A Guide to Great Smoky Mountain Vacations

by: Eric Morris

The Great Smoky Mountains are one of the biggest tourist draws in the southern United States. This majestic area is considered to be a part of the Appalachian Mountains, which run from central Alabama all the way to Canada. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most beautiful sites in the country. The Great Smoky Mountains are conveniently located within a day’s drive for the approximately half of the country’s population that lives east of the Mississippi River.

There are a multitude of attractions in this region. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a staggering range of activities. The historic and beautiful cabins in nearby Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge provide excellent lodging options for people who want to get a feel for the area.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best-known tourist attractions in the country. The park features camping, RV hookups, and cabins for lodging. Visitors can hike on the numerous footpaths, including parts of the 2000-mile long Appalachian Trail. Travelers can also visit the old growth forests contained within the park. The most visited part of the park is Cades Cove, which is a valley that is fully surrounded by mountains. Within the cove, visitors can marvel at the natural foliage and wildlife, go hiking, or ride the trails on a mountain bike.

Many tourists stay in the historic cabins in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge while on their Great Smoky Mountain vacation. These cabins range from being simple one-bedroom houses perfect for a romantic vacation, to ten bedroom dwellings made for large families or corporate events. The cabins have all of the modern amenities that travelers want, including hot tubs, cable TV, and swimming pools, all within miles of the Great Smoky Mountains.

A Great Smoky Mountain vacation is a great idea for anyone looking to escape the stressful fast pace of city life. The mountains provide a great setting for the adventures that are possible in this exciting place. Mountain Vacations Info provides detailed information on vacations in the Rocky, Blue Ridge, and Great Smoky Mountains, as well as mountain biking vacations and mountain rental cabins in Colorado, North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, and other destinations. Mountain Vacations Info is the sister site of Dude Ranch Web.

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

by: Joe Collinsworth

Today, we as travelers have a ton of options to consider. Where to go, how to get there, 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!!
About the Author Discount Florida Vacations is a total Florida vacation guide offering fun, sun, tips, ideas, checklists, help, recommendations, resources, and experiences for anyone traveling to Florida. You can find excellent information or plan your trip with us at... www.discount-florida-vacations.com

Your Guide to an Amazing Hawaiian Vacation

Hawaii: beautiful beaches, perfect weather, amazing surf, exquisite cuisine, and one of the world's favorite places to visit on a much-needed vacation. Here's a quick tour of Hawaii with some highlights, hotel information and the key to an amazing Hawaii vacation. Here's the secret: find an inexpensive package that will get you a ticket to the island, a hotel, and a beach tour or restaurant all in one. Tons of places in Hawaii advertise their business by packaging with a hotel or airline. Below you'll find some good picks.
First of all, for the golfing enthusiast, you can find the Unlimited Golfing Package from Prince Resorts Hawaii. On three Hawaiian islands, you can visit any one of 5 breathtakingly beautiful golf courses with a total of 99 holes and golf the day away. With a breakfast buffet included, you can't go wrong with the Prince Resorts Hawaii. Next, you don't want to leave Hawaii without catching one of those famous waves. Pick Ohana Hotels, and you can “Catch a wave in Hawaii” over a five night luxurious stay.
One of the most famous things about a vacation in Hawaii is the delicious Hawaiian cuisine. For example, Tiki's Grill and Bar is one of those restaurants. With the look and feel of a '50s or '60s Hawaiian tiki bar, this restaurant is a great place to go for delicious food and a breathtaking view of the beach. For more information on Hawaii's delicious restaurants and restaurant reviews where visitors talk about their favorite Hawaiian cuisine, visit www.myhonoluluhi.us.
For those more interested in Hawaii's history and archaeology, visit Bishop Museum, home to more that two million Hawaiian artifacts. The museum now has a location at Hilton Hawaii Village Beach Resort, so it is easy to visit and view the amazing history of the beautiful state of Hawaii. With exhibits dating back to 400 AD and leading up to Hawaii's modern history, the museum includes weapons, shark teeth, historic sufboards, and feather lei capes worn by Hawaiian nobility. This is truly a great tourist site for some unique Hawaiian history.
For more information on Hawaii, including restaurants, movie times, camping, shopping, and hotels, visit My Hawaii. 
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About The Author

Jeff OReilly is an author of several books on many topics and a leader in seo and website production.

Vacation Hassles? Take a Picture!

by: Pauline Wallin, Ph.D.

Looking for some fiction to read this summer? Try a travel brochure. Those beautiful glossy pamphlets promise you the time of your life, with nonstop fun. To illustrate their promises, they show pictures of perfect people with perfect bodies and perfect teeth, frolicking and smiling. No one has sunburn, sore feet or indigestion. The children always look squeaky clean, and they never have tantrums. There are no mosquitoes, no flat tires, no thunderstorms . . . and no inner brats!

Meanwhile, back on earth, your actual vacation may look something like this:

1. You've been driving for several hours, when you notice that the "check engine" light on your dashboard is illuminated. You get off the highway at the next exit and find a garage that can fix the car, but it won't be finished till the next day. And it's going to cost a small fortune.

2. You're on a camping trip. It's been raining for 2 days straight. The campground is one big mud puddle. And your matches are wet.

3. You splurge for a resort hotel, but when you get there they can't find your reservation, and the hotel is fully booked. You produce your travel agent's confirmation, but the reservations clerk merely says, "I'm sorry. There's nothing I can do."

4. Everything is crowded. You have to wait in line for food, for transportation, even for the bathroom. Other people are loud, pushy and rude.

