South Lake Tahoe vacation rentals are particularly in demand with those folks who crave the excitement of being near the variety of entertainment choices and the abundance of recreational facilities for which the area is well known. Here at South Lake Tahoe you have your choice of world class hotels with all the amenities, beautiful houses for rent, condos, cabins, apartments and the smaller, less crowded facilities popularly known as boutique resorts.
Usually situated on or near the beach, these mini resorts cater fully to their customers' needs. From almost anywhere in South Lake Tahoe you are within walking distance of world class night life, shopping and dining, recreational choices to satisfy anyone's desires and they usually have their own private beaches to enjoy the crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe undisturbed by other visitors to the area. Relax, enjoy, sip marguerites, soak up the sun, have an elegant lunch at a lakeside café. Then, later on, shower and dress for the evening and in a mere few minutes you're in an elegant casino, or a four star restaurant or being seated in front of one of your favorite performers. South Lake Tahoe has everything to offer close at hand for those who want to experience everything.
South Lake Tahoe boasts over 3,000 hotel rooms ranging from moderate to superior with prices a lot less than you'd expect to pay for such luxury. And that doesn't take into account the abundance of activities in the immediate area. In the summer time, the area comes alive with water sports of all kinds, hiking tours through the woods, bicycling either alone or in groups, hot air ballooning over the lake or over the mountains, and beautiful championship golf courses designed by some of the most prestigious golf pros. In the winter time, the snow capped mountains provide multi-level skiing both day and night, snowboarding, ice skating and sleigh rides all mixed with that small-town atmosphere that gives the area its
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Unforgettable White Mountains Vacations – The Most Scenic 10
This amazing drive through the White Mountains of New Hampshire has a gorgeous vista at every turn, oodles and oodles of family vacation fun, and a visit to the home of the world wind speed record. Just keep reading to discover a remarkable trip on your White Mountains vacation.
The White Mountain National Forest is about a 4-hour drive north of Boston, Massachusetts. Deep in New Hampshire, the mountains are part of the Appalachian Mountain system that covers the Eastern United States. Within the forest park is the White Mountains Trail, and it’s a drive that’s arguably the most scenic 100 miles in New England. And so you’re in for a real treat. Let’s get started…
White Mountain National Forest Visitor Center…
Most people begin the drive from the White Mountains Visitor Center in North Woodstock on route 112 and head out on route 3N to the Franconia Notch area.
If you’re traveling with kids then you’ll want to pencil dates back in this area at the Clark’s Trading Post, and The Whale’s Tale attractions -- both in Lincoln on route 3N. At Clark’s you can see Bears, ride a steam train, climb towers, and generally keep the young ones happy. The Whale’s Tale is a water park with a wave pool, picnic areas, changing areas, and live entertainment.
Back on the road head north towards Franconia Notch. This is a good stretch of road to have your camera at the ready. I can’t list all the stops you can make, but I’ll mention just two of my favorites in this area of the White Mountains.
The Flume Gorge was formed over 200 million years ago when the White Mountains were molten rock. It just so happens in this area when it cooled quickly, softer material was forced into the fractures that formed. These fractures wore down with natural erosion much quicker that the surrounding granite rock -- leaving the gorge. And so now you get to enjoy a geological wonder at the base of beautiful Mount Liberty.
The Gorge has a visitor center where your tour starts and ends. And don’t forget to check out the covered bridge which crosses the Pemigewasset River -- it’s one of the oldest on the White Mountains Trail.
The famous attraction you can’t see anymore…
You’re probably thinking why would I mention something you can’t see anymore? Well, the truth is... you can see some of it… but you’ll have to imagine the rest.
The Old Man of the Mountain was a jagged rock profile formed over 10,000 years ago during the last Ice Age.
On May 3, 2003, admirers of the White Mountains region around the world were devastated, when this world famous monument to nature crumbled and crashed to the bottom of Cannon Mountain. How could this be everybody asked? Aren’t rocks and mountains... forever? Well, this incident proves they aren’t. Despite years of gargantuan efforts by many people to preserve it, centuries of the harsh winter climate found in the White Mountains, finally took its toll. It’s worth a stop as you journey on the White Mountains Trail to look and wonder at what once was. To me it’s a reminder that nature doesn’t play favorites.
Continue to head north on Route 3 until it joins Route 302 and follow 302 towards Bretton Woods. Here the mountains get taller and taller until eventually you see the grand daddy of them all -- Mount Washington at 6,288 feet.
The Roof of the White Mountain National Forest…
Depending on time available, you’ve got four options for experiencing this gift in the White Mountain National Forest. Just stare -- hey, there’s nothing wrong with that. Take the Cog Railway train ride to the top. Drive the auto road to the summit -- the quickest way. And of course you can hike if you’re well prepared. But just promise me you won't hike to the top unless you are in great condition and with somebody. This mountain claims lives every year as conditions in this area can deteriorate dramatically within minutes.
Is it worth getting to the summit?
All I’ll say here is… the view is stunning. Visit the museum at the top and learn about the day in 1934 when the highest wind speed ever recorded on earth was taken -- 231 MPH. You’ll learn why its unique geographic position provides the mountain with the worst weather on earth.
Now get back onto Route 302 and head south to the town of North Conway.
