Begin in Beijing - Beijing Travel Information

The best way to kick off your Asian travels is in China’s progressive and even tragically hip capital city of Beijing. Traditional relics like the Tiananmen gate stand juxtaposed against the imposing modernist architecture of recent history, most notable in the Dashanzi Art District. The People’s Republic of China has its financial industries mainly in Shanghai and Hong Kong, but Beijing remains the nation’s true cultural and political center.

Orange County Meets Ming Dynasty in Beijing

When many travelers think of Beijing, they imagine the dictatorial atmosphere of Mao Zedong or television images of protesting citizens; however, Beijing has a tremendous history beginning as early as the 1st century BCE and has persevered through Kublai Kahn’s Mongols, Japanese invasion, and the Communist Civil War victory in 1949.

The Forbidden City is a fascinating journey through 500 years of Imperial secrecy. The head of state no longer resides here and the beautiful buildings and breathtaking gardens are open to the public year-round. The entrance to the Forbidden City is the infamous Tiananmen Square and gate, protected by four formidable marble lions. Nearby, the Temple of Heaven is another sublime representation of an era of dynasties and royal architecture. With airfare to Beijing, you also have the extra opportunity to see the Great Wall of China, which is only one and a half hours away by bus.

Although there are hundreds of historical sites in Beijing, the rapidly sprawling metropolis is also overflowing with contemporary wonders and luxuries. The National Zoo houses the largest inland aquarium in the world as well as China’s famous pandas. Next to the Imperial Palace, the Wan Fung Art Gallery provides insight into the artistic transition from regal and traditional to cutting edge contemporary. Most interestingly, the suburban sprawl has witnessed the creation of a $60 million American-inspired community called Orange County, complete with town homes and tract housing.

Chinese Cultural Centrifuge in Beijing

Experience two cultural traditions in one at the Laoshe Tea House where you will be both charmed by Chinese opera and soothed by a variety of traditional teas. For world-class shopping in Beijing, visit Wangfujing, or you can find your way into the many enchanting smaller districts for traditional Chinese shops and boutiques. Beijing is also home to several notable temples like the Miaoying, and even a mosque that was built in 996.

With such dynamic experiences to offer and the immaculate preservation of its past, Beijing is truly an international city and there’s no wonder the cosmopolis has been chosen for the Olympics. Get your airfare to Beijing now or wait for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.

Asia Beijing, China

About the Author: John Binder, for more information on Beijing and cheap airfare & flight tickets, go to www.cfares.com.

Stumble It!

Florida Travel Information

From the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic seaboard, travel to Florida is the ultimate adventure and getaway for spring breakers, singles, couples, and the entire family alike. The Sunshine State is packed with amusement park extravaganzas, wildlife sanctuaries, pristine beaches, and cruise ship island escapades. Don’t miss your chance to escape to one of the most dynamic vacation destinations in the USA.

Florida is also rife with pertinent heritage before becoming the 27th state of the Union. Florida’s history dates back thousands of years, prior to any European settlements in the region. By the time the first European explorer landed in Florida, the Native American population was thriving, including the Seminole and Apalachee tribes. The region changed hands from Spain to Britain, back to Spain then finally to the United States in 1845. Several war-torn forts and battlefields from the Civil War era and earlier can be found throughout the peninsula and panhandle, including Dade Battlefield Historic State Park in the Southwest District and Castillo de San Marcos (Fort Marion), a National Monument.

Disney, Deco, and Diving in Florida

Once you find your airfare to Florida, you’ll be ready to explore the extensive amusements the state has to offer. Disney World, near Orlando, is one of the most popular destinations and is a short drive away from Canaveral National Seashore, home of the Kennedy Space Center and periodic shuttle launches. On the Atlantic shore, Miami boasts hundreds of historic Art-Deco buildings and hotels along the famous avenues of South Beach. Just north of Miami, Fort Lauderdale is the place to catch a cruise or flight into the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and the Florida Keys.

Popular leisure activities in Florida include SCUBA diving, snorkeling, yachting, horseback riding and exploring the National Parks. Everglades National Park is a stunning 1.5 million acre expanse of green wetlands, hundreds of endangered or rare species like the American crocodile and the Florida Panther, bird and flamingo sanctuaries, and numerous boat and land tours.

Dry Tortugas National Park is also a must see, made up of a cluster of islands west of the Florida Keys in the Gulf of Mexico. The park is teeming with exotic wildlife, both above and below water, and fantastic legends of pirates, gold and a history of military development. Grab your oxygen tank and your airfare to Florida for some of the most spectacular underwater photography opportunities the world has to offer.

The Finer Side of Florida

Many travelers make their pilgrimage to Florida to experience fine seaside dining in the major cities like Miami and luxury communities like Jupiter Island. Hotels and full-service resorts are generously scattered throughout the coastal regions, Orlando and the Keys, and bayside mansions attracts their own class of renters and sightseers alike.

Visit Travelocity for Florida Deals

About the Author: For more information on Florida and cheap airfare & flight tickets, go to http://www.cfares.com

Stumble It!

Top 5 Family Fun Beaches

Planning a vacation with the whole family means you have one primary consideration: keeping the kids happy. If planning a beach vacation, it seems you already have taken care of that main consideration, but not completely. You want to be sure you choose a kid-friendly beach that will also keep the adults happy.

Dr. Beach, otherwise known as scientist Dr. Stephen Leatherman, chooses the top beaches each year, always with an eye toward the kids as well. All of the following selections are made with the family in mind. These were Dr. Beach’s selections for 2006.

1. Fleming Beach, Maui. This beach, of which part is the Ritz Carlton beach, is a popular destination for families. Here, you can surf, swim and picnic. Since the kids are with you, you’ll appreciate that there are restrooms, showers and picnic facilities. If you’re visiting in the winter, stay out of the water, as the surf is dangerously high then. Families also like the location – it’s on the west side of Maui and is backed by a forest of trees which provide abundant shade.

2. Caladesi Island State Park, Florida. This beach makes a wonderful complement to a Florida vacation with kids. Head to Florida’s west coast (this beach is near the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area) and visit this park, which offers a marina, picnic pavilions, shelling and fishing, as well as nature studies. There are also three miles of nature trail here. The beach is a family favorite due to the myriad of activities that complement your visit, as well as the beautiful sand beaches perfect for sandcastle making.

3. Ocracoke Island, North Carolina. Located on North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Ocracoke Island is a popular destination for families. There’s something here for everyone: the kids enjoy watching the “banker ponies”, the wild ponies that live there, and parents enjoy the quaint shops, historic lighthouse, and darling homes. The village of Ocracoke is on the National Register of Historic Places. There’s a free ferry service from Hatteras Island to Ocracoke Island. It’s a 40-minute ferry ride that can end up taking a lot longer in the summertime, as the wait for the ferry can be a long one.

4. Cooper’s Beach, Southampton, New York. Southampton was the first settlement in New York State, in 1640, and this beach is the main beach in the Southampton area. Of course, Southampton is known as the playground of the rich during the summer months, so be sure to prepare yourself for that if you’re not normally part of that moneyed crowd. But don’t let that scare you off – the beach is also a favorite playground of kids everywhere. You should carry some cash: non-residents pay $25 for weekday parking and $30 for weekend.

5. Hanalei Bay, Kauai, Hawaii. This beach, located on the north coast of Hawaii, is a quiet oasis of fun beach activities. There are many vacation home rentals in the area, so you can head from your condo or house rental right to this beautiful beach. Kids love it because the white sand beaches are prime for sand play, there are restrooms, picnic facilities and a lifeguard on duty. Kids can play in the water most times of the year and surfing and boogie boarding are also popular here.

About the Author: Liz Boudreau is a beach bum with a passion for travel. She has traveled to and reviewed some of the best beaches in the world.

Stumble It!

