Changes in air travel
Air travel can be a lot of fun because people are able to carry objects on board their flight that will amuse them for hours. Of course, getting on board these positions is a bit fragile and time consuming, but the people who have received comprehensive information about what is allowed and what should not make it through the control points of security without any problem at all.
Those who do not pass the tests of a security scan is that they have many people to talk during their journeys. Their property will also be monitored extreme, and it is quite possible that some personal items can be removed before the luggage of the passenger was allowed to board. Passengers must now ensure that their key charms and necklaces are not on the list of weapons.
People know they can get a cocktail aboard the flight, but there are limits to how many can be drunk during a flight. Get aboard a flight after sitting in an airport bar from some refreshments could prove to be a problem for many because people have discovered that they can be denied boarding if they show signs of drunkenness . People used to be able to have more drinks before their flight left the gate without reverberations of the flight crew.
Air travel is one of the most economical ways to travel, if people learn to search for bargains. Changes in the way people can buy tickets and pay have changed dramatically over the last fifteen years or more. People will no longer have to go from the airport to buy their tickets at the counter because these counters have been placed in the context of the Internet and people can buy tickets online from anywhere in the world.
People have come to expect less service they receive while they are in flight. Some people think that the low price of their airline tickets as a poor substitute for the treatment they expect from stewards. Packaged peanuts and a glass used to be the most welcomed amenities that people can receive when they finally seated on the flight. These subtleties would be a quiet growling stomach while in-flight or at least until the in-flight meals happen.
People never thought that when traveling by plane that someone might think to determine a package of peanuts or drink could be considered a weapon. Maybe solace coverage could take over, but these are rarer these days because the use thereof makes operating an airline is less affordable venture. Some comfort of some passengers were strongly in favour of passengers on the other hand, when smoking was banned on flights within the United States and later, on international flights.
Air Passengers wait with baited breath to see what further changes will occur in the travel industry. People will most likely not be able to telephone at home when they are in flight, because the use of mobile phones has been banned in flight, to a certain extent. Travellers can still choose to use the old coin machines to alert their friends to travel bargains, but they may not feel like they are alone on the line because Homeland Security could be followed by their appeal.
Those who do not pass the tests of a security scan is that they have many people to talk during their journeys. Their property will also be monitored extreme, and it is quite possible that some personal items can be removed before the luggage of the passenger was allowed to board. Passengers must now ensure that their key charms and necklaces are not on the list of weapons.
People know they can get a cocktail aboard the flight, but there are limits to how many can be drunk during a flight. Get aboard a flight after sitting in an airport bar from some refreshments could prove to be a problem for many because people have discovered that they can be denied boarding if they show signs of drunkenness . People used to be able to have more drinks before their flight left the gate without reverberations of the flight crew.
Air travel is one of the most economical ways to travel, if people learn to search for bargains. Changes in the way people can buy tickets and pay have changed dramatically over the last fifteen years or more. People will no longer have to go from the airport to buy their tickets at the counter because these counters have been placed in the context of the Internet and people can buy tickets online from anywhere in the world.
People have come to expect less service they receive while they are in flight. Some people think that the low price of their airline tickets as a poor substitute for the treatment they expect from stewards. Packaged peanuts and a glass used to be the most welcomed amenities that people can receive when they finally seated on the flight. These subtleties would be a quiet growling stomach while in-flight or at least until the in-flight meals happen.
People never thought that when traveling by plane that someone might think to determine a package of peanuts or drink could be considered a weapon. Maybe solace coverage could take over, but these are rarer these days because the use thereof makes operating an airline is less affordable venture. Some comfort of some passengers were strongly in favour of passengers on the other hand, when smoking was banned on flights within the United States and later, on international flights.
Air Passengers wait with baited breath to see what further changes will occur in the travel industry. People will most likely not be able to telephone at home when they are in flight, because the use of mobile phones has been banned in flight, to a certain extent. Travellers can still choose to use the old coin machines to alert their friends to travel bargains, but they may not feel like they are alone on the line because Homeland Security could be followed by their appeal.
Northern Cyprus Restaurants and Bars
In a season in the physical and economic landscape of Northern Cyprus changes that businesses are established, the houses are built and more people move to take advantage of the fantastic quality of life in northern Cyprus. But because the landscape has changed, it is time to put you in northern Cyprus again nightlife…
The novelty of the evening entertainment scene is Neo Bar, which is located in the old premises NightJar and heating, which is already in place to become the final destination of distinction in the whole of Northern Cyprus.
Can you imagine a vacation in northern Cyprus without sampling the cuisine?
For each trip, then certainly an adventure as inseparable Cypriot tasty food is a part of the unique culture.
Northern Cyprus is literally constellation of restaurants in the authentic cuisine of Cyprus, which offer very good value for money, fashion, as the french restaurants, Chinese or Indian.
Located at the crossroads of three continents, the Turkish-Cypriot cuisine has been influenced by various cultures throughout history, because most of its assets to the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Many dishes vary from region to Northern Cyprus a wonderful place to eat. The best restaurants, however, are found in and around Kyrenia.
Over the years, the culinary offerings in northern Cyprus have increased as well as the demand for their services. Not only the Islanders needed their services, but also by the increasing number of tourists who visit the island each year.
The first restaurants on the island were more local in nature and offered Cypriot dishes such as kebabs and mezes. The most famous of these restaurants are
Located in the port area of Kyrenia. It is a pleasure to enjoy a candle dinnerwhile gazing at the warm light illuminated Kyrenia Castle. Between the breath taking scenery and delicious cuisine, it is difficult to say who the strongest casts spell on you.
As the international community on the island continues to grow, there was a push towards more family oriented restaurants, the same nature as TGI Fridays and Steak Houses, "Stone Grill / Cafe Duka" for name a few have opened in the region of Kyrenia.
Cafe Bars English
There are many bars and coffee English pubs in the north of Cyprus, like the rest of the Mediterranean islands, the cafe bar culture is to be seen everywhere.
There is a wide variety of coffee bars in and around Kyrenia Harbor that serve a good selection of beers and food. You can also find excellent bars in the best
Hotels, The Colony Hotel's Rocks Hotel and the Hotel de Merrit name a few also offer entertainment but can be expensive, so please bear this in mind.
Some bars may emphasize English, Villa Swallow, which is located just a two minute walk from the port, it offers a wide selection of beers and beautiful home cooked English food, Fireman's Pub Fez is very useful to know who is the good old fish and chips A Friday evening and Castle Pub araoglanoglu which is only five minutes away is very handy if you want to watch live football.
The Santori Holiday Village is a good place for a night cap especially in the summer when there is a good atmosphere around the pool bar and restaurant.
The Escape offers both bars and the nightclub during the summer months. It is a great place for the latest in music and dance with his club outdoors next to the sea, you could not ask for a better setting.
Restaurants
Niazis Restaurant
Niazis Restaurant has been serving the food of good quality, mostly steaks and kebabs, residents and tourists over the age of 40. His now famous kebabs have stopped people who need an entry from the first day, and with a wide choice of desserts for all tastes, you really much choice. Located in the heart of Kyrenia, just 2 minutes from the port, you are also in perfect position to search for nighttime entertainment. Open 7 days per week.
Pizza Garden
Pizza Garden is a few kilometres west of Kyrenia, and this is a very popular restaurant that serves a variety of foods throughout the day. Famous for their individual style and taste of a pizza and delicious, thick chocolate / brandy milkshakes, you can sit and watch the best sunsets on the island has to offer in this place calm and relaxed. Open 7 days a week, closed from November to March.
Carob
Rich in history and architecture, this charming restaurant is situated in the heart of Kyrenia port, with its old fishing vessels and imposing backdrop of the ancient castle of Kyrenia. There are 3 floors with a total of the "sun roof" "the most popular place for diners to enjoy this magnificent view offer. The menu is extensive and there is always something for everyone, so while in northern Cyprus the carob is a must. Open 7 days per week.
L'Ambiance
The atmosphere is open from 2 of the most experienced and popular restaurant in the north and offers its diners something different compared with the average restaurant. Set right on the waterfront in the popular village of Karaoglanoglu, you can relax and enjoy one of the most extensive menus on the island, while listening to the waves gently splashing against the rocks. The evening is lively and the atmosphere is perfect, the day is defined sustained with the chance to relax on deck chairs and soak up the rays, on the whole, the ideal choice. Open 7 days a week, reservations required.
Altinkaya 1
Altinkaya 1 is located 5 miles west of downtown Kyrenia Kyrenia-on the road Lapta. This is nice fish restaurant, which offers panoramic views and a friendly atmosphere, open 7 days a week.
Chinese House
Beijing and Cantonese dishes served at the popular Chinese Kyrenia House located only 1.5 miles west of downtown. There are indoor and outdoor seating so you can enjoy the authentic cuisine anytime of the year. Closed Sunday.
Efendis House
Efendis House is located in the old Turkish with a lovely garden and giant apricot. This old-time restaurant has a small but delicious menu, the staff is friendly and the atmosphere is perfect. Closed Monday. If you are looking for an Indian restaurant of good quality, look no further. The location is both practical and impressive dinners and offers a wide choice of menu whose authentic Indian dishes, some French cuisine and an impressive choice of the Italian. Something for everyone. And it's all about Jashans.
The Stone Grill
The Stone Grill offers a superb and benefiting from an innovative idea that you can cook your own meals in front of you! The idea seems strange at first but quickly took off with the full parking an indication of its success. Open 7 days per week
The Address
One of the few restaurants that remain occupied throughout the year, and when you taste the food you know exactly why. Whether on the terrace in summer or inside in winter, the speech always has a fantastic atmosphere. Closed Tuesday.
St Tropez
Considered a superior restaurants in northern Cyprus, and rightly so, St. Tropez has built a great reputation over the years. With an excellent menu for everyone, friendly and efficient staff, a "cocktail bar and a wine list to compete with all the others, St Tropez is perfect for that special evening. Open 7 days per week.
The novelty of the evening entertainment scene is Neo Bar, which is located in the old premises NightJar and heating, which is already in place to become the final destination of distinction in the whole of Northern Cyprus.
Can you imagine a vacation in northern Cyprus without sampling the cuisine?
For each trip, then certainly an adventure as inseparable Cypriot tasty food is a part of the unique culture.
Northern Cyprus is literally constellation of restaurants in the authentic cuisine of Cyprus, which offer very good value for money, fashion, as the french restaurants, Chinese or Indian.
Located at the crossroads of three continents, the Turkish-Cypriot cuisine has been influenced by various cultures throughout history, because most of its assets to the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Many dishes vary from region to Northern Cyprus a wonderful place to eat. The best restaurants, however, are found in and around Kyrenia.
Over the years, the culinary offerings in northern Cyprus have increased as well as the demand for their services. Not only the Islanders needed their services, but also by the increasing number of tourists who visit the island each year.
The first restaurants on the island were more local in nature and offered Cypriot dishes such as kebabs and mezes. The most famous of these restaurants are
Located in the port area of Kyrenia. It is a pleasure to enjoy a candle dinnerwhile gazing at the warm light illuminated Kyrenia Castle. Between the breath taking scenery and delicious cuisine, it is difficult to say who the strongest casts spell on you.
As the international community on the island continues to grow, there was a push towards more family oriented restaurants, the same nature as TGI Fridays and Steak Houses, "Stone Grill / Cafe Duka" for name a few have opened in the region of Kyrenia.
Cafe Bars English
There are many bars and coffee English pubs in the north of Cyprus, like the rest of the Mediterranean islands, the cafe bar culture is to be seen everywhere.
There is a wide variety of coffee bars in and around Kyrenia Harbor that serve a good selection of beers and food. You can also find excellent bars in the best
Hotels, The Colony Hotel's Rocks Hotel and the Hotel de Merrit name a few also offer entertainment but can be expensive, so please bear this in mind.
Some bars may emphasize English, Villa Swallow, which is located just a two minute walk from the port, it offers a wide selection of beers and beautiful home cooked English food, Fireman's Pub Fez is very useful to know who is the good old fish and chips A Friday evening and Castle Pub araoglanoglu which is only five minutes away is very handy if you want to watch live football.
The Santori Holiday Village is a good place for a night cap especially in the summer when there is a good atmosphere around the pool bar and restaurant.
The Escape offers both bars and the nightclub during the summer months. It is a great place for the latest in music and dance with his club outdoors next to the sea, you could not ask for a better setting.
Restaurants
Niazis Restaurant
Niazis Restaurant has been serving the food of good quality, mostly steaks and kebabs, residents and tourists over the age of 40. His now famous kebabs have stopped people who need an entry from the first day, and with a wide choice of desserts for all tastes, you really much choice. Located in the heart of Kyrenia, just 2 minutes from the port, you are also in perfect position to search for nighttime entertainment. Open 7 days per week.
Pizza Garden
Pizza Garden is a few kilometres west of Kyrenia, and this is a very popular restaurant that serves a variety of foods throughout the day. Famous for their individual style and taste of a pizza and delicious, thick chocolate / brandy milkshakes, you can sit and watch the best sunsets on the island has to offer in this place calm and relaxed. Open 7 days a week, closed from November to March.
