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Archive for April, 2006

Here We Go! Sing! Holiday… Celebrate…

Sunday, April 30th, 2006

To better take a grasp of the real meaning of holidays, where to find holiday inn hotels and resorts, to book cheap holiday packages, to indulge in holiday travels, plan on more goings-on during holidays, and to access all resources regarding holidays, holidaysagencies.com is built up in the electronic world of Internet.

Vacation packages that are cheap are being offered by various holiday vacation companies. They include ClubMed, Fiji Holidays and Baliforyou.com. Wholesale travel and vacation packages are also available for those who would like to acquire much better deals especially if the travelers are a big group. Holiday destinations like Spain, Carribean, Japan, Tuscany, Majorca, France, Hawaii and Mexico are also highlighted in this website. With the rich customs and traditions of Spain, one will never get tire of seeing many of its tourist spots and the amazing daily activities of its people. A Carribean, Bali or Tuscany travel will just be one helluvan experience with its sultry beaches and sunny denizens. France will entice you of its romantic views, historical spots and the artful way of life of the French. If you are more of the nature-loving kind or would love to get into some real wild adventure, a trip to the Galapagos Island and Ecuador will just suit your preferences and instincts. Surely with this wide array of vacation packages, travel discounts and posh accommodations will make your holidays more sensational.

Links to other travel websites, directories, guides while on a trip, travel communities and blogs that pertain to travel essentials are also presented on holidaysagencies.com. Travel insurance companies like LegendTravelers, World Nomads and Travelcover expose what kind of insurance coverage benefits most a traveler. Guides such as VisitBritain and Greektravel provide information on the destinations, maps, and other important bits that one must be well-adept in to better enjoy his or her holiday travel.

Cheap holidays and package holidays set by different travel companies make holiday activities more affordable to quite a number of people who are in tight budget but would still want to have a good fun.

Traveling during holidays is one of the most-awaited events one who almost get piled up with everyday work will never pass up on. But when one has to travel, there are indispensable items or stuff that one must not forget to bring or do to ensure a smooth and safe trip. Securing a travel insurance will be a good move if you want to be assured that any untoward incident will not be that much of a damage to you or your family during traveling. One should not forget inflatable pillows to ensure more comfortable sleeps while traveling. An anti-travel sickness supplement and other medications that can ward off any travel-induced health problems are also a must. Bringing books to kill boredom while on a trip is also feasible.]]>

Hiking opportunities in California

Saturday, April 29th, 2006

If you are an adventure sports junkie and live for the next travel adventure that will give you an adrenaline rush, then try hiking in sunny California. You might have gone hiking before, but once you get a taste of the California hiking you wont want to go anywhere else.

California offers hiking trails through almost all imaginable and existing natural environs from high majestic mountains, beautiful alpine lakes, granite gorges, basalt formations, streaming rivers, to awe inspiring meadows and waterfalls.

The most fascinating, adventurous and popular hiking trails range from a hike through the legendary Yosemite National Park, through the scenic Devils Postpile National Monument, circling the famous rainbow falls; narrow trails in the Ansel Adams Wilderness and unforgettable hikes through desolation wilderness, bordering lake Tahoe.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite national park established in 1890 has some of the most challenging but beautiful hiking trails in California. The diverse trails can take you from a reconstructed Indian village; the banks of the Merced River; meadows surrounded by majestic mountains; to surging and cascading waterfalls and wondrous rock formations.

With over 840 miles of trail in the Yosemite national park, you can take your pick from a hike around the bottom of the valley or ones with a little elevated trail for the more adventurous hikers. Whichever way you decide to go, don’t forget to carry enough water and warm clothes with you to enjoy your trip.

Devils Postpile National Monument

Devils Postpile National Monument, located on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada was established in 1911. This national monument is home to the awe-inspiring basalt formations and the spectacular 101 foot high rainbow falls. The monument has several hiking trails culminating both these features as also the Joaquin River, flowing by. With camping facilities in a meadow, near minaret falls, soda springs and the actual basalt formations, the trails are ideal for families. The views that you get from almost every trail are breathtakingly beautiful.

