Budget-wise Travel

Discovering the Wonders of the Great Lakes

CherylB1948 — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 23:35:13 +0000

The Great Lakes of North America consists of connecting freshwater lakes bordering Canada and the United States. It was formed by several lakes including Ontario, Superior, Huron, Michigan and Erie Lake. The combined area of the lakes sets its record as the world’s largest freshwater lake. Aside from these lakes, smaller lakes and rivers contribute to its large area. It also includes other bodies of water like the Georgian Bay, Welland Canal, Straights of Mackinac, Niagara River and the Lake of Saint Clair.

Along the stretch of the Great Lakes lies around 35,000 islands in which the Manitoulin Island is the largest among them. Next in its size is the Isle Royale located in Lake Superior.

It has also become a major route for many shipping, however, during winter season, the lake easily freezes and making it impossible for any shipping vessel to pass through. Cruise lines and yachts make use of Great Lakes by passing through the Erie Canal and Hudson River.

This Lake is also considered as the main natural resource which supplies drinking water to millions of residents in nearby areas. This natural resource is being protected by the provincial government.

There is an effort to protect and reserve this natural resource because of the major contribution of the Great Lakes to the economy and the needs of the people surrounding the area. It has been enacted through the Great Lakes Regional Collaboration and was introduced during the year 2004. This was made possible through a bill by Carl Levin and Mike DeWine who were at that time senators of the United States. The bill aims to maintain the system and avoid it from being destroyed and saving the government from spending millions of dollars for the restoration of the lake.

Another major concern of the government is the problem with over fishing which depletes the population of various species of fish contributing to the supply of the nearby communities.

Another concern is the increasing problem with the Great Lakes’ pollution brought about by industrial companies and sewage disposal which greatly affects the survival of the overall population of the fish.

Because of these prevailing concerns, a lot of different organizations from the government and private sector have joined forces to preserve the Great Lakes and protect it from any abuse.

Great Lakes of North America is a perfect choice for travelers who want to experience a lot of adventure. It is ideal for many water activities which includes fishing, surfing, canoeing, sailing, swimming and scuba diving. For a more relaxing moment, enjoy the white sandy beaches and the charm of the islands all over this.

A vacation to Great Lakes can provide you the most exciting experience combined with the beauty of nature which will complete your family vacation. Bring your whole family in a world class experience which will make you want more to come back to this beautiful paradise.

For more information on Lake Huron Attractions [http://www.greatlakesnorthamerica.com/lhattractions.html] and Lake Erie Outdoor Vacations [http://www.greatlakesnorthamerica.com/levacations.html], please visit our website.

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More About the Great Lakes of North America

CherylB1948 — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 23:26:25 +0000

By David Urmann | Co-Author: Wasim Ahmad

The Great Lakes of North America are a group of 5 large lakes which include Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. It is collectively the largest freshwater system on earth. The region includes portions of Northwestern Pennsylvania and Western New York as well as the Canadian Province of Ontario and the 6 U.S. states such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio.

The region forms distinctive economic and historical and political bi-national history, culture as well as a political economy. The Great Lake region is distinguished for its significant contribution in culture, economy and technology.

The tourists are drawn to these natural attractions for very good reasons, and here’s why:

Great Lakes of North America

Lake Michigan
It is the third largest Great Lake of North America and the only one situated entirely within the United States. The lake is bounded from west to east by Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin. Visitors can cross it by riding a ferry that runs from Manitowoc, Wisconsin to Ludington, Michigan. It is home to bowfin, carp, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, pinfish, yellow perch, lake trout and some species of catfish.

Lake Huron
This is the second largest of the Great Lakes bounded on the east by the province of Ontario, Canada and on the west by the U.S. state of Michigan. Its surface is 176 meters above sea level and the average depth is 59 meters. There are several significant cities on Lake Huron such as Sarnia and Goderich, Ontario Canada as well as Bay City, Cheboygan, Rogers City, Alpena, Port Huron and St. Ignace, Michigan.

The lake is home to several fish and plant life like the now extinct deepwater Cisco. The notable feature here is the Manitoulin Island that separates the Georgian Bay and the North Channel from the lake’s main body of water.

Lake Erie
This is the 4th largest Great Lake and the 10th largest worldwide. It is bounded on the south by U.S. states of New York, Pennsylvania and Ohio, on the north by the Canadian province of Ontario and on the west by the state of Michigan. It is primarily fed by Detroit River and it is drained via the Niagara Falls and Niagara River into Lake Ontario. Some major contributors to this lake include the Cuyahoga River, Sandusky River, Maumee River, Huron River and the Grand River. The lake is home to one of the world’s largest freshwater commercial fisheries.

Rivers in Great Lakes

St. Clair River

This river is situated in central North America that drains the Lake Huron into the Lake St. Clair. It is 64 kilometers long and 1.5 meters in elevation from the Lake Huron to Lake St. Clair. It is one of the important areas of the Great Lakes Waterway where cargo vessels pass through to travel between the upper and lower Great Lakes.