Carob
Rich in history and architecture, this charming restaurant is situated in the heart of Kyrenia port, with its old fishing vessels and imposing backdrop of the ancient castle of Kyrenia. There are 3 floors with a total of the "sun roof" "the most popular place for diners to enjoy this magnificent view offer. The menu is extensive and there is always something for everyone, so while in northern Cyprus the carob is a must. Open 7 days per week.
L'Ambiance
The atmosphere is open from 2 of the most experienced and popular restaurant in the north and offers its diners something different compared with the average restaurant. Set right on the waterfront in the popular village of Karaoglanoglu, you can relax and enjoy one of the most extensive menus on the island, while listening to the waves gently splashing against the rocks. The evening is lively and the atmosphere is perfect, the day is defined sustained with the chance to relax on deck chairs and soak up the rays, on the whole, the ideal choice. Open 7 days a week, reservations required.
Altinkaya 1
Altinkaya 1 is located 5 miles west of downtown Kyrenia Kyrenia-on the road Lapta. This is nice fish restaurant, which offers panoramic views and a friendly atmosphere, open 7 days a week.
Chinese House
Beijing and Cantonese dishes served at the popular Chinese Kyrenia House located only 1.5 miles west of downtown. There are indoor and outdoor seating so you can enjoy the authentic cuisine anytime of the year. Closed Sunday.
Efendis House
Efendis House is located in the old Turkish with a lovely garden and giant apricot. This old-time restaurant has a small but delicious menu, the staff is friendly and the atmosphere is perfect. Closed Monday. If you are looking for an Indian restaurant of good quality, look no further. The location is both practical and impressive dinners and offers a wide choice of menu whose authentic Indian dishes, some French cuisine and an impressive choice of the Italian. Something for everyone. And it's all about Jashans.
The Stone Grill
The Stone Grill offers a superb and benefiting from an innovative idea that you can cook your own meals in front of you! The idea seems strange at first but quickly took off with the full parking an indication of its success. Open 7 days per week
The Address
One of the few restaurants that remain occupied throughout the year, and when you taste the food you know exactly why. Whether on the terrace in summer or inside in winter, the speech always has a fantastic atmosphere. Closed Tuesday.
St Tropez
Considered a superior restaurants in northern Cyprus, and rightly so, St. Tropez has built a great reputation over the years. With an excellent menu for everyone, friendly and efficient staff, a "cocktail bar and a wine list to compete with all the others, St Tropez is perfect for that special evening. Open 7 days per week.
Rome - The City of Architectural Wonders
Rome is a historic city which has a great past with the present and future success foresight. The capital of Italy, Rome is one of the best tourist destinations of Europe. There is a long list of tourist sites in Rome to mesmerize tourists with its seductive beauty.
The Colosseum, one of the most famous buildings in the world, is famous for its architecture. The Coliseum was inaugurated in 79AD and up to 50000 spectators could enjoy immense gladiatorial spectacle of violence and death. Another architectural wonder historic Castel Sant'Angelo is regarded as one of the most beautiful monuments of Rome. It is mausoleum of the Emperor Hadrian and a better place to learn about the history of Italy. Perhaps the best-known building in the city, the Pantheon is one of the most beautiful and evocative buildings in the world. He survived through centuries of change. If you are found large and beautiful sculptures, the Centrale Montemartini is a place for you. Some of the larger sculptures can be seen in this museum. Villa Celimontana is one of the finest public gardens with an oasis of greenery and birdsong in the chaos of Rome.
The range of many other popular tourist attractions in Rome are the Zoo-Rome Bioparco, Roman houses on the hill Celio, Capitoline Museums, Museo di Roma (Palazzo Braschi), the Museum of Roman Culture, Museo Nazionale delle Arti e Tradizioni popular Museo dell 'Alto Medioevo, Galleria Spada, Galleria Borghese (reserve in advance), the Palazzo Barberini, Museo della Pasta - Pasta Museum, Teatro di Marcello, Via Appia Antica, the Protestant cemetery, Scala Santa - Holy Staircase, the Basilica San Giovanni in Laterano, Orto Botanico, the Valley Caffarella and many others.
To find an accommodation in Rome is not a major concern. There are varieties of Rome available hotels in the city. You can find budget Luxury hotels in Rome with a good availability of rooms and depending on the choice of visitors. So what are you waiting for, go and experience of the astounding wonders of architecture in Rome.
The Colosseum, one of the most famous buildings in the world, is famous for its architecture. The Coliseum was inaugurated in 79AD and up to 50000 spectators could enjoy immense gladiatorial spectacle of violence and death. Another architectural wonder historic Castel Sant'Angelo is regarded as one of the most beautiful monuments of Rome. It is mausoleum of the Emperor Hadrian and a better place to learn about the history of Italy. Perhaps the best-known building in the city, the Pantheon is one of the most beautiful and evocative buildings in the world. He survived through centuries of change. If you are found large and beautiful sculptures, the Centrale Montemartini is a place for you. Some of the larger sculptures can be seen in this museum. Villa Celimontana is one of the finest public gardens with an oasis of greenery and birdsong in the chaos of Rome.
The range of many other popular tourist attractions in Rome are the Zoo-Rome Bioparco, Roman houses on the hill Celio, Capitoline Museums, Museo di Roma (Palazzo Braschi), the Museum of Roman Culture, Museo Nazionale delle Arti e Tradizioni popular Museo dell 'Alto Medioevo, Galleria Spada, Galleria Borghese (reserve in advance), the Palazzo Barberini, Museo della Pasta - Pasta Museum, Teatro di Marcello, Via Appia Antica, the Protestant cemetery, Scala Santa - Holy Staircase, the Basilica San Giovanni in Laterano, Orto Botanico, the Valley Caffarella and many others.
To find an accommodation in Rome is not a major concern. There are varieties of Rome available hotels in the city. You can find budget Luxury hotels in Rome with a good availability of rooms and depending on the choice of visitors. So what are you waiting for, go and experience of the astounding wonders of architecture in Rome.
Essential Tips for Effective Boat Care
Owning a boat is having great responsibilities, and the first and foremost on the list is boat care. Boat care is a necessity if you want your companion on the water to stay with you for a very long time. There are many ways to care for a vessel to last long. One of the main ways to take care of your boat is covering the vessel with lid when not in use. This article will discuss why do we need boat covers, how to select the proper and where you get good boat covers.
The first thing we need to know is why we need a boat covers. The simple reason is that we have to protect the vessel of all living and non-living in the world that could have caused damage to the asset. There are things like mold, fungi, humidity and dust in the air around the boat that may have accumulated on which he would possibly damage the equipment of the boat is made up of.
Now comes the part - how to choose the right boat cover. The little things you need to keep in mind while selecting a good boat cover - first, the quality of the boat cover. Quality must be excellent to protect the boat perfectly, and also the last for a long time. The second is the size of the vessel cover. Not any size would. Cover Your boat must be exactly the size of the vessel.
Ultimately, where you will find the boat cover. Well, there are two ways to go about this task. You can search in the local market where they sell equipment care boat. You can also go to the sites where they sell boat blankets and other tools and equipment care boat.
The first thing we need to know is why we need a boat covers. The simple reason is that we have to protect the vessel of all living and non-living in the world that could have caused damage to the asset. There are things like mold, fungi, humidity and dust in the air around the boat that may have accumulated on which he would possibly damage the equipment of the boat is made up of.
Now comes the part - how to choose the right boat cover. The little things you need to keep in mind while selecting a good boat cover - first, the quality of the boat cover. Quality must be excellent to protect the boat perfectly, and also the last for a long time. The second is the size of the vessel cover. Not any size would. Cover Your boat must be exactly the size of the vessel.
Ultimately, where you will find the boat cover. Well, there are two ways to go about this task. You can search in the local market where they sell equipment care boat. You can also go to the sites where they sell boat blankets and other tools and equipment care boat.
Hotels - Isle of Wight
From the Isle of Wight lies off the southern coast of the British Isles, is a popular destination for those who want to get away and relax, as well as provide an opportunity to explore the beautiful surroundings.
The island is famous for its beaches and the countryside, and may provide opportunities for quiet and relaxing holidays without the hustle and bustle of crowded hotels of a vacation resort.
With scenic and serene little vacation cottages, these places are the ideal solution if you are looking for a quiet getaway.
In the search for accommodation, there is a wide range of different accommodation offered around the island.
Bed and breakfasts in places traditional are a popular feature of these tours, and visitors can choose from a range of holiday houses and cottages around the island.
Some visitors also choose to engage in self-catering holiday in a wide range of housing - from farm to the barn conversions and even old manor home.
The island is also popular destinations for walking and cycling holidays, as well as wildlife tours, with miles of countryside around you and a variety of rare and unusual species of flora and fauna to see .
Dotted across the lush countryside, you can find a number of different attractions - farms, wildlife sanctuaries and sports centres and maritime activities along miles of coastline.
Ferries and hovercraft from the mainland are relatively cheap, but it is advisable to book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Try to plan your vacation in advance, as the services may be affected by bad weather.
The island is famous for its beaches and the countryside, and may provide opportunities for quiet and relaxing holidays without the hustle and bustle of crowded hotels of a vacation resort.
With scenic and serene little vacation cottages, these places are the ideal solution if you are looking for a quiet getaway.
In the search for accommodation, there is a wide range of different accommodation offered around the island.
Bed and breakfasts in places traditional are a popular feature of these tours, and visitors can choose from a range of holiday houses and cottages around the island.
Some visitors also choose to engage in self-catering holiday in a wide range of housing - from farm to the barn conversions and even old manor home.
The island is also popular destinations for walking and cycling holidays, as well as wildlife tours, with miles of countryside around you and a variety of rare and unusual species of flora and fauna to see .
Dotted across the lush countryside, you can find a number of different attractions - farms, wildlife sanctuaries and sports centres and maritime activities along miles of coastline.
Ferries and hovercraft from the mainland are relatively cheap, but it is advisable to book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Try to plan your vacation in advance, as the services may be affected by bad weather.
Becoming an Ageless Golfer
It happens to all of us, even though we do not want to admit it. The reality is we all get older. Some of you may already know what I am talking about, and others may have yet to experience the phenomenon of aging. Those of you who are reading this article and are no longer “spring chickens” get my drift. Even if you are one of the lucky ones, still young, let me fill you in on what happens as the body gets a few miles on it.
Probably the biggest thing that we all dislike when we creep into our thirties and forties is the extra poundage (i.e. weight) we tend to put on. (It is also a lot harder to take off when we get older.) Unfortunately, because our metabolism slows down, we are unable to pound down a burger, fries, and a couple of cokes without the bathroom scale hitting “tilt” a few days later. In my mind, that probably is the most difficult adjustment we have to make: an adjustment in our nutrition intake as we age.
The second most noticeable difference as we age, especially for the more active individual, is it becomes a little more difficult to get out of bed. The back is a little sore, the knees are a little creaky, and, if you workout, the soreness does not go away as quickly. This is a result of a few things that happen to our bodies when we get older. Number one is we lose a percentage of our muscle mass on a yearly basis. After the age of 25 (don’t quote me on the specifics, but I believe) about 1% of your muscle mass is lost per year. Makes sense now why we get a little sorer and getting out of bed is more difficult. We simply do not have as much muscle to do the work.
I could go on and on with the depressing facts of aging, but let us look at just one more before moving on. As you get older you become less flexible. It takes you a lot longer to “limber up” for any sporting activity: golf, tennis, or a pick up game of basketball. Less flexibility predisposes you to experience more difficulty with certain movements: touching your toes, rotating during a golf swing, or even reaching down to pick something up off the ground. Why does this occur? Our bodies, as a result of wear and tear, become more “tight” and “wound up” as we get older.
So there you have it! Some of the great things to look forward to as you get older (kidding of course). So if you’re in your twenties and you’re reading this article, “enjoy it while it lasts,” because the road gets a little more difficult to travel as you get older. But, if you’re beyond your twenties, I am sure you can relate to the general results of aging in relation to your golf game. Quite simply, extra pounds decrease your stamina (and may affect your swing plane). Less muscle equals less distance off the tee, and decreased flexibility tends to make the turn in the golf swing much harder to perform. An unfortunate situation, but the good news is that we can slow down the aging process and limit the effects of aging on your golf game.
Slowing Down the Aging Process for the Golf Swing
I have given you a little “carrot of information” that we can slow down the aging process. How do we do it? It is actually quite simple and only requires a little time out of each day (15-20 minutes) and a little discipline. Sounds pretty easy when you think of all the benefits you stand to gain. What we are going to do is provide you some answers on how to slow down the aging process. Remember we can’t stop the aging process, but we can sure slow it down. The benefits of slowing down the aging process are evident when you see guys in their 50’s winning tour events. It just takes a little time, some knowledge, and discipline. If you are saying, “I don’t have the time,” let me ask you one question: How would you like to feel 10 years younger right now and hit the ball farther then you did in your twenties? I imagine the answer to both of those questions would be a resounding yes!
Let us start with the first topic that we described when you get older, the additional pounds. Unfortunately, as you age your metabolism slows down. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the word metabolism, think of it as your own internal furnace. It is the rate at which you burn fuel (food is fuel to the human body). When we are younger we tend have faster metabolisms, and as we get older they slow down. (I know it is a bummer.) Well, let me tell you, there are activities to speed that metabolism back up. The way to do it is by performing some fitness activities. If you are active and participate in some type of structured activity your body will burn more fuel and elevate its metabolism during this time. In addition, if these activities are resistance-training activities (i.e. weights, tubing, light dumbbells, body weight), then over time you will build some muscle. The great thing about that is the more muscle you have the higher your metabolism will be all the time (translation: you will burn more fuel all day and night). A secondary benefit of such activities will be greater stamina on the course. So rather than “spraying your shots” around on the back nine because you’re tired, you can have pinpoint accuracy going into the 18th.
