Cheap Means of Lodging - Alaska Vacation Rentals

Cheap Means of Lodging - Alaska Vacation Rentals

by Sylvestor Johnson

It is really very difficult to define the beauty of Alaska. A simple thought of spending vacation in Alaska creates excitement and thrills mind. Other than excitement, Alaska is related to polar bears, whales jumping high in the water, crystal glaciers and various other adventures. Alaska is just an awesome place for spending vacation. It is sure that one visit to Alaska will let you fall in love with it. There are lots many activities to do in Alaska such as glaciers hikes, sea kayaking, wildlife; fishing etc. Alaska is complete blend of excitement and adventure. And, if you really want to make it a life time experience then don't forget to accommodate in Alaska vacation rentals.

Today, Alaska vacation rentals are gaining popularity as they offer comfort at holidaying destination. There are certain features that easily can define Alaska vacation rentals, which are as follows:

*Privacy

*Comfort

*Cheap

Vacation rentals in Alaska are spacious and multi roomed. In other words, after having a tiring and adventurous day, you can relax either in living room or in your bed room or as you want. Vacation rentals embrace of all amenities present in home such as television, dryer etc. It has been observed that generally travelers feel deprived of home food while holidaying. But, fortunately, it doesn't happens while accommodating at Alaska vacation rental as it consist of fully furnished kitchen, in which anything can be cooked.

Traveler can also think of accommodating at Hotel or motel. It is true that hotel is also a good choice as it offers comfort. But along that it must be noted that they are expensive as compared to taking accommodation at vacation rentals. And, cost is regarded as a crucial criterion which is undertaken while deciding the place of accommodation.

Alaska vacation rentals are available in different sizes and location. They can be in a form of condo, bungalow, villa, apartment, cottage house etc. The cost or rent involved totally depends upon the location, size and the number of people accommodating at vacation rental. Thus, the traveler can chose the type as per his needs and budget.

Alaska is perfect holidaying destination for nature and adventure lovers. It is sure that Alaska will give you thousands of special moments which will make you're a trip an unforgettable holiday. And, you can treasure all your memorable moments by taking accommodation at Alaska vacation rentals.

Bring Travel Coffee Maker When On Vacation

Bring Travel Coffee Maker When On Vacation

by Masni Rizal Mansor

For those on the go, a travel coffee maker can be an ideal appliance for the home. The brewer is designed to hold travel mugs and can brew enough fresh coffee to fill one, and with some units, two cups of coffee.

The travel mugs sold with the travel coffee maker are usually insulated with manufacturers understanding the purpose of the machines is to brew coffee for travel. Since travel mugs are taller than most coffee cups, the machines are built to accommodate them.

Prices vary greatly depending on the manufacturer, the style and design with prices ranging from just under twenty dollars up to a few hundred dollars. All travel coffee makers, however, work basically the same. A cup's worth of water is placed in the reservoir, coffee is placed in the basket, it is turned on and coffee is brewed into the mug.

Some of the less expensive travel coffee maker models require the use of a paper filter and coffee grounds, while others costing a little more may have a permanent metal filter or allow the use of coffee pods, small filters sealing in a measured amount of coffee, allowing for consistent brewing.

Other Uses For Coffee Makers

Since a travel coffee maker is designed to brew a specific amount of water at a time, used without the coffee grounds can produce clear, hot water for use in tea, hot chocolate or other drinks requiring hot water. It can also be used for those quick meals that only require the addition of hot water, without the need for heating on the stove or in a microwave.

There are a few travel coffee makers on the market, which can be used while traveling, but the dangers of plugging one into a power spot in your vehicle and making hot coffee while driving may outweigh the benefits. However, since the travel coffee maker is small it can be taken on the road and used in motel or hotel rooms to satisfy your craving while on a business trip or on vacation.

Some folks have been advised, for health reasons, to limit their caffeine intake and not appreciating the taste of decaffeinated coffee use a travel coffee maker to make the single cup to reduce temptation of drinking an entire pot of 10 or 12 cups. Although they can make as many single cups as they wish, it often forces tem to cut down.

Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in-Demand These Days

Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in-Demand These Days

by Esther M

The honeymoon is a very important part of a newlywed married couple's life. Both of them want to make the event memorable so it requires careful planning and considerable time to plan it.

There are many honeymoon themes available for couples like romantic honeymoon, dream, exotic, island, luxury, beach, mountain, tropical, adventure, winter, safari, and exclusive honeymoons. If you want to decide on the theme of your honeymoon, and to help you with that task, you can find the top ten list of honeymoon destinations here.

Before checking out the list, there are certain things to consider before choosing your honeymoon destination like -

- in planning for your honeymoon, make a listing of different places that both of you would want to visit, and the activities that you want to be involved in - the honeymoon budget - how long do you plan to spend on your honeymoon - get as much information of your chosen destination - shock each other with surprise plans

Every couple is excited for their upcoming honeymoon. And so they should choose a honeymoon destination that will suit their tastes and preference. Here is the list of top ten honeymoon destinations:

1. Bora Bora

If you want to add a captivating aura for your honeymoon, a Bora Bora vacation is the top-most choice. You can enjoy the crystalline seas and powdery beaches of this beautiful place. Spend quiet evenings together along the beach coast as you watch the moon and stars above. A couple nice places to visit would be the Bora Bora Le Meridien or the Bora Bora Bora Pearl Resort.

2. Mauritius

This magical place with the Mauritius weather,landed on the second place as a top honeymoon destination. Holiday Mauritius, in case you are going during the holidays, is also very popular. This place will truly enchant you and you're sure to get personal attention. Set on a turquoise sea, the island is considered an oasis of tranquility and peace.

3. Barbados

This is an island in the Caribbean that allures many honeymooners with their white beaches, quixotic atmosphere, and turquoise seas. The island boasts of its sophisticated and charming sandy shores that are alive with so many possibilities, so You will find much to do, such as a, Barbados shore excursion. You can enjoy the Barbados activity and picture taking. You're sure to wake up in a paradise, together with the tropic's rhythm.

4. Maldives

If you want to visit an impressive place that is secluded and calm, and is most ideal for honeymooners, this is the perfect love spot for you. Enjoy a Maldives honeymoon with the island sun and Other places like, some of the island Maldives royal, island Maldives Sun, where The Little Mermaid Dive Center is located, for instance, on Sun Island, Maldives. This is located 100 km from Male International Airport, on the uninhabited island Nalaguraidhoo.

5. Aruba

This place is also called the lover's paradise. The couple can enjoy their stay in this romantic place and receive champagne upon arrival. They will also receive a gift, as a souvenir that they've been to Aruba. These days, they also offer a promotional 'free night' on a return visit. If you are looking into an Aruba vacation package, they offer cruises to Aruba, there are beautiful locations such places as Palm Beach, and Aruba fishing, Aruba deepsea fishing, even an, Aruba wedding, if you like.

6. France

You can also find mountain slopes, beaches, cathedrals, monuments, and museums in France that caters to honeymooners. There are some great vacation packages for those seeking honeymoons in France, especially as it is considered a 'short break' to France. Another cool idea would be to go camping France, or make it a camping holiday in France, as it is your honeymoon.

7. Thailand

In this country, you can find sun-kissed waters and seas. Become one of the Thailand woman, or a Thailand man, or Thailand nude if only for a few days with your loved one. They also boast of their exquisite Thai cuisine and attracts many newly weds. Be Thailand sexy with a full moon party. Just watch out for tsunamis in this gorgeous country of Thailand, in the event that you fall into a deep, delicious sleep with your partner after all that fun and sex on the beach! Just playing.

8. Singapore

You can find a lot of botanic gardens and natural environment in this country, and you're sure to have an unforgettable honeymoon. For a great Singapore singapore vacation, Tiger Airway Singapore offers some affordable packages and airfare to those wishing to enbark on Singapore travell.

9. Seychelles

If you want a tropical honeymoon, this place could best suit you as a couple. They offer powdery, Seychelles beaches, and islands meant for lovers; it's a great place to experience romance like the waves that caress the shores at midnight. A seychelles honeymoon may be just the thing for you.

10. Italy

Many honeymoon couples are attracted to this beautiful country. You can find painters, paramours, poets, and potentates in this boot-shaped country. Its light, sumptuous, and dreamy landscapes are meant for romance. You can visit, como Italy lake, hotel in Italy venice, Italy Sorento,italy little maggianos, a fine restaurant known for their incredible cuisine, plus much more.

So there you have it, the top ten (10) honeymoon destination(s) top, preferred by many couples.

For more helpful Tips & Books on: Romantic travels, Weddings, and Honeymoon destinations, please visit: http://rivierabooks.2ya.com

Wisconsin Dells Resorts, A Premier Travel Destination For Any Vacation

Wisconsin Dells Resorts, A Premier Travel Destination For Any Vacation

by Kurt Howard

Wisconsin Dells, WI has long been a favorite travel destination of numerous vacationers, but it wasn't until recently that more people have discovered what Wisconsin Dells all has to offer. With the combination of award winning resorts, highly rated dinning, indoor and outdoor waterparks and numerous attractions, Wisconsin Dells really has it all.

Wisconsin Dells is often referred to as the "Water Park Capital of the World" because of its abundance of indoor and outdoor water parks. Wisconsin Dells contains America's largest outdoor and indoor waterparks. Noah's Ark Waterpark in Wisconsin Dells is the largest outdoor waterpark in America and features 45 waterslides along with 2 huge wave pools. Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells is America's largest indoor water park and features the FlowRider® which allows you to surf or boogie board year round.

