Check out these interesting sites about how to stay someplace for little money:

Ray Bartlett on Couch Surfing

Couch Surfing website

Home Exchange website

I found this cool travel documentary on YouTube, about a trip to Taman Negara Malaysia.

Although kayak fishing is only gradually making a name for itself in the industry, it has in fact been around for hundreds of years. As long ago as the mid-18th century, Russian Orthodox priests discussed kayak fishing and the large number of fish caught, in a tract known as “The Native History.”

The “sit-on” characteristic of kayaks make it an ideal platform to fish from. However, learning to fish from a kayak - becoming an expert at it - can take years, unless you’re lucky enough to have an experienced kayak fisher take you under their wing. The hardest part of kayak fishing is learning how to steady the kayak as you’re paddling through the water.

If you’re determined to learn how to fish from a kayak, here are some tips that might help you:

1. Safety

Before going out on the water, check the weather, the tide, and other elements about the area where you’re fishing. It’s also a good idea to let at least one, and possibly a few people know exactly where you’re going and when you plan to be back, so they can send help if you don’t return on time.

2. Keep Hatches Closed

While you’re fishing, keep the hatches on the kayak closed so water can’t seep through the kayak.

3. Steady Fishing

One way to keep the kayak steady while you’re fishing is to use an anchor.

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Julie hikes, camps, fishes, skis, and generally spends as much time outdoors as she can - when she’s not blogging, of course. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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For a totally different cultural experience - or just a great holiday destination - try visiting Malaysia. There you’ll find everything from a relaxed resort-style getaway on one of the islands such as Sabah or Langkawi, to bargain shopping and sight-seeing in the capital Kuala Lumpur, or perhaps a combination of both to let you experience the diversity of this amazing country.

If this is your first trip to Malaysia, there are a few tips that will make your vacation less stressful and more enjoyable, such as:

Check Health Warnings

Check on the CDC website or with your family doctor for health warnings for the areas you intend to visit. If you plan to hike or visit a rainforest, you will need to start taking malaria tablets around a week before your departure. Your family doctor will be able to prescribe the anti-malarials and advise you of any other precautions or medications that you need.

You might also want to include some Immodium AD in your luggage, because after eating unfamiliar food for a few days, your stomach may become upset. This is not because the food is bad or because there’s any problem with it - it’s just because your body isn’t used to it. Often, one dose of Immodium is enough to set you right for the rest of the trip.

Airport Transfers

By far the easiest and cheapest way to get into the capital from the airport is via the KLIA Express (airport express train). The train takes only about 35 minutes, and affords you a comfortable ride into Kuala Lumpur with many modern amenities such as video screens showing points of interest and things to do in Malaysia. Using a bus or taxi transfer will normally take around one hour by comparison and cost a little more. An added convenience when using the KLIA Express to connect with a departing flight is the facility to book your luggage onto your flight from the central train station in Kuala Lumpur (providing you do this at least 2.5 hours before your flight).

Taxi Fares

Always ask how much the fare will be to get to your destination before getting into the taxi. For the most part, taxi fares in Malaysia are quite reasonable. However, a few bad apples try to take advantage of naive travelers, especially on a return trip from an outlying area. Ask for the cost of the fare beforehand, and if it seems too high, then look for another taxi and try again. On the other hand, do expect to pay more during peak hours in Kuala Lumpur, because of traffic delays. Your hotel concierge can advise you on what the busiest traffic times are likely to be. Planning your movements around the capital outside of these times will save you money if you’re on a tight budget.

Don’t drink the tap water

To reduce the chance of stomach problems, it’s safer not to drink the local tap water. You have more contact with tap water than you might think, keep the following in mind:

1) Clean your teeth and toothbrush with bottled water.

2) Remember to specify “No Ice” when ordering cocktails or mixer drinks. (Many of the more up-market resorts and hotels have ice that has been made using filtered or bottled water which is perfectly safe, however if you wish to be extra cautious then it is safer to forgo the ice).

3) If you order water in a restaurant, make sure to specify that you want bottled water.

Buy personal items from a supermarket

If you forget to bring any personal care items (such as sunscreen, toothpaste or bottled water) with you - and who doesn’t forget something? - it’s cheaper to buy from a local supermarket instead of the resort or hotel where you are staying. You might not think the hotel prices are that high, but if you can find a supermarket or small convenience store somewhere close to the resort, you can often buy the same items for as little as a third of the price the hotel is asking. Would you rather spend that extra money on sunscreen or souvenirs?

Restaurants

Choosing somewhere to eat in Malaysia is somewhat different from finding a restaurant in a western country. A restaurant in a run-down building in your home country might indicate a health risk, but that’s not the case in Malaysia. As Malaysia is a relatively poor country in general - something more evident in outlying areas than in Kuala Lumpur - many building are old and look run-down simply because of the general poverty of the area. What this means is that a restaurant in a run-down building is not necessarily a health risk. If the local people eat there, that’s the best indication that the food is safe for you, too.

Keep valuables concealed

Just as you do when you’re traveling anywhere else, you always want to keep wallets, purses, mobile phones, etc in your pockets or backpack to avoid the attention of pickpockets, especially in larger cities. Although not a major problem in Malaysia, any large population has its share of thieving, so it is best to keep your valuables secure. It is also wise to carry your backpack on the front of your body in certain areas such as the china town markets in Kuala Lumpur where it can be quite crowded - giving pickpockets a chance to access valuables within the outer compartments of a backpack.

Enjoy the wonderful scenery, delicious food, excellent shopping, and friendly people of Malaysia. By following the tips above, hopefully you’ll have such a memorable time you’ll want to return to Malaysia again and again.

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Kit loves fun spots and is eager to introduce you to interesting new places to visit. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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If you are looking for a way to combine your earth-friendly values with a great luxury vacation, you may be interested in Tiamo. This is a resort that includes wooden cottages that are very simple, while providing luxury as well. Tiamo is a resort that can be found on Andros Island, which is located in the Bahamas, and there is beautiful ocean, plant life, and other natural life surrounding it. While many other resorts in the Caribbean are party oriented, Tiamo is an eco-friendly resort that provides simplistic luxury.

The Caribbean island of Andros is one of the lesser known islands, which is one of the reason it is such an excellent destinations for travelers. There are only about eight thousand people living on this island, even though the island has 2,300 square miles of land. This is quite a place for a luxurious adventure.

While you may be thinking that this island is just like the rest of the destinations available in the Caribbean, this is not so. This island is the largest of the Bahamaian islands and you will have plenty of room to enjoy yourself. On this island there are not many methods of transportation or even modern technologies like phones, so you can enjoy your vacation in total peace, away from the outside world.

Actually, the Andros island is a group of smaller islands that are very close together, which provides small creeks and rugged shores. This island is very different than any of the other Caribbean islands and it is quite undeveloped, which makes it perfect for a vacation full of eco-luxury. While it has been used for fishing lodges for some, and of course for the Tiamo resort, most of the time this island is totally bypassed.