Virginia Is For Lovers - Virginia Travel Information

From Appalachia to the Potomac River, Virginia is diverse as it is rich with history. Revolutionary and Civil War battlegrounds rub shoulders with thriving urban centers and peaceful outdoor sanctuaries. Richmond, Virginia Beach and Arlington are the main points of entry, as well as the northeast neighbors of Washington D.C. and Maryland.

Virginia in the Books

Virginia is also certain to brush up your United States history, as eight Presidents were born here including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. Mount Vernon was the home and plantation of George Washington, located on the Potomac River just south of Arlington and Washington D.C. Enjoy the expansive grounds, oceanfront walking paths and stables as well as a new giftshop and quaint colonial restaurant serving traditional food as well as some of George and Martha’s favorites. In Richmond, the Virginia State Capitol Building was designed by Thomas Jefferson and the University of Virginia in Charlottesville was founded by the former President as well.

You will also encounter more Revolutionary battlefields in Virginia than any other state. The Yorktown peninsula is the site of the famous battle that ended the Revolutionary War. During the Civil War, Richmond was not only the capital of Virginia but also of the Confederated States. Become surrounded by one of the great moments in United States history at the Appomattox Court House, the site of the Confederate surrender to the Union that ended the Civil War. Travel to Virginia’s northeast county of Arlington to pay respects to some of the great heroes of the nation at Arlington National Cemetery, including the Challenger Space Shuttle Mission, numerous Supreme Court Justices, the Kennedy family and even the mast of the sunken USS Maine from the Spanish-American War.

Voyage Beyond the Virginian Veneer

Once you’ve had your fill of history, get outdoors into some of the most breathtaking scenery on the Eastern Seaboard. The resort city of Virginia Beach is one of the most popular destinations along Chesapeake Bay. At your own leisurely pace, discover the many wildlife refuges, wildflowers, aquariums and seafood restaurants along the stretches of beach. Check out the First Landing Cross as well, the point where English settlers landed in 1607.

Spanning west across the Piedmont region, you will finally come to the Appalachian ranges, cooler temperatures and forested hillsides. The Shenandoah Valley plunges gloriously between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Allegheny Mountains and offers unlimited outdoor adventure as well as endless Civil War stories. Discover why Virginia is truly for lovers… of everything!

About the Author: Elyse Morgan, For more information on Virginia and cheap airfare & flight tickets, go to http://www.cfares.com

Stumble It!

Free and Easy Adventurous Trip in Singapore

Singapore has been known to some as the Garden City. Singapore's strategic position has helped it grow into a major centre for trade, communications and tourism. From Singapore to Malaysia, you can take a bus or train ride or even walk across one of the two causeway bridges. Not only that, it is just a quick ferry trip to the key islands of the Riau archipelago of Indonesia. Thailand and the Philippines are a short plane journey away. Singapore, with an airport served by more than 69 airlines, is very much the gateway to Southeast Asia.

Singapore has a population of about 4 million, which comprises of 77% Chinese, 14% Malays, 8% Indians and 1% Eurasians and people of other descent. It certainly is a dynamic city rich in contrast and color as you'll find a harmonious blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture here.

Moving around Singapore is easy not only because of the good transportation system, but also because English is the language of business and administration, and is widely spoken and understood in Singapore.

If you are an adventure seeker, this could be the things you can do in Singapore.

First, visit the Underwater World, which is Asia's first and largest tropical fish oceanarium with over 2,500 marine specimens including the World's Largest Display of Sand Tiger Sharks! It is located in Sentosa, one of the 63 Islets of Singapore. Sentosa is easily accessible by a cable car ride, the new train system that link the islet directly to the mainland. For more information on Sentosa: http://www.sentosa.com.sg/

If you have survived the heart-stopping experience with the sharks, reward yourself with lunch at Holland Village, an enclave of charming shops, cafes and restaurants. Holland Village is popular with expatriates and yuppies. You may also want to do a spot of shopping for Asian arts and crafts at the Holland Village Shopping Centre and the Holland Village Complex.

After lunch, proceed to the Jurong BirdPark, which is a 20.2 hectare open-concept park. It is the largest in the Asia Pacific and the best in the world. Its collection of more than 9,000 birds from 600 species is among the largest in the world. The Park specialises in birds from Southeast Asia. This is where you can be a falconer for a day, learning to handle trained birds of prey. This is your chance to practise falconry - a sport, which traditionally had been associated only with royalty and aristocracy. For more information on the Jurong BirdPark: http://www.birdpark.com.sg/

After all that excitement, it's time to relax with some light shopping at Bugis Street - Singapore's largest permanent street bazaar. Besides unexpected bargains, you can also find interesting sights like the co-existence of a Buddhist and an Indian temple side-by-side. Also, stop by Bugis Junction, the only shopping mall in Singapore with a glass-covered and air-conditioned shopping walkway, on top of a rich historical background and interesting shophouse architecture.

For a different view of Singapore, proceed on to Clarke Quay and have a go at the Reverse Bungy Jump. Feel your heart drop to your feet as you are flung up at great speeds and then jerked back down to earth. This experience is certainly not for the faint-hearted!

The day's activities should have worked up your appetite and imagination. Join the Magical Makansutra Food Safari, where you will be able to sample some of Singapore's finest street food. Each safari lasts about three hours and features five food types. We guarantee that our local food like Bak Kut Teh (Pork Ribs in Tea Soup); one very unique food that you must definitely try. Laksa (noodles in a spicy coconut broth); this is one of the Singaporeans' favorites. Roti Prata (Indian pancakes) will leave you wanting more.

After dinner, it's time to walk off those calories… if you dare. Go on the unique walking tour of the historic Kampong Glam area where you will be spooked by little-known supernatural stories of Sultan Mosque, Old Istana, Kris shop, perfume shop and the royal graveyard. Embrace thousands of years of Malay folklore and discover forgotten places - places that still haunt the memories of some in eerie twilight.

Stumble It!

Five Quick Tips Before Taking A Cruise Ship Vacation

Cruising is a wonderful and relaxed way to see several countries while enjoying the sun. Today, cruise trips are extremely popular due to their low cost and luxury travel experience.

However, like all travelling, there are a few things you need to be aware of before you start to plan your cruise ship vacation.

Here are some cruise tips to help guide you on your journey.

1. All inclusive cruises are not available

Most all cruise lines do not offer an all inclusive cruise package. Alcohols, soft drinks and even water all needs to be paid for when on cruise ships. The only things included are the cruise itself, your cabin and generally at least 1-2 meals a day.

2. Shop around and consult different cruise travel agents

Cruise travel agents are like travel agents, but are experts in cruising. Be prepared to tell the cruise agent exactly what you are looking for. You could visit 5 different agencies and receive 5 different quotes for the same cruise. In addition, look for deals in off weeks. A fare may be $2000 one week and $800 the following week.

3. Be aware of added charges

If you are planning to cruise alone and don't want to share your cabin, you can anticipate a single's supplement charge of 10% to 100% of a per person's rate (depending on cruise line). In addition, a lot of cruises require you to pay extra for any cruise shore excursions, or any special activities that are offered on board. Be prepared to spend an additional 30% of the cost to take part in any of these activities.

4. Knowing when the best time to cruise is

Cruising is usually a little cheaper during the spring or fall. Weather can be uncertain, especially in the fall given many Caribbean destinations could have hurricane seasons during this time. This is something to watch out for. The dry season for Caribbean cruises is during the summer where as the rainy season is during the winter. Other cruise lines have short cruising seasons, such as Alaska cruises which normally run from May to September.

5. Have fun!

One of the most important tips that I can give to you on your cruise ship vacation is to have a great time. Relax! After all it's your vacation and you deserve to make the most out of it. There are many things for you to do, fancy dinners and dressing up, meeting new friends, visiting exotic locations, being on deck in the sun, doing cruise shore excursions, and much more! It's important to have fun, so when you come back you feel better about yourself and that you got the most out of your time and money.

