Cap Juluca In Anguilla

Cap Juluca is an exclusive Caribbean hotel that is
located to the southwest coast of Anguilla, of the
British Virgin Islands. The resort is set on 179
tranquil acres, and surrounded by white sandy
beaches, palm trees, and water so clear that you
can see to the bottom.

Guests of the Cap Juluca resort are accommodated
in 18 beachfront style villas which will house
no more than six rooms each. The rooms measure
at least 700 square feet in size and feature large
marble bathrooms, white tile floors, and louvered
doors which will open wide to let in the cool sea
breezes. During the morning, guests can enjoy
complimentary continental breakfast which is
served on their own private terrace.

The Cap Juluca also offers six pool villas which
are surrounded by foliage on the edge of the beach.
The pool villas offer either a private or shared
swimming pool, sundeck, and even golf carts to
help you travel around the property.

The resort design features exotic arches, domes,
turrets, and parapets. The white villas, which
are situated along the white sands of the mile
long Maundays Bay, is surround by tropical
flowers, palm trees, and breathtaking fountains.

This beach vacation also offers a number of
great activities which include water sports,
croquet, a health club, herb and endangered
species gardens, children's program, nature trails
and even tennis. Cove and Maundays Bay offer
a mile of beach, where you can enjoy kayaking,
sail, snorkeling, waterski, and even windsurfing.

You can also arrange for island tours at the
Cap Juluca in Anguilla to explore the many
beaches, go scuba diving, or even deep sea
fishing. When it comes to fun on the water,
this resort has something to offer everyone in
your family.

The spa services at the Cap Juluca include
specialized treatments such as Cap Juluca for
two, a Thai massage, aromatherapy, reflexology,
and even kinesiology.

Cap Juluca offers guests two restaurants and
a 24 hour room service. One of them, George's,
features pool and beachfront dining, serving
guests contemporary tropical cuisine that
includes salads, seafood, burgers, and even
sandwiches.

The other restaurant, Pimms, is decorated with
white Moorish arches and serves French-Asian
cuisine within walking distance of the
Caribbean Sea.

If you've been looking for a great beach vacation,
the Cap Juluca in Anguilla will provide just
what you need. There's something here for the
entire family, no matter what your family likes
to do. Waking up on an island with the
ocean at your back door is truly an amazing
feeling - which is what Cap Juluca is truly all
about.

Cotton House Beach Vacation

The only hotel on the exotic island of Mustique, the
cotton house offers luxurious service, privacy, and
plenty of secluded beaches.  You can spend your
days exploring the marine life, relaxing by the
pool, or getting pampered by the enticing spa.

The spa at the Cotton House offers an amazing array
of services, such as massages, facials, reflexology,
wraps, and fully body treatments.  You can catch a
spa in one of the four treatment rooms, just steps
from the beach, or even in the privacy of your
own room.

Situated between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic
Ocean, the 1,400 acre Mustique Island offers a
tennis club, nine secluded and beautiful beaches,
which are perfect for scuba diving, windsurfing,
and even snorkeling.

Rooms and suites
The Cotton House offers just 19 luxurious guest
rooms, cottages, and suites, most offering private
patios and panoramic views of the ocean.  The
amentities offered by the Cotton House include soft
French cotton linens, a pillow menu, air, flat
screen televisions, and maid service twice a day.

If you are planning a honeymoon twist to your beach
vacation, you can splurge on one of the cottages
with a private plunge pool, or even book the two
bedroom Cotton Hill Residence which offers a
private swimming pool and its own staff that are
dedicated to you.

Eating
From dining in your cottage, ordering a picnic
basket and going to an empty beach, or just having
a romantic candlelit dinner, Mustique leaves the
choices up to you.  A traditional afternoon tea
is served each day in the Great Room, while there
are weekly cocktail parties held by the Cotton
House as well.

Getting there
There are three ways that you can fly to Mustique.
You can go via Barbados, via Martinique, or via
Saint Vincent.  From Barbados, you can take a
Grenadines Airways flight to Mustique for around
$400 per person - round trip flight.

Cruising With a Celebrity: Are Celebrity Cruises Worth the Money?

You may have seen advertisements on the television, the radio, or online.  Your celebrity is vacationing aboard a cruise ship and they want you to join them.  The advertisement you heard is for a celebrity cruise.  Celebrity cruises are gaining popularity in the Untied States and all around the world. The question that many want answered is, are they worth the money?

Celebrity cruises are not to be confused with the popular Celebrity Cruise Lines.  Celebrity cruises are cruises that are offered by a wide range of different cruise line companies.  The intention of a celebrity cruise is to attract travelers. To do this, celebrity cruises are booked with well-known television stars, movie stars, and musicians.  For some reason, and they are right, cruises lines know that fans follow their idols. 