The resort, Tiamo, is a very remote resort, and it is actually three miles away from the nearest civilization. When you are here you will be surrounded by beautiful orchids, luscious greenery, and some interesting animals as well. You can only get to this resort by boat and the entire resort relies on solar power for everything, including showers. With the ecological philosophy of this resort, it can offer you a vacation that will be the most relaxing one you have ever had.

The wooden cottages of the Tiamo resort have very large beds, signs asking for privacy, which are hand painted, lovely showers and beautiful mirrors. The wood that was extra after building these quaint cottages was used to make the outdoor furniture as well. This funky furniture is definitely a testament to the resort’s willingness to recycle whenever possible.

While the inside of these cottages are wonderful, even better are the large porches that come along with the cottages. Although there is no air conditioning, there are fans available for cooling purposes. The heat will not be a problem though, since the cottages have a design that was made to keep you cool. You can enjoy these beautiful, large porches and sit out and take in the amazing beauty of the beaches and forests around you.

Believe it or not, many dogs love to travel. Since dogs tend to be adventurous, they enjoy seeing and hearing new things. Dogs also love meeting new people, but even so, traveling with your dog may not be the easiest job ever. The following are a few tips that will help you enjoy a great trip with your best canine buddy.

Consider a Sitter

If you have to travel a great distance and you cannot take your dog along with you, you may want to hire a dog sitter that can make sure your dog is taken care of while you are away. Whether you choose a family member or a friend, make sure it is someone you trust to stay in your home and take care of you dog. Another idea, if you are not sure who to hire, is to ask your dog’s veterinarian for any suggestions for a pet sitter.

Doggie Hotels and Kennels

Another choice to consider if you have to travel without your dog is either a doggie hotel or kennel. When you are looking for one suitable for your pet, make sure that you choose one that comes well recommended. You may also want to check out the kennel yourself to make sure you feel comfortable leaving your dog there. Taking time to talk with the staff at the kennel may help you feel more comfortable as well.

Taking Your Dog Along

If you decide to take your dog with you on your trip, make sure you talk to your vet for some helpful traveling tips for doggies. Ask about methods of transportation as well as making sure that your dog has a clean bill of health.

A heavy duty carrier is important if you are traveling by airplane, and if you do not have one of your own, more than likely the airline will make you buy one of theirs. While some may allow your dog to be with you in the passenger part of the plane, more than likely your dog will have to be in the luggage compartment.

For car travel, it is important that you run the air conditioner for your dog. Make sure you never leave you dog alone in the car and try to avoid parking in sunlight that may make it hot in the car. Too much heat can cause physical problems for your dog.

Going Abroad

Taking along a pet to a different country can be quite the adventure. If you decide to do this, it will be helpful to get tips from your veterinarian. Before you leave, it is probably a great idea to speak with the local consulate of the country you will be traveling to, to make sure that you know the requirements for pets in that country.

Taking your dog along on a trip can be fun and exciting. While it will be exciting, it is also important that you remember that taking your best furry friend along can be a great deal of work as well.

Many people know that one of the best places to watch the gray whale migration is on the coast of San Diego. The migration of the gray whale is one of the most amazing natural spectacles that you will ever see. One of the migratory points of the gray whale is actually the San Diego coastline as they are traveling down to Baja, California, where the females usually have their young.

Almost 26,000 gray whales make the journey to Baja from the Artic and then back again every year. Amazingly the gray whale goes on a longer journey than any other mammal when migrating, traveling more than ten thousand miles every year.

Whether you are a young person or an older person, you are sure to enjoy watching these whales. It is an exciting moment when you first actually spot the first gray whale when you are on the coast. No one can help but to take a few minutes to stop and appreciate how amazing these animals are.

According to the Birch Aquarium that is located in San Diego, usually you will see the most gray whales between December and March. While usually they travel in pods of a dozen, at times you may see them in smaller pods as well while migrating. If you are on the coast of San Diego it is easy to spot the gray whales since they are large and swim fairly slowly.

While the whales are swimming, they usually will dive more than 100 feet and then come to the surface where they blow. Then you will probably see them do a couple more shallow dives before they do another deep dive. If you know this pattern when you are watching the whales you will be more successful while watching them and it will bring even more excitement and fun.

There are a variety of different places where you can watch whales, but one of the most amazing is on a cruise ship. Many cruises actually are held in San Diego and many of them offer great deals. Both Birch Aquarium and H&M Landing offer cruises and they are exciting ways to get up close to see the beautiful and magnificent gray whales.

You can enjoy watching the gray whales from various places along the San Diego coast. Great places include the cliffs at the Torrey Pines State Beach, or even the Cabrillo National Monument on Point Loma. Both of these points are great places to view the migrating whales.

Whether you decide to watch from the coast or go on a cruise, watching the whales in San Diego is something you need to see. This is great for a vacation for family and friends alike. No doubt you will have an exciting time while whale watching and you can plan out your day and enjoy the beauty of the gray whale.

In the middle of Europe you will find a small country, and the name of this country is Switzerland. This country is in a great position in Central Europe and it makes it easy to travel all over the area. When considering Switzerland you need to understand that there are actually three areas in the country, which are known as the Jura regions, the middle land, and the Alps. Each of these areas are very popular with tourists from around the world.

While Switzerland is a country that is neutral, is possesses a great deal of flavor. A variety of different languages are spoken here, including French, Italian, German, and Romanish. This country has developed an amazing culture and it has beautiful country that will server to reenergize almost any traveler.

There are many different cliches that you have probably heard about including, the creamy chocolates, yodelers, and bankers without a sense of humor. While these may be parts of this culture there is much more to this small country. Believe it or not, people from this country have won more Nobel prizes than any other country in the world.

While some other European countries may have late transportation and mail services, you can enjoy trains that are on time and postal letters that are delivered quickly. The towns here are small and well organized and they are surrounded by beautiful landscapes that will thrill and amaze you.

If you are a nature lover or you want to get your exercise while you are on vacation, you may want to go to the Lucerne’s Lake and Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland areas. Here you will find places to hike, enjoy rafting through white water, biking trails, and even some great tours if you love to be active.

February is a great month to go to Switzerland, since they have their Carnival during this month. This is a enthralling time and you will enjoy amazing costumes, the sounds of drums and piccolos, an atmosphere of partying, and some interesting music played by their bands. In Basel you will find amazing parades that will have you up at 4am in the morning, and believe it or not, you will enjoy the fun.

In the Spring, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful flower gardens that are found in the villages and also on various waterfronts as well. The springtime also brings about the opn air markets where you can purchase flowers, fruits, vegetables, and much more.

July is another great time to visit since you can enjoy the Montreux Jazz Festival on the Lac Leman waterfront. August 1st brings about their National Day, which is celebrated throughout the entire country and you will enjoy fireworks and even wrestling in some areas.

If you go to the city there are great pubs that feature outdoor seating, and there are many shops, boutiques, and even historical buildings to be explored. In November you may even get to be a part of the interesting Onion Market in Bern, which is a big event that leaves many “crying.”