Moving on to our second point, the loss of muscle mass as you age, this one is a tough one to swallow. Just think, we actually LOSE muscle as we age. Pretty depressing. The good news is it can be limited or stopped. Before I give you the solution, let’s look at how this affects your golf swing. Essentially, in the golf swing you create club head speed. That club head speed is the result of creating rotational power, which we define as torque. To create torque, the muscles of the body have to be flexible, strong, and powerful. Now guess what? If you have less muscle, what do you think is going to happen to your power outputs and club head speed? The answer is they will decrease. No wonder they make senior shafts with a lot of flex. This is the golf manufacturers’ attempt to deal with this problem. It helps to a point, but we have a better solution. How about putting something in your bag that makes you stronger, improves your power, and gets back that lost distance? Sounds good? Well, it can be done if you implement a golf-specific strength-training program. You can get back that lost muscle mass, get back that power, and improve your driving distance. This is what we call the development of “golf strength,” and it can be done with a program that takes a total of 15 minutes a day!
Finally, moving on to the flexibility issue, our bodies lose flexibility as we age. Flexibility is a must when it comes to the golf swing. Here is what happens when you do not “work” on your flexibility. A loss of flexibility in the golf swing limits the ability of the body to perform the correct actions to create the proper swing. Essentially, your body won’t allow you to take the club back and through on the correct swing path. This leads to miss hits, slices, hooks, and a whole bunch of other shots that are very unpleasant. So how do we fix this problem or not allow it to become a problem? The answer is to implement a golf-specific flexibility program. This again requires a daily commitment, but the time frame is very little (say 5 minutes a day). So again, ask yourself: Is it worth spending 5 minutes a day on flexibility to have the golf swing you would like? I bet most of you would answer yes.
The Magic Pill
Well, there you have the pleasures, displeasure, joys, and sorrows of the aging process. We all get older, but there are things we can do to prevent the displeasures and sorrows. If we take a little time every day and perform the proper exercises and activities, we can reduce the effects of aging and have a great swing for as long as we like. That’s the only magic pill we know of. If you would like more information on this subject and how to go about improving your golf fitness, take a look at our web site at www.bioforcegolf.com.
Probably the biggest thing that we all dislike when we creep into our thirties and forties is the extra poundage (i.e. weight) we tend to put on. (It is also a lot harder to take off when we get older.) Unfortunately, because our metabolism slows down, we are unable to pound down a burger, fries, and a couple of cokes without the bathroom scale hitting “tilt” a few days later. In my mind, that probably is the most difficult adjustment we have to make: an adjustment in our nutrition intake as we age.
The second most noticeable difference as we age, especially for the more active individual, is it becomes a little more difficult to get out of bed. The back is a little sore, the knees are a little creaky, and, if you workout, the soreness does not go away as quickly. This is a result of a few things that happen to our bodies when we get older. Number one is we lose a percentage of our muscle mass on a yearly basis. After the age of 25 (don’t quote me on the specifics, but I believe) about 1% of your muscle mass is lost per year. Makes sense now why we get a little sorer and getting out of bed is more difficult. We simply do not have as much muscle to do the work.
I could go on and on with the depressing facts of aging, but let us look at just one more before moving on. As you get older you become less flexible. It takes you a lot longer to “limber up” for any sporting activity: golf, tennis, or a pick up game of basketball. Less flexibility predisposes you to experience more difficulty with certain movements: touching your toes, rotating during a golf swing, or even reaching down to pick something up off the ground. Why does this occur? Our bodies, as a result of wear and tear, become more “tight” and “wound up” as we get older.
So there you have it! Some of the great things to look forward to as you get older (kidding of course). So if you’re in your twenties and you’re reading this article, “enjoy it while it lasts,” because the road gets a little more difficult to travel as you get older. But, if you’re beyond your twenties, I am sure you can relate to the general results of aging in relation to your golf game. Quite simply, extra pounds decrease your stamina (and may affect your swing plane). Less muscle equals less distance off the tee, and decreased flexibility tends to make the turn in the golf swing much harder to perform. An unfortunate situation, but the good news is that we can slow down the aging process and limit the effects of aging on your golf game.
Slowing Down the Aging Process for the Golf Swing
I have given you a little “carrot of information” that we can slow down the aging process. How do we do it? It is actually quite simple and only requires a little time out of each day (15-20 minutes) and a little discipline. Sounds pretty easy when you think of all the benefits you stand to gain. What we are going to do is provide you some answers on how to slow down the aging process. Remember we can’t stop the aging process, but we can sure slow it down. The benefits of slowing down the aging process are evident when you see guys in their 50’s winning tour events. It just takes a little time, some knowledge, and discipline. If you are saying, “I don’t have the time,” let me ask you one question: How would you like to feel 10 years younger right now and hit the ball farther then you did in your twenties? I imagine the answer to both of those questions would be a resounding yes!
Let us start with the first topic that we described when you get older, the additional pounds. Unfortunately, as you age your metabolism slows down. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the word metabolism, think of it as your own internal furnace. It is the rate at which you burn fuel (food is fuel to the human body). When we are younger we tend have faster metabolisms, and as we get older they slow down. (I know it is a bummer.) Well, let me tell you, there are activities to speed that metabolism back up. The way to do it is by performing some fitness activities. If you are active and participate in some type of structured activity your body will burn more fuel and elevate its metabolism during this time. In addition, if these activities are resistance-training activities (i.e. weights, tubing, light dumbbells, body weight), then over time you will build some muscle. The great thing about that is the more muscle you have the higher your metabolism will be all the time (translation: you will burn more fuel all day and night). A secondary benefit of such activities will be greater stamina on the course. So rather than “spraying your shots” around on the back nine because you’re tired, you can have pinpoint accuracy going into the 18th.
Moving on to our second point, the loss of muscle mass as you age, this one is a tough one to swallow. Just think, we actually LOSE muscle as we age. Pretty depressing. The good news is it can be limited or stopped. Before I give you the solution, let’s look at how this affects your golf swing. Essentially, in the golf swing you create club head speed. That club head speed is the result of creating rotational power, which we define as torque. To create torque, the muscles of the body have to be flexible, strong, and powerful. Now guess what? If you have less muscle, what do you think is going to happen to your power outputs and club head speed? The answer is they will decrease. No wonder they make senior shafts with a lot of flex. This is the golf manufacturers’ attempt to deal with this problem. It helps to a point, but we have a better solution. How about putting something in your bag that makes you stronger, improves your power, and gets back that lost distance? Sounds good? Well, it can be done if you implement a golf-specific strength-training program. You can get back that lost muscle mass, get back that power, and improve your driving distance. This is what we call the development of “golf strength,” and it can be done with a program that takes a total of 15 minutes a day!
Finally, moving on to the flexibility issue, our bodies lose flexibility as we age. Flexibility is a must when it comes to the golf swing. Here is what happens when you do not “work” on your flexibility. A loss of flexibility in the golf swing limits the ability of the body to perform the correct actions to create the proper swing. Essentially, your body won’t allow you to take the club back and through on the correct swing path. This leads to miss hits, slices, hooks, and a whole bunch of other shots that are very unpleasant. So how do we fix this problem or not allow it to become a problem? The answer is to implement a golf-specific flexibility program. This again requires a daily commitment, but the time frame is very little (say 5 minutes a day). So again, ask yourself: Is it worth spending 5 minutes a day on flexibility to have the golf swing you would like? I bet most of you would answer yes.
The Magic Pill
Well, there you have the pleasures, displeasure, joys, and sorrows of the aging process. We all get older, but there are things we can do to prevent the displeasures and sorrows. If we take a little time every day and perform the proper exercises and activities, we can reduce the effects of aging and have a great swing for as long as we like. That’s the only magic pill we know of. If you would like more information on this subject and how to go about improving your golf fitness, take a look at our web site at www.bioforcegolf.com.
Iceland Equals Adventure
Iceland is a little known adventure destination; it’s a little known destination period, let’s face it. But, if you are like me and really enjoy the outdoors, Iceland is a great place to visit. It has so many offerings, coupled with a near pristine environment.
Here is a list of some of the adventure possibilities Iceland offers, some all year round: hiking, trekking, snowmobiling, glacier hiking, mountain climbing, ice and rock climbing, downhill skiing, telemark skiing, ocean and freshwater fishing, white water rafting, adventure jeep tours, extreme off-roading, scuba diving (both fresh water and ocean) camping and cycling tours. Additionally, you can explore hot springs, ice and lava caves, lave fields, geothermal fields, bird watching – the list goes on.
I will not go into detail on all these activities, just the ones I have done myself. First up is hiking and trekking. In Iceland you can opt for easy, short hikes, half day hikes and overnight hikes. I have even see, though not done myself, a trek across the entire country that takes almost a month – what an experience that would be! I lived in Reykjavik for two years and participated in numerous hikes. Just outside of the capital is Mt. Esjan. This is a fairly easy 3-4 hour hike up the face of Mt. Esjan with a rewarding, uncluttered view back to Reykjavik.
The jeep tours are outstanding and I have been on several. Most will take you in to the backcountry, crossing streams (really rivers) along the way, driving on glaciers, black sand beaches, up tight mountain passes into some of the most beautiful areas I have ever seen. On memorable jeep tour I took was to visit several natural hot springs. The whole point of the tour was to bathe in as many hot springs as possible.
I have also done glacier trekking where you have to where crampons and follow a guide to make sure you don’t fall into a crevasse. This is one of the most memorable and powerful outdoors activities I did while in Iceland. The colors and surreal beauty was outstanding.
I never personally got the opportunity to do many of the other items I listed but, I have spoken with people who have done them all. Of particular consequence is the salmon fishing. Iceland is a world-class destination for fly fishing and you don’t even have to leave the city of Reykjavik. My apartment was about one half mile from one of the best fishing rivers in the country. During the season I would see the salmon grouping up together, resting before their next push forward. I would watch the fly fishermen hauling them in.
Iceland, as an adventure destination, does have some detractions. For one, it is fairly remote, located just below the arctic circle way out in the north Atlantic. Though, it is not as far away as you might think. Flight times from the east coast of the US range from 5 to 6 hours. Secondly, Iceland can have very bad weather, described as capricious. I would advise traveling there in the high season from May to late August. You can expect temperatures in the mid to high fifties and on a really nice day the temperature can reach 70 degrees. Another big hurdle is Iceland’s high prices. I read recently that Iceland was one of the most expensive countries in the world. This is especially true for food, fuel and lodgings.
High prices, potentially bad weather and its remote location aside, Iceland is worth it. If you want an adventure, almost no matter what kind of adventure, Iceland will deliver. Just pick your thrill, book your flight and enjoy.
Here is a list of some of the adventure possibilities Iceland offers, some all year round: hiking, trekking, snowmobiling, glacier hiking, mountain climbing, ice and rock climbing, downhill skiing, telemark skiing, ocean and freshwater fishing, white water rafting, adventure jeep tours, extreme off-roading, scuba diving (both fresh water and ocean) camping and cycling tours. Additionally, you can explore hot springs, ice and lava caves, lave fields, geothermal fields, bird watching – the list goes on.
I will not go into detail on all these activities, just the ones I have done myself. First up is hiking and trekking. In Iceland you can opt for easy, short hikes, half day hikes and overnight hikes. I have even see, though not done myself, a trek across the entire country that takes almost a month – what an experience that would be! I lived in Reykjavik for two years and participated in numerous hikes. Just outside of the capital is Mt. Esjan. This is a fairly easy 3-4 hour hike up the face of Mt. Esjan with a rewarding, uncluttered view back to Reykjavik.
The jeep tours are outstanding and I have been on several. Most will take you in to the backcountry, crossing streams (really rivers) along the way, driving on glaciers, black sand beaches, up tight mountain passes into some of the most beautiful areas I have ever seen. On memorable jeep tour I took was to visit several natural hot springs. The whole point of the tour was to bathe in as many hot springs as possible.
I have also done glacier trekking where you have to where crampons and follow a guide to make sure you don’t fall into a crevasse. This is one of the most memorable and powerful outdoors activities I did while in Iceland. The colors and surreal beauty was outstanding.
I never personally got the opportunity to do many of the other items I listed but, I have spoken with people who have done them all. Of particular consequence is the salmon fishing. Iceland is a world-class destination for fly fishing and you don’t even have to leave the city of Reykjavik. My apartment was about one half mile from one of the best fishing rivers in the country. During the season I would see the salmon grouping up together, resting before their next push forward. I would watch the fly fishermen hauling them in.
Iceland, as an adventure destination, does have some detractions. For one, it is fairly remote, located just below the arctic circle way out in the north Atlantic. Though, it is not as far away as you might think. Flight times from the east coast of the US range from 5 to 6 hours. Secondly, Iceland can have very bad weather, described as capricious. I would advise traveling there in the high season from May to late August. You can expect temperatures in the mid to high fifties and on a really nice day the temperature can reach 70 degrees. Another big hurdle is Iceland’s high prices. I read recently that Iceland was one of the most expensive countries in the world. This is especially true for food, fuel and lodgings.
