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Travelling with children can present many challenges. One must be prepared. Bringing along plenty of things for the children to do while on the trip will save the parents many hours of woe.

Children Newborn to 2

Children in this age bracket frequently will sleep on long drives so their sleep patterns will be messed up. Plan ahead for plenty of breaks and rest stops to nurse, change diapers or let them run off some of the excess energy. Be sure to pack a favorite blanket and stuffed toy.

Children 3 to 5

Occupying this age group will take a bit more ingenuity. Help the child to pack a child sized back pack of activities. Make is something unique and fun with minimal pieces for them to lose. It’s also a great idea to include some snacks such as fruit snacks or pretzels for them to nibble on. Books, toys, a few crayons and color book all work well for this age group. Don’t forget their favorite blanket and stuffed animal.

Children 6 to 9

This age group is often times more fun to travel with. Games can be invented such as how many red cars do you see drive by or whatever color you choose. Count out of state license plates or SUV’s or something clever. If the child can read while travelling pack a favorite book or two. Crayons and a color book might also interest this age group. A lightweight blanket and perhaps a stuffed toy as well will help them to feel comfy.

Children 10 to 12

Ah the tweenager. Tweens can be finicky. One minute they still like what they younger kids do and another minute they want to be teens. Be patient. Pack their headphones and some music. Consider a dvd and a player with headphones and let them watch a movie or something. Books are also a hit at this age.

Children 13 to 15

Teens never want to be seen with parents. That makes it all the more interesting. The truth is, they really do love you and enjoy being your kid, they just want to look cool to the other kids. Pack some dvd’s, music and lots of extra headphones. You can encourage them to discuss the trip and sights they will see as well.

Children 16 to 18

At this age, the newness of being a teen has worn off. If possible, let them help navigate or drive occasionally. Let them help plan the route or the trip. Give them as much room for choices as you possibly can and they’ll feel more grown up and willing to be seen with you. Of course, if all else fails, dvd’s, music and headphones are a good fall back for this age group as well.

Travelling with children can be an adventure if one looks at it that way. Remember, children are only young once and one day you’ll look back with fond memories about road trips, even if this is the worst one you’ve ever been on.

Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley produces some of the finest wine to be found in the world. The Virginia Wine Association has organized several wine tours throughout the Valley which are great ways to both enjoy the many vineyards and wineries and to also take in the gorgeous views and quaint towns along the way.

The Blue Ridge Whisky Wine Loop

This trail winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains of the northern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. This loop features stops at rural Virginia treasures including wineries, a whiskey distillery, hometown eateries, and some incredible scenic vistas. Stop-offs at Luray Caverns, Shenandoah National Park and the Shenandoah River are absolutely essential to truly experience the beauty of the Valley.

Blue Ridge Whiskey Wine Loop

Starting Point: Visitor Center, Luray VA

Stop 1: Wisteria Winery & Vineyard

Where to Dine: Thornton River Grille, Sperryville, VA

Bonus Stop: Sharp Rock Winery and DuCard Vineyards

Stop 2: Copper Fox Distillery

Stop 3: Gadino Cellars Winery & Vineyard

Stop 4: Rappahannock Cellars

Stop 5: Chester Gap Cellars

Stop 6: Glen Manor Winery & Vineyard

Where to Dine: Artisans Grill, Luray, VA

Blue Ridge WineWay

This is Virginia’s idea of California’s Napa Wine Trail. Located about an hour west of Washington D.C., the Blue Ridge WineWay makes a perfect day trip or weekend outing. The Blue Ridge WineWay consists of eight vineyards located in Rappahonnock and Culepper counties of Virginia.

• Unicorn Winery

• Rappahannock Cellars

• Pearmund Cellars

• Molon Lave Winery

• Oasis Winery

• Mediterranean Cellars

• LaGrange Winery

• Gray Ghost Vineyards

Heart of Virginia Wine Trail

This wine trail travels through the east-central part of Virginia visiting six Virginia wineries located near Richmond, Virginia’s state capital. This wine trail is very convenient from Richmond, Charlottesville, Washington D.C. and the Tidewater areas of Virginia. The wineries of the Heart of Virginia Wine Trail are open every weekend of the year, as well as weekdays during the summer.

• Weston Farm Vineyard and Winery

• Mattaponi Winery

• Lake Anna Winery

• James River Cellars Winery

• Grayhaven Winery

• Cooper Vineyards

Fauquier County Wine Trail

This wine trail winds through some of the most gorgeous country in Virginia. Right in the heart of Virginia’s horse country, visit more than twenty vineyards and wineries enjoying incredible vistas and views from each one.

• Vint Hill Craft Winery

• Vintage Ridge

• Three Fox Vineyards

• Philip Carter Winery

• Rogers Ford Winery

• Piedmont Vineyards

• Pearmund Cellars

• Naked Cellars

• Morais Vineyard

• Molon Lave

• Miracle Valley

• Mediterranean Cellars

• Marterella

• Linden Vineyards

• Granite Heights Winery

• Fox Meadow

• Hume Vineyards

• Desert Rose

• Delaplane Cellars

• Cobbler Mountain

• Chateau O’Brien

• Capitol Vineyards

• Boxwood

• Barrel Oak

• Aspen Dale

General’s Wine and History Trail

This wine trail is a little different than the others because for this one, wineries have banded together not only to provide a great group of vineyards and wineries to visit, but also a trail of historic heritage as well. This wine and history trail allows visitors to experience our national history and some of the nation’s best wines all together at the same time. These great wineries invite all visitors to appreciate the beautiful scenery, the Civil War history, and the award winning wines of Virginia.

• Veramar Vineyard

• Winery at La Grange

• Three Fox Vineyards

• Swedenburg Estate Vineyard

• Sunset Hills Vineyard

• Fox Meadow Winery

• Philip Carter Winery

• Lost Creek Vineyard and Winery

Virginia Wine Trails provide a wonderful way for wine lovers to visit the vineyards and wineries of Virginia and try their award-winning wines. Whether it’s a cabernet or a chardonnay, Virginia’s wine country will have something to suit the taste of even the most discerning palate.

