a good deal so that you can pounce on one-off deals before they disappear. When you are doing your homework, try a search with ‘flexible dates’. This will allow you to get a good feel for the price differences that are in operation during your ideal travel period.

A few other hints that can help you to bag a flight bargain is to consider air courier travel. To be able to become a courier you will have to be very flexible, prepared to travel alone with very little luggage, but on the plus side you will get to travel to new places very cheaply.

Some countries offer air passes to tourists that allow discounts if you are planning on spending a lot of time traveling around a particular region such as Australia or Europe.

If you book an airline ticket and then find that the price has gone down, contact the airline and ask for a refund. Many of the large airlines offer to pay back the difference if the prices go down. Read the small print and ask for the refund if it applies. Even if your chosen airline does not offer this sort of refund policy it is still worth asking as with increased competition airlines are very keen to keep customers happy.

Hotels at the Last Minute

2008-02-18T11:26:00.001-04:00

For the brave, it is always worth calling the hotel that you want to stay at on the day that you intend to arrive, or possibly the day before. Hotels will often be prepared to offer substantial discounts on the day, as from their point of view an empty room is a complete waste of money. If you are feeling particularly bold it is even worth telling the hotel what you are prepared to pay and asking them if they have any rooms available.

This is a particularly effective way of going about getting a really good deal if you are traveling to a city that has several hotels, it is out of peak season and you are flexible in terms of facilities.

If you are not feeling quite so bold in terms of leaving it until the last minute, you can phone the hotel a few days in advance. Whilst you may not get the total bargains, you are still in a good position to negotiate, particularly if you are traveling out of season. If you are targeting a specific hotel, check out their cancellation policy. For example, if a specific hotel requires at least 3 days notice to not charge for a cancellation, then this is the point where they are most likely to receive the most cancellations. Hotels will then be eager to fill these spaces.

Another good way to utilize the cancellation policies of hotels is to book a relatively cheap chain hotel that allows you to cancel free up until the day of travel. Then, on the day you can phone around other hotels to see if you can get a better deal. If you do then you can cancel your previous booking without penalty; if you do not then you will still have a roof over your head!

Negotiations over extra free nights or discounts will generally only work with smaller regional hotels, as the larger chains have a central system and they will not normally negotiate directly with a guest. Bear this in mind when you are selecting your targets!

Facilities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, satellite televisions all add to the costs of a hotel. Consider this carefully. Are you paying extra for facilities that you don’t want, won’t need and don’t even notice? If you are after a cheap base, then avoid hotels with extra facilities as this will almost invariably add to your costs.

Planning your Vacation - Choosing your Season & Destination

2008-02-17T14:19:00.002-04:00

The two key things that can have a huge impact on the cost of your vacation are the destination and the time of year. In fact, the single biggest saver is likely to be when you travel, not how successfully you manage to haggle for that last minute hotel bargain!

Don’t overlook the importance of considering these two factors together. Some destinations will be extremely cheap at one time of year yet finding a bargain four months later may be impossible. Traveling to a popular destination at a peak time will never be cheap. For example staying at a luxury hotel in a party city on New Year’s Eve is not likely to be a budget holiday; however, traveling to a traditional summer resort over New Year’s may be a very different story.

One thing that is very important to realize is that low seasons are low for a reason. A classic example of this is hurricane season in the Caribbean and Florida. Other low seasons to be wary of are the extremely hot areas such as Egypt during the summer months, when the heat can be so oppressive that it makes the holiday less enjoyable. Summer resorts are often so quiet during low season that there is quite literally nowhere open. This can be great for a retreat, but when it comes to a raging nightlife you may be sadly disappointed!

Shoulder Season

Shoulder season is the perfect time to be trying to travel for those who want to find a happy medium between low and peak seasons. Identifying where is in shoulder season when you want to travel or when your favorite destination is in shoulder season can save you literally hundreds of dollars.

Take a look at the guide books. Whilst they will not tell you when the shoulder season is, they will tell you when peak and low seasons are. The time in between, is, by definition, the shoulder season.

With almost every resort there is a period where the prices become low, not because the location is now poor but because all of the hotels and flights are still servicing the area but the demand is simply not there. Examples of shoulder seasons are Europe in the fall and the Caribbean during late spring.

Winter

Winter is an interesting time of year to travel. Before Christmas, most individuals are trying to make last minute shopping trips. After Christmas, people are dealing with their credit card bills. As such, holidays on far off beaches are often incredibly cheap during the winter period.

A wonderful destination for the winter months is Asia. Flights are losing popularity, however, availability is still good, meaning that there are plenty of discounts on offer. Weather is variable in Asia during the winter which could mean that you are surrounded by snow one minute and then basking in glorious sunshine. This lack of dependability is something that puts a lot of visitors off and can mean that there are some excellent bargains for those prepared to take the risk!

Spring

If you are looking to travel to Europe, this is the time to do it! Flights are a lot cheaper during the spring months when temperatures are still relatively low.

Mexican beaches and the Caribbean islands start to see their prices drop from mid April as the weather becomes hotter. However, during the spring months, the water and air temperatures are still pleasant and the resorts less crowded.

During later spring, for example May, the traditionally hot and dry countries are not in their peak seasons but have not yet become intolerably hot. So if you want to visit Morocco, Jordan or Egypt, plan a spring vacation.

Summer

Finding a bargain in summer is tricky. Americans, Japanese and Europeans are all on the move and this is also the time of year that most weddings take place, so honeymoon destinations are in a great deal of demand.

During the early part of summer, through June and July, Caribbean destinations are still good to get a deal, provided you try to book before the Europeans start to flood in during their school holidays at the end of July.

Safari holidays are a good option between June and September. High season ends in May, but the weather is still relatively dry.

Flights and hotels are still quite reasonable in Southeast Asia during the summer months, but temperatures can be quite hot, so if you can’t stand the heat, avoid this destination during the summer months.

Fall

This is the time to head to Europe. Flights to most major European destinations will be cheaper from October onwards, mainly because the schools are no longer on holiday and families are not traveling as much. Temperatures are normally perfectly pleasant until mid November, so grab yourself a fall bargain in Europe.

Planning your Vacation - When to Book

2008-02-17T14:09:00.004-04:00

Planning is the key to success when it comes to getting a budget holiday. There are many things that you can influence such as when you book, how you travel, whether you go package or build your own agenda. All of these things can have a significant impact on the price you pay. Above all, each of these things are within your control!

Most people know exactly when they are intending to take a vacation. This can be used to your advantage when it comes to planning.

Deciding on when to book is a bit of a gamble. Whilst many tour operators will offer cheaper prices and early booking discounts, you may find that last minute deals are also available which will prove better financially.

There are many factors that you should take into account when deciding on when to book for maximum financial gain:

- Are you flexible in terms of dates that you are prepared to travel?
- Are you flexible in terms of destinations that you are prepared to travel to?
- Will you be buying a package deal or will you be building your own package?
- Are you considering a popular destination where many tour operators or flight companies travel?

Firstly, if you are flexible in terms of location and dates then you will almost certainly benefit from waiting until the last minute to book your holiday. Last minute deals are, of course, something that you cannot rely upon and if you are set on going to a certain destination at a certain date then last minute is far too risky.

If you are planning on creating your own package then you need to be aware that you are taking multiple gambles. For example, you need to consider your airfare, hotels and transport. Whilst you may get an excellent last minute flight, you may not be so lucky when it comes to the hotel or car hire. In fact, you may find that paying a premium for other parts of your holiday will end up out-weighing any last minute savings you have made.

As a general rule, if you are looking to go on a specific holiday, a cruise, for example, with a specific company or a destination that is only offered by a few operators, you may find that last minute bargains are simply not available. Cruising is a classic example of this. A cruise line will offer holidays for a certain price, whilst they may offer their holidays through different agents who may individually offer discounts, the actual price of the cruise is likely to remain very similar no matter who you go to for your price.

Paradise Found: Guided Tours of Hawaii’s Big Island

2008-02-17T12:30:00.000-04:00

The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the most picturesque and unique islands in the Hawaiian Island chain. Because it is so big, however, many visitors take guided tours of the island in order to see as much of its fantastic sites as possible. It could easily become a trip you’ll take over and over again.

Begin your trip in Kailua-Kona on the western side of the island. In fact, many guided tours will have you stay the whole time there and use day excursions to allow you to see the rest of the island. Kona itself is a quaint little village in which you can enjoy a luau, fine dining, a picnic on the grass by the ocean and many small shops located along Ali’i Drive in downtown Kona.

Adventurous guided tours of the Big Island will take you on saddle road, preferably in a four-wheel drive vehicle. It’s a desolate road with many twists and turns; the volcanoes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa will flank you on either side. Your first stop, if you’re feeling brave, is Mauna Kea itself.

Most guided tours of the Big Island will discourage you from taking the trip up Mauna Kea alone as rental cars often can’t handle it. Instead, let them use their own vehicle to take up, back and forth along switch back roads for nearly an hour, until you arrive at a small museum at about 9,000 feet that will give you information about the observatories on the volcano. Many guided tours of Mauna Kea won’t stop there, however. You’ll continue up until you reach approximately 13,000 feet.

In the winter, there may be snow on the ground and driving can be tricky. At the top, however, is a breathtaking view of the entire island and you’ll find that the clouds are below you. The telescopes and observatories stand out like shining globes on the otherwise desolate landscape.

After you descend the volcano, many guided tours will continue along Saddle Road and allow you to grab lunch at a restaurant in the city of Hilo, on the eastern side of the island. There is shopping, and even a shopping mall, for those who want to grab some souvenirs.

After lunch, guided tours of the Hawaiian Botanical Gardens are available. Set near the shoreline in a jungle-like atmosphere, your guide will show you some of the rarest plants in the world. Walk among the creeks and waterfalls and enjoy the lush beauty of the place.

By far and away, most guided tours of the Big Island will not go back the way you came and will take you along the Hamakua coastline, a magnificent area where drivers drive on switch back roads through lush gorges and small villages. Waterfalls and creeks are everywhere and you’re not far from the ocean.

Lucky travelers will stop along the way and take one of the guided tours of the Waipio Valley, also called the Valley of the Kings. You’ll take a rugged vehicle down inside the valley and enjoy taro fields, a wild view of the ocean and will see glimpses of the wild horses living in the valley. Bring your camera as the views are wonderful.

On your way back to Kailua-Kona, you’ll go through Waimea, the “cowboy area” of the Big Island. Some guided tours will let you stop at one of several places where you can ride on horseback and you’ll see many ranches in the area. Enjoy the ride and head back to your hotel in Kailua-Kona.

Budget Travel Tips

2008-02-16T16:32:00.001-04:00

It can be tough to travel on a budget if you aren’t used to it. But there is no reason why you should stay home just because you don’t have scads of money! So, grab that battered, second hand Lonely Planet Guide and get going with these useful budget travel tips!

- Stay close to home. Instead of a family vacation to Disney World, why not scout out a fun location closer to where you live? There are plenty of other theme parks to consider that won’t require airfare and staying in some of the country’s more expensive hotels.

- Do your research. Start looking online for travel deals at least three months ahead of time if possible. That’s how you find special deals. Also, booking ahead saves you money since airlines and hotels charge premium rates for last minute travelers. You can often find deals for entrance tickets to places like Disney World and other popular attractions online.

- Be flexible and book extra time off are two very good travel tips. If you don’t necessarily have to go to Acapulco, why not check out airfare to other parts of Mexico? Also, being flexible with travel dates is ideal since certain days tend to be cheaper to fly on (like Tuesdays).

- Eat in travel tips: Find a hotel that includes breakfast and you save at least $6-15 per person on food a day! If you are traveling near home, try packing your own food. Or ask for a kitchenette and hit the local supermarket once you arrive. Preparing meals in your hotel room can drastically cut costs.

- To save money, follow these travel tips. If you are driving across the country, why not check out that free opal museum in Arizona or the World’s Largest Ball of String? These sights are free, but they are still interesting and can provide topics of conversation on the long drive to the real destination!

- Look online for coupons for anything. There are coupons for just about everything if you really look. Print some out for shows in Las Vegas or to get 2 for 1 entry to a museum. You can also find travel tips online.

- Don’t rent a car. If you are going somewhere like New York, just ask your hotel desk clerk about the subways or buses. And if you happen to be in California, check that the hotel you are thinking of booking offers a free shuttle to Disneyland or anywhere else. Most hotels offer free or cheap shuttle service to and from the airport as well.

- Some good food travel tips: when eating out, eat a big meal for lunch and go small for dinner. Lunch menus tend to be just as filling as dinner, but far cheaper in most restaurants. Look for a menu of the day, as well. These can be special offers that include an entire meal, soup, entrée, drink and dessert for a set price. For supper, split an entrée between two people or just order appetizers as your meal. Asking for just water is a good way to knock about $5-6 off each person’s tab!

You can travel on the cheap, and it is worth a try, even if you do have a bit of cash to spend. Just follow the travel tips above!

Hot International Travel Destinations

2008-02-16T16:23:00.000-04:00

Looking for a great vacation destination this year? There are several hot ones around the world that are luring new visitors as well as repeat vacationers. Why not try a new destination for your next vacation?

Thailand is a great international destination that suffered greatly after the big tsunami, but it is back and thriving! Since the number of tourist has drastically gone down, prices are better than ever and the beaches won’t be as crowded. Thailand is full of fascinating culture and great food, plus it is super economical!

Japan is another Asian hot spot. It might surprise you to learn that this hard-working country features some of the best ski slopes in the world! But that’s why they have twice been the location of the Winter Olympics. They are attracting ski buffs everywhere and rapidly becoming a popular place to vacation. For spouses who aren’t interested in snow and cold, there is hot springs to relax in.

London is the perfect place for party animals. The city features world-famous night clubs that go all night long, as well as some great historical sights if you aren’t too hung over the next morning! This British destination is also home to some of the world’s best restaurants as well. The great thing is that you can almost always find incredible discounts to fly to England.

Athens is yet another famous destination if you enjoy night life, on a more relaxed level. Greece has a lot to offer besides clubs and pubs, so even if you prefer history over drinking, you will be right at home. Try renting a motor scooter to tour the countryside and enjoy the amazing food that Greece has to offer, along with the historical sites.

Mexico has always been a hot destination for tourists looking for some heat. These days, Cancun is the place to be. Featuring stereotypical white sandy beaches, perfect blue water and a variety of water activities like swimming and jet skiing, this resort town is Mexico bumped up a notch. Since it is so close to the US, if you are American, you can travel easily enough by plane or car, for a decent price.

Italy is another European destination that has become popular after the incredible fame of Dan Brown’s books “The DaVinci Code” and “Angels and Demons”. Set in Rome, the books and resulting movie have peaked an interest in this religious city. The ruins and historical value of this country is astounding and well worth a visit. It can be romantic whether you travel alone or with a partner.

Our last international hot spot destination is Brazil. This South American country is best known for its shameless beaches featuring topless women, but it offers a lot more! There is a wild nightlife for those who like to party and a very strong mixed culture that features foods with influences from around the world. You can also check out the Amazon River and go for a hike into the rainforest.

International destinations are in right now and it is the moment to take advantage. Book your airplane tickets ahead of time to avoid problems and to get the lowest fares possible, pack some sunscreen, and enjoy!

Cruises for Families

2008-02-16T16:19:00.001-04:00

If you have always dreamed of retiring and going on a cruise, why are you waiting? Cruises are not just for retirees, they are also perfect for the family, no matter what age your children are!

Family cruises are designed specifically for relaxation for the parents and non-stop activities for kids. That means there are things going on until one am that your children can participate in, fully monitored by trained staff so you can hit the dance floor or the pool without having to worry about your children.

Cruises for families can be found through any major cruise line, Carnival, Royal Caribbean and, of course, Disney! Each one offers a unique experience for the kids while giving parents exactly what they want, time alone by the pool, full five course meals and relaxing spas.

For example, Disney, one of the most popular family cruises, offers live shows that kids love, as well as ongoing activities for all age groups. They even have a “nightclub” for teens where parents are banned, but the fun is supervised!

Carnival features the Camp Carnival cruises where activities are provided for 4 different age groups, from 2-15. Parties and pools for kids abound and everything is supervised. If parents want to go out to dinner in the evening, they can hire a babysitter to stay in the stateroom with the kids.

Norwegian Cruises has developed a family cruise called Kid’s Crew and they feature spas for parents, with treasure hunts, pajama parties, cookouts and sleepovers keeping the little ones busy. They also offer face painting, T-shirt decorating among many other activities. The whole family can get in on activities like sand castle competitions!

Royal Caribbean has the Adventure Ocean cruises for families where the entertainment for kids is actually educational at the same time. There are special play areas and plenty of opportunities for the whole family to have fun together, not just separated into groups.

Princess Cruises features special Love Boat cruises for kids. They have several ships for this program and each one offer different, but very fun activities. There is a special Teen Club that allows older children to dance the night away in a teen night club, participate in talent and karaoke shows and have pizza and movie parties.

For the most part, family-oriented cruises won’t break the bank. They run anywhere from $600 - $1,250, which is not a very high price, considering the amount of fun and everything included.

Finding the best family cruise for your family takes a bit of research. You need to figure out which activities your kids will enjoy the most, whether you want to spend most of your time on the actual ship, or if shore leaves will figure into the activity plan. It is a good idea to sit down with older children and some brochures and discuss which cruise they think would be best.

With a bit of planning, your family cruises can be a lot of fun and have you coming back again and again.

In the Maldives - A Counterintuitive Resort

2007-11-09T09:20:00.000-04:00

Quick Tip for Best Airfares

2007-08-18T15:48:00.000-04:00

If you search and book your flight between midnight & 5 Am on Wednesdays, Eastern Time, you'll usually get the best deal on your domestic airfares. Saturday seems to be the worst day of the week.

I got this tip here and did some of my own research. Give it a try next time you're searching for airfares.

Best,
Stephan

Historic Ferry on Scottish Loch to get Eco-upgrade

2007-08-18T15:30:00.000-04:00

Beijing Sees Fast Increase of Museums

2007-08-18T15:24:00.000-04:00

A Checklist Of Essentials For Your Vacation

2007-07-25T16:01:00.000-04:00

You are very excited about that upcoming vacation. Hold on to your horses for a bit, lest you forget some essential preparations you need to make to ensure a grand time for yourself during your well deserved break! You see, you can’t simply open your traveling bag and throw what you feel you would need inside the available space. No, Sirs and Madams! That would be a recipe for absolute disaster that could render your vacation a cataclysmic failure. Imagine being stuck in the middle of nowhere, missing a vital item or two which are essential to your vacation.

Here is a checklist of important things you should remember to bring with you on your vacation. When packing, make sure that these items are prepared before anything els, so that you won’t forget them.

Your passport and other necessary identification cards. This is critical, especially when you’re traveling to a foreign land. You don’t want to get stuck at the airport, frantically searching for the embassy’s phone number. A vacation should be enjoyed hassle-free. A missing passport can douse cold water in what should be a fun and wonderful time.

Your credit card and/or an appropriate amount of cash. You know what they say… if you can’t afford a vacation, don’t. You should not be afraid to spend (though you should practice intelligent spending). If you forget your financial limits, what will you end up spending? Worse, how are you supposed to cope with the expenses that your travels would demand?

Clothes. This includes underwear, of course. You’d hardly forget about these, as they would naturally be the first things you will instinctively pack. In the event that you do forget, you could always buy some new clothing and apparel but it could prove costly. You would do better spending your cash on things germane to the destination you’ll be visiting.

Toiletries. These are the least important preparations needed for a vacation. Most accommodations these days offer free toothbrushes, soaps, shampoos, towels, napkins and the like. However, it’s the uncommon grooming items that need your attention. If your skin is prone to breaking out in unfamiliar climates, for example, you’d need your personal skin care products. If you’re anticipating an important meeting or perhaps even a date during your vacation, you’ll need your makeup kit.

Medicines. Especially the ones specifically prescribed for you. There is no guarantee that such medicines would be available in the place where you’ll be spending your vacation. It’s better to be on the safe side and bring your own supply, in case the need arises.

New Smoking Policy Onboard Royal Caribbean Ships

2007-07-23T10:03:00.000-04:00

MIAMI, July 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- In time to help guests set their New Year's resolutions for a healthier lifestyle, Royal Caribbean International announces a new smoking policy onboard its ships, effective January 2008. To bolster the cruise line's new Vitality wellness program, recently debuted on Liberty of the Seas -- the newest vessel to share the title of the world's largest cruise ship with sister-ship, Freedom of the Seas -- Royal Caribbean is increasing smoke-free zones by designating all staterooms and one lounge on each ship in its fleet as non-smoking areas. The new policy will go into effect aboard 18 of the line's 21 ships initially, with Legend of the Seas, Rhapsody of the Seas and Splendour of
the Seas following suit with the 2008 summer season.

"Feedback from our guests was a driving force behind the new Vitality program and our focus on wellness," said Alice Norsworthy, senior vice president, Marketing, Royal Caribbean International. "Results from online polls as well as input from all of our international offices worldwide, show very strong support of the new smoking policy. These changes reflect a
more contemporary approach to healthier lifestyles and will significantly improve the cruise vacation experience for our guests."

