Most people think of Colorado as a winter destination, and for good reason. It’s hard to find better skiing than in the state’s mountains, and it’s a snowy playground for snowmobilers, snowshoers and winter campers as well. However, Colorado’s attractions don’t melt away with the snow, and it’s a worthy destination filled with fascinating sites and fun activities year-round.

The appeal of Colorado vacations lies in the fact that the state has great outdoor activities, lively cities and unique historic attractions. Almost everything is incredibly family friendly, and because it’s relatively easy to find cheap flights to the state capital, Denver, it’s a great value. When you combine flights with hotel rooms and car rental, you can often get outstanding savings.

Starting out in Denver, you can get a taste of cosmopolitan Colorado. The laid-back attitude of the city makes it an easy place to feel right at home. One of the city’s hippest highlights is the Cherry Creek district. Here you can find unpretentious cafes serving creative food, stylish boutiques and a great area for strolling. For even more shopping, check out the 16th St. Mall, a pedestrian-only zone. The Denver Art Museum, housed in a jagged building, will impress the art aficionado in your family, and your music fans will want to check out what’s on the schedule at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater, just 15 miles outside the city.

Traveling toward Colorado Springs, you won’t want to miss the Garden of the Gods. The imposing red rock formations that jut up out of the landscape will inspire the most avowed fans of the great indoors to get out of the car and go for long hikes. Or, if your feet get tired, saddle up for some spectacular trail rides at the many stables that offer horseback tours of the area.

Southwest Colorado has some of America’s most arresting vestiges of Native American culture, and though it’s a bit off the beaten path, it’s well worth it to explore the area. Mesa Verde National Park is the centerpiece, and your entire family will be fascinated by a tour through the ruins left by cliff-dwelling Native Americans. There are a number of different structures still standing, and they offer an unusual glimpse into Native American life and culture.

And, of course, Rocky Mountain National Park offers all kinds of summer activities. It’s an impressive setting for family camping trips, canoeing, horseback riding or good old-fashioned hiking. If you decide to fly in, there are plenty of outfitters who can provide you with all the equipment you need.

Renting a car makes it easy to take in Colorado’s diverse sights and attractions. Even if you think renting a car is out of your budget, search for vacation packages on sites like www.travelocity.com. When you combine cheap flights with hotels and car rental, you’ll be surprised at how much value you’ll get for your money.

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Bath is a city in the ceremonial county of Somerset in the south west of England. It is situated 97 miles (156 km) west of London and 13 miles (21 km) south-east of Bristol. The population of the city is 83992. It was granted city status by Royal Charter by Queen Elizabeth I in 1590, and was made a county borough in 1889 which gave it administrative independence from its county, Somerset. The city became part of Avon when that county was created in 1974.

Since 1996, when Avon was abolished, Bath has been the principal centre of the unitary authority of Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES). The city was first established as a spa resort with the Latin name, Aquae Sulis (“the waters of Sulis”) by the Romans in AD 43 although verbal tradition suggests that Bath was known before then. They built baths and a temple on the surrounding hills of Bath in the valley of the River Avon around hot springs, which are the only ones naturally occurring in the United Kingdom.

Edgar was crowned king of England at Bath Abbey in 973. Much later, it became popular as a spa resort during the Georgian era, which led to a major expansion that left a heritage of exemplary Georgian architecture crafted from Bath Stone.

The City of Bath was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1987. The city has a variety of theatres, museums, and other cultural and sporting venues, which have helped to make it a major centre for tourism, with over one million staying visitors and 3.8 million day visitors

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Location

Some islands are more expensive to visit than others. Based on a survey done by the Fodor’s Travel Guide, the least expensive islands to visit in the Caribbean include Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe and Montserrat. The most expensive include Barbados, St. Lucia and Grand Cayman.

Always ask for discounts

As the saying goes, “If you don’t ask you don’t get.” If you’re a member of AAA, AARP or some other group that offers travel discounts, let everyone you come in contact with know about it. Hotels, airlines, car rental places and even some restaurants offer discounts for members. You may be pleasantly surprised by how much you save.

Get a room off the beach

Sure, it would be nice to look out the window of your hotel room in the morning and see the ocean, but if you get a room a block or two from the beach, the rates you’re charged will be significantly lower.

Travel midweek

Caribbean vacations, and vacations just about everywhere for that matter, will be less expensive if you travel on the less desirable travel days: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Timing

If you don’t want to spend a lot on your vacation, the best time to visit the Caribbean is during the off season – which runs from mid-April through November. You can find cheap hotels and more affordable airline tickets when it’s not so busy.

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Photo: Rennett Stowe

Many elements add up to giving the city its Old World flair. First, the province in which it lies, Quebec, is fiercely proud of being predominantly French-speaking. However, English is widely spoken, so you don’t need to worry if you haven’t brushed up on much besides “Bonjour.” Secondly, the beautiful buildings dating from as early as the 17th century are architectural knockouts, and to complete the European flair, they’re enclosed by a wall around the old town. You can also find superb cuisine, often with a French flair, to complete the picture.

Quebec City hotels are as cheerful as they are plentiful — this is a town that caters to its visitors with panache. The major hotel players are all there, and you can expect great service as always, but even more unique options are available to you. After all, “Quebec City hotels” doesn’t mean just one thing — it can be a sleek and modern affair, a country-style hideaway, a towering chateau or, in winter, a building made out of tons of ice and snow.

