Halloween and All Saints' Day

Whether you celebrate the more commercial Halloween or the more spiritual All Saints' Day, this is a special holiday weekend coming up (Oct 31st-Nov 2nd)!  Halloween does, of course, have its roots in the traditional All Hallow's Eve celebration... but the Americanized Halloween holiday has become more and more popular here in Sweden over the past 10-15 years. On the days surrounding the 31st, don't be surprised to see children and young adults dressed in costumes on the streets of Stockholm. But if you really want to party like a ghoul then you shouldn't miss the Shockholm festival, especially their parade (which is the largest Halloween parade in Scandinavia). The parade takes place on Saturday, November 1st, starting at 5pm from Kungsträdgården park... directly after a pre-parade party (3pm-5pm) with costume contests and other activities. The parade route will go around the old town (Gamla Stan) before returning back to Kungsträdgården for the after party!

http://instagram.com/globearenas

But the festival is more than just the parade! For one thing, they have transformed the Ericsson Globe Arena into the world's largest jack 'o lantern... lit up all week long. You can also stop by the Kungsträdgården park on Oct 30th, 31st or Nov 1st. 3 days of spooky workshops, events, food and music. Check their website for more events, exhibitions and other information.

Skogskyrkogården, photo by
(c) Susanne Hallmann, Kyrkogårdsförvaltningen Stockholms stad

For a more spiritual celebration of the holiday, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Skogskyrkogården. This is the beautiful Woodland Cemetery, designed by architect Gunnar Asplund and located in the southern suburbs of the city. This site is a great place to visit year-round, but it is especially beautiful (and significant) on this weekend when thousands of people come to the cemetery to leave decorations and candles at the graves of relatives. There will be staff on hand on All Saints' Day (Nov 1st) to help with maps and grave searches and there will be music in several of the chapels. To get to Skogskyrkogården from the downtown area, take the subway (green line) in the direction of Farsta Strand. Exit at the station Skogskyrkogården. Just 7 stops from the Slussen station which is near the Rival Hotel.

All Saints' Day. Photo: Cecilia Larsson/imagebank.sweden.se

And finally, to really get in to the mood... why not partake in a Ghost Walk sightseeing tour of Gamla Stan. This is the old medieval center of the city where many bloody events have taken place throughout the city's history (like the infamous Stockholm Bloodbath!). The guides on these walks really make this history come alive...

Halloween and All Saints' Day

Posted by zlatin

Whether you celebrate the more commercial Halloween or the more spiritual All Saints' Day, this is a special holiday weekend coming up (Oct 31st-Nov 2nd)!  Halloween does, of course, have its roots in the traditional All Hallow's Eve celebration... but the Americanized Halloween holiday has become more and more popular here in Sweden over the past 10-15 years. On the days surrounding the 31st, don't be surprised to see children and young adults dressed in costumes on the streets of Stockholm. But if you really want to party like a ghoul then you shouldn't miss the Shockholm festival, especially their parade (which is the largest Halloween parade in Scandinavia). The parade takes place on Saturday, November 1st, starting at 5pm from Kungsträdgården park... directly after a pre-parade party (3pm-5pm) with costume contests and other activities. The parade route will go around the old town (Gamla Stan) before returning back to Kungsträdgården for the after party!

http://instagram.com/globearenas

But the festival is more than just the parade! For one thing, they have transformed the Ericsson Globe Arena into the world's largest jack 'o lantern... lit up all week long. You can also stop by the Kungsträdgården park on Oct 30th, 31st or Nov 1st. 3 days of spooky workshops, events, food and music. Check their website for more events, exhibitions and other information.

Skogskyrkogården, photo by
(c) Susanne Hallmann, Kyrkogårdsförvaltningen Stockholms stad

For a more spiritual celebration of the holiday, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Skogskyrkogården. This is the beautiful Woodland Cemetery, designed by architect Gunnar Asplund and located in the southern suburbs of the city. This site is a great place to visit year-round, but it is especially beautiful (and significant) on this weekend when thousands of people come to the cemetery to leave decorations and candles at the graves of relatives. There will be staff on hand on All Saints' Day (Nov 1st) to help with maps and grave searches and there will be music in several of the chapels. To get to Skogskyrkogården from the downtown area, take the subway (green line) in the direction of Farsta Strand. Exit at the station Skogskyrkogården. Just 7 stops from the Slussen station which is near the Rival Hotel.

All Saints' Day. Photo: Cecilia Larsson/imagebank.sweden.se

And finally, to really get in to the mood... why not partake in a Ghost Walk sightseeing tour of Gamla Stan. This is the old medieval center of the city where many bloody events have taken place throughout the city's history (like the infamous Stockholm Bloodbath!). The guides on these walks really make this history come alive...

Kungliga Operan - The Royal Opera House

Exterior, photo by Mats Bäcker

Last week I was invited to a performance with the Royal Swedish Ballet at the Royal Opera (Kungliga Operan). The performance in question was "Bill", a modern dance performance in three acts. Each act choreographed by a different choreographer, featuring three of the world's most prominent choreographers: William Forsythe, Crystal Pite and Sharon Eyal. A very impressive performance by a great ensemble. I especially enjoyed "The Other You" (Pite).

Waiting for the royal family to take their seats...

This is a perfect opportunity to write a little about the Royal Opera in Stockholm. The current house is from the late 1800's and is built on the site of the old opera house. Both the Royal Swedish Ballet and Royal Opera Company were founded by King Gustav III in the late 1700's (making them some of the world's oldest companies).

Ceiling detail.

The Royal Opera House is the perfect venue for tourists who wish to see a show while visiting Stockholm. Visitors, I have noticed, are often surprised to find out that the vast majority of theatre in Sweden is performed in Swedish. But with opera, music and dance, language is really not an issue! The main calendar of regular performances extends normally from September through May. During the summer months there may be some special performances scheduled, but you also have the option of taking daytime tours of the opera house.

"The Other You - Anthony Lomuljo, Anton Valdbauer"
Photo by Urban Jörén.

This coming season, the Kungliga Operan have a lot of great shows in their calendar... including (the aforementioned) Bill, Don Giovanni, Madama Butterfly, Dialogues of the Carmelites, Raymonda and the Magic Flute as well as special lunch concerts and events. Check their calendar for exact dates. One thing that is a little troublesome for visitors is that their website is only in Swedish and you have to use the Google Translate option to get it in English or another language. It works, just not the optimal solution.

"Bill - Jérôme Marchand", photo by Urban Jörén.

Tickets can be purchased through their website, at their box office or by contacting them directly by phone during certain hours (hours and phone number on website linked here). If you are staying at the Rival Hotel, you can contact me directly for help in booking. The Royal Opera House is located just across the water from the Royal Palace in the downtown area. To get there from the Rival, it is either a 25-30 minute walk through Gamla Stan or else a short bus ride or 5 minute taxi ride.

Intermission in the "gold foyer".

Kungliga Operan - The Royal Opera House

Posted by zlatin

Exterior, photo by Mats Bäcker

Last week I was invited to a performance with the Royal Swedish Ballet at the Royal Opera (Kungliga Operan). The performance in question was "Bill", a modern dance performance in three acts. Each act choreographed by a different choreographer, featuring three of the world's most prominent choreographers: William Forsythe, Crystal Pite and Sharon Eyal. A very impressive performance by a great ensemble. I especially enjoyed "The Other You" (Pite).

Waiting for the royal family to take their seats...

This is a perfect opportunity to write a little about the Royal Opera in Stockholm. The current house is from the late 1800's and is built on the site of the old opera house. Both the Royal Swedish Ballet and Royal Opera Company were founded by King Gustav III in the late 1700's (making them some of the world's oldest companies).

Ceiling detail.

The Royal Opera House is the perfect venue for tourists who wish to see a show while visiting Stockholm. Visitors, I have noticed, are often surprised to find out that the vast majority of theatre in Sweden is performed in Swedish. But with opera, music and dance, language is really not an issue! The main calendar of regular performances extends normally from September through May. During the summer months there may be some special performances scheduled, but you also have the option of taking daytime tours of the opera house.

"The Other You - Anthony Lomuljo, Anton Valdbauer"
Photo by Urban Jörén.

This coming season, the Kungliga Operan have a lot of great shows in their calendar... including (the aforementioned) Bill, Don Giovanni, Madama Butterfly, Dialogues of the Carmelites, Raymonda and the Magic Flute as well as special lunch concerts and events. Check their calendar for exact dates. One thing that is a little troublesome for visitors is that their website is only in Swedish and you have to use the Google Translate option to get it in English or another language. It works, just not the optimal solution.

"Bill - Jérôme Marchand", photo by Urban Jörén.

Tickets can be purchased through their website, at their box office or by contacting them directly by phone during certain hours (hours and phone number on website linked here). If you are staying at the Rival Hotel, you can contact me directly for help in booking. The Royal Opera House is located just across the water from the Royal Palace in the downtown area. To get there from the Rival, it is either a 25-30 minute walk through Gamla Stan or else a short bus ride or 5 minute taxi ride.

Intermission in the "gold foyer".

Restaurant Luzette

Entrance from station interior...

I usually try not to write about two restaurants or exhibitions in row but, as I just visited this newly opened restaurant, I will bend the rules. There was quite a bit of buzz about Luzette before it opened, one reason is because of its location: The Stockholm Central Train Station. At first, a train station might not seem like the ideal place for a nice restaurant. But when you consider that the train station has just undergone a large scale renovation and that Luzette takes classic restaurants once found in train stations, like Gare du Nord (Le Train Bleu) and Grand Central Station (Oyster Bar), as their inspiration, then the idea doesn't seem so strange.

Luzette's interior is beautifully designed and will seem somewhat familiar if you have visited some of Stockholm's more popular restaurants. Jonas Bohlin is the name of the designer and he is also responsible for the interiors of restaurants like Riche, Taverna Brillo, Sturehof and AG. Jonas often uses Swedish materials such as wood, tile, brass and granite. The high ceilings and light colors used makes the restaurant feel very airy and light.

red wine braised cheeks of veal

As for the menu, I would describe it as Continental/Swedish... with many classic favorites as well as more seasonal innovative dishes. They even have a rotisserie in the restaurant which produces 4 dishes on the menu. I had the very delicious cheeks of veal braised in red wine served with baked marrow and truffle mash. The perfect dish for a rainy autumn evening! My colleagues at the table were also very happy with their choices and we were all pleased with the large portions and reasonable prices.

Besides the restaurant and bar, they also have a gelateria, bakery as well as take-away counter... perfect for train travelers. Another feature which works very well with their location is their generous opening hours... they are open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. As you can imagine, they are very centrally located in the city (entrance to the restaurant both from the street and interior of the station). To get there from the Rival Hotel, it is either 3 stops away on the subway (all lines) or a 7-8 minute taxi ride. Click here to read about my other restaurant visits and recommendations.

Bakery and gelateria...

Restaurant Luzette

Posted by zlatin

Entrance from station interior...

I usually try not to write about two restaurants or exhibitions in row but, as I just visited this newly opened restaurant, I will bend the rules. There was quite a bit of buzz about Luzette before it opened, one reason is because of its location: The Stockholm Central Train Station. At first, a train station might not seem like the ideal place for a nice restaurant. But when you consider that the train station has just undergone a large scale renovation and that Luzette takes classic restaurants once found in train stations, like Gare du Nord (Le Train Bleu) and Grand Central Station (Oyster Bar), as their inspiration, then the idea doesn't seem so strange.

Luzette's interior is beautifully designed and will seem somewhat familiar if you have visited some of Stockholm's more popular restaurants. Jonas Bohlin is the name of the designer and he is also responsible for the interiors of restaurants like Riche, Taverna Brillo, Sturehof and AG. Jonas often uses Swedish materials such as wood, tile, brass and granite. The high ceilings and light colors used makes the restaurant feel very airy and light.

red wine braised cheeks of veal

As for the menu, I would describe it as Continental/Swedish... with many classic favorites as well as more seasonal innovative dishes. They even have a rotisserie in the restaurant which produces 4 dishes on the menu. I had the very delicious cheeks of veal braised in red wine served with baked marrow and truffle mash. The perfect dish for a rainy autumn evening! My colleagues at the table were also very happy with their choices and we were all pleased with the large portions and reasonable prices.

