A weekend with the family is the most sought after vacations. Here are a few insightful tips to get your plan started.
In today’s hectic world “family-time” often fades due to work and various other compulsions. To reaffirm the bond and love in the family, a quick and hassle-free family weekend vacation will do the trick! Also a quick weekend vacation trip is the best way to relieve stress and refresh your mind, body and soul. Here are some handy tips for a fantastic family weekend vacation.
Plan your weekend vacation well in advance to avoid last minute hiccups. Select a reputed travel operator with good discount plans and surf the internet in advance if you are planning your family weekend vacations through a tour operator. Also, once you have zeroed on your destination, book your accommodation along with a planned itinerary, car rental and activity reservation well in advance.
If public transport is not your cup of tea and you are planning to take this splendid opportunity to whet your driving appetite, take rest the day before driving to avoid fatigue. Avoid keeping everything for the last minute and start bag packing a day or two before the scheduled journey.
For the ideal Weekend Vacation, select a place which is not too commercialized as it tends to take away the charm of the vacation. Choose a place that is scenically beautiful like a beach or countryside places which will certainly add more fun to the entire weekend vacation experience.
Also, don’t forget to indulge in activities and games where all the members can take part like fishing, hiking etc. and spend as much time as possible together with the family. If there are kids in the family see that the place is ‘kid friendly’ and there are activities that they can engage in. After all, the best part of the family weekend vacation is the wonderful and precious time you spend with your family and children!
Happy Vacation!
Contributor:
http://www.TheTravelHavenOnline.com
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Top Ten Reasons to Getaway Instead of Go Vacation
The getaway is the shorter cousin of the vacation- a two or three day trip that usually falls on a long weekend. The getaway is often to a place within driving distance of your home, as it would not be a good use of time or money to fly somewhere for such a short period of time.
The getaway has several advantages over an extended vacation:
1. Getaways are cheaper than vacations, both because they are shorter (less nights) and because many hotels offer exclusive affordable vacation discounts for shorter occupancies.
2. You can go on several getaways a year, instead of one or two longer vacations. This helps prevent spending a large amount of money all at once, and also allows you break up your stressful year with several memorable trips.
3. Getaways expose you to fun, beautiful, and interesting destinations in your own backyard that you never knew about. Although we are often inclined to fly somewhere super exotic during our breaks, this can often be stressful and expensive. No matter where you live in the US, there is always a incredible driving-distance destination waiting for you.
4. You can spend much less time getting ready for your getaway. We all know the experience of preparing for a long trip: packing, canceling the mail and cleaning service, getting the prescriptions and medicines, finding a kennel for the dog, etc. For your getaway, just grab the necessities and escape.
5. Gas is cheap right now, flying isn't. Airlines are still price-gouging us between the expensive, cramped, delayed flights and the checked bag fees they've recently imposed. Gas prices, however, are at a record low. This makes it the perfect time to hit the road on a getaway.
6. There is less pressure to relax on a getaway. Sometimes on our 'only-vacation-of-the-year; we feel extreme amounts of pressure to relax, which isn't very helpful for that purpose. Getaways are spur of the moment opportunities to escape and achieve some piece of mind, without the pressure.
7. Getaways are easier on kids. Sometimes leaving home for extended periods of time can be traumatic for young and adolescent children. It breaks a very set life-schedule and can often cause problems at school on return. Leaving for two or three days won't have this same drastic effect.
8. You may end up someplace you'd go back to. Destinations that are within driving distance from your home can often be places that you will return to. Some families travel to the same destination every year or own timeshare at a getaway-spot that they really love. These regular trips can build fantastic memories of a home away from home. Your children may even bring their own kids there some day!
9. Because you are spending less money on airfare and lodging, you can concentrate on what really matters: food and entertainment. You can explore the best restaurants your destination offers or check out some exciting local shows.
10. There are some great online travel sites that specialize in booking discounted vacation getaways. One that does this really well is Vacation-Offer.com.
