November 20, 2008

Warm up this Winter with a Beach Vacation

Finding a beach vacation spot might seem a little difficult during the winter months, but it doesn't have to be when you consider what's available in Hawaii. Below, you'll find a couple resorts that offer a unique twist to your winter beach vacation.

1. Molokai Ranch and Lodge
On a white sand shore on the tiny Hawaiian island of Molokai, guests will stay in comfortable yet unique tents. Each double unit canvas bungalow sits on wooden platforms, offers queen size beds in one unit, twin beds in the other, solar powered lights, and a private bathroom with hot water showers.

The Molokai Ranch and Lodge offers over 54,000 acres, including seaside cliffs with very lush valleys. The outdoor activities here include sea kayaking, cultural hikes, mountain biking, and horseback rides. For the kids, the lodge offers nature walks, horse stables, tidal pools and Hawaiian arts and crafts.

2. Grand Wailea Resort and Spa of Hawaii
Long ago, a big swimming pool was enough to make guests happy. Now days, resorts compete in water activities such as lagoons, waterfalls, water slides, and even lazy rivers.

The Grand Wailea Resort offers several attractions, such as the 4,580 square foot Hibiscus pool, and the 25,700 square foot Canyon Activity pool which is great for families.

Filed under Hawaii by VicBils

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November 18, 2008

Las Vegas Basics

If you're planning a trip to Vegas in the near future there are a few basic things you should know.

First things first, walking shoes are a must for any trip to Vegas. You will probably be spending a lot of time on your feet and will need shoes that can handle standing in lines and walking quite nicely.

Second, the weather in Vegas is fairly predictable. You are likely to experience rather cool nights, particularly during the months between October and April so bring some warm clothes. You should also be prepared for a lot of sunshine and pack copious amounts of sunscreen in order to protect your skin.

Remember that the times around holidays are often the busiest times in Vegas if you want to avoid the higher prices and larger crowds you should avoid booking during these times. And if those are the times you absolutely wish to stay and play in Vegas you should make plans and book well ahead of time to make sure you have your first choice in accommodations.

It is important to remember that Vegas is indeed a desert town and that you will need to drink plenty of water and moisturize more than you might be accustomed to. This is a much drier climate than many people experience in their day-to-day lives and the heat and dryness can sneak up on you for a double whammy if you aren't prepared.

If you're a golfer, you've found heaven and should come prepared. This means you should bring your best clubs along with you and be prepared to play a few rounds. You should probably also bring a nice set of dress clothes in order to catch some of the great shows that are always playing in Vegas.

While Vegas is famous for big spenders, it is quite possible to spend thriftily and have a nice vacation for two at around $100 per day. At the other end of the spectrum, big spenders can drop thousands on one meal very easily. Pay attention to the places you are considering before you enter if you are on a limited budget.

If you're planning to stray far from your hotel or resort, it's a good idea if you plan to rent a car or drive your own. The distances here can be quite deceiving and you can easily loose track of time while enjoying yourself inside the many casinos.

Vegas is almost as famous for weddings as it is for Casinos. If you are hoping to get married Vegas style you have a lot of styles from which to choose and you are not by any means alone. More than 122,000 couples apply for marriage licenses in Vegas each year. The licensing fees for marriage in Vegas is around $55 (this is the current rate, keep in mind that this rate is subject to change) and then there are the fees involved for the chapel you use, the services offered, etc. You can choose to go as informal and small or as bold and lavish as you can afford.

One of the most important things to remember about Vegas is like the new commercials claim, "What happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas". So let your hair down and have some fun during your time here and be sure to make plans for your return trip.

This can be a wonderful vacation experience for you whether you are planning a marriage, a golf smorgasbord, a gambling festival, to see your favorite act, or just to spend time with the family hanging out around the pool. Your trip to Vegas is what you make of your trip to Vegas. I suggest you have as much fun as possible. Enjoy the sights, watch the shows, enjoy the many great buffets, and spend some time at the hotel spa relaxing and rejuvenating as you prepare to go back home and face the outside world yet again.

If you're planning a trip to Vegas in the near future there are a few basic things you should know.