Besides the restaurant and bar, they also have a gelateria, bakery as well as take-away counter... perfect for train travelers. Another feature which works very well with their location is their generous opening hours... they are open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. As you can imagine, they are very centrally located in the city (entrance to the restaurant both from the street and interior of the station). To get there from the Rival Hotel, it is either 3 stops away on the subway (all lines) or a 7-8 minute taxi ride. Click here to read about my other restaurant visits and recommendations.

Bakery and gelateria...

Making Travel More Enjoyable

 While most of us enjoy arriving at our holiday destination, the preparations and journey can be incredibly stressful. Before you even begin to plan your next holiday, take a deep breath and remember that holidays are meant to be fun and relaxing.

Being in control of any situation can help alleviate stress. Control is gained by having the knowledge and the tools to cope with any situation you may be confronted with. So from the moment you begin thinking about your next holiday, start a travel journal.

You can choose to start an electronic journal or hand written journal. Keep in mind that things can go wrong with electronics so keep a printed version of your travel plans.

Begin by listing three desirable travel destinations. Keeping your list short will help you filter it down to one destination easily. Find out everything you can about travelling to the destination and not just about the destination itself.

What modes of transport are available? How long will each different type of travel take to reach your destination? Will you be crossing borders and if so will you need visas and is your passport in order?

Once you have narrowed it down to one destination it is time to consider what you need to take along. Take into consideration the climate and weather conditions at the time you will be travelling. Will you be travelling from a cold to warm climate or vice versa?

Make a list of the clothing items that you will need to take along. Now make a list of cosmetics, toiletries, etc. that you feel you may need. Lastly make a third list of all the essentials that are not covered by your first to lists.

A week before you starting packing for your destination, take another look at your lists and eliminate any items that you feel may be extraneous. The less baggage you take along on your journey, the less stressed you will be.

Leave any expensive or irreplaceable articles at home. This will minimize the amount of time you spend worrying about losing the items or them being stolen.

Make your travel arrangements well in advance. It may be more cost effective to book your own transport and accommodation but consider how complicated your holiday will be. If you are travelling to one destination, staying in one place and then returning home, you should definitely be able to manage the arrangements with minimal stress.

Alternatively, find a reliable travel agent to assist. Make notes in your travel journal of all the reservations your travel agent makes on your behalf and when the stress and worry starts to set in, give them a call to get the reassurance that everything will run smoothly.

Using a travel agent gives you the added advantage of having recourse if anything does go wrong on your journey. You can simply blame them for the mess and sit back and relax while they fix the problems.

Get to your destination as relaxed as possible and ensure that you return home with good memories of a great holiday.

Making Travel More Enjoyable

Posted by zlatin

 While most of us enjoy arriving at our holiday destination, the preparations and journey can be incredibly stressful. Before you even begin to plan your next holiday, take a deep breath and remember that holidays are meant to be fun and relaxing.

Being in control of any situation can help alleviate stress. Control is gained by having the knowledge and the tools to cope with any situation you may be confronted with. So from the moment you begin thinking about your next holiday, start a travel journal.

You can choose to start an electronic journal or hand written journal. Keep in mind that things can go wrong with electronics so keep a printed version of your travel plans.

Begin by listing three desirable travel destinations. Keeping your list short will help you filter it down to one destination easily. Find out everything you can about travelling to the destination and not just about the destination itself.

What modes of transport are available? How long will each different type of travel take to reach your destination? Will you be crossing borders and if so will you need visas and is your passport in order?

Once you have narrowed it down to one destination it is time to consider what you need to take along. Take into consideration the climate and weather conditions at the time you will be travelling. Will you be travelling from a cold to warm climate or vice versa?

Make a list of the clothing items that you will need to take along. Now make a list of cosmetics, toiletries, etc. that you feel you may need. Lastly make a third list of all the essentials that are not covered by your first to lists.

A week before you starting packing for your destination, take another look at your lists and eliminate any items that you feel may be extraneous. The less baggage you take along on your journey, the less stressed you will be.

Leave any expensive or irreplaceable articles at home. This will minimize the amount of time you spend worrying about losing the items or them being stolen.

Make your travel arrangements well in advance. It may be more cost effective to book your own transport and accommodation but consider how complicated your holiday will be. If you are travelling to one destination, staying in one place and then returning home, you should definitely be able to manage the arrangements with minimal stress.

Alternatively, find a reliable travel agent to assist. Make notes in your travel journal of all the reservations your travel agent makes on your behalf and when the stress and worry starts to set in, give them a call to get the reassurance that everything will run smoothly.

Using a travel agent gives you the added advantage of having recourse if anything does go wrong on your journey. You can simply blame them for the mess and sit back and relax while they fix the problems.

Get to your destination as relaxed as possible and ensure that you return home with good memories of a great holiday.

Why Travel Makes People Happy

Some people love to travel and others not so much. I love most every aspect of it. I like planning a trip, deciding on the route, what I want to see, where I want to stay, the flights, in fact the whole caboodle. Then there’s the actual trip which is exciting and when it is over, travel gives you (usually) wonderful memories. What is there not to like?

Planning is a great time as you get to choose where you want to go, how you are getting there, all aspects of your trip, including hotel. Today there are so many ways you can get information about the place you have chosen for your trip. For example, say you want to plan a trip to Costa Rica as your neighbors went there last year and they loved it. Certainly you can pick their brains about their experiences there.

Then you can do your own research. Online is a great place to start as you can look at maps, visit blogs about the place and start planning what you will do when you get there. There are flights to book. Is San Jose the right airport for you or would Liberia be a better choice? Check with different airlines or expedia.com for the best routes and what the price differences are. Maybe you should do some research into all-inclusive deals or general vacation deals that include hotel and flights.

If you decide you would rather plan your itinerary yourself, then you can spend more time planning your trip. Costa Rica is well known for its beauty and there is so much to do there. You could go on a trip through a rainforest. Maybe a yoga camp? How about car rentals? You could then simply go wherever you want each day and not plan much at all. You could start of in San Jose and spend a night or two there to get to know the city and then hire a car and travel north to Arenal where the rainforests are and the volcano. The area is also a renowned spa town. You can either plan ahead and book hotels or just pick a place to stay when you get there – something that is usually very doable.

You could go further north west until you get to the beautiful Pacific coast where there are lovely small towns on the coast where you can enjoy water sports, go on a trip to see the whales or the turtles, or simply relax on one of the beautiful beaches.

While Spanish is the language of the country, it is not difficult to get by with just English. Travelling by car, you could more or less see the whole country in about two weeks and have a great time. Another plus is that it is near the equator so the weather so the weather is usually beautiful all year round. The people are nice and friendly and the country itself is spectacular and so are the flowers and the birds – they even have monkeys.

After your trip, you can spend your time looking at your photos and re-living the great time you had there. This is just one of the many reasons that travelling is wonderful.

Why Travel Makes People Happy

Posted by zlatin

Some people love to travel and others not so much. I love most every aspect of it. I like planning a trip, deciding on the route, what I want to see, where I want to stay, the flights, in fact the whole caboodle. Then there’s the actual trip which is exciting and when it is over, travel gives you (usually) wonderful memories. What is there not to like?

Planning is a great time as you get to choose where you want to go, how you are getting there, all aspects of your trip, including hotel. Today there are so many ways you can get information about the place you have chosen for your trip. For example, say you want to plan a trip to Costa Rica as your neighbors went there last year and they loved it. Certainly you can pick their brains about their experiences there.

Then you can do your own research. Online is a great place to start as you can look at maps, visit blogs about the place and start planning what you will do when you get there. There are flights to book. Is San Jose the right airport for you or would Liberia be a better choice? Check with different airlines or expedia.com for the best routes and what the price differences are. Maybe you should do some research into all-inclusive deals or general vacation deals that include hotel and flights.

If you decide you would rather plan your itinerary yourself, then you can spend more time planning your trip. Costa Rica is well known for its beauty and there is so much to do there. You could go on a trip through a rainforest. Maybe a yoga camp? How about car rentals? You could then simply go wherever you want each day and not plan much at all. You could start of in San Jose and spend a night or two there to get to know the city and then hire a car and travel north to Arenal where the rainforests are and the volcano. The area is also a renowned spa town. You can either plan ahead and book hotels or just pick a place to stay when you get there – something that is usually very doable.

You could go further north west until you get to the beautiful Pacific coast where there are lovely small towns on the coast where you can enjoy water sports, go on a trip to see the whales or the turtles, or simply relax on one of the beautiful beaches.

While Spanish is the language of the country, it is not difficult to get by with just English. Travelling by car, you could more or less see the whole country in about two weeks and have a great time. Another plus is that it is near the equator so the weather so the weather is usually beautiful all year round. The people are nice and friendly and the country itself is spectacular and so are the flowers and the birds – they even have monkeys.

After your trip, you can spend your time looking at your photos and re-living the great time you had there. This is just one of the many reasons that travelling is wonderful.

The Advantages of Cruising Over a Land Vacation

If you are planning a vacation soon, have you considered taking a cruise? Cruises are gaining in popularity and it is really not hard to understand why. In fact, there are many advantages to cruising over a land vacation. Let's consider some of these and see if you don't agree.

When you go on a cruise you will not just visit one location, you will visit many. Instead of flying to a city and spending your entire vacation in just one place, when you cruise you are constantly on the move. That means you will visit several exotic cities or islands.

You will usually have a full day to explore each port you visit. So if you are cruising the Mediterranean you will have a full day to see each of the great European cities like Barcelona, Rome, Athens, and many others.

If your cruise vacation takes you to the Caribbean, you will spend a full day on each island you visit --- giving you plenty of time to tour the island, go to the beach, scuba, snorkel, or whatever else interests you.  Visiting many destinations instead of just one is a major advantage of cruising over a land vacation.

When you travel from city to city on a land vacation, the time you spend driving or flying is not very relaxing. With a cruise it is just the opposite. The time you spend cruising from one island to the next is very relaxing.

Perhaps you will spend time by the pool. Lavish meals are prepared in the dining room each evening --- and are included in the cost of your cruise. After dinner you can take in a spectacular live show in the ship's auditorium. These shows change each night and range from comedians to Broadway musicals to magic shows.

After dinner and a show you might have a nightcap and then sleep the night away, only to wake up the next morning refreshed and ready to visit your next port.

One of the nice perks of a cruise is that you normally have one or two days when you are at sea. These days are a real break because visiting a new port every day can tire you out. Our favorite itineraries have sea days between port days. Sea days are great for laying by the pool and to the steel drums play as the water laps at the side of the ship.

Another advantage of taking a cruise vacation is that each year you can choose a different itinerary. In a few years time you will have become a real world traveler!  One year it might be the Western Caribbean, the next year Alaska. Perhaps after that you might enjoy visiting the Mediterranean and then perhaps a cruise around the Scandinavian countries. There is almost no limit to where you can cruise.

When you give it some thought there are real advantages of taking a cruise vacation over a land vacation.  Why not consider a cruise for your next vacation?

The Advantages of Cruising Over a Land Vacation

Posted by zlatin

If you are planning a vacation soon, have you considered taking a cruise? Cruises are gaining in popularity and it is really not hard to understand why. In fact, there are many advantages to cruising over a land vacation. Let's consider some of these and see if you don't agree.

When you go on a cruise you will not just visit one location, you will visit many. Instead of flying to a city and spending your entire vacation in just one place, when you cruise you are constantly on the move. That means you will visit several exotic cities or islands.

You will usually have a full day to explore each port you visit. So if you are cruising the Mediterranean you will have a full day to see each of the great European cities like Barcelona, Rome, Athens, and many others.

If your cruise vacation takes you to the Caribbean, you will spend a full day on each island you visit --- giving you plenty of time to tour the island, go to the beach, scuba, snorkel, or whatever else interests you.  Visiting many destinations instead of just one is a major advantage of cruising over a land vacation.

When you travel from city to city on a land vacation, the time you spend driving or flying is not very relaxing. With a cruise it is just the opposite. The time you spend cruising from one island to the next is very relaxing.

Perhaps you will spend time by the pool. Lavish meals are prepared in the dining room each evening --- and are included in the cost of your cruise. After dinner you can take in a spectacular live show in the ship's auditorium. These shows change each night and range from comedians to Broadway musicals to magic shows.

After dinner and a show you might have a nightcap and then sleep the night away, only to wake up the next morning refreshed and ready to visit your next port.

