Jacksonville Skyline
Photo by: “Jon Zander (Digon3)”, Creative Commons

Jacksonville is one of those places that don’t have to do much in order to be mentioned in books and articles – it just naturally belongs there. It is the largest city in the state of Florida in terms of land area and its location right along the beautiful St. Johns River is enough to give this place so much character and personality that continues to draw people to its soil.

With its vast space and beautiful surroundings, there are naturally a lot of things and activities that go around in this place, enough to satisfy any tourist that’s looking for a retreat from their normal lives. First off, Jacksonville is one of the busiest port cities in the US because of the different commercial and industrial establishments that have set up their operations here. With this much business going on, expect a booming financial climate in the area that translates to the different amenities that they offer in this city. This waterfront not only serves as a busy port, but is also a gateway for a myriad of activities such boat cruises, romantic strolls on the boardwalks, and fishing. Activities are pretty laidback which makes it perfect for businessmen who are planning to do business in the nearby industrial parts of the city, but who also want to spend some quality rest.

Those with a taste for adventure however won’t get bored in Jacksonville too because of the different sporting events and amusement parks right in the area. The NFL Jaguars as well as the college football event Gator Bowl Classic call Jacksonville their home giving any sports enthusiasts something to look forward to. Other interesting attractions include a waterfront marketplace for those who love to shop and eat and the Adventure Landing an amusement park that serves both kids and adults.

Orange Beach from above
Photo by: divemasterking2000, Creative Commons

Orange Beach is a coastal city located in Baldwin County, Alabama, USA. It is part of the Daphne-Fairhope-Foley Micropolitan Statistical Area and has an estimated population of 3,800. Orange Beach has a subtropical climate—hot and humid during the summer, cool during the winter, and moderately warm in autumn and spring.

If you’re going for a vacation, Orange Beach is a great destination. This city offers a great selection of family beach vacation opportunities. And since Orange Beach’s economy and culture mostly focus on tourism, you’ll surely find a great place to stay. Resorts, hotels beach houses are scattered over the city.

The beaches are known for the powdery soft sand and the emerald green waters. You will find bathing under the sun with the soft sand touching your skin relaxing. The sound of the waves hitting the shores will give you a feeling of calm and peace. And if its family fun you want to have, swim in the water and build sandcastles with your kids.

Orange Beach also offers great dining experiences. You’ll find delicious, succulent, fresh seafood served at the many seaside restaurants.

Whether you want to have a day of rest or you want to go out and have fun, Orange Beach is the place for you. You could head over to one of the championship golf courses and play golf with your best buddies; or go fishing with your and cast your line for a deep sea adventure on one of the Orange Beach fishing charters. And if you want to be one with nature, you can take a hike on the many wildlife trails.

So if you want to let loose, slow down, get away from all the fuss of city life—head over to Orange Beach Alabama and spend quality time with yourself and the ones you love.

Star of India – Maritime Museum on San Diego Harbor
Photo by: little blue hen, Creative Commons

There are many reasons why San Diego’s Maritime Museum is worth visiting.

The first reason is educate those who have little or no knowledge of maritime vessels, much less those with historical value. The Maritime Museum provides that for the old and young alike through the operation of the museum. It is very accessible to visitors because the museum is open everyday. Several learning programs have been created by the museum administration with the objective to share maritime information to any one who is interested. The educational programs of the museum may include the use of ships and bringing the participants to the waters to engage in sea adventures.

The second reason is to give maritime enthusiasts something to look forward to. Since its existence and continued operations is a dream come true for these enthusiasts. Even restoration specialists take a special interest in the activities of the museum because this is also an activity handled by the organization. Restoration, and then later on, vessel maintenance are only a few of what the administration of the Maritime Museum can do for the historical vessels in their care.

The third reason is that it can be a venue for any event, maritime enthusiast or not. The event may be private or public, but that does not matter. What matters is that the Maritime Museum can make any event or occasion memorable simply because of the environment and the ambience that it brings to the day or night. Imagine celebrating an anniversary, having a small party, or a huge celebration on the Museum’s ship, that reek of history and culture.

These are the three main reasons why anyone would want to visit and get bowled over by the Maritime Museum. The best and underlying reason though, is that the Maritime Museum is one of the most unique destinations in San Diego.

