TravGuides.com

By Rebecca VanGinkel

My husband travels nearly all year long, all around the United States for his job. After our young son was born, he took a few months off work, but when our son turned eight months old, my husband was back on the road, and so were the baby and I. It was very hard to learn to live out of a suitcase at first, especially when our young son pretty much needed everything in Wal-Mart to survive! But, once we got into a routine, and learned how to pack right, everything got much easier on us.

Our first lesson we learned was to never travel anywhere without wet wipes, not even down the street a half block. Every time we turned around, our son had something messy in his hands, either eating it, wiping it in his hair, or wiping it on our car seats! We learned at a fast rate that napkins do not work wonders on children and their messes, but I have yet to come across a mess that wet wipes could not clean.

Also, always keep a small bag full of toiletries inside your car. I always pack bandages, facial tissue, liquid hand cleaner, lotion, q-tips, a fever reducer and pain reliever, and whatever else you may need during your trip. I pack mine in a freezer bag and store it in the glove box. I also never leave home without packing an overnight bag for my son. You never know when you may have to sleep over in a motel, or when your child might not make it to the bathroom in time when you are traveling, and it is best to be prepared. Inside the bag, I keep an extra change of clothes, a light jacket, wet wipes, a clean towel, and a few of his favorite toys. I also always kept extra diapers in my car and in my sons' overnight bag when he still needed them.

When driving for long distances with a young child, it is ideal to pack lots of their favorite toys and books. If you bring things that your child is not interested in, your ride is going to be full of crying and whining! I found that my son loved to color in the car, so when we travel, I pack a few crayons in a locking school box, and his favorite color books. He stays happy for hours, and we do not hear a peep out of him. Another good toy to bring along is a Leap Pad, or something similar to it. A Leap Pad talks to your child, reads to him, and even helps him learn. The pen on the Leap Pad is attached so you never have to worry about losing it. You can buy many different books and cartridges for it, so you will definitely be able to find a program that your child will be interested in.

Another thing that has helped us out a lot is the DVD player that my husband and I have recently purchased for our car. It came with dual screens, so my son and husband can both watch a movie at the same time. On the other hand, if only one of them wants to watch a movie, we can just turn one off with the push of a button. It also comes with dual sound control, so we can easily adjust the volume, from the front or back seat. This has made driving for hours seem like driving for minutes.

If you make a schedule and stick to it, your ride will go a lot smoother. Schedule bathroom breaks and gas breaks at the same time so that you are not making any unnecessary stops. But, make sure you stop often enough if you're traveling with a young child. They always seem to need to go to the bathroom twice as much as adults!

Last but not least, always make sure your child is safely buckled in. It is best to check from state to state to find out the laws on different car seats and booster seats. Since laws vary from state to state, you want to make sure that you are not breaking any laws. Always bring your car into the shop to get it checked out before driving for long distances. They will let you know if your tires are in need of repair or anything else should be done to make your trip a safer one. A flat tire will always put a damper on your fun! So, if you pack and plan ahead, know that traveling with a young child can be a lot of fun!

This past summer, my son and I traveled with my husband to Corning, Arkansas. My husband is in the cable business, and he had to go there to upgrade their cable system. I researched Corning on the internet, and found that it was a very small town, with not much to do. I didn't even know if they had a hotel for sure! But, when we arrived, I got quite a surprise. It was a small town, but the people were very friendly, and we found a few interesting things to do to pass the time.

We stayed in a hotel right on the main street called The Relax Inn. It was owned by the family who ran it. They were so friendly that we felt like we were staying in someone's home instead of a hotel. We had barbecues with them and played games outside. They had a small pool in back that they let me and my son use while my husband was at work. We were grateful, because it was almost ninety degrees every day we were there. The owner had two young grandsons that came and played with our son a couple days a week. They quickly became friends.

There was a small restaurant right across the street. It was named Breakers Drive In. They had the best food and it was really cheap. Breakers had a different dinner special every night. It was always something off their regular menu, but it was cheaper than usual. They sold everything from shrimp dinners to corn dogs. You could either go in to eat, or go through the drive through. They also had a gazebo outside where you could sit and eat if it wasn't to hot. We ate lunch and dinner there almost every night of the week. They also had the best ice cream in town. I don't think a day passed that we didn't walk across the street in the early evening to get a malt or a hot fudge sundae.

During the day while my husband worked, I would take our son down to the community pool. It was a large outside pool where you could swim all day for fifty cents, or half of a day for a quarter. There was always two trained life guards on duty, and one other person walking around the pool to keep an eye on rambunctious children. They also had a small kitty pool for toddlers and infants. In the big pool, there was a diving board that the older children loved. There was always a long line at it, but everybody waited for their turn anxiously.

Right next to the community pool was a large playground. It was right next to the school, but the public was aloud to use it, also. Right down the road was the local Wal-Mart, and Pizza Hut. On the other side of town was a small mall that had the grocery store Wallace and Owens, and a few other small stores including the video store and a dollar store. Also in the mall was a building where every Saturday they had a large auction. We went once and my father in law won a Deluxe Scrabble game for a dollar! What a buy! Next to the grocery store was Sonic's, the fast food chain. Also in town was a great little shoe store, a hair salon, and a couple of gas stations.

On the outside of town, there were a couple more restaurant, and a large Community Center. You could go to the Community Center every weekday morning for a quarter. You could play basketball, ping pong, or golf. You could also use their weight training rooms, and walk around the top of the basketball gym. To play golf, you had to pay more than a quarter, but you could rent equipment and golf carts there. It was a full eighteen hole golf course. The building was very modern, and pretty. It had a huge water fountain right out front. Once in awhile there would be ducks swimming in it.

Around the town of Corning, there were a lot of rice fields. I had never seen rice fields before, and they are very interesting looking. Also around Corning, there were many fruit stands that sold all kinds of fresh fruit like watermelon and all other kinds of melons. There were also a few small flea markets every weekend.

We were very sad to leave Corning, Arkansas, but we have great memories. If you ever get a chance to visit it, try staying in the Relax Inn and eating at Bumpers. I'm sure you will have a great time.

By Rebecca VanGinkel

This past November, my family and I were lucky enough to be able to visit Stone Mountain. We first heard of Stone Mountain when we were staying in Atlanta, Georgia. This is one of their many different attractions located in the city that any family could spend hours of their time exploring. Since there are so many different activities, Stone Mountain is a perfect place to bring your whole family, newborns to grandparents welcome!

Since we visited in November, we got a chance to visit their Christmas village. Our son actually got to see Santa arrive in his sleigh, and to sit on his lap and tell him what he wanted for Christmas. There were many carolers singing and getting everyone into the Christmas spirit. The huge Coca Cola Christmas tree is also one of the big attractions. You can see it from almost anywhere in the village. We also got to go to a 4-D Christmas movie, which our son also loved. Can you imagine, the wind was really blowing hard and it was snowing on us while we were enjoying the movie!

We also went on the train, which travels five miles around Stone Mountain. During the ride, Christmas music played and the conductor told us stories about Stone Mountain in the early years. We passed many Christmas lights on our ride. We even passed an old ghost town in the middle of nowhere that was decorated in Christmas attire. The whole village has a lot of spirit.

Besides the Christmas village there were many other things to see and do. We rode a cable car up the side of the mountain and got out on the top. They gave us a choice to ride back down, or hike down the back side of the mountain. We chose to hike down. It was kind of steep, but nothing we couldn't handle. About halfway down, we saw an electrical pole that was covered in gum! It was covered 10 feet high with hundreds of pieces of chewing gum. Once we got to the bottom of the mountain, you have to wait for the train to make its rounds and pick you back up, or you can visit a museum and wait for the train to come at a different time.

One of the biggest attractions of Stone Mountain is the huge carving in the side of the mountain. The carving is 400 feet above the ground, and measures 90 by 190 feet. It is set back 42 feet into the mountain. It shows General Robert E. Lee, Lt. General Thomas Stonewall Jackson, and Confederate President Jefferson Davis riding a horse with their hair whipping in the wind. It is the largest carving of rock, even bigger than Mt. Rushmore. The mountain itself is 825 feet tall and covers 583 acres. The guide in the cable car told us that you could fit three school buses on the rear end of the horse and still have room to walk around. After dark, they show a laser light show projected on the mountain. Since it was Christmas time when we visited, we watched the Twelve Days of Christmas. After the spectacular laser light show, we sat in the huge field and watched an amazing fire works show. It was one of the best that we had ever seen.

After all this excitement, my husband and I wanted to relax awhile, so we took our son to the playhouse so that he could play while we watched, or so we thought! This huge playhouse consisted of 5 floors and so much fun that nobody could just sit and watch, not even grandparents. When you first arrived they gave you a bag to place in it as many foam balls as you could, and a bracelet for scanning. You then shot the foam balls out of many different air guns and tubes to try to score points which registered when you would scan your bracelet. Besides this, there were many different slides, a trampoline floor, and nets for climbing. There was also a separate play room for babies and toddlers, where they wouldn't get stepped on by rambunctious older kids.

After all that excitement, we went for a beautiful scenic drive. We even drove inside one of the few covered bridges that are left. We also got to stop and walk around by an old grist mill. It had very pretty landscaping around it with many plants and flowers that were still in bloom.
We ended up spending the whole day at Stone Mountain, and there were still things that we didn't get to do. We didn't get to ride the Georgia Ducks, or visit the antique car models, and we missed many of the shows in the Christmas Village. We have decided that we are going to have to go back some day soon.

The hours of Stone Mountain vary from season to season, but if you or your family members are interested in visiting the great Stone Mountain, you can call this toll free number 24 hours a day for in park information- 1-800-401-2407.

Many travelers to Bath, England, would suggest with a hint of a smile that you should do just that; take a bath in your hotel for symbolism! However, if you take the time to make a splash as soon as you arrive, it will take away from the time you should utilize seeing the real baths for which the city is famous.

First things first; if London is your original destination, as it is for many travelers, Paddington station in the capital city offers transportation to Bath every 30 minutes. Once you're in Bath, you should take at least a few days to see everything the area has to offer. The Roman baths are certainly not the only attractions. You'll also find numerous historical buildings such as the Sally Lunn house, early 16th century Bath Abbey, a 16th century theater, and much more!

Of course we should begin with the baths. You can visit virtually any day of the year except Christmas and December 26, and it pays to take advantage of this great opportunity. If you are traveling with babies or small children, strollers are not accepted into the baths, but a carrier will be provided without extra charge. It seems impossible to leave the Roman baths without an appreciation for history. Tours are given daily to explain the significance of the site where Roman and Celtic influences combined. It is hard to imagine that our ancestors bathed here thousands of years ago and fraternized with friends, perhaps on the very grounds on which we stand.

Bath Abbey, finished in the 1500s, is one of Bath's most beautiful buildings. You can easily spend hours enjoying and exploring this wondrous Romanesque-style abbey, and since it is located very near the baths, it will not be difficult to find. Bath Abbey can be visited year-round. Check for how late the abbey will be open when you have determined the time of your visit. You will want to keep in mind that, although admission is free, a donation is always appreciated to help with the huge costs of up-keeping this historic structure.

History enthusiasts (or children who like to dress up) might enjoy the Museum of Costume, which has a unique presentation of what people wore from the Renaissance era to modern times. It's truly amazing to see what women actually wore in the olden days and your kids will have a fun time imagining what it was like to get up every morning and put on a corset, hoopskirt, or the like. The colorful clothing makes a nice presentation and the museum has much educational value, especially for school-age children just learning about England's history.

For another dose of history try the King's Circus. Another reminder of Bath's partially- Roman origins can be found at the King's Circus, finished by architect John Wood. The Circus is actually considered to be a street and its unique rounded shape, made by forming many oddly-shaped buildings together, is modeled after the ancient Coliseum. You may notice the overabundance of acorn designs. John Wood also drew on the Celtic Druids' reverence for oak trees and used an acorn motif to complete his venture.

The Montacute House is a wonderful example of Elizabethan architecture; it is difficult to have a 16th century home that has been so strikingly preserved throughout the ages. Sir Edward Phelips turned his dream of the perfect manor house into a reality at Montacute. You can also find a cafe, a restaurant, gardens, and stunning paintings and artifacts here. You should know when you will be visiting and find out if the gardens and/or manor house will be open to the public at that particular time.

You can't visit Bath without seeing the famous Avon River and capturing this beautiful sight in your memory banks. You can tour by boat or just sit by the banks and read, draw or record your feelings for future reference (if you have a few quiet moments during your visit, of course!) It's highly recommended to soak in Bath's beauty because once you leave you'll wish you had remembered every tiny detail.

For a shopping experience, try Rossiter's, which is one of England's equivalents to the "up-scale" American department stores. Even if high prices cause you to be content with window-shopping, the exterior of the store is also beautiful to look at. It is a merchant's home, built in the early 18th century.

Faith is a powerful motivator, and sometimes it motivates us to travel to spiritual sites all over the world and see the places that our ancestors considered to be holy. Many faiths have their own shrines, memorials and quiet places of reflection that are soothing to the soul. To get away from the deafening noise and uncomfortable claustrophobia of big-city travel, try seeking out some spiritual destinations that will soothe and relax your spirit.

You don't only have to see the places of your own religion; spirituality can be comforting in any faith, and peace can be found at any religious haven regardless of your own creed. The world is scattered with these monuments of faith; some are huge shrines with throngs of people; others are tiny chapels on beautiful grounds with many places to relax and unwind. The spiritual traveler need only know where to look.

It doesn't matter what part of the world you're traversing, because you'll always be able to find a sanctuary that speaks to your inner being. Whether you're traveling to the Middle East, Europe, or even staying in America, you will find a place where you can feel at ease and can uplift your faith.

