Theme Park Travel Tips

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Wednesday 22 July 2009 6:54 pm

Theme park is a great fun. It is also possible to spend more time on the ride. You don?t want to spend money to stand in line, get sunburn, and feel sick from junk food. A little research will help you a long way. It is possible to have a fun, safe, and healthy day at theme park.

Before you make your reservations at the theme park, you should call to check on the big rides. You do not want to feel disappointment, if the big rides are closed. You can also save your energy and gas to drive there,

Try to make a plan before you go. Some theme parks are gigantic. You may not be able to see everything in one day. Some of the rides are better than the other. You may want to ride some rides more than once. Many parks have longer hours on a certain days. You want to find out when it is best to visit.

If you are a member of associations, you may get special treatment at the theme park. You may get special seating, VIP lounge, or be allowed to skip to the front of line.

You also want to check for special light shows, fireworks, parades, or live music on certain days. Some days are better than the other days. The Parks usually publish schedules with this information. Try to get your hand on them.

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The World’s Coolest ‘FranchIce’

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Wednesday 22 July 2009 2:54 am

Samuel Johnson said it almost 300 years ago, and I still believe it today …

If you’re tired of London, you’re tired of life.

I enjoy many locations around the world, but none so much as London. It’s the center of civilization, as far as I’m concerned. If something is ‘happening’ there, then it’s worth taking note.

That’s why I was quite impressed to see the IceBar had set up shop on Heddon Street.

You don’t need to have a taste for vodka in all its forms, but it helps. That’s not only because Absolut is the financial power behind this motif, but because there is a historically-established reason why cultures from cold climates got this creative with a potato. Not only does it ‘warm’ a soul from the inside, but in the realm of Absolut, it comes in more guises than you’ve got time to try in a 30-minute session. That happens to be a customer’s time limit in the IceBar, which also limits the number of icebarfights on record.

This is a spinoff of the famous IceHotel in the Swedish arctic zone. If you like to travel, then this is a required destination. It’s only a 90-minute flight from Stockholm to Kiruna, where you’ve got a choice of snowmobile or dogsled (hint: take the sled) to complete your journey to the icy climes of Jukkasjaervi in Sweden’s portion of Lappland. It’s situated along the banks of the Torne River, widely acclaimed as being the source of the purest water in Europe, if not the world.

I think this is one of the most spectacular scenes in existence. Everything is constructed of pure ice, from the chambers to the furniture to the decor (world-class sculptures from global artists are commissioned to create them each season) to the glassware. The all-ice wedding chapel is booked far in advance and the theater stages world-class productions.

The beds do make the concession of thermal sleeping bags, which are amazingly comfortable, but even if you do get a bit chilled here, I guarantee you’ll be convinced it was worth it. I cannot think of a more majestic locale to view the Northern Lights flashing across the cold, crisp sky, bathing the ice in a blue-green glow that melds Nature’s wonder with that of man’s. The IceHotel is breathtaking in every sense of the word. It’s an experience which will be etched into your memory forever.

Thus, it wasn’t a surprise to me when, during a trip to Stockholm a couple of years ago, I checked into the Nordic Sea hotel and noticed a scaled-down replica of the IceBar adjacent to the lobby. I loathe queues, so fortunately, I was there on a quiet night and there was no 30-minute limit in effect. I donned the thermal cloak and gloves they provide, ordered an Absolut citron and proceeded to mingle in search of someone to share a toast of ‘Skol!’. Trust me, it wasn’t hard to do!

Its presence was such a ‘natural’ in Stockholm that I’ve thought more than once since then that the IceBar meets the critera for being a fixture in that center of chic that is London. And now it’s happened.

The ?12 cover is reasonable, the drinks are Absolut, the sculptures and decor are changed periodically — the cumulative body heat does cause melting over time, so re-building is a necessity — and the atmosphere is the only thing that is always warm. After all, who’s going to pay for a 30-minute stay, garbed in silver thermals, and not be in a festive mood? It’s a perfect addition to any festive itinerary.

In chatting with the lovely blonde svensk flicka tending bar that evening, I discovered that Absolut is so pleased with the IceBar concept that they’re deploying them elsewhere. Besides Stockholm, they opened a franchice (I couldn’t resist the pun) in Milan before venturing into London. That makes sense. Stockholm’s ambience is quite-stylish and Milan’s is lively-stylish. If the IceBar succeeds in those cities, then it’s ready to move up to a London setting.