You'll never see situations like these in a travel brochure. But I'll bet you've experienced at least one of them on your own trips. I know I have. And in retrospect I realize that my inner brat made things seem a lot worse than they were. It blamed and complained, making not only me miserable, but my family as well.

No vacation is perfect. Inevitably something will go wrong. Aside from real tragedies (which, fortunately, are rare) most vacation hassles are about inconvenience, bad weather and minor mishaps -- all temporary, none life-changing.

Predicaments such as delayed flights, sold-out attractions, small injuries and unexpected downpours can ruin your vacation if you allow your inner brat to gripe and grumble over every annoyance.

Instead, try this: Take a picture. Capture the mishaps. They may turn out to be your most precious and amusing memories.

I recall a sweltering summer day many years ago, when we ran out of gas on the highway because my husband was sure we had enough to bypass one rest stop and get to the next. He was right - almost. We made it just past the sign that said, "Fuel, Food: 2 miles." Instead of yelling at him with a thousand I-told-you-sos, I wish I had taken a picture of him standing in front of that sign, apologetically holding an empty gas can. It would have been the perfect souvenir from our trip.

If you happen to encounter frustrations on your upcoming vacation, get out your camera and take a picture. Looking through the lens will give you a less emotional, more objective view of the situation. Plus, you’ll have a souvenir that will later remind you that crises have a way of working themselves out.

Copyright Pauline Wallin Ph.D., 2005

About the Author
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Pauline Wallin, Ph.D. is a psychologist in Camp Hill, PA, and author of "Taming Your Inner Brat: A Guide for Transforming Self-defeating Behavior" (Wildcat Canyon Press, 2004)

Visit http://www.innerbrat.com for more information, and subscribe to her free, monthly Inner Brat Newsletter.

All Inclusive Vacations

by: S. A. Baker

Most of the time, when an individual is planning a vacation, they have to consider all aspects of the time they will spend away from home. The lodging, the transportation, the meals and so on are all things that have to be thought of. One way to limit the expense that all of this creates, is to book an all inclusive vacation. While this will not alleviate all of the things an individual has to think about, it will help to reduce the amount of planning that is needed.

All inclusive vacations usually include accommodations, meals, tips, and taxes are included in the package. Sometimes, they can also include attractions, airfare, and transportation as well. To find an all inclusive vacation that fits the needs of an individual, several things should be taken into consideration. All inclusive vacations wrap the cost of all these expenses into one. That is not to say that an individual can not find great deals on these items individually. But, often an all inclusive vacation includes all of this at a discounted rate.

If considering an all inclusive vacation, one should check out the deals that are available. Individuals who are really looking for the best deal should take the time to find out if all inclusive vacations they have found are a better deal. But, in the end, they can find all this information and do so from their home. The Internet is a great tool in planning a vacation, including an all inclusive vacation. Most big attractions have all inclusive vacations planned for them. To find the options available to anyone, it is as simple as finding the right Internet sites. An all inclusive vacation may be just the thing to help make planning a vacation less of a struggle and more of an enjoyment. And, it may just save some money!

So before you make your next travel reservations, visit www.e-travelpromos.com and check out the all inclusive vacation deals from our partners.

About the Author
S.A. Baker is staff writer at http://www.e-travelpromos.com

Alaska Cruise Ship Vacations

by: Rex Ryan

Alaska is one of the world's great cruise destinations, particularly for those with an interest in world class fishing. Alaska is arguably the most beautiful of the American states, and cruise ships offer a unique way of seeing Alaska's beauty. In addition, Alaskan cruises yield an abundance of opportunities for anglers. The combination of these attractions makes Alaska the ultimate cruise destination for many.

Cruising in Alaska is mostly seasonal, with the primary months running from May through September. The prices in May and September are generally a bit cheaper since these months are at the edges of acceptable climate conditions.

There are many things to see and do on Alaska cruises. Glacier Bay is one of the most popular destinations for cruise ships in Alaska. Glacier Bay is abundant in wildlife, and you are likely to see seals, Dall sheep, bears, and perhaps even Humpback whales. Trolling around in a massive ship through iceberg infested waters to see some of the most majestic views of glaciers and arctic scenery in the world is a thrill that should not be missed.

Misty Fjords is another great destination for Alaska cruises. The majestic tree covered mountains, trickling waterfalls and unique climactic conditions make this a must see destination. In addition to seeing the beautiful fjords from the cruise ship, excursions include the ability to take a float plane to a remote wilderness lake to truly appreciate the remote Alaskan wilderness.

Besides spectacular scenery in remote places like Glacier Bay, and Misty Fjords, Alaska cruises allow tourists to see many of Alaska's ports of call such as Juneau, Anchorage and Ketchikan. Further, areas like Sitka teach the vacationers more about native Alaska inhabitants and the wilderness in which they live.

In addition to the unique opportunities an Alaskan cruise provides, the world class fishing in Alaska must be experienced by all serious anglers. You can take sport fishing excursions in places like Anchorage (on the Kenai River), Seward, Ketchikan and Juneau. Fishing for Halibut, Salmon, Trout, Char, Pike, and many other species are available in the off shore excursions. Best of all, these fishing excursions occur out of ports where there is plenty to do for those who aren't interested in the fishing.