First things first, walking shoes are a must for any trip to Vegas. You will probably be spending a lot of time on your feet and will need shoes that can handle standing in lines and walking quite nicely.

Second, the weather in Vegas is fairly predictable. You are likely to experience rather cool nights, particularly during the months between October and April so bring some warm clothes. You should also be prepared for a lot of sunshine and pack copious amounts of sunscreen in order to protect your skin.

Remember that the times around holidays are often the busiest times in Vegas if you want to avoid the higher prices and larger crowds you should avoid booking during these times. And if those are the times you absolutely wish to stay and play in Vegas you should make plans and book well ahead of time to make sure you have your first choice in accommodations.

It is important to remember that Vegas is indeed a desert town and that you will need to drink plenty of water and moisturize more than you might be accustomed to. This is a much drier climate than many people experience in their day-to-day lives and the heat and dryness can sneak up on you for a double whammy if you aren't prepared.

If you're a golfer, you've found heaven and should come prepared. This means you should bring your best clubs along with you and be prepared to play a few rounds. You should probably also bring a nice set of dress clothes in order to catch some of the great shows that are always playing in Vegas.

While Vegas is famous for big spenders, it is quite possible to spend thriftily and have a nice vacation for two at around $100 per day. At the other end of the spectrum, big spenders can drop thousands on one meal very easily. Pay attention to the places you are considering before you enter if you are on a limited budget.

If you're planning to stray far from your hotel or resort, it's a good idea if you plan to rent a car or drive your own. The distances here can be quite deceiving and you can easily loose track of time while enjoying yourself inside the many casinos.

Vegas is almost as famous for weddings as it is for Casinos. If you are hoping to get married Vegas style you have a lot of styles from which to choose and you are not by any means alone. More than 122,000 couples apply for marriage licenses in Vegas each year. The licensing fees for marriage in Vegas is around $55 (this is the current rate, keep in mind that this rate is subject to change) and then there are the fees involved for the chapel you use, the services offered, etc. You can choose to go as informal and small or as bold and lavish as you can afford.

One of the most important things to remember about Vegas is like the new commercials claim, "What happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas". So let your hair down and have some fun during your time here and be sure to make plans for your return trip.

This can be a wonderful vacation experience for you whether you are planning a marriage, a golf smorgasbord, a gambling festival, to see your favorite act, or just to spend time with the family hanging out around the pool. Your trip to Vegas is what you make of your trip to Vegas. I suggest you have as much fun as possible. Enjoy the sights, watch the shows, enjoy the many great buffets, and spend some time at the hotel spa relaxing and rejuvenating as you prepare to go back home and face the outside world yet again.

Filed under Las Vegas by VicBils

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November 17, 2008

Visit Tennessee for your next ski vacation

Located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski resort in the state. It is more than just a ski resort, however. It is a complete family vacation spot with an amusement park, indoor ice skating, a bungee tower, an alpine slide, and many other activities and attractions – there is something to please everyone.

With an elevation of 3301 feet, and a vertical drop of 600 feet, Ober Gatlinburg features eight trails: two beginner trails, four intermediate trails, and two advanced trails. There are three lifts, including two quad lifts, one double lift, and one surface lift. The season runs from the middle of December through early March, and night skiing is allowed on all trails except the Grizzly trail.

Located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski resort in the state. It is more than just a ski resort, however. It is a complete family vacation spot with an amusement park, indoor ice skating, a bungee tower, an alpine slide, and many other activities and attractions – there is something to please everyone.

With an elevation of 3301 feet, and a vertical drop of 600 feet, Ober Gatlinburg features eight trails: two beginner trails, four intermediate trails, and two advanced trails. There are three lifts, including two quad lifts, one double lift, and one surface lift. The season runs from the middle of December through early March, and night skiing is allowed on all trails except the Grizzly trail.

Filed under Ski Vacations by VicBils

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November 15, 2008

Broadway Makes New York Sing

Whenever I think of a trip to New York City whether for a vacation or just a short one or two-day visit I can't help but think of Broadway and the delightful shows that await in these hallowed halls of entertainment delight. Broadway is the essence of New York to me. It can in turns be bawdy, brawling, loud, rowdy, soft, romantic, comedic, and rip-roaringly hilarious. Broadway has it all for those who are willing to look for their perfect fit.