Currently, smoking is prohibited in guest hallways and corridors, restaurants, entertainment venues and most of the ship's interior public spaces except for designated areas in bars and lounges. The new policy will add all guest staterooms and suites, and one bar or lounge on every Royal Caribbean ship onto the roster of smoke-free spaces. Guests wishing to smoke may still do so from starboard outer decks, in designated areas in bars and lounges, and on stateroom and suite balconies. Ashtrays are available in designated smoking areas or by request through stateroom attendants. Violations of the smoking policy will result in cleaning charges to the guest's onboard account and may also be addressed through the line's Guest Conduct Policy, details of which are available both online and in all staterooms.

Royal Caribbean's Vitality wellness program was designed to encourage and introduce ways for guests to achieve a better balance in their lives. The program presents healthier lifestyle choices across every aspect of the cruise experience, including fitness classes and spa treatments, onboard and land- based activities, shore excursions, and healthful drinks and food
selections. Guests have the choice to try one or two elements or enjoy the total Vitality wellness experience to begin a more balanced approach to healthier living.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 21 ships currently in service and three under construction. The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe and New Zealand through its cruisetour division. For additional information or to make reservations, call your travel agent, visit http://www.royalcaribbean.com or call (800) 327-6700. For travel professionals, go to
http://www.cruisingpower.com or call (800) 327-2056.

SOURCE Royal Caribbean International

Great Vacation Rentals Make Memorable Getaways

2007-07-23T09:42:00.000-04:00

Are you tired of hotels and the usual fare? Are you desperate for some time off without necessarily exhausting yourself with the often demanding schedule of a full fledged excursion? The perhaps vacation rentals would be right up your alley. Vacation rentals are places you can lease where you could spend a quiet weekend with family and friends to relax the body and refresh the soul. These may be in the form of cottages in the great outdoors or a house in beautiful rural areas.

Vacation rentals can become your home away from home. Often, a change of scenery is what we need to recharge ourselves for the rigors of everyday life. A laidback atmosphere provided by the countryside or the forest or any other unconventional environment can be relaxing, and that is what an ideal vacation should be all about.

Vacation rentals have always been a popular option for weekend travelers throughout the years. For starters, there are numerous vacation rentals available in every state, and you don’t have to veer far away from the city to enjoy the amenities and the seclusion they would provide. So anytime work might demand your attention, you could immediately drive back to the workplace to attend to it. With the work taken care of, you could then return to the house or cabin you have rented to continue your weekend getaway.

Another amazing aspect of vacation rentals is the liberty they afford. You can do anything you wish in the house or cabin you will be renting. There are usually no restrictive house rules that are imposed. Do you want to have a barbecue? You could do so, if you please. Do you want to drink the night away with people dear to you? Bring the drinks and you’re all set to go. Do you just want some quiet time to unwind? No tours are waiting for you in the lobby.

With vacation rentals, you will be left to your own devices. This empowering feeling is what many people find so appealing about vacation rentals. Indeed, it’s like being in your own house but with a backdrop of an environment that is free from the hustle and bustle of city life… an environment that is not hostage to the maddening pace of the city… an environment that allows you to savor life at its simplest and best, and helps you think about things that matter the most.

Fun In The Sun: The Perfect Caribbean Vacation

2007-07-22T12:31:00.000-04:00

Ask any Westerner what his ideal getaway is, and chances are he’ll have but one answer: a Caribbean vacation. Few destinations have the exotic appeal and the mystical promise of the Caribbean. The region enjoys great weather year round and is almost a perpetual summer. Beautiful beaches of the whitest sand and the most accommodating climate are perfect for a golden tan and a lazy afternoon listening to the music of the waves claiming the seashore.

Indeed, a Caribbean vacation is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life! It has been glorified in popular culture throughout the years, which is testament to how desirable a destination it really is. Many movies have hailed the Caribbean as the most splendid vacation spot in the world. Books have described the Caribbean as if it were paradise on Earth, which may not necessarily be hyperbole. So many printed articles and photographs have been published detailing the wonders that can be experienced if ever you decide to choose a Caribbean vacation.

A Caribbean vacation has become the holy grail of all getaway fantasies. It has served as inspiration for many people to work harder so that they may visit this wonderful place whenever their schedules permit.

A Caribbean vacation has also become a place for romance. Again, ask any couple about to be married where they would want to spend their honeymoon and chances are they will mention a tropical destination as their first choice. This is because the Caribbean has been associated with romantic evenings by the beach and intimate seclusion away from the demands of the modern world.

There are many islands you could visit during your Caribbean vacation. A visit to the West Indies (as the Caribbean is also called) would be wasted if you just settle in one spot. There are almost 500 wonderful destinations to experience and a total Caribbean vacation, though taxing, would be maximized if you try to visit as many of these spots as you could. This is the reason a Caribbean vacation is often planned as a cruise along and across the Caribbean Sea - to experience destinations like the Cayman Islands, the Virgin Islands, the British West Indies, Grenada, Jamaica and a slew of other popular tourist spots.

With the proximity of the West Indies to the continental United States, a Caribbean vacation is not a remote possibility. Travel to the area won’t be exhausting, and you will be able to spend your time and energy enjoying the exotic and tropical majesty of this wonderful destination.

For more information, see these great Caribbean Vacation Specials.

The Wonderful Benefits of All Inclusive Vacations

2007-07-21T13:12:00.000-04:00

More and more people these days are starting to prefer all inclusive vacations compared to the regular packages and it is not difficult to figure out why. All inclusive vacations offer comprehensive plans that consist of everything, or almost everything at the very least, that you need for a vacation to truly be enjoyable and memorable. For many people a vacation is the highlight of every year. The demands of work or studies greatly limit the amount of time they could reserve for an out-of-town trip; when the opportunity comes for some rest and relaxation every step to ensure its success should be taken.

Packages offering all inclusive vacations guarantee just that.

Indeed, there are many wonderful benefits that can be derived from all inclusive vacations. Let’s take a look at some of them.

All inclusive vacations allow you to prepare your itinerary with ease. Flight tickets, lodging, tours and appropriate reservations are be covered by these packages. All you have to do is to select the most favorable one for your desires.

Some all inclusive vacations come with travel insurance. If you decide to use a vacation package, you won’t have to worry about securing protection for the many aspects of your trip. The processing of the same would be included in the cost of the package.

Most all inclusive vacations aren’t even set in stone. They can be quite flexible. You an request changes to the specifics of the vacation package and the travel agent will happily oblige. You want a different hotel? Simply ask for it and changes will be made if at all possible.

There are packages for almost any desired destination. You will always have many to choose from. All inclusive vacations are not offered for select locations only. Almost every popular tourist destination has many packages allotted to it.

Since all inclusive vacations offer a many services in bundles, you’ll be able to save quite a sum of money. These packages offer services that they procure by buying in bulk. Substantial discounts are often given to the travel agency and such savings are passed on to the consumer.

If you truly want to enjoy a hassle-free vacation from the moment you decide to prepare until you return home from your trip you should seriously consider all inclusive vacations. They can save you a lot of time and resources that you can use for other aspects of your travel.

Searching For Perfect Vacation Homes…

2007-07-21T13:05:00.000-04:00

They say that your vacation is only as good as the accommodations you’ll be able to book. No matter how active your schedule may be, your trip won’t be as enjoyable if the place where you stay is quite uncomfortable. You need your rest so that you may fully savor your vacation escape. Hence, it is important to find, and book, perfect vacation homes that would serve as your dwelling place during your out-of-town adventures.

Searching for great vacation homes isn’t really a difficult task. With some time and proper knowledge of what to look for in vacation homes, you’ll be able to discover some great options. Here are some things that will guide you in finding some fabulous vacations homes that can serve as, well, your home away from home.

Vacation homes should have enough space for all the members of the trip as well as their baggage. Don’t settle for a cramped space. You need to move around rather than develop claustrophobia. Spacious interiors are elements of home design that allow the mind and the body to relax, and vacation homes are supposed to help you do just that.

Vacation homes should also be proximate to the places you want to visit. You can’t settle for vacation homes in the city when planning some excursions to famed countryside locations. The constant back-and-forth travels will prove exhausting, and that would be detrimental to the invigorative purpose of a vacation.

Vacation homes should also be complete with regard to essential amenities. Clean, comfortable beds, hot and cold water for showers, potable drinking water, heater or air conditioning appropriate to the climate… these are the basics which should guide your selection of great vacation homes.

Vacation homes must also have excellent resident support. Is there a caretaker who would attend to whatever needs might pop up? Is there someone whom you could call, and who would be readily available whenever troubles arise with the room or the house you’re renting and the amenities included?

Vacation homes, ideally, should have a medical practitioner nearby. If not, it should at least be proximately located near a hospital or a clinic. This is important to ensure the transient’s wellbeing in the event that immediate medical attention becomes necessary.

If you truly want to make the most out of your vacation, choosing the right accommodations should not be neglected. You should never underestimate the value of great lodging to the total enjoyment of your vacation.

Ideas For Superb Summer Vacations

2007-07-21T13:01:00.000-04:00

During the hottest months of the year, one thought comes to mind for most people: it’s vacation time! The usual thoughts involve some ideas about trips to the beach or some foreign land rich with history and exotic beauty. Though these are excellent choices, they are far too general as options to give us specific ideas of what to expect. For perfect summer vacations, we need suggestions which are more concrete and fleshed out. Hence, here are some ideas for summer vacations that can be remembered and savored forever. Hopefully, you will consider them so that you may enjoy some fantastic escapades during those hot, hot months.

A Caribbean cruise. For many people, a Caribbean cruise ranks high on their list of ideas for summer vacations. It’s one of the most romantic getaways you could ever have, and it’s perfect if you’re bringing someone special along. The West Indies are not to far off from the continental United States. Getting there won’t be a problem. Leaving that wonderful place with its slew of beautiful spots and all, could be another matter altogether. A lot of people claim that their best summer vacations are those times they spent cruising these Southwestern isles.

Thailand. Are you a shopping aficionado and a beach bum as well? Then emerging Thailand is the best for you. Home to the most beautiful beaches in the world, most notably the region of Phuket, Thailand has also become a haven for bargain hunters the world over. You would be surprised how far $10 could take you in the shopping streets of Bangkok! Truly, Thailand should rank high in anyone’s list of getaways for enchanting summer vacations.

A European tour. Always wanted to see the Eiffel Tower, the Mona Lisa, those castles of legends, beautiful hillsides, the Big Ben and a variety of fabled sights? Have you always wanted to immerse yourself in European culture that predates American history? Then you might try a European tour through some famous destinations on this lovely continent. Europe and all its amazingly engrossing territories have always been popular among honeymooners. There’s no reason why it should not hold the same appeal for people looking for perfect summer vacations.

An Alaskan escape. Sure, it’s unconventional. If you hate hot climates, you may want to experience what has been called the Last Frontier. Alaska is not the most popular place for summer vacations, but this doesn’t mean that it shouldn’t be considered. You could try a variety of snow sports, even fishing and hunting, in the beautiful regions of this northern territory.

Florida. If you don’t want to go far for your summer vacations, Florida is the place to be. With the best beaches in the US, Florida is also home to a fabulous nightlife that will surely be remembered.

How To Prepare For Last Minute Vacations

2007-07-21T12:56:00.000-04:00

You’ve been working all year round. The demands of your job deter any possibilities of a vacation. Yet this hasn’t stopped you from wishing for a lengthy break somewhere down the line to enjoy some much needed R&R. Suddenly, the boss decides to cut you some slack and grant you the vacation time you have long asked for. Unfortunately, it will take effect immediately, and you’re in a race against time to prepare for a last minute vacation which would be worth those countless hours you have spent at your desk.

Though you’re hard pressed to come up with last minute vacations that would fully maximize the break you have been given, you remain unperturbed. Last minute vacations are better than no vacations, after all, and you’re willing to take the opportunity you are given for some wonderful leisure time.

How can you prepare for these last minute vacations? How should you go about making plans when you are given so little time? Here are some tips that may help you make the most out of last minute vacations you have the chance to take.

Go with what you have long planned for. If you have been dreaming about a Caribbean getaway, you might as well settle with that. Last minute vacations do not grant you the luxury of time to study and select new places to explore. Stick with the ones you already have in mind so that you can proceed with the other requirements that need your attention.

Arrange your schedule as soon and as quickly as possible. Determine the length of time you can spend for your last minute vacation. Then proceed from there. Your lineup of activities will depend on how much time you have, after all.

Arrange your travel requirements immediately. The best way to do this is by taking advantage of pre-existing packages. Packages already have available reservations that would do away with the waiting time. Some packages for last minute vacations also do not impose a rush fee for the processing. This will allow you to save quite a bit of money. Also, packages are more often than not all-inclusive. This means you’ll be able to save time because you won’t have to deal with certain reservations individually. Packages for last minute vacations already include airfare, hotel accommodations, tour plans, and even vehicle rental service.

Plan to leave work behind. Last minute vacations are still vacations. They are meant to help you unwind and recharge yourself for the grueling months of work that lie ahead. Make the most out of it by leaving your work worries behind so that you may be able to savor your last minute vacations to the fullest!

Where To Find Cheap Vacations? No Problem!

2007-07-21T12:49:00.000-04:00

With the financial demands of the modern world constantly pressing us to work hard all the time and to manage our budgets efficiently, we are quite hard pressed to allot some resources for a little rest and relaxation. Many people are in search of cheap vacations so as to make the most of what they can afford. The question in people’s minds is this: where exactly can we find packages offering cheap vacations?

Alas, finding cheap vacations is not the answer. The power is in our hands, you see. We have direct control over how much a vacation will cost, and all we need is sound financial planning and a dedication to find the best deals available.

The question is not “where to find cheap vacations?” Rather, what you should be asking is this: how could you ensure a cheap vacation for yourself and your family? Here are some tips to help you.

Quality supersedes quantity. You don’t have to purchase a lot of items to guarantee a great time. You will spend your vacation for the experience, and experience can never be facilitated by material things. Keep this in mind when preparing lists of what to bring and planning what to buy.

You don’t need expensive lodging. Remember, you’ll be in a foreign place. You will want to experience the culture and view the beautiful scenery. Most of the time you may be outside. A serviceable room would be enough for your purposes.

Don’t settle for the first restaurant you see. Consult the locals to find the best deal in town, one which would not compromise the taste of the food for the price.

Tips can pile up to quite a substantial sum. Remember that tips are never mandatory. They are optional. You have the liberty not to extend tips for some services. When cheap vacations are what you have in mind, you have to remind yourself that you don’t always have the luxury of providing for tips. You could spend the money on something else after all.

Public transportation is always, always more affordable than a taxi cab or a hired vehicle. Also, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the place if you resort to the common transportation that the locals themselves use.

Cheap vacations are often manufactured. You have the power to make any vacation as budget-friendly as possible. Instead of looking for cheap vacations, try to condition your mind that it’s all in your hands and plan your vacation accordingly.

Top Ten Tips for Traveling with Young Children

2007-07-21T10:12:00.000-04:00

Being flexible in your plans is key to keeping children happy and safe while traveling.

Los Altos, CA (PRWEB) July 19, 2007 -– RealTravel (http://realtravel.com), a travel blogging and travel guide site that helps more than half a million people plan trips with advice from other travelers every month, today announces top 10 tips for traveling with young children, according to RealTravel editors and British bloggers Travelling Family.

1. Travel light.

When packing for yourself plus your young children, you will need two steps: First, pack your gear. Then unpack and re-assess what you really need. “When we left the United Kingdom we had 3 large bags, 1 medium bag, 2 car seats and a stroller,” writes Travelling Family. “When we returned we had 4 large bags, 1 medium bag, 2 car seats, a fishing rod, a child’s activity centre, a sun tent, and a stroller. The bags were also a lot fuller than when we started!” Also, keep in mind that small children grow quickly: “If your kids are growing rapidly (as our infant was), pack for the next sizes up, and be prepared to throw away clothes they have grown out of.”

2. Slap on the sun protection, then slap on some more.

Sun protection is essential, especially when you hit a new country and you have no idea initially about how strong the sun is in that region. Travelling Family offers their advice: “We tried aerosols, sprays, creams, and sticks. I would say the creams are the best, as they give the best coverage, and can be packed in the suitcase easily. The sun sticks were okay, but the kids didn’t really like using them, and were hard to apply. Try to get factor 50 if you can, and a kids version.”

3. Find the parks.

“We could be in the most beautiful spot in the world, but we had to forgo the scenic photographs temporarily to go find a park,” shares Travelling Family. “We found if we did this our kids would be so much happier the rest of the day. By the end of our time in New Zealand I was quite a connoisseur on the different types of parks. If you aren’t anywhere there are parks, as we were in Fiji, then make up some new games. We managed to get hold of a bucket and spade and play on the beach in Fiji, and some of the staff enjoyed partaking in a game of football with Matthew.”

4. Don’t plan too much.

Kids are unpredictable. Therefore, planning a meticulous itinerary may not be the best approach. Travelling Family explains: “I knew which country we would be in each day, and where we were sleeping. I planned all this long before we set off on holiday. But I didn’t know what we would be doing in each country. For instance, we planned originally to go to Te Anau and then visit both Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, but we realized that Doubtful Sound was a step too far. Sometimes we woke up and it was raining. That put paid to any plans for the day, and we usually tried to drive instead.”

5. It’s not all about the kids - enjoy yourself.

Why should your life suddenly stop when you have children? Of course it’s going to be different, but you can still have a great vacation. Try to do at least one of each family member’s favorite activities along the way. “We compromised, writes Travelling Family. “I really didn’t want to go and play on the beach every day in Akaroa, but I had to because Matthew enjoyed it. But he didn’t want to watch a speedway in Tauranga, but he did as I wanted to see it. He didn’t care for sitting in a tin can plane whilst we saw Mount Cook, but he sat there and didn’t moan (actually I think he did quite enjoy it!).”

6. Have a positive attitude to plane flying.

Travelling Family shares their advice on air travel: “I have met a lot of people both before and since our journey who have said things like ‘New Zealand is too far for me (an adult) to travel to,’ or ‘were the kids an absolute nightmare on the plane?’ Well, actually, they were great. And I think a lot of the reason why was because I was confident they would be. The trick to traveling with a toddler is to not let them know they can get out of the seat (on their own). We also brought a bassinette and purchased a seat for our newborn, even though he was obviously too small to use it. This ensured we didn’t get people sitting next to us.”

7. Travel when the kids are tired, stop when they are not.

Travelling Family found it was best to balance driving with fun activities. “We found that if we drove too much the kids got fed up. This is natural and to be expected. As a result we tried to only drive if they were tired, or if we had given them a few days of running around a lot. We did meet people that were attempting to pack more into two weeks of a trip to New Zealand than we were doing in one month. And with toddlers in tow, too. You could see it was stressful for both the parents and the children.”

8. Establish a routine.

Every family is different, so find your own unique routine that works for you. It will give your children some structure when the environment around them is changing. “It was strange how we had to re-establish a new routine at each place we visited. We were affected by things like the time the sun went down, the availability of food, the activities we were trying to do. But a routine is essential, and not just for the kids.”

9. Do an activity every day.

Plan activities to do each day using travel guides for your destinations. For example, look up fun things to do in your Australia travel guide if that’s where you’re headed. Writes Travelling Family, “You have to get out. So in the morning have a routine whereby you get up, get dressed, get breakfast, then go do something. Now this activity might not be anything big, it could just be walking 200 yards away to the park, or visiting the local supermarket. But get out and do something. The kids will be easier to cope with, and you won’t get cabin fever.”

10. Chill and relax.

The most important tip when traveling with young children is to relax and have fun! “You have to learn to count to 10, to chill out, to expect the unexpected, and just well relax and enjoy yourself,” advises Travelling Family. “The kids will be kids. They will trash the hotel room, throw apple puree all over the floor of the motorhome, mess their nappies when you are 10,000 feet up, and various other things besides. If you stress, the children will stress. If you laugh they will laugh. Enjoy your children, they will be grown up in the blink of an eye. Enjoy your holiday and make the most of those special days. It’s surprising, you will remember that holiday for the rest of your life, yet it is just a brief period in your day-to-day life. Listen to you children, laugh with them, play with them, and make the most of them. Don’t stress over the small stuff. Enjoy.”

RealTravelers Travelling Family are an adventurous couple with two young children from London who spent five months traveling around the Oceania and the United States.

About RealTravel:
Named \"Best of the Web\" by Forbes and BusinessWeek in 2006 and Best Online Travel Community of the Year in 2007 by the Association of Travel Marketing Executives, RealTravel is a travel blogging and travel guide site that helps more than half a million people plan trips with advice from other travelers every month. Visit us at http://realtravel.com

Media Contacts:
Christina Brzica
RealTravel.com
650-694-4970

Lake Tahoe is Ready for Visitors after the Angora Wildfire

2007-07-21T10:07:00.000-04:00

Travel to South Lake Tahoe is ramping up after the Angora wildfire slowed bookings. The fire is out and the weather is perfect for summer and fall activities. Michael Newberger, Director of Sales and Marketing at Lakeland Village Beach and Mountain Resort says, "It has been clear and the typical Tahoe beautiful summer-blue skies and gorgeous. No visitor to Lakeland or South Lake Tahoe can even tell there has been a fire."

Lake Tahoe, California (PRWEB) July 21, 2007 -- Travel to South Lake Tahoe is ramping up after the Angora wildfire slowed bookings. The fire is out and the weather is perfect for summer and fall activities. Michael Newberger, Director of Sales and Marketing at Lakeland Village Beach and Mountain Resort says, "It has been clear and the typical Tahoe beautiful summer-blue skies and gorgeous. No visitor to Lakeland or South Lake Tahoe can even tell there has been a fire!" A recreational paradise, summers in Lake Tahoe offer world-class mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, para-sailing, and golf for a wonderful mountain vacation.