Cruising in Alaska is a unique experience that offers joys not found in any other type of cruise vacation. Unlike typical tropical cruises where much time is spent in open water between occasional stops at tropical islands, cruising in Alaska takes tourists to some of the most spectacular and remote corners of the world where nature's spectacular and awesome beauty is on full display. Cruises in Alaska allow vacationers to learn about native cultures that have inhabited the region for thousands of years. They show the beauty of the untamed wilderness that Alaska remains. And they allow for world class fishing on trips that aren't focused solely on the angler. Because of all these benefits, cruising in Alaska offers a far more varied, unique and awe inspiring vacation than more typical cruise destinations.
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About the Author Rex Ryan maintains a website exploring cheap cruises:
http://www.cheap--cruises.info

A Guide to Colorado Mountain Vacations

by: Eric Morris

The state of Colorado is one of the premier spots in the United States for mountain vacationing. A Colorado mountain vacation can be the adventure of a lifetime. There are many attractions in Colorado, including skiing, shopping, hiking, biking, and enjoying live entertainment.

A Colorado mountain vacation is a great trip for the whole family. Children can enjoy the outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and rafting. Families can go shopping together and eat at world-class restaurants. Attractions like Pike’s Peak are designed for the whole family.

Couples looking for a good way to unwind are also advised to check out a Colorado Mountain vacation. Many lodgings are designed for couples, and feature romantic amenities like private hot tubs, candlelit dinners, and breathtaking mountain views.

Colorado includes six of Ski Magazine’s top ten North American ski resorts. Skiing and snowboarding are major attractions of a Colorado mountain vacation. Some of the major ski resorts in Colorado are Vail, Snowmass, Steamboat Springs, Breckenridge, Beaver Creek, and Telluride.

Each of these resorts offers a variety of amenities, including accommodations, ski equipment rental, fine dining, and some of the greatest ski slopes on the continent. Many resorts also offer lessons to beginners, assuring that visitors do not have to be great skiers to have a good time. The slopes range in difficulty from beginner’s level to extremely difficult.

Each ski lodge rates its slopes somewhat differently, but the color code system applies to most of them. A green circle signifies a beginner’s slope, slopes for skiers with intermediate experience are designated by a blue square, and difficult slopes are marked with a black diamond. Some skiers are skilled (and brave) enough to try a double or triple black diamond. The most difficult ski slopes are marked with a yellow exclamation point.

A Colorado Mountain vacation can be the adventure of a lifetime. Aside from all of the breathtaking outdoor activities, visitors can also make the short drive to Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Denver to catch a concert, or go to the annual Telluride Film Festival. Vacationers on a budget can find lodgings and activities that will fit within their price range, too. Mountain Vacations Info provides detailed information on vacations in the Rocky, Blue Ridge, and Great Smoky Mountains, as well as mountain biking vacations and mountain rental cabins in Colorado, North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, and other destinations. Mountain Vacations Info is the sister site of Dude Ranch Web.

A Cuba Vacation

http://indonesian-best-travel.blogspot.com/

by: Suzanne Morrison

Taking time out from the everyday stresses and strains of life to visit an exotic place is something that everyone looks forward to. Cuba, with its notoriety brought upon by its government and the clamp down of the American government on its export and tourism, is a country known more for its cigar and its leader, rather than as a vacation destination. Despite this, every year more and more tourists from Canada and Europe are flocking to Cuba, enthralled by its natural beauty and its passionate and welcoming people. Tourism in Cuba is currently at an all time high.

Cuba is the largest of the Caribbean islands and is inhabited by people with a mixed race of Caribbean Indian, African and Spanish heritage. It has a contrasting landscape ranging from beautiful and mesmerizing beaches to sprawling and craggy mountain ranges. Limestone Mountains loom over the fields of tobacco, utilised for their famed cigars, providing a stunning scenic view. The natural beauty of Cuba and its history has shaped the country to what it is today. This is one Caribbean island that has been left unspoiled by technology and modern day living.

Like many of the Caribbean islands, Cuba’s main source of tourism is the beach industry. The country is blessed with hundreds of miles of sprawling sandy beaches, with fine white sand and clear blue water. Tourists visiting Cuba have a multitude of choices for the location of their beach vacation. The major resorts of Varadero and Cayo Largo are the most renowned and here you’ll find many 5 star all inclusive resorts. Despite this, there are also plenty of smaller, quieter beach resorts where you can truly get away from it all. 

A side from stunning beaches, Cuba also offers plenty of rustic towns and cities full of rich culture and heritage. A vacation to Cuba isn’t complete without visiting at least one of the Cuban towns or cities and meeting the local Cuban people.

In the north-west of the country you’ll find the capital city, Havana - the hub of everything that is Cuban. When you stroll around the city you’ll feel the essence of the Cuban past - a rich legacy emanating from the Spanish colonial architecture that beholds the city. Parts of the city resemble the set of an old movie, reminiscent of a bygone era, with old American cars bustling by. A lot of work has been done in the past decade to restore old Havana, a UNESCO world heritage site, but much of the city has been left untouched and hundreds of crumbling buildings collapse each month.

Havana also has its fair share of museums, including the Museum of the Revolution, the Havana Club Museum of Rum, the Cigar Museum, the Ernest Hemingway Museum and the National Museum of Fine Arts.

Santiago de Cuba is the second largest city in Cuba and is located on the eastern end of the island. It has a beautiful setting at the foot of the Sierra Maestra Mountains and overlooks a magnificent bay. Unlike the other towns and cities in Cuba, Santiago de Cuba has a very Caribbean feel to it. This is as a result of the influence of the Haitian planters who settled here in the 19th century.

Trinidad, located in the heart of Cuba is one of the original towns and was founded in 1514. The city is filled with cobbled streets and old buildings with tiled roofs and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. It’s a very pleasant city to spend a day or two, with many museums, churches and Plazas.

An ideal way to spend your vacation is to take a few days to do some sightseeing in Havana or one of Cuba’s other cities and then follow that up with a relaxing week’s stay in one of the luxurious all inclusive resorts by the beach.