One of the nice perks of a cruise is that you normally have one or two days when you are at sea. These days are a real break because visiting a new port every day can tire you out. Our favorite itineraries have sea days between port days. Sea days are great for laying by the pool and to the steel drums play as the water laps at the side of the ship.

Another advantage of taking a cruise vacation is that each year you can choose a different itinerary. In a few years time you will have become a real world traveler!  One year it might be the Western Caribbean, the next year Alaska. Perhaps after that you might enjoy visiting the Mediterranean and then perhaps a cruise around the Scandinavian countries. There is almost no limit to where you can cruise.

When you give it some thought there are real advantages of taking a cruise vacation over a land vacation.  Why not consider a cruise for your next vacation?

Choose From These Top Destinations For Your Next Travel Experience

When it comes time to plan a vacation, you want to have fun. Sometimes you hit the nail on the head, and other times you don't. Everyone has had at least one vacation that did not go their way. Wouldn't you like to know a few top spots that are worth your visit?

For starters, you can't lose when you visit New York City. If something doesn't turn out quite the way you want it because of different factors, there are so many other attractions there to turn your trip around. How about catching a Yankees ballgame? Would you like to visit Times Square? Maybe you want to visit the Statue of Liberty or other historical monuments. You can also catch many great shows there and get tickets to certain live events that are on TV. Coney Island is there, and what about visiting the famous first Nathan's Hot Dog place? Again, you can't lose when visiting New York City.

Next, pick a destination in California. Whether you're more of the beach and big time person or the wine connoisseur that wants to do things in peace, there is something for you in California. Northern California even has the private getaways available. So what are you waiting for? Many of the major US cities are located here, and everyone wants a chance to visit Hollywood right? Disneyland is in California, and so are many sports venues. Visit San Diego, San Francisco, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Anaheim or whatever city you choose. You're definitely not going to get bored!

Do you need a reason to finally visit Florida? Perhaps you're not into Disney World, and maybe you've already got a favorite beach. Well, you need new experiences, and many cities in Florida promise that kind of trip. You can visit Orlando without having to go to Disney World. Or, if that's your thing, it's a top destination. Plus, the beaches in Florida really do go unmatched by any other unless you go out of the country. So why not visit Florida and see what this state has to offer. Whether you're a beach person or an inland person, there is both city experiences and small town experiences awaiting you. If you like historical, there is plenty of that too.

Many people think about vacationing in the sun. But, to try out something unique and different, why don't you visit the mountains. Or, even make it more interesting by making it a winter mountain ski or snowboarding trip. This is an excellent idea that you will enjoy only if you give it a try. You will not realize the marvelous opportunity until you live it.

No matter where you want to go on vacation, you want to have the most fun ever right? You've just read about some awesome destinations that are multifaceted and promise a good time no matter who you are and what your interests are. So get to planning that next big travel experience with your family.

Choose From These Top Destinations For Your Next Travel Experience

Posted by zlatin

When it comes time to plan a vacation, you want to have fun. Sometimes you hit the nail on the head, and other times you don't. Everyone has had at least one vacation that did not go their way. Wouldn't you like to know a few top spots that are worth your visit?

For starters, you can't lose when you visit New York City. If something doesn't turn out quite the way you want it because of different factors, there are so many other attractions there to turn your trip around. How about catching a Yankees ballgame? Would you like to visit Times Square? Maybe you want to visit the Statue of Liberty or other historical monuments. You can also catch many great shows there and get tickets to certain live events that are on TV. Coney Island is there, and what about visiting the famous first Nathan's Hot Dog place? Again, you can't lose when visiting New York City.

Next, pick a destination in California. Whether you're more of the beach and big time person or the wine connoisseur that wants to do things in peace, there is something for you in California. Northern California even has the private getaways available. So what are you waiting for? Many of the major US cities are located here, and everyone wants a chance to visit Hollywood right? Disneyland is in California, and so are many sports venues. Visit San Diego, San Francisco, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Anaheim or whatever city you choose. You're definitely not going to get bored!

Do you need a reason to finally visit Florida? Perhaps you're not into Disney World, and maybe you've already got a favorite beach. Well, you need new experiences, and many cities in Florida promise that kind of trip. You can visit Orlando without having to go to Disney World. Or, if that's your thing, it's a top destination. Plus, the beaches in Florida really do go unmatched by any other unless you go out of the country. So why not visit Florida and see what this state has to offer. Whether you're a beach person or an inland person, there is both city experiences and small town experiences awaiting you. If you like historical, there is plenty of that too.

Many people think about vacationing in the sun. But, to try out something unique and different, why don't you visit the mountains. Or, even make it more interesting by making it a winter mountain ski or snowboarding trip. This is an excellent idea that you will enjoy only if you give it a try. You will not realize the marvelous opportunity until you live it.

No matter where you want to go on vacation, you want to have the most fun ever right? You've just read about some awesome destinations that are multifaceted and promise a good time no matter who you are and what your interests are. So get to planning that next big travel experience with your family.

Road Trips are a Fun, Cheaper Way to Travel!

If you would love to go on a vacation, but cannot afford flying the whole family or group of friends to an exotic international city, consider a road trip! Whether you would like to go across the entire country or just focus on an interesting place you have never been, road trips are a great alternative for people who like to do things on their own schedule instead of following a guided tour.

Make sure first that you are using a reliable vehicle that doesn't take too much gas to run. Although minivans and RVs offer a lot of space, they can be gas guzzlers. Opting for an SUV or a larger hatchback can allow the passengers plenty of room to spread out and store necessary items without using up too much gas. If you find out how many miles per gallon the car uses, you can calculate a rough estimate for how much gas will be, too.

Bring an emergency credit card or some emergency cash in case your vehicle breaks down, or your group has to stay in a slightly more expensive hotel. You should always be prepared for the worst, even if it's unlikely to happen. Buying triple A insurance beforehand can save you a headache if you experience a flat tire, break down, or run out of gas. It's always better to be safe than sorry, especially if there are several people counting on making the trip fun!

Think about what kind of activities you want to do before you leave. Would your group like to go camping and hiking, or do they like museums and plays more? Do you plan on going out to eat or having picnics? Make sure you think about what you would like to do the most and budget money for that first. Always have extra on hand in case something unexpected happens, too. If your friends are outdoorsy, you can spend a lot of money on lodging and activities by camping in a state park or similar area.

As for the driving itself, try to bring as many people that can drive as possible. Driving for hours on end can get tiring, and you don't want the driver to fall asleep at the wheel! Switching out the driver every few hours gives everyone a chance to rest, and keeps all of the passengers safe. Bring plenty of water, blankets, snacks and your own music if possible! The more comfort while in the car, the better the road trip will be. Being in the car with loved ones is part of the fun!

Road trips are a great choice for anyone who likes to explore on their own terms, or has a lower budget than those who can go on Caribbean cruises. Look for great destinations, plan activities and calculate the gas prices before you leave. The more you plan, the more smoothly your trip will go. Have fun and be safe on the road!

 

Road Trips are a Fun, Cheaper Way to Travel!

Posted by zlatin

If you would love to go on a vacation, but cannot afford flying the whole family or group of friends to an exotic international city, consider a road trip! Whether you would like to go across the entire country or just focus on an interesting place you have never been, road trips are a great alternative for people who like to do things on their own schedule instead of following a guided tour.

Make sure first that you are using a reliable vehicle that doesn't take too much gas to run. Although minivans and RVs offer a lot of space, they can be gas guzzlers. Opting for an SUV or a larger hatchback can allow the passengers plenty of room to spread out and store necessary items without using up too much gas. If you find out how many miles per gallon the car uses, you can calculate a rough estimate for how much gas will be, too.

Bring an emergency credit card or some emergency cash in case your vehicle breaks down, or your group has to stay in a slightly more expensive hotel. You should always be prepared for the worst, even if it's unlikely to happen. Buying triple A insurance beforehand can save you a headache if you experience a flat tire, break down, or run out of gas. It's always better to be safe than sorry, especially if there are several people counting on making the trip fun!

Think about what kind of activities you want to do before you leave. Would your group like to go camping and hiking, or do they like museums and plays more? Do you plan on going out to eat or having picnics? Make sure you think about what you would like to do the most and budget money for that first. Always have extra on hand in case something unexpected happens, too. If your friends are outdoorsy, you can spend a lot of money on lodging and activities by camping in a state park or similar area.

As for the driving itself, try to bring as many people that can drive as possible. Driving for hours on end can get tiring, and you don't want the driver to fall asleep at the wheel! Switching out the driver every few hours gives everyone a chance to rest, and keeps all of the passengers safe. Bring plenty of water, blankets, snacks and your own music if possible! The more comfort while in the car, the better the road trip will be. Being in the car with loved ones is part of the fun!

Road trips are a great choice for anyone who likes to explore on their own terms, or has a lower budget than those who can go on Caribbean cruises. Look for great destinations, plan activities and calculate the gas prices before you leave. The more you plan, the more smoothly your trip will go. Have fun and be safe on the road!

 

Top 5 Things To Do When Traveling To Curry County

Curry County, Oregon is the south-westernmost county in Oregon. It is also one of the greenest and the least dense in the state. (There are only three incorporated cities in the county.) Lovers of the outdoors should feel right at home in Curry County, whether they love going outdoors or not. Below are a few suggestions for whenever you should find yourself traveling through this beautiful part of the country.

1. Jet boat rides. Along the Rogue River exists an old tradition of mailboats. A hundred years ago, there didn’t exist any roads upriver, so all the towns and smaller settlements received their mail and supplies via specialized jet boats from Gold Beach, Oregon. Today the jet boat tradition is still around even if the old towns are gone and there are now state roads to the remaining ones. Tours exist for those looking for a wet and wild adventure complete with sightseeing up the Rogue River wilderness.

2. Cape Blanco Lighthouse. Just north of Port Orford, Oregon is the Cape Blanco State Park, home of the Cape Blanco Lighthouse. The lighthouse is now an interesting museum in which you can climb to the top and get a great view of the cliffs and oceans. But that’s not the best part. Cape Blanco marks the westernmost point in the forty-eight states. It’s recommended to visit during the summer, as winter winds sometimes reach as high as 130mph on average.

3. Driving down Highway 101. The coastal highway is the main means of transportation in Curry County. It winds its way along the coast, hugging the cliffs south of Port Orford and all the way to California. During the summer it offers a fantastical view. It only takes one hour to drive the length of the Curry County highway, from Port Orford to Brookings, so fuel up and go for the scenic drive of your life.

4. Go hiking and camping. Curry County is a camper’s dream. Dozens of quality campsites and RV places exist along the coast that offer a genuine experience. Many have access to famous hiking trails and trips to the beach. (All beaches are public in Oregon.) Specifically, Humbug Mountain in northern Curry County is a popular tourist spot for hiking, camping, and beachcombing.

5. Go back in time. Whether it’s a hundred years or a million years, Oregon has you covered. Maritime and settler museums exist aplenty, so there is always something for the history buff to check out. Not into people history? The Prehistoric Gardens 13 miles north of Gold Beach feature life-sized models of dinosaurs existing among Oregon’s natural rain forests. You can’t miss it: there’s a to-scale T-rex standing right next to the highway!

At first glance it may seem there’s nothing to do in Curry County, Oregon, but soon you find that there’s plenty to keep you and your family occupied. Whether it’s storm watching in the winter or beachcombing in the summer, there is something for everyone in Oregon’s most beautiful and quietest county.

Top 5 Things To Do When Traveling To Curry County

Posted by zlatin

Curry County, Oregon is the south-westernmost county in Oregon. It is also one of the greenest and the least dense in the state. (There are only three incorporated cities in the county.) Lovers of the outdoors should feel right at home in Curry County, whether they love going outdoors or not. Below are a few suggestions for whenever you should find yourself traveling through this beautiful part of the country.

1. Jet boat rides. Along the Rogue River exists an old tradition of mailboats. A hundred years ago, there didn’t exist any roads upriver, so all the towns and smaller settlements received their mail and supplies via specialized jet boats from Gold Beach, Oregon. Today the jet boat tradition is still around even if the old towns are gone and there are now state roads to the remaining ones. Tours exist for those looking for a wet and wild adventure complete with sightseeing up the Rogue River wilderness.

