Top 5 Jet Ski Destinations in the Western U.S

Jet skis provide a great way to have a ton of fun in the sun. They give you the freedom to control where you go and what you do on the water. This article will provide you with information on the Top 5 Jet Ski Destinations in the Western U.S. Whether you’re planning a vacation or just want to have some fun, the following will be beneficial to you.

Riding a jet ski is an exciting way to enjoy the water and it can provide hours of fun. If you love the water, the wind in your hair, the sun on your face and the thrill of an adrenaline rush, you’ll love riding a jet ski!

Jet skis are designed to provide the enjoyment of water sports. You can find jet ski rentals just about anywhere there’s an ocean or a lake or at a local ski shop. Most people prefer to rent right on the water so they can just hop on and take off. We’ve compiled a list of the Top 5 Jet Ski destinations in the Western United States, so you know where to go to have fun. Here they are (in no particular order):

1. Lake Powell. You can rent a jet ski in a little town just 6 miles from Lake Powell, called Page, Arizona. Lake Powell is located in the area of Northern Arizona and Southern Utah. It has 1,900 miles of shore line, covers 180 miles, have four marinas and some of the cleanest, clearest blue water in the U.S. Lake Powell is located in the Glen Canyon Recreation Area National Park – there are no jet ski restrictions!

2. Morro Bay Harbor. Morro Bay Harbor, near San Luis Obisbo, offers excellent access to the ocean. It is the only all-weather small craft commercial and recreational harbor between Santa Barbara and Monterey. There is no charge to launch, but freshwater rinse is required (for a couple of quarters). The speed limit in the bay is 5mph, but the open ocean is fair game. Big waves to jump (4′-15′+) along miles of deserted beach south of the harbor will keep you busy, not to mention the scenery and wildlife.

3. Columbia River. The Columbia River is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. It stretches from British Columbia through Washington state, forming much of the border between Washington and Oregon before emptying into the Pacific Ocean. The river is 1,243 miles long, and its drainage basin is 258,000 square miles. Whether you’re in Washington or Oregon, the Columbia River provides a great place to jet ski – especially if you like your waters a little on the chilly side. Rental prices and fees vary depending on where you launch. There are literally hundreds of miles of boat free/people free places to ride!

4. Lake Mohave. A short drive north of Laughlin, Nevada and Bullhead City, Arizona is a 67-mile stretch of the Colorado River called Lake Mohave. The lake is comparatively narrow, not more than 4 miles across at its widest point. Lake Mohave is part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. This lake is perfect for recreation – jet skis, houseboats, boats, etc – and there are plenty of places to launch. PLUS, there are about 10 casinos to choose from along the Colorado River, so have fun!

5. Santa Monica Bay. A great public launch site in Southern California is the Santa Monica Bay. It’s only .00 per day including trailer. The waters are warm, the scenery is gorgeous and aquatic life is abundant. Oh, and you’re in SoCal! What more could you ask for?

I enjoyed a 5 day vacation in Northern California.
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Best United States Romantic Destinations – Six Places To Stir Up Romance

The top United States romantic vacation destinations and getaways are places where you will find scenic canyons, mountains, and ocean side lodging where you can revitalize your love life. These are destinations in a tranquil setting where you can roam the sights at your own pace doing some sightseeing, cycling, or taking a hot air balloon ride. Enjoy intimate romantic experiences where you can unwind and relax at a spa with a couples massage followed by an intimate, romantic dinner.

California

The Wine Country - This region of Napa and Sonoma Valley just north of San Francisco offers romantic couples a perfect combination A pitch-perfect mix of wineries, charming hotels and spas, and tranquil scenic beauty. Your romantic getaway can be enjoyed by a leisure car trip though the valley, or better yet by cycling through vast vineyards. Add a sunrise hot air balloon ride and you have the perfect romantic getaway. Where Napa Valley is smaller, it’s also more commercial than the laid back Sonoma, whose vineyards cover far more acreage. Check in at Auberge du Soleil Spa situated on a picture-perfect 33-acre hillside olive grove, with made-for-couples rooms with a large stone fireplace and a private hot tub. Take in the sweeping views of the valley below, or take advantage of the relaxing 7,000-square-foot spa. Or check in at the intimate Poetry Inn and Spa perched on a hillside in the Stags Leap wine district offering staggering views on the Napa Valley. Guests can enjoy a massage in the open air, sip a cabernet on a private terrace, or simply lounging by the pool. The amenities include large rooms with private balconies, marble bathrooms with dual vanities, a large soaking tub, both an indoor and an outdoor shower with rain shower headset, and wood-burning fireplaces.

Big Sur – Two and half hours south of from San Francisco, you can get-away on a romantic journey with breathtaking views of rocky ocean cliffs hugged by pine and cypress trees. For the more active, you can enjoy the scenery by trekking to the McWay waterfalls by taking a short quarter mile long hike, 80 feet above sea level down the Overlook Trail in Julia Pfeiffer State Park. Check in at the Post Ranch Inn and Spa hugging the rugged cliffs of Big Sur. The accommodations are luxurious with a romantic setting that offers a choice of either an ocean or mountain-view, wood-burning fireplaces, indoor or outdoor spa tubs, and private decks. Couples messages are also available. Its located close to nature and the charming villages of Monterey and Carmel.