We all like a holiday now and again whether it is somewhere in our own country or going abroad. Those of us who fly to our destinations maybe classed as lucky by some but if the flight proves to be problematic then it can totally ruin the whole holiday, and that is not something we want to happen.

When you go on a road trip you always try and plan everything in advance, but when it comes to flying most people just turn up at the airport half a sleep, discover they are missing something like a passport, some even manage to miss their flight even though they have already checked in. So in order to help you plan for a good flight here are a few tips:

Do Not Fly Tired

A lot of international long haul flights leave between 7am to 12pm, and if you have a long drive to the airport you may find yourself getting out of bed at 4am, so by the time you turn up you already feel like collapsing. Save yourself this trouble and stay in the airport hotel the night before, you’re already spending decent money on the holiday, so spend a little more and get it off to a good start by having a relaxing sleep before your flight.

Check In

Always make sure you have your passport in a secure but easily accessible place such as your hand luggage. Weigh you luggage before you leave for the airport, a cheap pair of scales only costs a few dollars and may save you a lot of hassle having to unpack at the check in while everyone else stares at you.

Security

If you want to fly through security then make sure that before you get to the airport you have whatever is usually in your pockets in your hand luggage, as well as any belts, chains, and anything else that may set the alarms off. Do not have any liquids in your bags, and always put your laptop in a tray on its own.

Airline Food

Not everyone likes airline food so buy some chocolate and sandwiches before you board so you know you’ll have something to eat. If you still have the sandwiches when you land throw them in the bin as soon as you get off the flight otherwise you may get into trouble at customs.

Immigration and Customs

Make sure you have filled out any paperwork that is required before getting to the counter, and always be polite and smile to the immigration officer. If you have said you have no food on the paperwork and you are found to have some then expect a hefty fine and a black mark against your name. If you do have food you want to take into the country, ask customs, that is what they are there for, you are not a food smuggler.

Taxi

Once you leave the airport and you are going to use a taxi, then always make sure that the meter is on before they drive away, it can save a lot of hassle later on.

Which Cruise Line is the Best? They all have their advantages from each other. Some offer smaller ships that many prefer and others have a fleet of larger ships that can carry over 3000 passengers. They travel the oceans from port to port almost everywhere that you imagination travels. They have a variety of cabin sizes that offer features such as balconies or window views. They all provide excellent cuisine and personal service to make your voyage a truly memorable one. Which one is the best? It is most likely the one that you have already chosen.

Recently I had the privilege of sailing aboard a cruise ship that traveled to various ports in the Caribbean. The experience was one of the most enjoyable vacations that I have ever been on. The cruise line delivered all of their promises and expectations from their website. I would without question do it again and in fact, I am planning another cruise as I write.

Taking a cruise vacation has so much to offer. For a single price per day, all of your basic costs are covered. If you desire to take additional excursions when at port, that is entirely up to you. These excursions do cost a few dollars more, but they are worth every penny as you visit and explore strange and exciting cultures and locations that you have never experienced before. On board, while the ship is at sea, you will be totally entertained each and every day.

During the daytime, you have the option of relaxing around one of the many pools or hot tubs. There may be a water-slide area set at the very top of the ship for the youngsters and the young at heart. Or if golf is your game then you can play a round or two at the pitch and put golf course. There will be classes on how to dance or moonwalk, games of skill and knowledge, and of course the odd cooking lessons from excellent chefs.

In the evening you can head of down to the ship’s theater for the nightly entertainment. It could be a musical Broadway type show or a night of comedy and games. You can participate in karaoke or dance the night away at one of the many nightclubs. They also offer an evening movie in the outdoor theater complete with popcorn and drinks. Plus you will be able to enjoy a tasty meal at anytime during the day or night.

The dining on a cruise ship is ridiculously delicious. You can eat 24 hours per day if you like. The selection of foods will satisfy the pickiest of eaters. In fact, it is almost impossible, for me anyways, to have 3 meals a day. Every evening you and your traveling companions are treated to formal dining. There you will be served by a troupe of friendly waiters that will add to your dining experience. The menu offers a variety of scrumptious selections which include an appetizer, a main course, and of course the dessert.

It is a well know fact that travel makes a more well rounded personality. Travelling allows the individual to immerse themselves in new cultures and new experiences. These experiences will allow the well traveled person to approach new experiences with an open mind and a willingness to accept new ideas and new viewpoints.

This can have a tremendously positive effect on both the psyche of the individual concerned, as well as making a real difference to their personal and even business lives. The well traveled person is recognized as someone who has the ability to adapt to new situations and cultures. These personality traits are tremendously attractive to potential employers.

On a more personal level travel broadens the mind. By making a conscious decision to step outside of traditional comfort zones the traveler can adapt to new situations with ease. Exposure to new ways of thinking, exotic foods also provides those who are well traveled with the social skills that make them ideal companions.

Is the second decade of the new millennium approaches its halfway point there has never been a better time to to pack a bag and head for unseen horizons. With a minimum of planning the world is waiting for those who are willing to take that first bold step into the unknown.

It is not only the usual tourist spots that are waiting for the adventurous soul. Many countries are opening their doors to travelers who are interested in experiencing the road less traveled. For those who want to travel to out of the way spots air fares have become much cheaper than they have in past years.

Other alternatives are also available for exploring lesser known destinations. Trains, buses and even shared hire cars are now available for a fraction of the cost than was the case even a few years ago. It is up to the individual whether they would prefer to travel alone or as part of a group.

Structured tours of Europe or even Asia are today widely available, taking advantage of the fact that many like minded people will be joining tour groups the adventurous traveler can enjoy the company of like minded people and be assured of new sites and sounds on a daily basis.

The road less traveled is also open to the urban explorer of today. Whether the traveler wants to explore regions with great cultural significance or wants to get safely lost in jungles or even view wildlife in its natural habitat there is something for everyone, from the most conservative to the the most adventurous.

There is no doubt that there are very few limits placed n the traveler today. With a little application of common sense and a serious wanderlust travelers from the old to the young are offered greater opportunity than ever before.

