Sail On – Top Tips For Sailing Holidays

Want flexibility? Choose sailing!

Ever since I heard the Commodores singing Sail On, I’ve dreamed of chartering my own boat and sailing the seven seas as they say.  OK, so Lionel Richie didn’t strictly have sailing on his mind but that’s the image it conjured up for me – and still does.

For the sailing aficionados or the merely curious, a sailing vacation is one of the most flexible vacations available.  Forget the itineraries, devise your own timetable and if you want to vary it while you’re out there, that’s just fine.

The independence of a sailing vacation holds a unique allure for many, and for those with sailing experience, bareboat charters offer some of the most attractive options.

Experienced or not, there are certain things to consider before you book your vacation:-

Qualifications
The qualifications required for a bareboat charter vary depending on where you’re heading for.  To arrange a bareboat charter in the Caribbean, experience often counts more than actual qualifications.  Fancy the far reaches of the Mediterranean and the culture of Greece? The Greek authorities will want to see your sailing certificate and your ‘first mate’ is also likely to be asked to sign a declaration as to his or her level of experience.

Useful Tip: Before you even think of setting sail, agree to some form of ‘hierarchy’ with your crew.  In the very unlikely event you encounter any difficulties which require a clear decision, the last thing you want is a mutiny!

When Should You Go?
The time of year you choose for your vacation has a significant effect on both price and destination. If budget is your prime consideration, then the decision on when to go may be out of your hands.

Useful Tip: It can actually be cheaper to charter a bareboat just before the Christmas and New Year holidays.  Most people planning vacations in December aim to celebrate the festive season in an exotic location. Why not celebrate in advance and be home in time to spend Christmas with the rest of the family?
Warning: Hurricane season in the Caribbean will often see a steep drop in prices for chartering boats.  I can’t imagine why!

Book Well in Advance
It may sound obvious but many charters are booked up to a year in advance.  If you’re serious make your reservation now and be flexible on lead time. Secure the destination and boat that you really want.

Useful Tip: If you have to take school holidays into consideration, it’s even more important to book with as much advance notice as possible. If you’re thinking of Florida, the Bahamas or the Caribbean, June and July are your best options as the heat is still bearable.

Know What You Are Paying For
Check and check again with the tour company so you know exactly what’s included in the price of the charter.  It can vary with each tour operator. As well as basics, you may find snorkeling equipment, towels and first aid kits included in the price. Check the inventory and don’t take any chances – take out full travel insurance.

Useful Tip: Don’t forget your sunscreen!
Planning your charter is lots of fun but don’t overlook the important stuff in your haste to confirm it.

Once you have an idea of budget and times you can go, the exciting part begins, choosing your destination!  You’re spoil for choice, from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, the Mediterranean to the Far East.  Whether whale watching, ancient history, lazy days on sparkling white sands or warm water snorkeling is your thing, all bases are covered.

Are you more of a landlubber than a seafarer and slightly daunted by everything we’ve mentioned?   Look at options for yacht rental that include hiring a crew. Relax in the knowledge that technical matters are in safe hands and you’ll soon find your sea legs.

P.S, don’t forget your Commodores soundtrack.

Penelope loves to sail and has a passion for travelling the world... and of course playing the Commodores along the way

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.

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.

Take A Princess To Bali

Bali is a beautiful island located in the middle of the Java Islands of Indonesia. Its main claim to fame is its pristine beaches, summer weather and many cultural and sightseeing locations. Apart from beaches and religious monuments, Bali can also boast of some of the friendliest locals. However, by far the biggest attraction of Bali is water and water related activities. Being an island this makes sense. Scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, sail surfing, sailing and taking a cruise ship in around the area, are some of the most popular activities in Bali. Taking a cruise with stop at Bali is a relatively new attraction and one of the primary cruise companies that offer Bali cruises is Princess Cruises.

The most popular time to take a cruise to Bali is during summertime, or from May to September. Besides being vacation time for most people in the world, the other reason is because the weather in Bali is the most manageable during this time of year. Princess Cruises offers starting points from several cities in Southeast Asia to go on a Bali cruise. However, Singapore is perhaps the most popular place to start a Bali Cruise vacation. If you are starting from Australia, then Perth is the city to start a Bali cruise on aboard Princess Cruises.

So once you arrive at Bali, what is there to do? As mentioned before Bali is a picturesque and beautiful land that offers just about every type of entertainment for even the most discerning traveler. Hiking, biking, cycling, mountain climbing, elephant safaris, rafting, camping, and sightseeing are all available in Bali. As far as sightseeing is concerned some of the most popular places to visit are Kintamani, Tampak Siring, Uluwatu, Tanah Lot and Besakih. After seeing all these monuments and temples, you will have a better understanding of the unique Balinese culture and history.