Summer Festivals and Events

Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival at Sand Harbor - July 12 - August 19, 2007
In its 35th year, the Shakespeare Festival in Lake Tahoe will feature a comedic performance of The Taming of the Shrew paired with the tragic Romeo & Juliet in 2007.

Lake Tahoe Music Festival - July 14 - August 4, 2007
Summer 2007 marks the 25th anniversary of this classical music festival at Lake Tahoe. This year will be a "season of classics," including Classic Beethoven, Classic Jazz, Classic Broadway, Classic Rock, Classic Bluegrass, Classic Jazz and more.

Fall Foliage in Lake Tahoe

Every September through October, Lake Tahoe is the ideal location to view the dazzling red, gold and orange aspens against evergreen forests and endless activities to enjoy the dazzling hues of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Changing colors can be seen by driving along Lake Tahoe's shoreline with brilliant colors on one side and Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America, on the other.

All of the exciting attractions in Lake Tahoe are open, the casinos, the beaches, the gondola at Heavenly, the golf courses, the hiking trails, and of course the resorts that Tahoe is famous for.

Brandywine Valley Attractions Invite Visitors for a Fabulous Fall and a Wonderful Winter

2007-07-21T09:50:00.000-04:00

Wilmington, DE: The Brandywine Valley, where Pennsylvania and Delaware meet just thirty miles southwest of Philadelphia, has a full slate of exhibits and special events to delight visitors from the beginning of fall through the new year. Detailed information and images are available through the contacts and websites below.

The Brandywine River Museum in Chadds Ford presents “Flights Into Fantasy: The Kendra and Allan Daniel Collection of Children’s Illustration” (September 8-November 18). Artists represented include Edward Kemble, Beatrix Potter, Howard Pyle, and Jessie Willcox Smith, among many others. The museum welcomes visitors to “A Brandywine Christmas” (November 23-January 6) with a room-size O-gauge model railroad layout, an elaborate Victorian dollhouse, and thousands of whimsical "critter" ornaments fashioned from natural materials. Also opening November 23 is “Jerry Pinkney: Aesop’s Fables” (through March 9; closed January 7-18), featuring the illustrator’s delightful portrayals of animals. After January 18, additional illustrations from other well-known children’s stories will be included in the exhibit.

They’re ba-a-a-ck! The Delaware Art Museum welcomes home America’s largest collection of Pre-Raphaelite art after an international tour (opens September 23). The Pre-Raphaelites rejected the conventions of their time and focused on the past, particularly the Middle Ages, drawing inspiration from literature, Arthurian legend, Shakespeare, and the Bible. The collection highlights the late work of Dante Gabriel Rossetti as well as the decorative arts of the Arts and Crafts Movement. John Sloan’s images of New York City are on display in “Seeing the City: Sloan’s New York” (October 20-January 20). Paintings, drawings, prints, and photographs focus on people, street life, elevated trains, public spaces, and the pedestrian experience. The museum’s annual exhibit “Precious Spaces: Masterpieces in Miniature” (November 17-January 13) showcases artists’ interpretations of a full-scale work.

The Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts presents Ben Whitehouse’s latest endeavor, “Revolution” (August 17-January 6). Curator J. Susan Isaacs says, “Whitehouse not only creates large-scale individual paintings as well as large installations comprised of smaller paintings, but he has also now entered the world of time-based video...” The Whitehouse exhibit consists of a series of 24-hour, single shot, high-definition digital works that record from a fixed point for 24 hours. Jillian Molettiere’s metal wall sculptures come to the DCCA beginning December 2. Molettiere’s artistic vision incorporates iconographic figures into ultramodern environments. The sculptures of Siyoung Lee will be on display later in the season (opens December 18).

The Delaware Museum of Natural History explores “Microbes: Invisible Invaders...Amazing Allies” (September 28-January 6) with special effects and hands-on displays. The museum celebrates the tenth birthday of its dinosaur skeletons (October 14, 21, 28) with special treats and activities. On Saturday, October 27, visitors can get in a Halloween mood with a visit to “Bats and Other Creatures of the Night.” The post-holiday festival “Dino Days” roars into the museum (December 27-28) with fossil dig, live animals, and more.

Hagley Museum and Library welcomes the “Hagley Car Show” (September 16), focusing on cars of the 1950s in celebration of Hagley’s fiftieth anniversary. Music, food, parades, and a collection of operating jukeboxes accompany the stunning display of 600 cars. On September 29, be a guest at Hagley’s “Golden Pheasants Harvest Party,” with hayrides, bluegrass music, and pumpkin carving. “Hagley’s Craft Fair” (October 20-21) features the wood, pottery, jewelry, fiber art, and metal work of talented artisans. “Christmas at Hagley” (November 23-January 1) welcomes visitors to Eleutherian Mills, the 1803 Georgian-style estate E. I. du Pont built for his family, decked out in seasonal splendor. A retrospective exhibition, “Hagley at Fifty: Exploding with History" remains through December 31. Hagley also runs a fall lecture series; contact the site for details.

The Historical Society of Delaware brings the past to life at its Wilmington and New Castle locations. The 22-room Read House, built in 1801 in New Castle by the son of one of Delaware's signers of the Declaration of Independence, exhibits the height of Federal grandeur.

A highlight of this year’s “Everything Autumn” (September 8-November 18) at Longwood Gardens is the debut of the new Indoor Children’s Garden (opens October 27). Triple the size of its previous incarnation, this horticultural wonderland is resplendent with spectacular water features and sculptures. Young visitors will meet the Drooling Dragon, Spitting Fish, and more. Outdoors, a G-scale model railway travels past miniature Longwood landmarks. Unusual gourds and squashes, as well as creatively carved pumpkins weighing up to a quarter-ton, grace the grounds. Tractors, autumnal treats, and a Pumpkin Playground create a real feel of fall.

Later in the season, more than 20,000 blooming flowers flourish in Longwood’s palatial conservatory during the “Chrysanthemum Festival” (October 27-November 18). Cascades, single-stemmed mums and elaborate “thousand blooms” serve as a perfect backdrop for a full slate of performing arts events.

“Christmas at Longwood” (November 23- January 6) lights up chilly evenings with 500,000 outdoor lights, exquisitely strung in colorful displays that awe visitors. Elegantly decorated trees, holiday music, colored fountain displays, and ice skating exhibitions under the stars make yuletide at Longwood unique and memorable. Indoors, poinsettias, decorated trees, and yuletide surprises appear throughout the Conservatory.

Nemours Mansion and Gardens is closed as it undergoes renovations prior to a 2008 reopening.

Rockwood Park and Mansion hosts a “Holiday Open House” (December 7-9). This Rural Gothic Mansion dresses up in holiday finery that befits its history and status.

Woof! Meow! Chirp! Winterthur Museum and Country Estate presents “Pets in America: the Story of our Lives with Animals at Home” (November 10-January 20). Enjoy this family-friendly look at the history of Americans' relationships with pets from the 1700s to the present.

“Yuletide at Winterthur” (November 23-January 6) brings to life the splendor of childhood holiday experiences combined with the fantasy of Winterthur's spectacular period rooms glistening with decorations spanning the centuries. Take a guided stroll through H. F. du Pont's mansion and delight in holiday atmosphere and festive decorations of yore, including 18 fabulous rooms that interpret holiday celebrations from the 1700s through today.

The Discover Brandywine Valley Public Relations Association (DBVPRA) provides a central resource for journalists. Visit the website www.brandywinetreasures.org or contact Susan M. Maynard, 302-651-6912, smaynard@nemours.org for more information.

Discover Brandywine Valley Public Relations Association Members (www.brandywinetreasures.org):

Brandywine River Museum U.S. Route 1, Chadds Ford, PA 19317; www.brandywinemuseum.org. Lora Englehart, 610-388-8337, lenglehart@brandywine.org.

Delaware Art Museum 2301 Kentmere Parkway, Wilmington, DE 19806; www.delart.org. Dennis Lawson, 302-571-9590, x. 515, dlawson@delart.org.

Historic Bedford Springs Resort Re-Opens

2007-07-13T17:26:00.000-04:00

The circa 1796 Bedford Springs Resort re-opened today following the completion of a $120-million restoration and expansion. A celebration honoring the property’s historic past and anticipating its promising future showcased the historic “springs” resort. The restoration unveiled refined public spaces, reclaimed exteriors, enlarged and updated guestrooms, state-of-the-art meeting facilities, casual and fine dining in six restaurants, and the new Springs Eternal Spa.

In its glory days Bedford Springs, which had been closed for 21 years, played host to U.S. presidents, heads of state and countless celebrities, and was where the first TransAtlantic cable was received by President James Buchanan from Great Britain’s Queen Victoria in 1858. The resort also served as Buchanan’s summer White House.

More than 100 employees and numerous guests assembled along the hotel’s flowering circular drive for a formal flag-raising ceremony and musical fanfares. Harkening back to the resort’s original splendor, special return guests arrived at the porte cochere in horse drawn carriages to the strains of the Bedford Springs March, composed by Adam Geibel in 1878. The guests were welcomed and then escorted into the hotel to sign the VIP guest register and tour the property.

“We’re thrilled to welcome our new employees and very special guests to assist us in officially re-opening the doors to Bedford Springs Resort,” said Keith Evans, Managing Partner, Bedford Resort Partners Ltd. “This historic property has been restored with authenticity and filled with exceptional memorabilia, but offers the modern conveniences of a luxury resort. We applaud those who helped make this day a reality and invite everyone to visit this magnificent property.”

Slumbering for 21 years, Bedford Springs Resort awoke today restored and revitalized and again offers the world its healing springs and classic golf course. The 216-room destination resort now claims 134 queen guest rooms and 81 double/double rooms, plus two hospitality suites. All rooms have been elegantly restored to reflect the rich and diverse history of the property. Many feature sun and breeze-filled porches with rocking chairs and striking views of the Resort’s beautiful grounds. Rates range from $249 to $299 per night, based on views, day of week and seasonality. Spa suites start at $309.

Guests will find memorable cuisine and high-tech meeting facilities, a gold medal trout stream, mountain nature trails and Cannondale Bikes to traverse them, an outdoor wedding grotto, restored indoor and new outdoor swimming pools, plus winter sports.

Treatments at the Springs Eternal Spa are focused on water and hydrotherapies. Programs are designed to meet the needs of guests to distress, provide balance for the body, mind and spirit, esthetic services and to enhance health.

Six distinct dining opportunities offer traditional American cuisine with mid-Atlantic roots artfully prepared from fresh, seasonal ingredients grown by local and regional purveyors.

Set on 2,200 acres in the Southern Allegheny Mountains of south, central Pennsylvania, Bedford Springs Resort invites guests to experience the renewed ambiance of one of America’s finest Springs Hotels.

Close to the intersection of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and Interstate 70, the resort is a convenient two-hour drive from Baltimore and Washington, DC, 90 minutes from Pittsburgh, three hours from Philadelphia and four hours from New York City. Bedford Springs Resort is just 129 miles from Pittsburgh International Airport and 113 miles from Harrisburg International Airport. Bedford County Airport offers a 5,000-foot runway and can accommodate a wide array of private aircraft.

For information or reservations access the web site at www.bedfordspringsresort.com or call (866) 623-8168.

Bedford Resort Partners, Ltd. is the owner and developer of the Bedford Springs Resort project. The partners include The Ferchill Group of Cleveland, Ohio, a real estate development company that specializes in historic rehabilitation projects, Chevron TCI, Inc., a leading investor in tax credit rehabilitation projects in the United States and The Bedford Springs Company, LLC.

Benchmark Hospitality International, an independent hospitality management company based in The Woodlands (Houston), Texas, operates resorts, conference centers, hotels and condominium resorts both domestically and internationally. For locations of Benchmark Hospitality properties and for additional information, visit Benchmark's Website at www.benchmarkhospitality.com.

Media Contact:
Karen Moraghan
Hunter Public Relations – East
908/876-5100
908/963-6013 (cell)
kmoraghan @ hunter-pr.com

(Photo credit: Digital Photography Works, Ken Sepeda)

Airline Travelers Call for Segregated Family Section and Frequent Fliers Say They Can Find Flights

2007-07-01T16:49:00.000-04:00

Maritz(R) Poll Reveals Customer Experience Wins and Losses for Airlines and Airports

ST. LOUIS, June 27 /PRNewswire/ -- As the summer travel season heats up, a new study conducted by Maritz Research -- a world leader in market research -- reveals where airlines could improve their customer experience.

"Competing on price is no longer an option for airlines," said Rick Garlick, director of consulting and strategic implementation at Maritz Research. "Instead, airlines and airports must consider enticing and satisfying customers in other ways, such as potentially creating a family seating section, pumping-up frequent flier programs or serving healthy or gourmet cuisine -- all aspects of a customer's experience. The key is determining what customers really want."

Customer feedback will vary from airline to airline; however, findingsof the Maritz(R) Poll, which surveyed those who have flown in the last six months, include:

Fliers Vote For a Segregated Family Section -- Nearly three-fourths (73 percent) believe that there should be a family section on airplanes.

Frequent Fliers Find Flights Frequently but Aren't Pleased with Restrictions -- Contrary to popular belief, the survey found that of those who attempted to redeem airline miles for flights, eight out of 10 (80 percent), were able to get a seat on a flight that fit their desired travel plans. However, frequent flier programs are still a sore spot for the majority of respondents with 67 percent of those who were able to get a seat saying that their opinion of airlines is negatively affected by the tightening of policies regarding miles expiring.

The Majority is Against Cells in Flight -- Although some people can't seem to live without their Blackberries and cell phones, popular opinion is that fellow fliers should continue to disconnect during flight. More than half (56 percent) of poll respondents indicated that allowing cell phone use during flights is a bad thing. Twenty-seven percent said it was a good thing, while 16 percent did not have an opinion.

More In-flight Legroom or Food, Anyone? -- When asked which two services or options they'd be willing to pay extra for, respondents overwhelming chose extra leg room (63 percent) and food (42 percent)

Other Food Findings -- One-third (34 percent) of first-class travelers say that they would be more inclined to fly with an airline that offered gourmet food with a well-known chef in the first-class section. In addition, when asked about healthy dining options in airports, 57 percent said airports didn't offer enough options for travelers. Also, if healthy and fast-food options were offered in the airport, nearly seven in 10 (69 percent) said they'd choose to eat healthy.

"Airlines and airports are part of the hospitality industry," said Garlick. "Other areas of the hospitality industry, such as hotels and amusement parks, take the customer experience seriously. They create a welcoming atmosphere, train their employees to deliver impeccable customer service and adapt to meet the wants of their customers. Airlines and airports should follow suit."

Orlando Disney Vacation at Huge Discount

2007-07-01T16:05:00.000-04:00

Get an Orlando/Disney vacation at up to 65% off!

Click here to find out how!

* 5 days and 4 nights at the Hilton Garden Inn (r)!
* Park Passes Included
* Guaranteed Dates
* Good for 2 adults and kids stay FREE

Only $249! Go NOW!!!

When it comes to vacations, kids like ACTION!

2007-07-01T15:30:00.000-04:00

ORLANDO, Fla., June 29 /PRNewswire/ -- A new survey conducted by Harris Interactive reveals that 84 percent of teens favor real-life action on vacation to playing video games at their hotel (16 percent). Adventurous activities high on the list include swimming with dolphins, such as here at Discovery Cove in Orlando. In addition to swimming with dolphins, Discovery Cove also offers teens the opportunity to snorkel with tropical fish and rays, hand-feed exotic birds and relax on pristine beaches. (PRNewsFoto/Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks)

Parents, brace yourselves. Kids' expectations for family vacations just got higher -- and a lot more active. A new survey conducted by Harris Interactive(R) and commissioned by Discovery Cove, an Orlando-based theme park where guests can interact with a variety of marine animals, reveals the following highlights:

About 4 in 5 Teens(1) (78%) desire a unique, once-in-a-lifetime vacation event or activity that will provide them with bragging rights,and about 3 in 4 parents(2) (72%) want the same for their children.

More than half of teens say their parents join in on their adventurous activities, while only 14% say their parents want to be left alone.

About 4 in 5 parents (80%) allow their children to influence their vacation planning.

Teens favor real-life action on vacation, such as participating in adventurous activities (84%) to playing video games at their hotel (16%).

A "Fin-tastic" Way to a Teen's Heart

More than half of teens (60%) want to tell their friends that they swam with dolphins on their vacation. Other aspects that make up a teen's dream vacation include: exploring a new place (68%), seeing a celebrity (49%), meeting a new friend (42%) and spending time with family (36%).
"
Today's kids have such active lifestyles, it seems only natural that they want to take their vacation plans to the next level," says Stewart Clark, vice president of Discovery Cove. "Discovery Cove has been aware of this trend and has responded by offering guests both a relaxing and adventurous vacation experience."

Parent and Teen Perspectives -- The Family Dream Vacation
Real World vs. Virtual World

Based on the recent sales and widespread growth of video games, one might assume teens would rather play in the virtual world than the realworld. However, an overwhelming 84% of teens opt to leave their joysticks at home and participate in adventurous activities while on vacation. Only 16% of teens would rather play video games in their hotel.

According to study findings, girls are more likely than boys to have an adventurous streak on vacation (90% girls vs. 77% boys), while boys are more likely than girls to prefer playing video games in a hotel (23% boys vs. 10% girls). But even boys grow out of their games eventually. Older teen boys (ages 16-17) are more likely than their younger counterparts to prefer adventurous activities over video games (89% of boys ages 16-17 vs. 74% of boys ages 8-15).

Guess What I Did This Summer?

When asked what makes a dream vacation for them, teens say they would most like to brag to their friends about a once-in-a-lifetime activity, such as swimming with dolphins (78%). An overwhelming number (72%) of parents agreed that their children would want unique activities for the ability to brag. Parents and their children see eye-to-eye that other must-have teen dream vacation characteristics are: staying up late (35% and 63%, respectively), relaxing (42% and 54%), the freedom to be on their own (42% and 54%), spending time with family (51% and 50%), sleeping in (29%and 49%) and not arguing (9% and 17%).

Parents are Just Big Kids ... So They Say

"If you can't beat 'em, join 'em." Many parents seem to be doing just that when it comes to family vacations. Overall, parents crave participation in their kids' activities rather than lounging in solitude. An overwhelming number of parents (70%) say that, on vacation, they want to
engage in the same activities as their children (e.g.: swimming with dolphins or playing in the pool). Only 4% say they want to be left alone to relax. Others divulged that when they participate in their kids' activities, they let their guard down and were more laid back (64%), were easier to talk to (24%), and were less likely to anger quickly (19%).

Teens agree that their parents' attitudes change dramatically while on vacation. More than half of teens say their parents join in on their adventurous activities, while only 14% say their parents want to be left alone. Generally, teens agree that their parents are more laid back (53%), less likely to anger easily (33%), and easier to talk to (26%).

Teens Have the Power

When it comes to who has the most control over where the family will be vacationing, parents seem to be giving their children more and more choice, with 80% saying that their kids have some or a lot of influence. Teens echo the statement, saying they (65%) and their siblings (44%) have influence in their family's vacation destination. Both parents (96%) and teens (74%) still understandably say that parents have the most overall influence.

About Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive adventure park in the heart of Orlando offering its guests extraordinary experiences through up-closeencounters with dolphins and other marine life. Whether it's a 30-minute Dolphin-swim session, snorkeling with thousands of tropical fish in the
Coral Reef, wading with the rays in the Ray Lagoon, hand-feeding exotic birds in a free- flight Aviary or relaxing on pristine beaches, the activities are matchless and geared specifically towards youth and families.

The Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks include Discovery Cove in Orlando;
SeaWorld parks in Orlando, San Diego and San Antonio; Busch Gardens in
Tampa Bay and Williamsburg, Va.; Adventure Island in Tampa Bay; Water
Country in Williamsburg; and Sesame Place near Philadelphia. For more
information about Discovery Cove, visit http://www.DiscoveryCove.com or
call 1-877-4-ADVENTURE.

Planning a road trip with the kids? Read this!

2007-07-01T14:25:00.000-04:00

Italian Alps

2007-01-14T17:20:00.000-04:00

The Alps: The highest and the most fascinating mountains in Europe, the Alps separate Italy from France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia. Almost all of the sunny southern slopes are in Italian territory. The highest peaks include Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa, the Cervino and the Gran Paradiso. These giants are all found in the Valle d'Aosta, which is not only unique, but perhaps the most beautiful in the whole Alpine range. It is a magic realm for the tourist with mountain climbing, holiday and winter sports centres. Among the most famous of which are Cervinia and Courmayeur. The Valle d'Aosta is rich in magnificent natural scenery, monuments and castles.

The Dolomites: To the east between the valleys of the Adige and Piave rivers lie the Dolomites - the most fantastic and spectacular mountains of the entire alpine range. A happy combination of factors has made the whole region - Trentino, Alto Adige, an immense park of natural beauty. And although it's the northernmost zone of Italy, it is one of the most favoured for its constant good weather and the frequency of its warm and sunny days. As a consequence, the fame of the Dolomites is worldwide. Around such centres of international renown such as Merano, Madonna di Campiglio, Canazei, Ortisei and Cortina d'Ampezzo have sprung up a host of smaller summer holiday and winter sports centres, health resorts and spas. These resorts can be found in the valleys, on the gentle uplands and beside the famous Alpine Lakes. Thanks to up-to-date transport facilities, cable cars and chair lifts, tourists can reach the highest and most celebrated viewpoints with ease.