Santa Barbara - Often referred to as the “American Riviera” it boasts a perfect climate with plenty of sun, surf, fine dining, great wineries and a rich dose of Spanish heritage history. Downtown Santa Barbara is perfect for lazy strolls with a loved one. Pamper yourself and someone special in Santa Barbara. Give yourselves over to the care of luxurious spas, take a day trip though California’s “other” wine country, taste the pleasures of world-class dining by candlelight or treat yourself to unique shopping experiences. Check in at the Simpson House Inn. This Southern California romantic getaway is an elegant 1874 Eastlake home, with period Victorian antiques. Secluded within an acre of tall hedges, stone walls, lawn and gardens, a five minute walk from downtown Santa Barbara, you can pamper yourself with one of their many in-room European spa services. For the more active, the inn provides bicycles to cruise around historic, beautiful Santa Barbara, or you can take a mountain hikes. For the less active, take a leisurely beach walk or just relax with a book in the garden.
Charleston, South Carolina is an historic a romantic destination at the waterfront of Charleston’s Historic District, you will experience a profound sense of time and place. You’ll glimpse the sails in Charleston Harbor and the Ashley River, and you might even detect the fragrant salt air of the Atlantic Ocean. Charleston is all about history. Cobblestone streets and walkways wind past architectural treasures and under moss-draped oaks. The cemeteries are particularly lovely and tell quite a tale on their own. Take a guided walking tour, the one that departs from Charleston Place hotel is led by a 40-year resident and history buff who is writing a book about the city’s cemeteries. Or take a horse-drawn carriage ride, you’ll hear more tales but you can just snuggle in the back and enjoy the views. Check in at Two Meeting Street Inn, An acclaimed, charming white Victorian mansion overlooking prestigious South Battery at White Point Gardens .Enjoy the sea breezes while gazing upon century-old live oaks and the Charleston Harbor beyond. The Inn’s sweeping vista is perfect for an intimate conversation, a courtyard breakfast or sumptuous afternoon tea. Summertime is the ideal time to enjoy peach iced tea or lemonade and spend the day relaxing on the porch, watching the water. They offer a hot southern breakfast in their dining room, on the piazza or garden, or delivered to your suite.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Located on Mount Desert Island, is a picturesque village along the rocky coast of Maine with charming shop, restaurants, and marinas with fishing and pleasure boats. For hiking and biking enthusiasts, the nearby Acadia National Park with its granite peaks, one of which is the tallest mountain on the East Coast and the first spot in the United States to see the sun rise. From Bar Harbor, there are many whale watching boast and a high-speed ferries to Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island in Canada. Although summer is the most popular time to visit, many people flock to the area in autumn to enjoy the brilliant colors of fall foliage and get a jump on Christmas gift purchasing. Check in at The Harbor side Hotel, Spa & Marina. This is a luxury resort facility nestled in downtown Bar Harbor, and just moments away from Acadia National Park. The Harbor side offers breathtaking views of Frenchman’s Bay and ocean beyond is a perfect destination for a romantic getaways. Guests can enjoy the Dining & Spa amenities of the adjacent Bar Harbor Club

Sedona, Arizona

The majestic red rock formations of Northern Arizona’s Boynton Canyon are an impressive backdrop to any romantic getaway. Sedona also is known for its spiritual vortex, and its healing opportunities, and to experience sage clearings to release negativity or share spiritual ceremonies in the crystal grotto. For active romantics, the beautiful red landscape can be taken in by jeep tours, horseback riding, hot-air balloon rides, and hiking. Check in at the Enchantment Resort set amongst the impressive red rock configurations of Boynton Canyon in Sedona, where solitude and colorful sun sets can be viewed amongst the area’s famous red rocks. Romantics will experience the luxurious couples Ayurvedic treatments at the Mii amo Spa including massage therapy, spiritual healing treatments, and psychic massages. Or stay at The L’Auberge de Sedona, in Oak Creek Canyon, in the heart of Red Rock country, on the banks of Oak Creek. Enjoy a romantic brook side dinner for two, and a spa treatment to embrace your senses, relax tense muscles and give you a new outlook on your day. They offer services to create a unique sense of intimacy and offer very personalized attention. You can experience your treatment in your cottage or enjoy the Spa Cabana creek side.

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Top Five Cheap Flight Destinations

At the moment, it’s easy to see how some people would be worried about vacation costs this year. Travel is too expensive for many people because of the economy and threats of layoffs. However, there are still cheap travel destinations if you are willing to do your homework. The bulk of your vacation cost will probably go towards your flight and your hotel stay. So, finding a cheap flight and taking advantage of other options can greatly reduce the cost of your vacation. Here are the top five cheap flight destinations that you should consider:

New York City and Other Big Cities

You can often find cheap flights to New York City and other big cities because they are home to large airports. When you fly into a large airport, you have more airline options, which can lower the price. Big cities can be a lot of fun, but are not usually high on the list for tourist destinations, since people are more likely to want to head to the beach or mountains for vacation. As an added bonus, that means that other activities in the cities are also less expensive. Most big cities even have government-sponsored museums, parks, and zoos which are free or under for admission.

Florida or Southern California

The price of your flight often depends on your point of origin. One thing that is almost always a sure bet, though, is that it will typically be cheaper to stay in the United States than to travel abroad. If you live in the eastern half of the country, Florida is a natural choice. You can find flights into Orlando and Miami for just 0 to 0 if you are leaving from a larger northern airport. In the west, southern California is a great destination for the same reason. If you live in the center of the United States, check both Florida and California prices. Also, don’t forget that visiting the gulf of Texas is also an option.