If you are interested in determining whether or not a celebrity cruise is worth the money, there are a number of factors that you should first consider. One of the most important factors is the purpose of the cruise.  A number of well-known musicians, television stars, and movie stars are compensated for their appearance.  While this may not have a direct impact your reservation, it may be in your best interest to know. 

In addition to being compensated for their appearance, a large number of movie stars, television stars, and musicians use a celebrity cruise to promote one of their upcoming shows, movies, or music albums.  It is not guaranteed, but you may be granted behind the scenes information and footage. To many fans, this information makes a celebrity cruise worth it. 

Promoting a charity or another good cause is another reason why a number of well-know celebrities make the decision to participate in a cruise ship voyage.  If you are interested in promoting a specific charity or cause, you may find it beneficial, in more ways than one, to attend the cruise.  In addition to being able to meet one of your favorite celebrities, you could be helping to bring awareness to one of the many world charities that need assistance. 

Another important factor to consider when deciding on a celebrity cruise is the amount of time the celebrity will be onboard.  Due to busy schedules, celebrities may be unable to stay onboard for the whole length of the cruise.  To determine whether or not a celebrity cruise is worth the money, you will want to know how long each celebrity will be on board. If they will only be onboard one or two days, you may find that the cruise is not worth your time or money. 

In addition to the length of a celebrity’s stay, you will want to know when certain promotional events are scheduled. These events should be established ahead of time.  To determine when you may be able to dine with, meet, or get an autograph from your favorite movie star, musician, or television star, you should check the ship’s itinerary.  This will enable you to determine if you will even get a chance to meet the celebrity onboard. 

It is also important to estimate how many passengers will be the celebrity cruise you wish to take. The number of onboard passengers may have an impact on how much time you get to spend with the cruise ship celebrity.  If there are a large number of onboard passengers and the celebrity will only be on the ship for a short period of time you may be unable to meet with them. This is something that should be closely examined when determining if a celebrity cruise is worth any value to you or your family.

Finally, the cost of the celebrity cruise should be closely examined.  The cost of a celebrity cruise is often higher than other traditional cruises.  This is because you are often paying to meet the person who is onboard. That is why it is important to take the above mentioned factors into consideration. 

Celebrity cruises are nice, but a celebrity is not the only reason why you should plan a vacation on a cruise ship.  You can still enjoy a cruise, with or without a celebrity.

Family Beach Vacation In Maui

Located on the southwest side of Maui, the Fairmont
Kea Lani Maui overlooks the amazing waters off of
Polo Beach. The beach here is the center of all
water activities such as snorkeling, sailing,
kayaking, and even windsurfing.

Visitors here can play on any of the Wailea Golf
Club's three championship golf courses or enjoy
a game of tennis at any of the 14 courts the tennis
center offers. Parents that are tired can get some
much deserved personal time with a massage at the
Spa Kea Lani.

The resort accommodations are either suites or
villas, so there is no need to squeeze your entire
family into a tiny room. There suites here are a
minumum of 840 square feet and offer a separate
living room and marble bathroom with a separate
tub for soaking.

The private two levels villas here are minutes
away from the beach and are between 1,800 - 2,200
square feet as well. The villas are ideal for
larger families as they offer a full service
kitchen and a private courtyard with a plunge pool
and barbeque for grilling out.

Keiki Lani is also the hotel's activity center
for kids as well. It's a state licensed facility
for children between the ages of 5 and 13, giving
parents a break from watching their kids. Here,
children can enjoy painting coconuts, building
sand castles, exploring the tide pools, learning
how to dance hula, and even making real flower
leis. The activity center can accommodate up to
19 children, so be sure to call ahead and reserve
a space for your children.

Rates
The rates for stay start at $325 per night for a
suite. One of the benefits of a family vacation
here is the special deals that are almost always
available. The Fairmont Kea Lani Maui has several
packages available for family vacations.

If you are planning to explore the island with
the kids, you'll save a lot of money by taking a
package that includes a free rental car. This way,
you can explore the island at your will without
having to worry about paying any extra money.

For a family vacation, Maui is truly a one of a
kind destination. There are many different things
to do here for everyone in your family, even if they
are indeed hard to please.

Once your family experiences Maui and everything
there is to offer, you'll never look at beach
vacations the same way again. Maui has that kind
of power - especially when it comes to warm weather
and pleasing people from all over the world.

Article Written By J. Foley

Cloister At Sea Island

The Cloister At Sea Island is a private five mile
long coastal vacation spot in Georgia. Sea Island
is well known for its championship golf course,
which after recent improvements, is now better than
ever before.

There are a total of 54 holes, which include the
18 hole Plantation Course which opened in 1998, and
was designed by Rees Jones. The 18 hole Seaside
Course was renovated by Tom Fazio and re-opened
again in 1999. You can learn to play golf at this
course, or just play and polish your game.