The North Conway Scenic Area…
Schedule enough time to take the scenic train, which you board in North Conway. The station is an authentic Victorian style -- it's hard to miss and smack in the town center.
The train rides are ambles and chugs along the scenic valleys and notches in the surrounding area. And as you wind through the rolling Mount Washington valley and squeeze through the notches under the gentle clatter of steel against steel, consider this was once the main form of transportation to the area, from Boston. Most of the trains they run are diesel locomotives now, but on special weekends and during fall they use their popular steam locomotive.
The valley train is a 55-minute roundtrip, and the Notch train is 5 hours. Both have a first-class car if you want to have a different experience. The notch train has a dome car as well, where you get magnificent views of the steep ravines and sheer bluffs. I’m not sure my kids have the patience for a 5-hour train ride so we’ve always taken the shorter excursion. But as I love trains -- especially steam trains -- one day…
The trains usually run from mid-June until mid-October. These scenic trains are very popular throughout the season and they accept advanced reservations for the Notch train and dinning cars on both trains.
This area of the White Mountains is full of shopping outlets, and also has plenty for the kids to do. Story Land and Heritage-New Hampshire, are right next to each other on route 16 in Glen. You and the kids will enjoy themed rides, live shows, play areas, and meeting storyboard characters.
The Kancamagus Highway…
Let’s finish up our White Mountains Trail tour by joining back up with route 112 at Conway and driving back to the White Mountain National Forest Visitor Center.
This part of the trail is known as the Kancamagus highway. There are just numerous photo shoot opportunities along this highway. In fact, your challenge is having enough daylight left in this trip so you can take pictures.
But you can always come back tomorrow, right? No prizes for doing and seeing everything in one day. You are booking your White Mountains vacation for at least a week... aren’t you?
The White Mountain National Forest is about a 4-hour drive north of Boston, Massachusetts. Deep in New Hampshire, the mountains are part of the Appalachian Mountain system that covers the Eastern United States. Within the forest park is the White Mountains Trail, and it’s a drive that’s arguably the most scenic 100 miles in New England. And so you’re in for a real treat. Let’s get started…
White Mountain National Forest Visitor Center…
Most people begin the drive from the White Mountains Visitor Center in North Woodstock on route 112 and head out on route 3N to the Franconia Notch area.
If you’re traveling with kids then you’ll want to pencil dates back in this area at the Clark’s Trading Post, and The Whale’s Tale attractions -- both in Lincoln on route 3N. At Clark’s you can see Bears, ride a steam train, climb towers, and generally keep the young ones happy. The Whale’s Tale is a water park with a wave pool, picnic areas, changing areas, and live entertainment.
Back on the road head north towards Franconia Notch. This is a good stretch of road to have your camera at the ready. I can’t list all the stops you can make, but I’ll mention just two of my favorites in this area of the White Mountains.
The Flume Gorge was formed over 200 million years ago when the White Mountains were molten rock. It just so happens in this area when it cooled quickly, softer material was forced into the fractures that formed. These fractures wore down with natural erosion much quicker that the surrounding granite rock -- leaving the gorge. And so now you get to enjoy a geological wonder at the base of beautiful Mount Liberty.
The Gorge has a visitor center where your tour starts and ends. And don’t forget to check out the covered bridge which crosses the Pemigewasset River -- it’s one of the oldest on the White Mountains Trail.
The famous attraction you can’t see anymore…
You’re probably thinking why would I mention something you can’t see anymore? Well, the truth is... you can see some of it… but you’ll have to imagine the rest.
The Old Man of the Mountain was a jagged rock profile formed over 10,000 years ago during the last Ice Age.
On May 3, 2003, admirers of the White Mountains region around the world were devastated, when this world famous monument to nature crumbled and crashed to the bottom of Cannon Mountain. How could this be everybody asked? Aren’t rocks and mountains... forever? Well, this incident proves they aren’t. Despite years of gargantuan efforts by many people to preserve it, centuries of the harsh winter climate found in the White Mountains, finally took its toll. It’s worth a stop as you journey on the White Mountains Trail to look and wonder at what once was. To me it’s a reminder that nature doesn’t play favorites.
Continue to head north on Route 3 until it joins Route 302 and follow 302 towards Bretton Woods. Here the mountains get taller and taller until eventually you see the grand daddy of them all -- Mount Washington at 6,288 feet.
The Roof of the White Mountain National Forest…
Depending on time available, you’ve got four options for experiencing this gift in the White Mountain National Forest. Just stare -- hey, there’s nothing wrong with that. Take the Cog Railway train ride to the top. Drive the auto road to the summit -- the quickest way. And of course you can hike if you’re well prepared. But just promise me you won't hike to the top unless you are in great condition and with somebody. This mountain claims lives every year as conditions in this area can deteriorate dramatically within minutes.
Is it worth getting to the summit?
All I’ll say here is… the view is stunning. Visit the museum at the top and learn about the day in 1934 when the highest wind speed ever recorded on earth was taken -- 231 MPH. You’ll learn why its unique geographic position provides the mountain with the worst weather on earth.
Now get back onto Route 302 and head south to the town of North Conway.
The North Conway Scenic Area…
Schedule enough time to take the scenic train, which you board in North Conway. The station is an authentic Victorian style -- it's hard to miss and smack in the town center.