The Apennines: "The backbone of Italy" runs the full length of the peninsula, from the hills of Cadibona (near Savona) down into Calabria. The Apennines reach their highest point in the Gran Sasso (9,558 feet) which, along with the Maiella (9,151 feet), forms a magnificent winter sports area. Variously named from north to south - the Apennines in Emilia and Tuscany, the Apuan Alps north of Lucca, the Lattari Mountains between the Gulf of Naples and Salerno, the Matese Mountains also in Campania, the Sila in Calabria and Aspromonte, the southern tip of the Apennines. The mountains of Sicily and Sardinia repeat the natural beauties of the Alps and the Apennines, Etna, an active volcano on Sicily's eastern coast and snow-capped most of the year, epitomises the incomparable contrast of nature, which is the miracle of Italy.

VENICE

2007-01-14T17:16:00.000-04:00

Venice is a legendary city. 120 small islands connected by 450 bridges and home to 65,000. Her story begins as that of a hiding place and a refuge from barbarian invasions. Repeated attacks drove to the first buildings and settlements producing a republic that would unite to form one of the most important republics lasting for over a thousand years and creating a trading empire that would dominate the Mediterranean coast for more than 400 years.

Water is a major feature of this romantic city. Water that in winter will often cover the beautiful San Marco Square, on which the gondolas glide along all year round and which surrounds every magnificent building in the city.

Venice is a city of a multitude of moods and faces: lively and affectionate to the inhabitants that fill her streets with their chatter; Discover the narrow alleyways and secret corners of this historic city, such as the quiet district around Sacca della Misericordia or the unhurried Campo di Gheto Novo; join the locals at the colourful fish market near the Rialto bridge; enjoy a glass of wine or a cappuccino in one of the many backstreet cafès; admire the Gothic architecture of the palazzi along the Grand Canal or the splendid Renaissance paintings rity as a tourist destination, Venice cannot be likened either to an amusement park or to a museum; it is a living city, whose fragile beauty and romantic history succeeds in transporting the visitor back in time.

TRAVELLER's TIPS

Bring binoculars as some of Venice's best sights are on ceilings or at the top of columns. Don't wear sleeveless tops, or short skirts, as you won't be able to enter the city's many churches.

HOW TO GET THERE

The "Marco Polo" airport is 12 km from Venice by land and 10 km by sea. You can get to Venice by coach, taxi or by boat.
From Treviso airport there is a half hour train journey that leaves every half an hour. Other ways include taxi or hire car.

VENICE TOURIST BOARD
Castello 5050 - 30122 Venezia Tel: 041 5298711 www.turismovenezia.it

NOT TO BE MISSED

Piazza San Marco - with the Basilica, Clocktower and the Doge's Palace
La Fenice Opera House
Gallerie dell'Accademia
I Frari
Scuola Grande di San Rocco
Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni
A vaporetto tour up and down the Canal Grande - Ponte di Rialto e Ponte dei Sospiri.

Whilst in Venice we also advise you to visit, the Murano island - capital of the world's blown glass art; the Burano island - famous for lace production, visit the museum "Museo del Merletto"; Torcello whose historical centre hosts the basilica of Santa Maria Assunta.

ENTERTAINMENT

Music and theatre have always formed an intrinsic part of the spirit of Venice. As well as the three major theatres, concerts and plays are also held in numerous churches such as the Pietà, the Frari, S. Stefano, all ideal concert halls. See the Gazzettino for all information on concerts and shows in the city.

- Gran Teatro La Fenice - 041 78 65 11
- Teatro Malibran - 041 78 65 11
- Teatro Goldoni - 041 24 020 011
- Teatro a l'Avogaria - 041 520 61 30

WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK

Lunch or dinner in one of the trattorias is one of the pleasures of Venetian life. High up the list of things to try are the fish and seafood ( in particular the squid, cuttlefish, eels and mussels), as well as fegato alla veneziana ( calf's liver fried with onions).
There are some excellent local wines to accompany these dishes including Valpolicella, Bardolino and Amarone ( red ) along with Soave and Prosecco (white)

FESTIVALS

Carnevale di Venezia (Venice Carnival): for further information browse www.carnevale.venezia.it

Italy - Seaside Resorts

2007-01-14T17:15:00.001-04:00

Italy is a peninsular in the Mediterranean Sea, with a coastline of more than 5,310 miles. Rocky, wooded cliffs are indented by an infinite variety of beaches and bays. Along the full length of Liguria extend the two Italian Rivieras with Genoa (Genova) in the middle. To the west, almost an extension of the French Côte d' Azur, is the Ponente including such famous seaside resorts as San Remo, Alassio and Varazze. The eastern (Levante) Riviera boasts Nervi, Portofino, Santa Margherita, Rapallo and Sestri Levante.

Other beaches popular with foreign visitors are Forte dei Marmi, Viareggio, Castiglioncello, Porto Santo Stefano, Porto Ercole and the Island of Elba in Tuscany; Ostia - Lido of Rome (Roma), Fregene, Anzio, Nettuno in Lazio; Capri, Sorrento and the Island of Ischia, Positano, Amalfi and Maiori on the Gulf of Naples (Napoli) and Salerno; Sardinia; and from North to South along the Adriatic Coast: Grado, the Lido of Venice (Venezia), the Lido of Jesolo, Lignano Sabbiadoro and then the enchanting string of towns along the Coast of Romagna, among which Milano Maritima, Cervia, Rimini, Riccione and Cattolica stand out. On the coast of Apulia, one finds the Lido of Siponto on the Gulf of Manfredonia, the Gargano peninsula and the Tremiti Islands.

Address details

ITALIAN STATE TOURIST BOARD - 1, Princes Street - London W1B 2AY - Tel. 020 7408 1254 - Fax. 020 7399 3

Centre Pompidou - Current & Upcoming Exhibitions in 2007

2007-01-14T17:04:00.000-04:00

The Centre National d'Art et Culture Georges Pompidou was the brainchild of President Georges Pompidou who wanted to create an original cultural institution in the heart of Paris completely focused on modern and contemporary creation, where the visual arts would rub shoulders with theatre, music, cinema, literature and the spoken word. Housed in the center of Paris in a building designed by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, whose architecture symbolizes the spirit of the 20th century, the Centre Pompidou first opened its doors to the public in 1977. After a period of renovation from 1997 to December 1999, it opened to the public again on January 1, 2000, with expanded museum space and enhanced reception areas. Since then it has once again become one of the most visited attractions in France. Some 6 million people pass through the Centre Pompidou's doors each year, a total of over 150 million visitors in its 25 years or so of existence.

Centre Pompidou always hosts exciting and innovative exhibitions. Here are some of the events currently being exhibited as well as some that are scheduled for the months to come.

Major Photography Show: A Donation by the Caisse des Dépôts, September 27-January 1 - The Centre Pompidou is very proud to present for the first time the collection of contemporary photography assembled by the French state bank, the Caisse des Depôts. Acquired by the Bank over a twenty-year period, the greatest part of this important photographic collection has been donated to the Centre Pompidou. Begun in the late 1980s, the collection consists of more than 750 photographs, the work of more than 200 photographers from France and elsewhere. The exhibition will present almost all of them, organized by the themes that have guided the formation of the collection images of the government (Gronon, Gursky, Mason, Muntadas, among others); representations of France in its social and political aspects (Garnell Owens, Parr, Vitali); and the problematic relationship between fiction and illusion (Crewdson, Demand, Fischli and Weiss, de Gobert, Muniz and others). But beyond the intrinsic interest of these themes, the exhibition will also afford an opportunity to reconsider the very idea of the corporate collection, to examine the relationship between art and the economy, and to revisit the activities of the Caisse des Depôts as a patron of art.

Yves Klein, October 4-January 8 - Often considered simply a part of the French New Realism of the1960s and often symbolized by the IKB blue, the color of paint he created, the work of Yves Klein has yet to be fully discovered. This exhibition aims to reveal in all its scope the activity of an artist who declared that "My paintings are no more than the ashes of my art." Through photographs and films the exhibition will stress the importance of the idea of immateriality in Yves Klein's work, such as with his invisible works and his unrealized projects, which, in retrospect, acquire a central importance. (Yves Klein exhibitions will also be held at the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Carcassonne, through September 24 and at La Coupole in Paris through January 27).

Robert Rauschenberg: Combines, October 11-Janaury 15 - The Centre Pompidou pays homage to Robert Rauschenberg, one of the great American artists of the post-war period, with an exhibition of what he calls "combines", collages or assemblages of diverse materials that reflect the artist's ambition to close the gap between art and life. Rauschenberg's practice of juxtaposing different media, ranging from photography to performance and confounding the distinction between painting and sculpture, contributed to a revolution in American art. Since the 1950s and his rejection of the then-dominant Abstract Expressionism, he has created one of the most complex and innovative bodies of work of the 20^th century. His unique approach, animated by the spirit of the Cubist collage and Dada humor, is revealed in fifty major works from the collections of such institutions as Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles.

Traces du Sacré, October 24 - In the latest of a series of landmark exhibitions that have been concerned with burning contemporary issues as with the history of the 20^th-century art, Centre Pompidou now addresses itself to the question of the sacred, a constant theme for artists past and present. From Gauguin to Bill Viola, artists have endeavored, in Heidegger's words, "to bring to mortal men the traces of the gods hidden in the opacity of the world."

Vija Celmins, October 25-January 29 - With this first retrospective exhibition of her drawings, Centre Pompidou will introduce visitors to the distinctive world of American artist Vija Celmins, born in Riga, Latvia, in 1938. Celmins is an unusual artist, the creator of an obsessively rigorous and thoroughly consistent body of work. The exhibition consists of some 60 drawings done since 1967, illustrating the whole course of the artist's development: from the earliest photorealist pieces, through the drawings of the sea's surface, the desert, the planets and the night sky, to her recent spider-webs. For the exhibition, works are being lent by leading American museums (MoMA; the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art; the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, the Philadelphia Museum of Art; the Baltimore Museum of Art; and the Hirshhorn Museum of Modern Art, Washington, D.C.) and by distinguished private collections. The exhibition will then travel to the Armand Hammer Museum in Los Angeles.

Hergé, December 6-February - In December 2006 the public spaces of the Forum at the Centre Pompidou will be given over to the work of Hergé, the creator of Tintin. This free exhibition, organized in collaboration with the Hergé Foundation, will offer the public a chance to see the collection of Hergé's original drawings donated to the Centre by the Foundation. A double celebration, marking the entry of the first comics into the French national art collection and also the centenary of Hergés birth, which is in 2007, it marks, too, the opening of the Centre Pompidou's 30^th anniversary season.

BD Reporters, December 6-April - When the creators of the graphic novels (bandes desinées, or BD, as they are known in French) go on their travels, in France and abroad, they bring back to us in their drawings the new landscapes and new cities they have discovered, and the feelings these have inspired. The "BD Reporters" exhibition explores these new territories where really catches up with the comics. From the traveler's sketch book to final reportage, it presents the diversity of the genre through sketches, comics, photos, contact sheets and DVDs by the artists represented: Badouin, Cabu, De Crécy, Davodeau, Dupuy et Berberian, Faton, Ferrandez, , Harder, Hureau, Jano, Loustal, Mattotti, Matthys, Sacco, Schipper, Troub's and Wolinski.

The Movement of Images, through January 29 - The collection of the Centre Pompidou/Musée National d'Art Moderne, the largest in Europe, is presented in a striking new thematic hang that reflects the influence of cinema on the art of the twentieth century. Entitled "Le Mouvement des Images (The Movement of Images)", the new presentation exemplifies a displacement of the moving image from the cinema to the gallery, a shift that makes it possible to rethink film in a new context, without reference to its technical preconditions. The fundamental principles of the cinematic experience -- succession, projection, narrative and montage -- then no longer find themselves restricted to the traditional apparatus of film but may be applied to the reading of works of art more generally. Arts supposedly static, such as painting, sculpture, drawing, photography and architecture, are no longer so, a phenomenon accentuated by the advent of the digital age.

De l'Atelier à la Fabrique: the Permanent Collection, January 31 - Centre Pompidou will celebrate its thirtieth anniversary with a rehang of its permanent collection of modern and contemporary art, the leading collection of its kind in Europe. This will take place in two stages. On January 31, the modern art collection will be reorganized around the theme of "the studio", with an emphasis on the Museum's holdings of major paintings (among them Matisse, Picasso, Miró, Giacometti and Dubuffet) and on the emblematic locations and personalities of the world of art. On April 2, the contemporary art collection will be reorganized to echo the themes of "Airs de Paris", a major exhibition of contemporary art opening on the same day.

Annette Messager, February 21-May 14, 2007 - The Centre Pompidou is to present a major retrospective of the work of French artist Annette Messager, winner of the Golden Lion at the Venice Biennale of 2005. Her work, which has gained her an international reputation, combines intimacy with universality. The exhibition will follow the development of her artistic career from her invention of fictive identities in the early 1970s to her large installations in the 1990s. In parallel with the exhibition, Annette Messager will create a major new installation in the Forum, the ground floor of Centre Pompidou.

Pierre Klossowski, April 2-June 4, 2007 - The writer and philosopher Pierre Klossowski (1905-2001), a friend of Rilke and Georges Bataille, took up art on the prompting of Robert Lebel, André Masson and Alberto Giacometti. Centre Pompidou is to show drawings, prints and sculptures by Klossowski in Spring 2007. Klossowski also worked with a number of film directors, as writer or actor: with Pierre Zucca and Raoul Ruiz in the early 1970s and Pierre Coulibeuf, Michel Nuridsany and Alain Fleischer in the 1980s. A program of films in which Klossowski was involved will also be shown.

Samuel Beckett, through June 25, 2007 - After its celebrations of Jean Cocteau and Roland Barthes, the Centre Pompidou pays homage, on the centenary of his birth, to the great Irish novelist and playwright Samuel Beckett (1906-1989), who endeavored all his life to abolish the boundaries between the arts and the genres. The exhibition will explore the great themes of Beckett's work and relate his writing to the contemporary art from which it drew inspiration and which, in turn, drew inspiration from it, from Bram van Velde to Bruce Naumann, from Sol le Witt to Geneviève Asse, and from Ugo Rondinone to Tony Oursler. The exhibition aims to demonstrate the diversity of Beckett's writing and to explore the different facets of his career, more especially his work as a theater director.

Airs de Paris, April 2-May 27, 2007 - "Airs de Paris" is a multidisciplinary exhibition bringing together visual art, landscape, architecture and design, around the themes of the city and of urban life. It considers Paris as a point of convergence, where the exhibited artists may live or work or have intervened. The title echoes that of a piece by Marcel Duchamp, with a retrospective of whose work the Centre Pompidou opened in 1977. The exhibition includes work by fifty visual artists and sixteen architects and designers, dating from the 1970s to the present. Certain works will be specially produced for the occasion. As it prepares for the show, the Centre has set up an internet discussion forum, moderated by philosopher Elie During and sociologist Laurent Jeanpierre, which will host reflections on the themes of the exhibition by invited scholars and artists. The exhibition itself will be accompanied by a series of events -- performances, lectures and debates -- intended to foster dialogue between artists, philosophers and sociologists on the question of the urban in contemporary life.

Julio Gonzalez, June 27, 2007-October 8, 2007 - The work of the great Catalan artist Julio González (1876-1942) had a decisive influence on modern sculpture. Centre Pompidou, which has an exceptionally large holding of his paintings, sculptures, drawings and jewelry, now offers an opportunity to rediscover the work of the artists who introduced Picasso to metal sculpting. Marking the completion of a catalog raisonné of the Centre's entire holding of González' work, the exhibition will present the different stages of his career, from the very first figurative works, influenced by Puvis de Chavannes and classicism, through the masterly large-scale abstract and constructivist iron sculptures of the 1930s, to the tragic stone heads and the allegorical figures of the wartime years. Photographs and documentary records will contribute to a fuller understanding of the artists' life and work.

L'Atelier d'Alberto Giacometti: Collections de la Fondation Alberto et Annette Giacometti, September 9, 2007 - Thanks to the temporary loan of the holdings of the Alberto and Annette Giacometti Foundation, Centre Pompidou is able to present, for the first time, certain undiscovered aspects of Giacometti's art. Exhibited in conjunction with hitherto unknown works and unpublished documentation, paintings, sculptures, decorative objects, drawings, prints and writings will offer the viewer a new look at the artist's manner of work. At the heart of the exhibition will be Alberto Giacometti's studio, whose painted walls, furniture and tools are the property of the Foundation, established in December 2003.

Richard Rogers, October 3, 2007 - A retrospective exhibition is being devoted to Richard Rogers, who, with Renzo Piano, was the architect of Centre Pompidou. The exhibition will retrace a 40-year career, which has seen Rogers design buildings of different scales all over the world, all the time maintaining a unity of style. Recent and current projects will illustrate the enthusiastic mastery of constructive technique as an architect who has made a usage a priority, putting the human at the center of his work.

For more information about the Centre Pompidou, visit www.centrepompidou.fr. Media contact: Roya Nasser, +33 (0)1 44 78 49 08 or roya.nasser@centrepompidou.fr.

France - Major Events for 2007

2007-01-14T17:00:00.000-04:00

February 16 to March 4 – Nice (Riviera)
"Nice Carnival" – Nice Carnival is a not-to-be-missed event. Music, decorated floats, caricatures and entertainers - all of the elements of life in this lovely French port city are on full display and in living color during this annual niçois celebration. The Nice Carnival was the first international carnival celebration to take place in France and attracts 1,200,000 visitors every year. The theme for the 2007 festival is “King of the Grand free-for-all (or scrum, in honor of the Rugby World Cup in September 2007).” www.nicecarnaval.com

February 17 to March 7 – Menton (Rviera)
"Lemon Festival" – Menton will organize its 74th Lemon Festival in 2007 with India as its guest of honour. This Festival, an unique event in the world, attracts 200.000 visitors every year - a figure which is constantly progressing -. It is the second most important event on the Riviera after the Nice Carnival and just ahead of the Monaco Formula 1. More than 300 people are employed on the project and 130 tons of citrus fruits are used - www.villedementon.com.