Francophile shoppers will be thrilled with the selection that they find on the narrow, cozy streets of the old town. Boutiques like artisan chocolatier Eddy Laurent, which also stocks Palais de Thes and Mariage Freres tea, are a chic little dream come true. You can also find everything from leather goods to artisanal bath goodies to fashion at all price ranges.

Dining out in Quebec City is a gastronome’s delight. At Aux Anciens Canadiens, you can get Quebecois specialties like caribou or traditional meat pies. The contemporary bistro Le Clocher Penche offers brunch, lunch and dinner in an unpretentious yet stylish atmosphere. There are also more diverse options, like Lebanese at Cafe Le Sultan, Tunisian at Carthage or Asian fusion at Le Grain de Riz. Your options are almost extensive as your imagination — if you’re in the mood for something in particular, ask your hotel concierge for recommendations.

With the exchange rate between the Canadian and U.S. dollars currently favoring American travelers, it’s the perfect time to discover a bit of the old world just to our north. Start planning your trip on websites like Travelocity.com where you can search for low airline ticket prices, cheap hotels and vacation packages that combine everything you need at a significant cost savings.

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The Azores are one of the world’s most beautiful and unspoiled natural wonders. Belonging to Portugal, these nine islands are volcanic in origin and include Sao Miguel, Santa Maria, Terceira, Pico, Faial, Sao Jorge, Graciosa, Flores and Corvo.

Jamaica vacations offer the best of many worlds, and adventure travelers continue to flock to this location for their next jaw dropping experience. Here are some of the island’s best offerings for those who don’t mind having their heart skip a beat:

Get closer to nature and camp in the wild

If you love nature and want to get up close and personal with the creatures of the jungle, consider a camping trip to a serene location in the Jamaican mountains. Hop on one of the cheap flights to Montego Bay and you’ll be well on your way to seeing the jungle like you never have before. A guide can take you to the best camping locations and also provide you with some rental gear.

Zipline your way down the Jamaican mountainside

The zipline is a popular activity throughout Jamaica. You’ll be able to zoom down the hillside, over a tropical valley, or around the lush jungle canopy as you dangle from a rope from point A to point B. The great thing about ziplining is it can be appropriate for the whole family. When you zip down the mountain with your kids right behind you, you’re guaranteed to bond like you never have before.

Cliff jumping for a rush into the ocean

Don’t be surprised if you are minding your own business only to look over to see a Jamaican local doing elaborate cliff dives for your entertainment. For the not-so-faint-of-heart, cliff jumping can be the ultimate thrill. Some pools in Jamaica are built right into the cliffs so jumping is as convenient as ever! Remember, cliff jumping can be dangerous and if you do decide to take the plunge, make sure someone with experience explains any rocks or other water concerns you should be aware of. Otherwise, prepare to feel your heart drop (and try to avoid a belly flop).

Ride the ravenous rapids

The sun is scorching and a river rafting adventure is just what you need to wake up and cool down. A variety of guided rafting tours is available for those that dare to ride the rough waters of the Jamaican rivers. Most tours start out slow as you enjoy the beautiful jungle surroundings. But before you know it, you’ll be hit by the bumpy waves that toss your raft around like a ragdoll. Feel the rush as the water splashes from every angle.

ATV your way through a jungle safari

You thought your cheap flights to Jamaica were the way to travel, but ATVs are a great travel option for navigating through Jamaica once you are there. Experience the exotic jungle up close and personal with your own ATV that will roll through the rough terrain and even some rivers. You’ll be able to discover the local flora and fauna, secret villages, remote waterfalls and crystal clear pools. You’ll love having an ATV that can get you through just about anything to find the hidden treasures of Jamaica.

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Here are some useful resources that will provide you with a host of ideas and inspiration for your trip, wherever you decide to go:

TripAdvisor.com

Explore user-generated videos, pictures and reviews that provide unfiltered insight. It’s easy to view subjective rankings of attractions and locations – you can even check out the restaurants in the area. Search destination ideas on the site’s inspiration generator by region with categories to choose from like “Family Fun,” “Romance” and “History & Culture.” This can be a great way to explore options you’ve never considered without actually having to risk a bad trip.

The Travel Channel

Available through most cable TV companies, The Travel Channel’s original series will make you want to leave for a permanent vacation. Watch Anthony Bourdain eat local delicacies or live vicariously through Samantha Brown as she treks around the globe. Behind-the-scenes footage of restaurants, stores and tourist attractions are designed to give even the most discriminating traveler a few destination ideas. And while you are watching TV, be sure to check out innovativelanguage.com‘s Word of the Day application for satellite TV providers, which can start teaching you a new language every time you turn on your TV.

National Register of Historic Places

Pinpoint the type of historic sites you’d like to see, and locate them using the official U.S. government registry of historic places and national parks. Find lesser-known sites close to home and along your already-planned vacation route. Official documentation and photos are available online to help you determine what best fits your interests and schedule.

American Association of Museums

Use the database of www.aam-us.org as a starting point for finding interesting museums by city, state or even exhibit type. This can be a great way to get your family interested in culture, and you’ll never regret exposing your kids (or yourself) to something new. Remember the search function only covers member institutions, so be sure to check other resources if the museum you want isn’t showing up. Try a local or regional visitor’s bureau for a comprehensive search of museums in a specific area.