The train rides are ambles and chugs along the scenic valleys and notches in the surrounding area. And as you wind through the rolling Mount Washington valley and squeeze through the notches under the gentle clatter of steel against steel, consider this was once the main form of transportation to the area, from Boston. Most of the trains they run are diesel locomotives now, but on special weekends and during fall they use their popular steam locomotive.
The valley train is a 55-minute roundtrip, and the Notch train is 5 hours. Both have a first-class car if you want to have a different experience. The notch train has a dome car as well, where you get magnificent views of the steep ravines and sheer bluffs. I’m not sure my kids have the patience for a 5-hour train ride so we’ve always taken the shorter excursion. But as I love trains -- especially steam trains -- one day…
The trains usually run from mid-June until mid-October. These scenic trains are very popular throughout the season and they accept advanced reservations for the Notch train and dinning cars on both trains.
This area of the White Mountains is full of shopping outlets, and also has plenty for the kids to do. Story Land and Heritage-New Hampshire, are right next to each other on route 16 in Glen. You and the kids will enjoy themed rides, live shows, play areas, and meeting storyboard characters.
The Kancamagus Highway…
Let’s finish up our White Mountains Trail tour by joining back up with route 112 at Conway and driving back to the White Mountain National Forest Visitor Center.
This part of the trail is known as the Kancamagus highway. There are just numerous photo shoot opportunities along this highway. In fact, your challenge is having enough daylight left in this trip so you can take pictures.
But you can always come back tomorrow, right? No prizes for doing and seeing everything in one day. You are booking your White Mountains vacation for at least a week... aren’t you?
European Vacation
A European vacation with your family is one of the most exciting and educational things you can do together. Train travel allows you to see the beautiful countryside in detail, and you can do it at a great discount.
A European vacation has so much to offer, you will have to decide ahead of time what kind of vacation you want. You can travel from Madrid to Paris, then Rome, trying to see all the sights along the way as you rush by. This can be fun because you are seeing and doing so much, there is no way to be bored, and you will remember the trip forever. The downside is that you don't get to feel as much of the local culture and lifestyle when you are rushing through. Spending some of your European vacation in the same place and getting to know some of the locals can be much more satisfying and relaxing.
It all depends on your personality and what you are looking for in a vacation. A lot of people like to travel by train for their vacation so that they can see more areas, getting great pictures, and they will be able to say they have seen all of those famous landmarks. Some people would rather pick a place and spend the whole time there, really soaking in the atmosphere with their family and getting to know the customs.
Some of you may prefer to combine the two options for a European vacation that I have described above. Pick a city, like Madrid for example. Fly into Madrid, get a nice hotel, and stay there for about a week. There are many beautiful monuments and sights to see, and you can walk around downtown and see them up close and personal. You can eat at some local restaurants, take short day trips to see other areas of the city, and come back to your hotel in the evening.
When your week is up, you can travel by train to continue your European vacation in the sunny southern province of Andalucia. This area of Spain has beaches on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The weather is hot and sunny from spring through the fall, and the climate is dry. The beaches are fine, white sand and amazing blue water. Tourists from all over the world, and especially from the rest of Europe, fill these beaches every summer. Take at least a week and find a hotel or villa near the beach. You can spend every day at the beach working on your tan, relaxing in the warm sun, and swimming in the crystal blue waters. The seafood is spectacular in southern Spain, and you will have no problem finding great restaurants with mouth-watering food at great prices. If you like to go out at night, there are more bars and nightclubs than you can possibly visit. You can be sure that you can stay out dancing as long as you want to.
When you are done relaxing in a sunny beach town, you can fly or travel by train to vacation in Paris for a week. There are all kinds of historic sites and museums to see. You can walk or take a bus around to see all of the areas of the city, enjoy French restaurants, and soak in the culture. When you are all done, you can fly home again, knowing that you saw a vast amount of historic and cultural sites, beautiful countryside, and had a great time at the beach relaxing. A little bit of everything, to make your European Vacation complete.
A European vacation has so much to offer, you will have to decide ahead of time what kind of vacation you want. You can travel from Madrid to Paris, then Rome, trying to see all the sights along the way as you rush by. This can be fun because you are seeing and doing so much, there is no way to be bored, and you will remember the trip forever. The downside is that you don't get to feel as much of the local culture and lifestyle when you are rushing through. Spending some of your European vacation in the same place and getting to know some of the locals can be much more satisfying and relaxing.
It all depends on your personality and what you are looking for in a vacation. A lot of people like to travel by train for their vacation so that they can see more areas, getting great pictures, and they will be able to say they have seen all of those famous landmarks. Some people would rather pick a place and spend the whole time there, really soaking in the atmosphere with their family and getting to know the customs.
Some of you may prefer to combine the two options for a European vacation that I have described above. Pick a city, like Madrid for example. Fly into Madrid, get a nice hotel, and stay there for about a week. There are many beautiful monuments and sights to see, and you can walk around downtown and see them up close and personal. You can eat at some local restaurants, take short day trips to see other areas of the city, and come back to your hotel in the evening.