It succeeds spectacularly. After one visit, and 30 minutes of Absolut, you may just reach for the cellphone and book reservations for the IceHotel, then and there.

If so, you’ll join a growing list of those who have found that drinks in your ice can be more fun than ice in your drinks.

J Square Humboldt is the featured columnist at the Longer Life website, which is dedicated to providing information, strategies, analysis and commentary devoted to improving the quality of living. His page can be found at http://longerlifegroup.com/cyberiter.html and his observations are published three times per week.

Fantastic Honeymoon Destinations

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Tuesday 21 July 2009 10:55 pm

The UK is a fantastic place for you and your partner to spend your honeymoon after your nuptials are completed. There are a variety of locations and actives all over the UK that promise to make your honeymoon a romantic vacation to remember with your new spouse. Here are a few ideas fro locations and activities while celebrating your marriage:

Take a trip to London

London can be one of the most romantic cities in the world. Spend the afternoon walking around the city, and fall in love with you love all over again above the London skyline by taking a private late night ride on the millennium wheel. The millennium wheel offers private pods for couples that include a trip on the millennium wheel in a private pod for just you and your couple, a bottle of champagne, and a box of chocolates. London is home to a variety of fine dining establishments,

Take a trip to the Welsh countryside

The hustle and bustle of the city not for you? If a relaxed honeymoon is more your speed, get away from it all with a romantic getaway deep in the countryside of Wales. Wakes is home to a great number of relaxed locations where you and your special someone can get away from the city life and relax together. Try staying in a romantic bed and breakfast. Bed and breakfast?s can be a wonderful way to spend your holiday, and can give you more of a home feel than staying in a hotel. While in Wales, try going to see a welsh opera, or another traditional welsh affair.

Go somewhere new

Marriage is a new and exciting step. Throughout your marriage you and your spouse are going to experience new things together, why not start the new experiences now. Look at map and pick a location that neither of you have ever been and plan your honeymoon trip for there. Do your research beforehand to make sure you get lodging in a nice hotel, and are nearby things you would like to see or do. There?s no better way to start off your new life together than doing something new and exciting for both of you.

Visit Cornwall

A city of the sea, Cornwall can offer you a honeymoon trip to remember with breathtaking views of the ocean, private beaches, and wonderful beach fare. Typically honeymooners tend to enjoy beach vacations as honeymoon destinations. Cornwall has several quality bed and breakfasts where you and your love can spend your stay, and because Cornwall is no stranger to honeymooners, several of the hotels as well as bed and breakfasts will have special packages that cater specifically to newlyweds. While on your honeymoon in Cornwall you can watch the sunrise and set while walking on the beach with the love of your life. Cornwall also has several fine dining establishments, and other wonderful entertainment choices for you during your stay. If you decide to plan your honeymoon for Cornwall, do some research beforehand and look for places that you and your partner might be interested in visiting. Restaurants will fill up early, so it might be a good idea to place your reservation with any restaurants you are particularly interested in, and buy tickets for events or productions you would like to attend.

The most important part in planning the perfect honeymoon vacation is to first talk to your partner about what they would like to do during your honeymoon. The perfect honeymoon is only perfect if it is where you both would like to go, and you both have a terrific time. Sit down with your partner in advance and discuss the types of things you would like to do while on your honeymoon, an make plans to include everything that you both are interested in, or at least a good mix of the two. That way, everyone is happy, and you are sure to have a terrific honeymoon vacation.

Smooth Hound http://www.smoothhound.co.uk offers affordable hotel and guest house accommodation throughout the London and the rest of the world.

Central Spain

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Tuesday 21 July 2009 10:55 am

Situated in the centre of the country, Madrid is the capital. It is a city of over 3 million people and a crossroads for rail, road and air travel. Its altitude of 660 meters gives rise to a classic temperature profile of cold winters and hot summers, making spring and autumn the best times to visit. Those who can get away from Madrid during August make for the cooler north or south to the Med.

Despite the climate the capital city has its own individual personality. It holds the Paruqe del Retiro, a world famous area of paths and avenues, a royal palace and grand public squares. Its museums are brimming with Spain?s historic treasures. Madrid is a city that has the best in shopping facilities. The latest designer clothes are sold in classy upmarket stores. There are food markets throughout the city and the centuries-old Rastro, open every Sunday, is one of the world?s greatest flea markets.

