If you are chasing the best opinion regarding the cruises.

Often when you are looking for high-class advice concerning cruises, you'll find it hard separating superior advice from poorly sourced cruises proposals and help so it's astute to know how to qualify the information you are given.

Cruises- Travelocity
Plan your dream cruise with the cruise experts at Travelocity. Book your cruise, flight, hotel, insurance and transfers in one easy transaction.



Here are a few tips that we believe you should consider using when you're searching for information regarding cruises. Please understand that any recommendation we may offer is only relevant to internet information about cruises. We do not give you any guidance or advice for researching in 'real world' situations.

InsureMyTrip.com: Marine Insurance
Offers travel insurance comparison information, including instant price quotes and online purchasing.



A terrifc piece of advice you can follow when you're presented with information and advice about a cruises web is to find out who owns the site. This may show you who owns the site cruises credibility The quickest way to work out who owns the cruises website is to look on the 'contact' page or 'about this site' information.

Any reputable site providing information concerning cruises, will almost certainly provide an 'about' webpage which will record the site owner's contact details. The details should tell you a number of indications concerning the owner's requisite knowledge. You can then arrive at a decision about the site owner's knowledge and skill, to offer recommendations concerning cruises

---

About the author:

Tom Brown is the webmaster for http://www.cruise-commander.com


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Why Classic Car Transport Is Different To Normal Auto Transport

When a car is a classic, it's not just a car anymore; it's
a thing of beauty. When a classic car needs transporting,
the discerning owner is going to be looking for more than a
quick way from point a to point b. Some things to consider
before beginning the classic car transport are the state of
the vehicle, where it is going, how much is it going to
cost and what are best benefits.

Since many collectors purchase classic cars in varying
states of repair, it's worth noting whether the car you
want to transport has been in storage for a long time. If
you can't start it or drive it, some transporters won't
touch it.

Many transporters require the vehicle to be driven up ramps
to be loaded and do not have a way to tow it into place.
If it's possible have a mechanic check fluids, refill the
gas tank and charge the battery, a car that runs, even
slowly will have more options in transporters.

The choice of whether to transport your classic car should
also include the method of transport. A car that is in
premium condition with no dents, dings or scratches, may
require enclosed transport. Not only does enclosed
transport protect the vehicle from road debris, weather and
exhaust, but it also provides more security as the driver
may overnight in some locations.

If your classic is one you've purchased to refurbish or
already has nicks and scratches, then the alternative
transport in the open air will run to less cost for you.

Some transporters will not travel well away from main
business centers to pick up cars, so it may be necessary to
drop the car off at a depot. Some transporters employ local
contractors to pick up the vehicles from these locations
and take them to the depots as needed. Be sure to ask about
that service if you will require it.

Also verify what the insurance coverage of the transporter
applies to. Whenever a transporter takes possession of a
vehicle there will be an "Origin Inspection Report"
generated. This is your testament to the condition of the
car when it was turned over for transportation. Be sure to
inspect it closely upon arrival at the destination point.

In many cases, transporters only require a couple weeks
notice that you are looking for shipment of you car.
Depending on the grade of service you want for your
classic, the transporter can then make arrangements.

It is normal for transporters to give shipment windows
rather than exact dates for pick up or arrival, however, if
one does give you exact dates make sure that you have it in
writing.

Always review the transporters records, offers and what
guarantees they offer. If something seems unclear or uneasy
about their business practices, then definitely don't
entrust them with your vehicle.

Make sure to go over your transportation contract
carefully, especially if you are shipping a classic car in
pristine condition. There are any numbers of larger and
smaller transportation companies that specialize in
transportation of these beauties.

Ultimately, everyone wants to get from his or her origin to
the destination point. With a little judicious review and
good questioning, you can find the transporter for your
classic car that matches your needs, your wants and your
budget.
===================================================
Discover vital information and advice about car and auto
transport services. Find out what you must do, and what
you must not do. Click
http://www.auto-transport-101.com/classic-car-transport.html

by Nick Telford II
About the Author
Nick Telford regularly buys new cars from across the
country, and gets them transported home. Now he's written
a series of articles giving his experiences, good & bad, of
how to use car transport services.

"How To Navigate the Bewildering Array of Internet Cruise Deals"

Why do people love cruises ? Why do so many cruise
vacationers swear they wouldn't go back to hotel vacations
? Cruise travel represents a pinnacle of luxury. You
travel around the world, or your chosen area, in cosseted
pleasure.

Every whim gets catered for. Every time you're hungry,
food awaits. You go ashore to sightsee a new place, but
return to your own bed every night. A floating hotel,
travelling to a new location every day.

But how do you choose your cruise deal ? How do you know
what's good or bad ? Firstly, let's look at the different
types of cruises.

* Size

Ships range from city size ('000s of people) right down to
small sailing vessels holding less than 10 people.

* Location

Your choice of ship might depend on location. If you're
cruising the Caribbean, you could try a sailing ship. If
you want a world tour, you probably should go for something
bigger ?

Some of the newer ships from the major cruise operators
allow you to cruise the world in luxury. Their high-tech
stabilizers mean your wine barely ripples, even in rough
seas.

So for smaller cruises in benign weather e.g Caribbean or
Med, you can choose large or small. For longer cruises,
such as an Atlantic crossing, Arctic visit etc., you need a
big ship.

* Price

Prices vary dramatically. Only a few years ago, cruises
were an expensive luxury. Now prices fall within any
vacation budget. In fact, all inclusive special cruise
deals can be much cheaper than land-based vacations. For
less than a 5* hotel, you can get 7-days all inclusive in a
luxury location.

* Internet

How do you find these great deals ? As always, use the
Internet. Sure, call your local travel agent, or respond
to newspaper ads, but you'll find the best deals online.

There's only a limited number of cruise ships. So you'll
find exactly the same cabin standard, exactly the same food
deal, for widely varying prices.

Try to narrow down your preferred location before starting.
How long do you want to go for ? Then start searching the
web. Try 'cheap cruises deals' for a search term, and see
what comes up. Immediately, you'll be faced with a
bewildering array of choices.

Click on a few of these search results sites. Read some
advice and info. Get an idea of prices to your preferred
location.

When you've seen some deals you like. When you've seen at
least three different deals to your preferred location.
When you're tempted to book right there & then. Stop !

Before you book, you must seperate the wheat from the
chaff. That bewildering array's about to become clear.
Put the cruise company name into your search engine. Put
the destination into the search engine. You're looking for
reviews. You're looking for feedback from other people
who've been with that cruise company. You're looking for
reviews about your destination.

Do this for each of your cruise vacation shortlist. Check
there's no hidden catches. Check price fully includes
everything, and you won't be stung for lots of onboard
extras.

Follow these simple guidelines, and you'll soon be
embarking on the cruise of your dreams.

---

About the author:

==========================================

"How To Navigate the Bewildering Array of Internet Cruise
Deals"


- by John Williams

© DigiLectual Inc. 2004
http://www.cheapcruisesdeals.com/





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See Alaska as never before: Alaska inside passage cruises

Between the Alaskan mainland and its islands, lies an intriguing waterway best known as the inside passage. Abundant in wildlife and breathtaking beauty, the inside passage affords visitors an experience that cannot be found anywhere in Alaska or in the world.

From the waterway of the passage, one can look upon some of the most magnificent natural scenery to be found such as coastal rainforests, deep blue fjords and tidewater glaciers. Also to be found in the passage are numerous species of wildlife including humpback whales, sea lions and seabirds.
Because of the awe-inspiring beauty of the passage and since many destinations along the Alaska inside passage are only accessible by plane or boat, inside passage cruises have become one of the most popular tourist attractions of the state.

Few people have visited Alaska without experiencing once in a lifetime moments. Towering tidewater glaciers offer natural beauty that usually is only fully appreciated with an up close and personal view that only a cruise through the inland waterways can afford. From this vantage point you will stand in awe of these mighty glaciers that reach several hundred feet in height and enjoy plentiful wildlife viewing such as humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, mountain goats, brown bears and bald eagles. You will also be stricken speechless by the sheer beauty of the inside passage's botanical gardens, spectacular waterfalls, and the Alaskan sunrise as seen from the cruise ship.

Alaska inside passage cruises are also popular for their exotic port destinations. Some of the most popular ports of call on the inside passage are Juneau, Skagway, Haines, Ketchikan and Victoria. Certain cruises even give passengers the opportunity to land on Annette Island and to be greeted by the Tsimshian elders of Metlakatla.

Best of all, Alaska inside passage cruises are affordable. You can choose from one-day inland glacier cruise packages which are as priced as low as $69 per person to a luxurious six night cruise on a deluxe designer yacht for as little as $4,000 per person. Of course there is a wide range of cruise options that fall between these two extremes.

As you can see, there is a little bit of something for everybody aboard one of Alaska's inside passage cruise ships: a change of pace, exquisite scenery, and memories to last a lifetime.

by Ron Richards
About the Author
A lifelong Alaskan, Ron Richards lives in the beautiful Matanuska Valley. Ron invites you to come and see Alaska. One excellent way to enjoy Alaska is by taking an affordable Alaska cruise vacation..

Backpackers and Billionaires

It used to be that backpacking trips to Fiji involved a bus ride from Nadi to Suva, then a ferry to somewhere like Ovalau, Savusavu, Taveuni or Kadavu. No more. These days young budget travelers are lining up to go to the Yasawa Islands, a chain of 16 large volcanic islands and dozens of smaller ones roughly 35 km off the west coast of Viti Levu.

The dazzling white beaches, clear warm waters, colorful coral reefs, and sunny dry climate make the Yasawa Group an ideal tourist destination, but until recently a visit involved a rough sea voyage from Lautoka in an unsafe village boat—or an expensive seaplane flight from Nadi. Blue Lagoon Cruises has been plying the Yasawas since the 1950s, but passengers aboard those upscale vessels sleep in staterooms and local residents receive few benefits from their presence.

Until the 1987 Rabuka coups in Suva, it was the policy of the Fiji government that the Yasawas were closed to land-based tourism. The long years of military-backed government brought few changes to the Yasawas, although Australian investors were allowed to construct the deluxe Yasawa Island Resort (www.yasawa.com) in 1991 and a couple of village-operated backpacker camps sprang up on Wayasewa and Waya. Since the early 1980s, local families have operated three small low-budget resorts on Tavewa Island, thanks largely to Tavewa’s status as a freehold island beyond the authority of the Fijian chiefs. For decades local church leaders have portrayed tourism as a corrupting outside influence to be kept at arms length from village life.

It would be hard to imagine anything more removed from real Fijian life than Turtle Island Resort on Nanuya Levu Island, Fiji’s ultimate hideaway for the US$1,500-a-night crowd. Nanuya Levu has been freehold land since 1868, and in 1972 Richard Evanson used US$300,000 he earned in the Southern California cable television business to buy the island.

Evanson’s Turtle Island Resort (www.turtlefiji.com) became the prototype of Fiji’s current crop of boutique island resorts, hosting notables like Hollywood stars and millionaires. Brooke Shields stayed here during the 1980 filming of the escapist classic The Blue Lagoon.

A self-styled environmentalist, Evanson has planted thousands of trees on his island, and has converted the mangrove forests into tourist attractions by cleverly creating boardwalks. The resort’s food is grown in organic gardens and power is generated using solar and wind energy. Each year a group of volunteer California eye specialists visits Turtle Island Resort to perform eye surgery on needy villagers or to equip them with donated prescription glasses.

Yet for most Yasawans, life has changed little since 1789 when Captain William Bligh and loyal members of his crew paddled past the group in an open boat shortly after the famous mutiny on the Bounty. Even today, most villages are without electricity or running water, and opportunities for economic development are very limited. The Yasawans have felt neglected by politicians in the distant capital, envious onlookers as mini-cruise ships and yachts carried wealthy foreigners along their shores.