When your week is up, you can travel by train to continue your European vacation in the sunny southern province of Andalucia. This area of Spain has beaches on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The weather is hot and sunny from spring through the fall, and the climate is dry. The beaches are fine, white sand and amazing blue water. Tourists from all over the world, and especially from the rest of Europe, fill these beaches every summer. Take at least a week and find a hotel or villa near the beach. You can spend every day at the beach working on your tan, relaxing in the warm sun, and swimming in the crystal blue waters. The seafood is spectacular in southern Spain, and you will have no problem finding great restaurants with mouth-watering food at great prices. If you like to go out at night, there are more bars and nightclubs than you can possibly visit. You can be sure that you can stay out dancing as long as you want to.
When you are done relaxing in a sunny beach town, you can fly or travel by train to vacation in Paris for a week. There are all kinds of historic sites and museums to see. You can walk or take a bus around to see all of the areas of the city, enjoy French restaurants, and soak in the culture. When you are all done, you can fly home again, knowing that you saw a vast amount of historic and cultural sites, beautiful countryside, and had a great time at the beach relaxing. A little bit of everything, to make your European Vacation complete.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Alaska Cruise Ship Vacations
Alaska is one of the world's great cruise destinations, particularly for those with an interest in world class fishing. Alaska is arguably the most beautiful of the American states, and cruise ships offer a unique way of seeing Alaska's beauty. In addition, Alaskan cruises yield an abundance of opportunities for anglers. The combination of these attractions makes Alaska the ultimate cruise destination for many.Cruising in Alaska is mostly seasonal, with the primary months running from May through September. The prices in May and September are generally a bit cheaper since these months are at the edges of acceptable climate conditions.There are many things to see and do on Alaska cruises. Glacier Bay is one of the most popular destinations for cruise ships in Alaska. Glacier Bay is abundant in wildlife, and you are likely to see seals, Dall sheep, bears, and perhaps even Humpback whales. Trolling around in a massive ship through iceberg infested waters to see some of the most majestic views of glaciers and arctic scenery in the world is a thrill that should not be missed. Misty Fjords is another great destination for Alaska cruises. The majestic tree covered mountains, trickling waterfalls and unique climactic conditions make this a must see destination. In addition to seeing the beautiful fjords from the cruise ship, excursions include the ability to take a float plane to a remote wilderness lake to truly appreciate the remote Alaskan wilderness.Besides spectacular scenery in remote places like Glacier Bay, and Misty Fjords, Alaska cruises allow tourists to see many of Alaska's ports of call such as Juneau, Anchorage and Ketchikan. Further, areas like Sitka teach the vacationers more about native Alaska inhabitants and the wilderness in which they live.In addition to the unique opportunities an Alaskan cruise provides, the world class fishing in Alaska must be experienced by all serious anglers. You can take sport fishing excursions in places like Anchorage (on the Kenai River), Seward, Ketchikan and Juneau. Fishing for Halibut, Salmon, Trout, Char, Pike, and many other species are available in the off shore excursions. Best of all, these fishing excursions occur out of ports where there is plenty to do for those who aren't interested in the fishing.Cruising in Alaska is a unique experience that offers joys not found in any other type of cruise vacation. Unlike typical tropical cruises where much time is spent in open water between occasional stops at tropical islands, cruising in Alaska takes tourists to some of the most spectacular and remote corners of the world where nature's spectacular and awesome beauty is on full display. Cruises in Alaska allow vacationers to learn about native cultures that have inhabited the region for thousands of years. They show the beauty of the untamed wilderness that Alaska remains. And they allow for world class fishing on trips that aren't focused solely on the angler. Because of all these benefits, cruising in Alaska offers a far more varied, unique and awe inspiring vacation than more typical cruise destinations.
European Vacation
A European vacation with your family is one of the most exciting and educational things you can do together. Train travel allows you to see the beautiful countryside in detail, and you can do it at a great discount.
A European vacation has so much to offer, you will have to decide ahead of time what kind of vacation you want. You can travel from Madrid to Paris, then Rome, trying to see all the sights along the way as you rush by. This can be fun because you are seeing and doing so much, there is no way to be bored, and you will remember the trip forever. The downside is that you don't get to feel as much of the local culture and lifestyle when you are rushing through. Spending some of your European vacation in the same place and getting to know some of the locals can be much more satisfying and relaxing.
It all depends on your personality and what you are looking for in a vacation. A lot of people like to travel by train for their vacation so that they can see more areas, getting great pictures, and they will be able to say they have seen all of those famous landmarks. Some people would rather pick a place and spend the whole time there, really soaking in the atmosphere with their family and getting to know the customs.
Some of you may prefer to combine the two options for a European vacation that I have described above. Pick a city, like Madrid for example. Fly into Madrid, get a nice hotel, and stay there for about a week. There are many beautiful monuments and sights to see, and you can walk around downtown and see them up close and personal. You can eat at some local restaurants, take short day trips to see other areas of the city, and come back to your hotel in the evening.
When your week is up, you can travel by train to continue your European vacation in the sunny southern province of Andalucia. This area of Spain has beaches on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The weather is hot and sunny from spring through the fall, and the climate is dry. The beaches are fine, white sand and amazing blue water. Tourists from all over the world, and especially from the rest of Europe, fill these beaches every summer. Take at least a week and find a hotel or villa near the beach. You can spend every day at the beach working on your tan, relaxing in the warm sun, and swimming in the crystal blue waters. The seafood is spectacular in southern Spain, and you will have no problem finding great restaurants with mouth-watering food at great prices. If you like to go out at night, there are more bars and nightclubs than you can possibly visit. You can be sure that you can stay out dancing as long as you want to.