The traveler today is given that most precious of gifts, choice. Take a plane, board a boat or slip in a pair of comfortable shoes and prepare to be amazed at the wealth of experience that lies just over the horizon.

We have friends who make a trip to the Cayman Islands every year. They love it. The big attraction to them is Seven Mile Beach. Having been there several times myself, I can tell you it is very impressive — all that warm, white sand that goes on for miles and miles. There’s nothing like that gorgeous shade of blue unique to the Caribbean — and the Caymans are no exception.

But Grand Cayman has so much more than the perfect beach getaway. It’s noted for its Scuba diving and snorkeling also – and no wonder. The Cayman Islands are surrounded by the second largest coral reef in the world. The underwater sights are unbelievable. We did some snorkeling and I can honestly say it was one of the best experiences of my life. The colors were incredible – and such a wide variety of fish and other underwater life! I’ve been told that for the really serious scuba divers, Little Cayman is the place to go. Another advantage to that is it’s less crowded.

The crowds are the one drawback to the Cayman Islands. It’s a very popular cruise ship port. Been there; done that. I remember one day counting seven other ships in port the same day as ours! You can imagine the crowds that are dumped into the downtown section of Georgetown (Grand Cayman’s main town)! It can be a bit overwhelming. But we had made arrangements in advance to ditch the crowds. Our transportation was already waiting to sweep us off to the other side of the island for an excursion to Sting Ray City.

Sting Ray City. What an experience! And, yes – you should go. There is a shallow area several miles offshore – it requires a boat to reach it. We went with one of the excursion catamarans. Sting Ray City far exceeded our expectations. The water is shallow enough to stand up (if you’re not a shorty like me; I wore a life preserver so I wouldn’t have to tread water!). The sting rays are very tame, having been exposed to humans their whole lives. They’ll swim right up to you in hopes of a handout or two.

Our tour guide helped each of us hold one and feed them. They suck the food in like a vacuum cleaner – it feels funny, but they’re very friendly. There are hundreds of them swarming around you all at once. They look like huge birds in flight – only under water. That, and the perfectly sunny day, and our personable companions — crew and passengers alike — made for a perfect day and a memorable experience for our whole family.

Grand Cayman also boasts a turtle farm that is a popular tourist destination. There’s also a strange rock formation that goes by the name “Hell.” It actually has a post office there so you can send your friends back home a “postcard from Hell” (with the postmark to prove it!). Yeah, I know. Gimmicky. But I have to say, the rock formation was really unusual. It kind of looked like a lava bed with deep crevices.

There’s also parasailing and shopping, and good eats to be had. All in all, the Cayman Islands was a fun place to visit.

Are you a travel enthusiast? I love to travel. There are still dozens of places on my bucket list yet to visit. But one I recently crossed off was Key West, Florida. I just got back early April and it was everything I had hoped for in a travel destination. It’s much more accessible than the popular Caribbean island destinations. It has the feel of the Caribbean although technically it is not in the Caribbean.

Since cruising has gained popularity, Key West has become very crowded. But most of the cruise tourists tend to stick close to the dock and the touristy areas. There were some interesting things to see there too, such as Mel Fisher’s Museum. (He salvaged the Spanish galleon, the Atocha, a number of years back, and has a wonderful display of the bounty he hauled up – jewels, gold bars and doubloons, guns and cannons. You name it.

There’s this eating establishment called Louie’s Back Yard. It’s a great place to eat, or sip a Mojito under the shade of a giant Banyan tree. Great atmosphere. For history buffs Key West has two major offerings: one is the Harry Truman Winter White House. It is much the same as when the president and first lady – Harry and Bess –sought out it out as a private retreat. Then there is the Hemingway House.

Ernest Hemingway was very fond of Key West and his house is open for tours. It’s a bit pricey, but I figured I’m only going to be here once. Why miss it? Interesting fact is it’s still inhabited by the offspring of cats Ernest himself had owned. (It’s also inhabited, some say, by a ghost. Personally, I don’t buy into that kind of phenomenon, and I certainly had no “encounters” during my tour, but it’s an interesting tidbit, in case someone out there is interested.)

There are old cemeteries to explore. (Given the long history of Key West, you can imagine how old some of those gravestones are!) I actually found that fascinating, but not everyone would share that opinion. If you don’t, there are also some great restaurants, and these quaint little trolleys all over town to get you there. Don’t confuse them with the cruise ships’ excursion trolleys, which are off limits to non-cruisers. It’s a small island so everything is pretty much within walking distance if you’re inclined. (I took the trolley.)

Key West is the southernmost point of the United States, and, as part of the United States, it allows for long distant cell phone calls without roaming charges. Good to know. There’s a gorgeous lighthouse there that offers a spectacular view from the top! There are also lots of statues around town that make for great photo ops. And the Butterfly Conservatory is a must!

I stayed there a week and never ran out of things to do. Like I said, I like to travel and were it not for the bucket list, I think my next trip would be back to Key West!

The trick of “sitting up” is easily taught to small dogs, but should try not be included in a big dog’s education, as it is difficult for them to preserve their balance.

The training of sitting up is one of the first tricks to teach and forms the groundwork for many other dog tricks. To train a dog to sit up, prepare some treats as a reward, and set your dog on his haunches in a corner, so that he cannot fall either backward or sideways and has very little or no space to lose balance.

Keep him from pitching forward by holding one hand under his chin and with the other hand hold the treat above his nose and keep repeating distinctly and deliberately say, “sit up.” Do not make him sit up too long at any one time, but repeat the lesson frequently and reward him often with plentiful of praise and treats.

During his first lesson he will require considerable assistance from your hand to prevent him from pitching forward, but as he gets control of the balancing muscles and understands what you want, he will depend less and less upon your hand to keep him in position and you can gradually render him less assistance until you will only have to keep one hand in position two or three inches from his neck or chin, so as to be ready to prevent him pitching forward; later on you can withdraw this hand entirely and simply hold the treat just above the level of his head.

By constant practice he will sit up well after you set him up; then he should be set up against the wall, so as to afford him a support for his back only, and after he has been well schooled at this and can keep his position easily, practice him against chair legs, cushions or other objects that afford him less and less assistance, until finally he learns to preserve his balance and sits up without anything to lean against.

