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Road Trip Route 66 Highlights

If you are planning a road trip in the near future, you should certainly consider driving Route 66. In the summer of 1926, Congress declared that a road should be built between Chicago and Los Angeles. It was to be one of the most important vehicular arteries in our nation. Road planners always intended Route 66 to connect rural communities to a major thoroughfare. With the Great Depression, families and single wanderers of all types kept the route well traveled as they headed to other towns in search of a better life. Tourists began to join the ranks of travelers, and Route 66 was immortalized in books, movies, and music. The Federal Government finally decommissioned it in 1985. If you would like to soak up some of the history that was such a cultural icon for so many years, there are still many sites to see along the old road.

One of the most important attractions along Route 66 is the Wigwam Motel in Rialto, California. This lodging facility was originally located in San Bernadino, but due to zoning changes in later years, it was classified as a Rialto address. Frank Redford, who grew up under the influence of Native American culture, built the motel in 1949. His business began when he build a teepee in Kentucky to display some Native American artifacts. A year later, he added teepee shaped cabins to the premises to offer visitors a place to stay during their trip. In 1937, he got a patent for the design. There were originally supposed to be seven Wigwam motels throughout the United States, and while the others were present for a short time, only two of them have been as well preserved as this one. When all seven villages were operational, each had the sets of teepee cabins around a large office teepee.

The exterior of the cabins and the office were designed to reflect Native American art. In Wigwam Motel, there are ninteen teepees made of both wood and concrete structures that serve as lodging facilities for guests. Each teepee is thirty foot in height, and they all are equipped to meet the needs of even modern travelers. Each one has two windows. There is a partition at the back of the unit for a bathroom. The inside of the cabins are also decorated to reflect Native American art. This motel includes an outdoor swimming facility and a barbecue grill for guests to use.

There are many Route 66 museums you should visit during your trip. The Route 66 Auto Museum in Santa Rosa, New Mexico is certainly a must see event. They have more than thirty vehicles on display. Each vehicle is representative of the kinds of cars you might have seen if you had driven Route 66 during it’s heyday. From street rods to vintage automobiles, to cars decked out with the level of chrome you might expect, you can glean a lot of knowledge from this stop.

The California Route 66 Museum in Victorville should also be on your top list of stops. This is a great collection of Route 66 memorabilia that you simply cannot miss on your vacation. They have many different displays. Their automotive history display will help you get some idea of the kinds of vehicles that drove along the traditional Route 66. The cultural display will help you to understand how Route 66 grew over time, and how it eventually passed into something children read about in history books. The economic display will help you to understand the financial profitability of Route 66 during the high times. The exhibits change on a regular basis, and there are many photographs and various artifacts that you cannot miss if you plan to drive Route 66.

One final museum you must see on your tour of Route 66 is the McDonald’s Route 66 museum. Since McDonald’s is a staple of road trips in general, it makes sense that there should be some commemoration of this fast food giant on your trip to historic Route 66. The McDonald’s Route 66 museum is in San Bernadino. As the original restaurant was located near Route 66, and many of the early Route 66 drivers may have stopped to try a McDonald’s hamburger, this is the perfect cap to your museum tour of Route 66.

There are a number of great things to see on your Route 66 vacation.

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Santa Fe Serenity The Top Just Gotta Visit Places

Planning a vacation this year? If so, you should seriously consider Santa Fe on your list of places to visit. Santa Fe, New Mexico, is rich in history as well as in current culture. It is one of the oldest capital cities on the continent. Moreover, it is home to the Palace of Governors, the oldest public building on the continent. They even have one of the oldest celebrations in the country, the Santa Fe Fiesta. It was established in 1712 to celebrate the Spanish conquest of the town. When you’re in Santa Fe, there are several attractions that you must visit.

One of the places you must see is the Chapel of San Miguel. It is the most historic church in the Santa Fe area. It rests two blocks from the state capitol, and is located at the corner of Old Santa Fe Trail and De Vargas. This chapel was first built in 1626. However, as there were several Native American revolts in the area, there is nothing lefts of the first chapel. It was burned on a number of occasions. The statue of the church patron, San Miguel, was carved in 1709. It was carefully crafted in Mexico. The chapel was eventually rebuilt completely, and in 1859, it was incorporated as a part of Saint Michael’s College when Archbishop Lamy and the Christian Brothers of Santa Fe purchased it.

Other chapels should also be added to your list. The Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe, on Agua Fria Street, should certainly make your list of chapels to visit. Built in 1795, the Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe is the oldest memorial to the Virgin in the United States. In 1880, as the railroad arrived in Santa Fe, the chapel was dedicated to non-Spanish speaking believers by Archbishop Lamy of the Catholic Church.

St. Francis Cathedral should also make your list of churches you should see on your visit to Santa Fe. This church, built in 1869, lies just north of the La Fonda Hotel. It was designed to mimic French Romanesque buildings, which makes it stand out in the traditional Spanish style buildings of Santa Fe. St. Francis Cathedral wasn’t the first church built on this site. There was another that was destroyed in Native American revolts. That church was rebuilt in adobe and called La Parroquia. When St. Francis Cathedral was built, portions of La Parroquia were incorporated into the new structure. Stone from quarries in and around Santa Fe were used in the construction of St. Francis Cathedral.

Churches aren’t the only things you should see in Santa Fe. While you are there, you should also try to visit the Museum of International Folk Art. This amazing attraction contains more than one hundred and thirty five thousand pieces. It opened in 1953, and currently has four distinct wings that house hundreds of exhibits. The Girard Wing opened in 1982 when Alexander Girard donated a large collection to the museum, which includes popular art, toys, textile material, and multi-national folk art. The Hispanic Heritage Wing primarily contains exhibits that are culturally significant to New Mexico. Artifacts included in this exhibit span four centuries. The Bartlett Wing houses rotating exhibits. There are two galleries in this wing (which was named for the founder of the museum) that have included exhibits ranging from Turkish culture to Tibetan tradition. The Neutrogena Wing is primarily a textile display encompassing the collection donated by the Neutrogena Corporation.

If you enjoy museums, be sure to check out the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. This is part of the Museums of New Mexico system. This museum was founded in 1909. It is constantly under expansion to hold its contents. Its exhibits contain Native art and cultural artifacts. The material ranges from contemporary times to pre-recorded history. They have rotating educational programs on a constant basis. Try to catch one while you’re in town.

The Santa Fe Children’s Museum is the perfect place to take your family while you’re on vacation in the Santa Fe area. The cost is fairly minimal, and while the exhibits change on a regular basis, all of them encourage your kids to think creatively. They even have great places for your toddler to play.

The next time you’re in Santa Fe, be sure to catch one of these great locations.

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How to Find the Right Travel Destination for Nudists
You have all heard the nudist colonist jokes that seem to circulate amongst vacationers. You have probably also heard the apparent horror stories of the weary traveler who finds a beautiful piece of sandy beach and rests her or his eyes, only to wake up later …

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To Buy or Not to Buy, that is the Travel Insurance Question

Going on vacation can alternately be one of the most anticipated and the most stressful events of the year. It can be so incredibly exciting to spend part of your time planning destinations to visit, people to see, activities to attend, and places to see. You get the opportunity to read all of the materials the travel agency, Internet site, or chamber of commerce may have on the area you plan to attend. You may have even received coupons in the mail. Perhaps you have a few new restaurants in mind to try. A few days before your vacation, after the rooms have been booked, flight reservations are made, and most everything is packed, your traveling companion takes seriously ill. What now? Worse yet, maybe there’s a death in the family. How do you handle all of the reservation changes? Will you get your money back?

These are the stresses involved in a vacation. These aren’t the only stresses involved in planning for a vacation, though. What if you or your traveling companions become ill or injured while you are away? Who will take care of the bills? How much money will you lose in tickets that you have already purchased or reservations that you have already made? If you travel to a politically unstable country, how can you ensure your safety? These kinds of concerns almost make you want to stay home. However, you should take your vacation with peace of mind. At least, that’s what the travel insurance industry suggests. Should you invest in expensive travel insurance? That is a question only you can answer, but here is some information that might help you to make a more informed decision.

Travel insurance was designed to deal with all of the little stresses that come up with a vacation. Most travel insurance companies suggest that they know how hard you work for your vacation. If it gets wiped away in a matter of minutes, you deserve to be compensated for your losses. In that respect, travel insurance cannot truly prevent problems with your vacation, but they can certainly offer to reimburse you for whatever losses you have suffered. Most travel insurance companies offer reimbursement services for a number of different kinds of claims.

One of the most popular claims travel insurance companies deal with is trip delay or cancellation. Many different things might come up to interrupt your hard earned vacation. Travel insurance, through most of the major travel insurance companies, can help to reimburse you for the lost money involved with trip cancellation or delay. There are, of course, some legal requirements for the trip cancellation or delay. In many cases, if you are ill, a doctor must verify it before your travel insurance will reimburse you for the nonrefundable expenses. This part of your policy does usually cover strikes in the travel industry, which can be a real plus in this time of labor unrest. Moreover, if a serious event occurs, like a fire in your home, a terrorist attack, or you are called to active military duty, travel insurance will be able to reimburse you for the costs incurred. Each policy varies, and it is important to do some careful reading before you sign anything.