Wisconsin Dells attractions do not just contain waterparks either. With over 80 attractions in the Dells area, travelers can enjoy a wide range of different attractions. Wisconsin Dells attractions include; mini-golf, magic shows, music performances, comedy clubs, museums, scenic tours, shopping, petting zoos, gambling, golf, fishing and much more.

When it comes time to eat travelers can choose from over 100 restaurants, all within 19 square miles in Wisconsin Dells. Whether you are hungry for seafood, steak, fast food, fine dinning, ethnic entrees, family-dinning or an all you can eat buffet, you will find it in Wisconsin Dells. You will not need to travel far to eat either, as most Wisconsin Dells resorts have restaurant within the resorts.

When looking for a hotel resort to stay at while in Wisconsin Dells there are 5 main resorts to choose from if you want a resort with an indoor and outdoor waterpark. These 5 resorts include; Great Wolf Resort, Kalahari Resort, Wilderness Resort, Treasure Island Resort and Chula Vista Resort. Each of these resorts has large indoor and outdoor waterparks attached to them and admission is included with your stay. They also have restaurants within the resorts. If you are looking to save money you can stay at a Wisconsin Dells hotel or motel that does not have a waterpark and prices will be much lower. However, you will still be able to enjoy a waterpark by visiting Noah's Ark Water Park.

When planning your next vacation take a look at Wisconsin Dells and see what they all have to offer. It is sure to be a vacation you will remember for some time to come. For more information on Wisconsin Dells vacations visit http://www.SeeWisconsinDells.com

25 Great Ways to Save Money at Disney World

25 Great Ways to Save Money at Disney World

by Ryan Wiseman

Believe it or not, you can live it up at Walt Disney World Resort - whether you plan on visiting Disney's Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney-MGM Studios or Disney's Animal Kingdom - without making a huge dent in your wallet. By planning ahead, seeking out the best online deals and following the money-saving tips listed below, you can enjoy significant savings on your Disney World vacation getaway - without sacrificing any of your family's comfort or enjoyment.

1. Seek out discount Disney World tickets, budget accommodations convenient to Disney attractions and individually tailored Disney vacation packages before you arrive in Orlando.

2. If possible, plan your Disney World trip during the off-season and you will usually discover significantly lower airfares and hotel/resort rates.

3. If you are staying at a Disney resort, take advantage of complimentary transportation to all Walt Disney World theme parks, water parks and Downtown Disney.

4. Some of the area factory outlet stores such as Orlando Premium Outlets sell Disney merchandise at significantly lower prices than you will find at stores within the Disney World theme parks.

5. Check out some of the free things to do at Disney World such as strolling around Disney's Boardwalk and Downtown Disney, or hiking through the Disney Wilderness Preserve.

6. Take the family to one of the all-you-can-eat buffets that lie just outside Disney World property such as Bill Wong's Famous Buffet, Sweet Tomatoes, Boston Lobster Feast, Golden Corral, Ponderosa, Sizzler, Captain Nemo's Seafood Feast or Angel's Lobster, Crab & Prime Rib Buffet.

7. If you don't mind staying off Disney property, you will discover numerous budget motels and hotels (many of which provide complimentary transportation to Disney World theme parks) along Highway 192 in Kissimmee just East of the main entrance to Walt Disney World Resort.

8. Look for free publications such as I Love Orlando magazine, which contain a multitude of discount coupons to Disney area attractions, restaurants and specialty shops.

9. Before you book a hotel or motel, check if they offer guests a complimentary continental or full breakfast each morning.

10. Check out comprehensive online guides to Disney World such as Orlando, Florida Guide for in-depth information on Disney World discount tickets, accommodations and vacation packages.

11. For larger families, reunions or any other get-together at Disney World, it may make better financial sense to look into renting a vacation home, many of which offer enclosed garages, private backyard pools and washer/dryers.

12. If you are visiting one of the Disney World theme parks with young children, don't forget to bring along a backpack with some snacks or juice boxes.

13. You don't have to shell out big bucks to stay on Disney World property at one of Disney's budget all-star resorts - Disney's All-Star Movies Resort, Disney's All Star Music Resort and Disney's All-Star Sports Resort (all of which offer complimentary transportation to Disney theme parks and feature onsite food courts).

14. Instead of spending a fortune at a Disney character breakfast, take your kids to Town Square at Main Street, U.S.A. for autograph and photo opportunities with Disney characters.

15. Choose the appropriate Disney World ticket deal based on your family's length of stay in Orlando and remember not to overdo things - you will want to schedule time for rest and relaxation during your trip.

16. If you choose to eat at the Disney World theme parks, try to make lunch your big meal of the day when prices are considerably lower than for dinner (especially at Epcot's World Showcase).

17. Whenever you leave one of Disney World's theme parks, make sure to get your hand stamped. Then after you rest awhile and enjoy a cheaper dinner off site, you can head back to the park after the crowds have thinned out.

18. You may want to schedule your Walt Disney World vacation around one of Disney's highly acclaimed annual events and festivals, many of which are included with the price of admission such as the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, Star Wars Weekends, Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, Festival of the Seasons, ABC Super Soap Weekend, Festival of the Masters and Holidays Around the World.

19. Carry your own water bottle into the Disney theme park and you can fill it up at any of the abundant water fountains throughout the day.

20. Establish a budget for Disney World souvenirs and stick to your budget (no matter how many cool gifts you see as you stroll through Epcot's World Showcase!).

21. If you are an AAA or AARP member, take advantage of any special rates or discounts that are available during your Disney World vacation.

22. Many off-site hotels and motels with onsite restaurants offer "Kids Eat Free" deals (one child eats free per paying adult).

23. Purchase such necessities as film and sunscreen before you arrive at Disney World, since prices at the theme parks are more expensive for such items.

24. If you are staying at one of the Disney resorts, take advantage of Disney's Magical Express, which provides complimentary shuttle service to and from the Orlando International Airport (reservations are required for Disney's Magical Express).

25. If possible, try to avoid Disney World during holiday weekends and Spring Break when prices are higher and the theme parks are most crowded.

Tips for Healthy Eating on Vacation

Tips for Healthy Eating on Vacation

by Shari Hearn

Ah, vacation. Time indulge yourself a little. Relax in the sun. Sip a cool one by the pool. Eat like it's your last meal on Earth. Well, okay, we all know you shouldn't eat everything in sight while on vacation, but, that's what many people end up doing. In addition to the postcards, many people end up bringing back souvenir pounds which they spend the next few months trying to lose. What's a traveler to do?

The easiest advice would be to choose vacation spots with lousy food. But, do you really want to say goodbye to San Francisco, New York City, Paris or all of Italy? No, of course not. But, you can vacation in all the culinary hot spots without gaining weight if you just plan ahead and follow some simple advice.

For example, when you are planning your vacation, try to make sure your hotel room, cabin or motel has a kitchenette or microwave available in your room. This way you can microwave or heat up any leftovers from restaurant meals. This not only helps your food budget, but also may entice you to eat less at restaurants. If you know you can take half the food back to the hotel with you and enjoy it the next day, you're more likely to eat less.

If you're unable to find a room with a microwave or kitchenette, at least make sure there's a refrigerator. This may seem like a small thing, but if you're able to have cold milk in your room, you're at least able to bring cereal with you for breakfast. If you can avoid having to eat breakfast at a restaurant, you have just saved yourself a few hundred calories. While it's true most restaurants offer those little cereal boxes for breakfast, it can be a Herculean task to order the little cereal box instead of that wonderful looking omelet, or those fluffy pancakes. Having cereal in the room with you removes the temptation.

It's also good to pick a hotel or motel which offers a continental breakfast. Stick to cereals and fruits and avoid the pastries.

If you're taking a road trip and driving to your destination, cut down on the stops to roadside diners. Yes, the little roadside diners are what makes a road trip fun, but make sure you cut down on the number of diners you visit. Instead, take a cooler with you containing some healthier foods and find a scenic roadside spot for a picnic. If the spot has grills setup, you can grill a chicken or fish dinner that's probably better than what you'd get in the diner.

If you're "unlucky" enough to vacation in a culinary wonderland (i.e., anywhere in Italy), don't despair. You don't have to avoid restaurants or good food. You just have to keep your culinary wits about you. Maybe you and your traveling companion can share a meal, or, if you have a microwave at the hotel, eat half and save the rest for the next night. And, go easy on the wine and other alcohol. Not only does alcohol add calories, it could lower your resolve not to go overboard at dinner. Remember, tipsy eating is dangerous eating.

While having a dinner out, remember to take your time and savor the food and wine. Eating slowly is a great trick to help you avoid overeating. Some say it takes your mind about 20 minutes to send signals to your stomach that you are full. By eating slowly you allow your body to receive the "all-full" signal before you've eaten everything in sight.

Lastly, but certainly not least importantly, there's one word you should remember on your vacation to help ensure the baggage you bring back home stays in your luggage and not on your thighs. That word is "exercise." Avoid the cabs and walk. Take walking tours of the cities you visit. And, while taking a road trip, make sure there's a scenic walk you can take on your route. Pull over at a trailhead and walk for an hour or two. Not only will it make the road trip more interesting, but it will help you maintain your weight on your trip.

You should also avoid eating large meals late at night, especially two hours before going to sleep. When your body gets ready for sleep, it slows down and burns calories at a much slower pace.

Remember, you don't have to deprive yourself of good food on your vacation. Skip the restaurant breakfast, experience the good food and drink in moderation, eat slowly and walk. It's your vacation. Enjoy yourself. You earned it.

