Of all the things that I think about to do on my beach vacation, archery is not one of them.  Travaasa Hana (the former Hotel Hana-Maui) aims to change that, debuting the island’s only hotel archery experience.

Certified archery instructors who are longtime hotel employees and Hana residents lead the two-hour activity which is offered exclusively to hotel guests twice weekly.  The resort’s archery instructors were trained in the Junior Olympic Archery Development program and certified by USA Archery. They teach techniques to develop focus, patience, flexibility, concentration, and attention skills.  The archery experience is offered at free to all guests staying at Travaasa Hana. Sign-ups are first come, first serve, and are limited to six guests per class.

Archery is one more option in the resort’s adventure programming, which includes throw net fishing, coastal horseback rides, bicycle tours, and more.  The resort offers diverse programs, for those wanting a less active beach vacation perhaps, that include regional culinary classes and spa treatments.

Located in the town of Hana, on the eastern tip of the island of Maui, Travaasa Hana was recently voted the “No. 1 Resort in Hawaii” in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2011 Reader’s Choice Awards.

Rates:  Package rates start around $175 per person per night (based n double occupancy) and include a variety of accommodation choices, package inclusions, and duration.  Taxes and resort fees are additional.

Photo credit:  Navin Rajagopalan via flickr

If you’ve decided that Kauai is the right Hawaiian island for you, this helpful list will aid you in finding ways to stretch your vacation budget with FREE, or nearly FREE, things to do on the island.