Another type of claim travel insurance is used to help with is illness or injury during your vacation. In most cases, this must be verified by a doctor, but if it interrupts your trip, travel insurance will not only pay for the money you’ve lost in reservations and such, it may also pay for emergency medical treatment or medical evacuation.

Travel insurance also deals with more serious claims. Most have an accidental death or dismemberment policy that will offer you some compensation if you or another covered traveling companion is killed or maimed during your vacation. This could help to pay for some of the expenses associated with that problem. Some travel insurance companies will even offer to pay for the transportation of the body to its final resting place.

However, serious medical issues and trip cancellation aren’t the only kinds of coverage travel insurance can offer you. Most travel insurance companies offer you compensation for lost luggage. Many can help out with hotel and airline reservations if something happens with yours. If you are traveling abroad and you lose your documentation, travel insurance can step in and help you get the necessary paperwork. If you need a cash transfer, travel insurance can help out with that as well. If any of your possessions are stolen while you are away, you can be reimbursed through travel insurance.

Travel insurance is a great product if you feel you need a bit of extra peace of mind on your next vacation.

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The Great Barrier Reef The Ultimate Scuba Traveling Adventure

For the scuba novice and expert alike, the Great Barrier Reef represents one of the most exciting scuba traveling adventures in the world. What’s so great about this barrier reef, you ask? The barrier reef immense, spanning more than 1400 miles along Australia’s east coast. The Great Barrier Reef, in fact, is the world’s most extensive and largest reef system, and some would argue, the most beautiful reef in the world. If you have dreamed of visiting this wondrous place of natural beauty, here are the basics about the reef and tips for the first-time visitor.

The Location of the Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is located near Queensland, Australia. The reef is approximately 185 miles from the mainland at the southern end, and about 12 miles from the shore on the northern end. The reef is also widest at the northern end, sometimes spanning 50 miles in width. What sort of marine life can visitors spot on the reef? The sheer number of diversity can be breathtaking. You will be able to see about 4000 species of mollusks, more than 1000 species of fish, about 380 species of coral, 500 species of seaweed, six of the world’s species of sea turtles.

How to Get to the Barrier Reef

The best place to depart from in the United States is the West Coast, where flights depart daily for Australia. Once you have reached Australia, you will likely have to make a short domestic connection to get to one of the gateways to the reef. The most popular local gateways to the reef include Cairns and Townsville (tropical cities that are located at the northern end of the reef), and Gladstone and Bundaberg at the southern end of the reef.

The Ultimate Scuba Diving Adventure

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the best locations to scuba dive in the world. Why? The waters around the reef are remarkably clear and warm. The depths vary, but are generally moderate enough for novices to take the plunge. The diving is shallow, with the maximum depths reaching about 60 feet. For more experienced scuba divers, the reefs located around the Coral Sea provide much greater depthdropping to around 300 feet.

One of the best ways to experience the reef as a scuba diver is aboard one of the popular ‘live aboard’ boats that specialize in taking visitors on extended scuba diving expeditions. Many of these boats provide luxury amenities and small vessels to take divers into the heart of the reef. If you prefer to make a day trip, you can also take a day boat. Day boats take scuba divers onto 4-5 hour trips into the reef. Many local resorts arrange day boats for their guests.

Finding a ‘Dive Island’ Resort

Many resorts around the reef specialize in catering to visitors interested in scuba diving around the reef. Most of these resorts are located on the small islands that surround the reef. Most of these resorts offer immediate and accessible access to the reef, and are perfect for those seeking a scuba diving adventure. The most popular of these resorts are located on Lizard, Green, Lady Elliot, and Heron islands. The famous “Cod Hole”, a particularly popular diving site, is located off Lizard Island.

Best Time to Visit the Reef

Because of its stable waters, almost any time of the year is suitable for diving. However, the best time of the year is during the months of August until January. The popular season is during the Australian summer, which consists of the months of December to March. Because the area is considered tropical, the temperature remains pleasantly steady throughout most of the year, usually resting in the 70s to mid-80s. Obviously, there is no clearly ‘bad’ time to visit the Great Barrier Reef and its surround cities.

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How to Find the Right Travel Destination for Nudists
You have all heard the nudist colonist jokes that seem to circulate amongst vacationers. You have probably also heard the apparent horror stories of the weary traveler who finds a beautiful piece of sandy beach and rests her or his eyes, only to wake up later …

Want a Discount Cruise Price? Set Sail During Hurricane Season

Taking a cruise can be one of the most enjoyable types of vacation. You can choose all-inclusive packages, which includes everything from the drinks, to the food to the activities. Cruises can be pricey, however there are ways to find great deals. Did you know that you could get almost rock bottom prices by booking your next cruise during hurricane season?

Booking a vacation during hurricane season may seem intimidating. But, before you dismiss this idea, consider what you can save. Officially, the U.S. National Hurricane Services states that the hurricane season begins on June 1 and runs through November 30th. That is half of the year, so it is important to remember that the greatest hurricane activity will be in the late summer to early fall-usually from the last part of August to mid-October.

Interestingly enough, hurricane season IS the most affordable time to travel. If you are looking for the lowest rates you can find, consider booking your trip at the end of August, and before Christmas. These dates, however, excluded the Christmas and Thanksgiving holidays. This is a time when many families choose to take vacations because the kids are out of school. In adition, you can find a very inexpensive senior citizen rates, last minute booking deals and promotions during that time, as well.

There are many reasons why you should consider taking a cruise. It seems like a lot of money to spend up front, but you have to keep in mind that your cruise includes every aspect of your travel, except for your souvenirs, casino gambling, babysitting services tips and sometimes, alcoholic beverages. You do not need to worry about paying for rooms, supervised activities for kids, gym and swimming pools, nightclubs, meals, entertainment, or even rental cars. When you take a cruise, you have all the cost rolled into one lump sum. In addition, taking a cruise is hassle free. All you really need to do is to decide how much you want to spend, where you want to go and how long you want to travel. Everything else is planned for you.

Everyone can enjoy and appreciate a cruise. The whole family will find something to do that they love. Kids can enjoy the many supervised activities held throughout the day, while parents can enjoy the casino gambling, spa treatments and their own activities. Activities that are often available include therapy pools, rock climbing, golf, teen clubs, planetariums, water slides and even ice-skating. Depending on where you go, you will also enjoy offshore attractions and entertainment. Do you love Disney? Consider taking a Disney cruise. Or, if you prefer, take an Alaskan cruise or one to the Bahamas.

So, how do you go about finding these great, low price fares for your next cruise? There are several ways to book a cruise. If you have never taken a cruise, you should do some research first. Find a good website or book and get to know the different types of cruises that are available to you. Ask around. Your friends and neighbors can tell you about good and bad experiences they have had. After you have decided when and where you want to go, you can often book your own trip without ever talking to an agent.

Many good cruise deals are available at the last minute. If you can be flexible about your traveling schedule and you do not mind traveling in off-peak season (hurricane season), then it will be easy for you to find a great cruise deal. In addition, if you can stay flexible about your choice of accommodations, then you are likely to get a better deal. For instance, check the room size. Are you picky about the size of the room? A larger room will likely cost you a great deal more. Also, consider the deck level. If you dont mind walking a ways to the elevators, restaurants or pools, then your room will not cost as much. Rooms with great ocean views will also run you more money than those with not-so appealing views. Balcony staterooms will certainly cost quite a bit more than those without a balcony.

For a great deal on your next cruise, stay flexible and book your trip during the off-peak season. You will still have a great time; you just will not have to spend as much money than other times of the year.

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How to Find the Right Travel Destination for Nudists
You have all heard the nudist colonist jokes that seem to circulate amongst vacationers. You have probably also heard the apparent horror stories of the weary traveler who finds a beautiful piece of sandy beach and rests her or his eyes, only to wake up later …

Traveling with your Pets Tips for Airline and Car Destinations

When you start thinking of vacation time, many people have to consider their four-legged furry friends at the same time. Traveling with your pet can be a lot of fun, but also requires some additional planning and preparation.

First thing is that it is important to make sure that your pet is healthy enough for the trip. This includes a visit to your vet, where you will want to make sure that you have all of the vaccinations current. If you are traveling by air, then you will need a health certificate stating that your pet is healthy enough to fly. Check with the airline before you go, as some require that your trip be within a certain number of days before you leave. This is also the time to make sure that you have enough of your pets medications on hand as well if he is taking any long-term prescriptions. If your pet gets anxious in the car, talk to your vet about a mild sedative to help take the edge off. If you have a very sick or elderly pet, it might be best to consider leaving them with a friend or at a kennel instead of putting them through the stress of traveling.

Next, you are going to want to pack for your pet. Whether flying or driving, you are going to need a sturdy carrier. Check with the airline as to what their specifications are. You will also need any food, bedding, and toys that your pet cannot live without. If you have a dog, do not forget about a sturdy leash and collar that work properly. With cats, you will want to make sure that you have a portable litter box and litter. All pets should have a collar with current tags on it in the event that they should get away from you. Remember, this is going to be a new and exciting experience for them, but it also might be scary. You do not want them running off while you are away from home. You might consider putting a new tag on with a cell phone number or the phone number you will be staying at while away. Also obtain a copy of your pets medical records from the vet. That way, if your pet should get sick and you need to see a vet while you are away, the new vet will have a complete medical history.

