Caribbean Island Travel

Some call it “paradise.” Others call it “heaven on earth.” Well, one thing is for sure, a Caribbean island travel is exactly what you need if you’re looking for beaches, boats, banks, bikinis, and other tropical vacation essentials.


Located right at the tip of South America and surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, the Caribbean is not just the No. 1 playground for the Americas, but also comprises movie-set beauty, coconut tree-clad mountains, verdant valleys of sugarcane and bananas, and seashore galore. Even the cities here glow with glorious architecture and the towns dotting the region have been established long before the automobile.

The islands are awash with island-flavored culture with just the subtlest hint of European influence, and world-class hotels, resorts, restaurants, activities, attractions, and shopping. There are over fifty island destinations to choose for your Caribbean island travel and each has its own extensive catalogue of accommodations and activities for the Caribbean’s famous exotic warm weather.

Below are our top picks for an awesome Caribbean island travel:


New Providence, the Bahamas
Most visitors erroneously call it “Nassau” because the island is the site of the nation’s capital, which was named after the Dutch Prince of Orange-Nassau in 1695 after he took over the British throne. In truth, the island is New Providence where about two-thirds of the Bahamian population lives, and where millions of dollars are invested in Nassau, Cable Beach, and Paradise Island. In recent years, New Providence has created a name for itself as one of the top places to visit when on a Caribbean island travel.

Considered an offshore financial center, New Providence is most obviously a fabulous shopping bazaar and Caribbean island travel destination. Stroll along the world-famous Bay Street and side streets and bask in the Caribbean carnival atmosphere. Or visit one of the out islands of the Bahamas – the famous Nassau and Paradise Island, connected with each other by a bridge.

But while the Bahamas has plenty to offer, what it is really most famous for is its island groove. The drumbeat is the essence and the soul of Bahamian culture with the instrument setting the heartbeat for all Bahamian music, including rake ‘n scrape, Junkanoo and goombay.

Bermuda
An isolated paradise, Bermuda sits right in the middle of the great chasm – the Atlantic Ocean between North America and Europe. Couple that with a history of English settlement and you have an island that is as unique as its topography. This Caribbean island travel destination is spotlessly clean, quaint, orderly, and extraordinarily pretty. Think pink and green. Pink for the pastel shades that wash this 21-square mile island. And green for the color of money that Bermuda’s offshore banking and insurance sectors generate. Plus, it is only a convenient 2 ½ hour flight from most major cities on the US East Coast.

There are no slums, no billboards, and very, very few fast food outlets. Inconvenient? Not likely. Because all this is minor compared to the glorious sight this Caribbean island travel destination offers. From the colonial architecture of the tidy homes that line its roads to the fragrant tropical flowers – Bermuda is all beauty and grace.

Caribbean Luxury Travel


Are you up for a little eco-luxury? Tiamo, an earth-friendly resort made up of a row of wooden cottages that are chic and simple at the same time, provides the ultimate in Caribbean luxury travel. Scattered along a quite strand of white powder on Andros island in the Bahamas, this Caribbean luxury travel resort is surrounded by orchids and giant lizards and offers nothing but relaxed comfort and ecological correctness. This Caribbean luxury travel resort offers the perfect antidote to the Caribbean’s more familiarly hedonistic piƱa colada and party resorts. At Tiamo, the Caribbean is reduced to barefoot luxury – polished and refined yet set in an environment that can only be described as natural.

Out of all the Bahamian islands in the Caribbean region, Andros is one of the less well-known. And yet, its subdued allure is what makes it even more appealing as a Caribbean luxury travel destination. With an area of 2,300 square miles and home to only 8,000 people, it is one of the least explored places in the western hemisphere.

However, don’t even for a second think that Andros is just one of those dime-a-dozen island destinations which the Caribbean is full of. Andros is the largest island in the country so you have plenty of grounds to have fun and enjoy the warm Caribbean sun. And because the island is yet undeveloped, there are few phones, few bus lines, and other facilities that could distract you from your relaxing vacation.

In truth, the island is not just one island but a group of islands tightly meshed into one archipelago. With its rocky shores and a web of creeks, this Caribbean luxury travel destination has never offered the kind of obvious harbor found on other Bahamian islands so, apart from the odd fishing lodge and Caribbean luxury travel retreats, development has largely bypassed it. However, what has made the island unsuitable for urban evolution makes it perfect for eco-tourism.

The Caribbean luxury travel resort of Tiamo is remote, even by Andros’ standards. Set three, road-less miles from the nearest village and surrounded by palm trees, banana plants, orchids, herons, tiny tree frogs, and some vicious mosquitoes, Tiamo is only accessible to guests by boat. Relying on its solar power system and solar-heated rainwater showers, the resort stays true to its ecological philosophy but at the same time offers you with an idyllic retreat is incomparable anywhere else.

Tiamo’s wooden cottages come with massive beds, hand-painted “do not disturb” signs, brightly tiled mirrors and showers lean towards safari-chic, especially when taken in with their painted, corrugated-iron walls. And in a clever twist on recycling, even the wood left over from building the cottages were used to build this Caribbean luxury travel resort’s funky outdoor furniture.

But while the interiors are outstanding, the main features of all the cottages though are their open porches. They have fans rather than air conditioning, but you don’t need to worry about the heat. The open sides of the cottages are designed to help keep temperatures down. Climate control aside, the real beauty of these porches is that they offer you panoramic views of the forest and the beach.


Last Minute Caribbean Travel



Have you ever tried booking or reserving a Caribbean travel deal only to find that it’s full already? This happens sometimes if you do your booking and reservations at the last minute. As a rule, you ought to book your vacation well ahead of time to make sure that you can still get that deal you want. But what if you’re one of those busy persons who barely even have time for themselves? In such a case, a last minute rule is in order.

We know how hard it can be to plan a trip. There are so many factors that you have to concern yourself with, least of which is the budget and your actual vacation time. Below are some great tips to help you get that last minute Caribbean travel deal without messing up your budget or your schedule:


















Wyndham Aruba Beach Resort & Casino

For a perfect island destination, the Wyndham Aruba Beach Resort & Casino offers the charm of the Dutch Caribbean, a magnificent beach, glittering casino, and a host of outdoor pleasures. Nestled on the soft, white sands of Aruba’s Palm Beach and surrounded by lush, landscaped gardens, this resort offers you a chance to enjoy that last minute Caribbean travel vacation with their new 2006 deals.