In May 2000, rabble-rouser George Speight and assorted thugs seized the Parliament building in Suva, turning Fiji on its head. Speight’s pro-indigenous rhetoric struck a chord in the Yasawas. Villagers from Nacula Island staged a mini-coup on Turtle Island, locking Evanson in one of his 14 luxurious bungalows as village youths rode wildly around Nanuya Levu on Evanson’s golf carts.

When the excitement died down, plaited mats were spread and kava roots were pounded, and over many bowls of grog, Evanson and the villagers came to an understanding.

Rather than killing the golden goose, Evanson convinced the Nacula people that they’d be better off opening resorts of their own and allowing him to continue running his business in peace.

Evanson offered interest-free construction loans and promotional support, and the Nacula Tikina Tourism Association was born. The association’s Web site (www.fijibudget.com) currently describes a dozen locally-operated resorts around the Blue Lagoon in the central Yasawas, including the three existing properties on Tavewa. All resort operators must conform to a strict code of conduct intended to preserve the environment and guarantee acceptable levels of service. Though primitive compared to the luxurious Mamanuca resorts off Nadi, the Yasawa backpacker camps provide basic food and accommodations at a relatively low price.

The mass influx of backpackers only began in 2002 when Awesome Adventures (www.awesomefiji.com), a subsidiary of New Zealand-owned South Sea Cruises, launched a fast catamaran service up and down the chain. You can now depart Nadi’s Denarau Marina on the Yasawa Flyer any morning at 9:15 a.m. and be at the resort of your choice in time for lunch. As many as 150 backpackers do this every day and the village-operated resorts on Kuata, Wayasewa, Waya, Naviti, Tavewa, Nacula, Nanuya Lailai, and Matacawa Levu are booming.

Reservations can be made upon arrival at Nadi Airport through any one of a dozen 24-hour travel agencies right in the airport terminal itself. All of these offices sell catamaran tickets with a bus transfer to the harbor included. Deluxe lodgings and gourmet food should not be expected at any of the Yasawa resorts—yet the friendly people, spectacular natural beauty, and low prices make most travelers overlook these inconveniences.

---

About the author:

David Stanley is the author of Moon Handbooks Fiji http://www.southpacific.org/fiji.htmland his online guide to Fiji may be perused at http://www.southpacific.org/text/finding_fiji.html

You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, so long as the byline and resource box are included. Please do not use this article without the byline and resource box. Many thanks!



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The Truth About Auto-Transport Companies

Auto-transport companies are designed to facilitate a
person's need to transport cars from one location to
another. Whether a person is moving or they have sold their
vehicle via Internet auction, the car can be transported
without adding mileage or road wear to it.

In some cases, it's just easier to transport a car rather
than make the lengthy drive out of time considerations.
There are some things to know about auto-transport
companies in advance.

The process of shipping a car from one location to another,
especially across long distances, requires planning ahead
and doing your homework. Whether you are a frequent shipper
or a first timer, always shop the price with various
different car transport services.

Factors such as costs of gas, number of cars already going
in that direction and seasons can impact the expense.

The auto transport service will need to know where the car
is going from and to, the make, model and year of the car
as well as when the customer wants the car to ship. Most
transporters will not guarantee exact dates, if one
promises you that then make sure you have it in writing.

All transport companies require a contract, which should be
carefully reviewed prior to signing. The contract will
cover information needed on topics like damage to the
vehicle, delays, cancellation and accident as well as
insurance coverage.

If insurance is not listed on the contract, it's a good
idea to find out what the transporter offers by way of
insurance.

In general, auto transporters are safe, trustworthy and the
vehicle will arrive in great condition. However, the
contract stipulates all conditions for recourse, including
reimbursement for damages in the event there are any, so be
sure to look it over carefully.

The transporter will inspect the car upon arrival at either
the depot it will be departing from or when the truck
arrives at the house where it is kept. Either way, the
inspection will note in writing and by sketch, all nicks,
dings, dents and other hints of damage on the body of the
vehicle. This is the 'Origin Inspection Report' and should
be held onto or forwarded to the receiver of the vehicle.

When the car arrives at its final destination, the receiver
should take the time to slowly go over the entirety of the
car and verify that nothing is different from the
inspection report. Without this verification, if the
receiver signs the driver's release form then the
transporter is no longer liable for any damages that might
be discovered later. So make sure the receiver has the time
to do the work correctly.

Auto transporters provide an invaluable service for people
who must relocate cross-country, across stateliness and
even across oceans. There are transporters who will take
vehicles to and from Hawaii, Europe and other foreign
destinations. So whether you are relocating yourself,
selling your car or purchasing a car, an auto transporter
can service your needs.
======================================================
Discover vital information and advice about car and auto
transport services. Find out what you must do, and what
you must not do. Click
http://www.auto-transport-101.com/

by Nick Telford II
About the Author
Nick Telford regularly buys new cars from across the
country, and gets them transported home. Now he's written
a series of articles giving his experiences, good & bad,
of how to use car transport services.

Cheap Cruises and discount cruises to save you money!

Do you ever want to escape from reality, just Get Away? Then finding cheap cruises and discount cruises from among several different cruise ships is what you need to do. Cruise ships come in all sizes and themes. It doesn't matter what your age is, what your background is, everyone can enjoy the fun and luxury of being on a cruise. Searching for cheap cruises and discount cruises can save you a lot of money when planning your vacation. After all, why not take the money you save on sailing and spend it on shore?


One of the unique aspects of cruising is that after spending a day sightseeing, shopping and visiting local sites, you can enjoy the luxury of coming back on board your floating, 1st class hotel. Shopping for cheap cruises and discount cruises is the way to go whether you're planning for Alaska cruises, carribbean cruises or cruises that take you around the world.

---

About the author:

Mike Yeager
Author/Publisher
http://www.a1-travel-4u.com


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Choosing An Airline For Smooth Flying

In the planning stage, it seems that going on a deserved
vacation can cause nothing but stress; you know where you
want travel, you decide how to get there, but you are not
sure what airline you should fly with. Airline companies
are plentiful and like most competitive businesses their
services vary - your decision could be a difficult one if
you do not know what you want.

Picking an airline to fly with could be one of the most
important decisions you can make. Flying is no more risky
than any other form of transportation, however knowing
that you are going to be thousands of feet above the ground
with no safety net can make for some pretty nervous times.
Many things should be considered when searching for the
best airline to take you on your trip. Some of these
factors include:

Safety Ratings: all airline companies have a safety rating,
undergoing necessary audits of their aircraft and safety
policies. It goes without saying that it pays to steer
clear of any airline with a less than stellar air safety
history.

Cost: with all the other expenses of a vacation to evaluate,
being able to source the most cost effective solution to
reaching your destination and coming home safely makes
researching airline companies and their subsequent airfares
an all-important task.

Comfort: Depending on the length of your travel, it may be
important or not so important to determine the level of
comfort offered by each airline company. Being able to
stretch out your legs, for example, could be the deciding
factor for a long distance plane trip.

Services: Once again, depending on the length of your trip,
services provided by an airline will vary widely. For a long
distance trip it may be important to you that food be served
regularly on board the airline carrier and that the price be
all-inclusive.

Baggage: Of course when you go on vacation it is nice to be
able to take full advantage of baggage allowances, bringing
home gifts for loved ones. As with most things, allowances
vary with each airline and it could save you lots of money
to check the fine print.

Once your decision has been made there is very little room
for change of mind - so choose prudently the best airline
available to you and enjoy your trip!

by Joanne Ronnin
About the Author
The author has traveled extensively for business as well as well as pleasure.

She has over 30 years of flying under her belt and has helped hundreds of people to have an enjoyable travel experience.

Joanne Ronnin is founder of All About Airlines an excellent resource site dedicated to information on airlines

Why Some Car Transport Services Are Better Than Others

Car manufacturers and dealers have been doing it for years
and now car transport services are making it simpler for
the average consumer. Transporting cars, whether from the
manufacturer to the dealer or from one city to another
saves on the physical wear and tear of the vehicle's
exterior as well as the mechanical stress on the engine.

In order to select a transport service, the first question
you'll want answered is how much will it cost? As with any
type of shopping you should comparison shop prices and
services from various car transport companies.

You'll need to know the origin point and destination for
the car and the approximate date you want the vehicle to
depart. The car transport service will also need the make,
model and year of the car in question.

The client needs to know what type of transport they are
looking for whether it's door-to-door or point-to-point
(i.e. a central location in one city to another.) Some
transport services also offer covered transport, which will
protect the car from weather elements, rocks and dust.
This can be very beneficial in the transport of vintage or
classic cars

Once a company is selected, payment arrangements will need
to be made. Most companies want a deposit of 15 to 20%
prior to the car's departure and full payment made when it
arrives at the destination. These payments are usually
required to be in the form of cash or a cashier's check.

It's usually a good plan to check the fine print on the
contract once it's been agreed to. If you cancel it, the
transport company may charge a fee. It's also a good idea
to put a clause somewhere in there that allows for you to
cancel if they have not picked up your car within some
number of days of the scheduled date.

Review the contract closely because most transport services
will not guarantee a pickup date or delivery date, but
rather refer to the window of time in which they are
scheduled.

Insurance is also an issue. Sometimes your own insurance
carrier will not cover damages sustained to the vehicle
while being transported on another. Verify what insurance
coverage the transport service offers and if you purchase
it, make sure it is listed in the contract. As with any
company, you should verify the references of prior service.

Finally, once you've settled on a car transport service and
signed the contracts, be sure that you receive an "Original
Inspection Report." The transport service will inspect the
vehicle prior to accepting it for transportation. It will
note nicks, dings, scratches, dents and defects inside and
out.

If there are scratches on the windows, these will all be
noted on the "Original Inspection Report." Make sure you
hang onto this, because when your car is delivered, you
should take the time to go over it slowly. Verify that
there are no problems other than what is listed on the
report.

In most cases, the process of transportation is damage-
free, but if your car has notable damage not listed on the
report, then get the driver's signature in concurrence with
the damage and notify the transport service. With the dual
verifications, the company should work out a way to
reimburse you for any repairs that are necessary.
==================================================
Discover vital information and advice about car and auto
transport services. Find out what you must do, and what
you must not do. Click
http://www.auto-transport-101.com/

by Nick Telford II

About the Author
Nick Telford regularly buys new cars from across the
country, and gets them transported home. Now he's written
a series of articles giving his experiences, good & bad, of
how to use car transport services.

Review of Car Rental Abroad

Are you thinking of travelling Abroad?

You will certainly wish to get around quickly and easily and may not want to be confined by public transportation and taxi services. You could take you own car, however, this is a valid option only if you can get to your destination through road or ferry ways but you may wish to stay away from the concern of breakdowns & extended travelling times. That is where you've the option of renting a automobile whilst you are journeying abroad.

Pulled together here are a few situations you may wish to keep away from when renting a car abroad. The following exclamations should definately be avoided.

"It didn’t say that online!!!"

Checking on the net first is the most beneficial way to get an idea for which firm to use. You will have options between using the familiar names in vehicle hire that are multinational firms and consolidators or the local companies near to your destination or airport. If you can find any feedback from other people on these particular companies then that will help you to make your decision. At least call them when you have pinned down down your short list of choices of who to go with and run through your requirements with them.

"I didn’t see that in the terms!!!"

It is so crucial to understand the terms and conditions by which you will rent a car from this agency - don’t become caught out by not reading through them and understanding them.

"Look at ME!!! I’m a Tourist!!!"

The most leisurely way to pull unwanted attention would be to have a label stuck on you letting on to any undesirables that you are a tourist and consequently easy pickings. Having a car with obvious rental firm markings will do just as well. Therefore avoid any car that sticks out or publicizes this. It is worth assuring hence that the company you select doesn't have a policy of decorating their automobiles with their distinct artwork or make sure at any rate that they may be removed.

"That's Cool!!!! I’ll take the bright crimson hot-rod!!!"

Having a automobile that stands out from the local transport is a second and effective way of attracting unwanted attention. Traveling in this machine might not be attractive to just you, the criminal element might be interested in using it too.

"Oi!!! That was not there when you left!!!"

