Few things are more calming and inspiring than the ocean. Days spent at the beach equal a sense of rejuvenation, an abundance of exciting activities, and, often, natural souvenirs in the form of shells, sand, rocks or driftwood. From the rocky shores of the Mediterranean to the crystal-white soft sands of the Caribbean, visiting seaside locales around the world has been a lifelong passion. In addition to offering me unparalleled experiences such as snorkeling, surfing and scuba diving, I have a plethora of natural treasures to show off – sea shells. Shells are widely collected and prided around the world. Some of the best beaches here in the United States are places I visit again and again to bolster my collection.

Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

Waikiki may be a tourist magnet, but it’s an all-around fabulous beach for many reasons. White sand, year-round reliable waves, safe swimming and an abundance of shells ready to swoop up make it one of my favorite beaches to visit. Conveniently located just a short walk from hundreds of Oahu hotels, restaurants and shopping, shelling at Waikiki can be an easy activity worked into the rest of your day. Since Hawaii is the only exotic tropical destination unlike anywhere else in the United States, it offers beautiful, rare shells perfect for jewelry and decorations.

Glass Beach, Kauai

The shoreline of glass beach is covered with millions of pieces of colorful sea glass, which takes about 10 to 30 years to be created, and serves as a lovely piece of ocean-made art. Found all over the world, the abundance of sea glass at this Kauai beach is possible because of broken bottles and auto glass dumped years ago on the western end of Kauai near Port Allen Harbor. The glittering beach is also nearby numerous Hawaii hotels and resorts, so you can easily take a jaunt out to collect to your heart’s content without having to spend the entire day getting there.

Marco Island, Florida

Revered as one of the best shell-collecting beaches in the world, Marco Island is the largest island within Southwest Florida’s islands. The Gulf Coast offers far superior selection of sea treasures than any other United States beach. Sparkling white sand, incredible weather and shallow, calm waters facilitate the ideal sea-shell collecting experience.

Stinson Beach, Northern California

One of my go-to spots for its close proximity to my hometown of San Francisco and stunning natural beauty, Stinson Beach has a great selection of sea goods for the northern west coast. Sand dollars, beautiful, multicolored rocks and limpet shells are all easily found on this 3.5-mile stretch. Accessed by scenic Highway One, the trip out to Stinson Beach only adds to the allure of this Northern California gem located within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Images: 1, 2, 3

This post was provided by a third party on behalf of Aqua Hotel & Resorts.

Although Alaska is part of the United States, it can seem like an entirely different country due to the extreme weather conditions, stunning natural scenery and remote location. It is an incredibly unique state, home to the country’s tallest peaks as well as some of the most breathtaking views. Many people agree that the best way to see the area is with an Alaska cruise. Not only will a cruise allow passengers to see the major sites around Alaska in one trip, but there is no risk of getting lost in the vast state, or having to spend hours traveling in a car or train to get around. Instead, you get to travel in luxury in a top cruise ship, enjoying the changing scenery from the comfort of your room. Here are some of the best destinations to consider on your Virgin last minute cruise to Alaska.

Ketchikan: This Alaskan city is often the first port of call for cruises heading north into Alaska. Although fewer than 15,000 people live in Ketchikan, close to one million passengers disembark to explore the town each year. There is a historic downtown area, where such landmarks as the Tribal Fish Hatchery, Saxman Totem Park and the Totem Bight State Historical Park can be found. There are several museums worth a visit as well, including the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Centre. Both serve as a great way to familiarize visitors with the native Alaskan culture and population. Of course, the dining is phenomenal with local specialities.

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve: This is without a doubt one of the most scenic locations in Alaska. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is recognized for the incredible beauty of the glaciers. Along with the peaks reaching up 15,000 feet and capped in snow, there are ponds, lakes, rivers and estuaries which only add to the area’s appeal. There are some options for onshore activity, including hiking and kayaking in the summer months.

Dutch Harbour: This town is found in the Aleutian Islands in Southern Alaska, and is more than just a beautiful destination on a cruise. It also boasts an incredibly rich history, and is home to several historical landmarks. During World War II, the town built giant fortresses to protect against any potential attacks. Together, they are known as the Aleutian World War II National Historic Area, which is the main site within the town.

Seward: This Alaskan town often serves as the final port of call for an Alaskan cruise. It is a vibrant town, with an emphasis on outdoor activity like kayaking, sailing and glacier cruises around the area.

If you prefer something completely different such as a luxury celebrity cruise, visit Virgin Holidays Cruises for great deals!

