Lahaina


View of the town from Lahaina Harbor
Photo by: Nukemlee, Creative Commons

Lahaina is a historic town located in West Maui. Lahaina was once known as Lele or relentless sun in Hawaiian. This famous place succeeded in transforming Maui into a hot spot with a host of art galleries and a wide array of unique shops and restaurants.

Back in the early 19th century, Lahaina was the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom. It was also the site of a historic whaling village in the mid-1800s during the whaling boom. It was said that about 1,500 sailors took a leave from Maui, including author Herman Melville who immortalized that memorable era in the classic novel Moby Dick.

Now, Lahaina is on the list of the National Register of Historic Places. Tourists can still feel the Lahaina of old when they stroll down along Front Street, as well as when they go to historic shops such as the US Seamen’s Hospital, the Pioneer Inn, and Hale Paaho or Lahaina Prison.
One of the most iconic sites in Lahaina is the enormous Banyan Tree located at the Banyan Tree Square. This Banyan Tree is considered the largest in whole of the United States. This tree was planted in the late 19th century to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the arrival of the first missionary in Maui.

Located just directly behind the Banyan Tree is the Old Courthouse. It was constructed in 1859.
Strategically located as well was the Old Jailhouse. The old jail is now the home of the Lahaina Arts Society.

Lahaina is also known for its wide variety of entertainment and activities for tourists. The place is known for its many fine restaurants where you can taste the famous Hawaii Regional Cuisine.

Lahaina has the perfect luau party where you can eat and drink heartily while watching the traditional dances of Polynesia.

The winter months are just as wonderful as the summer months in Lahaina. You can catch the amazing whale watching tour from the Lahaina Harbor. The harbor is the best place where you can catch humpback whales.

Lahaina is indeed a place that is rich with historical background. What a great experience to see humpback whales and tour this historic town!

January 18, 2011 at 11:53 pm | No comment

Binghamton


Downtown Binghamton
Photo by: yohey1028, Creative Commons

The Central Leatherstocking Region of New York abounds with adventure, charm and beauty. Far away from the bustling city, it is the perfect place to explore underground caverns, have bed and breakfast mornings and visit Native American Museums. For sports enthusiasts, there are several halls of fame where they can admire sports legends. Music lovers can also enjoy relaxing nights as they watch operas by the serene Otsego Lake.

Those who find themselves travelling in Central Leatherstocking should make it a point to visit Greater Binghamton, one of its most popular areas. Nestled in the heartland of New York State, Greater Binghamton is place rich in history and scenic beauty. About fifteen miles north of the Pennsylvania border, Greater Binghamton consists of several small towns including Vestal, Johnson City, Endicott, Endwell and Binghamton City.

Greater Binghamton is famous for having the largest collection of antique carousels in the world. Six of the world’s oldest carousels can be found in town, which has made it the Carousel Capital of the World. Some of the carousels are open from Memorial Day up to Labor Day, whereas most are free for use and situated in public places such as playgrounds where they can be enjoyed by children. Another tourist attraction is the Annual Spiedie Fest and Balloon Rally. The festival spans three days and features antique cars, balloon launches and spiedies. Spiedies are the town’s famous grilled meat, which are usually marinated pork or chicken on a bun.

There are also several resort courses available for those who want more than sightseeing. For sporty types, golf packages can be availed for a relaxing weekend getaway alone or with friends and colleagues. Greater Binghamton also boasts of an authentic cider mill. Travelers who visit the area during the autumn season may be lucky enough to sample the delicious apples and cider from Binghamton, New York.

January 16, 2011 at 12:01 am | No comment

Vail


Slopes from afar in Vail, Colorado
Photo by: David Benbennick, Creative Commons

The town of Vail in the State of Colorado is known for its magnificent ski slopes. In fact, the town was founded after a ski resort was built in the area in the 1960s. Vail boasts having the second largest single ski mountain in North America.

The 11,570 foot high Vail Mountain is the home of the Vail Ski Resort and the main tourist draw to the town of Vail. 5,289 acres of the mountain is skiable, featuring seven bowls. The ski slopes are accessible through 33 lifts or through 193 marked trails.

Vail was established in 1966, four years after the Vail Ski Resort started operation, distinguishing the town from other ski towns which were built and grew before ski resorts were built in their respective areas. The resort quickly grew in popularity among skiers, and the town itself grew at the base of the gondola which brought skiers up the mountain. U.S. President Gerald Ford and his family vacationed in Vail in the 1970s, further boosting the popularity of the town. The town and its ski resort has also been the site of numerous skiing competitions – it would have been the site of the 1976 Winter Olympics’ skiing competition if Colorado voters had not refused to host the games – throughout the years.