Contributor: Darwin Redshield
Times are hard for the American currently. My goal is to start a conversation about how we can use each other's knowledge to better our lives and country. Now is the time for us to stand together, and the internet is the perfect vehicle for us to traverse this difficult path and emerge to a bright new era.
The getaway has several advantages over an extended vacation:
1. Getaways are cheaper than vacations, both because they are shorter (less nights) and because many hotels offer exclusive affordable vacation discounts for shorter occupancies.
2. You can go on several getaways a year, instead of one or two longer vacations. This helps prevent spending a large amount of money all at once, and also allows you break up your stressful year with several memorable trips.
3. Getaways expose you to fun, beautiful, and interesting destinations in your own backyard that you never knew about. Although we are often inclined to fly somewhere super exotic during our breaks, this can often be stressful and expensive. No matter where you live in the US, there is always a incredible driving-distance destination waiting for you.
4. You can spend much less time getting ready for your getaway. We all know the experience of preparing for a long trip: packing, canceling the mail and cleaning service, getting the prescriptions and medicines, finding a kennel for the dog, etc. For your getaway, just grab the necessities and escape.
5. Gas is cheap right now, flying isn't. Airlines are still price-gouging us between the expensive, cramped, delayed flights and the checked bag fees they've recently imposed. Gas prices, however, are at a record low. This makes it the perfect time to hit the road on a getaway.
6. There is less pressure to relax on a getaway. Sometimes on our 'only-vacation-of-the-year; we feel extreme amounts of pressure to relax, which isn't very helpful for that purpose. Getaways are spur of the moment opportunities to escape and achieve some piece of mind, without the pressure.
7. Getaways are easier on kids. Sometimes leaving home for extended periods of time can be traumatic for young and adolescent children. It breaks a very set life-schedule and can often cause problems at school on return. Leaving for two or three days won't have this same drastic effect.
8. You may end up someplace you'd go back to. Destinations that are within driving distance from your home can often be places that you will return to. Some families travel to the same destination every year or own timeshare at a getaway-spot that they really love. These regular trips can build fantastic memories of a home away from home. Your children may even bring their own kids there some day!
9. Because you are spending less money on airfare and lodging, you can concentrate on what really matters: food and entertainment. You can explore the best restaurants your destination offers or check out some exciting local shows.
10. There are some great online travel sites that specialize in booking discounted vacation getaways. One that does this really well is Vacation-Offer.com.
Contributor: Darwin Redshield
Times are hard for the American currently. My goal is to start a conversation about how we can use each other's knowledge to better our lives and country. Now is the time for us to stand together, and the internet is the perfect vehicle for us to traverse this difficult path and emerge to a bright new era.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
New York Weekend Getaways
In these tough economic times, that much deserved vacation may seem as distant and remote as that, also deserved, big promotion and raise. However, that doesn't have to be the case. Truth is, there are several excellent New York weekend getaways that are not only affordable, but are also full of value and excitement. Where you can relax in a welcoming blend of comfort, and warm hospitality, enjoy a variety of entertainment, all without breaking the bank. You can spend the morning on the golf course, the afternoon by the poolside and the evening with a bottle of wine and gourmet platters, all within the backdrop of mountain scenery, bubbling streams and rich forests of hemlock, oak and birch. This secret Shangri-La? Honor's Haven Resort & Spa.
New York Weekend Getaways - Honor's Haven Resort & Spa
Nestled between the majestic Shawangunk and Catskills Mountains in midstate New York, Honor's Haven is located just ninety minutes north of New York City in the Hudson Valley. A land remote and far removed from modern inconveniences, the Catskills harkens back to an older time when the water was bright and blue, the air clean and fresh and nature abounding with life and beauty. That is not to say, though, that Honor's Haven is without its creature comforts. Featuring a Spa & Wellness Center, a championship-level golf course and a recently renovated facilities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, saunas, Jacuzzis and a modern banquet hall as well as trained and friendly staff, guests are offered the finest in both comfort and leisure.