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Are you planning a Florida vacation, but want to take a break from the usual theme parks and tourist crammed attractions? There are some fantastic alternative places and activities that offer a different view of Florida. So book your Orlando holidays with Florida 4 Less and use these suggestions for inspiration:

The Everglades

One of America’s true national treasures, the vibrant Everglades is a stunning natural habitat filled with crocodiles, alligators and turtles. Boat trips take you gliding over the surface of the waters and long grass as you learn more and more about this magical locale teeming with life and adventure.

Nightlife: Key West and Clearwater

At the other end of the spectrum, why not soak up some of the bars and nightclubs in Key West and Clearwater? A ‘Best of the Bars’ scavenger hunt through Key West enables drinkers to tipple their way from bar to bar, including Ernest Hemingway’s favourite Sloppy Joe’s. In Clearwater, be sure to sample the sounds in The Wave nightclub and the cocktails in the Tiki Bar.

Daytona International Speedway

Refuel and rev up your engines at the Daytona International Speedway, home of the famous Daytona 500. Take one of the privately guided VIP Tours to get up close and personal with the usually off limit areas where Daytona’s rich racing history has been written. Race fans will love it.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

If you’re looking for culture and heritage, why not pay a visit to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami, the former home of industrialist James Deering. Built in 1916, the immense house is modelled on European palaces and holds an incredible array of historical artefacts and artworks. Admire the beautiful architecture and decor of a house which has hosted Queen Elizabeth II and Pope John Paul II.

Shop Til You Drop: Naples and Marco Island

If you require some retail therapy after all the sightseeing, head to Naples and Marco Island and lap up the luxury inside the interior design stores and haute couture boutiques. Then take a moment to relax by the bay with a cocktail before readying your credit card for another round.

iFly Orlando

While a certain mouse and his pals like to hog the limelight in Orlando, visitors shouldn’t neglect the fantastic fun to be had at iFly Orlando. This high powered vertical wind tunnel provides an unparalleled indoor skydiving experience, enabling visitors to experience flight without the need for a nail-biting plane jump.

Image by Christian Ferrari

Written by Daphne Williams

With the travel season on us and many Americans having to watch every penny they spend, it might seem like a bad time to splurge on a trip to Las Vegas, especially with the siren’s call of slot machines and other gambling games. Trips in the US, specifically Las Vegas, can really be more affordable — especially for those that love and enjoy to play live games rather than staying at home and playing online at sites like partybingo.com

Fly Smart

You can find package travel deals to Las Vegas at incredibly low prices at sites such as Priceline, Travelocity, and Expedia. Since hotels and casinos in Vegas typically make their profits from gambling, they’re willing to offer very low room rates, which can mean some great deals on package trips from travel sites. You’ll typically get the best price if you book more than 30 days in advance and make your reservation on a Tuesday or Wednesday, as flights tend to be cheaper when booked on those days.

Be Flexible

Prices for flights and rooms increase substantially in Vegas on the weekends (when many people from LA descend on the city and occupancy rates rise), so if your travel dates are flexible a stay from Monday-Thursday will be much cheaper than a Friday-Monday vacation. Most Vegas shows run during weekdays as well so you won’t miss out on any of the fun with a mid-week stay with your families and friends or even your love one.

Plenty of Free Fun

There are tons of fun things to do in Vegas that don’t cost a penny, from watching the Bellagio fountain shows to checking out the Treasure Island pirate show or the volcano erupting at the Mirage. If you’re planning to see a Cirque du Soleil show, be sure to check one of the numerous vendors on the strip that sells discounted show tickets, as you can often find incredible deals on show tickets during the week for many of the early Cirque shows as well as other concerts and performances.

Free Comp

Ask when checking in if you’re eligible for any comps such as slots free play coupons, as many Vegas hotels and casinos regularly give out $10-$20 in free slots play to guests. Just like online casinos that give new players cash bonuses to play Internet roulette and other games, Vegas casinos are usually more than willing to give guests a little bit of free money to get their stay started on the right foot.  So if you are new to this kind of thing, read more to get a better understanding and avoid risking anything.

Clipping Coupons

A quick Google search on “Las Vegas Coupons” will bring up dozens of websites that specialize in offering free coupons for meals, shows, gambling, and shopping in Vegas. Many let you print the coupons at home and bring them with you on your trip, while others are more traditional coupon books that you can buy in Vegas and use around town.