Besides being a prime ski resort, the town of Vail is also home to the Steadman-Hawkins Clinic, a world-renowned clinic for knee injuries. Skiers on Vail Mountain’s slopes need not fear getting adequate medical attention if and when they fall and break a few bones. The town is also the location of the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the highest botanical garden in the world. The different gardens here contain about 2,000 different kinds of plants, including many wildflowers and alpine plants. Vail also plays host to annual film and music festivals.

January 15, 2011 at 4:12 pm | No comment

Santa Cruz


The Boardwalk on the beach of Santa Cruz
Photo by: Matt314, Creative Commons

The northern edge of Monterey Bay in California is home to the city of Santa Cruz. The city is widely known for its beautiful beaches, coastal redwood forests, and mild climate, making it a popular resort community.

Located a little more than a hundred miles south of San Francisco, Santa Cruz offers tired workers and visitors a quick beach getaway from the hustle and bustle of the big city with its 29 miles of sunny coastline. The city is home to some of California’s best beaches, which enjoy warm and mostly dry summers thanks to the mild climate of the area. Visitors may enjoy a myriad of activities on the beaches including surfing, volleyball, sailing, diving, and of course, swimming.

Visitors may also visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which is the oldest amusement park in California, located along the coast of Monterey Bay. Founded in 1907, it is one of the few seaside parks on the US West Coast and is home to a 1911 Charles I. D. Looff Carousel and a 1924 Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster. Despite their age, these two rides are still in operation. Traditional carnival games and snack booths mix in with a more modern laser tag arena, video arcade, and miniature golf course on the Boardwalk.

There are also many parks and open spaces within the city, in addition to the coastal redwood forests which line Monterey Bay. Outdoor enthusiasts may enjoy hiking among tall redwood trees, going out on picnics, playing outdoor sports, and observing wildlife in the greenbelt areas of the city.

Downtown Santa Cruz is the city’s cultural center, with many museums, art galleries, bookstores, and historical buildings to see and visit. The city also celebrates many festivals, including Shakespeare Santa Cruz, which is an annual where some of Shakespeare’s plays are performed among the redwood trees, and the Santa Cruz Film Festival, where independent filmmakers may show off their works.

January 14, 2011 at 4:34 pm | No comment

Kailua Kona


A coastal view of Kailua Kona
Photo by: Calbear22, Creative Commons

Kailua Kona, Hawaii is found on Hawaii’s Big Island. It is also called the Historic Kailua Village. It is just a 15-minute drive south from the Kona International Airport.

This was once a small, sleepy fishing village but it is now a lively seaside town just in the heart of the Kona Coast. If you want to experience excellent yet affordable accommodations, a wonderful shopping and dining experience while you learn about Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage then Kailua Kona is the perfect getaway!

As you walk along Alii Drive, you will be amazed at how many unique shops and restaurants you will pass by. Even two of the most important historic spots of the Big Island are located along this main road – Hulihee Palace and Mokuaikaua Church.

Hawaiian Kingdom’s popular royal, King Kamehameha I lived until he died in the area where the King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel now stands. A distinct landmark, the Ahuena Helau is situated within the hotel grounds. This historic landmark was rebuilt by the King himself is now included in the list of the National Historic Landmarks.

Another well known landmark, the Kailua Pier is the perfect place to catch the spectacular sunset. It has now become popular for being the starting and finishing point of the Ironman World Championship.

If you want to try something different and adventurous, why not go to the Mauna Kea Summit. This is the highest mountain in the world if it is measured from the sea floor. There is an Observatory that will give you the chance to see stars and other heavenly bodies that is if the weather permits! Once you reach the peak, you will surely enjoy the breathtaking view of the entire island, experience a great sunset, and there are a lot of wonderful pictures to take.

There are actually a lot of other wonderful attractions in Kailua Kona. You check on them online so you can plan for your next trip. Have fun!

January 13, 2011 at 11:53 pm | No comment

Cooperstown


Serene Lake in Cooperstown
Photo by: JessyeAnne, Creative Commons

It is true that any baseball fan should make it a point to visit Cooperstown, New York. After all, Cooperstown is the home of the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Nonetheless, the town also caters to visitors who are not really big baseball fans. It has a good number of restaurants, museums, theaters, golf courses and even beer breweries. The town was named after its founder Judge William Cooper, the father of James Fenimore Cooper who authored The Last of the Mohicans.