Next, you will want to plan your trip with your pet accordingly. If you need to fly to your destination, look for the shortest and most direct flights. Call the airline plenty of time in advance to make arrangements for your pet. If you have a small dog or a cat going with you, you can see about having your pet ride in the cabin with you. Larger pets will have to go in the luggage hold, and you will need to see what arrangements need to be made. Make sure that their carrier is airline approved, all needed paperwork is within easy reach or displayed per airline instructions, and that your pet is comfortable and has access to fresh water. If you need to administer a sedative, do so at least half an hour before you leave for the airport to allow it time to take effect.

If you are traveling by car, there are also some considerations that need to be made. If you are going to be on the road more than one day, you might want to plan your rest stops ahead of time by the hotels that allow pets. Consider how much room you have in your car. Your pet should be properly restrained at all times for smaller animals this means a carrier and for larger ones a crate or a seatbelt. Pets should always have access to fresh water. When you stop for a rest break, let your pet get out of the car as well, but always keep him on a leash. You do not want him spooking and running off in a new place. If you need to administer a sedative for the trip, do so about half an hour or more before you plan to depart to allow it to start working.

Traveling with your pet allows you to share your family vacation with the whole family. A little planning and everyone will be comfortable and happy for the duration of your trip.

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Roller Coaster Roustabout Planning your Itinerary to Americas Top Roller Coasters

For some, planning a vacation is all about height, speed, thrill, and air-time. Roller Coasters are one of Americas favorite thrill rides. We just cannot seem to get enough of the high speeds, stomach lurching drops, and hairpin turns. Looking to …

Choo-Choo All the Way to Chattanooga

Pardon me boys is that the Chattanooga Choo-Choo? The immortal words may ring in your head when you hear the name. Yes, there is a train in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Plus, there are enough other attractions that will keep your family happy in this Southern town.

Of course, no one can go to Chattanooga without seeing the trains. Consider the Incline Railway, which travels nearly vertically up and down Lookout Mountain. It offers spectacular views of the landscape.

While at Lookout Mountain, you could try taking up a new hobby. For those who are into extreme sports, Lookout Mountain Flight Park and Resort is the largest and most successful school for hang gliding in the United States. In operation since 1978, it takes students of all experience and desires. You can be a one time thrill seeker or a seasoned pro, and the step-by-step instruction can get you to the where you want to be. Learn to solo glide or take a tandem flight with an instructor.

For a bigger train event, take a trip on the Tennessee Valley Railroad. The Railroad offers 6-hour tours that include a stop with a turntable turn-around as well as a tour of the train yard. If youd prefer, shorter hour-long tours or longer daylong tours are also available. If you are traveling with a large group or planning a special event, you can even rent a private train for the day.

If you are not quite into the big things, consider visiting the Model Railroad Museum. These tiny trains are perfect for kids young and old. Built by members of the local railroad club, it is a working display of Chattanoogas train stations. It is also one of the largest HO gauge models. It is 174 feet long and at its widest point 33 feet wide. There are over 3000 feet of track and 120 locomotives complete with all the types of cars you need to make trains. Over 33,000 man-hours went into putting the layout together, and the current value is considered to be over $500,000. Certainly worth a stop in to see.

Not into trains? There is still plenty to do in Chattanooga. Consider the world-class Tennessee Aquarium. Plan to spend several hours if you want to see all the sights. Discovery Hall inside the aquarium even offers hands-on petting of sturgeon. Plenty of fish, sharks, and other aquatic creatures will keep any sea lover entertained for hours. If you are more into movies, you can also choose to see sea-related movies on the huge IMAX screen next door for an additional fee.

Another option is to check out the natural beauty of Tennessee. If you have done any driving in Tennessee, you might have seen the See Rock City signs posted along the highway. Rock City is a winding stone path with a variety of different rock formations. It offers spectacular glimpses of the natural beauty of Tennessee. Follow the path to the top of Lookout Mountain, where, if you are lucky enough to have a clear day, you can actually see seven states. Even on a cloudy day, the view is still pretty spectacular.

If caves are more your style, do not forget to take a tour of Ruby Falls. Taking a short elevator ride into Lookout Mountain, you will have a short walk through stalactites, stalagmites and other underground rock formations. A guide will point out all the areas of interest. At the center you will find Ruby Falls a 145-foot underground waterfall.

If shopping is more your thing, Chattanooga offers many boutiques and specialty stores. There are also two shopping malls nearby offering all your favorite places like Sears, JCPenneys and the Gap. You can certainly choose to shop until you drop if you wish to.

If you plan to stay the night in Chattanooga, there are several destinations to choose from. Consider a family friendly bed and breakfast for your own taste of southern charm, or try visiting one of the many hotels in the area.

No matter how long you choose to stay or what you choose to do, Chattanooga has something for everyone in you family. You can certainly plan a vacation that everyone will enjoy and remember for years to come.

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Skating on Thick Ice with the Worlds Famous Ice Hotel

If you are looking for a different kind of vacation, you should consider staying a couple of days in an ice hotel. Maybe you have never heard of an ice hotel. These hotels are just as the name suggeststhey are completely constructed out of ice. These unique and temporary hotels attract people from all over the world who are seeking an unusual way to spend their vacation.

There are several locations where ice hotels are found. One of the most common locations is in Finland. The other is in Quebec, Canada. Ice hotels are built in the coldest parts of the world each year. These hotels are seasonal, so if you want to stay in one, you will need to consider the time of year you want to travel. The peak time for these hotels is November through March. Come April, these hotels do indeed melt!

So what will you find in an ice hotel? Iceand lots of it. These hotels are built entirely of snow and blocks of ice. Everything you will find in the ice hotel is made of ice, too. These hotels take a few weeks to construct and when you book a trip, you will need to keep in mind the very cold weather. These hotels are not for those who hate the cold. Temperatures can drop several degrees below zero inside the hotel.

Ice hotels in Canada: One very popular ice hotel is in Quebec City in Canada. This was the site of the very first ice hotel in North America. It first opened in 2000 and the 22 rooms were sold out. Currently, the ice hotel expanded to 85 beds, which were also made out of ice. The beds are kept warm by deer fur and mattresses and very thick sleeping bags. The only parts of the hotels that are heated are the separate bathrooms. The last ice hotel structure in this location was made with over 4,750 tons of sculpted ice. In addition, this unique hotel has two art galleries filled with ice sculptures, an ice bar, a movie theater and a chapel. This is a very popular place for weddings. When you come to this ice hotel, you can expect to dine on ice plates and drink from ice glasses. Every bit if furniture in these hotels is also made out of ice.

Ice hotels in Norway: Much like the ice hotels in Canada, this hotel must be rebuilt every year when the weather turns cold. This hotel has been a popular site for travelers since 2000. Each year, the Alta Igloo ice hotel has a different theme, making the hotel new every year. In 2005, the theme was Norwegian fairy tales and in 2006, the theme was wild animals of the region. This hotel features 30 rooms and two suites. It is decorated with ice sculptures, ice furnishings and lighting that highlights the crystal formations of the ice. The beds are also made out of ice and covered in warm reindeer hides.

Ice hotels in Sweden: The Ice Hotel in Sweden was the first ever ice hotel. It attracts many visitors every year, whether they choose to stay in the hotel overnight or not. World famous artists have come here to sculpt one of a kind ice exhibits. The hotel builds 60 rooms every year and also features a bar, reception area and a wedding chapel. The hotel is open from November to May. Because of the popularity of this ice hotel, it grows every year.

Most ice hotels are on the grounds of regular vacation resorts. This is important because most guest will only stay at one of these hotels for one or two nights. Also, when you arrive, you will attend an orientation. They will give you pointers on how to stay warm and how to stay dry. It is important to remember that these ice hotels are a novelty. However, you should leave your valuables locked somewhere safe. During the day, you will stay busy with activities such as skiing, snowboarding and maybe even a little ice fishing.

You can expect to pay around $500 per night for a double occupancy room at one of these hotels.

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Seven Tips to Choosing the Best Budget Vacation for your Family
You have finally managed to push through your vacation request, and for one glorious week you are free from the time clock, the merciless schedule of meetings, production deadlines, and irate customer phone calls. The kids are out of school, and you want to …

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Happy Trails How to Find the Best Dude Ranch Destination for your Family

More than ever before, families are becoming more adventurous in their travels. A family vacation used to mean a short stay at a Disney resort. While the theme park attractions of California and Florida are still a major draw, more families are now opting for adventure themed vacations. White water rafting, camping, and boating are becoming increasingly popular. One adventure themed vacation that stands out is experiencing a taste of the west at a dude ranch.

Why choose a dude ranch vacation? Here are four reasons why you and your family should consider hitching up the wagon and heading to the ranch for your next a vacation destination.

1. A dude ranch vacation provides an experience unmatched by conventional vacations. In other words, visiting a dude ranch is just plain fun. Roller coasters and cotton candy are certainly fun too, but there is nothing like riding a horse on an open plain, smelling the sagebrush on the wind. A dude ranch vacation is an experience completely unrivalled by your everyday life, especially if you are a city slicker. You and your family will forever remember your time spent at the dude ranch.

2. A dude ranch vacation puts you in touch with history. Experience what the pioneers experienced. Imagine the lives of the early cowboys. What better way of learning history than to live it? Shuffling through a museum is certainly one way to learn about history. Actually living it is quite another thing. Your children will never forget the time they spent living the old west.