For many, a vacation to the United States involves visiting the big cities and seeing traditional touristy sites. So, what to do if you find yourself with cheap airline tickets into a major metropolis and are itching for something a little more intimate and unfamiliar? Hop on a train!

While a train is a great way of crossing large swaths of the country, I’m going to focus on two major cities on the US’s East Coast and where a short train ride outside of them will take you.

Serene small-city life in Alexandria. Flickr image: massmatt

Alexandria, VA

If you happen to visit Washington, DC you’ll have the opportunity to see an incredible amount of the culture and history of the United States. Home to world-renowned restaurants and museums, you can spend weeks here and never see it all. But what if you look for an experience beyond the city? A quick ride on the Metro will put you in Alexandria, VA.

Alexandria is a city that has been around longer than Washington and boasts even more history. Famous for being home to George Washington, the city has begun to set itself apart as a safer and lower cost option to the hectic rush of DC. You’ll be able to dine at nationally known restaurants with top tier chefs or pick up a quick snack from one of the many low-cost local eateries. Which is good, because every locally owned store in Alexandria is worth exploring for a little shopping.

There are two neighborhoods within the city to discover, Old Town and Del Ray. Each is fully walk-able and can be accessed by public transportation.

Amish farmland outside Lancaster. Flickr image: robswatski

Lancaster, PA

After you’ve hung out with Benjamin Franklin and watched a Phillies baseball game, take an hour-long train-ride West, to Lancaster, PA.

Traditionally known for it’s Amish culture and farming roots, Lancaster is rapidly becoming a haven for creative artists of all kinds. Boasting entire streets of nothing but galleries and unique shops, the city offers an urban experience that you might not have expected.

Of course, if you want to see what joys simple living can bring, a quick stop outside of the city will surround you with fields of perfectly tilled farmlands of the Amish families that call the region home. Explore one of their homesteads, sample their delicious baked goods, and be sure to take home a quilt!

These are only two of the options available outside a couple of the United States’ greatest cities. When it’s time for your next holiday, spend some time beyond the city’s walls. You’ll love what you can find!

Las Vegas, an ideal stag party destination.

Written by Tatiana Fernandez

Montreal, Quebec

Located in Quebec, Canada, Montreal is regarded as one of the finest cities in the world for stag parties and it is easy to see why when one walks down Saint Laurent Boulevard or Crescent Street. A high number of beautiful women from all around the world enjoy this stimulating city any time of year. A virtually endless selection of nightclubs and modern, trendy lounges can be found in the heart of the city. Early evenings many stag parties head to Crescent Street’s Jacques Villeneuve’s Restaurant and Lounge or the Newtown Pub. For serious partying, the Time Supper Club is open every night of the week to fill any stag partier’s needs.

Whistler, British Columbia

Located in British Columbia, Canada, the town of Whistler has it all: beautiful snow bunnies, beer on tap, and outstanding ski slopes. Whistler is renowned for its snow-capped mountains, great entertainment, and gorgeous girls. The ideal location for stag parties, the town offers a vast array of clubs and lounges that practically guarantee non-stop action. Those that live in the local area state that Buffalo Bill’s is the granddaddy of all Whistler’s clubs and patrons are assured of a fantastic night of music and fun. The upbeat friendly crowd who frequent the establishment state that the boisterous atmosphere of the club is ideal for anyone who wishes to host a successful stag party. No trip to Whistler is complete without a visit to The Boot Pub. This lounge is the ideal choice for those searching for Canadian babes who are looking for their own fun and excitement.

Scottsdale, Arizona

For those who enjoy golf, there is no better stag party destination than Scottsdale, Arizona. Golf getaway stag parties are gaining popularity with men everywhere, and the reasons for this are obvious. With 200 state-of-the-art golf courses and a pleasant climate featuring low-humidity, Scottsdale is the ideal place for the guys to get together and scope out the local chicks after a day on the greens. Delicious grilled entrees and sumptuous fare at the Kona Grill await those who find that golfing has worked up their appetite. After dinner, the party can make their way to the SIX Club where cold drinks are lined up on an ice bar that virtually extends the full length of the dance floor. Babe’s Cabaret is another of Scottsdale’s infamous hotspots where a wide variety of entertainment can be found as well as an abundance of beautiful women.