About the author:
Suzanne is the webmaster of http://www.suzannestravels.comYou can read about her recent vacation to Cuba in her Cuba Blog http://www.suzannestravels.com/cubaHere you’ll find information and reviews of her stay in Guardelavaca, Holguin and Havana

A Cat Island Bahamas Vacation

by: Simon Harris

One of the outer islands of the Bahamas, Cat Island is a quiet vacation destination for those who are really looking to relax. Among its varied pleasures and activities, a little exploration will turn up a historical oddity or two that add to the individual character of the place. Beautiful beaches in natural settings welcome the nature lover and peace seeker alike.

The Hermitage is a bit of an historical oddity, fascinating and strange. The hike up to see this religious site will take visitors through small villages along beautiful trails, full of island flora and fauna. It is located at the top of Mt. Alvernia, which is 206 feet above the sea and the highest point in the Bahamas. The Hermitage itself is made from the limestone of the cliffs, with each piece painstakingly extracted, shaped and set by hand by the Canadian mule-skinner turned Anglican turned Roman Catholic priest known as Father Jerome. The Father built the structure to scale, designed it to fit his rather diminutive form. Beloved by the island people, the priest passed away in 1956 after reaching the ripe age of 80.

  

Other historical sites include an Arawak cave, found at Columbus point, and plantation ruins, left over from the islands efforts at joining the worlds cotton growers. Deveaux mansion was once the residence of Andrew Deveaux of the US Navy, who participated in the 1873 battles to get Nassau back from Spain. Another well known ruins is the remains of the Ambrister plantation, near Port Howe.

For those interested in water sports, the Cat Island Dive Center is the place to contact. They operate out of the Greenwood Beach Resort and have a variety of diving and snorkeling packages available, and there are many fine areas to explore, offering a wealth of marine life and fascinating geological formations. They also have water sport equipment to rent.

Cat Island is the sixth largest island in the Bahamas, and boasts extraordinary beaches. There are literally miles and miles of virtually undisturbed beaches, where swimming and relaxing can be done in near complete privacy.

Fine meals can be had at several locations on Cat Island. Hawk's Nest Resort and Marina serves a variety of dishes, but among the best are the fresh, grilled fish and the roasted rack of lamb. Fernandez Bay Village is the place to go for creative and delicious native dishes, served either in the dining room or a patio table by the beach. Greenwood Beach Resort's Bahaman cuisine is complemented by their marvelous breads, which are baked every day.

Cat Island is an excellent choice for vacationers who are seeking a natural beach experience, and enjoy a peaceful and very laid-back atmosphere. The island can be explored at a leisurely pace, which is a much better way to enjoy the local flora and fauna, as well as to enjoy the local culture. Because it is so much smaller in population than many of the other islands, it's easier to get a real feel for the people and their way of life. Cat Island is an interesting place that will make a lasting impression on its guests.
About the Author This article provided courtesy of http://www.bahamas-holiday-guide.co

10 tips for selecting the perfect Costa Rica vacation rental

by: Paul Orr

Planning a Tropical vacation full of lush jungles, secluded beaches, and friendly people but not too expensive? Costa Rica is the place to go! But where do you stay, a resort or a private villa? Do you want long lines, crowded pools, kids running up and down the corridors? I think not.

Selecting the best Costa Rica vacation rental can be the difference between a great vacation and one where you feel like you are ‘doing without’.

Many vacationers consider the Costa Rica vacation rental as ‘just somewhere to stay’ since most of your time will be spent in or on the water, or enjoying local attractions. Don’t make that mistake. There is no reason to settle for less when, with a little planning, you can find a great Costa Rica vacation rental that you’ll enjoy as much or more than the other parts of your vacation.

Remember, your vacation home is where you’ll be sleeping, waking up, having many of your meals, and resting.

If it rains or is unseasonably hot outside, you may end up stretched out reading a book to while away the day or wanting to watch one of your favorite movies on the DVD – assuming there is a comfortable sofa. And when you meet new friends, you’ll want someplace nice for entertaining. Shouldn’t your vacation rental be a pleasant get-away with the amenities that make vacations a real treat? “A home away from home”


Here are 10 tips for selecting the perfect Costa Rica vacation rental:

1. The single most important factor is whether or not you can “see” actual recent photos of the interior and exterior of the vacation rental. It’s one thing to read a great description – and some of them are quite ‘complimentary’ (sometimes overly so) - but you need to see what you are getting.

With the Internet, a website is the quickest most convenient way for you to get information on prospective Costa Rica vacation rentals. If there are no pictures, you’ll know right away to keep looking. Brochures, books and guides are nice, but may have out-dated information.

2. List the amenities that are important to you, the ones without which you will feel incomplete. Next, jot down those that are nice to have, but not deal-breakers if not available.

With these lists as a guide, you’ll be able to quickly eliminate those rentals that won’t meet your needs. Your list might include proximity to the water, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, type kitchen (full versus fridge and microwave), outdoor amenities such as decks and BBQ grills, ocean views, private pools, outdoor eating areas, tennis courts and other items important to you.

On your secondary list, you might have things like a hammock for lazing about, or pool waterfall for the relaxing sounds. Exterior stereo speakers, to enjoy your favorite music around the pool. Ice makers to mix your favorite drinks, especially in the heat of the day.

