Money Saving Tips For Las Vegas Trips

Las Vegas holidays are one of the best travel deals under the sun. Book and save with the all inclusive Las Vegas deals and snag yourself a premium Las Vegas hotel centrally located in the heart of all the action. The Vegas discounts have just begun when you exercise some smart shopping and know where to get the best deals. Whether this is your first time to Las Vegas or just the next one coming up, take a few tips from the experts to save money and take total control over your trip.

Las Vegas Strip at sunset.

1. The Vegas Power Pass
The Vegas Power Pass is a discount card that may be applied to some of the hottest attractions in town. Visit Hoover Dam, The Atomic Museum and take in a few laughs at The Comedy Club for one low price. In addition, the Vegas Power pass offers valuable discounts and coupons for the Fashion Outlet Mall, an hour of free play at GameWorks and so much more. The Vegas power Pass is good until midnight on the day of purchase and is one smart way to take in the sights at the price you want to pay.

2. Shop and Save With Coupons
Shop till you drop at the fabulous Las Vegas Premium Outlets North located in downtown Las Vegas. Regarded as a utopia for bargain hunters, the hunt gets hotter with the purchase of a VIP Coupon Book to rack up impressive savings on fine merchandise and international brands. The coupons may also be applied to the mall diners, restaurants and coffee houses for sensational year round deals.

3. Gaming In the Morning
First-time gamblers or those who prefer to take their time with the bets will do best to avoid the peak hours in the casinos. From blackjack to craps, the crowd can be whipped into a frenzy making the cautious gambler a bag of nerves. To avoid the hustle and bustle, make your way to the tables at the crack of dawn. The dealers are ready and waiting and can slow down the action until you get your bearings. Ideal for those who are throwing down their first bet or some need time to have the rules explained, sunrise gambling is a great time to have some quiet space and play at your own pace.

4. Hang On To Your Change Cup
Like any big city, you have to be careful of your belongings. When playing the slots, be sure to keep your eye on your change cup at all times. Thieves often work in pairs to distract and make off with the loot. Each slot machine has a flat surface to each side and that makes it easy to keep your change cup in plain view at all times. The slot machine side tables are there for your protection, so be sure to use them instead of the floor.

5. Cheap Ground transportation
Las Vegas Boulevard, aka The Strip, has a fast, efficient and economical way to get around town. The monorail runs down Las Vegas Blvd from Mandalay Bay Hotel south of McCarren International Airport to the end of The Stip at the Sahara. One or three-day passes are avaialble for maximum savings and may be purchased at the monorail stations at the MGM Grand Hotel Las Vegas, Balley's, Flamingo, Harrah's, the Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas Hilton and the Sahara. The monorail runs from 7:AM until 2:AM Monday through Thursday and extends to 3:AM Friday through Sunday. Beat the high cost of taxis and car park charges with the clean and scenic route on the Las Vegas monorail.

Click here for great deals and offers on hotels in Las Vegas and the MGM Grand Las Vegas

Family Friendly Ski Chalets

Family Friendly Ski Resorts

Ski holidays are a great way to entertain the entire family during a break. Ski holidays mean that everyone can get a slice of what they are after. The kids can hang out in the chalet with a nanny while the grown-ups hit the slopes. An activity based holiday is also a good idea for a family get away as it means that everyone will be busy skiing and won’t have any time to be bored!

Booking family friendly ski chalets can be tricky as you will need to do some research and make sure the resort covers everyone needs and has a wide range of difficulty ski runs and also that the chalet is suitable for young children. The following ski resorts have family friendly ski chalets and lodges:

Val d’Isere – Good resort for non-skiers and flight links to Manchester and Gatwick
Meribel – Intermediate heaven with traditional villages and a good night life
Morzine – A traditional family resort with a short airport transfer
Alpe d’Huez – Ski in and out chalets with activities included in lift pass

The family friendly chalets in these resorts will be fully equipped with all the essentials such as stair gates, changing mats, microwave sterilisers and sterilising tablets, washing machine access and a selection of toys. Bed guards, potties, toilet steps and seat and table boosters are also available on request from most holiday operators.

