When you hear the words Daytona Beach, I’d bet money NASCAR, Spring Break and sandy stretches of the Atlantic Ocean come to mind. While these are some of its prized attributes, this down-to-earth Florida beach town is making unexpected waves in the culinary arena. It has blossomed into an emerging destination for travelers looking to combine a seaside holiday with delicious dining. Daytona Beach enjoys a throwback quality rich in … [Read more...]
Greece’s Hidden Gem
I recently discovered a secret Greece has been hiding from the world. It’s called Meteora. The town is a hidden gem, a few hours from Athens. Fully prepared to be swept off my feet by the island of Santorini, I fell in love instead with this magical place, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. My dad was turning 70 in September. I don’t know about you, but that felt like a big deal birthday to me. I could buy him yet another full sleeved shirt, or … [Read more...]
Dreaming of Iceland
Iceland has long been on my list of countries to visit. I fly over this rugged looking country several times a year on my way to Europe - I glance down about mid flight depending on the time of year and gaze down upon its snow covered landscape. At other times I see rugged geography, a landscape devoid of people and large portions covered by glaciers. A friend who has family living there visits every once in a while and returns with stories of … [Read more...]
Don’t break the Bank – Trip Planning
Travel can be very expensive - but with some planning there are certainly ways an independent traveler can cut down on costs. Type in "budget travel" in Google; Google is always generous with listings but for these key words it is especially generous. A recent query spit out approximately 38 million hits! Where to start your research? Since airfare is often the highest expense on a trip - in our experience it is wise to try a number of outlets … [Read more...]
The Big Trip
The Big Trip by George Dunford This is the ultimate book for those adventurous independent travelers looking to spend considerable time overseas on a "big" trip. The economy or your "normal" job have you down? Pick up this book, start dreaming and then make this dream a reality. This book contains real life stories from seasoned 'on the road' travelers, top tip lists, and big trip experiences and favorite spots are highlighted. This is the … [Read more...]
Moon Mt. Rushmore
There is enough to keep one busy in the area of South Dakota around Rapid City for at least several weeks, although itineraries are presented for shorter trips. There's quite a bit packed into a relatively small geographical area - both natural and and man made attractions. Highlights of this guide book are of course Mt. Rushmore (one of America's most visited monuments with over 3 million visitors/year) but also Crazy Horse Mountain, Custer … [Read more...]
Tourism Australia Invites Travelers To Find Out Why There’s Nothing Like Australia
Local Aussies Share Their Unique and Iconic Experiences Americans Encouraged to Submit Their Own Australian Experiences for a Chance to Win a Trip Down Under Los Angeles, September 8, 2010 - There's nothing like sharing a few drinks with friends overlooking spectacular Sydney Harbour. "There's nothing like snorkeling with my friend Wally in the Great Barrier Reef. The huge Maori Wrasse is a bit slimy and smooth with lots of colours." … [Read more...]
New Orleans – More Info
A must visit site to help with your trip planning is the Louisiana Office of Tourism: Visit - www.louisianatravel.com Click the thumbnail to the right to view a full size map of select locations highlighted in this guide. New Orleans is one of America's most unique and culturally intriguing cities. with it's own 'culture', food and music, the city attracts people from all over the world. Plenty of events are held throughout the year … [Read more...]
Mt. Lassen, CA – General Info
Admission to Lassen National Park is $20 per vehicle. Sometimes if it is late there are may not be attendants present at the park entrances and payment is on the honor system. The $20 entrance fee is good for 7 days, just don't lose your receipt. Those 62 of age and older can pay $20 a lifetime pass to National Parks (this is one of the best admission entrance fees out there!). Pets are permitted in the park but only if they are on a leash. They … [Read more...]
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco, or as locals call it, "The City", is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. How many cities have a population of just over 750,000 and have the instant name recognition that San Francisco has? What other city can lay claim to have founded the United Nations, introduced the topless dancer, and the hippie movement? How many cities are known world wide for its cultural diversity and cultural acceptance? Where else can you … [Read more...]