New York Weekend Getaways Activities and Attractions
While it may be tempting to spend your entire stay in one of our executive suites after waking up to breathtaking mountainside views and an overview of the golf course, the Honor's Haven does also offer a wide variety of activities and attractions from which to partake in. With miles upon miles of scenic paths and trails of which to navigate, passing from cascading waterfalls to deep valleys and delightful mountain ridges, guests often find themselves enthusiastically exploring the Minnewaska State Park, the Shawangunk Mountains and the Mohonk Preserve for hours and hours at a time. However, if hiking isn't your thing, Honor's Haven is also in close proximity to the Canal Town Emporium, great for antique shopping, the Shawangunk Wine Trail as well as daily cruises along the Hudson in nearby historical Kingston NY. And if you're feeling lucky, the Monticello Horse Raceway and Casino are only a short distance away!
Come Plan Your New York Weekend Getaway Today
Timing has never been better for a weekend getaway to Honor's Haven Resort & Spa. Now offering affordable weekend packages year round, guests will find an experience that is at once both economical and memorable. Whether you choose one of their excellent wellness & spa packages or their special holiday packages, you are sure to find the absolute finest in New York weekend getaways at Honor's Haven in the Catskills Mountains.
For more information about Hudson Valley Resorts and Catskill Mountain Resorts at www.Honorshaven.com
New York Weekend Getaways - Honor's Haven Resort & Spa
Nestled between the majestic Shawangunk and Catskills Mountains in midstate New York, Honor's Haven is located just ninety minutes north of New York City in the Hudson Valley. A land remote and far removed from modern inconveniences, the Catskills harkens back to an older time when the water was bright and blue, the air clean and fresh and nature abounding with life and beauty. That is not to say, though, that Honor's Haven is without its creature comforts. Featuring a Spa & Wellness Center, a championship-level golf course and a recently renovated facilities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, saunas, Jacuzzis and a modern banquet hall as well as trained and friendly staff, guests are offered the finest in both comfort and leisure.
New York Weekend Getaways Activities and Attractions
While it may be tempting to spend your entire stay in one of our executive suites after waking up to breathtaking mountainside views and an overview of the golf course, the Honor's Haven does also offer a wide variety of activities and attractions from which to partake in. With miles upon miles of scenic paths and trails of which to navigate, passing from cascading waterfalls to deep valleys and delightful mountain ridges, guests often find themselves enthusiastically exploring the Minnewaska State Park, the Shawangunk Mountains and the Mohonk Preserve for hours and hours at a time. However, if hiking isn't your thing, Honor's Haven is also in close proximity to the Canal Town Emporium, great for antique shopping, the Shawangunk Wine Trail as well as daily cruises along the Hudson in nearby historical Kingston NY. And if you're feeling lucky, the Monticello Horse Raceway and Casino are only a short distance away!
Come Plan Your New York Weekend Getaway Today
Timing has never been better for a weekend getaway to Honor's Haven Resort & Spa. Now offering affordable weekend packages year round, guests will find an experience that is at once both economical and memorable. Whether you choose one of their excellent wellness & spa packages or their special holiday packages, you are sure to find the absolute finest in New York weekend getaways at Honor's Haven in the Catskills Mountains.
For more information about Hudson Valley Resorts and Catskill Mountain Resorts at www.Honorshaven.com
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Travel Light: The How And Why
I learned how to travel light from lightweight backpacking, then found it was just as useful to keep it light on trips overseas or driving across the country. The last time my wife and I went to Ecuador, I had 10 pounds of luggage, all in one carry-on bag, and Ana had just 8 pounds in her carry-on bag. This wasn't a short trip. We spent six weeks in Ecuador, at times on glacier-covered mountains, and at other times lounging on Pacific coast beaches.
Travel Simplicity
Why travel light? Travel simplicity. Everything is simpler when you travel light. With only carry-on luggage, we were on our way to a restaurant in Quito, while others were still waiting for their checked luggage. When we took busses our luggage was safely with us, not on the roof or in the hold below being cut open, like one time when I was in Mexico. While others struggled down the street with three heavy bags, we had our hands free and were walking comfortably because we use daypacks or small backpacks. We had less to lose, less to be stolen, less to wait for, less to pack and unpack in hotels, and less to worry about.