No one can forget how wonderful winter can be in Switzerland. There are amazing Fairs at Christmastime in Zurich, Basel, and even Montreux. Christmas markets will be open as well and you will be able to enjoy wonderful foods, warm wines, and browsing hundreds of amazing gift ideas for Christmas.

No matter what you enjoy, more than likely you will find something that suits you in Switzerland. Why not visit this lovely country that so many have come to love.

Summer can be an interesting time for beach fishing. While the weather is rarely able to be predicted, the beach has the same problem. Even so, one should never give up. Although it is difficult, the difficulty will actually make the fishing trip even more fun and rewarding.

You may be wondering where you can fish along the beach. There are miles of fishing areas between the St. Johns River and the St. Augustine Inlet for you to choose from, so this can be a hard choice.

Believe it or not, one fishing secret is that it is the walking that is important. When you walk on the beach when the tide is low you can find how the sea bottom lies and this is important. Using this kind of approach is the reason that fishing can actually be more than a recreation, and considered a sport.

What should you be looking for on the walk at low tide? Well, take a look at the waves. What you may see is waves that are breaking on out beyond you and then the waves form again and break nearer to the shore as well. Usually this indicates a sand bar and then the waves are reforming on a slough. If you tried to walk out from where you are you would have to go through deep water to get to the sand bar where the water may only be a couple inches deep.

Once you know where the sandbars are, you need to find the gaps between sandbars where there is deep water where fish may be. You can find the places of deeper water by looking to find where waves roll all the way to the beach instead of stopping. Once you find one of these places, make sure you mark it so you can find it again because high tide will make it look much different. When you find this gap, you can plan your fishing trip there at the gap and just inside of the sandbars as well.

Now you may be wondering when you should fish. Usually the best time is about two hours before dawn and two hours after dusk, or the two hours before and after high tide as well. If you combine these theories the best time is to fish during an early morning or evening high tide.

If you are planning a vacation you may be wondering how you will know when the tides will be high. Well you can actually find that usually the high tides that occur in the morning and evening follow the new and full moons, and usually calendars have these dates noted.

During the summer months you can fish for pompano, Spanish mackerel, flounder, whiting, drum, kingfish, trout, and redfish. There is a chance that you may find catfish, shark, crabs, and skates as well. Since there are so many fish biting you never know what you will catch, but no matter what you catch it will be great, so go out to the beach and get fishing.

There’s a really interesting article on Ubertramping the Web about 10 Tips for a Better Travel Experience. I couldn’t agree more.

A lot of the tips might fall under the “simple traveling” category of the simple living movement - things like: slow down, travel light, walk the path less trodden. Think more about quality, not quantity. Is it worth it to visit 10 cities in 10 days if you can’t remember which was which? Wouldn’t it be better to visit one city for ten days and savor it, get to know the ins and outs of the city, maybe even meet some of the people who live there? Not to mention being able to stay in one hotel the whole time instead of constantly packing and unpacking and taking trains and buses and whatnot to get from city to city. Wouldn’t you rather be tired out by actual experiences than by all the travel from place to place?

History of Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a 700 year old city in Thailand. Originally, the city was built as a neat and tidy square surrounded by a moat, a fortified wall and four main gates. Founded by King Mengrai in 1296, it was for a time the capital of the Lannathai kingdom.

Later, it was captured by the Burmese and lost its importance to the point that it was abandoned for approximately fifteen years. Then in 1774, Chiang Mai became a part of Siam and was reborn. It now is second only to Bangkok and is considered the unofficial capital of northern Thailand.

Chiang Mai’s Temples

Chiang Mai has over 300 temples known as Wats. There are a few that are note worthy. The Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is considered to be the most famous temple in the area. Located in the North west of the city, it dates back to 1383. Wat Chiang Mai is the oldest temple in the city. It was home to King Mengrai during the construction of the city. It also holds two Buddha images of importance -the Phra Sila and the Phra Satang Man. If you want to see classical northern Thai architecture, take a look at the Wat Phra Singh. The Wat U-Mong is located outside of the city but is a wonderful place for meditation and different from Chiang Mai’s other temples. The Wat Chet Yot located outside of the city is known for its seven spires square. The Wat Chedi Luang originally had a 280 foot high pagoda but during 1545, it was partially destroyed by an earthquake. However, it is still something to see, with a mythical snake staircase accenting the front porch.

Handicrafts in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is known for its wood carvings but you can find anything in the way of crafts in Chiang Mai. There are handmade umbrellas that seem a trademark of Thailand. The one thing they are known for is that their handicrafts are hand done and are made of all natural materials.

Chiang Mai is Thailand’s major center for quality handicrafts. There are many to choose from. The umbrellas, silk, cotton fabrics, silverware, jewelry and pottery are all created within the city and many can be viewed by the visitors. Here you know you’re getting genuine hand made and crafted items. If you don’t want to travel around, there is a night market that brings all these crafts together in the same place for shopping.

Hope you find this information useful while visiting Chiang Mai. Enjoy your stay!

Lake Tahoe is a family friendly destination that has something for vacationers of all ages. Whether it is summer or winter, Lake Tahoe has a variety of great activities. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains between California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe boasts sunshine for three quarters of the year. This makes it a prime vacation spot in all seasons.

Lake Tahoe is the tenth deepest lake in the world with a depth of 1,645 feet at its lowest point, and is the largest alpine lake. It does not empty out into the ocean, but is fed by 63 streams. The only water source that flows out is the Truckee River. The massive lake did not always go by its present name. It was originally named Lake Bonpland, but has changed names many times. After the Civil War ended, the name Tahoe was introduced and has been its name ever since.

There is a wide variety of accommodations available in Lake Tahoe. There are luxury condos and high rise hotels for a first class stay. Those who enjoy a more rustic atmosphere should check out the lodges or great campsites. You can also find an assortment of motels for an affordable price. There is a great option available for any budget.

During the summer, Lake Tahoe bustles with water activities. Boats can be rented that you can take out yourself or, if you prefer, you can hire someone to drive it for you. You can also go rafting, water skiing, tubing, fishing, and jet skiing. On land, some popular activities include golfing, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There are miles of beautiful hiking trails that range from family friendly beginner trails to advanced ones. If you don’t want to expend a lot of energy, take a gondola ride to the top of the mountain to enjoy the breathtaking views.

Winter activities are just as plentiful. Skiing is the number one sport in Lake Tahoe during the winter. People travel hundreds of miles for the powder perfect snow, whether genuine or manufactured. If skiing isn’t your thing, try your hand at snow boarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, or just sightseeing. Winter is a magical time at Lake Tahoe.

There are so many other things to do and see around Lake Tahoe. There are several casinos just inside the Nevada state line. During the summer there are lots of local festivals to go to. All year round there are fabulous dining options and unique shops to peruse. You can take in a movie or just relax in front of the fire.

Lake Tahoe is truly a perfect vacation destination. No matter what your interests, you will find something to suit you there. Lake Tahoe is a great place to visit in any season of the year and any season of your life.