Downtown Eureka Springs
Photo by: Caleb Long, Creative Commons

There are rare moments when you find yourself in a new place feeling like you’re right where you’re supposed to be. That eureka moment is exactly what Eureka Springs is all about. This dreamy Arkansas city, nestled in the Ozark Mountain, is the place to go for a much-needed getaway. (more…)

Snowfall at Fort Collins
Photo by: Wayne_Parrack, Creative Commons

Good jobs, low crime, great schools, and a fantastic outdoor life made Money magazine rank Fort Collins, Colorado as the best place to live in the United States in 2006.

The city of Fort Collins can be found in Northern Colorado, 65 miles north of Denver. The city is 5,003 feet above sea level, tucked between the lowland plains and the high peaks of the Rocky Mountains. It was originally founded in 1864 as a military outpost from where the United States Army could protect the Overland mail route and trail from American Indian attacks.

The city grew even after the fort was closed a few years later, and kept growing through the Great Depression. Both the city’s population and economy grew in the years after the Second World War. The Colorado State University, founded years earlier, soon became the primary driving force behind the city’s economy as enrolment grew, giving the city the liveliness of a college town.

Besides the university, which plays a large part in the cultural development of the city, there are many sights to see in Fort Collins. Parks can be found throughout the city, offering a range of activities from biking to hiking and providing recreational facilities such as ball fields, playgrounds, skating rinks, and picnic areas for residents and tourists alike. The Old Town Historic District is a must-see for any tourist who wants to relive the early days of the city.

The District is also home to many different restaurants and cafes for every taste, and shopaholics may browse local stores for things they may like. People who have an affinity for the outdoors may want to visit the nearby Lory State Park or hike up Horsetooth Mountain. Tourists may also go boating or swimming on the Horsetooth Reservoir, as well as go horseback riding, fishing, camping, rock climbing, or mountain biking on the mountain.

Beachfront view at Fort Lauderdale
Photo by: Zach Klein, Creative Commons

Fort Lauderdale in Florida is one of the state’s top tourist destinations, drawing 10 million people every year. This popularity among tourists is perhaps owed to the fact that Fort Lauderdale carries the tagline of “America’s Venice” because of the intricate and expansive canal system that is set in place similar to the popular waterways of Venice. The vast amount of water surrounding the area has also made it a famous yachting district with over 42,000 yachts calling its many marinas and boatyards as home.

A city with that many tourists all year round naturally depends on the tourism sector for most of its income. Cruise ships and different water recreation activities have made the area rich and have thus drawn a more sophisticated and wealthy group of tourists, a far cry from the college spring breakers that used to flock the area.

Although it is primarily a boating region, Fort Lauderdale also boasts an assortment of beach and water activities as well as on land events that can keep any tourist busy for the duration of their stay there. The arts and entertainment sectors of the city are very diverse running the length of the beach on to the downtown area. It has different restaurants, nightclubs, and museums that cater to the varied interests of people on vacation.

Water recreation activities on the other hand still remain to be the best crowd drawers because of the nice tropical weather that Fort Lauderdale has for the most part of the year. Popular activities for the whole family include tropical sailing, which involves a tour of Florida’s East Coast aboard a catamaran, air boating at Saw Grass Recreation Park, snorkeling and scuba diving on Fort Lauderdale’s famous dive spots, and sight-seeing cruises that feature the rich and famous Fort Lauderdale residences and yachts.

Beaches along Encinitas Shoreline
Photo by: Allan Ferguson, Creative Commons

Encinitas is not just your ordinary seaside town in San Diego, California. It is flocked by visitors all year round because of the pristine and wonderful beaches that dot the shoreline. But it can be said however, that indeed the beaches make people come to Encinitas, but it’s the laidback, beach culture that make the people stay in Encinitas for a very long time.

About Town
The climate in Encinitas is perfect for an afternoon stroll because as the climate is mild – not too hot in the day, and crisp and warm at night. Encinitas has five areas, all of which are sprawling with golden coast. There is the Old Encinitas, New Encinitas, Olivenhain, Leucadia and Cardiff by the sea. You can expect flash packers and vacationers who reside in very modern and chic facilities, along with mellowed down to earth sun worshippers who set up tents and get closer to nature. From San Diego California, Encinitas is 25 miles up north. When you are coming from Los Angeles, you can reach Encinitas which is 95 miles south of LA.