Old vacation photos

If all else fails, consider revisiting past destinations. Perhaps there were a few sites or attractions your budget and schedule didn’t previously allow for that you can now explore. Narrow down what you’d like to do and make room for some relaxation time. There’s nothing better than being familiar enough with a location to leave your worries behind. Talk with family members or anyone else who will come along again to find out what they liked and could stand to skip this time around. Also be sure to check out any attractions that have opened or changed since your last visit.

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CVS Pharmacist Martha Zavala reminds people that the first step to making sure you are prepared for a safe trip is to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to pack. The American Diabetes Association recommends that you bring twice as much medication and testing supplies as you need when traveling. Keep a stocked carry-on bag with you so necessities are always nearby.

If you are traveling by airplane, alert the security screener that you are carrying diabetes products. Some items to pack in your carry-on include enough insulin, syringes and blood testing supplies for the duration of your trip, plus additional medications and medical supplies. You should bring snacks such as cheese, peanut butter, fruit and hard candy or glucose tablets to treat low blood glucose. If you are used to having juice on hand, purchase it after going through airport security to avoid restrictions related to traveling with liquids. Don’t forget to pack your diabetes identity card in case of an emergency.

Proper medication storage is important to keep in mind. Body heat can upset the makeup of a drug, so don’t store pills in a pocket or otherwise near your body. The safest place to keep your medications is in carry-on luggage, so they will be easily accessible. Make sure to use the original pharmacy containers to avoid any confusion at security. It is important to pack insulin carefully to prevent it from breaking or overheating. Insulin does not need to be refrigerated, but if stored in very hot or very cold temperatures, it may lose strength. Travel packs can help keep your insulin at the right temperature.

Once you arrive at your destination, there are simple ways you can make sure your health is not negatively impacted by changes in your normal routine. Vacations may mean more time in the sun or increased physical activity, so be sure to have a bottle of water to stay hydrated. Monitoring your blood glucose levels is as important while traveling as when you are at home. You may be eating unfamiliar foods that have unknown effects on your blood glucose levels. If you are more active than usual, your blood glucose could go too low. Check your numbers frequently, including before eating and two to three hours after meals. If you are traveling through time zones, it may be necessary to adjust your dosing schedule so that you take your medication on time.

The supplies needed to manage diabetes at home and on the road can be expensive. One way to save is the ExtraCare Advantage for Diabetes program from CVS/pharmacy. More information on the program and diabetes care can be found at the CVS/pharmacy Diabetes Care Center .

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Ah, the summer road trip! There’s nothing like packing the family into the car and leisurely making your way across the country, or the continent, for that matter, to see a place you’ve never been to before.

Among the most popular attractions this time of year: any of the state and national parks and campgrounds; theme parks like Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Studios and Sea World and of course beach towns like Daytona Beach, Fla., Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Carlsbad Beach in Calif. But what would you do if you got into a car accident far from home? Would your auto insurance policy still cover you?

For most companies, the answer is yes, as long as the crash happens in one of the 50 states. If you’ll be traveling beyond the border, into Canada or Mexico, or heading over to one of the U.S. territories (Guam, Puerto Rico, etc.) you’ll want to call ahead to make sure you’ll be covered.

In general, your U.S. auto insurance does not cover you abroad, according to www.travel.state.gov, a service of the Bureau of Consular Affairs within the U.S. Department of State. However, your policy may apply when you drive to countries neighboring the United States, such as Mexico and Canada.

Allstate, for example, offers its customers coverage in all 50 states and the U.S. territories, all of the Canadian provinces, and 50 miles into Mexico. Check your insurance policy before driving in another country, and find out how much insurance is required to be carried in that country and how to purchase it.

You can easily obtain this information when you request car insurance quotes online or over the phone. The companies you are dealing with should have information on hand about the requirements in the country you need coverage in.

Keep in mind, even if your policy is valid, it may not meet that country’s minimum requirement. If you are under-insured for a particular country, auto insurance can usually be purchased separately on either side of the border. Price out a temporary policy by obtaining several car insurance quotes to make sure you are getting a good deal.

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Every summer and early fall, theme park thrill-seekers and amusement park aficionados prepare to flock en masse to these attractions across the country. Some 300 million visitors traveled to 400 amusement parks and traditional attractions in 2008, according to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. While the big-name parks are always fun, don’t overlook some equally exhilarating, but smaller, regional parks. You’ll likely find smaller crowds and save on travel costs.

“Often overlooked in preference to household names, these smaller regional parks can sometimes mean shorter lines, a one-of-a-kind adrenaline rush and a welcome escape from the tried and true thrills,” says Alistair Wearmouth, family travel specialist for Away.com, which recently published its Ultimate Theme Park Guide.

To get you started, here is a list of regional theme parks offering big thrills this summer:

Midwest

Silver Dollar City – Branson, Mo.

Nestled in the small town of Branson, Silver Dollar City touts itself as a “family-friendly vacation destination with down-home charm.” True to form, the park boasts 30 thrilling rides and attractions, in addition to a culinary school, a craft school and live entertainment. In celebration of its 50th anniversary, the park just opened a new ride, the “Tom and Huck’s RiverBlast.” Raft riders and spectators, armed with water soakers, battle each other raft-to-raft and raft-to-shore.

Information can be found at www.bransonsilverdollarcity.com.

Mid-Atlantic

Kennywood – West Mifflin, Pa., near Pittsburgh

A designated U.S. National Historic Landmark, Kennywood, in West Mifflin, offers visitors a healthy dose of history and hysterics. In late June, the park, which opened in 1898, introduces a new roller coaster, “Sky Rocket.” The ride launches riders from 0 to 50 mph in less than three seconds up a hill. Little known fact: The 2009 film Adventureland was filmed at this location.