Niagara River
It flows north from the Lake Erie to the Lake Ontario. The river serves as part of the border between New York and the province of Ontario in Canada. It features two large islands namely the Goat Island and Grand.

Saint Lawrence River
It is a larger river that extends greatly from southwest to northeast of North America. It connects together the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean. The Saguenay, Ottawa and Richelieu rivers as well as Lake Champlain are being drained here.

For more information on Great Lakes North America [http://www.greatlakesnorthamerica.com/] and The Great Salt Lake [http://www.greatlakesnorthamerica.com/the-great%20saltLake.html], please visit our website.

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Lake Erie Islands Destinations – Put-In-Bay

CherylB1948 — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 13:41:03 +0000

Lake Erie Islands – Put-in-Bay

By Jacquie Galvin

If you ever have the chance, you must visit an island oasis which features old-fashioned ice cream shops, bicycles built for two, rolling hills with cascading grape vines, historical landmarks and some of the best lobster bisque on the planet. So where is this jewel of the landscape? Why Lake Erie, of course. Lake Erie features 20 plus separate islands but only one that can boast the name Put-in-Bay. South Bass Island, its formal name, has been a summer resort since 1864 when vacationers began frequenting the island for yachting and other social activities. The moniker is credited to sailors exploring the islands in July 1784. These sailors made charts of the islands and called one of them Pudding Bay after the old-fashioned pudding bags. It has also been called Puden Bay in similar log books from other explorers of that era.

The Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, which can be seen from neighboring islands, is a tribute to Admiral Oliver Hazard Perry. This 352-foot granite monument commemorates the naval victory over the British Fleet in the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812. The famous saying “We have met the enemy and they are ours” came from a note Perry scribbled on the back of an old letter to then-general William Henry Harrison. The memorial resides on a narrow strip between downtown and an island residential area where some of the homes date back to the mid-1800s.

Rent a bike or golf cart and tour the quaint downtown area where you can enjoy old-fashioned, hand-dipped ice cream, homemade fudge and unique, eclectic jewelry and artwork. For the adult set, Put-in-Bay features the Roundhouse Bar where you can catch a beer and a show most summer afternoons, all without corners. The Roundhouse dates back to 1873 and is one of the oldest buildings on the island. The Beer Barrel Saloon boasts the longest permanent bar in the world and now occupies the site of the historic Colonial which perished in flames on Memorial weekend 1988. Measuring 405 feet and 10 inches, you’ll need a catcher’s mitt and some time to snag the beer that slides down this bar.

If you’re more of a grape enthusiast, a visit to the Heineman Winery is a must. The family-owned establishment dates back to 1888 when Gustav Heineman came to Ohio from Baden-Baden, Germany. The winery lasted through economic booms and busts, the depression and prohibition and is still run by third and fourth generation Heinemans Louis and Edward. Tastings are conducted regularly and are an education in the fine art of Ohio wine making.

For the outdoorsman, Put-in-Bay offers a first class marina opposite one of the oldest yacht clubs in the country, campgrounds in the Oak Point State Park and miles of hiking and biking trails. Venture towards Put-in-Bay harbor and catch a glimpse of Stone Laboratory on Gibraltar Island. Founded in 1895, the island campus of The Ohio State University is the oldest freshwater biological field station in the country. Here Buckeye students gain practical experience in field research with courses such as insect biology, lake sediments and aquatic biology.

When you feel the need for a good nosh, visit any one of the over 25 different restaurants for fresh Lake Erie Walleye or Perch, BBQed chicken in homemade wine-based sauce and creamy, chunk-filled lobster bisque. For family entertainment, visit Perry’s Cave or Crystal Cave located across from each other on Catawba Avenue. Perry’s Cave celebrates its 140th anniversary this year and is where Commodore Perry found drinking water for his men. Take a jacket; the temperature remains a constant, cool 50 degrees. Crystal Cave runs underneath Heineman’s Winery and boasts the world’s largest geode where you’ll be surrounded by glistening celestite crystals.

At nightfall, stay in one of the historical B&Bs, or one of the newer resort hotels complete with swim-up bars or conference centers. Fly your plane during daylight hours in or out of Put-in-Bay Airport and experience panoramic views of the 3,987-mile stretch between the US and Canada, all from the comfort of your seat.

If your plans call you back to the Erie shore, hop the Miller’s Ferry or the Jet Express back to one of several ports. Miller’s Ferry runs a variety of schedules from March through November and has been crossing the lake since 1905 when William Miller and Harry Jones began their local ice business. The Miller boat livery has remained a trusted family business since that time changing only from the Miller family to the Market family in 1978 when these family friends bought the line from Mary Miller, daughter-in-law of co-founder William Miller. It’s a slower trip but built from tradition and one that should be experienced.

If a quicker trip is in your plans, the Jet Express service is your option. The high-speed ferry travels up to 40 miles per hour and covers the 12.5 mile trip from Port Clinton in 25 minutes. Other ports of departure include Sandusky, Lorain and the Inter-island routes that include Kelley’s Island.