The only precaution you’ll have to take is, use a metal bear box for storing food, as this is bear country.

Ansel Adams Wilderness

The Ansel Adams wilderness earlier known as Minarets Wilderness is located south of the Yosemite national park. The wilderness offers spectacular hikes through granite ridges surrounded by immaculate alpine flora and fauna. The trails lead through beautifully preserved and unspoiled lakes, where you can also enjoy fishing, summit hikes to any of the hills, or a trail on the edges of the San Joaquin River. The Pacific Crest and John Muir trails are some of the most popular hiking trails in this area. Other picturesque destinations are: 1,000 Island Lake, Garnet Lake, silver lake and Banner and Ritter Peaks.

Keep adequate supply of food, shelter and fishing gear on your must carry list when hiking in the Ansel Adams wilderness.

Desolation Wilderness

Desolation wilderness, located west of the Tahoe River is another great hiking area in the state of California. Some of the most popular hiking trails in desolation wilderness are: Wrights trail, Lake Sylvia, Velma Lakes trails, Fallen Leaf and Eagle Falls trails. With more than a 100 lakes and innumerable streams, fishing activities can also be arranged.

A visitor’s permit is required to visit the desolation wilderness all year round. Also, keep a portable stove with you to cook food, as open fires are not allowed.

So, get packing and explore the many wonderful hiking experiences that California has to offer.

To see more hiking related sites go to http://www.adventuretraveltips.com/Hiking/North_America/U_S_A_/index.html]]>

Hilton Head Island is Golf Heaven - and the Ocean Too

Friday, April 28th, 2006

Mark Ridgway, Hilton Head Island Golf Professional

Imagine, 42 square miles of golf and surf

Hilton Head Island is appropriately called Golf Island.
Located just off the coast of South Carolina, the semi-
tropical 12-mile barrier island is devoted to providing
world-class golf, tennis or water-recreation activities to
the 2.5 million visitors who arrive annually. The majority
are seniors, who faithfully return each year during the
balmy winter months.

Hilton Head Island was the first eco-planned destination in
the United States, in the mid-1950s. Those early efforts to
protect the unique, scenic ecosystem have served as historic
models for contemporary land-use planning. Any visitor today
encounters the same fertile salt marshes, forests of moss-
draped oaks, and pristine beaches enjoyed by the island’s
early settlers.

Golf Island’s total devotion to pleasing travelers didn’t
just happen on its own. It was painstakingly designed to
create a first-class resort and recreational mecca. The
island is warmed by the Gulf Stream (how about the golf
stream?), which keeps average temperatures about 70 degrees.
That assures a year-round golf season, with a million rounds
of golf played annually in Hilton Head, SC.

Let’s Talk some Serious Golf

There are 24 golf courses on the Hilton Head Island (10 of
them private). Some of these are world-class championship
courses (hosting major tournaments like the Heritage and the
Celebrity Golf Tournament). And if that’s not enough choices
for you, there’s easy access to another 40 courses
conveniently reached off the island, in the Hilton Head, SC
area.

But don’t feel like you’ve got to be an outstanding golfer
to get the most enjoyment out of the available courses.
Facilities exist for every skill level. And the Golf
Coordinator at Hilton Head Rentals & Golf can match your own
personal style and skills to the best courses for you.

The range of packages offered keeps golfing holidays
affordable. There’s no such thing as a charge for a golf
cart. They’re always included, along with guaranteed tee
times and green fees.

Tennis also provides another major attraction for tourists.
Tennis lovers can enjoy over 300 tennis courts, along with
an abundance of tennis training professionals and
tournaments.

No Interest in Golf or Tennis? There’s still the Ocean

Start with twelve miles of sandy, year-around beaches that
overlook the Atlantic Ocean. Add eight marinas. You’re ready for fishing and water sports. For a person hankering for something more strenuous than sightseeing, waterskiing, windsurfing, scuba diving,and crabbing beckon. Or just try stretching out on the sand. There’s a lot to be said for doing nothing but soaking up the sun and sand - as much as you can.