Information can be found at www.kennywood.com.

Northeast

Seabreeze – Irondequoit, N.Y., near Rochester, N.Y.

Being the 12th oldest operating amusement park in the world does have its perks. Seabreeze, located upstate in Rochester, offers visitors more than 70 attractions and a water park. In addition to housing the second oldest coaster in the U.S., the Jack Rabbit, the park will unveil a new ride, “Revolution 360 Degrees” this summer. Guests face outward aboard a giant disk which rotates 360 degrees in both directions five stories high.

Information can be found at www.seabreeze.com.

Southeast

Family Kingdom – Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Family Kingdom offers vintage boardwalk fun at Myrtle Beach’s only amusement park. Rides include a wooden roller coaster, South Carolina’s largest Ferris wheel with one-of-a-kind views out over the Atlantic Ocean and an oceanfront waterpark just across the street. Hot deals and discounts ensure fun for you and the family without breaking the bank.

Information can be found at www.familykingdomfun.com.

Southwest

Enchanted Island – Encantado Park, Ariz., near Phoenix

Conveniently located in a city park in the heart of metro Phoenix, Enchanted Island transports visitors to a magical world of amusement. The park boasts rides, bumper boats, a 50 year-old carousel and an old-school C.P. Huntington train. The “soft adventure” rides make this park especially ideal for younger kids ages 1 to 10.

Information can be found at www.enchantedisland.com.

West

LEGOLAND – Carlsbad, Calif.

Modeled after the iconic Danish brand of construction toys, LEGOLAND California Resort in Carlsbad is the only LEGOLAND in the U.S. This summer the park debuts the world’s first LEGOLAND Waterpark. The park will include a lazy river, several water slides, a splash tower, spray LEGO models and two beach areas.

Information can be found at www.legolandwaterpark.com.

Rockies

Elitch Gardens – Denver

Elitch Gardens is a combo theme-water park celebrating its 120th anniversary this year. Since its inception, it has been home to the first zoo, first theater, first movie house, first symphony orchestra and continues to be the oldest continually operating theme park west of the Mississippi. If the history isn’t a lure, its 14 extreme coasters, good range of kid-sized coasters and all-age group rides make this a good pick for the entire family.

Information can be found at www.elitchgardens.com.

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The royal state of Rajasthan is one of the most popular holiday spots in India. There are a number of magnificent forts, elegant palaces and splendid havelis which are internationally famous for their impressive architecture and the delicate & intricate carvings.

Cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, etc., all bear witness to the grandeur and lavishness of the royals that once ruled this historical state of Rajasthan, India.

Some of the important and internationally-known forts and palaces in the state are the Mehrangarh Fort & Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur; Chittorgarh Fort; Kumbhalgarh Fort; Lalgarh Palace & Junagarh Fort in Bikaner; City Palace of Jaipur & Udaipur; Lake Palace & Fateh Prakash Palace in Udaipur; and Fort Mandawa Castle & Havelis in Shekhawati. These fort, palace & monument attractions of the state are visited by a large number of foreign tourists every year.

Many of heritage buildings of Rajasthan have been now converted into heritage hotels which are the also the prime attractions of Rajasthan travel and tourism. These heritage hotels of the state offer world class and royal accommodation facilities to vacationers. They offer royal treat and opportunity live like kings, queens, prince and princess. Almost all important cities and tourist places of the state are dotted with many of world famous heritage hotels appealing vacationers from all over the world. Jaipur (the capital city), Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Mandawa, Udaipur, Bharatpur, etc are some of popular tourism and holiday destinations in the state having many tourist attractions and heritage hotels for royal accommodation.

Jaipur, also known as the Pink City of India, is the gateway to Rajasthan tours and travels. There are a number of tourist places to visit, to explore and to enjoy. Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jal Mahal, Amber Fort, etc are popular attractions in Jaipur. Rambagh Palace, Alsisar Haveli, Part of City Palace, Jal Mahal, etc are renowned heritage hotels in Jaipur offering excellent accommodation facilities to tourists and vacationers. Samode Palace & Haveli and Samode Bagh are also world famous heritage hotels in Samode, Rajasthan. Samode is situated at very short distance from Jaipur city.

Udaipur is a beautiful city in Rajasthan and one of the most romantic cities in India. It is known for its beautiful palaces, beautiful lakes, beautiful landscapes and beautiful surroundings. City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Lake Palace, Jag Mandir, Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh Fort), Pichola Lake, Udai Sagar Lake, Fateh Sagar Lake, etc are popular tourist attractions in Udaipur which can be visited, explored and enjoyed on Udaipur city tours in Rajasthan, India. Lake Palace and Fateh Prakash Palace are globally famous hotels situated in Udaipur, the city of lakes, palaces and rising sun.

A city tour to Jodhpur provides tourists wonderful opportunity to see majestic Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada. Tourists have also brilliant opportunity to stay at world famous heritage hotels – Umaid Bhawan Palace and Ajit Bhawan Palace. Laxmi Vilas Palace, Golbagh Palace and Chandra Mahal Haveli are very popular heritage hotels in Bharatpur offering tourists wonderful opportunity to enjoy Rajasthan holiday in very royal ways. There are many other heritage hotels in Rajasthan where tourists or vacationers can stay and enjoy the unforgettable charm of Rajasthan vacation and tourism.