When you are done relaxing in a sunny beach town, you can fly or travel by train to vacation in Paris for a week. There are all kinds of historic sites and museums to see. You can walk or take a bus around to see all of the areas of the city, enjoy French restaurants, and soak in the culture. When you are all done, you can fly home again, knowing that you saw a vast amount of historic and cultural sites, beautiful countryside, and had a great time at the beach relaxing. A little bit of everything, to make your European Vacation complete.
Wait until your friends hear about it!
Best Florida Beach Vacations
Why choose a beach vacation in Florida? One good reason is because wherever you go in Florida, you're never more than 60 miles from the beach!
Florida is also easy to get to, the temperature is pleasurable year round, it offers good value for your money and that’s just for starters. So whether you are looking for a family vacation, a romantic vacation, a relaxing vacation or getting in some golf time, there is a Florida beach vacation area for you.
Best Florida Beach Areas for Families
Siesta Public Beach
Siesta Public Beach in Sarasota makes a great family beach because of its gradual slopes, shallow waters, lifeguards on duty, fine white sand and tranquil waters. It has won awards for best beach based on sand, water quality and facilities. The beach facilities include picnic areas, rest rooms, concession stands, playground, trails, and tennis and volleyball courts. If you enjoy collecting shells, try Turtle Beach, at the south end of the island.
Tampa Bay Area - St. Petes/Clearwater
Located on the West Coast of Florida, on the Gulf of Mexico, the Tampa Bay area is a waterfront heaven! Miles and miles of white sandy beaches along the Gulf Coast offer unlimited options for a fun and relaxing vacation. When you need a break from the surf and sand, there are plenty of nearby activities to keep the kids amused including the Florida Aquarium, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Lowry Park Zoo.
Daytona
With twenty-three miles of sparkling white sandy beaches and beautiful blue-green waters there is no shortage of beach fun for whole family. The beach is up to 500 feet wide at low tide and is perfect for castle building, cycling, jogging, fishing or just relaxing in the sun. The Atlantic Ocean is great for swimming, especially during the spring and summer when water temperatures range from 74 to 80 degrees. And you are only an hour’s drive from Orlando if you are so inclined.
Best Florida Beach Areas for Romance
Miami Beach
A Miami romantic vacation has everything from relaxing on the beach by day and dancing by night. There are lots of art deco and interesting hotels on South Beach. A short drive west will bring you to the Everglades, where you can take a Scenic Boat Tour and see plenty of wildlife, including alligators. You can shop at the ritzy Bal Harbor shops, and at night choose from plenty of dance clubs or mellow jazz bars and restaurants.
Marco Island
Marco Island is located at the southern tip of Southwest Florida's Gulf Coast at the western entrance to Everglades National Park. The island is surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico on one side and natural wilderness on the other. There are miles of white-sand beaches, lavish real estate, shopping, dining, nightlife, attractions and lots of outdoor activities. Your recreation choices include swimming, sunbathing fishing, golf, tennis, and more. Enjoy the subtropical ambience that exists in Southwest Florida's Gulf Coast.
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach has beautiful sandy beaches and a great pier that is available for fishing, dining & dancing. There is a large promenade leading to the beach with an observation deck overlooking the ocean, perfect for romantic walks. While you're on the Space Coast you can visit the Kennedy Space Center, go deep-sea fishing, surf, windsurf, rent a jet ski, golf our take a take a river tour. At night there is lots of nightlife and great dining for you to enjoy.
Best Florida Beach Areas for Relaxing
New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach is a laid-back beach town without the crowds, noise or pollution, which gives visitors a relaxing beach experience. Although the northern beach is accessible to cars, the majority is traffic free, allowing for peaceful sunbathing and strolls along the beach. New Smyrna has a small town feel in its architecture and atmosphere. There are no high-rises along the beach, only low-rise buildings and these accommodations range from bed and breakfast inns, family-size condominiums or oceanfront motels.
Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is one of the unique barrier islands of the world, having an east-west orientation when most islands are north south. This gives the island great sandy beaches with plenty of shells. Check out Bowman's Beach for peach and quiet, you won't find any hotels here. You can park and walk over a bridge to secluded white beach. There are barbecue grills in the area so it is a great spot to have a picnic and enjoy the beach.
Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda is located about 30 miles north of Fort Myers. There is plenty of waterfront in this town, and a very nice riverfront beach area. Here you can enjoy swimming, fishing, canoeing, hiking and walking in the woods, it is a great place to get away from the crowds. The town of Punta Gorda has street art, water views and interesting murals that enrich the historic downtown district that also has cobblestone streets and gaslights, and many fine shops and restaurants.
Best Florida Beach Areas for Golf
Sarasota
Sarasota is a sophisticated resort town near the Gulf of Mexico. For beach lovers there is Sarasota’s 35 miles of fine, pure, sparkling white sand beach to enjoy. As far as golf is concerned there are 32 golf courses in the Sarasota area and almost 20 more if you include the surrounding cities of Bradenton and Venice. You will find one for every level of ability available for your golfing pleasure.