Looking For A Great Place To Vacation? Try a Folly Beach Rental

Looking For A Great Place To Vacation? Try a Folly Beach Rental

by Chuck Jaymes

Many vacationers prefer a vacation rental home to staying in a hotel or motel. Folly Beach, South Carolina is a great vacation destination with an abundant selection of vacation rental properties. A Folly Beach rental can give you and your family fond memories that will last a lifetime.

Folly Beach entices vacationers with its pleasant temperatures, sandy beaches, southern hospitality, delicious Lowcountry cuisine and laid-back atmosphere. Folly Beach, affectionately called "The Edge of America", offers those on vacation lots of outdoor recreation; swimming, surfing, boating, fishing or just relaxing on the beach in the sun. Many vacation rental owners remark that they have the same visitors return year after year.

Some vacationers wonder if there is enough to do on Folly Beach for a full week because of its small size. Even though Folly has only about 2,000 permanent residents and is located on a 6 mile barrier island, there are plenty of things to do to keep you busy.

Attractions of Folly Beach and the surrounding area:

* Swimming

* Surfing

* Deep sea fishing charters

* Public boat landing

* The remarkable Folly Beach Fishing Pier - 1,045 feet long, 25 feet wide and 23 feet above sea level

* Excellent golf courses

* Jet ski rentals

* 600 acre county park

* The South Carolina Aquarium

* Charleston Riverdogs baseball

* Unique shops and restaurants

* Only 8 miles from historic downtown Charleston

A Folly Beach rental can fit just about any size family or budget. You can choose from oceanfront homes, villas, cottages or condos. Most vacation rentals are by the week, however, some are available for weekends or for long-term rentals during the off-season. The prime season for Folly Beach vacation rentals is May through September.

If you live in a major metropolitan area, you'll find Folly Beach a wonderful escape from the noise, traffic and congestion you face on a daily basis. Folly has that sleepy, small town southern charm that makes for a relaxing vacation. Isn't relaxation what you're on vacation for in the first place? Put your toes in the sand, enjoy your favorite beverage and watch the pelicans soar overhead.

A Folly Beach rental allows you to enjoy all the creature comforts of home while on vacation. No housekeeping crew waking you up much too early and no loud partier on the other side of the wall keeping you up at night.

Finding the right Folly Beach rental is easy. There is a number of vacation rental property management companies located on Folly beach. An even better way to find a great rental is the internet. There are several property management companies on the web, along with many private individuals advertising their vacation rentals. Most sites offer pictures and detailed descriptions of the property to help make your decision even easier.

Folly Beach is a wonderful place for a vacation. Check out a Folly Beach rental and see for yourself.

Finding the Best Deals on Hotel Lodging

Finding the Best Deals on Hotel Lodging

by David Chandler

There is no doubt that hotel costs are among the biggest part of any vacation budget, and the failure to find affordable lodging has harpooned many an otherwise well planned vacation. One of the keys to enjoying a great vacation without breaking the bank is striking the best possible deal on the roof over your head.

Fortunately, the internet has made the process of finding a great hotel deal much easier. There are some great hotel, motel, and bed and breakfast deals out there, and the internet has made them easier to find than ever.

Booking ahead is essential, as is shopping around. You simply cannot expect to simply show up at a hotel and get a good rate. Most hotel chains reserve their best room rates, and they limit their numbers. Once those low cost rooms are booked, they are simply no longer available.

It is also important to book ahead because it can be difficult to gauge the demand for lording in a particular area, even if you are familiar with your destination. Special events of which you are unaware could cause a spike in hotel demand, and hotel prices, and leave you either paying an arm and a leg for a place to sleep, or, worse yet, find yourself without a place to stay at all.

It is also important to take advantage of all discounts to which you may be entitled, and not be shy about asking for discounts. Many hotel chains and independent hotels offer discounts to those in the military, senior citizens, and members of travel clubs like AAA. If you think you are entitled to a discount, be sure to ask, and be sure to verify that the discount has been applied when you arrive.

In addition, many hotel chains offer programs that are similar to airline frequent flier programs. These programs reward loyal guests with free nights and other rewards. It is important to sign up for these programs whenever you can. Most of these programs are free, so signing up will cost you nothing, and you could end up with a free hotel stay.

When looking for those great hotel deals, a number of web sites compare hotels by price, star level, and even proximity to certain tourist attractions. It is always best to search several of these sites, since not all hotel chains participate in every comparison site.

There is no doubt that finding a great hotel rate will take some time and some hard work, but it is very important to keeping your travel budget under control. The cost of lodging often represents at least half, and often much more, of the total cost of a vacation. It is easy to see, then, how getting the best possible deal on your hotel can keep your cost level low and your vacation fun level high.

For more information about securing cheap or discount hotel rates, visit these sites, http://www.cheaphotelsinfoguide.com and http://www.discounthotelsinfoguide.com

Las Vegas - A City Guide

Las Vegas - A City Guide

by Nivedita Balamurugan

Las Vegas - A City Guide

Introduction

Las Vegas is the most populated city in Nevada, United States. The city was founded in the first decade of the 20th century, and is a major vacation, shopping, and gambling destination. The center of gambling in the US, Las Vegas is sometimes called Sin City due to the popularity of legalized gambling, availability of alcoholic beverages any time (like all of Nevada), various forms and degrees of adult entertainment. The nickname favored by local government and promoters of tourism is The Entertainment Capital of the World. The city's glamorous image has made it a popular setting for films and television programs.

History

Major events in Las Vegas' history include:

¢ Establishment of Las Vegas as a railroad town (May 15, 1905). ¢ Legalization of gambling (March 19, 1931). ¢ Completion of Hoover Dam (October 9, 1936). ¢ Opening of Bugsy Siegel's Flamingo Hotel on what would become the Las Vegas Strip (December 26, 1946). ¢ Above-ground testing of nuclear bombs (1951 to 1963). ¢ The floods of 1955, 1984, 1999, and 2003. ¢ MGM Grand Hotel fire (November 21, 1980), the worst disaster in Nevada history. ¢ Opening of the Mirage (November 22, 1989), this began the era of mega resort casinos.

Place of interest

The city and surrounding areas offer many attractions for both visitors and locals to enjoy. Just walking on the Strip and gazing at the gaudy, garish, absurd wonder of it all can occupy quite a lot of time. This is the number-one activity in Vegas; at night and there are shows and plenty of other nighttime entertainment. There are also plenty of out-of-town sightseeing options, like Hoover Dam (a major tourist destination), Red Rock Canyon, and nexus-of-all-conspiracy-theories Area 51, along with excursions to the Grand Canyon. The main attractions for the tourists are the casinos and their free shows. Free hotel attractions, such as Bellagio's water-fountain ballet, The Mirage's volcano and white-tiger exhibit, and the masquerade show at the Rio and the utter piece of hooey that replaced the pirate show at TI at the Mirage. Museums & Art Galleries

Besides the casinos another attraction in Las Vegas is its museums. These museums are very much attached with the history of Las Vegas, better to say, with the history of America. ¢ Boulder City / Hoover Dam Museum, ¢ Bruno's Indian Museum, ¢ Central Nevada Museum, ¢ Clark County Heritage Museum, ¢ Guinness World of Records Museum and Gift Shop are some of those museums. Other than these some art museums and auto museums are there in Las Vegas. Las Vegas Art Museum, George L. Sturman Museum of Fine Art, Southern Nevada Museum of Fine Arts are some of arts museums.

Shopping

Shopping in Vegas is endless and it's a shop-till-you-drop kind of city. Some extensive malls and many hotels have comprehensive, and sometimes highly themed, shopping arcades. The most notable of the arcades are in Caesars Palace, Aladdin, and The Venetian. In addition to the malls, outlets, and shops, it's a good idea to drive to Maryland Parkway, which runs parallel to the Strip on the east and has just about one of everything: Target, Toys "R" Us, several major department stores, Tower Records, major drugstores, some alternative-culture stores (tattoo parlors and hip clothing stores), and so forth. Las Vegas has a big factory-outlet center just a few miles past the southern end of the Strip. Vegas has quite a few antiques stores, nearly two dozen, of consistent quality and price, nearly all located within a few blocks of each other.

Food & Drink

Among the many images that come to mind when people think of Las Vegas are cheap food deals, bargains so good the food is practically free. Some of the big names are Pinot, Le Cirque, Alizé, Aqua, Aureole, Olives, Lutèce, Border Grill, Nobu and Rosemary's Restaurant. Las Vegas has some theme restaurants like The House of Blues, Harley Davidson Café, The Hard Rock Café, the Rainforest Café and Margaritaville.

Universities

University Of Nevada-Las Vegas is the main university located in Las Vegas. Among other universities and community colleges University Of Phoenix-Nevada, Community College Of Southern Nevada, Community College Of Southern Nevada, Southern Nevada University Of Cosmetology are some notable entities.

Sports

Las Vegas isn't known for its sports teams. Except for minor-league baseball and hockey, the only consistent spectator sports are those at UNLV. The Las Vegas Motor Speedway is a main venue for car racing and should draw major events to Las Vegas.

But since the city has several top-notch sporting arenas, there are important annual events that take place in Las Vegas. The PGA Tour's Las Vegas Senior Classic is held each April in nearby Summerlin, and the Las Vegas Invitational takes place in Las Vegas each October. The National Finals Rodeo is held in UNLV's Thomas and Mack Center each December.

Hotels & Accommodation

If there's one thing Vegas has, its hotels, big hotels and lots of them. The 10 largest hotels in the United States - 9 of the top 10 in the world - located in Vegas. There are lots to choose from according ones need and choice.