Canada

If you absolutely just want to experience a different country, Canada is a great option. Staying near the United States and not having to cross an ocean helps keep the price of the flight down as low as possible. Canada is also not a huge tourism center, so prices for flights are naturally lower than, for example, Hawaii. Keep in mind that travelling can still get pricey once you arrive at your destination with the current exchange rate, so budget accordingly. However, with the money you’ll save on a flight, it could be worth it. You won’t find warm, sunny beaches in Canada, but you will find some great wilderness resorts, and there are a number of cities that are fun to visit, such as Toronto.

The Caribbean

Believe it or not, the prices for plane tickets to the Caribbean are actually fairly affordable. Although this is a tourist hotspot, the sheer number of flights going into and out of these airports drives the price down. When you work with your travel agent, you can also often get a lower price because they get discounts for selling a certain number of flights on one airline – and flights are easy to book to the Caribbean. There aren’t as many tourists flying to, for example, Italy on the other hand, so they aren’t likely to get a discount on that airline. You can save even more money in general by choosing to fly to Puerto Rico, since it is still a territory of the United States.

Mexico

Some vacationers have been shying away from Mexico recently. However, if you stick to tourist hot spots and use a little discretion, you can be very safe in this country. Flights into Mexico are inexpensive for the same reasons that flights into Canada are inexpensive, you are staying near the United States and you don’t have to cross an ocean. You’ll still pay more for a flight to Mexico than most domestic flights, but if you shop around for good deals, you should be able to travel fairly inexpensively.

Flying will always be expensive, no matter how much price comparison you do to different destinations. There are a few things you can do to keep the price as low as possible, wherever your destination may be. First, be flexible with your dates. Flights are usually more expensive on weekend and near holidays. You can also add more layovers to your flight or take nighttime flights to save money. Finally, when you book your flight, try not to plan activities that you have to rush to as soon as you land. That way, if there is an overbooking problem, you can volunteer to take a later flight. If you do that, most airlines will refund your ticket and give you an additional free flight to use in the future.

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Top Destinations for Traveling Nurses

The great thing about being a traveling nurse boils down to one key component – it’s about the travel!  For those of us who love moving around and seeing the world, travel nursing is the profession of our dreams.  There are many travel destinations available, based on weather, activities, cost of living, and salary.  Therefore, I have gathered a list of my “Top Ten” destinations that nurses choose, based on the number of travelers who inquire about each location every month.  Are you a travel RN scouting a new assignment?  Then I’d like to suggest the following ten “Hot Spots”:

HAWAII – It’s no shock that Hawaii generates over 500 travel nursing inquiries per month.  The wide range of outdoor activities from snow-capped mountains to snow-white sandy beaches elevates Hawaii to one of those meccas where you can build a snowman or a sand castle all in one day.  Nurses tell me that you’ll discover virtually every type of outdoor activity imaginable-hiking trails that wind through erupting volcanoes, secret beaches, and lush green ranchlands.  Many travelers also hunt, mountain bike, go rafting, and golf on some of the world’s most extravagant courses.

ALASKA – Travel nurses are intrigued by the possibilities of Alaska’s rugged mystery.  Alaska is a huge wilderness with beautiful scenery, and travel nursing assignments offer plenty of time to see and do everything you want, whether in winter’s darkness under northern lights, or the glorious spring and summer where it’s light most of the time.  Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Alaska for its’ wildlife, spectacular natural landscape, and fishing expeditions where the fish really are as big as the stories about which they’re told.  Countless day cruises and sightseeing expeditions abound, as well as opportunities to hike, kayak, canoe, ski… Need we say more?

MONTANA – Whether photographer, adventurer, or both, Montana is truly a state that beckons with open arms.  River trips, fishing and camping, history, snowy mountain ranges, and waterfalls are what you’ll encounter, along with plenty of open space to explore.  Assignments in Montana appeal to those travel nurses who just need some time to break away from their city grind to enjoy marching to the beat of an entirely different drummer.  The Big Sky Country boasts some of America’s most famous mountains, canyons, river valleys, forests, grassy plains, badlands, and caverns, and many travelers find it just irresistible enough to keep coming back.

MAINE – Maine’s splendor has inspired artists like Georgia O’Keefe and three generations of the Wyeth family, since the mid-nineteenth century.   Travel nurses can’t resist at least one adventure in this charming getaway.  Whether you embark on outdoor adventures like skiing and snowmobiling, or if you prefer the cozy ambience of antiquing through charming villages or just strolling or riding horseback on miles of sandy beaches in the smell of salt air, Maine is legendary and offers some wonderful travel nursing experiences.  Its’ unique culture is outdoorsy and quaint, and of course you get to enjoy lobster as the locals do-fresh from the ocean!

CALIFORNIA – Warm weather and world-famous beaches make California a favorite choice for traveling nurses.  Nine-hundred miles of coastline gives nurses in all locations the chance to spend many hours near the waves; and for nature lovers, California is home to many wildlife parks, remote wilderness areas, and safe-havens for endangered animals.  If you’re an excitement junkie, you can scout out a wide selection of theme parks; and no matter what your taste in music, concerts abound in every type of venue. Historic sites and museums invite, as do five-star restaurants and clubs in which to see and be seen. The shopping is unparalleled, whether it’s trendy Melrose Place, La Jolla, or the strand in Venice Beach; and of course it’s home to Hollywood, and, yes, movie stars.  Whether northern, southern, or coastal locations, traveling nurses return to California time and again.

