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Tag archives for Travel

Travel in the Late Winter Months to Save Costs and Avoid Summer Travel Rush

24
Jan
posted by Mike               filed under Travel

While it may seem like the late winter months of February and March may not be an ideal time to travel, bargain hunters and those seeking to avoid travel crowds know that the early months before spring can be a perfect time to get away.

Vacationers are a little hesitant to plan a vacation during these early spring months, after all there are plenty of reasons why people don’t travel during this time. They range from winter holiday season hangover to the inability to get away from work and family this early in the year.

But if you are able to somehow make travel arrangements for this time period, there are numerous benefits that many adventure-seekers can take advantage from. Among them are lower than average hotels and airline costs to go along with special deals that many resorts and travel providers offer to boost travel during this time.

And so we compiled a series of travel tips to help you plan your early spring vacation.

Search for daily deals and all-inclusive vacation packages for the best bang for your buck. It is recommended that you search online obsessively for deals online. Most deals come in the form of all-inclusive packages and when bundled together, they can save vacationers hundreds of dollars. Pleasant Holidays vacation offers travelers packages that include hotel stays and a variety of amenities such as local tours, water sports and more.

Choose a destination that feature an ideal weather condition. Whether you live in cold climate or not, escaping to warm areas can help put your body and soul in a relaxed state. In addition, most vacationers may be sick and tired of the winter season outings such as skiing and sitting near fireplaces. So why not take advantage of warmer climate locations before the summer rush comes in?

Hawaii tops the list for popular vacation destinations throughout the year, but during February and March, the Hawaiian Islands are a favorite since temperatures during the day are almost always in the mid-80s (degrees Fahrenheit). These perfect weather conditions in Hawaii are because it experiences only two seasons all year long. Pleasant Hawaiian Holidays offers trips and packages that will make it easy to plan a vacation to Hawaii.

Do consider cruise vacations, as they provide great value for travelers. Some travel companies offer complimentary spa treatments to go along with their packages and savings of up to $2,000 per couple and free shore excursions. This is known as their least popular time of year, making it a perfect time to go for vacationers.

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Tech-Savvy Travel Tips for This Year’s Summer Travel Season

27
Jun
posted by Mike               filed under Software, Technology, Travel

If you’re like the millions of Americans who are planning to go on vacation this summer, you’ll want to have the latest available information before you go. Here are some helpful tech travel tips to consider before you leave that can prepare you to get the most fun out of your getaway or avoid the unexpected hiccups during your trip.

Helpful Smartphone Apps – Americans are successfully integrating smartphones with their everyday lives and the travel industry is no different. If you know where to look there are some great mobile applications available that can make life a little bit easier for travelers.

FlightTrack Pro for the iPhone provides everything a user needs to track the status of their flights in real-time. This app is the most comprehensive flight tracker and allows users to synchronize their itineraries with other apps. Our favorite feature of this app is the layout of over 5,000 airports and flight delay alerts.

When it comes to weather, knowing precisely how the weather is going to be in a particular region can mean the difference between a good time and a bummer trip. Weather.com is always a favorite, and WeatherBug for Android, iPhone and Blackberry users provide current conditions, radar as well as the forecast for your particular destination. What makes this app great is its full integration with mobile operating systems and its precise weather conditions for GPS locations.

Traveling overseas? Don’t leave the U.S. borders without the World Customs & Cultures app. This iPhone app provides a quick snapshot of laws such as legal drinking age or smoking laws of the country you are visiting.

Many destinations in the U.S. or abroad have their own app to clue in guests and travelers of events happening in the area. For example, Florida Beach Resort Sandestin, offers vacationers their own Apple iPhone and Android app, Explore Sandestin. This 2,400-acre white-sand beach resort offers multiple bay-front properties, four championship golf courses, 19 swimming pools, various water sports and engaging children’s activities that benefit from this app’s role as a guide to local events. In fact many resorts are active participants in the world of social media through photo-sharing and networking activities for the whole family.

Tablets – If you’re considering traveling for an extended period of time, ditch your phone for a tablet instead. This convenient hybrid between a smartphone and a laptop makes for the perfect travel companion for e-reading and computing.

Reviews, Blogs and Social Media – Travelers in 2011 have a great asset available to them when it comes to traveling: social media. It’s important that when you are researching hotels, restaurants or attractions you should collectively get an idea of what the majority of people are saying about that particular establishment and not just focus on individual reviews. Sites like Facebook, Twitter, Yelp, TripAdvisor and Concierge can help you get a better idea of your destination before your arrival.

AAA Fuel Cost Calculator – If you’re planning to drive to your destination, you can save a little money and get accurate gas costs through this great tool from the Auto Club.

Suspend Home Subscriptions – In the past we put a vacation hold on all incoming mail or suspended newspaper subscriptions while we were on vacation. But did you know that Internet retailers such as Netflix and Hulu Plus allow subscribers to temporarily suspend their services?

And lastly, according to Ian Hamilton, a technology reporter for The Orange County Register, the No. 1 tech travel tip is to download everything you can to your mobile devices before you leave the house.