About the author: Mahi Manral is an eminent analyst and writer in Travel & Tourism related topics. He has authored many books on tour guide for Hotels in Udaipur and Hotels in Jaipur. Now he is rendering his services to www.india-rajasthan-tours.com.

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Find out to save money when ordering taxis in Manhattan, when shopping in Macy’s and more with Hostelworld.com’s Colm Hanratty.

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The Penthouses Surfers Paradise Beachfront Apartments is a 24-story high rise located on the Gold Coast, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The Penthouses Apartments feature fully self-contained, two- and three-bedroom apartments. All apartments are very spacious with breathtaking ocean views, and many have views of the Gold Coast hinterland. Each unit has a fully equipped kitchen and laundry, two bathrooms, along with dining and living areas with glass sliding doors to the balcony. All you need to bring is your clothes and a beach towel.

For many years the Gold Coast has claimed the crown as Australia’s Tourism capital with so much to see and do from world class theme parks to sun-drenched beaches, restaurants, nightclubs and tropical hinterland regions. From The Penthouses’ prime location you will be able to enjoy all the Gold Coast has to offer.

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by Bruce McCloud

All it takes is a glimpse of your expensive clothes, jewelry, the vehicles you drive, the cigars you smoke, or even the gambling fortunes you accumulated during your Las Vegas vacations. That kind of attention makes you a target in the eyes of a thief. But instead of thieves waiting to attack in an alley or somewhere secluded, dark, and out of sight, it may be much easier to just walk into your hotel room, even if it is locked and secured.

One rather simple mistake that can ruin Las Vegas vacations is a faulty hotel door. While that may seem strange at first thought, it is one of the opportunities that thieves use to access your personal belongings.

Unfortunately, individuals with a perverted motive may also rely on that opportunity. One of the common tactics that thieves rely on is going through the hallways of hotel suites, pushing on the doors to see which ones will open. The reason why people actually do this is because some hotel doors do not shut properly after they close. The bolt mechanism may not be properly enforced into the hinge either because the screws holding the door’s balance are loose or other related reasons.

Consequently, many people actually feel that once the door shuts, it is secured, only able to get in if they have their key (or the staff who has the master key). However, the simple mistake of not checking the door shutting properly can actually cost you dearly if a thief is able to find that out before you do. All a thief has to do is simply push the door open or use a credit card to slide between the door and push the bolt mechanism out of the hinge to easily get inside your room. That means that any belongings a tenant left in the room while they are downstairs pulling down the slot machines is up for grabs.

What can be even more frightening for tenants is if they are still in the room.

On travel forums, there have been complaints of women who have had this happen to them in the middle of a shower, or in the middle of the night while they are asleep. The people who trespassed into the room simply claimed that they went into the wrong hotel room by mistake, using the alibi that all of the hotel rooms look the same or claim that the hotel itself made a mistake on room vacancies, issuing a key without realizing one was already issued (which has happened). However, if you’re sure you locked the door, the chances of the trespasser being a thief is very high.

Always take all precautions. Anyone on their Las Vegas vacations or any vacation package deals worldwide should always check their door. A simple test of checking if your door is locked tight and ensuring the bolt mechanism is firmly enforced into the hinge can mean the difference between a wonderful vacation and becoming a victim of property and identity theft. If the door is faulty, request a different room and inform the staff about it so it can be fixed.

It is important that you never leave your wallets or purses on stools next to you or out in the open when you are gambling, but it is also important to ensure that you do not leave them in the open even in your hotel room either. One of the best things you can request is a safe to be placed in your hotel room where your belongings can be placed in. While hotels usually charge for this extra convenience if it isn’t already included, it can be very important if you feel that you cannot take your belongings with you when you leave your hotel room.

About the author: Get more advice, training, and unlimited hotel room discount abilities up to 93% off for your Las Vegas Vacations and many vacation package deals worldwide. Visit the Vacation Package Deals official website for more information.

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By Dave Lakins

With over 400 shops and businesses in the centre of Dorchester there is something to satisfy everyone’s interest. As well as a great selection of high street regulars, Dorchester has its own speciality shops that attract people from all over the south west of England.

There are family-owned department stores, a wide range of specialist gift shops and for those who like to explore away from the main high streets, some hidden treasures up side streets and around corners! If you are considering a visit to Dorset why not spend a few hours shopping in Dorchester.

Although it has been sad to see a number of high profile shops disappear from Dorchester during this recession, the town centre appears to be thriving. With Wellworths leading the way in the media spotlight who could have predicted the amazing amount of coverage this event would get for the town. In recent months over twenty new businesses have opened. Prime location retail units in the town centre are now starting to fill once again as the word is out that Dorchester means business and looks like good place to have a shop or open a new business.

Historically, Dorchester has always been known for its eclectic range of specialist independent shops and refreshingly, a lot of these new businesses are bringing more variety and colour back to town. The new Brewery Square development is revitalising an area to the south of town which will no doubt bring many more new visitors to Dorchester and hopefully this too will have a positive effect for the whole of town.

The bustling market, which is held every Wednesday, is a focal point for many of the communities that surround the town. The main shopping area of South Street has now been pedestrianised and this is where you will find a mixture of local businesses rubbing shoulders with national chains. Throughout the year the town comes alive with French Markets, street singers and entertainment making it a great place to while away a few hours whilst browsing the shops.