New Orleans, Louisiana

The perfect back-drop for a stag party, New Orleans, Louisiana offers just about anything a bachelor party animal could hope to find. Regardless of whether or not the party’s goal is to experience Mardi Gras or just cruise for babes, a Bourbon Street stag party is not something that will ever be forgotten. A stimulating and action-packed nightclub called the Cat’s Meow is one of New Orlean’s most renowned bachelor hang-outs and caters to uninhibited party-goers. The Razoo Bar and Patio is another must-visit establishment that attracts women who are searching for an exciting time. Bourbon Street’s Temptation club is also a perfect backdrop for a stag party and the club’s reputation gets rowdier all the time.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Not referred to as Sin City for nothing, Las Vegas in Nevada is a dream come true for everyone in the stag party. From casinos to relaxed laws on drinking, it is not surprising that Las Vegas is top on the list of outstanding bachelor party destinations. At the Hard Rock Hotel, women dressed to the nine’s can be found day or night, and at the Rum Jungle Dance Club, the guys can enjoy a fun night out.

Tatiana Fernandez enjoys travelling and is a freelance writer writing for the website Redseven Leisure who organizes stag parties in great locations around the world. For more information, visit http://www.redsevenleisure.co.uk/stag-weekends.php

Universal Studios in Orlando. (Image courtesy of gepiblu.)

Written by Nisha Bashir

Trying to keep everyone happy on a family holiday is no mean feat. However, there are many global locations in which you can do just that, although choosing between them can seem a difficult task whether they are holiday parks or somewhere different. Here are a few of the best options when you’re trying to book some time away from home and have people of all ages to look after.

Gatorland in Orlando.

Orlando, Florida, United States

Orlando is home to not one but many of the planet’s premier destinations for family fun. Walt Disney World is of course one of the most exciting places to visit for both kids and adults, but in the case of this amazing location it’s only the beginning. Sea World is another magnificent theme park worth the trip in itself, as are the incredible Universal Studios and Discovery Cove. It may be a cliché, but things really are done on a different scale here, making for an unforgettable experience for everyone from eight to eighty and beyond.

London, United Kingdom

London is one of the world’s great cities, with history and culture in ample supply. The city has long been a favourite choice for families looking to take a break from both UK and worldwide locations. From Madame Tussauds to the West End, via the Science Museum and the National Gallery, you’d need to spend a long time here to run out of places to visit. London’s gorgeous and expansive family holiday parks also make it the perfect environment on a summer’s day, and with plenty of restaurants catering to the entire family you’re well taken care of into the evenings too.

Sea view in the Canaries.

Canary Islands

The Canaries are understandably a popular choice for people young and old. Regardless of if you visit Gran Canaria, Tenerife or Lanzarote you’re pretty much guaranteed hot weather, as you’re not far from the northern reaches of Africa. Sun and sand are available in plentiful supply, whether you want to get active or chill out. A unique flavour of Spanish culture also prevails here, so the food and drink are excellent. The Canary Islands are a great choice for all inclusive, top value deals.

New York City, United States

New York City is a place that simply never loses its appeal, whether you’re into the arts, modern history or just want to experience the bright lights and big city thrills. They weren’t joking when they said this is the city that never sleeps, and the excitement simply never stops. New York City represents the full array of American culture in all its incredible diversity, a unique and unforgettable pleasure.

View of the Seine from the Eiffel Tower.

Paris, France

One of the world’s most beautiful places, the city of Paris is a truly beguiling one. With an inexhaustible supply of galleries and museums, the city’s buildings are themselves a breathtaking sight. The River provides the backdrop for much in the way of family fun, with a boat trip either by day or night surely one of the loveliest ways to see the sights. For eating out, Paris is hard to beat, with more world cuisines represented than you could ever want.

Nisha Bashir works as the editor for Holiday365 and has been representing the business for the last two years now. Holiday365 offers some great deals in the UK, why not pay them a visit to see the latest deals, holiday365.co.uk.

TACK street art in NYC.

Written by Lisa Turner

New York City has many different landscapes.  Because the city is divided into five different sections, Queens, The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan and Staten Island, the culture among the Big Apple can be quite diversified and so is the overall panorama. Either for personal or political reasons, artists express themselves on the walls of NYC and make this urban environment a real colorful and creative place.

How did that happen?

Street art by KEt.

How did the buildings and subway cars of NYC become the support of this modern form of art? It all started in the late 60s, with a young artist known as Taki183 who tagged his name all over Northern Manhattan. He was one of the first graffiti artists and inspired many others. Quickly subway cars became the most popular support for graffiti for two reasons. First of all, the fierce competition for recognition as genuine street artists developed within a few years and second because it was a way to move their work across the entire city.