The central plateau is covered in dry plains and massive rolling fields. Given the attractions of the Costas and the Islands it is not an area where many Europeans call home. It is a place to work. Long straight roads and huge fields with wheat, sunflowers and grape overwhelm the region. It is deserted and of real beauty, suitable for those endangered in agriculture or for those who want to get off the beaten track, going back to the roots in old rural Spain.

Contributed by S.Fry of http://www.spainlog.co.uk, see more of her work at Spain family holidays

Traveling With Dogs

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Tuesday 21 July 2009 6:50 am

Traveling with dogs can sometimes be a challenge. In our case we have two dogs that are as different as day and night. One is an 80 lb. Labrador and the other a 5 lb. Papillion. So you might imagine what works for one doesn’t necessarily work for the other.

Living in South Florida we have been known to have our occasional hurricane. I’m here to tell you that I HATE storms. They announce one coming and the dust is trailing behind me! To complicate my fear of storms we have the 2 dogs and an elderly father that lives with us. So our exit out of town needs to be well thought out.

First of all, its important to have a list of necessary supplies. By having the list you aren’t rushing around at the last minute worrying that you’ve remembered everything. Things you might include on your list are your dog’s or cat’s vaccination record. If you don’t have one, at the very least have the vet’s phone number. He or she can always provide the information to you, should the need arise. Have a list of any medications your pet may be taking and the proper dosage. Water and food dishes, leads, collars and a few toys are a necessity when traveling with your pet. You want them to feel as comfortable and ?at home? as possible.

For our lab, we have the option to take one of the back seats out so that he has plenty of room to stretch out. The Papillion gets an old pillow to rest on, or you may have a dog bed. Try to keep as much familiar for them as possible. This assists in keeping restlessness to a minimum.

We research our route well before heading out to make sure of which hotels are pet friendly. Be sure and call the hotel ahead of time. We have found that hotels we visited in the past, stopped accepting pets. We also found a wide range of additional fees for the stay. Holiday Inn Express is one of our personal favorites. I can not stress enough the need to phone ahead!

While in the car be sure your pet is always secured. We keep our dogs on a lead and have found this very helpful. Especially when someone is exiting or entering the car you don’t want the pet to dash out into traffic or up a tree and be harmed.

Like people, pets appreciate stretching their legs and the chance to relieve themselves. Most rest stops have designated areas for you to use. Be sure you take this time to water and exercise them. A happy pet makes for a happy owner and a pleasant trip.

Find PetFriendlyHotels and DiscountHotels at our HotelFinder website.

Atlanta Attractions

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Tuesday 21 July 2009 2:55 am

Travelers with flights to Atlanta will find the city full of culture and fun, with so many attractions that visitors will never find themselves bored. Start with the Georgia Aquarium, where you are sure to find interesting displays and hundred of species of fish and other creatures to enjoy. Be sure to make a trip to the World of Coca-Cola, a popular Atlanta attraction that displays a huge collection of memorabilia, hands on exhibits, and video presentations detailing the history of the popular soft drink. As a bonus, you?ll be able to taste unlimited samples in many flavors.

For a more history experience, other Atlanta attractions include the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, including the home of his birth and the church where he preached. The High Museum of Art boasts over 11,000 pieces in a four-story building, including American, European, and African art, as well as photography and other art forms.

The Fox Theatre is a favorite Atlanta attraction, recently restored to ins original 1920?s design and featuring a classic Moller organ with over 3,600 pipes, nicknamed ?Mighty Mo?. The CNN Center, home to the first and largest 24-hour news network in the world, offers a Studio Tour, going behind the scenes of a live newsroom.

The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a serene collection of floral displays that rival any artwork inside a museum. The Zoo Atlanta is one of the oldest zoos in the United States and, having undergone a multi-million dollar renovation in the 1980?s, is one of the biggest Atlanta attractions. Centennial Olympic Park, built for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, boasts weekly free concerts and entertains children with a dancing water fountain. Also visit the memorial quilt sewn in remembrance of the victims of the Olympic bombing.

With so many things to see and do, it?s no wonder that Atlanta?s attractions draw tourists from all over the country. These are just a few of the fun and exciting things you can do while in the area ? Atlanta is a tourist draw, and for good reason.