There is always a possibility that damage made to the car has not been entered correctly and fully with the agency and after you return with it you instantly become responsible, so check the automobile over first. Report any problems to the agent before you drive away. Going over it with a digital camera or camcorder might help when you get it - why not get the delivery or agency guy in it as well.

"What’s that noise!!!"

Having a car that is worn out will definately make for an interesting time finding out all about breakdown services abroad. Nonetheless to avoid this pick out a automobile with a low mileage and that looks and sounds like it has been serviced well.

"!!!How much!!!"

There can be numerous things that can be paid for if you do not check and understand the terms properly. Any automobile cleaning cost that needs to be done, petrol that need be left in the automobile, any additional insurance necessary (check this before you go - you might already be covered), any extra mileage that you did and of course, any taxes (especially at the airports). This can get quite complicated, take a calculator with you or even merely take your time going through it with the automobile rental salesperson to make sure you fully understand it, although it is much, much better to go online and research all off this before you go.

by Mathew Sund

About the Author
Matthew M. Sund is now an internet marketer creating web sites in any subject that occurs to him. Previously he has been technically involved in the internet since the pre-WWW days, then caught on the tide of eCommerce and the boom and bust has given him a great grounding in the heart of the internet.

Car-Rental-Review
http://Car-Rental-Review.com/

Staying healthy while traveling

Your good health is paramount while traveling and taking simple precautions can drastically reduce your chances of falling ill.

Health Insurance
An insurance package that covers your health, possessions and cancellations is imperative.

Immunizations
Immunizations are critical – especially if you are planning to visit 3rd world countries. Many immunizations require a specific time period to take effect or require certain follow-up shots – so plan well ahead. You should record any immunization shots received on an official health certificate as this is often a requirement of visa applications.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can advise you on the current recommendations for your intended destination.

General
Food and water are one of the leading causes of illness for travelers. These simple tips can drastically reduce your chances of illness:

- If the water is suspect, don’t take the risk. This includes ice, food washed and prepared in the water and swimming pools. Buy bottled water or boil/sterilize existing water.

- Only consume fruit and vegetables that can be pealed or are protected by an outer skin (bananas, oranges, pineapple etc)

- Wash you hands thoroughly before all meals.

- When purchasing meat and seafood, look for proper refrigeration.

- Cooked food is generally safer for consumption. Raw and undercooked food can carry an array of pathogens.

- Be wary of un-pasteurized milk and milk products

- The National Center for Infectious Diseases publishes informative traveler’s health information. Food and drink risks can be accessed through: http://www.cdc.gov/travel/food-drink-risks.htm

Insect Bites
Be sure to cover up with insect repellant – especially when traveling the tropics. Spray on repellant with DEET will offer you the greatest protection. Use mosquito nets while sleeping. Also, be sure to research whether insect carried diseases are a problem where you intend to travel.

Sunburn
Many of us travel to find a spot in the sun but overexposure can cause severe sunburn. Stay in the shade during extreme burn times and use plenty of sun block. When choosing sun block, check the SPF Factor and the brand. SPF 30+ is recommended when traveling down-under.

Article by Travel J - Traveler's Resources & Information - http://www.travelj.com
by Sarah Moore
About the Author
Sarah Moore has been in the travel and tourism industry for over 20 years and is currently working with one of the worlds largest coach networks. Sarah is also the webmaster of TravelJ - A Traveler's Resources & Information Network - http://www.travelj.com

Celebrating a Year Long Vacation with RentJillsHouse.com

June 5, 2005, Norfolk, VA--RentJillsHouse.com (www.rentjillshouse.com) announces its first anniversary of providing its customers with the most effective vacation rental advertising on the Internet! In an age when 63% of vacationers use the Internet to make their travel plans, RentJillsHouse.com has already emerged as a leader in the online vacation rental industry. RentJillsHouse.com has more than tripled its number of listings to over 13,000 since the launch and is currently growing at a more rapid pace than ever! Leads generated to the brokers on RentJillsHouse.com are four times higher today than last June. During the past year, RentJillsHouse.com has also launched and enhanced a number of product offerings.

Undoubtedly, the underlying reason behind RentJillsHouse.com’s success is its emphasis on customer service. RentJillsHouse.com provides its clients with the latest in detailed reporting, and as a Customer Service Manager, Jan Pedder states, “Reports such as these make calculating return on advertising investment simple. We’re proud to offer our clients a service of this caliber, which no other vacation rental listing website provides.” In honor of the anniversary, the company is offering 25% off the first 12 weeks to all of its new clients not currently advertising on RentJillsHouse.com.

RentJillsHouse.com is the ultimate online solution for locating over 13,000 vacation rental homes and properties. The site is user-friendly and offers information on thousands of vacation rental houses in popular U.S. destinations ranging from the Outer Banks of North Carolina to Lake Tahoe. The website's purpose is to bring vacation homeowners, rental agents and vacationers together through the ease and convenience of the Internet.

Headquartered in Norfolk, VA, RentJillsHouse.com is a part of Trader Electronic Media, a division of Trader Publishing Company-America’s largest publisher of classified and photo advertising magazines with an emphasis on bringing buyers and sellers together efficiently. The publications cover a diverse mix of categories such as automobiles, trucks, RV’s, aircraft, boats, collector cars, motorcycles, ATV’s, and general merchandise, jobs, homes and apartments. For more information about RentJillsHouse.com, call toll-free 866-572-9966 or visit www.RentJillsHouse.com.

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by Erica Campbell

About the Author
Marketing Manager
(757) 961-4775
(866) 369-8611 ext 4775
erica.campbell@rentjillshouse.com

Student Travel – Backpacking In Europe

For the fortunate few, life isn’t complete without a backpacking trip through Europe. This right of passage is believed to further the maturation process of college students, according to sociologists. Of course, others have opined that copious amounts of alcohol, sun and Amsterdam have something to do with it. Regardless of your purpose, you still have to figure out what to take.

Backpack – Getting In Touch With Your Inner Mule

Obviously, the first critical item is your backpack. While one doesn’t need to buy the $10,000 Himalaya Turbo Pack, you should also avoid the $12 blue light special. So, how do you pick a happy middle ground?

The best method for picking a backpack involves three phone books. Select/swipe/borrow three yellow page books from neighbors/friends/enemies and hit your local sporting goods store. With the books, head to the backpackapalozza section of the store and pick out a few sturdy/cool/outrageous rigs. Stuff the phone books in, adjust the straps and go for a walk. Now break out into a run to simulate future dashes for trains/ ferries/ toilets and make the sales people nervous. These steps should quickly reveal the perfect pack.

Now, you may have read other publications suggesting highly technical ways to select a backpack. Trust me, until you have run for the last ferry from Italy to Greece, you have no idea how to pick a pack. The three phone book test solves this nicely.

What To Take

There are a few mantras that every person should chant before packing for Europe. These chants were developed originally by the little known, Oh-My-Back Monks of Southeast Asia. The “OMB” Monks were known for traveling half way to far off cities, turning around, returning home and then traveling the full way to said cities. Religious experts opined as to the deep metaphysical meaning of such trips. They were later embarrassed when the monks revealed the back and forth nature of the trips was due to forgetting something, often whether they had turned off the iron. Nonetheless, such chants have become the guiding light of experienced backpackers.

Let us slowly and clearly chant together,

“I will pack only that which will not result in me being hunched over like a Sherpa.”

“Remember, I can pick it [(lower voice) toothpaste, book, soap] up over there.”

“I will not stuff thy pack to the point of bursting, for thy damn zippers always break/get snagged/refuse to work.”

“I will learn humility through wearing incredibly wrinkled clothes and shall not bring an iron.”

“I shall bring only one guide book, not one for each country that I MIGHT see.”

“I accept that I will come home wearing something I didn’t take and will have lost/traded/burned much of what I did take.”

For female travelers and, okay, the occasional male,

“I will not bring high heels or a gaggle of make-up.”

Admittedly, chanting these mantras will not bringing you immediate enlightenment. Fret, not. You can always throw items away or send them home in a box to your parents/friends/parole officer. For the resourceful backpacker, it is not unheard of to send particularly smelly/discolored/toxic clothing to an ex-girlfriend/ex-boyfriend/little brother. Follow these practical guidelines and you will soon happily be speaking in a loud voice to make foreigners understand you.

The Evidence

This is the hard part for most travelers to wrap their minds around. You will forget those special moments of your trip when you met the hunk Sven or babe Svenetta from Sweden and had a romantic evening/danced the night away/got arrested in Ios/Ibiza/the airport. Maybe not immediately, but you will eventually forget.

You will also forget or lose the contact information of people you meet, despite meticulously writing it down on the back of a coaster/napkin/your hand in a bar/poetry reading/jail at three in the morning. Surprisingly, said coaster/napkin/hand often survive the night/day/weekend and get deposited in your already trashed backpack. Of course, their presence is often forgotten when you later put a Oktoberfest mug/wet towel/toothbrush in. The extra padding at the bottom of your pack is specifically designed to deal with the decomposing result. Still, the information is gone and so is your future with Sven/Svenetta.

To properly record the magical moments of your trip, you must take a diary or journal. Don’t worry, you can burn it later before you get married/your parents get nosey/you have kids. You want a journal in a water/beer/sweat resistant case. Of course, I prefer a Nomad Travel Journal, but just make sure you take something. When you have some extra time in the bus/train/jail cell, you can record how you got there and the people you met.

Trust me, when you, Sven/Svenetta and your nine children are sitting on the porch 10 years later, you will greatly enjoy reading your journal. Of course, that assumes you didn’t burn it.

by Rick Chapo
About the Author
Rick Chapo is with Nomad Journals - Preserve the experience with writing journals for traveling, hiking, rock climbing, fly fishing, bird watching and more.

Australians getting cosy with sacs of love

The latest phenomenon in lounge room chic, LoveSac, is set to take over lounge rooms across the nation! Since opening in Australia on 17 December, LoveSac has sold over 800 LoveSacs bringing the joy of oversized living to hundreds of homes and offices.

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So what is a LoveSac? Well it’s not a damn beanbag that’s for sure! LoveSacs are filled with the lovely and luxurious DuraFoam, guaranteed not to go flat for two lifetimes (200 years), and unlike other inferior products you won’t have to worry about leaking beans of flat furniture.

These foam filled cushions-of-love come in sizes ranging from a comfortable 2ft to a whopping 8ft! With an eight foot SuperSac you really can fill your lounge room with love, or share the love by adding a LoveSac to your play area, entertainment room, guest room or office.

LoveSac covers and inserts are sold separately so you can up date your LoveSac’s look to match your mood or complement the season. Despite the outrageous selection of covers available the most popular colours so far in Australia have been MicroSuede Tan, MicroSuede Buck and MicroSuede White Chocolate.

This winter LoveSac will be introducing a faux fur range (including zebra and monkey fur) as well as expanding their corduroy and MicroSuede range. Other fabrics on offer include Denim, Dirty Denim, Velvet, Rip-Stop Cotton and Boa – all in a range of colours to ensure your sac compliments your style. You can also accesorise your LoveSac with pillows, attachable pockets and duvets. (Keep an eye out for the upcoming LoveSac apparel range)

LoveSacs were created in the United States by fun loving Rebel Billionaire reality TV winner, Shawn D Nelson in 1995 and there are now more than 60 stores in the US. Australia is the first country to adopt the LoveSac lifestyle and its proving to be a love filled business.

There are currently three stores in Australia; Fox Studios and Chatswood Chase in Sydney as well as the newly opened Indooroopilly store in Brisbane. LoveSac Australia General Manager, David “Woody” Woodward has adopted the living life oversized ethos and has plans to have twelve stores throughout the country operating by December 2005… making sure you share the love at your house.

You can also order online at www.lovesac.com.au


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About the author:
Alexis Wilson is a Sydney based media consultant.


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Looking for a Cruise for the Kids? Here is Your Plan for an Enjoyable Vacation!

So you're looking for a cruise for the kids but aren't quite sure about how to ensure an enjoyable trip for all? Here are the must do's and tips to help ensure everyone enjoys a 'Trip of a Lifetime'!