Capturing Memorable Experiences

A person can’t play golf or tennis (or even fish) all the
time - no matter how pleasant. So relaxation-seeking
visitors are enticed by a huge selection of enjoyable
amusements or cultural events. Start with the island’s 250
plus restaurants that cater to every taste, ethnic cuisine,
and price range. And don’t overlook the array of freshly
caught seafood.

You’re looking for a total experience, much like a symphony.
All the parts (lodging, recreation, quality of service,
dining) merge harmoniously together - without a single sour
note. That’s what every visitor stores up and takes back
home, once the vacation is over.

Enjoy a Symphony of Pleasures

If you’re expecting the finest “symphony” of experiences,
where you choose to stay needs to be just as unforgettable
as the island’s first-rate recreational offerings.
Accommodations can be found to match every taste and price
range.

Choose from:
- 6,000 villas
- 3,000 hotel or motel rooms
- 1,000 timeshare units
- 2 RV resorts
- 1 Campground (off-island)

But if you really want to pamper yourself, start at Hilton
Head Rentals & Golf, with over 250 premier Hilton Head
condos, villas and homes for rent on the island.

Picture this. You’re waking up with your sweetie beside you,
languidly looking forward to a day on the golf course. And
not just any golf course - a legendary one. You can smell
the ocean, without even seeing it. You’ll do that later,
after your leisurely breakfast on the verandah. There’s not
a thing that needs doing, except figuring out what amusement
takes your fancy - and where you want to dine. No need to
rush. Remember you’re on holiday. One you won’t soon forget.

Come join us at Hilton Head Rentals & Golf for an island
vacation you’ll never forget! Visit us at
http://www.hiltonheadvacation.com or call us toll free at
800-445-8664 for exciting golf packages and more.
©Mark Ridgway, 2004]]>

Hitchhiker’s guide to the Earth

Thursday, April 27th, 2006

Some hitchhikers know the exact point where they want to turn out to be, but some never know where and when their trip will finish.
Some piece of advice before you begin your trip.

1)If you know your destination point, you’d better to think over your route not to find yourself far away from the desired city.
2)Be extra careful, because the hitchhiking is always a risk. Take you mobile and try to be in touch with your friends or relatives (if connection allows, of course).
3)Be careful with your money – don’t store all them in one place.
4)Don’t take too much luggage – you’ll be tired very soon.
5)Take all you may need – if your route passes far from the cities you may have no chance to by all the necessary things.
6)When you travel alone the risk increases twice – so, may be it’s better to have a fellow traveler. There are a lot clubs and communities of hitchhikers (for example, in Internet) where you not only can find a fellow traveler but also receive a useful advise.

What attracts people in hitchhiking is the feeling of freedom and the opportunity to have the real adventure. It’s a challenge in some way and some people like to accept it. Some hitchhikers like to have a chance to meet new people and to make friends.
Of course, sometimes such meetings are not exiting at all – the boring drivers desiring to describe you their whole lives is the least of the problems. Everybody knows the proverb – don’t talk to the strangers. It has sense because some of them are really dangerous. If you are locked up in a car with such a person, the best thing is to use your gas spray can and to clear out of the car. So, don’t forget to include your aerosol in list of the necessary things.
Although the hitchhiking is supposed to be free of charge, be ready to pay sometimes. May be the only driver going in your direction will not intend to pick up you for free.
Speaking about the best routs for hitchhiking – it’s Europe and the United States. The reason? The highways are better, the traffic is intensive and you surely get to the point in a short time. And, again, no borders, no extra visa, no problems with the customs. It’s all true, but if you want the real challenge you can go to some wild part of Asia or Africa. It will be difficult to catch a car (just because they are not widespread there) and if don’t know the language it will be hard to explain what you want. However when you reach your destination you will feel yourself a hero, or at least, a brave traveler seeking for the unknown places.
As for where to stay for the night – the real hitchhiker tries not to stay in the hotels of even in campings. He or she would prefer to stay on the nature or the house of the local inhabitant.
Now the hitchhiking has become some kind of sport – and there are some competitions in this field. The aim is to achieve some point in the shortest time and not to pay for it. On TV there are even some shows, devoting to hitchhiking. Its popularity increases. Why? The suggestion is that people are fed up with their comfortable lives and like to feel the adrenaline and to participate in an adventure. As far as the West concerned, it’s true, but as it was said in the beginning, some choose this way of traveling just because they have no money.]]>