If you decide to stay longer in Dorset, you will find a good number of quality hotels, bed and breakfasts and guest houses along with a selection of self catering holiday cottages. Just out of town along the famous Jurassic Coast you will find plenty of rural camping and caravan sites and holiday parks featuring luxury mobile homes and lodges.

Dorchester is a beautiful English market town with a rich and varied history. The Casterbridge of Thomas Hardy novels is based on the town, with the author growing up in a small village no more than five miles away. There are also many places of interest to visit, including the Dorset County Museum which has fine displays of local history; The Dinosaur Museum; Teddy Bear House and The Tutankhamun Exhibition.

Stroll around the Town Walks, take in Maumbury Rings and the town’s Roman Ampitheatre and you will get a real flavour of the Roman history that is deeply rooted in the town. If you fancy a bracing afternoon stroll take in a visit to Maiden Castle, the famous Iron Age Hill Fort just outside Dorchester. Wander around the hill top and see the town spread out beneath you.

With its fascinating history and location in one of the finest parts of Dorset, Dorchester has a blend of modern and old with shopping outlets to suit most tastes and pockets, it’s well worth a visit.

About the author: Shopping in Dorchester brings together fascinating history and location in one of the finest parts of Dorset. Visit Dorchester and experience one of Dorset’s hidden gems.

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In a national study by Expedia.com, 94 percent of Americans agreed it was worth it to take a family vacation. Why? Because they help build memories that last a lifetime and reinforce family bonds. Nearly 85 percent of those surveyed think the time they spend together as a family is what makes a trip special. The good news is, travel costs have dropped significantly in the last year, making family vacations the most affordable they’ve been in years.

This year, rather than forgoing a vacation altogether, many people are staying closer to home and taking shorter trips. Whether you have a day, weekend or an entire week to get away, trips within driving distance can be fun and help save money. In fact, good old-fashioned road trips haven’t gone out of style. Most people (seven in 10) still enjoy them because they like making stops at family-friendly attractions and seeing interesting sights along the way.

Travel expert Lee Woodruff says online resources like Expedia.com are a great way to help plan a great family vacation on a small budget.

“Expedia has a brand new tool called Drive Getaway. You plug in where you are in the country, how far you want to go on a tank of gas or less and they’ll come up with all kinds of ideas and places that you can go with the kids for one, two, three nights, whatever it may be,” Woodruff says.

Some other tips for getting the most out of your family vacation:

Take advantage of last minute deals – More than a quarter of Americans (27 percent) who have been on family vacations feel a spontaneous trip is more fun for their family than one planned well in advance of the vacation date. The good news is there’s still time to take advantage of great vacation savings. Snap up dramatically discounted hotel rooms in top cities and beaches at Expedia.com’s last minute deals page.

Revisit the past – Many of our fondest memories come from family trips. Revisiting favorite destinations that you remember as a child can be a great way to spend time off with your family. Nearly two in three (64 percent) parents who enjoyed family vacations while growing up have taken their own families to destinations they visited as a child. “Sharing a trip from your childhood is a special way to connect with the entire family and relive the memories you created in the past,” says Woodruff.

Don’t over schedule – “Remember, this is a vacation! Don’t over schedule. One activity or site a day is plenty,” advises Woodruff. Trips to larger attractions can be alternated with inexpensive or free activities like picnics in nearby parks to help families stick to their travel budgets.

Involve the whole family –”Whatever you decide, be sure to get the kids involved in the planning. They’ll be more cooperative and have a lot more fun if they feel they have a say,” says Woodruff. Cruises can be a great option for family vacations. They offer activities that are fun for everyone and help families stick to their travel budgets since most cruises are all-inclusive.

Think off season – Booking travel during off-peak travel times can help maximize travel budgets. “While more than half of Americans like to take family vacations during summer, booking travel in the fall after Labor Day weekend can be just as enjoyable. Planning travel for off-peak times also allows travelers to take advantage of travel deals and smaller crowds,” says Woodruff. Booking air and hotel together is another way to save money regardless of when you plan on traveling throughout the year. Travelers can save more than $200 per trip when they book their airfare and hotel together.

The average American who has taken a family vacation at some point in their lives admits it has been five years since they had a truly great trip with their loved ones. There’s no better time than the present to hit the road and have some fun making memories with family and loved ones.

For more information about travel deals and destinations visit www.expedia.com.

Courtesy:  ARAcontent

The Social Security Administration reports that since Oct. 1, 2008, early retirement claims have soared to record levels. Baby boomers opting to retire at age 62 are settling for as much as 25 percent less in income per month than if they waited to retire at age 66. What can baby boomers and retirees do to supplement their incomes when traditional jobs are unavailable?

“Consider becoming a professional tour director,” says Ted Bravos, chief executive officer of International Tour Management Institute (ITMI). “Even during these uncertain times, travel and tour companies are seeking qualified people. Boomers possess the life experience and maturity that makes them terrific tour directors.”

In the U.S. alone, the travel industry creates over 17 million jobs and produces more than $740 billion in annual revenue, according to the U.S. Travel Association. Travel and tourism remain among the top revenue producing industries in the world.

Professional tour directors earn an average of $150 to $350 per day plus all-expense-paid trips. And, it does not matter where the tour director lives, because many tour companies pay for travel from their home to the tour destination and back. Tour directors can determine how many days each year they wish to work and which areas of the country or the world they wish to experience.