A lot of holiday operators also provide full fat fresh milk for infants, home-made purees and food for babies, children’s cutlery and crockery, car seats in resort and pre-bookable infant packs.

Rooms in ski chalets tend to be sizable, as they are designed for accommodating a large number of guests. As such most rooms in ski chalets can fit cots. It could be a good idea to book a nanny if available, through your holiday operator as this will free up parents times and allow you more opportunity to enjoy your holiday. Ensure that nannies are qualified and their experience is checked by the holiday operator.

"A short airport transfer will also reduce stress levels"

The main considerations when choosing a chalet for a family ski trip is the length of the airport transfer as you don’t want all your troops packed onto a bus for any longer than is needed. A short airport transfer will also reduce stress levels at the end of the holiday, as you will have more time for packing and won’t have to worry about being held up on the way to the airport.

If there are going to be parents looking after the children in the group you will need to make sure that there is lots to do in the resort and that everything is within walking distance from the chalets. Also check whether activities are included in the lift pass price as this will mean any parents taking care of the kids will be able to head into the resort and keep the kids entertained at no extra cost.

Family ski holidays are a great alternative to the usual break as you can take the kids during the winter holidays which will mean that you don’t have to interrupt school terms and everyone gets a slice of the fun!

Jonathan is a freelance writer who has frequently taken some family ski holidays so understands the stress they can involve!

How to Save Money on Your Ski Holiday

Save money on your next family ski vacation!

The depressed economy has kept many families from going on their usual winter ski vacations, although this doesn't have to be the case. There are a ton of ways to save money on every aspect of your trip if you are willing to search for great deals. Below are some helpful tips to help you reduce the costs of your family vacation this year.

Transportation

While flying is often a much faster mode of transportation, driving or taking a train are much cheaper. This is especially true for families. Not only can you save money on gas, but this money can be used to purchase snacks along the way, saving money by avoiding pricey restaurant stops. Also, if you plan to bring a lot of luggage, including any ski gear, driving or taking a train can help you save money that would be spent on checking extra baggage on a plane.

Hotels and Lodging

Hotels are often one of the most expensive parts of a family vacation. This is because people tend to book rooms from names they recognize from large chains. However, there are many other, less expensive options that include bed and breakfasts, condos and motels. While these may not include all of the same amenities as the larger chains, they will provide a nice place to rest after a long day of skiing. We enjoy this Vail lodging portal.

Plan Ahead

Planning ahead is going to help you cut costs in a number of ways. Many airlines or rail stations will provide a discount for people who book their trip in advance. This also includes planning ahead for peak travel times and avoiding the times of year which are most popular. Hotels and other lodging businesses will also usually offer a lower rate for those who book in advance. Shopping around is the best way to get the lowest prices available for your vacation.

Pack a Lunch

Another thing that many travelers do not consider is the high cost of food while traveling. While it is enjoyable to experience the local flavor at restaurants, this can add up quickly. It is a good idea to do some grocery shopping for your trip and take packed lunches when you go skiing. This will help you save a tremendous amount of money by avoiding the overpriced mountaintop restaurants. You can also purchase snacks for your hotel room and save money that way.

Ski Passes

Aside from transportation and lodging, ski resorts also have their own ways to help you save money. Vail's Epic Pass costs $649 and allows you to ski as much as you want whenever you want. This is a huge savings opportunity when you consider that the 7-day pass is $499. Other ski resorts have similar offers as well. These passes are an incentive for those who plan to stay for longer than a week. If you are a ski enthusiast, this is definitely the way to go. Some resorts also offer childcare for free, so this is definitely something to consider if you are traveling with your family.

Discovering historical Valletta City in Malta

Tucked away in a back street, far enough removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, but no more than stone's throw away from Valletta City Gate lies the quaint, comfortable restaurant Rampila. A stunning locale for a restaurant, Rampila boasts sensational views and sumptuous food - a combination that offers a truly exquisite and wholly unique dining experience.