Article may be reproduced if credited to http://www.atlantarestaurant.net

Visit Santa Monica California

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Monday 20 July 2009 10:55 pm

The beach city of Santa Monica, California with it’s average year round temperature of about 68 degrees Fahrenheit, good air quality, 245 acres of state beach, over 3,800 hotel rooms, numerous restaurants and abundant shopping is not only a destination for millions of Southern California day-trippers, it is also a popular destination for vactioners from all over the United States and the world.

The city is also home to the Santa Monica Pier, where you can fish day and night, watch the waves, view the wonders of the undersea world at the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, dance under the stars to music from big name bands and musicians (summers, Thursday nights only), ride the Ferris wheel, ride a carousel horse or a roller coaster, dine in an ocean view restaurant, entertain yourself at an arcade, watch street performers, jugglers and roller bladers, and shop for souvenirs.

For shopping you can go to the Third Street Promenade, an outdoor, pedestrian-only shopping and entertainment destination where you can spend the whole day. There are more shops are on adjacent boulevards and neighboring 2nd and 4th street. You can also visit Santa Monica Place, a tri-level skylit galleria housing 570,000 square feet with 120 shops and eateries. There is more shopping on Pico Blvd., Montana Ave. and Main Street.

There are accomodations in every price range from inexpensive motels like the Travelodge Santa Monica on Pico Boulevard to luxury hotels like the Hotel Oceana Santa Monica, The Fairmont Miramar Hotel, Le Merigot, Shutters on the Beach and Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel.

Dine in an inexpensive coffee shop, have a Fat Burger or some Mexican fast food or dine in more expensive restaurants like Melisse, Valentino, The Lobster, Il Ristorante di Giorgio Baldi, Josie, Chinois on Main, Rockenwagner Brasserie, Sam’s by the Beach, The Beach House, Drago and many more.

Check out the male and female weight lifters and body builders at Muscle Beach with it’s free weights, rings, parallel bars, balance bar, and other gymnastics apparatus. Play or watch people play chess at Chess Park with its 14 large tables with 4 chess boards per table and 10 small tables with 1 chess board per table. Go surfing in the Pier, Bay Street and Rose Ave. beach areas.

For more information about the city of Santa Monica, California see http://santamonica.usacitydirectories.com, a directory of links to city of Santa Monica, California guides and directories listing hotels, restaurants, attorneys, information, resources, services, things to do, places to go and more.

David G. Hallstrom, Sr. is a retired private investigator and is currently the publisher of several internet directories, including http://www.usacitydirectories.com a directory of national, state, county and city guides and directories listing local guides, directories, web sites and web pages providing resources, services and information about things to do and places to go.

Parador Malaga Gibralfaro

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Monday 20 July 2009 2:55 am

This Parador in Malaga is located on the famous Costa Del Sol of Spain. There are great views of the sea from the Parador which has a ‘look-out’ postion over the city. It sits next to an centuries-old Moorish fortress (Alcazaba) – the Gibralfaro.

In ancient times, there was kept lit a fire on this hill that guided the ships out at sea into the harbor of the city (this is how the name Gibralfaro came about; gibral = mountain, faro = light).

The Parador of Malaga is surrounded by pretty pine trees and has extensive garden areas. There is a swimming pool on the top where you can swim and lounge with the incredible views. As well, each bedroom has it’s own small balcony and views.

The restaurant at Parador Malaga offers a superb menu that specializes in sea food and typical Andalusian cuisine.

The city of Malaga is the gateway to the Costa Del Sol, but – if that’s where you’re headed – do stop awhile in this wonderful city and visit before moving on to the sun and sand. Malaga has one of the busiest ports in Andalucia, fine golf courses and restaurants, and a host of things to keep travelers busy and entertained during their visit.

Interesting nearby excursions from Parador Malaga:

- The Moorish Alcazaba and the Gibralfaro. These are right near the Parador of Malaga and best preserve what remains architecturally of the once-powerful Moorish controllers of this city. Climb up on the old walls of the castle and get a great view out over the city.

- The new Picasso Museum (Picasso was a native son of Malaga).

- The city’s central zone has some interesting churches and other museums worth visiting.

- The Alameda Principal is a great place to stroll and watch the busy Malague?os living their daily lives.

- Walk down to the Paseo del Parque and you’ll encounter a very peaceful environment of tropical plants near the sea.

- El Palo and Pedregalejo is an area of quaint beaches with several restaurants and cafes that serve some of the very best fish and seafood meals anywhere in Andalucia.