During all these lessons the words “sit up” have been impressed upon his mind by frequent repetition, and now comes the final lesson to teach him to sit up as soon as he hears the words, and the chances are, if he has been diligently drilled, it will be necessary only to call him out in the room, show him a treat, hold it up a suitable distance from the floor, say “sit up” and he will do so, when he should be given the treat while still in position.

The only necessity to perfection is to practice him several times a day until he will sit up at the word and without being shown a reward; that can be given him after he has obeyed.

You have now a foundation for many other tricks. He can be taught to beg by moving your hand up and down just in front of his paws, which he will move in unison with yours. He can also be taught to salute by bringing one paw up to the side of his head, or to hold a wooden pipe in his mouth, or to wear a cap on his head or other articles of wearing apparel.

In teaching a dog to submit to being dressed up, do not attempt to get him to wear too many things at once; try him at first with a cap and after he becomes accustomed to that you can put on a coat and gradually accustom him to the other clothing articles.

Enjoy teaching your dog the “sit up” trick and most importantly have fun along the way!

Are you tired of the same old, same old for your family vacation? How about trying something really unique? Have you ever considered a dude ranch? I know; I know. The first thing that comes into your mind is City Slickers, that movie with Billy Crystal and Jack Pallance – where everything that could go wrong does go wrong. Trust me. This dude ranch vacation will be nothing like that!

What I’m talking about is a luxury dude ranch – a luxury resort in Big Sky Country. We’re talking a beautiful, rustic but luxurious lodge in the middle of Montana. Gourmet chefs. Treasure hunts with GPS devices. White water rafting. But if you really want to rough it, they offer that option as well – something for everyone.

Some of the activities they offer will remind you what you’ve been missing all those years living in the city … commuting 40 miles to your downtown office, chauffeuring the kids to their soccer games. You’ll wonder what you ever saw in those Caribbean islands with their pristine beaches. Well, maybe not; but you need a change and a dude ranch – THIS dude ranch – is definitely that.

Besides the obvious – horseback riding, clay shooting, fly fishing, lake activities of all kinds, they also offer balloon rides, rappelling, white water rafting, chuck wagon dinners, and, of course, a cattle drive. Yes, they have that too. It doesn’t matter whether you are just newly acquainted with the back of a horse or if you’ve ridden all your life. You will have the experience of a lifetime assisting seasoned ranch hands as they drive a herd of cattle across the prairies.

But that rough riding is bound to make your muscles ache. The beauty of a resort ranch is that you can walk away from that cowboy life and right into their luxury spa at the lodge for a nice, relaxing massage. Top that off with a swim or a dip in the Jacuzzi and you’ll be ready for that gourmet dinner awaiting you in the dining room.

Or perhaps you would prefer to rough it in one of their luxury tents. They’re the size of a suite at the Hilton at least – and boast a full, queen or king-sized bed inside and all the amenities of the Hilton! It’s the perfect family vacation.

There are plenty of fun activities for the kids as well, with and without Mom and Dad. At the end of the day you can all gather together around the chuck wagon for a classic trail-side meal and swap experiences.

Now that I have you sold on the idea, you’re wondering about the cost. Well, I won’t lie to you. This is not your bargain vacation. This is your vacation of a lifetime — an experience you’ll call back to your memory constantly. It is something completely unique. I highly recommend that you leave that commute and city smog behind to spend a week in Big Sky Country – Montana.

There are many ways to travel these days. You can take a jet to almost any place in the world. Once you arrive at your destination, you can travel by bus, or car, or train, or boat, which is just to name a few methods of transportation. However, when you arrive you will need to grab your luggage, go through customs, and literally spend a lot of wasted time just waiting for things to happen or appear.

How would you like to go traveling around the world on a shopping trip and avoid all of the above hassles? Imagine yourself buying the finest wine from France, or designer jeans from England, or maybe a trip to Belgium for some dark chocolate. Could you see yourself doing such an awesome trip? Would it be possible? Yes it is possible by means of your internet connection.

You can shop the world while sitting in the comfort of your own home. All that is required is an internet connection, a credit card or a PayPal account, and some free personal time. To make your journey more enjoyable, just get yourself that favorite beverage and sit back and relax while you surf the wide variety of online shops and stores throughout the entire world. Almost every country and every product will be at your disposal.

There is no need to shave your beard or put on any makeup as no one is there to see you. If you prefer to shop in your pajamas, then go ahead and enjoy your day of shopping dressed in whatever manner you fancy. The bottom line is that you will be in total comfort as you travel from one web store to another.

In addition, you will be saving yourself a huge amount of money. Online shopping allows you to compare prices in an instant. That is something that you cannot do when you regular shop unless you drive from store to store. So you can find out which store has the best price and buy accordingly. Also you will save additional dollars by not having to fill that gas guzzling vehicle that is parked in the garage.

Another feature of online shopping is that you can get information and reviews on all makes and brands, again at in instant. This will help you to make the best decision when purchasing products that may require some extra information. An added advantage is that you will not have to deal with any aggressive or rude sales personnel. You know the ones, they are always there in your face when you do not want them to be but they are nowhere to be found when you want additional information.

So as you can see, the advantages of online shopping are many. In fact, there are many other features that that have not been mentioned in this article. The key point is that you should give it a try and discover the benefits of online shopping. Just sit back and enjoy your trip and leave the surfing to us.

Business, pleasure, or food? If you love trying different meals from barbeque to pizza, we have top destinations in the states coming your way. I hope you have sweatpants in your luggage by the way. Let’s get started!

First topic we brought up is Barbeque. In Texas, meat is religious to most. Many debates have surfaced since the age old question: Who has the best barbeque?

The answer: there is none. We all have different tastes so accept the fact that not every person will agree. With that out of system, I got three words for you: The Salt Lick.

This astonishing barbeque place has many locations but if you’re like my buddies and me only one location is unbeatable: Driftwood, TX. Salt Lick offers a menu but who needs that? All you can eat family style plate please!