Either way, Put-in-Bay Island is a jewel in Lake Erie which shines as bright as any island oasis you may find anywhere at anytime. Don’t leave it out of your summer plans.

My name is Jacquie Galvin from Tampa, FL. I am currently a medical device marketer but have a bachelor’s degree in journalism from The Ohio State University. I have worked in and out of marketing and editorial services for 20 years and have had articles and short pieces published. I have also been a newsletter editor for the City of Columbus and former editor of the home services division of CompuServe Inc. I have written articles for various small publications for over 20 years.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Jacquie_Galvin/654317

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Branson Vacation – Travel Tips To The Best Kept Secret In The Midwest

CherylB1948 — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 02:12:46 +0000

Branson Vacation – The Branson Belle

Article Written By Doug Holland

I consider myself to be a professional Branson traveler. I might as well pay taxes in the town since I am there so much. As a child, my family traveled to this exciting destination almost every year. I did go on a Branson fast for a few years during college, but for the last seven years I have indulged in a Branson Buffet.

From memory, I can recite the names of almost every show in town. I can direct you to any theatre, regardless of its’ location. And you had better believe I have a strong opinion on every show and attraction in town. Yes, I am a 28-year old Branson fanatic.

Basic Facts

If you have never traveled to Branson you might be asking yourself what it is that makes Branson, Missouri so special. It is in the middle of nowhere and yet it is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country.

Actually Branson is special for many reasons. While Branson may seem to be in the middle of nowhere, it is actually in the middle of everywhere. Branson is one of America’s most popular driving destinations. Since it is in almost the geographic center of the United States it is a convenient location for most of the country. Though there are a few people who fly into the Springfield/Branson Regional Airport, most of the millions of visitors will drive to town.

That actually sets up one of the most frustrating situations in Branson. Traffic can be a nightmare. Branson was not designed for major traffic. The town had a major growth spurt in the 1980’s and literally outgrew its road system. At least 75% of the tourist sites are directly connected to HWY 76. This is the major artery that runs, or should I say crawls, through town. The city has tried to alleviate some of the traffic through well-marked alternative routes. Most of the traffic still uses 76 exclusively. If it is your first time in Branson, I would encourage you to drive the “strip” (HWY 76) a couple times to generally learn the area, then get a Free map from any brochure display and learn the alternate routes. You will save time and it may be the only way to get to a show on time.

It is almost impossible to believe until you have experienced it, but the traffic congestion in Branson starting in the mid-afternoon is worse than rush hour in any city in the country. Movement is measured in inches rather than feet.

To give you a good idea, I would like to share one experience I had in July of 2004. My wife and I were staying in Old Downtown Branson, which is on the far east end of HWY 76, near the intersection of HWY 65 and HWY 76. We had plans to see Spirit of the Dance at the Branson Variety Theatre. The BV Theatre is right in the heart of the strip, but was less than 4 miles from our hotel. The show started at 8:00 p.m. We decided to leave at 5:00 p.m. so we would have time to grab dinner along the way and still get to the show on time. At 7:15 p.m. we had not eaten dinner and we were still at least a mile from the theatre. Traffic was not moving. To make a very long story short, at 8:05 p.m. we finally pulled into the theatre parking lot and entered the show after it had already started. We had to eat after the show, no time before.

The next evening we saw Cirque at the Remington Theatre, which is completely across town. We still left at 5:00 p.m. for this 8:00 p.m. show, but this time we used the alternate routes and arrived at the theatre well before 6:00 p.m. We had plenty time to walk around to the neighboring shops and have dinner before the show.

Tip #1: Don’t waste valuable vacation time – Use the alternate routes!

Don’t let the traffic keep you away from Branson though. Honestly, it is just part of the fun. There are still plenty reasons to come to Branson.

The Ozark Hills and Mountains are another reason to visit Branson. No, you will not see the height and grandeur of the Rockies, but you are still surrounded by beautiful scenery. The Ozarks is pride of its country charm and slower pace. You can come to Branson expecting the shows and attractions and end up enjoying the nature trails of Mark Twain National Forest or playing in the waters of one of the two pristine lakes that surround the city. The Ozarks are a nature lover’s dream.

Tip #2: Take time to enjoy the Ozarks – they are the FREE attraction!

There is honestly something for everyone in Branson. Lots of cities will say that, but Branson can back up that claim. The adults and seniors are certain to find several shows they will like. With over 100 shows to select from there will be one for each person in the group. But there are many of high-energy music, magic and comedy shows in town that keep the kids and teens hooked. There are also several amusement parks and water parks including Silver Dollar City and White Water. I will get more into the actual attractions in the next part of the column, so look for more information in the other parts of the column.