For a unique experience when you’re traveling, ditch the hotels and motels and try a vacation rental instead. Vacation rentals are wonderful because travelers get a relaxed environment and all the comforts of home. Not only that, but they’re often cheaper than staying in a hotel, especially if you use the kitchen and cook several of your meals rather than eating out. On the flip side, there’s no housekeeper to tidy up your room every day. But how bad is it to make your own bed when the savings allow to you stay longer or take a trip you might not otherwise have been able to afford?

Types of Vacation Rentals

Different forms of vacation accommodations available include:

• Condos

• Apartments

• Small cottages

• Cabins

• Villas

Vacation Rental Amenities

Each vacation rental generally comes with a vast amount of amenities, which may include personal TVs, DVD players, and sound systems, not to mention comfortable furniture and a kitchen so you can save on dining costs. Some add the luxury of personal fitness centers together with a spas and/or Jacuzzis, and swimming pools. A washing machine and dryer, and ironing board are some luxurious other features of vacation rentals.

For those people who choose to bring their work on vacation with them, some vacation rentals come with a high-speed Internet connection with fax facilities, and cordless telephones with a long-distance calling capability. Most companies are glad to offer off-site meeting supplies for working tourists.The benefits of vacation rentals over traditional lodging such as hotels, are limitless and will make anyone’s vacation the trip they have dreamed of.

Common Rates for Vacation Rentals

Most vacation rentals are rented out for at least a week, and the rates vary depending on duration of the stay. Rental companies often present discount rates for groups or if the stay period is a month or more. A villa in a luxurious resort can be rented for an approximate average rate of $350 to $450 per night, and a modest home with most amenities could be available for about $2,000 a month. Rates differ based on the location, the size of the vacation rental, and of course, the going rate in the area.

To find one of the many agents and travel agencies who will help you in securing an attractive vacation rental at the most popular places, get recommendations from friends, open up the yellow pages, or visit Google. Happy traveling!

The Roman Coliseum is one of the most visited sites in Italy. People come from all over the world to see the famous place where gladiators fought in days of old. The history of the Roman Coliseum is quite fascinating, and still brings spectators to its ruins today.

The construction of the great amphitheatre began somewhere between 70 and 80 AD by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavia family along with his son Titus. Because of this, it was originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre. It had a seating capacity of 70,000 and was once the most important place in the entire Roman Empire. The opening celebration was so lavish that it lasted for 100 days.

The coliseum was built on the site of Nero’s lake below his enormous palace. It was constantly in use until a fire, caused by a lightning strike, damaged it in 217 AD. The repairs were completed in 238 AD. Roman citizens could attend events for free, but seating was dependent on social status. The higher up on the social ladder you were, the closer to the front you were seated.

Gladiators fought each other and wild animals, and games were organized for the pleasure of the Roman citizens. This gory form of entertainment was quite the popular thing to do by people of all classes. It was finally done away with by the leaders of Christianity. The games were also phased out because of the massive expenses inherent with these events. Eventually this massive structure stood largely empty.

Many earthquakes damaged the amphitheatre and by 508 the structure was in poor condition. In the Middle Ages, it was turned into a fortress and later a church was even built into a corner of it. It later became a stone quarry that supplied the builders of St Peter’s, Piazza Venezia, and the Barberini Palace. During the Middle Ages, the former pride of Rome gained the title of Coliseum. This name came from a colossus, or big statue, of Nero that was situated close by. Now the original name is not even known by the general public.

As it stands now, the floor is gone, but some of the walls still stand. There are also the underground structures that you can tour along with the buildings that were added along the walls for vendors and such. You can see men clothed in the traditional garb of ancient Roman soldiers standing watch outside the Coliseum as you can tour the ruins for around 12-15 Euro. It is a priceless experience and anyone visiting Italy should go to see the ancient ruins of the great Roman Coliseum.

If you are currently planning a trip, you may want to consider purchasing travel insurance. The purpose of travel insurance is to assist you in various situations and protect you from any losses that may happen while you are on vacation. Travel insurance covers things such as luggage being lost, medical emergencies, canceled trips, along with any other situations that you might not have originally thought of.

Many people often believe that the insurance they currently have, such as their life insurance and/or their homeowners insurance, are enough to cover them while traveling. Unfortunately, most find out the hard way that this couldn’t be further from the truth. When traveling, especially internationally, travel insurance is a must.

The most common type of travel insurance is trip cancellation insurance. This type of insurance will cover any deposits you have paid for or non-refundable payments, should the trip get canceled for whatever reason.

Another form of travel insurance is medical insurance. This will cover your expenses should you get hurt or become ill while on your trip. Although this type of insurance could be easily overlooked, it is an important one to consider.

Baggage and personal effects insurance is important to have also. Should your luggage become lost or even delayed, insurance will help to replace items that you will need immediately.

Often times, cruise lines will offer their own form of protection. Generally, you will find that such plans vary from the actual travel insurance sold by the various insurance companies. In order to prevent mistakes, be sure to compare the various coverage plans carefully. Make sure the policies include everything you need.

Before purchasing travel insurance, be sure to make a list of exactly what you will need. As well, take photos of your possessions and make sure you know the value of your personal possessions. Should you need to make a claim, this will help to speed up the overall process.

Although most people assume they will never need travel insurance, when traveling, especially out of the country, it is important to consider buying it. By simply paying a bit of money up front, you could save considerable money, should the unthinkable happen. Travel insurance is a great thing to have for your peace of mind.

If you’re looking for a great vacation, look no further than a plush resort in Mexico. These beautiful vacation spots offer many amenities and attractions that anyone would love. Whether you need to find an affordable family deal or a couples-only retreat, a Mexican vacation has it all.

The most popular area in Mexico for resorts is near Cancun. There are many resorts directly in Cancun, but the beach is littered with them for miles. Another popular destination, Playa del Carmen, is about an hour’s drive from Cancun. It houses many four and five star resorts.

The best way to enjoy yourself while on vacation is to not worry about small things. Travel in Mexico offers all-inclusive packages that will allow you to do just that. What could be better than relaxing on the beach and strolling down to the refreshment stand? You don’t have to search through your pockets for your wallet. Just get what you want and go. Drinks and meals are included in the price. This is by far the most convenient way to enjoy a Mexican resort.

These resorts offer many different features and activities depending on which one you attend. Some offer in-room bars, Jacuzzi tubs, and ocean-view suites. All of the amazing features are designed to put your mind at ease. Getting away from the rat race is what a Mexican resort is all about.

Many resorts in Mexico are tailored to couples, as this is a prime target for honeymooners. They offer adult entertainment and amenities. However, the area also has several family-friendly choices as well. These offer many activities your children will love.

Whichever resort you choose, you will still get to enjoy the wonderful Mexican culture. Their people will greet you with a smile and help you. The food is great and you’ll probably even see a few iguanas running around as well. No matter your walk of life, a Mexican resort has what you need in a vacation.

Have you ever thought about how relaxing it would be to take a cruise for your next vacation? Do you imagine the sea and the sun, the buffets, and the games - but don’t think your pocketbook can afford it? Or maybe you just want to take a vacation where you have more spending money for the same price. If so, then taking the time to find a discount cruise or looking for cruise deals is a great option for you.