2. Cape Blanco Lighthouse. Just north of Port Orford, Oregon is the Cape Blanco State Park, home of the Cape Blanco Lighthouse. The lighthouse is now an interesting museum in which you can climb to the top and get a great view of the cliffs and oceans. But that’s not the best part. Cape Blanco marks the westernmost point in the forty-eight states. It’s recommended to visit during the summer, as winter winds sometimes reach as high as 130mph on average.

3. Driving down Highway 101. The coastal highway is the main means of transportation in Curry County. It winds its way along the coast, hugging the cliffs south of Port Orford and all the way to California. During the summer it offers a fantastical view. It only takes one hour to drive the length of the Curry County highway, from Port Orford to Brookings, so fuel up and go for the scenic drive of your life.

4. Go hiking and camping. Curry County is a camper’s dream. Dozens of quality campsites and RV places exist along the coast that offer a genuine experience. Many have access to famous hiking trails and trips to the beach. (All beaches are public in Oregon.) Specifically, Humbug Mountain in northern Curry County is a popular tourist spot for hiking, camping, and beachcombing.

5. Go back in time. Whether it’s a hundred years or a million years, Oregon has you covered. Maritime and settler museums exist aplenty, so there is always something for the history buff to check out. Not into people history? The Prehistoric Gardens 13 miles north of Gold Beach feature life-sized models of dinosaurs existing among Oregon’s natural rain forests. You can’t miss it: there’s a to-scale T-rex standing right next to the highway!

At first glance it may seem there’s nothing to do in Curry County, Oregon, but soon you find that there’s plenty to keep you and your family occupied. Whether it’s storm watching in the winter or beachcombing in the summer, there is something for everyone in Oregon’s most beautiful and quietest county.

Travel Destinations: Key West, Florida

Are you a travel enthusiast? I love to travel. There are still dozens of places on my bucket list yet to visit. But one I recently crossed off was Key West, Florida. I just got back early April and it was everything I had hoped for in a travel destination. It’s much more accessible than the popular Caribbean island destinations. It has the feel of the Caribbean although technically it is not in the Caribbean.

Since cruising has gained popularity, Key West has become very crowded. But most of the cruise tourists tend to stick close to the dock and the touristy areas. There were some interesting things to see there too, such as Mel Fisher’s Museum. (He salvaged the Spanish galleon, the Atocha, a number of years back, and has a wonderful display of the bounty he hauled up – jewels, gold bars and doubloons, guns and cannons. You name it.

There’s this eating establishment called Louie’s Back Yard. It’s a great place to eat, or sip a Mojito under the shade of a giant Banyan tree. Great atmosphere. For history buffs Key West has two major offerings: one is the Harry Truman Winter White House. It is much the same as when the president and first lady – Harry and Bess –sought out it out as a private retreat. Then there is the Hemingway House.

Ernest Hemingway was very fond of Key West and his house is open for tours. It’s a bit pricey, but I figured I’m only going to be here once. Why miss it? Interesting fact is it’s still inhabited by the offspring of cats Ernest himself had owned. (It’s also inhabited, some say, by a ghost. Personally, I don’t buy into that kind of phenomenon, and I certainly had no “encounters” during my tour, but it’s an interesting tidbit, in case someone out there is interested.)

There are old cemeteries to explore. (Given the long history of Key West, you can imagine how old some of those gravestones are!) I actually found that fascinating, but not everyone would share that opinion. If you don’t, there are also some great restaurants, and these quaint little trolleys all over town to get you there. Don’t confuse them with the cruise ships’ excursion trolleys, which are off limits to non-cruisers. It’s a small island so everything is pretty much within walking distance if you’re inclined. (I took the trolley.)

Key West is the southernmost point of the United States, and, as part of the United States, it allows for long distant cell phone calls without roaming charges. Good to know. There’s a gorgeous lighthouse there that offers a spectacular view from the top! There are also lots of statues around town that make for great photo ops. And the Butterfly Conservatory is a must!

I stayed there a week and never ran out of things to do. Like I said, I like to travel and were it not for the bucket list, I think my next trip would be back to Key West!

Travel Destinations: Key West, Florida

Posted by zlatin

Are you a travel enthusiast? I love to travel. There are still dozens of places on my bucket list yet to visit. But one I recently crossed off was Key West, Florida. I just got back early April and it was everything I had hoped for in a travel destination. It’s much more accessible than the popular Caribbean island destinations. It has the feel of the Caribbean although technically it is not in the Caribbean.

Since cruising has gained popularity, Key West has become very crowded. But most of the cruise tourists tend to stick close to the dock and the touristy areas. There were some interesting things to see there too, such as Mel Fisher’s Museum. (He salvaged the Spanish galleon, the Atocha, a number of years back, and has a wonderful display of the bounty he hauled up – jewels, gold bars and doubloons, guns and cannons. You name it.

There’s this eating establishment called Louie’s Back Yard. It’s a great place to eat, or sip a Mojito under the shade of a giant Banyan tree. Great atmosphere. For history buffs Key West has two major offerings: one is the Harry Truman Winter White House. It is much the same as when the president and first lady – Harry and Bess –sought out it out as a private retreat. Then there is the Hemingway House.

Ernest Hemingway was very fond of Key West and his house is open for tours. It’s a bit pricey, but I figured I’m only going to be here once. Why miss it? Interesting fact is it’s still inhabited by the offspring of cats Ernest himself had owned. (It’s also inhabited, some say, by a ghost. Personally, I don’t buy into that kind of phenomenon, and I certainly had no “encounters” during my tour, but it’s an interesting tidbit, in case someone out there is interested.)

There are old cemeteries to explore. (Given the long history of Key West, you can imagine how old some of those gravestones are!) I actually found that fascinating, but not everyone would share that opinion. If you don’t, there are also some great restaurants, and these quaint little trolleys all over town to get you there. Don’t confuse them with the cruise ships’ excursion trolleys, which are off limits to non-cruisers. It’s a small island so everything is pretty much within walking distance if you’re inclined. (I took the trolley.)

Key West is the southernmost point of the United States, and, as part of the United States, it allows for long distant cell phone calls without roaming charges. Good to know. There’s a gorgeous lighthouse there that offers a spectacular view from the top! There are also lots of statues around town that make for great photo ops. And the Butterfly Conservatory is a must!

I stayed there a week and never ran out of things to do. Like I said, I like to travel and were it not for the bucket list, I think my next trip would be back to Key West!

Pros And Cons Of Solo Traveling

Many women fear traveling without a partner because of the potential dangers they might expose themselves to. Although there is a bit of truth in this, solo traveling is usually pretty safe if you don't do foolish things.

The best part of traveling by yourself is that you are the only decision maker. You can visit whatever you want, you can stop if you get tired, you can eat when you want to or you can skip meals for a whole day if so you wish. When traveling with a partner, both of you need to compromise a little, in order to make the most out of your trip.

Another advantage is that you meet more people when you travel by yourself. This is normal, if you think about it for a moment. If you don't have a partner to talk to, you'll feel more inclined to start conversations with local people or with other travelers. Being by yourself, it would be more cost effective to book a bed in a hostel room, rather than pay the price of a hotel room for just one person. Sleeping in hostels facilitates meeting new people and perhaps making new friends.

We've seen the bright side, but what about the dark side of solo traveling? How dangerous it really is? We are talking about girls traveling alone, because they are most exposed than boys for reasons easy to understand.

Even if she travels alone, a girl still needs food and some entertainment. Going out for dinner and maybe to a club afterwards exposes her to men who might want to flirt with her. While this can be fun as long as it stays innocent, things can easily get serious and the girl might find herself in trouble. This is why you should be very careful who you talk to and most important what you say. Dress yourself in a more conservative fashion and never agree to go with anybody in private places. Always stay in public and you'll be safe. Some ladies wear a wedding ring even if they are single, in order to create the illusion that they might be on vacation with their husband who happens to be elsewhere that moment.

When traveling solo, one may feel a bit lonely at times, because there isn't anybody else to share impressions with. This is our human nature: we like to share good and bad things, we like to enjoy life together, tell jokes and have fun. If you're the lonely type of person, you might find it hard to make friends on the road, so you might get homesick after a while.

Accommodation is an issue for solo travelers. The price difference between a single and a double room is very small, therefore it is more cost effective when two people share one room. However, if you either don't mind paying the price or you don't mind staying at hostels, you'll be fine.

If you feel lonely on the road, start a travel blog and share your photos and stories with the world. It is a great motivation factor and it may lead to new adventures and to meeting cool people who can become your friends.

Pros And Cons Of Solo Traveling

Posted by zlatin

Many women fear traveling without a partner because of the potential dangers they might expose themselves to. Although there is a bit of truth in this, solo traveling is usually pretty safe if you don't do foolish things.

The best part of traveling by yourself is that you are the only decision maker. You can visit whatever you want, you can stop if you get tired, you can eat when you want to or you can skip meals for a whole day if so you wish. When traveling with a partner, both of you need to compromise a little, in order to make the most out of your trip.

Another advantage is that you meet more people when you travel by yourself. This is normal, if you think about it for a moment. If you don't have a partner to talk to, you'll feel more inclined to start conversations with local people or with other travelers. Being by yourself, it would be more cost effective to book a bed in a hostel room, rather than pay the price of a hotel room for just one person. Sleeping in hostels facilitates meeting new people and perhaps making new friends.

We've seen the bright side, but what about the dark side of solo traveling? How dangerous it really is? We are talking about girls traveling alone, because they are most exposed than boys for reasons easy to understand.

Even if she travels alone, a girl still needs food and some entertainment. Going out for dinner and maybe to a club afterwards exposes her to men who might want to flirt with her. While this can be fun as long as it stays innocent, things can easily get serious and the girl might find herself in trouble. This is why you should be very careful who you talk to and most important what you say. Dress yourself in a more conservative fashion and never agree to go with anybody in private places. Always stay in public and you'll be safe. Some ladies wear a wedding ring even if they are single, in order to create the illusion that they might be on vacation with their husband who happens to be elsewhere that moment.

When traveling solo, one may feel a bit lonely at times, because there isn't anybody else to share impressions with. This is our human nature: we like to share good and bad things, we like to enjoy life together, tell jokes and have fun. If you're the lonely type of person, you might find it hard to make friends on the road, so you might get homesick after a while.

Accommodation is an issue for solo travelers. The price difference between a single and a double room is very small, therefore it is more cost effective when two people share one room. However, if you either don't mind paying the price or you don't mind staying at hostels, you'll be fine.

If you feel lonely on the road, start a travel blog and share your photos and stories with the world. It is a great motivation factor and it may lead to new adventures and to meeting cool people who can become your friends.

Helpful Hints For Traveling With Kids

It doesn't matter if you are traveling by plane, train or automobile, any parent will have some level of anxiety when they are planning a vacation with their kids. Regardless of the age of your kids, you have to take on a certain level of planning in order to make any trip or vacation run smoothly. Whenever you are planning your next road trip or family vacation, there are a few things that you can remember to hopefully make your travel much easier and stress free.

If you are going to be traveling with younger kids, you may want to start talking with them about the trip well in advance. Sometimes, it is a good idea to explain the vacation and the method of travel so that you can get some of their questions out of the way early. You may also find that you have a child that will need to feel comfortable with whatever mode of travel you will be taking for your vacation. While it can be exciting to travel on a boat, plane or train, there are bound to be plenty of questions along the way.

No matter how you are going to be traveling, it is always important to pack things to snack on. If you are going to be waiting in the airport or train station, you can save money by bringing along a few favorite snacks. Otherwise, you will more than likely have to buy something pricey at a commissary or food court if you have a wait before you depart. Quick, mess free snacks such as trail mix, nuts or carrot sticks will keep a child from getting hungry during the wait.

If you are going to be traveling by automobile or RV, you need to make sure that you fill a bag with different games and things to keep them occupied during the trip. Board games, note pads and even their favorite handheld electronics can make for many quiet hours on road trips. However, if you want to have interaction as a family, you can also think of getting a book of road trip games that you can get involved with as a group. Pick the oldest child to read off a few games that you can all play to pass the time while on the road.

Certainly, it is important to pack appropriately when you are going to be traveling with kids. If you are going to be on a plane or a train for a few hours, think of having them pack their favorite small blanket, stuffed animal or pillow to cuddle up with. While a blanket or pillow may be offered on the flight, there is something comforting about being able to use their favorite things from home. You may even end up having a child that sleeps through the entire trip because they are so comfortable.