Jacksonville
Jacksonville has twenty miles of Atlantic Ocean beaches and lots of nearby state parks to explore. You will find lots of things to do and lots of beaches to explore in Jacksonville. For golfers there are over 25 golf courses in the area. Several championship golf courses are located nearby; many of which are ranked among the top in the country offering challenges for players of every skill level, ranging from top ocean side resorts to popular public courses.
Naples
Naples, located on a stretch of southwest Florida that is not bordered by barrier islands, has seven miles of silky, white sand beach that overlooks the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico. There is plenty of shopping and dining in the area once the sun goes down beachfront. There are also dozens of excellent golf courses in the area. From May through October, the golf courses are not as crowded and you can pick your tee time and be assured of a leisurely round. Also, many private courses are open to the public during these months.
This is only a sampling of some of the great beaches located along the shores of Florida. There are many more that can fill your Florida beach vacation needs year round.
Florida is also easy to get to, the temperature is pleasurable year round, it offers good value for your money and that’s just for starters. So whether you are looking for a family vacation, a romantic vacation, a relaxing vacation or getting in some golf time, there is a Florida beach vacation area for you.
Best Florida Beach Areas for Families
Siesta Public Beach
Siesta Public Beach in Sarasota makes a great family beach because of its gradual slopes, shallow waters, lifeguards on duty, fine white sand and tranquil waters. It has won awards for best beach based on sand, water quality and facilities. The beach facilities include picnic areas, rest rooms, concession stands, playground, trails, and tennis and volleyball courts. If you enjoy collecting shells, try Turtle Beach, at the south end of the island.
Tampa Bay Area - St. Petes/Clearwater
Located on the West Coast of Florida, on the Gulf of Mexico, the Tampa Bay area is a waterfront heaven! Miles and miles of white sandy beaches along the Gulf Coast offer unlimited options for a fun and relaxing vacation. When you need a break from the surf and sand, there are plenty of nearby activities to keep the kids amused including the Florida Aquarium, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Lowry Park Zoo.
Daytona
With twenty-three miles of sparkling white sandy beaches and beautiful blue-green waters there is no shortage of beach fun for whole family. The beach is up to 500 feet wide at low tide and is perfect for castle building, cycling, jogging, fishing or just relaxing in the sun. The Atlantic Ocean is great for swimming, especially during the spring and summer when water temperatures range from 74 to 80 degrees. And you are only an hour’s drive from Orlando if you are so inclined.
Best Florida Beach Areas for Romance
Miami Beach
A Miami romantic vacation has everything from relaxing on the beach by day and dancing by night. There are lots of art deco and interesting hotels on South Beach. A short drive west will bring you to the Everglades, where you can take a Scenic Boat Tour and see plenty of wildlife, including alligators. You can shop at the ritzy Bal Harbor shops, and at night choose from plenty of dance clubs or mellow jazz bars and restaurants.
Marco Island
Marco Island is located at the southern tip of Southwest Florida's Gulf Coast at the western entrance to Everglades National Park. The island is surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico on one side and natural wilderness on the other. There are miles of white-sand beaches, lavish real estate, shopping, dining, nightlife, attractions and lots of outdoor activities. Your recreation choices include swimming, sunbathing fishing, golf, tennis, and more. Enjoy the subtropical ambience that exists in Southwest Florida's Gulf Coast.
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach has beautiful sandy beaches and a great pier that is available for fishing, dining & dancing. There is a large promenade leading to the beach with an observation deck overlooking the ocean, perfect for romantic walks. While you're on the Space Coast you can visit the Kennedy Space Center, go deep-sea fishing, surf, windsurf, rent a jet ski, golf our take a take a river tour. At night there is lots of nightlife and great dining for you to enjoy.
Best Florida Beach Areas for Relaxing
New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach is a laid-back beach town without the crowds, noise or pollution, which gives visitors a relaxing beach experience. Although the northern beach is accessible to cars, the majority is traffic free, allowing for peaceful sunbathing and strolls along the beach. New Smyrna has a small town feel in its architecture and atmosphere. There are no high-rises along the beach, only low-rise buildings and these accommodations range from bed and breakfast inns, family-size condominiums or oceanfront motels.
Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is one of the unique barrier islands of the world, having an east-west orientation when most islands are north south. This gives the island great sandy beaches with plenty of shells. Check out Bowman's Beach for peach and quiet, you won't find any hotels here. You can park and walk over a bridge to secluded white beach. There are barbecue grills in the area so it is a great spot to have a picnic and enjoy the beach.
Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda is located about 30 miles north of Fort Myers. There is plenty of waterfront in this town, and a very nice riverfront beach area. Here you can enjoy swimming, fishing, canoeing, hiking and walking in the woods, it is a great place to get away from the crowds. The town of Punta Gorda has street art, water views and interesting murals that enrich the historic downtown district that also has cobblestone streets and gaslights, and many fine shops and restaurants.
Best Florida Beach Areas for Golf
Sarasota
Sarasota is a sophisticated resort town near the Gulf of Mexico. For beach lovers there is Sarasota’s 35 miles of fine, pure, sparkling white sand beach to enjoy. As far as golf is concerned there are 32 golf courses in the Sarasota area and almost 20 more if you include the surrounding cities of Bradenton and Venice. You will find one for every level of ability available for your golfing pleasure.