WASHINGTON – The Evergreen State boasts the gorgeous Pacific Ocean, the Cascade Mountains, desert experiences, rain forests, towering volcanoes, glaciers, and lush wine country.  Washington State rates high on the list of many nurse travelers.  Must-sees are the Space Needle and Coulee Dam.  The culture here is incredibly diverse; sophisticated, outdoorsy, and loaded with resorts, history, parks, museums, and botanical gardens.  Whether touring downtown Seattle for cozy antique and book stores, exploring ancient Indian grounds, or hiking and biking mountains or trails, Washington holds a strong allure for many nurse travelers.

SOUTH CAROLINA – Endless adventure, excitement, fun and exploration represent why South Carolina is always a favorite destination for travel nurses.  America’s oldest landscaped gardens frame mansions rife with historical heritage, in addition to pristine beaches and legendary marshy wetlands.  For all you golfers, with over 330 golf courses, there’s always a new place to swing your clubs.  But what fascinates many traveling nurses is the rich heritage in which South Carolina has paved the roads of culture, art, and folklore in our past.  You can visit several historical areas and discovery centers of American history, including the American Revolution and the Civil War.

COLORADO – World-class winter skiing and summer music festivals in the mountains are just two reasons that nurses love traveling to Colorado.  Boasting four spectacular seasons, Colorado is where travel nurses get to explore the state’s 18 million acres of state and national parks, forests, and monuments for biking, hiking, fishing, mountain climbing, and kayaking, to name a few.  Colorado has many cultural treasures, including ancient Native American sites and dinosaur fossil exhibits, historic ghost towns, and even award-winning vineyards in Grand Junction.  And for those who enjoy city life, amid all this natural beauty lie wonderful metropolitan areas like Denver and Boulder, full of shopping, performing arts, and professional sports.

TENNESSEE – From energetic nights of blues on Beale Street, to gorgeous rolling acres of Tennessee Walker horse country, to peaceful Smoky Mountain sunsets, Tennessee is a vacation that offers many world-renowned attractions.  Nurse travelers who visit Tennessee will find that they’re within a day’s drive of 75-percent of the U.S. population via quality interstates and highways.  Attractions in Tennessee include the Jack Daniels’ distillery, Elvis’s Graceland, the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, and lots of southern hospitality.  And don’t forget the crown jewel of the southern Appalachians, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
ARIZONA – If you adore the outdoors, then the Grand Canyon State might just be for you.  The nurses who go there just rave about Arizona’s landscape which takes in tall mountain ranges, swift rivers, grasslands, sand dunes, and cactus forests all set against a beautiful sky that glows pink in the sunset.  The traveler nurses who enjoy history will find plenty of it here, including Old West reformations, Native American nations, and Spanish-influenced areas all in one state.  Arizona is also home to the nation’s greatest golf courses, resorts, spas, cabins, and ranches.
As you can see, limitless possibilities exist for those nurses who want travel, fun, and adventure to be part of their daily lives.  If  you’re a nurse who travels and it’s time for you to move on to a new location, try one of these top travel nursing destinations and see what new experiences lie ahead.

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Where Are the Best RV Destinations

As a camping enthusiast for more than 40 years, I have been all over this great country from sea to shining sea. My family and I have traveled in our RV for years and we have been to so many great places I don’t have the room to tell you about then all, but I will share with you a few.

We have camped along the Atlantic Coast of Florida and the Pacific Coast of California to the Gulf Coast from Texas to Alabama. We really enjoy camping on the ocean with the fresh sea breezes and warm tropical waters. The fishing is always good and just being lazy on the beach is pretty cool as well. We really enjoy the sea shore.

We have also been to the mountains quite often as well. We camped from Central Arizona and Southern Colorado, to the Great Smokey Mountains and the Appalachians. I love the cool crisp mornings, listening to the babbling mountain streams while drinking a good cup of coffee by morning fire. Life doesn’t get much better than that.

I cannot leave out the desert. The morning sun hitting the red rock cliffs while the antelope forage and the sheep graze is truly an awesome sight. The dry high desert air of northern Arizona clears your minds and you are able to see the wonders of this world for what they truly are. If you head towards the Big Bend Country of Texas you are in for a treat as well. The scenery is amazing and the wild life is truly awe inspiring.

I love the outdoors. I love camping in the outdoors. I love taking my RV to many different places. Whatever your tastes in outdoor experiences are, the mountains, the ocean or even the desert, you will be able to sit back, relax and enjoy the wonders of nature on display.

Alright, you probably figured out by now that I believe it doesn’t matter where you go, as long as you just get out and go: Enjoy our magnificent country. Hands down, the best way to save money taking a vacation and experience this beautiful country of ours at the same time, is to do it in an RV.

The advantages of being able to take all the comforts of your own home with you when you travel are priceless. There is also nothing that will unite your family better than spending time together hiking, fishing, swimming or just setting around the table playing a game.
Wherever you want to go on vacation, don’t punish your family by sleeping in a strange bed on strange sheets while being cooped up in a strange hotel somewhere. Remember, wherever there is a hotel, there is also a good RV park close by.