3. List the activities that you want to be able to enjoy while on vacation. A morning activity like scuba diving, snorkeling or canopy tour then coming back to the villa to relax may be a high priority for you.
You also need to consider how close the vacation rental is to the airport. It is very important to know how far the rental is from your arrival airport. Some rentals can take a half a day’s drive and after your flight even an hour’s drive can seem an eternity. Your travel time back to the airport at departure can also frustrate your entire vacation. Enjoying your last morning of your vacation by a private pool instead of traveling for hours to the airport can be very important to you. For Costa Rica vacation rentals that are only 20 minutes from the Liberia International airport visit http://www.costarica-vacation-getaway.com. This will help you in selecting a general location.

You also need to consider how close you want your vacation rental to be to the attractions.

Some people feel that a great vacation is being able to walk or bicycle everywhere. Others don’t mind a short drive, and still others think nothing of getting on a freeway to enjoy attractions.

If you prefer a vacation without the hassles of traffic, parking problems, crowds and long lines, select a villa located in the quaint waterfront town of Playa Panama, Costa Rica. Visit http://www.costarica-vacation-getaway.com to learn more.

4. Identify your first, second and third choice of dates for renting the villa.
With several dates, you’ll save time when making arrangements.

If you find a villa that you really want and you have some flexibility in scheduling, having alternate dates ready allows you to book right then, saving yourself the time and hassle of having to re-check everyone’s schedule and call back – and risking losing those dates in the interim.

5. Call the telephone numbers for the vacation rentals that seem to meet your needs and speak directly with either the owners or the person who is handling the property.

Be prepared with a list of questions. This allows you to compare apples to apples, and keeps you from forgetting something important during the conversation.

It also gives you a feel for the person who will be your contact should you rent the villa and then encounter a problem. If you don’t get a warm, friendly welcome to your inquiries, don’t expect anything different when you have a problem.

6. Ask what amenities are included.
You may learn of something that’s not on your list but is perfect for your plans.
Does the rental have maid service? Last thing you want to do is make the beds or clean the dishes, even if there is a dishwasher.
Does the rental have a washer and dryer? If so, you will not have to take as many cloths with you. Will the maid wash your cloths before your departure? Coming home with a suitcase full of clean cloths is certainly a benefit.

Other things to consider: Is there a welcome basket? Will the owner have essential items in the refrigerator for you, before your arrival? Can you make arrangements for tours? Are there plates, utensils, pots, pans and other essentials for eating and meal preparation – or will you have to bring your own?
Does the rental have air condition or do you have to depend on the winds to comfort you?

7. Inquire about restaurants, events and activities and other forms of local entertainment that are close by. Here’s where your list of preferred activities comes in handy. You should be able to find links to local attractions, calendars and restaurants on the website of your Costa Rica vacation rental.

8. Are the owners local or do they have a management team helping 24/7?
Owners are a wealth of information about the area and can give you tips on great out-of-the-way places that aren’t in the guidebooks. They also care about your enjoyment and comfort while at their villa.

This can make a huge difference; especially should something need immediate attention in the villa. There’s nothing worse than calling the rental company about a stopped-up toilet and getting somebody’s bored teenager who’s manning the phones for the summer.

9. How long has the owner been renting vacation rentals?
If the owner has worked with rental properties, they know what tenants expect and how to get things done.

If this is a new venture, beware. The owner may be in it for “fun” and have no idea how to prepare the villa so that you can have a great vacation.

10. And last, when you look at the pictures, can you see yourself having a great time there?

If the pictures make you want to go right now, and the answers to the questions above meet your satisfaction, you’ve found yourself a great Costa Rica vacation rental!
Paul has been traveling to Costa Rica since 2001. Purchased property 2001 and built a villa in 2002. Handles villa rentals for five additional villas. Two, three, four and five bedroom villa's available. www.costarica-vacation-getaway.com info@costarica-vacation-getaway.com 

5 Tips To Spend The Most Luxurious Caribbean Vacation You Ev

by: Stephanie Hetu

Tip #1 : Buy a beach front Caribbean villa! Buying Caribbean beach front property can range from a bargain to outrageous. This does not mean that the cheaper Caribbean beach front property is any less beautiful or luxurious than the more expensive ones, but rather means the location is different. For instance, Caribbean beach front property in the Bahamas is beautiful, over run with tourists, and incredibly expensive. However, Caribbean beach front property in the Dominican Republic is just as beautiful, has less tourists, and a considerably more affordable price tag.

Tip #2 : Rent a villa for your trip! If you are not into real estate investment, why not rent a villa instead? Often, the price will not be a lot more expensive then an all inclusive package in a crowded hotel. And instead of having to eat buffet food for a week, you can cook your own meal, or even have someone do it for you! 
 Tip #3 : Rent a Caribbean island! Did you know you can rent a whole island just for yourself? This can come with staff and everything you need to spend a luxurious vacation. It is also a very nice idea for a wedding!

Tip #4 : Charter a luxury Yacht! If you are looking for something a little less extravagant then the huge private Yachts, and a lot more affordable then there are a variety of luxury yacht charters Caribbean providers that will also be able to meet your needs and your budget. The wonderful thing about he Caribbean is no matter what your budget, preferences, and schedule there is someone who will be able to provide exactly what you are looking for.

Tip #5 : Contact a Caribbean holiday specialist Certainly, you can get online and start searching and learn everything there is to do in the Caribbean, however it is certainly a lot easier to simply employ Caribbean holiday specialists to help you plan your vacation. Not only will this save you time, but it will also save you money because more often than not Caribbean holiday specialists are aware of different discounts and preferred rates. They have insight and knowledge and many years experience booking Caribbean vacations, where you will have to do some serious work and effort to plan the vacation yourself.
About the Author http://www.luxury-caribbean-vacation.com "> Luxury Caribbean Vacation offers information about luxury services available in the Caribbean : villa rental, Caribbean real estate, yacht and sailboat rental and private aircraft charter. If you want the services of a REAL, knowledgeable travel agent, this is the pace to go! 