Light Travel Issues
There are a couple minor problems when you travel light. First, expect an extra question or two from the customs officials at the airport (Six weeks with only this?). Second, a small bag won't work if you plan to bring back many souvenirs. In this case, you can still go light. Just plan to buy a second bag at some point during the trip, to carry your acquisitions. As for the seemingly obvious issue of not having enough clothes and other things all in one or two small bags, I'll explain below why that isn't as big a problem as you may think.
How To Travel Light
Silk shirts weigh 3 ounces, and travel well if rolled up. Nylon dress socks weigh less than an ounce, and they are cool and comfortable. Poly-cotton blend t-shirts weigh 5 ounces. Supplex or other lightweight travel slacks weigh 9 ounces, and are sufficient for a fine restaurant or a walk in the woods. All of these weigh less than half of the typical travel choices, and take less space, yet function the same. There is no sacrifice involved here. For this exercise in travel simplicity, you even get to go shopping for new clothes.
You don't have to buy new clothes, however. You don't have to buy a scale and count ounces to travel light. Just choose the lighter alternative whenever you can. Set aside your lightest jacket, socks and pants for your next trip. Travel simplicity is the goal, not more complicated planning.
More Ways To Travel Light
Money replaces weight, especially in the form of a debit or credit card. Why carry two pounds of your favorite shampoo when you can simply buy small bottles as you travel. It really won't cost much more to buy things wherever you go, instead of carrying your bathroom and wardrobe with you. Also, you really don't know exactly what you'll need, particularly on an overseas trip. Buy what you need as you need it, and you won't have a pile of useless things in your luggage. Don't we all regularly unpack things at home that we never once used during the trip?
Take a lesson from long-trail hikers (backpackers who travel a trail for months). They send things, such as new shoes, to a post office on their route, ahead of time, so they'll be waiting for them. They also send home things they no longer need, such as a winter coat. The latter may be a useful practice for other travelers. If you buy bulky gifts for family or friends, why carry them around for weeks? Put them in the mail.
A Light Travel Example
What I Took For Six weeks in Ecuador:
• 8 pairs of thin nylon socks (less than an ounce per pair)
• 2 silk shirts for restaurants and discos (3 ounces each)
• 4 poly/cotton blend t-shirts (5-6 ounces each)
• 5 pair of light underwear (2-3 ounces each)
• 1 extra pair of lightweight slacks (9 ounces)
• Single layer nylon shorts for hiking or swimming (2 ounces)
• Thin gloves (1 ounce)
• Thin hat (1 ounce - honestly)
• Thin wool sweater (11 ounces)
• Waterproof/breathable rainsuit (14 ounces for the set)
• Light plastic camera (3 ounces)
• Sunglasses (1 ounce)
• Small chess set (3 ounces)
• Bathroom kit (5 ounces)
• Maps, notebook and various small things (3 or 4 pounds)
My pack weighed ten pounds, and my wife's weighed 8 pounds. We never felt deprived. I'm not suggesting that you start counting the ounces (that comes from my backpacking days), or that you buy all new lightweight things. Without spending money or thinking about it too much, you can just start setting aside your lightest shirts, socks, etc., so you can travel light on your next vacation.
Author: Steve Gillman
Travel Simplicity
Why travel light? Travel simplicity. Everything is simpler when you travel light. With only carry-on luggage, we were on our way to a restaurant in Quito, while others were still waiting for their checked luggage. When we took busses our luggage was safely with us, not on the roof or in the hold below being cut open, like one time when I was in Mexico. While others struggled down the street with three heavy bags, we had our hands free and were walking comfortably because we use daypacks or small backpacks. We had less to lose, less to be stolen, less to wait for, less to pack and unpack in hotels, and less to worry about.