Whether it’s traveling to the beach, the mountains or overseas, Hamilton emphasizes that travelers can save on their data plans and be armed with the latest information while on the road.  It’s also good to have a sure bet, because sometimes you can’t depend on Wi-Fi or cellular coverage. Hamilton said that savvy travelers should download apps, games, books, documents or maps at home before the trip, and that lots of mobile apps offer offline access to their content if you are stuck in a dead zone.


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Top 11 Things to Avoid this 2011 Memorial Day Weekend

25
May
posted by Mike               filed under Travel

Memorial Day weekend is a great way to kick off the start of the summer season, but before we get wrapped up in all that is happening this summer, this holiday weekend marks a special place for Americans this year. The 10th year anniversary of September 11th is upon us and the most wanted man behind the attacks was brought down by American Special Forces just a couple of months ago. More than anything, we should all take the time to reflect on how the world has changed this past decade.

Historically, Memorial Day was established shortly after the Civil War as a day to decorate the graves of soldiers. It is believed that this time of the year was chosen because flowers are in full bloom, making it an ideal time to memorialize those that sacrificed their livelihoods so that we can enjoy our freedoms. If you are in the middle of planning your three-day weekend, here are some key things to consider for an overall enjoyable experience.

1. Avoid political bickering toward the government.

The response shortly after Osama Bin Laden’s death was nothing short of remarkable. Americans took to the streets to show their patriotic spirit – let it continue for Memorial Day.

2. Avoid getting stuck in traffic.

Memorial Day marks the first holiday weekend of the summer travel season and many Americans are sure to hit the road. If you are planning to drive to your destination, check traffic conditions, alternate routes and adjust your time of departure to ensure that you won’t be stuck in traffic for long periods of time. Here’s a tip: Vision Airlines is a recently launched leisure carrier based out of Destin, Florida and they are offering great rates for direct flights to weekend destinations. According to USA Today, Vision is keeping things simple by allowing passengers to fly directly to a destination, ideal for weekend getaways.

3. Avoid party destinations.

According to Priceline’s Memorial Day Top 50 list for 2011, popular destinations are dispersed based on what section of the country you live in. In the East Coast, Chicago, New York City and Providence tops the list, while West Coast residents will be setting their sights on Las Vegas. Here’s a tip: the cruise industry is seeing a decline in interest and thus prices reflect these changes if you know where to look. All-Travel.com offers a variety of inclusive packages that will sweep you away into the sea at an affordable price.

4. Avoid staying at home and watching TV.

Don’t kick off the summer season by staying indoors. Enjoy the great weather by visiting a parade, museum or honor fallen service members by visiting memorials in your town.

5. Avoid frivolous shopping.

This weekend is not Black Friday – while there may be a ton of deals available, they are relegated to mattresses and cars for some reason.

6. Avoid being alone.

Consider immersing yourself with family and friends (this weekend is also known as an unofficial family holiday). See them before you take off for the summer.

7. Avoid heavy drinking (might be tough when you’re with family members).

This holiday weekend is also not New Year’s Eve, St. Patrick’s Day or Cinco de Mayo. Here’s a tip: consider wine tasting instead and take your friends and family out for a weekend of regulated drinking.

8. Avoid eating out the whole weekend.

Consider grilling! Fire up your barbeque and enjoy eating outdoors.

9. Avoid using fireworks – this is not the Fourth of July.

But do consider watching it at some point this weekend. Nothing is more American than a put-together fireworks show. Leave this task to the professionals.   Many resorts and communities will offer fireworks this holiday weekend.

10. Avoid emails, social media.

Unplug for just one weekend and experience the freedom of living in the moment. You don’t need to check-in to various places, they’re probably out with their families and friends anyway and many won’t be checking your status updates.

11. Avoid celebrating the time off.

Switch the focus from your personal livelihoods to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.


5 Alternative Places to Visit

  1. Ground Zero, New York City, NY – While it may be tough to get here during this weekend, it’s a trip worth making to memorialize those who lost their lives on September 11th, 2001.
  2. Pearl Harbor, HI – If you are thinking of going on an extended family vacation, a Hawaiian cruise to visit Pearl Harbor and pay respects to those who lost their lives makes for a memorable trip.
  3. Gettysburg, PA – Did you know that this year marks the 150th anniversary of the Civil War? Take a weekend trip to this picturesque town and take in the history.
  4. Flight 93 Memorial Park, Stoystown, PA – Pay respects to those who heroically steered the plane away from innocent lives in this open field-turned state park where the plane crashed.
  5. Yellowstone National Park – Take in the natural beauty that exists in this famed state park.
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Travel the world in your car/home

14
Apr
posted by Mr.404               filed under Travel

Have you ever wanted to travel around the world on your bike, or maybe stay in hostels in Europe with nothing but a backpack? Well instead of buying a massive motor home or forcing yourself into a Hostel, why not try something in between.

This thing has everything you need to live, sleep and work on the road. All you need a is parking spot when you won’t get your home stolen.