Some baseball fans trace the roots of the game to Cooperstown. Thus, it is but fitting those baseball artifacts is stored in the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. In this famous museum, baseball fans can pay homage to the sport and its legends. It features baseball-themed artwork and films and showcases star players like Babe Ruth and Joe DiMaggio in the Hall of Fame.

There are also other noteworthy museums. The Farmer’s Museum, which overlooks Otsego Lake, stands on the actual site of the old farm that was once home to the founder James Fenimore Cooper. In the museum, visitors can see replicas of 19th century buildings including the barn, creamery and herdsman cottage. The Fenimore Art Museum is also worth a visit. Its repertoire includes 19th century paintings, American Folk Art, Native American arts and crafts and American photography.

In the Brewery Ommegang in the Susquehanna Valley, visitors can enjoy award-winning Belgian beers. Summer is a good time to go to the brewery, as beer manufacturers organize a beer-tasting celebration, accompanied by live music and a bonfire, known as the Belgium Comes to Cooperstown event. The town also boasts of the Alice Busch Opera Theater on Otsego Lake. Every year, the renowned Glimmerglass Opera Company hosts the second largest summer opera festival in the USA. Cooperstown also offers the Barnyard Swing, a farm-themed and 18-hole miniature golf course that is perfect for the whole family.

January 11, 2011 at 12:00 am | 1 comment

Estes Park


Estes Park
Photo by: Nyttend, Creative Commons

Estes Park is the most frequently visited town in the Larimer County of Colorado. Located within the Rocky Mountain National Park, the Estes Park lies along the Rocky Mountain’s “Big Thompson River”. As of the 2000 US Census, the town has an estimated population of 5,417. In 2006, the population increased to about 6,000. The Estes Park was named after its founder Joel Estes in 1859.

According to the US Census Bureau, the population density of the Estes Park was estimated at around 929.5 people from every square mile in 2000. In the same year, the census bureau recorded that there were more than 3,000 housing units already built within the town’s central area. The average density of each housing unit was 570.6 sq/m. 95% of the residents are White while 0.31% and below are African-American, Native American and Asian. The census recently studied that the number of Hispanic and Spanish residents increased to 5.56%.

20.5% of the first 2,000 households in Estes Park have children under the legal age living with their parents. 52% of the populations are married couples with no children while 6.6% are single parents. About 30% from the 6,000 population are single individuals and 9.7% of them are under the age of 60 and above.

One of Estes Park’s prominent spots is “The Stanley Hotel”. The hotel was built during the “Edwardian Opulence” in 1909. Famous novelist Stephen King became one of Stanley Hotel’s frequent visitors. King however, made use of the tourist spot as his inspiration in the best-selling book entitled “The Shining”. The Credit Union National Association of Colorado chose the Stanley Hotel as the most significant site during the early existence of credit union services in the US. The town’s “Trail Ridge Road” is the highest mountain highway in America.

January 10, 2011 at 4:12 pm | No comment

San Jose


Basilica of Saint Joseph in Downtown San Jose
Photo by: Eugene Zelenko, Creative Commons

As the home of many of the world’s major information technology companies like Apple, Intel, and Google, the Santa Clara Valley in Northern California has rightfully earned the nickname of “Silicon Valley”. This part of the San Francisco Bay Area is the source of the latest high-tech innovations and of continuing technological development in the United States.

Within Silicon Valley lies the city of San Jose. It is the largest city in the San Francisco Bay Area, the third largest in California and the tenth largest in the United States, with just a little less than a million people calling it home. The headquarters of Adobe Systems, eBay, Cisco, and a few other technology companies can be found here, while others such as IBM, Hewlett-Packard, and Lockheed Martin maintain major facilities in the area. This large concentration of technology and electronics companies within the city – plus the fact that it is the largest city in the area – caused San Jose to be dubbed as “The Capital of Silicon Valley”.

Besides being the technology capital of the United States, San Jose is also home to a myriad of other attractions. Visitors may visit the Tech Museum of Innovation to get a hands-on look at the development of technology. San Jose is also home to the Dr. Martin Luther king Jr. Library, which is the largest public library in the United States west of the Mississippi River.

The city is one of the wealthiest areas in California, and this can be seen in the many large houses and sprawling mansions which dot the area. The famous Winchester Mystery House, which contains 160 rooms full of mazes and other odd architecture thanks to the eccentricity of Sarah Winchester, can also be found in San Jose. People who love the outdoors will also enjoy the many hiking trails and parks around the city.