Find a Keystone RV Dealer near you and join the millions of RV owners and see the world for what is really is. Your family will love it and you will get a kick out of it too. You will have fun and save some money along the way. So, go camping in a RV this year. You will love it and your family will love it as well, I promise.

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Top Five Destinations, Value for Your Money!

As a travel writer for a web based travel portal company, I come across quite a few travel destinations and deals and decided to share my top five travel destinations that offer the best deals including value. My focus is always value, not the lowest price. As we all have different budgets, I like to choose from a range of budget accommodations to deluxe. I sifted through everything from little known destinations for a quiet romantic getaway to all-inclusive resorts for the whole family to cruising.

The destinations and properties or cruise make my list when I see true value in the “deal”. For example, if someone says the sale price is 0 per night at 50% off, and I do my homework and realize that the property is always 0 and not really worth it – there is no value. It is when I see they are truly offering a deal that is rare, either a great price that is actually less than you would expect for the level of service and accommodations or if I see tons of added value, I want to recommend it to everyone!

My top destinations and the best deals that go with them:

1) Mexico: All-inclusive resorts continue to be a great value – you just have to be careful that it offers everything it says it does. A one price for all drinks, food, water sports (at most resorts) and activities can save hundreds on your vacation.

The Riu Palace Riviera Maya in Mexico is my first top pick for price-friendly getaway. The Riviera Maya is about 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Cancun and a 100-mile long stretch located along the coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula. The center of this beautiful area is Playa del Carmen, just across the ocean from Cozumel Island, and half way between Cancun and Tulum (amazing Mayan Ruins). Playa del Carmen is the perfect home base for exploring Mexico’s Caribbean Coast. The Caribbean reef off shore is a big attraction for travelers as well.

The Riu Palace offers a wide variety of suites on miles of white sandy beachfront property. With restaurants, bars, and snacks available to you 24 hours a day, this four star rated resort marks high when you’re counting pennies. Their current deal: Air & 4 nights from 6. Please note most air inclusive packages give you a sample price from Florida, assume it will be a bit more from other states – the pricing is right on the web site.

I actually found a number of great deals in Cancun as well, and yes, I checked them out through a number of sources. Just go to this site and you will see 50% off (for real) all inclusives in Cancun. During College and University school breaks, it is the Mecca of partying for 18-25yr olds, but during other times of the year it is a good place for everyone. Cancun is a big hotel strip, with tons of bars and restaurants, yes, it is very touristy. However, if you want the value we have been discussing, you will get it at a Cancun all inclusive. All inclusive deals on this page range from per night, with kids free! Do the math on that one – your kids, eat, have activities and stay at the hotel free! For , expect a big hotel, many buffets, perhaps a few regular dining restaurants, a lot of people, but lots to do!

2) Europe: yes, Europe – I know, it is very expensive for the Americans to go there right now, but if you want to go during the Fall which is a very nice time to go – I did find some deals and steals! While gathering information for this article, I came across this economy friendly European getaway. If you have not been to Europe, having a taste of a few cities is usually a good idea. This way if you fall in love with one, you know to come back, rather than spending a long time in one place you may not end up liking. Finally experience the Eiffel Tower, London and make a wish to return to Rome at the Trevi Fountain. Starting at 5, airfare, 6 nights hotel, breakfast, inner-city flights are all included!

If you feel like avoiding the family during Thanksgiving or maybe taking them along and doing something special, I found a great deal to Italy over this time period. For food, weather, scenery and sightseeing galore, pay 9 including airfare to stay two nights in Rome, two nights in Florence and two nights in Venice including rail to each city!

I can not discuss value in Europe without mentioning cruising. Right now, it is the best way to go considering the dollar. You can eat and play on the cruise (food and transportation is what will eat your dollars in Europe), then get off the ship and enjoy each city. One great deal is 9 per person for a 7 night cruise from Venice, Italy to the Greek Islands and Croatia! That is a night for room, transportation, activities and all your food. All you have to do is enjoy yourself in the Greek Islands and be one of the first you know to explore Croatia!

One other European cruise I felt worth mentioning also departs Italy, but northern Italy and heads towards Spain and Morocco. 9 for 10 nights exploring Barcelona, Casablanca and more! To do the math again – a night for all your food, activities and transportation to each European city, not to mention the outstanding views with Spain and Morocco’s dramatic coast lines to enjoy while cruisin.

3) Arizona: If playing golf and staying closer to home is more your idea of a vacation, then Arizona is a good choice, great prices for four to five star hotels. Arizona, already known for its courses, offers the world class Legacy Golf Course. This 6,908-yard par 71 course designed by Gary Panks was home to the 2000 LPGA PING tournament. Stay at the Phoenix Golf Resort for as little as . Spanish mission-style with rich wood cabinetry and jewel-toned fabrics, each suite features a full kitchen or kitchenette, spacious living area, and either a balcony or patio overlooking lush tropical courtyards and spectacular mountain vistas. The facility has golf lessons by PGA pros, activities programs for the whole family and so much more. Perfect for a romantic getaway, a place to re-connect with the family or a golf outing.