1. Explore the Grand Canyon of the Pacific – Waimea Canyon is a sightseer’s paradise – a mile wide, 10 miles long and more than 3,500-feet deep. Take in the stunning views from the lookouts or hike into the crater. The Kalalau Lookout is especially memorable with an unforgettable view of the once cultivated valley that descends 4,000-feet to the Pacific blue. After sightseeing, enjoy a picnic lunch at the top of the crater in Koke‘e State Park.
2. Hike Amid Rainforests and Lush Valleys – Kauai is a hiker’s dream destination, with spectacular hiking trails that immerse one into the magnificence of Kauai’s verdant wilderness. Hikes range from comfortable walks to challenging treks into hidden valleys streaming with waterfalls. A must-do for any serious hiker is the 11-mile Kalalau Trail along the majestic Napali Coast.
3. See Kauai’s Cherished Sites – Prince Kuhio Park was home to Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole (1871-1922), beloved as the “People’s Prince” for his tireless work on behalf of Hawaii’s people and the last royal heir to the Hawaiian throne. Located near Lawa‘i, this historical setting features the foundation of Prince Kuhio’s home, a royal fishpond, a shrine where offerings were made, and heiau (ancient place of worship) where the kahuna (priests) meditated and lived.  Alekoko Fishpond was built hundreds of years ago for a young chief and once covered 40 acres that was marked by a 2,700-foot long stone wall. Located in the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge that is a habitat for endangered Hawaiian birds, the fishpond is also known as Menehune Fishpond because legend is that it was built by the mythicalmenehune (little people) of Hawaii.  The Wailua River is a beautifully scenic area that was once a sacred place in ancient times and reserved for the kings and high chiefs of Kauai.  Near the river’s mouth in Lydgate State Park are the remains of a heiau that was a place of refuge for those who had broken a kapu (taboo).
4. Enjoy Kauai’s Culture -  Hawaii is the only state with its own music, language and dance. On Kauai, the host culture of Hawaii can be enjoyed for free or at little cost. Many hotels offer free hula performances, torch lighting ceremonies, and lei-making courses, among other cultural offerings. Coconut Marketplace in Kapa‘a and Harbor Mall in Lihue stage free hula shows every Wednesday.
5. A Birdwatcher’s Paradise – For a nominal entry fee, the Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge is a uniquely special setting for bird lovers. Framed by breathtaking views of Kauai’s north shore, Hawaii’s endangered birds are seen nesting in the cliffs, including the Hawaiian Gallinule, red-footed boobies, tropicbirds, albatrosses and frigate birds. Look to the ocean and you have a good chance of seeing Hawaiian monk seals, green sea turtles and Hawaiian spinner dolphins.
6. A River Runs Through It – The only navigable rivers in Hawaii are found – and enjoyed – on Kauai. Rent a kayak and leisurely paddle along one of the gentle rivers bordered by lush, tropical foliage. Or, journey by riverboat up the Wailua River to the famous Fern Grotto. In this beautiful, jungle-like setting, a natural amphitheater has been formed creating remarkable acoustics.
7. Discover Kaua‘i’s Quaint Towns – Koloa is a historic 19^th century plantation town that was the site of Hawaii’s first sugar plantation. Every July the Koloa Plantation Days celebrates the town’s proud heritage. Visitors will find restaurants and specialty shops amid some of Hawaii’s oldest buildings.  Hanapepe exudes an old-fashioned small-town appeal, with its plantation-era buildings and slow-paced lifestyle. Every Friday evening, Hanapepe’s nine galleries open their doors for a night of artistic enjoyment. Stroll along Main Street to see fine art and listen to live entertainment.
8. A Garden Isle Waterfall Spectacular – Kauai’s waterfalls are a year-round display of nature’s ability to keep the Garden Isle green and vibrant. In Lihu‘e, one can drive right up to picturesque Wailua Falls. If the 80-foot waterfalls look vaguely familiar, it was a fixture in the opening credits of the 1970’s TV show Fantasy Island.  In scenic Wailua, Opaeka‘a Falls is the island’s most accessible major waterfall as it cascades into a hidden pool. And it’s a wonderful setting to take photos. Opaeka‘a means “rolling shrimp,” which were once abundant in the stream.
9. Experience Kaua‘i’s History – The telling of Kauai’s story can be experienced in museums offering intriguing exhibits and artifacts. In Lihue, the Kauai Museum tells the island’s story from its formation and the arrival of the first Polynesians to more modern times with the start of the sugar plantation, and the various ethnic cultures that have contributed to its history.  Also in Lihue, Grove Farm was established as one of Hawaii’s earliest sugar plantations, but today offers a museum display of Kauai’s heritage highlighting the old sugar days and through the monarchy to statehood.  Waioli Mission in Hanalei is where the Wilcox family, one of Kauai’s most influential families, moved to the island in the 1800s.  This historic New England-style home was shipped in pieces from Boston around Cape Horn and today stands as a showcase of koa wood furniture and other artifacts from that era.
10. Hit the Beach – Kauai has more than 50 miles of gorgeous white sand beaches to choose from – more beach per mile than any other island in Hawaii! Altogether, 43 white sand beaches beckon to wile away the day. Whether enjoying the fun at Po‘ipu or tossing a towel down in a secluded cove at ‘Anini, Kauai’s range of beaches matches the island’s diversity. For the more adventurous, rent a snorkel and see the wonders and undersea beauty of Kauai’s marine world.

Photo credit:  Courtesy of TravMedia

Oasis Hotels & Resorts is now offering guests the ultimate amenity – complimentary use of a Smart Car! The goal is to provide additional value to guests staying on the all-inclusive property, and the use of a smart cars gives guest the ability to explore beyond the resort.  Whether it’s shopping, dining, sightseeing, or just exploring, it’s a value added that guests are sure to appreciate.

Use of the Smart Car, which was made by Mercedes-Benz, will also come in handy for those guest taking advantage of the Oasis Runway Program – allowing the use of facilities at any of the other resorts.

The resorts have purchased 200 Smart Cars, assessing a nominal daily charge to coverage insurance for those using the cars.  Guests in the Sens category of accommodation at the Grand Oasis Cancun and all guests all the Sens Del Mar enjoy complimentary use of the Smart Cars.

The Oasis Hotels & Resorts provide an all-inclusive resort experience in Cancun that provides travelers with resorts that offer more inclusions for one all-inclusive price, including more entertainment, food and beverage, and activities options than ever before.  They claim it’s where the “Where Fun Happens.”  The company operates a total of 7 properties in Cancun including the Grand Oasis Cancun, Oasis Cancun, Sens Del Mar, Grand Oasis Palm, Oasis Palm, Oasis America, and Sens America.