Holiday Vacations with a Theme

Wednesday, April 26th, 2006

Of course, the first one should be the Disney themed holiday vacation. Who can resist the thought of being in Florida during the cold days of winter and enjoying the sites and sounds of Disney World? This is a constant favorite of children and adults alike. There are so many attractions and sites; it will be hard to decide which one to visit first. You have the Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center, Universal Studios, MGM studios and Disney even has its own cruise line. The cruise liner has all the Disney characters on board so it will be a themed vacation. Disney World is not the only attraction in the area; the Kennedy Space Center is nearby as is Sea World. Sea World is a wonderful attraction with special shows. Inside Disney World, you can stay in a hotel that has a monorail train to take you to all the attractions.

Are you thinking of a winter holiday vacation in sunny Southern California? You will find many attractions and they are easily worked in around your available time. The San Diego Zoo is a popular attraction with adults and children as well as Sea World. LegoLand is also found in the San Diego area and is a big hit with the little ones. If you’re looking for theme parks, go north just up the road to the Anaheim and Los Angeles area. There you will find Disneyland, Six Flags Magic Mountain, Universal Studio, and California Adventure Theme Park. After taking in what sites and attractions you wanted to see, take a day or two to just relax and soak up the sun on the many beautiful beaches on the coast of Southern California. Drive a little further north up the coast and visit historic San Simeon and the beautiful city of Carmel. Take a tour around the area on the 17-mile drive in Monterey California and stop for a moment just to see the beauty of Pebble Beach Golf Course. There is something for everyone in the sunny state of California.

One of the best themed family vacations we had was our historical trip to the East Coast. We wanted our sons to be immersed in the colorful history of our Country. We had some fun times, stopping in Hershey Pennsylvania. We visited Hershey Town and stood amazed at the light poles in the shape of candy kisses. We visited historic sites in Virginia, visited George Washington’s home, and sat on the same veranda he sat on to watch the river go by. It was awesome, and in Virginia, southern hospitality shines through. It’s a pleasure to visit there. Then on to our most important goal, Washington D.C. We took the time to picnic on the mall, went up the Washington Monument, visited all the Presidential Memorials, and even took a tour of the White House. Being a history buff and patriotic, the highlight of my son’s trip was our visit to the sacred land of Arlington Cemetery. It is fitting that he grew up and is serving in the military. The Smithsonian is an experience that no one should miss. There are so many different buildings and sections in the buildings that it is hard to take it all in. We spent one whole day in just one building and then found out we had missed the hall of the First Ladies. This was something I was interested in, so we went back the next day and found the section that we missed before we went on to other areas. It’s a memorable family vacation and can instill in your child a real love and patriotism for their country.

National Parks and Monuments is another wonderful themed vacation the whole family will enjoy. Those “must see” attractions could include Yellowstone National Park to see Old Faithful go off, or a trip to the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder that everyone should see at least once in his or her lifetime. Believe me, your children don’t have to teenagers to enjoy their themed vacations and have their memories to last for a lifetime.]]>

Holland Travel – Amsterdam, Van Gogh, Anne Frank

Tuesday, April 25th, 2006

Amsterdam

Simply put, Amsterdam has something for everyone. The city is an incredibly beautiful collection of old world European architecture elegantly partitioned by canals. In truth, the city is built on roughly 90 small islands, although you can hardly tell. Transportation is best undertaken on foot or by bicycle. With a cool climate, you’ll barely break a sweat.

Contrary to popular opinion, Amsterdam is not just a city of liberal policies. Yes, coffee bars sell things other then just coffee. Yes, there are women in windows that are awfully friendly. Still, there is so much more to experience in the city.