The Wyndham Aruba Beach Resort & Casino offers you rooms where you can relax and enjoy the delightful extras offered, including satellite television, refrigerator, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a private balcony with a spectacular view. For activities, this last minute Caribbean travel resort provides plenty of opportunity for sailing, wind surfing, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, and golf. Not only that, but after a refreshing swim in the ocean, you can simply relax and drift in the gorgeous seaside pool near it.

For their Spring Sale, Wyndham Aruba Beach Resort & Casino offers superior rooms for $634 per person double occupancy, and a $100 food and beverage credit for five nights or more.

Hotel Riu Paradise Island

The Hotel Riu in Paradise Island in the Bahamas is another great last minute Caribbean travel resort with its fantastic building facilities (including a “Colony” lobby bar, “Calypso” lounge bar with terrace, and “Atlantic” Restaurant with non-smoking section and terrace), and other facilities. The main grounds of the hotel are dominated by a 300sq.m. swimming pool with an adjoining Jacuzzi, while all around it are complimentary lounge chairs, towels, and umbrellas.

Enjoy one of their 379 guestrooms with their last minute Caribbean travel bargains startin gat $521 per person double occupancy. But hurry and book now. This last minute Caribbean travel discount only runs from April through June and all bookings must be made by March.

The Fairmont Southampton – Bermuda

Imagine: lush tropical gardens, shimmering pink sand beaches, azure blue seas, and spectacular sunsets…. This is Bermuda. Royally perched on the island’s highest point, the Fairmont Southampton overlooks lush acres of land, pink sandy beaches and bountiful gardens. With its old world British charm blended so well with the new spirit of Bermuda, this last minute Caribbean travel resort offers just the right mix for the island-hopper. 

5 More Freebies for San Francisco Entertainment

If the thing you look least forward to on vacation is wracking up vicious amounts of debt on your Master Card, then you've come to the right place. I'm here to offer advice on free things to do while visiting San Francisco. Granted, it is not wise to think that you can go on vacation without spending any money and have a good time. However, it is quite possible to be very selective when deciding where to spend your money by having alternative entertainment options that cost little or no money.

Rather than a top ten list, which can be a little long winded, I'm going to provide a top five list. My sincere hope is that you will use this list as inspiration for finding your own free or low cost entertainment while visiting San Francisco. On to the list:

1) San Francisco Botanical Gardens. The climate of San Francisco provides a unique atmosphere that allows the growth and maintenance of plants from around the world. As a result the San Francisco Botanical Gardens offers a look at plants that are rare almost anywhere else on earth. The Gardens are 55 acres and host more than 7500 plants from around the world.

2) Chinese Culture Center. This center offers resources about the Chinese culture in San Francisco in addition to many programs that are available to learn about the artistic and cultural contributions that the Chinese community has made to this great city.


3) Fort Point National Historic Site. This site has special historical significance. Its original intent was to prevent invading forces from entering San Francisco Bay. By the end of the Civil War the massive cannons that had been used for this purpose were obsolete. The last of the original 126 cannons was removed around 1900. During the 1930's, the fort was used as a headquarters for the building of the Golden Gate Bridge. This Fort has played a vital role in our history and is worth a visit, especially considering the fact that it is free.

4) Stern Grove Concerts. These concerts only take place on Sunday afternoons during summer months but are well worth checking out if you have a sunny Sunday afternoon available during your stay. The goal of these concerts is to educate the masses and potentially inspire future musicians. A love of music is the second best gift you can give a child, second only to a love of reading. It's a great way to spend an afternoon, and it's free!

5) Wells Fargo History Museum. This museum is a fun side trip for the family. Not only does it tell the history of Wells Fargo as it pertains to San Francisco, but it also tells of Black Bart and other stagecoach robbers while providing visitors with the awe inspiring story of the great earthquake of 1906 and the role of Wells Fargo in the recovery process. I believe that young and old alike will find this museum to be a lot of fun, especially for the price.

If you are visiting San Francisco and need some great family friendly activities to fill your days, then this is definitely a great place to start. I hope that you can find a few more things than I have mentioned here to help fill in gaps and entertain the young and old on your vacation alike. Remember not to over plan your trip, as some of the greatest times to be had are spontaneous rather than planned.

Caribbean Travel Special

High season in the Caribbean starts in January all through April. So if you want to get the best Caribbean travel special, then get the deepest discounts in late April or early May, and last into December.

Below are some of our top picks for Caribbean travel specials:

Apple’s February Frees and Best Buys

A well-established company with departures from dozens of US cities, Apple Vacations is always offering Caribbean travel specials and promotions, including multiple departure cities and popular all-inclusives. The company also specializes in Hawaii and Mexico, often departing from the northeast US, but with flights from the Midwest, Seattle, San Diego, and more.

Like most booking sites, the Apple web site also offers a nifty tool to allow you to choose a Caribbean travel special. And if you want to find out more about what resorts offers what to families, just click on any of the resort name and get info on:

  • Kids’ programs
  • Kids Stay, Play and Eat Free
  • Children’s pool
  • Teen disco
  • Babysitter fees
  • Dining and entertainment
  • Beaches

And plenty more. Their February Frees also offer great promotional rates. The have one now at the Allegro in Punta Cana. Apple’s Best Buys are discount Caribbean travel specials to all-inclusive resorts like Sandals and Beaches, as well as packages to other popular destinations in Cancun, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, and more.

Off-Season Caribbean Travel Specials at Aruba.com

If off-season deals are for you, then check for island-wide Caribbean travel specials at Aruba.com. The site allows you to explore their directory where you can book your accommodations, plan your vacation, dine in the best restaurants, and enjoy the exciting activities available to you at sunny Aruba. To customize your Caribbean travel special, just make your choice on the following items:



  • Activities
  • Air only
  • Aruba Certified Expert to plan your trip
  • Best hotel rates and availability
  • Booking flight and hotel saving packages
  • Preferred partners
  • Restaurants

Atlantis Resort Waterscapes

This world-famous resort in Paradise Island, Bahamas, is truly one-of-a-kind with acres and acres of waterscapes, including shark lagoon, Lazy River, amazing water slides, casino, spa, and Discovery Channel Camp. Atlantis also has many underwater viewing areas where you can see some 50,000 sea creatures.

