Hilton Garden Inn Staten Island. Is it any good?
Hoping to stay here in Oct because its looks good value for money. Is it east to get to manhattan from here?
How can a teenager make money while on vacation in California?
I was wondering if there was anyway I can make some money while we are in California on vacation? Thanks for all the help.
How to Really Make Money on the Internet
How to Really Make Money on the Internet
As the fall months quickly lead into the months of winter, avid skiers and snowboarders are eager to catch a glimpse of the first snowfall. At the same time, many of the best ski resorts in the West are preparing to welcome their guests who come to revel in the winter activities around their facilities.
When people think of California, they often the sand and surf of the coastline, the vineyards of the Napa Valley, the glitz and glamour of Hollywood or the exhilaration of the well known amusement parks. However, there are some pleasing California ski resorts and numerous places to pursue your much loved winter sports and activities.
Many avid skiers consider the Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort in Central California to be one of the best ski resorts in the state. Mammoth boasts an average snowfall of over one hundred and fifty inches and some years, up to two hundred and fifty inches. That’s enough snow to fulfill the dreams of the heartiest of snow lovers. This top ski resort sits on the eastern side of the Nevada Mountain range.
One of the reasons that Mammoth is among the top ski resorts is that it boasts of the Hangman’s Hollow. This is identified as the siren-of-the-steeps for experts skiers from around the world. In addition, Mammoth also has a full terrain that offers cross-country skiing and also, an Olympic-size half pipe.
The Mt. Shasta Resort is in the heart of another California ski area that is both well-known and really popular, making it well known on the list of top ski resorts in the West. The Mt. Shasta resort is located in the Siskiyou mountain range, which is close the northern border or California. Within the Mt. Shasta national recreational area there are many activities available such as hiking, snowmobiling and a skiing area that even includes a bunny flat. After a long day on the slopes, the Black Bear Restaurant is popular and highly recommended for delicious meal and in addition, they also offer delightful homemade pies for a well-earned dessert.
A bit farther north from Mt. Shasta is Oregon, which is filled with numerous slopes and top ski resorts as well. Timberline Lodge is an historic chalet that sits right at the timber line of the majestic Mt. Hood in the Cascade Range and which has long been hailed as one of the top resorts. Because Timberline Lodge sits higher than many mountain ski resorts, you will often find that you can ski all year round on the nearby Palmer Snowfield, which is close this great snowy retreat.
Continuing on the northward track, the mountain ski resorts of British Columbia are painless to add to the list of top ski resorts in the West. Whistler is another famed ski area where you are also able to ski any time of the year with few rare exceptions. In addition to the Whistler-Blackcomb area, the fabulous skiing and other winter sports, there is also incredible scenery. After dark, there is a lively night life in the area which you can enjoy after a long day of shredding the slopes.
This is just a short list of the many best ski resorts that are located in the mountainous areas of Western US and Western Canada. The various ski vacations that you can take in the West are a nice way to escape from the stress and the demands of work. For those who live in the west, many top ski resorts are nearby and even a quick weekend ski package can be enough to provide rejuvenation to make it through another work week.
Visit http://www.my-vacation-ideas.com for more great vacation ideas.
Top Five Destinations, Value for Your Money!
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!
Click here to learn more about these great deals.
While we all have tightened our budgets, it doesn’t mean that travelling is completely out of the question. Remember to travel more and spend less when planning your next vacation retreat.
Seaside Vacation Homes – Save Money South of the Border
Seaside Vacation Homes – Save Money South of the Border
If you are looking for the best seaside vacation homes at the most affordable prices, Mexico has the lot to offer when it comes to ocean views, sunsets, water sports, activities, and amenities in their vacation home rentals.
It wasn’t that long ago when foreigners of Mexico were not allowed to own or invest in beachfront real estate, which left a lot of “would be” buyers frustrated, knowing there was cheap oceanfront property available in a prime location but the opportunity to own or invest in beachfront real estate in Mexico was nil.
In 2005 the government of Mexico enacted fideicomiso, which is roughly translated to mean real estate trust, making it possible for US and other foreign investors to purchase the cheap oceanfront property available, making Mexico a popular spot for exclusive luxury style residences and a haven for beachfront real estate investments
What Makes Mexico a More Affordable Vacation Home Choice?
One of the biggest reasons that vacation homes are more affordable in Mexico is the fact that the value of Mexican currency has historically been consistently lower than US or other foreign currency.
Foreign investors having the opportunity to buy property and the need for economic stimulus in Mexico, has brought back the long forgotten idea of finding cheap oceanfront property and has made it a reality again.
Not only is the property less expensive to buy but the cost of building, staffing, and everything else that comes with developing vacation home rentals is far less expensive too. Some of the savings seen by developers is being passed down to the vacation home renters, keeping the cost of vacation home rentals at a very modest rate.