The problem with Broadway is that there are so many wonderful shows to see and such limited time (for most of us) in which to see them. I don't even believe those who live in New York City have enough time in which to appreciate the artistic treasure trove that is represented within this wonderful city that never sleeps. The truth of the matter is that in order to properly enjoy all the theatrical offerings available to you, you'd almost have to never sleep yourself.

Musicals
It is important to remember that all shows are not available at all times. Check to see if the show you wish to see will be playing during your visit before getting your hopes up. On to the musicals, which are, by the way, my favorite types of Broadway entertainment. Chicago the Musical, Forbidden Broadway (this one offers an hilarious 'spoof' of Broadway), Jersey Boys, Naked Boys Singing (yes, they are!), Phantom of the Opera, Rent, Wicked, and Mama Mia!

Comedies
Broadway is well known for thumbing its nose at convention as well as for letting it's hair down and having a good ole time. The same holds true for the Broadway theatre of today. Comedies and musicals on Broadway are not mutually exclusive so some of the hilarity mentioned below will have some degree of song and dance (well most likely quite a bit of both but you will definitely laugh). Let the comedies begin! I Love You, Your Perfect, Now Change (seriously, that's the name we're already off to a great start on the road to laughter). Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead (I think someone's been peeking in my kids windows at night-this one is actually off Broadway but I thought it bore mentioning with such a catchy title and all). Spamalot. This one is rising star with rave reviews by critics and a fairly good attendance rate so buy your tickets early! The Producers, which was recently made as a motion picture and The Little Dog Laughed round up my list of comedies. I hope you've seen something here that looks like a good laugh; I know I've seen a few!

Drama
While many people think of the happy go lucky song and dance that is often associated with Broadway there is a deep dramatic flare to the offerings as well. Particularly some of the musicals that carry with them profound messages about music, life and love-among these wonderful icons of Broadway are the following: Rent- a very La Boheme meets modern life musical that is probably one of the best Broadway musicals I've ever seen and I'm a huge fan of Phantom. Les Miserables is another Broadway drama that really needs no introduction, Grey Gardens is perfect for anyone who fears becoming a cat lady or spinster, A Chorus Line, Chicago, The Color Purple, Phantom of the Opera (my personal favorite), and The Vertical Hour (this is a new one let's hope it lasts).

There are a few family friendly musicals and plays that bear mentioning among them are the following: Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera (may be a little frightening for younger children during certain scenes), Tarzan, The Lion King, Mary Poppins, Momma Mia!, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and Beauty and the Beast. You know your child best and what will or will not be frightening for them or possibly lead to uncomfortable questions for you, view most Broadway plays with that in mind.

Broadway is a great way to really enjoy what New York has to offer its visitors for entertainment. While it would hardly be possible to see each and every show that might attract your attention it is quite possible to make the time to view the one that is most appealing to you and it will be quite an experience for the entire family.

Filed under New York by VicBils

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November 14, 2008

Colorado Skiing Is The Best In The World

Millions of people flock to Colorado every year because Colorado skiing is the best in the world. People come from countries with great skiing venues, and they come from countries with deserts. First of all, the scenery is absolutely beautiful. There are many different sites to choose from when going for some Colorado skiing, and all of these locations are magnificent. Colorado skiing is available in Vail, Aspen, Breckenridge and many other picturesque communities nestled in spectacular mountains. These communities are dedicated to the sport so Colorado skiing is usually exciting.

Colorado skiing at its best is available in Aspen. On the slopes and the streets of Aspen, a skier will run into some of the most beautiful people in the world. People who can afford the best can afford Aspen, and this is where many of the beautiful people want to ski. On an average day during ski season, you will run into famous stars and billionaires enjoying the scenery and the slopes. The snow is usually great for the season in Aspen, and the facilities are excellent. There are plenty of slopes for everyone so beginners and experts will be happy skiers.