Light Travel Issues
There are a couple minor problems when you travel light. First, expect an extra question or two from the customs officials at the airport (Six weeks with only this?). Second, a small bag won't work if you plan to bring back many souvenirs. In this case, you can still go light. Just plan to buy a second bag at some point during the trip, to carry your acquisitions. As for the seemingly obvious issue of not having enough clothes and other things all in one or two small bags, I'll explain below why that isn't as big a problem as you may think.
How To Travel Light
Silk shirts weigh 3 ounces, and travel well if rolled up. Nylon dress socks weigh less than an ounce, and they are cool and comfortable. Poly-cotton blend t-shirts weigh 5 ounces. Supplex or other lightweight travel slacks weigh 9 ounces, and are sufficient for a fine restaurant or a walk in the woods. All of these weigh less than half of the typical travel choices, and take less space, yet function the same. There is no sacrifice involved here. For this exercise in travel simplicity, you even get to go shopping for new clothes.
You don't have to buy new clothes, however. You don't have to buy a scale and count ounces to travel light. Just choose the lighter alternative whenever you can. Set aside your lightest jacket, socks and pants for your next trip. Travel simplicity is the goal, not more complicated planning.
More Ways To Travel Light
Money replaces weight, especially in the form of a debit or credit card. Why carry two pounds of your favorite shampoo when you can simply buy small bottles as you travel. It really won't cost much more to buy things wherever you go, instead of carrying your bathroom and wardrobe with you. Also, you really don't know exactly what you'll need, particularly on an overseas trip. Buy what you need as you need it, and you won't have a pile of useless things in your luggage. Don't we all regularly unpack things at home that we never once used during the trip?
Take a lesson from long-trail hikers (backpackers who travel a trail for months). They send things, such as new shoes, to a post office on their route, ahead of time, so they'll be waiting for them. They also send home things they no longer need, such as a winter coat. The latter may be a useful practice for other travelers. If you buy bulky gifts for family or friends, why carry them around for weeks? Put them in the mail.
A Light Travel Example
What I Took For Six weeks in Ecuador:
• 8 pairs of thin nylon socks (less than an ounce per pair)
• 2 silk shirts for restaurants and discos (3 ounces each)
• 4 poly/cotton blend t-shirts (5-6 ounces each)
• 5 pair of light underwear (2-3 ounces each)
• 1 extra pair of lightweight slacks (9 ounces)
• Single layer nylon shorts for hiking or swimming (2 ounces)
• Thin gloves (1 ounce)
• Thin hat (1 ounce - honestly)
• Thin wool sweater (11 ounces)
• Waterproof/breathable rainsuit (14 ounces for the set)
• Light plastic camera (3 ounces)
• Sunglasses (1 ounce)
• Small chess set (3 ounces)
• Bathroom kit (5 ounces)
• Maps, notebook and various small things (3 or 4 pounds)
My pack weighed ten pounds, and my wife's weighed 8 pounds. We never felt deprived. I'm not suggesting that you start counting the ounces (that comes from my backpacking days), or that you buy all new lightweight things. Without spending money or thinking about it too much, you can just start setting aside your lightest shirts, socks, etc., so you can travel light on your next vacation.
Author: Steve Gillman
Saturday, July 18, 2009
The Best Season For Travel Bargains
When it comes to budget traveling, it is hard to overestimate the importance of the season of travel. Travel costs are largely dependent on the time of the year, and every travel destination has its high, low and shoulder seasons.
Knowing the seasons for the destination of your choice is a great way to enjoy wonderful travel on a budget.
The high season for a particular destination varies quite a bit from location to location. For some locations, the high season can be as short as a couple of weekends throughout the year, while for other locations high season can last all summer (or all winter) long.
It is also important to know, however, when low season is low for a reason. There are certain locations you definitely to not want to visit in the off season.
For instance, in August, most locations in Egypt approach the temperature of an oven, while hurricane season in Florida or the Caribbean can definitely put a crimp in your vacation.
In addition, many beach towns, and some parts of Europe, just about close down in the off season. It is important, therefore to plan smart to get the best travel bargains while still enjoying your vacation.