Europe
France's Lourdes Shrine (Catholic)

Lourdes Shrine is one of the most well-known religious retreats in the world; many rank it second in importance to the holy city of Rome. Church history says a girl named Bernadette witnessed the miraculous vision of the Virgin many times in the year 1858. The site soon became a shrine where miracles are purported to have happened, and is a wonderful place of pilgrimage. Millions of Catholics, originating from all over the world, visit each year to witness the spot where the visions occurred. The town itself, outside of the shrine, is a great destination as well. The Pyrenees Mountains stretch out above the quaint town; climb as high as you can to enjoy a wonderful view that will also fill you with a spiritual calmness and serenity.

Vatican City (Catholic)

It's strange to think that Vatican City is actually a country in its own right, but the idea is catching on. Since time immemorial, Rome has been a sight of pilgrimage not only to Catholics, but to Christians of all denominations. Vatican City, a dependency, is home to the Pope, the Holy Father of the Catholic faithful, and many monuments to Catholic faith. The larger city of Rome, of course, encompasses many more Christian monuments that are of interest to both Catholics and Protestants. St. Peter's Basilica and the Catacombs where countless early Christians are buried are just some of the things to see here.

Germany's Castle Church Door, Wittenberg (Protestant)

Those of the Protestant faith may consider Wittenberg's Castle Church a sort of "shrine" in its own right; it was here in the turbulent year of 1517 that Dr. Martin Luther put up his "95 Theses," shaking the age-old authority of the Catholic Church. This act led to a religious revolution that soon turned many from the Catholic hierarchy and to a new faith eventually known as Protestantism. Although the door on which the Theses were posted was destroyed by an 18th century fire, a bronze door emblazoned with the 95 Theses now stands in its place.

Middle East
Mecca (Muslim)

The obligatory pilgrimage to Mecca is rooted deep in Muslim religious traditions. For hundreds of years, followers of Islam have been coming to the shrine of Mecca, participating in various religious rituals including the "Stoning of the Devil" and purification ceremonies. Any Muslim who is able to travel physically and financially is firmly urged to complete this mission. Mecca, located in Saudi Arabia, is a huge place complete with a mysterious black stone that sits in the middle of the Kaaba shrine. This stone is considered to be of special symbolism and was not destroyed when Muhammad purportedly destroyed the other idols of pagan Mecca.

The Wailing Wall (Jewish)

Although not strictly of interest only to Jewish visitors, those of the Jewish faith hold Jerusalem's Wailing Wall in high regards. It has long been a place to pray, to worship together, and to soak in the spiritual symbolism of the ruins. The wall is said to be the only remains of Solomon's temple. Christian visitors will also find a peace in coming to pray here in this holy place, and may wish to leave a note or a prayer to put between the cracks in the ancient walls.

By Christina VanGinkel

With summer still several months away, I am already looking forward to the weekends when we can escape to the woods for some spontaneous camping outings. We live in the north woods of Wisconsin, where campgrounds at state and county parks are in abundance, but no matter where you live, there are probably at least a few similar within easy driving distance of your home. Operated by the individual states and/or counties, park fees may differ but are usually quite affordable. Amenities will also vary, but a quick phone call to the park you are interested in staying at will provide you with the answers you need, and also alert you to the facts of whether they take reservations or not. If you plan to stay at a park during peak camping season or during any of the summer holidays, such as the Fourth of July, or Memorial weekend for example, reservations may be prudent.

Most state and county parks offer electricity hookups at a percentage of their spaces. Some offer bathroom access, but this can vary from flush toilets to old fashioned out houses. Some of the more modern facilities may even offer hookups for motor homes. Shower facilities are also occasionally available, but this is rare at those campgrounds close by to where we live. Many of these same parks also offer cottages on a rental basis. Surprisingly, the one closest to where we live offers two cottages for rent on a day or by the week basis, yet we never knew about them until this past year, as they do not advertise them locally. If you are interested in staying at a county or state facility but would rather not stay in a tent or camper, then be sure to inquire if the campground you will be staying at has any cabins available. Again, fees vary, but are usually much cheaper than if you rented a similar cabin through a private person or business.

Camping can be the ideal getaway if you enjoy the outdoors, and if you prepare for it in a practical manner. Too often, a camping expedition of a single overnight stay, or even one that is going to last two or three days, will account for enough supplies being gathered that you could potentially stay for weeks, and still realizing that you forgot essentials. Packing sensibly will not only make the getaway more convenient as you will have less to carry, it will also be friendlier to your budget, as you will not be paying high prices for forgotten items at a gas station or convenience store. Follow a few set preparations each time you plan to head out for the night or weekend, and you will be soon wondering why you do not do this more often. First, make sure the campground you will be staying at has openings. Check the equipment you will be using for sleeping. If it is a tent, waterproof it each season, and as needed throughout the season, depending on how often you use it. If you have a camper, at the start of each season, go through your checklist of what was closed down and prepared for winterizing at the end of the previous season. Drain any antifreeze that you poured into drains, check the gas levels on stoves, and go over any windows, doors, and the ceiling for any damage that might have occurred during storage. In addition, check tire wear, and remove any winterizing such as mothballs or mousetraps. Your local service provider can provide you with a more complete list of items to check each season. Keep sleeping bags clean and ready to go, and be sure to use those that are properly rated for the coldest temperatures you plan to use them. If you do camp often, a second set of sleeping bags may be a good idea, especially if you camp during more than one season. Keep your cooking supplies ready and separate from other household equipment. This will save you from arriving at your destination and realizing you forgot several pertinent pieces of cooking gear. Food will need to be packed each trip, and you will need to judge how long you will be gone, and how you plan to eat. We always fill up on lots of trail type foods that are easy to toss in a pack for a hike or that do not take a lot of preparation. Coolers are part of your cooking gear, and should always be cleaned and stored after each trip so they are ready for your next time out. Clothing will need to be packed each time, and you should pack in what I refer to as layers. Even if the temperatures are supposed to be warm, still take into consideration cold evenings and nights, and the unexpected downpours that are every camper's best friend! Shoes should always travel in two, two pair that is, with extra socks. Shoes can become wet, and if you plan to hike, good quality hiking boots are a necessity.

Camping getaways are great stress busters and easy on a budget, especially when you plan accordingly. If you think, you would like to try a camping getaway, check with your local or county park for a list of those campgrounds within easy driving distance of your home, and get set to experience what relaxation is really all about.

Denmark . . . land of the Vikings. These fair-skinned warriors came from Norway, Denmark and Sweden, and their ancestors who began the city of Copenhagen were determined to create a city that would stand the test of time. Those who visit Copenhagen will see it in a variety of ways; some will see many parallels with a modern city of America, and others will notice the age of its monuments and the attention to historical detail. Copenhagen is a huge part of Denmark's ancient history. The city's name means "merchant's harbor," attesting to the seagoing past of this illustrious city.

Copenhagen perhaps would not have existed if a medieval fortification would not have been built here in the mid 12th century. Despite these humble beginnings, Copenhagen grew into the massive city that is now a huge part of Denmark's tourist industry. Surprisingly, it is located on two islands (Zealand and part of Amager) and is not a "landed" city. The strait of Oresund runs between the city and Sweden; on a clear day, you might imagine that you are able to see the neighborhood country while standing on the shore.

No European city seems quite complete without its own castle, or in Copenhagen's case, a few castles. Rosenborg Castle was begun in the 17th century by Denmark's King Christian and was not harmed by the fire and warfare that destroyed the main city. As a result, the castle has not changed the appearance that it had during its early days and is a monument to good fortune and the opulence of Denmark's royalty. Once inside the castle, you will find that all of the rooms are named for one of Denmark's past monarchs and each part of the castle holds its own treasures. Just some of the things you can see include the king's and queen's separate living quarters, a dining hall, and wonderful decor such as tapestries and paintings.

Check informational brochures to see if and when Amalienborg Castle will be open during your visit. Amalienborg is still used as the home of Denmark's royalty and is a beautiful architectural achievement. The facade is huge and covered with ornate walkways and columns; think Colonial Williamsburg-type buildings and you'll have a good idea of the opulence of Amalienborg. If you are lucky enough to be at the castle in the middle of the day, check out the changing of the guard at noon. This is a daily event.

No trip to Copenhagen is complete without a visit to the city's national museum. It is always good to understand the history and the full importance of the places you will be seeing. The exhibits include huge collections of paintings and antiques. If you are interested in art and culture, spend at least half a day here soaking up the history of this grand city, and perhaps gaining a new appreciation of artistic design.

Do you have any idea what a "botanisk have" is? It's a Botanical Garden located at the University of Copenhagen. It is home to countless arrays of plants and provides a beautiful natural setting. Small parts of the old walls that once stood here can be found throughout the gardens, mixing the old with the new. You probably would not expect to see a cactus in Copenhagen, but you can that species here as well! The Botanical Garden is a great experience for flower enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It should be noted that most, but not all exhibits are available to visitors, so find out what will be on the agenda when you visit.

For a unique religious experience, visit the Marble Church. Like many grand churches and cathedrals of Europe, this church wasn't finished at one time, but was gradually worked on over the years. Marble Church wasn't actually completed until the late 19th century, but visitors will attest that it was worth the wait! The first builders of the Marble Church (Frederikskirke) wanted to give Rome's St. Peter's Cathedral a run for its money, but due to the long time it took to complete the building, this was a dream not quickly realized. Good hikers can climb almost 300 steps and find the church's balcony; it's a long haul, but the view of the city will be well worth the exertion.

Venice, Italy has been known for centuries as one of the most romantic cities in the world. Idyllic canals, gondola rides, and architectural wonders fit for royalty are just some of the exciting things you can see here. If you're like me, however, longing to travel the world and not having the hugest budget, you'll need to know where in the historic city of Venice you can go without spending every last penny.

Top priority before you travel is finding a hotel before you start your vacation. Ideally, we would all have long lists of possible lodging, call to find out rates and amenities, and have everything arranged by the time we arrive. Spur-of-the-moment travelers often don't use that logic. They get to Venice in one piece and have to start from scratch concerning lodging. If you're traveling with a friend, share a room; it will cost less and leave you more cash for more important ventures (like sightseeing and eating!)

Don't think that every hotel in Venice is beyond your price range; talk to tourists who have visited before, find out which places have the best amenities and cost less. Ask locals what they recommend. It's a great relief to finally have a room to flop down your bags, change into some comfortable clothes, and begin your tour of Venice.

It's true that the best things in life are free; looking doesn't cost anything! Take in the fabulous sights of the canal bridges, Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Square, and the cathedral basilica. Don't forget plenty of film or a digital camera. You can spend the whole day enjoying beautiful Venice's nooks and crannies and still have every precious cent safe inside your pockets.

For a little history: Doge's Palace, home to some of Venice's most well-known architecture, is a whimsical centuries-old residence that has been many different things over the years. It was used for law, administrations, political gatherings and even a jail until about 200 years ago when Venice underwent political changes. St. Mark's Basilica is also a beautiful building where you should expect to take many pictures. Standing outside and gawking at the architecture, wondering how someone could construct such a church without modern technology will be a priceless vacation memory.

St. Mark's Square (or more romantically, Piazza San Marcos) is an essential Venice stop-off. Try to get here in the early morning (the later the day progresses, the more crowds you're sure to find). Take a journal or video camera to record what you're seeing and the thoughts that come to mind. For a cheap, quick lunch, don't opt for the four-star Italian restaurant that's being talked about in all the culinary magazines; try a simple slice of pizza! What's more authentic than pizza in Italy? (Whether or not it originated in that country). Don't waste your sightseeing time sitting in a crowded restaurant. Take your lunch with you to St. Mark's Square, the slopes of the canals, or a quiet public staircase (if anything in Venice can indeed be quiet).

Another idea to save money while vacationing in Venice is to buy one larger meal that will serve as both lunch and dinner. Around 2:00 P.M. or so, spend $20 on an Italian meal at a not-so-ritzy restaurant. You won't be hungry again at dinnertime and won't have to spend another $20 on another meal. If it's a restaurant that allows you to take "doggie-bags," bring back a little in case you do get hungry later, instead of going out on a snack binge. There are little ways to save money in every part of your vacation if you put your mind to being frugal.

Want to know another attraction that doesn't cost a cent? Travel outside of Venice for an outstanding island known as Burano. You won't find an abundance of marketplaces or restaurants here, but the architecture alone is enough reason to visit. Stroll through the streets and find beautifully decorated riverfront homes in many colors. The place has the air of antiquity, resembling a busy harbor of the olden days. Like Venice, canals split the streets; if you haggle enough, you may be able to get a boat ride. You won't leave Venice (and Burano) without dozens of pictures. Of course, even that many pictures may not do these beautiful cities justice.

By Christina VanGinkel

If you happen to be in one of the states that have a Roy's Restaurant, and you are looking for a meal that will leave you satisfied and wanting to make your next reservation before you are even finished with the meal in front of you, then check out this restaurant chain. Located in the states of Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania, and Texas, these restaurants are the culmination of a man's memories of his childhood, when he visited Maui with his grandparents. There, he was treated to the dishes of the islands fresh from the oceans, and these mouth watering delicacies made such an impression on that child that years later he vowed to bring those tastes and feelings to his own customers.

Roy Yamaguchi, though born in Tokyo, must have a bit of his heart from Hawaii, because he has managed to make sure that each of his restaurants makes you feel as if you are in Hawaii, at least a bit, even if you happen to be seated in Maryland or Pennsylvania.

A Culinary Institute of America graduate; he continued his education in the art of food and went on to become a Master Chef. All of these experiences and education prepared him to open his first restaurant in 1984 in Los Angeles, though it was not a Roy's Restaurant as so many have come to know and love. Not until 1988, when he returned to Hawaii, did he open the first of what was to become many Roy's Restaurants.

He has dubbed his menu what he refers to as Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine, which is literally a fusion of those first dishes he tasted when visiting Maui with his grandparents and local ingredients (which is a testimony to his own excellent tastes and ability to take regular foods and turn them into some of the finest dishes you will ever taste). Add to that fresh fish, along with some of his own favored European sauces, and Asian spices, a mouth-watering assortment of desserts, and you have a menu that will please even the most discerning diner.