Colorado Skiing Has Slopes For Everyone
Aspen is probably the first name that comes to mind when thinking about Colorado skiing, but there are some other fine facilities. Other facilities include Vail which also attracts many of the beautiful people from around the world. Famous people have chalets and homes around the area, and skiers will run into some famous people. The facilities in Vail are excellent, and the mountains in the area are fantastic. There are facilities for the whole family in Vail. There are trails that are frequented by thousands, but there are also some slopes off the beaten track that are great for a wonderful ski vacation.

Colorado skiing is also great in Breckenridge, a picturesque Victorian town, nestled in the magnificent Rocky Mountains. These mountains offer some of the most challenging slopes in the world for the experts looking for a challenge, but there are also slopes where beginners can get their start at an early age. The facilities are some of the best in the world with plenty of opportunity for instruction. Snowboarding is also great in Breckinridge for those looking for a break from skiing on the slopes. Colorado skiing is easy to arrange with great accommodations for a single skier or an entire family.

Filed under Ski Vacations by VicBils

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November 13, 2008

Finding a Great Used RV

RV salvage is a great way to find quality used RVs at almost half the price. RVs can be very expensive and an awesome way to purchase a RV, and not go broke, is RV salvage yards. Some RVs can cost as much as $194,000, but other used RVs can cost as little as $8,000. RV salvage yards usually offer quality RV and RV parts at a fraction of the price.

How good are used RVs?
Most people think that because an RV is used, it is no longer a quality item. In fact, used RV's can be just as functional as new ones. RVs at RV salvage yards can be a good alternative rather than buying a very expensive new RV. At most used RV dealerships they have thorough inspections for any major problems.

These problems can include dents and dings or even major problems such as brake or engine problems. If there is a major problem such as these most dealerships will either break the RV down for parts or decide not to sale the RV. Some dealerships sell RVs that are up to 30 years old, this means you are able to find almost any RV part you need. Most used RV parts are sturdier than most parts you find in catalogs today.

Are there many RV salvage yards?
RV salvage yards are very popular and common in the United States. Every state in the continental U.S. has a few major RV salvage yards and possibly even some smaller, locally-owned yards. The major companies have a greater selection of RVs, but the local companies can have a better price (for lack of competition). RV salvage yards range from Arizona to Minnesota, finding a dealership to purchase your dream RV or your much needed RV part isn’t a difficult job.

Do RV salvage yards recycle?
Sometimes RV salvage yards will also break down RVs for all the recyclable material on the RV. This helps decrease the high demand for brand new parts, and helps prevent already over-flowing landfills from becoming fuller. This is done by purchasing rebuilt RV appliances or even purchasing a rebuilt RV. If you own an old RV its possible to sell it to one of the RV salvage yards that helps recycle these RVs; this can help with CO2 emissions and prevent other pollutants caused by RVs being dumped in a landfill or another inappropriate place.

Filed under RV Travel by VicBils

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November 12, 2008

Planning a Family Vacation to the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of the greatest sights your family can experience. It's 5000 feet deep, 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide. It will give you an experience of awe and wonder. More than 5 million tourists are attracted by the Canyon each year, and you can experience it by land, water or air. You will also find plenty of restaurants, art galleries and shopping.

Many people make the mistake of visiting the Grand Canyon without planning everything in advance. If you don't make a hotel reservation, it's very possible you won't find a room at all, and getting a nice room on the rim with a view is really impossible.

Out of the 5 million visitors a year, most visitors go to the South rim, in the Grand Canyon Village. The south rim is open the entire year, but is most visited between April and October and weekends. Although you might find a room near the Canyon without a reservation, in order to get a room in the park, close to the rim, you need to start planning your family vacation to the Great Canyon three to six months in advance.

If you want to stay inside the park, the options are pretty limited: either El Tovar hotel, or one of the lodges (Bright Angel, Thunderbird or Kachina). The closest places outside the park are in Tusayan, located about 6 miles from the rim. The North rim is even more limited, being open to tourists just a few months a year and The Grand Canyon Lodge being the only place you can stay inside the park.