Many ITMI boomer alumni like Jerry Flavin have found rewarding encore careers as tour directors. Flavin enthusiastically states, “I can only say that the change from a legal career to a career in travel and tourism has been a boost to my retirement years. The fact that I am dealing with people from all over the world is stimulating, educational and rewarding. I am so happy I developed this career change, and now I can be an instrument of peace.”

Since its inception in 1976, ITMI has launched thousands of travel careers. As the first certified professional tour directing program in America, ITMI alumni are sought after by major tour operators such as Adventures by Disney, Australian Pacific Touring, Globus & Cosmos, Tauck World Discovery and Princess Cruise Lines, to name a few.

What does a tour director do?

Tour directors represent the travel organizer for whom they work. They prepare commentaries and briefings about each area and are prepared to answer commonly asked questions and deal with everyday problem solving. Most importantly, they relate well to people. They set the tone and ensure that participants enjoy themselves.

How can someone become a professional tour director?

By enrolling in ITMI’s certified program, students learn all aspects of tour directing in two short weeks. Because over 60 percent of the program is conducted in the field, participants receive the intensive real-world experience, which prepares them for paid assignments immediately upon graduation. Individual strategy sessions, held after course completion, help students identify their immediate and long-term objectives, and allow staff to determine which tour operators will best meet their goals.

The instructors also help students with resume preparation and assist them in arranging interviews with prospective employers. Many graduates secure their first assignment within a few weeks after course completion. For more information about full- or part-time tour director opportunities, e-mail Joan Keddell at travel@itmisf.com, visit www.itmitourtraining.com or call (800) 442-4864.

Courtesy: ARAcontent

A shorter, thriftier trip is likely to be by car. The inevitable rush to make the most of the limited time away after a tiring work week can create fatigue, so don’t make it a dangerous driving situation. Enliven your senses with essential oil scents.

Ditch the cardboard cutout car “freshener” that hangs from the rearview mirror. Not only distracting, these products are usually saturated with synthetic fragrance chemicals and probably aren’t the best thing to inhale while enclosed in your vehicle. Instead, rely on a sleek essential oil diffuser that plugs into your automobile’s phone charger power outlet. These devices feature small paper fiber pads to which you can apply your own custom blend of essential oils, allowing you to not only scent the air inside the car, but also to provide refreshing aromatherapy benefits to help keep you alert and focused on the road.

A simpler, alternative way to diffuse is to apply several drops of oil to a tissue and tuck it carefully into one of the vents in the dash.

Try these essential oils for the car:

• Peppermint essential oil – refreshing, awakening, uplifting.
• Eucalyptus essential oil – bracing, purifying, protecting.
• Lemon essential oil – pleasant, deodorizing, cheering.

How clean is your hotel room?

Overnight stays in less than posh hotel digs may be part of the money-saving travel trend. Even upscale hotels aren’t immune to dirt and germs, or worse, an apparent outbreak of bedbug infestations in the United States, recently publicized by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Bedbugs aside, there are always nagging doubts about just how clean a hotel room actually is. Has the shower or tub been scrubbed or merely wiped down? Is the toilet sanitized? Has the bedspread ever really been thoroughly cleaned? Fortunately, there are ways to protect yourself after you check in, but before you settle into your temporary overnight home.

Air and Surface Sanitizing Spray

Feel good about travel with a bottle of homemade purifying aromatherapy solution that relies on pleasantly scented and highly effective essential oils, rather than harsh chemical disinfectants. The following spray will help you create a hygienic environment in your temporary hotel home. Apply it to tub, vanity and toilet surfaces.

Ingredients:

Empty 12 to16 ounce spray bottle
10 ounces water
2 ounces isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol or vodka
1/2 teaspoon tea tree essential oil (antimicrobial)
1/2 teaspoon lemon essential oil (cleansing)
1/2 teaspoon lavandin essential oil (protecting)
1/2 teaspoon sweet orange essential oil (freshening).

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in the spray bottle. Shake and apply to a washcloth, and wipe down the TV’s remote, the clock radio, the door handles and the faucet handles in the bathroom.

Purifying and Relaxing Linen Mist

Here are some great tips for making a strange bed feel more like home. Take along your own pillow and replace the ones provided. Create your own linen mist and use it on your own bed at home, then travel with the same blend, taking a little bit of home with you. When you arrive at your destination, turn down the covers, exchange the pillows and apply your signature scent to the bed.

Ingredients:

Empty 4 to 8 ounce spray bottle
4 to 8 ounces water
13 drops lavender essential oil (relaxing, calming)
5 drops lavandin or spike lavender essential oil (purifying, protecting)

Directions:

Combine the water and oil in the bottle. Shake the contents thoroughly just before application.

Remember to look for pure and natural essential oil brands like Aura Cacia that don’t include synthetic petrochemical fragrances. For more information on how to enhance your life through aromatherapy, visit www.auracacia.com.

Courtesy: ARAcontent

To ensure that you have everything you need and are able to pick up where you left off upon your return home, consider the following when preparing for your vacation:

Make a list and keep it handy

Make a list of your doctors’ phone numbers and the names of your prescription drugs and be sure that medications and important numbers are packed in your carry-on luggage or are easily accessible when traveling. If you have your doctor’s phone number handy, you can call for a refill or replacement prescription in case of an emergency. If traveling to a foreign country with a pre-existing medical condition, the U.S. Department of State recommends you carry a letter from your doctor describing the medical condition and any drugs you are prescribed — including generic names.