March 3 to 11 – Paris
"Agricultural Show" – The international agricultural show is the annual gathering of regional products, harvested through farming, hunting and fishing. www.salon-agriculture.com

March 9 to April 7 – Saint-Denis (Ile-de-France)
"Banlieues Bleues Festival" – The Banlieues Bleues, one of the biggest jazz festivals in the Paris area, is an eclectic, lively festival, featuring all kinds of jazz, from traditional and contemporary, to European and American blues and soul. www.banlieuesbleues.org (French language only) www.pidf.com

March 23 to April 1 – Paris "
"International Women’s Film Festival – One of the most important festivals of women’s film in the world. www.filmsdefemmes.com (French language only), www.parisinfo.com

Mid-March (2 weeks) – Grenoble (Rhône-Alpes)
"Grenoble Jazz Festival" – The festival celebrates 35 years in 2007 - "www.jazzgrenoble.com" (French language only)

March 24 & 25 – Nuits-St-Georges (Burgundy)
"Vente des Vins des Hospices de Nuits" – Celebrated sale of the wines of the Hospices de Nuits - Music and festivities bring the whole community together for this annual wine
tasting festival of famed Burgundy wines. www.nuits-saint-georges.com (French only) www.ot-nuits-st-georges.fr

March 14 to April 1 – Amiens (Picardie/Northern France)
"Amiens Jazz Festival" – An eclectic festival that highlights the contemporary jazz milieu. This year is devoted to the blues. www.amiensjazzfestival.com
(French language only) www.amiens.fr

April 1 to 30 – Lourdes (Midi-Pyrénées)
"International Festival of Sacred Music" – Concerts of sacred music ranging form Bach and Haendel to Delalande and lesser known works. www.lourdes-infotourisme.com

April 15 – Paris
"Paris Marathon" – Watch as nearly 35,000 participants run the 42km race to achieve their own individual goals. The start is at 8:45 am on the Champs-Elysées and runs via Bastille, Nation, and the Tuileries. www.parismarathon.com

April – Bayonne(Aquitaine)
"Ham Fair" – Bayonne ham is world-renowned. Sample the best of the best at the Ham Fair. www.bayonne-tourisme.com

April – Biarritz (Aquitaine)
"Les Fêtes Musicales" – Each spring, the Fêtes Musicales hosts internationally-famous artists and major instrumental
formations. The Fêtes Musicales is also an opportunity to discover young talent. www.ville-biarritz.fr

April 21 & 22 – Le Mans (Western Loire)
"24 Hours Moto" – The 30th annual motorcycle race at Le Mans Racetrack - www.lemans.org

April 17 to 22 – Bourges (Loire Valley)
"Le Printemps de Bourges" – Undiscovered artists of modern music jam in free and paid concerts throughout the city. www.printemps-bourges.com (French language only) www.bourgestourisme.com

April to October – Paris
"Singin’ in Paris" - Concerts of some of the world's favorite French songs takes visitors on a musical tour through old Paris. Enjoy a combination dinner and performance package on Tuesday and Friday evenings and on Sundays at tea-time at La Crémaillère 1900. The largest restaurant of La Butte in Montmartre, it seats 380 and features an elegant Belle Epoque decor. The 75-minute performance goes down memory lane with chansons by Charles Trenet, Edith Piaf, Yves Montand, Jacques Brel and more. www.singing-in-paris.com

April to October – Versailles (Ile-de-France)
"Les Grandes Eaux Musicales" - Discover Louis XIV's majestic gardens with their illuminated fountains set to the melodies
of some of the greatest composers of classical music every week-end. www.chateauversailles.fr & www.pidf.com

May 15 to 20 – Montauban (Midi-Pyrénées)
"Festival Alors…Chante!" – Begun in 1986, more than 750 local and young artists have graced the stage and presented beautiful vocal performances. www.alorschante.com (French language only), www.montauban-tourisme.com

May 16 to 27 – Cannes (Riviera)
"Cannes Film Festival" – The world-renowned film festival takes place at the Palais des Festivals and other venues throughout Cannes. www.festival-cannes.fr

May 17 to 20 – Grasse (Riviera)
"Rose-Expo" – Each year, Grasse celebrates the most romantic of all flowers, the rose. Over four days, 30,000 roses are presented at the Villa-Musée Fragonard. Exhibits are also organized at the Palais des Congrès and the Musée International de la Parfumerie. www.grasse-riviera.com

May 18 to 20 – Courson-Monteloup (Ile-de-France)
"Courson's Flower Show" – Set in a beautifully landscaped park, this flower show features exhibitors from throughout Europe carrying a large range of unique plants (bulbs, perennials, climbers, trees and shrubs, house plants, etc.). www.coursondom.com (French language only). www.pidf.com

May 19 to 20 – Tours (Loire Valley)
"Loire Valley Wine Festival" – Approximately 100 wine growers from the Loire Valley present their wines in the heart of Tours. There will be numerous shows, conferences and tastings. www.ligeris.com

May 25 to 27 – Evian (Rhône-Alpes)
"Les Escales Musicales" - International classical and chamber music festival. www.eviantourism.com

May – Loire (Loire Valley)
"La Caravane" – To celebrate the Loire, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Loiret department presents “La Caravane”, a four-day event. There will be shows, exhibits, picnics, dancing and singing. www.jourdeloire.com (French language only) www.loirevalleytourism.com

May 26 and 27 – Paris
"Printemps des Rues: Circus Festival" – A free outdoor festival of concerts, circuses, film showings, visual art performances, installations, forums, and more. This festival will celebrate its 10th birthday in 2007. www.leprintempsdesrues.com (French language only). www.parisinfo.com

May 27 to 28 – Honfleur (Normandy)
"Fête des Marins" – The seafarers’ Pentecost festival is celebrated in Honfleur each year since 1861. On the Sunday of Pentecost, all the local fishing boats are decorated and gathered together in Honfleur’s old harbor. They then push out to sea before coming together in a circle in the Seine estuary to receive the priest’s blessing. www.ot-honfleur.fr, www.normandy-tourism.org

May 27 to June 10 – Paris
"French Tennis Open" – The Roland-Garros French Open is the world's biggest clay-court tennis tournament and one of the major sporting highlights of the year in Paris. The world's best players come out to compete - an absolute must-see for tennis fans. www.rolandgarros.com

June 1 to 3 – Bayeux (Normandy)
"D-Day Festival" – On the site of the Batterie de Longues, witness a commemoration of the D-Day battles with historic reenactments, parachutist demonstrations, and an airshow of WWII planes. Festivities include a grand picnic with music, open-air cinema, fireworks, and concerts. www.bayeux-tourism.com

June 1 to July 31– Marseille (Provence)
"Marseille Festival" – The festival celebrates its 12th anniversary this year with performances in dance, theater, contemporary music and film. www.festivaldemarseille.com, www.marseille-tourisme.com

June 6 – Normandy
"63rd anniversary of D-Day" – Ceremonies at the beaches and towns of the Allied landings on June 5 & 6, 1944 - www.normandiememoire.com, www.normandy-tourism.org

June 6 to 10 – Deauville (Normandy)
"Deauville International Week" – Deauville welcomes its second international nautical event, drawing some of the best sailing aficionados from throughout the world. www.deauville-week.com, www.deauville.org

June 2 to 9 – Calvi (Corsica)
"Jazz Festival" – This celebrated international event brings together over a hundred musicians and singers, performing concerts within the city walls and on the streets of Calvi. www.visit-corsica.com and www.calvi-jazz-festival.com (French language only)

June 9 to July 29 – Paris
"Paris Jazz Festival" – Locals and visitors from around the world come to Paris each summer to listen to the smooth jazz music radiating from Château de Vincennes during the Paris Jazz Festival. With its impressive line-up of artists and magnificent setting, the Paris Jazz Festival is always a huge success. www.parcfloraldeparis.com

June 16 & 17 – Le Mans (Western Loire)
"24-Hours of Le Mans" - The 75th annual automobile race at the Le Mans Racetrack. www.lemans.org

June 23 & 24 – Provins (Ile-de-France)
"Les Médiévales de Provins" – Discover Provins, a city with a well-preserved imprint from the middle ages. Enjoy archery, water games, joust, a grand feast complete with entertainment, troubadours, jugglers and more. www.provins-medieval.com (French language only), www.provins.net, www.pidf.com

June 23 & 24 – Reims (Champagne)
"Fêtes Johanniques" – Every year, the city of Reims celebrates the memory of patron saint Joan of Arc in a festival of shows and a recreation of a medieval market. One of the highlights is the musical pageant and procession featuring 2,000 players depicting the coronation of Charles VII, accompanied by Joan of Arc and other kings crowned in Reims. www.reims-tourisme.com

June to August – Lyon (Rhône-Alpes)
"Les Nuits de Fourvière" – A multidisciplinary artistic event encompassing theater, dance, music and cinema. Nearly 40 shows take place each summer with past performers including David Bowie, Jamiroquai, Oasis, Lenny Kravitz and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. www.nuits-de-fourviere.org, www.lyon-france.com

June 21 – Throughout France
"Fête de la Musique" - Street concerts take place throughout France, on the occasion of the summer solstice. www.parisinfo.com

June – Rouen (Normandy)
"Opéra en Plein Air" – www.normandy-tourism.org

June 21 to 24 – Bordeaux (Aquitaine)
"Bordeaux River Festival" – The forth edition of the River Festival will focus on the history of the river and its harbor. Activities, exhibitions and meetings have been created by experts from "La mémoire de Bordeaux". www.bordeaux-tourisme.com, www.tourisme-aquitaine.info

June 22 to August 5 – Reims (Champagne)
"Les Flaneries Musicales" – Reims, the city of coronations and Clovis' place of baptism, offers an impressive series of concerts, hosting some of the greatest names in international music. More than 100 concerts take place in some of the city's most unexpected locations. www.reims-tourisme.com and www.flaneriesreims.com

June 23 to September 1st – Amboise (Loire Valley)
"At the Court of King François" – Discover the history of Amboise château through this evening spectacular. See what life was like in the area during the Renaissance and under the reign of King François the first, including his friendship with the art master Leonardo da Vinci. www.renaissance-amboise.com, www.amboise-valdeloire.com

June 29 to July 13 – Vienne (Rhône-Alpes)
"Jazz à Vienne" – The annual International Jazz Festival takes place in the city's Roman amphitheater. www.jazzavienne.com, www.rhonealpes-tourism.com

June 29 to July 22 – Aix-en-Provence (Provence)
"Festival d'Aix-en-Provence" – The Aix opera festival, which celebrates 59 years has always been closely associated with Mozart. The 2007 season presents 6 operas inspired by Mozart’s youth, cosmopolitanism and extraordinary humanity. www.festival-aix.com, www.aixenprovencetourism.com

June 30 – Paris
"Gay Pride Festival" – Information can be found online at www.gaypride.fr (French language only), www.parisinfo.com

July 1 to 31 – Nice (Riviera)
"Nice Jazz Festival" – One of the most important European jazz festivals with over 500 musicians and 75 concerts in the Roman ruins and gardens of Cimiez. The focus is on jazz music but the festival embraces many musical genres with past performers including such legends as BB King, Bebel Gilberto and Jimmy Cliff as well as newer acts such as Jamiroquai, Joss Stone and Katie Melua. The history of this event stretches back to the 1940s and has grown in stature each year to become one of the greatest jazz festivals in the world. www.nicejazzfest.com

July 7 & 8 – Bayeux (Normandy)
"Bayeux Medieval Festival" – Journey back in time, as the town of Bayeux comes alive with court jesters, jugglers, knights and craftsmen. The festival celebrates 21 years in 2007; an extraordinary milestone. A medieval market, street theatre, book fair, medieval ball, costumed parade and more… www.bayeux-tourism.com, www.normandy-tourism.org

July 7 to 29 – France
"Tour de France" – Celebrate the world's most famous bicycle competition. The race is on to see who will wear the coveted maillot jaune this year. This year's Tour begins in London featuring the 8 km prolog. www.letour.fr

July 7 to August 3 – Orange (Provence)
"Chorégies d'Orange Festival" – This major Provence music and opera festival dates back to 1860 and is the oldest festival in France. It is set in one of the world's best preserved Roman theaters. www.choregies.asso.fr

July 12 to 22 – Antibes/Juan-les-Pins (Riviera)
"Jazz à Juan" – The annual International Jazz Festival brings together famous jazz artists as well as up-and-coming musicians. Past performers have included Sonny Rollins and Ibrahim Ferrer. www.antibesjuanlespins.com

July 14 – Paris/France
"Bastille Day Celebrations" – In Paris: traditional morning military parade down the Champs-Elysées, followed at sundown by prestigious fireworks. www.parisinfo.com

July 14 to 22 – Quimper (Brittany)
"Festival de Cornouaille" – Traditional and folkloric dance, music and arts festival, in the capital of the Finistère area of Brittany, historically known as Cornouaille. www.festival-cornouaille.com (French language only), www.tourismebretagne.com, www.discoverbrittany.com

July 25 to 28 – Evian (Rhône-Alpes)
"Evian Masters" – The International Women's golf tournament is one of the most important, both on the American and European tours, featuring 70 of the world's best players. www.evianmasters.com and www.eviantourism.com

July – Paris
"Solidays International Youth, Music and Solidarity Festival" – This exceptional event is not only a great music festival with a number of major performing artists, but is also for a good cause. Solidays celebrates the summer by fighting against AIDS through increasing awareness, with around 100 French and international associations exchanging information and ideas. www.solidarite-sida.org (French language only) www.parisinfo.com

July – Saint-Gilles (Alsace)
"Rêve d’une nuit d’été" – During 8 evenings, the hill of Saint-Gilles offers you the biggest Alsace scene. Lots of highlights, musics, and shows bring you back to the history of Alsace thanks to more than 500 volunteers actors. A must-see when you are in Alsace in July. www.reve-dete.com (French language only)

July – Belfort (Franche-Comté)
"Eurockéennes de Belfort" – 3 days – 4 stages – 60 concerts. This international rock festival has been taking place on the peninsula of Malsaucy near Belfort for 17 years now. What started out as a big party for young pop fans has grown into a major festival drawing some of today's most popular acts and an audience of over 95 000 people. www.eurockeennes.fr

July to August – Paris
"Paris Plage" – An artificial beach (palm trees, sand and all) is set up along the banks of the River Seine to give locals a chance to escape to the beach, without leaving the city. There is also a boardwalk for cyclists and rollerbladers, a pool, beach volleyball and evening concerts. www.parisinfo.com

July to August – Paris
"Paris Quartiers d'Eté" – The Paris neighborhoods festival features theater, dance and musical performances at the Tuileries Gardens, Palais Royal, Arènes de Lutèce, La Villette, banks of the Seine, Buttes-Chaumont Park and more. www.quartierdete.com (French only) www.parisinfo.com

July to August – Prades (Languedoc-Roussillon)
"Pablo Casals Festival" – The festival celebrates 56 years in 2007 with over 20 concerts performed by the world’s finest chamber music ensembles. www.prades-festival-casals.com

July – Colmar (Alsace)
"International Classical Music Festival" – The festival adheres to demanding standards in order to maintain its international renown, attracting musicians and ensembles of the highest level and organizing a well-planned schedule of events. Each year there is a central theme and a tribute to a musician. www.festival-colmar.com

July – Avignon
"Festival d'Avignon" - The avant-garde summer festival celebrates its 61th year with presentations of new productions and talent in theater, dance and music; at the Palais des Papes and other locations. www.festival-avignon.com

July and August – Toulouse (Midi-Pyrénées)
"Toulouse d’Eté" - A summer concert series offering an eclectic selection of 15 concerts in 12 venues, with more than 300 artists and cultural engineers. www.toulouse-tourisme.com

Last week of July – Cognac (Poitou-Charentes)
"Passion Blues Festival" – 15th anniversary. Annual festival of African-American music including blues, swing, gospel, rhythm'n blues and soul. Past performers have included the late, great Ray Charles. www.bluespassions.com

August – Saint-Cloud (Ile-de-France)
"Festival Rock en Seine" – Rock 'n roll festival at the Domaine National in Saint-Cloud. Big-name bands and musicians, such as the Pixies and the Foo Fighters, have graced the stage. www.rockenseine.com

August – Marciac (Midi-Pyrénées)
"Jazz in Marciac" – International Jazz Festival set in a 13th-century fortified Gascony town. www.jazzinmarciac.com (French language only) www.tourisme-midi-pyrenees.com

August – Ajaccio (Corsica)
"Fêtes Napoléoniennes" - Feast in honor of the island’s illustrious son, Napoléon Bonaparte, who was born in Ajaccio August 15, 1769. Enjoy parades, historical pageants, and other festivities. www.visit-corsica.com

August – Fayence (Provence)
"August in Fayence Territory" - An assembly and collaboration of artists, this music festival offers cultural and artistic enjoyment to its visitors, throughout Fayence territory. From Brel to Mozart, jazz to improv and street performers to parades, August in Fayence territory is a hit. www.unaoutaupaysdefayence.com (French only) www.crt-paca.fr

August – Bayonne (Aquitaine)
"Fêtes de Bayonne" - Each year since 1932, the city of Bayonne puts on a "fiesta" during five days of non-stop celebration with music, bull running, Basque-influenced cuisine and more. www.fetes-de-bayonne.com (French only) www.bayonne-tourisme.com

August 18 to 29 – La Chaise-Dieu (Auvergne)
"La Chaise-Dieu Festival" - Founded in 1966 by Georges Cziffra, today the festival is considered among the most famous of French classical and sacred music festivals. Large orchestral performances take place in an ancient Benedictine abbey, characteristic for its strong spiritual strength and exceptional acoustics. Chamber music concerts usually take place in the Cziffra Hall (quintets, quartets, trios). This year’s themes center on Mozart, unknown Italian baroque composers (Perti, Stradella, Scarlatti) and Russian composition from the 20th century (Rachmaninov and Chostakovitch)
www.chaise-dieu.com

August 27 to September 2 – Dijon (Burgundy)
"Folkloriades Internationales et Fêtes de la Vigne" – Annual folkloric dance and music festival and wine fair, with participants from throughout the world. www.fetesdelavigne.com (French only) www.ot-dijon.fr

September 1 & 2 – Lille (Nord-Pas-de-Calais)
"Grande Braderie de Lille" - Every year, the first weekend of September sees Lille turn into one massive car boot sale where locals come and sell all manner of unwanted items and second hand goods on the city’s pavements. Dating back to the Middle Ages, the Grande Braderie is the biggest event in the region, and one that attracts some two million bargain hunters every year. From cheap junk to antique furniture and kitsch ornaments, there is something for everyone. Haggling is de rigueur of course, but even for those just browsing, the party atmosphere is terrific, making this a must see event for anyone visiting the region at that time of year. www.theotherside.co.uk

September 3 to October 15 – Ile-de-France
"Festival Ile-de-France" - France's most popular region, with Paris as its capital, features a festival of contemporary music, literature, theatre, painting and circus performances. www.festival-ile-de-france.com (French only) www.pidf.com

September 7 to October 20 – France
"Rugby World Cup 2007" - The United States, as well as Argentina, Australia, Canada, England, Fiji, France, Ireland, Italy, New Zealand, Romania, Samoa, Scotland, South Africa and Wales have qualified for this world cup which is one of the biggest sporting events in the world. With 48 matches in the stadiums of 12 cities in France and Great Britain--10 of which are in France, they will be watched by an estimated 2,5 million spectators and up to 4 billion television viewers. The cities in France and Great Britain are: Bordeaux, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Lens, Lyon, Marseille, Montpellier, Nantes, Paris, Saint-Denis, Saint-Etienne, Toulouse - www.rugbyworldcup.com

Early September – Deauville (Normandy)
"Festival of American Cinema" - Previews of the year's best American films, with actors and producers invited to participate. There is a competition to choose the masterpieces of American independent cinema. www.festival-deauville.com

Mid September – France
"Journées du Patrimoine" - Open house and free admission to the nation's historical monuments, including public and private buildings not usually open to the public. www.journeesdupatrimoine.culture.fr (French only) www.culture.fr

September to December – Paris
"Paris Fall Festival" - Annual Parisian autumn festival featuring theater, ballet, film retrospectives, music, opera and exhibitions in different venues throughout the city and close environs. www.festival-automne.com

September – Toulouse (Midi-Pyrénées)
"Piano aux Jacobins" - Piano recitals festival at Toulouse's prestigious 13th-century Jacobins Cloisters. www.pianojacobins.com (French only) www.ot-toulouse.fr

September – Médoc (Aquitaine)
"Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc et des Graves" – A unique marathon through the Bordeaux/Médoc area and its legendary wine villages, châteaux estates and vineyards, where the first and last to arrive at the finish line are honored in the same way: instead of a cash prize, they receive their weight’s worth in great wines. The spirit of this marathon is to have fun. Music, costumed runners, partying, food, and of course wine, are a regular staple. www.marathondumedoc.com

September – Lyon (Rhône-Alpes)
"International Biennial Dance Festival" – The festival gathers the world’s finest choreographers in Lyon, for 20 days of performance. www.biennale-de-lyon.org

September to October – Versailles (Ile-de-France)
"Mondial de l'Automobile" – The Paris International Motor Show takes place every two years and is open to the general public. www.pidf.com

October 1 to 31 – Toulouse (Midi-Pyrénées)
"Toulouse les Orgues International Festival" – The event celebrates organ music with a diverse range of concerts and performances. Taking place each autumn since 1996, the festival has grown each year and now includes a program of approximately 60 events taking place in Toulouse and the Midi-Pyrenees region. But the event is about more than just music and visitors are invited to enjoy the area’s beautiful countryside and gastronomic treats through a series of planned events. www.ot-toulouse.fr

October – Paris
"Nuit Blanche" – The project’s aim is to organize nocturnal events and activities in various public buildings and venues in and around Paris, including museums, libraries, monuments, places of worship, tourist sights, cinemas, parks and gardens, hospitals and universities. It's a great opportunity to discover the wonders of Paris by night. www.parisinfo.com

October to November – Paris
"Paris Banlieue Tango Festival" – Tango takes over the Paris environs during this festival that includes concerts, dancing, music and singing workshops, cinema and video, art exhibitions, photography, theater, debates, lectures, food and cabaret evenings. http://pbta.free.fr

October to November – Normandy
"October in Normandy" - Over 200 events with classical and modern music, theatre and dance in 20 sites around Haute-Normandie. www.octobre-en-normandie.com (French only) www.normandy-tourism.org

October – Perpignan (Languedoc-Roussillon)
"Jazzèbre" – Throughout the month of October, Perpignan is the center for jazz, from contemporary, salsa and blues to bossa nova and international jazz. Surrounding vineyards have adopted the festival and offer jazz and wine theme itineraries and excursions. www.jazzebre.com (French only) www.perpignantourisme.com

October – Nancy (Lorraine)
"Nancy Jazz Pulsations" – For more than 30 years, Nancy has played host to a prestigious group of international jazz performers during this two-week jazz festival. Over 70,000 have enjoyed performances in jazz, blues, rock, pop, reggae, chanson, world, hip-hop, and electronic music. www.nancyjazzpulsations.com

October – Paris
"Montmartre Harvest Festival" – Montmartre invites everyone to celebrate the arrival of the precious “Clos Montmartre” wine. Sip the 2005 vintage and enjoy the highlights of this classic tradition: displays of regional produce, street musicians and singers, the election of the Harvest queen and a parade dedicated to Bacchus. www.fetedesvendangesdemontmartre.com (French only) or www.parisinfo.com

October – Reims (Champagne)
"International Reims Marathon" – Organization of five races on the same day: marathon, half-marathon, the 10k run, and two races designed for teenagers. http://reimsatoutesjambes.fr

October to November – Troyes (Champagne)
"Champagne Nights Festival" - This festival celebrates French songs and songwriters and focuses on a different composer each year. www.nuitsdechampagne.com (French only) www.abcoffrance.com.