There are some things to keep in mind when looking for cruise deals or for discount cruises such as off peak season, advanced booking and last minute reservations. If you keep these three things in mind, you’ll have everything you need to find great cruise deals and lots of discount cruise options.

Cruising Off-Peak

What does off peak season mean? This is usually the wet seasons, ranging between April to early May and November to December. Since many destinations are not attractive during these times, travel agents often can offer great cruise deals or discount cruises at very attractive prices that are easy on the pocket book.

Advanced Booking Your Cruise

Many travel agents can offer you a set of cruise deals or discount cruises to choose from when you book well in advance. The best discount cruises and cruise deals appear if you can book six months or more in advance of the time you want to take your cruise. If that isn’t possible, usually booking at least three months before the time you want to take your cruise will still give you some excellent discount cruises and cruise deals.

Last Minute Cruise Reservations

The final thing to remember, and this works well if you have some flexibility, is trying to book your cruise at the last minute. Empty cabins mean lost profit, so many travel agents and cruise lines offer special last minute discount cruises and cruise deals to get a full complement of passengers on board for each of their cruises. These might not be as attractive a discount cruise or cruise deal as advanced booking would offer, but for people looking for a last minute get-away, it can be the answer to a wonderful vacation.

No matter what type of discount cruise or cruise deal you’re looking for, keeping these three things in mind when planning your trip can save you as much as sixty percent off the regular price of the cruise. So it is well worth the time to discuss various cruise deals and discount cruise options with your travel agent.

Torrey Pines State Preserve offers even more than the trees it’s named after. These 2000 acres left to nature house salt marshes, waterfowl refuges, cliffs, beaches, and a lagoon that’s a vital area for seabirds. The The State Preserve of Torrey Pines is located at the northwest end of San Diego, within the city limits, and includes a visitor center to help you learn everything they have to offer.

The Torrey Pines State Beach stretches nearly four miles, from Del Mar to the sandstone cliffs of Torrey Pines Mesa. The 300 foot cliffs are perfect for paragliding, remote control gliding, and even hang gliding. At the base of the cliffs is Blacks Beach. But beware: at the north end of Blacks Beach, clothing is optional. To be on the safe side, always read the signs and follow the rules of the beach.

When you visit San Diego, don’t forget to visit this natural treasure. It’s a welcome break from city touring, and a wonderful memory for you and your loved ones.

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Franny loves getting away from home and is a big bargain-hunter. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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Just south of Cancun in the eastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula lies beautiful Riviera Maya. With miles of Caribbean coastline, thick jungle and rich history, Riviera Maya has something to offer any tourist who ventures into its realm. Here are just a few of the activities you can enjoy in this Mexican paradise.

Water Fun

Whether you’re soaking up the rays on the secluded white sandy beaches or communing with the colorful marine life while scuba diving, you’re bound to have a good time in on the coast of Riviera Maya. For scuba divers and snorkelers, the Great Maya coral reef is second only to the Great Barrier reef in Australia in terms of size. The Great Maya coral reef is home to several varieties of corals, numerous reef-dwelling fishes, sea anemones, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, starfish, sponges, crabs, and lobsters. Just as interesting are the subterranean freshwater rivers, which house amazing cavern structures. For those who don’t like to actually get wet, sport fishing is also a big pastime in Riviera Maya.

Golf

Riviera Maya also boasts several professionally designed golf courses. The landscape is magnificent; truly a unique golfing experience. Visit these putting greens, driving ranges and club houses, or purchase quality golf merchandise in the area’s pro shops.

Spas

At the end of a long day scuba diving, golfing, or lying on the beach, what better way to get ready for a relaxing evening than with a visit to the spa? Spas these days can be enjoyed by members of both genders. The many spas in Riviera Maya provide various services such as Yoga, Reflexology, hot stone massage, Shiatsu, scalp massage, aromatherapy baths and soothing body scrubs and wrap treatments. Naturally, they also offer more traditional therapies, like manicures, pedicures, hair treatments, and facials.

Natural Parks and Archaeological Sites

Needless to say, Riviera Maya has great natural beauty. What better way to explore that beauty than visiting an ecological reserve. Xcaret EcoPark, an ecological and archaeological park, shoes the local Sian Ka’an biosphere and all its many species of flora and fauna. Explore ancient Mayan ruins or visit a Catholic church erected by the Spaniards. Swim with bottle-nosed dolphins or visit the exhibits at the Butterfly Pavilion, Orchid Greenhouse, Mushroom Farm, Manatee Lagoon, and Coral Reef Aquarium.

Playa del Carmen

When you’re ready for a little city life, visit Playa del Carmen. The major town in the area, Playa del Carmen is situated along the beach and offers tourists lovely waterfront hotels. The pulse of the city is Quinto Avenida (Fifth Avenue), a pedestrian-only street which is home to shopping, restaurants, and more. Window shop tiny boutiques for local handicrafts or find the latest trends in European fashions. Musicians will serenade you and performing artists entertain you as you stroll down Quinto Avenida looking for one of the many restaurants in this area. Whether you want authentic Mexican cuisine (and who woudn’t?), American style food or international choices like Italian or Indian, you can find it here. Round out your day by dancing and partying all night long in the local bars and night clubs.

Whatever your vacation preferences - relaxing and laid-back, or adventure-filled and fast-paced - beautiful Riviera Maya will exceed your expectations. Pick and choose your favorite features and come back a second time to try the ones you missed.

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Kit loves fun spots and is eager to introduce you to interesting new places to visit. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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If you love skiing or snowboarding but find the costs keep you from doing it as often as you’d like, there’s hope. One big expense that you can lower is the cost of accommodations. Check out these tips for ways to bed down for a lower cost.

Book a Bed and Breakfast

Often, bed and breakfasts are a lower cost alternative. You may not get all the bells and whistles you would at a ski resort or hotel, but you’re not going to be there much anyway, right? If you’re a people-person, the friendly atmosphere of a B&B will appeal to you. Another benefit is a good hearty breakfast included in the cost (it is “bed and breakfast”, after all), so you won’t have to go looking elsewhere or pay extra for your morning meal.

Share a House with Friends

Another way to save on accommodations while skiing is to rent a house close to the ski resort with a group of friends. A lot of locals in the towns and villages near the resorts rent houses to skiers. Those could be second homes they bought just for this purpose, or cottages they only use in the summer. These places are usually a bargain, especially if you avoid holidays like Christmas and New Year’s.

The more people in your group, the lower the cost of the house. Naturally, if there are only two or three of you, this would probably not be the best option. Another benefit to renting a house is the additional savings on food. You can cook your own breakfast and dinner at the house, and even prepare a lunch that you can bring with you to the ski hill. That way you can make your skiing dollars stretch even further.

Stay Further Away from the Resort

One last option is to stay at a regular inn, hotel or chalet, but one that’s further away from the ski hill. These accommodations will be cheaper for the very reason that most people don’t want to have to commute. If you’re willing to make the drive, you can reap the savings.