High prices, potentially bad weather and its remote location aside, Iceland is worth it. If you want an adventure, almost no matter what kind of adventure, Iceland will deliver. Just pick your thrill, book your flight and enjoy.
Boat Timeshares - A Unique Vacationing Experience
If you’ve dreamed of sailing the seven seas, but don’t necessarily have the bank account to buy a luxury vessel, don’t despair. There are ways to make that dream happen without breaking your bank.
Boat timeshares offer a unique vacationing experience for almost any budget. By getting involved in a timeshare, you have the right to use that luxury vessel to make your dreams come true, but you alone are not solely responsible for all the expenses. Timeshares provide an excellent way for someone not willing or able to take on the expense of purchasing a great vacationing boat themselves to still experience the adventure of life on the water.
A variety of companies offer would-be Captain Ahab’s the ability to take to the sea without shelling out a lot of cash. Boat timeshare companies and programs are readily available and accessible across the Internet. Boating timeshare companies are active all over the world with even some finding their homes on America’s Great Lakes.
Basically, a boat timeshare offers a sailor a chance to buy into a piece of a boat for a season. Similar to a yacht club, but without all the expenses of owning your own yacht, these programs lets sailors sail minus the headaches. Some programs allow members to purchase blocks of time over the course of a sailing season to use a boat. Many programs work by giving several “skippers” the same boat during the sailing season. These skippers book multiple sail times, show up, sail, have a blast and return the boat for the next skipper to take over.
While boat timeshares provide everything needed to sail, members still are responsible for making sure the boat is in good condition when it’s returned. Swabbing the deck isn’t out of the question. However, many timeshare programs will even go as far as to include maintenance, fuel and so on in the initial price. This leaves the member responsible for simply safely piloting the vessel, keeping it clean and enjoying their high seas adventure with their family and friends for a fraction of the price of owning a yacht themselves. The insurance, boat licensing and other worries are generally handled by the timeshare company itself.
For those who lack the skills to man their own vessels, many boat timeshares will provide a crew including a captain, instructor, and/or cook at a small additional cost. One company in particular, Trade Winds Cruise Club, offers all-inclusive cabin rentals and is RCI’s (Resorts Condominiums International) only Caribbean yachting affiliate. As an RCI Member, you have the option of exchanging your timeshare week for a cabin space onboard crewed catamaran charters.
So, what is pricing like for these nautical adventures? Not bad considering a luxury boat can cost thousands and thousands of dollars. And even better when you consider buying your own boat doesn’t include fuel, maintenance, licensing and insurance costs and so on! A timeshare that covers an entire boating season can cost upwards of $7,000, a reasonable expense considering the headaches removed by taking part in such a venture.
Boat timeshares offer a unique vacationing experience for almost any budget. By getting involved in a timeshare, you have the right to use that luxury vessel to make your dreams come true, but you alone are not solely responsible for all the expenses. Timeshares provide an excellent way for someone not willing or able to take on the expense of purchasing a great vacationing boat themselves to still experience the adventure of life on the water.
A variety of companies offer would-be Captain Ahab’s the ability to take to the sea without shelling out a lot of cash. Boat timeshare companies and programs are readily available and accessible across the Internet. Boating timeshare companies are active all over the world with even some finding their homes on America’s Great Lakes.
Basically, a boat timeshare offers a sailor a chance to buy into a piece of a boat for a season. Similar to a yacht club, but without all the expenses of owning your own yacht, these programs lets sailors sail minus the headaches. Some programs allow members to purchase blocks of time over the course of a sailing season to use a boat. Many programs work by giving several “skippers” the same boat during the sailing season. These skippers book multiple sail times, show up, sail, have a blast and return the boat for the next skipper to take over.
While boat timeshares provide everything needed to sail, members still are responsible for making sure the boat is in good condition when it’s returned. Swabbing the deck isn’t out of the question. However, many timeshare programs will even go as far as to include maintenance, fuel and so on in the initial price. This leaves the member responsible for simply safely piloting the vessel, keeping it clean and enjoying their high seas adventure with their family and friends for a fraction of the price of owning a yacht themselves. The insurance, boat licensing and other worries are generally handled by the timeshare company itself.
For those who lack the skills to man their own vessels, many boat timeshares will provide a crew including a captain, instructor, and/or cook at a small additional cost. One company in particular, Trade Winds Cruise Club, offers all-inclusive cabin rentals and is RCI’s (Resorts Condominiums International) only Caribbean yachting affiliate. As an RCI Member, you have the option of exchanging your timeshare week for a cabin space onboard crewed catamaran charters.
So, what is pricing like for these nautical adventures? Not bad considering a luxury boat can cost thousands and thousands of dollars. And even better when you consider buying your own boat doesn’t include fuel, maintenance, licensing and insurance costs and so on! A timeshare that covers an entire boating season can cost upwards of $7,000, a reasonable expense considering the headaches removed by taking part in such a venture.
Six good reasons to take a family vacation.
When I was young, family vacations with my parents consisted of driving for a week from place to place in a hot stifling car. My parents had the knack of picking the hottest week of the summer to do so. In spite of that, we still had fun, managed to find interesting sites to explore and those are the memories that I still have.
I discovered the joy of travel to far reaching destinations on my own by the time I turned 18. Jumping on a plane and heading off to Brazil, Europe or cruising the Caribbean, has turned into a life long passion my whole family now enjoys with me.
Family vacations have evolved over the years. There have never been more choices, more variety and more options available for family vacations as there is today. Especially since 9/11, the focus on family and community and played a strong role in our society. The travel industry has noticed and has geared up for families. From all-inclusive vacation packages and cruises, which are equipped with kids clubs and special activities: to resorts that supply a nanny for your stay, it’s never been a better time for families to travel.
Still not sure? Here are just a few of the benefits of taking a family vacation:
1. The family that plays together, stays together.....
It is a time to get away from it all. Away from work, the phone calls, the kid’s activities, the daily to do list. This is a great opportunity to spend time as a family and get to know each other. Go for a hike, build a sandcastle, explore a museum. There is more time to talk and spend time together without the daily distractions.
2. Teach your children well....
Travel is an excellent learning tool for kids. They can have the opportunity to learn about things first hand they may have learned in school, read about or saw on TV. Any destination can offer this learning experience whether it is a few hours drive away from you home or in Europe. Family vacations will teach children about different cultures, food, history, geography, climate, environment and so much more. The best part is that it’s way more fun for them then learning it through homework!
3. New experiences they will never forget.....
Family vacations provide a whole new venue for experiences that your kids never would have had otherwise. We took a family cruise last winter, and it was my 9-year-old son’s first cruise. We told him all about the ship and showed him pictures but I don’t think he could quite grasp what it was really going to be like. We landed in Fort Lauderdale and as we were driving to the port, we could see our ship in the distance. He was excited but still very nonchalant. Once we got to the port and pulled up alongside the ship, he looked up and up and up at the enormous ship, his mouth dropped open and he gasped in amazement. That reaction was worth the price of the whole trip and is something I know our family will always remember.
4. Life is an adventure, especially on vacation....
Even if you are not particularly brave there are still many ways to experience the adventures that lie in every corner of our planet. It may be as simple as going to the zoo at your destination and seeing the animals that are local to that habitat or taking a jungle tour though the Amazon. There is so much to see and do, pick the adventures that appeal to your family and do them together.
5. You kids won’t be kids forever....
Doesn’t seem like yesterday that the teenager that just borrowed your car, was in diapers and day-care? Most parents agree that time seems to fly by quickly and those babies are grown before you know it. There will come a time that your children will have lives of their own and sad as it may seem, spending time with Mom and Dad will not be anywhere near the top of their list. Take the time for a family vacation while they still want your company.
6. Time to kick back and relax......
Now this part is important. One of the main reasons to take a vacation is to get some rest and recharge. It is important for everyone so don’t over do it. Try and schedule an active day followed by a more relaxing day. It’s hard to do in some destinations where there is so much to see and do like Disney World, but trust me. The kids will be less tired and cranky and it will give you a reason to come back to the destination again!
I know this all sounds so good, it makes you want to book that trip you’ve been putting off doesn’t it? Well, I will add in a dose of reality here and include a few negatives. There are some natural stresses to travelling. Planes get delayed, kids get cranky, families can have too much of a good thing and get on each other’s nerves. The list can go on, but don’t let that discourage you, the advantages are too numerous to ignore.
So whether you choose to pack the kids in the car or fly to more exotic destinations, the benefits are the same. As far as memories go, we tend to remember the good things; the time spent together as a family, the new things that were discovered, the new friends we made, the places we saw. This is what your children will remember and, the fact that you were there with them to enjoy it.
I discovered the joy of travel to far reaching destinations on my own by the time I turned 18. Jumping on a plane and heading off to Brazil, Europe or cruising the Caribbean, has turned into a life long passion my whole family now enjoys with me.
Family vacations have evolved over the years. There have never been more choices, more variety and more options available for family vacations as there is today. Especially since 9/11, the focus on family and community and played a strong role in our society. The travel industry has noticed and has geared up for families. From all-inclusive vacation packages and cruises, which are equipped with kids clubs and special activities: to resorts that supply a nanny for your stay, it’s never been a better time for families to travel.
Still not sure? Here are just a few of the benefits of taking a family vacation:
1. The family that plays together, stays together.....
It is a time to get away from it all. Away from work, the phone calls, the kid’s activities, the daily to do list. This is a great opportunity to spend time as a family and get to know each other. Go for a hike, build a sandcastle, explore a museum. There is more time to talk and spend time together without the daily distractions.
2. Teach your children well....
Travel is an excellent learning tool for kids. They can have the opportunity to learn about things first hand they may have learned in school, read about or saw on TV. Any destination can offer this learning experience whether it is a few hours drive away from you home or in Europe. Family vacations will teach children about different cultures, food, history, geography, climate, environment and so much more. The best part is that it’s way more fun for them then learning it through homework!
3. New experiences they will never forget.....
Family vacations provide a whole new venue for experiences that your kids never would have had otherwise. We took a family cruise last winter, and it was my 9-year-old son’s first cruise. We told him all about the ship and showed him pictures but I don’t think he could quite grasp what it was really going to be like. We landed in Fort Lauderdale and as we were driving to the port, we could see our ship in the distance. He was excited but still very nonchalant. Once we got to the port and pulled up alongside the ship, he looked up and up and up at the enormous ship, his mouth dropped open and he gasped in amazement. That reaction was worth the price of the whole trip and is something I know our family will always remember.
4. Life is an adventure, especially on vacation....
Even if you are not particularly brave there are still many ways to experience the adventures that lie in every corner of our planet. It may be as simple as going to the zoo at your destination and seeing the animals that are local to that habitat or taking a jungle tour though the Amazon. There is so much to see and do, pick the adventures that appeal to your family and do them together.
5. You kids won’t be kids forever....
Doesn’t seem like yesterday that the teenager that just borrowed your car, was in diapers and day-care? Most parents agree that time seems to fly by quickly and those babies are grown before you know it. There will come a time that your children will have lives of their own and sad as it may seem, spending time with Mom and Dad will not be anywhere near the top of their list. Take the time for a family vacation while they still want your company.
6. Time to kick back and relax......
Now this part is important. One of the main reasons to take a vacation is to get some rest and recharge. It is important for everyone so don’t over do it. Try and schedule an active day followed by a more relaxing day. It’s hard to do in some destinations where there is so much to see and do like Disney World, but trust me. The kids will be less tired and cranky and it will give you a reason to come back to the destination again!
I know this all sounds so good, it makes you want to book that trip you’ve been putting off doesn’t it? Well, I will add in a dose of reality here and include a few negatives. There are some natural stresses to travelling. Planes get delayed, kids get cranky, families can have too much of a good thing and get on each other’s nerves. The list can go on, but don’t let that discourage you, the advantages are too numerous to ignore.
So whether you choose to pack the kids in the car or fly to more exotic destinations, the benefits are the same. As far as memories go, we tend to remember the good things; the time spent together as a family, the new things that were discovered, the new friends we made, the places we saw. This is what your children will remember and, the fact that you were there with them to enjoy it.
Traveling to Europe with your Digital Camera?
The Vacation Season is fast approaching and naturally you will be taking your digital camera along for the journey. After all your vacations are far and few between and it is nice to look back on those memories as you slave away at your job. However, when you travel with a digital camera, it is a completely different experience from that of traveling with a film camera. This is a lesson that far too many travelers seem to be learning the hard way, especially if you’re traveling to Europe. After a couples years of relying solely on digital for taking photos when I travel, there are things you should consider before you head off on your next trip.
Charging Batteries is one of the biggest stumbling blocks you'll face when you travel. Outlets can be scarce in hotels. On a recent trip to Europe, only one of the five modern hotels I stayed in had more than one outlet available for use when charging up electronics. Charging your battery can be more of a hassle if you're traveling by train: If you take an overnight train in Europe, they don't have power adapters at the seats (certain trains do, but it's not something you can count on). I suggest bringing at least two rechargeable batteries, three if you plan to travel with overnight trains, or don't think you'll be able to charge every night. If your camera uses regular AA batteries, consider yourself lucky-you'll find those everywhere. Scope out the situation in your room when you check in: You should get at least one usable outlet, but don't count on more than that.