However, the authorities of NYC decided that this was an attack on the city’s properties and launched the Clean Train Movement in 1989. Obviously it aimed at removing all graffiti from subway cars. However, it had the complete opposite impact. Controversy arose from these measures questioning whether graffiti should be considered as an actual form of art. It also incited many street artists to display their work in art galleries or open their own studio to be known by the public as proper artists. The first one was Jean-Michel Basquiat, known as SAMO, who exhibited in different locations, and Keith Haring who owned his own art studio.

Modern art

Street art by INK.

Today graffiti are still all over NYC. It can be described as a genuine form of counterculture, expression and live example of real creativity. Even though you will find it everywhere across the Big Apple there are some specific venues where you can see examples of this new form of artistic expression.

Go to Queens, the place of sheer abundance because of the many warehouses, with 5Pointz Studio where artists really let go on these huge masterpieces. Harlem is also a place where the late night parties allow people to spray their ideas on the city’s buildings. The Graffiti Hall of Fame, on 106^th, has been a place of many tagging battle opposing some of the best artists NYC has to offer, such as Graff Wars.

Tagging is now recognized as a real form of art but remains illegal. Even though most tags will not be removed from the walls because they represent a part of the city’s characteristics, artists are not to be caught spraying their ideas on walls in the daylight. And if they do, they’ll say they have never seen other people painting NYC’s buildings with spray cans to express creativity because they all belong to this artistic community they swore to protect.

Lisa is a traveler and blogger for Apartime.com who provides vacation rentals in NYC.

© Janelle Vadnais

Written by Janelle Vadnais

Incorporated in 1739, the coastal city of Wilmington, NC provides a wide array of fun activities for people of all ages. If you’re planning on an extended stay in the city, consider hiring a car transport company. In the meantime, the following are just a sampling of some of the activities travelers can enjoy.

1. Go Shopping! There are tons of neat little stores in Wilmington, including a large selection of quaint antique stores to individually owned art galleries, music stores, clothing boutiques and holiday shops.
2. Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park Have small children and looking for a way to cool down? Jungle Rapids is a family-friendly amusement park, filled with fun rides, water works and entertainment.
3. Bottega Art & Wine For those with an appreciation for artwork in all forms, Bottega provides a fantastic contemporary art collection.
4. Fidler’s Gallery/Wrigleys Clocks This is an interesting gallery featuring none other than clocks of all shapes and sizes.
5. Walking Tours Some of several walking tours of Wilmington include Culinary Adventures with Food Writer/Chef Liz Biro, Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington, Haunted Cotton Exchange Tour, and the Hollywood Location Walk of Old Wilmington, to name a few.There are tours available by bike as well as by boat.
6. Nature Trails/Hiking Hiking by the coast? Sure, why not? Wilmington offers plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors at the Huge MacRae Nature Trail, the Summer Rest Trail, and the Greenfield Park & Gardens.
7. Kayaking/Canoeing Wilmington, NC is all about getting outside, and what better way to explore the outdoors than in a kayak or a canoe? The following are just a few places that offer this: Cape Fear River Watch, Inc.; Hook, Line & Paddle; Mahanaim Adventures,
8. Cape Fear Expeditions Take a cruise or tour around Wilmington with the Cape Fear Expeditions or the Captain Maffitt River Tourboat. You won’t be disappointed.

Janelle Vadnais is an avid travel enthusiast and blog manager for one of the leading classic car transport companies in the United States, National Transport, LLC. For more information about auto transport rates, you can contact National Transport, LLC at 1.800.665.5022.

Written by Rosie Baldwin

Something my Dad once said to me was that he would always be eighteen years old. This has become, I must say, a family trait. I know that I can speak for my entire family when I say that it is unlikely we will ever grow up, and at the age of 20 I certainly find it difficult to believe that in just five or six years I could be working full-time with a husband and thinking about mortgages and pensions and maybe even starting my own family. I am unashamed to admit I am the baby of the family, and will always be my Mum’s little girl. And so it was with a certain sadness that I realised that in my growing up and moving away to University two years ago, I had in fact flown the nest and done something I never thought I would, become a responsible adult (well, to an extent anyway).