Branson Shows, Theatre & Tickets

Lets take a look at what made Branson famous–shows and theatres
You will arrive in Branson to an overload of media. There are more than 50 different theatres in Branson. Most theatres have several different shows performing throughout the day. The biggest entertainers will perform the 8:00 p.m. shows, but that does not mean that the morning and afternoon shows are second rate. They are just as good in most cases. Whether you are looking for a headliner or not, there are more than 100 shows to keep you busy while in town.
The whole Branson craze started with just a couple shows. The Presley’s Country Jubilee and the Baldknobbers Jamboree. Both of these country variety and comedy shows are still going strong today, 40-50 years later. They are among the most popular shows in town for good reason. They put on a quality show every night and their fans return year after year.

If you enjoy country and gospel music served along side hilarious comedy, then you will find your fill in Branson. Beside the two shows already mentioned there are many more of these genres all over town. Some of the other popular ones include Pierce Arrow, Grand Jubilee, and the Braschlers.

Another large category of shows in town can be grouped as family shows. That is not to say they are designed for the whole family to enjoy, because that would describe almost every show in Branson. By family show, I mean most of the cast and sometimes the crew comes from the same family. The Duttons, Haygoods, Lowes, Hughes, and the Brett Family, just to mention a few. All these families blend their amazing harmonies to create some of the best and most touching shows in town.

The impersonators are yet another major group of shows in town. Toni Roi is one of the most noted Elvis impersonators in the world. He has his own show and he also occasionally performs with The Legends Live in Concert, who also has a popular show in town. You will also find a Hank Williams and Patsy Cline show. One that I personally highly recommend is a full comedy show called A Tribute to Red Skelton.

There are a few Broadway style shows that prove Branson has it all. You can see Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Cirque, Spirit of the Dance and even off-Broadway shows like the touching and funny, Smoke On The Mountain.

Then Branson is also famous for a broad category of shows that are designed with your family in mind. These shows are designed to mesmerize the kids and astonish the adults. This group includes everything from comedians to magicians. Starting with magicians you will find several huge shows with large illusions at Grand Illusion, Darren Romeo and The Hamner Barber Variety Show. If magic is not your thing what about the Chinese Acrobats, Comedy Pet Theatre, Bounce the Basketball Show or even a live family game show called Hot Seat.

If you remember the 20’s & 30’s, 50’s, 60’s or 70’s – really any decade, you will be able to take a trip down memory lane. You can spend the 50’s At The Hop or get Stuck In The 70’s. You might even choose to drive to Motown.

By this time you are probably getting hungry. We can’t forget the dinner shows. Of course Dixie Stampede with it’s horses and a stampede of buffalo is the biggest show in town, but you can also enjoy a ribeye steak while watching lumberjacks compete at the Tall Timber Lumberjack Show. If you would like to take a cruise on Table Rock Lake, the Prime Rib Dinner Show on the Showboat Branson Belle is unbeatable. You can also enjoy a delicious western BBQ meal at the Circle B Chuckwagon Dinner Show. If you like music while you eat, try the White House Theatre or catch Bob Anderson’s Show. You will not leave hungry, and you get a show to boot.

Last but not least, the headliners. In the mid 1980’s there were many well-known performers who moved to Branson and opened theatres. A few of them are still here and performing amazing shows. If you remember Andy Williams, Ray Stevens, Jim Stafford, Mickey Gilley, Mel Tillis, The Gatlin Brothers, Pam Tillis or Roy Clark you will love seeing them live in Branson. The Grand Palace brings in the hottest performers on tour today. It is not uncommon for Tim McGraw to be on stage one week and Jeff Foxworthy to be appearing the next week.

Branson has also created it’s own headliners. The fiddle-playing Shoji Tabuchi is one of the most popular performers in Branson, and he, without a doubt, has the most ornate theatre bathrooms in Branson. Other performers like Moe Bandy, Doug Gabriel and Paul Harris have made a name for themselves in this tough town.

I did not even try to mention all the shows in Branson. As a matter of fact, I did not even begin to scratch the surface. The performers and venues change all the time, so some of the shows mentioned may be gone by the time this article is up.

I encourage you to use sites like Branson Critic and the Branson Lake Area Chamber of Commerce website to find the shows that your family will enjoy. Branson Critic has plenty reviews of area shows. Normal people like you write all the reviews. They saw the show and wrote a review. This is a great way to decide which shows to see.

Another great way to find a good show while in town is to ask the front desk clerk at your hotel or the waitress that served your lunch. Locals know which shows are a must-see and which show to avoid. You might even strike up a conversation with the person sitting next to you at a show. Find out what they have seen and what they thought. You might even make a friend.

Tip #3: Brochures do not tell the whole story – ask a locals for the truth about which shows are a must-see.

This would be a good time to talk about ticket prices. Branson shows are not cheap. If you look very hard you will find a couple shows with an admission price under $15. There are a few more in the $18-$22 range, but most show tickets are at least $25 per adult ticket. Dinner shows are even more.

You will find coupons in free magazines all over town. With these you are able to save a couple dollars per ticket. Check the brochure racks for the coupons.