The Sea Island resort also offers a spa with several
fitness facilities. You can participate in special
classes as well as personalized fitness and wellness
programs. Other activities around the resort include
tennis, horseback riding, sunset cruises, boating,
fishing, shooting school, kayaking, swimming, and
even diving lessons.

Sea Island also offers a family destination where
kids can choose from several different vacation
activities. Children can play afternoon tennis free
of charge and even participate in complimentary
golf and tennis clinics. During the summer, spring
break and even holidays, the resort is happy to
provide a program for kids ages 3 - 11.

Resort rooms and food
The Cloister at Sea Island offers you well over 250
guest rooms and suites that are situated in various
houses on Sea Island. The Retreat House, Hamilton
House, and Harrington House are all located on the
beach, while the newer guest houses and Terrace
Houses are all located between the beach and the
tennis center.

Guests that visit Sea Island can also stay at the
Lodge at Sea Island Golf Club, which opened in
March of 2001. The Lodge offers guests 40 luxurious
rooms and suites that are situated above the
clubhouse with golf course and even ocean views.

The main dining room at the Cloister offers live
music and dancing during warmer months. The Terrace
dining room, located at the Lodge at Sea Island
Golf Club serves continental cuisine with a
Southern twist.

Late spring, summer, and early fall are by far
the best times to check out the Cloister at Sea
Island. Sea Island is an hour drive by car from
Savannah Georgia and one hour away from Jacksonville
Florida. Private aircraft can also land at the
McKinnon Airport on St. Simons Island, which is
four miles away from the Cloister. No matter how
you get here - you'll be glad you did!

Article written By J. Foley

Cheap Summer Travel: 7 Moneysaving Tips

Are you gearing up to plan your upcoming summer vacation, but are you also on a budget? Do you need to save money? If so, please continue reading on for 7 moneysaving summer travel tips. Watch the price of your summer vacation decrease by implementing these easy steps.

1 – Plan Ahead

Many new deal seekers mistakenly believe the best discounts are offered at the last minute. Yes, some hotels and airlines do offer last minute travel deals and discounts, but they aren’t guaranteed. You could spend weeks waiting for a discount to arrive, only to never see it. Luckily, hotels, car rental companies, and airlines all offer moneysaving discounts throughout the year. Find one of these discounts. It should be just as good and you will still save money.

2 – Avoid Airlines with Loads of Extra Fees

Airlines have been losing money over the past few years. To compensate for those losses, many not only raised their fares, but increased fees too. Not only compare airlines to find the best ticket prices, but look at additional fees. If you can’t escape these fees, especially baggage fees, familiarize yourself with them and pack carefully to avoid them.

3 – Be Flexible With Your Travel Dates and Time

When planning a vacation on a strict budget, you should experiment with travel dates and times. Did you know it is usually cheaper to fly on Wednesdays than Fridays? It is. For the best deals on hotels and airfare, plan your trip in the beginning or end of summer, not the middle. Hotels are likely to fill up quicker and charge higher rates when business conventions or popular sporting events are happening. Avoid these dates. This is where planning ahead is helpful.

4 – Look for Freebies from Hotels

When researching hotels, be on the lookout for those that offer additional extras for guests. A hotel with affordable rates and a free breakfast is ideal. Many hotels also have onsite restaurants. See if special deals and discounts are offered for guests.

5 – Use Online Travel Websites

Many travel websites, like Priceline.com, can be found with a standard internet search. You aren’t always guaranteed the lowest prices, but it won’t hurt to look. Many offer discounts on vacation packages, where you book two or three arrangements at once.

6 – Don’t Rely Solely on Travel Websites

As previously stated, travel websites are nice, but they don’t always offer the best deal. If you only need a hotel or plane tickets, as opposed to a vacation package, your best bet is to go directly to the source. You should find lower rates and special deals listed on the websites of hotels, resorts, car rental companies, and airlines. In fact, compare them. If it is cheaper to go with a travel website and a vacation package, do it. If not, book your travel reservations separately.

7 – Avoid Spending Money at the Airport

If the cost of flying wasn’t already high enough, you can spend a lot more at the airport. For that reason, proceed with caution. For food, eat before you depart for the airport. Have a large meal and bring dry snacks from home. To keep yourself occupied on the plane, bring books, movies, or magazines from home. Wal-Mart is the best place to buy these items, as they offer discounts. They will cost more at the airport.

Article Written By J. Foley

All-Inclusive Vacation Resorts in St. Thomas

Each year, millions of individuals, couples, and families make the decision to schedule a vacation. St. Thomas is a popular vacation destination, unfortunately, a large number of individuals believe that a St. Thomas vacation is out of their reach. If you are interested in scheduling a St. Thomas vacation, you should not let the cost of vacationing there prevent you from vacationing at your dream destination.