Remember, cruising is an absolutely exceptional way to spend your vacation. They are very relaxing and a very enjoyable way to spend some time away. However, like all vacations, you need to know what is required before purchasing your dream cruise ship vacation. Keep this in mind and I have no doubt your cruise trip will be a complete success!

Travelocity has the lowest CRUISE prices, GUARANTEED

About the Author: At Tropical Beach Destinations we share the secrets of Specialty Travel that your travel agents wish they knew. Learn exclusive travel tips, ideas and ways to save money from REAL experienced world travelers!

Stumble It!

Golf and Spa Getaways

If you're going to swing at something all day, regardless of the great satisfaction you might get from a drive that soars upward toward the trees but is somehow snatched by the wind and settled gingerly onto the green for a perfect putt, you're going to want to continue to relax near Alberta golf courses.

Then again, you may already be relaxing because you're there to enjoy a spa and, hey, by gosh if there isn't the best golfing in the world just a walk away from where I'm getting a hot stone massage that's so good, it's putting me into a trance. And I'm dreaming of a new set of clubs.

In Alberta, spas such as The Willow Stream at Fairmont Banff Springs in Banff National Park are rated among the world's best. You'll find some of the top rated spas and golf courses within walking distance to each other. There are more than 280 courses throughout the province, six of which are among Canada's Top 10. A few top magazines are showing this spring that Alberta's a trip worth taking.

Golf & Spa Magazine of Resorts and Great Hotels, the Connoisseur's Guide to the World's Best, features The Fairmont Banff Springs in the Canadian Rocky Mountains in Alberta as one of the planet's best locations where you can get the best of both worlds (golf and spa).

Warm Summers, Endless Daylight

Remember, it's warm in Alberta during the summer, and the daylight lasts beyond 10 p.m., so you can enjoy yourself indoors and outdoors, far into the night.

The magazine's Special Edition acknowledges The Fairmont Banff Springs as a AAA Four Diamond Award winner and describes it as "a century-old symbol of Rocky Mountain hospitality and as a Canadian pioneer in the realms of golf and spa." Just a 90 minute drive west of Calgary, Alberta's international gateway city to the Canadian Rockies, the luxury property features a baronial castle in the mountains with easy access to a Stanley Thompson Course (18 holes) and award-winning Willow Stream spa.

I've been to the Willow Stream spa and it's a remarkable retreat. A group of us (men and women) tried the plunge pools (you move through a series of pools and watch it, the last one's pretty cool) and then we moved out into the hot springs, set amidst towering mountains. Even the views from the lounges are breathtaking. The men's lounge has a big, flat screen television tuned to sports and other programs that guys want to see. The women's lounge is geared a bit differently, of course, with special touches for the ladies. So it's a great place for a couple.

As Golf and Spa Magazine notes, the spa facilities include 23 treatment rooms, including a deluxe couple's suite, health centre and much more. The Banff Mineral Scrub refines and renews the skin with a compound of Rocky Mountain botanicals and mineral elements, says the magazine. And the story notes that elk and bear sometimes wander the fairways of this certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. The golf course's signature fourth hole, nicknamed the Devil's Cauldron, requires "a highly accurate tee shot across a deep blue glacial lake and onto a bowl-like green," the magazine says.

Canada's Golf Boom Includes Alberta

'Canada's Golf Boom' trumpets the Athlon Sports Golf Magazine 2006 annual golf guide on the cover. "There's a golf boom going on north of the border," it says, "from links to inland courses, tree-lined designs to wide-open prairies, Canada has a wide variety of golf experiences and some of the most enchanting settings in the world." And when the article focuses on Alberta, it praises Edmonton, Canmore and both (Fairmont) Banff Springs and Jasper National Park as prime places to play. The magazine says Edmonton, (Alberta's international gateway city to the North), is home to the Northern Bear Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus Signature design that has received many accolades. The Ranch features a closing hole nicknamed the Pit of Doom that has been rated the roughest on the Canadian Tour, says the magazine. While in Calgary and Edmonton, you can try Eveline Charles spas among many others.

Wolf Creek, 70 miles (133 km) south of Edmonton, has 27 holes and "a wonderful blend of Scottish and Wild West flavors," notes the magazine. It also speaks of Glen Eagles, "a par-72 gem" with ravines, escarpments and eye-popping vistas. Silver Tip in Canmore, a growing mountain town that sits at the edge of Banff National Park, is quoted as "an extreme golf experience." And there are nods to the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course and Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course as Stanley Thompson designs that are "mesmerizing. "

New Courses and Experiences

For a unique golf and spa experience, you can travel northeast of Calgary through towering hoodoos in Canada's Badlands and visit terrain where dinosaur roamed; the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology houses most revered dinosaur skeletons. And you can golf a jaw-dropping nine holes at the Dinosaur Trail Golf & Country Club and enjoy a spa at Heartwood Manor, among other properties. And in the North is a new golf consortium, Golf Northern Alberta's Best, where you have access to more than 18 hours of golfing daylight.

New courses include the Blackhawk Golf Club just 10 minutes west of Edmonton (it's recently rated as one of the top two new courses in Canada by Golf Digest Magazine) and the Speargrass Golf Club, set along the Bow River, just 30 minutes southeast of Calgary.

Whether you're enjoying the Canadian Rocky Mountains or the small town adventures of the rolling prairies or the province's vibrant, international gateway cities of Edmonton and Calgary or the rugged North, you'll have easy access to golf and spa getaways.

------------ --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- -
Copyright © 2006 Travel Alberta, All Rights Reserved

Travel Alberta (http://www.travelalberta.com) is the destination marketing organization for the Province of Alberta. Guided by the Strategic Tourism Marketing Council, Travel Alberta is the steward for the effective delivery of tourism marketing programs. For information about our organization, please visit our Travel Alberta industry web site at http://industry.travelalberta.com

Stumble It!

Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii

Oahu, Hawaii’s 3rd largest island, could easily be considered the heart of Hawaii. With looping mountain trails, to monster waves breaking on the gorgeous golden beaches, to beaches where the turtles are swimming right along with you, down to country stores and discovering the uniqueness of Hawaiian culture, where do you begin?

With limited time and a wealth of things to see and do, here’s a list of things to do in Oahu, that I hope will help you determine what you’d like to put in your schedule!

Snorkelling in the exquisite Hanauma Bay

The Hanauma Bay Nature Park is actually a State Underwater Park and is a paradise for even the novice of snorkellers! The Bay is the result of the ocean’s breaching and incursion into two volcano craters. In addition to the beautiful swimming and snorkelling opportunities, there are also hiking trails with gorgeous vistas and plenty of picnicking sites.

Take an Eco Adventure Tour and swim with the Dolphins!

Discover whales, dolphins and sea turtles with nature-tour operators who are filled with knowledge and carry a deep respect for marine animals in their natural habitat. Cruise out to sea in a relaxed sailing atmosphere and view the mountainous shorelines and pristine beaches. This journey is sure to make an adventure of a lifetime!

No trip is complete without a Hawaii Luau!

The Luau, based on traditional Hawaiian feasts, has become a rite of passage for all tourists! You can expect a flashy show, a huge buffet and a true authentic Hawaiian experience!

Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at surfing!

Originating as the sport of ancient Hawaiian royalty, you can find lessons right on Waikiki Beach. The surf is great for beginners and kids as young as eight can try! If that’s too much adventure for you and you’re there in the winter time, why not head on up to the north shore and watch the pros compete on the giant surf!

Climb Diamond Head Volcano

The most famous volcanic crater in the world, Diamond Head is located on the southeast coast of Waikiki. It is an easy to moderate hike that is well worth the effort when you see the spectacular view of the entire west side of the island from Waikiki to Koki Head.