Whether tourists or locals are popping in for a spot of lunch or stopping by in the evening for a three course meal, the extensive menu at Rampila offers something to suit everyone's palette, providing an interesting and exciting combination of traditional Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine that includes tempting dishes of rabbit, quail and duck. Also available are daily specials of fine meats, fresh fish and fresh pasta all presented in a variety of mouth-watering dishes. The menu is topped off with a fantastic, reasonably priced wine list and a fine array of home-made desserts.

The Rampila is also a successful wine bar, however it is not just any Malta wine bar, but a tourist attraction all of its own. It sits nestled away in the tunnels built by the Knights of Malta in the 1500s in order to access the canon emplacements built to protect the beautiful city of Valletta. The tunnels now play host to this intimate, truly unique wine bar, supplying a fantastic and varied collection of wines allowing something for everyone, from the best local wines to the finest international tipples.

The thing that really sets Rampila apart from the competition is the charming wax work exhibition on display at the restaurant. Offering an interesting view of what life on Malta was like 100 years ago, it is an original concept that makes for excellent pre-dinner viewing and an exciting topic for discussion. This kind of experience is simply not on offer in any of the other restaurants in Valletta.

Rampila's fully heated terrace offers customers the chance to dine in the open air complete with a stunning view of the historic City Gate. Once home to two large canons that provided protection for the city, the terrace now offers a relaxing and romantic atmosphere, perfect for an autumn candle lit meal for two, or an excellent place to sit with a group of friends while enjoying good wine and good conversation.

The City Gate is soon to undergo an extensive reconstruction designed by multi award winning and world renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano, so the Rampila's roof terrace will be the perfect place to watch on as a new chapter in Malta's history unfolds.

Rampila promises to offer its customers an appetising experience which goes far beyond just dinner and wine, giving them an authentic and enjoyable experience of traditional Maltese cuisine, along with tasting some fantastic local wines, but also offering to teach them about some of the history of the city. All of this, plus the friendly, welcoming and helpful staff are renowned for making their customers feel as if they have made a new friend.

Top Ten Australian Camping Destinations

Camping in Australia can offer beautiful scenery along with your choice of relaxation or adventure; the options are virtually unlimited. From camping along the coast to roughing it in the outback, there are camping destinations for every type of outdoor lover in Australia . Here is our list of the top ten camping destinations in the country.

1. Perth Hills Campsite

If you love hiking, Perth Hills is for you! From bushwalking trails to guided walks through the park, hiking is the most sought after activity in the park. When you get tired of fishing, head to the water and try your hand at fishing or jump in and take a swim.

2. Conto Campground

Pack your bags and head to Conto for a weekend getaway. Explore the lighthouses and caves for truly unique sights. Hiking, fishing and swimming are great activities to participate in during your weekend in the park.

3. Kurrajong Campsite

The Bungle Bungle Range is a favorite site among campers. Over 350 million years old, the towers of the range provide campers with gorges to explore and plenty of photo opportunities. Be sure to pack a pair of hiking shoes!

4. Charlie Moreland Camping

If wildlife is your thing, don’t skip Charlie Moreland! Whether you choose to tour the park by foot, mountain bike, car or horseback, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to see the various birds and animals that call the area home.

5. Burke & Wills Dig Tree Camping Area
Designed around the Dig Tree, the Burke & Willis camping area is located next to Cooper Creek and is pet friendly; a plus for many camp-goers! Hike, fish and explore the area, seeing sights seen by Burke & Willis themselves.

6. Mauka Campground

Covering nearly 70kms of ground, the conservation area is home to an old gold mining town. From beaches to waterfalls, surfing to fishing, the campground is a nature lover’s dream. Be sure to bring along a camera, the photo opportunities are vast!

7. Richardson Beach (Freycinet main) Camping Area
Rock climbers will find Richardson Beach a paradise. With granite boulders, cliffs and walls, rock climbers of every skill level will find a path suitable for themselves and all members of their party. There are hiking and walking opportunities that will keep you busy for days.