Luxury Hotels

Vegas have elegant and grand hotels in its possession. The MGM Grand, the Las Vegas Hilton, the Ritz-Carlton, the Hotel, the Mirage, Stratosphere Casino Hotel & Tower - are some of these big names.

Budget Hotels

If the visit to Vegas is in a particularly busy season and booking in prominent hotels are over, here's a list of moderate to very inexpensive alternatives - Budget Suites of America, Travelodge, Budget Inn, Motel 6 Boulder Highway etc.

Tours and Sightseeing

Just about every hotel in town has a sightseeing desk offering a seemingly infinite number of tours in and around Las Vegas. You're sure to find The Reservation Center, a tour company of international repute that will take you where you want to go a good choice for your sightseeing tours. The tours include Air Tours including Airplane, Helicopter Tours; Land tours including ATV Tours, Bicycle Tours, Bus Tours, Walking / Hiking and Horseback Riding; Water tours including Jet Ski Tours, Lake Cruises, River Rafting, Wakeboarding, etc. These tours contain destinations like Hoover Dam, Mount Charleston, and Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire and Lake Mead. The Reservation Center is one of the most comprehensive tour agencies and offers a wide variety of tours.

Transport

The CAT Bus is the popular means of public transportation among locals and tourists with 52 bus routes operating covering a large portion of the valley. The Las Vegas Monorail runs from the MGM Grand Hotel at the south end of the Strip to the Sahara Hotel at the north end of the Strip. McCarran International Airport provides commercial flights into the Las Vegas valley. The airport also serves private aircraft, domestic and international passenger flights, and freight/cargo flights. Intercity bus service to Las Vegas is provided by traditional intercity bus carriers, including Greyhound; many charter services, including Green Tortoise; and several Chinatown bus lines. Union Pacific Railroad (UP) is the only class one railroad to provide rail freight service to the city.

Save Money On Your Great Disneyworld Vacation

Save Money On Your Great Disneyworld Vacation

by John Murray

A family vacation to Disneyworld is a dream come true for many families. However, not everyone has the finances to make their dreams come true. Its not that they don't want to go. It's just that they feel they cannot afford it and don't pursue it further. We're not going to fool you, Disneyworld vacations can be expensive, but you can save a huge amount of moola while enjoying the magic even if you're working with a shoestring budget.

In this article, we will expose the many secrets to planning an affordable vacation for you and your family. By following our tips, you can save up to 40% on the listed prices! Sound interesting? Well it is.

Now, we've got to be honest with you. We are not suggesting that you sleep in a cheap motel with roaches and ants, miles away from all the magic while feasting on peanut butter crackers in your room. Instead, we'll discuss proven tips that will allow you to stay in a resort hotel with great amenities, dine at great-tasting restaurants on property and still save substantial amounts of hard-earned moola.

First of all, you should know that there are member websites that guide you to particular resources that teach you how to save on vacations. The savings include:

- Accommodations on property, and outside.

- Tickets to the theme parks

- Dining on property, and at parks outside.

- Tickets to Universal and other attractions

- And much more!

To find one, do a search on "google" or another search engine for Disneyworld member discounts or search for "Disney World resort companies". You may find some great and economical vacation packages that are similar to these:

5 nights at a beautiful Resort - 5 days of fun for a family of 4 to all Parks, including all meals. For only $1,510.

3 nights accommodations near Disney - 4 tickets to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and MGM Studios, including all meals. For $1,040.

5 night honeymoon vacations that include hotel, tickets and meals at over 100 restaurants for $1,200!

That's right. With the quick flick of a mouse, you can plan an inexpensive Disneyworld vacation through various resort companies trying to attract new clients. The savings will be unbeatable for lodging and you may even get free passes which will allow you to access to all of Disney's parks, MGM Studios, special cartoon exhibits, and much more! In addition, you may discover that Disney World vacations include visits to the four major theme parks such as Epcot or the Magic Kingdom, among other attractions.

In addition, you will also find substantial discounts on food. For instance, some resort companies offer free food and even feature complimentary character breakfasts so you and your children can enjoy their meals with Cinderella, Winnie the Pooh, and other popular characters.

In conclusion, you can make your family's dream come true even if you're working with a limited budget. All you have to do is choose an affordable option, plan your vacation through a resort company, or take advantage of some great member sites.

Cambridge City Guide, Including Cambridge Hotels

Cambridge City Guide, Including Cambridge Hotels

by Ms Maria Williams

Cambridge combines the best of traditional and modern life in one city. The towers, quadrangles and gardens of its 31 colleges create the Cambridge's spectacular landscape. At the same time, visitors enjoy the best in theatre, music and live entertainment in Cambridge's many festivals and theatres. A great spot to visit all year round, Cambridge is host to many thousands of visitors, and endures as one of England's most popular places to visit.

Places of Interest

On every corner of the city, there is at least one building or view that is worth visiting and exploring. There are also places off the beaten path that are definitely worth a short excursion.

The University--take a guided tour of Cambridge's 31 famous colleges. You can spend time investigating these colleges for a day or for weeks.

Moggerhanger Park--This Georgian Grade I Historic house is a jewel in the Bedfordshire Countryside. It has undergone a gradual renovation process, and fits the striking and original design of Sir John Soane.

Cromwell Museum--Sir Oliver Cromwell, born in 1599 attended this former school along with Samuel Pepys. Now a museum, this collection features objects once belonging to the former Lord Protector and his family.

Fenner's Field--Have a pint, some crisps and watch a cricket match in the University's cricket field. You can view a match in April, May or June.

ADC Theatre--The oldest theatre in Cambridge, this venue is home to the finest student productions as well as community theatrical projects.

Things To Do

Whatever your interests, you can find a variety of activities in Cambridge. Whether music is your passion or you prefer taking a nature hike, there is always something going on in Cambridge, regardless of the season.

Corn Exchange Festival--In the summertime, Cambridge is home to one of East Anglia's finest events during which you can experience the best in every genre of music, comedy and drama.

Cambridge Folk Festival--described by the Daily Telegraph as Europe's most celebrated folk festival, this frequently sold-out event features folk music from every corner of the world.

Fireworks Display--Cambridge hosts the largest free fireworks display in England, and along with the impressive show, there is also free, live entertainment and a bonfire.

Debenham's--no trip to England is complete without a shopping excursion at one of the most frequently visited department stores in the country. Whatever you are looking for, you will find it here. Roman Road Walk--take a stroll back in time on a circular Roman road that will lead you through local fields and villages.

Food & Drink

In addition to visiting Cambridge superb sites, you will also need to grab a bite to eat now and again. Whether you prefer a formal meal, a light snack or a traditional English tea, you can easily find a place in Cambridge that suits your appetite and your budget. If you fancy a pint, there are many pubs to choose from as well.

Red Lion-16th century country pub in the lovely village of Hinxton serves traditional English fare and drinks.

Bun Shop--if you are looking for a restaurant and pub with a Mediterranean flavour, enjoy the tapas, the continental food and the Flamenco dancing at the Bun Shop. There is also a Quiz Night every Tuesday.

Maharaja Indian Tandoori--This is one of the oldest Indian restaurants in Cambridge, and it serves traditional Indian favourites, including Madras, Tandoori and Bhajis as well as piping hot vindaloo. The Anchor--This classic English pub has a riverfront terrace and serves English breakfasts as well as Sunday roasts.

Tatties--A good place to grab a quick bite to eat, this charming establishment specializes in jacket potatoes, snacks, coffee and tea and has a great selection of vegetarian dishes.

Hotel & Accommodations

Whether you are looking for a five-star hotel or a budget bed and breakfast, it is quite easy to find what you are looking for in Cambridge. There are many medium-priced Bed and Breakfasts or Guest Houses which are family run and provide amenities such as cable TV, quality bathrooms and showers, and hot beverages. Many offer free continental breakfasts or low-cost English breakfasts. For the adventurous, there are many camping grounds located outside of the city centre if you are keen on renting a caravan. For those who prefer self-catering, there are many houses and apartments available to let by the week.

Aylesbray Lodge Brooklands Guest House Sorrento Hotel & Restaurant Cambridge Garden House Moat House Centennial Hotel De Vere University Arms Hotel Royal Cambridge Acorn Guest House Best Western Gonville Hotel Ashtrees Guest House Arundel House Hotel Carolina Guest House Sleep Inn Cambridge The Meadowcroft Hotel Best Western-Connoisseur, Cambridge Quy Mill Hote Kirkwood House Hotel Felix Express by Holiday Inn Cambridge Dresden Villa Guest House The Cambridge Belfry Alpha Milton Guest House Cambridge Apartments Ltd Black Horse Motel

Entertainment

Theatre has a long and well-respected tradition in Cambridge, and it is in this city that many of today's popular entertainers made their foray into the performing arts. The Corn Exchange Theatre is the largest venue in the city, and hosts operas, large-scale professional productions and stand-up comedy. It is also worth investigating student talent as well, and the ABC, the oldest theatre in Cambridge, is worth a visit. The Mumford is the legendary student theatre in Cambridge and is the largest student venue. Drop by the Corpus playroom, which features student productions throughout the year.

If you prefer cinema, visit the Arts Picture House, which features foreign and mainstream films and also sponsors children's programs. The Vue Cinema has an 8 screen selection, with enough choices to suit every film fancier.

There are several notable festivals in Cambridge during the summer. The Cambridge Folk Festival is the finest of its kind in Europe and features an impressive and eclectic mix of traditional music, from Irish favourites to American blue grass. At the Corn Exchange Festival, you can hear any style of music that suites your taste. There are also comedy programs and theatrical productions on the schedule.