Visit the Hawaii Polynesian Cultural Center

An opportunity to visit seven Polynesian Islands in one afternoon! It gives you a chance to learn and interact with the people of Hawaii, Samoa, Maori New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, the Marquesas and Tonga. You’ll also see the world-famous and largest night show, Horizons: Where the Sea Meets the Sky.

And of course we have Waikiki Beach!

The place where you can surf, swim and sail by day and dine, dance and party by night! Waikiki is truly legendary and one of the best things that you can do in Oahu. Beyond the gorgeous sand and surf, you can stroll along the flagstone walkway where you’ll see fountains, rock pools, statues and surfboard signs that teach you a bit about its history! Waikiki is the world’s most famous and most filmed beach. It actually consists of nine individually named beaches which stretch along two miles of shoreline. Do beware, it is also one of the most crowded!

While this is only a very small portion of things to do in Oahu, I hope that this has helped you to discover a little bit about what this truly magnificent island has to offer!

Visit Travelocity for Hawaii Deals


About the Author: At Tropical Beach Destinations we share the secrets of Specialty Travel that your travel agents wish they knew. Learn exclusive travel tips, ideas and ways to save money from REAL experienced world travelers!

Stumble It!

You Can Book Your Own Cruise Of A Lifetime!

Many people are simply overwhelmed when it comes time to book the cruise vacation of their dreams. There are so many options, so many cruise lines, so many destinations, and so many considerations. The list just continues on and on until one feels like they will never be able to sort through the jumble to find the perfect vacation package. But you can book the cruise vacation that you’ve always dreamed of. And while you can use a travel agent to do it, you can do it just as easily on your own if you know how.

The first step to booking your cruise vacation is to research and gather all of the cruise information you can find. Doing a keyword search online is a great place to start. You can also visit your local travel agent for brochures and catalogues printed by Princess Cruise Lines and various other cruise lines. Compare prices, destinations, and overall service of each vacation package offered to get a basic idea of what type of package you would like to purchase.

Next you will need to choose your destination. Again, the internet is a great tool. Online you will find tourist information, pictures, and testimonials for all of the top cruise destinations in the world. Your local travel agent may also be able to give you some insight into which ports are most popular among which types of travelers. Another great source of information are friends and acquaintances that have traveled with a cruise line. They can give you a unique perspective and advice on which destinations to avoid and which ones to include in your itinerary.

Before you visit your travel agent or book online, you should have a good idea of how much money you can spend and how long of a cruise you would like to take. Keep in mind that the time of year that you book your cruise can have a huge impact on the price you will pay. This means that you may be able to book a longer cruise with more ports of call for the same price of a shorter cruise if you book during the off season.

Once you have gathered and researched all of the information, you can begin booking your cruise. You can do this through a respected and well-known travel agent of your choosing or you can book your cruise yourself online or directly through the cruise line itself. No matter which method you choose, you will have to make several decisions about your vacation at this point in the planning process. Here are just a few:

1. Choose your point of departure and the travel method that you will use to get there.

2. Decide on ports of call and any extra activities that you may wish to take advantage of.

3. Choose your stateroom. Keep in mind that staterooms vary in price, amenities, size, and services available.

4. Become familiar with cancellation policies and restrictions.

5. Find out if you will be required to put down a deposit and how much it will be. Some cruise lines will require you to pay the full amount due up front.

Travel Agent or Book Yourself?

While finding a cheap price used to be the motivation that kept people glued to their computer well into the night looking for the perfect deal on a cruise, the popularity of cruises has led to the equalization of cruise prices all across the board. This means that you will probably pay the same price for a cruise that you book yourself as you would for one that you book through a travel agency. So which method should you choose? Take a quick look at the following advantages of each before you make your decision.

Booking with a travel agent has many advantages over booking online, and since the cruise line pays the agent a commission for booking the trip with its line, there is virtually no cost to you when you use an agent. Here are just a few of the advantages of booking your vacation through an agent:

1. An agent is quite familiar with all of the cruise lines available and the packages that they offer. This helps them to quickly narrow in on a package of your choice without having to do a lot of unnecessary research.

2. Since agents are familiar with popular cruise lines but are not employed by them, they can give you unbiased advice concerning your vacation and which cruise line you should travel with.

3. Most travel agents are certified or licensed through the Cruise Line International Association and the Travel Institute.

4. A travel agent will look for reduced pricing for your trip even after it has been booked and rebook your sea voyage for you at a lower price if and when it becomes available.

5. In the unfortunate even that something goes awry during your trip, your travel agent will act as a mediatory between you and the offending cruise line.

Booking online also has many advantages. Although a rare occurrence, searching for last minute deals online can still yield results. But even if you can’t find a last minute cruise bargain, you may choose to book online for one of the following reasons:

1. Online cruise websites contain most of the information that is available to travel agents. This puts the control of your vacation directly into your hands. You may also be able to browse inside information that would not have come up during a normal meeting with your travel agent.

2. You can access online travel agencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This allows for a lot of convenience and flexibility, which is perfect for people who have a hard time keeping and making appointments.

3. When it comes to researching your vacation, there is no better place to do it than online. Here you will find numerous research tools as well as photos, diagrams, reviews, schedules, and videos just to name a few.

4. Using an online calendar, you can search for the most inexpensive package available through the cruise line of your choosing. Sometimes you can save a few hundred dollars by leaving a week earlier or later than your scheduled time frame.

5. Since your travel agent narrows in on certain lines, ships, and destinations according to your wants and needs, you may not be able to browse all of the options available. Booking online will allow you to do this and more.

As you can see, there are many advantages of each, so it may be hard to make a decision. If you’re finding this to be true, you may want to book your vacation through an agent and perform additional research online yourself. Whatever your decision, once you have looked at all the details, go for it!

About the Author: Visit http://www.cruiselinestips.com or search Princess Cruise Lines for more details on your dream cruise!

Travelocity has the lowest CRUISE prices, GUARANTEED

Stumble It!

5 Tips to Get Really Good Price Airline Ticket

Any amount of savings when you travel means a lot when you cannot afford to loose an extra buck. You try your best to come up with several ways to save those extra bucks and see that there are 5 different ways of getting really cheap airline tickets for your next flight.

Buying a return ticket – Perhaps the easiest way to keep some money in your pocket a little longer is to buy a return ticket. Most airline companies offer rebates for return flight tickets with only a slight difference on a one way ticket. If you plan to return on a definite date, make sure buy return tickets ahead of time. Also, there are some instances where traveling on regular days is cheaper than traveling during weekends. Weekends are much busier than weekdays and the demand for airline tickets are higher. Thus prices are higher on certain dates where demand is also high. If you think it is advantageous for you to travel during weekdays and return on a next weekdays, you can grab really cheap airline ticket for sure.

Internet – The internet is pretty basic and it is already in front of your nose if you want to find really cheap airline ticket. While reading this, you can even start opening the links attached and find your way to a cheap airline tickets. Here you can research on several different discount ticket sites that offer really cheap airline tickets anywhere in the world. The trick actually lies in the prices of tickets on discount ticket sites which vary day in and day out. Oftentimes, these discount ticket sites offer the same type of ticket on the same day of the same destination with different prices. If you want to get really cheap airline ticket wherever you want to go, it pays to visit at least 3 discount ticket sites in the web and do a comparison.

Don’t Settle for Big Airline Companies – Big airline companies offer big service to big clients. They have more expensive ticket prices due to the amount of advertisement and marketing they incur in order to maintain their fame. Try not to fly with them. Instead, go for smaller airline companies which can provide good service at the same time cheaper airline ticket prices.

Keep your trip more flexible – If you are not on the rush and would not mind saving on money than getting to a destination as quick as possible, keep your options open. Again this would need an internet to work. You need to search for all the possibilities where you can compare ticket prices. Try to look for flights during midnight or connecting flights. Make a comparison against several others so you will discover a really cheap airline ticket that is right for your budget.