Haven't cruised with the kids before? Stop fretting and go for it. With the proper planning, research and following the tips below, parents and kids can all enjoy a memorable vacation. But there is one prerequisite when planning the family cruise, "The Kids Come First".

If you are looking for a vacation for some significant mom and dad along time, a family cruise may not be the best choice. Remember, for much of your vacation you will be in a confined area with predefined activities and schedules already determined for you. However, you can find cruises and cruise lines that cater to your family and this will make your vacation a much more enjoyable time for the entire family.

The first step in planning a family cruise is to understand what your children enjoy and find a cruise line that provides kids activities that your children enjoy.

It goes without saying that a high-end luxury cruise may not be the best for your family as these types of cruises often don't cater to the young or very-young. There is a reason that Disney cruises are so popular with families. Disney cruises cater to the kids. When on a cruise, if the kids are happy, mom and dad can better enjoy their vacation as well.

Whether booking online or with a travel agent in person, don't sign up for a cruise until you have researched the potential cruise line yourself. As an example, in a recent article in a local newspaper, a traveler and her family booked with Royal Caribbean after assurances from the on-line booking agent that the cruise did offer baby-sitting. Not until the family got onboard did they realize that there is no guaranteed baby-sitting and any baby-sitting provided was done by the crew on their off-time, and only if the crew felt like earning some extra money. Some cruise lines also have age boundaries for baby-sitting eligibility. If you are looking for baby-sitting onboard, make absolutely sure that the cruise lines offers a guaranteed baby-sitting service and make sure your kids are eligible.

OK. Enough of the general tidbits. Here are the planning tips that can help help you research your cruise for the kids and make your cruise a positive, memorable vacation:

Scheduled Kids Activities
If you are looking for a cruise or cruise line that understands cruising with the family, find a cruise line that has excellent scheduled kids activities and you will find a cruise line that understands cruising with the kids. Some cruise lines offer non-stop activities for the kids from the early morning to the late evening. Many cruise lines break up the kids into age appropriate groups and targets the agendas for those age groups.

If your children aren't quite ready to spend long periods of time aware from mom and dad, take this into consideration when looking for that perfect cruise. In general, the well organized kids programs provide an excellent way for the kids to have a great time and to provide mom and dad some time to explore the ship activities on their own. Make sure you understand the schedules available for kid related activities. If you have a family that doesn't enjoy getting up in the mornings on vacation, and all of the kids activities are scheduled for early mornings, keep this in mind during your research.

Take the time to find internet reviews for the ships that you are considering that offer kid focused activities. In general, you will find that picking the right ship was the single most important decision when ensuring that both the kids and mom and dad have a great time.

Staterooms
As most experienced cruisers are aware, not all staterooms are made alike. Do the research and find out the size and configuration of your planned stateroom. Some points to consider with kids along. A nice view (not a port hole) to the ocean can help the kids enjoy the views, pass some time and provide for a more open sense in what will probably be a fairly crowded space. A picture window or a balcony does cost more, but the views to entertain the kids can be well worth it!

Consider the location of the stateroom in relation to the elevators, stairs and the size of the ship. If you are looking to cruise on a large ship, a room nearer the elevators and/or in the middle of the ship can help make the navigation of the large vessel much easier when you have several little ones in tow.

Also, generally the storage available in a cruise stateroom is minimal so pack as lightly as possible. Often the only place to put unpacked luggage is a tiny closet or on a spare chair. Again, check into the cruise line and stateroom you are considering. Some rooms do offer under-bed storage plus other cabin amenities that aren't available on other cruise lines.

Lastly, realize that depending on the cruise line and stateroom you choose, you may only have a shower in the bathroom. If you youngsters are use to taking a bath and have never taken a shower, take this into consideration when planning and preparing for the trip.

Want to Dine Early? Then Book Early!
Depending on the cruise line, there may be open seating for dining or scheduled dinner seating times. An open seating for dining is often found on the smaller, luxury oriented cruise lines and this is really the best cruise dining options available. You can choose where to eat, when to eat and with whom to eat. However, this is not usually the dining options on the larger, family oriented cruises. Most of the larger ships schedule one or two dining times and you are assigned a time, table and dining guests. Again, make sure you are aware of what is provided for dining options on the cruises you are researching.

If you are traveling with kids that like or need to eat early, be aware that the early seatings on ships that have multiple dinner times often fill up very quickly and far in advance of the actual departure date. Often these early seatings are filled 2-3 months in advance, or more, of the actual cruise so be aware of your dining preferences. If you need to ensure that you have an early dining time available for your family, check on the specific cruise sailing that you are investigating to ensure space is available.

There is More on the Menu Than Just the Kids Options
For the vast majority of the cruises that you will investigate, all of the food at meal times (and often outside of meal times as well) is included in your ticket price. So if the kids would like a steak, or fish, or lobster, go ahead and order it for them. The kids are not restricted to the items on the kids menu.

Many cruises also offer dining options that serve up mega, buffet-style dining in a very casual atmosphere. Here, the kids can sample from a variety of items they tend to enjoy while the adults can usually find hot or cold entrees that also please their pallet.

Stay Casual With Kids
If you are a family that enjoys traveling on luxury cruises, then you are already aware that those cruise options are sometimes not as casual as young kids often want to be. An important point to consider if you are looking for your first cruise is how your kids react to wearing less casual clothes.

Most cruises are casual, but often even the casual cruise can have one or two formal nights. Of course, you always have the option to skip the formal nights, but if your kids enjoy that type of thing, it may be fun for everyone to dress up once for a more 'formal' dinner.

However, if you kids are like mine, the more basic the dress, the better. In fact, most cruises are intended to be casual so let the kids have fun with their clothes. Here are a few tips to ensure that you have the right attire. First, know the dress code for the cruise and cruise line that you will be taking. Usually a simple wardrobe will suffice. For example, on a warm climate cruise, casual collared shirts and khaki shorts will do fine. The kids can hang out in swim suits and tee shirts around the pool but they will need something in addition to this for eating and gaming. Don't forget about the evenings, however, as any warm climate cruise may still have cool evenings on the ocean. In this case, one light jacket or sweater for each family member would suffice.

If you are taking a cruise in a colder climate you will obviously need a different type of wardrobe, but again, keep it simple and let the kids have fun in choosing their clothes to bring along.

Find the Water and Lemonade and Skip the 'All You Can Drink' Soda Cup
Not all cruise lines offer this, but if you happen to find yourself on a cruise that offers the ultimate 'All You Can Drink' soda cup for the kids, try to avoid this purchase as there is generally ample water, lemonade or other types of drinks available in between dining times. Not only will have you to keep this 'Ultimate Jug' in your small stateroom but you will have to find a way to keep in clean yourself. Convince the kids that there will be more than enough to drink on the ship without the need for their own Tower of Soda.

If the Kids are Diapered, Bring the Bag
If you will be traveling with small enough children that diapers are still a part of your packing checklist, then don't forget to pack sealable plastic bags. Not only will you want to seal the diaper in the bag for disposal in your stateroom, but other passengers will appreciate the odorless disposal of the not-so-sweet deposit.

Don't Forget to Bring the Kids Medications
Most, if not all, cruise ships of any size will have some medications available for purchase but they are extremely expensive. Let me repeat this, they are extremely expensive. OK, I think you get the point. Bring your own personal pharmacy of your preferred medications for the kids and yourself. The vast majority of people traveling on a cruise do not get sick, but as with any vacation, being sick is no fun, so pack the essentials.

To Car Seat or Not To Car Seat
If your children are young enough that they travel in a car seat, you will need to make a personal decision of whether to bring one or not. Most cruise lines do not offer car seats for rent so if you are adamant about having one, be prepared. You stateroom will probably not have an easy place to store the seat. Mass transports associated with shore excursions may not have room for the seat. Many foreign countries have transport vehicles that are much smaller than you may be used to and you may be carrying the seat for long distances if you need to walk to a bus or cab station. Just make sure you take this all into consideration when you plan your choice.

Seasickness, No Fun!
Whether traveling with children or not, this is one of the single biggest concerns among first-time cruisers. How do I know if I will get seasick? There are several topics to discuss relevant to this topic, but the bottom line is that unless you have some experience on a larger ship on the open ocean, you don't know for sure how your body will react. So here are some pointers.

If you are very concerned about the possibility of becoming seasick, check with your doctor as there are prescriptions available to help prevent the normal feeling of seasickness. There are pills you can take or anti-motion sickness patches that you can wear. Many cruisers wear these patches so don't hesitate to do so yourself or have your kids wear one. Also, the larger the ship, generally the less motion you will feel. If you want to do all you can to prevent the possibility of seasickness, sail on the largest ship you can find.

Cabins more in the middle of the ship and lower in the ship will sometimes help reduce the amount of bouncing and swaying you may feel. Of course this is no guarantee. Check with the cruise line or your travel agent to help find the best cabin location for your circumstance.

Dry Skin Alert
Depending on your normal climate that you come from, several days as sea may actually dry out your skin. You may want to make sure you pack some moisturizer and drink a lot of water. This is true for the kids and the adults that you are traveling with.

Go For It!
Hopefully following these tips and hints will help you and your family find the 'Trip of a Lifetime' on your next cruise. If you are still unsure if you should cruise with the kids, just remember, some cruise lines cater to families and are overbooked with reservations. All of those families aren't wrong. Give it a try, plan ahead and you will find that the entire family can't wait to go again.

If you are researching any cruise in the Asia or Pacific region, www.asia-cruise-info.com has all of the information you need for kids and adults.

Enjoy the Journey!

by Paul Bechel

We're Here to Help!
Paul Bechel
www.asia-cruise-info.com
About the Author
Paul Bechel is the owner of Asia Cruise Info - http://www.asia-cruise-info.com - the largest dedicated web site for cruising in the Asia and South Pacific regions. Paul has worked with the largest travel companies in the world for years and brings the highest level of customer service to his customers.

Taking A Honeymoon Cruise Can Be Magical

Many couples are finding that an all-inclusive honeymoon cruise can make their special getaway after marriage even more special. When they climb on board, they cannot believe the joy and simplicity of their vacation, with no worries and no stress! Taking a honeymoon cruise can make for one of the most memorable vacations you will ever experience and it all occurs on a single cruise ship! In the last several years, millions of couples have enjoyed honeymoon vacations on cruise ships, and with all the perks that you can find on a cruise ship it is not hard to see why.

When you think of a honeymoon cruise, you can think automatically of romance. When you watch movies, many of the most romantic moments you can think of are a couple on a ship sailing into the sunset. When you are on the deck of a cruise ship, you will have several opportunities to take advantage of this romantic situation! You will sail off into the sunset for however many nights your vacation lasts, while also getting romantic, moonlit nights and fun, sun-filled days. When you take a honeymoon cruise, you will also get the enjoyment and intimacy of secluded beaches and exotic locations. These events will make the memories of your honeymoon cruise very special for the rest of your lives together.

The reason it is so easy to see why so many people choose a honeymoon cruise is the simplicity of your whole vacation. When you purchase the fare for a honeymoon cruise, you are purchasing everything you could possibly need on your entire vacation. Included in that one cruise fare are your meals, snacks, accommodations, entertainment and any on-board activities. This in addition to the exciting destinations you visit all over the world! What could be easier than a cruise for all of that? You don’t have to make your own dinner reservations or purchase theatre tickets when you are on a cruise. It’s already done for you!

How you enjoy your honeymoon cruise is also up to you. You can sit back and relax, enjoying the sunny days by the pool or on the beach without exerting yourself. Or you can be on the go constantly, going from one show to the next, one activity to another, and exploring each and every exotic location you visit in detail. All of this between delicious dining experiences you’ve only ever dreamed of. Again, there are no worries or stresses, as all of these wonderful things are included in the cruise package!

Booking a cruise is easy, whether it is for your honeymoon or a special getaway. Look online or call a travel agent near you today.