4) Colorado: A “Buy Two Get One Free” deal is always music to the ears, regardless of the state of the economy. Gunnison Crested Butte (otherwise known as the Colorado Rockies) in Colorado is offering a bonanza of a deal; offering a free airline ticket for every 2 purchased. If you have a group of people who like to do that yearly skiing tip or a family of three or more, this is it! Gunnison-Crested Butte is a little known destination, which makes it all the more worthwhile. The scenery is breathtaking, and there are so many things to do for adults and children alike. A small plane trip from Denver, even though it seems far, it can be easy to get to. Skiing is the ticket here, and beginning at 0 you can be sure to get your fill of it. 0 includes airfare, 5 nights lodging, 4 days lift tickets and ground transportation. Sound like something you can dig your ski poles in? How about one more deal; a baggage claim up to per traveler! These deals are valid on Delta, United and American and travel must be between January 6, 2009 and March 8, 2009; right in time for fine skiing weather.

5) California: For the most part, great weather all year round, different landscapes and attractions through out the state, great values all around. Moving from the South, start with your Disneyland vacation in Anaheim. This is one of those destinations that most people need a hotel for a place to sleep as there is so much to do outside of the hotel. If you want to save some so you can spend the extra cash at the family attractions, check out Americas Best Value Inn and Suites near Disneyland. This is a budget hotel starting at per night, but if you see the prices of other hotels in the area, you will see this is a deal.

Driving north, you hit Los Angeles, where you might want to hit Venice Beach for a different kind of beach experience, filled with surfers, drumming circles, entertainers and great cafes and shops. Or if curiosity about the home of the “stars” gets you, visit Hollywood, walk around famous Beverly Hills, you are sure to spot someone you have seen in the movies somewhere. If you decide this is also a location where you will be out of the hotel more than in it, and want just a place to sleep, then I would recommend Americas Best Value Inn Los Angeles as it starts from per night – hard to find prices like that in this city!

I couldn’t put together a list of destinations in California and not include a trip to Napa Valley. A wine lover’s paradise right here in the good ol’ USA. Known for producing some of the worlds finest Pinot Noir, Syrah, Merlot and Chardonnay, Napa Valley is a world unto itself. The Vino Bello resort, the newest resort in Napa Valley captures the essence of what a wine country vacation is all about. Luxurious accommodations, fine amenities and gracious service is what you get here. What about the wine? Their partnership with the Meritage Resort gives you the green light to explore their remarkable selection of American wines and enjoy a fine wine country cuisine. The perfect spot to unwind is priced very nicely for 9. Salute to the wine gods!

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Vacation Destinations: Top Fantasy Retreats

Indulgence is all about taking your vacation in style and living life as a fantasy. A must to escape from daily grind and give beat to burnout, choose any luxury packages to luxurious hotels and retreat in the world where you will live a life like a dream come true. Just make a fantasy of your desires and wishes and list down below are bound to make it real and oh so happening and the world of this place is for you to take at some price and your every whim shall be taken care of.

Vacation destinations Hotel Marqués de Riscal, Spain : Imagined yourself where there is wine and more wine wherever you see. Hotel Marqués de Riscal, Spain will let you live a life of wine connoisseur, which is hidden deep in Rioja region. Here there is indulgence in elixir, from the vineyards view surrounding the retreat and have the pleasures of tasting best wines. Since 1980, designed by architectural brilliance Frank Gehry, this is wine’s love haven from the time you check in and to time you check out, you will be in kicked in world of fantasy. You won’t even think about spirits and mixers, but will enjoy delicious meals served with wine sauce. And then move on to the The Wine Bar Vinoteca for nightcap or two and gulp in some more delectable wines. And on waking up there is sore head, The Caudalíe Vinothérapie® Spa will take care and there you again indulge in exclusive wine therapy massages and treatments. Don’t drink their spa dry!

Vacation destinations Hilton São Paulo Morumbi, São Paulo, Brazil : Fantasy of living like some President or Prime Minister will cease and become alive here. Hilton São Paulo Morumbi, São Paulo, Brazil which offers this dream package at ,500 and live Like A Mogul. Immerse yourself in presidential lifestyle, beginning and ending with helicopter ride to and fro from São Paulo and ending at drop at Paulo’s Guarulhos International Airport. On arrival you will be welcomed with Champagne and chocolate and then presented with key to Presidential Suite. Award winning chefs serving you dinner for romantic two, and sleep on Fretté sheets for such a good night. And in morning you need not do anything of presidential duties , but have a presidential breakfast and then wrap in Hilton dressing gown head on to having a presidential treatment in Sensory Spa, done by masseuses who are Brazilian beauty and indulge in massages, foot treatments, body scrubs and facials, as many as you like. When going for sight seeing, your personal chopper will be awaiting ready to ferry you round the city and have power trip.

Vacation destinations Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur India : Want to be a Maharaja- that’s emperor and live life king size and sleep in a bed that can accommodate some four to five couples and yet there be space? In a very picturesque location of Udaipur, Rajasthan in India, A palace like hotel which is set afloat in Lake Pichola, an abode of Taj Hotels, resorts and palaces. Feel like a maharaja- king of world, in the palace hotel amidst the Aravalli Mountains. Gleaming white marble structure, with majestic suites having stunning murals, exotic carpets, sweeping arches, claw-foot bathtubs and maharaja-size beds. And this can be seen and experienced only in India. And you will love and have the pleasure of ‘Hookah’ or being fanned by pretty Indian girl in sari; laze on chaise lounge and everything there are vibrant. Take a ride on decorated camel; pamper yourself with princely massages at Taj Spa. At night admire the brightly lit palace and take a romantic walk in the fountain lined courtyards. You will feel like Alladin and there will be so many genie’s out there to serve to your every need. Also enjoy the traditional folk and dance performed for you and dinning on exotic cuisine of India will be do delectable and you may ask for fireworks to go to show your princess jasmine and have a romantic and passionate night in your candle lit suite.