Jacksonville
Jacksonville has twenty miles of Atlantic Ocean beaches and lots of nearby state parks to explore. You will find lots of things to do and lots of beaches to explore in Jacksonville. For golfers there are over 25 golf courses in the area. Several championship golf courses are located nearby; many of which are ranked among the top in the country offering challenges for players of every skill level, ranging from top ocean side resorts to popular public courses.
Naples
Naples, located on a stretch of southwest Florida that is not bordered by barrier islands, has seven miles of silky, white sand beach that overlooks the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico. There is plenty of shopping and dining in the area once the sun goes down beachfront. There are also dozens of excellent golf courses in the area. From May through October, the golf courses are not as crowded and you can pick your tee time and be assured of a leisurely round. Also, many private courses are open to the public during these months.
This is only a sampling of some of the great beaches located along the shores of Florida. There are many more that can fill your Florida beach vacation needs year round.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Your Guide to an Amazing Hawaiian Vacation
Hawaii: beautiful beaches, perfect weather, amazing surf, exquisite cuisine, and one of the world's favorite places to visit on a much-needed vacation. Here's a quick tour of Hawaii with some highlights, hotel information and the key to an amazing Hawaii vacation. Here's the secret: find an inexpensive package that will get you a ticket to the island, a hotel, and a beach tour or restaurant all in one. Tons of places in Hawaii advertise their business by packaging with a hotel or airline. Below you'll find some good picks.
First of all, for the golfing enthusiast, you can find the Unlimited Golfing Package from Prince Resorts Hawaii. On three Hawaiian islands, you can visit any one of 5 breathtakingly beautiful golf courses with a total of 99 holes and golf the day away. With a breakfast buffet included, you can't go wrong with the Prince Resorts Hawaii. Next, you don't want to leave Hawaii without catching one of those famous waves. Pick Ohana Hotels, and you can “Catch a wave in Hawaii” over a five night luxurious stay.
One of the most famous things about a vacation in Hawaii is the delicious Hawaiian cuisine. For example, Tiki's Grill and Bar is one of those restaurants. With the look and feel of a '50s or '60s Hawaiian tiki bar, this restaurant is a great place to go for delicious food and a breathtaking view of the beach. For more information on Hawaii's delicious restaurants and restaurant reviews where visitors talk about their favorite Hawaiian cuisine, visit www.myhonoluluhi.us.
For those more interested in Hawaii's history and archaeology, visit Bishop Museum, home to more that two million Hawaiian artifacts. The museum now has a location at Hilton Hawaii Village Beach Resort, so it is easy to visit and view the amazing history of the beautiful state of Hawaii. With exhibits dating back to 400 AD and leading up to Hawaii's modern history, the museum includes weapons, shark teeth, historic sufboards, and feather lei capes worn by Hawaiian nobility. This is truly a great tourist site for some unique Hawaiian history.
For more information on Hawaii, including restaurants, movie times, camping, shopping, and hotels, visit My Hawaii.
Top Family Vacation Destinations
Planning a family beach vacation? Looking for destinations with family resorts that have fun sports and activities for the whole family, all inclusive resorts where meals are included and kid clubs? Here are some of the most popular beach destinations for families to unwind and relax:Mexico
Mexico, especially the Cancun area, and Mayan Riviera, an hour’s drive south of Cancun, is a popular place for family beach vacations. The Mayan Riviera is one of the regions of Mexico - and the world- which offers the richest variety of landscapes and archaeological treasures including Mayan ruins, coral reef, snorkelling lagoons, and eco-theme parks such as Xcaret. Hotels, resorts, restaurants, and attractions throughout Mexico welcome families with open arms.
Jamaica
Jamaica is considered by many to be the most beautiful of all the Caribbean Islands and is one of the top family-vacation destinations in the Caribbean. Many of Jamaica’s resorts offer supervised children's activities, babysitters, family discounts, and kid's meals. Jamaica has an abundance of top all-inclusive chains including: Sandals Beaches, SuperClubs Breezes resorts and Club Med. There are also many other family vacation options such as the Franklyn D. Resort in Runaway Bay, Jamaica, where families have their own vacation nanny during their stay.
Turks and Caicos
On a 12-mile stretch of satiny white-sand, Beaches Turks & Caicos is one of the premier family resorts on the island.With separate programs for infants, toddlers and teens, each is designed to give each age the activities they love. So when you're off doing your thing, they're off doing theirs. There are many other resorts to stay at this idyllic family beach destination
Bahamas
Home to the Atlantis Bahamas resort and many other excellent family resorts, there will not be a dull moment on your Bahamas family vacation. Blessed with the perfect location-less than 100 miles off the coast of Florida, the perfect climate- averaging a little over 75 degrees, and the perfect surroundings-crystal clear turquoise blue waters and pearly white beaches, the Islands of the Bahamas is the perfect destination for your next family beach vacation.
Hawaii A Family Hawaii Vacation has it all. Beautiful beaches, world-class golf, surfing, shopping, swimming, top notch hotels, condominiums, eco tours, national parks, warm weather, and cool ocean breezes. The four islands that are popular for a family Hawaii Vacation are Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and Kauai.