Bring your plugs. Some digital cameras typically come with a power brick that can handle international voltages, so you won't need a voltage adapter. However, you will need a power plug adapter to convert a US outlet plug to the local plug. Most of Europe is on the same outlet now-but not all countries accept the general "Europe" plug. Be sure to research what you'll need to jack in, and try to buy it before you leave (try CompUSA, Radio Shack, Rand McNally, or your local luggage store). If you don't have a chance to get what you need Stateside, don't fret: You should have no trouble finding an outlet converter overseas.
How do I offload my images? For fellow travelers using digicams, this was the number one problem I have heard repeatedly. Many comments from folks traveling for a week or more are: "I'm taking more pictures than I expected to." "I'm not shooting at the best resolution, because I need the room on my memory card." "I'm only halfway through my trip, and I have only 50 shots left." When you travel, odds are you'll take more pictures than you expect to also. A 1 GB card is very useful, and should suffice for low-usage shooters. But for those of us, who can go through a gigabyte or more in a day, not a week? Whether it's because your a high-volume shooter, shooting in RAW format, or a combination of the two. What I discovered is many who had digital SLRs, that had 5 megapixel or more reported they were traveling with a laptop to off load their images. None of these folks were traveling on business, so they didn't need to bring a laptop along. The sad fact is, for now, a laptop remains the most efficient and usable means of off loading images. Epson and Nikon have dedicated handheld units with a hard drive, card reader, and LCD display for copying over and viewing your images.
But neither has a full-blown keyboard. If you're first buying a laptop, and intend to travel with it, I suggest going for the smallest one you can. Fujitsu, Panasonic, Sharp, and Sony all have models under four pounds. A laptop provides several additional advantages. For one thing, you can see your pictures on a big screen-to view how you're doing, and if you see any problems you want to correct with your exposure, for example, or if your pictures are being affected by dirt. For another thing, you can properly label your folders, so you know which pictures were taken where. Most newer laptops have integrated memory card readers, but otherwise, you can buy a small external card reader. For the wire-free approach, use a PC Card slot adapter for your memory card; and invest in a 32-bit Cardbus adapter (Delkin and Lexar Media offer these), for speedier transfers. Nothing's worse than coming back to the hotel after a long day of sightseeing, and needing to stay awake another 40 minutes just to off -load two 1 GB cards, at about 20 minutes a pop. If you bring a laptop, I also suggest investing in a portable hard drive.
A portable hard drive can serve multiple purposes: It can be a means of backing up your photos on the go; a means of giving you a way to take your photos with you if you have to leave your laptop unattended; and a means of expansion, if you somehow manage to fill up your laptop's built-in hard disk. If you don't want to bring a laptop, and already have an Apple iPod, Belkin sells an attachment for using your iPod with memory cards; or, consider the pricey units from Nikon and Epson. And if you're in a bind, remember you can always buy memory overseas. I was surprised that when I went to Europe, the prices were high, but not so outrageously so that I wouldn't buy another card if I were in a bind. Cards were more readily available, too, than they were when I last traveled through Europe three years ago. Look at it this way: Even if you overpay on the card, you can still reuse it-which beats overpaying for a single use 35mm film cartridge when you were in a bind in years' past.
Be prepared for problems. Things happen when you travel and I've had more things go awry carrying my digital SLR than I have had with my 35mm over the years. Lens paper is always useful to have on hand, but if you have a digital SLR, another supply is absolutely critical: An air blower bulb, to blast out the dust and dirt that will inevitably get trapped inside your camera. I never had problems with my 35mm SLR, but with my digital SLR, I constantly find dirt gets trapped inside, when I change lenses.
And there's nothing worse than having a splotch marring your otherwise awesome shots. Finally, remember the philosophy of redundancy. Whether your battery dies and you have no way to charge it, or you run out of space on your memory card(s), and don't want to buy another at a higher-than-usual price, I suggest packing a second camera if you can. A digital point and shoot is a good option but I usually carry a point and shoot 35mm to use if I run into any problems just so I won’t lose any precious pictures.
Charging Batteries is one of the biggest stumbling blocks you'll face when you travel. Outlets can be scarce in hotels. On a recent trip to Europe, only one of the five modern hotels I stayed in had more than one outlet available for use when charging up electronics. Charging your battery can be more of a hassle if you're traveling by train: If you take an overnight train in Europe, they don't have power adapters at the seats (certain trains do, but it's not something you can count on). I suggest bringing at least two rechargeable batteries, three if you plan to travel with overnight trains, or don't think you'll be able to charge every night. If your camera uses regular AA batteries, consider yourself lucky-you'll find those everywhere. Scope out the situation in your room when you check in: You should get at least one usable outlet, but don't count on more than that.
Bring your plugs. Some digital cameras typically come with a power brick that can handle international voltages, so you won't need a voltage adapter. However, you will need a power plug adapter to convert a US outlet plug to the local plug. Most of Europe is on the same outlet now-but not all countries accept the general "Europe" plug. Be sure to research what you'll need to jack in, and try to buy it before you leave (try CompUSA, Radio Shack, Rand McNally, or your local luggage store). If you don't have a chance to get what you need Stateside, don't fret: You should have no trouble finding an outlet converter overseas.
How do I offload my images? For fellow travelers using digicams, this was the number one problem I have heard repeatedly. Many comments from folks traveling for a week or more are: "I'm taking more pictures than I expected to." "I'm not shooting at the best resolution, because I need the room on my memory card." "I'm only halfway through my trip, and I have only 50 shots left." When you travel, odds are you'll take more pictures than you expect to also. A 1 GB card is very useful, and should suffice for low-usage shooters. But for those of us, who can go through a gigabyte or more in a day, not a week? Whether it's because your a high-volume shooter, shooting in RAW format, or a combination of the two. What I discovered is many who had digital SLRs, that had 5 megapixel or more reported they were traveling with a laptop to off load their images. None of these folks were traveling on business, so they didn't need to bring a laptop along. The sad fact is, for now, a laptop remains the most efficient and usable means of off loading images. Epson and Nikon have dedicated handheld units with a hard drive, card reader, and LCD display for copying over and viewing your images.
But neither has a full-blown keyboard. If you're first buying a laptop, and intend to travel with it, I suggest going for the smallest one you can. Fujitsu, Panasonic, Sharp, and Sony all have models under four pounds. A laptop provides several additional advantages. For one thing, you can see your pictures on a big screen-to view how you're doing, and if you see any problems you want to correct with your exposure, for example, or if your pictures are being affected by dirt. For another thing, you can properly label your folders, so you know which pictures were taken where. Most newer laptops have integrated memory card readers, but otherwise, you can buy a small external card reader. For the wire-free approach, use a PC Card slot adapter for your memory card; and invest in a 32-bit Cardbus adapter (Delkin and Lexar Media offer these), for speedier transfers. Nothing's worse than coming back to the hotel after a long day of sightseeing, and needing to stay awake another 40 minutes just to off -load two 1 GB cards, at about 20 minutes a pop. If you bring a laptop, I also suggest investing in a portable hard drive.
A portable hard drive can serve multiple purposes: It can be a means of backing up your photos on the go; a means of giving you a way to take your photos with you if you have to leave your laptop unattended; and a means of expansion, if you somehow manage to fill up your laptop's built-in hard disk. If you don't want to bring a laptop, and already have an Apple iPod, Belkin sells an attachment for using your iPod with memory cards; or, consider the pricey units from Nikon and Epson. And if you're in a bind, remember you can always buy memory overseas. I was surprised that when I went to Europe, the prices were high, but not so outrageously so that I wouldn't buy another card if I were in a bind. Cards were more readily available, too, than they were when I last traveled through Europe three years ago. Look at it this way: Even if you overpay on the card, you can still reuse it-which beats overpaying for a single use 35mm film cartridge when you were in a bind in years' past.
Be prepared for problems. Things happen when you travel and I've had more things go awry carrying my digital SLR than I have had with my 35mm over the years. Lens paper is always useful to have on hand, but if you have a digital SLR, another supply is absolutely critical: An air blower bulb, to blast out the dust and dirt that will inevitably get trapped inside your camera. I never had problems with my 35mm SLR, but with my digital SLR, I constantly find dirt gets trapped inside, when I change lenses.
And there's nothing worse than having a splotch marring your otherwise awesome shots. Finally, remember the philosophy of redundancy. Whether your battery dies and you have no way to charge it, or you run out of space on your memory card(s), and don't want to buy another at a higher-than-usual price, I suggest packing a second camera if you can. A digital point and shoot is a good option but I usually carry a point and shoot 35mm to use if I run into any problems just so I won’t lose any precious pictures.
A Guide to Colorado Mountain Vacations
The state of Colorado is one of the premier spots in the United States for mountain vacationing. A Colorado mountain vacation can be the adventure of a lifetime. There are many attractions in Colorado, including skiing, shopping, hiking, biking, and enjoying live entertainment.
A Colorado mountain vacation is a great trip for the whole family. Children can enjoy the outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and rafting. Families can go shopping together and eat at world-class restaurants. Attractions like Pike’s Peak are designed for the whole family.
Couples looking for a good way to unwind are also advised to check out a Colorado Mountain vacation. Many lodgings are designed for couples, and feature romantic amenities like private hot tubs, candlelit dinners, and breathtaking mountain views.
Colorado includes six of Ski Magazine’s top ten North American ski resorts. Skiing and snowboarding are major attractions of a Colorado mountain vacation. Some of the major ski resorts in Colorado are Vail, Snowmass, Steamboat Springs, Breckenridge, Beaver Creek, and Telluride.
Each of these resorts offers a variety of amenities, including accommodations, ski equipment rental, fine dining, and some of the greatest ski slopes on the continent. Many resorts also offer lessons to beginners, assuring that visitors do not have to be great skiers to have a good time. The slopes range in difficulty from beginner’s level to extremely difficult.
Each ski lodge rates its slopes somewhat differently, but the color code system applies to most of them. A green circle signifies a beginner’s slope, slopes for skiers with intermediate experience are designated by a blue square, and difficult slopes are marked with a black diamond. Some skiers are skilled (and brave) enough to try a double or triple black diamond. The most difficult ski slopes are marked with a yellow exclamation point.
A Colorado Mountain vacation can be the adventure of a lifetime. Aside from all of the breathtaking outdoor activities, visitors can also make the short drive to Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Denver to catch a concert, or go to the annual Telluride Film Festival. Vacationers on a budget can find lodgings and activities that will fit within their price range, too. Mountain Vacations Info provides detailed information on vacations in the Rocky, Blue Ridge, and Great Smoky Mountains, as well as mountain biking vacations and mountain rental cabins in Colorado, North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, and other destinations. Mountain Vacations Info is the sister site of Dude Ranch Web.
A Colorado mountain vacation is a great trip for the whole family. Children can enjoy the outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and rafting. Families can go shopping together and eat at world-class restaurants. Attractions like Pike’s Peak are designed for the whole family.
Couples looking for a good way to unwind are also advised to check out a Colorado Mountain vacation. Many lodgings are designed for couples, and feature romantic amenities like private hot tubs, candlelit dinners, and breathtaking mountain views.
Colorado includes six of Ski Magazine’s top ten North American ski resorts. Skiing and snowboarding are major attractions of a Colorado mountain vacation. Some of the major ski resorts in Colorado are Vail, Snowmass, Steamboat Springs, Breckenridge, Beaver Creek, and Telluride.
Each of these resorts offers a variety of amenities, including accommodations, ski equipment rental, fine dining, and some of the greatest ski slopes on the continent. Many resorts also offer lessons to beginners, assuring that visitors do not have to be great skiers to have a good time. The slopes range in difficulty from beginner’s level to extremely difficult.
Each ski lodge rates its slopes somewhat differently, but the color code system applies to most of them. A green circle signifies a beginner’s slope, slopes for skiers with intermediate experience are designated by a blue square, and difficult slopes are marked with a black diamond. Some skiers are skilled (and brave) enough to try a double or triple black diamond. The most difficult ski slopes are marked with a yellow exclamation point.
A Colorado Mountain vacation can be the adventure of a lifetime. Aside from all of the breathtaking outdoor activities, visitors can also make the short drive to Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Denver to catch a concert, or go to the annual Telluride Film Festival. Vacationers on a budget can find lodgings and activities that will fit within their price range, too. Mountain Vacations Info provides detailed information on vacations in the Rocky, Blue Ridge, and Great Smoky Mountains, as well as mountain biking vacations and mountain rental cabins in Colorado, North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, and other destinations. Mountain Vacations Info is the sister site of Dude Ranch Web.
All You Need to Know About Travel Humidors
When humidors where first created by Zino Davidoff in the early 20th century, they were large cellar humidors which certainly made for restricted travel. One now had the ability to strive for the perfect cigar, but only from home. Most people would agree that the feasibility of traveling with a large room did not exist, and still does not, even today. A dilemma arose as to how to preserve a moist cigar while traveling.
Early models of travel humidors were patterned after air-tight cases in which the cigar aficionado placed cigars already maintained in a cellar humidor. This worked well except that when one opened the travel humidor, since the maintained humidity existed as a result of already moist cigars, each time the humidor was opened, humidity would escape and the ambient humidity of the room replaced the humidity that had been inside the travel humidor.