November – Reims (Champagne)
"The Reims Jazz Festival" - The Reims Jazz Festival dates back to 1994 and hosts a variety of innovative jazz (contemporary, fusion, etc.) concerts throughout the city. www.djaz51.com (French only) www.reims-tourisme.com

November – Lyon (Rhône-Alpes)
"Fête de la Chataigne" - The chestnut fair is a tradition that dates back to the 19th century in Lyon. As soon as autumn makes an appearance in Lyon, stalls carousels, and a Ferris wheel with fantastic night-time views over the city center, are set up at the top of the Boulevard de la Croix-Rousse. The fair always starts just before the Toussaint (All Souls Day) holiday and lasts for a month. www.en.lyon-france.com

November to December – Montbéliard (Franche-Comté)
"Les Lumières de Noël" – A veritable sea of lights in Montbéliard during the most festive season of the year. One of the best Christmas markets of the area, Montbéliard offers a range of activities and attractions including pastry-making workshops for children, Christmas decorations and lights, chocolate tastings, sleigh rides, warm wine tastings and more. http://lumieresdenoel.fr

November to December – Alsace
"Traditional Christmas markets" in 35 cities and smaller towns throughout the region. The festive outdoor markets offer Christmas trees and decorations, seasonal preserves and sweets, as well as decorative objects for nativity scenes, local crafts, toys and gifts. The oldest Christmas market, held for 432 years, is in Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace. www.noel-alsacetourisme.com (French language only)

November – Dijon (Burgundy)
"Dijon International and Gastronomic Fair" - With over 500 exhibitors and 200,000 visitors every year, the International and Gastronomic Fair is one of the ten most important fairs in France. www.dijon-expocongres.com

November – Beaune (Burgundy)
"Les Trois Glorieuses" - Prestigious three-day international Burgundy wine auction in the renowned 15th-century Hospices de Beaune, with events at the Clos de Vougeot and in Meursault. www.ot-beaune.fr

Mid November – France
"Fête du Beaujolais Nouveau" – Cities and towns throughout France celebrate the new wine on the day it’s released. Tradition dictates that massive barrels of Beaujolais Nouveau be pierced at midnight, releasing a torrent of wine for the thirsty. www.beaujolaisgourmand.com

December – Lyon (Rhône-Alpes)
"Festival of Light" - For over 150 years, the city’s residents place candles on their window sills and balconies in celebration of the season. Over the years, the festival has grown to include illuminations throughout the city. See Lyon transform and transcend by light. www.en.lyon-france.com

Contact: Katherine Johnstone
Tel: (212) 745-0966
katherine.johnstone@franceguide.com

Euro-bike & Walking Tours new budget programs

2007-01-14T16:57:00.000-04:00

In response to requests from people interested in a "simpler life" while on an active vacation, Euro-Bike & Walking Tours has created a new pocket-book friendly category of bicycle tours in France and throughout Europe.

After more than 30 years of organizing luxury tours in Europe, the company's 2007 tour lineup now features a new category of Budget bicycle tours.

Designed for the traveler who puts less importance on glamorous accommodations and numerous group dinners, these tours are priced 40 percent lower than EB&WT's standard Luxury tours.

"We've heard from many people who are happy to stay in more humble accommodations and prefer to have more nights on their own, and we've listened", said René Hoeve, president of Euro-Bike & Walking Tours. "We hope these new Budget tours will also allow people on tighter budgets to travel with us and learn what a great experience a group cycling tour in Europe can be."

Budget departures are available on EB&WT's Burgundy, Bordeaux-Dordogne, La Loire, Normandy & Brittany Coast and A Taste of Provence bike tours in France as well as numerous other itineraries throughout Europe.

Whether people choose Budget tours for their economical appeal or for the pure joy of experiencing Europe's simpler side, these trips are great for families, couples and solo travelers.

Budget tour hotels fall in the 2- and 3-star range. The only other difference between Budget and Luxury tours is that Budget tours will include two multi-course dinners with wine.

Luxury tours remain unchanged, featuring top quality hotels. These tours also continue to boast four or five dinners.

Holding a middle ground between Budget and Luxury tours, EB&WT has included Comfort tours in its 2007 lineup. These tours boast 3-star or better hotels and include three dinners.

Adding the third category of tours means 2007 has more departure dates than ever.

"Euro-Bike & Walking Tours is committed to giving people a choice", Hoeve said. "With more departures and more luxury level options, we're confident we'll see many new happy faces on our tours."

Budget, Comfort and Luxury tours all offer the same outstanding guides, routes, support van and all the extras EB&WT customers have come to enjoy over the years.

Euro-Bike & Walking Tours has been leading active vacations in Europe since 1974.

All tours are fully supported and feature exclusive routes, luggage transfer and 24-hour assistance from our multi-lingual European guides.

The company offers cycling and walking vacations in 15 European countries and New Zealand, with additional choices for private groups interested in a custom tour.

For a free catalog or more information about Euro-Bike & Walking Tours visit the Web site at www.eurobike.com or call (800) 321-6060.

For information contact:
Kathy Guyer
(800) 321-6060 or (815) 758-8851
info@eurobike.com

The Islands of Guadeloupe

2007-01-14T16:52:00.000-04:00

Located in the French Caribbean, Guadeloupe is actually two islands that are narrowly separated by a sea strait known as the Salée River.

Grande Terre, on the eastern side, has beautiful white-sand beaches that surround vast fields of sugarcane and tropical fruits.

Basse Terre, to the west, is mountainous and covered with a lush tropical rainforest.

The smaller islands of Les Saintes, Marie-Galante and La Désirade sit to the south with St. Martin and St. Barthelemy a bit further to the north.

Along with many water sports and seaside activities, Guadeloupe offers exciting eco-tourism adventures that include hikes to the top of the still-active volcano, La Soufrière.

With over 200 marked trails, nature enthusiasts can venture under the forest's canopy, over suspension bridges and through luxurious vegetation to towering waterfalls, grassy wetlands and mangrove-covered coastlines.

In the port city of Pointe-à-Pitre, the Darse open-air market is always bustling and is great place to find local crafts and specialties. The place de la Victoire is lined with Creole houses, 100-year old royal palms, cafés and small shops. The lively nightlife is centered around the Marina where bars and restaurants line the waterfront.

The people of Guadeloupe are proud of their cultural heritage and traditions. Music and dance reflect their African and European origins and a large number of festivals are held throughout the year.

Carnival has been celebrated since the 17th century and the Cooks Festival features the excellent cuisine of the island. Cod fish fritters, Creole black pudding, poached crayfish and conch are among Guadeloupe's signature dishes.

For a quieter, hidden-away stay, the off-islands of Les Saintes, La Désirade and Marie-Galante can be reached by ferry or plane. These charming islands offer fishing villages, old windmills, friendly people and simple fare.

Though some 150 miles to the north, St. Martin and St. Barthélémy are officially under the administrative jurisdiction of Guadeloupe.

St. Martin is the smallest island in the world ruled by two countries, France and the Netherlands.

The story goes that Frenchman started walking from the north and the Dutchman from the south where they met became the international boundary. The island boasts beautiful beaches and fine French restaurants.

St. Barthélémy, or St. Bart, is considered to be one of the chicest islands in the world. This long-time hotspot for the rich and famous only covers eight square miles, but is the place to rent an upscale villa or small beach-front hotel.

Château des Ducs de Bretagne Celebrates Reopening

2007-01-14T16:48:00.000-04:00

After 15 years of restoration, Nante's Château des Ducs de Bretagne is finally reopening to the public on February 9th, 2007, with a brand new museum dedicated to the history of Nantes. Constructed in the 13th century on the site of Gallo-Roman ruins (which are still visible!), this stunning castle sits on the right bank of the Loire River. Queen Anne de Bretagne grew up in the Castle and Henri IV chose to stay here on his way to sign the famous Edict of Nantes. It was declared a Historic Monument of France in 1862. As one crosses its moat via the drawbridge, the royal hallways lead to the great rooms of the dukes, and the central government of yore, culminating in the Tower of the Iron Horse and that of the Golden Crown, with their spectacular views of the city. In this castle, spectacular Gothic and Renaissance architecture intermingle.

The museum's collection of 800 works is spread throughout 32 of the castle's rooms, and multimedia displays describe the histories of the Loire's estuary, of the castle, of Nantes and the region, and their modern development. Nantes is the capital of the Pays de La Loire region. It is a city at once historically rich and richly modern, with its new Palais de Justice designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel.

Upcoming exhibitions include:
"France-Nouvelle France, Birth of a French People in America," which retraces the history of French immigration towards the Americas, in collaboration with the Museum of Montreal. (March 10 - June 10, 2007)

And,

"Anne de Bretagne, Builder." (30 June - 30 September, 2007)
Admission:
6 euro; 3 euro reduced price; groups 15 or larger, 4.50 euro.
Free for those under 18, the unemployed, disabled persons, and school/university groups.
The entire museum is accessible to disabled visitors, as are sections of the ramparts.
Parts of museum are accessible for visitors with impaired vision.

How to get there: TGV Paris: 2 hours--Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport: 2:50

Contacts :
Château des Ducs de Bretagne
Tel : (from US) 011 -33-2 51 17 49 99
Tel: (from inside France) 02 51 17 49 99
www.chateau-nantes.fr

Tourist Office of Nantes
Tel: (from US) 011-33-2 40 20 60 03 or 07
Tel: (from inside France) 02 40 20 60 03 or 07
www.nantes-tourisme.com

Greece - Carnival

2007-01-12T17:51:00.000-04:00

By the word Carnival – Latin in origin, the corresponding Greek word being apókreo or apokria) – we mean the three-week period before Ash Monday when it is the custom to masquerade. Literally “Apokria” means to say goodbye to the period of meat-eating, or abstinence from meat (Apo-kreo = away from meat). In the same way the word “Carnival” is made up from the words carne = meat and vale = take leave of.

Carnival is essentially the period leading up to Lent and the preparation for the biggest holiday of Christianity, Easter. It allows people to have some fun before Lent starts on Ash Monday. During Lent Christians fast to mentally and physically prepare themselves to participate in the Passion of Christ during Holy Week.

The roots of the Carnival customs can be traced back to antiquity. They are related to the celebrations in honour of the god Dionysus, where enthusiasm, gaiety and banter prevailed. When Christianity became the dominant religion, elements of ancient Greek worship were incorporated into the customs and traditions pertaining to the period before Lent.

Since the 19th century, Carnival starts on the Sunday of Teloni and Fariséou and ends on Shrovetide Sunday. In the past, the festive atmosphere was created by groups of masqueraded people who at night roamed the streets and the neighbourhoods, singing ribald and satirical songs. However, with the passage of time, standardised celebrations with fancy costumes and floats organised by the local communities prevailed to a larger or smaller extent, to the detriment of the older, more spontaneous celebrations.

However, carnival is closely related to the cultural heritage of each region and in many parts of the country substantial efforts have been made in recent years to revive traditional carnival customs. Dominant elements in these customs are the phallus symbols and satire, which centres on local events or focuses on current Greek and international issues.

The most important carnival in Greece is held in Patras. The carnival festivities start each year on the 17th of January and end on the last Sunday of Carnival with the burning at the stake of the King of Carnival and a big parade of floats and costumed groups.

Greece - Cultural Events & Festivals

2007-01-12T17:41:00.000-04:00

Throughout the year, but especially during summer, hundreds of cultural events are held and scores of bigger or smaller festivals are being organised, involving all forms of art. Major Greek and foreign artists take part in these events, presenting works covering a wide range of art production (classical and modern).

Some of the most important events are held under the auspices of the Hellenic Festival that, during the summer months, organises the Athens Festival, the Epidaurus Festival (theatre) and “Musical July” (in Epidaurus), which are considered to be among the most significant art festivals of the European continent.

Of particular interest are the events held at the Athens Concert Hall, which boasts one of the most modern concert halls in the world, and at the Thessaloniki Concert Hall.

Highly interesting are the productions of the Greek National Opera during both winter and summer seasons. As for the theatre, apart from private companies and the Municipal and Regional Theatres, the two national theatres, the National Theatre of Greece in Athens and the National Theatre of Northern Greece in Thessaloniki, stage very interesting plays.

In Thessaloniki, the International Thessaloniki Film Festival, which in recent years has become one of the major regional festivals in Europe, is held every November, while every year in May the Thessaloniki Book Fair is held.

New Zealand in Top Ten Travel Destinations

2007-01-12T17:37:00.000-04:00

Renowned travel guide Lonely Planet has once again ranked New Zealand in the top ten travel destinations in the world.

New Zealand was ranked the number two 'favourite destination' of travellers worldwide, according to new book Lonely Planet Bluelist 2007, following Australia, and ahead of Britain, Thailand, Greece, Italy and the US. A number of New Zealand locations and activities also gained a mention in the book, with Lonely Planet Bluelist 2007 devoting a double-page spread to New Zealand.

'This recognition for New Zealand is all the more important as it comes from the people who are experiencing it first-hand,' says George Hickton, Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive. 'The world is moving more and more towards listening to what those who are experiencing the product have to say - blogs, podcasts and web forums are becoming increasingly important in spreading the word about destinations. I am delighted that New Zealand has been ranked so highly.'

Lonely Planet Bluelist 2007 is an annual book capturing the hottest trends, destinations, journeys and experiences for the year ahead, as recommended by Lonely Planet staff, authors, and travellers themselves. The 'favourite destination' list was compiled from a worldwide poll of 32,000 travellers.

Wellington is listed as one of the world's top 10 'Cities on the Rise' and recommended as 'gaining in reputation as a place to be in the southern hemisphere'. Diving the Rainbow Warrior is listed as one of the top ten dive experiences in the world, while tramping the Milford Track is one of the best 'slow travel' adventures in the world.

Mr Hickton says the high ranking is the result of the collective efforts of the New Zealand tourism industry. 'Our industry works very hard to ensure the quality of the tourism experience in New Zealand is as high as possible. This award is another endorsement of this hard work'.

Further information:

Cas Carter
Corporate Communications
Tourism New Zealand
Phone +64 4 917 5410

New Zealand's warmest months: a time for foodies

2007-01-12T17:28:00.000-04:00

New Zealand's summer and autumn months offer a myriad of festivals for culinary enthusiasts showcasing some of the country's best food and wine.

Food and wine festivals throughout New Zealand provide good opportunities to taste regional specialties.

The seventh Organic River Festival promotes sustainable living over a weekend of organic food and wine, entertainment, and workshops on topics such as alternative power sources. The event is held in Levin, just north of Wellington, on 27 and 28 January 2007.

Wellington hosts Pinot Noir 2007 from 29 January - 1 February. The event will see 500 of the world's most influential wine commentators and producers gather for four days of eating, drinking, talking and celebrating New Zealand's top red wine.

For a truly New Zealand experience, the Kawhia Kai Festival on 3 February 2007 offers traditional and modern Maori kai (food) such as shark liver sausages, mutton bird, paua (abalone) and hangi (food cooked in a hot earth oven).

The festival, held in Kawhia on the west coast of the North Island, will also feature kapa haka performances, ta moko (tattoo) demonstrations, music, art, carving and weaving.

Harvest Hawke's Bay is one of New Zealand's largest food and wine celebrations with 25 wineries opening their doors from 3-4 February 2007 to showcase their award winning wines. The 12-year-old festival also features live entertainment and art exhibitions.

Auckland's Waiheke Island Wine Festival will be a day of wine, gourmet food and New Zealand music. Wines will be presented by 18 of Waiheke Island's vineyards on 10 February 2007.
At the top of the South Island, the annual Wine Marlborough Festival will also be on held on 10 February. More than 200 wines from 40 wineries will be showcased, with the opportunity to meet some of New Zealand's leading wine makers during wine tutorials.

For something different, the Hokitika Wildfoods Festival on 10 March 2007 celebrates the West Coast's unique lifestyle, food and hospitality. Festival-goers can sample gourmet 'bush tucker' such as worms, seagull eggs, mako shark, emu meat, whitebait, ostrich meat, octopus, eel and mutton bird.

The Bluff Oyster and Southland Seafood Festival on 21 and 22 April 2007 showcases Southland seafood and wine with the star of the show being the Bluff oyster. The programme also includes oyster shucking and eating competitions, wearable arts competitions, and the Southern Seas Ball.

Top chefs and winemakers from New Zealand and around the world will host culinary classes at Savour New Zealand from 27-29 April 2007. The Christchurch event will also feature a Cuisine Symposium where guest commentators will discuss sustainable agriculture and New Zealand's potential to lead the world in this area.

Top Seven Scenic Cruises of a Lifetime - Holland America

2007-01-12T17:20:00.000-04:00

Some of the most picturesque scenery in the world is reachable only via cruise ship, and Holland America Line continues to offer the most diverse itineraries afloat with spectacular scenic cruising -- from the fjords of Norway to the fall foliage of New England, from the active Kilauea volcano to the mystical glaciers of Antarctica. And though some destinations are reachable from land, there's no more breathtaking or unique perspective than from the sea.

Touching nearly every corner of the globe, Holland America's fleet of 13 ships explores virtually every type of pictorial geographic display imaginable, making the line a pioneer in offering cruises to all seven continents. With a variety of scenic backdrops comes even more varied wildlife, and guests on nearly every cruise can observe animals on land and in the sea, including polar bears, penguins, dolphins and orcas.

"Holland America's ships offer the widest array of cruises with the most impressive landscapes nature has to offer," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs for Holland America Line. "For those who are collectors of sights and sounds, there's nothing more rewarding than a cruise packed with scenery that creates an unforgettable memory."

With hundreds of cruises each year offering ultimate scenic experiences, selecting the right cruise can be overwhelming. To help the novice traveler or the connoisseur looking for something new, Holland America Line has compiled its list of the "Top Seven Scenic Cruises of a Lifetime."

Alaskan Glaciers: Alaska cruises continue to be as popular as ever, not only for their breathtaking views and natural wonders, but also because The Last Frontier state remains a region best viewed from the sea. Holland America Line sails eight ships in the region on varying itineraries to accommodate the high demand. In addition to the calving glaciers of colossal heights that leave spectators in awe, guests are treated to an abundance of wildlife, including soaring eagles, breaching whales, brown bears and roaming caribou.

With more than 100 cruises visiting Glacier Bay National Park annually -- more than any other cruise line -- Holland America Line fills each Alaskan cruise with plenty of visuals for the photo album. The stunning Hubbard Glacier of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park highlights numerous cruises. College Fjord, Tracy Arm and Mendenhall Glacier are featured on the different itineraries, along with calls at popular Alaskan favorites such as Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan.

Antarctica and the Chilean Fjords: A journey that few in the world are fortunate enough to make, guests travel to the ends of civilization in luxury while witnessing the sights and sounds of Antarctica that promise imposing views and once-in-a-lifetime encounters. On select South America itineraries the mysteries and marvels of Antarctica are explored for three days of cruising, including the Neumayer and Lemaire channels, known as "Kodak Gap" for its dramatic scenery. Penguins gliding down icecaps into the sea and island-sized glaciers are ethereal sights that leave visitors in admiration of the secluded continent.

Voyages to the ice-capped fjords of South America treat guests to some of the most impressive scenery in all of travel. Sailing two different itineraries ranging from 16 to 20 days, Holland America Line ships make their way to South America and showcase a dazzling assortment of nature's finest. As albatross soar over the water, guests marvel at the unearthly beauty of the Chilean fjords via the Darwin Channel and Strait of Magellan.

Another 'once- in-a-lifetime' adventure awaits those on the Chilean Fjords sailings -- scenic cruising past historic Cape Horn. Passable at only certain times of the year due to fierce weather conditions, journeying to the Cape remains a milestone in sailing cultures.

Fall Foliage: On fall voyages to New England and eastern Canada, guests will be greeted by the world's ultimate palette of colors with panoramic views of leaves changing from emerald green to hues of ruby, amber and gold. As summer turns to autumn, seven- to 15-day itineraries sail along the East Coast of North America for the unparalled annual display of fall foliage. Each itinerary ensures there is plenty of time to sample some Maine lobster, hunt for antiques and capture the vibrant leaves on film. Scenic cruising along the St. Lawrence River and Saguenay Fjord -- some of the most stunning and marine- rich environments in the world – highlight the sailings.

New Zealand Fiords and Australia: For fiords of a different color, sail throughout New Zealand to the Fiordland National Park via the Dusky, Doubtful and Milford sounds, and explore the verdant hills and snow-sprinkled mountaintops of the region. Sailing on 14- to 18-day itineraries during the summer months of October through February south of the equator, the lush sounds of New Zealand are a photographer's paradise boasting tree-covered peaks and a picturesque backdrop to the warm-weather cruises. Also on these cruises, passengers will experience an amazing view of White Island Volcano - New Zealand's most active volcano -- and its frequent explosive eruptions. The island is home to a large colony of Australian Gannets, and marine life can be seen in the area including whales and dolphins.

Additionally, guests on these cruises will be treated to the cosmopolitan sights of Australia. Often called the most spectacular harbor in the world to enter via a cruise ship, Sydney's famed Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge await guests on deck and evoke the spirit of "G'Day!" Whether a sunrise or sunset approach, the breathtaking view is sure to be a favorite vacation memory.

Kilauea Volcano and Hawaii: Always guaranteed to produce a buzz from passengers, there's no greater natural demonstration than a volcano spewing lava into the night sky. Holland America has three itineraries in Hawaii with evening cruising to show off Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth. Most eruptions are relatively gentle, with red sparks popping and lava flowing from fountains ranging from a few to a few hundred feet. The view from the deck of a Holland America ship allows a closer observation of the fiery eruptions than from land.