No matter how you slice it, things will come up when you travel with kids. You simply just have to try to be as prepared as possible so that you can deal with whatever comes your way. In the end, you are going to have a great road trip or vacation that you will all remember for a lifetime.

Helpful Hints For Traveling With Kids

Posted by zlatin

It doesn't matter if you are traveling by plane, train or automobile, any parent will have some level of anxiety when they are planning a vacation with their kids. Regardless of the age of your kids, you have to take on a certain level of planning in order to make any trip or vacation run smoothly. Whenever you are planning your next road trip or family vacation, there are a few things that you can remember to hopefully make your travel much easier and stress free.

If you are going to be traveling with younger kids, you may want to start talking with them about the trip well in advance. Sometimes, it is a good idea to explain the vacation and the method of travel so that you can get some of their questions out of the way early. You may also find that you have a child that will need to feel comfortable with whatever mode of travel you will be taking for your vacation. While it can be exciting to travel on a boat, plane or train, there are bound to be plenty of questions along the way.

No matter how you are going to be traveling, it is always important to pack things to snack on. If you are going to be waiting in the airport or train station, you can save money by bringing along a few favorite snacks. Otherwise, you will more than likely have to buy something pricey at a commissary or food court if you have a wait before you depart. Quick, mess free snacks such as trail mix, nuts or carrot sticks will keep a child from getting hungry during the wait.

If you are going to be traveling by automobile or RV, you need to make sure that you fill a bag with different games and things to keep them occupied during the trip. Board games, note pads and even their favorite handheld electronics can make for many quiet hours on road trips. However, if you want to have interaction as a family, you can also think of getting a book of road trip games that you can get involved with as a group. Pick the oldest child to read off a few games that you can all play to pass the time while on the road.

Certainly, it is important to pack appropriately when you are going to be traveling with kids. If you are going to be on a plane or a train for a few hours, think of having them pack their favorite small blanket, stuffed animal or pillow to cuddle up with. While a blanket or pillow may be offered on the flight, there is something comforting about being able to use their favorite things from home. You may even end up having a child that sleeps through the entire trip because they are so comfortable.

No matter how you slice it, things will come up when you travel with kids. You simply just have to try to be as prepared as possible so that you can deal with whatever comes your way. In the end, you are going to have a great road trip or vacation that you will all remember for a lifetime.

Which Cruise Ship Should You Choose for Your Caribbean Cruise?

Are you planning a winter getaway this year?  If so, there is no greater vacation than a Caribbean cruise. Each winter there are usually a dozen or more cruise ships sailing in the Caribbean. These ships sail to dozens of different exotic ports. Which ship should you choose for your vacation?

First off, how long to you have?  The majority of Caribbean cruises are for seven nights. These normally sail on a Saturday or Sunday. Usually you can board the ship around noontime and the ship sails in the late afternoon. You will then return the following Saturday or Sunday and be required to disembark the ship by about 9 am.

There are longer cruises, too. Some are 10 days, two weeks or longer. Obviously the longer you sail the more ports you will visit and the more expensive your cruise will be.

Another option if you want a longer cruise is to book back-to-back cruises on the same ship. Many ships have two itineraries; week 1 they travel the Western Caribbean and week 2 they travel the Eastern Caribbean. Booking back-to-back cruises allows you to stay on the same ship, usually in the same stateroom, and visit all the ports on both itineraries. It's a wonderful vacation!

Cruises of seven days normally visit three or four islands. If you choose a western Caribbean itinerary, you may visit ports such as Key West, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Belize, Roatan (Honduras) and Ocho Rios (Jamaica).  Eastern itineraries may include St Thomas, St Johns, St Maarten, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and other islands.

You can also choose a southern Caribbean itinerary. These normally include islands like Aruba, Curacao, Trinidad, Barbados, St Lucia and other islands. If you leave from the mainland U.S. and want to visit the Southern Caribbean, however, you will probably have to take at least a 10 day cruise. Another option is to leave from San Juan, Puerto Rico, which normally does have seven day cruises to the southern islands.

Which brings up the question: Which port should you sail from? The majority of Caribbean cruises depart from either Miami or Fort Lauderdale. Most years there are also sailings from Tampa, Cape Canaveral, Galveston and New Orleans. You may also be able to get cruises from cities like New York or Baltimore, but seven day cruises from these cities generally only go to the Bahamas or Bermuda. You also spend more time cruising and less time in port.

Size is also a consideration when choosing your cruise ship. You have a wide range of sizes: from about 70,000 tons to 160,000 tons!  The larger ships have more amenities --- and more people. Remember that the biggest ships are the length of three to four football fields! That means longer walks each time you leave your cabin.

We love ships that are between 90,000 and 100,000 tons. They offer plenty of things to see and do, yet feel more intimate than the big behemoths. Still, it is a matter of personal preference.

Are you ready to take off on your first Caribbean cruise? If so, then we hope these tips on choosing the right cruise ship have been helpful to you.

Which Cruise Ship Should You Choose for Your Caribbean Cruise?

Posted by zlatin

Are you planning a winter getaway this year?  If so, there is no greater vacation than a Caribbean cruise. Each winter there are usually a dozen or more cruise ships sailing in the Caribbean. These ships sail to dozens of different exotic ports. Which ship should you choose for your vacation?

First off, how long to you have?  The majority of Caribbean cruises are for seven nights. These normally sail on a Saturday or Sunday. Usually you can board the ship around noontime and the ship sails in the late afternoon. You will then return the following Saturday or Sunday and be required to disembark the ship by about 9 am.

There are longer cruises, too. Some are 10 days, two weeks or longer. Obviously the longer you sail the more ports you will visit and the more expensive your cruise will be.

Another option if you want a longer cruise is to book back-to-back cruises on the same ship. Many ships have two itineraries; week 1 they travel the Western Caribbean and week 2 they travel the Eastern Caribbean. Booking back-to-back cruises allows you to stay on the same ship, usually in the same stateroom, and visit all the ports on both itineraries. It's a wonderful vacation!

Cruises of seven days normally visit three or four islands. If you choose a western Caribbean itinerary, you may visit ports such as Key West, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Belize, Roatan (Honduras) and Ocho Rios (Jamaica).  Eastern itineraries may include St Thomas, St Johns, St Maarten, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and other islands.

You can also choose a southern Caribbean itinerary. These normally include islands like Aruba, Curacao, Trinidad, Barbados, St Lucia and other islands. If you leave from the mainland U.S. and want to visit the Southern Caribbean, however, you will probably have to take at least a 10 day cruise. Another option is to leave from San Juan, Puerto Rico, which normally does have seven day cruises to the southern islands.

Which brings up the question: Which port should you sail from? The majority of Caribbean cruises depart from either Miami or Fort Lauderdale. Most years there are also sailings from Tampa, Cape Canaveral, Galveston and New Orleans. You may also be able to get cruises from cities like New York or Baltimore, but seven day cruises from these cities generally only go to the Bahamas or Bermuda. You also spend more time cruising and less time in port.

Size is also a consideration when choosing your cruise ship. You have a wide range of sizes: from about 70,000 tons to 160,000 tons!  The larger ships have more amenities --- and more people. Remember that the biggest ships are the length of three to four football fields! That means longer walks each time you leave your cabin.

We love ships that are between 90,000 and 100,000 tons. They offer plenty of things to see and do, yet feel more intimate than the big behemoths. Still, it is a matter of personal preference.

Are you ready to take off on your first Caribbean cruise? If so, then we hope these tips on choosing the right cruise ship have been helpful to you.

Chicago is a Hockey Town

Why would anyone in their right minds want to travel to Chicago U.S.A.? What does the city and Chicago tourism have to offer? Unless you want to fly a kite in what is known as the "Windy City"... why would you want to go there? Do they have any famous theme parks, world class ski destinations, or interesting historical excursions? What is so great about visiting Chicago?

The answer to those questions are all contained in the words "The Chicago Blackhawks". Chicago tourism should realize that the hockey team known as the Chicago Blackhawks is the only reason for anyone to travel to such a destination. The team has such a rich history in the sport of hockey and recently they have been playing like the true champions that their history requires.

Yes, they are on top of their game. With a recent Stanley Cup to show for their efforts and a first place lead this year... they are an exciting young team to follow. However, things have not always been so positive for the team. They have had many years of disappointment and lack-luster efforts.

One of the benefits of having poor performance years in a row is that you are eligible to receive high draft picks. Not all teams however, have the ability to turn those high picks into quality players. Not so with the Chicago Blackhawks. Many sub par years produced excellent prospects that have turned out to be top-notch, skilled players. This my friend, is one of the secrets to success in the National Hockey League.

True, there are other successful teams that have gone this route. Pittsburgh Penguins are such a team. There are however, many teams that just keep struggling and performing bad only to draft their picks also very poorly. The Calgary Flames are a recent example. They continue to disappoint their fans with uninspired and sloppy play.

Chicago does have a history of other successful sporting teams. The Chicago Bears and the Chicago Bulls both have had their glory days. The Chicago Cubs on the other hand have been a disappointment for decades. Their fans continue to hope and wait and hope and wait. The Cubs team in Chicago though, is the exception rather than the rule.

You may find it strange that someone would only want to visit a city because of a hockey team. But is that really so abnormal? Many sporting fans from many countries are enamored with only just that. They save their hard earned dollars so as to take a vacation following their favorite team. It allows them to spend some time away from the pressures and anxieties of their everyday mundane existence.

So if I were to visit a website for Chicago Tourism would I find as an attraction, tickets to the Chicago Blackhawk's games. If it was available, then I would surly purchase those tickets and I would pack my bags and take a trip to the "Windy City". Not to be cruel but, besides that... what else does the city really have to offer?

Chicago is a Hockey Town

Posted by zlatin

Why would anyone in their right minds want to travel to Chicago U.S.A.? What does the city and Chicago tourism have to offer? Unless you want to fly a kite in what is known as the "Windy City"... why would you want to go there? Do they have any famous theme parks, world class ski destinations, or interesting historical excursions? What is so great about visiting Chicago?

The answer to those questions are all contained in the words "The Chicago Blackhawks". Chicago tourism should realize that the hockey team known as the Chicago Blackhawks is the only reason for anyone to travel to such a destination. The team has such a rich history in the sport of hockey and recently they have been playing like the true champions that their history requires.

Yes, they are on top of their game. With a recent Stanley Cup to show for their efforts and a first place lead this year... they are an exciting young team to follow. However, things have not always been so positive for the team. They have had many years of disappointment and lack-luster efforts.

One of the benefits of having poor performance years in a row is that you are eligible to receive high draft picks. Not all teams however, have the ability to turn those high picks into quality players. Not so with the Chicago Blackhawks. Many sub par years produced excellent prospects that have turned out to be top-notch, skilled players. This my friend, is one of the secrets to success in the National Hockey League.

True, there are other successful teams that have gone this route. Pittsburgh Penguins are such a team. There are however, many teams that just keep struggling and performing bad only to draft their picks also very poorly. The Calgary Flames are a recent example. They continue to disappoint their fans with uninspired and sloppy play.

Chicago does have a history of other successful sporting teams. The Chicago Bears and the Chicago Bulls both have had their glory days. The Chicago Cubs on the other hand have been a disappointment for decades. Their fans continue to hope and wait and hope and wait. The Cubs team in Chicago though, is the exception rather than the rule.

You may find it strange that someone would only want to visit a city because of a hockey team. But is that really so abnormal? Many sporting fans from many countries are enamored with only just that. They save their hard earned dollars so as to take a vacation following their favorite team. It allows them to spend some time away from the pressures and anxieties of their everyday mundane existence.

So if I were to visit a website for Chicago Tourism would I find as an attraction, tickets to the Chicago Blackhawk's games. If it was available, then I would surly purchase those tickets and I would pack my bags and take a trip to the "Windy City". Not to be cruel but, besides that... what else does the city really have to offer?

Restaurant Taverna Bazaar

This is actually a restaurant I visited this past summer, but I didn't have a chance to write about them at the time due to so many summer events going on. So I thought that I would save them until the autumn. The restaurant in question is Taverna Bazaar; a new restaurant located on the square Järntoget in Gamla Stan. Stockholm obviously has lots of restaurants serving Swedish and New Nordic cuisine... but we also have great restaurants serving a wide range of cuisines from around the world.