Regardless of your interests or the time of year you are planning to visit the city, Cambridge an outstanding array of nightlife, dining, entertainment, and sightseeing options. Even if you stay for months, it is unlikely that you will be able to experience everything Cambridge has to offer, so a return trip to this fantastic city should definitely be in your plans.

This Article may be freely copied as long as it is not modified and this resource box accompanies the article, together with working hyperlinks.

Californian Travel

Californian Travel

by Bob Braban

The Pacific Coast Highway & Beyond

With US $ selling at a very good rate, there cannot be a better time to visit the USA than now. We suggest this trip because it offers enormous and diverse opportunities and represents tremendous value for money. Any traveller with even a moderate amount of confidence can plan and execute this trip without the aid of a tour operator. The basics require only air travel bookings, car hire, insurance and an adventurous spirit. Accommodation for the arrival night should be booked in advance, but there are adequate motels and hotels available along the route for c$40 - $50 per room per night. By booking just one night ahead, you can retain total flexibility in your itinerary. Stay at a Hotel/Motel and ask them to ring ahead for you for the next day. Don't forget, if you are over 55 years of age, they will even give you a Senior's discount rate!

The recommended itinerary is to start and finish the trip in San Francisco. You can have a very worthwhile trip in two weeks, but if you can take three, the possibilities are commensurately greater. This short article does not set out to fix an itinerary, simply to convey the possibilities for travellers. There are excellent route ideas available free from the California Tourist Board. They offer a wealth of information including a 36 page .pdf entitled 'Best of California Drives '

If you are worried about hiring a car and driving in America, don't be! Driving discipline is generally a great deal better than in Britain and the roads are excellent. The freeway system is less perplexing than the M25 and the sign posting is top quality. Within two or three miles, the average driver is quite at home.

San Francisco is one of America's greatest cities and it is quite easy to lose two or three days just taking in the atmosphere. Even the beggars have 'techno-style', one even bragging about his web site at www.loosechange.com. In addition to the many cultural attractions, a ride on a cable car through the city streets, a visit to Alcatraz to be given a conducted tour by an ex-con and a look at the Golden Gate Bridge are essentials. If time permits and the season is right, a trip to nearby Muir Woods to see the Salmon moving upstream to spawn, is also rewarding.

Leaving San Francisco, head down the coast to Santa Cruz. The Pacific Coast Highway 1 follows the coast-line all the way to Los Angeles. The road is generally not busy and the views are the some of the most stunning in the USA. Along the route, stop at Monterey, visit Cannery Row, made famous by John Steinbeck and take a look at the excellent aquarium before visiting one of the top quality sea-food restaurants lining the harbour where Elephant seals work at their daily quest to take over some of the magnificent yachts moored at the pier. At certain times of the year, it is also possible to take whale-watching trips from this and other coastal towns on the route. From the Pacific Coast Highway, on some occasions one can see the whales tracking north.

A little further south one comes to the famous golf complex at Pebble Beach and the charming little town of Carmel, where Clint Eastwood did a spell as the Mayor. San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Malibu also feature on the route and, if time permits, a slight detour to visit Solvang, a Scandinavian oasis in the USA, is well worth the effort. And so to Los Angeles, the home of the Hollywood movies and the original Disneyland. Its worth a visit and it would be a pity to travel to the area without taking a look around, but there is little doubt that the greatest value is in having a quick look around and pointing the vehicle's nose in a northerly direction towards the Mojave Desert, Death Valley, and Sequoia, Kings Canyon and Yosemite National Parks. If you are on the three week trip, Las Vegas is also a possibility. Vulgar? Yes it certainly is, but it is also one of the worlds uniquely exciting cities and well worth a visit. There are many people who were dragged kicking and screaming to Las Vegas and have made a dozen return trips since that first shock. If you have even more time, you can visit the Californian wine regions in the Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe, Carson City and a host of other places. If you see a signpost for 'Rough and Ready" give it a miss; as a tourist attraction it falls a little short!

If time forces choices, make certain that Yosemite is on the list. Drive to the charming little town of Mariposa, book into a motel, and catch the public bus to Yosemite. This national park is so stunningly beautiful that it will live in your memory forever. Steep cliffs, giant trees and waterfalls plunging from the high sierra, make this one of the most memorable places on earth!




Things to Remember

The People - Throughout most of the USA and particularly California, people are particularly friendly. Get used to being greeted by perfect strangers who will find it odd if you do not respond. Make a habit of saying "good morning" etc. to people you meet, they will be surprised if you do not. When they say "have a good day", they mean it!

Insurance - You should always have good travel insurance. When you hire a car it is wise to take the additional 'CDW' (Collision Damage Waiver)" cover. It is not expensive and gives peace of mind. Americans are generally good and courteous drivers, but are less obsessed by their cars than Europeans and are not quite as concerned about bumps.

Restaurants - If you troop into a diner or some other restaurants after about 8.30 p.m., you may be confronted only by the cleaning staff! Americans tend to eat early in the evening and a lot of eating facilities close after that demand is met. Naturally, there are restaurants that are open very late, but you may have to look around for them.

Security - There was a time when US cities were generally thought to be places where the public was at peril. The situation has changed over recent years. Naturally there are places where it is not advisable to go, particularly in cities. But, providing one follows the rules that would apply in any other city in the world, there should be no cause for concern. Apply the rule: "When in doubt - ask". If you are not sure, then steer clear.

Traffic Discipline - Read advice on local traffic rules before taking to the road. Observe speed limits carefully. There are far more police cars on the roads than in the UK and they are hot on speeding and road discipline. If you are stopped, remain in the vehicle and be polite. The California Highway Patrol and local police forces are extremely courteous; if you act in the same way, you may be lucky enough to get away with a little advice! Two real differences to remember:

1. If your road is clear, it is legal to turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop, providing there are no signs prohibiting you from doing so. This is an excellent rule and helps to keep the traffic flowing.

2. At Stop signs, you must stop. You then proceed in the order in which you arrived at the junction/crossroads. If you were third to arrive and stop, it will be your turn when the other two have departed. Its all very logical and works well.

Free Things to Do When Visiting Orlando Florida

Free Things to Do When Visiting Orlando Florida

by Shawn Hickman

Going on vacation can be very costly if you don't do your research before you go. There's the transportation, the lodging, where to eat, and what to do. Today we'll discuss free things to do when visiting Orlando.

If you are staying close to Disney World but not in a Disney hotel, you can still enjoy the Disney amenities for yourself for free. You can park at any of the Disney hotels and use the free transportation to travel to and from the individual resorts. The themed resorts like the Royal Pacific, The Wilderness Lodge, and the Grand Floridian are enjoyable to walk through. You can take the monorail to and from the Grand Floridian and Wilderness Lodge. The hotels also have different decorations depending on the time of year.

Down Town Disney is free and offers a lot to enjoy. There are the Disney stores, other fun shops and the river area. You can take a boat ride through the river and see the beautifully landscaped Disney hotels as you pass. The boat from Down Town Disney to Port Orleans takes an average of 30 minutes and is free top ride. Port Orleans is also very beautiful and looks like houses from the late 1800's in Gone With The Wind.

Old Town in Kissimmee is only 10 minutes from Disney and is a lot of fun. They have lots of stores, rides like bumper cars, go carts, and thrill rides. It is free to park and walk around. There is Crusin on Saturday nights. They average 400 entries of classic hot rod and crusin cars. Grab a spot on Main Street and watch the cars cruise by.

Celebration is right next to old town and is not just a town but an experience. Enter the most perfect place on Earth. The houses are well manicured and all sit perfectly inline going down the street. Walk around the down town area and enjoy the stores, music, and the movies if you have time. It's free to park and walk around.

If you are staying close to Universal Studios and Orlando, there are lots of free things to do here as well. Universal City Walk is always free to walk around and parking is free after 6pm. There are plenty of shops to keep you busy for a couple of hours. Visit the Hard Rock Hotel, The Pacific Island Resort, and The Portofino Hotel while you are there. They are all well designed and are a great way to have casual conversation with your friends. Universal also has a free boat service that will take you from City Walk to the different hotels.

The Gaylord Hotel is a great place to visit. Parking is not always free but if you have a group of people it definitely pays for it self. Designed after the famous Gaylord Hotel in Nashville but with a Floridian flare. It's a great place to enjoy the outdoors inside year round. The entire center area of the hotel is covered by a giant glass ceiling. There are lots of tress, waterfalls, and a ship that sits on the water and doubles as a restaurant. You can easily walk around for 2 to 3 hours with out getting bored.

If you like to shop, there's the Mall at Millennia, The Florida Mall, and The Fashion Square Mall all close by. It's only free if you don't buy anything.

Park Avenue in Winter Park is just north of down town Orlando and is a beautiful place to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere. Visit the unique shopping and high end stores as you take in beauty of the tree lined streets. It's free to look.

Harry P.Leu Gardens isn't free but I thought I would let you know about it. It is only around $4 a person and is worth the small investment. Located just north of down town Orlando off of Virginia Drive, it takes you right out of the city while still being in the city. Walk the path of beautiful native Florida landscape and stop to smell the roses in one of Central Florida's largest Rose gardens. Take the tour of Leu Gardens house that is included in admission.

There are lots of state parks in Florida and many are free, the ones that aren't don't cost very much though. Visit Big Tree Park in Longwood which is 15 minutes north of downtown Orlando if you want to see the oldest Cypress Tree on record at over 2,000 years old.

Lake Eola in down town Orlando is a great place to walk as you can walk around the entire lake in less than an hour. Take in the natural beauty of the historic trees along with the skyscrapers that circle the lake.