Plan to travel longer - Most of the time, it pays to take a bus from one city to another, and then take the flight from there than getting on a airplane directly on your city. If for example you are traveling from San Diego to Seattle. Try to take a bus From San Diego to Los Angeles then take a plane from L.A. to Seattle. Or, if you want to go a little further, ride a bus from San Diego to Sacramento, then take a plane there. Chances are you have saved a lot before you know it! These are only 5. There are more. If you really want cheap to get cheap airline ticket, explore more possibilities like taking on vacation packages, last minute discount and accepting courier flights. In these ways, you will no longer have to pay full the next time you travel by air.

About the Author: If you liked this article, you might also like my other must-read guide to getting cheap airline tickets. Click here: http://Airline-Ticket-Guide.useful-tips.com/ Article Written By: Jed Baguio

Stumble It!

Travel Brazil – A Glimpse Of Beautiful South America by Sarah White

Brazil is the largest and most populated country in South America, and is fifth largest in the world in both area and population. Portuguese is the only official language of Brazil which is spoken by nearly the entire population. In fact, Brazil is the only country in the America’s in which Portuguese is their primary language.

If you look at a map of Brazil, you can see that it borders almost every other South American country except Ecuador and Chile. Brazil is divided up into 5 regions. The North Region, which is by far the largest, Northeast Region, Center-west Region, South Region and the Southeast Region, home of the most famous and popular destinations Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. The capital of Brazil is Brasilia, and with 11 million plus people, Sao Paulo is its largest city. Sao Paulo Brazil is also one of the largest cities by area and population in the southern hemisphere.

Brazil has a large selection of outdoor activities available for tourists and locals alike. You can hike, surf, dive, go rafting, play golf, volleyball, soccer, fish or virtually anything else you may want to do in the great outdoors you can do here in Brazil. Like most places in the world as of late, Cave exploring is now a very popular commode and with about 2, 800 registered Caves, the tourism industry has never been brighter.

Brazil is, of course, is also home to over 60% of the Amazon Rainforest. The Rainforest itself has some 5.5 million kilometres in total size within 8 different countries. The Rainforest also has much wildlife and some species that even still have yet to be discovered. The very sad thing about this habitat is that by the year 2020, it is estimated that 50% of the Brazilian wildlife will become extinct!! It is so bad that since 1970, over 500 square kilometres have been lost in this beautiful forest.

One more thing to remember while in Brazil is that street violence in certain areas of the major cities could get very harsh and dangerous. Don’t let this stop you from going to go visit a remarkable place, just be cautious. Make sure you don’t bring a lot of money with you at one time, don’t walk around at night in places you don’t know and if possible travelling in groups is a great idea. It is also a good idea to make sure you ALWAYS have a photo ID on you. The Brazilian police can ask for such things anytime, and you don’t want to constantly have your passport on you. A photocopy is a must have, so be sure you carry those around and leave the original in a safe place.

Whether you are looking for a beautiful beach, a glimpse of the absolutely stunning Amazon Rainforest, or the mile high sky scrapers in downtown Sao Paolo, Brazil has a little something to offer to any travel adventurer.

About the Author: At Tropical Beach Destinations we share the secrets of Specialty Travel that your travel agents wish they knew. Learn exclusive travel tips, ideas and ways to save money from REAL experienced world travelers!

Stumble It!

Spain Is The Perfect Golf Retreat by Johnathan Bakers

If you are a golf enthusiast than golf in Spain will be your perfect idea of a vacation. Spain is full of golf resorts all over the country, so you are sure to find something to suit your needs and your families needs. You can visit Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca so you can enjoy the great golf resorts, while your family enjoys the luxurious beaches and shopping. There are new resorts constantly being built so you’ll have something new to choose from each year.

One of the best spots for golf in Spain is the Costa del Sol. There have been many new developments of resorts and golf courses over the past few years. Now there are over forty different courses that stretch up and down over fifty miles of coastline. You’ll be sure to take in a beautiful view while you golf.

If you want a golf course that combines the best in golf with other sports or leisure activities than this is the spot for you. Spain hosts a wide variety of golf resorts that also include a great spa experience. This is ideal for a couple so that one can be in the spa while the other is on the course.

Check out the amenities in your resort before picking the best one for you. You can find resorts that have fully equipped swimming pools, hot tubs, a large gym and weight room, private beaches, tennis lessons, bike rental, and many other activities. This will help you travel with your whole family so that there is something for everyone to enjoy while you are on your vacation.

When you’ve decided on golfing in Spain, then make sure you go online to read all about your different options. You can find reviews of many major resorts and smaller courses as well. These reviews will help you pick the right destination for you and your family. When you use reviews written by both professionals and tourists alike you’ll get a good sense of what each resort has to offer.

You’ll need to remember that golfing in Spain has become really popular in the past few years and you may have to wait for your turn on the course. When the season is at its peak everyone must wait to play. Knowing some basic golf etiquette that can help you on the Spanish courses and in golf in general.

When you are playing a very slow game of gold this can be frustrating for your party and for the people behind you. You should try to keep the game moving forward and everyone should be paying attention to his or her turn. When you are ready for your turn you should jump right up and swing so you don’t keep people waiting too long behind you.

Once your shot is completed you should move onto the next hole. You can mark your score down when you are waiting for your next shot, rather than keeping everyone waiting behind you at the hole you have just finished play. If you happen to lose a ball then keep moving on and look for it later, rather than having the group behind you wait for you to find it. These are things that will make your trip and other people’s trip more pleasant.

About the Author: Robert Carlton usually creates papers on areas associated to Spain and vacation. His articles on golf in Spain are published on his website.

Stumble It!

Secluded Bali Hideaways by Dave Waldheim

Driving down any country road in Bali will be an interesting experience. For visitors that like to get out of the touristic developed areas this will be the right choice. Self-drive is the way to go for Bali visitors that want to really explore the island and spend the night or muliple nights at new and different destinations. This way travel will become a journey that holds surprises, a bit like the Paris-Dakar route that is divided into some etapes. This way travelers can actually hear the voice of nature, like real wind, the waves and the entertaining Balinese frogs that usually having 'a concert' after each rain. Flexibility usually opens doors and rewards with totally unexpected new discoveries.

And if serenity becomes principal consideration during a stay in Bali, just get on the unbeaten tracks or into the hidden corners of Bali. This will be an intriguing adventure that will entertain the sense of adventure more than anything else and enrich your life style. Solitary accommodation is available nearly on every spot of the etape as for example the following.

Bali has many secluded hideaways for adventurers. Because it's territory isn't huge really you cannot get lost like in the Australian outback. So, it is not worthy worrying about that. When your itinerary has been arranged, you can start the island journey from one of the hotels at the main resorts at Nusa Dua, Kuta Beach or Sanur Beach, and then continue to the central part of the tropical island, to Ubud. Ubud that is popularly known as international hideout of international artists and the heart of art that has many luxury riverside accommodations. Views of River Ayung or Petanu will be inviting every visitor to enter the ‘world of dreams encased with verdant lush tropical plants.

Cool temperature and composure will probably delay the check out day, as it is absorbing. The more so if travelers enjoy a spa treatment indulgence that releases tension and relieves the mind burdened with stress and daily life.

Next destination could be Candi Dasa and its surroundings in the Karangasem Regency that all have accommodations to stay. Many activities can be done here, like fishing, trekking, and taking adventures to fruit plantations or visit the native of Bali, Tenganan Village.

Next stop are the northern beaches already waiting for the adventurer on the next sojourn at Lovina beach that can be passed through the eastern route of the island. This location offers some luxury accommodation that is specially designed by adopting some elements of the Balinese traditional architecture. Blended with landscaped garden and surrounding atmosphere, it results in a convenient hideaway spot. Along the north shore there are many small hideaway hotels where you can experience Bali basically without running into other people at all.