Hotel De L’Europe Amsterdam

The hotel: This hotel is well-known because it is an elegant and adorable place. Upon entering the hotel, you can see the various historical Dutch paintings. The decors and designs of the place are really splendid. The hotel staff is also hospitable and treats every guest nicely.

Best World Hotels and Spas: Hotel De L'Europe Amsterdam

Rooms: The hotel has 100 beautifully designed rooms that the guests could choose from. Overall, there are 21 single rooms, 56 double rooms, 17 junior suites, 5 suites and 1 bridal suite. There are also rooms that have an access to view the Amstel River. The guests are also given a choice for a smoking or non-smoking room.

Best World Hotels and Spas: Room in Hotel

Banqueting Rooms: There are available function rooms where social gatherings or business conferences are held. The function rooms have available wireless internet, airconditioning, day light, and sound system. They can also provide audiovisual equipment, additional telephone lines, floral arrangements, and piano which are available upon request. Parking facility for your cars is also available in the hotel.

Best World Hotels and Spas: Pool in De L'Europe Amsterdam

Restaurants and Bar: The hotel features two restaurants which consists of one bar and one hotel lounge. The terrace is available to the guests who want to view the Amstel River and Munt Tower. Smoking rooms are also offered during or after they visit the restaurant.

Best World Hotels and Spas: Meeting Room

Facilities: More facilities are offered by the hotel. There are available business centers, swimming pool, fitness center, concierge, safe deposit boxes, laundry and dry cleaning service, room service, and shoe shine service.

Rates: Room rates vary depending on low, mid, and high seasons.

AMAZON HIGHLIGHT OF 24-DAY ARGENTINA, PERU AND BRAZIL TOUR

Buenos Aires, the ruins of The Lost City of the Incas at Machu Picchu, three days cruising the Amazon River, then Rio de Janeiro and the spectacular Iguassu Falls are highlights of a 24-day escorted South America tour in May of next year with off-the-beaten track, Far Horizons.

Other exotic features include a coastal train ride from Buenos Aires to Tigre and a boat trip through the Parana Delta, two nights in Lima and two in the once-Inca capital of Cuzco, including a stay at an Orient-Express luxury hotel within a restored 16th century monastery 3,500m high in the mountains.

For the adventurous there's a motorised canoe ride to the remote cities of Leticia and Tabatinga, Manaus with its fabled Opera House built of stone from Portugal, marble from Italy and with chandeliers from Venice, a boat ride on the Rio Negro River, and legendary Rio de Janeiro including a cable car ride to the summit of Sugar Loaf Mountain, Mount Corcovado with its 700m high statue of Christ, and a stay at a colonial-style hotel during a visit to the 270-cataract Iguassu Falls.

Prices start from $27,250pp twin-share including return air and taxes from Sydney, a Far Horizon escort and local guides, twin-share accommodation, all meals, sightseeing and entry fees.

Full details on 1800 083 141 or www.farhorizons.com.au

Burj Al Arab Hotel,

The name of this seven-star hotel, called the Burj Al Arab Hotel, is located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This magnificent, high-rise hotel overlooks the Dubai coastline – standing at a height of about 321 meters.


The hotel is designed to be shaped like a sail with the wind blowing on it and provides you with a stunning view of Dubai’s coastline (pretty cool, huh?) For the basic indoor amenities of this highly ranked hotel, it has 202 suites and a restaurant that offers its patrons some of the finest tasting foods to be found anywhere. It also offers private dining options for those who want to host private meals, a luxurious ballroom that can hold events like weddings and galas and a state-of-the art gala and more!

Beach At Burj Al Arab

For the amenities of this hotel’s suites, they include air conditioning, private bathrooms, private telephones, TV’s, room service and an in-room safe to keep your precious valuables from being lost or stolen.

Restaurant and Bar in Burj Al Arab

If you think this is all that the hotel will offer you; you are far from right because the seven-star hotel also has a elegant cocktail bar, gym, spas, a squash court, baby sitting services, facilities to hold meeting and a luxurious swimming pool to cool off from the Arabian sun.

Sunset view from Burj Al Arab

You must be thinking how much does it cost to stay in a seven-star hotel such as this? The answer will shock you because the rate for a basic room, at the Burj Al Arab Hotel is $2,106 per night!

Inside of Burj Al Arab

Yes, you head right: $2,106 per night to stay in a room with single, double or twin beds. For a triple bedroom, the rate is $2,467 per night. In addition, the rates for the suites are much higher – starting out from $2,446 to $2,802 per night for a single, double, twin or a triple bed suite.

Billiard Room in Burj Al Arab

Alaska's hottest deals

Denali National Park and Preserve

Travelers can save $100 per night at the Denali Cabins located near the entrance to Denali National Park and Preserve. Guests enjoy the charm of an Alaska cedar cabin with all the comforts of a modern hotel room including private baths, television and more. Alaska Denali Tours and Denali Lodges also offers activities, meals and transportation. This special applies to any room at Denali Cabins and is available until May 31. For more information, call 877-300-1992 or visit www.AlaskaDenaliTours.com.

Fairbanks

The Westmark Fairbanks Hotel and Conference Center is offering the Northern Lights Package for just $95 between Sept. 15, 2009 and April 15, 2010. This package includes one night for two people in a deluxe room, continental breakfast buffet for two, northern lights wake-up call, a map of northern lights viewing areas and two signature coffee tumblers complete with hot chocolate, cookies and hand warmers to keep travelers toasty while viewing. For more information, visit www.westmarkhotels.com/packages-specials.php.