Taverna Bazaar is a bit unique as they serve cuisine from the Eastern Mediterranean (a mix of Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese). These cuisines mix very well with each other as they use many of the same ingredients and spices. Another thing these cuisines have in common is the concept of mezes/mezedes. These are small appetizers, served warm or cold, and dips... similar in concept to "tapas" in Spain.

You will recognize many of them by name, like Tzatziki, Hummus, Haloumi and Saganaki. The restaurant also has a tasting menu of mezes... which we took. Perfect to share and delicious! But it isn't all small dishes... they also have several larger fish & meat dishes prepared over a charcoal grill as well as other main courses like Souvlaki and their version of a hamburger.

The interior design of the restaurant matches the cuisine with lots of beautiful ceramic tiles as well as regional carpets, lighting fixtures and design details. During the summer months they have a nice big outdoor seating area on the square. It is just a 15 minute walk to the restaurant from the Rival Hotel. It is open daily for lunch and dinner and its location in the old town makes it a great place to take a lunch break when sightseeing. Click here for my other restaurant visits/recommendations.

Restaurant Taverna Bazaar

Posted by zlatin

This is actually a restaurant I visited this past summer, but I didn't have a chance to write about them at the time due to so many summer events going on. So I thought that I would save them until the autumn. The restaurant in question is Taverna Bazaar; a new restaurant located on the square Järntoget in Gamla Stan. Stockholm obviously has lots of restaurants serving Swedish and New Nordic cuisine... but we also have great restaurants serving a wide range of cuisines from around the world.

Taverna Bazaar is a bit unique as they serve cuisine from the Eastern Mediterranean (a mix of Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese). These cuisines mix very well with each other as they use many of the same ingredients and spices. Another thing these cuisines have in common is the concept of mezes/mezedes. These are small appetizers, served warm or cold, and dips... similar in concept to "tapas" in Spain.

You will recognize many of them by name, like Tzatziki, Hummus, Haloumi and Saganaki. The restaurant also has a tasting menu of mezes... which we took. Perfect to share and delicious! But it isn't all small dishes... they also have several larger fish & meat dishes prepared over a charcoal grill as well as other main courses like Souvlaki and their version of a hamburger.

The interior design of the restaurant matches the cuisine with lots of beautiful ceramic tiles as well as regional carpets, lighting fixtures and design details. During the summer months they have a nice big outdoor seating area on the square. It is just a 15 minute walk to the restaurant from the Rival Hotel. It is open daily for lunch and dinner and its location in the old town makes it a great place to take a lunch break when sightseeing. Click here for my other restaurant visits/recommendations.

Adventerous Wyoming

Wyoming tourism is a relatively well kept secret that few travelers in many of the United States are aware of. Why is it such a hidden gem that offers a wonderful and exciting vacation? It is because you will have the opportunity of a lifetime to experience the Great Outdoors. After all, do you really want to go somewhere where there are large crowds of people? Or would you rather take your family on a vacation that offers them a chance to really get to know each other through the wonderful beauty of nature?

If this appeals to you, then Wyoming is the right choice for your up and coming vacation. The first thing that you will need to do however is... make a plan of where you want to go in Wyoming and what you want to do. Therefore, going to one of the many Wyoming tourism WebPages will help you to figure out all of the details. This includes both small details such as where to eat as well as large details such as where to stay.

For example, you may be asking yourself the question about what can you and your family actually do while visiting Wyoming? If you enjoy the beauty of the many National Parks or the history and heritage of Native America, then here are a few suggestions of things to do.

First and foremost would be a visit to Yellowstone National Park. You will see many animals in their natural habitat. Just remember to not feed the bears. There are other National Parks in Wyoming as well. You also have Grand Teton National Park and Devils Tower National Park. So as you can imagine, it will take some planning just to make sure that you see them all.

Once you have finished your National Park Tour, how about something a little bit different. Have you ever been to a Western Event such as a Rodeo? Do you like horses and Wild West Shows? How about a trip to one of the numerous town festivals that occur throughout the spring, summer, and fall? It all awaits you in a wonderful state named Wyoming.

Wyoming is not a place to visit if you want 40 floor luxury tower hotels. It is known for its many hospitable bed and breakfast inns. Would you enjoy relaxing for a week or two at a Dude Ranch? Maybe a campground or a RV Park would be more suitable? Then there is always a Wilderness Resort or Lodge? Are you getting the point? The places to stay are as endless as they are adventurous.

So, what do you think? Is it time to make a change when it comes to the family's vacation? Are you ready for adventure, the beauty of nature, and the starry lit evening skies? Then you should check out a Wyoming tourism site on the internet, remember to also visit the State of Wyoming's authorized web page. There you will find all that you require for a family vacation that will be remembered for years.

Adventerous Wyoming

Posted by zlatin

Wyoming tourism is a relatively well kept secret that few travelers in many of the United States are aware of. Why is it such a hidden gem that offers a wonderful and exciting vacation? It is because you will have the opportunity of a lifetime to experience the Great Outdoors. After all, do you really want to go somewhere where there are large crowds of people? Or would you rather take your family on a vacation that offers them a chance to really get to know each other through the wonderful beauty of nature?

If this appeals to you, then Wyoming is the right choice for your up and coming vacation. The first thing that you will need to do however is... make a plan of where you want to go in Wyoming and what you want to do. Therefore, going to one of the many Wyoming tourism WebPages will help you to figure out all of the details. This includes both small details such as where to eat as well as large details such as where to stay.

For example, you may be asking yourself the question about what can you and your family actually do while visiting Wyoming? If you enjoy the beauty of the many National Parks or the history and heritage of Native America, then here are a few suggestions of things to do.

First and foremost would be a visit to Yellowstone National Park. You will see many animals in their natural habitat. Just remember to not feed the bears. There are other National Parks in Wyoming as well. You also have Grand Teton National Park and Devils Tower National Park. So as you can imagine, it will take some planning just to make sure that you see them all.

Once you have finished your National Park Tour, how about something a little bit different. Have you ever been to a Western Event such as a Rodeo? Do you like horses and Wild West Shows? How about a trip to one of the numerous town festivals that occur throughout the spring, summer, and fall? It all awaits you in a wonderful state named Wyoming.

Wyoming is not a place to visit if you want 40 floor luxury tower hotels. It is known for its many hospitable bed and breakfast inns. Would you enjoy relaxing for a week or two at a Dude Ranch? Maybe a campground or a RV Park would be more suitable? Then there is always a Wilderness Resort or Lodge? Are you getting the point? The places to stay are as endless as they are adventurous.

So, what do you think? Is it time to make a change when it comes to the family's vacation? Are you ready for adventure, the beauty of nature, and the starry lit evening skies? Then you should check out a Wyoming tourism site on the internet, remember to also visit the State of Wyoming's authorized web page. There you will find all that you require for a family vacation that will be remembered for years.

Climbing Volcan Baru

This past February, I climbed to the highest point in Panama. This peak is found at 11,398 feet above sea level atop a dormant volcano called Volcan Baru. It was the most grueling and challenging thing I have ever done in my life. It taxed every once of my body and mind. I don't know that I will ever do it again, but I am definitely glad that I did it. It is possibly a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

A group of about 20 of us set out around 5AM from Rio Sereno, a small town on the Costa Rican border. My husband and I ate a hearty breakfast of eggs, toast, oatmeal, and coffee since we knew that was the last full meal we would have for at least 38 hours.

I made the mistake of drinking a big glass of water right before we left knowing that our water would also be rationed during this time. I suppose drinking the water wasn't really the mistake; not going to the bathroom right before I left was. As you can guess, I had to go to the bathroom so badly that we had to stop the van so I could get out. Fortunately, there was not much oncoming traffic, it was still before sunrise, and I found a tree to go behind. That was not the way I wanted to start out this trip.

After a last-minute stop at Romero's (the only nice grocery store for miles around), we finally made it to the drop-off point, where we started the long descent up the volcano. The first hour was a pleasant one through a beautiful green forest of large trees and strange-growing mushrooms. Then, the terrain changed into more of a hands-on climbing up the trail. It was extremely dusty at one point and we all got very dirty.

One of the hardest terrain types to climb were the white lightning rocks. (That is just what I call them. It is hard to describe them. They act sort of like a quick sand that your feet get buried in, but it is composed of baseball and softball sized rocks.) Actually, these were worse coming down the mountain, although my husband rather enjoyed "skating" down them. I was afraid I would break something.

We finally made it to the base camp around 4:30 PM. We brought tents and sleeping bags to sleep in in the crater of the volcano. It was very windy and very cold. We built a fire and sat around it singing and telling stories as we drank hot chocolate. My husband and I slept for a little while, but soon we were shivering ourselves awake, so we got up and sat around the fire.

Early the next morning, we made the final climb to the very top of Panama, where you can see the Pacific on one side and the Atlantic on the other. It felt pretty amazing to have accomplished that- to be on top of the Panamanian world.

Climbing Volcan Baru

Posted by zlatin

This past February, I climbed to the highest point in Panama. This peak is found at 11,398 feet above sea level atop a dormant volcano called Volcan Baru. It was the most grueling and challenging thing I have ever done in my life. It taxed every once of my body and mind. I don't know that I will ever do it again, but I am definitely glad that I did it. It is possibly a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

A group of about 20 of us set out around 5AM from Rio Sereno, a small town on the Costa Rican border. My husband and I ate a hearty breakfast of eggs, toast, oatmeal, and coffee since we knew that was the last full meal we would have for at least 38 hours.

I made the mistake of drinking a big glass of water right before we left knowing that our water would also be rationed during this time. I suppose drinking the water wasn't really the mistake; not going to the bathroom right before I left was. As you can guess, I had to go to the bathroom so badly that we had to stop the van so I could get out. Fortunately, there was not much oncoming traffic, it was still before sunrise, and I found a tree to go behind. That was not the way I wanted to start out this trip.

After a last-minute stop at Romero's (the only nice grocery store for miles around), we finally made it to the drop-off point, where we started the long descent up the volcano. The first hour was a pleasant one through a beautiful green forest of large trees and strange-growing mushrooms. Then, the terrain changed into more of a hands-on climbing up the trail. It was extremely dusty at one point and we all got very dirty.

One of the hardest terrain types to climb were the white lightning rocks. (That is just what I call them. It is hard to describe them. They act sort of like a quick sand that your feet get buried in, but it is composed of baseball and softball sized rocks.) Actually, these were worse coming down the mountain, although my husband rather enjoyed "skating" down them. I was afraid I would break something.

We finally made it to the base camp around 4:30 PM. We brought tents and sleeping bags to sleep in in the crater of the volcano. It was very windy and very cold. We built a fire and sat around it singing and telling stories as we drank hot chocolate. My husband and I slept for a little while, but soon we were shivering ourselves awake, so we got up and sat around the fire.

Early the next morning, we made the final climb to the very top of Panama, where you can see the Pacific on one side and the Atlantic on the other. It felt pretty amazing to have accomplished that- to be on top of the Panamanian world.

Austin In A Day

The state of Texas is usually stereo typed as cowboys riding on horses but be assured it's much more then ranches and farms. If you are thinking about making a trip to the south to Texas' capitol, Austin, there's many things to do and yes even in one day. So pack your bags and get ready for a surprisingly eventful weekend trip.

First off, there are many places to grab breakfast. If you are in a hurry pass by Round Rock Donuts for the biggest donut the Texas way. Yes it's bigger then your head so plan on sharing.

If you want to sit down and have some protein in the most important meal of the day, no problem. Congress Ave. offers the lovely Magnolia Café, open around the clock, that will not disappoint. From pancakes to omelet's they have got you covered and not to worry, no cutting corners on quantity or quality.

If you feel like taking down the Colorado River that crosses the middle of Austin by all means do so. Kayaking, canoeing, even stand up paddle boarding are available. You will notice the people of Austin are very active so bicycling, jogging, running, or just walking is very common around the water. 

Another alternative to your morning will be to visit Lake Travis. Renting boats or jet ski's will keep you very entertained for a few hours. Pricing is very reasonable as well.

Austin has your usual franchise spots for lunch but then again you are in Austin so keep it weird. Support local restaurants and shops when possible. For lunch you have many options.
 

On south Congress under down town you will see huge line of decorative trailers that fill the air with aroma of every genre of food imaginable. Indian, Korean, Mediterranean, Mexican, American, Thai, Italian, and plenty of dessert options. No diet this weekend.