So if you want a Caribbean travel special perfect with kids, then choose any of the 4-day/3-night stay deals at the Beach Tower. In addition, these Caribbean travel specials include ground transfers. For the lowest-priced Caribbean travel specials, get a room at Atlantis’ Beach Tower. Coral Towers comes second while the Royal Towers got the steepest rates.

Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbor


82 oceanfront rooms, terraces and balconies with panoramic views, one-bedroom suites for families with full kitchen and two bathrooms – all on an island so quiet you’re going to think you’re alone…which you probably are. That is what the Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbor offers. With 52 acres of white sand beaches surrounded by lush gardens, this Caribbean travel special resort has activities for families, including snorkeling, tennis, feeding fish of the pier, mountain biking, sailing, and sport fishing. 

How to Get the Discount Out of a Discount Car Rental

Discount car rentals are so hard to come by, and in recent times, discount car rentals simply mean you pay less for something less, and lets face it, sometimes when you pay less for a car rental, you end up with something that looks more like a farmer’s truck than a car. It’s hard to come up with a budget friendly rental, so how do you get a discount car rental these days? Well here are a few tips to boost the value of your money, car rental wise.

1.A good way to essentially, get a discount car rental is to, once you return the car, fill the tank with the cheapest no-name gas you could find, not for revenge or anything, but because car rental companies, require customers to fill the gas tank before returning it, and it you don’t they’ll fill it for you with the company pump but at a higher price, now we don’t want that, so be sure to fill your tank before you return the car.

2.To get the discount off of discount car rental, make early reservations, some car rental companies give discounts or free upgrades for customers who reserve their cars early.

3.When you’re planning to use your rental car for more than five days, or longer, ask the rental car company if you can get discount car rentals for a weekly rate, most companies offer discounts for the sixth and seventh day for weekly rentals.

4.Ask your travel agency if you could get discount car rentals if you acquire packages like fly-stay-drive or fly-drive. Most travel agencies as well as hotels offer these programs at a discounted price, what’s good about this is that you get a discount and you shoot two to three birds with one stone.

5.When you go to a car rental company, ask them if you could get a discount car rental in exchange for your frequent flyer miles, this is good for those miles that are about to expire, so instead of throwing them away you’d get one last use for them.

6.One way to get a discount car rental or maybe just the best deal for your money is to look for sites or rental car firms that accepts a pre-determined budget. This is when you indicate the money you’re willing to spend for the car rental, most rental car companies will give you the program that has the biggest discount car rental and the best deal for you, of course it pays to know if the company has a history of fraud, in this day and age, you can’t really trust people that much with your money, check out the car before you reserve.

7.Ask the rental company for discount car rentals when you frequently rent a car at their firm, they’re most likely to give discounts or free upgrades if you always rent with them.

8.Get discount car rentals by reserving your car through the internet. Most rental firms have internet only discounts that can save you a lot of money, look up the rental firm that has the greatest discount for the same value.

9.To get a discount car rental upgrade, try going to pick up your car just as the shop is opening, there’ll be a shortage in the economy cars, and you’ll probably get a free upgrade when they can’t give you the car you reserved.

Costa Rica Caribbean Travel

Wondering where to go? Why not try the world of great tropical adventure that Costa Rica offers?

A Costa Rica Caribbean travel offers you active volcano exploration, wild animals, lush rainforests, and great beaches. On one of the ultimate paradises left untouched on this planet, there are no military, no nuclear power plants, lots of culture to offer, and no winter. A democratic society, Costa Rica is known as one of the most peaceful in the world. The last civil war was in 1948, and since then, armed forces have been abolished and the country has been able to avoid such dangers as despotic dictatorships, military coups, terrorism, and all other forms of internal strife.

Not only that, a Costa Rica Caribbean travel guarantees you a friendly atmosphere wherever part of the country you choose to visit.

The name literally means “rich coast” but Costa Rica is rich for far more than its coast. The country is replete with incredible natural beauties and many species of animals, some of them extremely rare and can only be seen if you go on a Costa Rica Caribbean travel.

The flora biodiversity alone is made up of well over 10,000 species of vascular plants and beautiful flowers. And as for tree species, almost 2,000 have been recorded in this small country in Latin America. This makes a Costa Rica Caribbean travel even more exciting, with such fascinating and endless number of natural habitat for various flora and fauna.

Besides land mammals and birds that would make any sane eco-tourism enthusiast go ga-ga over, Costa Rica is also home to 835 species of fish, of which 700 are saltwater fish. Anglers and fishers are going to have an awesome time dipping their poles in Costa Rica’s clear, azure waters to hook any one of these tropical fish species.

But if we focus a minute on the northwest region of Costa Rica, called Guanacaste, where most of the Costa Rica Caribbean travelers go nowadays because of the wide variety of scenery and activities offered, you will realize that there are so many more types of tours you can take. If you want to get really close to Costa Rica and actually see all these wonderful trees, plants, flowers, animals, and fish, then a Costa Rica Caribbean travel is all you need.



There is a wide range of activities to choose from on your Costa Rica Caribbean travel. Most of these depend on the part of the country in which you are vacationing. In the rainforest and you like birds, then bird watching walks with well-informed English-speaking guides or horseback riding are the type of Costa Rica Caribbean travel tours you should take.


You can also take one of those canopy tours, which are popular all over Costa Rica. But if you want the richest and best experience in Costa Rica’s rainforests, then avoid those that go through areas which are north towards the west. Here, the climates are dryer so naturally the vegetation lacks some of its beautiful richness in both density and color. 

Caribbean Travel Tip


People have been taking Caribbean travel vacations since the colonial times. Today, millions of U.S. citizens visit the islands each year to experience the tropical extravaganza that a Caribbean travel usually has in store for all its visitors.



Below are some Caribbean travel tips to help you get the most out of your tropical excursion:

Get an early start.
If there’s anything you absolutely must do when you go on a Caribbean vacation that is to start early. There are a lot of things you need to take care of. Trip planning can be a tough nut to crack. Often, a passport may be required before you can enter the country you are planning to travel. One Caribbean travel tip you ought to consider is to prepare all your travel documents as early as now.

