Reasons Why You Should Love the County of Carlsbad

You probably have heard many times that San Diego is one of the ideal places to live in. In addition, its many counties also have great environment for settling, particularly Carlsbad. This place is considered as a seaside resort-town. Anyone who have been in this place could really attest how great this place can be because of it is beaches. If you look at the location of Carlsbad, it is actually facing the Pacific Ocean. That is also one of the selling points of this place. It is no doubt that there is so much beauty in places lying on the coastal lines.

No wonder properties in this area have great value because the place has many things to offer. Aside from the fact that you will be seeing beaches, you have other great scenic views from their golf fields or their flower fields especially during springtime. Almost all parts of this place are exciting. Carlsbad has different areas. One of the most beautiful places you can settle in is the northern part of the county. You can find all types of homes in here and on top of this part of the place is quite reserved. You will surely enjoy scouting homes from Carlsbad Real Estate.

Now what are other reasons why you should be living in this place? Check it out below:

Family Friendly

Carlsbad is one of the places which have the lowest crime rate in San Diego. If you check the statistics of overall percentage of crime rates happening yearly from 1997-2006, this place has had a decreasing trend. On top of that, certain activities within the place have high regard for family participation.

Environmental Friendly

They do all sorts of conservation and preservation to keep their place looking the way it is now. If you check out the photos in the internet, you will see how amazing this place looks like.

The Best Town Facilities

You have the best schools in town. You can try to do a research about the performance of the school and the GPAs are good. The place is slowly developing but the malls, libraries and other public places are not only good to look at but also have served well the community for a long time.

Weather

If you ask why you should live in any place in California, this will be the answer: the weather. You can really enjoy the outdoors with the kind of weather this place have. You can get enough sun and it is like almost everyday, you feel it is summer.

What other reasons could you ask for in buying homes from Carlsbad Real Estate? This may not be enough but you will soon see the greatness of the place even when you go there for a vacation. You will surely want to come back after a short trip or the scenes in this place will surely linger a long time. If you want to have a laid-back life then you should come to this place and start looking for your dream homes.

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Popular Decking Choices in Hawaii

Hawaiians love spending time on their decks. So much so, that decks have become one of the most popular choices for home renovations. In fact, deck improvements, (along with kitchens), generate one of the highest returns for a homeowner’s renovation dollar.

Trendy outdoor living spaces are all the rage and homeowners are looking for more ways to expand their living space. In addition, our troubled economy has forced more people to forfeit expensive vacations and spend more time close to home. As a result, more attention is being focused on deck construction and generating new technology for decking material and components.

Gone are the wooden porches slapped together with scrap lumber, and requiring annual paintings to prevent rotting. Today’s decks are made with materials designed to last, that require little maintenance.

Most homeowners opt for real wood construction, with only 20 percent choosing synthetic materials. Although the latter is more expensive at the onset, over time, the long term saving on maintenance is substantial.

Many are now choosing composite decking and railing materials that provides an eco friendly and low maintenance product. Companies such as Latitudes create a product that looks just like wood, but is actually made of a combination of recycled wood fiber and post-industrial high-density polyethylene. Available in a myriad of colors ad finishes, it won’t splinter, and is protected against UV rays and water absorption.

Other similar versions are formed entirely from plastic, and have a non-porous, slip-resistant surface. With a 25 year product warranty, you know this material is designed to last.

When choosing an entrance to your patio or lanai, a popular door is offered by Climatrol Hawaii. Their doors have waterproof screens that are virtually locked in and rarely come loose.

Stone is also a popular building product for decks and lanais. It has timeless elegance that never goes out of style, requires little maintenance and lasts forever. Travertine and quartzite are popular choices for outdoor construction, especially around pools or hot tubs. They are lower in cost than most and come in a variety of colors.

The most popular forms of real wood construction are redwood, cedar, and most recently, South American Ironwood or Ipe. Known for it’s durability and resistance to insects and harsh weather, Ipe is quickly becoming the most popular decking material in Hawaii.

The most important part of any deck (next to its structure), are the accessories. Popular choices include teak for chairs, loungers, tables and end tables. Although this product is extremely forgiving and is built to withstand more abuse than most types of wood furniture, regular oiling is required to keep your teak looking its best. Oversized stone or metal planters make perfect homes for flowering tropical plants.