3. Learn to rope and ride! If you have always dreamed of riding and roping like a pro, a dude ranch vacation may be right up your alley. Most dude ranches offer professional riding and roping lessons. A dude ranch vacation will give you the perfect opportunity to learn and polish new skills. By the time your vacation at the dude ranch is over, you’ll be riding and roping like a pro.

4. A dude ranch vacation does not have to cost more than a more conventional getaway. Maybe you think you cant afford an extended stay at a dude ranch. Even the budget conscious traveler can find a dude ranch that fits his or her needs. Dude ranch stays can range from all-inclusive affairs that can get quite pricey, to less expensive stays that are on par (or less) than an ordinary vacation.

If a dude ranch vacation sounds good to you, you’ll be happy to know there are dozens of very well regarded dude ranch destinations that are family-friendly. Before you pack up your jeans and boots, do your fair share of Internet research. Here are a few points to consider when looking for the best dude ranch destination for your family.

1. Find out the kid-friendly factor. Most dude ranches are very family and kid-friendly. Some dude ranches even have complete kid programs where children have their own instructors, wranglers, and activities. Some dude ranches have kid schedules that include overnight camping trips, special lunches, swimming trips, and other activities. It’s possible for a family to spend their vacation on a dude ranch without seeing each other for most of the day! Ask about children’s activities and programs before booking a stay.

2. Sort out what activities you’re interested in. Once you start to research different dude ranches, you’ll find that some are on par with resorts, complete with swimming, tennis, spa, and other amenities. Other dude ranches focus on riding, roping, and cattle wrangling. Figure out what appeals to you and your family, and choose accordingly.

3. Check on rider age restrictions. If you have children less than six years of age, make sure the dude ranch provides activities to keep younger children entertained. Children under six years of age are generally not allowed to ride. For many families, this is a major consideration when choosing a dude ranch.

4. Research the location your dude ranch destination. Some dude ranches are situated very near bustling towns or cities, while others are in the middle of nowhere. If you are not familiar with a region, call the dude ranch to find out about its location. Are there restaurants nearby, or are dining options limited to the dude ranch? If you plan on flying, where is the nearest airport? How far a drive is the dude ranch from major towns and cities? Especially if you are traveling a long-distance with kids in tow, you will want to make these plans well ahead of time.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Seven Tips to Choosing the Best Budget Vacation for your Family

You have finally managed to push through your vacation request, and for one glorious week you are free from the time clock, the merciless schedule of meetings, production deadlines, and irate customer phone calls. The kids are out of school, and you want to …

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Travel on the Cheap Easy Ways to Cut your Vacation Costs

Do you fantasize about hopping on a plane to an exciting vacation destination, but worry about the costs of travel? It used to be that traveling on a budget meant sacrificing even some basic amenities. But budget traveling is no longer what it used to be. More discounts are available than ever before, and the Internet is one of the most valuable tools for the budget-conscious traveler. If you are willing to do the work of searching for deals, you can treat yourself to a well-deserved vacation at a budget price. Here are seven easy ways to keep the cost of your vacation down, while still enjoying your dream vacation.

1. Be flexible. The more flexible you are about planning your vacation, the better deals you will receive. If you must absolutely depart from a specific city on a certain day, chances are you will have to pay the published rates for airfare, hotel, and other costs. Take out your calendar and keep an open mind. What days can you travel? The more flexible you can be about your vacation days, the better deals you will find.

2. Ask for discounts. Some discounts are easy to find. If you are a student, for instance, check to see if your school has an STA travel office, or if it offers any other sort of travel discounts. Student discounts can save you loads on your vacation. If you qualify for Senior discounts, you may also qualify for several substantial discounts. Even if you don’t find any obvious discounts, don’t be afraid to ask. Many times, just asking for any available discounts can get you better rates on your accommodation or rental car.

3. Strategize to find the best deals on your flight. Saving money on your flight can be one of the budget traveler’s biggest challenges. To get the best price, you must be as flexible as possible (see tip #1). More specifically, keep the following guidelines in mind. First, know that a direct flight is almost always more expensive than flight’s with stopovers in one or more city. Non-direct flights can save you hundreds, if you are willing to put up with the inconvenience of stopping in another city before arriving at your destination. Next, flying during the weekdays is generally cheaper than flying on a Saturday or Sunday. Also, if you are purchasing a round-trip ticket, staying over a Saturday night will usually afford you cheaper fares.

4. Plan early. You have the best chance to cut out extra costs if you plan your vacation early. If possible, purchase your airfare at least two months prior to your date of travel. Secure your accommodation as early as possible. The later you wait to do your vacation planning, the more you will likely pay.

5. Plan ahead. The easiest way to go over your travel budget while on vacation is by not planning ahead. Figure out before you leave for vacation what you can’t and can afford. Can you afford to eat at a nice restaurant for every meal? Maybe you would be better off dining at a nice restaurant for dinner, and eating at a diner or caf for breakfast and lunch. How many attractions can you afford and have time for? Be realistic about how much you can fit into your schedule and how much you can spend before you head out for your vacation.

6. Request a free visitor’s guide. Maps and travel books can be expensive. If you are heading to a popular destination, chances are that you can easily get your hand on a free visitor’s guide. Popular European destinations and most major American Cities, for instance, will mail you a free visitor’s guide if you request it. Visitor’s guides usually come with the most accurate, up-to-date maps, coupons, and information on all the most popular attractions. Simply write to the travel, chamber of commerce, or tourism office of your destination and request free visitor information.

7. Travel off-season. Summer is the peak travel season for most destinations, and the prices you pay for accommodation and airfare will probably reflect this. If you travel in the off-seasonfall, for most destinationswill afford you better room rates and airfare. Also, attractions will be less crowded, and if you go in early fall, the weather will be perfect.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Seven Tips to Choosing the Best Budget Vacation for your Family

You have finally managed to push through your vacation request, and for one glorious week you are free from the time clock, the merciless schedule of meetings, production deadlines, and irate customer phone calls. The kids are out of school, and you want to take the vacation of a lifetime that will bond your family, and build beautiful memories. Unfortunately, you also have to consider your bank account, and while traveling is a wonderful experience, you will still need to pay the mortgage, the credit cards, and the utilities.

Will you be able to put together an unforgettable getaway for your family or will you be hampered by your fiscal obligations? Here are seven tips to choosing the best budget vacation for your family:

Decide what you want to do and take into account the preferences of every member of the family. For example, you want to have a get-back-to-nature kind of vacation, but your spouse hates to camp. The kids want to ride their dirt bikes, but are not big on hiking. Your spouse wants culture. What will you do? While previously you may chosen a destination that suited one or two family members, while leaving others grumbling and unhappy, consider choosing the kind of vacation spot that will permit everyone to do what they enjoy, and thereby with a little bit of compromise, you will be able to have the kind of vacation that appeals to the whole family. Choose a budget vacation that offers a wide variety of activities in and around the vacation spot of your choice. Some resorts will even throw in free boat rentals, guest passes to local attractions, and discounts off local dining experiences if you stay during the off-season!

Once you have narrowed down the activities you would like to participate in, consider the location you would like to visit. Do you want to travel to another state? Do you want to stay in state? If you choose to stay in state, remember that there are many attractions, such as amusement parks, which will offer special discounts to residents.

If you want to try something you have never done before, such as bike touring, research the outfitters in the local area. Some will offer complimentary bike helmets whereas others will charge for them. Do not be afraid to ask for freebies!

Scour travel brochures and also the Internet for coupons. Special offers may be found on many websites as well as in many travel magazines that cater to traveling families. Clipping some coupons will permit you to save quite a bit of money and will further stretch your budget. In addition to the foregoing, ask for seasonal specials, early bird specials, and other times of the day or during the week when rates may be reduced.

Consider renting a recreational vehicle. If your family is up to an adventure on wheels, you will be able to visit many wonderful vacation spots instead of simply being stuck in one location. While it is true that renting an RV and filling up the gas tank may be pricey, consider the money you are saving on hotel accommodations and restaurant meals, and you will soon be able to break even!

Give each traveler a budget. When visiting new locations it is so tempting to buy trinkets and other memorabilia that will later on linger in drawers and soon be forgotten. Instead permit each traveler an age appropriate budget which they may use at their discretion with the understanding that once they spent the money, there will be no more. This will help you to preserve the family travel budget while still permitting everyone to bring something home from the vacation.

Last but not least, be sure to talk to your travel agent about family vacation packages. Resorts will oftentimes offer special family rates in between big events or during the off-season.

As you can see, a family vacation does not have to be pricey, and it does not have to cater to only one or two family members tastes. Nowadays, accommodations will be enjoyable for all, while activities will have something for everyone to participate in.

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Popularity: unranked [?]

The Ultimate in Theme Park Travel Disneyland!

When deciding where to travel, theme parks may come to mind. For the ultimate in theme park travel, consider Disneyland. A playground for the old and young alike it has activities for all the members of your family.

First thing to do is to plan when to go. Depending on the time of year that you decide can make a big difference on the activities that are available as well as the crowds. Winter is the least busy season for the park, but it is also rainy season in California. This can make it difficult to do activities that are limited by the weather. It is also the time of year where more attractions will be closed down for repairs.