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About the author:

Sintilia Miecevole is the webmaster of Furst Cruise that is an expert resource for information about cruises. If you have questions or comments about this article, please visit: http://www.furstcruise.com


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Alaska glacier cruises: Alaska up close and personal

What do you have in mind for your next vacation? Are you planning another trip to the same tired beach that you visit every year or an "adventure" to a controlled, commercialized theme park? If so, I have a suggestion for you: Alaska glacier cruises.

What if I told you that you could do something truly unique and adventurous, something that the whole family would love? What if I told you that there was a family cruise destination so breathtakingly beautiful and teeming with wildlife that you could spend days captivated at the rail of a cruise ship and still not get enough? Would you be interested? Sure you would.

Few people have visited Alaska without having been changed by the experience. Much of the terrain consists of gorgeous, formidable glaciers and ice fields which cover over 5% of Alaska's land surface. This natural beauty can be seen from many top tourist destinations of Alaska including Juneau, Valdez, Seward and the Matanuska Valley, but is usually only fully appreciated with an up close and personal view that only a cruise through the inland waterways can afford. From this vantage point you will stand spellbound by tidewater glaciers that reach over 100 ft. in height and the antics of wildlife such as humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, dolphins, brown bears and bald eagles.

In Alaska, there is a multitude of attractions that will keep you coming back for more. Cruise the smooth inland waterways of Alaska and come surprising close to the sheer ice faces of these magnificent, natural phenomenons; port at luxuriant destinations complete with fine dining and unique entertainment; and make memories that will last a lifetime.

The truth is: The popularity of Alaska glacier cruises is growing in leaps and bounds due to the awe-inspiring beauty of Alaska's glaciers and the affordability and wide range of cruise packages available. You can choose from one-day inland cruise packages which are as priced as low as $50 per person to a luxurious six night cruise on a deluxe designer yacht for as little as $4,000 per person. Of course there is a wide range of cruise options that fall between these two extremes. Take for instance the seven day voyage available through a well-known cruise provider. For under $2,000 per person, this trip affords passengers the opportunity to cruise several top Alaskan inside passages aboard a luxuriant cruise liner and port at several top destinations.
As you can see, there is no end to the possibilities associated with Alaska glacier cruises. Why don't you look into the possibilities that these cruises can open up for you and your family? The only thing you have to lose is another boring summer vacation.

by Ron Richards
About the Author
A lifelong Alaskan, Ron Richards lives in the beautiful Matanuska Valley. Ron invites you to come and see Alaska. One excellent way to enjoy Alaska is by taking an affordable Alaska cruise. Visit Ron's site at www.findanalaskacruise.com

Vacationers Home Check-List: Everything You Should Know Before You Leave

If you are planning on being away from your home for an extended amount of time, it is important that you secure your home. You will not be able to enjoy your family vacation, concentrate on the business meeting, or feel relaxed while visiting relatives, if the thought of your home being violated is always in the back of your mind. There are many things that you can do before you leave, as well as things you can have arranged to be done by a third party, that will ensure that your home, property and pets are safe.

The most important aspect an owner needs to be concerned with is that their home does not look vacant while they are away. Statistics report that generally a home is burglarized every 12 seconds. It is important that you leave your curtains open when you leave. Closed curtains indicate a vacant home. You can also purchase light timers. They will turn on and off different lights in your home throughout the day until you return from your trip. It is also good to invest in motion sensor lights for the outside. As added protection, you may want to keep a radio on somewhere in the main part of the house. The volume need not be very loud, just loud enough to fool an intruder. It is also good to have an alarm system. Make sure that it is turned on when you leave.

Do not leave house keys under rocks or flower boxes around your home. Make sure they are all removed prior to your departure. Never leave a message on your phone that you are away. That is just asking for an intruder.

You need to also be aware that your lawn can also give signals that you are away and your home is vacant. If you are leaving during the warmer months, clip your lawn prior to your departure. Arrange in advance to have someone come and cut your lawn while you are away, as well. It is also good to cut back plants or shrubs that would provide a good place for an intruder to hide, or lurk behind. If you live in a cold climate and it is winter, be sure that you make arrangements to have someone you trust come and shovel the snow while you are away. Nothing gives a clue that no one is home more than a driveway and side walk that is piled under 6 feet of snow. If it is pool season arrange for someone to clean your pool while you are away.

Make sure that all outside work buildings or sheds are locked. Mowers, bicycles, and tools need to be secured inside. It is important that you do not leave your garage door opener inside any vehicles that will be left on the driveway. You can even arrange to have someone move your vehicles around periodically in your driveway to give your home the lived in look. Check all windows prior to leaving, as well as outside doors. Dead bolts on the doors, and key locks for the windows are the safest. Just make sure that the keys are removed from the window locks before your trip. Do not forget your skylight windows, or the small fanlights that may be in your bathroom. If an area is small enough for a head to fit through, it needs to have a lock on it.

You need to contact your local post office and have all mail kept there until your return. Cancel all newspaper subscriptions, as well. This is not an uncommon practice, and it will ensure that you don't have papers piling up on your walk, or mail spilling out of your box. That is an open invitation to an intruder.

It is also important that you are careful during casual conversation with the clerk at the store, dry cleaners, clubs, etc. Do not let anyone in the general public know that you are planning a trip. You never know who might be listening. It is also important that you do not list your address on your luggage. You would be surprised at how many homes are burglarized because a future burglar saw your address on your luggage at the airport. They simply follow you to the departure gate and ransack your home that evening.

You can contact your local law enforcement office and let them know that you are going to be away. Give them the dates of when you will be leaving and when you will be returning. They will provide a patrol unit to drive by your house every day to be on the lookout for anything out of the ordinary. If your neighborhood has a neighborhood watch program have your home listed as one of the homes that is in need of being watched. It is a good idea to also make an inventory of your valuables, with serial numbers and model numbers where possible. This information comes in handy if you ever have to file an insurance claim due to theft.

It is important that you make adequate arrangements in regards to any pets that you may own. You can board them at a shelter, if need be, though the comfort and care of your pet should always be kept in mind. It will be unsettling to your pet to be separated from you, make sure that their temporary home is as loving and comfortable as possible. No family pet should be kept in a cage for an extended amount of time. Make sure that you are leaving your pet with someone who is an animal lover, and not in the business of kenneling for greed. You should never forget the goldfish in the tank, or the plants in your home. It would be sad to come home to a floating fish and dead house plants. You may want to make prior arrangements to have someone come into your home to take care of these other special family members.

Prior to leaving it is important that you go through the refrigerator and dispose of any products that will have spoiled before you come home. You need to reduce the temperature on the hot water heater to a lower temperature, as well as the thermostat on any central heat and air units that you may have. Make sure that all outside water hoses are disconnected if it is the winter season, it will help to keep your pipes from bursting in extreme cold weather. It is also important that you check all smoke detectors to verify that they are in working order.

An option that you may want to check into that will give you peace of mind is a house sitter. This is a person that comes in and takes care of all the above listed things and stays at your home while you are away. Your pets will be able to stay in their own environment, the plants will be watered, the pool cleaned, the mail checked, the lawn will be mowed, etc. The house sitter's voice will be heard on the end of the telephone line when a future burglar calls to check to see if someone is home. It will be the house sitter that they see coming and going from your home on a regular basis if your house is under surveillance by a future burglar. The presence of the house sitter is the number one burglar deterrent.

A house sitter can also provide invaluable services like forwarding faxes to you if you run a home business and an urgent matter needs to be dealt with. They can also provide immediate attention to your home if there is ever an emergency. House sitters are the best thing you can do in regards to your pets. They can take your furry friends for their scheduled checkups, and tend to them if they get sick or hurt. They can also bathe them, feed them and love them until you get home. You can also leave a grocery list with your house sitter. When you return home, you will have a pantry and refrigerator stocked full of food, and you will not have to worry about that dreaded chore upon your return. A house sitter can also be in charge of getting any needed prearranged servicing done on your vehicles, or your home, while you are away. Above all else, the main service that a house sitter provides is that you can call home and see how your home is doing.

There is no greater feeling than to have peace of mind and to be able to enjoy your time away from home. The only feeling that can match that is coming home and finding that your home is still intact, your pets are well, and that your valuable are where you left them. You cannot leave home without having someone watch over your home. The day of everyone leaving their front doors unlocked are over. Make sure that you do everything you can to assure that your home, pets and possessions are well-protected while you are away.

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About the author:

Author Ian L. White specializes in helping people who are
interested in finding a house sitter in their town, or for more
information about the benefits of house sitting. To find out
about these services, visit http://www.housecarers.comtoday.

Registration is free for homeowners and a free trial is offered
to House sitters.


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China Travel Tips

Survival China Travel Tips and Tricks

These China Travel Tips, Survival Techniques, will help you get around and make your trip to China easier, so you will be able to experience the real China with a little less stress.

China is an odd beast that needs to be respected; the major cities, Beijing, Shanghai, and Xian, all have their own personalities.

Some complex situations that you think would be an organizational disaster turn out to be great and you wonder afterward what all the fuss and worry was about. Then the simplest of tasks can turn out to be a major calamity.

This is when you have what we call here a “China day”.

These days come and go and are part of the experience of everyday travel in China. One needs to have an open mind when travelling China. It is a place with thousands of years of history and culture that is trying overnight to adapt to Western ways of living.

You need to have a very open mind when you Travel in China.
I have listed below a few China Travel Tips that will make life that wee bit more bearable on your Travel China experience.

China Travel Tips – Be Toilet Wise

• Never expect a clean toilet 100% of the time.

• Be prepared; Carry some tissue.

• You may have to use a squat toilet, again if you know this before hand it is not a shock. If you don’t know how to use a squat toilet, try the following experiment at home.

While holding onto something for support with both hands, lower your body down into a low squat position, so that the cheeks of your bottom is almost touching your heels or the back of your calf. Now, let go with your hands. See if you stay in this position for at least 1 minute. If you fall backwards or you cannot get up, then a squat toilet could be a problem for you! Practice, you will be happy you did.

• If you see a clean toilet, Go… it may not come again for a while.

• There are many public toilets around the cities, usually the ones you pay for are OK, (RMB .5), the others best to stay away from if you can. You will soon notice them as you walk around the cities.

• Be warned that public areas like bus and train stations are usually what I class as “tough toilets”, however if gotta go you gotta go.
• Outside of the major cities, the toilet systems are old or have very narrow plumbing /pipes and get blocked easily. In these cases a small basket is usually beside the toilet, this is for your used toilet paper.

One of the best China Travel toilet Tips I can give you, is use hotel lobby toilets; these are everywhere and are always clean. Still they may not always have toilet paper. It depends on the class of hotel that you are using.

I do not wish to scare you. However, of all the China Travel Tips in all the other web sites I have read, this is a topic not often mentioned, but it is very important to us all.

So outside of the major cities conditions can be tough. But most of the time everything will be fine, especially if you book a tour; everything will have been checked out before hand. However even the best laid plans can go wrong, so be prepared, the toilets in the smaller cities, towns and villages can be scary.

China Travel Tips – The Food

• The food is great and the variety is overwhelming. Most of the time you get to choose what you eat, or you can recognize what you’re eating, however sometimes you do not get a choice. Carry a chocolate bar or something; this will keep you going until some food that you can recognize turns up. Drink bottled or boiled water, as the tap water is NOT safe to drink, this is for the whole of China. Even boiled water, while sterilised can contain a lot of minerals and iron deposits that you probably do not want in your system. The safest bet is to drink bottle water. Tap water in most big cities is OK for brushing teeth.

• Eating habits - Most Chinese people have a great habit of being very noisy when they eat and lunch and dinner times can be a wonderfully noisy celebration, food tends to go in all directions, its just part of being in China.

• People also smoke at the table while everyone is eating, so some restaurants get very loud and smoky.

• If you get stuck what to order as most of the menu’s are in Chinese just look at the table next to you and point to the dish you fancy and ask how much it is, this system works really well and know seems to mind.