Vacation destinations ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden: You may live in New York or California or Paris or Singapore but you may have dreamed a life where you are an Eskimo, living in such a cold place and keep on snuggling to feel cozy and living in a place made up of ice. Wow, that’s not a fantasy or dream coz this has been made possible and into a reality. Enter yourself into the world famous and brilliant marvel of design and idea that’s ICEHOTEL which is in Jukkasjärvi, some 200 km in northern of the Arctic Circle in Sweden. Absolutely amazing and mind blowing fantasy retreat. Well I have only one word for it and that’s Astonishing, mimicking the construction idea and methods of nose kissing ancestors, the place is completely made up of ice. I mean, every thing, from the reception desk that shall greet you to the bed of ice for passionate love on it. The whole place is made up of ice from River Torne. As you check in, you shall be wrapped in warming furs. But its not just eyes blocks that makes the hotel, the décor of hotel is done in breathtaking and beautiful arts which are dotted around hotel. Heading on Icebar is first thing people do after donning on warm garbs, sipping on cocktails in the glasses made up of ice. As you may start feeling too cold and cannot even feel as if you have your feet below, go to warm up in ICEHOTEL restaurant which is only structure there which is not made up of ice but serves delicious local delicacies on ice slabs. You may unwind here, in a very elegant stylish restaurant before heading to cold or hot accommodation as per your choice. The retreat also has exciting and fun filled activities like ice sculpting, ice fishing, snowmobile rides and snowshoe excursions. But the best and most romantic sight is to watch the glittering northern lights in the sky together.

Vacation destinations Samudra, Byron Bay, Australia: Surfing paradise and Yoga retreat, Samudra, Byron Bay, Australia will serve your desire to ride on waves and feel the solidarity within. One of the best places on earth to catch the waves is Down Under, despite of Great Whites intimidating under the surface yet the water is lovely with such a panoramic view of vast and deep ocean. Byron Bay Manor, a retreat that combines surf and yoga at superb place of Samundra, you will be flying to relax as well as for having surfing adventure at the luxurious and lavish Byron Bay. This fantasy retreat is situated in New South Wales, Australia in some twenty seven acres of verdant grounds. The place has a distinct ambiance, a student bohemian vibe and suiting to surfer dude’s lifestyle. Here you may get a good training on surfing, initially you may not stand up but by the time you are about to live you may be doing like Kelly Slater. Invigorating Yoga in early morning is ritual of Manor, and then heading on the pristine golden sandy beach. Other then Surfing and yoga, you can simply relax at solar heated pool, which has just the right temperature which will sooth your nerves and in spa for treatment and massage that will take away all your anxious worries. You can even unwind with a book or sit in the ocean view verandah while seeing the sun going down in Samundra. Also a very good chance to improve on your billiards technique and challenge people back home.

vacation destinations for fancy retreats will rejuvenate and reinvigorate you for back to daily life and memories of these exotic destinations will be like a talisman that will keep making you go on other fancy retreat on the list.

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Top Vacation Destinations in California

California is one of the most diverse states in the country, both culturally and in terms of actual landscape. It comprises 840 miles of Pacific coastline and an incredible variety of climate zones. In terms of prime vacation destinations, there’s no other state that offers as many great options. Here are just a few of the top ones.

San Francisco
San Francisco is filled with history and culture. The site of many political movements in the past decades, San Francisco has a friendly and open atmosphere. You’ll some of the best hotels in the country and attractions ranging from daytime cruises to tours the famous Alcatraz maximum security prison. A hike through the redwoods is only a short drive away and the nightlife in San Francisco is one of the best of any city.

Big Bear
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast and especially if you like snow, Big Bear is definitely the California vacation spot for you. Located a two hour drive east of Los Angeles, Big Bear is the site of Snow Summit, one of the prime locations in the state for skiing, snowboarding, sledding and other snow sports. In the summer, boating, fishing and other water activities can be enjoyed at Big Bear lake. Lodgings are plenty and range from campsites, to cabins and hotels accommodations.

San Diego
San Diego is one of the most visited tourist destinations in California. It has a rare Mediterranean climate that gives it perfect weather year-round. No humidity or extremes, just sunny skies and cool ocean breezes. San Diego has some of the best beaches in the West Coast and it is very popular among surfers. Other San Diego vacation packages include the Sea World and Legoland theme parks, the San Diego Maritime Museum, the Wild Animal Park, and the beautiful Balboa Park with its world-renowned museums and outdoors Shakespearean theatre.

Yosemite
Yosemite is known for being the so-called “crown jewel” of the national parks system. Yosemite National Park is filled with breathtaking landscapes and views. There are epic waterfalls as well as huge monolithic stone structures, all in the middle of a large sequoia forests. There are streams and lakes aplenty and hiking trails for outdoorsmen of any level.