8. Wilpena Pound Campground

Aboriginal rock art can be found in abundance at Wilpena Pound. The explorer in you will be delighted with the number of gorges, paths and waterholes available for traversing. Swimming, fishing and hiking make this a perfect campground no matter if you’re bringing along a campervan rental or a tent.

9. Hacks Peninsula Camping Area
There are over 150 species of bird that are native to Hacks Peninsula. Bring along your binochulars and bird guide so you don’t miss a single one! Perch yourself on one of the many boardwalks or take a walk through the wetlands, the choice is yours. Don’t forget your camera; you may see birds you’ll not be able to see in any other part of the country.

10. Snowy River Camping Area
If winter camping is what you desire, look no further than Snowy River . Home to Australia’s tallest mountain, Mt Kosciuszko, outdoor enthusiasts find Snowy River the perfect winter getaway. From skiing to snowboarding, the area boasts all manner of winter sporting opportunities.

Maine Research: Making Travel Plans

Maine Research For Vacation

Maine research for the ultimate relaxation vacation

Maine research does nothing but the fuel the fire for someone who has always wanted to visit the natural beauty of the East Coast, and truly relax in what may be one of the most underrated states in the U.S. Call me an old soul, but when I think of taking the trip of a lifetime to the East Coast, I don't think of staying in New York or touring Washington D.C. I'm not interested in catching a Red Sox game in Boston, or seeing the Hamptons.

My dream is visiting the sleepy fishing towns of Maine. Seeing the leaves of fall, aboard the Maine Eastern Railroad between Brunswick and Rockland. Stand on the rocky shore near of the many fascinating and majestic lighthouses of Maine.

Lodging in Maine

There are plenty of options for lodging all around Maine, and to be honest... You're going to have a harder time deciding where to stay, than actually finding a place to stay. If luxury is your forte, you might want to look at such options as The Inn at Ocean's Edge in Lincolnville, Maine. With plenty of packages to choose from, you can experience everything from couples retreats, to "living like the locals do" where you'll get the chance to ride with a real Captain on an authentic Lobster Boat. Maybe you'd be more interested in the sailing and dining package, touring small islands made of granite and finishing with a oceanfront dinner. Not a planner? Fear not, as there is even a "Last Minute Traveler Package."

It's Not Maine Without Lobster

You've got to try the lobster!

Maine lobster should be a must have on the menu for your visit. How does an authentic lobster bake with all the wonderful trimmings on a deserted island beach sound? If that has your attention, you may want to contact the Windjammer, J.& E. Riggin in Rockland Maine.

If you still haven't met your stomach's lobster quota after the tour, make sure to attend the Maine Lobster Festival in August. Over 1,000 volunteers come together to make this event happen each and every year. Saturday, August 13th, 2011 marked the 47th Annual Lobster Festival in Winter Harbor. The event included lobster boat races, a 5K road race, art show, live entertainment and more.

So That's Why They Call It "Vacationland"

So they call it "Vacationland," but why? I'll tell you why! There is so much to do and to see! Take Acadia Air Tours for example! There are over 20 flight adventures to choose from including: A biplane tour, glider flights, a fighter pilot experience and even your plain old scenic flight.

Not quite your style? Make sure you check out one of the many State Parks Maine has to offer. Have you ever heard of Sebago Lake? Here you can do anything from camping to fishing, swimming, and even hit the snack bar! Maybe you'd like to motor down a scenic road. If that's the case then look no further than Holbrook Island Sanctuary, Grafton Notch, Cobscook Bay, and Camden Hills.

Kayaking Maine

If paddling around is on your brain, suit up and hit the water. Canoe trips and kayak tours are offered all around the state. It's also very easy to find canoe and kayak rentals too. A couple of outfits to consider are Coastal Kayaking Tours in Bar Harbor and Northwoods Outfitters in Greenville.