Ribs fall right off the bone, brisket has that crispy crust but juicy center, and spicy sausage all being cooked in a fire pit. Not enough? Try their not too sweet BBQ sauce, choice of habanero or original.

“I want a mind blowing pizza” you might say. Where else but home of the birthplace of the pizzeria in the United States. Little Italy in the island of Manhattan, New York will lead you to come across Lombardi’s.

Many people will tell you different but this brick oven pizza tastes like an Italian grandmother is in the kitchen making it. In other words, it is very fresh and delicious. Make a stop here and you will not regret it.

Feeling like a good cheese steak sandwich? Where else but Philadelphia, PA to find it? Pat’s King of Steaks has been around for quite some time and is worth a try. Just ask the locals.

If you have a sweet tooth and you are in Pennsylvania already how about some chocolate? Hershey, PA has chocolate aroma filled in the air. A chocolate spa, Hershey’s theme park, and the factory itself are all within reach.

Craving authentic Cuban food? Miami, Florida is filled with authentic Cuban restaurants. I haven’t tried them all yet but rest assured you are guaranteed a good meal and the best coffee to wake up anybody.

Being a native to the state of Texas I must admit, I love sharing with you the secret of Austin, TX. Food trucks fill south Congress and the whole city for that matter. Besides being the live music capitol and offering endless activities, Austin has made many heads turn with their variety of food.

Another genre of food originates from none other then our next door neighbor: Mexico. Babita in southern California has made a name for itself claimed to be on a lot of must try lists from the locals and critics alike. Try it for yourself.

In conclusion it’s in your hands what to try. Going to these cities as a destination or trying the cuisine on the way to your destination, you and you stomach will be happy.

Most of us live our lives pretty fast. We grow, we learn, we work, then rest. This does not make too much sense if we ignore the wonders around the world we have yet to see.

The smog can get pretty thick in cities. That is why life changing scenery is not such a bad idea. Numerous places around the world are still raw in beauty and grace.

This article can help you by just naming a few. From the opposite side of the world to our backyards there is plenty for us to explore. Just take a look around.

When you think of Europe the ideas are endless. La Pedrera in Barcelona, Spain has beautiful architecture and vast history in every wall. Color almost come alive as walk the streets and neighborhoods.

The Swiss Alps is another favorite to many. Plush green grass is home to few people but countless trees and creatures. The tall mountains capped with snow will leave you in awe.

We may show a little resistance when we think of Thailand because of many things we hear of Asia but far be it from true that it is not a good choice for travel. Maya Bay for instance, will raise eyebrows when you set your eyes on that crystal clear water, white sand, and aqua colors. Food is great here as well.

Yangshuo, Guangxi in China is sure to not sound familiar but has the most tranquil waters you will ever see. Many small dark green hills topped with light fog border the waters almost welcoming you as you stroll along in a bamboo float. The journey there will surely be worth it.

If you find yourself anywhere in South Africa this next destination might surprise you. Mauritius is an island approximately 2,000 kilometers southeast of the coast of Africa. It has astonishing blue waters, white sand, green trees on land and a breathtaking high mountain.

My personal favorite is Lake Como, Italy. The peaceful lake situation in north Italy is picturesque with beautiful mansion homes aligned at its borders spaced out between much greenery. It also has small towns covered in flowers in bloom with escalating shops and places to dine.

Oberhofen of the Canton of Bern in Switzerland is sure to resemble the pages of a fairy tale story. The town’s castle in particular sits on land but stretches out over it’s surrounding waters. Nothing short of perfect this small town steals our heart with charm and grace.

Skopelos is a small but gorgeous island off Greece’s main land. The deepest shade of blue waters leave you in amazement. Never disappointing, the town offers much culture and great food.

Last but not least, away from the city lights, you might consider staying near Eagle River or Talkeetna in Alaska. The northern lights or aurora borealis fills the sky with moving streams of green or purple. Which ever destination you choose, be sure to make it both meaningful and memorable.

Some pets love to travel, and some hate it. Traveling can be very stressful for animals, and for you as a caring owner as well. There are several ways your pet can travel, as most forms of transportation accept them. Educating yourself about all your options is important when making a choice how your pet will travel, as it can save you a lot of grief.

What Form of Travel Is Best for Your Pet?

If you have traveled with your pet before, you may know how he handles trips. Does your pet generally look forward to going someplace new, or is he scared and apprehensive of out-of-the-ordinary situations? Perhaps your pet loves car journeys, but had a bad experience in an airplane that terrified him. If at all possible, choose a form that will not upset your little companion.

Where Exactly Will Your Pet Travel?

If you are not traveling in your own vehicle, but by train or airplane, get specific information. Your pet may be traveling on the same flight as you, but where will he actually be? Will your pet be put with all the luggage, or does the airline have a proper, comfortable place that they use regularly for pets?

Be aware of things such as train baggage cars that may be heated but not air-conditioned, as this will affect the time of year you are able to travel with your pet on this type of transportation.

How Will the Pet Be Handled before and after the Trip?

Ask how your pet will be handled before and after the flight. Have the staff been properly trained in all related procedures? Is the safety and comfort of your pet top priority for the company you are traveling with?

What Measures Exist to Ensure Your Pet’s Safety?

Although there may be procedures and rules in place in regards to animal safety when accompanying a passenger, unfortunately these are not always followed. If the particular company truly cares for the safety and wellbeing of every pet in their care, they will take measures to ensure that procedures are followed. Are there security cameras in all areas your pet will enter, in order to prove that animals are being treated kindly and not abused? Are the staff observed when loading pets onto the airplane or train in order to confirm that your loved pet is not being thrown around like a suitcase?

Good Reviews and Recommendations, or Bad?

Look for online reviews on each potential method of transportation, and each different company. Are they mostly positive or negative? Be aware that some online travel sites may be edited by companies, but you can often find out whether the one you are traveling with is known for protecting animals in their care or not. Educate yourself so that you can assess all your pet’s travel-related risks.

How Can You Comfort Your Pet as Much as Possible during Travel?