Reminiscing my childhood I am flooded with happy memories of feeding ducks and sitting on the back of my mother’s bike and exploring for miles around the Sussex of England I grew up in (my first experiences of travelling!). And so a while ago, my Mum and I made an agreement to put aside a small amount of money every month until we had enough to spend on a trip to Canada. We chose Canada due to it having a special significance to my Mum; when she was just my age she was sent there to visit old family friends in a bid to stop her seeing my Dad, presumably hoping she’d be swept off her feet by a dashing young Canadian. However, the trip had the opposite effect, and it was there that my Mum realised she was in fact in love (this story can only be drawn out of her after a few glasses of Pinot noir).

And so during the Easter break and conveniently around the time of Mother’s day we set off to Ontario, Canada. It was a great setting for us to reminisce and have a break from the busyness of everyday life in one of the beautiful places to stay in Ontario. Over huge meals in the many restaurants of Ontario we talked about everything and anything, and it was such a privilege to spend time travelling and exploring with my own Mum — someone I often worry I take for granted.

The best experience of the trip, by far, was seeing Niagara Falls. There is something about such huge and amazing natural beauty that really takes you back and reminds you how small in the world you are. And it is a great and comforting feeling. Standing on a boat covered in huge waterproof ponchos, we looked in awe at the huge expanse of water falling around us. With no worries of how I looked or what people may have thought of me, I felt once again like an excited and amazed child, next to my Mum at the foot of nature at its very best.

For anyone thinking of visiting Ontario, Niagara Falls is a must, and make sure you take someone special. For more information on things to do and see in this Canadian region, visit mydestinationinfo.com

Rosie Baldwin is a young traveller with itchy feet and a desire to experience new things. Having studied Documentary film-making and Cinematography at University, she has an urge to capture and document the beautiful things around her, and share them with anyone who cares to listen!

Written by James Kaiser

1. Get an Early Start
Sunrise is a breathtaking experience in any national park. But most park visitors snug in their sleeping bags, or in a comfy lodge, and sleep right through it. Wake up early and you’ll be treated to incredible views without the crowds, even at the most popular viewpoints. And don’t forget to pack your camera. Sunrise bathes the parks in soft, beautiful light—perfect for taking gorgeous landscape photos.

2. Go for a Hike
Sad but true: Most national park visitors never venture farther than 100 yards away from their cars. Of course, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds this statistic is great news. Go for a hike and the crowds will start to thin out immediately. Choose a challenging trail and you’ll really get away from the masses. As a general rule, crowds diminish exponentially for every step you take away from the pavement. And remember: hiking trails often lead to the most spectacular viewpoints.

3. Avoid the Hotspots
Most national parks are famous for a specific spot—Yosemite Valley in Yosemite, Old Faithful in Yellowstone, Mather Point in Grand Canyon. But take Robert Frost’s advice and choose the road less traveled. It really will make all the difference. Follow the herds and you’ll find more herds. Do a little pre-trip research and you’ll discover that some of the most beautiful places in any national park are often some of the least well-known.This is where a good guidebook can really come in handy. Plan your trip ahead of time and you’ll know exactly where to go—and where not to go—as soon as you arrive.

Sunset at Bass Harbor Lighthouse, Mount Desert Island, Maine.

4. Take Advantage of the Night.
After a long day of exploring and sightseeing, most visitors are eager to head to bed. But nighttime is when Nature puts on one of her finest shows. Most parks are located in remote areas free of light and air pollution, which means clear skies perfect for stargazing. To help visitors enjoy the night sky, many parks offer free astronomy programs. Still need convincing? This year Memorial Day falls within a few days of the new moon, which means dark skies perfect for viewing distant constellations.

5. Pack a Picnic Lunch

Most national park visitors leave themselves to the mercy of park restaurants, which are swamped with crowds on big weekends. The result? Long lines for tables, bathrooms and parking spaces. The solution? Pack a picnic lunch. In addition to saving hours of time and frustration, a picnic lunch will probably be tastier, healthier and cheaper. Best of all: you can enjoy it at a beautiful viewpoint while everyone else is waiting in line!

James Kaiser is an award-winning travel writer and photographer. Currently based in Costa Rica, he works on a guidebook about travel outside of the United States. To date, James’ books about Acadia, Joshua Tree, Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Parks have sold over 80,000 copies. Grand Canyon: The Complete Guide won the Independent Publisher Award for Best Travel Guide and the Benjamin Franklin Award for Best Full-Color Travel Guide.

After having read every single page of the 256-page review copy I received courtesy of Lonely Planet, my longing to explore new places had increased by 200%, or so. I wanted to river raft in Arizona, visit vineyards in Napa Valley, powder ski in Colorado, sun on beaches in Florida, surf in Hawaii, see skyscrapers in Chicago, listen to live Cajun music in Louisiana, learn to dogsled in Minnesota, play poker in Vegas, restaurant-hop in Asheville, hike the Badlands National Park in South Dakota, sing in the Sun Studio in Memphis, and admire fall foliage in Vermont.