I visited my first Roy's restaurant many years ago when on vacation with family members, and my brother promised me a meal that would make all future dining experiences pale in comparison. The thing you need to know though is that I was never a fan of seafood or fish. I enjoyed the occasional deep fried shrimp basket at a local diner, along with a side of just as deep fried French fries, but somehow, I do not think that qualifies as having a basis to say that I liked seafood. Actually, if asked back then, I would have chosen any other style of restaurant o go to over one that served mainly, as I saw it, fish and seafood. My brother promised me a meal to remember and one that I would definitely enjoy, and so with just a bit more prompting, we went.

I did enjoy the meal, immensely. It was a full course meal, starting with an appetizer, followed up with Hibachi Style Grilled Salmon which was as mouth watering as it sounds. This was followed by a dessert that I cannot remember the name of, but was the most tempting display of chocolate in a souffle type serving that I have ever had. To top the whole meal off, the pricing was not even that outrageous. I believe that for four of us, our meal came to less than two hundred dollars. My brother paid on that occasion, so for me the price was even better.

I have since gone on to recommend these restaurants every chance I get, and I can promise you that you will enjoy both the cuisine and the atmosphere at any Roy's Restaurant you visit. Gift cards are available for gift giving at any of their locations, or they can also be ordered online. If you have friends or family nearby one of their many locales, a gift card for a meal out would be an excellent choice of gift for just about any occasion I can think of. Gift cards are designed to be as pleasing to the eye as the meal it will provide will be mouth watering delicious!

When most people think of Las Vegas, they think of the strip - casinos, drinks, shows, lavish hotels, and Elvis impersonators. However, there are many more things to experience in the Las Vegas area. This area of our country is beautiful and offers wonderful landscapes often overlooked by the casual traveler. Las Vegas is also a town full of history that is fun to experience. After a few days of Las Vegas drama, you might welcome the change that these sites bring.

Red Rock Canyon
Not far from Las Vegas is Red Rock Canyon Park. This area offers a beautiful, unique landscape that can be breathtaking for those used to the city. Drive on a winding road that weaves through enormous red rock formations. Pack a meal and stop at one of the picnic areas for a memorable outing. Several designated areas are perfect for light recreational rock climbing or relaxing on a high rock overlooking the beautiful landscape. Trails are labeled for those who want to connect with nature and get some exercise. Whether you decide to just drive through or if you stop and enjoy the outdoors, this is one unique location that should not be passed up.

Fremont Street
Visit Fremont Street to experience the history of Las Vegas casinos. This older strip of casinos gives you the feeling of the rat pack days. Back in the day, this was where everything was happening in Las Vegas. Today, this smaller and older casino area is not quite as lavish as the newer strip, but still a fun experience. Live music often fills the streets, and everything is alive. Visit at night to see the famous lighted outdoor ceiling. This extensive overhead display is hard to describe with words. Frequent "shows" are played out in lights to music for your enjoyment. Go see it for yourself... it is definitely worth your while.

Hoover Dam
If you are up for a drive through the desert, Hoover Dam is an excellent destination. Scheduled tours are available if you enjoy them and want to learn more about the function and history of the dam. If you do not enjoy tours, simply driving through the area surround the dam and seeing the dam itself are worth the experience. The winding roads leading up to the dam display a beautiful landscape. The dam itself is an astonishing site to see. Do not just drive over the dam. Make sure you get out of your car and gaze down into the concrete dam. At night, the dam is lit and becomes even more dramatic and beautiful.

The Grand Canyon
Many daytrips to the Grand Canyon originate from Las Vegas. You can plan ahead, or decide to join one while on your vacation. Many hotels and ticket booths on the Las Vegas strip sell these tickets. Usually a bus will pick you up from a location on the Las Vegas strip in the morning, take you to the Grand Canyon, and return to the strip in the afternoon or evening. If you have access to a car, you can plan your own site seeing trip that includes the Grand Canyon. If you plan ahead, you might be able to find a travel package that includes a Grand Canyon tour at a steep discount.

The Desert
If you are not familiar with the desert landscape, you might enjoy simply driving out into the desert and seeing what it has to offer. The desert offers many unique features that can create a fun experience for a visitor.

Museums
Escape into one of the many museums found in Las Vegas to learn about Las Vegas history, or to see some interesting items. Ask at your hotel desk for brochures on the local museums. Some hotels themselves even contain free museums for guests.

For more ideas on unique things to do in Las Vegas, ask someone at your hotel desk, a waitress, or a local Las Vegas resident to recommend some must see or unique sites. After a few days in sin city, it is easy to grow tired of the noise, lights, and mayhem. A change of scenery can be most welcome!

So, next time you visit Las Vegas, plan to see a bit of history, or visit a natural or man-made wonder. It will certainly help balance the craziness of the strip, and give you a more well-rounded experience.

Every time I travel to Las Vegas, NV, numerous people share their opinions with me regarding renting a car. It seems that each person who has been to Las Vegas has either a strong opinion that you absolutely need to rent a car when you visit the city, or a strong opinion that renting a car is a waste of time in Las Vegas. The decision should ultimately be made in regards to what you plan on doing while on vacation.

The first question is, how will you get from the airport to your hotel? If you are staying in a hotel on the famous Las Vegas strip, there will be a shuttle available at the airport to take you to your destination for a few dollars. Some hotels might have free shuttles. Hotel shuttle tickets can also sometimes be purchased in advance or might be included in a vacation package deal. Ask your travel agent or call your hotel in advance to see what kind of airport travel is available. The same shuttles are available to take you back to the airport at the end of your trip.

If you are staying in a hotel on the Las Vegas strip, and you plan to spend the majority of your vacation time gambling and site seeing on the strip, you probably will not need to rent a car. However, be prepare to walk a lot. The strip might seem small on a map or by description, but it a couple miles long. If you do not rent a car, be prepared to be content with not seeing everything. Remember that if you find yourself wishing you rented a car in the middle of your trip, you can simply call a car rental company. They are usually very accommodating.

If you are staying in a hotel at one of the extreme ends of the strip and want to see every hotel on the strip, you might want to rent a car. A car also allows you to tour the strip from the street and see the strip from a distance, which is an awesome site at night. If you cannot walk long distances, or cannot stay on your feet for long periods of time, a rental car will help you get around. The best use of a car in Las Vegas is leaving the strip. There are many other things to see in Las Vegas, including Fremont Street, the desert, and Red Rock Canyon. Hoover Dam is also a short drive away. The natural wonder of Red Rock Canyon is worth the drive, and makes a great afternoon trip away from the loud and sometimes harsh casinos.

If you do rent a car in Las Vegas, make sure you are still prepared to walk. Hotel parking lots are often a block behind the hotel, which makes for a good walk. This also makes it not worth it to drive from casino to casino. You end up walking just as much from parking lots to buildings as you would from casino to casino. It is best to park in an area near the middle of where you want to visit and then walking around to the various attractions, returning to your car only to drive to another larger area.

If you are looking for an extreme experience, there are several companies in Las Vegas that rent luxury and exotic cars by the hour or day. You can cruise up and down the famous Las Vegas strip in a cherry red exotic sports car with all eyes on you!

Also note that Las Vegas does have public transportation. They have a bus system, standardized cab rates, and a new trolley system on the strip. Investigate these options before your vacation to plan what kind of transportation will work best for you. Cabs can be quite pricey, but they are everywhere. Cab rates are standardized to prevent cabbies from taking advantage of tourists. Buses can be inconvenient to wait for, depending on your schedule. The trolley system on the strip is fairly new and had a lot of bugs to work out. I vacationed in Las Vegas shortly after it was introduced, and it was closed indefinitely. If it is successfully running today, it could be a good option. It runs the length of the strip, making it easier to get to and from the hotels. Tickets could be purchased for one ride, or you could purchase a day pass, weekend pass, or week long pass. Some hotels also have trolleys that run between two or three nearby hotels.

Tel Aviv is like its famous Israeli sister Jerusalem in many ways. Although garnering a reputation of being a much more "modern" city, Tel Aviv is bursting with history to explore. The city has many parallels within itself; modern architecture and ambiance mixes with the old Middle Eastern stand-bys of street bazaars overflowing with exotic items.

Tel Aviv can be found along the Mediterranean and is somewhere around 60 miles from the cultural and historical center known as Jerusalem. Be prepared to spend at least three days here to see everything there is; of course, very few cities in the world can be *completely* perused in this short time! It will give you a huge appreciation for the city, however.

Ramses II's Gate Garden. This is something you might not expect to find in Israel; an ancient site inhabited by the famous pharaoh known as Ramses the Great. The garden is located in Old Jaffa, a site of importance not only in ancient times but in the era of the Crusaders. Stroll around the park and take in the oasis of green away from the hustle and bustle of the main city.

Andromeda's Rock. For a completely different experience, check out Andromeda's rock. Although its Greek mythology-related history is doubtful (legend says a woman was chained here against her will and rescued in a classic hero scenario) the site itself is worthy to be noted. The chain of small rocks resembles a tiny group of islands. Come here to relax, look out over the waves, and wonder how many stories actually had a tiny grain of truth to them.

Carmel Market (Shuk Ha-Carmel) is a must-see in Tel Aviv, as markets are in any other Middle Eastern cities. It is another ancient stand-by, a bazaar with thousands of things to tempt the shopper's eye. Walking along, the view is like that of a huge fair with vendors and canopies along the streets, children running, shoppers haggling. The experience will provide you with great memories of your trip. The market is in the Yemenite Quarter, and the neighborhood has been around since the early 1900s. Try some authentic Israeli food. It will be an unforgettable part of your trip that will leave you with warm memories!

Would you expect to hear an orchestra in Israel? If you have good timing and can get tickets to the performance, you can! The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra has its base at Mann Auditorium, located at Habimah Square. In Habimah Square you can also find the Habimah Theater for a bit of Americana in the Middle East! If you love music and are bored in this part of the city, it's by your own choice!

To get a glimpse of sites the medieval Crusaders might have seen, check out the section of Tel Aviv known as "Old Jaffa." In ancient times the city was a thriving port, and remains of homes from thousands of years ago have since been found. Stop by the old tombstones; no one is sure exactly how old they are, but they're rumored to cover hundreds of years from circa 400s B.C. to 400s A.D. There aren't very many places in the world that one can view gravesites this old.

If you happen to want a small taste of the modern (perhaps in the shopping department) you won't be disappointed here! For some thoroughly modern souvenirs or perhaps a fashion binge, try Nachalat Binyamin Pedestrian Mall (you will also find exquisite handmade items here), Dizengoff Center (which boasts theaters, places to eat and a large array of stores) or Azrieli Center, the city's towering landmark. You'll want to take into account that very few, if any, of those stores are open on Saturdays, and some will not be accessible between the hours of 1:00 and 4:00.

To discover Tel Aviv's place in history, check out Eretz Israel Museum, a huge complex dealing with the history of this ancient city. Some of the things to check out are the Olive Oil Plant, museum collections breaking up different artistic mediums into easy-to-swallow exhibits, and the Planetarium. This is a big place so make sure you have at least a few hours to devote to the Eretz Israel Museum. You won't be disappointed, and will come away with more knowledge of the city you're seeing.

By Christina VanGinkel

Choosing a vacation package can be a great way to save money on the overall cost of a trip, but take the time to find out what is included in each package that is under consideration. For example, all-inclusive does not necessarily mean what it sounds like. It might mean all-inclusive at the resort or hotel, but not include any travel expenses. On the other hand, it might mean that all attractions are included for a single price, maybe some vouchers for meals, but surprisingly, you must make your own reservations for lodging and cover all of your own travel expenses. These are rare, but I have seen them listed in conjunction with amusement parks and similar destinations. Then again, for some trips, such as a cruise, an all-inclusive price might include travel to and from the departing and incoming port, your cabin on board ship, meals, even gratuities and travel back and forth to the ports of call along the way, truly an all-inclusive assortment of travel items.

What exactly is Included?

Our local area has a small travel agency that puts together all-inclusive packages to NASCAR races. The packages include your travel, your room, and tickets to the main race. All your meals and additional tickets to other events at the destination on the same weekend are all extra. They offer similar getaways to casinos. They provide bus fare to the casino, a meal voucher, even money to be spent in the casino, often referred to as Fun Money, and tickets to a show that the casino may be hosting. Chances are though, that it is not the headliner, and if you want tickets to that particular show, there is an extra cost, often as much as the cost of the complete inclusive package that they originally advertised. This does not mean that the all-inclusive package is a bad deal; it just means that you need to be aware of what the term means each time you are considering it, as it does not mean the same thing each time.

Question the Small Stuff

Ski resorts often offer all-inclusive packages. Again, all-inclusive can vary greatly on its meaning, depending on the resort in question. Some might offer lodging, and access to some of the amenities, such as limited access to the gym or pool area, along with a beginner's ski lesson, and a ski rental. Others might include access to all the amenities, including lift tickets, meals, lodging, even travel. Keep in mind that those packages that include items you do not need, such as lessons or rental equipment can be more costly than they seem. Do not assume that just because the rental and lesson are included that your lift ticket is also. Read the details, or else you might end up having to put out extra money upon your arrival for items that you assumed were included in the all-inclusive package, and having paid for amenities that you do not need or want.

Never Assume Anything

Beach resorts are another place that commonly offer all-inclusive packages, and as with all the others, they vary from resort to resort as to what is included. If you plan to scuba dive, bike, snorkel, etc., you should ask specifically if any of these extras are built into the packages, you are considering. If they are tied directly to the resort, you can sometimes get them added, or at least discounts on rental equipment needed. Other times, beach resorts will build packages around these activities that are such a draw for customers. Again, all-inclusive might or might not include travel there and back, or any travel that might be needed while you are there, especially if you are staying on an island, and you plan to visit surrounding islands.

Get the Details

All-inclusive can mean many different things. Ask upfront the details of any packages, right down to the basics, and never assume something is included. If you are unclear about a detail, question it before you sign on the dotted line. Get it all in writing, and that way the monies you bring with to shop while sightseeing will go for that, and not to cover some basic amenity that you wrongly assumed was included in your package.