Choose an island.
Culture-shock. That is bound to happen if you don’t do your research beforehand. One thing you should remember about the Caribbean is that it has a culture that is as widely diverse as its people. So take this Caribbean travel tip: read up on the culture and people for the places you will travel.

Another thing, as you travel, keep abreast of local news coverage. If you are in an area experiencing civil unrest or a natural disaster, or if you are going to a place where communications is poor, register with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for your own safety. Registration at the State Department’s TravelRegistration.state.gov website takes only a few minutes, and certainly invaluable in case of emergency. In addition, you can also get up to date Caribbean travel tips and information on any country in the world by obtaining the Department of State’s Consular Information Sheet.

Entry.
Every island in the Caribbean has its own entry requirements. That is why your first Caribbean travel tip is to prepare all your documents before you leave home. If you can show proof that you are a U.S. citizen and a return or onward ticket, most countries will allow you to visit for up to two or three months.

Take this as both a Caribbean travel tip and caution: There are countries in the Caribbean with areas infected with yellow fever. If you come from any of these areas, you may be required to have a certificate of vaccination against yellow fever.

Also, some airports may require departure tax of up to $25.

Return.
There are some Caribbean countries that require only your birth certificate as an entry requirement. However, this should be reason for you to slack off on your travel documents. Remember that U.S. Immigration requires that you document both your U.S. citizenship and identity. Take this Caribbean travel tip and make sure you can return to the United States with both these documents.

But what is the best document that can prove your U.S. citizenship? The best proof is a valid U.S. passport. However, other travelers give these Caribbean travel tips as documents you can use besides that to prove U.S. citizenship:
  • Expired U.S. passport 
  • Certified copy of birth certificate 
  • Certificate of Naturalization 
  • Certificate of Citizenship 
  • Report of Birth Abroad of a U.S. Citizen 



The Shows of San Francisco


When visiting San Francisco, finding a way to unwind at the end of a long day of sight seeing isn't always the easiest thing in the world to do. After dinner the choices for entertainment often seem limited because you don't really want to become too wired from your activities to find peaceful sleep later. Perhaps this is why most shows are shown in the evening. San Francisco certainly has quite a few options for shows to see.

If you like old musicals, then 42nd Street Moon is a great place for you to look for your entertainment. They like to take old Broadway musicals that haven't been over performed and rehash them to the delight of the audience and the cast. By breathing new life into these sometimes lost classics they are doing a service to both the original masters of these musicals and to the audiences they now play for.


If you need something a little less rowdy and rambunctious to see you into your night time routine, then perhaps the Smuin Ballet will have something that is more in line with your needs. This ballet company is bringing new appreciation to the art of dance and delighting audiences in the process. By bridging the gap between traditional ballet and modern dance this company is reaching a much broader audience than many dance troupes that have come before and since. Really and truly if you have the opportunity to see one of their performances I highly recommend that you do so. You just might find that you are their newest fan.

If you have varied or eclectic tastes, then Old First Concerts may be a great place for you to unwind after a long day of shopping, sight seeing, and touring wine country. This interesting venue presents concerts of many colors and voices it would seem. There is no one particular style of music that is allowed or disallowed here, rather the professional quality of the musical style is more important than the actual style of the music. I think that this very fact alone makes it quite unique and worth a listen. You might hear something you've never heard before and leave with an appreciation you would have never discovered had you not dropped in.

If you haven't guessed, I'm a huge fan of trying things that are different and slightly outside the realm of the mundane. I have no problems stepping away from the conventions of normal society and wearing many different hats. Perhaps that is the reason that I find my next suggestion so appealing and fun! Beach Blanket Babylon is the perfect way to mock societal norms. The costumes are outrageous and the hats are bigger than a tall tale and it's all in the name of good clean fun. I seriously recommend this show to anyone who has ever had even the slightest hint of a sense of humor.

We all know that it is often difficult to unwind in a new city where you only know those that you are traveling with, you aren't sleeping in your own bed, and you are missing some of the comforts of home (like a work day and a commute to exhaust you). For those of us who have been there and done that, it is much easier to unwind after enjoying a nice show or entertainment along similar lines. It could be something as simple as taking in a movie that you might have wanted to see but never find the time to at home. A vacation is your time to rest and relax, make the most of it.


Where to Book a Flight to Amsterdam


Thinking for a vacation to the greatest planned city of Amsterdam? Looking for a particular portal online where you can book your flight to Amsterdam? If your answer to these questions is affirmative, then this article will help you find the right place to book your flight to Amsterdam, Netherlands.

I have here below a short list of the most commonly noted and widely visited companies online that cater booking services for those who wish to visit the lively and liberal city of Amsterdam. Just note however that what will be presented here are just a few of the many booking sites online that serve flights to Amsterdam. If you are really serious with your search, then look no further.

UKNetGuide.co.uk

UK Net Guide is a particular booking outlet that will help you find great deals for flight to Amsterdam and other parts of Europe with their leading travel partners. As a customer, all you need to do with this site is to search for all the leading brands of European airlines they have listed on their site. This can be done with their Flight Search that allows you to find the best flight deals on the internet. Just enter the required details, search and compare.

EasyJet.com

EasyJet.com is but another place to visit online for booking your flight to Amsterdam. This site first allows you to select a cheap flight with Europe’s leading low cost airline. Note that there are 222 routes across 67 key European airports here. And, before you can access their booking service, you have to register for you to access and change your bookings online if needed. The customers are also encouraged to sign up for easyJet Mail for them to be among the first to hear of promotions, new routes, and schedule launches. If you wish to check your booking online, then you can do so by looking up at the flight number, departure or arrival times, booking reference number or request a replacement confirmation email at any time before your flight to Amsterdam.

eBookers.com

EBookers.com is another great place to book your flight to Amsterdam. This site now maintains a selection of worldwide travel offers, making it one of the leading pan-European travel agency on the net. Actually, eBookers.com offers the leisure and business trekker a wide selection of low airfares, as well as deals on hotels, car rentals, cruises, vacation packages and some other travel offers. As a well-known travel agency, eBookers.com now innovates more to provide their customers with the best travel experience they want most. Aside from finding a cheap flight to Amsterdam, you can also get access to hundreds of thousands of holiday bargains, late deals, short breaks, package holidays, and a lot more through their service.