The USA Book brings together the history, landscape, culture, cuisine, politics, religions and essential experiences of America in one stunning hardcover coffee table-style book. Organized by state, the book includes additional sections on the USA at a glance (best beach, best hike, etc), the USA by theme (such as arts & architecture, music, food & drink, and sports), the USA by region, and the best road trips, from Route 66 to Coastal New England.

With sharp, engaging content, terrific photographs, and a clever layout, one inevitably feels inspired to discover what each state and region has to offer. Every state chapter contains a compelling one-sentence intro, facts such as nickname, motto, capital city and best time to go, pieces on natural beauty, people, economy, trademarks, urban scene, representations (movies and books set in the state) as well as a detailed map.

I highly recommend The USA Book to anyone with even the slightest interest in the US and its diverse sights, sounds and lifestyles.

Vineyard in Sonoma at sunset

Written by Mary J. Huchtinson

When you are looking for a beautiful escape in California, why not indulge yourself at Bodega Bay? This charming fishing village is part of the Sonoma coast where you will be able to find the perfect Bodega Bay vacation rentals home. It is easy to get to Bodega Bay, as it lies just one short hour drive from San Francisco, California along North Highway One.

There is a large array of vacation options when you choose Bodega Bay for your next holiday. If you want to hike, golf, rides horses, fly a kite or rent a bike you can find all of them available for your pleasure. Should water be the reason you came to Bodega Bay you won’t be disappointed as you can enjoy swimming, surfing, diving, or watching for whales.

If you like to try a variety of wines then you will be in just the right place as you are less than an hour from the Napa and Sonoma vineyards. Many of the well known wineries are waiting for you to sample their specialties. You will also be able to indulge in more than 140 wineries along the Russian River Wine Road which is only thirty minutes from your Bodega Bay vacation rentals.

You will probably want some California cheese to have with your wine while relaxing on the deck of your Bodega Bay rental. There are tours of the Cow Girl Creamery, Bellwether Farms or Spring Hill Jersey Cheese establishments. They sell a variety of cheeses to complement your wine or meal.

Who does not love a bit of pampering where you can be taken care of? Bodega Bay also caters to a number of spas and salons where you can get your hair styled, a manicure, pedicure, and plenty of massages to make it worth the trip. Osmosis is one of the important favorites of Bodega Bay where you can find massage treatments, enzyme baths and facials.

Although you may have cooking facilities at your Bodega Bay vacation rentals you will want to visit the local restaurants for some fresh seafood. The Boat House, Tides Wharf, Blue Water Bistro and Spud Point Crab will please everyone’s palette. You can purchase fresh baked goods to have for your breakfast at Wild Flour Bakery or Tomales Bakery.

Shopping is plentiful in the Bodega Bay area, with many art galleries offering excellent reminders of your time in this California paradise. Take time to browse through Branscomb Gallery, Dodrill Gallery, Local Color Art Gallery or Bodega Landmark Studio.

Romance is in the air when you take a lovely nighttime stroll along the wharf near your Bodega Bay vacation rentals. During the day you can visit one of the many Sonoma County parks or beaches, where the sun and sand invite you to frolic in the waves or build a sand castle.

From your Bodega Bay vacation rentals accommodation consider bird watching as an adventure in itself. Bodega Bay has Western Gulls, Semipalmated Plovers, and the Black Oystercatcher as a few of their more interesting birds.

A short drive to Safari West provides numerous exotic birds, cheetahs, zebras, antelope, wildebeest and more. Visit Bodega Bay for your next holiday to enjoy the many pleasures named above and more that have yet to be divulged.

Mary J. Huchtinson enjoys all that the dramatic and scenic Sonoma Coast has to offer. She enjoys running her Bodega Bay Vacation Rentals as there is so much for people to enjoy during their Bodega Bay Vacation and it’s a unique experience for her guests to enjoy life on the water.

Article Source: travelarticlelibrary.com

A misty day in Mystic Seaport

Written by Cliff Calderwood

As a New England vacation travel writer I’ve always considered Connecticut an overlooked state when people choose destinations and attractions for a New England vacation. As you’ll discover here a Connecticut vacation offers excitement… or peace and quiet, depending on your mood.