Cranes Roost in Altamonte Springs Uptown Park is a free enjoyable experience. It is located about 20 minutes north of down town Orlando but is worth the visit. It is a well decorated park that circles Cranes Roost Lake. Walk across the long boardwalk that crosses the lake while you listen to contemporary music playing in the back ground.

There are many other free things to do in Orlando just get creative. You might have the experience of a life time.

Orlando Hotel Secrets

Orlando Hotel Secrets

by Zach Parker

Some of the reviews posted online about the orlando hotels will inform you that the pictures of the hotels can be misleading. Whether you are budget minded or looking to stay in the most lavish surroundings, orlando hotels will have the finest accommodations for you. There are a at least one hundred orlando hotels to choose from; however, it is still wise to not wait until the last minute to make reservations. Getting away from picking the first vacation package that comes along will help you find hotel stays at better prices than just settling on the popular spots.

Getting away from the standard orlando vacations that are offered online may mean contacting a travel agency to get ideas of other attractions to enjoy. With so many orlando hotels to decide from you may have a hard time deciding which one to stay in on your visit. Getting away from the cold weather for your vacation is easy when you plan a trip to orlando and very fun with the right hotel. Finding a bargain hotel room at the last minute before your vacation period may be much more difficult if traveling to a popular area like orlando. After living through the long winter, a vacation to orlando was at the top of the list for families surveyed on vacation options for fun in the sun.

When making a reservation at an orlando hotel; be for certain you get all the details on what charges will be made to your credit card before you arrive. All of the comforts of the hotel were given a short description on the web site to aid in making a decision on the perfect choice. There have been comments on the orlando hotels that express utter dissatisfaction and disgust, to those that express ecstatic happiness. Each and every resort in the orlando vacation packages that were displayed online appeared to get better as the price went up with hotels and comforts for anyone to enjoy. The costs of transportation may be a little expensive; therefore you should try to stay in an orlando hotel that is close to several other locations.

There are more than a hundred major resorts in orlando; these resorts will contain a wide range of facilities that will help keep the guest entertained. Locating a hotel in orlando with a fitness center, hot tub, jacuzzi, barbecue grills, bicycle rentals, pools, spas, and sports activities is simple with the internet. Extra room is available for several orlando hotels that offer suites and rooms that are family style that accommodate more folks to stay together.

Six Budget Travel Secrets

Six Budget Travel Secrets
by Steve Gillman

Budget travel is not just about finding ways to spend less. The point is to have just as much fun while spending less. Here are some tips to get you started, and afterwards, a suggestion on how to think about travel.

Are you considering a long trip? You may want to rent an apartment in an interesting city. We did this for two months in Tucson. It saved us at least $600 per month, compared to even the cheaper motels. It was fun to have a "home base" for our travels, from which we took day trips to Mexico and or up to Mount Lemmon, the furthest-south ski resort in the country. Many cities have apartments that are furnished and available on a month-to-month basis.

In general it is the traveling part of travel that costs the most. This is due to the cost of gas, convenient fast food, and the expensive hotels you are forced to pay for when you just can't drive any further. So if you find a place with a reasonable motel, and a lot to do in the area - stay for a while! We find that a place becomes more interesting when you have a few days to explore it.

Because of the growing popularity of RV (recreational vehicle) boondocking, the BLM has begun to establish areas for longer stays, particularly in Arizona. They have a permit fee is around $140 now. Although you can still park your RV for free on most BLM and National Forest land, paying for the fee areas means you get to stay up to six months (The free stays are limited to two weeks). You'll also have pump stations, dumpsters and water available. You can find out more from the BLM's Arizona web site.

Budget Travel Quick Tips

The federal tax on airfare isn't due if you are taking a flight from one city in the U.S. to another in order to catch an overseas flight. Show your ticket to another country to the agent to have the tax removed.

You may be able to get a senior discount if you are 65 or older. Ask. If you are using an internet site to search for tickets, they may not include this information, so you may have to call the airline direct. Recently, Expedia.com has included a box to check if you are over 65.

For cheaper hotel rooms, use the coupon books at gas stations along the highways. We've almost always found good deals using these. It's rare that a manager won't honor the coupon. Generally, only if they're absolutely full will they refuse. Read the fine print, though. They often charge more for certain dates, or for two people.

The above is a good example of how to travel cheap without sacrificing a thing. The same room will often be $20 more without the coupon, and you have to stop for gas anyhow, so why not grab those coupon books? Save on a room for a few nights and you can pay for another day of vacation. Just keeping your eyes open for opportunities like this is one of the keys to budget travel.

Waste Reduction Tips for Hotels and Motels

Waste Reduction Tips for Hotels and Motels

by David Brights

Waste Reduction Plan

* Have a common goal: to reduce the amount and toxicity of products. * Appoint a waste reduction coordinator. * Form a committee of employees, representing each operational area. * Perform waste evaluations and examine purchasing and disposal costs. * Establish a budget for supplies, educational and promotional materials and project labor.

Laundry and Housekeeping

* Return laundered clothes to guests in reusable garment bags or baskets. * Offer plastic wrap for dry cleaned clothing only upon request. * Eliminate cardboard backing for laundered shirts. * Dye stained towels a darker color for reuse at the pool or beach, or use as cleaning rags. * Extend the life of draperies by rotating and changing their exposure to the sun. * Install mixing stations to reduce chemical spillage. Educate staff how to mix liquid concentrates to ensure safety and save money. * Use refillable pump spray bottles instead of aerosol cans. * Clean and reuse dust-mop heads. * Use reusable vacuum cleaner bags.

Guest Rooms

* Offer rarely used items such as shower caps, sewing kits and the daily newspaper on request. * Give guests the option to reuse linen and towels. * Post educational fact cards by the American Hotel and Motel Association in each guest room to inform guests of the environmental benefits of reusing towels and linen. * Install refillable shampoo and soap dispensers in the bathrooms. * Replace disposables, such as complimentary cups, with reusables. * Wait to replace half-used toilet paper roll and tissue boxes until they are almost completely used. Leave new rolls and tissue boxes for guests to replace if needed. * Instruct housekeeping to leave half-used items for the duration of the guests stay. * If half-used items must be removed, place them in employee rest rooms or donate them to charity. * Do not remove "gift" amenities from the room after a guest departs unless the seal on the package is broken. Leave them for the next guest. * Eliminate the use of plastic liners in ice buckets. * Eliminate the use of paper doilies and paper tray covers.

Food Service

* Plan menus so that fresh ingredients are interchangeable among recipes. This way, produce and other perishable foods can be used up in different recipes and are not wasted if guests order less of a particular dish. * Reassess portion sizes. Customizing portion sizes may require buying uncut foods (including meat, produce and other products) rather than buying foods that are already cut-to-size and ready-to-use. * Offer guests the option to order half-portions. * Use scraps left over from food preparation to make soups and stocks for donation. * If possible, collect unusable food scraps and arrange to have them picked up by local pig farmers for use as animal feed. Check with the local health department or cooperative extension office first. * Arrange for a renderer to collect and recycle cooking fat, grease, and bones * Install filters to prevent food particle contamination to extend the life of deep frying cooking oil. * Donate edible, unused food to local charities. More than 100 programs throughout the United States accept prepared food-packaged, prepared, fresh, frozen, or baked. * Use reusable plastic lids or aluminum foil to cover food in coolers and steam tables. Clean aluminum foil is usually recyclable, check with your local community government. * Replace individual condiment packages with bulk dispensers in restaurants and employee cafeterias. Review health regulations first. * For take-out orders, offer condiments, napkins and straws upon request instead of allowing customers to help themselves. * For employee cafeterias and room service delivery, replace disposable items with washable, reusable plates, trays and utensils. * Use washable hats and aprons for kitchen staff instead of disposable paper ones. * Use spun glass pads for scrubbing pots and pans instead of steel wool scouring pads. They last longer and do not rust. * Avoid using cellophane wrap for fruit baskets and gifts delivered to guest rooms. * Install a magnet on food waste containers to recover flatware accidentally thrown away with food waste.

Beverage Service

* Use fountains to dispense soda. * Offer draft beer. * Purchase milk in large (five gallon) plastic dispenser bags, rather than buying milk by the gallon or in difficult-to-recycle coated cardboard cartons. * Serve milk from steel dispensers. * Use refillable beverage containers, especially for room service and in restaurants and bars, where collection of empty bottles is easily controlled. * Replace cocktail napkins with permanent coasters at dining room tables and bars. * Use reusable metal or nylon coffee filters.

Purchasing

* Request that vendors minimize packaging-Chicken, fish and vegetables are often packaged in waxed cardboard, ask your vendor to pack in a reusable or recyclable container. * Work with vendors to substitute toxic cleaners with non-toxic alternatives, buy a more concentrated product and have the product refilled at the factory. * Look for a local supplier, simplicity, energy efficiency, minimal packaging. * Purchase and maintain durable supplies. * Avoid produce that is packaged and has stickers. These are wasteful and time consuming to remove.

General Tips

* Change lighting from incandescent to fluorescent. Fluorescent bulbs last much longer and will save in disposal costs and employee time. * Order only as many telephone directories as the number of rooms and phones.

David Brights writes for http://www.showcheaphotels.info/ where you can find out more about cheap hotels and other topics.

How to Find the Perfect Hotel using the Internet

How to Find the Perfect Hotel using the Internet

by David Brights

So you know you're going on vacation. You know you need to find a good hotel that isn't going to break the bank. You figure that you can use the internet to find that perfect hotel choice, but what's the best way to go about finding it online? Read on for some tips for making your online research most profitable.