There are two kinds of people that seek information about our nation's history; die-hard enthusiasts and history buffs, and the common man or woman just curious about the events that brought him or her here to this place in time. The American Civil War is one of the most fascinating times of our nation's history to research because of the many parallels.

In war, men could be ruthless, barbaric and cruel, but when they returned home they were gentleman, dressed in coats and top hats, remembering to show their best of manners. The battlefields of the Civil War are well documented and most are very well preserved. If you are a fan of this time period in our country's history, try visiting some of the battlefields where men fought and died for the American ideal.

The war began in 1861. For the next five years, bloodshed and casualty lists grew to be a common part of the American experience. The Battle of Bull Run in August 1861 was one of the first major engagements. The Battle of Antietam (if you're Northern) or Sharpsburg (if you're Southern) was General Lee's daring thrust into Northern soil in September 1862. The Battle of Fredericksburg followed in December, and some of 1863's engagements included Chancellorsville (May) and Gettysburg (July). 1864 saw the battles of Cold Harbor, the Wilderness, and Spotsylvania, among many others.

Antietam, Maryland

Although this may seem to be a tiny place not worth the effort to visit (there is no lodging in the town itself) I strongly suggest that anyone visiting Civil War battlefields should make this one of their first stops. On September 17, 1862, Robert E. Lee's daring raid into Maryland climaxed at Antietam. This engagement ended with thousands of casualties and showed the North they were no longer safe from the ravages of war. At "Bloody Lane" alone (a sunken path that is one of the battlefield's major attractions) countless soldiers fell into the forgotten ditch. You can see still the sunken lane and marvel at the vast size of the fields stretching out in every direction.

Also not to miss at Antietam is the famous Burnside's Bridge (once known as Rohrbach's Bridge) which has been the subject of many Civil War photos and commentaries. Union General Burnside's men, wading in the creek underneath the bridge, were fair targets for Confederates safely entrenched on the other side. This old stone bridge is a great place to stand and admire the courage of men of both sides who gave everything they had to their respective causes.

Chancellorsville, Virginia

Pulling into the parking lot at Chancellorsville Visitor's Center, it seems to be a barren, empty place. Once you are standing in this modern lot surrounded by endless woods and soaring trees, the silence almost pushes a sense of anxiety and dread on your shoulders. The battlefield here has a very subdued and reverent feel.

In the clearing behind the visitor's center, you can find a big stone statue commemorating where General Stonewall Jackson fell. (This isn't clearly marked, or wasn't when I was there at least. I came across it quite by accident!) Take time and notice the tiny wooden marker behind this that says "Unknown Union soldier." It's a sad reminder that many of the men and boys killed here were never identified. Tour the woods and read the markers, wondering how so many thousands could actually fall in these woods that still look much as they did.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Perhaps the bloodiest of all Civil War battlefields, this field that became famous on the first three days of July in 1863 is beautifully preserved. Countless monuments of all shapes, sizes and styles dramatize the fields as you drive around on a quiet and peaceful tour.

Don't miss Little Round Top, the rocky hill where the Union defended the high ground; Devil's Den, a pile of gigantic boulders that have stood on this spot for millions of years; Pickett's Charge, a large, open field where Confederate soldiers bravely marched without being allowed to return fire; and McPherson's Ridge, beautiful sloping farmland where you can almost still feel the presence of those men from long ago.

When you've seen these major sites, check out Culp's Hill, a secluded knoll where fighting never seemed to stop, or Confederate Avenue, filled with picturesque scenery and rows of cannons stretched out alongside the road.

If there was ever a country touched by magic, Ireland must be that country. A particular fog of uncertainty and excitement hangs over the green hills and the wide, picturesque valleys, as if druid priests are still imprinting their spirits across the land. One constantly receives the impression that there's something missing, that there is very little about this ancient and beautiful land that can truly be understood.

Ireland is famous for its verdant valleys, its striking ancient castles, and its beauty and mysticism. Of course there aren't very many people, even world travelers, who have time to see every single city in the country they are visiting. This is why it's important to make a list of what you would really feel terrible if you came back from Ireland without having seen. What is essential to see in Ireland? There are many things, but some are a more integral part of your Irish experience than others.

County Cork

The winner of the most visited Irish place is more than likely Blarney Castle. Everyone has heard the story of the Blarney Stone and its claim to give you a silken tongue, but what few people know is that actually bending backwards to kiss the stone requires a bit of effort. However, I would never recommend going to Ireland without kissing the Blarney Stone, even if you're a bit squeamish of heights; it is like going to Paris and failing to see the Eiffel Tower! As is the story with many other castles, the current Blarney Castle is only one of three to occupy this same site. It is an imposing place by exterior view, but the coming and going of tourists serve to make it more cheerful. Don't miss Blarney Castle as you traverse through the land of the leprechauns.

County Clare

Poulnabrone Dolmen is a huge prehistoric rock formation that many believe was made by hand, setting two 10-ton rock slabs on top of some smaller slabs. These odd druid formations are one of the most prevalent pictures that come to mind when thinking about the Emerald Isle. Once an ancient tomb, the Poulnabrone Dolmen now sits peacefully in County Clare, while the rocky plain known as the Burren stretches out around it. A field of cracked limestone covers the plain as far as the eye can see, giving it a barren and deserted look.

If you're traveling to County Clare you absolutely have to check out the Cliffs of Moher. The sheer size of these huge rock cliffs and the crashing waves below will inspire you. An aerial view would provide the best view, but since many people don't want to come off an airplane in Ireland and go up into another plane immediately, you might want to content yourself with the amazing view from the top. Be assured this view is just as amazing as the aerial would be!

County Galway

The Connemara Valley is famous for Connemara marble. Purchasing an Irish cross made of Connemara marble spurred me to research this historic region, and I wasn't disappointed at the number of things to see. First, the Connemara Valley itself is worth stopping to visit. After you've taken in the beauty of the natural scenery, stop by the 19th century Clifden Castle. Although not a medieval home, the name "castle" suits Clifden's appearance very well, even though most of it is now in ruins. The ruins seem to help further the mysterious quality of the valley in an eye-pleasing way.

Also in Connemara you'll find Roundstone Bay, where many fishing and ocean-going activities are possible. Take time to stop and view the beautiful valley reflected in the bay and you'll see why Ireland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. If you decided not to visit Clifden Castle, you might want to see Connemara's Ross Castle. If you want to spend a considerable amount of money and wish to stay here or have dinner reservations here, Ross Castle - more of a manor house than a castle - is your first stop. For the right price, you can be a guest at this fantastic place that is beautifully furnished and commands a fantastic view.

No matter what you decide to do while visiting the Emerald Isle, you will have great memories (and incredible pictures!) for years to come.

By Christina VanGinkel

Choosing where to go on a family vacation, or what activities the vacation should include, can be a fun activity in its own right, especially if everyone in the family gets to have input. This does not mean that it gets to be a free for all, with everyone shouting out destinations, just that everyone has the opportunity to provide suggestions on what they, as individuals, would like to do. Children love to have a say about everything in their lives, and vacations are no different. Too often as adults, we just assume that kids will enjoy themselves no matter where we take them, and with some kids, this might be true. With families that have more than one child though, making sure that everyone is happy can be difficult sometimes, even impossible, but with a vacation, we should take the time to at least find out what would be intriguing to them when they think of a vacation.

Announce a family meeting at a set time and place, or at the end of dinner one evening, state that the following night, this will be a topic open for suggestion. Make sure everyone knows ahead of time, so the opportunity is there to put some real thought into his or her suggestions. Inform them that all suggestions will be given consideration, no matter how far fetched, that at this point in time, you are on an information gathering expedition, and that the activities they would like to do are as important, if not more so, than the destinations they might suggest.

If you have a large family, it might even be prudent to have each child write down their suggestions and have a parent read them, aloud, to the family. For each suggestion on an activity or destination, if they are old enough, ask them to also research what the cost involved might be. Small children should be excluded from this task; just coming up with a few ideas will be enough work for them. You will have to go back over each suggestion with more thorough research, but this will let the kids know that you are seriously valuing their ideas. It will also provide them with a reality check if they have suggestions such as taking a trip to Hawaii, and your budget is closer to driving to the nearest Waterpark. Tell them they need to consider transportation, lodging, meals, and activities. Be sure you participate in this task, offering up destination suggestions. Each family member should also write down one or two activities that are no cost, which they would like to do on the trip. Take a walk on a beach, sit on the top of the snowboard hill, and watch the sunset or rise, take some time to read a book, sleep, talk. A successful vacation always includes what I refer to as down time. The problem is if we do not recognize what we consider downtime, we will not set aside some time to do those things.

If they have suggested just an activity, instead of a destination, still have them research the cost. Skydiving for example, may be something older kids might suggest. Have them check both the cost and age requirements.

Once you have narrowed down where and what the vacation might consist of, have the children email, write, or phone for travel brochures related to the trip. Again, have older kids do some research online, or by calling the Chamber of Commerce in the area where you will be visiting to see if any discount books are available. Surprisingly, many destinations both large and small have discounts and coupons available for everything from lodging to attractions, just for the asking.

Getting kids involved in the decision-making and planning of a vacation has several distinct benefits. It shows them that you value their ideas, and that maybe you would have enjoyed Hawaii just as much as they would, but realistically, it just was not going to happen. It also makes them accountable to a point for how well they enjoy themselves. Kids that were given the opportunity to pick and choose at least parts of the vacation agenda cannot come back at you and say that the whole vacation is boring and that they are not having any fun, why did they not go here or there, or get to do this activity or that. You will already have gone over those issues.

Get your family involved in planning your next vacation and you will also extend the enjoyment, as planning and looking forward to a vacation can sometimes be as much fun as the reward of the vacation itself.

It seems that mystery has clung to the damp, foggy streets of London since its ancient beginnings as Londinium, a Roman settlement. Far from being dreary and depressive, as its weather often suggests, one of the world's most well known cities has a bright and exciting mix of things to see and do. If you are in London and you feel bored, you aren't a true world traveler! It's impossible to see London in a few days, but for most tourists, that's all the time that is available. Of course you want to see the big attractions like Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey. You may know what they symbolize, but do you know the history behind them?

Big Ben, as the huge clock tower is affectionately known, had its beginning in 1858 when it was first cast. It was cast at a place known as Whitechapel and is more formally known as the Great Clock of Westminster (although the millions of tourists who have seen it will most likely still call the old tower by its "common" name). The idea for the clock tower was first conceived in the mid 1830s when a fire ripped the Palace of Westminster to shreds, destroying one of London's most historical buildings. Part of the architecture was salvaged, including a hall from the late 11th century. No one is sure where the name "Big Ben" came from, but it has been speculated about since the 1800s.

Speaking about the Tower of London brings a shiver to the heart of any person who's studied even a minimal amount of London's history. It's the original "Tower of Terror" and has had more than its fair share of violence, intrigue, and mystery. Sketches from the Renaissance era show that the tower has changed very little over the years. Perhaps workers are afraid to radically alter its appearance? Beginning with William the Conqueror, many royal personages have placed their mark on the Tower of London. Some have apparently never left! Whether or not you believe in the ghostly presences that haunt this place where innocent people literally "lost their heads," you'll have to admit it's not the sort of place you'd like to be after dark.

A very different kind of fortification stood there in ancient days; the spot of the Tower of London was once inhabited by the Roman fort and if you look carefully at the architecture, you can still find parts of the ancient masonry. If you happen to pass by Tower Hill, note that this was once the spot of some of the tower's infamous hangings, where London's sheriff was allowed to treat unfortunate criminals how he wished. This place has a very dark and dusty air, so if young children - or adults - feel uncomfortable here, there is plenty of reason for such feelings.

Westminster Abbey, begun in the 1200s, was added onto in the centuries following until the architectural marvel of this modern day structure was complete. Royalty, along with other influential people throughout history, are buried here. Make a special agenda note to have a reverent moment of silence at the tomb of a favorite king or queen, perhaps leaving a tiny flower or other item as a token of your remembrance. Some parts of the Abbey include the Poet's Corner, where tombs of some famous writers and statues of others can be found; a chapel that belonged to the famous Edward the Confessor; and the Lady Chapel where you can find tombs and vaults of many kings and queens including Henry VII, James I, and Elizabeth I. This is an extremely important stop on a tour of England's history.

The history of London Bridge is a long and sometimes strange one; there have been various bridges over the same spot since ancient times. In medieval times, traitors' heads were hung over the bridge's ramparts, a warning for others who contemplated treason. In the 1800s, a newer version of the bridge was taken to Arizona as a tourist attraction. Another bridge was then built, but did not retain the charm of the older versions, which had Tudor style homes and medieval churches along the span of the bridge.

There are many other things to do in London, of course, but these few major attractions will help you to get the head start you need for a memorable British vacation.

Recently finding out about some Scottish blood I have while working on genealogy has made me increasingly interested in my ancestors' homeland. In researching one of the towns of my ancestral origin, I discovered that there are some great attractions in Aberdeen (in the area of Aberdeenshire), Scotland, and the more I researched, the more it made me want to travel there!

Aberdeen in northeast Scotland borders the North Sea and one of its natural attributes is the Dee River. In the native tongue of different Celtic groups, "aber" meant river, so the name Aberdeen signifies the city was located at the river Dee. Aberdeen is a bustling modern city whose restaurants and shopping districts make it desirable to tourists of all walks of life, but to find the quiet country life you'd expect in bucolic Scotland, you'll have to think outside the box.

Trek outside of town and explore Aberdeenshire until you discover the distinctive Castle Fraser. A bit more modern than other castles, it's a 16th and 17th century monument to Scotland's nobility. The interior will make even the most stoic visitor's mouth drop; it isn't all gild and lace as many castles are, but it's enough to make you wish you lived a few centuries ago! Old paintings and furniture have been carefully set up to give a feel of the past, and Castle Fraser even boasts its own hidden rooms!