Today humidors can be found that are battery-powered or can be plugged into any available AC outlet or a combination of both. While these types of humidors are more functional than ostentatious, they can be made of any materials in varying shapes and designs, suited to please the taste of even the most discriminating smoker.
Most travel humidors are made of extremely durable plastic, designed to withstand the rigors of being moved about and for its lightweight portability. Travel humidors now meant that a society that is becoming increasingly more mobile as a result of the prevalence of automobiles and air is no longer demanded to choose between having a perfect cigar and being tied to home or having to leave behind one’s favorite pastime to travel.
Travel humidors are also an inexpensive addition with many functional travel humidors costing less than $30. The internet is an excellent way to research the different styles and brands while also finding the least expensive style that will meet ones requirements.
Early models of travel humidors were patterned after air-tight cases in which the cigar aficionado placed cigars already maintained in a cellar humidor. This worked well except that when one opened the travel humidor, since the maintained humidity existed as a result of already moist cigars, each time the humidor was opened, humidity would escape and the ambient humidity of the room replaced the humidity that had been inside the travel humidor.
Today humidors can be found that are battery-powered or can be plugged into any available AC outlet or a combination of both. While these types of humidors are more functional than ostentatious, they can be made of any materials in varying shapes and designs, suited to please the taste of even the most discriminating smoker.
Most travel humidors are made of extremely durable plastic, designed to withstand the rigors of being moved about and for its lightweight portability. Travel humidors now meant that a society that is becoming increasingly more mobile as a result of the prevalence of automobiles and air is no longer demanded to choose between having a perfect cigar and being tied to home or having to leave behind one’s favorite pastime to travel.
Travel humidors are also an inexpensive addition with many functional travel humidors costing less than $30. The internet is an excellent way to research the different styles and brands while also finding the least expensive style that will meet ones requirements.
Preparing to travel
The world has changed a lot in the past century. Thanks to the invention of airplanes and high-speed trains, today's world is wide open to travel. In a day's time, we can travel to the other side of the world without using our entire life's savings. We also have a number of options open to us to help us plan our travels, and choosing wisely can help save time and money.
1. Travel Agents. Many people have the misconception that using a travel agent entails paying a fee. Nonsense. In actuality, most travel agents receive commissions from the vendors (airlines, hotels, tour agencies); they are the ones paying the fee, not you. A travel agent has access to deals that often are not available anywhere else. He or she can help take the headache out of planning, allowing you to sit back and relax while the logistics are plotted out. Another bonus is that travel agents often include travel insurance in their packages, to ensure that you are getting what you paid for.
2. Internet. With the widespread use of the world wide web, travel prices have gone down considerably. Using travel sites like Orbitz, Expedia, and Travelocity, buyers can find lower rates than ever before for airfares, hotels, and package deals. The downside? Truly finding the best travel deals often requires a lot of time and patience as you compare rates with other sites and with direct booking. Another downfall is that you can't always find availability at these lower rates, but it is nice to plan right at home.
3. Guidebooks. Tried and true, travel guidebooks are a traveler's best friend. Seasoned travel writers research and compile guidebooks based on their own experiences, and who better to give advice than someone who's been there, done that? Depending on your preferred level of luxury, you are sure to find a guidebook to meet your needs. Best of all, travel guidebooks are often available at your local library-for free!
4. Booking Direct. Sometimes travel companies will offer special deals to customers who book directly. This is especially true with tour and cruise companies who advertise travel deals to repeat customers. You can often find rates as low as half-price (or lower) if you book at the last minute. If you have the flexibility and the determination, this may be the way to go.
In any case, travel opens up our eyes to worlds our forefathers never could have dreamed of visiting. Whether you travel around the globe or just a city away, a little careful planning and an open mind can allow for an experience of a lifetime. Happy travels!
1. Travel Agents. Many people have the misconception that using a travel agent entails paying a fee. Nonsense. In actuality, most travel agents receive commissions from the vendors (airlines, hotels, tour agencies); they are the ones paying the fee, not you. A travel agent has access to deals that often are not available anywhere else. He or she can help take the headache out of planning, allowing you to sit back and relax while the logistics are plotted out. Another bonus is that travel agents often include travel insurance in their packages, to ensure that you are getting what you paid for.
2. Internet. With the widespread use of the world wide web, travel prices have gone down considerably. Using travel sites like Orbitz, Expedia, and Travelocity, buyers can find lower rates than ever before for airfares, hotels, and package deals. The downside? Truly finding the best travel deals often requires a lot of time and patience as you compare rates with other sites and with direct booking. Another downfall is that you can't always find availability at these lower rates, but it is nice to plan right at home.
3. Guidebooks. Tried and true, travel guidebooks are a traveler's best friend. Seasoned travel writers research and compile guidebooks based on their own experiences, and who better to give advice than someone who's been there, done that? Depending on your preferred level of luxury, you are sure to find a guidebook to meet your needs. Best of all, travel guidebooks are often available at your local library-for free!
4. Booking Direct. Sometimes travel companies will offer special deals to customers who book directly. This is especially true with tour and cruise companies who advertise travel deals to repeat customers. You can often find rates as low as half-price (or lower) if you book at the last minute. If you have the flexibility and the determination, this may be the way to go.
In any case, travel opens up our eyes to worlds our forefathers never could have dreamed of visiting. Whether you travel around the globe or just a city away, a little careful planning and an open mind can allow for an experience of a lifetime. Happy travels!
posted by Travel on Sunday, January 06, 2008 under Travel Introduce, Trips and Tip
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Online Travel Bargain
REMEMBER YOUR LAST CONVERSATION WITH THAT family relative who couldn’t talk enough of how much they saved on their last holiday package deal? Or that colleague bragging about his $59 round- trip flight to Las Vegas and his stay in a 5-star hotel at $89 a night? Have you found yourself staring wistfully (and suspiciously) at a $399 package deal for two for Hawaii?
Just because your email seems flooded at times with seemingly impossibly priced travel offers, and you find Internet search engines are flooded with 1000’s of sites selling internet travel besides big hotel brands and branded distribution sites don’t discount them all.
Who can you count on?
Just four or five years ago, when you looked for travel discounts you could choose between a travel agent, the airline offices and the hotels themselves, and maybe, if you were lucky, some travel guru down the street. Today, there’s a massive range of things you can do online, and a lot of them can save significant amounts of money.
The reality is:
This means that online distribution channel is extremely successful in reaching buyers and buyers are finding it more confirmable to shop online. They are seeing a broader range of travel options and variety of products and packages. And its more likely that consumer wants to control that transaction through access to more competitive pricing. Pricing is becoming key factor to determine the sale.
Key factors: Why travelers prefer to book online
The above scenario indicated that the travel suppliers have no choice but to participate in this online distribution channel. The suppliers are realizing that the traditional channels like GDS (Global Distribution System)/travel agent and call center/reservation office is somewhat inefficient and expensive, especially when the economy is weak. Ignoring online distribution channel and concentrating only on traditional distribution channels will result in lower occupancy, and higher distribution and operational costs for travel suppliers. As online channels become more popular among suppliers their participation is increasing.
How Pricing and Distribution Become Key
9/11 caused a dramatic shift in how consumers booked their travel. The instability caused a large drop in demand for airlines, hotels and car rentals leading to ever-lower prices. This low demand factor forced travel suppliers to introduce unprecedented discounts. Travel suppliers struggled to sell seats, rooms, car rentals to a significantly shrunk leisure and business travel market. Every air seat, room and auto not booked cost their companies money. Better to sell dirt cheap than not to sell at all. But how to get the word out?
Smart, proactive suppliers adopted the Wal-Mart business model—sell low and distribute inexpensively and efficiently. But how? The Internet allowed them to reach consumers, sell inventory outstrip their less progressive competition. Those suppliers who had no clear Internet strategy or understanding of how the Web and online distribution works suffered.
Discount hotel sites attract millions of buyers with their special rates leading to stratospheric sales through these channels. They thrive on hoteliers selling their distressed inventory at a fraction of their normal rates. Occupancy is the lowest its been in years, hoteliers continue to work with leading online retailers to move inventory at lower price.
The $6.3 billion in online hotel sales (2002) with are split roughly evenly between discount agency sites and hotel Web sites. PhoCusWright projects that around 75% of discount agency hotel site sales are via the merchant model, where the agency typically takes a 20-30% “margin” on the hotel net rate (instead of the usual 10% commission). This approach has helped profits at Expedia and Hotels.com, who have roughly 60% of online discount agency hotel sales. Travelocity and Orbitz are instituting the same successful approach. Other notable players thriving in this arena are Hotwire.com, http://www.hotels-and-discounts.com , Lodging.com and Travelweb.com.
What is the Future?
Online travel growth will continue to grow in 2003-2005, but it will slow down year by year compared to the record gains see so far. However millions of travelers haven’t yet made their first purchase so the market is not near saturation. Technological improvements will soon make it possible to more easily dynamically package vacation deals including air, hotel and car leading to even lower prices but higher average sales. So growth is projected to come from customers buying more, higher-ticketed products online.
The growth of the online distribution channel will prove beneficial to the end user when the suppler finds it easier and more cost-effective to distribute their inventory there than over the traditional distribution channels. As technology becomes mature in the online distribution sector, it will become more effective and user friendly for the Buyers and thus will attract more Suppliers. Due to its low cost of distribution and emerging ability to package and cross sell inventory, prices will be attractive for years to come, until this channel eventually becomes a commodity.
Just because your email seems flooded at times with seemingly impossibly priced travel offers, and you find Internet search engines are flooded with 1000’s of sites selling internet travel besides big hotel brands and branded distribution sites don’t discount them all.
Who can you count on?
Just four or five years ago, when you looked for travel discounts you could choose between a travel agent, the airline offices and the hotels themselves, and maybe, if you were lucky, some travel guru down the street. Today, there’s a massive range of things you can do online, and a lot of them can save significant amounts of money.
The reality is:
- Nine out of 10 online travelers now have some history of shopping for travel online, and nearly 15% of all Americans purchased travel online last year - that’s five times the penetration rate of 1998. (PhoCusWright Consumer Travel Trends Survey)• Nearly one-third of online travel buyers say the Internet was responsible for their travel purchases last year.
- In 1998, six million consumers bought travel online in the U.S. Jump ahead to 2002 when 30 million Americans purchased travel online in the last year. Half of them only buy their travel online. (PhoCusWright Consumer Travel Trends Survey)
- Online travel bookings exceeded $23 billion in 2001, and are expected to reach $63 billion by 2005.
- Internet bookings in the first three quarters of 2002 accounted for over 23% of rooms sold in New York, and over 15% in Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. Anecdotally, for some properties, hotel managers are reporting Internet bookings ranging from 30% to 50% of all room nights in 2002. (Smith Travel Research and TravelClick)
This means that online distribution channel is extremely successful in reaching buyers and buyers are finding it more confirmable to shop online. They are seeing a broader range of travel options and variety of products and packages. And its more likely that consumer wants to control that transaction through access to more competitive pricing. Pricing is becoming key factor to determine the sale.
Key factors: Why travelers prefer to book online
- Competitive Price
- Ability to compare product and Prices
- Ability to plan last minute
- Availability of Range of options
The above scenario indicated that the travel suppliers have no choice but to participate in this online distribution channel. The suppliers are realizing that the traditional channels like GDS (Global Distribution System)/travel agent and call center/reservation office is somewhat inefficient and expensive, especially when the economy is weak. Ignoring online distribution channel and concentrating only on traditional distribution channels will result in lower occupancy, and higher distribution and operational costs for travel suppliers. As online channels become more popular among suppliers their participation is increasing.
How Pricing and Distribution Become Key
9/11 caused a dramatic shift in how consumers booked their travel. The instability caused a large drop in demand for airlines, hotels and car rentals leading to ever-lower prices. This low demand factor forced travel suppliers to introduce unprecedented discounts. Travel suppliers struggled to sell seats, rooms, car rentals to a significantly shrunk leisure and business travel market. Every air seat, room and auto not booked cost their companies money. Better to sell dirt cheap than not to sell at all. But how to get the word out?
Smart, proactive suppliers adopted the Wal-Mart business model—sell low and distribute inexpensively and efficiently. But how? The Internet allowed them to reach consumers, sell inventory outstrip their less progressive competition. Those suppliers who had no clear Internet strategy or understanding of how the Web and online distribution works suffered.
Discount hotel sites attract millions of buyers with their special rates leading to stratospheric sales through these channels. They thrive on hoteliers selling their distressed inventory at a fraction of their normal rates. Occupancy is the lowest its been in years, hoteliers continue to work with leading online retailers to move inventory at lower price.
The $6.3 billion in online hotel sales (2002) with are split roughly evenly between discount agency sites and hotel Web sites. PhoCusWright projects that around 75% of discount agency hotel site sales are via the merchant model, where the agency typically takes a 20-30% “margin” on the hotel net rate (instead of the usual 10% commission). This approach has helped profits at Expedia and Hotels.com, who have roughly 60% of online discount agency hotel sales. Travelocity and Orbitz are instituting the same successful approach. Other notable players thriving in this arena are Hotwire.com, http://www.hotels-and-discounts.com , Lodging.com and Travelweb.com.
What is the Future?