If you are looking for something on the water that is a little slower paced, book a deep sea fishing with Old Quarry Ocean Adventures in Stonington. Near Ogunquit? Give Bunny Clark Deep Sea Fishing a shot. There are also many opportunities to scope out local wildlife while forging the waves. Keep your eyes peeled for puffins, whale, and seals!

Wow your family by conducting a little Maine research and see the endless possibilities the state has to offer you and your loved ones. With activities and sights that cater to everyone, from the rug-rats to grandma and grandpa, this is a travel destination that is sure to please. So pack your bags and head to the East Coast!

Written and posted by blog admin.

Melbourne Accommodation

Any one visiting Australia will of course want to visit Melbourne, the famous center for the arts, commerce and education. This city has been ranked as the world’s most livable city in the World’s Most Livable Cities ratings by the Economist Group. Accommodation in Melbourne comes in all types and to suit every budget. Punthill Hotels and Apartments in Melbourne brings you some of the classiest options available on www.punthill.com.au

Bed and Breakfast

The Bed and Breakfast experience in Melbourne combines personal attention and privacy in a quality blend which will leave you wanting for more. The best of Melbourne is combined in the bed and breakfast kind of accommodation enabling you to enjoy delectable breakfasts and stunning surrounds like laid-back bayside areas or the cosmopolitan inner suburbs. These bed and breakfast accommodations are found in some of the city’s most interesting locations where you will be enthralled by the architecture as well as the history of the place you stay in.

Apartments

With Melbourne accommodation you can enjoy a privileged place in the midst of classic surroundings. These apartments are perfect for art lovers, food connoisseurs and shoppers of the most compulsive order. The apartments consist of one, two and three bedrooms and you can choose according to your need. The services in these apartments are 4-star rated and are fully furnished and contains all modern facilities. Some of these apartments are just a stone’s throw away from the Etihad Stadium, the Crown Casino, the Melbourne Aquarium and the Docklands and Harbor Town shopping center. For business related stays, there is efficient business accommodation available near Melbourne. These apartments can be rented for reduced rates for weekly and monthly stays.

Apartments in Burwood are located 14 km to the South East of Melbourne’s CBD. You have access to lovely parks and creeks at the end of short walks. On a short day trip you can visit the Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Valley. A visit to “the fashion capital” Chadstone will have even the most sober of shoppers shop compulsively. This area is especially suitable for university students as the apartments are located very close to Deakin University.

In Victoria, you can find cheap priced hotel style accommodation in serviced apartments. With 4-star facilities and easy access to all important points in the city, these modern apartments are suitable for long or short term stays in Victoria.

The apartment complex is surrounded by a central courtyard which has a breathtakingly beautiful landscaped garden. The facilities of an in-house fitness room and conference facilities are also available here.

There are beautifully furnished apartments in the Melbourne Inner Suburbs of South Yarra Grand, South Yarra and Stanton. Accommodation is also available at city locations like Flinders Lane, Little Bourke and Manhattan.

Having Fun in Australia

Planning Your Next Vacation? Choose Australia!

Most people choose to take a vacation at least once a year. Many people have trouble deciding where they should go on vacation. Vacations are meant to be fun and exciting, but going to the same places every year can become dull and boring. That is why people should consider going on vacation in Australia because there are a plethora of fun activities to do. Once a person has went on vacation in Australia once, he or she will want to come back for vacation several more times.

What are some fun things to do in Southern Australia?

Visit the Adelaide Zoo

Australia is a very big continent, so a person might be wondering what region he or she should visit first. Southern Australia is a good place to start because there are a ton of attractions there. People who love animals will enjoy the Adelaide Zoo. The Adelaide Zoo features 1400 species of some of the most beautiful and exotic animals in the world.

One of the things that many people look forward to when they go on vacation is live theatre. The Adelaide Theatre Company has been around for 90 years, which makes it one of the oldest surviving theatres in Australia. There is always plays and other fun events going on in this theatre.