The best choice for budget minded travelers is often the shoulder season, that magical time of year when bargains are plentiful but destinations are still very enjoyable.
The period between high season and low, known as the shoulder season in the travel industry, is the time when prices have begun to drop, but for reasons that are related to the demand for the destination, not on its underlying value or lack of value.
For many locations, the shoulder season begins in the fall, when the college students and vacationing families that kept demand high begin to go home.
For instance, fall is a great time to visit many European locations. The temperatures are cooler, the crowds are gone, and the prices on lodgings and meals are lower.
In the Caribbean and Mexico, the shoulder season covers the late spring season.
Prices drop at this time since most tourists from colder climates are enjoying better weather at home and no longer dreaming of escaping to a warmer climate.
Most guidebooks and travel related web sites will have information on the best time to go to each location for maximum value, so if you are unsure exactly when the high, low and shoulder seasons occur for your destination be sure to check one of these sources for further information.
Finding great deals is possible in all seasons, of course, but it is generally most difficult in the summer time, when interest in vacationing reaches its peak.
The winter is an excellent season to visit many locations, but remember that it is high season for destinations like ski resorts.
The winter season can be a magical one for many locations that are on sale, however. For instance, travel to Asia is often markedly cheaper in the winter, but the sight of a snow covered Shinto temple is a remarkable sight, and one not to be missed.
Many locations in Asia and Europe have winters that are less harsh than those in many parts of the United States, so a winter vacation can still be quite magical.
About the Author:
1000s of Hotels,Travel,Tourism and Luggage Offers! Click Here - WorldHotelPages.com, WorldTravelPages.com, WorldTourismPages.comand WorldLuggagePages.com
Knowing the seasons for the destination of your choice is a great way to enjoy wonderful travel on a budget.
The high season for a particular destination varies quite a bit from location to location. For some locations, the high season can be as short as a couple of weekends throughout the year, while for other locations high season can last all summer (or all winter) long.
It is also important to know, however, when low season is low for a reason. There are certain locations you definitely to not want to visit in the off season.
For instance, in August, most locations in Egypt approach the temperature of an oven, while hurricane season in Florida or the Caribbean can definitely put a crimp in your vacation.
In addition, many beach towns, and some parts of Europe, just about close down in the off season. It is important, therefore to plan smart to get the best travel bargains while still enjoying your vacation.
The best choice for budget minded travelers is often the shoulder season, that magical time of year when bargains are plentiful but destinations are still very enjoyable.
The period between high season and low, known as the shoulder season in the travel industry, is the time when prices have begun to drop, but for reasons that are related to the demand for the destination, not on its underlying value or lack of value.
For many locations, the shoulder season begins in the fall, when the college students and vacationing families that kept demand high begin to go home.
For instance, fall is a great time to visit many European locations. The temperatures are cooler, the crowds are gone, and the prices on lodgings and meals are lower.
In the Caribbean and Mexico, the shoulder season covers the late spring season.
Prices drop at this time since most tourists from colder climates are enjoying better weather at home and no longer dreaming of escaping to a warmer climate.
Most guidebooks and travel related web sites will have information on the best time to go to each location for maximum value, so if you are unsure exactly when the high, low and shoulder seasons occur for your destination be sure to check one of these sources for further information.
Finding great deals is possible in all seasons, of course, but it is generally most difficult in the summer time, when interest in vacationing reaches its peak.
The winter is an excellent season to visit many locations, but remember that it is high season for destinations like ski resorts.
The winter season can be a magical one for many locations that are on sale, however. For instance, travel to Asia is often markedly cheaper in the winter, but the sight of a snow covered Shinto temple is a remarkable sight, and one not to be missed.
Many locations in Asia and Europe have winters that are less harsh than those in many parts of the United States, so a winter vacation can still be quite magical.
About the Author:
1000s of Hotels,Travel,Tourism and Luggage Offers! Click Here - WorldHotelPages.com, WorldTravelPages.com, WorldTourismPages.comand WorldLuggagePages.com
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