TeleTextHolidays.co.uk

At TeleTextHolidays.co.uk you can also find fantastic deals on world flights. All you need to do with this site is to search for the available offers, but note that this company generally trawls 1000’s of flights from scheduled, charter and low cost airline in one go. If for instance, you are really prompt with your booking request for your flight to Amsterdam, you can actually call them by phone.


Caribbean Travel Cruise

One of the most beloved features of the Caribbean islands is the idyllic weather. Rain or shine in some other part of the world, you can expect to have the perfect weather here. That’s because a whole range of climate is afforded you – from the striking deserts of Aruba to the misty jungles of Dominica, from balmy breezes to soothing sunshine, and everything in between. And the best way to enjoy the Caribbean’s lovely weather is to go on a Caribbean travel cruise.

Sure, you can always take a plane ride to the Caribbean. That’s the quickest and probably the cheapest way to get to your island destination. But if you want to combine transportation with leisure views of the islands from the ocean, then a Caribbean travel cruise is best. Indeed, there’s no better way to enjoy an island paradise than from the deck of a luxury line cruise ship.









If you agree, then you’re amongst crowds. Approximately two million travelers take Caribbean travel cruises each year to enjoy the beautiful beaches and warm weather. Caribbean travel cruises are popular because of the activities and amenities available on board the ship. In addition, many of these ships make stops at various islands along the way, giving you a chance to enjoy several aspects of the islands all for the price of one.

If you decide to take a Caribbean travel cruise, plan ahead. There are many factors that you ought to consider, not least of which is price. Admittedly, Caribbean travel cruises are a bit on the expensive side compared with all-inclusives and other packages. But if you plan well, there’s no reason why you can’t get a good deal with your Caribbean travel cruise.

Depending on the season, cabins may get fully booked months before the Caribbean travel cruise is scheduled to depart. So if you want to make it your chosen cruise, book early by calling the cruise line or making an online reservation. Or if you want, you can also work out the details of your own Caribbean travel cruise through an online or in-person travel agent.

Always keep in mind your vacationing goals. For instance, if you’re taking a Caribbean travel cruise with your kids, stick to the Disney cruise because if anything, this is guaranteed to have activities designed specifically for children. If you’re traveling as a couple, then look for one of those romance-themed cruises that provide you with a quiet atmosphere, like the Princess cruise for instance, the line used by the Love Boat TV show. On the other hand, if you want to sail on board the most luxurious ships, then look to liners known for their top notch Caribbean travel cruise services, such as Crystal, Silversea, or the new Queen Mary II.

There are many ocean liners offering Caribbean travel cruises. Each of them offers a variety of price, schedule and island stop options. Whether you seek an extravagant vacation aboard a floating luxury hotel, a romantic getaway with your loved one, or an activity-filled family voyage, just choose your dream ship and you’re all set.


Amsterdam Tour


When we talk about Amsterdam, Netherlands, it is very hard not to imagine misty cafes and scantily clothed women moving provocatively in windows with red lights. Many of the travelers from across the world return to this ultimate city of “sin” because of these sights alone. Most of them are busting with tales of the unexpected and if you get chances to visit the place, I’m sure that you will also create your own tales to tell.

Well, Amsterdam is not just about sex and drugs; it has all the great things that Mother Earth has to offer. The Netherlands has in fact that most amount of great museums per square foot than anywhere else in the world. If you take a tram ride 10 minutes from the heart of the city, you can overwhelm yourself with those narrow streets occupied with nothing else other than the cyclist and a car every now and then. The city is in fact so quite, but interesting.

Things to See in Amsterdam
The greatly planned city of Amsterdam is one of the few cities in the world where the people, the streets and the atmosphere are an attraction in themselves. It is in fact well-known throughout the world as the sole city where marijuana and hashish are sold legally. And, the worldly known Red Light District is just as much an attraction as a favorite hub for young men full of testosterone to go at night.


But as mentioned earlier, there is far much more to the city than drugs and prostitutes or sex. The city has long been considered as the “Venice of the North” because it was built on a cobweb of canals. You can greatly see most of the city from a canal boat, and from there you’ll surely appreciate the unique architecture that Amsterdam has long been proud to offer.

Furthermore, Amsterdam is heaving with a culture. It has a lot of great museums and libraries. Of all the interesting museums in the city of Amsterdam, the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank Museum and Van Gogh Museums are names not to be missed.

Where to Eat
When you stroll around in the city of Amsterdam, you’ll surely find a high volume of restaurants. As commonly noted, you can see sandwich boards in front of the many restaurants advertising their daily specials and from a minute walk down the Damrak, the street facing Central Station, there are some neon lights saying “pizza”.

If you delver further into the city, you can find the Damstraat, the street on Dam Square, also peppered with eateries. Further down again towards Leidseplen, the Leidsekruisstraat and Leidsetraat have their good share of restaurants too. It is necessary to note however that the streets mentioned earlier are located in some of the city’s most touristy areas. So, if you wish to steer clear of such commercial centers, you have the chance to visit the Jordaan as some of the city’s coolest restaurants are found there.


In case you prefer to eat out in a restaurant beyond your budget during your tour, there are also some fast food outlets all over Amsterdam where you can get pizzas, chips or kebabs. However, just be careful when asking for mayonnaise on your French fries for they will be completely drowned.

Tips on how to get the most off a budget car rental

Budget car rentals are a traveler’s savior from being stranded in one place and from expensive taxi rides. But with today’s competitive market, I won’t be surprised that from trying to rent a car you end up renting a lawnmower instead. Well maybe not a lawnmower, but sometimes, well most of the time, the people that assist you in car rentals just doesn’t have your best interest in mind, so you end up paying a truckload of money for a pool of frustrations. To avoid this here are a few tips to get the budget, out of budget car rental.

1. If you’re not choosy with a budget car rental, try to get a budget car rental through sites that let you rent cars at your own price. These firms will try to get the best deal for the car that you’ll get and might just toss in unlimited mileage and upgrades, all of that without spending an extra dime out of budget.

2. Look for package deals, fly-drive-stay, or fly- drive, most of these packages give great discounts for rentals, but don’t do it with an airline, airlines although convenient aren’t really the more economic way to go, their budget car rental prices are hardly budget, and tend to be higher than those of outside firms.