Located in Arizona, the Grand Canyon is about 247 miles north of Phoenix and 70 miles north of Flagstaff. There is a lot of driving to get there, so make sure you have a minimum of travel toys for your kids, to keep them busy on the road.

Things You Can Do There
There are really countless things you can do in your family vacation to the Grand Canyon, but here are some highlights:

  • go white-water rafting
  • fly over the Grand Canyon with the helicopter tours
  • go hiking or camping
  • nature walks with the National Park Rangers. These can be quite educative for your kids. Information about the schedule can be found at the park entrance
  • exciting train trips with the Grand Canyon Railway - a century old railway located steps away from the south rim
  • auto tours

A family vacation to the Grand Canyon will be a vacation to remember for you and your kids, and with proper planning you can take advantage of the best of its features.

Filed under Family Vacation by VicBils

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November 11, 2008

Are You Considering a Senior Citizen Cruise?

Some people feel that as they grow to be elderly there are just so many limits that revolve around their lives and often times younger people view the elderly as being completely incompetent, which is just not fair at all. In this article I want to discuss with all of you the fact that there are many things an elderly person can do and one of those things is, going on cruises. Senior citizens that are healthy enough can go away on vacations also and on cruises they are surely to have the best time ever. There are so many senior citizens, especially now days, that are very healthy and in fact also very physically fit, so there really is not too much that could slow them down. Some things that are just part of aging can not be controlled but otherwise, they obviously took really good care of themselves and they probably also have very good genetics as well.

Cruises are fabulous for all age groups and it is real important for senior citizens to understand that they too can go on about life, enjoying every single moment that passes. By going away on cruises the senior citizens will have so many wonderful and exciting opportunities to enjoy and many memories to come back home telling all of their family members and friends about. It will truly be an amazing and rejuvenating experience for anyone that gets the chance to go on such a fabulous vacation. Going on cruises, you will find that not only is there really fun dancing when you want it but there is also other fun games and activities to have fun doing as well. Whenever you have finished playing games and entertaining yourself you will be able to get a good nights rest in the nice cozy beds, feeling as though you are floating on water, oh wait, you are floating on water!

There are family fun cruises available for people who might be more concerned about safety or if you may have some type of health condition that you should be more cautious about while going on a cruise. The dining that you will receive while on cruises will be like no other that you have had before and if you would like, you could have some of the most elegant dining experiences ever whenever you go on cruises. Check on the internet for some of the more affordable cruises that are available so that you could have the option of bringing some of your friends along with you for this amazingly exciting and memorable experience. Something like this you just really do not have to worry about getting bored and running out of fun things to do with your time.

Senior citizens deserve all of the fun in the world, just as anyone else does and it is important to enjoy every moment in life, no matter what it takes. Good luck making the plans for your next amazing journey!

Filed under Cruises by VicBils

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A Visit to La Jolla California

La Jolla California, is a seaside resort community of around 25,000. Spanish for "the jewel", it's often times referred to as "jewel by the sea". La Jolla borders the Pacific Ocean to the south and extends north to Torrey Pines State Reserve and Del Mar, California.

Along the way, La Jolla encompasses neighborhoods like Bird Rock, Windansea, La Jolla Shores, La Jolla Farms, Torrey Pines, Mount Soledad, and even La Jolla Village.

Residents of La Jolla and business owners refer to the "village" or "town" of La Jolla. The official postal address for the zip code 92037 is actually La Jolla, and not San Diego as it is for most
communities within the City of San Diego. Sometimes, tourists get confused and believe that La Jolla is actually a seperate city, which it isn't.

La Jolla is a community of the City of San Diego. La Jolla has several community groups that work to unify the voice of the area, including several non profit organizations.

With it's palm lined streets, large homes, and tropical climate and atmosphere, La Jolla is like a southern European village with it's own touch of Beverly Hills along the retail shops on Prospect
Street. A lot of the natural charm from La Jolla stems from the presence of the ocean and Mount Soledad.

Several narrow curvy roads follow the contours of Soledad with hundreds of nice homes overlooking the ocean, nestled gently on the slopes. There are several sandy beaches here as well, including the Windansea Beach, La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Beach, and La Jolla Shores.