In the first place, I am assuming you've chosen a destination for your vacation. Unless the price of the hotel will be one of the factors that will help you choose between two vacation alternatives, you'll most likely know where you are going. With this information, you'll want to start your search at one of the main search engines online. Your choices will be either Google, Yahoo or MSN.

The most basic hotel search you could do would be to enter your destination along with either the keyword hotel or motel. So if you are going to Orlando, Florida, you'd enter a search like 'Orlando Florida Hotel'. This kind of search will give you a list of websites that either are hotels or are listing hotels worth checking out.

When making a search, it is important to be creative with your keyword selections. Instead of simply typing in something like 'Orlando Florida Hotel', you will want to try other combinations. One good way to get a quality list of hotels is to type in the name of some of the attractions you plan on visiting in the city you've chosen. To continue with our example of Orlando, you could use 'Universal Studios Orlando Hotel'. This will help you to find listings that are near Universal Studios.

Don't be afraid of using Hotel directories to help you scope out a good potential match. For our example city, using an Orlando Hotel directory could yield just the right hotel for your needs. Many of these directories include either reviews and maps on their site or easy to find links to these kinds of resources.

Finally, when doing searches with a search engine, try to think of different ways you can say the same thing. Don't just search for Orlando hotel but search for Orlando motel, Orlando accommodation, Orlando vacation spot and so on. Substitute your intended city destination for Orlando in these example.

Using these techniques and a little time to explore the hotel websites, there is no reason that you can't find that perfect hotel at the price you expect.

David Brights writes for http://www.showcheaphotels.info/ where you can find out more about cheap hotels and other topics.

Vail Colorado Reservations...Going Once...Going Twice...Rented!

Vail Colorado Reservations...Going Once...Going Twice...Rented!

by RC Rougeux

Vail is such a popular tourist destination just about everything in town is based on a booking system! You'll need to book your flights from wherever you are to get to Vail. There isn't an airport right in Vail, instead planes fly to Eagle County airport. Many major cities in the US have direct flights to this airport. You can catch a shuttle from the airport to Vail or you can make a booking for a rental car.

You'll want to make Vail reservations to book your hotel or wherever you're staying. You can usually find them from a couple hundred dollars to a couple thousand dollars per night, depending on your tastes in luxury as well as your needs and the size of group you're traveling with. Remember, the larger the group you travel with, the earlier you'll want to make your booking so that you can make sure you'll find a place to stay.

You'll also want to make Vail reservations for dinner while you're there for at least one evening. There are the restaurants you'd expect but there is also some really great world class dining with an extensive wine list...cap off a day of skiing with a booking at a table for two at a classy restaurant.

Another place to make Vail reservations is for a tee-off time at one of the local golf courses if you are traveling during the spring, summer, or fall months. While Vail is not famous for their golfing, they do have great golfing...golfing is to Vail what that secret fishing hole is to a fishermen!

If you go in the winter and have never skied before, you'll want to make a reservation at a ski school so they can teach you how to strap on your skis and blaze down the slopes. If you don't own skis, you can make a booking to rent a pair while you're there.

Vail Colorado is THE place to go for a great ski vacation. No matter what level of skier you are, all you need is a passion for the slopes and a little time to spend in this beautiful city.

The secret to enjoying a great vacation in Vail is to anticipate your needs and make your Vail reservations as early as possible. Be sure to ask if there is an "early booking" discount available. But not everything needs reservations: you can take the free shuttle at any time to get around town. If you have a vehicle, you can head out of town less than two hours down the road to ski Snowmass Mountain in either Snowmass or Aspen, or you can spend time in Antler Colorado as well. (If you don't book a spot in Vail on time, you may be able to find a Snowmass inn or Antler motel that you can stay at. It's just down the road!).

Shopping is another activity that you'll enjoy that won't require a reservation. And if you're a single person in search of great nightlife, you shouldn't have any reservations about hitting the clubs in Vail!

Places to Stay in Canada on Fishing Trips

Places to Stay in Canada on Fishing Trips

by Rick Chapo

Canada fishing is some of the best in the world with a wide variety of challenges. If you decide to have a go, you need to know about the best places to stay.

Places to Stay in Canada on Fishing Trips

There are many different ways to plan your next fishing trip to Canada. You could plan to stay at a campground (in a tent or RV), in a rustic cabin or even in a small motel. Some people choose to have accommodations in a town or city nearest to their fishing area, so that they can have the amenities of an upscale hotel. For many fishermen, however, a stay in one of the Canada fishing rentals located right on the lakes and rivers where they'll be fishing is the way to go. No matter which province you choose for your fishing vacation, Canada fishing accommodations will be there to provide you with a comfortable and authentic outdoor experience.

One of the most luxurious and well-known fishing accommodations in Canada is in the province of Ontario. The Kesagami Wilderness Lodge, located on Kesagami Lake in the northern part of Ontario, is a four star fly-in fishing accommodation. Being a fly-in location means that the only way to reach this place is by airplane, making it a truly secluded and wilderness filled area. Kesagami Lake is perfect for trophy Northern Pike fishing, because it's relatively shallow and contains a number of weed filled bays. Fish here have been known to reach as big as 50 inches long and 30 pounds in weight, making this a truly world class destination for Northern Pike. With American Plan-style accommodations (three meals a day included in your stay) as well as recreation rooms and other amenities, a stay here at the Kesagami Wilderness is a great choice.

Another great place to stay at in Ontario is the Lake Obabika Lodge. Canada's only four diamond fishing accommodation (rated by the American Automobile Association/Canadian Automobile Association), this beautiful setting offers not only great fishing, but many other activities as well. From wine tastings to wilderness hikes and even a feng shui class, this lodge is a perfect destination for families that might have different vacation tastes. Fishing in the area includes Northern Pike, trout and bass.

There are many places to choose from for your Canada trip, and picking a location that will suit all of your needs (such as fishing guides, a great lake to fish on and even included meals) can make your trip very memorable. Fishing in Canada is a great way to return to nature.

Beach Vacations - The Perfect Way To Spend Your Summer Holidays

Beach Vacations - The Perfect Way To Spend Your Summer Holidays

by Brooke Hayles

"We're going to the beach!" The phrase brings back memories of being children and building sandcastles out of wet sand and letting the waves chase us up and down the coast.

As we grow, the beach never quite looses it's magic. In fact, it gains more magic as we discover beach vacations have more to offer than just sandcastles and waves. Nothing soothes us after a long work year like the sun tanning us, the water lapping at the shore and knowing there will be a clam bake later on tonight and a bonfire past that. With little doubt, beach vacations are among the most relaxing vacations you can take.

The Caribbean Island of Delos Santorini seems to be almost custom made for the explorer in all of us. They are full of history and they have even preserved a town ravaged by a volcano. You can go through and almost touch history as you explore how ancient people lived.

If you are a frequent surfer and are looking for the best surf spot in the world, you will want to check out the Canary Islands, they have recently been given this honor. Whether you are looking to check out ancient ruins or surf the curl, beach vacations are for you.

You will find there is far more to do than in days gone by. While the image of the beach back when you were a child may have involved sandcastles and people in the shade under big umbrellas sitting on towels or lawn chairs, today, they have become full-blown resorts. You can get a message, have room service send up a tropical drink and then walk on the beach at sunset. You can relax your day away or fill up every moment of it.

The typical tropical beach vacation is about two weeks.

Accommodations on the beach have also undergone a big change over the years. No more with the motel that is 3 hours away. Now there are hotels right on the beach that offer more than just a place to sleep. With room service, beautiful views and other amenities, you may be too relaxed in the room to make it to the beach some days.

Another option on some beaches is to get a bungalow right on the beach so you get the feeling of never having to 'go home' while on vacation.

The great thing about beach vacations is they can truly be anything you want them to be. Deep sea fishing, shopping at the local shops, surfing, laying on the beach, rock climbing, cabana boys serving drinks as you work on your tan, swimming, clam digging, bonfires, etc. Very truly anything you want. Lately, Greece has become a very popular destination for a lot of celebrities looking for a beach vacation. Thanks to the incredible, full flavored foods and ancient ruins like the Parthenon, this area seems to draw a variety of people.

Your local travel agent can help you plan the perfect beach vacation, if you are unsure or overwhelmed with the choices. Simply tell the agent what you want and they will put together a beach vacation package for you. You will not have to worry about getting your hotel room or flight arrangements - they will do it for you. They will provide you with information of the area such as restaurants and attractions. Basically, they will take care of the stressful part so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy it! Summary:

No matter you age, activity level or interests, beach vacations are going to hold whatever you want to do. Activities range from staying on the beach and working on your tan to deep-sea fishing and rock climbing. No longer is it just some place to go when you have a weekend you don't know what to do with, but more of a designation when you want to spend some time in a special place.

Holiday Expectations In Las Vegas

Holiday Expectations In Las Vegas

by VMT Singuillo

Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world, is located in the desert of the state of Nevada in the U.S. It is indeed one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country today.

During holidays such as Christmas, New Year, and even on long week ends, people from other states also flock in Las Vegas. This is because Las Vegas is full of glamour and fun with its dazzling lights, glitters, sights and sounds.

The major attraction in this city is the Strip which is the Las Vegas Boulevard. This major city street is lined with lavishly themed hotels which operate their respective casinos, shops, restaurants, and other entertainment centers. Among the enticing attractions along the Strip include the dancing fountains, the "erupting volcano", the pirate shows, the pyramid, and a lot more.

By strolling the Strip, a tourist may even have the experience of witnessing the "Eiffel Tower" of Paris, viewing the towering buildings of New York New York, or simply having the great experience of going into all the famous and luxurious hotels of the city.