Van Gogh Museum

The Rijksmuseum Vincent van Gogh houses the world’s largest collection of the work of Vincent van Gogh. From his early work, the museum contains 700 artistic works and 850 letters. After moving to Paris in 1886, van Gogh entered an impressionist period, of which the museum contains a large collection. Perhaps the most interesting thing about the collection is the organization. The entire collection is arranged chronologically from the first to last work. As you walk, you can clearly see the evolution of this master’s skill.

Anne Frank House

Who hasn’t read the intense diary of Anne Frank? Hiding from the Nazis, she and her family lived in an annexed section of an apartment in Amsterdam for two years. In 1957, the house was donated to the Anne Frank Foundation and turned into a museum. A visit will send chills through your spine. The museum contains films, the annexed area and the original notes of Anne Frank. A must see for anyone traveling to Amsterdam.

Beyond Amsterdam

For those needing a break from Amsterdam, there is much to be seen in Holland. If you are looking for a color explosion, consider taking the bulb cycling tour out of Noordwijk. Windmills your thing? Head to the De Zaan district to see them in action. Prefer to spend a night in a castle? Try the Castle Hotel Engelenburg, which even lets you ruin a good walk by playing golf.

Travel to Holland and you won’t regret it. Whether you want to “investigate” the countries liberal policies or simply bike through fields of tulips, Holland will satisfy.]]>

Holland – Beyond Amsterdam

Monday, April 24th, 2006

Rotterdam

A traveler is often able to deduce certain things from the name of a destination. In the case of Rotterdam, nothing could be further from the truth. Nothing is rotting. Well, maybe something in the bottom of a fridge somewhere, but nothing in the public arena. Instead, Rotterdam is a vibrant, fairly modern Dutch city.

Rotterdam sits at the confluence of a couple of rivers and what appears to be a collection of canals designed on an child’s etch a sketch board. Despite this and nearly being wiped out in World War II, the city has a get on with your business kind of feel to it. Unlike Amsterdam, you’ll actually feel like you’re interacting with the Dutch in their daily lives. The rejuvenation of the city, however, has cost Rotterdam a bit of a character. There isn’t much to see, but the nightlife is hopping and museums carry collections from Monet and van Gogh.

The Hague

Known as the City of Peace and Justice, this is a place you want to watch your Ps and Qs! Home to such institutions as the War Crime Tribunal and International Criminal Court, The Hague definitely has the justice thing down pat. The city is actually a very nice place to visit with stunning architecture and cultural sites ad nauseum. On top of this, there are beaches and excellent wooded areas for hiking. The Japanese gardens in Park Clingendael are worth a trip. All and all, The Hague is more or less Amsterdam without the edginess.

Haarlem

If you start to burn out on Amsterdam, hop a train to Haarlem. In fact, just blow off Amsterdam and head directly to Haarlem. The city is a great place to see the “real Holland”. A funky place, Haarlem has everything Amsterdam does, but you’ll also find windmills outside of town.

Keukenhof Gardens

If you want to get garden envy, visit the Keukenhof Gardens to the south of Haarlem. The Gardens consists of miles of…gardens. Every plant known to mankind can be found and the fields of tulips and colors will temporarily blind you. If Buddha returned to the earth, this is where he would make his home. You can literally spend days just walking around drinking in the visual treat. Once you see it, you’ll never look at your backyard the same way again.

Amsterdam is the hot travel destination in Holland. If you fail to venture out of the city, however, you’ll be missing some incredible places.]]>

Holland – The Keukenhof Gardens

Sunday, April 23rd, 2006

Keukenhof Gardens

The Keukenhof Gardens are located to the southwest of Amsterdam. I know this because I was visiting Amsterdam with an old friend and his wife. He and I had talked about taking the tour at the Heineken Brewery for days. Unfortunately, we only had two days in Amsterdam and had missed the tour on the first day. This was due to his wife having wet hair because of a blow drier, which meant we had to sit around until nature ran its course. This was not a woman willing to rough it.