If you are interested in how you could be spending your vacation in St. Thomas without having to be concerned with the price, you may want to examine all-inclusive resorts that can be found in St. Thomas. Many couples and families find that they are able to save a large amount of money by booking their vacation at an all-inclusive resort.

When examining all-inclusive resorts in St. Thomas, you are encouraged to take a number of important factors into consideration. One of these factors is what each resort considers to be all-inclusive. All-inclusive resorts come in all different shapes, sizes, and styles. Each of those resorts is likely to have different resort rules and regulations. You may find that a number of these rules and regulations are placed on all-inclusive packages.

What one popular St. Thomas resort may consider all-inclusive, another resort may not. That is why it is extremely important to determine everything that is considered in an all-inclusive resort package, before making your reservations. Fine dining, beach travel, and onsite entrainment is often included in most vacation packages. Alcohol may or may not be included in an all-inclusive package. Some St. Thomas resorts offer their guests all the free alcohol they can drink and other require that alcohol be paid for or a limit is placed on the number of drinks you can have.

When examining all-inclusive resorts in St. Thomas, you are also encouraged to consider the type of vacation that you are planning on taking. St. Thomas is a popular vacation destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway or families who are on a family vacation. There are a number of all-inclusive St. Thomas resorts that have age restrictions.

The age restrictions in place at many St. Thomas resorts are designed to help create a romantic environment. These restrictions often keep children, under the age of eighteen, off of the resort. If you are planning on vacationing with your family, it is important that you schedule your vacation at a resort that caters to individuals of all ages. Below is an overview of two popular all-inclusive St. Thomas resorts that are ideal for family vacations.

(1) The Wyndham Sugar Bay Beach Resort and Spa comes highly recommended by past St. Thomas vacationers. This all-inclusive resort is located within a short driving distance to the closest airport, making the Wyndham Sugar Bay Beach Resort and Spa ideal for couples traveling with their children.

Located directly on the beach, the Wyndham Sugar Bay Beach Resort and Spa offers an unlimited number of beachside activities. These activities may include, but are not limited to, swimming, sun bathing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating. Beach lovers, of all ages, will enjoy vacationing at this all-inclusive resort.

(2) The Bolongo Bay Beach Club and Villias is one of the most highly rated all-inclusive resorts. Bolongo Bay Beach Club and Villias is ideal for romantic getaways, weddings, honeymoons, business meetings, and family vacations.

On and offsite activities and facilities are geared towards individuals of all ages. Adults and children will have fun playing on the beach, swimming in the hotel pool, playing numerous outdoor sports games, participating in snorkeling tours, and much more. Whatever you and your family are looking for, the Bolongo Bay Beach Club has what you may need.

As previously mentioned, additional all-inclusive resorts can be found on the St. Thomas Island. It is important to remember to closely examine each resort and their policies before placing your reservations. By taking the time to examine multiple resorts, it will be easier to make sure that you get everything that you want and need while on vacation.

Article Written By J. Foley

9 Beach Vacation Ideas

When it comes to go on your beach vacation, it can
be very hard to pick a destination. There are many
places you can go, whether you want to explore the
beaches of Hawaii or just play golf in Georgia.
Below, you'll find 9 ideas to help you decide on
where to go for your vacation.

1. Hawaii resort
You can choose to put your frequent flier miles to
good use and take a beach vacation on the island of
Hawaii. Here, you can relax on the beach, swim in
the ocean, play golf, and even indulge in one of
the many innovative spa treatments. Hawaii enjoys
some of the best weather in the world - making it
a great choice for your beach vacation.

2. Golf and Beach in Georgia
Popular among the East Coast, the Cloister at Sea
Island in Georgia offers you 54 holes of championship
golf, sandy beaches, and a wide array of things for
you to do.

3. Oahu beach vacation
At the Kahala Mandarin Oriental you can expect to be
pampered like never before. You can visit the spa,
take scuba diving classes, or choose to swim it up
with the dolphins. The resort is conveniently
located 15 minutes away from Honolulu and Waikiki
Beach.

4. Virgin Islands vacation
At this vacation destination you can enjoy blue
waters and sandy beaches. The Ritz Carlton, and
St. Thomas resorts offer you the best of luxury
hotels during your beach vacation in the Virgin
Islands.

5. Half Moon Bay California
Located just 30 minutes by car away from San
Francisco, the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay is a
quick beach vacation away from the normal busy life
of the city.

6. Luxury Beach Resort of Bermuda
Two hours away by flight from New York City,
Bermuda is a quick and ideal vacation away from the
East Coast. Ariel Sands offers you 47 guest rooms
with gourmet food and breathtaking views.