January 9, 2011 at 4:34 pm | No comment

Russellville


Train ride to and from Russellville
Photo by: Doug_Wertman, Creative Commons

Russellville, Arkansas, dubbed locally as The Natural State, was once known simply as The Prairie until the late 1800s when the people decided to rename it after Dr. Thomas Russell, one of the early settlers in the area. Russellville sits comfortably in a river valley between two famous mountains – Ouachita and Ozark, and is overflowing with beautiful sceneries such as Lake Dardanelle. (more…)

January 7, 2011 at 12:07 am | No comment

Hot Springs


Aerial view of Hot Springs, Arkansas
Photo by: Fetchcomms, Creative Commons

As you may have guessed, Hot Springs gets its name from its abundant thermal springs whose waters reach a temperature of 147 degrees Fahrenheit. A trip to Hot Springs is overwhelming to say the least. The city lies in a valley in the Ouachita Mountains and is surrounded by natural wonders and breathtaking sceneries that can be viewed from your hotel window. (more…)

January 7, 2011 at 12:07 am | No comment

Ithaca


Clinton House in Ithaca, New York
Photo by: Opus33, Creative Commons

Many wine enthusiasts turn to the West Coast in the pursuit of great-tasting wine. They may not be aware that some of the finest of wines are also made in New York. Wineries in Ithaca are testimonies that New York can make wines that can equal or even best those in the West Coast.

Ithaca is a small town situated in the western part of New York. It is located in region of Finger Lakes, an area known for making one of the finest wines in America. The climate and soil in this particular region are perfect for cultivating grapes. New York wines come in different blends that appeal to drinkers’ varying tastes. Tourists who visit Ithaca make it a point to include its wineries in their itinerary of places to visit.

For instance, Finger Lakes Winery has winery exploration packages for tourists. Finger Lakes Winery includes different transportation options including stretch limousines, cars, buses and trolleys. The company can pick up a tourist from any point in New York State. Moreover, the exploration packages can be customized to fit the preference of the person or group.

Tourists who explore the wineries in Ithaca can choose from different wine trails. The Seneca Wine Trail is usually recommended for people who cannot visit too long. There are 30 wineries on this trail, each of them open and willing to do tasting. Tourists will surely have fun testing the different blends of wine from the region. On the other hand, the Cayuga Wine Trail is perfect for people who have a lot of time in their hands. The trail is more relaxed and gives tourists a longer time to bask in the scenic beauty of the Finger Lakes region. The Keuka Wine Trail includes eight wineries, some of which are the most famous in the region. On this trail, a tourist can learn about the wine-making process while riding a horse-drawn hayride. The tourist can also visit the breathtaking Keuka Lake as well as the celebrated wineries Bully Hill and Dr. Frank.

January 6, 2011 at 11:58 pm | No comment

Boulder


The Mountains in Boulder
Photo by: Laurascudder, Creative Commons

Boulder is the 11th most populous city in Colorado. Located in the hills of Denver’s Rocky Mountains, the city has an average elevation of 5,430 ft. or 1,655 m. above sea level. In 2008, The US Census Bureau recorded that the city has a population of more than 94, 000. The Boulder Metropolitan Statistical Area meanwhile, counteracted the Census Bureau’s record and estimated that the city has 293, 171 population.

Boulder was classified as a “Home Rule Municipality” under the Colorado Revised Statues Law. The city is considered as one of the most autonomous cities in the Boulder County. Many residents labeled the city as the “People’s Republic Of Boulder” due to its self-governing rule and democratic ordinances. 37% of the city’s population is democratic while 27% remains to be both republican and independent. During the 1970’s, the Boulder City Council passed the Boulder Country’s first ordinance on anti-discrimination among homosexuals. In 1987, the

Boulder City residents decided to revise the 1974 vote on the anti-discrimination ordinance. In 1990, Boulder became the first city to prohibit discrimination among homosexuals in the US.
Boulder City is the home to prestigious music and film festivals in the US today. The Boulder International Film Festival (BIFF) is a non-profit film organization founded by Colorado-based filmmakers Robin and Kathy Beeck of the Colorado Film Society. The Annual BIFF features award-winning local and foreign films that generally tackle on contemporary urban society issues. Held every February, the BIFF has already hosted more than 150 filmmakers worldwide since its launch in 2005. The Boulder Shoot Out 24-Hour Film Festival continues to attract independent filmmakers because of its screening of top American short films.

January 5, 2011 at 4:12 pm | No comment

Palm Springs


Windmill Farms along the highway to Palm Springs
Photo by: prayitno, Creative Commons

Located within the Coachella Valley in Southern California, the city of Palm Springs offers a desert retreat for people who really want to get away from it all – it is only a two-hour drive away from both Los Angeles and San Diego, a perfect getaway for residents of those cities.