Afterwards the journey continues westwards by passing through the Bali Barat National Park area. Around here there are limited eco-friendly accommodations that highlight the potential of natural living. A wooden tower is operated to observe birds or animal nearby. The resort is also strategically located that is close to the diving site of Menjangan Island.

As a finish perhaps you would like to spend more nights at the Medewi or Suraberata villages that each also retains distinctive interest and provides accommodation. Both located beach side and lay in the midst of swaying palm leaves. Surfing activity is an added value offered by these locations.

Ultimately, visitors have arrived at the starting line for a new adventure after passing through the southern rice fields along the coastal rea of Tabanan. What a great trip it has been. Makes hungry for more.

Traveling Bali is exciting and refreshing, and one such trip just makes you want to start again and see it all over again.

About the Author: Dave Waldheim is editor of the Bali hotels and Bali travel information website where you can find articles of local and expat writers that actually live there and get previews of some of the leading Bali hotels in every price category.

Stumble It!

The Best European Golf Destinations For Family Holidays by R. Ritchie

Golf holidaying with a family presents its own special challenges. Keeping non-golfers in the family happy and feeling like they are having a real holiday, while at the same time getting your fill of golf, is worth that bit of extra travel planning. The following European golf resort holiday destinations are perfect for family holidays.

Central Algarve

Central Algarve, with its beautiful scenery, perfect weather, and exceptional golf courses, is one of Europe's top golfing destinations. Resorts such as Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, and Vale do Lobo, and Vilamoura offer much more than golf and will provide non-golfers with all the holiday variety they would expect from a first-class resort. At Quinta do Lago, a 2,000-acre exclusive residential and recreational estate, you have countryside and pine forests, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Ria Formosa nature reserve as your playground, plus 72 holes of golf. Horse riding and tennis as well as a variety of water sports will keep your family occupied during the day, and there are classy restaurants, hip nightclubs for night-time entertainment, as well as the Bourganvilla Shopping Centre and a health club. The stunning two-mile stretch of golden-sand is a bonus.

Vale do Lobo, receiver of accolades such as “Best Resort of the Millennium", and the Algarve’s largest leisure resort, has quality accommodation and diverse sporting facilities, including one of the largest tennis facilities in Portugal. Vale do Lobo, with its two (going on three) 18-hole championship courses, hosts around 100,000 golfers each year.

Vilamoura, twice the size of Vale do Lobo, has tennis courts, a riding school, fishing and shooting facilities, and indoor and outdoor sports complexes, as well as five golf courses. Amazing vessels are moored at the large marina, home to restaurants, cafes and shops. A surprisingly cosmopolitan nightlife consists of bars, clubs and restaurants.

Costa Del Sol

Costa del Sol offers variety both on and off the fairways, and the mild winters and beautiful springs and autumns are perfect for golf. There are around 20 courses, leisure areas, playgrounds and family attractions, as well as beaches and seaside promenades. Three excellent water parks are open from Easter for the summer season, with water slides, pools for all ages and abilities, as well as picnic areas and restaurants. At a number of nature parks you can see animals and enjoy educational programs. Selwo Aventura has over 2,000 wild animals and an unrivalled nature reserve, and Selwo Marina has exotic birds, an underwater observation centre, and dolphins. At the Benalmádena Sea Life Centre, an interactive underwater park, you can walk on the bottom of the sea and view thousands of aquatic species.

The Lisbon Coast

There are great golf courses here and the beaches are perfect for families. The scenery, magnificent with its small fishing bays and towering cliffs, and the superb local cuisine worth the trip alone. And nearby Lisbon, has all the diversity that a capital city can offer. Quinta da Marinha resort has leisure facilities including three salt-water outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre with heated indoor swimming pool, six tennis courts and a tennis school, a Turkish bath, sauna, Jacuzzi, gym, massage room, bicycle hire, horse riding, and, last but not least, an 18-hole golf course.

Praia D'el Rey Marriott, just 60-minute drive from Lisbon airport, is a beachfront hotel with spacious family rooms, away from the tourist crush. The hotel has indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a health club, Jacuzzi and tennis courts. Nearby Obidos, a charming hill town set within 14th-century castellated walls, is a perfect day trip destination. And the Praia d’el Rey golf course, one of Europe’s finest, is right on your doorstep.

About the Author: Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bill Goff Golf Tours and http://www.longshotgolf.co.uk/ offer great value golfing breaks to many European and worldwide destinations.

Stumble It!

Beach Vacations At A Modest Price by Kadence Buchanan

If you were given your choice of a two-week vacation on any locale whatsoever on the face of this earth, what would you choose?

It's the beach for me. There's nothing like lying on a sun-drenched beach under the cool shade of palm trees while watching the ocean gracefully and naturally sway to and fro. It would be nice having a waiter nearby to bring you an endless supply of pina colada cocktails and fresh seafood, but that's optional.

It doesn't matter where the beach is - Hawaii, Florida, France, the Bahamas, Greece, Spain or anywhere in the Pacific - as long as you can see the relaxing waves on the ocean and soak up the sun. It's a slice of heaven on earth.

Unfortunately, for lots of people, the prohibitive cost of staying at a beachfront hotel kills all dreams of a beach vacation. However, there are cost-effective alternatives that can help you save and still retain that beach front location. Try looking for beach vacation rentals.

Beach vacation rentals are usually someone's beach front home that they rent out to tourists and other visitors. They are clean, well-furnished and comfortable and deliciously close to the beach. Living in someone else's house also has its share of advantages over renting an expensive single room at a hotel. For one thing, you have more bedrooms to occupy, lots more room for entertaining and what-not, as well as kitchen facilities. These all translate into substantial savings especially for families with five members or more.

Looking for a suitable beach vacation rental is not as difficult as it may seem. The easiest way is to look for a real estate agency in the city you will be visiting since such agencies keep listings of available beach vacation rentals, complete with photographs, rental rates and other pertinent information. It's possible to find and communicate with these real estate agencies online.

Another way is to surf the city websites of the place that you plan to visit since these usually have business directories that list everything from the neighborhood barber to the fanciest restaurants in town. Of course, the real estate agents and agencies will be listed there as well and, if you're lucky, so too will a roster of available beach rentals.

Most beach rentals are for a week or less and, if you are planning to stay longer, you can probably get a discount on your rental rate. Some of these rentals even offer a staff that will cater to your every need.

About the Author: Kadence Buchanan writes articles on many topics including Recreation, Food, and Outdoors

Stumble It!

A Journey Through The Grand Cayman Islands by Sarah White

The Cayman Islands, made famous for their incredible diving, white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and year round Caribbean sunshine, are made up of 3 different islands. Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman; a fuse of Caribbean allure and American efficiency made complete with an inescapable charm from the friendly locals who will welcome you anytime. Although very small, the total landmass of the 3 islands is just 100 square miles, the grand Cayman Islands offers you the best of all worlds.

Cayman Islands weather is almost perfect year round. The winter months, Nov-Apr, the temperature ranges from 72-86 degrees during the day and 64-72 degrees at night. In the summer months, May-Oct, the temperature during the day ranges from 85-90 degrees and 73-85 degrees by night. Also, most people don’t realize just how close to the equator that these islands lay and that means that the sun is HOT. The islands are cooled by the prevailing trade winds but don’t let this fool you, take the sun in small doses and always wear lots of sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Given the beautiful Cayman Islands weather, do be aware that it does occasionally rain there! You might want an umbrella just in case. The rainy season starts in May and ends in October with the 2 rainiest months being May and October. March and April are usually the driest.