Naturally the lower cost of vacation home rentals in turn is bringing an increase in visitors. This makes it a win-win situation for both investor and consumer. Just as an example of the savings you can expect, consider this…luxury beach villas in Florida, with the same amenities and features will sometimes cost you two or more times the rent of a vacation home south of the border. The dollar doesn’t go near as far stateside as is does in neighboring Mexico.
The Trend in New Beachfront Real Estate Development is Luxury
Luxury beach villas with on-site golf course, tennis court, spa, and personal chef are just examples of the amenities you’ll get to choose when searching a vacation home in Mexico. The trend in the development of beachfront real estate has been to provide exclusive, luxurious residences and vacation homes with more amenities than thought imaginable. You’ll also find that you’ll have a unique choice in architectural features in many of the seaside vacation homes available. Luxury beach villas, with walls that seem to disappear, expanding your living area to the beautifully landscaped stone deck and allowing you the full enjoyment of beautiful views and seaside breezes.
It’s Not Just The Price That Makes Mexico a Great Vacation Home Area…
Mexico offers a vacationer a wide variety of lifestyle settings. A tranquil way of life, where clear skies over serene deserts engulf you or a busy tourist filled beach with amusements and lot of fun for the family. Some of the most popular spots are just minutes from the California border. And include Northern Baja, Cancun, Puerto Penasco, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta and San Miguel. Northern Baja is the major center of ecotourism, with whale sanctuaries, coral reefs, surf destinations, and desert areas with exotic animals and plants. Visitors come to enjoy the cactus covered mountains year-round, the soft beige sandy beaches, and the sparkling waters of the Pacific or the Gulf of Mexico. Baja boasts every type of available activity, including hiking a desert wash, kayaking, walking the miles of uninhabited beaches, boating, shopping or bird-watching.
Do you want to escape to your very own beachfront paradise?
If the answer is YES, we have an exciting online private tour you’ve got to see!
Go to the link http://sandsurfvillas.com and check it out.
four or five big bulls in your yard is bad, a whole herd of Roosevelt elk is dangerous.
Video Rating: 4 / 5
Inexpensive vacation in California??
My mom, my brother, and I NEED a vacation. My father recently passed away and we have had so much on us we are about to break down. We live in central California, about 2 – 3 hours away from Pismo Beach, Morro Bay, Atascadero, etc.. we have been there SO many times. I was born and raised here in this area and have hardly been anywhere else in California outside of what I just listed. I’ve been to a LOT of other states but never explored my own state. What are some nice calming vacation spots in California that are inexpensive? Do you think renting a hybrid car would be worth it to save money? Thanks!!
Inexpensive vacation in California??
My mom, my brother, and I NEED a vacation. My father recently passed away and we have had so much on us we are about to break down. We live in central California, about 2 – 3 hours away from Pismo Beach, Morro Bay, Atascadero, etc.. we have been there SO many times. I was born and raised here in this area and have hardly been anywhere else in California outside of what I just listed. I’ve been to a LOT of other states but never explored my own state. What are some nice calming vacation spots in California that are inexpensive? Do you think renting a hybrid car would be worth it to save money? Thanks!!
How do I sell a Florence Sackett Painting?
My father recently passed away and I am in serious need of some money to keep his house. He has left me a large (3′ by 1.6′) signed painting of the Redwoods by Oregonian artist Florence Sackett. I live in Atlanta now and would like some advice on how to sell it. I know nothing about recent art. I found a similar painting online that sold for ,200 and would like to sell this one. Could anyone give me some advice?
Where should I have my wedding in central NY/VT?
Here’s what I want: a small b and b or inn with a nice garden setting. Private/semi-private (as in secluded, but not necessarily out in the boonies) backyard. Maybe a fountain or pool. Preferably with a gazebo, but not necessary. I have been doing tons of searches online but I know there are more out there that I probably haven’t come across. I’m basically looking anywhere in central/upstate NY, but if you know of any in VT that’d be nice too. I’m not looking to spend a lot of money, and I need someplace small that can accomodate my wedding of less than 50. Any personal suggestions? The websearch thing just isn’t helping much…
Forgot to mention that I want to hold both the wedding and reception at the same place.
Does anyone know of an intimate rural wedding location around New York/New England?
I am hoping to find something in the mountains (Catskills, Berkshires…) and it would be great if it had some sort of water…like a lake. Money is not an issue…I just want it to be perfect. The wedding will be relatively small (50-100 people, not sure yet) and I am hoping to have the ceremony and the reception at the same place (NOT a church). Maybe a beautiful inn with a garden of some kind? Does anybody have any good ideas? I’m considering the Seven Hills Inn and the Garden Gables Inn in Lenox, MA, and The Inn at Castle Hill in Ipswich, MA, but I’ve really just started looking.
Thank you so much!!