• I have a basic menu that will help you order safe food, (no Cats or Dog) this will enable you to visit a larger selection of restaurants, not just the tourist ones with high prices. You can carry it with you and use it in the local restaurants where most will be able to serve what is on it. This way you will know what you are eating.

These local places are very cheap and the food it great. Contact me if you would like me to send it to you.

China Travel Tips – Taxis

• China Travel Tips- Taxis - Taxis are an experience that can have you griping the seat and gasping for breath; however you soon get used to it, after the first few rides, you’re an old hand.

• The taxis in Shanghai are, overall, quite good. Try to get the Blue, Blue’ish Turquoise, Gold and White taxis, these are the best… these are the four major taxi companies and are generally recognised by their single colour paintwork. The others are OK, just older and a rougher ride (the others also may have faulty metres). No drivers will speak English.

• Carry your hotel or accommodation business card with you, written in Chinese, this helps if you get lost walking around town.

• In all the taxis around the country you will see the drivers name and taxi registration number in plain sight. If you have any problem, or if you think you have been over charged etc, just take this number down, make a big fuss about it, and the driver then should wake up and fix whatever problem you have. Even better is to take the receipt. This has all the trip details on it and you can ring the taxi company if you want to take things further or if you’ve left something in the taxi.

• The government takes rip-off drivers in all cities, Beijing and Xian especially, very seriously and if you complain they will lose their license. This is their livelihood. So far I have had not one driver in 3 years that has not backed down and we have then agreed a price for the trip or solved our problem.

• In Shanghai, it is common practice for taxi fare increases after 11pm. However, one can usually bargain for a 20% discount, which will get the fare back to the pre-11pm rate.
Be strong with the taxi drivers, never-the-less, keep your cool, smile and negotiate.

China Travel Tips – Shopping

• China Travel Tips - Shopping - China is a shopper’s paradise, Markets, Bargains; Top labels… anything and everything if you have the time. With clothes, the larger (Western) sizes can be quite hard to find, however in the major cities where you get a lot of tourist traffic, you can find them.

• Electrical gear, DVD’s, Cameras, stuff like this is not worth buying in China, Hong Kong is still the best place for this.

• Store hours in the major cities are from 10am to 10pm, 7 days a week.

• Visa card is still the best card to carry, with ATM’s in good supply all with PLUS access etc.
There is usually a surcharge for use of VISA, MasterCard or other forms of credit card.

• Wait on purchasing if you can, look around to get a feel for the prices. The Chinese are VERY experienced at selling and know that we halve the opening price when bargaining.
In the markets go for 25% of what they first ask; go so low that they let you walk away. This will give you an idea of the bottom price. The resulting end-price will probably be around 40% to 50% of where they started.

Whatever the market people say, they are used to pushing and haggling for best prices. Do not worry about being too hard, they are used to it and will not sell you an item unless they make a profit. Don’t be concerned with the apparently hurt body language when you go low – it is all part of the game. As soon as they have wrapped up your first purchase, they will try to sell you something more. Remember to keep smiling and having fun while bargaining.

China Travel Tips – Medical Treatment and Records

• Most hotels will have a doctor that you can see. In the major hotels English will be spoken.

• Always take a small first aid kit, cold remedy, headache tablets at the very least. WATSONS is a very large chain chemist. Most of the remedies, tablets etc, that you may require should be in these shops. These shops are all over China.

• There is a great network of pharmacy type shops; these are indicated by a Green Cross. There will always be a 24 hr Green Cross pharmacy in the city you are in. It is handy to carry a Phase book, as no one will speak English, however you will end up with something that will help.

• INPORTANT POINT – for most of the mass produced packet type medicines, the packaging will be written in Chinese on one side, English on the other. However in the shops you only see the Chinese side. Have a good look, turn the packs over, it gives you a lot more confidence knowing you can read the package.

• If you have a specific medical issue, take records, most of the Doctors will have OK written / reading English, even though their oral English will be poor.

China Travel Tips – Telephone

• Using the phone is as easy as at home. However the person picking it up will not speak English or have very broken English… the Major 4- or 5-Star Hotels will all be OK.

• What is worth doing is buying a Chinese Telecom SIM card, they are about RMB100 and with this you get RMB50 in calls, the other 50 is for the price of the SIM card; this SIM card will go into all major brand phones and work OK.

By doing this, people can reach you within and out of China if there is an emergency. If you have a couple of phones, you can short (txt) message each other (SMS). Also you are able to call your tourist guide, hotel etc if you have any major problems. It is a cheap way to keep in touch.

NB.Before you buy a Chinese SIM card, check that it will work in your Cell / Mobile phone. There are plenty of China Telecom shops that can help.

China Travel Tips on when NOT to move around China.

• Spring Festival, this would be the Chinese New Year time, around the end of January / Early February

• Early May; Labour day Holidays

• Early October; National Day Holidays

Of all the China Travel Tips National Day is the biggest one. Millions of Chinese travel at these holiday times of the year. Most are travelling back to home towns or visiting family. Hotels, trains, planes, cars, buses, and roads are all crowded to the maximum. Major congestion, everywhere.

Also travel fares are at their full price. No discounts are offered!
Stay in one place and enjoy where you are. It’s best and causes fewer hassles.

China Travel Tips – TV

• If you want to watch TV, most of the major hotels will have cable and if you are in the smaller places, the national channel, CCTV9 is in English. Over the last couple of years it has got a lot better, with some great China Travel Tips programs, news and views on people and places around China.

China Travel Tips – Airport Tax

• There is a “construction fee” at almost all airports.

Domestic flights RMB 50
International flights RMB 90 – which is to be paid in local currency.

Just recently, tickets are being tissued with the Construction Tax included; however make sure you have the Tax money with you just to make sure.

I hope some of these China Travel Tips will come in handy and will make your trip to China that little bit easier.

If you have been to China and wish to share your China Travel Tips, please feel free to contact me anytime.

by John Mckenna

John Mckenna
http://www.Travel-the-Real-China.com
About the Author
Hi I'm John Mckenna, I am from New Zealand and have lived in Shanghia China now for 3 years.

I own and operate http://www.Travel-the-Real-China .com my site provides experienced based Travel and Tour information on the wonders of Travel in China, the Real China, Ancient China, China at its very best

The Best Age For a Disney Vacation

Grappling with the idea of taking the kids on a Disney vacation? Are you not sure if they are too young and will just be overwhelmed or too old and will be bored? Well, I will let you in on a secret; the best age to take the kids on Disney Vacation is............whatever age they happen to be! We first took our son when he was two and he loved it as did our neighbour’s teenagers, but the trip will be smoother if you follow a few simple guidelines:

Keep their ages foremost in mind….

Choose rides and activities that are age appropriate, your toddler will not appreciate the Tower of Terror and your teenagers will want to pluck out their fingernails on It’s a Small World. If you are traveling with children of wide age ranges, then a compromise will be in order. Some options are to split up, do alternate half days or make it clear that if they do this for two hours, will then do that. Find other ways to keep them amused if they are out of their element, younger kids may nap in line ups, older kids might be amused with their Game Boys etc.

Balance out your days...

The younger the children, the less you will be able to pack into one day. Try not to do it all at once. Let you family pick and choose the rides and events they really, really want and focus on those. A day at the parks can be followed by a day at a water park or relaxing by the hotel pool.

Disney tips for young children...

Make sure you plan for plenty of naps and rest times, bring a stroller, choose hotels close to the parks or stay on site so you can get back and forth easily, bring snacks and juice along, go at your child’s pace. Some children will love all the excitement, others may find it too much, so take your cues from your child and go at THEIR pace.

Disney tips for older children...

Give them some breathing room, let them explore on their own if possible, set a time and meeting place if they do go off on their own, bring walkie-talkies or cell phones to stay in touch, don’t force them to do things they don’t want to do, remember it’s a vacation - it’s supposed to be relaxing right?

Try to avoid releasing the beast...

The most important guideline to follow on your Disney vacation, or any family vacation for that matter, is to not let your children get too hungry or too tired. All parents are familiar with the tired, hungry, cranky child. On vacation, when they are probably already out of sorts, pushing them to the limit should be avoided. Keep an eye on meal times and nap times and try to keep them on track. Rest before the kids are exhausted and eat before they are ready to chew their own arms off.

Keep in mind these guidelines and you and your children can enjoy a Disney vacation at any age!

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About the author:

Jolana Klobouk is a former travel agent who has traveled extensively for work and vacations with her family. For more travel information, visit her travel websites: http://www.best-family-beach-vacations.comand http://www.FlyFromCanada.com


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10 Tips for Choosing a Rental Cottage for a Great Waterfront Vacation

You’ve been looking forward to your waterfront vacation for months. Now it’s time to start planning and rent a vacation cottage for your use. Selecting the best cottage can be the difference between a great vacation and one where you feel like you are ‘doing without’.

Surprised?

Many vacationers consider the cottage as ‘just somewhere to stay’ since most of your time will be spent on the water, or enjoying local attractions. Don’t make that mistake. There is no reason to settle for less when, with a little planning, you can find a great cottage that you’ll enjoy as much as the other parts of your vacation.

Remember, your vacation cottage is where you’ll be sleeping, waking up, having many of your meals, and resting.

If it rains or is unseasonably hot outside, you may end up stretched out reading a book to while away the day – assuming there is a comfortable sofa. And when you meet new friends, you’ll want someplace nice for entertaining. Shouldn’t your vacation cottage be a pleasant get-away with the amenities that make vacations a real treat?

Here are a few tips to for selecting the perfect waterfront vacation cottage rental:

1.The single most important factor is whether or not you can “see” actual recent photos of the interior and exterior of the vacation cottage rental. It’s one thing to read a great description – and some of them are quite ‘complimentary’ (sometimes overly so) - but you need to see what you are getting.

With the Internet, a website is the quickest most convenient way for you to get information on prospective cottage rentals. If there are no pictures, you’ll know right away to keep looking. Brochures, books and guides are nice, but may have out-dated information.

2.List the amenities that are important to you, the ones without which you will feel incomplete. Next, jot down those that are nice to have, but not deal-breakers if not available.

With these lists as a guide, you’ll be able to quickly eliminate those cottages that won’t meet your needs. Your list might include proximity to the water, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, type kitchen (full versus fridge and microwave), outdoor amenities such as decks and BBQ grills, boats or other water toys, and other items important to you.

On your secondary list, you might have things like a hammock for lazing about, or an herb garden for gourmet meals.

3.List the activities that you want to be able to enjoy while on vacation.
This will help you in selecting a general location (city, state). You also need to consider how close you want your vacation cottage to be to these attractions.

Some people feel that a great vacation is being able to walk or bicycle everywhere. Others don’t mind a short drive, and still others think nothing of getting on a freeway to enjoy attractions.

If you prefer a vacation without the hassles of traffic, parking problems, crowds and long lines, select a cottage such as Heartsworth Cottage, located in the quaint waterfront town of Onancock, Virginia. Visit http://www.onancockcottage.com to learn more.

4.Identify your first, second and third choice of dates for renting the cottage.
With several dates, you’ll save time when making arrangements.

If you find a cottage that you really want and you have some flexibility in scheduling, having alternate dates ready allows you to book right then, saving yourself the time and hassle of having to re-check everyone’s schedule and call back – and risking losing those dates in the interim.

5.Call the telephone numbers for the vacation cottages that seem to meet your needs and speak directly with either the owners or the person who is handling the property.

Be prepared with a list of questions. This allows you to compare apples to apples, and keeps you from forgetting something important during the conversation.

It also gives you a feel for the person who will be your contact should you rent the cottage and then encounter a problem. If you don’t get a warm, friendly welcome to your inquiries, don’t expect anything different when you call with a problem.

6.Ask what amenities are included.
You may learn of something that’s not on your list but is perfect for your plans.

Other things to consider: Is there a welcome basket? Will the owner stock the refrigerator for you, before your arrival? Is a newspaper delivered? Can you make arrangements to receive mail? Are there plates, utensils, pots, pans and other essentials for eating and meal preparation – or will you have to bring your own?