When looking at design, split levels add interest and creativity and can be used to divide a deck into zones. Build your deck around large palms or other trees to add natural shade.

Hawaiian decks are also functional. Many include outdoor kitchens, eating areas, built in barbecues and special areas for meditation or exercising that lead into small Zen gardens with Koi ponds.

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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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Welcome to the San Diego Wild Animal Park

One of the most popular and well known tourist attractions in Southern California is the San Diego Zoo.  Most people outside of California, however, aren’t aware of an even better wildlife experience which is just a short drive from the Zoo, in the northern part of San Diego County, the San Diego Wild Animal Park.  Like the San Diego Zoo, the Wild Animal Park is operated by the Zoological Society of San Diego which is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and education of endangered species and their habitats.  I’ve been to the Park many times while growing up in Southern California, but my last visit was special because it was with my five year old daughter who has never been there before.  It was an experience that yielded many cool pictures and a great time that I won’t soon forget.

The San Diego Wild Animal Park opened in 1972, and many of the attractions that were there for the opening are still around today.  The Park is not set up like a traditional zoo because most of the exhibits are in an open area on acres of land.  This allows the Park to keep herds of different species that interact with each other in an environment that simulates their natural habitat.  Because of this, the animals display many of their natural behaviors, providing Park visitors with a better understanding of how they live.  

The Wild Animal Park’s most popular attraction is the Wgasa Bush Line Railway which takes visitors on a 3 mile, 40 minute journey through most of the Park’s main areas and then into the San Pasqual Valley.  The valley is divided into different areas, each representing different regions such as North Africa, South Africa, the Asian Plains, and the Mongolian Steppe.  The tour also offers a live narration by the tram driver which really succeeds in educating the riders about each species on display.  For instance, I never knew that a herd of rhinos is known as a crash.  This attraction is perfect for older kids and adults, but younger children may become a little restless due to the ride’s length of time.  In the spring of 2007, the old railway is going to be replaced by a new and more modern transportation system.

Much of the Wild Animal Park’s charm comes from the over 3,500 plant species on display along with the Nairobi Village theme.  Our visit was on a somewhat dreary day which made the Park seem like a rainforest with babbling brooks and misty walkways.  The one exhibit that my daughter couldn’t get enough of was Lorikeet Landing.  For two dollars, you can buy lorikeet food (nectar) and the colorful birds will actually land on you when you enter the atrium.  From there, we saw another one of my daughter’s favorites, Lion Camp.  This new attraction lets you see the lions from several different angles and also provides an up-close view when you approach the glass barrier, which is the only thing separating you from the king of beasts.  I’m a big fan of carousels and the Conservation Carousel was one of the most unique that I’ve ever seen.  Instead of horses, it featured many of the endangered animals that can be seen throughout the park.  Our final attraction of the day was an Animal Encounter, where we got to experience a Caracal Cat up-close along with its trainer.

For a little bit more than the price of a one-day ticket, you can purchase one of several packages that allow you to become a member of the Zoological Society of San Diego.  As a member, you get such benefits as unlimited visits to the San Diego Zoo and the Wild Animal Park for one year, a ZOONOOZ magazine subscription, a membership card, and monthly member specials featuring discounts on food and merchandise.  Since The Wild Animal Park is operated by a non-profit organization, a visit to the gift store not only gets you some really cool stuff, but also allows you to contribute to a worthwhile cause.  This was the first of many visits that my daughter and I intend on making to the Park over the next year.  Hopefully, on your next trek through Southern California, you take the time to experience the San Diego Wild Animal Park for yourself.

Welcome to the San Diego Wild Animal Park

One of the most popular and well known tourist attractions in Southern California is the San Diego Zoo.  Most people outside of California, however, aren’t aware of an even better wildlife experience which is just a short drive from the Zoo, in the northern part of San Diego County, the San Diego Wild Animal Park.  Like the San Diego Zoo, the Wild Animal Park is operated by the Zoological Society of San Diego which is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and education of endangered species and their habitats.  I’ve been to the Park many times while growing up in Southern California, but my last visit was special because it was with my five year old daughter who has never been there before.  It was an experience that yielded many cool pictures and a great time that I won’t soon forget.