There are ways you can help comfort your pet while traveling. Send his favorite toy or stuffed animal to give him some familiarity. Wear a t-shirt the night before traveling and then put it into his travel carrier in order to help comfort him for the stretch of time that you are not around. Make sure he is well fed and has plenty of water.

There are many considerations when planning a trip with your pet. Research, weigh your pros and cons, and make the best travel decisions possible for your beloved family member.

Those gorgeous ships; they look so luxurious. But how many of us can afford such a glamourous vacation?

You might be surprised at the answer. When compared to other vacations that you plan yourself, cruising can be the best bargain around. When you factor in the cost of gas or airfare, three meals a day for, say, a week’s vacation, hotel rooms and entertainment, the tally for a road trip or even a trip by air to a chosen destination, is far higher than taking a cruise.

Think about it – just hotels alone are going to run you $100 or more a night, and that’s before taxes. Sure, you can save some by going with such discount sites as Priceline.com if you’re willing to gamble on location and quality. Priceline will give you a choice as far as star rating (i.e., 1 – 5 star ratings), and a general idea of the types of hotels that have such a rating. (To give you an idea — Hilton is generally four stars.) Sometimes, depending on where you’re going and the purpose of the trip, Priceline can be a great choice. But a week can be a long time if you wind up unhappy with your accommodations.

OR …

You could be enjoying a comfortable cabin, perhaps with a balcony where you can sunbathe in private … at a far lower weekly cost than that expensive hotel room! The cabins are small, but the beds are quite comfortable – and there is the added perk of those clever little towel animals.

Then, after you settle on accommodations for your road trip, you still have meals to consider. You can figure on $15.00 to $25.00 a day depending on how tight a budget you’re on. If you’re trying to shave off some expenses, you might try starting your day at McDonalds, or you could eat a late breakfast and early dinner and skip lunch all together. Keep some snacks in the car for in between.

OR …

You could enjoy breakfast at a generously stocked buffet full of culinary delights – ditto for lunch. For dinner, you might choose instead to enjoy a gourmet meal in a formal dining room where your personal waiter’s one desire is to please you and your palate. You might take your meal at a window overlooking a never-ending blue-green ocean, or outdoors where a gentle sea breeze keeps lifting your napkin off of your lap. SO annoying.

A cruise vacation will run you between $69 to $100+ a night for a basic cabin. Not such a savings from that hotel room, you say? Think again. That price includes all of your meals for the whole week, plus some pretty impressive entertainment. There are always specials also, so if you take a little time to browse the cruise sites online, or travel brokers, you could wind up with an exotic one-week vacation, including food and entertainment – and one Caribbean island paradise after another – for as little as $69.00-$89.00 per person.

See you at the Sail-Away party!

Thinking about taking a trip? Why do you travel? Traveling is my way of connecting myself with the world. I love exploring new places that are rich with history and new experiences.

I have done some traveling but not nearly enough. The list of places that I would like to see is extensive. Do you have a list of places that you would like to see? One of my more lofty travel goals is to visit every National Park in the continental United States.

One of the National Parks that I have been lucky enough to visit is the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. What a beautiful place! You can watch all of the TV shows about the Grand Canyon and read all of the books about the Grand Canyon before you arrive but it does not prepare you for the splendor that is laid out before your eyes. The Grand Canyon is truly something that you have to see firsthand in order to understand the magnificence of the Park.

I have also been fortunate enough to travel to the beautiful island of Oahu in the great State of Hawaii. Stunning beaches, perfect weather, and a beautiful resort made that trip to Hawaii one of my fondest memories. That is a great feature of travel – once you have a memory of a place in your mind, you will always have that memory with you. You can lose possessions and fancy trinkets but your memories are yours forever.

Do you remember what you did last Wednesday? I know that I don’t. But if you asked me about my trip to Hawaii I can go into great detail about what I did and who I was with even though that trip was many years ago. Travel has enriched my life in so many ways. Do you recall any trips that you have been on – I’m sure you do.

Traveling doesn’t have to be outrageously expensive either. Sometimes it’s enough just to go 50 miles away from where you live and experience something you haven’t seen before. Is there a park or historic site or something else of interest fairly close to you that you have never made time for? This coming weekend might be a great time for a little travel of your own.

When time and money permit, I love to go on long extended vacations that take me to places that are very different from my every day world. For example, I live in an urban setting so I love to see places that are not covered in high-rise buildings and asphalt. Traveling to see snow-covered mountains where you can look for miles and miles without seeing so much as a single house is appealing to me.

On the flip side, if you live in the country, you might want to visit an urban center such as New York City and marvel at the hustle and bustle of mega-city life. Traveling makes this all possible.

Imagine if none of us traveled at all? Our worlds would be so small if the farmer never saw a city, or an inner-city dweller never saw the coastline or the Great Plains. I plan on doing much more travel. Enlarge your world – pick a place and start planning your trip!

Curry County, Oregon is the south-westernmost county in Oregon. It is also one of the greenest and the least dense in the state. (There are only three incorporated cities in the county.) Lovers of the outdoors should feel right at home in Curry County, whether they love going outdoors or not. Below are a few suggestions for whenever you should find yourself traveling through this beautiful part of the country.

1. Jet boat rides. Along the Rogue River exists an old tradition of mailboats. A hundred years ago, there didn’t exist any roads upriver, so all the towns and smaller settlements received their mail and supplies via specialized jet boats from Gold Beach, Oregon. Today the jet boat tradition is still around even if the old towns are gone and there are now state roads to the remaining ones. Tours exist for those looking for a wet and wild adventure complete with sightseeing up the Rogue River wilderness.

2. Cape Blanco Lighthouse. Just north of Port Orford, Oregon is the Cape Blanco State Park, home of the Cape Blanco Lighthouse. The lighthouse is now an interesting museum in which you can climb to the top and get a great view of the cliffs and oceans. But that’s not the best part. Cape Blanco marks the westernmost point in the forty-eight states. It’s recommended to visit during the summer, as winter winds sometimes reach as high as 130mph on average.

3. Driving down Highway 101. The coastal highway is the main means of transportation in Curry County. It winds its way along the coast, hugging the cliffs south of Port Orford and all the way to California. During the summer it offers a fantastical view. It only takes one hour to drive the length of the Curry County highway, from Port Orford to Brookings, so fuel up and go for the scenic drive of your life.