La Jolla also has the Torrey Pines Golf Course, which was made famous by the PGA Tour Buick
Invitational held there each February. Down the steep cliffs frm the golf course is the famous
Black's Beach.

The downtown area of La Jolla is well known for it's jewelry stores, upmarket restaurants, and
even hotels. Prospect Street and Girad Avenue also offer several famous boutiques. Well known
for its architectural and historical presence is the La Valencia Hotel, which used to welcome movie stars on retreat from Hollywood.

Recently, harbor seals have taken over the Children's Beach, which is a quiet man made cove near the downtown area. The seals are protected under federal law, so removing them is nearly impossible. Now, the beach is open, as the rope is down. Swimming here is allowed, although it's not recommended.

Filed under Family Vacation by VicBils

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November 10, 2008

Vacation Your Way to Success!

All work and no play makes Johnny a dull boy they say. It also makes you unsuccessful. The fact is that a well placed vacation can do wonders for every area of your life. I am thinking about this because I am about to go sit on the beach for a few weeks! So in this busy world, where we are driven to be producing all the time, it is good to be reminded that a break is sometimes the best thing to move us forward in the long run.

I know many people who can't seem to get themselves to break away from the office, thinking that they are getting a lot of work done. The truth is that they need a break and when they get back they will be working much more effectively. With that in mind, here are some thoughts on why you can vacation your way to success.

Vacationing help you appreciate your work. After a while even work you normally love can become a drudgery. Taking a vacation gets you away and after awhile you begin to miss it and chomp at the bit to get back to it. You simply appreciate it more.

Vacationing helps you reset your mind. Even though the mind is a mystery, we do know that it can get tired. Mental fatigue. Getting away on a regular basis helps reset the mind to its peak condition. Every brain needs a good rest.

Vacationing makes your body stronger, with more energy for the battle by giving it a rest. The world's top bodybuilders, the ones with the huge muscles know something that the typical businessperson doesn't - the body needs a rest. Every week they take one day off. And then they take whole seasons off and allow their bodies to rest. Our bodies are the same. We need to let them relax, sleep more etc.

Vacationing gives you time to encourage your support team - your family. While we are putting in long hours and working hard, our families support us with encouragement and the like. Vacationing let's them know that you value them and want to make sure that you take good, significant times for them. Then, when you get back to work, you know that your "team" it firmly in your corner.

Vacationing puts you in a creative mindset. Sometimes being in the same situation gets your imagination stuck in a rut. Watching the sun set, listening to the waves crash, or enjoying the fresh air of the mountains will set your creative imagination soaring. You may find that you come up with all sorts of solutions to work issues while laying on the beach. I don't know how this works… but it does.

Vacationing renews your spirit. We all need an emotional boost. We need a break from the roller coaster of emotions that drain our spirits while at work. Quite frankly, if you do vacation right, the predominate emotion should be peace. And that is just what you need to get rejuvenated for work.

Vacationing proves to you that your work or office can exist without you. Sometimes we overestimate our value to the organization and this puts so much stress on us. The fact is that if you go away for a week, your job will still be there. The company won't be bankrupt, and life will still be going on. We need to know that work goes on, so that we don't worry so much. Get away and don't call the office!

So what is my advice? Take a vacation. You need one. You deserve one. Life is passing you by my friend, and in the end, you will know you should have taken a vacation. Your office won't fall apart. The earth will continue to turn on its axis. Your family will be happy. Turn off your computer, pick up the phone, dial the travel agent…. your success depends upon it!

Reproduced with permission from the Chris Widener Ezine. To subscribe to Chris Widener's Ezine, go to http://www.chriswidener.com or send an email with Join in the subject to subscribe@chriswidener.com Copyright 2006 Chris Widener International. All rights reserved worldwide.

Start Your Vacation Planning Here

Filed under Family Vacation by VicBils

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October 30, 2008

Montana Ski Vacation

With all that Big Sky, Montana has to offer skiers, it is amazing that so few know about its existence! Known for its wide open slopes and short lift lines, Big Sky Ski Resort has one of the largest lift served vertical drops in the United States. Over 5300 acres of ski slopes and trails await skiers, with over 33 feet of snowfall each season.