Beaches
Beaches in Encinitas is where the bright, cheerful and golden California sunshine can be best enjoyed. There are three major beaches in Encinitas the Moonlight State Beach, Swami’s and the D Street stretches of sandy coast, all of which have distinct qualities from one another. Moonlight State Beach, which is the most accessible, is a hit to vacationers and even to the locals.

If you’re the sporty type, you can enjoy several water sports such as surfing and diving. There are also several eclectic shops by the shore where you can get acupuncture treatments, yoga sessions which will make you feel more relaxed during your vacation.

Events
Encinitas is not all about beaches. The city also boasts of annual events such as an Oktoberfest celebration and the Poinsettia Festival, usually celebrated around November. Apart from that, fun and exciting car shows are available during the year.

Palomar Observatory
Photo by: Michael Slonecker, Creative Commons

The Palomar Mountain range is famous for three things, the Palomar Observatory, the Hale telescope, and the Palomar Mountain State Park. This California State Park is a go to destination for all seasons because of the fantastic views and experiences it affords visitors through different times of the year. The area is a mixed forest of cedar, silver fir, spruce, and black oak that lends an inviting atmosphere of exploration. There are ample campgrounds for vacationers as well as campgrounds built for local schoolchildren.

Visitors to Palomar that reach up to 70,000 people a year are offered a slew of activities such as sightseeing, camping, picnicking, hiking, and fishing. The park boast of wonderful surroundings as offered by the lush greenery and vegetation in the area which changes from vibrant greens during summer to the dramatic colors of fall. Even the ambience differs as the year progresses with the winter winds coming in to the coolness of spring, and the relative heat of summer. Hikers who are in search for a Sierra Nevada like atmosphere won’t be disappointed as these are amply provided by the tall trees and mountain meadows found throughout the state park. The day hike is actually one of the best offerings of the State Park with its four trail sampler that leads to a lookout atop Boucher Hill.

Other activities are picnicking on the park’s various picnic areas that give a spectacular feel of the environment, fishing at Doane Pond which is readily accessible via your hike trail and is stocked full with trout, and of course camping with your family or with your group of friends which is sure to be a one of a kind experience.

Playing games at McKinley Park
Photo by: sacbee.com, Creative Commons

The McKinley Park is one of the most photogenic spots in the city today. The park was recently renovated for sports events in the state such as Tennis, Baseball and Soccer games. Since the park was renovated, it has become a haven for many amateur athletes and professional sports enthusiasts. The park is now well-known for its specially designed tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields. The park has a 4-block square area where Sacramento residents and tourists can have picnics and barbeque parties. The park also has playground equipment such as slides, jungle gyms and swings made from wood.

The Park is a 32-acre recreational area located along the border of the northern part of McKinley Boulevard and the southern part of the Alhambra Boulevard on H Street. The park is also where the branch of the Sacramento Public Library is located. The library is located at the north wing of the park’s commercial center, “Clunie Clubhouse”. The park has a small lake where people can take pictures or take a boat ride with their loved ones. The “Arts Center” and the “Shepherd’s Garden” is the two smallest parks located at the McKinley area.

The eastern part around McKinley Park fronts the city’s central freeway where the State Capital and Midtown area are located. The park’s middle area serves as a venue for monthly social events in Sacramento. The park is where events such as public exhibits are held every month. The eastern part of the McKinley Park is famous for its accessible area where local residents and tourists can take a leisure walk or bike and car ride. School and other community-led activities are usually held at the park. Community activities include educational gatherings, cultural shows, contemporary art exhibits and band concerts.

Downtown Tampa and the Convention Center in the foreground
Photo by: RudolfStricker, Creative Commons

The city of Tampa is on the west coast of Florida. It is the state’s second largest metropolitan area with around 2.7 million people residing in its four counties. Previously inhabited by a variety of indigenous cultures, Tampa is now a highly urbanized city that is home to people who live the fast paced lifestyle in a sprawling city while preserving the quiet calm of nature’s beauty – a distinction that has earned it the rank of the 5th best outdoor city as released by Forbes magazine.

Tampa is a city that thrives on activity, dynamism, and variety, highly evident in the different architectural designs that line the city, the skyscrapers that tower over the area, and the slew of facilities – educational, sports, artistic, industrial – that can be found at every turn. There is something to do here for everyone whether in water or on land that it hardly comes as a surprise that a lot of people flock to Tampa all year round.