One of the best places to find these farther away hotels is online. Search for accommodations within a certain radius of the ski resort, say 20 miles. Check the room rates for some of the hotels at that distance, and then narrow or widen the radius, as appropriate, until you find a place that suits your budget and has the amenities you want.

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Julie hikes, camps, fishes, skis, and generally spends as much time outdoors as she can - when she’s not blogging, of course. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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So you’re going on a big vacation. Why not introduce your child to photography a few weeks before, and use it as a way to get them excited about the trip - while at the same time, giving them a way to store the memories of that trip forever.

You will undoubtedly be treated to some early shots of grandma as a headless wonder, but these will also be accompanied by some unexpected jewels. As the young photographer learns more about his or her new hobby and why grandma’s head was not in the picture, skills will begin to develop and you will start to see a legend of the world through the eyes of your child. Don’t be surprised to see more pictures of the family pet than of anyone else.

Help your child set up scenes to photograph, whether it’s a sandcastle on the beach or their favorite stuffed animal sitting held next to a statue in a park or museum. Once home again, you can play around with your child’s toys: let him or her experiment with how toy trucks and cars can be set up and photographed in such a way that they look like their full sized counterparts.

After you return from your trip, buy an album or scrapbook for your child and have fun putting the pictures into it. Make sure to put the date on the back. If you’re so inclined, you might also write some notes next to each picture or keep a journal of your own (depending on the age of your child) so you don’t forget the special memories that go with each picture.

If your child gets very interested in photography, remember the library has books about the subject, including some for children. You can also find these books at your local bookstore. If your child has an interest like this, by all means, feed it.

Is there a younger sibling in the family? Read up on taking pictures of babies and small children, then share the tips that you have learned with your young photographer. Such things as putting a piece of scotch tape on a little one’s finger for example can lead to some fantastic facial expressions, as he or she tries to figure out what has happened and how to get rid of that thing. Armed with a camera, encouragement and a little bit of knowledge, your young photographer may be the one to get THAT picture, making it doubly a family treasure.

Getting a child interested in photography is giving them a gift that may well last them a lifetime.

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Michael’s philosophy of traveling is simple: take lots of pictures and put your feet up as much as possible. Read more of his articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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Amsterdam as a city has a lot to offer tourists. Famous canals and waterways, 17th century architecture, and lively nightlife all draw people to visit this small city. In addition, there are many favored attractions, such as the 250-room Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, the Royal Palace, the Artis Zoo, Dam Square, and the eclectic shopping found in the Jordaan neighborhood. After a long day touring, enjoy fine and ethnic dining, and then take in a show at the theatre.

Finish off your experience by staying at a comfortable and homey bed and breakfast. Here are some of the top-rated Amsterdam bed and breakfasts:

Amsterdam Central Bed and Breakfast

Amsterdam Central Bed and Breakfast Inn is less than five minutes walking distance to the Central Station, for easy touring. Besides lovely rooms, this bed and breakfast offers guest apartments, and a wide variety of dining options.

Amsterdam Eelhouse

Amsterdam Eelhouse, in the heart of the city, is a four-star Amsterdam bed and breakfast located near the Jordaan, Central Station, the Anne Frank House, and all the nightlife. Rooms in the Amsterdam Eelhouse come with queen size beds, lazy chairs with ottomans, built-in wardrobes, radios or CD players, and televisions. You’ll also find a wetbar with a small sink, dishes, mini-fridge, coffeemaker, and private bathroom in every room.

Ruben’s Bed and Breakfast

Ruben’s B & B is conveniently located in Amsterdam’s museum district, within walking distance of many major museums and tourist attractions. This bed and breakfast inn is likewise near the shopping street Beenthovenstraat, and not far from Amsterdam’s exuberant nightlife.

Collector Bed and Breakfast

Conveniently located in the cultural center of Amsterdam, the Collector Bed and Breakfast is a mere three-minute walk from museums, and very close to the Vondelpark and nightlife. The decor in the Collector Bed and Breakfast rooms was inspired by the Art Deco period, and each room has its own unique character. Besides the usual amenities such as internet access, bathrooms, balconies, and television, the rooms - and the house as a whole - are home to several different interesting collections.

Palace B&B Amsterdam

The Palace B&B is aptly found on the palace area, Dam Square, the most central of all locations. Besides its convenient location, this bed and breakfast sports spacious and luxurious rooms with private bathrooms. They also include such amenities as microwaves and refrigerators, coffee and tea facilities, and more.

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Franny loves getting away from home and is a big bargain-hunter. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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The Ottawa Valley in Ontario, Canada has many wonderful places for you to visit, and plenty of timeshares where you can stay. One nice day trip is a stop at the Bonnechere Cave and then a night at the Stone Fence Theatre.

Drive through a beautiful landscape where homes, farms and barns pepper the rolling hills on your way there. The Bonnechere Cave itself is home to numerous fossils which show that the area once enjoyed a tropical climate. You can get a guided tour of the cave, the many chambers and corridors, and hear about the history it has revealed.

The vaulted walls of the Bonnechere Cave are composed of various layers that glisten from seeping water. As the water constantly cools the cave, the temperature remains a chilly 10 degrees Celsius. Coming out of the cave on a summer day can feel like stepping into a tropical forest.

After your spelunking adventure, drive to the town of Brudenell where you’ll find the Stone Fence Theatre. Costumed musicians and dancers enact vignettes from their pioneer past with humor and verve. You can find out more about this non-profit community theatre at the Stone Fence Theatre website, including directions, pictures, and information about shows and making reservations.

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Kit loves fun spots and is eager to introduce you to interesting new places to visit. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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So, you love getting outside in the winter, but you want to try something new? Here’s just the thing: snowshoeing. If you have no idea where to start, here are some tips:

1. Lightweight snowshoes are best. Very important. Snowshoes can range from super light, which are not more than a pound a piece, to several pounds for each shoe. As you can imagine, the lighter the better; those heavy snowshoes will only getting heavier the farther you walk.

2. Look for snowshoes that are rated for your weight. If you get snowshoes with a weight rating smaller than what you actually weigh, you could very well find yourself sinking into snow up to your thigh. Shoes exist with weight ratings all the way up to 300 pounds. Just make sure you get the right ones for you.

3. Find trails and hikes appropriate for your skill level. Or more importantly, the skill level of your party’s weakest member. If your kids are going out with you, pick an easier trail that they’ll be able to manage. It’s better to work your way up to the harder trails rather than having a bad experience the first time out because you went for something that was too hard.

4. As always, water and snacks should be in your pack. It’s important to stay hydrated while you’re working out, and nice to bring along some granola or trail mix in case you want to stop for a scenic snack.

5. Wear layers. You’ve heard this before: your body temperature is going to rise as you’re snowshoeing, and you want to be able to peel off a layer or two to keep your temperature level. Don’t depend on a heavy winter coat - that’s not a good layer.

6. Wear good waterproof boots. With snowshoeing, your feet will naturally get wet. If you plan to snowshoe on a regular basis, waterproof boots are a good investment in your comfort and health.