Be sure to also keep a list of other important contact names and numbers. You never know when you may need the phone number of your boss, next-door neighbor or auto mechanic. If your return is delayed or you realize you forgot to turn the automatic sprinkler timer on, having these numbers readily available will keep stress out of your vacation.

Stay connected, even while away

Be in control of your finances before, during and after your trip. No matter how well you plan ahead, all too often you receive a pressing bill, need to transfer money or check your balance while you are away. Taking advantage of innovative and popular banking tools, like Bank of America’s free Mobile Banking service, gives you immediate and secure access to your finances through your mobile phone. In today’s unpredictable economic environment, it has never been more important to have control of your money whenever, wherever you need it.

Mobile Banking allows customers to:

• Check balances and transactions on checking, savings, credit card accounts and mortgages and home equity lines held with Bank of America.
• Pay bills and e-bills.
• Transfer money between accounts and to other Bank of America customers.
• View transactions for checking and savings accounts, mortgages and home equity lines, including posted and pending transactions and verify that your paycheck deposited into your account.
• Locate any of Bank of America’s over 18,000 ATMs and 6,100 banking centers.

Turn it off

Before you leave on your trip, turn off the water to avoid potential water damage while you are away. After a relaxing vacation, no one wants to return to a flooded home from broken toilet, sink or dishwasher pipes. Also, never leave the dishwasher or washing machine running as you depart for your vacation. If something were to happen, it will be a long time before you’re back to catch the problem. And be sure to make one last electricity check before taking off. Leaving appliances plugged in and the lights, radio and ceiling fan on is a fire hazard, not to mention an unnecessary addition to your electric bill.

Communicate

Contact your credit card company to notify them about your travel plans. More and more, credit card companies are monitoring your spending in order to help quickly catch fraudulent activity, but this can potentially get in the way if you don’t notify the company about your travel plans. The company could put a hold on your account, preventing you from using your card on your trip. Be sure to contact your credit card company early, notifying them of your plans before leaving and keep the toll-free number on your traveling list of contacts so you can always follow up if necessary.

For more information on Mobile Banking, go to mobilebanking.bankofamerica.com.

Courtesy: ARAcontent

Many parents wonder if a trip is even worth it if it means dealing with cranky, tired kids for a week. Yes, according to Dr. Chris Drake, a bioscientific investigator at the Henry Ford Sleep Research Center in Detroit and resident sleep expert for AmericInn Hotels’ “Sleep Better America” program.

“While parents and kids often come back from family vacations more exhausted than before they left, the bonding time between parent and child in a vacation setting is essential to healthy child development and growth,” says Drake. “Plus trips are a time for families to have fun and learn together. Experiences away from home are often educational for young minds and it’s good to expose children to new geographic areas, languages, cultures and foods.”

Drake, a father himself, knows firsthand the benefits of connecting while on a family vacation, yet he also knows how lost hours of sleep can be unhealthy for kids and cause big headaches for parents. To ease parents’ minds, Drake offers the following tips to help children achieve the best sleep possible while traveling:

Stick with your kids’ nap schedule

Plan activities around your children’s nap schedules while on vacation. If naptime is regularly after lunch, make an effort to have this meal close to your hotel, campground or relative’s house. Even on long car trips, do your best to keep kids awake with energizing music, games and conversation at times they’re usually active. Long car rides make all of us a bit lethargic, so it may feel like a necessary respite to let your kids fall asleep for long intervals, but you’ll pay in the middle of the night.

Consider light and sun exposure

Research has shown that light exposure impacts everything from brain activity to seasonal depression to length and quality of sleep. Kids, like adults, need natural light exposure every day to stay alert. They also sleep better in dark, calming environments. When traveling, find quiet, dim spaces for naps and nighttime sleeping. Draw curtains whenever possible.

Stick to healthy meals and regular mealtimes

Eating while on vacation usually means higher calorie meals and more treats like ice cream and cookies. Allow your kids some treats to enjoy, but don’t overdo it and stick to your regular meal schedule. Don’t let your kids order french fries with every entrée. Choose a veggie option instead. Watching your kids’ sugar and salt intake while away from home and having them drink more water will be better for their digestive systems and quality of sleep.

Try preventing unfamiliar noise interruptions

In an unfamiliar setting, kids can get excited or scared by foreign noises. When scouting out the best sleep arrangement for the kids while traveling, consider hotels like the AmericInn brand, which is known for specially insulating its properties to offer guests a quieter stay. Or when camping, find a spot away from the road, train tracks or any sort of entertainment venue. When at grandma and grandpa’s house, if possible select a private space away from cousins and other family members.

Start bedtime routines earlier on the road

Since it most likely will take longer to get kids settled for bed while on a trip, unless they’re wiped out from the day’s activities, start your usual bedtime routines of putting on pajamas, brushing teeth and reading books one hour earlier. Turning out the lights well before bedtime is a good way to start the physiological and behavioral processes of sleep even before kids are in bed. TV is the most problematic, particularly in a hotel where the living room is often the bedroom as well, so avoid turning it on when trying to get your kids down for the night.

Pack familiar and comforting items

You may feel like you’ve packed too much, but don’t leave out your kids’ favorite PJs, blankets, pillows, stuffed animals or pacifiers because you’ll be glad to have them when your child throws a temper tantrum right before bed. Items that are comforting and familiar help calm children down despite being in a bed and room that isn’t as inviting as their kid-friendly rooms at home.

Courtesy:ARAcontent