You might even have a timeshare company offer you free tickets. That is an option worth considering, but I will discuss in a latter article

There is still one more way to save on tickets. You can check on eBay for Branson show tickets. I have bought them there before. I paid less than half price. This way takes a little more effort, but can save you lots of money.

I hope that some of these basic tips on traveling to Branson Will benefit you and your family.

Heath is a teacher in the Waynesville School District. There he teaches Business and Computer Technology classes at Waynesville Middle School. In 2004 he was recognized by the Missouri Business Education Association as the “New Professional Business Teacher of the Year.” Heath considers it an honor to be an Entertainment Editor for Branson Critic Online, Branson Shows [http://www.bransoncritic.org/].

[http://www.bransoncritic.org/]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Doug_Holland/21850

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What Is Group Travel?

CherylB1948 — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 01:26:09 +0000

Group Travel

By Patrick Soch

What is Group Travel?

Though the airlines and hotels have different definitions of what makes a group, in general group travel is when friends, family, coworkers, classmates, and teams travel together. Group travel crosses the spectrum from student groups, school bands, friends getaways, to large offsite corporate meetings and annual church conventions.

Travel Industry Definitions of Group Travel

The airlines generally consider a group to be ten or more individuals traveling together on the same itinerary. If a group of travelers meets these minimum seat requirements on a flight, typically group rates are available. Many travelers are surprised that group rates are higher than the lowest available single seat price. There is a very good reason for this. The lowest available price is usually a discounted rate code, which is limited to a certain number of seats on a given flight. Not every individual in a group of ten is likely to get that same low discount rate, especially for popular routes or seasons. What the group rates allow is for a consistent price across the group, and the cost of the entire booking often represents a considerable savings and the convenience of ensuring the same flight for an entire group.

Hotels define groups by the number of rooms in a reservation. The minimum size group booking is between 5 and 10 rooms. Most hotels welcome group business, and depending on the size of group a variety of upgrades or amenities may be available to travelers. This often includes complimentary room nights, discounted group rates, and other group travel incentives. It is beneficial for group travelers to use an experienced group travel professional because he or she knows how to get upgrades, extras, freebies and special services for a group. By optimizing their existing relationships in the travel industry travel professionals can often secure better rates and services than the traveler booking direct.

The Benefits of Group Travel

The growth in group travel is part of the larger social phenomenon termed “togethering”. It is a fact that more vacations are being taken in groups these days because people want to share memorable experiences with the people they care about most. Examples include growth in destination weddings. Couples are deciding more and more to have their weddings in a warm destination such as Hawaii or Caribbean, and they are inviting their families and their close friends to be there with them. We also see growth in intergenerational travel: trips in which you may find grandparents taking their children and grandchildren on an extended safari trip to Africa, a grand tour of Europe, or a family cruise.

Group travel provides extraordinary memories that do bring people together. People are yearning for these experiences, and the growth in group travel reflects this.

When you book as a group, there are many travel benefits. It is often possible to lock in exceptional group hotel rates, especially if you have a sizeable group. By using a group travel professional, you can access many of the benefits that airlines, hotels and cruises offer.

Popular Group Trips As you might imagine, group travelers take all kinds of trips. For guys trips (now known as Mancations), girlfriend getaways, family vacations, and bachelor & bachelorette parties road trips are a great option, and they provide some of the best memories. A few road trip gems are the following:

Hana Highway, Hawaii
Highway 1, California Coast
Highway 12, Utah
Million Dollar Highway, Colorado
Route 179, Arizona
Seward Highway, Alaska

Also popular for group travel are beach vacations, which are a great option for family reunions, friend trips, off-site corporate meetings, and incentive trips. According to National Geographic Traveler, following are the top ten beach U.S. destinations:

Miami, Florida
Myrtle Beach, SC
Panama City, Florida
Waikiki, Hawaii
Tampa Bay, Florida
St. Thomas, U.S Virgin Islands
Key West, Florida
Kaanapali, Hawaii
St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
Naples, Florida

Group travelers have lots of options these days, including the ability to plan and book group travel online. Take advantage of group travel expertise, and use an expert such as Groople.com [http://www.groople.com/hotels/default.aspx?source=ARTICLES&kw=what-is-group-travel].

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Patrick_Soch/66340

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Traveling to the United States – Know These Cities in and Out

CherylB1948 — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 01:02:49 +0000

Traveling To The United States

By Karen K Williams

If you are a first time traveler to the USA chances are that you would be overwhelmed and intimidated all at the same time. This nervousness however will not last long if you have an itinerary charted out. Make sure you know the different cities in and out so that you will have a smooth traveling experience. Here is a small guide which will help you choose the best places to visit.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Situated in Waikiki, Hawaii is very popular for housing the sandy beaches. You are sure to feel relaxed and sun bathed too. Honolulu is situated in the Island of Oahu and is so filled with attractions. You wouldn’t miss seeing the Diamond Head volcano even if you wish to. If you are the sporty kind, you will be amazed to find different water sports on offer at the Mamala Bay.