7. Romance and seclusion in Jamaica
With unique rooms and splendid views of the
Caribbean, gourmet cuisine and amazing beaches,
The Caves resort in Jamaica helps to set the beach
vacation mood like never before.

8. Lakeside Resort Georgia
Near Atlanta Georgia, the Lake Lanier Islands offers
a golf course for golf lovers and a waterpark with
several water rides, slides, and water attractions
the entire family will enjoy.

9. Family fun in Hawaii
The Kona Village Resort in Hawaii offers you
several vacation activities that include snorkeling,
kayaking, sailing, volleyball, tennis, fishing,
scuba diving, and glass bottom boat tours.

Travel Discounts In Time For Summer Vacations

Posted: April 4, 2009 12:09 AM

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Travel industry experts said this year's summer travel will be easy to find and easy to afford.

Whether they fly for business or pleasure, every traveler at Nashville International Airport had come to an agreement.

"The best part of it is it's not just where I go, but I meet good people all the way there," said traveler Norm Henry.

Norm Henry and other frequent flyers are already noticing cheaper prices.

"Just because sometimes I have to fly short notice, and it's not as costly as it used to be to do that," said Henry.

Compared to last year, Triple A officials said a seven night - two person trip to Disney World including air and hotel is $400 cheaper than last year.

A five night - two person all inclusive - trip to the Dominican Republic is $200 less, and a five night Hawaiian trip is $1,000 cheaper.

"Yeah it's really motivating because I want to go to Vegas this summer," said traveler Shanika Freeman.

Triple A travel experts said customers will get the best deals by booking their trip 30 to 45 days in advance.

Traveler Jelani Quinn said it was no surprise the economy was behind the drop in cost.

"It's really slow, and so people have less money to actually go on trips or do anything else for that matter," said Quinn.

Many travelers planned keeping their eyes open and cashing in when the price is right, traveler Chris Greco said that was the recipe to recovery.

"A little bit everywhere. You have to get people to start spending money again," said Greco.

Compared to last year drivers are also getting deals. This time last year gas prices were about $3.30 a gallon.

Throughout the summer the Energy Information Administration predicted gas to cost about $2.

Air Travel is Cheap Now, but Discounts Won’t Last

By JOE SHARKEY
Published: March 16, 2009

WORRIED about filling seats, airlines have hit the panic button. Amazing air fare sales are breaking out all over. Actually, the sales are breaking out mostly on routes where the competition is heavy or business travel has really plummeted.

Not only is the extent of the discounts extraordinary — $158 for a round-trip ticket between Denver and Houston on a sale announced Monday by Frontier Airlines; $548 on Delta between New York and Dublin; $598 round trip between Los Angeles or New York to Australia in Qantas. The time frame is often extraordinary as well. Fare sales like these are usually limited to slack travel periods in winter. Many of these extend into the summer.

I sort these fares on the major travel aggregator sites like Kayak, TripAdvisor, Fly.com and FareCompare, which make comparison shopping easy. If you’re flexible (Saturday night stay requirements are often tucked into these fares to make them unattractive to business travelers), shop around and have a ball. It’s a great time for cheap travel.

And it’s not going to last.

Two fundamental shifts in air travel are under way. One is that airlines are horrified at the falloff in passenger traffic and are scrubbing flights, dropping routes and parking more planes in the desert to shrink capacity, even beyond announced reductions, to keep planes flying full.

And two, the “unbundling” of services that began with charges for snacks and checked bags is emerging as the new economic model for the shrunken air travel system.

Forget about the guy from Ryanair who recently got all that publicity by speculating about installing pay toilets on planes. Instead, look at the methodical way that the domestic airlines are planning for a future in which booking a flight will be a little like ordering from a Chinese takeout menu. That is, it will be efficient, user friendly and full of à la carte choices.

“Three or four years ago, airlines got fed up with their tickets being priced like bushels of wheat on a commodities exchange, so they set out a strategy for how to make prices less transparent,” said Rick Seaney, the chief executive of FareCompare.com.

The strategy was based on imposing extra fees on an increasing number of amenities and services — not just checked bags and in-flight pillows, but an expanding range of add-ons like exit row seats, priority seating and boarding, in-flight entertainment or Wi-Fi, and on and on.

These fees raise cash for the airlines. But they annoy customers, who are having a hard time figuring out what a trip costs once they make their choices. Usually, they find out when they arrive at the airport or on board the flight. As I said last week, TripAdvisor.com added a useful feature to its flight search site that lets you click on the thousands of itinerary options, including fee-based services, so you can get the actual price.

The airlines are aware that customers shop around online and that they hate trying to figure out fees. So they are currently working with other ticket distributors on a complex system that Mr. Seaney said will expand the fee checklists and allow all distributors, whether an airline itself or an online travel agency, to be more uniformly precise in just what a customer is ordering.