7.Inquire about restaurants, events and activities and other forms of local entertainment that are close by, perhaps within walking distance. Here’s where your list of preferred activities comes in handy. You should be able to find links to local attractions, calendars and restaurants on the website of your vacation cottage rental.

8.Are the owners Local? Do they live nearby?
Local owners are a wealth of information about the area and can give you tips on great out-of-the-way places that aren’t in the guidebooks. They also care about your enjoyment and comfort while at their cottage.

This can make a huge difference; especially should something need immediate attention in the cottage. There’s nothing worse than calling the rental company about a stopped-up toilet and getting somebody’s bored teenager who’s manning the phones for the summer.

9.How long has the owner been renting vacation cottages?
If the owner has worked with rental properties, they know what tenants expect and how to get things done.

If this is a new venture, beware. The owner may be in it for “fun” and have no idea how to prepare the cottage so that you can have a great vacation.

10.And last, when you look at the pictures, can you see yourself having a great time there?

If the pictures make you want to go right now, and the answers to the questions above meet your satisfaction, you’ve found yourself a cottage for a great waterfront vacation rental!

by Joyce Shannahan
About the Author
Joyce Shannahan and husband Duke have been in real estate for many years. They are gourmet cooks, great hosts and know how to make guests feel welcome. Heartsworth Cottage, their waterfront vacation cottage rental in the waterfront town of Onancock, Virginia, is on the water with dock, tri-level deck, gas grill, and is filled with the comforts of home, including a bountiful welcome basket with wine. Visit them at http://www.onancockcottage.com

Fun and Frugal

Perfect Family Vacations That Won’t Blow Your Budget

What makes a perfect family vacation? That depends on your family; what they like to do, where they like to go, the ages of your children, even your parenting style. But most families will agree that a perfect vacation needs to be relaxing and fun with something for everyone. There is a seemingly endless list of resorts in the United States that fit that description. But for many parents, there is one more essential aspect of the perfect family vacation. It needs to be affordable.

Again, the term affordable is a relative concept, but for many families, a resort that costs more than $350 per night takes the fun out of the vacation. Parents on a budget are too busy worrying about how they will fund the trip and are unable to relax and enjoy themselves. Or limited funds means that a more expensive resort results in less to spend on tours, attractions, and food. Many families end up staying in cheap hotels with no kid-friendly amenities rather than spend all their vacation money on lodging. But by searching for discount resorts or obtaining the services of a knowledgeable travel consolidator, it is possible to find many affordable family resorts across the U.S. that won’t blow your budget. Here are some examples.

The Critera
U.S. resort under $350/night
Structured activities for kids of all ages
Family friendly atmosphere
Wide range of activities to accommodate different interests

Disneyland
Disneyland is one of the world’s all time favorite family vacation destinations. Anyone who has traveled there with children knows that it meets our criteria of a wide range of family friendly activities. Known to be one of the more expensive family vacation destinations, there are affordable lodging options that provide easy access to Disneyland and help keep costs down. The All Star Music Resort is one of Disney’s most affordable resorts. As the name implies, it has a music theme, with different areas decorated to reflect various music genres including jazz, rock, country, and Broadway. The resort’s two pools are shaped like a piano and a guitar. Kids love the playground and arcade. Parents love the baby-sitting service.

The basic amenities are in keeping with a budget resort but are more numerous than those of a standard hotel. Most rooms sleep four with two double beds. Dining facilities are limited to a mall style food court, but the wide variety of choices is sure to please everyone. Rates for a family of four at this 2000-room, Disney resort start at just over $100 per night. Because it is part of the group of Disney resorts, there are often vacation specials and packages available.

Rocky Mountains

Many parents are familiar with the family-oriented mission of the YMCA programs. Located in urban areas internationally, this kid friendly organization offers many educational, sports, and social opportunities. The YMCA of the Rockies, Colorado also operates two budget vacation resorts that help families get out and enjoy the legendary beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

Snow Mountain Ranch and Estes Park Center are nondenominational programs open to any guest. However, members receive a slight rate discount and have their reservations processed first. In addition to opportunities to enjoy the mountains, summer children's programs operate daily for ages three through 16. Age appropriate activities include hiking, hayrides, roller skating arts and crafts, campfire cooking, orienteering and archery. In winter, families can spend the day cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on 125 miles of groomed trails, and return to the resort to warm up in the indoor pool. Estes Park and other prominent winter activity destinations are nearby.

Lodging options include cabins and lodge rooms. Cabins range from two to five bedroom and include a fireplace and fully equipped kitchen. Rates begin at $138/night. Lodge rooms have two queen beds and a set of bunk beds. Rates begin at $64 during off-peak times. Accommodations are not luxurious but then you are on a budget, right?

Northwood’s Getaway

Some of America’s original family resorts focused on simple accommodations that provided easy access to the great outdoors. Nitschke’s Northern Resort, in Minocqua, Wisconsin has carried on the fine example of the original resort, with its tidy accommodations, coupled with the pristine setting on the edge of a lake, surrounded by forest.

Activities include fishing, hiking, boating, jet skiing, or simply relaxing on the porch of your cabin. The beach and playground provide additional play opportunities for children. Icefishing and snowmobiling trails provide winter entertainment options. Despite the secluded, natural setting of this family resort, the town is within boating, walking, and driving distance when you need groceries or a change of scenery.
Cabins accommodate up to eight people easily and rates start at an amazingly affordable $180 per night.

Award-winning Resort

Many of the award winning family resorts are beyond the means of those on a budget, but Woodloch Pines Resort in Hawley, Pennsylvania offers the amenities of a luxury resort for under $350 per night. Located on a private lake in the Northern Pocono Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania, this family owned resort was voted Favorite Family Vacation Spot by the readers of Better Homes and Gardens. Open year-round, the resort offers an amazing feast of activities from waterskiing, sailboating, and bumper boats in summer to snow tubing, ice skating and snowmobiling in the winter.

Kids of all ages love the go carts, batting cages, pool water slide and hayrides. Parents enjoy the Jacuzzis, massages for themselves and the all-inclusive rates that are difficult to find at U.S. resorts. Prices vary depending on room selection, time of year and number of people, but a family of four can purchase a four-night package that includes room and 12 meals for under $350 per night.

Another All-inclusive

The family-friendly, all-inclusive pricing draws hundreds of families south of the border to Mexico each year. But families don’t have to leave the country to find all-inclusive deals. Tyler Place Family Resort on Lake Champlain in Vermont also offers this pricing that includes meals, snacks, lodging, and most activities.

Tyler Place’s eight different kid’s programs offer structured nature and outdoor programs for children of all ages. Family water activities include sailing, canoeing, kayaking, waterskiing, paddleboats, bumper tube rides, banana boats, and lots more. Other entertainment includes tennis, mountain biking, indoor and outdoor pools, and group sports. Newborn and infant care is provided for parents who want to take art, yoga and aerobics classes, or visit vineyards in Quebec.

Discount, off-peak rates for a family of four are just under $300 per night and include lodging with separate children’s rooms, all meals and access to services and activities.

This list of affordable family resorts is just a taste of what’s available out there for perfect family vacations if you are willing to sacrifice some of the luxurious accommodations in lieu of a more family friendly atmosphere. As with many vacation destinations, traveling during off peak seasons will cut costs, and watching out for vacation specials, cheap airfare, and discount car rental can also help keep costs down. Vacation planners who work with a variety of destinations and packages are often able to locate great vacation deals for you and your family. The perfect family vacation doesn’t have to blow your budget. It just takes a little planning and research.

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About the author:

About the Author
C.J. Gustafson is a freelance writer and photographer who travels extensively for work and family vacations. A cheapskate by nature and necessity, she is always on the lookout for last minute travel deals and affordable vacation destinations.
© 2004 1st-Family-Vacations.com


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Top 10 Tips for Taking Road Trips With Kids

Top 10 Tips for Taking Road Trips With Kids

Like many other families, our family takes a number of road trips each year. We have three beautiful young daughters and people often say to me “How can you stand to take road trips with young kids?” In fact, I love taking road trips. I now prefer them to traveling by plane. Here are my top 10 tips for having a fun and non-stressful driving vacation.

1. Leave early in the morning, before Breakfast. This way you can get a few hours under your belt while the kids (hopefully) sleep in the car. Then stop for breakfast.

2. If your budget allows, buy your child(ren) a new toy for the trip. Don’t let them play with it until you are in the car and on your way.

3. Bring along a portable DVD player if your car doesn’t already have one. For long trips, pack at least 3 or more DVD’s. It’s even better if you can buy a couple of new ones to keep your child(ren)’s attention better.

4. Pack a cooler with lots of your kids favorite snacks, drinks and sandwiches. Keep the cooler handy in the car, so you can just reach in and give them something. Packing your own food saves on costs.

5. Stop at a nice rest area to eat your meals. This will be less stressing then hauling the kids into a crowded McDonald’s. When we travel from Texas to Maryland each year we stop at a beautiful rest area in Tennessee. It has nice bathroom facilities and is located on several acres giving the kids a chance to run around and exhaust some of their energy.

6. Stop every 3-4 hours. If you are traveling with small kids like us, you will really want to take advantage of this tip. Kids don’t have a concept of time. By the time 3 hours goes by in a car it seems like forever to them. Even stopping at a gas station and letting everyone get out of the car and stretch their legs for a few minutes really works.

7. Play car games. A favorite of ours is ‘Cops and Vette’s’. One point is given for every police car spotted and two points are given for Corvette’s. But if you call a car and it’s not correct then you deduct the points. It even helps to spot that hidden police car before he spots you!

8. Bring plenty of pillows and blankets. Children are more likely to sleep in the car if they are comfortable.

9. If you plan to stay somewhere overnight before traveling the next day, pack everything you need for the night in one bag. That way when you get to the hotel you don’t have to unload the whole car. I buy the biggest Ziploc bags I can find and put my children’s clothes in them and write their name on it. Then I only take what is needed.


10. Check the hotels to see if they offer free breakfast. Our favorite hotel to stay in is Holiday Inn. Kids stay and eat free. If we arrive at the hotel in the evening, they can eat dinner for free and then breakfast the next morning. Once again it saves on costs, especially if you pack your own lunch.

I hope these tips help you on your next road trip.

Kat Saveal
Co-owner,
The Cue Zone
http://www.thecuezone.com

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About the author:

Kat Saveal is a wife and mother of 3. She is a Professional Dance Instructor and Co-Owner of The Cue Zone, an online indoor games store. http://www.thecuezone.com


Circulated by Article Highway

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Travel Shanghai China

Travel Shanghai China, An amazing city.

I live, work, play in Shanghai, China’s largest city, largest port; a city of 16 million people, (many millions more during holidays and festivals), a city wanting to be the biggest, best and most important in the world.

If you had been able to Travel Shanghai 10 years ago, and returned today, you would see a very, very different city.
Shanghai today is a modern, 21st Century city, with tall, new shiny buildings, amazing nightlights, a wonderland.

Finding the old sights and sounds of the old city is becoming more difficult as the city’s rapid development produces almost instant change, almost everywhere.

Shanghai is a Chinese city of surprises: - a bizarre, and sometimes brutal, colonial history (British, French, American, Italian, Japanese) and dark days exploited as an Opium trade hub. Mix that with ancient Chinese culture and today we have a city urgently trying to leave its colourful past behind and which will soon be compared, in class and elegance, with any major city in the world.

When you Travel Shanghai China, you will quickly notice it is the power-house of China, the money-making machine that drives the Chinese economy continually forward.

Shanghai is usually a business destination. However if you are coming for a China vacation, or traveling through on the way to somewhere else, Travel Shanghai China has some must-see experiences and is a good way to introduce yourself to the wonders and difficulties of Travel in China.

There is still a lot for the visitor to see and do in Shanghai. Bars, Clubs, Business, the incredible skyline of beautiful tall buildings as far as you can see. The 21st century architecture. However, the truth be told, when you Travel Shanghai China, the city itself does not have a lot of cultural feel about it. Shanghai is the financial center of China.