If your mind is still trying to contemplate the beauty of this lovely castle, perhaps another castle tour is what you're craving. Try visiting Craigievar Castle in Aberdeenshire for another historical treat. Craigievar is a tall and slender castle with narrow turrets, and its appearance gives it an ominous and mysterious air. Built in the 1620s, there are more rooms and artifacts here than it seems could be fit inside the narrow space!

If you're interested in life on the North Sea, trek back into town for the Aberdeen Maritime Museum. You can find ships, interpretive displays, and lots of fascinating imagery here that you might not expect. The building incorporates medieval-style architecture, resembling a Gothic cathedral facade in many ways. Also on the property you'll find the Provost's house, dating from the Elizabethan age of the 1590s. The museum has been held in high standing by many sources. For an extra special treat, note that the harbor can be seen from an observation point. Admission is free.

For an even more close up glimpse of Aberdeen and the sea, take a walk around Aberdeen Harbor. Those with reservations might plan to come here looking for a ferry that takes tourists to the islands of Orkney and Shetland. Although the district surrounding the waterfront is modern, some things (such as fish markets) have little changed since the Victorian era.

Castlegate is Aberdeen's old residential area, a chance to escape modern surroundings and step back in time. Visit St. Andrew's Chapel for a reverent glimpse of Episcopal worship in the 19th century. The church was begun in 1816. Stop in and see the interior arches that are simple yet beautiful. King's College is one of the oldest if not the oldest buildings in Castlegate, founded in 1495. The college chapel was constructed in the first year of the 16th century and the estate can still be seen in all its old glory today. Walking through Castlegate is a good way to go if you want to be close to modern comforts but still be distanced from the bustle of the downtown.

Do you wish to experience the jaw-dropping exhilaration of the Grand Canyon without having to return to the United States? The Bullers of Buchan will satisfy your daredevil longing. Stand at the edge of the gorge and look down over the plunge of about 200 feet - if you dare. The gigantic rock fingers far below jut into the sea, making a fantastic view you won't see anywhere else. Standing here and watching the waves crash against the ancient rocks can be either terrifying or relaxing, depending on your like or dislike of heights!

There's much more to see and do in Aberdeen, but then again, the entire country of Scotland is a fabulous tourist destination; don't be afraid to look around. Good luck, and Slainte mhor agad! (Scottish Gaelic for "Great health to you!")

It is interesting to note that, as our world gets more technological, many of us feel a desire to slip back in time to a place less hindered by modern standards. We want to experience the simple lifestyles of our ancestors, but without completely being isolated from the outside world. Israel's most famous city, Jerusalem, is a great way to do both these things at once; the architecture and atmosphere belong to ancient days, but you're never too far from the more modern heart of the city.

You may come to Jerusalem as a tourist, but you'll leave feeling as if a part of you remains firmly planted in that small but glorious land. You cannot just "see" Jerusalem, or any part of the Holy Land; you have to "feel" it. Jerusalem offers an endless spectrum of things to see and do. These things span the themes of religion, architecture, history, and other entertainment you wouldn't expect to see here.

Make sure to buy three things when you start your Jerusalem journey; a good map (preferably in English!), good walking shoes, and a bag to carry all the purchases you'll be finding in Jerusalem's various souvenir stands and bazaars. Everything in Jerusalem seems to have a religious theme, from Christian spots of veneration, Muslim places of worship, and Jewish historical architecture.

Jews, Christians and Muslims will find many things to bring them closer to their faith in this ancient city. For Christian travelers, there is the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, one of the most famous and iconic buildings in the city. Many consider this the spot where the hill of Golgotha, the place of Jesus' crucifixion, occurred and the first church was constructed on the same ground in the 4th century. Medieval Crusaders made sure the church was rebuilt and it continued to be renovated and fixed up in the centuries between then and now. For a feel of how the ancient Israelis of the first century buried their dead, check out the indoor crypts in the church that are thought to date from this time period.

Although many people don't consider the Garden Tomb to be the actual tomb in which Jesus was temporarily buried, it is still symbolic to seek out this famous site and feel the ambiance of the place. It will certainly give you a feeling for first century life and is considered one of the "must-do" Jerusalem attractions for Christian visitors. In this same vein, you might want to visit the Garden of Gethsemane. Although some believe the trees are from Jesus' time, others argue it is unlikely; during the Roman occupation about 37 years later, records show that trees were cut down in the vicinity. Even so, they are believed to be very ancient, and most people won't get the chance to touch a tree that is probably well over 1,000 years old very often.

If you are interested in Muslim holy sites, look no further than the Dome of the Rock and Al Aqsa mosque complex. This is the spot Muhammad is said to have ascended to heaven, and a nearby mosque sprang up as a result of this belief. Interestingly enough, the gold dome that is probably Jerusalem's most famous landmark was not always gold; before the 1960s, it was made of lead, and probably looked very different!

The famous Wailing Wall, part of Solomon's Temple, is a Jewish holy place, but its deep spiritual connections are of interest to visitors of all faiths. You can find thousands of people here at any given time, so come early and make sure not to be trampled. If the opportunity arises, write a prayer or special note, letter, etc. and place it in the cracks of the old wall. It's like leaving a piece of you behind even when you have to return home.

No matter what your faith, viewing the ancient city from the Mount of Olives is a special experience that will never be forgotten, no matter how many journeys you may take in your life. You will see the many parallels - radio towers and modern traffic standing calmly next to centuries-old churches and small nondescript homes that look as if they came right out of an ancient era. No trip to Jerusalem will be complete unless you do this!

By Christina VanGinkel

Scrapbook day retreats
Scrapbook spa retreats
Scrapbook crops
Scrapbook weekend packages
Weekend scrapbook events

Scrapbooking has not only taken hold of the whole craft and design industry, it has also made an impact on the travel industry. While scrapbooking is a way to honor your heritage and can be a relatively personal form of art, it can also be a bonding experience between those of us who are so enraptured with this wonderful form of expression. Maybe you want to scrapbook, but just do not know how to progress further than organizing your photos, or maybe you have not even accomplished that. On the other hand, you could be on the opposite end, and have numerous scrapbooks already filled, wonderful layouts galore, but you want to be able to share them with others beyond your immediate family. Maybe you are somewhere in between the two, and are looking for some inspiration to progress, to give a new perspective to your layouts, or want to see what some of the new tools are out there up close and in use before you lay out the money to add them to your own collection. Any of these reasons and dozens more has created the opportunity for scrapbook retreats and overnight crops to take hold and create a complete new layer to this wonderful art form.

If there are no crops or retreats in your area, do not fret, you probably just did not hear about them. Many are small affairs, put on by scrapbook groups or through organizations such as churches or women's organizations. Not to say that men are not welcome, because as scrapbooking grows in popularity, it is reaching across the sexes and men are not only scrapping, they are designing for the masses and are becoming part of the strong backbone that supports this industry.

Back to the crops and the retreats, if there are no crops or retreats in your locale, or if you want to go to one outside of your area, you can pick from retreats lasting from overnight to weeklong affairs nationwide. Some upcoming crops and retreats that I found by just doing a basic search online include:

The Rubber Stamp and Scrapbook Expo, February 25 and 26, 2006, located in Pomona, California are hosting ongoing crops during the show. You will have three feet of table space, and there will be communal tables set up for sharing tools from companies such as Xyron and Sizzix. They also have upcoming shows in Arizona, North Carolina, Texas, Washington, and Rhode Island.

For those looking for a weekend retreat for both scrapping memories and making new ones, check out the Scrapbook Dairy Weekend Scrapbooking Retreat and Spa. Located near Indianapolis Indiana, in Flat Rock Indiana in the heart of the Midwest, there is a store on the premises for all of your needs in case you forget something, or do not even know what to bring, and as you will be cropping in what was once an old hayloft, space is abundant.

Creating Keepsakes Scrapbook Conventions are located in Portland Oregon, Kansas City Missouri, St. Louis Missouri, Mesa Arizona, Nashville Tennessee, Manchester New Hampshire, Buffalo New York, Valley Forge Pennsylvania, Charlotte North Carolina, Tulsa Oklahoma, Phoenix Arizona, and Bellevue Washington. These conventions offer everything from classes to crops, contests, and much more. If you want to really take a peek at what scrapbooking is all about, even meet a few of the celebrities that have made scrapbooking what it currently is, a Creating Keepsakes Scrapbook Convention is the perfect place to start.

While these are just a small sample of what is available, you will find crops, spas, retreats, and more available across the country. There are retreats and crops available in small towns, big cities, and everywhere in between. Some are associated with stores selling supplies, while others are just basic getaways, where everyone brings their own supplies. Groups can sometimes receive discounts, the same as any other type of vacation or weekend getaway, but there are also many opportunities for singles and even couples. Try a scrapbook retreat or crop if a getaway with a twist is something that you think might be just the type of relaxation you need. Be warned though, that once you go to one, it will be difficult to not want to go repeatedly!

Wales is a country of many parallels -- grassy plains filled with grazing sheep, mountainous passes surrounded by angry rocky terrain. In some ways it doesn't seem to belong to the rest of Great Britain, and indeed for many years fought to keep an identity separate from that of its conquerors.

Wales is very much like its Celtic neighbors in a few ways, though, and its abundance of haunted castles may very likely be one of the biggest common factors! You might not think of Wales as a "ghost country" in contrast to its neighboring lands, but you may be surprised to find out that many Cymry, the people of Wales, consider their country to be very receptive to otherworldly visitors. The countryside even looks haunted, caught up in a timeless magic. It's fascinating to know that the very same scenery found there today probably existed centuries ago, looking much the same! Wales is a country where everything seems bigger.

In a place known as Glamorgan, a wonderful example of a medieval castle still stands, looking by the exterior as if time has allowed it to slumber peacefully. This place is known as Caerphilly Castle, and the ghostly presence is attributed to forbidden love. A man known as Gilbert de Clare, who once lived in this fortress, had a wife named Alice, who didn't seem to share his affection. She took a lover from among the Welsh nobility, and when the young man was found out, his execution was swift. A woman is sometimes seen walking the battlements of Caerphilly, mourning the love that was stolen from her.

Powis Castle can be found in Powys and is known for its sandstone walls and its old spirits. As long ago as the 1780s, a woman who came to help with the castle's upkeep witnessed an even older spirit who alerted her and actually offered her the chance to stop the haunting. He told her to give a certain key to the head of the household, and he would leave and not bother the family any longer. Sure enough, the gentleman has never been seen at Powis again. Since that time, unearthly presences seem to be the norm. A room that was once inhabited by the duke of the castle is reported to have "physical" presences who like to touch and tease unsuspecting human guests!

In Denbighshire lies an edifice known as Rhuddlan Castle. This Welsh castle was the brainchild of England's King Edward I, forever known as Longshanks. He wanted to make sure the Welsh populace didn't try to fight for the parts of Wales that he had conquered, and Rhuddlan was only one of the fortresses built for this purpose. One of the ancient stories goes that a Welsh princess, losing her way in the forest, was chivalrously rescued by an unknown man. It turns out that it was not a man at all, but a fiendish beast attempting to fool the royal family. When the princess discovered his true form, she refused to be pledged to him, and was killed by the fiend's own hand. Even to this day, screams are heard from the woods . . . merely the wind, or a terrified ancient princess?

Caernarfon Castle is found in Caernarfon, Gwynedd, which lies in northern Wales. The castle scenery is spectacular, since the Straits of Menai lie far below the ramparts. It was here that Edward Longshanks' son Edward was born and soon pledged as a Welsh prince to appease the natives. Edward's presence is possibly still felt here, because one of the various spectral entities reported here is said to be of royal dress. Another tale says that soldier spirits still guard the castle as they did in their own time.

Gwydir Castle in northern Wales has garnered quite a reputation for itself. The original castle began in the Middle Ages but, as many castles, has had its appearance altered over time. Some consider it to be one of the most haunted places in the country! Found in Snowdonia, Gwydir is said to house the spirit of John Wynn, whose family owned the castle long ago. A young woman is also found here, but no one is sure who she is or why she continues to keep the living company at Gwydir.

If you are planning a trip to France but you will not be stopping in Paris for whatever reason, there are plenty of other thrilling cities in the country. Each big city and little town has its own draw, so be sure to know what kinds of things you want to see and where to find them.

If shopping is one of your passions or if you enjoy the arts such as music and movies, you may enjoy the Cannes region of France. Located in the French Riviera, Cannes offers a visitor excellent shopping no matter what is on your shopping list.

Cannes is also a region where you can find beaches, unique shops, and night life that can only be found in the French Riviera. While you are visiting Cannes, try to board a boat that will take you to the two islands near Cannes. They at Ste-Marguerite and St-Honorat and there are things for tourists to see and photograph on the islands. They are called the "Iles de Lerins."

If history is an interest, there is a history museum in Cannes as well as a museum dealing with nautical displays. Of course there are also a number of art galleries and museums found here. If you are staying in a townhouse or hotel where you have your own kitchen facilities (or if you want a snack or even fresh flowers!) try the Forville Market in Cannes. The market is open to shoppers daily.

If you will be in the Marseille area of France, try the old port. The French name for this is Vieux Port. If you are visiting the country after arriving by cruise, there is a good chance that this will be one of the places where the cruise ship stops. Be sure to see the "garden of remains" (Jardin des Vestiges) when you are in Vieux Port.

Things to do in the Toulouse area include numerous museums of different kinds, such as an excellent science museum (called the Cite de L'Espace) and religious sites. The churches and cathedrals are beautiful and you may want to put a tour of the convent on your agenda (it is called the Couvent des Jacobins). The Cite de L'Espace offers a planetarium that is always interesting.

No matter how exciting the cities of France are, or how much energy you may have, it is always nice to plan a little quiet time. This can be done by retreating to one of the French mountains to take in some of the fresh air or an exhilarating hike. Just a few of the mountains you may want to check out are the Aix-en-Provence, Annecy, La Tournette, Semnoz Mountians, and Mount St. Victoire.

There is some outstanding skiing all over France so if your trip to a mountain will include skiing, you will not be disappointed with the choice of slopes to use.