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Great Summer Vacation Deals And Destinations

Ah, summer. The time of year when the weather’s warm, the kids have a little more time off school, and it’s time for a vacation. Theme parks and beach destinations make for great summer vacations, as well as island trips and continental excursions.

Many people have images of endless road trips when they think about summer vacation, but international travel is a wonderful way to spend the summer. In recent years, airlines have offered cheap airfare to entice travelers to think abroad when it comes to summer vacations. However, when you travel abroad for summer vacation, you need to make sure the destination you’re traveling to has a comparable climate during your summer season.

If you’re in the northern hemisphere (where the summer months are June, July, and August), the following travel destinations are great places to go on your summer vacation. Read about these locations and select a summer vacation destination that offers the best climate, sights, and activities.

Summer Vacation to France

May through June is the most opportune time to travel to France. The weather is optimal and tourist attractions are open and ready for your arrival. For a chance to experience a true French holiday, travel France in July and witness Bastille Day, a commemoration of the destruction of the prison that King Louis XVI and his predecessors used to quiet social disruption and censor or torture public irritants. The day is symbolic of the value of social freedoms and democratic governance to the French people. The main celebration takes place in Paris at the former site of the Bastille. Read more about summer vacations to France and find discount airfare to France at http://www.cfares.com/france/.

Summer Vacation to Germany

Not as warm as a Southern California summer (Germany’s summer temperatures range from 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit), Germany still offers reasonable weather for summer vacation travel. The German landscape is still comparable to your favorite fairytale or Robin Hood adventure. Castles in the sky preside over the rich green forests where Hansel and Gretel ventured to meet their witch. The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is famous for its intense evergreen canopy, vast outdoor activities and secluded get-a-ways. Read more about summer vacations to Germany and find discount airfare to Germany at http://www.cfares.com/germany/.

Summer Vacation to Northern Italy

Northern regions in Italy have warm weather during North America’s summer season as compared to southern regions in Italy where summers can be quite wet. Northern Italy regions include Emilia-Romagna, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Liguria, Lombardy, Piedmont, Trentino-South Tyrol, Aosta Valley, Veneto. So if you want to travel during summer, you should focus your travels on more northern regions. However, don’t let questionable weather deter you from visiting the southern regions of Italy. No other country on earth offers the depth, breadth, and scope of Italy. For lovers of art, history, architecture, or music Italy is unsurpassable. Read more about summer vacations to Italy and find discount airfare to Italy at http://www.cfares.com/italy/.

Summer is the ideal time for vacations. There’s no school and many destinations around the world have perfect climate conditions to accommodate your traveling desires. If you have the itch to travel, summer is truly the best time to spread your wings and fly.

Note: Countries in the northern hemisphere have similar summer months. So when searching for a summer vacation destination, it’s a good idea to stick with countries in the northern hemisphere.

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The Top Five Honeymoon Vacation Destinations

Everybody wants to have a memorable honeymoon, and there are plenty of destinations that you can choose from. Whether you want a quiet, relaxed stay or an activity filled honeymoon, chances are that you will be able to find the destination that you are looking for, and create a memorable experience that you both can share. Here are some suggestions for five top honeymoon vacation destinations.

1. For many years the number one honeymoon destination in the United States has been Hawaii. It’s not hard to understand why when you see its beautiful beaches, tropical scenery, and wide variety of activities to help keep you busy. When you tour Hawaii, there is no shortage of beautiful scenery including fabulous waterfalls and spectacular beach views. And who can beat the romance of a setting sun over the tropical ocean? But there is also lots of other adult activities to be enjoyed as well, including some of the best golf courses in the world. And when it’s time to relax, enjoy the sauna or pool and then take in a Hawaii luau. As you can see, Hawaii is a great honeymoon choice.

2. Honeymooners have also frequently chosen Niagara Falls on the US/Canada border in the past. Here you can enjoy the second tallest waterfall in the world, and even take a boat cruise around the area of the falls itself. There are plenty of tourist attractions that cater to honeymooners located around the falls too. And the Catskill Mountains are just a day trip away, where you can enjoy relaxing and inspiring mountain scenery together.

3. Florida is another top honeymoon vacation spot. There are lots of places in Florida where honeymooners can enjoy each other and the local scenery. Perhaps the most famous honeymoon spot in Florida though is Disney World, located right in the center of the state. Disney World loves to cater to honeymooners, providing special vacation packages to those looking for a romantic getaway. But if theme parks are not what you are looking for, consider going all the way to the bottom of the state to either Miami or Key West. Both of these locations offer beautiful resorts and white sandy beaches along with plenty of attractions to keep you busy when you want to be.

4. California can also be a great honeymoon destination, especially in Northern California. Just north of San Francisco is the Californian wine country where you can visit local wineries and enjoy their hospitality during your stay. Northern California offers lots of rolling hills, quaint villages, and beautiful mountain ranges to help you enjoy your stay. And all along the way you can stay at some of the most romantic bed and breakfasts in the country.

5. Another popular honeymoon destination these days is Las Vegas. If you are looking for a fun filled, and action-packed vacation, then this is for you! Lots of Las Vegas hotels offer special honeymoon packages too. And besides gambling, there’s plenty of shopping, nightlife, and even the Grand Canyon to keep you busy.

Any of these honeymoon vacation destinations would make a fine choice after your wedding. Just be sure to book your reservations well in advance, as all of these honeymoon spots are very popular.

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