Among the notable things that people go to Tampa for are its many educational facilities consisting of universities and top notch primary and secondary schools, art venues and entertainment centers that are home to different talented performing arts companies such as The Florida Orchestra, Opera Tampa, and Stageworks theatre. Museums that hold exhibits on various fields can also be found in different areas of the city.

Must see for tourists are the Museum of Science and Industry, which has three floors of science related exhibits as well as a planetarium and the only domed IMAX theatre in Florida, the Tampa Bay Historic Center, and the SS American Victory a museum ship that has previously seen action in World War II. The city’s serious side is balanced by a robust nightlife along the many bars and clubs in certain areas of the city as well as a bevy of parks and beaches where one can just enjoy the sun and take in the pleasures of living.

Panoramic view of the city of Montgomery
Photo by: RudolfStricker, Creative Commons

Montgomery, the Capital City of the American South, is the second most populated city in Alabama. It is the county seat of Montgomery County and is located southeast of the center of the state, in the Gulf Coastal Plain. Montgomery has a humid subtropical climate going through short and gentle winters, moderately warm springs and autumns, and long, sizzling, humid summers.

Montgomery is a place rich in history. Many heroes have walked the streets of Montgomery, from Rosa Parks to Martin Luther King, Jr. Montgomery citizens have shaped the history of the country with their courage. They were front runners and leaders in the civil rights movement.

Of course, aside from it being rich in history, Montgomery also boasts of different visitors’ attractions and if you’re looking for new experiences and a whole lot of fun, then this is where you should be.

You could start by exploring Old Alabama Town—this town holds over forty restored Alabama structures which depict details of life in Alabama during the 19th an dearly 20th centuries. Lucas Tavern, a doctor’s office, Grange Hall, a school, a shotgun house, a drugstore museum, a cotton gin, and a corner grocery are only few of the featured infrastructures.

Alabama Cattlemen’s MOO-seum is a place you shouldn’t miss seeing as well. The museum is great for kids and kids at heart. It contains wonderful interactive displays and hands-on activities ensuring much fun for the whole family. This a great place for kids to learn about Alabama’s history and enjoy at the same time.

If it’s an adventure with nature that you want, head over to the Montgomery Zoo and experience seeing wildlife in natural, “barrier free” exhibits. Montgomery Zoo houses more than 700 animals from all over the world. And don’t miss an exciting ride on the Zoo’s train!

Another great stop for the nature lover is the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. With its amazing interactive presentations of North American Wildlife collection, you’ll be amazed! These are only some of the great places you could visit in Montgomery. With all that this city has to offer, Montgomery promises each of its visitors a trip they’ll surely remember.

Trolleys carry Visitor through Old Town
Photo by: Robert Son of Robert, Creative Commons

San Diego has gained the reputation of being the United State’s finest city and this is all for good reason. Not only does it boast of a stunning natural beauty found in few cities across America, but it also has a rich history and culture that is highly evident in the wide array of museums, religious landmarks, arts centers, and performance venues found in the city. All these features give a great balance of entertainment and seriousness to San Diego that is probably the reason why a lot of visitors flock the area. And what better way to tour the city than on San Diego’s Old Town Trolley.

The Old Town Trolley has been host to a lot of visitors for over 20 years now, giving them sightseeing tours of the city highlighting special points of interest. The tour usually runs for 90 minutes and visits places such as the Gaslamp Quarter, Old Town State Park, Hotel Del Coronado, and Whaley House among many of the other renowned and favourite San Diego visitor spots. Adults and children may both take part in the tours making it a good activity for families as well as groups of friends.

The tour is conducted by locals who have years of experience and are very knowledgeable on the city’s history as well as the current trends. Visitors get to savor the wonderful views of the bay side area as they zip through the city aboard the trolley. Also a plus is that they get to experience the places themselves because they are allowed to get off the trolley from time to time and visit shops and places of interest. A particular favourite is the stop at Balboa Park where visitors on board the Trolley can visit the San Diego Zoo and other attractions in the area.

Looking down on the Ala Moana beach area in Honolulu
Photo by: Gerald Farinas, Creative Commons

Honolulu, Hawaii is probably the most popular place in Hawaii. People think of Honolulu as synonymous to Hawaii.