Let’s take a quick look at seven reasons why you should consider a Connecticut vacation for your next New England trip.

The Museums of Connecticut

With more than 14 diverse theme museums in Connecticut, there’s bound to be something to suit your taste. Here’s a quick rundown…

Bridgeport is home to The Barnum Museum and Discovery Museum, and at Danbury you’ll find the Military Museum of Southern New England and the Danbury Railway Museum. Keeping with a train theme Thomaston hosts the Railroad Museum of New England and Naugatuck Railroad.

In Bristol you can find The New England Carousel Museum and period time pieces at the American Clock and Watch Museum. Just a little south in Waterbury is Time Expo, and a chance to celebrate the heritage of the Litchfield region at the Mattatuck Museum. At the Connecticut Antique Machinery Museum in Kent experience machinery that once drove commerce in the area.

Windsor Locks is not just home to Bradley International Airport but also to the New England Air Museum and south in East Haven experience another form of transportation at the Shore Line Trolley Museum.

And rounding out our must-see list is Mystic’s Museum of America and the Sea, and the fabulous Mashantucket Pequot Museum in nearby Mashantucket.

The Connecticut Wine Trail

Wineries in Connecticut? Yes, in fact there’s 16 of them scattered throughout the state, and they make a perfect basis for a Connecticut Vacation. The climate in Connecticut is mild compared to the rest of New England and wines produced include: Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot, and Riesling. While Connecticut wines have only been produced since 1978, many farms where the grapes are grown are hundreds of years old. The wine tasting room will usually be open but call ahead for a tour time. You’ll find these wineries not geared for large bus loads, but on the plus much more intimate than wineries in Northern California.

The wine trail is split into two major regions and it’s suggested your tour is split up over three to four days. But because the trail takes you near so many other destinations and attractions in Connecticut let yourself be distracted and enjoy the jaunt through scenic and historic New England towns.

Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun

Combined Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun make the largest casino complex in the world. Foxwoods in owned and run by Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, and Mohegan Sun by Mohegan Tribe on lands they own in Uncasville. These are sophisticated high-style experiences with shopping complexes, hotels, high profile entertainment acts, and top-rated restaurants. They are both close to each other and located in the eastern region of Connecticut, and close to museums, scenic drives, and the Connecticut vacation attractions in Mystic.

Historic Homes of Connecticut

Perhaps the most famous home to see on your Connecticut vacation is Mark Twain’s in Hartford, which is now a museum as well full of many artifacts he accumulated in the 17 years he lived there. Also in Hartford is the home of Harriet Beecher Stowe – of Uncle Tom’s Cabin fame. Another famous woman’s home is the academy run by Prudence Crandall in Canterbury – it’s the site of the first academy for black women in New England. Your trip to Connecticut should include the town of Litchfield where you can view museum quality preserved colonial homes, and the Litchfield History Museum and Tapping Reeve House and Law School.

Connecticut includes many historic homes that played an important role in the Underground Railroad and the African-American journey from slavery to freedom.

Essex Steam Train and the Connecticut River

The historic 1892 Essex station is your kick-off point for a unique vintage Steam Train and Riverboat Cruise along the Connecticut River. This combined tour takes 2 and 1/2 hours. In the summer it’s cooling, and in the fall stunning with the turning of the leaves. The Connecticut River Museum is also in Essex and vividly brings to life the river’s history as told through paintings, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.

The Town of Mystic

Mystic Seaport and the Mystic Aquarium are magnets for visitors to Connecticut. The seaport is billed as The Museum of America and the Sea and depicts an authentic 19th century seafaring village, tall ships to tour, and a Preservation Yard where master shipbuilding skills are still practiced. The Mystic Aquarium includes a delightful array of indoor and outdoor exhibits, including Beluga whales, and a stunning model of the Titanic.

The Antique Runs

Connecticut is famous for its concentration of antique shops, and draws thousands of treasure hunters each year who take a Connecticut vacation just to stock up on bargains and specimens to collect and decorate their homes. The village of Woodbury is known as the “Antiques Capital of Connecticut” and has over 45 dealers, but the fact is you’re never too far from that special purchase no matter where you are in the state. Just sometimes its nice to take the time to follow your nose along a scenic New England road and see where it takes you… you can bet if it’s in Connecticut, it’ll take you close to an antique shop.

For more details on these and other Connecticut vacation attractions and to pick up your free travel reports, go to Cliff Calderwood’s New England Vacations site at www.new-england-vacations-guide.com.

Article Source: travelarticlelibrary.com