7. Rest if you need to. This is hard work, and you make need several short breaks in order to keep going. Also, be aware of your limits so you turn around with enough energy to make it back to your starting point.

Enjoy!

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Julie hikes, camps, fishes, skis, and generally spends as much time outdoors as she can - when she’s not blogging, of course. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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What does it mean to travel “off-peak”? In a nutshell, “peak” is when tourists are most interested in traveling, and therefore the number of tourists at that time is a lot greater than any other time of the year, and prices are higher. “Off-peak”, then, is the opposite: when tourists are not as interested in traveling, crowds are smaller, and prices are lower because hotels, resorts, and airlines are competing for the reduced amount of business.

Every area has a peak season and an off-peak season. For instance, ski resorts have their peak season in the winter months, while there’s snow on the ground.

If you’re traveling to a foreign country, particularly if it’s in the southern hemisphere or in a different climate, check on when their peak and off-peak times are. In Thailand, June and July are off-season because it’s so hot - but the lack of crowds in the temples and other tourist hot spots more than makes up for it.

Closer to home, you can get great deals on travel to the Caribbean during the winter. As far south as they are, islands in the Caribbean have very nice weather, even when people in the U.S. are shivering in their boots. Even better, summer - when most people go to the Caribbean - is hurricane season. Avoid the storms, save money, and get a little sun to break up the winter by traveling to the Caribbean off-peak.

Lots of people take vacations during the summer when school is out. Fall or spring can be just as nice - or nicer, without the crowds - and you’ll be traveling with off-peak prices and off-peak crowds. If you don’t have kids, or the kids are off in college, consider a spring or fall vacation.

But you can also travel off-peak on a smaller scale. Most people take vacations roughly from Saturday through the following Sunday. If you decide to fly or drive between Tuesday and Thursday instead, you’ll have an easier time of it, and your airfare will quite possibly be cheaper. Hotels, likewise, have more business on the weekends and less during the week (except during their peak season!)

At holiday time, off-peak is on the holiday. The days right before and after are when most people want to travel, but if your schedule is flexible and you can take a flight on Thanksgiving morning, there sure won’t be any crowds.

You can even choose to travel during off-peak times of day. Choose flights in the mid-morning or late afternoon, or if you’re really courageous, take a red eye. You’ll have a lot fewer fellow travelers during those times. And everyone knows to avoid rush hour when driving - that’s yet another peak time.

Now that you know when to travel and what great rewards - lower costs and smaller crowds - you can get traveling off-peak, how do you find the deals? Subscribe to online newsletters put out by such discount air travel brokers as Jestgo or WesJet. Then look at the offerings they have that fall into the off-peak for your chosen destination.

Last but not least, make your plans early. Booking your flight as much as a year early can give you the cheapest off-peak airfares possible, especially for foreign travel. Or if you’re a last-minute kind of person, keep an eye on travel deals for last minute flights and accommodations. When they’re coming up short, airlines and hotels would rather give great discounts than have no visitors at all.

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Kit loves bringing you info about traveling and fun places to see. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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The Caribbean is a great vacation spot - for families as well as individuals. Caribbean family travel packages offer features that cater to parents and kids alike. Check out some of the things family packages often offer:

• Beach and water sports
• Multiple swimming pools and water slides
• Kid-friendly activities and family programs
• Convenient meal times
• Pampering for grown-ups, including spas, dining, cocktail parties, etc.
• Baby-sitting and other services
• Great family rates

This all sounds great, but it can be a little overwhelming to choose an all-inclusive Caribbean family travel resorts because there are so many. You want the best value for your dollar, but you also have features you specifically want. How do you choose?

All-Inclusive vs. All-Included

When you hear “all-inclusive”, it’s natural to assume that the package includes everything. But not so in this case. “All-inclusive” Caribbean family travel includes almost - but not quite - everything. So you might get all meals and snacks, drinks, kids’ programs, and certain water sports and other activities but not all of them.

Here are some tips:

• Non-motorized water sports are usually included - that’s your kayaking, wind surfing, aqua-trikes, etc. If you want motorized water sports, like jet skis or water skis, it might cost you.
• Gear for snorkeling is often free, but there might be a limit as to how long you can use them. Joining a snorkeling boat trip on your Caribbean family travel, on the other hand, might cost extra.
• Scuba diving is usually extra.
• Spas are almost always extra, unless you get a special Caribbean family travel package that includes them.
• Off-property outings are usually extra, though taking a shuttle bus to a nearby town might be free.
• Some non-all-inclusives offer plans that include meals and/or activities.

Kids’ Club

Pretty much all all-inclusive Caribbean family travel packages offer a kids’ club. Many consist of one or two cute play rooms with toys and TV and maybe video games for kids ages 4-12. A warm and friendly staff is always there to provide them with care.

But if you want your kids to enjoy a wider variety of activities, you won’t have any problem finding all-inclusive resorts that will provide them. You’ll find different programs and activities for different ages. To start looking for these kinds of all-inclusive Caribbean family travel specials, check out Club Med in Punta Cana, Beaches resorts and Atlantis in the Bahamas.

Young-uns: Babies and Toddlers

It can be hard traveling with very young children. That’s one reason Caribbean family travel resorts are so convenient: many provide nurseries and infant care for guests traveling with their babies or toddlers. You can drop off your child for a few hours while she’s napping, or leave him for longer. Enjoy some child-free time with your spouse and know that your baby is being taken care of.

With young children like this, if you want the peace of mind of knowing on-site doctors or nurses are available should anything come up, consider the bigger Caribbean family travel resorts. Last but not least, be sure to double check with your Caribbean family travel resort to make sure that the baby-club will be up and running during the dates of your trip. You don’t want to do all this planning only to get there and find out the baby club is closed for the week for some reason.

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Franny loves getting away from home and is a big bargain-hunter. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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If you want to ski every weekend or every other weekend it’s to your advantage to get the most out of your skiing dollar. You know the slopes, now it’s time to learn the ropes. Here are three tips to help you save money so you can ski more often this winter.

Shop at the Right Time and Place

You might think that the Christmas week starting with Boxing Day would be a good time to pick up a bargain on a new pair of skis or boots. Think again! It’s true that during this time of the year, you can find big discounts on items like clothes and electronics. But ski equipment and accessories are different. Why?

Because this is not the end, but the beginning of the ski season, and most retailers will not put their ski gear on sale this early. That being said, you might find some bargains if you venture over to your local Sporting Goods store.

However, most of these places do not have a complete range of skis nor do they have experienced boot fitters on staff. It’s best to visit the Ski Shops that specialize in ski gear and accessories in the winter. They also have trained boot fitters so you can get a customized fit if you need ski boots.

You can always get a deal in the spring at most Ski Shops providing they still have the type of skis or boots that you are after in stock. However, begin your search in mid-February, since most of the shops begin dropping their prices around this time of the year, which is closer to the end of the ski season. In addition, you are more likely to find the skis or boots that you had your eye on earlier in the season.