Honolulu is home to the State Capitol. There are a host of historic landmarks in Honolulu. From world-renowned shopping havens to a flourishing arts and culture scene, Honolulu has them all. It is found in the island of Oahu.

The following are some of the most famous landmarks that you can find in Honolulu, Oahu:

1. Aloha Tower is one of Honolulu’s historic landmarks. It is located at the Honolulu Harbor in Downtown Honolulu. The Aloha Tower was built in 1926 and it held the distinction of being the tallest building in the islands for about 4 decades. It has a distinctive clock which is considered as one of the largest in the US. It used to be a famous docking port when all travels were done by sea. It is still a docking port for cruise ships; however it has now been transformed into a shopping haven, the Aloha Tower Marketplace.
2. In Downtown Honolulu you will find such iconic landmarks as Iolani Palace, the Kawaiahao Church, the King Kamehameha I statue, and of course the Aloha Tower. The Hawaii State Capitol, Washington Palace (official residence of Hawaii’s governor), and Honolulu Hale (or Honolulu’s City Hall) are also situated there.
3. The Iolani Palace is the only royal palace found in the US. It was the official residence of the last two monarchs of the Hawaiian Kingdom (1182-1893), King Kalakaua and his sister and his successor, Queen Liliuokalani. This palace used to be the seat of power when Hawaii became the 50th state of the US, until 1968.
4. Your trip to Honolulu is not complete without seeing the Diamond Head State Monument which sits along the Honolulu skyline. Its Hawaiian name is Leahi or brow of the tuna. When 19th century British sailors thought they found diamonds on the crater’s slope, they named the crater Diamond Head. The supposedly diamonds they found were just shiny calcite crystals. This natural structure was formed some 100,000 years ago. It was utilized as a strategic military lookout in the 1900s. It officially became a National Landmark in 1968. The Diamond Head is now a popular hiking destination.

Aren’t you excited already? What are you waiting for? Book a trip now, it’s perfect for a Christmas getaway for the whole family!

Grand Junction Skyline
Photo by: Eleaf , Creative Commons

The city of Grand Junction is the largest city located in the western part of Colorado. Being the most populous city of the Mesa County, the Grand Junction City is home to many of the most notable American writers today. Some of the famous writers living in Grand Junction include Academy Award-winning scriptwriter and novelist Dalton Tumbo and Walter Walker.

Based on the 2007 report conducted by Grand Junction City and Mesa Country Estimates, the population of the city increased to 53,662. The estimated number of population made Grand Junction the 15th most populous city in the Colorado Western Slope. The Grand Junction Metropolitan Statistics estimated that the population in the city increased to more than 140,000 in 2009.

Situated along the famous Colorado River, the Grand Junction City was originated from the word “Grand”. The word refers to the historical upper areas of the Colorado River after its re-establishment in 1921. The city was also originated from the word “Junction” which pertains to the merging of the Gunnison and Colorado Rivers. The city was given the nickname “River City” from residents and tourists because of its location. Today, there are several major tourist spots in the Grand Junction City including the following:

• The “Green Valley” area is the city’s largest arcing valley with an average mid-point of 30 miles or 40 kilometers. The Green Valley serves as the Mesa County’s major fruit-growing region since the settlement of the early inhabitants during the 18th century.
• The Colorado National Monument is currently managed by the city’s Bureau of Land Management. The monument is surrounded by the city’s public-owned heritage lands and is said to overlook the entire Colorado Western Slope area.
• The “Country Jam Ranch” is located along the city’s northern area and is home to various music festivals.

Tallahassee and the Lake Jackson sunrise
Photo by: ShutterBugChef, Creative Commons

Tallahassee is the capital of Florida. It is home to several universities and of a well known center for aeronautics and engineering. If you want to experience a more laid-back vacation in Florida, Tallahassee is the best place to visit. This is a great place to experience the “other side of Florida”.

If you are planning on a vacation in Tallahassee, you will definitely be in for quite an experience. First off, there are a lot of top-rated hotels to choose from. One of which is this 2-star hotel Candlewood Suites Tallahassee. The hotel rates are definitely budget-friendly yet you will not be shortchanged during your stay. Though this is a new hotel, it has been receiving a lot of good reviews from recent travelers and visitors. The Hampton Inn & Suites Tallahassee 1-10 is another hotel that will give you value for your money. You can check for other hotels in Tallahassee online.