Also found on the French Riviera is the Nice region. What can you do in Nice (pronounced not as it looks but rather sounding like "niece") area? You could spend a day here just deciding what to do, but you can start by spending some beach time at one of the infamous beaches of the French Riviera. Relax while seeing the Mediterranean and hearing the soft sound of water lapping against the shore.

If you are a diver, you may want to rent some equipment here and take an excursion under water to see the sunken statue called Our Lady of the Seabed. It is not the only piece of artwork that you will see if you dive here because there are other underwater art treasures here as well.

Be sure that you take your camera equipment or video camera with you all over France, but especially if you find yourself planning to visit the Loire Valley. Why? Because when you are traveling the highways and small roads of the Loire Valley, you never really know when you will be coming across one of the castles that are found here.

Although it may be possible to actually rent a room in some of these castles, you really have to make plans for something like that well in advance. Some of them give tours and some don't, so definitely know ahead of time so that you won't waste your precious moments in France.

If you have a trip to Paris coming up in your future, first of all, lucky you! Paris is one of the most visited European cities. You definitely will not have to worry about running out of things to do or wasting time sitting in your hotel room feeling bored.

Whether this is a trip of a lifetime, a special occasion or celebration, or a business trip, you will probably be finding a hotel right in Paris, also called the "city of lights." Many of the landmarks and things to do in the city limits are well known but one interesting thing to do before leaving for this or any trip is to research some different activities or a new restaurant in the area. As an alternative to doing the legwork of research, ask the locals for out of the way places to dine or shop.

I do this every time I go to my favorite spots all along the east coast. No matter how many times I have visited a particular city, I send for tourist books and brochures and check online for new things to do. It is also fun to check out some of the restaurants online so that you won't be choosing your dining spots while knowing nothing about them, the cost of the food, or what is actually being served.

Paris is an exciting city every day and well into the evening with its nightlife. The first thing that comes to mind for most people when thinking about Paris is the Eiffel Tower. It is a wonder to behold at any time of the day, but after dark it becomes even more special. It is completely lit up with countless lights and for about ten minutes every hour, there is a light show where the lights seem to "dance."

There are a few restaurants inside of the tower itself so for an unforgettable meal, you may want to consider that option. If you are using the steps, be sure to arrive before 6 p.m. at most times of the year for admittance. You will be able to use the elevator after the step entrance closes, however. Do some shopping after dinner in the tower, and be sure to stop and truly enjoy the grandeur of this lovely city from somewhere in the tower.

Other things to plan to do while you are in Paris are to see the Notre Dame Cathedral (be prepared to take many photographs all over the city, by the way) and it really would not be a complete trip to Paris without saying hello to the infamous Mona Lisa at the Louvre Museum.

You will need to plan enough time in the museum. With smaller places you can possibly see what you want to see at any given museum in an afternoon or a few hours. That is not really true with the Louvre, though. Be sure to put aside at least most of a day if you want to see some of the most well known art pieces housed here. When making your plans, remember that the Louvre, like some other world museums, is closed on Tuesdays. Other days you can enter starting at 9 a.m.

The building of Notre Dame actually started in 1163 so if you have an interest in history, religion, or stunning architecture, you will want to see this Gothic structure. You will need to check ahead for a time when you can explore the building. Although it is definitely open to tourists, the cathedral still holds Mass there a few times each day.

If you enjoy bringing out the child in yourself or if you are traveling with "real" children of any age, Disneyland Paris is found about 19 miles from the city. Check with the park for the times the gates will be opening. Often it is 10 a.m. but there are certain times of the year when they open at 9.

For the beginning of 2006, Disneyland Paris will be opening at 10 a.m. from January 2 to March 10 and the same from March 11 until April 2. The park opens at 9 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays between March 11 and April 2, though. Check the schedule for opening times covering the rest of the year. As with any other Disney theme park, prepare for spending the entire day at the park and dropping into bed bone tired!

The desolate rocky cliffs and ancient, crooked Celtic tombstones certainly help to further the impression of a haunted land. Ireland has been a land of magic and ambiance since ancient times, and no one has quite been able to put their finger on what makes the "land of the leprechauns" so special. Perhaps it's the wide green valleys that haven't been touched by human hands or the scenery of ruined castles with sheep grazing calmly in the meadows below.

Ireland's castles, many in ruins, certainly have a lot to do with its mystic imagery. If you travel to Ireland consider going on a haunted castle tour. Like England, Wales and Scotland, there are plenty of castles chock-full of stories to keep you guessing. Many of these "haunted" castles may have their run-of-the-mill "white lady," but there's a lot more to the stories than that. These grand residential fortresses each have their own story, of treason between clans, thwarted love, or Druid magic that still seems to permeate the land.

Some castles seem more foreboding than others. Take Bunratty Castle near Shannon, in County Clare. The small main entrance may not seem ancient or majestic, but it's both. The Celtic name for Bunratty is Bun Raite (many times the original Celtic names are much more romantic than plain Anglicized names!) and its name attests to the fact that it is situated near the Shannon River. Known as a tower house, it is still thought of as a castle, and has a violent history just as many other castles do.

All of the previous castles were each ruined throughout time until a building made of stone rose up on this spot. Thomas de Clare, a Norman noble who had been given charge of the nearby lands, lived here in the 1200s. The castle's very own ghost story begins soon after. A man named Brian Rua, who had once been of high political standing, asked Thomas to assist him in his hopeful rise back to power, giving him land in return. As the days passed, Brian soon earned Thomas de Clare's anger and the Norman ordered the luckless man killed by hanging as soon as possible.

Charleville Forest Castle is located in North Tullamore in County Offaly, and many people believe it to be the Emerald Isle's most haunted. Although the castle is relatively new, (at least as far as castles go) dating from the late 18th to early 19th century, it has all the majestic bearing of a more ancient building. Charleville boasts its share of ghosts as well! Unseen children are sometimes heard playing around the residence and strange voices from another time talk to each other from an unknown realm. An ancient tree is located outside the castle; whenever a branch rains to the ground, it is rumored to portend evil for the Charleville family, and this prophecy has rarely failed!

Leap Castle, also in County Offaly, is a name often associated with Irish spirits. The castle in its original form was built by the 1500s, when the head of one clan instigated the massacre of a rival family clan. Their ghosts are only some of those with "unfinished business" who linger here. A century later, an Irishwoman who had given her heart to an imprisoned soldier discovered his true personality when he killed her brother in the castle. A forgotten dungeon was uncovered in the early 20th century, attesting to the cruel way prisoners were dropped into the narrow hole and left to die. It appears many never left.

Huntingdon Castle is definitely worth the trek to County Carlow. Its modest facade seems to contrast with the stately gardens, and it is widely believed that supernatural powers are at work here! Even before you enter the castle, mystery abounds in the form of centuries-old trees that form a "ceiling" above you. The castle itself is a spooky paradise, complete with suits of armor (what castle doesn't have that?) A soldier makes his presence known here, bemoaning his untimely fate, and a woman awaiting her husband's return from battle is also acknowledged to be an "honorary resident."

Ireland is just one of the places where haunted castles can be found. Additional exciting places to visit if you want to check out these castles for yourself are found in other European countries.

Israel is the land of ancient cities, sprawling mountains and arid deserts. There aren't many places in the world that are shrouded with so much mystery. For some reason, Israel seems to call to us, whatever our religious background may be. Countless travelers throughout the pages of time have answered the tiny Middle Eastern country's call.

What is it about Israel that's so fascinating? Tales of miracles and holy happenings? Desert and rocky mountain ridges as far as the eye can see? Colorful cities and villages where life goes on just as it did 2,000 years ago?

It may seem that being so small, there wouldn't be a lot to see in Israel; you may say "I'll see everything in a few days." That's a mistake many travelers have made! It may be small, but there is an abundance of attractions most people aren't even aware of. From ancient churches and tiny streets to quiet streams and hillside caves, you won't walk away disappointed if you know what to see. As always when traveling to a volatile area of the world, be sure to check state department warnings before any such trip.

Bethlehem. Known as the birthplace of Jesus, Bethlehem has been a site of interest to Christians for thousands of years. It is located in an area known as Judah and has a great many sites to fascinate the faithful. Some things to see:

1. Church of the Nativity. This medieval church, which has since been renovated, is said to have been built over the spot of Jesus' birth. Constantine, the Roman emperor famous for his conversation to Christianity, built the original church here in the 4th century, and a grotto known as the Holy Crypt was named as the actual place the birth occurred.

2. Mar Saba Monastery. Although the monastery lies somewhere around nine miles away from Bethlehem, it's still a wonderful short side-trip and part of Bethlehem's history. It is an ancient monastic community rumored to be one of the oldest in the world. Unfortunately, if you are female, you will not be able to actually enter Mar Saba, but there is an observation point called the "Women's Tower."

Jericho. The name conjures up images of one of the oldest Jewish cities, and quite likely one of the oldest cities in the world. It's located in the West Bank and will be well worth your visit. There are quite a few factors that upkeep its title as one of the oldest cities such as:

1. Neolithic Tower. No one is sure when the huge tower (now in ruins) was built, but archaeologists are sure it is thousands of years older than even the ancient civilizations in Egypt. Come and explore the ruins for yourself, standing in awe when you realize that people probably lived here before the majority of the Biblical patriarchs began their lives.

2. Elisha's Spring. The mountains that run from Jericho to Jerusalem are some of the beautiful natural scenery you can hope to find in Israel. Behind Jericho is a place known as Elisha's Spring. It is a small, marshy place that appears unchanged since the days of the patriarchs.

Nazareth. The meaning of the word Nazareth is unknown; some say "guardian" and others believe it is "branch." Whatever the meaning, it's a town best known as the childhood home of Jesus. In the Bible, it is said that a man quipped "can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Unfortunately the town may still have a bad reputation, partially by tourists who think of it as a tiny "hick town" was nothing to see and do. They couldn't be more wrong!

1. Old Market. A trip to the Middle East isn't complete until you empty your pockets at a bazaar! Nazareth's Old Market will help your souvenir dreams come true. This is not a flat city, so be prepared to bring your good walking shoes. It will be well worth the effort! Find gold items, vegetables, bride's necessities, and all other sorts of interesting souvenirs here.

2. Stop on the outskirts of Nazareth to see Megiddo, another name for Armageddon. Layer after layer of construction shows just how ancient the site truly is. Seek out the Jezreel Plain, the site of many fierce engagements.

There are too many Jerusalem attractions to write about in one place! I will continue my Israel travel tips in the future with things to see and do in Israel's most famous city. Stay tuned to find out where to best spend your time in Jerusalem.

Although there are many towns and cities in Spain that appear untouched by time, one in particular stands out as a true monument of the Middle Ages. Granada, located in southern Spain, is just as beautiful now as in the medieval era, when Moorish rulers from North Africa held high court over their Jewish, Christian and Muslim subjects. Once upon a time, Christianity was not the dominant religion, and Moorish Muslims brought their art and architecture to Spain. Granada is a beautiful example of a Moorish city.

Granada is located in Andalusia, a region of Spain known for the customary red tile roofs and simple stucco multi-story buildings. Towering above the old city, you can see the Sierra Nevada mountains glistening with snowy peaks (in fact, Nevada is Spanish for "snowy"). On every narrow medieval street and alleyway, you will find something to amuse and excite you. From history to dining to shopping, the old meets the modern in a pleasant and unforgettable way.

Scenario Number One: "I love history, but there's so much here. I don't know if I can see it all in a short amount of time. What should I see first?"

You're in luck. There aren't many places in Granada that aren't immersed in an ancient story, whether it be an ancient gate, a Renaissance home, or an ageless mountain. Don't assume that the attractions most well-known to Granada tourists (and likely the most crowded) are the ones you should bypass!

1. Alhambra. The word most likely in the back of anyone's mind when thinking of Granada is "Alhambra." It's speculated that the name is "Spanishified" from the Arabic term "Calat al-Hamra," or "red palace," because at certain times the sunlight dyes the walls crimson. This ancient palace dates from the 1200s, with some restorations in the 1500s when a residence for King Carlos V was built. Wandering through the rooms of the Alhambra is amazing, to say the least. Arabic tile work, architecture, brightly colored mosaics and oddly-shaped windows and arches abound everywhere you look. If you don't use at least three rolls of film here, you will sorely regret it!

2. Old houses. Many homes in Granada date back at least three or four hundred years, sometimes more. Two such homes that can be visited are (1) La Casa de Pisa, where one of Granada's most famous saints, John of God, died and (2) Casa de Castril, a 1500s home which now houses a museum. Notice the ornate facade on the Casa de Castril, paying attention to the detail over the door.

3. Generalife Gardens. The beauty of the outdoors is captured here, just as the beauty of
architecture is showcased at Alhambra. The generalife, Moorish gardens showing the North Africans' love for fountains and landscaping, is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy Spain's balmy climate. Take a book, meander through the gardens, and get lost in the medieval charm of the complex.

4. Albaicin. One of the most beautiful Spanish neighborhoods, Albaicin, has barely changed from the days of the Moorish kings. Tiny whitewashed homes, cobblestone streets and narrow pathways come straight from the past. For a wonderful insight into the lives of medieval inhabitants, come here and poke around the old Albaicin. Stand in just the right place and look up over an ancient hill, and you may see the huge, forbidding Alhambra complex perched precariously. There are numerous photo opportunities here!

Scenario Number Two: "History is great, but I want some action of a different kind. Where can I have a good time that isn't necessarily history-related?"

1. For those of you who get sick with longing when you hear a mournful Spanish tune, think of the fast-paced energy of flamenco dancing! Although associated with gypsies (who also have a huge part of the history of Granada) flamenco's origins aren't certain. See a flamenco show in Granada, and if possible, find a gypsy troupe that will provide fantastic entertainment! It's a wonderful way to remember your vacation

2. Are you the outdoors type? The Sierra Nevada Mountains aren't just for looking at! Between spring (May) and winter (December) sign yourself up for some skiing, Spanish-style. The slopes command a great view of the city and, if proper preparations are made for your skiing adventure, will be remembered as a great getaway! Come here for an adventure you wouldn't imagine in sunny Spain.