(more…)

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Inflight Gaming Chairs

7
Apr
posted by Mr.404               filed under Odd Stuff, Travel

Imagine being able to play your favorite video games 30,000 feet above ground. German-based Contour Aerospace, in collaboration with FactoryDesign, hopes to make that dream a reality.


This futuristic chair concept, dubbed the ‘Not for Wimps’ (NFW), is designed to give passengers the ultimate gaming experience. While this model is currently in the concept stage of development, it is set to debut this week at the Aircraft Interiors Expo at the German Masse in Hamburg.

Features of the chair include built-in speakers on either side of the headrest, a noise-canceling bubble to reduce surrounding ambient sound and an overreaching arch that suspends the monitor several feet in front of the player.

I think we can all agree this would make time on a long flight fly by like no other, but it could be annoying sitting next to a 10 year old kid kicking your ass at a game. I would like to no how you would price a seat like this?

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Room 77 iPhone App

4
Apr
posted by Mr.404               filed under Software, Travel

The Room 77 iPhone app is a clever smartphone application that compiles an extensive database of international inn information, making life on the go a little easier.

Whether you’re planning in advance or very last-minute, this social media interface allows users to share their experiences at different accommodations in words and photos as well. Much more impressively, however, Room 77 has a plethora of floor plans for motels, guest houses and lodgings of all types. It sifts through 425,000 individual hotel rooms in 16 worldwide cities so far, expanding every day. A simple customization of your settings on the Room 77 iPhone app will recommend your quintessential quarters based on floor number, view, proximity to the elevator and more.

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Incredible Maui Attractions for All

4
Jun
posted by Mike               filed under Travel

Clocking in at 727.2 square miles of lush tropical paradise, Maui is Hawaii’s second largest island and full of fun and culturally enriching Maui attractions that will have you coming back to this beautiful island time and time again. Whether you’re feeling adventurous or just want to relax, Maui is the vacation destination that will fit all of your needs.

In West Maui, most of the attractions are centered around the town of Lahaina, near Kaanapali Beach. Lahaina is known for its shopping and its cultural sites such as Baldwin Home, the Maria Lanakila Church, Banyan Tree and the whaling ship Carthaginian. To the northern edge of Lahaina is the Lahaina Jodo Mission at Puunoa Point, which features the largest Great Buddha statue outside of Japan. A few miles to the north of Lahaina is Whalers Village, a popular open-air shopping center.

West Maui’s North Shore, north of Kaanapali, has beautiful beaches and breathtaking coastlines. Honolua Bay and Mokuleia Bay are not popular Maui attractions, but are the perfect places to snorkel or just unwind. Be sure to check out the famous Nakalele Blowhole from Honokohau’s Boulder Beach by way of hiking to Nakalele Point.

In Central Maui, you’ll find Maui’s largest town, Kahului, a commercial town with many shopping centers and complexes. Wailuku is home to many ancient churches, a museum and antique stores, and is also the gateway to one of the most beautiful destinations in Hawaii, the Iao Valley, where you can view the Iao Needle, a natural rock formation presiding over the Iao Stream.

In South Maui, the Kihei Coast features the Kealia Pond Bird Sanctuary and the Ma’alaea Bay and Beach near the town of Kihei. The world-famous Grand Wailea Resort is located in Wailea near Kihei. South of Wailea has beautiful beaches and Makena, a beautiful location with diverse geology that will amaze you.

In East Maui, you’ll find the Haleakala National Park at Kipahulu and the beautiful crater with a 10,023 foot summit. When water is flowing, the incredible Oheo Gulch Pools spring into action, cascading between 24 pools.

There are many other Maui attractions that haven’t been mentioned. Maui is a beautiful, diverse destination that will reveal new layers to you as you come back again and again.

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Holland America Cruises Raising the Bar

1
Jun
posted by Mike               filed under Travel

The Holland America cruise experience is exemplary of traditional luxury cruising. Holland America Cruises has been a leader in cruising for more than 136 years, taking guests to many exotic locations all around the world. If you are looking for the most comfortable & spacious ships at sea featuring award-winning service, five star dining, extensive enrichment programs and activities and worldwide itineraries, then Holland America Cruises is the perfect choice for you.

Holland America line’s fleet of 14 mid-size ships offer almost 500 sailings a year to all seven continents. Destinations include less-traveled and popular ports in Alaska, Europe, South America, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, the Amazon, Antarctica and the Caribbean. Additionally, Holland America offers unique programs like the Culinary Arts Center cooking demonstrations and special shore excursions to help you greater appreciate the places you visit.

Superior amenities and innovative programs have regularly placed Holland America Cruises among the highest-rated premium cruise lines and helped them earn the prestigious Five Star Diamond Award and one of the highest rates of repeat guests in the cruise industry. Additionally, they are also setting new standards for environmental leadership. By adhering to strict regulation, Holland America Line earned its ISO 14001 certification in June 2006.

By striving for excellence in all aspects, whether it be in service to their guests, environmentally or socially, Holland America Cruises has set the bar high for other luxury cruise lines. Take a look at what they have to offer next time you’re looking into a cruise vacation!

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