You visit Tallahassee to enjoy the sites. If hiking is your thing, you will definitely love the Alfred B. Maclay State Garden. This garden park, nature and hiking trail rolled into one is located at Thomasville Road. This park is also perfect for a weekend getaway for the whole family – lakefront picnic tables, boat rides, and playground for the little ones.

Bring your kids to Tallahassee Museum of History and Natural Science. They will definitely enjoy their visit here. This is not your typical museum – there is a large area for outdoor exhibits of native animals and there are structures from Florida’s rich historical heritage. There is also a new playground that your kids will surely love and there is also the Discovery Center where your kids will learn more about plants and animals.

Experience 17th century Florida when you visit Mission San Luis de Apalachee, this historical site was the western capital of Spanish Florida (1656-1704). You will fin reconstructed buildings and exhibits with costumed interpreters on hand to give you details of the Tallahassee’s rich historical background. The site is open Tuesdays to Sundays with minimum admission fees.

If you want your kids to experience Florida, sans Disneyland, Tallahassee could a great destination for your next family getaway.

Hilo Bay
Photo by: Kanoa Withington, Creative Commons

Hilo is located on Hawaii’s Big Island. Hilo has a uniquely diverse landscape, from beaches of white, gray, brown, and black sand to mountains and amazing waterfalls. If you are planning on a weekend trip before plunging into the Christmas rush, you might want to consider bringing the whole family to Hilo, Hawaii.

What makes Hilo interesting is that it is home to the most dramatic waterfalls, fertile and beautiful rainforests, and lovely blooming gardens. It is the complete opposite of the volcanic Kohala Coast.

There are really a lot of unique and interesting things to go in Hilo. Here are just a few of them:

1. Bike Volcano – This is actually a biking trail. You will get the chance to experience Volcanoes National Park while riding in a bicycle. Tour guides are on hand to bike around the facility with you to give you bits and pieces about the sights.
2. Akaka Falls State Park – This is another amazing sight in Hilo. A nice, short trail takes you to lovely waterfalls. The view is just breathtaking. There are actually two lovely waterfalls, if you take the long route you get to see both. There are lunch picnic tables available if you wish to spend some time communing with nature. Expect rains when you are in the facility, after all, it is a rainforest!
3. Lava Ocean Adventures – This one can be considered one extreme adventure. The boat tour includes a good view of lava flowing into the ocean; not only that, you can get to experience being in front of the lava flow, with a mere 10 yards distance. A truly once-in-a-lifetime experience indeed!

There are actually still a lot more unique things that you can do when you visit Hilo. This beautiful place in the Big Island of Hawaii is truly an amazing destination!

Downtown Sarasota
Photo by: livingonimpulse, Creative Commons

Sarasota is in Sarasota County on the Southwestern region of the state of Florida. Situated in between the Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, Sarasota is surrounded by different keys with renowned white beaches, the largest of which is the Longboat key. These keys not only separate Sarasota from the gulf and from the city beyond, but it provides a good place for visitors to enjoy the warm tropical weather that Sarasota experiences for a good part of the year.

Although the beaches attract a good part of the visitors to the area with its white sand and the clear waters, it is not the main thing that Sarasota is known for. The city has a rich history built over from years of existence ever since the first European explorers found the area, to the time that pioneer families have set up in the area up to the time when major developments have been set in place in the city by key players in Sarasota’s history such as Owen Burns, Place & Gardiniers, and John Nolen.

There are a lot of other people involved into making Sarasota the city that it is today, but even if they will never be named, the things they left behind are still being enjoyed by people nowadays and has earned Sarasota the mark of being Florida’s cultural capital. Among these are the theater built on one of the main intersections in the 1920s that has been used for opera and vaudeville performances and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Another notable landmark and perhaps Sarasota’s pride is the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, built in the 1950s as a site for theater performances until it has seen much use and was restored in the 1970s into what it is now, a museum that still holds the historic theater apart from the main museum area itself.