The city boasts more than 350 days of sunshine every year; its year-round hot and dry climate a consequence of its location in between four mountain ranges. Palm Springs is surrounded on all sides by the San Bernardino Mountains, the Santa Rosa Mountains, the San Jacinto Mountains, and the Little San Bernardino Mountains – the nearly 11,000 foot tall peak of Mt. San Jacinto rises high above downtown Palm Springs – making for a striking clash between the white high mountain snow and luxuriant green desert palm trees which line the city streets.

Such an environment makes tourism the main draw to Palm Springs. In fact, around a million visitors stay in the city’s numerous hotels while another half a million go for other accommodations like vacation homes and inns in the city every year. The city also makes for a second home for other people during winter – the city’s population nearly doubles during the winter months. Besides being a great holiday destination, Palm Springs is also home to other visitor attractions.

Palm Springs is home to the world’s largest rotating aerial cable cars. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway ascends two and a half miles from the floor of the Coachella Valley up to near the top of San Jacinto Peak. The aforementioned clash between desert palms and mountain snow is highlighted in the eight-minute ride towards the peak, as rider’s transition from hot desert to cool mountain air during the trip. Besides a respite from the heat of the desert, riders are also treated to a magnificent view of the mountains and the valley and city below.

Besides a ride in the Tramway, visitors may also go hiking or horseback riding, play golf, swim, and explore the many shops, boutiques, galleries, and museums which can be found within the city.

January 4, 2011 at 4:34 pm | No comment

Kaanapali


A Rainbow just off the Kaanapali coastline
Photo by: James Temple, Creative Commons

Hawaii is one of the favorite vacation destinations for a lot of people. With Honolulu being the most popular, there are still other places that are as beautiful. Have you ever been to Maui?

Maui is known for its beautiful beaches and scenic natural wonders. If you love the beach, you will surely enjoy going to the heavenly beaches of Kaanapali, Hawaii. Kaanapali Beach is West Maui’s most popular beach; it is about a 50-minute ride from Kahului Airport.

It boasts of a three-mile white sand spread with crystal clear waters. The Kaanapali Beach was once declared as America’s Best Beach. This popular beach used to serve as a vacation place for the royals of Hawaii but is now a world renowned vacation spot.

The Kaanapali Beach was first resort to be developed and has since become a model for most resorts not just in America but all over the world. There are five hotels and six condominium villages in the area so if you are planning of spending the night at the beach, there wouldn’t be any hassles at all.

Fronting the Kaanapali Beach is the open air Whalers Village. It is a shopping haven for people who love to shop. Aside from a wide array of shops to choose from, there are also restaurants in the facility, as well as a whaling museum.

For golf enthusiasts, there are two championship golf courses in Kaanapali: Royal Kaanapali and Kaanapali Kai. You might even witness a breaching whale as you are getting ready to take a shot.

Another popular attraction in Kaanapali is the daily cliff diving ceremony at Puu Kekaa, also known as Black Rock. Puu Kekaa is found at the northernmost cliff in the island of Maui. This special event is held every night while the sun is setting. Cliff divers reenact a feat by King Kahekili – upon lighting the torches that are lined along the cliff, they dive off of Puu Kekaa.

If you want to experience Hawaii but would want to try a place other than Honolulu, the Kaanapali Beach in the island of Maui is your best choice!

January 3, 2011 at 10:14 pm | No comment

Daytona Beach


Daytona Beach in Florida
Photo by: Daniel Schwen, Creative Commons

Daytona Beach is perhaps one of the United States’ most popular beaches, but not for the reasons that beaches are normally known for. Something is different about this beach that offers a whole new range of beach activities to visitors who flock the area annually. The difference lies on how the sand in Daytona Beach is packed more closely together thus creating a compact area where motorized vehicles can freely roam around.

This activity has become such a popular crowd drawer that Daytona Beach has become the place to go to for motorsports with the annual races on the Daytona Beach Speedway as the main event for over 50 years now. The popularity has also made Daytona Beach the home of NASCAR and the Grand American Road Racing Association.

But it isn’t just motorsports that draw people to the area. Daytona Beach has always been a top destination among families on vacation as well as for students on spring break. Motorsports areas have been designated on certain parts of the beach while the rest remain free for use by people who just want to enjoy the pristine waters and the warm climate – another reason why people love to go there.

There are a variety of activities that kids and adults alike can take part in such as kayaking, surfing, jet skiing, deep sea fishing, water slides, and riverboat excursions just to name a few. People who just want to take in the view may do so by renting a bicycle and going around the scenic spots that abound Daytona Beach. There is also something for the history buffs in the form of old lighthouses and other attractions from the past. The main activity though still remains to be motorsport as evidenced by the various events held every year in relation to the sport.