Mat-Su Valley

All Alaska Tours invites travelers to save 25 percent per person when they book the Chugach Mountain Glacier Getaway in the Mat-Su Valley. This trip includes three days and two nights at the Knik River Lodge, transfer from downtown Anchorage, guided airboat tour to Knik Glacier, two breakfasts, one picnic lunch and two dinners. With the discount, the cost of this tour is just $359 per person based on double occupancy (regular price $485 per person). For more information, call 1-866-317-3325 or click HERE.

Sea World Launches 2009 Whale Watching Season!

The first of thousands of Humpback Whales will be travelling past the Gold Coast as Sea World Whale Watch officially launches its 2009 season this Monday 1st June.

The Gold Coast whale watching season will run from June to November during the annual Humpback Whale migration and Sea World Whale Watch will again offer the ultimate whale watching experience.

Sea World Whale Watch will run tours daily (weather permitting) throughout the season, departing at 11am and returning at approximately 1.30pm.

Sea World Director of Marine Sciences Trevor Long said that Sea World’s custom designed catamaran and advanced educational facilities enhanced the amazing experience of getting up close to the whales.

“Whale watching is a truly wonderful experience and it’s something that everyone should do at least once in their lifetime.”

“The Humpback Whale population that migrates along our east coast is growing by between 8 and 13 percent annually, and we are expecting to see about 12,000 whales pass the Gold Coast in 2009”, he said.

Sea World Whale Watch experienced a fantastic inaugural season in 2008, with 100% whale sightings and thousands of happy whale watchers. The Sea World Whale Watch crew is also looking forward to assisting with whale rescues in 2009, after their 2008 experience where the crew spotted and followed an entangled whale until the Sea World Research and Rescue team arrived to assist.

Sea World Whale Watch tickets cost $88 for Adults and $66 for Children and Pensioners. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase their Whale Watching ticket as part of a combo deal which will include entry into Sea World with-in two days. Combo tickets cost $99 Adults, $77 Children and Pensioners.

Media are invited to experience a special whale watching trip.

DETAILS

DATE: Monday 1 June

TIME: 8am for interviews;

8.30am – 10am for special media whale watching tour

LOCATION: Meet Renee Soutar at Sea World Cruise Terminal in the Sea World car park

OPPORTUNITIES: Vision and stills of whales on board the tour There will also be a small group of public aboard the tour available for vox pops

INTERVIEWS: Trevor Long, Sea World Director of Marine Sciences

EPK: Media will be supplied with vision and stills of Humpback Whales to supplement what is taken on the day

RSVP: Please call Renee to RSVP your place on the boat by 12pm Sunday 31 May

Bali is a wonderful island of Indonesia. It has been Indonesia’s largest tourist destination. Therefore, some of the best hotels in Asia or even in the world are situated in Bali, Indonesia.

Best World Hotels and Spas: Bali Le Meridien Nirwana

Le Meridien Nirwana Golf & Spa Resort Bali is one of the best hotels of Bali. You can experience the Indonesian culture during your stay. It is located on the south coast of Bali. It is just about 20 kilometers away from the Ngura Rai International Airport. Since the hotel is just within walking distance to Tanah Lot Temple, the temple can be seen right from the hotel.

Best World Hotels and Spas: Bali

You can choose from the different rooms they have. The rooms have sophisticated ambience. Most of the rooms are furnished with very warm earth tones. This makes you feel that nature is just within your reach. You can choose whether you want an ocean or a garden view room. There are also executive suites wherein you can enjoy big and luxurious living rooms.

Best World Hotels and Spas: Le Meridien Golf

Enjoy also the room and hotel facilities offered during your vacation. Rooms are fully air-conditioned. You get to enjoy watching TV because of the cable or you can choose from the pay-per-view movies. When you want to get some fresh air, the balcony is ready for you. Private bathrooms are also provided.

Best Hotels and Spas: Le Meridien Golf & Spa Resort Bali

For those who are having a vacation but still can not leave their work in their offices, modem/data port connection and telephone are also provided. The hotel itself offers services that will surely make you stay longer. Some of these services include: baby sitting, currency exchange, laundry facilities, beauty salon, spa, sauna, restaurant, shopping arcade and of course, the outdoor and indoor swimming pools.

Best World Hotels and Spas: Best Vacations

Room rate depend on the room you choose. They range from $242-$654.

St. Regis New York

The hotel: Positioned in a delightful place in Manhattan, the St. Regis New York is just near Central Park, Fifth Avenue shopping, elegant restaurants and brilliant theaters. The hotel also stands in some nearby corporate offices such as Coca-Cola, AT&T, Sony Corporation, Columbia Pictures, Warner Brothers, Citibank, and Walt Disney. Some of its local attractions include the Broadway Theater District, Tiffany’s, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Wall Street, and Empire State Building.

Best World Hotels and Spas: St. Ragis New York

Guest rooms: There are several classes of rooms and suites available to the guests according to their preferences. The rooms are designed and customized with 12 foot ceiling, connecting rooms, writing desks, Italian marble bathroom, double-paned windows, chandelier, rollaway bed, sitting area, All rooms are readily equipped with some entertainment system such as flat screen TV, radio, MP3 player, and stereo CD player.

Best World Hotels and Spas: St. Regis Hotel was Built in 1904

Bed features include foam pillows, feather down comforters, feather pillows and Egyptian cotton sheets. Bathroom amenities include terry cloth bathrobe, double sinks, bathroom telephone, separate showers, shaving mirrors, and European bathtub. It also has an available fully stocked refrigerator and minibar.