Interesting day trips from the Malaga Gibralfaro Parador include:

- Rincon de la Victoria and the treasure caves.

- Mijas is a pretty little white village in the hills above the sea – about 26 km from the Malaga Parador.

- Ronda is close, and one of the must see towns of Andalucia with its incredible gorge and Moorish ruins.

Malaga offers a great mix for the visitor; the port and nearby beaches, quality museums, fascinating ruins, a world-class golf course – and the great Andalusian ambience. The Parador Malaga Gibralfaro is the perfect place to stay while visiting – you’ll feel a bit like a king (or queen) from this perch that overlooks the entire city.

SpainParador.com makes it easy for you to plan and arrange your next trip to Spain. This time stay in palaces, castles, and other places of great historical interest and rare beauty – the wonderful Paradors of Spain. http://www.SpainParador.com

Japan Travel Guide

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Sunday 19 July 2009 6:55 pm

Many foreign tourists may often find traveling in Japan, because only a few people in Japan can speak English. However, Japan is a great country, and the Japanese are wonderful people.

Before you buy your ticket to Japan, you should know that Japan is an expensive place to travel. The cost of living is very high. You should have at least 5,000 yen per day for your pocket money. If you do not have a lot of money, you should use Japan Rail Pass. It is very cheap way to travel.

Food is one of the best things in Japan. Japanese food is incredibly delicious. Since Japan is an island, seafood is the most popular food in this country. When you think about Japanese food, you probably think about sushi. Sushi consists of raw fish and rice.

If you have a chance, you must visit Japanese hot bath. It is not something that you will see in other countries. The Japanese hot bath is called, ? Onsen ?. In some area, people take a bath together in the open area. This is often known as ?open sky bath?.

Housing is very expensive in Japan. There are too many people in Japan, and there are not enough apartments. Most Japanese can not afford to own a home. However, travelers may camp at various places in Japan. The camp site is usually safe and cheap. The Capsule hotel is one of these many cheap camp sites.

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Traveling With Kids

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Sunday 19 July 2009 2:55 pm

Vacation time is meant to be a relaxing experience, a time to rejuvenate. Taking a few simple steps with careful planning ahead of time can truly make your travel adventure an effortless trip for the whole family. For cheap airline tickets, cheap hotels, and cheap car rental book early. Organizing your flight plans, car rental arrangements and hotel reservations in advance will help to make a smooth vacation.

Flying Tips:

  • Ear pressure during take-off and landing can cause a lot of pain. Help your child by providing them with gum or a chewy food.
  • Many flights no longer serve food, bring food and snacks. Ask about food serve when ordering the airline tickets.
  • Keep the kids occupied by bringing activities such as coloring books and cards.
  • Ask the airline attendant at the start of the flight for pillows and blankets. They run out quickly so ask right away even if you think you might not need them.
  • Stand up and walk around periodically with the kids, even if they don’t quite need to stretch yet. This is great preventative medicine to avoid a possible melt down. Because if the kids are ready for a stretch and the fasten seat belt sign is on, that could cause frustration for the kids.

Car Rental Tips:

  • Check ahead of time the rules/laws for car seats. Make sure the car rental company has the proper weight car seat.
  • Ask the car rental company if the vehicle has child proof locks.
  • Make sure your stroller will fit in the truck.
  • Check the inside of the car for cup holders before leaving the rental agency.
  • Bring water bottles in the car freezing them the night before.

Hotel Tips:

  • Arrange for a rollaway bed or crib ahead of time when making the hotel reservations. Hotels do run out.
  • Ask about a welcome package for the kids, many higher end hotels do provide welcome gifts for the kids.
  • Kids clubs are available at many hotels, check for hours and ages groups.
  • Resorts tend to schedule special activities for the kids especially during the summer months, ask the concierge about this.
  • Some hotels limit the pool hours and fitness center for kids, inquire about this prior your vacation.

Arrival Tips:

  • Have engraved gifts for friends, relatives or business associates.
  • If you are having a party on your trip, arrange for the party supplies to be delivered to your destination.
  • Schedule flower delivery before departing, check for local florists.
  • Never come empty handed, bring personalized gifts!
  • Mrs. Party… Gail Leino is the internet’s leading authority on selecting the best possible party supplies, using proper etiquette and manners while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. Bringing a nice Gift Basket is a lovely way to greet your friends.