4. Go hiking and camping. Curry County is a camper’s dream. Dozens of quality campsites and RV places exist along the coast that offer a genuine experience. Many have access to famous hiking trails and trips to the beach. (All beaches are public in Oregon.) Specifically, Humbug Mountain in northern Curry County is a popular tourist spot for hiking, camping, and beachcombing.

5. Go back in time. Whether it’s a hundred years or a million years, Oregon has you covered. Maritime and settler museums exist aplenty, so there is always something for the history buff to check out. Not into people history? The Prehistoric Gardens 13 miles north of Gold Beach feature life-sized models of dinosaurs existing among Oregon’s natural rain forests. You can’t miss it: there’s a to-scale T-rex standing right next to the highway!

At first glance it may seem there’s nothing to do in Curry County, Oregon, but soon you find that there’s plenty to keep you and your family occupied. Whether it’s storm watching in the winter or beachcombing in the summer, there is something for everyone in Oregon’s most beautiful and quietest county.

There are persons who joke about the fact that they need to go on vacation twice: once with the children and once to get some rest after going with the children. The truth is that it’s not impossible to go on vacation with your kids and still have time for yourself. With good planning this is perfectly possible, as we are going to see in a minute.

Before booking your vacation, do a bit of research to see if there are any hotels that offer baby sitting services in the area you want to visit. Southern Turkey, for instance, is well-known for its all-inclusive resorts where parents can benefit from such services. Hotels of this kind usually hire animators, young people who have the purpose of entertaining customers by organizing cool events inside the resort area. Some of these activities will be aimed at children, so you can safely let yours participate while you enjoy some awesome relaxation moments together with your spouse. If you’re a single parent, you still can enjoy relaxation, either by yourself or with some other single person lodged in the same hotel.

These resorts will also feature a wide range of restaurants you can choose from. They usually have a variety of specifics, so you can have Turkish dinner one night, Chinese the next one and Lebanese after that. Children will be very happy with this arrangement because most of them get bored so easily that if it were only one restaurant, they would refuse eating long before your vacation ends.

When you travel with children, it’s best to inform yourself about emergency hospitals and medical clinics around the destination area. Kids are unpredictable, so you never know when you need a doctor. It’s better to be prepared.

Some children may have troubles sleeping in other bed than theirs. Bringing her pillow and maybe her favorite bedding with you might help a little. Her favorite fluffy toy would be another thing good to have, so she feels more at home.

Don’t forget to take lots of clothes for your kids. You need to have some outfits for the day, when it is warm and sunny and some thicker items for the evenings, when it gets chilly. Long walks on the beach by night are awesome, so if they are part of your plan, you need to dress your children properly. Well, if you forget to take all that’s needed, you can always buy on the spot, but that’s not so wise because it will ruin your holiday budget.

Many children get car sick, so be prepared for this unpleasant event. Allow more time than needed for driving between cities, because you never know when you’ll need to stop and allow the little one recover a little bit. Always have several bags at hand in the car. When a child gets sick, it’s usually such an emergency that you might not have the time to look through you luggage in search for the bags you forgot where you stuffed.

Be organized and your trips with the whole family will be as relaxing as trips without kids.

There are many reasons a child might travel alone on an airplane. Maybe they are visiting cousins in another state, or perhaps they are going on visitation with a non-custodial parent. Traveling on airline flights without parents is a fairly common occurrence. It can be stressful for everyone, though, especially the first time. There are steps you can take to make the situation easier for both you and your child.

Make Arrangements with the Airline

Before sending your child on an airline flight alone, contact the potential airlines and ask them what their policies are in regards to unaccompanied children. Some airlines may have better customer service than others, so choose one that puts your mind at ease. Most airlines allow for children to travel alone, and even have staff to act as buddies and helpers to them, on the ground and in the air. Find out what their specific policies are, and who will be assisting your child as they travel.

Go Through the Situation in Detail with Your Child

Your child will feel more comfortable with the situation if you have gone over it in detail with them. Talk to your child about what exactly will happen, who to ask for help, and how to contact you if necessary. It can be a little nerve-wracking for everyone the first time, but it eventually becomes easier as time goes on.

Send Lots of Snacks

Your child will likely become hungry while flying, and will need snacks. Choose foods that store well in room temperature and that provide him (or her) with energy to sustain him through the flight. Things like sandwiches, granola bars, nuts, dried fruit and string cheese are good options.

Always send more than you think is needed, in case of an unforeseen event that causes him to be on board longer than expected. Beverages will often be confiscated when your child goes through security, so send some cash so he can buy himself a bottle of water for the flight.

Send Plenty of Entertainment

An airplane trip can become boring for a child, especially if it is long. Send lots of age-appropriate activities for your child. You will want to send a variety of things to do, such as coloring sheets, crayons, journals, game consoles, a device to listen to music on, and earphones.

Ask Them to Contact You upon Arrival

Arrange for your child to contact you immediately when he arrives at his destination. If he has a smartphone or any device to text from, it can generally be powered on as soon as the airplane lands and an announcement has been made. Also, ask the adult who picks up your child to contact you as soon as he is safe with them.

One of the most important things to remember when sending your child on an airplane alone is to be calm. A child traveling alone is a stressful situation for mom and dad, but many children do it often and without incident. Prepare your child, prepare yourself, and enjoy witnessing your child set out on their new adventure.

There are many reasons you might send your child on a train. Train travel tends to be less expensive than flying. It is a great way to take in scenery while traveling, and learn about the country’s geography. It can be a relaxing and educational experience for your child. Here are some things to keep in mind if you are considering sending your child on the train by themselves.

Find Out the Rules

There are rules that a parent must take into consideration when sending a child alone on the train. Generally, an unaccompanied minor is considered to be between the ages of 8 and 11. Children under the age of 8 are usually not allowed to travel alone by train, though you will need to check out the specific rules at the particular time you choose to send your child.