Photo credit:  Todd MacDonald via flickr

Frenchman’s Lookout on Tortola, one of the British Virgin Islands, offers nearly 360-degree views of both the British and US Virgin Islands, along with the beautiful Caribbean Sea.  Doesn’t that sound like a little slice of heaven – a relaxing spot for a much needed winter break.

Caressed by constant trade winds, Frenchman’s Lookout sits on one of the highest points on Tortola’s west end.  It’s a 2-story Carolina house with a grand wraparound porch on each floor, with each of the five bedrooms, four upstairs and one on the ground floor, opening out onto it.  Every room on both levels opens onto the porch via double mahogany French doors, even the bathrooms.  On the main floor you’ll enjoy a comfortable living room with a music and entertainment center and a newly renovated, well equipped kitchen.  Across the spacious foyer is the dining room with mirrored closet doors reflecting the surrounding vibrant blue sea.  Off the great room is the meticulously kept garden that frames the L-shaped swimming pool and barbeque gazebo high above the harbor and small village of Soper’s Hole.  There is also a game room for the kids off the garden.

There are nearby beaches like Smuggler’s Cove and Cane Garden Bay, good restaurants and shopping in Road Town.  For workaholics, there is even a fully furnished office with internet access. But, by the second or third day you may find that all you want to do is lie in one of the hammocks hanging on the warm, breezy porches, look out at the sea and watch a parade of ships passing by.

Frenchman’s Lookout provides you the privacy of your own 5-bedroom home, with swimming pool and game room, in splendid surroundings.

Rates include breakfast, one day on a 35 foot power boat with Captain, daily housekeeping and managerial assistance to help with rental cars, in-house chefs, spa treatments, and babysitters. BVI sales tax (7%), gratuities, and gas for the boat are not included.

Rates: Rates during high season can be as low at $200 per person, per night, and $150 per person, per night, in low season (April 15th – December 15th, 2012).  Restrictions apply, so check out the fine print.

Photo credit:  Denise via flickr

Have you ever wanted to stay at one of those resorts that had bungalows on stilts out over the water?  Yeah, me too!

They look so beautiful and relaxing.  Some attached to the mainland by a dock, others reachable only by boat.  How pleasant to sit and read with your toes dangling in the water, to go for a quick swim before breakfast, and to feel the peacefulness that being on the water can bring.  Ahhhh, bliss!

Until recently, searching for that perfect overwater bungalow was a heavy research project, but a recently launched website hopes to provide you with all the information you need much more quickly.  The Overwater Bungalows Guide has the details for each hotel in an easy-to-scan format so you can quickly determine which resort suits you best for this trip of a lifetime.

There are 110 resorts listed, like the overwater bungalows in Bora Bora and the water villas in the Maldives, but with an increasing number of these type of resorts in the Caribbean, you may not have to go half way around the world to enjoy the experience.  You’ll also find overwater bungalows cropping up in Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and others parts of tropical Asia.  Also included on the site are news stories with information about new resorts under development and when they’ll be opening.

What’s the largest overwater bungalow?  The 15,000 square foot water villa, the Private Reserve at Soneva Gili by Six Senses Resort.  This little gem goes for $15,000 a night during high season.

Now, do they have wi-fi?

Photo credit:  MattJP via flickr

If you’re looking for a beach getaway to St. Maarten, some great packages are currently available.  See if one of specials to the “Friendly Island” fit your budget.