Since Disneyland is family oriented, you will find that whenever the kids are off from school will be the busiest. This includes major vacation times as well as three-day weekends. Of these summer is the busiest. However, Disneyland keeps the park open longer and the majority of the attractions are available.

If you are looking to avoid the crowds, times when the kids are in school are the best. Choose spring or fall for the lighter crowds and the higher probability that attractions will be open.

After you decide when to go, you will want to decide how long you want to stay. If you are planning on seeing all the attractions at Disneyland, then you are going to need several days. Taking advantage of Fastpass or Ridemax can help minimize waiting in long lines for rides. Also keep in mind if you want to visit Disneys other attractions, such as California Adventure. With a one-day ticket, you can only visit the park listed. If you decide on a multi-day pass then you can visit both parks in one day or alternate the days of your trip.

Once you get there, it is time to have fun! There is so much to see and do; you might want to plan your day before you leave your hotel room. One way to get more in is to consider using FASTPASS. FASTPASS basically lets you do your waiting in line somewhere else. When you get to the attraction, you could choose to wait in line. If you are thinking of doing something else, go the FASTPASS machine. It will give you a time to come back. If that is going to work with your schedule, then insert your ticket and get your FASTPASS. Then you are free to see a show, enjoy another ride, or go and get a bite to eat. Just make sure that you are back in the FASTPASS line at your assigned time. Some of the attractions that you can see this way are: Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, the Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, Grizzly River Run, California Screamin and many more.

Who you have in your group will definitely make a difference in the attractions that you will want to stop at while in Disneyland. When traveling with children, you may want to consider the themed rides that are slower in pace and smoother. Some of these are Alice in Wonderland, Dumbo the Flying Elephant; Its a Small World, King Arthur Carrousel, and Mr. Toads wild ride. Keep in mind that some of these attractions take place in a darkened atmosphere, so sensitive children may get a little nervous. Do not forget that there will also be Mickey, Minnie, and all of the friends throughout the park, and you child might enjoy getting autographs.

If you have a more adventurous child, these rides are smooth enough but maybe be a little scary for younger children. They include the Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean. Children can ride the Matterhorn Bobsleds and Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters if accompanied by an adult.

The roller coaster-style rides do have height restrictions for your childs safety. The majority of them require your child to be at least 40 inches tall, so you might want to explain this before you go so you do not have anyone severely disappointed.

If you are looking for a place that you can sit down and rest for a little while, there are some options. You could see one of the shows such as the Enchanted Tiki Room or Honey, I Shrunk the Audience. A few of the rides last at least 15 minutes as well; including the Haunted Mansion and Its a Small World.

Regardless of who is in your group, everyone can find something great to do at Disneyland. It is one of the great places to go for a family vacation.

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Popularity: unranked [?]

The River Wild- The Top Five Riding the Rapids Destination

Riding the rapids is an exhilarating way to explore the popular winding rivers of the United States. Not only is riding the river rapids an interesting hobby, but it is also a great way to spend a vacation. There are many places across the United Stated …

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Solo So Good Why Traveling By Yourself is an Adventure

Many people turn down vacation time each year simply because they would have to travel alone. Traveling alone, though, can be one of the most enriching experiences of your life, and you shouldn’t pass it up just because you don’t enjoy being by yourself. There are many reasons to travel solo during this vacation season.

One great reason to travel by yourself during your next vacation is that you can truly enjoy being on your own schedule. When you choose to travel with a group of people, you also choose to deal with each individual person’s schedule. This can get a bit hectic at times. For example, maybe one person in the group never travels before nine am. Maybe another person in the group likes to be in bed by nine each evening. Moreover, maybe there are people in your group who only want to do certain kinds of activities or who will only travel via certain methods like car. When you travel by yourself, all of the activities, timing, and choices are completely yours to decide. You don’t have to worry about who needs to do which activity when. You don’t have to make a compromise simply because certain members of your group would prefer not to do certain activities. You make the selections that make you happy.

Another great reason to travel alone is to meet new people. When you travel with a group, you may have a tendency to follow that group. As a result, you probably won’t do anything on your own, which means that you may not have the opportunity to meet interesting people. If you are alone in your travels, you may seem more approachable by other tourists. As a result, you may get the opportunity to be with people you would never have met before your travels.

In addition, another great part of traveling alone is that you do not have to subject yourself to anyone else’s mood swings. Let’s face it, we all have mood swings. When you travel, though, it may be difficult to control your mood swings, as you are out of your own environment. This can be a real problem if you have a traveling companion, as you are quite likely to subject that person to your mood swings. Traveling by yourself means dealing with only your own mood.

One of the best things about traveling alone in the modern world is that many facilities cater to singles that are traveling by themselves. They design entire hotels, cruise lines, and other entertainment events around singles that like to travel alone, but want the opportunity to meet others.

Another fun thing about traveling alone is that you can try new things. Often when the same people on a regular basis surround us, we fall into locked patterns of behavior. This means that you do the same things over and over again; even if you’re just on vacation. If you’re traveling alone, though, you have the freedom to break out of that pattern of behavior in a way that you may never have experienced before. On your next solo journey, try something a bit out of the ordinary. Skydiving, anyone?

One final reason you should travel solo is so that you’ll have some great new stories to tell all of your friends around the water cooler at the office when you get back. They may never have imagined that you’d actually go solo, so when you come back with some great stories, they might even be jealous enough to try the solo thing on their next vacation.

If you do intend to travel solo, you might consider a few safety tips before you head out. First, if you intend to cross any borders on your journey, make sure your paperwork is in order. Passports and visas should still be valid, and you should carefully check each country’s entrance and exit requirements before you ever leave. Check your destinations carefully. Be sure to apprise yourself of any political conflicts that might be occurring at your destination countries.

Moreover, make sure you are culturally familiar with any of the areas you intend to visit, even if they are in your native country. Create a list of your destinations and a copy of your passport identification page or your driver’s license with someone at home. You might even want to leave some check-in dates with that person. If you miss a check-in, that person can assume that you are in trouble, and can attempt to locate you by other means. Be sure to leave your valuables at home. Even fake jewelry should be left behind, as it can tempt thieves. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Pay attention to the people near you, and use common sense at all times. Make sure your health insurance will cover your travels, and if you intend to travel abroad, make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date.

Traveling by yourself can be a great adventure for lots of reasons. Just be sure to take the appropriate precautions.

Popularity: unranked [?]

How to Find the Right Travel Destination for Nudists
You have all heard the nudist colonist jokes that seem to circulate amongst vacationers. You have probably also heard the apparent horror stories of the weary traveler who finds a beautiful piece of sandy beach and rests her or his eyes, only to wake up later …

How to Choose the Best Hotel for Business Travelers

Business traveling is not always the glamorous routine it appears to be. Lost luggage, missed connections, noisy terminals, spilled coffee on the laptopthese are the realms of the business traveler. Working on the road can sometimes feel like doing two things at once. That’s why it’s so important that when your head hits the pillow at night for some much deserved rest, you can count on getting a restful night’s sleep.

If you are a business traveler, finding the best hotel for your needs is not always the easiest thing to do. In some cases, you may find that your company or organization doesn’t give you much choice where you can stay. But if you do have some leeway about it, take initiative to make sure you find the best place to lay your head at night.

As a business traveler, you are entitled to some basic amenities that can help you function and get the job done. Here is a short list of what you should look for in a hotel accommodation. In other words, if you aren’t getting these things from your hotel, it’s time to look elsewhere.

1. A clean, comfortable, and quiet room. This isn’t too much to ask for, is it? All travelers deserve this, but business travelers must demand it. Your room should be clean, immaculate even. Your bed should be firm, yet cozy. Your room should be a sanctuary from the chaos of travel and work. Don’t settle for anything less.

2. Telephone and high-speed Internet Access. Nowadays, telephone access will not suffice. So much of the business traveler’s work is no achieved via their e-mail and laptop, that access to high-speed Internet is now considered standard at most business-class hotels.

3. The ubiquitous wake-up call (or alarm clock radio). The wake-up call was most likely developed for the sake of business travelers, who tend to wake early for meetings, presentations, and other rigors of the business travelers workaday routine. Even if you depend on your watch or travel clock, it’s a good thing to have. Some business suites provide guests with their own alarm clock radio so that they can set their own personal wake-up alarm.

4. Early breakfast service. Some hotels provide the business traveler with complimentary continental breakfast. This works find for many travelers who don’t have time for a complete sit-down breakfast. Many hotels also offer early breakfast service. Simply ask for a menu and turn in your breakfast order the nigh before. Your breakfast will be delivered to your room at the time you request.

5. Early newspaper delivery. Getting the paper delivered to your room in the morning is a small but important perk that is common in many business class hotels. If you are accustomed to reading the paper each morning (or perhaps sitting down with it after a day’s work), ask for this small courtesy at your hotel.

6. Convenience store. Does the hotel have a small convenience store or guest shop where you can purchase convenience items? Even the most experienced traveler sometimes forgets their toothbrush. Toiletry items and snacks can be purchased at these aptly-named convenience shops.

7. Kitchenette, microwave, and other modern conveniences. If you are planning an extended stay, check to see if the hotel offers rooms with kitchenettes. This can be an invaluable amenity if you would like the convenience of cooking your own meals occasionally.