The Hawaiian Islands themselves attract visitors from around the globe for their supreme beauty. Obtaining a glimpse of the tropical paradise from the sea allows guests to capture panoramic views and appreciate the flora and fauna on a larger scale. Scenic cruising past the Na Pali coast off Kauai treats onlookers to the vision of unusual rugged cliffs and valleys that end abruptly at the sea. Numerous sea caves, small beaches and high waterfalls add to the beauty and uniqueness of the landscape

Norwegian Fjords: Plying the popular Norwegian fjords route, Holland America Line offers two different itineraries to the Land of the Midnight Sun in Europe's summer months. Cobalt blue glaciers along uninhabited inlets and the imposing beauty of jagged walls of glacier ice surround the ship as it weaves among the vistas and steep cliffs that adorn the coast of Norway. And with 24 hours of sunlight during the summer, guests are treated to late-night scenic cruising around the North Cape, a region known as the "top of the world," with visibility as if it were the afternoon.

Panama Canal: Slicing through the heart of Central America, the Panama
Canal opened in 1914, shaving some 9,000 miles from the trip around Cape Horn. Today, the man-made marvel continues to connect the Atlantic and Pacific oceans -- providing a sight that still leaves those who traverse it in wonder. The path of the canal is lined in a lush jungle canopy, juxtaposed with the machinery of the locks that raises and lowers the ships making the transit possible. With numerous departures during the traditional spring and fall repositioning seasons, as well as both full and partial transits, this special passage continues to be an awe-inspiring favorite.

Both the 2007 and 2008 Holland America sailing schedules offer a variety of cruises to these top seven adventures. The line also offers an assortment of other scenic cruise experiences throughout the world, including the South Pacific, Les Calanques in the South of France, the Cliffs of Dover, Italy's Strait of Messina and Stromboli Volcano, Suez Canal, Cape of Good Hope, the Amazon River, Sierra de la Giganta in the Baja Peninsula and Kuril Islands in Asia.

Whether guests are looking to experience the beauty of nature they've only seen in photos or see firsthand the workings of man-made marvels such as the Panama Canal, Holland America Line features something for everyone. And with on-board programming complementing the itineraries with local naturalists and experts, destination-specific lecturers and live commentary on deck, each unique journey is sure to leave an imprint as the ultimate scenic cruise.

For cruise brochures or for more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit http://www.hollandamerica.com .

Tour De France in London

2007-01-12T13:55:00.000-04:00

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park looks forward to welcoming cycling fans as the biggest annual cycling event in the world, the Tour de France, comes to London for the first time in its 100-year history in July next year. In light of this momentous occasion, the hotel has created an exclusive package, ‘Tour de France 2007’, which includes two nights accommodation in a deluxe Hyde Park room or Park View suite, bicycle hire and a three course meal in-room or in The Park restaurant with expansive views across Hyde Park.

The three day start to the race, known as the ‘Grand Départ’ includes the Opening Ceremony, Prologue and Stage 1. The 8km Prologue – which ascertains cyclists starting position in the Stage 1 lineup – will pass directly in front of Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park along South Carriage Drive.

A much loved home from home for seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park is set to be the preferred residence for cycling fans across the globe. The Park restaurant and luxurious suites offer unrivalled views of Hyde Park and the Prologue route providing the best vantage point in London from which to view both the Caravan Publicitaire and the contenders as they take part in the Grand Départ on Saturday 7 July.

Chelsea blue or pillar box red ‘Classic City Cruiser’ bicycles are included so that guests can get into the Tour de France spirit and pedal through glorious Hyde Park at their leisure, perhaps stopping at a sunny spot to enjoy a luxury picnic hamper pre-arranged with the hotel’s concierge. The hotel’s doormen will be delighted to valet park guest’s bicycles when not in use. The hotel’s concierge can easily arrange chauffeur transfer to any part of the ‘Stage 1’ route on Sunday 8 July, from the opening ceremony in Trafalgar Square to St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London.

The Tour de France 2007 programme is based on two people sharing, priced from GBP1,350 for 2 nights plus VAT and 5% discretionary service charge. This offer is available between 5 July 2007 and 8 July 2007, subject to availability, and includes full English Breakfast on both days, bicycle hire for two people for two days plus helmets and security lock, a three course meal either provided by room service or in The Park restaurant and a bottle of chilled champagne on arrival. For more information on the Tour de France in London, please visit www.tourdefrancelondon.com

10 Great Ways to Celebrate Single-Hood

2007-01-12T13:43:00.000-04:00

Paul Simon's famous song says "there must be fifty ways to leave your lover," but actually lists only lists five. "They say that breaking up is hard to do," sang the Partridge Family, but these B&Bs make Valentine's Day a little easier for jilted lovers and the 89 million single people living in America today.

For a complete list of "Un-Valentines" specials from BedandBreakfast.com member inns, go to www.BedandBreakfast.com and choose Un-Valentine's Day Specials if you're looking for solace for singles, or Valentine's Day Specials if romance is still on the agenda. Links are available right from the home page.

Here are BedandBreakfast.com's ten great ways to celebrate single-hood on Valentine's Day:

1. Best place to say "sayonara" -- Austin Folk House, Austin, TX: Just about every inn has a romance package, but this inn also features an "unromantic" package, better known as "I'm dumping you". This tongue-in-cheek promotion includes everything from "crappy beer" to street vendor roses - all designed to say "I don't care anymore". Info: 866-472-6700 http://austinfolkhouse.com/unromantic.php.

2. Best place to celebrate being single -- Laurel Hill B&B, Atlanta, GA: No need to worry about being single here; there's plenty to do with downtown Atlanta and the entertainment districts of Decatur, Little Five Points, and Virginia Highlands within five miles. Best of all, single rates start at $105 for every room and suite in the inn, some with whirlpool tubs to soak your cares away. Who needs him/her when there are teddy bears to hug and nightlife right out the door? Info: 404-377-3217, www.laurelhillbandb.com.

3. Best place to drown your sorrows -- 1811 House, Manchester, VT: Wander into the 1811 House Pub if you feel the need to forget about him/her, and you'll find one of the most exceptional watering holes along with the widest selection of single malt whiskies in New England and probably the U.S. Those who prefer wine, beer or other spirits will find a full complement of those, too. If innkeeper/owner Bruce Duff is around you'll never be lonely; he'll regale you with stories and entice you with recommendations for the best single malts. Info: 800-432-1811, http://www.1811house.com/pub.html.

4. Best place to forget about him/her -- Avenue Inn B&B, New Orleans: Take advantage of the "Breaking Up is Hard to Do, But I'll Get Over Him" package, where farewell recovery-time is estimated at one fun-filled New Orleans weekend. This package includes three night's accommodations in a quaint room that will accommodate you and a platonic friend in two beds, along with two pints of Ben & Jerry's ice cream and a voodoo doll with permanent marker to indelibly blazon his or her name, pins included. A copy of "He's Just Not That Into You"; best seller by Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillo is also included along with shopping coupons, massages, the Southern Comfort Cocktail tour, and much more make this the perfect way to spend Valentine's Day or another weekend forgetting about your "ex." Info: 800-490-8542, www.avenueinnbb.com.

5. Best place to pamper yourself when (s)he won't -
For gals -- Captain Lindsey House, Rockland, ME: Take advantage of the Girls Only Pamper Weekend, designed to offer the "Valentine-less" something to brag about at the water cooler on Monday. February 9-11, 2007, open the inn's red door and ladies will find pure indulgence from massages to pedicures and chocolates, beer tastings and even take-out food. No boys are allowed, so ladies, grab a girlfriend and forget the lack of romantic boyfriends or husbands in your life. This two-night package includes premier accommodations, breakfasts, choice of massage or facial, pedicure, wine and brew tasting, all topped off with "love on the rocks" -- locally made chocolates. The package starts at $350 per person. Info: 800-523-2145, www.lindseyhouse.com.

For guys - Allaire Timbers Inn, Breckenridge, CO: Come here if you want to make a pass or stay in a room named after one:mountain passes that is. This rugged all-log inn is anything but rustic. Close to Breckenridge's Main Street, fabulous skiing is around the corner by day and hot tubs and river rock fireplaces are here by night. The nightlife of Breckenridge is just a stumble down the hill, offering great options for a guy's getaway. Info: 800-624-4904, www.allairetimbers.com.

6. Best place to get on with your life - The Verandas, Wilmington, NC: Take a four-diamond inn and combine it with spoil-you-rotten hospitality, great restaurants, nightlife within walking distance and nearby beaches, and you have the formula for a satisfying "get on with your life" getaway. From the hand-ironed linens to the garden-sized soaking tubs, this inn offers the perfect respite for the wounded heart. Info: 910-251-2212, www.verandas.com.

7. Best place to throw the ring back -- Casa Laguna Inn & Spa, Laguna Beach, CA: If you're really, really sure it's over forever, pitch the ring into the Pacific. Then, gently renew not only your spirits but your skin with an invigorating Papaya Salt Glow Scrub at the in-house spa. Spend the rest of your getaway healing the heartache with luxurious surroundings, gourmet breakfasts, exquisite scenery, and artful amenities. . Info: 800-233-0449, www.casalaguna.com.

8. Best place to sleep in separate beds -- Boston Yacht Haven, Boston, MA: Located at the end of Commercial Wharf, in the heart of Boston's trendy North End and surrounded by views of Boston's harbor and cityscape, you could be sleeping on the couch (again???) and still be happy. This B&B offers rooms with two queen-size beds, leather couches, big screen TVs and Boston's attractions all within walking distance. Balconied rooms overlook Boston Harbor and the marina surrounding the B&B -- the ideal platonic getaway. Info: 617-523-7352, www.bostonyachthaven.com.

9. Best place to get out of the doghouse if you reconsider - Woodstock Inn, Independence, MO: This B&B is located in Independence, but if you decide you don't want yours, consider this inn's "Honey, I'm Really, Really Sorry" package. Featuring a teddy bear holding your "fill in the blanks" letter of repentance, bubble bath to wash away the regrets in the double whirlpool spa tub, and a CD of songs of love and remorse, plus champagne and more, this two-night package will do just about everything short of holding the olive branch for you, for just under $60 plus the cost of the suite. Info: 800-276-5202, www.independence-missouri.com

10. Best place to get the cold shoulder - Ambrosia House, Key West, FL: If the conversation turns cold, at least the winds will always blow warm in Key West. Privacy is the key to this inn, offering the ideal setting for those needing a little of their own. Suites and cottages with come complete with balconies and private entrances to make a break if you really need some time alone to brood. And when you kiss and make up, the romantic amenities will come in handy too. Info: 305-296-9838, www.ambrosiakeywest.com.

For more Valentine's Day and "Un-Valentine's" Packages, visit www.BedandBreakfast.com, and click on the Search then the Special Packages links or go directly to http://www.bedandbreakfast.com/Specials.aspx?ctx=S. BedandBreakfast.com is the leading online bed and breakfast Internet directory and reservation network, listing over 6,000 B&Bs and inns throughout the United States and internationally. A variety of search functions and extensive maps enable inngoers to find the perfect B&B.

Travelers can make reservations online, purchase gift certificates welcomed at over 3,200 U.S. bed & breakfast inns, subscribe to free newsletters, and post questions on expert-hosted message boards.

BedandBreakfast.com is the exclusive B&B aggregator for Expedia, Inc. and Expedia will serve as BedandBreakfast.com's exclusive online travel agent. See http://www.bedandbreakfast.com/about/press.aspx?year=2006&article=04032006 for details.

Additionally, for information on a range of independently-owned distinctive lodging, visit BedandBreakfast.com's sister site, www.Inns.com.

Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa One Penny Mondays

2007-01-12T11:58:00.000-04:00

What can you get for a penny these days besides a little more jingle in your pocket? How about one night accommodation at one of Whistlers premier destinations, the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa! Stay three nights either side of Monday and get the Monday night for just one penny. Valid for stays between now until April 30, conditions apply.

Need more reasons to book your getaway? How about record snow conditions, 1000 acres of new terrain to explore on Whistler Mountain as well as the multitude of non-ski activities such as sno-limo, ziptrek and sleigh rides on offer.

Enjoy spacious suites with real wood burning fireplaces at Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa, access to Artesia Spa, the Cinnamon Bear Bar & Grille, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, and complimentary “ski valet”.

Sound perfect? Book your getaway at www.hiltonwhistler.com or call Reservations on 1800 515 4050.

About Hilton Hotels

With nearly 500 hotels on six continents, Hilton Hotels continues to be an innovative leader in the full-service hospitality segment and the most recognized name in the industry. Hilton celebrates the accomplishment, enlightenment, renewal and celebration that travel enables. This commitment to personal guest achievement infuses all decisions about products, programs and amenities, and is underscored by the belief that travel can and should be transformative. Each unique Hilton Hotel was designed to reflect the sense of place of its location; each team member chosen to reflect the local culture and community. For more information, please visit www.hilton.com.

New Airline Seat Locator Tool at SeatScorecard.com Shows the Best Place to Sit on Your Next Airline Flight

2007-01-11T17:39:00.000-04:00

SeatScorecards's new Airline Seat Selector Tool and color-coded seating charts include user generated seat reviews combined with researcher comments to easily identify the best and worst seat locations on flights from over 50 major airlines including United Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, British Airways, Continental and Lufthansa.

Cheap airfare doesn't have to mean uncomfortable seats. The Airline Seat Scorecard has unveiled its new interactive airplane seating charts, allowing travelers to easily identify the best and worst seats on most airplanes including locations of laptop ports, video terminals, bathrooms, and galleys which may affect a seat's comfort and are typically not found on airline reservation sites. Travelers who are seeking more airline flight seating information can find the company on-line at www.SeatScorecard.com.

Today SeatScorecard.com announced the release of its new industry leading, color coded seating charts combined with thousands of airline seat comments compiled from user reviews and extensive research. SeatScorecard research is used by thousands of airline travelers each day to assist with seat selections prior to booking their travel on-line at sites such as Orbitz, Travelocity, Expedia and CheapTickets.com

SeatScorecard has released its latest findings of the most popular airplanes researched on-line when searching for airline seating information. Based on site statistics, the company revealed the ten most frequently researched airplane seat maps and seat reviews which include:

British Airways Boeing 777; Virgin Atlantic 747; United Airlines Boeing 777-200; Northwest Airlines 747; Singapore Airlines Boeing 747-400; British Airways Boeing 747-400; United Airlines Boeing 747-400 (747); American Airlines MD-80; Lufthansa Boeing 747-400; American Airlines Boeing 777 - Search Airplanes

The company also announced its new powerful seat comfort search technology. Users to the site can instantly locate the most comfortable airline seats based on over 60 criteria including location, space, class, environment and services. The Airline Seat Scorecard even tells which seats to avoid.

In addition to airline seating charts and seat location ratings the site provides valuable airline information including in-flight services such as food, entertainment, first class and business class details, phone numbers, direct links to important information on the airline's own web site and the airline's profile.

Seat Scorecard's latest research reveals that the most frequently researched airlines of the past six months include:

United Airlines, Delta Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Continental Airlines, Air France, Lufthansa, Virgin Atlantic, Singapore Airlines and US Airways. - Search Airlines

SeatScorecard.com is designed to ensure air travelers get the most out of each and every airplane ticket they book. Cheap flights should not mean airline seat comfort and enjoyment are not priorities. LoveMySeat.com is the first place travelers should turn before booking their airplane tickets when flying on Airbus and Boeing airplanes. LovemySeat.com -- Aiming to Ensure Every Airline Seat Selection is the Perfect One.

Prior to booking their flights, airplane ticket buyers will want to visit the site to check out their seat's Comfort Rating and interactive seat maps so that they will know if their seat selection is above or below average compared to other seats on the airplane. SeatScorecard Comfort Ratings™ include consumer focused, unbiased Seat Comfort Reviews™ for 50,000 airplane seat locations on most major airlines and airplanes including Boeing 747, 757, 767, 777 and Airbus 320, a319, a330, canadair, embraer and fokker aircraft.

To learn about seat maps and seat reviews for your intended airline, visit the company online at www.seatscorecard.com.

About The Airline Seat Scorecard:
Labeled "The Insider's Guide to Seat Selection", The Airline Seat Scorecard locates the most comfortable & worst airline seats locations on most Boeing and Airbus Airplanes, providing At-A-Glance Airline Seat Reviews and Seating Charts. With its unparalleled coverage of over 30,000 seat reviews of more than 300 planes on 70 major airlines, air travelers should refrain from booking even the most enticing cheap tickets or travel deals without first checking out Airplane Seat Comfort Scorecard™ at seatscorecard.com. Airlines covered include both domestic carriers such Jet Blue, United Airlines, Delta, American Airlines, JetBlue Airlines and Southwest Airlines, as well as international carriers such as Air Canada, Quantas, KLM, Singapore, Swiss Air, Malaysian and British Airways. The Seat Comfort Scorecard covers airplanes such as Boeing 747, 737, 777 and Airbus a380, a320 and a319 aircraft.

Think Rentals Launches Florida Vacation Rentals as the Hottest Way to Beat Winters

2007-01-11T17:35:00.000-04:00

With this expansion, Think Rentals now has properties in all 50 states.

Think Rentals (www.thinkrentals.com), a leading rentals company in the US, launches vacation rentals in the ‘Sunshine State’ of Florida. This marks an important landmark in the history of Think Rentals and the rental industry as a whole. With the launch of Florida vacation rental properties, Think Rentals has become the only rental agency in the US having hot spots lined up in all the 50 states.

Coming close to holiday season, the new Florida vacation rentals are aimed to attract people looking for freshness in holidays and escaping extreme wintry weather. The temperate climate of Florida, diverse aquatic life, and some of the World’s best beaches, Florida has much to offer. And Think Rentals plans to make the trip joyful with plush condos, apartments, villas, duplexes, cottages, and cabins lined up to welcome guests

A home away from home; a home away from work, where one can relax after a hectic day at work. That’s the basic idea behind vacation rentals. And Think Rentals has been fast in putting this idea to work. Mel Reveron, of the Operations team at Think Rentals, puts it this way, "There is ample space for the vacationer and his near and dear ones. No outside extractions. Complete with a range of electronic gadgets to make the stay more convenient. And all of this at a price much lower than hotels."

Think Rentals has many such vacation rentals in store, close to desired locations all over the country. While hotels come as a standard package, the good thing about a vacation rental is that there is much to customize. The number of rooms, the amenities, kitchen and dining room, spas, etc can all be added to the package depending on an individual’s requirement and budget.

Think Rentals is planning to soon expand to the other facets of the tourism industry. It has plans of tie ups with tour operators, companies plying tourist buses, airlines etc. Brandon Lusan, who ideated the Florida vacation rentals launch, says, "The idea is to offer individuals a one-stop portal for all his tour related needs. And it will not be long when people can shop for accommodation, air tickets, and shopping accessories, all through us."

Booking for vacation rentals takes place all the year round; what with the excessive demand of vacation rentals. Think Rentals encourages online booking on its website. For the holidayers, there is ample information about a place of their interest on its website, with accurate maps and images of rental homes and places of interest in the vicinity.

Vacation homeowners too can fetch cheap advertisement of their rental homes, condos etc with Think Rentals. They can register their property/properties by paying a nominal fee. This agency directs all queries for rentals to the owners, allowing them to decide the price and other factors. The owner of property is free to revise listing, renew calendar and make additions or deletions to photos of his property at anytime and at no additional cost.

Think rentals is a nationwide rentals hub. For renters looking for a holiday home and for property owners or dealers looking to rent out their property, anywhere in the country, this agency has much to offer.

For more information on how you can get more from your holidays, visit http://www.thinkrentals.com.

Contact:
Justin Adams
Thinkrentals.com Inc
386-689-5796

Hilton Head Island Welcomes the 22nd Annual Winefest 2007

2007-01-11T17:23:00.000-04:00

The East coast's most exquisite public tasting and auction features over 1,500 domestic and international wines, gourmet meals from the island's top chefs and exciting entertainment. Wine tasting and auctions will be held Saturday, March 10, 2007 leaving plenty of time for other great island activities from golf to sun bathing.

The largest outdoor public wine tasting will be take place in picturesque Shelter Cove Community Park and Marina, in Hilton Head. Wine tasting and auctions will be held from 1:00 - 4:00 pm Saturday, March 10, 2007 leaving plenty of time for other great island activities from golf to sun bathing.

The East coast's most exquisite public tasting and auction features over 1,500 domestic and international wines, gourmet meals from the island's top chefs and exciting entertainment. Tickets are $30 each and include admission, a souvenir wine glass, and all wine tasting events. Tickets can be purchased by calling 800-424-3387.

FLY FREE to Almond Resorts in Barbados or St. Lucia

2007-01-11T13:22:00.000-04:00

Stay 5 nights or longer and you get a credit of $500 per person towards your airfare.
Sale ends Feb. 8, 2007, for travel Feb. 1-May 31, 2007

Almond Resorts, the Caribbean's premier all-inclusive chain of resort hotels, has a very tempting sunshine offer this Winter. With bookings of five consecutive night stays or more, Almond Beach Club & Spa, Almond Beach Village and Almond Morgan Bay, are all offering a $500US credit per person, towards airfare. There are various room categories to choose from, ranging from the standard to luxurious beachfront suites. The wonderfully landscaped tropical gardens at all Almond Resorts, border some of the most spectacular beaches in the Caribbean, inviting guests to melt their cares away from the moment they arrive. Attractively designed rooms, activities and amenities to please guests of all ages, and gourmet restaurants offering a choice of cuisines, complete the picture.

To qualify for this FLY FREE offer, all bookings must be made by February 8, 2007. Travel period allowed is February 1-May 31, 2007. Some restrictions apply.