I arose on the second morning with visions of beer mugs in my mind. I knew that I was in trouble as soon as he walked through the door. He had that look. You know. The one that says I have bad news, but am going to try to make it sound like good news. The powers that be wanted to go to the word famous Keukenhof Gardens.

This was disappointing for two reasons. First, I had never heard of the famous Kuekenhof Gardens, thus bringing into doubt the claim in my mind. Second, the weighing of the scales of justice were producing results decidedly in favor of a location that encompassed the word “beer” versus one that highlighted “gardens.” For the love of God, we were in Amsterdam!

An argument ensued and, of course, I lost. Off we went for a day in the gardens. Oh, fun.

As happens more often than not, I was wrong in my assumptions. In a one in a million occurrence, gardens definitely outweighed the beer option. The Keukenhof Gardens definitely deserve the fame moniker, even if you’ve never heard of them.

Keukenhof is perhaps the biggest collection of flowers I have ever seen. Located on 70 acres outside of the town of Lisse, the gardens are surreal. There are over 7 MILLION flowers on the grounds with Tulips in full display. The location was previously the home of a castle and accompanying lands, which gives you an idea of the layout. Essentially, you pay $20 to enter and just start strolling. It is like standing in the middle of a landscape painting. The place is so big, you can rent bikes to put around the grounds. To this end, the best time to go is in April when everything is in bloom.

Against all my inherent male attributes, I have to admit visiting the gardens outdid anything the Heineken Brewery could offer. I also felt a heck of a lot better the next morning!]]>

Homemade Humingbird Nectar

Saturday, April 22nd, 2006

We love hummingbirds and love to watch them throughout the day, especially after a long day, relaxing in our backyard nature retreat.

We have 4 feeders that are strategically located throughout our gardens. The red, hummingbird nectar feeders ( red attracts hummingbirds) are placed in areas that are naturally defined “territories” ( as you know, hummingbirds are very territorial) which helps cut down on the fighting.

Our recipe is derived from the old standard recipe, but please be aware that a lot of research has gone into making sure that we are providing the most beneficial source of hummingbird food replacement.

Our recipe starts with cane sugar. As you know, there are two sources of sugar: cane sugar and beet sugar, of which 70% of the world’s supply comes from cane sugar. Both are chemically “sucrose” and fall into the carbohydrate family. Carbohydrates are easily digested and provide the immediate “energy boost” that hummingbirds need to sustain their incredibly high metabolism. (Comment: I guess if we humans had that kind of metabolism we wouldn’t be facing our obesity crisis! Wow…what a concept …more exercise …increased metabolic rate …burn more calories …less fat).

Sorry! Back to the topic…the second constituent our hummingbird food recipe is water. Ever thought about the type of water you use for your hummingbird food? We have. The hummingbird’s source water comes from the naturally occurring water sources available: dew, rain water and deposits of rain water, people provided (bird baths), and finally that provided in the hummingbird’s diet.

We use our tap water which is supplied from our well. The water’s chemical composition is generally hard ( contains calcium and magnesium) but has a TDS ( Total Dissolved Solids) of 275 ppm with no measurable concentrations of lead or arsenic. Its safe for us to drink so the hummers get the benefits of some added minerals. We feel its better than using distilled or purified water in our hummingbird recipe.

Now, if you’re a city dweller, you may have chlorine or flouride added to your water. I’d recommend boiling that water to flash off the chlorine or flouride, 5 minutes of boiling should be sufficient.

Next ingredient ….RED COLORING….No way!

Lets look at it from a hummingbird’s perspective. They like red and are attracted to the color due to genetics and environmental stimuli … flowers. If your hummingbird feeder is red… why do you need more?

Naturally occurring nectar is clear and odorless ( Hummingbirds are not attracted by scent). So why buy these colored or scented mixes?

The red coloring (Red #40) has been banned in countries due to its mutagenic properties ( can cause cancer). Why would you want to introduce chemicals into the hummingbird’s diet that are foreign to their digestive system?