January 2, 2011 at 4:04 pm | No comment

Fayetteville


Fayetteville train station
Photo by: Clinton Steeds, Creative Commons

When the world seems bleak, all you need is a little sunshine and serenity. Fayetteville, Arkansas has a monopoly on that – the sun shines over the city for 218 days in a year. The city is also well-known for its ability to draw in football crowds. But Fayetteville has much more to offer. (more…)

January 2, 2011 at 12:07 am | No comment

Rochester


Barges on the Genesee River, with the Rochester skyline in the background
Photo by: Unknown, Creative Commons

Rochester, New York manages to combine big city culture with small city charm. Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, Rochester offers scenic views that are hard to forget. The city is also considered the birthplace of amateur photography. Rochester was named after the Earl of Rochester and was officially declared a town in 1788. It is second only to New York City as having the largest economy in New York State. Regarded as one of the most liveable cities among 379 metropolitan areas in the USA, Rochester is the third most populous city in the state of New York.

In this beautiful walking city, tourists keep themselves busy with an abundance of activities like visiting the freezing Mendon Ponds Park or biking along the historical Erie Canal. Several tourist destinations that should not be missed include the Seneca Park Zoo, Frontier Field, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Campbell-Whittlesey Museum and Woodside Mansion. Seneca Park Zoo, built in 1893, is one of the oldest zoos in America and home to fascinating animals such as the Polar Bear Grotto. With about 500,000 visitors yearly, it is one of the most visited tourist spots in the city.

The ideal time to go to Rochester is during late Spring or early Fall, as the weather is not too chilly and not too hot in this time of the year. Come Spring, Rochester turns into a breathtaking city of lush greenery. Nonetheless, whether it is spring, summer and fall months, Rochester always boasts of beautiful weather that is perfect for outdoor fun. The city has a good number of well-known parks including Genesee Valley Park, Mount Hope Cemetery, Lamberton Conservatory and the Highland Park. The Highland Park is the venue of the annual Lilac Festival, wherein people from all over the country come to see 550 varieties of lilac flowers that can cover an astounding 22 acres.

January 1, 2011 at 11:57 pm | No comment

Tuscaloosa


Bankhead Lock & Dam in Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Photo by: USACE, Creative Commons

Tuscaloosa is located in the west-central part of the state of Alabama. The city is named after the Choctaw chieftain Tuskaloosa who fought Hernando de Soto in the Battle of Mabila in 1540. It is the county seat of Tuscaloosa County. Located on the Black Warrior River, Tuscaloosa is the fifth largest city in Alabama. It is the principal city of the Tuscaloosa Metropolitan Statistical area. The city experiences a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons.

The city is considered as the regional center of industry, commerce, healthcare and education in West Alabama. It is also the home of the University of Alabama. Tuscaloosa is a home to many and different cultural sites and events which mirrors the history and modern role of Alabama and the Southeast. Many of these events are sponsored by The University of Alabama, making the university the dominant economic and cultural engine of the city.

The University of Alabama Arboretum is a must-see for visitors and visitors. The arboretum emphasizes on the native plants and animals of Alabama. It features 2.5 miles of walking trails which take you through native piney woods and an oak-hickory climax forest. A wildflower garden containing more than two hundred fifty species is one of the main attractions in the arboretum. The arboretum also includes an experimental garden, an open-air pavilion, a bog garden, and a children’s garden.

You can also visit the Alabama Museum of Natural History, the state’s natural history museum. This museum is located at the Smith Hall of Alabama University and is the oldest museum in the state. Exhibits include items and artifacts related to geology, mineralogy, paleontology, ethnology, history, zoology and photography.

Other attractions in the city includes Dreamland Bar-Be-Queabama Stage and Screen Hall of Fame, Battle-Friedman House, Christ Episcopal Church, Hugh R. Thomas Bridge, Paul Bryant bridge, Queen City Pool and Pool House, Woolsey Finnell Bridge and Bryant-Denny Stadium.

January 1, 2011 at 2:57 am | No comment

SeaWorld San Diego


SeaWorld within Mission Bay in San Diego
Photo by: http2007, Creative Commons

Tired of visiting the local zoo where you can see the same animals in any other zoo anywhere else in the country? How about going to the carnival? After hours on those dizzying rides, would you still be looking forward to anything else? Do you find yourself bringing the kids some place where only they enjoy? How about your enjoyment? Have you found a place with activities for young and old? At San Diego’s SeaWorld Adventure Park in California, everything is available for all members of the family, friends and loved ones.