I could talk all day about what great fun it is to live here; it’s a lively vibrant place that moves at an extraordinarily fast pace.

I will cover some of the highlights but you need to see and feel the place personally to fully appreciate it.

Some Shanghai Highlights

• The beautiful colonial-style buildings along the river; an area called the “Bund” where these remarkable buildings from old European days are marvelously lit up at night, and have been beautifully restored; the contrast between the Old and the New is quite a sight.

• The most famous shopping street and lighting effects in China, Nanging Rd, is just a short walk from the Bund.

• The famous Xintain Di district: - this area is the social hub of Shanghai, the very best in chic and style, expensive cars, fine wine, the best restaurants, a very happening place.

• At the southern end of another famous shopping street, Huai Hai Rd, is an area known as the “French Concession”, where peaceful tree-lined streets with wonderful colonial-style villas would make you think you were actually in Europe.

• A must thing to see and do, is to visit the viewing platform at the top of the Jin Mao Tower, the third highest building on earth, the tallest with an hotel inside (the Hyatt). This stunning building is 89 stories high and the view of the city from the top is spectacular.
A very special treat is to have a buffet dinner at the Hyatt on the 53rd level, then go up to the bar on the 89th floor and enjoy a drink and the view, which at night will amaze you.

• Shop !!! There are Antique markets, Bird and Bug markets, Commodity markets, Clothes and Fabric markets, local markets and a very famous market where you can buy all the world’s best brand names, at amazingly low prices.
Shanghai is a shopper’s heaven, come with a small suitcase and leave with a big one.

Secret Treasures

If you come to Travel Shanghai China and have time, just outside the city, one or two hours on a bus are some real treats.
Would you like to see tranquil lakes?... beautiful Chinese gardens?... ancient villages?

Here are a few places that are very close to Shanghai which can often be overlooked when one comes to Shanghai. These cities, towns and villages are the real deal and a must-see adventure.

Just an hour by local bus is Zhujiajiao, About two hours away by bus or train is Suzhou, as well as Hangzhou. As I grow this site, I will add places that are more interesting.

Enjoy Shanghai…I do!!

by John Mckenna
John Mckenna
http://www.Travel-the-Real-China.com

About the Author
Hi I'm John Mckenna, I am from New Zealand and have lived in Shanghia China now for 3 years.

I own and operate http://www.Travel-the-Real-China .com my site provides experienced based Travel and Tour information on the wonders of Travel in China, the Real China, Ancient China, China at its very best

Save Lots By Booking Your Travel Online

Today, the easiest way to book your next vacation or
trip away from home is by making reservations online.
Let's say, your idea of a vacation away is somewhere
exotic and balmy, where you can spend your days sipping
drinks by a gorgeous swimming pool in the wonderful
warm sunshine. Maybe you would prefer to have your
next vacation, skiing down the gorgeous white slopes of
Wyoming. Your destination doesn't matter, booking your
travel on the Internet can offer affordable and easy
travel packages.

Today people live full and busy lives, packed with
stress and anxiety. Their schedules are full with family,
work and other critical responsibilities. The one thing
that they are generally missing is relaxation and fun. It
is after all, crucial to get away from it once in awhile,
and enjoy the fruits of your work. A vacation can release
built up strain that leads to health problems and even
fatique. No matter where you go, it's all about making
time for yourself, relaxing with a much needed break and
some well earned travel.

But relaxation is not the only reason people travel. There
are indeed a variety of reasons people travel. Sometimes it
is for that long awaited vacation. Other times it is to
visit family or friends scattered across the world.

Another reason why people may travel is required by their
jobs. Many various jobs will need a person to travel
to various parts of the country or even other parts
of the world. Companies and businesses may be looking for
an inexpensive, comfortable way for employees to travel.

While many vacations are meant to be relaxing or enjoyable,
making all of the arrangements required for an entire
family can be time-consuming, expensive and sometimes a
little frustrating. Taking advantage of online travel
booking will free up your time that can now be spent
daydreaming about your vacation or planning family outings.
Online travel also means you can take advantage of discount
packages and you can do an enormous amount of research on
these before you even leave home.

Online travel booking may also help vacationers as well as
business people by offering a menu for making last minute
travel plans. If you're suddenly called to travel for family
illness or a last minute work-related trip, you can book a
travel plan online easier and faster.

Of course, a major selling point for a majority of things
is convenience and affordability. Online travel booking
provides both. You will find excellent deals and offers for
the vacation you always wanted or for your business needs.

by Lilly B. Fortunato
About the Author
Lilly Fortunato is excited about Vacations and
is the owner of Everything About Vacations

5 Romantic Travel Resolutions

A new year always means a chance for a new start. You and yours can begin this new year by making some travel resolutions together, regardless of your time and budget restraints. Put aside those old travel habits and make some new ones! Let this be the year that your travel plans focus on fun, fantasy, and festivities!

(1) We're going to plan a real vacation. No, it doesn't have to be an around the world cruise or first class getaway (but if you can afford it, what are you waiting for?) It does have to be an honest-to-goodness vacation, though. No cell phones, no laptops. Mark the dates on the calendar and keep it just like you'd keep any business appointment. The business of romantic travel, though, is a fun one and an activity that the two of you can plan for months.

(2) We're going to involve each other in the trip planning. All too often, one partner gets the job for planning a trip...and that task quickly becomes a bore. Plan your trips together! Anticipation is half the fun. Visit a travel agent. Collect brochures. Buy a guidebook. Rent a video about your destination. Search the internet for information.

(3) We're going to do something we've never done. Here you can be as mild -- or as wild -- as you dare. Go whitewater rafting. Rent a houseboat. Take a hot air balloon ride. Spend the night in a local bed and breakfast. Learn to scuba dive. Dance the whole night away under the stars. The choice is yours.

(4) We're going to take one mini-vacation every month. Whether it's for the night or just for the night out, plan one tiny slice of a vacation every single month. The only rule: you must pretend you're on vacation. Book a night at a local bed and breakfast. Call your local hotel and find out their non-peak nights (in business-oriented cities, it's usually Friday and Saturday) then plan a short romantic getaway.

(5) We're going to go to at least one festival. Special events take place at just about every community around the world. Whatever your interests -- from square dancing to sandcastle building -- you'll find a festival celebrating with a day or two of fun and food. If you don't have the time or budget to go far, contact area chamber of commerce or tourism offices within a day's drive of your home for their calendar of events. If you can, extend your trip into a long weekend. If you've got the time and resources, check out some of the major fun festivals: Carnival, Mardi Gras, Rio's Carnivale. Don't forget your costume!

by Paris Permenter & John Bigley
Husband and wife team Paris Permenter and John Bigley edit the award-winning Lovetripper.com (www.lovetripper.com), a romantic travel magazine and resource featuring honeymoons, destination weddings, and romantic getaways worldwide.

editors@lovetripper.com

Philadelphia Is Hot For a Vacation Spot

Do you and your family love vacations that are also great
opportunities for educating yourself about history and the
pioneers that built this great country? What better way
than a fun vacation that is filled with learning!

And whether you are prone to the city lights or if the
rural atmostphere is what warms your heart, you will love
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Long known for being rich in
history, Philadelphia is proud to present its museums and
culture to its visitors.

Everything from the Philadelphia Museum of Art on the
Benjamin Franklin Parkway, whereby you will enjoy yourself
in the 80 period rooms ranging from a display from an
Indian temple to medieval cloisters. Founded in 1876 to
spotlight decorative arts, its large collection makes it
the third largest museum in the United States.

There are many other buildings to visit in the general area
including the Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall and
the National Constitution Center.

Don't forget a trip to the Reading Terminal Market. It
was established in 1893 and is the country~s oldest
continuously operating farmers~ market. You will be able
to indulge in practically every type of cuisine, from Asian
to soul food, from traditional Pennsylvania Dutch fare to
Middle Eastern dishes ~ all available from primarily
family-run stands.

Afterwards you might be ready to walk off your dining
experience with a stroll along the quaint cobblestone
streets. Breathing in the architectural wonders that are
plentiful from the last couple hundred years is a real
delight if you are the least bit interested in style and
history.

Tired of walking? What about a carriage ride? Whether you
are with your mate and look to incorporate some romance
mixed in with your vacation or you have the whole family,
including kiddies, it is magical to be pulled by the ever
popular horses expertly chauffeured by a city guide.

Afterwards, you may be drawn to take in the sites where
parts of the movie "National Treasure" were filmed. See if
you can follow the trail of clues outlined by the movie in
this city's most famous landmarks.

After a glimpse of the city spectacles, save time for a
trip to Valley Forge for more peeks into the history of
this amazing area.

Valley Forge is notorious for Washington~s encampment with
his troops in the winter of 1777. Washington~s
headquarters and his troops~ log cabins are available for
viewing. The National Historical Park~s 3,600-acres of
rolling hills provides beauty in any season and is
especially inviting for the outdoor lover with miles of
trails to hike, bicycle and rock climb.

If you enjoy the water, you can partake in fly fishing and
kayaking. Landlovers have an abundance of activities
including horseback riding, bird watching and nature
centers to visit.

Seasonal activities include cross country skiing, ice
skating, maple sugaring and apple festivals.

Filled with culture, Philadelphia has something for all.
Don't be surprised if you decide more than one visit is
necessary to get a taste of this bountiful area!

by Bryant E. Copeland
Bryant E. Copeland has created a one stop resource site Forte Learning . Feel free to submit an article if you would like to contribute.

Rehoboth Beach For A Vacation Of Fun In The Sun

With summer just around the corner, how are you doing with
your vacation plans? Have you ever considered visiting the
Delaware Beaches? Beside being known as the "First State",
the Rehoboth Beach area in Delaware has also been referred
to as "The Nation's Summer Capital".

This pouplar and fun beach resort is located on the Atlantic
Coast. Because it's only only two hours from Washington,
D.C., Baltimore, MD, Philadelphia, PA, and the South Jersey
area, you will enjoy a vacation destination that offers a
calmness and welcoming feeling, in a relaxing, slower paced
family atmosphere.

Accommodations run the gamut and include anything from
quaint bed and breakfasts to fine hotels and everything in
between. Apartments, condominiums, cottages, and private
homes are just a few of the options to choose from. The
local realtors offer services to assist you in finding the
ideal lodging for your stay.

There is an abundance of food choices. Whether you decide to
eat at your hotel or go exploring, each eatery has their own
specialty. Menus range from the local catch of the day to
vegetarian. The area is also well known for it's shopping
opportunities. There are many local artisans, as well as
factory outlets where you can really stretch your vacation
dollars.

Another thing that Rehoboth Beach is famous for is its
mile-long boardwalk. Many people come down just to walk the
boards and watch the ocean waves. You can also bike ride or
jog or just hang out and people-watch. If you are lucky
enough you can catch a glimpse of dolphins, porpoises, and
other wildlife, such as pelicans. Other activities which are
great for the kids as well as adults include arcades,
musical entertainment, miniature golf and the many festivals
that schedule Rehoboth Beach for their venues.

For those of you who are into more natural surroundings,
there is Cape Henlopen State Park close by in Lewes,
Delaware The open shoreline of Cape Henlopen State Park is
perfectly suited for swimming, crabbing, fishing, walking or
just soaking up the sun. The highest sand dune between Cape
Hatteras and Cape Cod is located on this beach. This "great
dune" towers more than 80 feet above the shoreline.

There is a restored World War II Observation Tower, if you
are inclined, where the public is able to see the area from
a bird's eye view. The story behind the tower is
fascinating. Bird lovers will want to keep an eye out for
ospreys and hawks. The protected piping plover and bald
eagles have also been spotted occasionally.

Finding another location that matches this resort area's
variety and charm would be a challenging task, because it
really has everything you would want or need to have a fun
and relaxing vacation. Do yourself a favor and visit "The
Nation's Summer Capital". You'll be glad you did!

by Elizabeth Ann Wares
The author, Elizabeth Ann Wares is the webmaster of Airfare X - Resource For Discount Airfare .