3. Use the internet to reserve a rental car. Ah, the internet, what other good can it provide? Yes there are budget car rentals on the internet that can give you a better bargain. Some budget car rental sites even go as far as internet only discounts. Aside from that you can easily get upgrades and depending on the season, at least one rental company is bound to have a special offer that can help you save money, plus, you can rent a car in the comfort of your own home, beat that!

4. Ask for discounts that can be applicable to you, remember even when you’ve scored the best deal, there is still that one last ditch of a possibility that one of your credit cards support the company and provide discounts or that your frequent flyer program or military service can put that budget in budget car rental, its along shot but its worth a try.

5. Most budget car rentals are low on maintenance so when you rent a car, check all sides for damage, and I mean every side and every nook and cranny of that car, make sure to inform the renter of these so that you wont have to pay for damages once you return the car. In addition, try to check out all the accessories, wipers, radio, brakes, seatbelts etc, to familiarize yourself with them, and also to check if they work, like the previous tip, you might be charged for this if you don’t inform them.

6. Now we pass the subject of insurance, sometimes your own car insurance covers car rentals, so have a look see before you buy insurance from the rental firm. Budget car rental insurance doesn’t cost much, but if you already have one why buy another? Car rental insurance is always required when you rent a car.

7. Another money saving tip is to pick up your car early in the morning, make it so that the firm is just opening, this is because at this time most of the budget car rentals haven’t been returned yet, and you may get an upgrade for a lower price.

Alaska Ski Vacations

Alaska, which has always been a source of awe and mystery, has some of the best skiing in the world, and the Alyeska Resort is one of the finest resorts in the state. With a top elevation of 2751 feet and a 2501 vertical drop, the area gets an average of 631 inches of snow annually.

Although this is some of the best skiing in the world, you won’t find the slopes overly crowded, and there are no long lift lines. There are nine lifts, including six chair lifts and two surface lifts, and one cable car line. There are 68 trails for beginners, intermediates, and experts, with the majority of the trails designed for intermediate skiers.

Night time skiing is allowed, which makes your ski experience more adventurous and thrilling. You will see snow capped mountains, hanging glaciers, and of course, the famous Northern Lights. This resort is ranked number nine of the top twenty-five killer ski trips by Skiing Magazine.

The season begins at the Alyeska Resort in mid November, and runs through mid April. This area of Alaska boasts the longest daytime areas in the United States, with approximately sixteen hours of daylight each day during April. During December, however, there are only about seven hours of daylight – which makes night time skiing necessary if you are going to get in the time that you want to spend on the slopes.

The Alyeska Prince Hotel is the place to stay! Here you will enjoy elegant rooms and fine dining. Nightly entertainment is available as well. There are other nightlife spots in the area as well, that are not associated with the Hotel.

If tubing interests you, then visiting the Glacier Tubing Park is an absolute must! Featuring two lanes of terrain and a surface lift, everyone in the family will enjoy spending time at the tubing park. The Alyeska Terrain Park is a must for snowboarding enthusiasts. Other winter activities that can be enjoyed in and around the Alyeska Resort include flight seeing, helisking, ocean cruising tours, dog sledding, ice climbing, back country skiing, mountaineering, and polar bear viewing.


At the Alyeska Resort, the ultimate winter vacation can be experienced. Brave the elements, then return to the Hotel for some pampering. Get a taste of what Alaska is really like, and what skiing is meant to be! There are activities for the entire family to enjoy, and there are many area sights and attractions to be enjoyed as well. This really is an awesome winter family ski vacation!

Caribbean Jamaica Travel

A Caribbean Jamaica travel offers so much more than rum, sun and reggae. When it comes to diversity, few Caribbean islands can come neck to neck with this island country.

Jamaica’s motto is “Out of Many, One People” and this saying can very well apply to the very heart and essence of Jamaica. While good beaches and great food take up much of the day for the typical vacationer, a Caribbean Jamaica travel could also offer a lot of sightseeing, especially in Montego Bay (or just “MoBay” to locals), which is home to a large concentration of great hosues, formerly homes of the wealthy plantation owners whose kingdoms were powered by sugarcane.


So with Jamaica’s great diversity, here are the things you should know before you go on that dream Caribbean Jamaica travel:

Banks/Currency

Money is not much of a problem when you go on a Caribbean Jamaica travel. There are licensed cambios and bureaux de change in all resort areas. They are easily and readily accessible, so you don’t need to get Jamaican money before you get to the island. And if you’re worried that your resort doesn’t have a money exchange, banks in the area can exchange all currencies.

The official rate of exchange varies daily so if you want a rate that suits you, it’s not a bad idea to shop around first. In addition, many Jamaican ATMs accept international bank cards with Visa, Mastercard, Cirus, and Plus logos. Credit card advances? Banks give that too, as well as change traveler’s checks, and offer other financial services.

Climate

Like any typical Caribbean island, Jamaica has a tropical climate at sea level and a temperate climate towards the highlands of the interior. One popular Jamaican poem sums it all pretty accurately: “We have neither summer nor winter/Neither autumn nor spring….”

So when you go on a Caribbean Jamaica travel, bring clothes that are suited for tropical climate. Swim suits are a must if you’re crazy about water sports, but bring a jacket or a light sweater if you included hiking in your Caribbean Jamaica travel itinerary.

Communications

Being a popular Caribbean destination and all, Jamaica is well connected to the rest of the world. So when you go on a Caribbean Jamaica travel, expect direct international telephone service 24 hours a day. There are also telephone operators who will gladly facilitate collect, third party, or credit card calls, too.

Most hotels, resorts, and parish libraries offer Internet and email access, as well as fax, telegrams, and cables. There are three daily national newspapers and five weekend newspapers, and of course, other international editions of major newspapers and magazines, such as the New York Times, TIME, The Economist, and the London Times.

Driving


Do you prefer to take a 4WD-drive to your hotel destination? One thing you need to remember while driving on a Caribbean Jamaica travel is that driving in this island country is on the LEFT. Some flexibility is required to avoid collisions with pedestrians, cows, goats, chickens, and other domestic animals, but the roads aren’t too bad. And Jamaica has over 17,000 kilometers of road networks connecting all major towns and cities. 