Big Sky Ski Resort features twenty three lifts, 220 trails, and a 4350 foot vertical drop. The top elevation is 11154 feet. Along with the ski lifts, there are also two cable car lines available. While there are beginner slopes, most of the slopes are geared toward intermediate and expert skiers.

There are many places to lodge in Big Sky Resorts Mountain Village, which rests at the foot of the
impressive Lone Peak mountain. Enjoy Sleigh Ride dinners, ice skating, parties, snowmobile tours, and a variety of community events. At Big Sky, there are no strangers. Big Sky, Montana is one of the highest rated Ski Resorts in the United States, and there is something here for everyone.

Filed under Ski Vacations by VicBils

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October 24, 2008

Aspen Ski Vacations

Aspen Mountain has long been known as the playpen of the rich and famous – and it is. But it is also a great place to take a family ski vacation. Christmas in Aspen is especially wonderful! Aspen Mountain rises above the town of Aspen, with a top elevation of 11215 feet and a vertical drop of 3269 feet. There are 76 trails suitable for beginners, intermediates, and experts, accessible by eight lifts, including seven chair lifts and one cable car line.

While Aspen has much to offer skiers, as well as those who enjoy the night life in a ski town, you should expect lots of crowds and lift lines on the slopes. Again, this is the playpen of the rich and famous, and many people choose this ski vacation spot simply for that reason – as well as for the great runs and nightlife.

There are numerous places to stay in and around Aspen, with more than 100 restaurants to choose from as well. Ski instructions and equipment rental are abundant in the area, and snowboarders are welcome.

Filed under Ski Vacations by VicBils

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Spending Your Vacation In Barcelona

Unfortunately, Tossa de Mar has the claim to fame as the city of mass tourism, but what is certain is that it has been able to maintain its own originality and roots thanks to the political protection of monuments, which were erected in one of the most beautiful places on the Costa Brava.

Why not leave your accommodation in Barcelona for a few days and visit Tossa de Mar, situated some 90km from the northeast of Barcelona and is very charming thanks to the beach, situated in a bay and surrounded by rocks and cliffs. As well as the marvelous bay, Tossa also has many interesting cultural monuments and ruins from past ages (above all Medieval and Roman).

Just as in Vila Vella as in the new part of the city, you can apréciate streets and buildings full of culture. There are some hints and tips that you should remember when visiting Tossa de Mar:

In the new part of the city there are many churches, amongst which is the beautifully decorated Capella de la Verge dels Socors from century XVI, situated in Plaça d'Espanya and the baroque church Sant Vicenç.

An archelogical deposit from the Roman times, which you will find in the east part of the new part of the city.
A wall with 7 towers which date back to the end of the XIV century, situated in la Vila Vella.
The ruins of the gothic church of Vila Vella which are also magnificent.

The Municipal Museum of Tossa de Mar, situated in the walled precinct of Vila Villa in a building well known as the Governor’s House, in which many different Roman artifacts were discovered years ago.

And alter the stressful cultural tour around the city, you can go calmly to crash out on the beach o relax and do a bit of sun bathing.

To get to Tossa del Mar from Barcelona it is easiest to take the “Sarfa” bus. The buses go from Estació de Nord in Barcleona and arrive 20 minutes later in Tossa de Mar. In Summer the buses leave every hour. To see the timetable click here. The price of a normal ticket is €9.35.

If that seems like far too much activity for you for just one day (cultural sights, beach etc) and you would prefer to enjoy this marvelous city a bit more, or simply enjoy your wonderful hotels in Barcelona or apartments in Barcelona, I’d recommend a 2 or 3 day trip to Tossa de Mar. Enjoy the city in a calm way and soak up all the culture, and the sun on the beach! All that is left to say is that it’s definitely worth a visit! I can assure you..

Filed under Europe by Travel Planner

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October 22, 2008

Rome Tourism

Would you like to see Rome in a totally different light?
If you decide to participate in a sightseeing tour of Rome, you should think about doing it in the evening. There are several sightseeing tours that take place in the early evening. This way you can discover the city in a different way and see all the monuments that get illuminated when the sun goes down.