Coming to the park, bring your family to watch a shows of Sea Lions, acrobats, and even fireworks. This is a great activity to start your day of fun and excitement. When the kids want to get up close and personal with the animals, exhibits abound with a tide pool, an actual encounter with penguins, and aquariums where adults and children alike are to be amazed to see huge, unique, and beautiful sea creatures no more than a foot away. For the adventurous ones, SeaWorld has something for them as well. There are water rides available, and even a sky ride to watch a beautiful sunset.

Teenagers may want to join the Adventure Camp where they can make new friends, and have even more opportunities to learn about animals. A program for families is also available so that everyone can learn together.

At the end of your day, no one will go home with an empty stomach or empty-handed. Eating places such as a pizza parlor, a cafe and bakery, and other restaurants are available on the grounds. For those with specific dietary needs, a healthy alternative cafe is also onsite. Memorabilia of the day and the experience are available in the park’s gift shop.

December 31, 2010 at 6:54 pm | No comment

Steamboat Springs


Steamboat Springs Downtown
Photo by: katkimchee, Creative Commons

Steamboat Springs is one of Routt County’s most populous cities in Colorado. A Home Rule Municipality, Steamboat Springs is also well-known as the “Ski Town USA” and “Steamboat”. As of the 2000 US Census, the city has an estimated population of not less than 9,000. According to a recent study conducted by the US Census Bureau, The Steamboat Springs city has an average square area of 10.1 sq. miles of land excluding the Yampa Valley area. The Yampa Valley serves as the city’s trademark spots. The valley has a surrounding area which provides geothermal hot springs throughout the Routt County.

Steamboat Springs origins come from the “Yampatikas Utes” inhabitants of the Yampa Valley. During the 19th century, the inhabitants hunted the valley when a group of western trappers and ranchers invaded the then-Yampa Mountain Range. In 1879, the US Army forced the Utes to leave the Yampa Valley for reservation of the ranching industry. A Norwegian backpacker named Carl Howelsen introduced ski jumping activities in the valley’s rocky mountain winter areas. Howelsen built the first ski jump he named as the “Howelsen Hill”. Howelsen is the founder of the city’s annual ski jumping and racing event called “Winter Carnival”.

The city is home to Steamboats Spring High School (SSHS) which is one of Colorado’s most prestigious institutions to date. Located along the city’s Maple Street, SSHS is one of Colorado’s largest high schools. The school is home to the famous “Steamboat Sailors” team who has already gained championship trophies from basketball, baseball, lacrosse and volleyball games. Steamboat Springs City is home to many famous public figures in history. Few of the most recognizable persons from the city include Olympic Gold Medalist Debbie Armstrong, Freestyle Skiier Travis Meyer, Baseball star Andrew Sisco, Reese Roper and Sportscaster Verne Lundquist.

December 31, 2010 at 4:12 pm | No comment

Miami Beach


Miami Beach shoreline.
Photo by: Roberto, Creative Commons

Miami Beach is a barrier island located between the Bay of Biscayne and the Atlantic Ocean. The bay separates it from the main Miami area, which is more like a bustling city than a laid back beach area. This distinction is often blurred as people commonly refer to the two areas under the umbrella term Miami. Nevertheless Miami Beach holds out on its own and has become popular all over the United States for having one of the best beaches that sees a continuous stream of visitors all year round.

Beach resorts and different accommodations can be found in the area leaving little trouble for visitors from all over the world to find a place where they can enjoy their vacation. Popular areas in Miami Beach include the Art Deco District which is home to a myriad of hotels, apartments and homes all dating back to the 1920s, Lincoln Road which is a good place for different outdoor land activities such as biking and rollerblading as well as the prime spot for dining and shopping.

These places are noteworthy, but they do not clearly represent what Miami Beach is really known for – the beaches. Surrounded by clear blue waters on every front, it is natural that water activities are the main attraction of the area. Beach lovers tend to go to South Beach which is perhaps Miami’s most popular beach areas. Sunbathing is the usual activity in South Beach with specific spots designated for topless sunbathers.

People who want to engage in more adventurous activities will not go home disappointed though because Miami Beach also offers different things to do in the water such as jet skiing, sailing, swimming, and surfing. For those who want to really experience the area, events such as Miami International Boat Show which showcases Miami’s best watercrafts can be seen annually.