All-Inclusive Travel Caribbean

If you want the best all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort, then you ought to look for more than just room with sun, sea, and sand. Hey, it’s not called all-inclusive for nothing you know.

You want your all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort to have, if not everything, then at least, something really close. A buzz on the beach by day, a dining room open to the night air, water sports and other activities to go crazy on, a lounge deck within earshot of the waves for a relaxing afternoon, and a comfortable to retreat to – all that is available if you choose your all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort well.

More and more people are pampering themselves at all-inclusive travel Caribbean resorts where everything they could ever want is right at their disposal. What’s more, lots of these all-inclusives – about 79% - of them are beachfront properties or sitting near lakes and other bodies of water where the views are spectacular. Whatever the price category, the best place to wind down is an all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort. You’re on vacation. You should let someone else take the strain, for once.

Below are our top choices when it comes to all-inclusive travel Caribbean resorts:


Breezes Bahamas

Located on the eastern end of Cable Beach, Breezes Bahamas is the epitome of warm breezes wafting across an azure sea. This all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort was previously the venerable old Ambassador Beach Hotel. In 1995, the world-famous SuperClubs took over management and the resort underwent major renovations.

Breezes all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort is truly all-inclusive. At Breezes, almost everything you could ever want is included. Room accommodations, all meals, all snacks, unlimited wine or beer with lunch and dinner, as well as alcoholic drinks, mixed with premium brand liquors at each of the four bars, the list just goes on and on. Not only that, but this all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort also includes most of the water and land sports activities, as well as airport transfers, taxes, and gratuities – all in one upfront price.

Club Med Turkoise

An island all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort, Club Med Turkoise is located directly on the white sand beach of a desert island called Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos, Caribbean. Although the land is arid and flat, unlike what you may expect of a tropical island, Turks and Caicos do draw the card with its breathtaking beauty and the astounding view of the beach and sea surrounding it.

With miles of white sand and translucent turquoise water, Club Med Turkoise all-inclusive travel Caribbean is the ideal for sports lovers and scuba divers. There are a total of 298 rooms, all beautifully appointed with comfortable accommodations, 3 meals a day, including unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, most sports, and nightly entertainment.

Le Sport

“Give us your body for a week and we’ll give you back your mind.” That’s the line Le Sport at St. Lucia uses on their clients. And indeed, this all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort does just that. With its quirky outlook on how an all-inclusive travel Caribbean resort should be, Le Sport has been helping the weary business traveler relax, suing a combination of holiday treats and intense pleasure of personalized rejuvenation.

Fun Museums for the Child in all of Us

If you are bringing young ones on your visit to San Francisco, you've probably wracked your brain trying to find activities and events that will not only be fun for them but also provide much needed mental stimuli as well. Well, look no further. I have five museums that are guaranteed to be completely kid friendly and fun for the entire family.


Gone are the days of stuffy museums that are cold and unfeeling. These museums of old have been replaced with modern day museums that offer areas that encourage hands on activities and promote learning and education through activities that are well disguised as fun. Your children will have no idea what just happened and you will be able to rest comfortable in the knowledge that this event that they considered so much fun will remain with them for a long time to come. Knowledge is a great gift to pass on to your children, especially when they don't realize what it is that you are giving them.

The first of these museums is the Cartoon Art Museum. You may wonder what your children can possibly learn from a museum such as this, but as with all art, comics often imitate life and this museum shows how comics have evolved and morphed over time. In addition to that, anything that will encourage your children to read is a good thing in my opinion, even if it is comics that they are reading.

Next, there is the Bay Area Discovery Museum. This museum offers hands on entertainment for children of all ages. While most exhibits are designed with children ages 1-10 in mind, there are plenty of activities and exhibits that will appeal to older children as well as those entertaining the notion of a second childhood. This museum offers many activities and adventures both indoors and out that will appeal to your children while teaching them about other creatures, cultures, technology, and the world at large around them. This is definitely worth having a look. Be sure to check and see if there are any events being offered while you are visiting.

If the Bay Area Discovery Museum isn't enough to get your little one's creative juices flowing and put you all into the supreme spirit of learning, then perhaps you should check out Zeum. Zeum is a multimedia arts and technology museum. By allowing visitors to hands on use of their equipment they are fostering imagination and igniting curiosity in the young minds of their guests. This is definitely unique enough for a closer look. I hope it spikes your inner techno guru as completely as it reached mine.

There are many more places than this that you can visit in San Francisco that offer an equal spark for the minds and imaginations of your little ones. But the fact remains that you know your child's interests and talents better than anyone else. Find those things that will appeal to each child's personality and that above anything else will make this trip special for him or her.


I also believe that it is important to allow your children an opinion on what to do and see while on vacation. You may be surprised to find the things that will appeal to them as well as the fact that they really do on occasion think about what you as a parent want for them. By giving choices and a voice you are teaching your children that they are important to you and that their opinion matters.

San Francisco offers a Little Fun for Everyone

San Francisco is perhaps one of the most diverse cities in America. With the vast diversity among the people that make this great city what it is today, San Francisco really is a melting pot. Not only have the different cultures and flavors had a great effect on what this great city has become, they also have an incredible impact on the city that is seen by those visiting. There is very little you can look for in a vacation that can't be found in San Francisco.

The real appeal of San Francisco as a vacation destination is that it has a little something to offer everyone. From families with small children, families with teens, young couples, older couples, to those of different lifestyles and ethnicities there is a little something that should appeal to all.

San Francisco has a great history that celebrates its diversity and a future that looks, well, golden. From the Golden Gate Bridge to Fisherman's Wharf and everywhere in between San Francisco has a lot to offer visitors in way of art, entertainment, shopping, and incredible, mouth watering food. You don't have to take my word for it though, wander on over to Fillmore Street and see for yourself. If you've been having too much fun taking in the sights and playing in the wonderful parks that can be found throughout this fabulous city, take a trolley on over. Just make sure you bring your appetite.

If you have young kids along there are both fun and educational adventures that abound in this great city. If you aren't careful, you just might find that you can't really tell the difference between the two. More importantly, neither can they.