The tours tend to start around at 8.15 pm every evening at Piazza San Bernardo. While sitting in a comfortable luxury tour bus you will get a lot of information about the city in 5 languages (English, German, Spanish, Italian and French). You will then pass the Piazza della Republicca, down through the Pinciana Gate and go on to the city wall where you will have a beautiful view over the Villa Borghese. Afterwards, the bus will take you to Piazza Barberini, the Via delle Quattro Fontane and Via Nazionale. From there on you will have a short walk to the Trevi fountain where you have some free time to spend. Then you take the bus again which will take you to Piazza Venezia where the memorial of King Viktor Emanuels II and the tomb of the Unknown Soldier stand. At the end you will also see the Zirkus Maximus, the capitol and of course the Coliseum. So you will see the most important and most interesting monuments of the city. Don’t forget to bring your camera as the lit up monuments offer something extra special to remember your trip by.

The price for an adult is 75 euros and 60 euros for children over 3 years of age. Children between 0 and 2 years can ride the tour bus fro free. The price includes dinner in a traditional Roman restaurant. Here you can enjoy the evening by experience great Roman food and tradition.

When you are in Rome you should really do this sightseeing tour. You see the city from its most beautiful perspective and it is even more enjoyable since the city is not as busy as it is during the day.

Book your accommodation (Unterkunft Rom) in advance in order to find a good deal. You might also want to have a look for an apartment (Ferienwohnung Rom)! These are cheaper than Hotels in Rom and most of them are right in the centre, which is a good starting point to discover the city. Enjoy your trip in the Eternal city.

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October 20, 2008

Explore Paris Sights

If you’ve been to Paris before and are returning but want to eat in the not so touristy place, this article is for you. Just like visiting the Eiffel tower, going to the Champs-Elysees and see L’arc de Triomf are all must sees, sometimes when you’ve visited a place once, you feel confident to do more exploring the next time, and searching for the less known gems of the city. Why not try some more unusual and less touristy restaurants and food this time round. However, it’s always a good idea to book your Paris apartment or hotels Paris in the centre, that way, you’re never too far from anything!

An exciting experience for all you cheese lovers out there has to be a visit to the traditional and scrumptious: “Saxe-Breteuil”. This market offers a delicious selection of Paris’ finest cheeses and perhaps best of all – a simply wonderful view of the Eiffel tower in front. The produce available here is chic and unique – look out for farmer’s goat’s cheese, rare apple varieties, oysters and food from small scale producers. The market can be found at av de Saxe, 7th Mº Ségur; from 7am-2.30pm Thur;7am-3pm Sat.

If you don’t want the typical tiny portions characteristic of many elitist Parisian restaurants, but look for a hearty meal that is really going to fill you up, “L’Ambassade d’Auvergne” at 22 rue du Grenier-St-Lazare in the 3rd arrondissement is perfect for a hungry sightseer. This traditional, rustic restaurant offers starters such as cured ham and green lentils cooked in goose fat and covered in bacon and shallots. Main courses such as the rôti d’agneau provides you with a pot of delicious chunks of lamb in a rich meaty sauce with a helping of white beans. With a warm, cosy atmosphere, this restaurant is perfect too, for those of you looking for a romantic evening together. (Open Sept-July noon-2pm, 7.30-10.30pm Mon-Fri.

If you are bored with the traditional French bread and crossiants, why not give some delicious sweeties a try! Hédiard at 21 pl de la Madeleine, 8th is a quaint vintage shop dating back to 1880. Here, you will be able to feast your eyes upon a selection of jams, candied fruits and rare teas and coffees. The tearoom upstairs “La Table d’Hédiard” is quaint with good service.

Finally, before wandering back to your accommodation in Paris after sampling some of the city’s gastronomical delights, make sure you know the tipping etiquette. A service charge of ten to 15 per cent is legally included in your bill at all restaurants, cafes and bars. However, you may choose to round up the final amount for drinks or leave cash of €1-€2 or more for a meal.

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