Crouse College in Syracuse University
Photo by: Donlelel, Creative Commons

Both culturally and economically, Syracuse in New York is an ideal place to live in. In 2010, it was rated by Forbes as the 4th best place to raise a family in the USA. Syracuse is the fifth largest city in New York State, with a population of about 147,000. In recent times, Syracuse has been showing signs of rapid growth and has even equalled New York City for highest job growth. This good news is attributed to the expansion of prominent educational institutes like the Upstate Medical University and Syracuse University. Moreover, an area in Syracuse known as University Hill has also been expanding rapidly by adding businesses and residential complexes by the dozen. Syracuse is home to several excellent universities, colleges and professional schools. Such is Syracuse University, a major research university that had a whooping 19,084 students enrolled for the 2006-2007 academic year.

Most of the city’s top employers are in the educational and service industries, which tend to be more stable than manufacturing companies. Since Syracuse has several small business enterprises rather than a few big businesses, competition is both healthy and stable in the city. The cost of doing business in Syracuse was also ranked as the sixth lowest in America, making the city a good place to invest in. The city’s cost of living is also regarded as relatively low, which makes it a good place to start. Since Upstate Medical University is the top employer in the city, there is a natural high concentration of medical facilities in Rochester. This has placed nursing as the most popular career choice in the city. There are currently 6,000 men and women working in Syracuse as registered nurses and earning up to $86,000 annually. There is also a good number of medical service managers as well as elementary and high school teachers in the city.

Racetrack at Saratoga springs
Photo by: bobistraveling, Creative Commons

Saratoga Springs is such a place where business and pleasure can meet with no guilt. It is a lovely town of beautiful Victorian houses and fewer crowds that make a restful break possible indeed. Downtown Saratoga is bustling with visitor attractions and warm locals. It has been a popular choice for business meetings, conferences, corporate training sessions and team building activities. Fondly called the Spa City, Saratoga Springs is just a 30-minute drive from north of Albany, 3 hours from south of Montreal and 3-4 hours west of Boston and north of New York City.

Bosses and employees need not worry about neglecting their business tasks and goals. Many corporation event planners pick the seasons of Spring and Fall to hold their company events and conferences in Saratoga Springs. The city offers excellent corporate lodging packages that have made the city an out-of-town favorite. The package boasts of spacious meeting venues, state-of-the-art facilities, advanced communication equipment, superior hotel packages and flexible catering services.

For a small town, Saratoga Springs packs big adventures and gargantuan hospitality. It is a favorite venue for corporations who are looking to combine both work and play. After a taxing day of business-related activities, the city welcomes tired employees and their families to a variety of shopping centers, restaurants and museums. For those who want to see something different, the Beekman Street Art District is the place to find and admire works of art. Saratoga Springs would not be otherwise called the Spa City for nothing. Employees and their families can stroll the historic Broadway, tour the National Museum of Dance, see the Saratoga Auto Museum, admire the Yaddo Gardens and play golf at the Saratoga National Golf Club. Saratoga Springs is also near Adirondack Mountains, where visitors can go hiking, kayaking, fishing and white water rafting. Come winter time, the dynamic is also a place to go skiing, snowshoeing and snowballing. Indeed, Saratoga Springs offers rest and relaxation without losing the business motivation.

Montauk Point lighthouse
Photo by: US Coast Guard, Creative Commons

Montauk is a beach paradise for those who prefer sun, sand and surf. Since it is located at the tip of Long Island, Montauk calls itself as The Living End or The Last Resort. Because of its strategic location, it has also been used as an army, naval, coast guard air force base in the past. It is also the home to the largest commercial and recreational fishing fleet. Montauk is one of the busiest visitor destinations within East Hampton, especially in the warm weather months. In warm weather, Montauk is the perfect place to swim and surf. Families may also go sightseeing in at least one of the city’s six beautiful state parks. The small town is also packed with bed and breakfasts, restaurants and hotels. Some hotels in Montauk are open only from April to November; while others are open year-round to serve fishermen who are attracted to Montauk’s great fishing spots.

Not a lot of people know that deep sea fishing is one the primary attractions of Montauk. When the list of things to do and things to see in New York comes up, deep sea fishing usually doesn’t come up. Long Island boasts of several fishing spots including the Hudson River, Sheepshead Bay, Fire Island Inlet and Montauk. While all are good fishing spots in Long Island, Montauk stands out among others because of its many difficult-to-catch fish such as the Marlin, Bluefish, Tuna, Striped Bass and Dolphin Fish. This has earned Montauk the title of Sports Fishing Capital of the World. In fact, Montauk claims to have the most number of world saltwater fishing records. Thanks to excellent conservation efforts, the Striped Bass (a.k.a. Rockfish) and many other fish in Montauk are making a strong return. Deep Sea Fishing is a thrilling experience for both beginners and experienced anglers.