One of the things that you will experience on the Cayman islands, is world class dining. With over 150 places to eat that range from elegant fine dining to budget fast food and take out, there is something for everyone. Traditional Cayman cuisine has a strong Jamaican influence. Traditional dishes feature seafood cooked in a variety of ways, lobster and conch. Local dishes are often served with coconut, plantain, yams, rice and peas, along with other West Indian side dishes. You can also find many other alternative choices that include; Italian, Mexican, Thai, Chinese, Japanese, German and so many others! When it comes to tipping, keep in mind that most hotels add a 5-10% service charge and many restaurants add a 10-15% service charge but some don’t. It’s best to check your bill to see if the service has been added and feel free to reward those who give what you feel is exceptional service.

Shopping and nightlife; there is certainly no shortage on the Grand Cayman islands! You will find a wide variety of nightlife and entertainment from lively nightclubs, to watching live international and local bands perform, to pool halls, lounges and the theatre. Bars, clubs and dancehalls close at 3am during the weekdays, midnight on Saturdays and there are no nightclubs open on Sundays. When you arrive, you will be able to find local informational magazines, free of charge that will list all the special events and current happenings on the islands. The Cayman Islands enjoy tax free status which also means they have duty free status. You will be able to find items such as fine jewellery, watches, crystal, perfumes and china that can be as much as 30% cheaper there. One of the best places to go shopping is in the capitol of George Town in Grand Cayman, it is home to one of the nicest shopping centers in the Caribbean! The local currency is the Cayman Islands dollar and it is equivalent to $1.25 USD. It is a fixed exchange rate and never changes. American currency is generally accepted, as well as all major credit cards, and the CI dollar.

There are many options for getting around on the Grand Cayman Islands; taxis, public transportation, car rentals to mopeds and scooters. Upon arrival, you will find many taxis that are available from the airport and are readily available from all resorts. You will find fixed rates per vehicle or per person to all points on the island. This information is available from the taxi driver and there is also a sign with current rates posted at the cruise ship dock in George Town. One of the Caribbean’s most extensive fleet of modern rental cars are found here in the Cayman’s. Driving is on the left hand side of the road but you can find many rentals that feature right hand driving. Visitor’s need to obtain temporary driver’s licenses from the rental agency but this is easily done by presenting a valid driver’s license from your country and being over 21, although not all agencies will insure you if you are under 25. Rentals are readily available from Grand Cayman while there are more limited numbers of them on Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. Car rentals can be booked before arriving on Grand Cayman and it is advisable to do so during the winter months. A public bus terminal is located in downtown George Town and serves as a dispatch point to all the districts, service starts at 6am. There are also several mini buses that are operated by licensed operators that serve 8 routes.

The Cayman Islands have so much to offer and possesses unsurpassed beauty under the sea due to their protected Marine Parks. You can easily see why so many people realize their dreams here and love visiting this tropical paradise.

About the Author: At Tropical Beach Destinations we share the secrets of Specialty Travel that your travel agents wish they knew. Learn exclusive travel tips, ideas and ways to save money from REAL experienced world travelers!

Stumble It!

Great San Diego Attractions by Barbara Miller

Picture yourself relaxing on a sandy beach while your kids run and jump in the waves. Maybe you'll decide to scoot over to Mexico for lunch, visit with the Panda bears, or spend the afternoon riding a scenic trolley. Can't decide which of these vacation activities sound most appealing? Experience it all with a San Diego vacation.

There are so many San Diego attractions to enjoy and explore, it seems like many vacation destinations rolled into one. Plan ahead and your family will have an unforgettable holiday. Here are eight "must experience" places to visit and activities to try on your trip to beautiful San Diego:

1. Hit the Beach

San Diego beaches are spectacular year-round. Whether you visit in summer or over the winter holidays, the local beaches personify the complete San Diego lifestyle. Visit gorgeous Mission Beach. Ride the Belmont Park roller coaster. From bodysurfing to soaking up the rays, San Diego beaches are definitely where the action is.

2. Shuffle off to Mexico

The city of Tijuana is just across the Mexican border from San Diego. Taking a side trip to Tijuana or Baja is easy and quite safe; just bring your passport and be mindful of the Mexican laws. There is an international paradise ready to be explored, so say "Si" to a day in Mexico.

3. Catch a Fish Taco

Not exactly a famous San Diego attraction, rather a must-try taste of the city, fish tacos are pieces of battered and deep-fried fish encased in a corn tortilla. Try one, and you'll want to come back to San Diego just for another taste of this local treat. Visitors to San Diego say that fish tacos are among the city's best foods.

4. Take a Trolley Ride

San Francisco isn't the only California city with a famous trolley. The San Diego trolley serves as the city's public transit system. You can buy an all-day pass and see more San Diego attractions than you ever could by car. The San Diego highways can be quite intimidating, making the trolley your best bet for stress-free sightseeing.

5. Visit the Pandas

The famous San Diego Zoo at Balboa Park is a popular tourist destination, but the pandas are the real attractions. Baby Su Lin and the other pandas are most active in the morning, so plan to see them first on your trip to San Diego zoo. Sea World and Legoland are also great choices for entertaining your "little animals".

6. Balboa Park

The undisputed shining jewel of San Diego is Balboa Park. It's the nation's largest urban cultural park, housing fifteen museums, renowned performing arts venues, beautiful gardens and the San Diego Zoo. The atmosphere is breathtaking no matter when you stop by, but if you visit on Tuesdays you'll find that most museums offer free admission. After you work up an appetite exploring Balboa, stop at Prado or any of the fine restaurants within the park for a fantastic meal in a beautiful setting.

7. Nightlife

The historic Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego is the place to be for eating, dancing and people watching. Shop, snack and take in the stunning architecture during the day. At night, there are more than 90 restaurants plus live theatre and countless nightclubs to choose from. Gaslamp is the place to let loose in San Diego.

8. Old Town

History buffs can find bits of Old San Diego incorporated with new developments throughout the city. Visit Old Town State Historic Park for a blast of San Diego's past. Make sure you visit the Old Town Mexican Cafe, as it serves the best Mexican food San Diego has to offer.

If your family is torn between exciting excursions, historic America, exotic adventure or a tropical paradise, visit San Diego. The variety of San Diego attractions offers the best of all worlds in one vacation destination.

About the Author: Barbara Miller contributes to several web magazines, on recreation and travel and fun hobbies themes.

Stumble It!

White Sand And Golden Tan: Welcome To Miami - Travel Information by John Binder

Modern-day Miami is the idyllic vacation destination for most Americans as it is a balanced blend of urban and tropical, a resort locale on one hand with all the big city trimmings of a booming economy on the other. Small cafes and art deco bars of Miami Beach exist alongside the megaclubs and skyrise hotels of Downtown’s Financial District. Somewhere in between, the Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve provides exciting sea adventures for the whole family and the Port of Miami supplies access to the Florida Keys and the Bahamas by way of major cruise ship.

Cosmopolitan Chic: a Global Retreat

Finding airfare to Miami from any destination worldwide has become easy since Miami has positioned itself on the international map culturally, financially and demographically over the last few decades. Miami struggled with an influx of immigration from the Caribbean, Cuba and South America combined with a massive exodus of financial capital throughout most of the 20th century. Today, Miami has bounced back with full force, overflowing with the swankiest restaurants, premier nightlife, designer shopping and restored historic art deco hotels that glitter the oceanfront avenues of South Beach.

A walk along Collins Avenue in South Beach will reveal the charm of rehabilitated 1920s architecture, commingling with a Latin and European flair of sidewalk cafes, designer boutiques and the buzz of multiple languages afloat through the air. Farther north into main Miami Beach along Ocean Avenue offers the luxurious beach club hotels that Miami is famous for. These hotels offer panoramic ocean views, self-contained clubs and lounges and a pool with private access to the crashing ocean waves.

The dining in Miami is just as representative of its multicultural population. Do not miss a Cuban meal (or two) and the Argentinean special of flash-fried steak. Ask a local for the best authentic cooking and make sure to brush up on some Spanish ahead of time. Miami has also become the epicenter of sophisticated cuisine. Celebrity chefs Nobu Matsuhisa and Emeril Lagasse have opened restaurants in South Beach and the Blue Door inside the breathtaking Delano Hotel is also a notable standout. Make sure to have stone crabs at one of your meals, a local specialty!