Florida
Florida is a popular family beach destination because the climate is warm year round, it is easy to get to, it offers good value for your money, there are endless options for sightseeing and attractions for you family depending on what area you are in, and the beaches in Florida are numerous. In addition to beach destinations and of course Walt Disney World, there are tons of other family outings including Universal Studios, Sea World, Bush Gardens and many more.
Don’t forget about kid cruises
This is a very popular family vacation option and my personal favorite. Cruises with kids offer great value, choice and freedom! There are a lot of misconceptions about cruising such as it is only for older people and not suited for families, it is too rigid, there is nothing to do, you’ll feel trapped, you’ll get seasick, it’s too expensive! All is these statements are false and could not be further from the truth. Bring your kids along on almost any cruise and they'll have the time of their lives.
Ten Tips for Planning Your Vacation
I hope that by sharing my personal experiences, you will avoid learning similar lessons the hard way. And it goes to show that those little details in the planning of a vacation can make a huge difference in the outcome. You can make your next vacation relaxing and enjoyable by following these simple vacation planning tips.
1. Keep your vacation planning information in one place. Create a labeled file folder ("Hawaii Vacation") and use it to keep your airline, hotel, car rental information, as well as maps or AAA guide books, tourist information, contact information for people you know in that city, etc. You can find all this information at Holidays, Vacations and Traveling
2. Plan ahead for your wardrobe. Think about all of the activities you might do, and imagine what you'd want to wear for each activity. For example, on the beach you might want a swimsuit, cover-up, slip-on footwear or water shoes, a sun hat, sunglasses... maybe even a face mask, snorkel, and some flippers. Will the kids want shovels and buckets to build a sand castle? Do you need to supply your own beach towel, or will you be staying somewhere that supplies this for you? What about waterproof sunscreen? The more you can visualize yourself on the beach, the better prepared you will be.
3. Use a travel checklist. I've created a Packing List to get you started. Once you've tailored this to your needs, keep it in the travel file you've created. This will help you remember to pack both the basic necessities, as well as some of the more obscure things you might not remember but would want to take with you.
4. Let children pack their own travel bags, and make sure their bag is small enough that they can carry it themselves. Help them select things they can do on the road or in the air: Walkman and cassettes or CDs, books, handheld video games, portable crafts, card games. Talk about seating arrangements ahead of time to avoid conflict among siblings about who will sit where.
5. Pack a carry-on that is small enough to stay with you at all times. Include necessities that you must have, in the event that you get separated from your other luggage for a day. If you need to take medication on a regular basis, be sure this is with you, and not in your checked luggage. If you are combining a business and vacation trip and need something for a presentation the next day, take it in your carry-on rather than checking it.
6. Plan early to get the best selection and to get early booking discounts. If you're really adventuresome and are not particular about where you want to go, you can also book reservations last-minute. There is some risk involved in doing this, but you can also get some great deals this way. Find some great bargains at airline tickets.
7. If you're driving, you may wish to map out your trip ahead of time and make hotel reservations along the way if you are traveling during peak vacation time. Mapquest offers a helpful Website for mapping out your route and estimating travel time under normal driving conditions.
8. If you're traveling to another country, check out the Currency Converter for International Exchange Rates.
If you'd like to master a few useful phrases in a foreign language, visit the Foreign Language Assistance Website. It even contains some sound clips so you can pronounce words properly.
9. If your vacation plans include staying home rather than traveling, plan how you will spend your vacation to rejuvenate yourself. Perhaps there are some local attractions that you've been wanting to experience but have not had the time to experience. Are there people you want to connect with? Get clear about what you want to do and who you want to do it with, and then plan to make it happen. If your vacation includes having a friend or relative flying in to visit you, you can check the status of a flight to see if they will arrive on time.
10. This is the most important tip of all: pack the right attitude. Let go of the "what if" and enjoy the moment. Remind yourself what matters most, and focus on that. If this is a vacation to get away and relax, then focus on activities and thoughts that will be relaxing. If your goal is to reconnect with family and build memories together, that can be done regardless of circumstances (missing a flight, not getting tickets to an event you wanted to attend, etc.). If your goal is to sight-see and take in some special attractions or shows, then plan ahead and make the reservations necessary to ensure that you can do what you want to do when you get there.
Take a Vacation---You Deserve It.
A vacation is just what the doctor ordered for many people. While there is nothing wrong with working hard, it’s always fun to get away. Given the low cost of airline tickets these days, many people can go almost anywhere they want. From skiing in the mountains to sunbathing next to a pool, a vacation is a great time to relax and have some fun. Whether your have a day or a month off, make the most of it by doing something that you enjoy.
While many people like to spend their vacation in a warmer climate, others like to explore the great outdoors and go on hikes. No matter what your ideal vacation is, it will allow you to leave your troubles behind and embark on fun filled adventure.
Plan Your Vacation.
If you plan to fly somewhere for your vacation, book your airline tickets early. Also, try to make your hotel reservations as soon as possible. Doing so will reduce most last minute stress. It also helps to pack as lightly as possible. If you don’t know exactly what you want to do on vacation, it might help to check with a travel agency.
Keep in mind that you don’t have to travel far for your vacation. Many people take a vacation in their own town. Check out some of the tourist attractions in your own city that you might have forgotten about. If you pick the right vacation for you, you will be able to fully enjoy and look forward to a great time ahead.
Mike Yeager
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