“They’ll present a base ticket price in three or four categories, and then you’ll have a bunch of things you can add,” Mr. Seaney said. “You’ll get a base price quote, and then you’ll have a bunch of columns with choices that add something to the ticket. You going to see a whole new slew of amenities that you pay for in advance.”

Mr. Seaney is on an “optional services” committee formed by the Airline Tariff Publishing Company, the global leader in collecting and distributing airline fare data.

The committee is evaluating the universe of fee-based extra services, and drawing up lists of uniform codes to make it easier to “compare applies to apples,” Mr. Seaney said.

Among the items on that growing list are the usual things like prepaid checked bag (code 0AA), snack (0AT), aisle seat exit row (0A5), beverage (0AX), video games (0AF), passenger assistance (0BY) and wheelchair (0AH)

Wait, “wheelchair” has an optional services code? OMG!

E-mail: jsharkey@nytimes.com

E-mail: jsharkey@nytimes.com

Getting out, A Cancun Spring Break

When it comes to the best Spring break destinations, you will find that Cancun, Mexico is where you will want to go. There are thousands of kids who will flock to Cancun for the parties and all of the adventures that can be had in Mexico. You will want to make sure that you take part in the festivities so that you can have the time of your life on your break. You will want to make sure that you time the time to make this trip one to remember.

Cancun is a place filled with miles of white beaches; however, hundreds of nightclubs will make your nights happening. During the day, you can sip margaritas and tan in the gorgeous weather or take a dip in the warm Caribbean Ocean or lagoon waters. Plenty of daytime, activities are available if you aren’t too hung over from the night before. Some of the activities that you can do are swimming with the dolphins, fish, boat, Jet Ski, shop, and even golf. You can also tour the Mayan ruins and visit other historical locations if you want a vacation that is more than just about drinking and meeting people.

Make sure that you have a chance to do those things. Cancun will come alive at night, but you will be able to find just as much life during the day. Also, Cancun is where the tequila shots are slammed more quickly than the hips on the salsa girls are moving. Hotels, bars, and other spring break companies sponsor contests like the traditional wet tee shirt contest and have fun attractions like foam parties and Mexican-themed bar tours. However, before you leave from Cancun, you will want to make sure that you write down the names of any establishments that you would like to come back again so that you have a game plan for next time.

It is very important that you always remember to be safe in Cancun. You will hear of all the tragedies that could happen, but it could happen to you. You will want to make sure that you go out with a group of friends and that you take only public transportation and you don’t walk too much on the street. Also, if you are planning to drink, you will want to know all of your limits and you will never want to go anywhere out of the safety of the public with a stranger. You do not want to be separated from the group. The most important thing that you will want to do is using your common sense and watch your drinking. You will want to make sure that you take care of yourself responsibly.

Article Written By J. Foley

Vacationing in Mexico While on a Budget

If are planning a trip to Mexico, but you have a budget in mind, then you will be glad to know that visiting Mexico while on a budget is possible. There are many ways to save money through package deals, low-cost airfare, discount accommodations, dining out, and traveling within the country.

Mexico is known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and fabulous cruises. Even while on a budget, these activities can all be enjoyed during your visit. So no matter what your financial situation is, you will be pleased to discover that planning a vacation to Mexico is affordable for just about anyone.

Saving on airfare is the first way to begin planning a vacation to Mexico while on a budget. There are many different packages available. With the help of the internet, finding a great deal is often simple and easy. Depending on your location, you may also be surprised to discover that your own local travel agent may have vacation packages that include airfare, as well as your accommodations.

Accommodations are a necessity when visiting Mexico. If you are staying with friends or family then you will automatically save money. However, if you need to make arrangements for your housing, then you may find that a package deal is most beneficial to those on a budget. There are other means of inexpensive housing, such as camping, but if you are looking for a hotel environment, then look for one with a package deal. A travel package can save you a considerable amount of money, so shop around and find the best deals that fit your needs.

Restaurants and eating out can be expensive, especially in trendy nightclubs and other famous resorts. However, if you are traveling to Mexico on a budget, you can spend wisely and eat delicious foods while remaining on your budget. You can take advantage of the many outdoor street markets and save. The food is great, delicious, and a true taste of Mexican culture; not to mention, it is also easy on your pocketbook.

Shopping in grocery stores is another way to save money while visiting Mexico. By eating the local produce, you will save money and have more to enjoy for your other vacation expenses. It is important to note that you should treat any fruit and produce that you buy as food that requires care. Make sure to peel and wash all fruits and vegetables before eating them and practice safe handling instructions for all food.