Going on an elephant safari is one of the unique attractions as far as Balinese vacations are concerned. Not many places offer this type of unique transportation. There are many tour operators that offer this type of journey. There are many places in the world that offer great surfing and diving experiences, but few can match Bali. Some of the beaches here offer the best surfing spots in the world! In fact, surfers from around the world converge to this place to take advantage of some of the best waves.

The good news is that all this can be enjoyed once you reach Bali on a cruise ship. However, when you take Princess Cruises, the journey itself is as fun as the destination. Princess Cruises has always been known to be one of the most family friendly cruises. Onboard amenities rival those found in a five star hotel. Bali holiday packages are also given for families. Once vacationers reach Bali, there are holiday packages given for people traveling with their families. This includes accommodations as well as sightseeing trips to places such as water parks and zoos.

Five Tips for Planning the Perfect Cruise

A cruise vacation has a lot to offer; sparkling waters, world-class cuisine and exotic locales. For first time cruisers, the whole process can be a bit overwhelming. Just remember that this is the trip of a lifetime and you’re going to have fun no matter what. To help you out, here are a few tips for planning that perfect cruise vacation.

Pick the right cruise line for you
Ages, activities, and ambiance vary greatly from company to company, even from ship to ship within a single cruise line. For example, Disney caters to children and families; where Norwegian typically attracts older couples. Take time to research which company aspires to provide the atmosphere you’re dreaming of.

Pick the right destinations
Each ship within a line’s fleet does more than just one cruise. If you have picked a cruise line, looking at the cruises offered by them is the next step. Think about the places you’d like to go and the activities you like to do. Each port has a unique selection of wildlife, history, shopping, and beaches. A quick internet search of a particular port of call will help you determine what the place has to offer.

Don’t be afraid of days at sea
You will notice that every cruise will have at least one day at sea. This isn’t just time to get from one place to another, it’s a time for you to take advantage of the facilities provided on the ship. Many ports excursions are a rush of arrivals, departures, and being herded from one place to the next. Your time on the ship is lower key and days at sea often provide the rest and relaxation that separate vacation from regular life. Don’t worry about being bored; your floating home is full of surprises just waiting to be discovered.

A ship is more than just your room
There are lots of choices of staterooms on a cruise, but you may find that you have very little need of your room when you consider all the public areas available to you on the cruise ship. Upper decks offer quiet corners and comfortable seating in which you can curl up and relax. Café type restaurants are open 24 hours to provide a gathering place as well as coffee. Most ships also have game rooms or libraries where you can find board games, books and televisions. A quick look at the ship’s amenities will give you an idea of where you can spend your time outside of your stateroom.

Do Your Homework
That is a phrase dreaded by school children, but just a little time planning can help your whole trip to be more relaxing. Cruise line websites offer lists of things to pack and the documentation required for leaving the country. Port reviews let you know the best things to do at each port of call, and ship reviews can give you a clue to anything extra you might want to bring along.

Heather Johnson a leading honeymoon planning resource. Learn about the best honeymoon destinations today!

Truckee California Vacation

A Truckee California Vacation

Truckee, CA retro sign

Truckee California is one of the neatest places you can possibly visit in The Golden State. Truckee is easily found off the I-80 Fwy, just minutes Northeast of Lake Tahoe. The city itself, is actually located in Nevada County in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and actually boarders The Silver State just a short drive from Reno.

With a claim to fame involving the famous "Donner Party," cannibalism will be furthest thing on your mind when you find out the selection of restaurants Truckee has to offer. The Donner theme is found everywhere in and around Truckee, CA. Donner Memorial State Park is just out of town and offers an array of activities for the family, including: camping, picnicking, boating, fishing, water-skiing, and hiking in the summer months. Respectively, cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails in the winter.

The ideal vacation spot for those looking to relax, do a little shopping, and experience world class dining.

Restaurants in Truckee, CA

Truckee may be a "small town" by measure, with its population of 16,180 (2010 census), but don't let it fool you when it comes to the world class restaurants. A big part of the economy is based on its tourist industry, and with that comes a great, diverse, and really creative food scene. With everything from fine dining to a casual burger spot, there is something for everyone.

Fifty Fifty Brewing Co.

Fifty Fifty Brewing Co. in Truckee, CA

Fifty Fifty Brewing Co. is a must see in Truckee. It's a very causal atmosphere with some really good brews, and some honest to goodness pub food. The craft beers follow the area theme with their Donner Party Porter. For those who enjoy the lighter side of craft beer, or are more Coors Light/ Bud Light drinkers, steer toward the Base Camp Golden Ale or the Manifesto Pale Ale. For those who fear no beer, go for the full hop flavor of a Rockslide IPA, with a slight citrus profile.