Take Care of your Boots

Ski boots are very durable, but they are also expensive, so you want to extend their life, especially if you have custom-fitted boots that fit comfortably and perform well. Avoid walking through parking lots after the snow has melted away. Rough surfaces will eventually wear the plastic soles to the point that they will no longer fit in your bindings properly, which brings us to the next tip.

Many boots now come with removable pads on the toe and heel, which can be replaced before they wear down beyond the safe limits. If you are in the market for a new pair of ski boots, make sure you buy boots that have replaceable pads, especially on the heels. Replacing a pair of worn, heel pads will save you a ton of cash versus buying new, ski boots.

Get a Lock for your Skis

When you buy new skis and if you do not already own a lock or your old lock will not fit your new skis, buy one before you leave the shop. Why?

Because, you may forget to get one before you lay the first tracks with your new boards. You will definitely be putting your skis in jeopardy of being stolen when you prop them up in a ski rack and head into the lodge for lunch. New skis are an easy prey. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Spend a few extra bucks up front for a ski lock to protect your initial investment for skis and bindings. It would be very painful to head back to the shop to replace a pair of skis that have been pilfered. Ouch!

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Julie hikes, camps, fishes, skis, and generally spends as much time outdoors as she can - when she’s not blogging, of course. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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If you are in hot pursuit of a powder-filled, winter snow adventure, then a Pacific Northwest sno-park is just the place to begin. Whether it is a family outing, or a solo, thrill seeking excursion, you are bound to find the terrain and conditions to cure your winter sweet tooth at a sno-park.

So what are sno-parks?

State sno-parks are state-maintained parking areas which have been set aside for recreation purposes. They are open only during the winter season - usually beginning in November and running until April. Most sno-parks will be marked with signs stating they are “Winter Recreation Areas”. You can find sno-parks in most mountain passes, and also at lots of ski and snow play areas.

Most Pacific Northwest state sno-parks are open for multiple-use activities. Which means that sledding, cross country skiing, inner tubing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, snow play, and sometimes even snowmobiling are allowed. Roughly half of the state sno-parks in the Pacific Northwest are reserved for un-motorized sporting. And even the parks allowing snowmobiles, or any other motorized vehicles, will still have plenty of open, under exploited areas to explore.

Rules about snowmobiles and snowmobile sno-parks are different than non-motorized parks, so be sure to check out the different regulations.

Permits are necessary to park and use the sno-parks. There is a fine for parking in a sno-park area without a permit, so be sure you grab one. The permits pay to help keep the areas clean, well groomed, and maintained, and also help keep up signs, patrol the parks, and to upgrade education and maps.

You can usually get permits for one day, a few days, or for the entire season. You can get permits at U.S. Forest Service ranger stations, some DMV offices, various resort permit agents, outdoor recreation retailers, a few other retail outlets, or online at Washington or Oregon State Park’s websites:

http://www.oregonstateparks.org/
http://egov.oregon.gov/OPRD/
http://www.parks.wa.gov/

Some permit agents can charge a service fee for permits they sell.

Idaho’s state park program is called the Idaho Park-n-Ski permit. And even California sno-park passes are honored in some Pacific Northwest states. Check your state’s rules to be sure.

One final point to keep in mind…

Chains or tires with traction devices might be required (by local authorities) to get to sno-parks during the winter months. Driving a vehicle without them, during these times, will be a traffic infraction. So come prepared.

And now that you are armed with basic sno-park information, it is time to hit your favorite Pacific Northwest powder for some fun and festivities.

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Julie hikes, camps, fishes, skis, and generally spends as much time outdoors as she can - when she’s not blogging, of course. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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Thinking twice about bringing your kids along when you travel? Traveling with children need not be stressful. Here are few tips on how you can enjoy your trip with less trouble and more fun.

Plan with your kids

Get your kids’ opinions about the trip. That way, they will get involved and get excited about it. Children have limited attention span and can easily get tired. Choose simple but fun activities.

Things to bring

Bring along disposable stuff like diapers instead of cloth. You can rent out strollers or prams which is more convenient than bringing along bulky equipments. Remember to pack any medication your children need and a first-aid kit. If with an infant, bring sterilizing equipment for bottle-feeding.

Keep them busy

Make the trip enjoyable for the kids by bringing along their favorite toys. Do not allow them to read on the road, this may add to motion sickness and constrain the eyes.

Be safe on the road

When in a car, be sure that seatbelts are securely in place. Remove unnecessary things on top of the car ledge that might fall over and hit your kids when you suddenly step on the brakes. If traveling in a public vehicle, keep your children on your lap or beside you. Crawling or walking around might cause them to fall.

Avoid motion sickness

Most children complain of being dizzy and sick while traveling, usually on a ship or a boat. If on the road, you can prevent this by planning several stopovers. Open you car windows to let in some fresh air. Before the trip, be sure that your children took a snack. You can also check with your doctor for appropriate anti-nausea medicines.

Prevent travelers’ diarrhea

You can avoid child dehydration by bringing plenty of distilled water. Stay away from street foods. Also avoid raw fruits and vegetables, seafood and rare meats.

Pack your kids’ favorite food

Children can be choosy when it comes to food. Adults may want to try out the local delicacies but kids prefer to eat something they are familiar with. Most specialty restaurants might add a kid’s meal to their menu; you can check it out before dining in.

Overall, the most important tip is: be patient. Sure, you will have some bad moments, but traveling with kids can be a lot of fun if you’ll take the time to understand them. It’s always nice to see your kids happy and smiling brightly, and of course, you should too!

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Kit loves bringing you info about traveling and fun places to see. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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Taking a mountain biking vacation is an excellent way to unwind and explore America. There are several companies that offer mountain biking tours that go through scenic routes, and they often arrange accomodations for travelers as well. For athletic couples, these types of vacations offer the perfect way to relax and enjoy some exercise together.

Each and every region in the United States has some truly awesome mountain biking trails. It’s not just the major mountain ranges that offer these trails, as any hilly, scenic, rough trail can provide riders with the adventure they seek. Some of the best areas to mountain bike ride in the United States are the Pacific Northwest, Southwest, and Southeast states such as North Carolina.

Even though the entire American West area is great for a mountain biking vacation, the Southwest area is rapidly becoming a popular area for the sport as well. In the Southwest, some of the best trails include Pinery Canyon Road in Arizona, South Boundary Trail in New Mexico, and Flume Trail in Nevada.

Each and every trail deserves its reputation as a tough ride. Each one of these trails is over 20 miles in length, with Pinery Canyon being the longest, at over 50 miles! Keep in mind though, just because you go to a trail it doesn’t mean you have to ride the entire length.

The Pacific Northwest is also a great place for a mountain biking vacation. The three best trails in the entire region are Surveyor’s Ridge in Oregon, Mount Tamalpais in California, and the Methow Trial System in Washington.

A mountain biking vacation is perfect for athletic people who have the desire to explore regions at their own pace. These trips are much less expensive than other trips, yet they can easily be the adventure of a lifetime.

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Franny loves getting away from home and is a big bargain-hunter. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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