Best World Hotels and Spas: Room in St. Regis New York Hotel

Features and Activities: While staying at the hotel, guests can experience comfort and leisure with its featured spa and fitness center. It also has a business center that caters to your needs of computer rental and secretarial services. Each floor has butlers available whenever you need them.

Best World Hotels and Spas: Restaurant in St. Regis Hotel

Restaurants and Lounges: The hotel offers various elegant restaurants that perfectly suit the taste of their guests. It also introduced its new French cuisine to their guests. Complete with all its dining amenities, guests would surely enjoy their dinner at their preferred restaurant.
Meetings and Events: This high-class hotel also caters special occasions such as wedding and business conference. Surely this would be a perfect place to any social gatherings.

Rate: Contact Starwood for best available rates.

Blog Korea and Win a Trip to Korea!

Share your treasured memories of Korea with people from all over the world and be in the running to win Korean tour packages valued at US$20,000 along with many other great prizes.

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) is recruiting 100 international bloggers of Korean culture & tourism from June 15 to August 31 2009 in collaboration with the Voluntary Agency Network of Korea (VANK). The event titled ‘Blog Korea! Visit Korea!' is aimed at strengthening the online promotion of Korean tourism.

Blogs can be written in a variety of foreign languages (English, Chinese, Japanese, German, French, Spanish, and Russian). Persons interested in becoming one of Korea Tourism's top bloggers can apply for the event after posting content about Korean culture and tourism on their blog.

The KTO will recruit one hundred (100) bloggers in early September after examining the extent to which bloggers are interested in Korea, the contents of each blog, and the number of "hits" on each blog. The one hundred (100) top bloggers of Korean culture & tourism will be awarded prizes and the top five (5) bloggers will receive the latest LG netbook worth $500, fifteen (15) runners-up will receive a digital camera, and the remaining eighty (80) bloggers a MP3 player. Moreover, the top thirty (30) most active bloggers will be invited to a special camp in Korea in October 2009.

In May 2010, the KTO will select the three bloggers who have shown the best performance over the last eight months (between September 2009 and April 2010). The best blogger will win a Korea vacation package valued at $10,000 while two runners-up will win a $5,000 Korean tour package. The winners can be accompanied on their trip by a family member or friend.

The KTO hopes that the event will enhance interest in Korean culture & tourism among bloggers from all over the world. The KTO will recruit 500 top bloggers within three years, and aims to promote Korean tourism more aggressively by expanding its exchanges with bloggers.

If you'd like to take part in this event, please visit the KTO's website http://english.visitkorea.or.kr and click on the ‘Blog Korea’ button to enter.

Jazz in the Vines packages from Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley has released a range of weekend Jazz in the Vines packages for couples and groups planning to attend the highly anticipated annual festival, to be held on Saturday 31 October.

Now in its 17th year, the 2009 festival is held at Tyrrell’s Vineyard and boasts seven hours of live music. With a stellar line-up of artists including James Morrison, who is back by popular demand from last year; Watussi; the award winning Galapagos Duck; Australia’s Army Band, Dixie Jazz Band; and Ladies of Jazz, featuring Christine Anu, Grace Knight, Paulini and Monica Trapaga.

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley’s Jazz in the Vines packages, which include two nights’ accommodation, breakfast in Redsalt daily and tickets and transfers to the festival start at $1,030.00 for two in a deluxe hotel room and $1,580.00 for four in a two bedroom villa. For larger groups, book a Jazz in the Vines package staying in one of Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley’s new three bedroom villas from $2,050.00 for six people.

Upgraded Jazz in the Vines packages incorporating Alfresco and VIP tickets to the event are also available across all accommodation options.
The new, fully contained three bedroom villas can sleep up to six people and feature two bathrooms, large living and dining area and a kitchen, no more than a couple of minute’s walk from Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley’s many dining and recreational facilities. In addition, all three-bedroom villas have two terraces, three large LCD TVs and all the modern technology to get you connected.

With the Brokenback Mountain ranges as a backdrop, the festival not only attracts some of the finest jazz, soul and funk musicians, it showcases the best of the Hunter Valley’s food and wine. While party goers are free to bring their own picnics, Crowne Plaza’s Redsalt restaurant, The Verandah Restuarant, Esca Restaurant and The Hunter Valley Cheese Company are just a few of the local restaurants offering gourmet meals and snacks. Six of the region’s most popular wineries, including Tyrrell’s and Bimbadgen, will have bottles on the day, while Peterson’s Champagne House will set up its own bubble’s bar, offering revellers a superb menu to match the entertainment experience.

Made up of four of Australia’s most well known female music artists, Ladies of Jazz promise to be a highlight for the day as they come together to pay homage to legendary greats, providing a show of music celebrating the many decades of jazz.

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley is the perfect place for jazz lovers looking to kick on after the festival. The resort’s four restaurants and bars include Grapevine Café-Bar – overlooking the pool and open for cocktails, wine, food and a wide array of beers from around the world –and Vista Lounge, the hotel’s specialty whisky bar, which is open well into the night.

For the rest of the weekend, the award winning Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, offers guests a range of recreational activities. Set amongst its own 18-hole golf course, the hotel features a huge outdoor pool, tennis and basketball courts, gym and Tea Tree Spa. Featuring a range of individual and group treatment rooms, including the VIP suite and Sanctuary Spa Suite, Tea Tree Spa provides visitors to the Hunter with a unique individual or group pampering experience.

For more information on the Jazz in the Vines accommodation packages or to make a booking, call 02 4991 0900. For more information on Jazz in the Vines, visit www.jazzinthevines.com.au