Traveling in Honolulu may pose a problem as the streets are clustered. You will benefit by renting a vehicle as there are a lot of parking facilities available. The entertainment is in fact unlimited and you would find yourself amazed with the monuments, art galleries and recreational activities available. A few of the attractions you cannot miss are the Aloha Tower Marketplace, the State Capitol Building, Hawaii Maritime Center, the Hawaii State Art Museum, and the Battleship Missouri Memorial at Pearl Harbor.

Tampa, Florida

The western coast of Florida houses the city of Tampa, which has a seaport and a lot of waterfront areas. Tampa is called the cultural center of Florida for a good reason. It is home to two huge universities and a grand Tampa Bay arts performing center. Tampa is perfect for a holiday as it has number of beaches. The most noted tourist attraction is the Busch gardens which is a very famous theme park. You need to check out the Florida Aquarium, the Weeki Wachee Springs, Dinosaur World and the Raymond Stadium that hosts many football games. One of the popular festivals is the Gasparilla Pirate Festival, which is held in the month of January every year.

Seattle, Washington

Being famous for its waterfront, the city of Seattle is situated between waters of Puget Sound and Lake Washington. It is home to number of historical neighborhoods. If you are visiting this great city never leave without passing through Fisherman’s Terminal, Boeing Factory, the Smith Tower Observation Deck, Safeco Field Stadium, Hing Hay Park, and the Seahawks Exhibition Center.

Offering a spectacular view is the Space Needle, which is in reality a must see. Other places worth a mention are the Science Fiction Museum and the Seattle Art Museum.

This guide is just a drop in the ocean, however it will give you a start to your travel plans.

Having trouble with parking on your vacation, Essex Inn Chicago Parking are a good choice. Grant Park Chicago parking will ensure you are covered.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Karen_K_Williams/812525

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The United States of America – A Traveler’s Dream Paradise

CherylB1948 — Wed, 18 Apr 2018 00:40:25 +0000

The United States of America – A traveler’s dream paradise

By Karen K Williams

The reach extended by the United States over the entire globe is almost unmatched. They are considered the most powerful military and economic power and not without reason. Being the most diverse of all countries, the USA is home to a lot of exotic tourist attractions like the skyscrapers of New York, beaches of California, Yellowstone natural wonders, Florida, Hawaii and also a gamblers paradise Las Vegas. The attractions are so diverse that a traveler often gets confused on how and where to start. A small guide as to where to start will give you a picture on how to get going with your travel.

San Francisco

This city is in northern California and is the main financial and cultural center. The destinations are sure to take you by surprise regardless of what type of tourism you are interested in. From fashion to sports to entertainment, you will get everything you ask for. Take a bus tour of the city in order to explore every destination. The museums, theaters and of course neighborhood like Chinatown and Fisherman’s Warf are amazing places. Wineries are another must visit when in San Francisco. The world recognizes this great city with the attractions such as the barking seals, seafood and fisherman’s Warf, bristos, gardens and also its museums.

Phoenix, Arizona

Rightly called “the valley of the sun”, Phoenix has extremely sunny weather making it a perfect travel destination. The resorts and golf courses are sure to make you excited. The heart of the city downtown district houses most of the attractions. All the restaurants, shops and sport centers are located in this area. A lot of the city’s historic monuments and structures are located around the Glendale area and Heritage square. Tempe is where you will find a good number of entertainment places which buzz with night life. The museums and art galleries are very famous. The most famous Arizona science center, Hall of fame firefighting museum and Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary art are few of the attractions found in Phoenix.

Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore is located in the eastern coast of America and is home to an important port which has a large harbor. It houses a number of tourist attractions like the inner harbor, city center, Camden yards and also west side. The nightlife at Fells point area is well noted for. The national aquarium, the Basilica of the Assumption, Robert East Lee memorial park are some of the famous must see tourist spots. You also cannot miss the Maryland zoo safari experience.

These are just a few of the cities present in the USA that are famous for tourist visit.

Ensure you use Chicago downtown parking for a wonderful experience. If you want a hassle free experience choose Renaissance hotel parking for you parking needs.

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Mystery Shopping To Enhance Your Travel Experiences

CherylB1948 — Thu, 07 Dec 2017 02:53:45 +0000

I have worked as a freelance mystery shopper for approximately seventeen years on a part time basis and rather enjoy the experiences I’ve had while doing so. If you have ever wondered if it’s a real occupation, I’m here to tell you it definitely is.

As a mystery shopper you will need to adhere to the policies of each individual company you contract with for work. While guidelines for most mystery shopping companies are basically the same, you will find some of the guidelines vary among them. There are many styles of mystery shopping to consider too. I have performed mystery shopping assignments for various retail stores, restaurants, gas stations, hotels, grocery stores, pharmacies, movie theaters, automobile dealerships, cable companies, and miscellaneous other companies. Mystery shopping companies are known to change clients from time to time and they are known to transfer ownership from one parent company to another as well. Reasons for the changes vary also.