If you want an indoor place to eat, down that same street you will find many other alternatives for a higher price. However a pizza place many locals visit all too many times is Home Slice. Huge slices of pizza and even music make it seem as if you were back in New York.

What to do after? Down Town offers many historic places such the capitol which many presidents once governed the state of Texas. Court houses and historical districts gives a better feeling for the history of this big state.

Dinner and drinks are things Austin knows all too well. If you feel like having barbeque the drive down to Driftwood for The Salt Lick barbeque is sure to satisfy your hunger for delish meat and the best cobbler this side of anywhere. If you feel like staying in the city there is no problem; many restaurants fill down town.

At the end of the day you have done much and took in different cuisines. Austin offers a lot and make sure you check out it's annual festivals. Tired; yes, but plenty of fun.

Austin In A Day

Posted by zlatin

The state of Texas is usually stereo typed as cowboys riding on horses but be assured it's much more then ranches and farms. If you are thinking about making a trip to the south to Texas' capitol, Austin, there's many things to do and yes even in one day. So pack your bags and get ready for a surprisingly eventful weekend trip.

First off, there are many places to grab breakfast. If you are in a hurry pass by Round Rock Donuts for the biggest donut the Texas way. Yes it's bigger then your head so plan on sharing.

If you want to sit down and have some protein in the most important meal of the day, no problem. Congress Ave. offers the lovely Magnolia Café, open around the clock, that will not disappoint. From pancakes to omelet's they have got you covered and not to worry, no cutting corners on quantity or quality.

If you feel like taking down the Colorado River that crosses the middle of Austin by all means do so. Kayaking, canoeing, even stand up paddle boarding are available. You will notice the people of Austin are very active so bicycling, jogging, running, or just walking is very common around the water. 

Another alternative to your morning will be to visit Lake Travis. Renting boats or jet ski's will keep you very entertained for a few hours. Pricing is very reasonable as well.

Austin has your usual franchise spots for lunch but then again you are in Austin so keep it weird. Support local restaurants and shops when possible. For lunch you have many options.
 

On south Congress under down town you will see huge line of decorative trailers that fill the air with aroma of every genre of food imaginable. Indian, Korean, Mediterranean, Mexican, American, Thai, Italian, and plenty of dessert options. No diet this weekend.

If you want an indoor place to eat, down that same street you will find many other alternatives for a higher price. However a pizza place many locals visit all too many times is Home Slice. Huge slices of pizza and even music make it seem as if you were back in New York.

What to do after? Down Town offers many historic places such the capitol which many presidents once governed the state of Texas. Court houses and historical districts gives a better feeling for the history of this big state.

Dinner and drinks are things Austin knows all too well. If you feel like having barbeque the drive down to Driftwood for The Salt Lick barbeque is sure to satisfy your hunger for delish meat and the best cobbler this side of anywhere. If you feel like staying in the city there is no problem; many restaurants fill down town.

At the end of the day you have done much and took in different cuisines. Austin offers a lot and make sure you check out it's annual festivals. Tired; yes, but plenty of fun.

Places To Visit In Peru

Sooner or later, anyone who wants to be called a world traveler must visit Peru in order to be worthy of such a lofty title. For many, Peru conjures up images of hidden ancient ruins, breathtaking mountain views, and secluded jungle villages. Peru is all this and much more! While visiting other countries in South America is always appealing, a traveler could easily stay within this single country and never see all there is to see. What are some places to visit in Peru?

Almost all travelers to Peru start in Lima. This capital city of Peru is home to the Jorge Chavez International Airport. While some find the city to be very dusty and dirty, there is much to do here and the weather won't interfere with your plans since it never rains in Lima.

Don't miss the Magic Water Tour- a park of beautiful water fountains located in downtown Lima. Boasting 13 fountains, the Magic Water Tour holds the world record for being the largest fountain complex in the world. Many of these fountains are interactive and very fun for young and old alike. There is a tunnel of water which you can pass through. There is also an automated walk-thru fountain that many children in raincoats frequent. Be sure to go at night to see the fantastic light shows that are put on several times a night.

For those who like winter sports, a trip north to the city of Huaraz would be most rewarding. This city sits at an elevation of 10,013 feet in the mountains of the Cordillera Blanca. It is home to Huascarán, a snowy mountain considered to be the highest in all the tropics, peaking at 22,205 feet. Popular winter sports to experience here are climbing, snowboarding, and hiking. This truly is a beautiful area of Peru.

If you are into shopping for locally made earrings and hand-woven purses, Cajamarca is the place to visit. For those who suffer from altitude sickness, Cajamarca rests at a more reasonable 8,900 feet above sea level. Surrounding the hill of Santa Apolonia in Cajamarca, you will be able to buy beautiful multi-colored purses for as little as $2.50. If you are looking for nice but inexpensive souvenirs, Cajamarca is the place to visit.

Close by Cajamarca are the ancient ruins of Cumbe Mayo. These ruins are not as frequently visited by tourists as many of the others in Peru, but they are truly fascinating. The landscape is other-worldly and like no other. Archaeologists still don't completely understand the ancient civilization that lived among these ruins.

Finally, no trip to Peru is complete without visiting its greatest tourist attraction: Machu Picchu. It is often called "The Lost City of the Incas." This wonder of the modern world was truly one of the most interesting discoveries of the 20th Century. With nearly 2,500 tourists visiting Machu Picchu every day, you don't want to miss seeing this place. These are just a few places to visit in Peru.

Places To Visit In Peru

Posted by zlatin

Sooner or later, anyone who wants to be called a world traveler must visit Peru in order to be worthy of such a lofty title. For many, Peru conjures up images of hidden ancient ruins, breathtaking mountain views, and secluded jungle villages. Peru is all this and much more! While visiting other countries in South America is always appealing, a traveler could easily stay within this single country and never see all there is to see. What are some places to visit in Peru?

Almost all travelers to Peru start in Lima. This capital city of Peru is home to the Jorge Chavez International Airport. While some find the city to be very dusty and dirty, there is much to do here and the weather won't interfere with your plans since it never rains in Lima.

Don't miss the Magic Water Tour- a park of beautiful water fountains located in downtown Lima. Boasting 13 fountains, the Magic Water Tour holds the world record for being the largest fountain complex in the world. Many of these fountains are interactive and very fun for young and old alike. There is a tunnel of water which you can pass through. There is also an automated walk-thru fountain that many children in raincoats frequent. Be sure to go at night to see the fantastic light shows that are put on several times a night.

For those who like winter sports, a trip north to the city of Huaraz would be most rewarding. This city sits at an elevation of 10,013 feet in the mountains of the Cordillera Blanca. It is home to Huascarán, a snowy mountain considered to be the highest in all the tropics, peaking at 22,205 feet. Popular winter sports to experience here are climbing, snowboarding, and hiking. This truly is a beautiful area of Peru.

If you are into shopping for locally made earrings and hand-woven purses, Cajamarca is the place to visit. For those who suffer from altitude sickness, Cajamarca rests at a more reasonable 8,900 feet above sea level. Surrounding the hill of Santa Apolonia in Cajamarca, you will be able to buy beautiful multi-colored purses for as little as $2.50. If you are looking for nice but inexpensive souvenirs, Cajamarca is the place to visit.

Close by Cajamarca are the ancient ruins of Cumbe Mayo. These ruins are not as frequently visited by tourists as many of the others in Peru, but they are truly fascinating. The landscape is other-worldly and like no other. Archaeologists still don't completely understand the ancient civilization that lived among these ruins.

Finally, no trip to Peru is complete without visiting its greatest tourist attraction: Machu Picchu. It is often called "The Lost City of the Incas." This wonder of the modern world was truly one of the most interesting discoveries of the 20th Century. With nearly 2,500 tourists visiting Machu Picchu every day, you don't want to miss seeing this place. These are just a few places to visit in Peru.

Travel to Tamilnadu

Tamilnadu tourism is a relatively unknown tourist destination that few travelers are aware of. Where is this hidden gem that offers a wonderful and exciting vacation? It is located in the south-eastern part of the Indian Peninsula. Now India may not be on one's mind when it comes to planning a family vacation. After all, do you really want to go somewhere where there are thousands upon thousands of people? Also, what about your safety, the weather, the expense to get there? Why would I go to Tamilnadu.

Well, for one reason Tamilnadu tourism sites suggest that if you want a out of the way, unique travel experience... then why not take some time and research all that there is to do in Tamilnad. They say for example that the temple architecture is amazing. Now India is Known for its variety of religious temples. However, Tamilnadu is one of the areas with not only the most ancient, but also an area with the most interesting of temple designs.

Tamilnadu is a state within India and interestingly boasts that is number two when it comes to tourism in the country. As mentioned there are many temple sites such as the temples of Chidambaram, Srirangam, Tiruchirapalli, Thiruvarur and many others. Also, the state offers visits to beautiful waterfalls, golden sandy beaches, and many excellent festivals.

Chennai is the main city of the state of Tamilnadu. It is India's 4th largest in metropolitan size. This exciting city has wonderful beaches, architecture, and many diverse cultural festivals. If you like to shop until you drop... this is the place for you. Some refer to Chennai as the entrance to Southern India. It is easy to get there from all parts of India by either car,railway or by flying.

Another fun destination to check out as you search through the many cities and attractions that are found on any of the Tamilnadu web pages is a city called Tuticorin. This city which is on the sea offers miles and miles of sunny, sandy beaches. The atmosphere is tranquil and restful. You can snorkel away the afternoon or just relax with a cool drink as you work on that golden tan.

When you travel to exotic places it is advised to do some thorough research. The internet offers a wealth of information to help make your trip one that will be remembered for years to come. Most sites give you guidance on things to do, various places to eat, where to stay. Whether you are on a back- packers budget or a jet set unlimited spending spree, a little research could help you to avoid unpleasant situations.

So the only thing left for you to consider is when do I leave? Do not procrastinate. Do not say that yes, one day, I will take a trip to the unknown. Do something out of your comfort zone. Visit a beautiful exotic location such as Tamilnadu. I am sure that you will be pleasantly surprised by how much you will enjoy the experience. After all, you deserve it

Travel to Tamilnadu

Posted by zlatin

Tamilnadu tourism is a relatively unknown tourist destination that few travelers are aware of. Where is this hidden gem that offers a wonderful and exciting vacation? It is located in the south-eastern part of the Indian Peninsula. Now India may not be on one's mind when it comes to planning a family vacation. After all, do you really want to go somewhere where there are thousands upon thousands of people? Also, what about your safety, the weather, the expense to get there? Why would I go to Tamilnadu.

Well, for one reason Tamilnadu tourism sites suggest that if you want a out of the way, unique travel experience... then why not take some time and research all that there is to do in Tamilnad. They say for example that the temple architecture is amazing. Now India is Known for its variety of religious temples. However, Tamilnadu is one of the areas with not only the most ancient, but also an area with the most interesting of temple designs.

Tamilnadu is a state within India and interestingly boasts that is number two when it comes to tourism in the country. As mentioned there are many temple sites such as the temples of Chidambaram, Srirangam, Tiruchirapalli, Thiruvarur and many others. Also, the state offers visits to beautiful waterfalls, golden sandy beaches, and many excellent festivals.

Chennai is the main city of the state of Tamilnadu. It is India's 4th largest in metropolitan size. This exciting city has wonderful beaches, architecture, and many diverse cultural festivals. If you like to shop until you drop... this is the place for you. Some refer to Chennai as the entrance to Southern India. It is easy to get there from all parts of India by either car,railway or by flying.

Another fun destination to check out as you search through the many cities and attractions that are found on any of the Tamilnadu web pages is a city called Tuticorin. This city which is on the sea offers miles and miles of sunny, sandy beaches. The atmosphere is tranquil and restful. You can snorkel away the afternoon or just relax with a cool drink as you work on that golden tan.

When you travel to exotic places it is advised to do some thorough research. The internet offers a wealth of information to help make your trip one that will be remembered for years to come. Most sites give you guidance on things to do, various places to eat, where to stay. Whether you are on a back- packers budget or a jet set unlimited spending spree, a little research could help you to avoid unpleasant situations.