8. Meeting facilities. Imagine you have created an elaborate Power point presentation created for a meeting, and then realize at the last second that the meeting facility does not have a projector? Sidestep these possibilities by checking the meeting facilities beforehand. Ask about the meeting facilities. What sort of media equipment is available for your use?

9. A business traveler points program. Many business-class hotels offer business travelers points and other rewards programs for frequent guests. Make sure you are reaping these benefits if you qualify.

For the business traveler, these are important considerations when choosing a hotel. Of course, there are other amenities that are much-desiredspa, exercise facilities, guest quarters, etcbut at the very minimum, make certain that your hotel can afford you the basic amenities you require as a business traveler. If you have any choice in the matter, search for a hotel that can offer you these things.

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Popularity: unranked [?]

Roller Coaster Roustabout Planning your Itinerary to Americas Top Roller Coasters

For some, planning a vacation is all about height, speed, thrill, and air-time. Roller Coasters are one of Americas favorite thrill rides. We just cannot seem to get enough of the high speeds, stomach lurching drops, and hairpin turns. Looking to plan your vacation around some of the best? Here are some suggestions of the top roller coasters.

Starting out on the West Coast, Buena Park California boasts the Ghost Rider at Knotts Berry Farm. A wooden coaster, it is designed for speed and smoothness. For two minutes you race around at speeds up to 56 miles per hour.

Coming east, we have Desperado at Buffalo Bills Casino in Primm, Nevada. This ride has a lot of out of your seat airtime, and the big, bright yellow track can be seen from the interstate. The track has a boarding station inside of the casino, and then sends you shooting through the roof in a unique experience, momentarily leaving the casino hustle behind.

Next we have Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana. This theme park boasts the Raven, a short but intense roller coaster. Since you cannot always see where the wooden track is going ahead of you, the thrill of suspense keeps you on the edge of your seat. Couple that with awesome air time and speeds of up to 60 miles per hour and you have one great coaster.

In Muskegon, Michigan you can find the coaster Shivering Timbers at Michigans Adventure. Another wood coaster, this one offers a two and a half minute ride with speeds up to 57 miles per hour.

In Ohio, you have Cedar Point in Sandusky. Known for its roller coasters, this theme park is home to the Millennium Force a gigantic steel coaster boasting an over 300 foot drop, high speeds, and a very smooth ride. An elevator cable speeds trains to the top of the first hill, hardly giving riders the time to anticipate the breath-taking drop on the other side.

If you stop anywhere near Brooklyn, New York, you must plan to visit the Cyclone at Coney Island. While it no longer holds a title for the biggest or the fastest, this original has aged well. For those who want the original, rattle in your seats feel the Cyclone is it. After all these years it still holds a special place with roller coaster fanatics.

At Lake Compounce in Bristol, Connecticut you have the famous Boulder Dash. An out and back coaster, it speeds half a mile around the perimeter of the park, dashing along the side of the mountain and around trees and boulders, before zooming back to the start. High speeds, smooth riding, and some good airtime make it a popular favorite.

Agawam, Massachusetts is home to Six Flags New England and the Superman: Ride of Steel roller coaster. This monster is not designed for the faint of heart. The car is very open, with no over the shoulder harnesses, and when coupled with the intense G-forces, high speeds up to 77 miles per hour, and airtime it can literally feel like you are flying. The first drop plunges you into a dark tunnel, and when you emerge you can hardly tell which end is up anymore, adding to the thrill. It will thrill any coaster fanatic.

Universal Orlando, Florida is home to theme parks and roller coasters galore. Two favorites reside at Islands of Adventure The Incredible Hulk and Dueling Dragons. The Hulk is so powerful the park built a power plant just for the ride. It starts out with a launch uphill at over 40 miles an hour. High G-forces, intense speeds, rollovers and corkscrews and a mid-track free fall are all included and sure to satisfy any roller coaster lover. The Dueling Dragons roller coaster is actually two coasters that run at the same time, coming within inches of each other during intense fly-bys. Make sure that you ride both coasters for their unique experiences, and the front seats are worth the wait for the extra thrill.

No matter where you are going on your next vacation, you should plan to stop at any one of these coasters for the thrilling ride of your life. All of the coaster fanatics in your life will be thrilled.

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Popularity: unranked [?]

Great Ideas on Packing for your Sunny Cruising Adventure
You have finally booked your cruise and are ready for the adventure of a lifetime! You are looking forward to the tables laden with scrumptious foods, the visits to exotic locations, and the rest and relaxation you will enjoy poolside. You cannot wait to finally …

Carefree Days Ten Tips To A Worry Free Vacation

You probably spend most of your year thinking toward your vacation. You may even count down the days until your vacation starts. Still, once you’re actually on this year’s vacation, you spend the entire time worrying about a myriad of things. While some of these worries and concerns may actually have a measure of substance in the real world, many of them simply serve to ruin the only two weeks you have off of your day job all year long. How can you possibly get around those worries and actually accomplish a carefree vacation this year? These tips might help.

The number one thing you can do to banish your worries to the wastebasket where they belong is leave your worries and concerns about your job actually at your job. There are a number of ways to accomplish this monumental task. Many small business owners use vacation time to worry about the clients they may be missing, or the business opportunities they will never get to take part in because they have chosen to go on vacation. Instead of flooding your mind with these kinds of concerns, you would do well to take the vacation time to help refresh your perspective on your business environment. This may help you to think of new ideas that will work well for your business when you get back.

That said, though, you simply must relinquish control of your office while you are gone. You chose your staff members with a certain measure of authority. Let them handle the situations that arise in your absence. Try not to call during your absence, and establish a strict no call policy with your employees. They’ll contact you if an emergency arises, but you simply don’t need the phone in your hotel room ringing every five minutes to deal with the latest office crisis. Having an emergency plan in place may also help you to leave the office in peace. Define emergencies, and set employees up with a list of your trusted contacts in case they can’t find you in the event that something serious happens. Be sure to make it quite clear who should handle which tasks while you are gone. Check in with each person who has a task list. Make sure they understand each entry on the list before you ever leave the building. Be sure to set your e-mail to an auto reply function, notifying people that you are out of the office. You should probably do the same with your voice mail as well. Let them know when you will be back, and whom they can contact in lieu of speaking with you. Remind everyone involved, your boss, your secretary, and your employees, that you will be gone the entire week before you intend to leave. Letting them know on Friday before you walk out the door simply isn’t a good idea. Finally, be sure to leave a tidy work area before you go. Your vacation high will quickly be stomped on if you have to return to a desk full of junk you should have handled before you left the office.

The second thing you can do to leave your worries behind you for brighter days is to make sure your home is safe from an electrical standpoint when you leave. If you plan to be away for two or more days, turn off your water heater. It only takes a few minutes to get hot water when you get home, and it can save you a bit of energy while you are gone. It can also prevent a fire. If you intend to be gone for more than two weeks, clean out your refrigerator and leave it unplugged. If you leave the door open, it will still smell fresh when you get home.

The third thing you can do to keep your vacation worry free is to pack carefully. Think about everything you might want to take with you. Consider the temperature of both the areas you’ll be traveling through and your destination area. Pack appropriate clothing for that temperature. Don’t forget simple things like a camera. Moreover, in most vacation situations, comfortable shoes are going to be very important.

The fourth thing you can do to provide yourself with a carefree vacation is making a travel plan. Think about the routes you might want to take if you will be driving. Two lane roads with lots of traffic signals may slow you down considerably. Moreover, roads that are under construction may provide you with detours that can become problematic.

The fifth way to leave worries behind is to have your car checked before you get ready to go on vacation. You will get better gas mileage, and you may end up being a bit safer in the end.

The sixth thing you can do to stop the problematic worrying is to plan ahead. Make your reservations long before you arrive at your destinations. Where applicable, purchase tickets to events and parks online.

The seventh thing you can do is to always include backup plans in your vacation outline. If you intend to spend a few days at a national park, will your vacation be ruined if it rains? Think about some activities to take place of others.

The eighth thing you can do to banish your worries is to keep your home safe while you are away. Have the newspaper and mail delivery stopped in your absence. Notify people you trust to check on your house regularly.

The ninth thing you can do is to leave pets to an entrusted neighbor or a highly recommended kennel. Not having to worry about your pet will help you to enjoy your vacation more.

The final thing you can do to have that worry-free vacation is make a list. Plan to make a list that encompasses the month, week, and day before you head out on vacation. It will help you to think about things in a rationale, logical manner without forgetting any tasks you must complete.

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Terrific Tips to Keeping Kids Tame on the Plane

If you intend to vacation with your kids this year, you should plan to make memories that will last a lifetime. Reaching that vacation destination, though, may also make a few memories for both you and those around you, especially if you intend to travel by plane. Between your three year old incessantly kicking the seat in front of him, your seven year old whining about the tray table, and your infant screaming, all of the other passengers may remember your vacation as well. There are, though, a few great ways to keep your kids from creating a complete disaster on the plane.

One of the first things you can do to keep your kids occupied while you are en route to your destination is to build a boredom buster kit. Your boredom-buster kit can include any number of things to help keep your kids interested in the vacation itself. Try adding favorite action figures or dolls to the kit. This will give your child a taste of home. If you have younger children, don’t forget to have plastic or stuffed animals that they play with on a regular basis. Age appropriate books for your child to look at or for the two of you to read together are always a nice addition to the boredom-buster kit. Some drawing supplies might also be important. Some companies make markers that only draw on a specific kind of paper, which may help keep your child’s travel clothes clean. It may also keep your child from drawing on the airline tray table.