This has not been a very cold or brutal winter so far so thoughts of tropical paradises in different parts of the world have not been in the front of my mind. Other years, though, by the time mid January came around, tropical breezes and palm trees were a grand thought indeed.

If you want to plan a tropical vacation, why not try Acapulco? As I am writing this, I just checked the weather in this favorite getaway spot in Mexico. It is the 11th of January, it is not even 7:00 a.m. local Acapulco time yet, and people are waking to 70 degrees. I think I could get used to that rather easily! Oh, the high temperature today? It is projected to be 88 degrees. If only I'd have access to a corporate jet!

If you would like to spend some time where it rarely gets below 65 degrees at any time of the year, there are countless activities to do in this particular paradise. Some of the major activities that you may want to check into include:

1. For those choosing this type of vacation, especially in the middle of winter, sun and beaches are usually at the top of a list of things to do. Acapulco has a great number of beaches (miles of beaches, it's a very popular resort area!) for taking in some sunshine or perhaps for a quiet dinner near the beach while you watch the sun sinking slowly over the ocean.

2. If you enjoy checking out the night life when you are on vacation, there are numerous discos, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late in Acapulco. Although various world cities are the same, it seems as if there is something going on here at any time of the night. "Never sleeps" describes this coastal city well.

3. Be sure to see the La Quebrada Cliffs and take time to see one of the daily shows the divers present there. This is the site used to shoot Elvis' movie "Fun in Acapulco" and it is thrilling to watch the divers. If you choose the last show of the evening (highly recommended!) you will see torches being used for some of the lighting and it is spectacular.

4. Swimming and water sports are abundant in this area. Many tourists choose to snorkel sometime during their stay. Consider doing your diving at Isla la Roqueta which is a beach island. You can take a boat from here to see the sunken Guadalupe statue.

5. Spend a day shopping along the Avenida Costera Miguel Aleman. There are many hotels and restaurants along this stretch of road, and many places for shopping.

6. See the Museo Historico de Acapulco to get a taste of the history of this area. This will be especially interesting if anyone in your traveling party enjoys pirate stories. In addition to the museum, there is a fort that protected the city from invading pirates. It is called El Fuerte de San Diego.

7. Fifty acres with tropical birds flittering around can be found at the Papagayo Park. There is also a life sized replica of a Spanish galleon, gardens, rides, etc. If you need to get away from the busy city life for a while, this is a good choice.

8. If you want to see a marine animal show, take a glass bottomed boat ride to see the sunken statue, visit an aquarium, or have an afternoon of water sports, try Magico Mundo Marino.

9. Plan one of your days to include a cruise around the area. Cruise ships leave this area frequently. It will be a good idea to research ahead of time to find out which cruise operators will be offering the things you want to have on your cruise. Decide how long you want to be out, which services you want and so on and the decision will become easier with so many choices available.

10. There are various sports venues in Acapulco. You will be able to easily find a tennis court or golf course because they are found all over the city. You can rent some time with horses for riding, or rent a bicycle. Charter a boat for some deep sea fishing or rent a kayak. Acapulco is home to the next to the largest bullfighting arena in all of Mexico, too, but the season just runs part of a year in winter and spring.

By Christina VanGinkel

If historic buildings surrounded by a bit of intrigue, a mafia peppered past, and a ghost or two appeals to you, then the Four Seasons Resort on Miscauno Island, may be just the getaway you have been in search of. Once believed to be the favored getaway of Al Capone himself and with ties to the Chicago Mafia just a few short years in the past, walking the grounds at sunset may be enough to conjure up images of all sorts of interesting ghosts. Do not worry though, as they all reside only in your imagination fueled by the rich history, and each one is as friendly as can be.

Located in the northern part of Marinette County Wisconsin, just a stones throw from Pembine Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, it is home to a challenging 9-hole, par 34 golf course. The Menominee River runs right around the island, and the only access to the island is another historic landmark, a one lane, steel constructed bridge that originally was the train route for guests to arrive. Having been across the bridge myself numerous times, I can assure that in all of its quaintness, it is a safe trip, a trip though, which will make you feel as if you stepped through time.

The resort has gone through several owners through the years, but has been greeting guests since 1905, when the first guests stepped off the train, coming from places such as Chicago and the surrounding towns of Iron Mountain Michigan, and Marinette Wisconsin, at the time a bustling town of economic growth. Burning to the ground in 1923, the hotel was rebuilt around the only remaining piece of the original building, the grand fireplace, in 1925. History is still much of what makes the Four Seasons Resort on Miscauno Island so fascinating, and if you enjoy history, a visit will not leave you disappointed.

The grandeur of the historic main building is still reminiscent of a time when life was much simpler, when a vacation meant peace and quiet, mornings on the green and good food. If you want o be a bit more active then swinging your clubs, they also offer tennis, swimming in their pristine indoor pool, and depending on the time of year you visit, access to four wheeler trails, snowmobiling trails. You can also rent a pontoon boat, and coming soon the options to rent snowmobiles, mountain bikes, canoes or fishing boats. At the end of the day, schedule an appointment with their onsite massage therapist, or head to their whirlpool for a rejuvenating soak. With winter in full gear, they currently offer sledding, cross-country ski trails right on the island, and an ice rink open and ready to skate on, complete with a warming house to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate afterwards.

Wildlife is abundant in the area, and glimpsing whitetail deer on the island is commonplace. Standing on the bridge one day, I even personally glimpsed a majestic black bear as he came to the water's edge for a cooling drink on a hot summer afternoon in August.

Dining is available at a choice of two restaurants on the grounds. The Fairways Griddle and Grill, serving breakfast and lunches, with several house specialties. JP's Steak & Seafood is their dining room, and as with the Fairways Griddle, they offer several house specialties and signature dishes. The menu is known to change with the season, so you are assured of always finding something new to try depending on the time of year you visit. More so than the food though, it is the room itself that makes up JP's Steak & Seafood that will leave you in awe. The stunning chandelier and ornate fireplace had made many a person return just to take in the grandeur of the room. The room is said to have originally been designed in the style of a 1920's luxury cruise liner.

In 2005, the hotel once again went under the hammer, but left the original building in all of its glory. The owners instead added a beautiful 55, all-suite hotel. With full kitchens and living rooms, you may never want to leave. The hotel also offers guest cottages for those seeking a bit more privacy, and is available both by the night and at a weekly rate. If you are looking for a getaway that will truly be just that, then be sure to make your reservation at one of the Northwood's best-kept secrets, the Four Season Resort on beautiful Miscauno Island.

Whether you have an interest in ancient things or more modern, chances are that the largest city in New Mexico will not disappoint you. Albuquerque has many activities to make any visitor enjoy a memorable vacation. The city is larger than the state's capital of Santa Fe and New Mexico is the fourth largest state in America.

A few centuries ago Albuquerque was a Spanish military outpost. It was also an area that was heavily farmed. The city itself was established in 1706. As you are researching things to do in the area, you will be seeing just how diverse Albuquerque is.

Of the countless fun things to do in and around the city, here are ten winners that you may want to check out while you are in the area.

1. Participate in some water sports on the invigorating Rio Grande River or just spend some time on her banks. Rent a canoe or travel a short distance from the city for some great whitewater rafting. The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is a good place to start for these kinds of activities.

2. If your schedule concerning when to visit Albuquerque is flexible, think about making your trip in the fall, and October to be more precise. Why? Because this is when the very large Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta takes place! It is the largest of its kind (hot air balloons!) and will be held between October 6th and 15th in 2006. There are many special events surrounding the Fiesta including "Balloon Glow" (r) at dusk where the hundreds of released balloons will provide a very memorable evening.

3. Be sure to check out the diversity of the downtown area. You will see the modern high rise office buildings, of course, but you just may see some adobe houses very close to the modern city. If you are very lucky you may be able to see some Native Americans selling their wares from those adobe structures.

4. The National Park Service-maintained Petroglyph National Monument really needs to be visited because words can't do it justice. The area covers 7,000 acres and houses volcanic cones but even more fascinating is the 25,000 carvings found here. Most of the artwork was done by people of the native cultures in this part of the world very long ago. Don't forget to have plenty of camera film or batteries for your videocam if you are stopping by this National Park Service area.

5. If you are traveling with children or just enjoy a good amusement park yourself, try Cliff's Amusement Park and some of the thrill rides they offer.

6. Whatever else you plan to do in Albuquerque, try to take the tram that runs to the top of the Sandia Mountains. It is the largest tram of its kind in the world. The options of what to do when you reach the top include some fabulous skiing on more than two dozen trails, the panoramic views that will be completely breathtaking, and summer activities when skiing isn't in season. Plan a dinner at High Finance Restaurant while you are on the mountain. From this elevation of two and a half miles, the views are spectacular and so is the food. A colorful sunset, the lights of Albuquerque far below, and a meal of steak, seafood, or prime rib will all blend to show you the best that this area has to offer.

7. If you enjoy shopping, try the restored area called Old Town. This is where to find all the old Southwest items and souvenirs that you wish to buy. There are all kinds of shops, art galleries, cafes, and full restaurants in Old Town as well.

8. Learn about the history of this region at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that is maintained by the 19 Indian Pueblos of New Mexico. If that isn't enough history or learning for you, there are numerous excellent museums from science themed to art museums and everything in between.

9. If you want to do some gambling, there are many casinos and gaming complexes in and around the city. Find out which casino best suits what it is you want to do there and you will surely find a perfect match.

10. Get your fill of nature by visiting the Rio Grande Zoo, Rio Grande Botanical Garden, Albuquerque Biological Park, or the Aquatic Park (Tingley Beach).

By Christina VanGinkel

If you are not sure where you want to take your next vacation, or are concerned about what the vacation of your choice might cost you, or, if it will be the vacation, you think it will, purchasing a few travel related books on the destinations you have in mind might help you clarify your decision. Travel guides, both unofficial, and those put together by tourism centers can each offer you valid information and details about the places that interest you.

These guides commonly include a variety of information such as room rates and available amenities, but they can also offer a unique glimpse into what your own personal vacation may offer you, thus providing you with the needed information to build your itinerary and budget accordingly. If you have decided to go to a major amusement park, such as Walt Disney World for example, a guide may be able to provide you with a glimmer of a look at what the length of time will be to stand in line for some of the rides, depending on what time of the year you will be visiting. On the other hand, tips on how to cut that time dramatically down, enabling you to get more enjoyment out of your trip than all the hours wasted standing in line. A travel information guide can provide you with information on hotels that are not directly associated with the park also. If you have only requested information from the parks tourist center, hotel information will routinely be just for those places directly associated with the park itself, even though you may have other interests while visiting the area, which would make a stay in a hotel outside of the complex just as convenient as one right there. Information on package rates, and what the differences are between them, and a look at attractions outside of the park itself may even be included.

Different travel guides will offer different types of information, so pay attention to the contents when choosing and pick accordingly. Some may offer travel information in addition to destination information. If you have never traveled by train, plane, or boat, whatever the recommended form of travel happens to be to get to your destination, acquiring a guide that includes information like this might also be a good idea. Another area that many specific travel guides will offer information on is how to handle types of scenarios that may come up often in the destination of your choice, such as what the tipping practices commonly are, how much, who to tip, and when. Where to find the best nightlife activity, where the best shopping or shopping bargains are to be had, even the best wedding chapels if that happens to be a feature of the place you are visiting, can also be found in a travel guide. A travel guide cannot ever take the place of having your own in person pal to take you all around to all the best spots, bring you to the best restaurants, and introduce you to the very best entertainment that a place may have to offer, but the right guide or two can come awfully close. In addition, all without the added hassle of following someone around on a pre set itinerary. A good travel guide or two can make your vacation into everything you ever thought it would and should be. They can provide you with the tools of knowledge enjoy your vacation to its fullest potential without having to worry if you missed something, or could have done better with a meal choice or a place to stay. A good travel guide has the prospective to be that inclusive friend, one of the locals per se, that we all wish we could bring along or meet up with upon our arrival, but not have to take out with us on our excursions once we have arrived at our ultimate destination.

The information is usually very specific to the place you will be visiting, and will be extremely time sensitive, so it is important to purchase as new a guide as you can find. Even if you have been to a destination before, if it has been a year or two, it may be to your benefit to pick up the newest guide to alert you to any changes and to help point out any new and interesting attractions that might not have been around the last time you visited.

By Christina VanGinkel

As I sit at my desk writing this morning, the temperature on my outside thermometer reads a balmy twenty degrees. Some of you are thinking that is not all that cold, while others are thinking how anyone could stay where it is so cold. What everyone would agree on is that sometimes, people just need a change, weather wise that is. In my humble opinion, taking a vacation normally has nothing to do with needing a change of scenery, but everything to do with having to warm up, at least for those vacations taken in the dead of winter by those living in any northerly climate.

I lived most of my life in the states of Wisconsin, Michigan, and a short time in Minnesota. I also lived in Florida for about one year. I know from that one year in Florida that there is warm weather in January, but I can guarantee you that there is not warm weather in the other three states I mentioned, not unless you consider the mercury rising to above freezing, just above freezing that is, to be warm.

With the millions of people who reside in these states alone, there is enough cause for the travel industry to enter a busy period each winter. Just think of all the people who greet most winter days in the same way, by shoveling snow, turning the heat up high, or piling on the blankets come bedtime, and the vacation industry should be in good shape for eons to come, at least during the months of January and February. When the hustle of the holidays have passed, and that mercury I was discussing heads as far south as it can in its holders, many of us are in serious need of some natural warmth, so what choices do we even have to consider that might warm up our toes that currently feel as if they might never thaw? Check the extended weather forecasts, then pack your bags and take a long weekend in a state such as Florida, book a hotel room on the beach and just soak up some of that sun. While the Floridians might think that overnight temperatures in their state are not all that warm, when the sun comes up and heats things to about seventy, for those of us in need of some sun, seventy degrees sounds like heaven!