December 31, 2010 at 4:04 pm | No comment

Key West


Sunset at Key West
Photo by: Serge Masktakoff, Creative Commons

Key West is a city found in Monroe County, the southernmost region of the state of Florida. Due to its location, the city enjoys a mild tropical climate that makes it a perfect destination for people who enjoy the beach and sunshine especially during the months of November and April. In fact due to this warm and sunny weather for the most part of the year, Key West has become one of the main seaport destinations of cruise ships. The area enjoys a rich flow of visitors who come to enjoy the sun and beach all year round. Travelling to the area can be made by plane or ship and accommodations are plenty.

Though popular for its coastal areas and climate, that isn’t all that there is to be seen in Key West. The city’s historic district or “Old Town” is a popular destination among visitors for the distinct architecture of the old buildings and houses that are lined up along the city’s older streets such as Duval Street and Mallory Square. These structures have been known to date back from the 1880s and are such a sight to behold with their classic wood frame construction complete with covered patios and balconies painted in pastels.

The “New Town” however does not fall behind too far from the popularity of the “Old Town”. Different retail establishments as well as lodging accommodations can be found here. Important sites for the entertainment and the arts are also situated in this area such as the Tennessee Williams Theatre and the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum. An array of festivities all year round keeps visitors coming back and interested in the area. Among these events are the Hemingway Days Festival in July and the Pirates in Paradise Festival which runs through the months of November to December.

December 30, 2010 at 4:04 pm | No comment

Los Angeles Union Center for the Arts


Union Center Signage
Photo by: stevendamron, Creative Commons

A trip to downtown Los Angeles will make you feel as if you’ve taken a vacation in Mexico, Japan, and China. Over the years, immigrants and locals, especially artists, alike have flocked to the downtown Los Angeles area, transforming it into a business, arts, and entertainment hub. The area continues to attract tourists and locals through its entertainment arenas, art galleries, and many more. Visitors to the area who want a taste of Asian-American art can venture to Little Tokyo Los Angeles Union Center for the Arts.

Found at the north western end of the Little Tokyo Historic District, the Union Center is famous for housing three prominent art organizations: the East-West Players, Visual Communications, and LA Artcore. The present-day Union Center building was once known as Union Church and served as the home base of a Japanese American Christian Congregation. Construction of the building was completed in 1923, but the structure suffered damage during the 1994 Northridge earthquake. The building underwent a $3.5 million renovation and was subsequently renamed as the Union Center for Arts.

Part of the reason why the Asian culture continues to flourish in the area is due to the endeavors of several organizations dedicated to preserving and promoting the unique mix of Asian American culture. The country’s premiere Asian American theater, the East-West players, continue to enjoy immense popularity and support from their Asian and non-Asian audiences who troop to the Union Center to watch their performances. Another prominent media arts organization dedicated to a similar advocacy is Visual Communications or simply known as VC.

The group promotes their ideals through productions and exhibits that are housed in the Union Center. Finally there’s the LA Artcore, an art institution known adventurous endeavors in the realm of art and promotes the diverse culture of the city through artworks that are exhibited in the Gallery Union Center.

December 30, 2010 at 3:55 pm | No comment

USS Midway Museum


USS Midway Museum Deck
Photo by: http2007, Creative Commons

The museums of the world contain special artifacts and unique items from the past, and are grounded on land in order to make sure that all the precious items are secure and stable. While it is true that there is a museum that can take you out to water, and sounds more interesting than the usual grand museum located in the metropolis or in a park, what if there exists a museum that takes you to the skies, as well as the sea? Now this definitely sounds more interesting. Go and visit San Diego’s USS Midway Museum.

The USS Midway is a navy aircraft carrier that has half a decade of history under its wings. Visitors of the museum will be brought to the different areas of the vessel, such as the rooms of the officers, the room where the vessel’s engine is, the galley, and machine shops. The vessel even has a post office because it is disconnected from land and is not readily accessible. The docents around the museums are very engaging and friendly. They will be able to provide more stories and entertaining trivia about the museum that is not documented anywhere in the location. What they share to the visitors are their own experiences, which make the visit to the USS Midway Museum so authentic and touching.

Activities are available for enjoyment at the Museum, where there are actual flight simulators designed to make the visitors experience the skies and how it is to be a real pilot. Aside from that, educational videos and other exhibits encourage interaction to provide a higher level of enjoyment and learning to everyone who visits. Prepare to spend about four hours of enjoyment when going to the USS Midway Museum!

December 29, 2010 at 6:54 pm | No comment

Tilden Nature Area


Welcomed by a turkey to the Tilden Nature Area
Photo by: ingridtaylar, Creative Commons

What better way to spend a vacation than to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city and closer to nature, like in the Tilden Nature Area. This beautiful spot is located on a 740-acre lot at the northern part of the Regional Park. (more…)

December 29, 2010 at 2:25 am | No comment