If you have older children, handheld video games might be a good investment. Many companies now make various learning video games to keep them away from the violence most video games hold sacred. Most public libraries offer books or old radio shows on tape or compact disc. Try popping those in a CD player with multiple headphone jacks for everyone to listen. You could also consider spending the money to purchase a portable DVD player. Many of these have price tags at fewer than two hundred dollars, and they may buy you hours of peace in the cramped quarters of an airline seat. They may also buy you a quiet naptime once you reach your destination. You could also consider getting portable CD players and headphones for each child. These start at less than fifteen dollars, and you won’t have any fights about who is using the only CD player you own.

If you have a small baby, there are several things you need to do. First, you can try giving your infant a bottle or nursing your baby during take off and landing procedures. You can pop your ears, but your small baby has no way to relieve the pressure they feel building. As a result, they may spend much of the flight crying. Offering them a bottle, or a sippy cup if they are a bit older, can help to relieve the pressure they may be feeling in their ears. Also, be sure to bring more diapers in your carry on luggage than you think you need. It can be quite difficult to deal with a baby in a soiled diaper if you have run out. Be sure to bring a few changes of clothes as well as one for you in case you have a really bad diaper incident or in case your child vomits on the plane. Be sure to bring along some ready made formula as well, because finding the right ingredients to make your baby’s bottle can be a bit rough in a crowded airline. Be sure to bring along a few toys to help amuse your baby. Don’t forget that you will spend every second taking care of the baby on the plane.

Even if you don’t have babies, there are still a number of things you should pack, besides your boredom buster kit, to make the plane ride tolerable. Be sure to bring along some small containers of snacks. It may be some time before snacks or meals are served on the airline, and it is certainly possible for you child to get cranky or hungry before that ever happens. Taking some juice boxes or a bit of bottled water might also be an excellent idea for older children. A package of baby wipes might help too, as you can never really tell who might make a mess on the plane.

Keeping your children, and everyone else around you, happy on your next family vacation is just a matter of packing the right items.

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How to Find the Right Travel Destination for Nudists

You have all heard the nudist colonist jokes that seem to circulate amongst vacationers. You have probably also heard the apparent horror stories of the weary traveler who finds a beautiful piece of sandy beach and rests her or his eyes, only to wake up later …

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Tips on Childproofing your Hotel Room when Traveling

Traveling with children can be messy business, especially if you have younger children. Diapers and dirty clothes, toys and tantrumsall of these things can compound the stress of being on the road. If you are traveling with small children, there is one thing that most parents tend to overlook while they are away from home: the safety of their hotel rooms. While most hotel rooms are overwhelmingly safe, there are some hidden dangers that can turn your travels from fun to tragic in an instant.

1. Inspect the hotel room before checking in. If you are sharing a room with young children, it’s always a good idea to ask to see a room before paying for it. This is especially true if you are traveling overseas, and the hotel appears to be particularly modest. Remember, not all countries, cities, or towns have a stringent safety code. Avoid rooms that seem unkempt. Check for frayed or loose wires on lamps. Make sure the floor or carpet is clean and free of debris. Check for safe exit in case of fire. Use your common sense. If the room looks like it might be unsafe, it probably is.

2. Ask for room childproofing, if available. Some family-oriented hotels offer travelers the option of room childproofing. You can request that your room (s) be childproofed before your arrival. The staff will use doorknob and outlet covers, and other childproofing supplies to ensure your room’s safety.

3. Outlets and plugs. In the United States, most major hotel chains have the outlets situated out of reach from younger children. In most cases, outlets are safely hidden behind desks, bureaus, and nightstands. But if you are traveling abroad, this may always be the case, especially if you are staying at a budget hotel. To make sure your child is safe, consider purchasing outlet covers. These simple plastic devices cover the outlets so that they are safely out of reach from curious little fingers.

4. Don’t hesitate to use the safety deposit box. If you have any items that you consider dangerous, or which might come in contact with your children, consider stowing it away safely in the hotel’s safety deposit box. Using the safety deposit box to stow away small valuable items is a good idea, even if you are not traveling with children.

5. Inspect the bathroom for potential hazards. Bathrooms can seem like unsuspecting places, but they can prove dangerous for small children. Make sure the floor is clean and dry at all times. The shower stall or bathtub should be lined with protective slip-proof mats to keep guests from slipping and falling. Ceramic tubs or sinks should be smooth and crack-free.

6. Make sure the door locks properly. The door should shut smoothly and lock completely. If it doesn’t, report the problem to staff and don’t be afraid to ask for another room.

7. Ask for a crib. If you are traveling with an infant, ask for a crib. If you are traveling with a young child who is restless in their sleep, ask for a small roll-in cot. Children who are restless during their sleep may roll off the bed in the course of the night. Most adult-sized beds are quite tall. Falling from a bed may result in serious injury.

8. If you have a room with a balcony, ask for netting. Some hotels offer netting that can be used to restrict your child’s access to your room’s balcony area. If netting is not available, you may have to resort to keeping the door locked, or asking for a different room.

9. Scope out the pool. The pool area is ripe with hazards. Make sure the pool is kept clean. Ideally, the hotel should provide safety equipment, and there should be a lifeguard on duty. If the area appears unclean, unsafe or ill equipped to handle an emergency, steer clear of the waters altogether.

10. If your hotel doesn’t offer any childproofing options and you don’t have access to your own childproofing devices, improvise. Use masking tape to cover up any electrical outlets that may be accessible to your small child. Safely tape down any electrical cords to the floor. Secure the handles on drawers or the mini bar so that your child cannot access them.

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KO that Jet Lag Easy Tips that Seasoned Travelers Swear By

Jet lag is a condition that affects travelers who end up crossing time zones, or traveling to and from locations with different day lengths. This in turn affects their circadian rhythm which grounds a person into a 24-hour ordered waking and resting modes. While this medical explanation does little to alleviate the effect of an inner clock gone wild, it is important to keep in mind that the altered eating and sleeping patterns will affect different individuals in different ways.

Some affected travelers will experience headaches and severe fatigue, while others will be disoriented or nauseous. Disrupted sleep patterns are high on the list of complaints, and insomnia and ensuing irritability are only too familiar to anyone who has ever suffered from this byproduct of travel.

Of course, there are many tips and tricks to overcome this annoying condition. Here are some tips that seasoned travelers swear by:

Take in adequate amounts of fluid but stay away from caffeine and alcohol. While it is easy to ask for a caffeinated beverage onboard an airplane, or to request a glass of bubbly, it is safer to stick to water or non-alcoholic beverages that will not tax your system. Additionally, staying away from caffeine will help your body to regulate its sleepy and awake cycles a lot faster.

Take the time on the aircraft and get a good rest. Bring your own travel pillow if necessary, but the more rest you allow your body while traveling, the more it will reward you with a quick adjustment to the new time zone.

Set your clock and watch to your destinations time and start early on to get into the rhythm of things, i.e. taking in meals at appropriate times and sleeping at the right time, even if you are not very tired or hungry.

Do not embroil yourself in work the minute you set foot inside your hotel room, but instead go outside and take a walk. The goal is to have your body take in the fresh night air or the bright sunshine, to help your body to adjust to the new time rhythm.

Quite possibly a Draconian measure, yet believed to be the panacea by many, is the attempt to not sleep at all for one night and one day and then simply join into the local rhythm of sleeping and waking. While this may sound like a good way to go in your twenties, it may not be such a good idea in your forties. You may wish to consult your physician before following this piece of advice.

Some have come to the conclusion that Melatonin is a cure-all for anyone who needs a good nights sleep and also for those who need to get over their jet lag. The jury is still out on this one. Some think it works wonders, while for others it has absolutely no benefit.

There are also a number of homeopathic remedies on the market that seek to alleviate jet lag. Some are pills, others are sprays, and they usually claim to have done a large number of clinical trials, yet it does not appear that the Food and Drug Administration have investigated a lot of these claims. Before taking any herbal remedy, it is highly recommended to run it by your doctor first to see if any medication you may be taking or any physical ailment you may experience, could be aggravated by the ingredients in the remedy.

As you can see, jet lag is a course that anyone who crosses time zones may experience, and there is no telling if it will hit you, and how hard. Some travelers are able to bounce back almost immediately, while others may take a day or two to acclimate to their new surroundings. Whatever your situation may be, investigate herbal remedies thoroughly before taking them, and listen to the common sense advice of other travelers who have been through it already. Before you know it, you too will be able to beat jet lag and get on with the activities, business or pleasures, which are awaiting you at your travel destination.

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Great Ideas on Packing for your Sunny Cruising Adventure
You have finally booked your cruise and are ready for the adventure of a lifetime! You are looking forward to the tables laden with scrumptious foods, the visits to exotic locations, and the rest and relaxation you will enjoy poolside. You cannot wait to finally …

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Traveling RV Style

RVs, or Recreational Vehicles to newbie’s, are growing exponentially in popularity. It used to be that RVs were the preferred means of travel for retired senior citizens, who traveled the open road exploring every nook and cranny of the country. This stereotype is no longer true. RVs are now popular with families and couples, who enjoy the freedom and flexibility of sitting behind these behemoth vehicles and cruising the open road.