Fifty Fifty is committed to local sustainability, and has fashioned its business model to accommodate those goals. The pub serves 100% natural beef, donates the spent grain from the brewing process to a local ranch for the livestock, has fully compostable carry-out containers, donates used fryer oil to be used as Bio-Diesel and more!

Burger Me Truckee, CA

Burger Me in Truckee, CA

Can we officially call this "Flavor Town?" Well, maybe we can't, but Guy Fieri of the Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins and Dives can! Oh wait, I think he did when Burger Me! was featured on an episode of the "Triple D" that aired on the Food Network. In fact, this is now a major destination place visitors to the area.

Among the many various menu choices at this burger place is your standard beef burger option, a leaner bison burger option to the turkey burger and even the old veggie. All burgers have customizable options from something as simple as caramelized onions to Niman Ranch bacon. Like their neighbor mentioned above, Burger Me! commits to using seasonal, locally sources ingredients whenever possible.

Moody's

Moody's in Truckee, CA

Moody’s Bistro & Lounge should be your number one destination if you are looking for the fine dining experience in Truckee. The acclaimed bistro's Executive Chef Mark Estee and A&R Man J.J. Morgan have engineered a menu that also utilizes the fresh and seasonal, local resources. Moody's offers all the high end dishes you'd expect to see and some a little more surprising, like the beef tartare. If you're not all that hungry, it's a great place to stop in for a drink and a little of the night flavor, including live music.

Other Truckee Travel Attractions

There is so much more to see and do in Truckee including visiting Sierra Air Helicopters for a tour over Lake Tahoe. Maybe your style is to poke around the shops in historic downtown Truckee. If you're more of a winter person then the Coldstream Adventures Snowmobile Tours is for you! No matter what your forte, there is something here for you!

Written and posted by blog admin.

Wandering Aimlessly Like A Cloud? Take An Escorted Tour

By nature, people who like to travel and venture into the unknown in search of adventure and discovery tend to be independent thinkers. What could be more independent than choosing to abandon familiar surroundings and the comforts of home in favour of a voyage to faraway places in strange new worlds? Many experienced travellers, however, will tell you that independence on the path not-yet-travelled can sometimes become more of a chore than a joy. Ask anyone who has run a car onto a sidewalk trying to navigate a busy roundabout in London, or spent the majority of a vacation in Paris standing in lines trying to get into famous museums, or wheeled a seventy-pound suitcase from sold-out hotel to sold-out hotel in Rome. Sure, traveling solo can be adventure, but if you would rather relax and enjoy a hassle-free vacation that requires no maps, no negotiating skills, and no stress, than an escorted tour is for you!

Escorted Horseback Tour

Escorted tours are operated around the globe by companies known as tour operators. These companies specialize in vacations for savvy travellers who want to spend their time enjoying the sights, culture, history and people of their chosen vacation spot, rather than spending it planning, navigating, standing at ticket windows and waiting for a table in restaurants. Taking an escorted tour is a great way to travel in safety and comfort, and since operators specialize in the destinations they offer, they have years of experience with the hotels, restaurants and attractions you'll be visiting. That kind of local expertise promises you the best vacation you could ask for.

Escorted tours offer a multitude of benefits. You'll get to relax and view the scenery on a luxury coach operated by a professional driver. And you'll never have to worry about where you're going to sleep at night. Hotels are prearranged and on most escorted tours, your suitcase will even be delivered to your room! Likewise, you'll be whisked past ticket counters and lines and go right into sightseeing attractions. At mealtime, your table will be waiting and with many meals included in the price of your tour, you and your new found friends, won't have to worry about paying the check!

Escorted Tour Group

Speaking of friends, getting to know like-minded guests in your group is another fun perk of taking an organized tour. You'll meet folks from around the world, and might even forge a new friendship that will last a lifetime. And let's not forget your professional tour escort or tour director. This is the leader of your vacation, and the person who will make your trip seamless and pleasant by taking care of everything! Escorted group travel is a great way to explore the world. Try it, you'll like it!

Guest post by Elliot Jones

Tips for Enjoying Your Travel Destination

With summer upon us, it’s time to plan that special family vacation, and what better place to enjoy the sun, fun, and all that summer has to offer than a trip to La Jolla. The city has numerous attractions for the whole family as well as delicious places to eat, shop, and lounge, making it nearly impossible to spend all day in a salon in La Jolla!

Here are a few tips to help you enjoy your stay in La Jolla.