A word of caution to those who might be considering work as a mystery shopper would include knowing you will not pay to complete a shop for a verifiable company. You will get paid by the company in order to perform work assignments and the amount you will be paid may vary according to the intensity of the shop and requirements needed to be filled. I’ve completed rather simple shops which only require a simple purchase while ordering and receiving food from fast food restaurants and I’ve spent 2 or 3 days in a hotel which required detailed narratives involving my daily experiences from checking in to checking out of the specifically assigned location.

Some companies pay as soon as the shop is submitted, approved and passed on to the client and others may require a wait time. The wait time will also vary depending on the company’s payment policies. You most often will need to pay up front for foods, the cost of materials required to purchase, and or the cost of your hotel stay should you decide to work in that capacity. Reimbursements are generally paid as agreed upon and I suggest you create a work sheet (weekly or perhaps monthly) where you list the company you accept work for, the type of assignment, the pay agreed upon and the date you should expect your payment so you can keep track of what you have invested if money is required out of pocket. I also suggest you keep records of your mileage to and from each assignment as it may be possible to write off the expense for your annual, semi-annual, or quarterly tax returns.

When I started mystery shopping many years ago I joined a company known as NARMS which has changed names and is now known as World Alliance For Retail Excellence and Standards. The website location is:https://www.retailworldalliance.com/ and I highly recommend you become a member as the site now gives people the opportunity to sign up in order to attain various certifications which will enhance your skills as a mystery shopper and you can search the site itself for mystery shops that pay within the standards of the industry. Your enrollment on the site also allows businesses to contact you for assignments that might need to be completed within your geographical area. In addition to the advantages already mentioned to those who become members, there are interesting articles that may also enhance your experiences while performing mystery shopping assignments.

I could go on and on with information about mystery shopping but I will stop here and leave you with one last suggestion. Many companies prefer to use Paypal as the main method of paying their shoppers so, if you don’t already have a Paypal account, I suggest you sign up for one as it will allow you to keep track of payments for jobs completed with companies using that payroll method. It’s not only convenient for the companies hiring your services, it allows you to be paid much quicker than traditional banking and mail systems while keeping your personal banking information safe and secure. Signing up for a paypal account is free too.

Good luck with your mystery shopping experiences and enjoy yourself while earning a little extra cash!

Florence and the Birth of the Renaissance

CherylB1948 — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 19:00:03 +0000

Florence and the Birth of the Renaissance

Travel Articles | June 21, 2017

A Florence walking tour of the city’s artistic icons will reveal just why it’s considered the birthplace of the Renaissance.

The Tuscan city of Florence is renowned as the birthplace of the Renaissance. It was from this beautiful city on the banks of the River Arno that many of the 15th century Early Italian Renaissance artists rose to prominence.

For anyone who wants to gain a deeper insight into this historical artistic rebirth, a Florence walking tour with ArtViva takes in a host of important sites and works that were instrumental in raising the city to the high echelons of culture.

The Incubator of the Renaissance

Before the Black Death decimated half its population in the 14th century, Florence was a wealthy city, buoyed not just by the proceeds of the wool trade but also by its role as the base of the Papal bankers. After a shaky period (and attempted domination by both Milan and Naples) the city returned to its former glory and established itself as a centre for the arts, attracting scholars, philosophers, artists and writers.

The name Medici is, of course, synonymous with Firenze and this family of former wool merchants rose to become the most powerful bankers in its history. As benefactors of the arts, their influence over, and patronage, of the city’s civic development was immeasurable. They commissioned the architects and artists who worked on the iconic projects that have become the defining face of the city. In doing so, they wrote themselves a place in history as virtually the sole financiers of the early Renaissance movement.

Walk the Road of the Renaissance

One of the most iconic points on a Florence walking tour is the site of Lorenzo Ghiberti’s cast bronze doors on the Baptistery of St John (adjacent to the Duomo). As was the practice of the time, a juried competition was held to appoint the designer. The sculptor Ghiberti won out over goldsmith Filippo Brunelleschi and spent the next 20 years working on the 28 panels of the doors. (Incidentally, Brunelleschi turned his skills to architecture and the rest, as they say, is history.) As soon as they were finished Ghiberti began work on a new set of doors for the east façade and, 24 years later, “The Gates of Paradise” were unveiled. These exquisite doors were unprecedented in their detail and realism and secured the artist’s place in the history of Renaissance art.

Considered one of the greatest sculptures of the early Renaissance, Donatello’s David was commissioned by Cosimo de’ Medici and originally held pride of place in a courtyard of the Palazzo Medici. Today it can be seen on a Florence walking tour that takes in the Museo Nazionale del Bargello. The sculpture of David was the first nude work to be created in a round figure for more than a thousand years, so was highly significant. In fact, it was considered so controversial that it took some time before other artists began to replicate the style.