Although Las Vegas is known as a "Sin city" because of its gambling and entertainment industry, some wholesome family entertainment can also be found. Circus Circus Hotel features its carnival activities and roller coaster rides.

Because Las Vegas is a top tourist destination, some hassles can be expected during the holidays and on long weekends. Eating in restaurants can be delayed due to the long lines of people waiting to be seated. Although majority of visitors bring their own cars, parking can also be a big problem. As a result, many visitors simply leave their cars in the hotel parking lots and then ride the buses that may be available towards their next destinations.

Unless a visitor had made an advanced Las Vegas hotel reservation, availability for a hotel room may be a little bit difficult during holidays. However, cheap hotels and cheap motels may still also be found in the outskirts of the city. In general, hotel and motel room rates may differ from the weekdays and the weekends. Hotel rooms may be cheaper during the weekdays as compared to the weekend rates. Therefore, expect that during the holidays, a hotel room may cost you more. It is advisable too that you make an advance online hotel reservations when planning for a vacation in Las Vegas.

Lastly, if you don't plan well enough for your spending in Vegas, expect that your finances may be depleted. Casinos are indeed a great temptation for you to give away your money in hopes of winning more money!

Enjoy your vacation in Las Vegas!

Ski Vacations on the Cheap Side

Ski Vacations on the Cheap Side

by Shari Hearn

Let's face it; skiing is not one of your more inexpensive hobbies. It's not like hiking where you can buy a pair of hiking shoes, perhaps a walking stick, and just start hiking a trail. With skiing you have your special clothes, your special equipment, lessons, accommodations, lift tickets, etc. It can get quite pricey. But, you'd be amazed at what a little scaling back or research can save you. What are some of the ways you can cut down on the cost of your ski vacation?

Location

Let's start with the location. You don't have to go Aspen. You don't have to go to Park City. You don't have to go to Tahoe. If skiing's what you really want to do, try skiing in your own back yard and save some change. There are numerous lesser-known ski areas in many states that don't have the bells and whistles or the status attached to them, thus they're cheaper. And, if you can drive to them you can save yourself costly airfare.

For example, if you live in Southern California, save money by going to one of the fine ski areas within driving distance, such as Mountain High in Wrightwood, just a 90-minute drive from downtown Los Angeles, or just over 2 hours from San Diego. That's right; you can ski all day in the mountains, and have dinner on the beach. Another close ski area is Mt. Baldy. And that's just a 45-minute drive from Los Angeles.

Packages

Scour the internet for ski vacation packages that include your lodging, lift tickets, lessons, rentals, and, if possible, some meals.

Meals

Yes, it's really nice to ski all day and feast at night on filet mignon and a nice bottle of Cabernet. However, if you're on a budget and you just gotta ski, skip the expensive meal and go for a cheaper diner or fast-food restaurant. You can probably pick up a tasty burger for the cost of the tip at the fancy restaurant. And, if you want an inexpensive bottle of red wine to go with that burger, try picking up a less-expensive bottle of wine at home and bringing it with you.

Lodging

Yes, there's nothing like a condo at the ski resort where you can practically begin skiing from your back door. But, talk about sticker shock! Lodging at ski resorts can be expensive. Try staying at a hotel or motel a few-minutes-drive away. Or, cheaper yet, consider staying at a ski hostel.

There's an abundance of hostels across America near popular ski resorts at incredibly low prices. While it's true many of the rooms are dorm rooms with shared bathrooms, if it's a cheap ski vacation you want, hostels are the way to go. And, with many hostels, you can have family rooms or private rooms for a few extra dollars.

Hostels allow you to go to the prime ski areas on the cheap. For example, if you want to take a Ski Vacation to Breckenridge in Colorado, but can't afford the expensive lodging, you can stay in the dormitory at the Fireside Inn Bed & Breakfast (970-453-6456) for only $36 per person. You're only 5 minutes from the Breckenridge ski area, and 20 minutes to Keystone. And, during ski season, the bus to Breckenridge peaks stops at their front door. Not bad for $36 a night. If dormitory life's not for you, you can spend $80 for a private room with bunk bed.

How about a ski trip to Taos? You might want to consider the Abominable SnowMansion, a 60-year-old adobe lodge with dorm rooms, private rooms with shared baths and private rooms with private baths. You can have a bunk and a breakfast for only $20 per person or $36 per couple. A private room with a shared bath can be had for only $45 per couple or $33 for a single person, while a private room with private bath goes for $52 per couple or $45 for a single person. You can call them at 505-776-8298 for more information.

These are just two examples of hostels near great ski areas. There's sure to be one near your favorite ski resort. A quick search of "ski hostels" will reveal many inexpensive lodging choices.

Taking an inexpensive ski vacation often times requires a little thinking and a little sacrifice. But, the experience of skiing down a mountain makes it all worth it.

How to Choose a Florida Vacation Rental

How to Choose a Florida Vacation Rental

by John Macrae

We have come to realize from chatting with our guests that on of their biggest challenges is how to choose the vacation rental villa that is right for them! This article reflects their experience and hopefully sharing it with you will make your choice easier...

Is a vacation rental villa right for me?? Whether you are seeking a magical Disney World Vacation or an active family holiday, a Florida vacation rental villa is one of the most flexible options available to you. Many visitors decide on a hotel or motel room which can appear to be the cheapest option but these have several disadvantages. As I'm sure you know if you wanted a suite of rooms in a hotel that offered all the facilities of a vacation rental villa, you would spend many hundreds of dollars per night! Limited space, limited bathrooms, neighbor noise etc - we've all been there! The convenience and space of a vacation rental villa not only make for a much more enjoyable vacation for everyone but when things go wrong these were an important factor for one of our guests when 3 of her 4 children became ill shortly after arriving. She was so pleased to have chosen a vacation rental villa with the space and convenience of 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms as it meant that the whole family was not wakened when some had to get up frequently during the night!

Convenienceis probably the biggest advantage of a vacation rental - you can come and go as you please and do what you like, when you like. You might feel like a day by the pool on your own when the rest of the family go out, and that's exactly what you can have - moreover, its you by the pool and no-one else to share it with - bliss! But its not just that. When you choose a vacation rental, you can get your favorite snack from the refrigerator when you want it. You can light the grill an cook up the meal you want - restaurant food can be a bit boring, not to mention less healthy and more expensive!

Location: This is another important factor in choosing a vacation rental! Its important to choose a luxury vacation rental villa that is close to the attractions that you will be visiting frequently. First-time visitors have little idea of the scale of the Orlando area and the whole thing can be more than a little daunting. Its made even more confusing by the vast choice of vacation rentals available and the lack of clear details on their location. We know that this has resulted in some families traveling long distances every day to get from their chosen location to their attraction of choice - not ideal! That's why we have clear links to maps from our vacation rental villa details pages. We want you to be able to plan your vacation and spend as little time as possible in the car!

Quality: We spent some time recently viewing and inspecting Florida vacation rentals. The pictures on their web sites presented the villa very well in most cases but it soon became clear that they had been taken a very long time ago. Many of the vacation rentals we saw were very tired, showed heavy wear and little attention to maintaining a comfortable environment for their guests. They were certainly far form the luxury vacation rentals they were being marketed as! These problems showed up much more in the properties where the owners had clearly taken little interest and were managed by property management agencies (Large or small, and who, in turn rent them to the large holiday companies at low rates). This is one reason why we update the pictures of our properties each year (several times a year in fact!). This gives our guests the confidence to know that what they see is what they will get. Whilst booking direct with the owner does not guarantee quality, it does give you the opportunity to ask if the photos on the site truly represent the condition of a particular vacation rental today.

Check in/out This is often overlooked as one of these things that has to be done but be careful. Check in and out is not usually at the villa! Its normally at the management company office where you have to wait in line with everyone else that booked through the same company. This means that you have to drive to and find the office from the airport. We know of offices that are over 15 miles from the vacation rental! OK - it doesn't sound far but after a long flight and in unfamiliar circumstances, it can be a challenge you could do without! Check the driving distances and times from airport to office and from office to your villa via the management company offices. (Be aware that if the office is in Kissimmee, it can be very busy and take a long time especially in the early evening).

In contrast, we have an electronic access system so our guests can drive direct to their chosen luxury villa and let themselves in. The benefit of this system is clear - and you have no keys to lose or hand back and you don't have the unnecessary hassle of an office to find.

Locality: What we mean here is the area surrounding the vacation rental. Careful examination of the photos of some villas will show where they have been doctored to hide any less desireable features. One of the favorites is to block out the lower areas of screened pool enclosures to hide the fact that there are many others very close to the villa. We do not enhance our photos. Check carefully or ask if the pool area is overlooked.

Games rooms Some vacation rental villas advertise a games room with all kinds of entertainments. If this is something that you want to have in your villa, be sure to inquire whether it is properly air conditioned. The reason for this is that some owners have simply locked the garage door and installed a carpet and a pool table or foosball table to make a games room. Its fine in December but impossible to use comfortably for most of the year.

Equipment Check whether the equipment you need is 'included' or 'available' and know the difference between these terms. Included usually means that the item is 'included in the rent' for the villa. Its important to know that 'available' usually means that the item is available but you will be expected to pay an extra charge for it. For example, a gas grill will cost you between $35 and $50 per week to hire (+ sales tax). A cot, baby seat or stroller can be the same each! That can make a significant unexpected dent in your pocket - check unless the information is explicit!

Summary We hope that this guide helps you make your choice of a vacation rental easier. We think that vacation rental villas are exceptional value for money but there are some traps which we have highlighted. Whilst we realize that checking all these details might be a pain, we think that it will help ensure that you have a much better vacation!