Several experienced, licensed wildlife rehabilitators have reported seeing disturbing damage in hummers that were known to use dyed syrup, including tumors of the bill and liver.

Here is our researched hummingbird food recipe:

1 part cane sugar/ 4 parts water ( no chlorine or fluoride) Measure and add sugar, at the rate of 1/4 cup of sugar to 1 cup of water. Let cool and store excess in refrigerator until ready to use.

Fill one-third of the container and be sure to change the mixture twice a week. You will need to clean your feeder every few days, with hot water and a mild (10%) bleach solution to inhibit bacteria/mold. Rinse thoroughly before refilling with water syrup.

Hope you enjoyed the article!

George Steiner
www.hum-ming-bird.com]]>

Hotels aren’t the only place you can stay on vacation!!!

Friday, April 21st, 2006

where to stay, what to take, how to plan, where to find deals…
You get the point.
Well, this article is to introduce you to options on where to stay other than a hotel.

Hotels are a great option. They can be just what you need for your trip, especially if it’s just two of you. You can go with big chains that are well trusted or small chains that may take some digging to ensure you get a nice, clean, affordable hotel room with everything you need. However, if you travel with a number of people or as a family, a hotel room can get cramped, lack privacy, and get expensive when you upgrade to suites and add extra amenities (like a kitchenette).

Hotels though are great because it is easy to find a lot of good deals with all the viable travel sites out there.

But, you do have other options….

**How about a condo? Condos are great, and in some destinations the main option. Condos can be small or big. They offer added space, extra amenities, prime locations, and at prices that are comparable to hotel rooms.

For example, we stayed in a quaint (small) condo in Miami. We rented it for only $400 for the week. It was perfect for my wife and I. The beds pulled down out of the wall, we had a very very clean room, private entrance to the place and beaches, quiet area, 2 pools, a kitchen with equipment, a nice bathroom, cable, and gorgeous view of the Atlantic. It was our “love shack” for the week and much cheaper by almost $200 than any hotel in the area.

**Rent a home. These are now great with the way real estate is nowadays. If you are traveling with a large group, then this may be your best choice. Get everything you need or live like luxury in a beachfront home for your vacation.

Once, 18 of our family members went to Florida and had to rent a home. It was not on the Ocean, but on a bay. It was perfect. It had 3 levels, a hot tub, pool, 4-5 bedrooms, plenty of room, amenities, and lots of fun. We had a great time together since everyone lives in different parts of the country. It was very affordable once split up 4 ways also.

**Resorts and All-inclusive. This is an excellent option for families or if you don’t want to worry about reaching into your pocket. All-inclusive seems to be diminishing in the US, but you can find it abroad and is typically the best choice. Resorts are great for those who want to spend quality time together, get plenty of privacy and space, and enjoy various activities like golf, fishing, things for the kids, spas, etc…

**Time Shares. These are growing tremendously in the traveling world. Time-shares are great if you use them. You pay a fee upfront and once a year to utilize a time-share. There are various types, so you would want to do your research. Buying a time-share is similar to buying a home in that you don’t want to take the decision lightly.

My wife’s parents have one and love it. They can go anywhere they want as long as they stay in the designated places. We used theirs for our honeymoon in Palm Beach, Florida. It was first-class all the way.

If you and your family travel at least once a year, consider looking into a time-share.

**Camping and RV parks. With the way campgrounds and RV parks are set up nowadays, the term “rough it” doesn’t exactly come to mind. You can get almost everything at a campground that you’d get in a hotel. They are cheap, live out in nature for a week, and have a great time. There are a few things to consider if you are a novice to camping, so you’ll want to do some homework before you decide on this as an option.

**Houseboats. Live on the water for your trip. This is, yet another option to choose from. My aunt has lived on a houseboat in Florida for years and loves it. This is something many don’t even think of, but look into it, you may not go back to staying on land for any future trips.

We hope this article has helped shed some light on where you might stay on your vacations. Villas, Cabins, and other type choices should be considered for specific destinations and vacations.

Most importantly, have fun, find great deals, and enjoy your trip!!]]>




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