Transportation is another area where you can save money and remain within your targeted financial plan. Mexico buses are a very cheap way to travel. If you need information regarding bus schedules, times, and whether or not you will need a ticket, check with locals during your stay. However, as a safety precaution, you are encouraged not to ride in any taxis that haven’t been prearranged through either the airport or your resort.

When it comes to transportation, you can also save money by taking a bus, rather than an airplane, into Mexico. Some major bus lines, such as Greyhound, will take you straight into Mexico. This is an affordable way to save money and plan your vacation as well.

Planning a Mexico vacation on a budget may seem difficult to do, but you may soon realize that there is a lot of assistance available. With careful planning, and sticking to your budget, you can enjoy a wonderful vacation in Mexico.

Scuba Diving While Vacationing in Mexico

Millions of Americans schedule a Mexico vacation. If you are interested in scheduling a vacation in Mexico, or you already have, you may be wondering what you can do while on vacation. In Mexico, there are an unlimited number of activities that you may find exciting. One of those activities may include scuba diving.

When it comes to scuba diving in Mexico, there are many travelers who are misinformed. Many believe that you have to be an experienced diver to enjoy underwater diving. This is simply not true. Before going scuba diving in the ocean, it is advised that you have basic knowledge of diving and strong swimming skills. However, you do not have to be an experienced diver. When vacationing in Mexico, there are many individuals who go scuba diving for the first time.

Scuba diving is a pretty self-explained activity. Scuba divers are featured in many movies and can be found in many amusement parks. While the general idea of scuba diving is the same in Mexico, what you will see underwater is not. There are a number of underwater animals and plants that can only be seen in or around the Mexico area. This in itself is one of the many reasons why you should schedule a scuba diving adventure.

In Mexico, scuba divers are often able to swim with the dolphins and sea turtles. To many, this alone is worth the cost of scuba diving. Aside from swimming with sea animals, you can also spend your scuba diving trip examining the life and environment underwater. Just a few of the many sea animals that you may see in Mexico include lobsters, eels, sting rays, and a large number of different kinds of fishes. The fishes found in underwater Mexico often include puffer fishes, spotted fishes, and parrot fishes.

While the sea animals found underwater are the most exciting part of scuba diving, there are other underwater activities that you can participate in. Many scuba divers enjoy diving along coral reefs that are found along the coast of Mexico. Coral reefs are not only home to a large number of sea animals, but they also make for great adventures. You may find it exciting traveling in, over, or around the many different sized reefs.

Unless you are an experienced underwater diver, you are advised to go scuba diving with a trained professional. These professionals are most commonly found with scuba diving tour groups. Scuba diving tour groups can be found all along the coast of Mexico. Scuba diving is a popular pastime in Mexico; therefore, you are encouraged to schedule your scuba diving adventures ahead of time.

In addition to scheduling a scuba dive with a trained diver, you can learn how to scuba dive at a number of locations in Mexico. Many of these locations also offer guided tours. Scuba diving lessons are offered as group lessons or private lessons. Private lessons may be more expensive, but many first time scuba divers find them rewarding, in more ways than one.

Underworld Scuba operates scuba diving and snorkeling tours in the Manzanillo area of Mexico. It has been said that the Manzanillo area is one of the best places to go scuba diving in Mexico. Underworld Scuba, along with number other companies, state that the area is thriving with underwater life and adventures. Another popular scuba diving tour company is The Puerto Dive Team, which operates out of Oaxaco Mexico. They are most known for their private one-on-one underwater tours.

To find other guided tours that are designed for scuba divers, you are encouraged to contact your local travel agent or do the research yourself. Whether or not you have already selected your Mexico destination, you should easily be able to find nearby tours. The closer you are to the coast, the more tours you will have access to. What you can do and see underwater is absolutely amazing. It is likely what you see will stay with you for years to come.

Article Written By J. Foley

Excalibur Hotel and Casino Brings Magic to Life

If you are harboring thoughts of bringing the family for a Las Vegas vacation, then perhaps you should seriously consider a stay at Excalibur Hotel and Casino. This hotel will have you feeling as though you've stepped into the fairy tales of your childhood. From the moment you cross the threshold from the outside world to the charmed existence of life in the hotel you will find that you have truly been charmed and are leading a somewhat enchanted existence.

Not only is there the magnificent casino to enjoy, there is also the wonderful pool, links golf, the castle walk for your shopping pleasure, and the midway where you can play all kinds of fun and exciting arcade and carnival games. Perhaps one of the most memorable and impressive of offerings is the Tournament of Kings dinner show. This show is offered nightly at 6:00 and 8:30 and you will eat in the manner of those in medieval times, without utensils while watching the evil wizard Mordred as he invades the evening festivities. This show is quite enjoyable and relies heavily upon audience participation.