The San Diego Wild Animal Park opened in 1972, and many of the attractions that were there for the opening are still around today.  The Park is not set up like a traditional zoo because most of the exhibits are in an open area on acres of land.  This allows the Park to keep herds of different species that interact with each other in an environment that simulates their natural habitat.  Because of this, the animals display many of their natural behaviors, providing Park visitors with a better understanding of how they live.  

The Wild Animal Park’s most popular attraction is the Wgasa Bush Line Railway which takes visitors on a 3 mile, 40 minute journey through most of the Park’s main areas and then into the San Pasqual Valley.  The valley is divided into different areas, each representing different regions such as North Africa, South Africa, the Asian Plains, and the Mongolian Steppe.  The tour also offers a live narration by the tram driver which really succeeds in educating the riders about each species on display.  For instance, I never knew that a herd of rhinos is known as a crash.  This attraction is perfect for older kids and adults, but younger children may become a little restless due to the ride’s length of time.  In the spring of 2007, the old railway is going to be replaced by a new and more modern transportation system.

Much of the Wild Animal Park’s charm comes from the over 3,500 plant species on display along with the Nairobi Village theme.  Our visit was on a somewhat dreary day which made the Park seem like a rainforest with babbling brooks and misty walkways.  The one exhibit that my daughter couldn’t get enough of was Lorikeet Landing.  For two dollars, you can buy lorikeet food (nectar) and the colorful birds will actually land on you when you enter the atrium.  From there, we saw another one of my daughter’s favorites, Lion Camp.  This new attraction lets you see the lions from several different angles and also provides an up-close view when you approach the glass barrier, which is the only thing separating you from the king of beasts.  I’m a big fan of carousels and the Conservation Carousel was one of the most unique that I’ve ever seen.  Instead of horses, it featured many of the endangered animals that can be seen throughout the park.  Our final attraction of the day was an Animal Encounter, where we got to experience a Caracal Cat up-close along with its trainer.

For a little bit more than the price of a one-day ticket, you can purchase one of several packages that allow you to become a member of the Zoological Society of San Diego.  As a member, you get such benefits as unlimited visits to the San Diego Zoo and the Wild Animal Park for one year, a ZOONOOZ magazine subscription, a membership card, and monthly member specials featuring discounts on food and merchandise.  Since The Wild Animal Park is operated by a non-profit organization, a visit to the gift store not only gets you some really cool stuff, but also allows you to contribute to a worthwhile cause.  This was the first of many visits that my daughter and I intend on making to the Park over the next year.  Hopefully, on your next trek through Southern California, you take the time to experience the San Diego Wild Animal Park for yourself.

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Visiting the American Southwest

Southwest region of United States is an exhibition of myriad cultures, traditions, activities, events and ambience. This is because the region is composed of globally recognized states- Arizona, New Mexico, California, Nevada, Texas and Utah. Colorado too is often deemed to a part of this insignificantly harsh or water deficient region. According to many people visiting Southwest is akin to confronting the past. For pioneers, cowboys and mountain men traveled around and settled in this area. Also the southwest festivals and fairs are a complete reflection of tradition and culture. For instance if you want to taste the typical southwest region flavor, take part in the fairs like Texas State Fair or the 49ers festival in Utah.

Southwest region is an area where cultural diversity can be delighted in, where variety has become the specialty. So while Mexico has its own Mexican culture to greet you with, the Old World Spanish culture still echoes in California. The imprints of the tribes such as the Navajo, Apache, Hopi and Zuni are visible on the land of Southwest. One amongst the wonderful features of this area is that age, caste and sex are no bars to enjoy. In other words people of all ages can have a gala time here.

The place has everything to lure its visitors. From beguiling scenic splendor to thrilling and adventurous activities, it has all. Kids can have an amazing time visiting sites like Jellystone Parks, dinosaur digs, National Parks like Guadalupe Mountains national park etc. Perceiving Grand Canyon, one amongst the wonders of the world is definitely a lifetime experience for every visitor. Death Valley is another awesome place to hit. It is one of the geological wonderlands. Apart from this the geological formations in Zion National Park, desert terrain running alongside the lush mountains are a toast to eyes. Magnificent and colorful volcanic deposits can be seen at the Artist’s Palette. The oasis, warm springs, palm trees and cottonwoods make the Furnace Creek a place worth going. You can even board a flight and soon be a member of the rocking nightlife of Las Vegas, the place that never sleeps.