Online travel growth will continue to grow in 2003-2005, but it will slow down year by year compared to the record gains see so far. However millions of travelers haven’t yet made their first purchase so the market is not near saturation. Technological improvements will soon make it possible to more easily dynamically package vacation deals including air, hotel and car leading to even lower prices but higher average sales. So growth is projected to come from customers buying more, higher-ticketed products online.
The growth of the online distribution channel will prove beneficial to the end user when the suppler finds it easier and more cost-effective to distribute their inventory there than over the traditional distribution channels. As technology becomes mature in the online distribution sector, it will become more effective and user friendly for the Buyers and thus will attract more Suppliers. Due to its low cost of distribution and emerging ability to package and cross sell inventory, prices will be attractive for years to come, until this channel eventually becomes a commodity.
How to Pick a Vacation Rental
What you need to know about Vacation Rentals
That time of the year is finally here. You know what I'm talking about, the one or two weeks you get every year to escape from "real life" and just be you. Relax, eat and drink well, enjoy your family, catch up on some much needed sleep. But, before you pack up and head out, rethink the all-too-normal hotel stay. Believe it or not, you have options, one of which is the vacation rental.
Wouldn't it be nice to leave your own home, arrive in your destination city and settle into a "home away from home" for your next vacation? That's what vacation rentals are all about. These are homes waiting to be rented out by people on vacation. Each vacation rental owner will have different criteria in what type of renter they are looking for, each vacation rental house will vary in amenities, and each price will be dependant on the time of year and the length of stay. So, it sounds like a great idea, but how do you figure out how to make it all happen? Not a problem. Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions regarding vacation rentals. Read on, my friend, your next "home away from home" vacation rental is right around the corner.
Frequently Asked Questions on Vacation Rentals
What are the advantages of a vacation rental?
Do you ever wish your hotel room had just a little more personality? Yeah, I thought so. Well, renting someone else's home for your vacation might just be the thing you're looking for. Usually offering larger living spaces than hotel rooms, these vacation rentals are all about living like you were in your own home. They offer greater privacy than hotel rooms and most rentals have a kitchen area for cooking, which in the end will save you money if you prepare some of your own meals.
You'll enjoy several rooms, and maybe even different levels, instead of one big room where the whole family sleeps. Many owners will leave information on things to do and see in the local area. Vacation rental homes are clean, friendly, comfortable and inviting. This is because many of them aren't just rental homes, but also function as the owner's own residence for part of the year.
A majority of vacation rentals tend to be cheaper on a per night basis than their hotel counterpart. By renting directly from the owner you will avoid taxes, tips and other extraneous charges. However, there is a wide variation among costs based on a number of factors (see How Much Should I Expect to Pay below)
What are the drawbacks of a vacation rental?
Of course, there's always the other side of the coin. As vacation rentals are not usually monitored by a central managing company, you'll only know what you're getting yourself into when you actually arrive to your rental. Many owners require pre-payment, or at least a large deposit fee, before arriving. Therefore, if things aren't the way you anticipated after arriving, or if you find your dwelling unacceptable and decide to head to a local hotel, you may lose any money you prepaid. This is also true for last minute cancellations. There isn't usually a refund. You always run the risk of getting less than you expected, but, it's rare.
Most times, vacation rentals tend to be cheaper than an average hotel room per night. But, not always, so make sure you are comfortable with the price you will be asked to pay.
Another disadvantage to vacation rentals is the lack of a managing member on site to deal with any problems that you may encounter with the home or during your stay in general. Most owners get around this by having a list of emergency numbers, utility companies and other such items available to the renter should they need anything.
What amenities are included in a vacation rental?
Since every rental is owned by a different owner, each will include different amenities. Some come with swimming pools, hot tubs, others with golf packages, and horse stable privileges. In cities with tourist attractions, some owners include tickets to local attractions.
Most vacation rentals come with the essentials: TV, equipped kitchen, towels, linen, and everyday appliances, but it never hurts to ask these questions when searching for the perfect place. Be sure to understand exactly what you are paying for before sending in the payment.
What types of rentals are available?
Pretty much any type of dwelling that you would want to live in during your vacation is available somewhere. From studios in downtown Manhattan to a villa in the south of Spain, you'll be able to find what you're looking for. The range of available options is mind boggling. Additionally, each week, month and year there are new possibilities as owners put their homes up for only certain weeks or months of the year, the choices are constantly changing.
Are vacation rentals only available in the US?
Vacation rentals are available worldwide. They can be found in every state of the US and almost every country in the world. Don't be fooled by their different names, though. Vacation rentals are also known as holiday cottages, tourist rentals and holiday rentals. If you are looking for one in Europe, the Italians call them agriturismi, while the French say gites. If you are in Germany you will be looking for ferienwohnungen (yep, try to say that three times fast with a bratwurst in your mouth!)
Regardless of what you call it, though, a vacation rental is a great option for those getting ready to take a few weeks off from reality and enjoy the good life a bit.
How do I find a property?
There are several ways to go about finding the perfect vacation rental for your next trip. Check with your local travel agent to find someone in your area that specializes in finding owners and renters and getting them together. Another option is the yellow pages. Finally, there is a wealth of information on the Internet. Type in a search for "vacation rentals" and over 13,300,000 websites can be found just on www.google.com alone. Some websites only list vacation rentals in the United States while others specialize in vacation rentals worldwide. There are some sites that will allow the potential renter to look for a residence by specific search criteria such as a particular destination, certain number of bedrooms and types of amenities that are included in the property.
Most of the vacation rental services on the internet are only the "go-between" or the "classified" section of the newspaper. They take no responsibility for the truth or correctness of the ads that are listed on their sites. So, do your homework by making phone calls, speaking with the owner and asking specific questions. Make sure you feel comfortable with the answers, if not, move on to the next rental, there are plenty.
If you're not comfortable with the whole renter/owner thing, there is another way to rent a vacation home. Some companies exist that strictly buy and rent out homes to vacationers. They offer a bit more security so that you feel you are truly getting what you bargained for (although nothing is ever 100% fool proof). Additionally, sometimes these agencies will give you cancellation insurance. In other words, if you cancel before arriving, they may be able to refund a portion of your deposit or payment instead of keeping it as most owners do if a cancellation occurs. With some agencies you'll find that you pay a higher price than going directly to an owner. This is how the agencies make their profits. There are always pros and cons to each scenario. Ensure you know which one works best for you.
How much should I expect to pay?
This is a tough question to answer. The amount you pay will depend on what country or state you are visiting, number of days you are staying, and type of house you are renting. Some owners offer package deals including tickets or sightseeing events along with the rental, others include bonus days if you stay for a certain length of time. There are other owners who may offer free or add-on house cleaning service with your stay while some go to great efforts to ensure you have everything you need, even additional items such as a crib, highchair or wheelchair. Each vacation rental will be entirely different than the next. Your best bet after deciding on your destination is to review multiple rentals to determine which is better suited to your needs and overall budget.
Are there any hidden fees?
Hidden fees usually only emerge after you have arrived. These may include extra for phone calls, house cleaning service, extra person fees, excess heat and air-conditioning bills, pet deposit, computer access... etc. Again, be extremely thorough when interviewing the owner of your prospective vacation rental. Ask about any "extra" fees, or if the house is "all-inclusive". Do you have free access to all the pantry and food items? How about the laundry supplies? All utilities? It never hurts to ask!
Vacation Rentals
In summary, cover all bases by asking lots of questions. Getting your agreement in writing is also a very smart idea. After these basics are out of the way you will be ready to take off for your home-away-from-home vacation rental. Try one this year and see for yourself that vacation rentals can be a fantastic means to really getting the full enjoyment out of your next vacation.
That time of the year is finally here. You know what I'm talking about, the one or two weeks you get every year to escape from "real life" and just be you. Relax, eat and drink well, enjoy your family, catch up on some much needed sleep. But, before you pack up and head out, rethink the all-too-normal hotel stay. Believe it or not, you have options, one of which is the vacation rental.
Wouldn't it be nice to leave your own home, arrive in your destination city and settle into a "home away from home" for your next vacation? That's what vacation rentals are all about. These are homes waiting to be rented out by people on vacation. Each vacation rental owner will have different criteria in what type of renter they are looking for, each vacation rental house will vary in amenities, and each price will be dependant on the time of year and the length of stay. So, it sounds like a great idea, but how do you figure out how to make it all happen? Not a problem. Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions regarding vacation rentals. Read on, my friend, your next "home away from home" vacation rental is right around the corner.
Frequently Asked Questions on Vacation Rentals
What are the advantages of a vacation rental?
Do you ever wish your hotel room had just a little more personality? Yeah, I thought so. Well, renting someone else's home for your vacation might just be the thing you're looking for. Usually offering larger living spaces than hotel rooms, these vacation rentals are all about living like you were in your own home. They offer greater privacy than hotel rooms and most rentals have a kitchen area for cooking, which in the end will save you money if you prepare some of your own meals.
You'll enjoy several rooms, and maybe even different levels, instead of one big room where the whole family sleeps. Many owners will leave information on things to do and see in the local area. Vacation rental homes are clean, friendly, comfortable and inviting. This is because many of them aren't just rental homes, but also function as the owner's own residence for part of the year.
A majority of vacation rentals tend to be cheaper on a per night basis than their hotel counterpart. By renting directly from the owner you will avoid taxes, tips and other extraneous charges. However, there is a wide variation among costs based on a number of factors (see How Much Should I Expect to Pay below)
What are the drawbacks of a vacation rental?
Of course, there's always the other side of the coin. As vacation rentals are not usually monitored by a central managing company, you'll only know what you're getting yourself into when you actually arrive to your rental. Many owners require pre-payment, or at least a large deposit fee, before arriving. Therefore, if things aren't the way you anticipated after arriving, or if you find your dwelling unacceptable and decide to head to a local hotel, you may lose any money you prepaid. This is also true for last minute cancellations. There isn't usually a refund. You always run the risk of getting less than you expected, but, it's rare.
Most times, vacation rentals tend to be cheaper than an average hotel room per night. But, not always, so make sure you are comfortable with the price you will be asked to pay.
Another disadvantage to vacation rentals is the lack of a managing member on site to deal with any problems that you may encounter with the home or during your stay in general. Most owners get around this by having a list of emergency numbers, utility companies and other such items available to the renter should they need anything.
What amenities are included in a vacation rental?
Since every rental is owned by a different owner, each will include different amenities. Some come with swimming pools, hot tubs, others with golf packages, and horse stable privileges. In cities with tourist attractions, some owners include tickets to local attractions.
Most vacation rentals come with the essentials: TV, equipped kitchen, towels, linen, and everyday appliances, but it never hurts to ask these questions when searching for the perfect place. Be sure to understand exactly what you are paying for before sending in the payment.
What types of rentals are available?
Pretty much any type of dwelling that you would want to live in during your vacation is available somewhere. From studios in downtown Manhattan to a villa in the south of Spain, you'll be able to find what you're looking for. The range of available options is mind boggling. Additionally, each week, month and year there are new possibilities as owners put their homes up for only certain weeks or months of the year, the choices are constantly changing.
Are vacation rentals only available in the US?
Vacation rentals are available worldwide. They can be found in every state of the US and almost every country in the world. Don't be fooled by their different names, though. Vacation rentals are also known as holiday cottages, tourist rentals and holiday rentals. If you are looking for one in Europe, the Italians call them agriturismi, while the French say gites. If you are in Germany you will be looking for ferienwohnungen (yep, try to say that three times fast with a bratwurst in your mouth!)
Regardless of what you call it, though, a vacation rental is a great option for those getting ready to take a few weeks off from reality and enjoy the good life a bit.
How do I find a property?
There are several ways to go about finding the perfect vacation rental for your next trip. Check with your local travel agent to find someone in your area that specializes in finding owners and renters and getting them together. Another option is the yellow pages. Finally, there is a wealth of information on the Internet. Type in a search for "vacation rentals" and over 13,300,000 websites can be found just on www.google.com alone. Some websites only list vacation rentals in the United States while others specialize in vacation rentals worldwide. There are some sites that will allow the potential renter to look for a residence by specific search criteria such as a particular destination, certain number of bedrooms and types of amenities that are included in the property.
Most of the vacation rental services on the internet are only the "go-between" or the "classified" section of the newspaper. They take no responsibility for the truth or correctness of the ads that are listed on their sites. So, do your homework by making phone calls, speaking with the owner and asking specific questions. Make sure you feel comfortable with the answers, if not, move on to the next rental, there are plenty.
If you're not comfortable with the whole renter/owner thing, there is another way to rent a vacation home. Some companies exist that strictly buy and rent out homes to vacationers. They offer a bit more security so that you feel you are truly getting what you bargained for (although nothing is ever 100% fool proof). Additionally, sometimes these agencies will give you cancellation insurance. In other words, if you cancel before arriving, they may be able to refund a portion of your deposit or payment instead of keeping it as most owners do if a cancellation occurs. With some agencies you'll find that you pay a higher price than going directly to an owner. This is how the agencies make their profits. There are always pros and cons to each scenario. Ensure you know which one works best for you.
How much should I expect to pay?