The Growing Popularity of RVs in the United States

The sales of RVs reached a 25-year high in 2003, surpassing expectations for sales. Why have RVs becoming so darned popular? According to travel experts, RVs are becoming increasingly popular with Americans for several reasons. Those who don’t enjoy the hassle and stress of flying are particularly attracted to RVs. Also, despite high gas prices, traveling in an RV still represent a bargain vacation. RV’s can operate as a traveling lodge on wheels. Instead of paying the high costs of hotel accommodations, RV’s can save you money by allowing you to sleep in your RV rather than stay at a hotel. Also, because many RVs come with full-service kitchenettes, RV’s can save you money on food as well. Simply make a stop at the grocery or convenience store and make your own lunch.

The true appeal behind the RV lies in the open freedom and flexibility that these vehicles can afford you and your family. Traveling in a RV means you don’t have to worry about your schedule, and no worries about rushing to the airport to catch your flight, or lugging around luggage. You don’t have to worry about standing in line at popular attractions, or dealing with lost hotel reservations. RV brings together the best of both worlds: the comfort of home coupled with the freedom of the open road.

Seven Things to Do Before You Buy a RV

Are you convinced about the pros of traveling RV-style? Before you run out and purchase a RV, here are a few tips to getting more acquainted to these road warrior vehicles.

1. Rent before you buy. Before you make the investment, take the time to rent an RV to make sure this mode of travel is the right type for you and your family. Take a short weekend trip to get to know the feel of being behind the wheel of an RV. Try out the kitchen, the bathroom, and the sleeping quarters. If you can afford it, make several short trips in different RV makes and models to get a feel for the different kinds of RVs that are available.

2. Determine what kind of features you need and want. How big does the RV have to be to accommodate your family comfortably? What sort of amenities would you like? Make a list of the things you absolutely must have, and shop accordingly.

3. Visit your local RV dealer to get an idea of prices and features. Visit a RV dealership at least once before you make a purchase. Get to know the different makes and models, and take out your top choices on test drives.

4. Visit your local library. There are many RV buyers’ guides that are must reading for anyone on the RV market.

5. Get to know RV parks and campgrounds. Before purchasing or even renting a RV, become acquainted with the RV parks and campgrounds that dot the United States. RV parks and campgrounds can vary wildly regarding amenities, size, and cost. Look through a directory of RV campgrounds (search your local library or bookstore) and get to know the different places you will be staying if you buy a RV.

6. Before you buy, look for the seal. The Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) certifies all RVs that meet its standards of safety. The RVIA certifies all vehicles that meet certain national safety specifications with an oval-shaped RVIA seal. Make sure the RV you purchase is RVIA approved.

7. If you are new to the world of RVs, visit a RV show. A RV show is the perfect way to become acquainted with a vast array of RVs at one time. You can speak with experts, and maybe even take one out for a short test drive.

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The River Wild- The Top Five Riding the Rapids Destination

Riding the rapids is an exhilarating way to explore the popular winding rivers of the United States. Not only is riding the river rapids an interesting hobby, but it is also a great way to spend a vacation. There are many places across the United Stated where you can go to get the best of white water rapid riding. In addition, rapid vacations can be a great way to spend time with the entire family. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rafter, there is a vacation that is right for you.

River rapids have become increasingly popular over the last twenty years. People come to these destinations in large groups for a fun outdoor experience. In order to find the right river vacation for you, you will need to know a little about riding the rivers.

First of all, you should be aware of what a water class is. Rapids are not all the same. Some are very pleasant and slow and others are very fast and for the experienced only. For all practical purposes, commercial rapids are rated from Class I to Class V. These ratings are based on the difficulty and danger to the rider. Most families chose a Class I or II for their family. These are often the ones that are most suitable for families and those that are less experienced. Class III rapids are those that require a little more skill, but are not as dangerous as Class IV and V rapids. Finally, Class IV and V rapid runs are the ones that only skilled and experienced riders should try to maneuver.

If you are looking to take a vacation filled with whitewater rafting activities, there are many places in the United States where you can go for a planned vacation. When you get ready to plan your rafting vacation, keep in mind the skill level of those that are with you. Consider rapids that are Class I or II if young children will be vacationing with you. Here are five hot spots for riding the river rapids.

Colorado River: The Colorado River is one of the most popular places for vacationers to ride the rapids. There are many outfitters that can tailor your vacation wishes and desires. You can find vacations for the whole family or you can plan a trip for dangerous rapids, as well. Colorado is the home to some of best and top rated rafting sites in the United States. In addition, you can enjoy the scenic area of the Rocky Mountains while visiting Colorado. Families can go there to not only take part in the rapid experience, but also sightsee, fish, camp and hiking.

Mountain River in West Virginia: Mountain River offers a wonderful place to plan a rafting experience for any skill level. Rafting vacation planners offers a wide variety of vacations for the first time rafter all the way to the highly skilled looking for an adrenaline rush. If you are looking for a short weekend trip, this is the place to go. Mountain River offers campsites, RV hookups and cabin rentals for extended stays. If you need equipment, you can have access to everything you need when you visit this vacation location.

Guadeloupe River in Texas: You may not think of Texas when you consider a river rafting vacation, but the Guadeloupe River is the perfect place to raft when you visit the Lone Star state. There are several river-rafting companies throughout the area that offers great vacations for all skill levels. Camping in the area is a very popular past time, as well. The waters in the area are clean and clear and the scenery is beautiful. Fall and spring are the perfect time to visit this area because it gets very hot in the summer.

Lake Tahoe: This is another popular place to vacation for river rafting. The South Fork of the American River offers rafting for beginners to intermediate for ages 8 and up. It is one of the most popular places for an introductory river-rafting lesson in the United States. Rafters can enjoy the Sierra foothill scenery, rocky gorges and over 50 river rapids to ride. Lake Tahoe also offers a more advanced river called the North Fork of the American River for experienced rafters aged 12 and up.

Ocoee River in the Appalachian Mountains: This is rated as one of the top river rafting locations in the United States. This location offers vacationers several choices of rafting companies that have a large variety of rafting vacation packages. Rafters can choose from Class I to Class IV rapids.

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How to Find the Right Travel Destination for Nudists

You have all heard the nudist colonist jokes that seem to circulate amongst vacationers. You have probably also heard the apparent horror stories of the weary traveler who finds a beautiful piece of sandy beach and rests her or his eyes, only to wake up later and find out that she or he is the only dressed individual in the midst of a thriving nudist colony. Yet while many think of nudist travel as an odd form to enjoy a vacation, there are quite a few who enjoy this kind of travel. Families, singles, couples, young and old may be found in vacation spots designated for nudist travel.

Yet how can you, as perhaps a first time nudist, find the right travel destination for you and your family? How will you be able to ensure that you will end up in a resort that is classy, clean, and comfortable? How will you recognize the tell tale signs of a high-class travel destination as opposed to a party-spot? Here are some tips and tricks that will ensure that your next nudist travel destination is the right one:

Look for travel brochures that promote nudist and naturist travel. At times, the terms are used interchangeably. Other terms that you should look for are clothing optional and au naturel.

If you have never taken a nudist vacation before, it would probably best to book through a licensed travel agent.

Your choices are unlimited. For example, for those who enjoy a solid camping and fishing vacation, there are many areas that cater to nudists and will offer structured vacation packages. The camps are usually run by a couple or two, sometimes also a company who will have its employees on the premises. Be sure to ask about on-site stores, restaurants, and other conveniences. Many times a camping vacation will offer great hiking trails, nature viewing, and also complimentary fishing boats. The camp should provide meals, and facilities should be well maintained and clean. If you plan on bringing your pet, be certain to enquire about their policies, and if you are thinking of making this a family vacation, be sure to ask first some camps will cater only to adults the entertainment will be structured accordingly.

For gay and lesbian travelers, there are nudist resorts that cater specifically to them, and once again your travel agent will be a wonderful source of information on this subject. Just as with any other kind of nudist travel, if you plan on bringing your children, please be sure to first ask the resort operators, as some resorts strictly cater to adults only.

If you are looking for an exciting nightlife, you may want to stay away from family resorts, since these locations work hard at presenting a family friendly image that will make even the youngest travelers feel welcomed, and nightclubs, discos, and alcohol are sometimes off limits are those resorts. If you are a single traveler, or a couple without children, you may wish to keep this in mind when booking your next trip.

Be sure to also take a look at the resorts policies and procedures. For examples, are cell phones permitted inside the resort? If so, you will need to be aware that some inevitable gawkers will come equipped with camera cell phones and take pictures of the women who are present. Some resorts have banned cell phones in public areas, and it might be best to stay there.

Additionally, if you are traveling to a couples resort, beware of the ones that will give day-passes to locals. Sometimes this will invite those who are less interested in enjoying a naturist day than they are in leering at the women in attendance.

It is obvious that nudist travel is here to stay and more and more destinations are now getting ready to cater to eager travelers. Asking many questions before booking, and especially enquiring about policies and procedures beforehand, will save you a lot of headaches later on; similarly, it will permit you to book a family friendly vacation at a resort that specializes in these vacations rather than ending up with your family at a hopping singles only spot.

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