Feeling the Salty Breeze of Miami

Aside from eating, drinking and otherwise resort and spa life, Miami has an endless array of activities for all levels of interest. Snorkeling and Scuba diving are the most common activities, along with boat and Jet Ski rentals from most major ports along the bay. Book a sunset ride at the Tropical Park Equestrian Center or rent a kayak to take a scenic tour of the majestic mansions the line the bay along the mainland.

It’s time to come see the dramatic beautification and restoration of Miami for yourself. Book your airfare to Miami now and reserve a few nights in one of the historic boutique art deco hotels along Collins Avenue to get the full South Beach experience.

About the Author: For more information about Miami and discount airfare to Miami, check out www.cfares.com.

Visit Travelocity for Miami Deals

Stumble It!

Take Your Next Vacation In Murcia Spain By Johnathan Bakers

If you have never traveled to Murcia on vacation, you should give this destination some consideration. Murcia has everything to offer a vacationer-wonderful beaches, perfect weather, interesting sights, and it lacks the one thing the vacationer can do without-tourist crowds. This beautiful area of Spain has so much to offer that it can almost be considered the perfect vacation spot. For any kind of vacation, whether you like to just relax and soak up the sun, or you prefer to visit lovely old towns and historic sites, Murcia will satisfy you.

Today, there are many special package deals offering airfare and hotel accommodations, so a visit to this ideal vacation spot does not have to cost a fortune. You can find lots to do, day and night, with visits to museums, attractions, spas, historical sites, beach resorts and marinas and exciting night life at restaurants, clubs and dance clubs at your disposal. It doesn't matter if you are traveling alone, with a friend or partner, or with your entire family, you will find that there is a perfect mix of relaxation, sightseeing, fun and adventure for everyone in this marvelous town.

With all of the possibilities open to the visitor, no one can be bored in Murcia unless they want to be. Laying on the beach or by the pool is always an option, but many prefer to stroll through the streets of the lovely old town. There is beautiful architecture to admire, and museums and cathedrals to visit.

Plan your vacation carefully, and you can be sure to find a great package deal that will leave you with enough funds to still enjoy all the sights and attractions you will want to visit. If you do your research in the Internet, you are sure to find a number of affordable packages into Murcia airport as well as budget-minded places to stay. You can choose from different airlines, different days and flight times, and different places to stay. Take into consideration who you will be traveling with in order to find the right accommodations to suit everyone.

Besides hotels and resorts, there are apartments and villas for rent. The wonderful thing about the Internet is that you can see each of the offered deals and then compare prices and available dates before you decide on the best one for you. Booking a package deal once you have found it couldn't be easier if you do it on the Internet; you don't even have to leave your desk.

About the Author: Johnathan Bakers regularly publishes detailed reports on news similar to Spain and airport. You can see his articles on Murcia over at http://www.alicante-spain.com.

Stumble It!

Honeymoon Cruise In Hawaii By Chris Chew

Millions of people travel to Hawaii every year. Amongst the visitors are thousands of young couples getting married or are having their honeymoon in tropical Hawaii. In order make the honeymoon even more romantic and memorable, many couples choose to go on Hawaii honeymoon cruises. There are many marriage agencies to help these couples to get married, plan their honeymoon and book cruises for them.

Hawaii made history when Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese during world war 2. Since then many movies have re-enacted this event. Many other movies were also made about Hawaii because of its lush tropical landscape, volcanic mountains and beautiful romantic islands.

Elvis Presley starred in perhaps the most well known movie about Hawaii in the romantic movie 'Blue Hawai'. Another well known movie was the musical 'South Pacific'. All these movies presented to the world the beautiful exotic charm of the Hawaiian Islands and depict the state as a romantic holiday destination.

Given this romantic representation of Hawaii, it naturally attracts romantic couples to the Hawaiian shores. Since the Hawaii is made up of many pacific islands, what better way to honeymoon in Hawaii than choosing Hawaiian honeymoon cruises?

Hawaii a paradise filled with beautiful beaches, scenic volcanoes and many other tourist attractions. The Hawaiian islands are located in the Pacific Ocean near Polynesia. It is the fascinating and awe inspiring natural landscape that draws millions of tourists to Hawaii every year.

Peak tourism months are November to March. During this time, Hawaiian honeymoon cruises must be booked way well in advance. This is also the peak season for surfing and whale watching making the northern shore of Oahu and Maui islands very popular for honeymooners to disembark and enjoy themselves on the Hawaiian shores.

Popular islands for visiting tourists are Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and Hawaii's Big Island. These islands are all networked by two local airlines with inter-connections between islands. Nine in every ten visitors will visit Oahu where the famed Waikiki Beach and the state's capital city, Honolulu resides.

It is fun to immerse yourself in the culture of the Hawaiian people. Couples can try their hands at dancing the hula hula and taking part in a luau (Hawaiian feast).If you are interested in the local culture, go and discover the uniquely blended Hawaiian, Portuguese, and Mexican cultures - still alive and celebrated among Hawaiian paniolo (cowboys) on the island's big ranches.

If you are a history buff, do take a visit to the historical Kealakekua Bay where Captain James Cook was killed in 1779 by the islanders or Pearl Harbor, the scene of destruction by the Japanese on the navy US fleet more than half a century ago.

Thinking of going for a romantic honeymoon? Try Hawaiian honeymoon island cruises and have a memorable vacation.

About the Author: Chris Chew is an author and avid traveler. Cruise vacations and Snorkel Hawaii

Stumble It!

Philippine Travel: Ongpin Aka Chinatown by Dan Eggers

If your Asia tour includes a long stay in the Philippines, we suggest that you add in a visit to Ongpin or Chinatown, which is how most people call it as well, as part of your travel program, especially if you’ll in Manila – the capital city of the country – for a while yet.

Ongpin or Chinatown may not be as popular as other places in the Philippines but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be part of your travel schedule. Not only is a visit to Ongpin guaranteed to be delightful in more ways than one, it also won’t cost you much because prices in Ongpin are more affordable than what you’d find in other cities like Makati or even Quezon City.

Ongpin is also mainly a residential town so it’s easier to tour the place rather than other cities, which would require you to take on huge buses and six-wheeler trucks just to cross the street.

Because Ongpin is not that big a town, the streets are mostly narrow, winding and filled with people. If you’re planning to drive your own car to Ongpin, you might be forced then to park somewhere and walk for the rest of the time you’ll be spending in Binondo. But that’s not really much of a punishment – except for your feet, if you’re wearing high heels! – because a lot of people really prefer to wander around Ongpin by foot.

Food Shopping

Fruits – Almost all kinds of fruits are sold in the streets of Ongpin and if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you could try out some of the exotic fruits being offered by street vendors such as the mangosteen or the huge apple-mango. Highly popular with the Filipino Chinese residents of Ongpin are rambutan, longgans, lanzones and chicos. When you get to Ongpin, be sure that you do try all those fruits and more since one can never get fat with fruits, anyway.

Delicacies – When you get to Ongpin, do be sure that you’ll be able to make a pit stop at any of the Chinese food stores of Ongpin. One of the most popular stores of this type is Eng Bee Tin. There, you’ll be able to find all sorts of Chinese delicacies that people back home would surely be delighted with.

Main Dishes – Tired after walking nonstop for an hour or so? If that’s the case, we suggest that you try relaxing your feet on any of the restaurants located in Ongpin. Try out popular Chinese dishes and the exotic ones as well so your trip to Ongpin will be truly memorable.

About The Author: Dan Eggers live in Dumaguete City in the Philippines, his Dumaguete City Guide can be found at http://www.dumagueteinfo.com/ and his lively Dumaguete Forum at http://www.dumagueteinfo.com/board/

Stumble It!