• Princess Heights – This luxury boutique hotel has 30% off winter rates with its Steamy Winter Specials.  Reservations must be made by January 31st for travel through April 12th, 2012.
• Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino – The Hot Winter Sale features 35% off rates and free breakfast on reservations made by March 28th, 2012 for travel through March 31st, 2012.  Reduced rates start at $140 per room per night, based on double occupancy for an ocean view or higher room category.
• Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino – This location is also offering the Hot Winter Sale with rates starting at $123/night.
• Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa – The Sunsational Savings 2012 promotion offers a free night when booking a minimum of six.  The package includes daily breakfast for two and a complimentary room upgrade, based on availability at check in.  Valid on travel through December 18th, 2012.  Rates start at $360 per room, per night, based on double occupancy.
• Coral Beach Club – Get 20% off when booking five nights with the Escape the Winter Luxury Promotion.  Reduced rates at this luxury property start at $520 per room, per night, based on double occupancy.  Good for travel through April 14th, 2012.
• Divi Little Bay Beach Resort – A specially priced Romance Package includes one-bedroom, ocean front accommodations, and plenty of extras to round out the package.  Prices start at $1,445 per couple, and is valid for travel through December 23rd, 2012.

Photo credit:  Todd on flickr

When you think about beach vacation sports, baseball probably doesn’t come to mind.  But with JetBlue Park set to open this spring, that mindset is about to change.

The new Complex will provide state-of-the-art training facilities positioned on a single site and is intended to be used year-round. It will include JetBlue Park, the main ballpark with a total capacity of approximately 11,000 fans (including standing room and berm), six practice fields, and other adjoining facilities that will house both the Major and Minor League operations and a rehabilitation center.  A number of the characteristics of the new ballpark are taken from Fenway Park, including a “Green Monster” that will feature seating both on top of and behind the wall, as well as a manual scoreboard.

JetBlue Park and the surrounding Complex will capture elements that reflect its Southwest Florida location, and environmentally-sustainable features will be incorporated throughout the facility and Complex, and landscaping will feature vegetation indigenous to the area.

In addition to spring training, the surround area offers plenty of great opportunities to enjoy a more typical beach vacation.  For a complete listing of packages, special rates and information on planning a spring training vacation at Florida’s unspoiled island sanctuary, visit www.FortMyers-Sanibel.com. For information on purchasing tickets, visit www.redsox.com

Photo credit:  Courtesy of TravMedia

If you’re a sun-loving vacationer, you probably pay attention to weather reports, predictions, and warming trends at the destination where you’ll be.   In fact, that information may be critical in deciding whether you’ll be going to a particular destination at a particular time.  If you idea of a vacation paradise is to spend your time by the pool, on the beach, or picnicking in the warm sunshine, you still need to plan for the possibility that it might — gulp — rain.  Or be cloudy, or cold, or worse.  And that means you’ve got to have plans for some indoor activities.  Even if the weather is outstanding, you’re going to have to come out of the sun at some point.

I hear many people say that they don’t want to spend much money on their beach hotel because they’re never going to be in the room. I don’t agree.  In fact, I probably spend more time in my room at a beach hotel than in a city hotel.  No matter how wonderful the weather, you can’t spend all your time on the beach.  And if you’re traveling with other people, you may not be on the same sun schedule.

A beach hotel is all about location, location, LOCATION.  If you’re spending the money to be on the beach that’s not all there is too it, however.  There are still other considerations to keep in mind.  When my travel plans call for rest and relaxation, here are the little extras that I look for in a beach hotel:

1. A room with a balcony or patio – I can sit outside and enjoy the weather and have some quiet time without being in the sun.  Plus, there’s the advantage of sitting there for my morning coffee, having a glass of wine and watching the sunset, both of which save a little money in the food and entertainment budget.
2. A room with a view – Whether it’s the ocean, a lake, or a garden, it’s nice to be able to gaze out at paradise.  One of my favorite memories was standing on a balcony in Rome, glass of wine in hand, and looking at the Coliseum.
3. Free internet access – I don’t want to do a lot of work while I’m on vacation, but I do want to keep in touch with the rest of the world.  I’d never rearrange plans to be online, but when I’m taking a break from the sun, it’s a good time to check my email, do a little writing, or check the news.  Or check tomorrow’s weather forecast.
4. Nice interior hotel space – Whether it’s an open air lobby bar, a corner couch to sit and look out the window, or some other nook and cranny, it’s nice to find a comfy place to be.  If your traveling partner is taking a nap in the room, you can find a place to relax that keeps you out of the sun and out of their hair.  And if you’re having nice weather, it’s great to have a terrace lounge, rooftop bar, or patio where you can hang out.
5. Microwave or refrigerator – For a quick bite to eat, having something handy in the room means that I don’t have to shower and change, and can take a short break before heading back to the beach or sun.