For the Artists

La Jolla is a place of rich, distinct culture perfect for the aspiring artist seeking inspiration. There are dozens of art galleries in La Jolla, namely the downtown area. From classic paintings to contemporary pieces, these art galleries show the area’s great sense of diversity. The town is, of course, home to UC San Diego. The campus holds all sorts of fun performances, both musical and dramatic, and activities to satisfy the intellect and artful mind. Make sure to check the school’s website for details. If that’s not enough, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego is located in La Jolla. The museum holds new exhibitions every few months so keep your eye out for exciting new events.

For the Hungry

As well as some sweating yourself silly with Bikram Yoga, La Jolla, CA offers dozens of delicious restaurants and eateries. La Jolla’s Burger Lounge is the place for some great, classic burgers. Burger Lounge runs on the philosophy that a burger should taste great and make use of healthy ingredients, all produced within a sustainable environment. The menu is simple and caters to health-conscious eaters and burger lovers alike. You have your choice of tallgrass beef, turkey, or quinoa patties, along with a side of fresh cut fries or onion rings. Burger Lounge also offers salads, chicken tenders, cupcakes, and milkshakes, all made from fresh, healthy ingredients. These are the type of burgers you don’t have to feel guilty about.

Nearby is Whisknladle. This restaurant is best known for making everything in house, from the sauces to the main courses. All their produce is organic and supplied by local growers. Eating at the Whisknladle really gives you the authentic taste of San Diego.

If you would like to indulge yourself, La Jolla is also home to several unique pizzerias. Regents Pizzeria offers some divine pies in thin New York style or thick, rich Chicago style. You have numerous options for toppings, all of which are purchased fresh from local suppliers. The dough is handmade and your pizza is cooked in a special stone oven that ensures optimal crunch when you finally get to take a bite.

Four Reasons Montreal is a Must-See Vacation Destination

When you travel to Canada for your vacation, make time to visit the marvellous, exciting city of Montreal. This cosmopolitan area is world-famous for not only its role as the fashion centre of the country but also for its culture, architecture and even its night life. For the visitor, Montreal offers such a wide array of sights and activities that many people are reluctant to return home!

1) Art

From public artworks to magnificent museums and galleries, Montreal can hardly contain all its visual and aural enjoyment gifts to the public.

Modern sculptures adorn the city in public plazas and parks. From smooth subtleties that beguile the imagination to intricate and intriguing Renaissance works, appreciation and celebration of art in Montreal has been elevated to...well, an art form.

Even the unusual has been ordinary fare in this metropolis. When you view a piece from all sides and still can't figure out what it's supposed to be, you're probably not alone, but everyone can appreciate its flair and creativity.

2) Attractions

Discover for yourself the well-hidden enjoyment treasure found inside the former stadium for the 1976 Olympics. The Biodome de Montreal houses contains four separate ecological habitats. Explore a rain forest, a polar environment, a marine display and a lush forest area—all under one roof. Learn about the ecology, the flora and the fauna native to each area represented. Laugh at the antics of the polar puffins and penguins. Then cross to the rain forest and enjoy the tricks and mischief of the monkeys and the brilliant colours of the parrots. The Biodome welcomes families and provides special activities for the children—and their parents!

The Quays of the Old Port of Montreal (Quais du Vieux-Port de Montreal) was once the shipping hub of this bustling city. The area has been transformed into a brilliant scenic area tailored to biking or leisurely walking tours and meandering among the many shops, boutiques and cafes. View yesteryear as it presents itself for your enjoyment as you capture bits of history along your way.

Be sure to stop by the Chateau Ramezay Museum in Montreal. Named after the French colonial governor Claude de Ramezay, this structure once housed the French and then British colonial governments. During the American Revolution, it served as the headquarters of the Revolutionaries who laid siege to the city. The building was the first to be declared an historical monument in the city and it was awarded the National Award of Excellence from the Landscape Architects of Canada in 2003.

3) Boat Tours

You won't believe you have only one hour on board as you embark on a daytime cruise on the Saint-Lawrence River. Don't worry about a picnic lunch or a snack you forgot, because you can find it on board as the specially-designed boats slip into areas that others cannot. Enjoy the waterway that adds depth and dimension to your Montreal holiday.

4) Festivals

Whether you like the gay festivals full of fun and diversity or you prefer literary seminars, Montreal can meet those requests and virtually everything in between. Does jazz music set your soul afire? You're in luck when you attend the Montreal Jazz Festival usually held in early summer. Be astounded at the power, grace and magnificence of the Cirque de Soleil, the world-famous contemporary travelling circus—or performance art—that perennially breaks its own highest standards of excellence.

'To Be Continued'

More than one visitor has told himself that as he reluctantly departs toward home. This very short list of only a few of the wonders, marvels and entertaining sidebars that make Montreal unique, embracing the past as it races toward the future. Come see why. Visit Montreal on your holiday.

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