Those who encounter the Carmelite Santa Maria del Carmine Church on a Florence walking tour find an unassuming exterior that belies the importance of what lies within. Much of the church was destroyed in a fire in the 1700s, but, miraculously, the Brancacci Chapel survived. Its magnificent frescos, commissioned by Felice Brancacci, in 1424, are from the designs of Masolino da Panicale, who worked on them with his apprentice, Masaccio. (After Masaccio’s death Filippino Lippi went on to complete them.) The intense detail and radiance of the frescos is attributed to Masaccio’s supreme execution of chiaroscuro and perspective and, despite his youth and untimely death (he was just 27), he is considered one of the most important artists of the time. His work went on to influence many Florentine painters.

The Convent of San Marco is another Medici commission, this time from Cosimo the Elder, where Michelozzo created a space of astounding light and shade through his use of vaulting.With each scene depicting an event in the life of Christ, Fra Angelico’s frescos that decorate the individual cells of the cloister were not intended as adornment, but were created for the brothers as an aid to gentle contemplation. These exquisite, spiritual works are now considered masterpieces of Western art, and Vasari described Fra Angelico as having “a rare and perfect talent”.

Discover History

A Florence walking tour that takes in these and many of the other artistic treasures for which the city has become so famous, goes a long way to showing just why it is, and ever will be, considered the model of the Renaissance culture.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rose Magers is an Australian-born Italophile and the founder of ArtViva. With an international reputation for excellence and creativity, ArtViva are at the forefront of escorted day tours in Italy. Rose has indulged her own passion for history and the arts by designing an innovative range of exceptional small group day tours and experiences, whether a Florence walking tour, an unforgettable Tuscan cookery class, or an afternoon grape stomping.

Sydney: A Thriving Hub of Incredible Landmarks

CherylB1948 — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 18:29:30 +0000

Sydney: A Thriving Hub of Incredible Landmarks

Sydney is one of the greatest cities of the planet. The spectacular place has every ingredient for a delightful and engaging vacation. With incredible geographical presence, the capital of New South Wales is a powerhouse of fun, adventure, sites and total entertainment.

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When you think about sublime and bustling mega-towns of the world, Sydney is the first urbanscape to hit the mindscreen. The magical metropolis offers loads of exciting and world-class getaways to enjoy and explore. Look at the exemplary Sydney Harbour. It alone attracts more tourists than most of the other popular tourist destinations of the globe. The year around sunshine, plenty of international shopping, range of options for fine dining in addition to extraordinary monuments and modern-art marvels has enough punch to entice all kinds of travellers. With its growing tourism stature and direct flights to Sydney from various international and local airports, there is seamless connectivity for global trekkers. If you plan in advance, there is every chance that you may get cheap flight tickets to Sydney.

Major Attractions of Sydney

Sydney Opera House: Among the top most recognised landmarks of the world, Sydney Opera House is the true hallmark of Australia. This graceful building is situated on the Sydney Harbour at Bennelong Point and creates dramatic settings for the eyes and the mind. Take a guided tour available daily from 9 am to 5 pm to discover the fascinating exteriors, interiors, about the history and intriguing behind-the-scenes stories of this famous building.

Sydney Harbour Bridge: Along with the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge is yet another most attractive and signature sites of the megacity. This massive engineering marvel was built in 1932 and plays a significant role in transportation in the city. It connects the harbour’s north and south shores with railway lines and road traffic including walkways for pedestrians. Adventure enthusiasts can try a guided climb to the bridge for a breathtaking panorama of the extended surroundings.

Circular Quay: The vibrant and ever busy Circular Quay is one of the main tourist attractions of Sydney. The centre is the hub for locals and visitors and presents exciting avenues such as street performances, cafes, bustling walkways, harbour cruises and many other pulsating activities. It is also home to main ferry terminal and offers popular harbour cruises which are one of the best ways to explore the sparkling waterfront. Other key tourist spots such as Taronga Park Zoo, Manly and Watson’s Bay can be reached from here easily by taking ferries.

Taronga Zoo: A ferry trip from Circular Quay will land you to a delightful and exciting animal kingdom of Sydney known as Taronga Zoo. The thrilling family retreat is a great place to get a close encounter with some of Australia’s famous native wildlife and other animals from across the continent. Highlights of the zoo include Seal Show, Lemur Adventure Park, Koala Encounter and a Sky Safari gondola.

Royal Botanic Gardens: Looking for some tranquil and relaxed space during your Sydney visit? Come to the 30 hectares of themed green-escape which is located at Farm Cove. The massive urban garden is a beautiful gem and stores more than thousand varieties of flowers, rare and threatened plants and scenic wonders. There is a hop-on, hop-off train tour available for visitors who want to explore the garden in a convenient way.

Sydney is blessed with a range of Australia’s most iconic attractions. The thriving city is melting pot of art, culture, history, architecture and ultra-modern facilities. No wonder, people from all parts of the globe travel to the city for an ideal vacation experience.