Even skeptical, difficult to impress teens will be hard pressed to pretend to be bored throughout your entire trip to San Francisco. Between the interesting cultures, the good food, and the hip trendy atmosphere of local shopping centers, there is something that will be likely to appeal to your teens. They just might find themselves having a lot of fun at some of the plays, museums, and parks in the area too.

For the just married, there is a ton of romance in this fair city. From the exhibits and museums dedicated to the perseverance of the people of this great metropolis, to the beauty of the Golden Gate Bridge and the many parks in the area. There is also the great food and shopping to consider. From trendy small boutiques to national chain stores San Francisco has it all.

For more mature crowds this city is hard to beat when it comes to arts and entertainment. Not only are their shows playing almost nightly, there is also a great cultural arts community here as well. There are enough museums here to make a great vacation in and of themselves. Add to that the great food and the little boutique shops that abound and you are well on your way to having a great time.

The cultural diversity of San Francisco, California could be a book in and of itself. In fact, there are probably several books on the matter. There is a rich history of many cultures here that is readily available for exploration. From China Town to Little Italy and a stop in the Castro District in between there is a vast treasure trove of cultures, ethnicities, and fabulously wonderful people to investigate.

If visiting San Francisco, California is something that you've been considering, what are you waiting for? Check out all the great things that this city has to offer and keep in mind that when it feels like it's a thousand degrees outside in the South or forty below in the north, it's probably a fairly mild day on the Frisco bay. The temperatures year round here are generally within the realm of comfortable which makes it that much more appealing. Add the pleasant temperatures to the beauty and fun that is waiting, I can't believe you're still here and not booking your trip already.

Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine

When it comes to periodicals, travelers are fortunate. Tons and tons of magazines are published every month – sometimes even twice a month – offering all sorts of information about your favorite vacation spots and the general topic of travel and leisure.

But while most magazines are more general in content, there are a few good numbers that are narrower in scope. One such magazine that fits the latte category is Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine.

For a magazine that keeps you on top of what’s going on in the Caribbean, Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine is it. The magazine features everything from new resorts and fun things to do to a whole library of extensive information about your island destination.

Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine offers several travel articles for the itinerant person, whether you do it because you like to experience different cultures or you just want to relax in a tropical island of dreams. In addition to in-depth travel articles and resort features, the Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine also gives general information exclusive to the Caribbean islands.


The Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine is not just any travel and leisure periodical. Because it covers more than just travel, the Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine has in fact transcended its own genre. Also a cultural magazine, the Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine takes you inside the individual islands, letting you see what it’s really like in the Caribbean. Where most of us think that the Caribbean is no more than just a vacation stomping ground, the Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine gives you the other side of the story – the life of the Caribes, a truly amazing people.

The articles are upbeat, witty, and entertaining. You will never get tired of reading the lengthy articles about your favorite islands. Try to read the magazine slowly and allow yourself to dream that you are on the trip with the writers. Or if you want some insider’s tips on any of the islands, read on. The Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine offers travel deals, whether you want an adventure or budget or luxury, tips, and even ads to help you plan a Caribbean vacation just for you.

Besides the loads of travel information, the magazine also serves as eye-candy for travelers on the lookout for great new places to visit. The Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine offers pages and pages of amazing photography that will make you drop what you’re doing, head on to your PC, and look up a travel website so that you can plan a visit to one of the many islands in the region.

From its enticing cover to its delectable features inside, the Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine shows you a picture that includes water, with a brilliant blue  hue intended to get readers to open the magazine and learn more. And then, you realize why people want to return to the Caribbean over and over.

The Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine publishes nine issues per year with price per issue starting at $1.87.

Angel Island is a Diversion from the Ordinary

Whether you are a true nature lover or simply enjoy the thrill of an educational field trip, you will find both the wonders of nature and a deep sense of history while visiting Angel Island. In fact, I would suggest making Angel Island a must see destination while visiting San Francisco.

In the great city of San Francisco, which has so much to offer visitors, it's almost impossible to find that one thing that will be truly special and unique about your trip. Angel Island is just that thing. Wherever your interests lie, there is something that will attract the attention of people of all ages, economic situations, and other walks of life. If you can't find something that will interest you here, you really should rethink your interests.

For the nature lovers there is plenty of interest in way of plant life, bird life, and other animal life that should be of interests. There are even specialized tours available that will highlight and focus on the wide variety of life on this great island. Not only are there a great variety of land animals but a good representation of sea animals can be observed here as well. If you love nature, this is a great place to get a good dose of it while in the big city of San Francisco. Not only can you enjoy the sea animals on the ferry ride over (if you choose a ferry for your transportation) but you get to enjoy the plant and animal life on the island as well. Don't forget the air animals either though. There are many varieties of birds that are well represented here as well.

For those that prefer more active pursuits, there is plenty on Angel Island to keep you entertained and happy. First of all, there is plenty to offer by way of hikes. There are even guided hiking tours that offer the safety of numbers (very good for beginning hikers) and information about the island and its rich history. If hiking isn't really your thing, there are also bike rentals available on the island as well. With several trails to choose from with varying degrees of difficulty, even the beginner can enjoy a nice ride around the island.

My personal favorite physical activity here would be the kayak tours. For the right price you can book a guided kayak tour around the island. The tour includes equipment rental, your guide for the day, and a picnic lunch this would be for the all day tour, which will take you around the entire island. There is a 2 and a half hour tour if you aren't too sure about the whole kayaking thing or want to have time to enjoy other aspects of the island on your trip as well. The beauty of a trip to Angel Island is that there really is no right or wrong way to go about enjoying your day.

For sun lovers, there are several beaches where you can bring a blanket and lie down with a good book in order to catch some rays. I do not recommend swimming from Angel Island as the water isn't the cleanest nor is it the calmest. The tides are dangerous and can turn amazingly quickly. But if you love books and find that you could use a ray or two, let the kids and the rest of the family go biking, hiking, touring, and all that other good stuff while you catch up on the latest best seller at the beach.

All of this and I haven't even really hinted at the rich history of Angel Island. There are many activities planned throughout the year that introduce visitors to the rich history of this island. From Civil War Days to the Potomac Tours to the Victorian Christmas there are brief snapshots into the history of this great island. Beyond these events there are tram tours that are offered almost daily during the regular season on the island that provide brief overviews into the islands history. This would be a great way to spend a day while visiting San Francisco.


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