Dining in the hotel and casino can be quite the adventure without the assistance of horses and actors as there are several dining options including the Roundtable Buffet, The Steakhouse at Camelot, Regale Italian Eatery, Sherwood Forest Café, and how could we forget Sir Galahad's Pub and Prime Rib House?

If you're looking for the fairytale wedding of your dreams, then Excalibur has the package for you. You can even elect to rent medieval costumes in which to get married. There are many different packages available to fit various budgets and wedding needs. Wedding packages vary in price from around $400 plus $55 for the cost of the minister to around $1575 plus the cost of the minister. These are all rather basic packages and do not include extras such as costume rentals, extra poses for the wedding photos, or video and candle services.

Before your big day make sure you make liberal use of the spa services available at Excalibur Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Of course this is a great idea even if you are just hoping to relax while on vacation. You remember relaxation right? That is what you did on occasion before you had children. You should definitely get the royal treatment that is available through the spa and enjoy every minute of your visit. Some of the spa services offered at Excalibur include: facials, wraps, Aveda facials, and various massages. There are add on services that can be purchased and packages available. This is a great way to spend an hour or three before your big day or any day.

Once you've finished getting pampered at the spa, step on over to Kristina's Salon and get primped. You can enjoy everything from manicures to full service hair styling services. Whether you are preparing for your big day and saying "I do!" or simply for a romantic evening on the strip this is a great place to begin.

Excalibur also offers full service catering and convention services. Whether you are hosting a wedding reception or a company convention we have the facilities as well as the expertise to keep everything operating seamlessly behind the scenes so that all eyes will be on the things that are important. Projections and profits for the corporate conventions and the bride and groom for wedding receptions.

Excalibur Hotel Casino can meet almost any lodging and accommodation needs for those staying and playing in Las Vegas, more than that we can provide a great 'fairy tale' atmosphere for your family vacation or just your big trip in general. If you haven't given proper consideration to the idea of staying here during your visit, I highly encourage that you do-especially if you have a little princess in your party that you are trying to impress.

Article Written By J. Foley

Travel costs dropping as economy squeezes spending

By VICKI LEE PARKER - McClatchy-Tribune News Service


If you are planning on taking your family on a vacation this year, think big. In fact, think about finally going on that dream vacation that you have long wished for. Chances are you will be able to afford it.

I talked with several travel agents who say they are seeing travel discounts and perks in record amounts. The deals include the high-end packages such as luxury Mexican resorts, European vacations and Alaskan cruises.

"For people who feel secure in their jobs and can afford it, there are some great deals throughout the summer time," says Stuart Carroll, owner of Carroll Travel in Washington, D.C.
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Tom Crosby, a spokesman for AAA Carolinas, says the economy has hurt some popular tourist spots. A number of the bigger resorts are no longer getting the same volume of convention business, so they have extra beds to fill, he says.

Crosby says he is seeing discounts across the board. "You can save 25 percent to 40 percent on cruises, 10 percent to 15 percent on hotels and 10 to 25 percent on package tours," he says.

Darcy Grimes, manager for travel marketing for AAA Carolinas, says that in 2007 she was booking seven-night Alaska cruises on Holland America Line from $799 per person. Now she's booking the same cruise for as low as $499.

Similarly, in 2007 a five-night Western Caribbean cruise rate was $599 per person. Grimes found the same cruise last week starting at $249 per person.

In addition to the lower rates, Grimes says that cruise lines are offering additional bonuses to help stimulate sales.

"Most have cut out the fuel supplement charge, and others are offering reduced deposits or onboard credits if consumers book by a certain date.

Grimes is finding similar deals for European trips. Because the dollar has strengthened against the euro, she is seeing up to a 100 percent savings on hotel stays.

"If the room cost you $200 a night last year, it will probably cost $100 this year," she says.

Carroll of Carroll Travel says he has booked people at The Royal in Cancun for as little as $800 a week. That's about a 50 percent savings, he says.

"Hotel rooms are a perishable thing," Carroll notes. "Once the night goes, they can never sell it again."

To fill those rooms, hotels are also offering other specials. Some are waiving the minimum night requirement. Others are offering an extra free night if you stay a certain number of nights.

Some resorts are lowering the down payment and offering air credits and meal credits.

There is one caveat though: Finding a flight to your dream vacation site may be challenging. A number of airlines, in an effort to reduce expenses, have decreased the number of flights they are offering to certain areas. So book early.

Here are some other tips to help secure great vacation deals:

- Use a travel agent. Agents can check several deals at once and it doesn't cost you anything.

- Check cruise lines two weeks before departure date. Some cruises will offer last-minute deals.

- Ask about travel insurance. This will protect you in case there are changes in your travel plans or your financial circumstances.

(Vicki Lee Parker is a freelance personal finance columnist. She can be reached at vickileeparker@gmail.com or (919) 877-5719.)