In Southwest you can relish rock climbing, mountain hiking and even skating. The Zion National Park and a few other national parks offer many hiking trails. Hiking Zion Canyons is also a breathtaking experience but meant only for skilled hikers. Ruby Mountains situated in northern Nevada are ideal for rock climbing. There are overhanging rocks and 800 feet tall rock towers that make rock climbing most adventurous sport so far. The Lamoille Canyon, located in Ruby Mountains is also a place swarming with visitors.  Little Florida Mounatins are also associated with hiking. Here you will find trails for hiker of every level and the most bewitching aspect is the incredible view one gets to see after climbing on the top.

The Rockhound state Park in New Mexico is largely recognized as a picnic spot for entire family. Rockhound offers excellent camping opportunities. There are hot showers, bathrooms and a Visitor’s Center too. People love to do camping here because of the fascinating aura and to grab 15 pounds of agates, geodes and quartz that anyone can gather and take to home.

Since the southwest region is rich in dinosaur fossils and has countless rocks, treasure hunting is a popular activity here. Here you can hunt for treasures of all types. Dinosaur bones are found littering sand dunes and dry lakebeds. Gold can be discovered in California and Arizona.

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Snowmobiling in Michigan

Mackinac City in Michigan has been a popular vacation destination for people who enjoy winter activities in the frigid winter weather. The beautiful landscape with the majestic Mackinac Bridge in the background provides an awesome combination that vacationers will undoubtedly appreciate. The great deal of snowfall in the region and the constant cold weather conditions during the winter months is great for snowmobilers to enjoy the full potential of a thrilling snowmobile adventure in Michigan’s historic Upper Peninsula.

Mackinac City has thousands of miles of groomed snowmobile trails for a variety of skilled riders. Inexperienced snowmobilers will enjoy the smoother trails that wind through the beautiful landscape of northern Michigan. Experienced snowmobilers will want to take advantage of the rougher and more treacherous trails available for a challenging ride through the snow-covered surroundings. One of the beauties of Mackinac City’s maintained trails is that they are groomed in such a way that they do not disrupt the natural pristine appearance of the northern Michigan landscape. City officials have made great strides in introducing legislation that restricts snowmobiling to certain areas and only certain models with more efficient exhaust systems installed.

The city contains several resorts, lodges, bed and breakfast inns, and cottages designed to fit the needs of any winter vacationer. The Spayde Cottage is one of the best lodging accommodations available to snowmobilers in Mackinac City. Located on gorgeous Cecil Bay, the resort-style cottage contains three bedrooms so families can enjoy the various amenities together. The Cottage on the Straits is another great place to enjoy your snowmobile vacation. Guests will appreciate the spectacular views of the magnificent Mackinac Bridge amidst the Michigan winter landscape. It can house up to six people with private lake frontage for other enjoyable winter activities. The Cottage on the Straits provides guests with further convenience with the variety of nearby shops and restaurants to enjoy after a long day of snowmobiling in the frigid weather.

The Mackinac City area also has plenty of historic inns available for winter vacations. The Colonial House Inn, located in nearby St. Ignace, is just one of these beautiful historic inns that vacationers can choose. Built in 1840, the inn offers awesome views of the Mackinac Straits and the city itself in the winter scenery. The Colonial House Inn is within walking distance of a number of dining options and shopping centers so guests have the convenience of the city while still being nestled in the comfort of a serene and private setting. For more sightseeing opportunities, visitors staying in this historic inn also have easy access to beautiful Saulte Ste. Marie, Whitefish Point, and scenic Tahquamenon Falls.

For vacationers who want to avoid the hassle of hauling their snowmobiles and equipment to their vacation destination, visitors to Mackinac City will have a variety of renting facilities and dealers where they can rent the equipment for a small fee. Rental packages include safety gear and some accessories, depending on the particular facility. Vacationers can even rent a snowmobile for several days or several hours, depending on their budget and their vacation plans. Resorts are also dedicated to helping snowmobilers enjoy the experience to the fullest. With websites that constantly update the weather conditions and the amount of snow on the ground, guests can play their daily winter activities accordingly. They also provide guests with updated trail maps so they can experience different landscapes and trails during their stay. The websites also give vacationers the opportunity to share their unique stories and photos with others who are interested in making their next snowmobile vacation spot in Mackinac City.