If you are in need of even more warmth than what a state like Florida has to offer at this time of the year, then book a flight to sunny Acapulco where the temperatures this week should be in the high seventies. For more warmth yet, how about heading to Maui, where the expected high temperature today is a very toasty eighty one degrees, or Oahu, where Monday they are expecting the temperature to crawl up to eight two. Kauai is also listed as having temperatures in the eighties in the next couple of days, so choose any one of them for some body warming sun therapy. At this time of the year, when my local expected temperature is suppose to possibly go up as high as thirty degrees, a choice of temperatures ranging from the low seventies to the mid eighties could be hard to choose from. I would probably have to let my pocketbook choose for me and just see which getaway I could arrange the fastest without draining my pocketbook dry. Deals are available for many of these places, so check out the expected temperature of wherever your heart desires to go, and then pack those winter woolies away for a few days and drag out your shorts and tanks and go soak up some sun.

A vacation in the winter to a sunny locale is often just what the doctor ordered, really! Sunlight deprivation is a common cause of depression, so a winter vacation that consists of crawling out of bed each morning and crawling into a lounge chair on a sunny beach, may be the ideal fix for a sun hungry body and mind. Add a few fresh fruit drinks to nourish that body, and you will have a complete agenda in place for feeling better. You can always consider it as an extension of your New Year's resolution to live this New Year healthier than those years that have passed. Warm weather, where are you?

One of my favorite places on the planet is St. Augustine, Florida. It is located on the state's east coast and on the Atlantic Ocean. Many times when I travel there, it becomes a top priority to avoid large cities and I have taken the bypass around Jacksonville many times because of the size of city. I have done some research on Jacksonville recently, however, and I have decided that the next trip to the Sunshine State just might find me enjoying the countless things to do and places to see in the city.

An added bonus would definitely be exploring the marvelous restaurants of Jacksonville. It is among the country's 15 largest cities. In 1990 it was ranked 15th in size according to population; it was 14th in population size in the year 2000; and by 2004 was ranked 13th in size.

One of my most vivid memories of Jacksonville was seeing the city from a bridge on the bypass. The moon was appearing extra large that day (it was still daylight!) and I remember thinking that it wasn't "moon over Miami" but it was just as memorable.

If you enjoy being near water, Jacksonville is situated between the banks of the St. Johns River and the Atlantic Ocean. There are an abundance of water sports from which to choose but there are also many beaches if you would rather take in the glorious Florida sunshine instead of doing water sports.

If you have an interest in history, try the Fort Caroline National Memorial near the city. The fort reproduction is maintained and operated by the National Park Service. The site represents the place where the second French colony on the east coast was established in 1564. In September of 1565, Pedro Menendez de Aviles came to Fort Caroline to take over the fort for Spain, and many French soldiers were killed at this spot.

Whether or not you are traveling with children, you may enjoy a trip to the Jacksonville Zoological Gardens. It has been in operation for over 90 years and it covers seventy acres of land. Some of the most loved parts of the zoo include the giraffes and riding the train. You will be seeing many reptiles, mammals, birds, amphibians, and invertebrates. The zoo is open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily.

If you will be spending any significant amount of time at all in Jacksonville, be sure to spend some of it at the Jacksonville Landing. This is almost like a boardwalk setting with incredible food choices, nightlife, and some of the best shopping in the city. There are dozens of shops, and the "Landing" is found beside the St. Johns River. You may be there at a time when a live concert or festival is taking place for an added bonus.

As long as you are in that dockside area, you may want to try the floating casino cruise. You may want to get dinner before boarding or take advantage of the breakfast or dinner buffet on the ship. A cocktail bar is also offered on the cruise. This gentle journey around the St. Johns River offers all the gaming options that you would find in a major land casino including over 200 slots.

If you are not a gambler, there are other cruises available in Jacksonville that you may want to check out. This is also where the Busch Brewery is located and if you are 21 or over, you can stop by for a tour and free tasting. If you are visiting Jacksonville during the season for sports, there are some Jacksonville teams to catch if they are having a home game.

If you enjoy the performing arts, there are many venues in Jacksonville. There are also numerous art museums, science and history museums, and other types of museums; theaters; and additional places for the performing arts. Some of the theaters offer dinner shows, so be sure to call around for the current show before you decide at which place you want to spend your evening.

You will find many things on your own to do, but a few other ideas are a visit to the American Lighthouse and Maritime Museum followed by seeing the Mayport Lighthouse; the Naval Station Mayport; and the Pablo Historical Park. As a side note, if you are interested in golfing, the well known World Golf Village is located between Jacksonville and St. Augustine.

I can't hear the words "West Virginia" without thinking of the song by the late and great John Denver that calls the state "almost heaven." I have seen the beauty of West Virginia first hand from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Shenandoah River as the song mentions.

There are various mountain ranges in the state which makes hiking one of the major attractions and there are also many bodies of water if water sports are more your type of enjoyment. Other sports include excellent skiing and white water rafting, canoeing, and much more to do in "The Mountain State."

Other nicknames for West Virginia include "Switzerland of America" also because of the great number of mountain ranges (although other states have been called this as well), and "The Panhandle State" because of the physical dimensions of the borders. Personally I always thought that on a map, it looked like a tulip.

You will need to do your homework if you will be visiting West Virginia and match up the available activities with things you will enjoy. For starters, here are a few possible things to add to your agenda.

1. Hiking the trails and other mountain adventures on one of the many mountain ranges in the state. Begin with the Allegheny Mountains if you are having trouble with a starting point. But that doesn't mean you should overlook the others. If you don't have a camera along with you, I suspect you will be buying one there soon enough.

2. Visit some of the places of historical interest in the state. West Virginia just became a state during the Civil War era when it was formerly a part of Virginia. If the Civil War isn't your topic of interest, this was also an area where pioneer stories are plentiful. One historical site from the Civil War era is Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. Spend some time where the Shenandoah River meets the Potomac and where a famous attack on slavery happened with John Brown at the helm. Check out John Brown's fort and the museum in this area. Visit Virginius Island.

3. Spend some time in the state's capital city of Charleston. You will be able to find museums, fabulous eateries, and many activities to keep you and your family (if you are not traveling alone) very busy while spending some time in the capital. If you enjoy museum hopping, don't forget to check out the planetarium at the Avampato Discovery Museum. It is found in the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences.

4. No matter where you will be staying in the state, try to catch part of Route 60. It actually runs nearly 200 miles in length and if you have a camera or at least a memory that will never forget majestic views, it will be worth your time. You will see panoramic views and river gorges as well as many other beautiful sights. This stretch of road is called the "Midland Trail National Scenic Byway." If you want to do more in this area than just driving through it, you will be able to find activities such as biking, hiking, river rafting, and even climbing.

5. Did you know that there is a castle in the United States? Or that there is a castle in the United States *and* reported to be haunted? It is found in West Virginia and its name is Berkeley Castle. The structure was built in 1885 and was actually purchased by a ghost chasing society.

6. While you are in the Berkeley area perhaps trying to catch a glimpse of the castle, you may want to stop by the Berkely Springs State Park to take advantage of the mineral springs or plan an afternoon at one of the spas in the area. There are many unique treatments that you can choose there, so be sure to do enough research before your trip so you can select the best spa match for your needs.

7. Check out the fabulous skiing. If you don't already participate in the sport, this may be a great place for you to learn.

8. See the Grand Creek Mound Historical Site. As the name suggests, this is an ancient burial ground for the Native American "mound builders." The mound is nearly 70 feet in height.

Those are just a few of the things you will find to do if you are vacationing in West Virginia. Research the available activities that match with your family's interests and it will be a memorable trip.

By Christina VanGinkel

Not every vacation has to cost a fortune. There are times in our life when we need to get away, to refresh our minds and bodies, and the cash to back up that refreshment is just not at hand. That is when any budget stretcher you can think of should come into play to help you get away. If you cannot think of any budget stretchers on your own, then read on for some great ways to take that vacation even when your checkbook is telling you to stay at home.

Not planning ahead on air travel can sometimes be in your favor. Empty seats cost as much to fly as ones filled with a passenger, so rock bottom discounts for last minute flights can be had.

Even airlines run specials. Not all advertise them thoroughly though, so be sure to ask if they are running any specials, discounts, or deals which you might qualify for. If you are a senior, be sure to mention this, as oftentimes, that fact alone will net you a cheaper rate.

Check the map before booking a flight, and consider flying into a smaller airport nearby. At the least, compare rates, and you might just be shocked at how much this small trick can save you. Be sure to compare the times of day that you are willing to fly also, as it is common for rates to differ depending on the time of day they originate.

The same way that flying into a smaller airport will often save you budget wise, so will staying at a hotel outside of the venue you want to visit. Always take a few minutes to compare rates of various hotels nearby to your destination (this can be done conveniently and quickly online), and do not hesitate to ask if they can give you a better rate than being advertised. For a variety of reasons, such as you will be staying there for several days, or it is already late in the day of your arrival and they have plenty of rooms available, it is the off season, or whatever, ask for a better rate. More times than not, they will offer you something. As before, if you are a senior, be sure to mention this when booking a room, as this may assure you of an added discount.

Ask what amenities each hotel offers too, to help you base your decision on where to stay. If two hotels have the same rate, are in the same locale, but one offers a full continental breakfast, and the other does not, go with the one serving the breakfast to save you on paying out of pocket for that meal each morning.

Be sure to compare other means of travel too. If a train service is available to your destination, check out the rates in comparison to a flight. If you are really looking to save money, and time spent traveling is not of a concern, check out bus fares too. I do not personally recommend bus travel though if your time to take a vacation is very limited, or if you are traveling with very small children that may become bored quickly by the long trip and the confinement. At least on an airplane, the trip is relatively quick, and a train will allow for moving around, and even eating a meal or sleeping quarters.

If you are a solo traveler, consider asking someone to go along and split the costs of things like hotel and cab fares. Be sure that whomever you ask is someone that you can agree to an agenda with though. If you both head into the vacation with very different ideals about the vacation (such as whether you are actually going to vacation together, sightseeing together, going for meals together, etc., or are just splitting the costs of items and each going your own way day to day), it may be more of a stress maker than a stress breaker.

If you are traveling by car, watch the speed limits, as this will really save you on gasoline usage, not to mention avoiding a costly speeding ticket.

Lastly, consider why you want to take the vacation in the first place. If it is really to just get away from it all, and the destination is not as important as the time doing nothing, then consider checking out a vacation spot close to home that will provide you with the needed relaxation minus the hassles of travel.

If you are planning a trip to the Philadelphia area in the near future, you may not know about all of the wonderful kid-friendly stops along the way. Philadelphia is best known for its historical sites such as the Liberty Bell and the National Constitution Center, but there is a whole lot more to entertain your little ones. Here are some great stops to make next time you're in the Philly area:

Philadelphia Zoo (234900 W. Girard Avenue, Philadelphia). Home of the nations oldest zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo is a great place to visit. Your children will love seeing the zoo's 1600 animals-- and there are some special stops just for kids. The smaller-scale Children's Zoo features a petting zoo and pony rides. And don't forget to stop at the Channel 6 Zoo balloon, to get a birds eye view of the entire zoo. There is also the Amoroso's PZ Express, which features train rides-- and your kids can even opt for a ride on a camel! If you're craving a Philly favorite, make sure to stop by the Tastykake shop for some cupcakes and other treats. Before your visit, make sure to call ahead or check the Philadelphia Zoo website for details about featured attractions-- some attractions (like the pony and camel rides) are only open from April through October.
Don't miss: The Children's Zoo, especially if you have preschool aged children.

Sesame Place (100 Sesame Place, Langhorne PA). If your kids are fans of the classic PBS children's series, "Sesame Street", then they will love Sesame Place! Sesame Place is an amusement park created especially for kids. Located just north of Philly in nearby Langhorne, Sesame Place features shows and appearances by Sesame Streets characters-- from Ernie and Bert to Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch. There are tons of toddler-friendly rides, as well as rides for older kids. Some favorites include the The Big Slipper and The Sky Splash (for older kids) and Little Birds Rapids (for younger kids). A large portion of the park is devoted to water attractions, so be sure to plan to visit on a warm, sunny day and wear bathing suits and pack plenty of sunscreen. Another tip? Check ahead for show times if you want to catch a show-- the shows get crowded and you'll want to be there ahead of time if possible. There are also daily parades, which will give you the chance to see many of the characters at one time or you can get there early to dine at a buffet breakfast with Big Bird and some of the other characters (an extra charge applies for the breakfast). Sesame Place features a replica of the famous Sesame Street-- great for photo ops. Your family will have a blast at this awesome park! Because it is an outdoor water park, Sesame Place is only open from May through October, although there are some openings during the holidays for souvenir shopping and breakfast with some of the characters.
Don't miss: Rock Around the Block Parade

Please Touch Museum (201 N. 21st Street, Philadelphia). Most museums are boring for kids, but not this one! The Please Touch Museum was created just for kids- -and it features attractions like Alice in Wonderland and life-size replicas of children's author Maurice Sendak ("Where the Wild Things Are") classic book illustrations. There are tons of gadgets for your kids to play with (kids are allowed to touch everything), and they can pretend to drive a real Septa bus or play in a pretend petting zoo (Barnyard Babies). Step into a Maurice Sendak storybook or into Alice's wonderland, and don't forget to stop in the pretend grocery store, where everything is scaled down to kids' size! Your kids can "shop" for groceries (using kids size grocery carts), then scan them at the registers.
Don't miss: The Sendak Exhibit

Franklin Institute (222 N. 20tyh Street, Philadelphia). The Franklin Institute is an educational place-- but its so much fun you're kids won't even realize it! Featuring attractions like Sir Isaac's Loft, Electricity and Electronics and The Train Factory, your kids can explore and learn to their hearts content. The Franklin Institute is one of Philadelphia's most popular places for kids-- try visiting in the summer to avoid crowded school field trip groups.
Don't miss: The Franklin Air Show, especially if your kids like planes.