What are your priorities when you book a hotel for a beach or warm weather destination?  What’s important to you?

Photo credit: Author’s personal collection

With over 400 years of history and culture to work with, the Bermuda Department of Tourism is launching the Bermuda Rendezvous Activities program, an invitation for visitors to experience the island’s distinct culture, arts and entertainment through a variety of activities, the majority of which are free.

The activities offer a range of activities and events, from performances by Bermuda’s famed and colorful Gombey dancers to glass-blowing demonstrations, cooking demonstrations and historic tours of the Royal Navy Dockyard, Hamilton and the town of St. George, a UNESCO World Heritage site.  Here are a few of the specific events you can enjoy:

• Guided Walking Tour of City of Hamilton – Offered every Monday at 10 am, a local tour guide will show you some of Bermuda’s most historic sites, including spots like the Bermuda National Library and Fort Hamilton.
• Botanical Gardens Tour – Offered Tuesday, Wednesday, and Fridays at 10:30 am, this is an opportunity to tour 36 acres of gardens that are home to 15 permanent collections, including sub-tropical fruit groves, cedar and banyan trees as well as a sensory garden.
• Bermuda Gombey Revue – Performed every Tuesday at 4 pm in Hamilton, this fun folk art event features the music and dancing of Bermuda’s famed Gombeys.
• Bermuda Cookery Demonstrations – Offered every Wednesday from 2:30-4 pm in Hamilton, these is an opportunity to learn about Bermudian cuisine, a melting pot of ethnic influences.
• Old Town Tour & Historical Re-Enactment – Performed Monday through Thursday and on Saturday, at 10:30 am, visitors can enjoy a guided tour through the historic town of St. George.  After the tour, the mayor will greet visitors at the Town Hall, and in November, these activities will be followed by a light-hearted historical re-enactment of a public punishment called the Ducking Ceremony. The re-enactments will be performed on Wednesdays and Saturdays through March 2012.
• Taste of Bermuda Calypso Sundays – Stop by the Bermuda Craft Market in the Royal Naval Dockyard to taste delectable jams, rum cakes, locally brewed beer and ginger beer while listening to a rhythmic Calypso band, every Sunday 1:30-3:30 pm.

Dates:  The Bermuda Rendezvous Activities program runs through March 31, 2012.

Photo credit:  Robyn Fleming via flickr

Next week (December 1st, 2011) the Acanto Hotel, a 5-star condo hotel property, opens in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, offering guests a cosmopolitan ambiance just steps away from one of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

The Acanto Hotel is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Playa del Carmen., a block from powdery white sand beaches and half a block from the city’s popular 5th Avenue and its shopping and dining experiences.  Behind grand hacienda style gates, you’ll find luxury 21 one, two, and three bedroom condos, featuring oversize master bedrooms, a full kitchen, cable television, central air conditioning, and marble baths with Jacuzzi and showers.  The grotto style courtyard pool offers space for swimming, sunbathing, or simply gathering to relax.  A multilingual staff is onsite to answer questions and assist with any additional information of reservations guests may need.

One drawback for savvy and connected travelers – free wi-fi is available in the lobby only.  That seems totally at odds with the hotel’s attempt to be social media savvy, because hey – we like being connected in our rooms and by the pool.

Location:  16th Street Nt. between 1st & 5th Avenue, Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

Rates:  Introductory rates starting at $176/per night based on double occupancy.  The hotel is also offering a variety of social media discounts and other competitively priced options (for example, get a free night for tweeting during your stay – read fine print for more details).

Photo credit:  SXC