Mackinac City, Michigan is one of the best snowmobile vacation spots south of the Canadian border. The resorts and accommodation facilities work with their guests to provide the best snowmobiling and winter experiences possible in the wintry Michigan landscape. With rental a variety of snowmobile rental facilities and resources that guests can use to plan their daily activities, snowmobile enthusiasts are sure to enjoy their snowmobiling experience in this area of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

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Working With Screened Porch Builders in Virginia

Anyone likes a screened porch because it offers a nice sense of vacation to your home. They are outdoor living spaces and you can enjoy pleasant evenings together with friends and family at any time of the year. On the other hand, if the screened porch planning comprise cooling or heating, you will need to respect all the codes for the living spaces like heating, insulation, electrical and lighting.

If you decide you want a porch in your yard, you can either construct it yourself or use the services of the screened porch builders in Virginia. Of course, if you have some previous experience, you can build the porch as a DIY project. You can either buy a screened porch kit or just build it from scratch. In case you want to hire some of the screened porch builders in Virginia, the costs will be definitely reduced since it will usually require only some basic skills as carpenters if you do not want additional components for your screened porch.

The screened porches can be extremely sophisticated as well as appealing from the visual point of view and you can use them more often than not all year round. It would be a very good idea to integrate the architecture of the new porch with the existing architecture of your new home. A porch can easily become an extension of your home and it needs to fit in the scenery. You can additionally become creative or request the help of the Virginia deck builders for this kind of project.

If you decide that you want to hire screened porch builders in Virginia for building your new porch, you will not need to be concerned about the materials that are required for the project. The team of Virginia deck builders will take care of this and you will not need to go and search for the best prices at the different material outlets.

The materials that the Virginia deck builders choose for your new porch need to be selected based on their durability. Some excellent choices are the redwood and the cedar in case you would like natural resistance to the rot or insects. The majority of people do not realize that they have more than a few options for the screening materials in order to suit every budget. You can either choose from copper and nylon to aluminum for the screening of your new porch in a way that is both functional and attractive.

Hiring screened porch builders in Virginia will spare you from a lot of trouble, from the legal paperwork that is necessary for beginning the construction to the choosing of the materials and the completion of the project. You will only need to sign a contract with the Virginia deck builders and decide over a design for your new porch. After discussing all the details that are concerning the project, you will only need to wait for the screened porch builders in Virginia to complete it for you in the shortest period of time.

Enjoy the pristine beaches and rugged coastline in Humboldt County.
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Homes For Sale in San Anselmo, California

Marin county has become one of the favored places to buy real estate in California, and there are many great reasons for this. San Anselmo, CA homes for sale are tucked into a mountain view town and are in great demand the country over, so what makes this area so special? Aside from the fact that one George Lucas calls this serene area home, there are many advantages to both investing in real properties and living here. For starters, one is able to easily access the legendary San Francisco area while maintaining a safe and peaceful distance from the noise and bustle of the city.

San Anselmo, CA homes for sale are also near to the Napa area and the Sonoma Valley wine country, bringing a rich and unforgettable short trip to the foot of your drive anytime you wish to explore and taste the fruits of the region. The culture in this area is rich and plentiful, ensuring that your nights are never quiet and serene unless you want them to be. A southern view of Mount Tamalpais envelopes the visitor or local inhabitant in nature and all of its wonders, while the other three sides of town are graced with clean, clear water which is perfect for all sports and activities.

This means that San Anselmo, CA homes for sale have a reputation as being some of the most recreation-prone residences on the planet. This area attracts those who simply wish to be nestled in a beautiful, natural, yet convenient location, and for those who are big outdoor sports and recreation fanatics. Some of the favorite activities in and around town include kayaking, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and just enjoying the glorious outdoors altogether. Golf is another popular outing in this area, and these courses will not disappoint even the most discerning sportsman.

In short, if ancient redwood forests, multiple cultural and arts events, outdoor sports and recreation, excellent school districts, and scenic inspiration are what you crave, then San Anselmo, CA homes for sale are the ones that you will want to keep track of. This task is made simple with the use of the most powerful Marin real estate search engine ever created. This area has been a coveted and much desired place in which to live and vacation by people the entire world over, so be sure to get in on the action while you can.

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!