So the only thing left for you to consider is when do I leave? Do not procrastinate. Do not say that yes, one day, I will take a trip to the unknown. Do something out of your comfort zone. Visit a beautiful exotic location such as Tamilnadu. I am sure that you will be pleasantly surprised by how much you will enjoy the experience. After all, you deserve it

Travel By Internet

There are many ways to travel these days. You can take a jet to almost any place in the world. Once you arrive at your destination, you can travel by bus, or car, or train, or boat, which is just to name a few methods of transportation. However, when you arrive you will need to grab your luggage, go through customs, and literally spend a lot of wasted time just waiting for things to happen or appear.

How would you like to go traveling around the world on a shopping trip and avoid all of the above hassles? Imagine yourself buying the finest wine from France, or designer jeans from England, or maybe a trip to Belgium for some dark chocolate. Could you see yourself doing such an awesome trip? Would it be possible? Yes it is possible by means of your internet connection.

You can shop the world while sitting in the comfort of your own home. All that is required is an internet connection, a credit card or a PayPal account, and some free personal time. To make your journey more enjoyable, just get yourself that favorite beverage and sit back and relax while you surf the wide variety of online shops and stores throughout the entire world. Almost every country and every product will be at your disposal.

There is no need to shave your beard or put on any makeup as no one is there to see you. If you prefer to shop in your pajamas, then go ahead and enjoy your day of shopping dressed in whatever manner you fancy.  The bottom line is that you will be in total comfort as you travel from one web store to another.

In addition, you will be saving yourself a huge amount of money. Online shopping allows you to compare prices in an instant. That is something that you cannot do when you regular shop unless you drive from store to store. So you can find out which store has the best price and buy accordingly. Also you will save additional dollars by not having to fill that gas guzzling vehicle that is parked in the garage.

Another feature of online shopping is that you can get information and reviews on all makes and brands, again at in instant. This will help you to make the best decision when purchasing products that may require some extra information. An added advantage is that you will not have to deal with any aggressive or rude sales personnel. You know the ones, they are always there in your face when you do not want them to be but they are nowhere to be found when you want additional information.

So as you can see, the advantages of online shopping are many. In fact, there are many other features that that have not been mentioned in this article. The key point is that you should give it a try and discover the benefits of online shopping. Just sit back and enjoy your trip and leave the surfing to us.

Travel By Internet

Posted by zlatin

There are many ways to travel these days. You can take a jet to almost any place in the world. Once you arrive at your destination, you can travel by bus, or car, or train, or boat, which is just to name a few methods of transportation. However, when you arrive you will need to grab your luggage, go through customs, and literally spend a lot of wasted time just waiting for things to happen or appear.

How would you like to go traveling around the world on a shopping trip and avoid all of the above hassles? Imagine yourself buying the finest wine from France, or designer jeans from England, or maybe a trip to Belgium for some dark chocolate. Could you see yourself doing such an awesome trip? Would it be possible? Yes it is possible by means of your internet connection.

You can shop the world while sitting in the comfort of your own home. All that is required is an internet connection, a credit card or a PayPal account, and some free personal time. To make your journey more enjoyable, just get yourself that favorite beverage and sit back and relax while you surf the wide variety of online shops and stores throughout the entire world. Almost every country and every product will be at your disposal.

There is no need to shave your beard or put on any makeup as no one is there to see you. If you prefer to shop in your pajamas, then go ahead and enjoy your day of shopping dressed in whatever manner you fancy.  The bottom line is that you will be in total comfort as you travel from one web store to another.

In addition, you will be saving yourself a huge amount of money. Online shopping allows you to compare prices in an instant. That is something that you cannot do when you regular shop unless you drive from store to store. So you can find out which store has the best price and buy accordingly. Also you will save additional dollars by not having to fill that gas guzzling vehicle that is parked in the garage.

Another feature of online shopping is that you can get information and reviews on all makes and brands, again at in instant. This will help you to make the best decision when purchasing products that may require some extra information. An added advantage is that you will not have to deal with any aggressive or rude sales personnel. You know the ones, they are always there in your face when you do not want them to be but they are nowhere to be found when you want additional information.

So as you can see, the advantages of online shopping are many. In fact, there are many other features that that have not been mentioned in this article. The key point is that you should give it a try and discover the benefits of online shopping. Just sit back and enjoy your trip and leave the surfing to us.

Travel On A Cruise Ship

Which Cruise Line is the Best? They all have their advantages from each other. Some offer smaller ships that many prefer and others have a fleet of larger ships that can carry over 3000 passengers. They travel the oceans from port to port almost everywhere that you imagination travels. They have a variety of cabin sizes that offer features such as balconies or window views. They all provide excellent cuisine and personal service to make your voyage a truly memorable one. Which one is the best? It is most likely the one that you have already chosen.

Recently I had the privilege of sailing aboard a cruise ship that traveled to various ports in the Caribbean. The experience was one of the most enjoyable vacations that I have ever been on. The cruise line delivered all of their promises and expectations from their website. I would without question do it again and in fact, I am planning another cruise as I write.

Taking a cruise vacation has so much to offer. For a single price per day, all of your basic costs are covered. If you desire to take additional excursions when at port, that is entirely up to you. These excursions do cost a few dollars more, but they are worth every penny as you visit and explore strange and exciting cultures and locations that you have never experienced before. On board, while the ship is at sea, you will be totally entertained each and every day.

During the daytime, you have the option of relaxing around one of the many pools or hot tubs. There may be a water-slide area set at the very top of the ship for the youngsters and the young at heart. Or if golf is your game then you can play a round or two at the pitch and put golf course. There will be classes on how to dance or moonwalk, games of skill and knowledge, and of course the odd cooking lessons from excellent chefs.

In the evening you can head of down to the ship’s theater for the nightly entertainment. It could be a musical Broadway type show or a night of comedy and games. You can participate in karaoke or dance the night away at one of the many nightclubs. They also offer an evening movie in the outdoor theater complete with popcorn and drinks. Plus you will be able to enjoy a tasty meal at anytime during the day or night.

The dining on a cruise ship is ridiculously delicious. You can eat 24 hours per day if you like. The selection of foods will satisfy the pickiest of eaters. In fact, it is almost impossible, for me anyways, to have 3 meals a day. Every evening you and your traveling companions are treated to formal dining. There you will be served by a troupe of friendly waiters that will add to your dining experience. The menu offers a variety of scrumptious selections which include an appetizer, a main course, and of course the dessert.

Travel On A Cruise Ship

Posted by zlatin

Which Cruise Line is the Best? They all have their advantages from each other. Some offer smaller ships that many prefer and others have a fleet of larger ships that can carry over 3000 passengers. They travel the oceans from port to port almost everywhere that you imagination travels. They have a variety of cabin sizes that offer features such as balconies or window views. They all provide excellent cuisine and personal service to make your voyage a truly memorable one. Which one is the best? It is most likely the one that you have already chosen.

Recently I had the privilege of sailing aboard a cruise ship that traveled to various ports in the Caribbean. The experience was one of the most enjoyable vacations that I have ever been on. The cruise line delivered all of their promises and expectations from their website. I would without question do it again and in fact, I am planning another cruise as I write.

Taking a cruise vacation has so much to offer. For a single price per day, all of your basic costs are covered. If you desire to take additional excursions when at port, that is entirely up to you. These excursions do cost a few dollars more, but they are worth every penny as you visit and explore strange and exciting cultures and locations that you have never experienced before. On board, while the ship is at sea, you will be totally entertained each and every day.

During the daytime, you have the option of relaxing around one of the many pools or hot tubs. There may be a water-slide area set at the very top of the ship for the youngsters and the young at heart. Or if golf is your game then you can play a round or two at the pitch and put golf course. There will be classes on how to dance or moonwalk, games of skill and knowledge, and of course the odd cooking lessons from excellent chefs.

In the evening you can head of down to the ship’s theater for the nightly entertainment. It could be a musical Broadway type show or a night of comedy and games. You can participate in karaoke or dance the night away at one of the many nightclubs. They also offer an evening movie in the outdoor theater complete with popcorn and drinks. Plus you will be able to enjoy a tasty meal at anytime during the day or night.

The dining on a cruise ship is ridiculously delicious. You can eat 24 hours per day if you like. The selection of foods will satisfy the pickiest of eaters. In fact, it is almost impossible, for me anyways, to have 3 meals a day. Every evening you and your traveling companions are treated to formal dining. There you will be served by a troupe of friendly waiters that will add to your dining experience. The menu offers a variety of scrumptious selections which include an appetizer, a main course, and of course the dessert.

A Great Family Vacation

Have you ever gone on a family vacation and noticed that it is a fun time when you stay at different hotels and compare their levels of service and friendliness?  Some hotels are very expensive to stay at and yet offer very poor service while other hotels have a more moderate price range and provide the best of service. The key is to find one that offers great service at an affordable rate.

If you choose to go to BukitBintang, you might wonder where is there a hotel that offers both a great service and a decent price. At Victory Street Boutique Hotel, every possible effort is made to make sure that all of the guests feel as comfortable as if they were at home. To be able to do this, the hotel is known for providing its guests with the cities best when it comes to service. Some of the wonderful features are Wi-Fi in all public areas, a spacious family room for entertaining visitors, a quick and friendly room service, and tours of the city and other points of interest, and a complete laundry and dry cleaning service.

There are 46 rooms that are available to choose from. The entire experience will provide you and your family with an atmosphere of total peace and harmony. There are a variety of recreational activities for all ages that will enhance your stay. Where to stay in BukitBintang is quite simple, it should be at the Victory Street Boutique Hotel. This hotel has been in the city for many years. They are rated as one of the best hotels in the area. They offer those that stay there a lifetime of wonderful memories. They are in an area that is safe and secure.  There is no reason to be concerned about the safety of your family. Their rooms are clean and affordable and really, who could ask for anything more in a hotel.

Where to stay in BukitBintang need not be hard decision to make. The city offers the seasoned or the casual traveler a vacation that will be a part of your wonderful vacation memories for years to come. There are a variety of ways to obtain information about this great destination. The best way however is to go online and see for yourself all of the wonderful testimonials that other travelers have offered. By ready all of these interesting testimonials you will soon start to realize that this is the trip for you and your family for this year’s vacation.

Your family is going to love this holiday. Your wife can shop at all of the interesting yet different types of stores that the city has to offer. The kids are going to love the hotel and its huge outdoor pool and play area. You will enjoy the restful time that you can relax and think about anything but the office. The only thing that you will need to do now is to book your family vacation online and then bring yourself and your family on the greatest vacation ever.

A Great Family Vacation

Posted by zlatin

Have you ever gone on a family vacation and noticed that it is a fun time when you stay at different hotels and compare their levels of service and friendliness?  Some hotels are very expensive to stay at and yet offer very poor service while other hotels have a more moderate price range and provide the best of service. The key is to find one that offers great service at an affordable rate.

If you choose to go to BukitBintang, you might wonder where is there a hotel that offers both a great service and a decent price. At Victory Street Boutique Hotel, every possible effort is made to make sure that all of the guests feel as comfortable as if they were at home. To be able to do this, the hotel is known for providing its guests with the cities best when it comes to service. Some of the wonderful features are Wi-Fi in all public areas, a spacious family room for entertaining visitors, a quick and friendly room service, and tours of the city and other points of interest, and a complete laundry and dry cleaning service.

There are 46 rooms that are available to choose from. The entire experience will provide you and your family with an atmosphere of total peace and harmony. There are a variety of recreational activities for all ages that will enhance your stay. Where to stay in BukitBintang is quite simple, it should be at the Victory Street Boutique Hotel. This hotel has been in the city for many years. They are rated as one of the best hotels in the area. They offer those that stay there a lifetime of wonderful memories. They are in an area that is safe and secure.  There is no reason to be concerned about the safety of your family. Their rooms are clean and affordable and really, who could ask for anything more in a hotel.

Where to stay in BukitBintang need not be hard decision to make. The city offers the seasoned or the casual traveler a vacation that will be a part of your wonderful vacation memories for years to come. There are a variety of ways to obtain information about this great destination. The best way however is to go online and see for yourself all of the wonderful testimonials that other travelers have offered. By ready all of these interesting testimonials you will soon start to realize that this is the trip for you and your family for this year’s vacation.

Your family is going to love this holiday. Your wife can shop at all of the interesting yet different types of stores that the city has to offer. The kids are going to love the hotel and its huge outdoor pool and play area. You will enjoy the restful time that you can relax and think about anything but the office. The only thing that you will need to do now is to book your family vacation online and then bring yourself and your family on the greatest vacation ever.