This is a tough question to answer. The amount you pay will depend on what country or state you are visiting, number of days you are staying, and type of house you are renting. Some owners offer package deals including tickets or sightseeing events along with the rental, others include bonus days if you stay for a certain length of time. There are other owners who may offer free or add-on house cleaning service with your stay while some go to great efforts to ensure you have everything you need, even additional items such as a crib, highchair or wheelchair. Each vacation rental will be entirely different than the next. Your best bet after deciding on your destination is to review multiple rentals to determine which is better suited to your needs and overall budget.
Are there any hidden fees?
Hidden fees usually only emerge after you have arrived. These may include extra for phone calls, house cleaning service, extra person fees, excess heat and air-conditioning bills, pet deposit, computer access... etc. Again, be extremely thorough when interviewing the owner of your prospective vacation rental. Ask about any "extra" fees, or if the house is "all-inclusive". Do you have free access to all the pantry and food items? How about the laundry supplies? All utilities? It never hurts to ask!
Vacation Rentals
In summary, cover all bases by asking lots of questions. Getting your agreement in writing is also a very smart idea. After these basics are out of the way you will be ready to take off for your home-away-from-home vacation rental. Try one this year and see for yourself that vacation rentals can be a fantastic means to really getting the full enjoyment out of your next vacation.
Top Ten Travel Nursing “Hot Spots”
The great thing about being a traveling nurse boils down to one key component – it’s about the travel! For those of us who love moving around and seeing the world, travel nursing is the profession of our dreams. There are many travel destinations available, based on weather, activities, cost of living, and salary. Therefore, I have gathered a list of my “Top Ten” destinations that nurses choose, based on the number of travelers who inquire about each location every month. Are you a travel RN scouting a new assignment? Then I’d like to suggest the following ten “Hot Spots”:
HAWAII – It’s no shock that Hawaii generates over 500 travel nursing inquiries per month. The wide range of outdoor activities from snow-capped mountains to snow-white sandy beaches elevates Hawaii to one of those meccas where you can build a snowman or a sand castle all in one day. Nurses tell me that you’ll discover virtually every type of outdoor activity imaginable—hiking trails that wind through erupting volcanoes, secret beaches, and lush green ranchlands. Many travelers also hunt, mountain bike, go rafting, and golf on some of the world’s most extravagant courses.
ALASKA – Travel nurses are intrigued by the possibilities of Alaska’s rugged mystery. Alaska is a huge wilderness with beautiful scenery, and travel nursing assignments offer plenty of time to see and do everything you want, whether in winter’s darkness under northern lights, or the glorious spring and summer where it’s light most of the time. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Alaska for its’ wildlife, spectacular natural landscape, and fishing expeditions where the fish really are as big as the stories about which they’re told. Countless day cruises and sightseeing expeditions abound, as well as opportunities to hike, kayak, canoe, ski… Need we say more?
MONTANA – Whether photographer, adventurer, or both, Montana is truly a state that beckons with open arms. River trips, fishing and camping, history, snowy mountain ranges, and waterfalls are what you’ll encounter, along with plenty of open space to explore. Assignments in Montana appeal to those travel nurses who just need some time to break away from their city grind to enjoy marching to the beat of an entirely different drummer. The Big Sky Country boasts some of America’s most famous mountains, canyons, river valleys, forests, grassy plains, badlands, and caverns, and many travelers find it just irresistible enough to keep coming back.
MAINE – Maine’s splendor has inspired artists like Georgia O’Keefe and three generations of the Wyeth family, since the mid-nineteenth century. Travel nurses can’t resist at least one adventure in this charming getaway. Whether you embark on outdoor adventures like skiing and snowmobiling, or if you prefer the cozy ambience of antiquing through charming villages or just strolling or riding horseback on miles of sandy beaches in the smell of salt air, Maine is legendary and offers some wonderful travel nursing experiences. Its’ unique culture is outdoorsy and quaint, and of course you get to enjoy lobster as the locals do—fresh from the ocean!
CALIFORNIA – Warm weather and world-famous beaches make California a favorite choice for traveling nurses. Nine-hundred miles of coastline gives nurses in all locations the chance to spend many hours near the waves; and for nature lovers, California is home to many wildlife parks, remote wilderness areas, and safe-havens for endangered animals. If you’re an excitement junkie, you can scout out a wide selection of theme parks; and no matter what your taste in music, concerts abound in every type of venue. Historic sites and museums invite, as do five-star restaurants and clubs in which to see and be seen. The shopping is unparalleled, whether it’s trendy Melrose Place, La Jolla, or the strand in Venice Beach; and of course it’s home to Hollywood, and, yes, movie stars. Whether northern, southern, or coastal locations, traveling nurses return to California time and again.
WASHINGTON – The Evergreen State boasts the gorgeous Pacific Ocean, the Cascade Mountains, desert experiences, rain forests, towering volcanoes, glaciers, and lush wine country. Washington State rates high on the list of many nurse travelers. Must-sees are the Space Needle and Coulee Dam. The culture here is incredibly diverse; sophisticated, outdoorsy, and loaded with resorts, history, parks, museums, and botanical gardens. Whether touring downtown Seattle for cozy antique and book stores, exploring ancient Indian grounds, or hiking and biking mountains or trails, Washington holds a strong allure for many nurse travelers.
SOUTH CAROLINA – Endless adventure, excitement, fun and exploration represent why South Carolina is always a favorite destination for travel nurses. America’s oldest landscaped gardens frame mansions rife with historical heritage, in addition to pristine beaches and legendary marshy wetlands. For all you golfers, with over 330 golf courses, there’s always a new place to swing your clubs. But what fascinates many traveling nurses is the rich heritage in which South Carolina has paved the roads of culture, art, and folklore in our past. You can visit several historical areas and discovery centers of American history, including the American Revolution and the Civil War.
COLORADO – World-class winter skiing and summer music festivals in the mountains are just two reasons that nurses love traveling to Colorado. Boasting four spectacular seasons, Colorado is where travel nurses get to explore the state’s 18 million acres of state and national parks, forests, and monuments for biking, hiking, fishing, mountain climbing, and kayaking, to name a few. Colorado has many cultural treasures, including ancient Native American sites and dinosaur fossil exhibits, historic ghost towns, and even award-winning vineyards in Grand Junction. And for those who enjoy city life, amid all this natural beauty lie wonderful metropolitan areas like Denver and Boulder, full of shopping, performing arts, and professional sports.
TENNESSEE – From energetic nights of blues on Beale Street, to gorgeous rolling acres of Tennessee Walker horse country, to peaceful Smoky Mountain sunsets, Tennessee is a vacation that offers many world-renowned attractions. Nurse travelers who visit Tennessee will find that they’re within a day’s drive of 75-percent of the U.S. population via quality interstates and highways. Attractions in Tennessee include the Jack Daniels’ distillery, Elvis’s Graceland, the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, and lots of southern hospitality. And don’t forget the crown jewel of the southern Appalachians, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
ARIZONA – If you adore the outdoors, then the Grand Canyon State might just be for you. The nurses who go there just rave about Arizona’s landscape which takes in tall mountain ranges, swift rivers, grasslands, sand dunes, and cactus forests all set against a beautiful sky that glows pink in the sunset. The traveler nurses who enjoy history will find plenty of it here, including Old West reformations, Native American nations, and Spanish-influenced areas all in one state. Arizona is also home to the nation’s greatest golf courses, resorts, spas, cabins, and ranches.
As you can see, limitless possibilities exist for those nurses who want travel, fun, and adventure to be part of their daily lives. If you’re a nurse who travels and it's time for you to move on to a new location, try one of these top travel nursing destinations and see what new experiences lie ahead.
HAWAII – It’s no shock that Hawaii generates over 500 travel nursing inquiries per month. The wide range of outdoor activities from snow-capped mountains to snow-white sandy beaches elevates Hawaii to one of those meccas where you can build a snowman or a sand castle all in one day. Nurses tell me that you’ll discover virtually every type of outdoor activity imaginable—hiking trails that wind through erupting volcanoes, secret beaches, and lush green ranchlands. Many travelers also hunt, mountain bike, go rafting, and golf on some of the world’s most extravagant courses.
ALASKA – Travel nurses are intrigued by the possibilities of Alaska’s rugged mystery. Alaska is a huge wilderness with beautiful scenery, and travel nursing assignments offer plenty of time to see and do everything you want, whether in winter’s darkness under northern lights, or the glorious spring and summer where it’s light most of the time. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Alaska for its’ wildlife, spectacular natural landscape, and fishing expeditions where the fish really are as big as the stories about which they’re told. Countless day cruises and sightseeing expeditions abound, as well as opportunities to hike, kayak, canoe, ski… Need we say more?
MONTANA – Whether photographer, adventurer, or both, Montana is truly a state that beckons with open arms. River trips, fishing and camping, history, snowy mountain ranges, and waterfalls are what you’ll encounter, along with plenty of open space to explore. Assignments in Montana appeal to those travel nurses who just need some time to break away from their city grind to enjoy marching to the beat of an entirely different drummer. The Big Sky Country boasts some of America’s most famous mountains, canyons, river valleys, forests, grassy plains, badlands, and caverns, and many travelers find it just irresistible enough to keep coming back.
MAINE – Maine’s splendor has inspired artists like Georgia O’Keefe and three generations of the Wyeth family, since the mid-nineteenth century. Travel nurses can’t resist at least one adventure in this charming getaway. Whether you embark on outdoor adventures like skiing and snowmobiling, or if you prefer the cozy ambience of antiquing through charming villages or just strolling or riding horseback on miles of sandy beaches in the smell of salt air, Maine is legendary and offers some wonderful travel nursing experiences. Its’ unique culture is outdoorsy and quaint, and of course you get to enjoy lobster as the locals do—fresh from the ocean!
CALIFORNIA – Warm weather and world-famous beaches make California a favorite choice for traveling nurses. Nine-hundred miles of coastline gives nurses in all locations the chance to spend many hours near the waves; and for nature lovers, California is home to many wildlife parks, remote wilderness areas, and safe-havens for endangered animals. If you’re an excitement junkie, you can scout out a wide selection of theme parks; and no matter what your taste in music, concerts abound in every type of venue. Historic sites and museums invite, as do five-star restaurants and clubs in which to see and be seen. The shopping is unparalleled, whether it’s trendy Melrose Place, La Jolla, or the strand in Venice Beach; and of course it’s home to Hollywood, and, yes, movie stars. Whether northern, southern, or coastal locations, traveling nurses return to California time and again.
WASHINGTON – The Evergreen State boasts the gorgeous Pacific Ocean, the Cascade Mountains, desert experiences, rain forests, towering volcanoes, glaciers, and lush wine country. Washington State rates high on the list of many nurse travelers. Must-sees are the Space Needle and Coulee Dam. The culture here is incredibly diverse; sophisticated, outdoorsy, and loaded with resorts, history, parks, museums, and botanical gardens. Whether touring downtown Seattle for cozy antique and book stores, exploring ancient Indian grounds, or hiking and biking mountains or trails, Washington holds a strong allure for many nurse travelers.
SOUTH CAROLINA – Endless adventure, excitement, fun and exploration represent why South Carolina is always a favorite destination for travel nurses. America’s oldest landscaped gardens frame mansions rife with historical heritage, in addition to pristine beaches and legendary marshy wetlands. For all you golfers, with over 330 golf courses, there’s always a new place to swing your clubs. But what fascinates many traveling nurses is the rich heritage in which South Carolina has paved the roads of culture, art, and folklore in our past. You can visit several historical areas and discovery centers of American history, including the American Revolution and the Civil War.
COLORADO – World-class winter skiing and summer music festivals in the mountains are just two reasons that nurses love traveling to Colorado. Boasting four spectacular seasons, Colorado is where travel nurses get to explore the state’s 18 million acres of state and national parks, forests, and monuments for biking, hiking, fishing, mountain climbing, and kayaking, to name a few. Colorado has many cultural treasures, including ancient Native American sites and dinosaur fossil exhibits, historic ghost towns, and even award-winning vineyards in Grand Junction. And for those who enjoy city life, amid all this natural beauty lie wonderful metropolitan areas like Denver and Boulder, full of shopping, performing arts, and professional sports.
TENNESSEE – From energetic nights of blues on Beale Street, to gorgeous rolling acres of Tennessee Walker horse country, to peaceful Smoky Mountain sunsets, Tennessee is a vacation that offers many world-renowned attractions. Nurse travelers who visit Tennessee will find that they’re within a day’s drive of 75-percent of the U.S. population via quality interstates and highways. Attractions in Tennessee include the Jack Daniels’ distillery, Elvis’s Graceland, the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, and lots of southern hospitality. And don’t forget the crown jewel of the southern Appalachians, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
ARIZONA – If you adore the outdoors, then the Grand Canyon State might just be for you. The nurses who go there just rave about Arizona’s landscape which takes in tall mountain ranges, swift rivers, grasslands, sand dunes, and cactus forests all set against a beautiful sky that glows pink in the sunset. The traveler nurses who enjoy history will find plenty of it here, including Old West reformations, Native American nations, and Spanish-influenced areas all in one state. Arizona is also home to the nation’s greatest golf courses, resorts, spas, cabins, and ranches.
As you can see, limitless possibilities exist for those nurses who want travel, fun, and adventure to be part of their daily lives. If you’re a nurse who travels and it's time for you to move on to a new location, try one of these top travel nursing destinations and see what new experiences lie ahead.
posted by Travel on Thursday, January 03, 2008 under exotic location, Inspiration
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