For triple and quad room occupancy, the maximum airfare credit allowed is $1,000 per room.

How this works:
Book and fly any airline of your choice and the resort will give you a rebate on the land portion of your trip.

The Almond Resorts FLY FREE Offer applies to new bookings only and it is not combinable with any other promotion or discount offers.

The all-inclusive hotels offer:

Numerous free water sports such as water skiing, windsurfing, sailing, snorkeling, banana boat rides and reef fishing, with free lessons, if required
State of the art spas with treatments including massages, facials, manicures and hydrotherapy treatments available at a locally payable cost
Tennis facilities and fitness centers
Children's clubs and family entertainment at all hotels except Almond Beach Club & Spa. The Kid's Club concept was pioneered at Almond Beach Village in Barbados and is a standard feature of the company's family friendly resorts
A choice of a la carte restaurants serving fine cuisine and bars offering premium brand named drinks

For more information, please contact your favorite travel provider or Almond Resorts at 1-800-4ALMOND or visit http://www.almondresorts.com.

This Year's Top Caribbean Getaways

2007-01-10T12:11:00.000-04:00

Orbitz Sale Saves Travelers $150 or More on Vacation Packages
'Orbitz Travel Mom' Picks Top Family-Friendly Islands

Strip off the winter jacket, throw down the snow shovel and head south for the winter. Travelers seeking a respite from the icy bite of "Winter 2007" can take advantage of a new Orbitz Winter Getaway Sale and use the Orbitz Insider Index to plan a tropical getaway to one of the most popular islands in the Caribbean.

"Planning a winter getaway for the family can be easy and affordable if you take advantage of winter deals like the Orbitz Winter Getaway Sale," said Heather Leisman, director of merchandising for Orbitz."

Orbitz Winter Getaway Sale
Don't head out this winter without checking out all the deals out there! The Orbitz Winter Getaway Sale gives families the opportunity to save on 4 and 7 night qualifying packages (flight + hotel) to Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean. Whether relaxing on Hapuna Beach in Hawaii or teaching a loved one to snorkel around The Cayman Islands, the Winter Getaway Sale gives you plenty of destination options to beat the winter blues.

Using promo code 150SUNNY
Save $150* off a flight + hotel package of 4 or more nights

Using promo code 300SUNNY
Save $300** off a flight + hotel package of 7 or more nights

To take advantage of the Winter Getaway Sale, packages must be booked between January 8, 2007 and February 4, 2007 and travel must occur between January 8, 2007 and July 31, 2007.

For more information on this sale and how Orbitz can helping your family escape the cold, visit:
http://www.orbitz.com/App/PerformMDLPDealsContent?deal_id=07jan08wintersale&cn t=PRO

Top Caribbean Island Destinations
To help provide travelers with the inside information they need to plan the perfect getaway, Orbitz once again releases the Orbitz Insider Index and taps into its staff of experts for their advice on where to go and what to do in the hot Caribbean.

To determine the most popular Caribbean destinations, the Orbitz Insider Index examines vacation package and hotel bookings on Orbitz.com, indicating significant destination trend information within the data.

2007's top Caribbean Island destinations this winter are:
The Orbitz Insider Index
1. Bahamas
2. Puerto Rico
3. Dominican Republic
4. Jamaica
5. Aruba
6. Virgin Islands (U.S.)
7. Netherlands Antilles
8. Saint Lucia
9. Bermuda
10. Antigua and Barbuda
Based on land-only hotel room and package hotel room sales for checking between 12/1/06 and 3/31/07.
Based on net bookings as of 12/13/06

Top Caribbean Islands for Families
Amid the most popular island destinations, travelers will find some are more suitable for adults, while others provide for a great family experience. It's key to research each island you plan to visit to ensure it suits your expectations for a warm weather getaway.

Orbitz looks to the "Orbitz Travel Mom", Emily Kaufman, for her motherly advice on where to head with your family this winter to ensure everyone will have a good time.

"My picks for an island or beach destination have multiple activities and amenities that suit everyone in your family. Avoid less kid-friendly destinations that cater mainly to adult travelers and look for resorts and hotels are tailored specifically to families," said Emily Kaufman, Orbitz Travel Mom. "The Caribbean has many unique islands that cater to family-focused travel, so you don't have to look far to find an islands that offer something for everyone."

The Orbitz Travel Mom's 2007 Caribbean picks are:

Bermuda (#9 on the Orbitz Insider Index)
Just a quick hop from the East Coast, Bermuda is bursting with family friendly activities. For families that adore animals, there is excitement on land and at sea. Dolphin Quest at the Bermuda Maritime Museum offers year round encounters with playful bottlenose dolphins for vacationers of all ages. For land lovers, Bermuda is home to over 360 unique species of birds and visitors to the Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo can view more than 200 fish, mammals and reptiles. If your family is full of explorers, a visit to the Crystal & Fantasy Caves of Bermuda or the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute will have your entire group viewing crystal stalactites and stalagmites or exhibits that unlock the secrets of the sea.

Orbitz Travel Mom Tip - Bermuda does not allow rental cars, so many people get around via bikes, buses, taxies and mopeds. Mopeds can be fun, but they're not something for the kids. In general, Americans might want to stick to bus and taxi service as the driving environment can be hectic. As a territory of the United Kingdom, Bermudians drive on the opposite side of the road, which can be uncomfortable for U.S. residents.

The Cayman Islands
For the adventurous family, Grand Cayman Island is loaded with water sports and other exhilarating activities. For fun in the ocean, a visit to Seven Mile Beach will immerse everyone in activities such as banana boating, catamaran sailing, ocean kayaking, windsurfing and snorkeling. Boatswain's Beach, also on Grand Cayman Island, is a 23-acre adventure marine park which hosts an enormous turtle farm where visitors can view and even hold these fun four finned animals. For older children looking for additional excitement, a visit to Black Pearl Skate and Surf park is the perfect location for high thrills fun. This skate and surf park includes a 62,000 square foot skate park and a Waveloch Surf Machine which will have kids hanging ten in no time.

Orbitz Travel Mom Tip - Families visiting the Cayman Islands should take advantage of the beautiful underwater scenery located near these islands. Learning to snorkel together as a family is extremely fun. Snorkeling is very easy to learn and exploring the marine environment together makes for great vacation memories. Before diving in, don't forget an underwater camera to capture the memories! And for the kids just learning to swim -- that resort pool is the perfect place to learn to stay afloat with mom and dad!

Puerto Rico (#2 on the Orbitz Insider Index)
Puerto Rico is an island rich in history and natural beauty and there are numerous ways for families to experience both. A unique look at Puerto Rico's history can be found at El Morro. This bluff was used by Spanish and American explorers as a campsite and today there are over 2,000 inscriptions, featuring signatures and messages, as well as Ancestral Puebloan ruins. For a taste of Puerto Rico's natural beauty, visit Rio Camuy Cave Park, home of the third- largest underground river in the world and The El Yunque Rainforest. Well groomed trails lead families 200 feet down through huge beautiful underground caverns at Rio Camuy Cave Park. At El Yunque Rainforest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, families have over 28,000 acres of lush forest to explore.

Orbitz Travel Mom Tip - For families that love great food, dining in San Juan is a taste extravaganza. In San Juan, families can experience everything from French, Greek, Italian, Spanish and Caribbean cuisine. Be sure to check out Old San Juan -- one of the best neighborhoods for food-y families!

Curacao
With an average temperature in the mid 80s and 38 different beaches to explore, Curacao is an ideal place for family relaxation and fun. Curacao has several family beaches, most of which are located along the southwestern coast, where the waters are clear and calm. For families seeking a unique animal experience, a visit to the Curacao Ostrich Farm can be great fun. One of the biggest outside of Africa, the farm has over 600 birds and does allow individuals to feed and hold baby ostriches. If interacting with animals is not your family's cup of tea, visit the city of Willemstad for great shopping, dinning and a look at some unique Dutch architecture. As a former Dutch commercial center, this is a great location to view Amsterdam style buildings as you stroll throughout this vibrant city of more than 125,000 people.

Orbitz Travel Mom Tip - Some of the beaches in Curacao do charge a fee which may or may not include a beach chair. Before heading down to the sand, check with the hotel concierge to find out if you should bring cash with you.

Castaway Cay, Bahamas
The ultimate family-friend island, Castaway Cay is Disney's private island for moms, dads and kids. For kids and teens, it's Never Land; for adults, it's Shangri-La. Step off the ship and you know, instantly, you've arrived at a magical place. Be as active as you want -- with hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and an aquatic playground -- or simply find your place
under the sun in Serenity Bay, the island's adult-only beach area.

Orbitz Travel Mom Trip - Only aboard a Disney Cruise Line vacation can guests indulge in a day-long visit to Castaway Cay. Cruising itself is a great way to spend a winter weekend away with the family, so check out family- friendly cruises to take you to on an island hopping adventure.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

*Promo code: 150SUNNY
Book a qualifying Caribbean, Mexico, or Hawaii flight + hotel package-- indicated by a coupon icon -- between January 8, 2007, and February 4, 2007, for 4 or more nights for travel between January 8, 2007, and July 31, 2007, via Orbitz ("Qualifying Purchase") and instantly receive $150 off your purchase on Orbitz through the use of the promotion code ("Instant Discount"). Only Qualifying Purchases made through February 4, 2007, by 11:59 p.m. CT shall qualify for the Instant Discount. Travel must be completed by July 31, 2007. Only one Instant Discount allowed per hotel room. Instant Discounts are not redeemable for cash for any reason. Once Instant Discount has been redeemed, it may not be returned or refunded for any reason. Any attempt at fraud will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Void where prohibited, taxed or restricted. Orbitz reserves the right to change or limit the promotion in its sole discretion. In the event of any violation of these terms and conditions, Orbitz reserves the right to not honor the Instant Discount, cancel your reservation, and pursue other remedies.

**Promo code: 300SUNNY
Book a qualifying Caribbean, Mexico, or Hawaii flight + hotel package-- indicated by a coupon icon -- between January 8, 2007, and February 4, 2007, for 7 or more nights for travel between January 8, 2007, and July 31, 2007, via Orbitz ("Qualifying Purchase") and instantly receive $300 off your purchase on Orbitz through the use of the promotion code ("Instant Discount"). Only Qualifying Purchases made through February 4, 2007, by 11:59 p.m. CT shall qualify for the Instant Discount. Travel must be completed by July 31, 2007. Only one Instant Discount allowed per hotel room. Instant Discounts are not redeemable for cash for any reason. Once Instant Discount has been redeemed, it may not be returned or refunded for any reason. Any attempt at fraud will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Void where prohibited, taxed or restricted. Orbitz reserves the right to change or limit the promotion in its sole discretion. In the event of any violation of these terms and conditions, Orbitz reserves the right to not honor the Instant Discount, cancel your reservation, and pursue other remedies.

Once in a Lifetime Golf Experience; Renowned Golf Instructor Tim Mahoney at La Cantera for Signature Golf Series

2007-01-10T12:01:00.000-04:00

The Westin La Cantera Resort launches the Signature Golf Series with top golf instructor Tim Mahoney. Mahoney, a Golf Digest "Top 100 Instructor" will provide two days of one on one instruction. The first day will start at The Academy at La Cantera, the resort's state of the art instructional academy. Day two takes the instruction out on to the golf course.

The first of the resort's Signature Golf Series will be held February 18 to 20, and includes two night accommodations in a deluxe Casita guestroom in the newly renovated Casita Village, two days of one on one instruction with renowned golf instructor Tim Mahoney, welcome reception on the evening of arrival, breakfast and lunch each day, select golf amenity, airport transportation and closing ceremony. The complete package costs $1,839.40 for single occupancy or $3188.44 for double occupancy (price includes all taxes, gratuities and fees). To reserve a spot at this unique golf experience visit http://www.westin.com/lacantera or call (210) 558-6500.

The resort, a Golf Digest "Top 75 Course" for 2006, provides two 18-hole championship courses. The Resort Course at La Cantera is a 7,001-yard, par-72 course, and is home each year to the PGA Tour's Valero Texas Open at La Cantera. The spectacular 6,926-yard, par-71 Palmer Course at La Cantera, designed by Arnold Palmer, is dramatically situated over 250 acres and the Academy at La Cantera, is a state-of-the-art facility offering a wide range of individual and group instructional programs.

Have baby will travel.....

2007-01-07T10:51:00.000-04:00

With restricted luggage allowances these days, travelling with a young baby with all the equipment needed for a family holiday can be a bit of a nightmare. Sovereign, together with a company called Tiny Tots have therefore joined forces to ease that burden.

Sovereign, an established family tour operator are introducing for 2007 the services of Tiny Tots (www.tinytotsaway.com/sovereign) a company who provide everything you may need for your baby on holiday. From nappies to your favourite organic baby foods Tiny Tots will supply the items and transport them to your chosen holiday resort to coincide with your arrival.

The price of the service, which is now available when you book a 2007 Sovereign Family holiday, starts from £70 for a 12kg parcel for holidays to Europe. The items are then charged in 12 kg increments thereafter depending on your chosen destination. An additional 5% discount is also offered by Tiny Tots to all Sovereign guests who use their service.

Commenting on the new service Emma Nicol, Head of Product for Sovereign said, “ With no luggage allowance for children under 2 years old, some families do find it increasingly difficult to take away everything they need and therefore spend a lot of their time on holiday shopping for essential items which defeats the objective of being away. Therefore when Tiny Tots approached Sovereign it seemed a perfect solution to offer as an additional service and we anticipate that it will be a very popular with the many young families that travel with us”.

All prices for individual items can be found on the Tiny Tots web site (www.tinytotsaway.com/sovereign) and charges are made on the weight of the products ordered and the destination they are travelling to. Any amount of items can be ordered including well-known brands such as Pampers or Huggies nappies plus their best seller – pre sterilised bottles so no need to sterilise bottles whilst on holiday!

All service charges include Tiny Tots shopping for the items, secure packing, delivery to the resort address and include VAT and any duties and taxes due.

The easy to use Tiny Tots web site allows you to enter the country of destination, date and time of your arrival and then once you have clicked on the ‘service charges’ button it will calculate the cost for you.

Sandra Smith, Managing Director and founder of Tiny Tots said, “ We are thrilled to be associated with Sovereign particularly as they are so strong in the family market. We hear from so many of our clients that they can pay up to 2 euros each for a jar of baby food in some resorts! Sovereign are our first major tour operator to promote our service and we are very excited about working with them.”

Details can be found in Sovereign’s Summer Sunshine and Family Selection brochures for 2007 alternatively you can call 0870 366 1626 or visit www.sovereign.com

www.BnBFinder.com chooses 10 affordable B&B getaway packages for winter fun on and off the slopes.

2007-01-06T14:20:00.000-04:00

New York, NY (PRWEB) January 3, 2007 -- Snow white mountains, crisp air, bright blue skies - nothing beats a day of snow filled fun and nothing can beat these winter getaway packages from bed and breakfast inns. The leading bed and breakfast directory, BnBfinder.com has chosen winter fun packages for great winter getaways. So, show off those hats and gloves, strap on the snow shoes and wake up someplace special for a winter fun getaway.

Mont Rest Bed & Breakfast, Bellevue, IA
Winter Ski Package
Your Mont Rest Winter Ski Package includes a stay in a deluxe room plus free lift tickets at Chestnut Mountain in Galena, Illinois or Sundown Ski resort in Dubuque, Iowa. Two-night, three-day ski packages start at just $200 per person based on double occupancy (includes one day lift ticket at an area ski resort). Cross country skiing is also available. (From 09/30/2005 through 12/30/2006)
For more info: (877) 872-4220 or www.BnBFinder.com/MontRest.

Admiral Peary House, Fryeburg, ME
Mid-Week Ski Deals
Take advantage of low rates and un-crowded slopes during weekdays this winter. Enjoy lodging in one of the inn's comfortable rooms, read the latest snow reports over breakfast, then choose between an all-day lift pass to one of the valley's 7 super ski areas or a trail pass, lesson and rental at one of the 6 beautiful Nordic centers. One and two night packages start at just $93.50 per person, based on double occupancy and excluding tax. Not valid 02/18/2007 through 02/22/2007. (From 01/02/2007 through 03/31/2007)
For more info: (877) 423-6779 or www.BnBFinder.com/AdmiralPearyHouse.

The Terrace Inn, Petoskey, MI
Dog Sledding Weekend
Be adventurous and drive your own sled team! Enjoy 2 nights lodging and breakfast daily. Chat by the fire on Friday with appetizers and watch a video and demo by the dog sledding instructor. You'll drive your own team on Saturday and then enjoy hot chocolate and a fabulous dinner on Saturday night. You can choose skijoring instead if you can ski! Package is $339, plus tax, based on double occupancy. (From 01/05/2007 through 01/07/2007 and 03/02/2007 through 03/03/2007)
For more info: (800) 530-9898 or www.BnBFinder.com/TerraceInn.

Glynn House Inn, Ashland, NH
Sleigh Ride, Ski and Snowmobile Getaways
Experience one (or more!) time honored New England traditions. Your getaway includes luxury accommodations, gourmet breakfast and early evening wine and hors d'oeuvres. Choose from a sleigh ride pass for two for $25, 2 two-day adult ski lift passes for $140 or a half-day snowmobile rental for $140. Or, choose all three for a complete winter fun experience. (From 11/01/06 through 10/31/2007)
For more info: (866) 686-4362 or www.BnBFinder.com/GlynnHouseInn.

Rosewood Country Inn, Bradford, NH
Moonlight Snow Shoe Weekend
Strap on your snow shoes and go out into the moonlight. With mountain-wise guides to lead you, get ready for some winter fun, knowing there's a cozy fire to return to at evening's end. The weekend includes two nights lodging, hearty country breakfasts, Saturday evening hors d'oeuvres and a fireside supper. Guided tour and dinner package is an additional $39 per person above room rate. (From 01/05/2007 through 01/07/2007, 02/02/2007 through 02/04/2007, 03/02/2007 through 03/04/2007)
For more info: (800) 938-5273 or www.BnBFinder.com/RosewoodCountry.

Columbine Inn & Conference Center, Taos Ski Valley, NM
Learn to Ski
If this is your year to learn how to ski, Columbine Inn has the package for you. This New Mexico inn is offering a Learn-To-Ski package that is inexpensive and easy. The package includes lodging, lift tickets, ski lessons, ski rentals, and breakfast. Packages start at just $300 per person, based on double occupancy, excluding taxes and fees. (From 01/03/2007 through 03/03/2007)
For more info: (888) 884-5723 or www.BnBFinder.com/ColumbineInn.

The Inn at Starlight Lake, Starlight, PA
Ski and Stay
Your ski and stay getaway to the Pocono Mountains includes accommodations in a room with a private bath, full breakfast each morning, ski lift tickets, and a dinner coupon good for up to $25.00 per person for each night in our dining room. All taxes and gratuities included. Mid week from $109 and weekends from $159. Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. (From 12/10/2006 through 03/20/2007)
For more info: (800) 248-2519 or www.BnBFinder.com/InnatStarlight.

Washington School Inn, Park City, UT
Spring Skiing Special
Book a reservation between March 26 and April 10 and receive 10% off your stay. This historic and elegant inn will be the perfect place for you and your loved one to spend your ski vacation. Indulge yourself in luxury by reserving one of the beautiful, spacious King suites complete with a romantic fireplace to cuddle in front of. (From 03/26/2007 through 04/10/2007)
For more info: (800) 824-1672 or www.BnBFinder.com/WashingtonSchool.

The Mountain Top Inn & Resort, Chittenden, VT
Endless Winter Adventures
This 3-night package starts at $925, based on double occupancy and includes: 3 nights lodging in a Classic Lodge Room, a hearty Vermont breakfast each morning, a 30 minute snowmobile tour, 30 minute dog sled ride, rental equipment for one full day of Nordic skiing and/or snowshoeing, a horse drawn sleigh ride, ice skate rentals (one hour), cross country ski passes for the three days (80km of trails), and unlimited sledding. Tax and resort charges included. Please call for availability. (From 12/01/2006 through 03/31/2007)
For more info: (800) 445-2100 or www.BnBFinder.com/MountainTop.

Lost Mountain Lodge, Sequim, WA
Après Ski Getaway
Try a great alternative to downhill skiing and snowboarding with a two-hour guided snowshoe walk. The package includes snowshoe rentals with every weekend stay plus a delightful Après-ski fondue served fireside in your suite. Enjoy breakfast each morning, wine and hors d'oeuvres in the evening and cider after a long day of winter fun. Linger in the hydrotherapy spa under the stars after an invigorating day! All this is included for $495 per couple (not including taxes and gratuities). (From 01/06/2007 through 03/30/2007)
For more info: (888) 683-2431 or www.BnBFinder.com/LostMountainLodge.

Established in 1998, BnBFinder.com is a top-rated bed and breakfast directory with thousands of bed and breakfast and inn listings worldwide. Millions of B&B guests find the perfect inn by searching more than 130 categories such as price, amenities, location, local activities and attractions. A free monthly newsletter is sent to over 6,000 subscribers. BnBFinder is proud to have issued and redeemed thousands of B&B Gift Certificates. BnBFinder.com was the first B&B directory to offer RSS feeds, to be downloadable to Palm Pilots and other mobile devices, to publish a BLOG, to offer extensive advanced search and save features and continues to be a leader in providing interesting content using the latest technology.