There will also be other rules to adhere to. These can vary, but some specifics you may want to check out are whether your child is allowed to travel on the train overnight, if there is a certain time frame they must arrive in, whether they are allowed to exit the train at stops, and if they can travel on a route that requires a transfer.

Is Your Child Mature Enough to Travel Alone?

Every child is unique. Some children seem more mature than their actual age and tend to be responsible and cautious. This child would be a good candidate for traveling by train. If your child has trouble following rules, or is too trusting of strangers, you may want to reconsider.

Send Plenty of Entertainment

When a child travels alone on the train, there are sure to be boring moments. It may be fun to watch the scenery for a while, but you will want to provide plenty of other activities for when this grows old. Send along items such as sketch books, journals, pens, and markers.

A device for listening to music and watching movies is also a great thing to send. A smartphone or something else they can communicate with you on will help both of you feel more relaxed. If you send a smartphone, you will want to check out long distance rates in case you need to keep texts and calls to a minimum. This can prevent a shocking phone bill the following month.

Send Snacks

Your child will need plenty of healthy food and snacks for the train ride. Pack enough meals for your child to enjoy during their trip. Fill a bag with nourishing snacks that keep well in room temperature, such as hummus and veggies, fruit, granola bars, beef jerky and individually packaged cheese sticks.

Send Money for Food and Other Purchases

Send money with your child if you want them to purchase meals or snacks on the train. They should carry enough cash in case of an emergency, but not enough to draw the unwanted attention of unsavory characters. Remind them to keep it hidden at all times.

Teach Safety

Above all, teach your child about safety. Train them in the importance of being aware of other passengers, and following their gut instincts when interacting with others. Remind them to be cautious of strangers, and not to divulge any personal information.

Sending your child on the train can be stressful, but you can make it easier on everyone involved. With planning, you can prepare your child for this adventure. Follow these tips and make your child’s train trip a great one to remember.

If you’re anything like me, then you’re dying to go to ComicCon this year. It’s one of the biggest geek conventions in the world and is a dream for anyone remotely geeky. But it’s not all fun and games. There can be a lot of stress if you’re not sure what to expect. So I’ve got a list of tips for all you con-goers.

If you’re going to be wearing a costume to the convention, make sure you have a repair kit with you! Mishaps happen all the time at conventions. So bring with you anything you might need to repair your costume. This could be as simple as a small sewing kit to a hot glue gun to spray paint. Whatever you might need, make sure you bring it!

Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water during the convention! It’s really easy to get distracted and end up dehydrating yourself. Trust me, you don’t want to miss one of the best conventions just because you passed out from not drinking enough water. Almost every convention in the world has water fountains and a concession stand, so you don’t have any excuse not to drink lots of water!

Make sure you don’t blow all your money the first day! This is important for a few reasons. One, you don’t want to end up spending all your money and not having anything left to buy food with. If you drove to the convention, you’ll also need money for gas to get you home, too!

Second, most vendors at conventions lower their prices on the last day. They had to lug all that merchandise to the convention with them. They don’t want to lug it back! So a lot of times you can end up getting the merchandise you want for a bit cheaper if you wait.

Also remember to exercise personal space. Just because people are there in costume doesn’t mean they’re there to entertain you. Never touch someone’s costume without permission. And if you want to take a picture, ask them first! Remember that they’re people too and deserve respect just as much as you do.

And, for the love of god, please shower each day! There is no excuse to forgo personal hygiene during a convention. These places get packed. And no one wants to be stuck in line next to a guy who smells like they haven’t bathed in a week. Even if you don’t think you need it, shower at least once every day and wear deodorant! Your fellow con-goers will very much appreciate it.

Whether you’re going to ComicCon or a local anime convention, you’re bound to have a great time. Hopefully this advice has helped you alleviate some of the stress surrounding your first convention. And remember that all con-goers were newbies at one time. If you’re confused about something or need help, don’t be afraid to ask someone else! Most people will gladly take five minutes to help you out.

When we talk about golden rules, we are talking about rules that you should always keep in mind because they are vital guidelines that will keep you in a straight line headed in the right direction. Here are the Five Golden Rules when you are planning your cruise vacation.

Golden Rule #1: Always do your homework.

The rationale behind this is if you don’t plan ahead and do your homework you may find yourself on a cruise that doesn’t measure up and your vacation will end in disappointment.

Golden Rule #2: Choose the right time of year.

Choosing the right time of year for your cruise based on your chosen destination is very important because if you don’t it can ruin your vacation.

For instance, if you are planning a Caribbean cruise, Fall may be the wrong time of year because it is hurricane season. Summertime in the Caribbean can be hot and muggy. Wintertime is the best time to choose a Caribbean vacation.

Winter is not the best time for every cruise vacation. For instance, if you are planning an Alaskan cruise it would be better to go right in the middle of summer. First, you will escape the summer heat at home, and second, you will also be more likely to have pleasant temperatures on your cruise. If you choose the very beginning (late spring) or the very end (early fall) of the Alaska cruise season, the weather may be colder and wetter.

Golden Rule #3: Always arrive in the city of your debarkation a day early.

Why you’ll want to do is pretty obvious when you think about it. If you plan a flight that gets in at noon and your final debarkation time is 4:00 pm, what happens if your flight is delayed? Always arrive a full day before your cruise is scheduled to leave and book yourself in a hotel with easy access to the cruise dock.

Golden Rule # 4, Plan a budget and stick to it

This is very important because it is very easy to overspend. On a cruise ship you do not use cash for anything — until you receive your final bill! Everything is signed for — making it easy to lose track of what you are spending.

A good trick is to pull your bill up on the TV in your stateroom each night and review it.

Golden Rule # 5, Choose the right cruise line

This could certainly include choosing a Disney cruise if you have youngsters, a Carnival cruise if you want a younger, party atmosphere.

My personal favorite is Royal Caribbean, a cruise line that I have always found to be professional and courteous but also fun and exciting. Choosing the right ship to fit your personality will make a big difference in how much you enjoy your vacation.

If you are planning a cruise vacation, do your homework. Give some thought to where you want to go and the right time of the year to go there. Consider the cruise line you choose definitely watch your budget.

Have a great vacation!