Many people go on vacation to escape the stresses of everyday life. Those who choose to go on vacation in Southern Australia will have the opportunity to escape at the Botanical Gardens of Adelaide. This place features some of the most beautiful trees and plants in the world.

Those who like to see ancient displays and exhibits will be thrilled to know that there are two museums located in Southern Australia. The Migration Museum shows exhibits that shaped the multi-cultural society in South Australia. The South Australia Museum is located in Adelaide and features exhibits and displays.

Golf is a big part of many people's life and Southern Australia is a good place to visit to play golf. The Tea Tree Gully Golf club is located in Adelaide. It features a 18-hole course and is also a popular place to host wedding receptions and other social events. There is also an international festival called Tasting Australia that goes on once every two years in Adelaide. This festival features some of the best wine, beverages and food in the world. There is also places for people who are interested in pokies.

How to Save Money on Your Trip to Australia:

Everyone knows that going on vacation can be quite expensive and going on vacation out of the country can be even more expensive. Below are a few tips that can help people save money on their vacation to Australia

*Book your trip in advance- People will be surprised at how much money they can save by booking their vacation months in advance. Many websites offer 30, 40 and even 50 percent discounts.

*Schedule your vacation during the Spring or the Fall- Booking during the off-season will help people save a ton of money.

Hope Island Stays

If you are off to the Gold Coast, congratulations! This is the perfect getaway for anyone! Hope Island is full of great attractions, beaches, surfing and restaurants. In order to get the most out of your trip, it is imperative to choose the perfect accommodations for your adventure. Luckily, there are several ways to stay on Hope Island.

Bed and Breakfasts:

Without a doubt, the B&B is the cozy way to stay on vacation. If you prefer a charming getaway with the personal touch, check out some of the Island's bed and breakfasts. One that has a touch of a resort feel is A Lighthouse on Hammersley. It's spacious, themed rooms are kept by a couple who ensure you a great stay. There are several high end amenities such as brilliant fireplaces, theater rooms, and private Adirondack chairs to watch the sunset with your loved ones. A Lighthouse on Hammersley has not missed a single detail and with reasonable prices, is a great choice for a relaxing getaway.

Apartments:

If staying on the Gold Coast for a longer trip, try renting an apartment. The Azzura resort boasts large fully furnished apartments along with great poolside features, golf and tennis courts. The beaches are right there ready to explore. This is a great accommodation for a large family or group looking to stay at Hope Island for an extended stay.

Hotels:

For a more luxurious vacation, there are several exclusive hotels to accommodate your private vacation. Club Watermark, a five star hotel, is certainly on the high end of most budgets, but is much more exclusive. Guests must be over 21 and children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. The large, spacious rooms and suites have great amenities, and the location of the hotel, right in Surfer's Paradise, is ideal for beach lovers. For an even grander experience, book at Donatella Versace's new luxurious resort, The Palazzo Versace. The rooms are breathtaking and are designed to accommodate different needs. There is even a "What's Kickin'" room for expectant parents on their Babymoon. Another suite, the Lagoon Suite even has a private lagoon to enjoy. This hotel is certainly a slice of Australia paradise.

All Inclusive:

While Australian all-inclusive resorts usually imply that you will get a kitchen to cook in, there are some resorts on the Gold Coast that will include activities, drinks, and food with your accommodations. Hope island accommodation is ideal for the person who wants to have minimal worries and focus on exploration and relaxation. Lizard Island, located nearer to Queensland does offer a restaurant; Osprey's offers a rotating menu for variety. Activities such as snorkeling and surfing are included and available. There a large villas for more private excursions.

Hostels:

On the other end of the luxury spectrum is the economic hostel. Since Hope Island and the Gold Coast cater to backpackers and surfers, there is a plethora of hostels for the low budget traveller. Islander Backpacker Resort is a little more expensive than a typical resort, but allows some luxuries such as a pool, bar and suite bathrooms. The bare minimum can be found at hostels like Backpackers in Paradise, located near the bus station for easy mobility.

No matter how you stay, it will be worth it to experience this one-of-a-kind island!