State Capitol – Little Rock, Arkansas
Photo by: jglazer, Creative Commons

A trip to Little Rock, Arkansas guarantees the same warm fuzzy feeling you get from watching a feel good movie. The city is a melting pot of culture, art, history and natural wonders and there’s bound to be something interesting for everyone to try. (more…)

Hana coastline
Photo by: the_tahoe_guy, Creative Commons

Hana is a census-designated place (a place designated by the census bureau for statistical purposes and has no form of municipal government of its own) located at the eastern end of Maui County, Hawaii. Unlike its western neighbor, Lahaina, it has a small, isolated population.

Getting to Hana requires meticulous preparation, as its pathway, Hana Highway, is littered with one-lane bridges and sharp turns. Traversing the highway can take two hours on a slow but sure drive, adding two more if enjoying and capturing snapshots of scenic views is your thing.

As a small, isolated town, Hana is one of the last vestiges of undeveloped, unspoiled beauty in Hawaii, making the tortuous trip all worth it. Here are some of its sites.

St. Sophia’s Church has its pastures extending to the main street, adding a sense of divinity to the already pristine sights.

Hotel Hana – Maui is a bastion of traditional Hawaiian hospitality and has been in operation for over 60 years.

Hasegawa General Store and Hana Ranch Store both offer unique souvenirs. The former has been in business since 1910.

Hana Beach Park, Hamoa Beach, Wai’anapanapa State Park, and Kaihalulu Beach are there for beach lovers. Wai’anapanapa has black sand, while Kaihalulu is a red sand beach.

Kahanu Gardens and Kaia Ranch Tropical Botanical Gardens both offer flora and fauna native to Hawaii. The former is host to Pi’ilanihane Heiau, the largest ancient Hawaiian temple.

Beyond Hana are several swimming holes in the Haleakala National Park, located in the nearby town of Kipahulu. Those holes are supplanted by several tiered falls. The park also contains the highest peak in Maui Island, standing 10,023 feet above sea level. With a combination of deep waters and a tall peak, it’s not strange to see why the park is one of Maui’s most popular attractions.

Hana’s untainted paradise is sure to please the purist nature lover in all of us.

Little Italy in San Diego
Photo by: lori05871, Creative Commons

Like any normal day in a regular neighborhood, a day in San Diego’s Little Italy District is really just like a regular day. The only difference is that there is a distinctive ambiance that is not quite like any other place in the state. Here, eating places like popular food chains that are scattered all around the city cannot be found, but instead there is a smattering of Italian goodness in each of the establishments seen along the streets. Shopping? To be found in this location are shops that have brought Europe, Italy in particular, to the spotlight. Clothing, art, furniture, and so much more can be found in this quaint little vicinity.

When visiting Little Italy, the first thing to do is to find a place to eat. After all, this is Little Italy, and Italians are most famous for their food. Available in the locale are steak houses, grills, cafes, lounges and bars that will cater to every little thing the heart and the stomach desires. What they say is that the place with the longest line stretching to the outside of the eating place must have the best food! After eating, burn off those calories!

Take a walk and have a look around. Shop! Another thing that Italy is known for is art. Here in Little Italy, there is no shortage of supplies and venues should there be a need to indulge and immerse in some art. Furniture and other home furnishings are also artistic expressions, and Little Italy will definitely have something for each and every interest, may it be an interest for antique, for gardening, or for other home decorations.

San Diego Harbor and the Skyline at Night
Photo by: Rufustelestrat, Creative Commons

Perhaps one might find it difficult to decide what to do when they come to San Diego. That is because, this is a city so rich, and it has a lot to offer culturally and visually. People from all ages and all walks of life will be able to satiate their hunger for exciting sights and unforgettable adventures. This is a city which is ideal for family vacations since there are plenty of places that will appeal to every family member. Animal enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to the world famous Wild Animal Park and San Diego Zoo; while ocean lovers, particularly children, would love a visit to Sea World San Diego.

San Diego is famous for its crystal clear waters and beaches. So if you love to swim or maybe just want to soak up the sun and get a tan, you’ll find this to be the perfect summer haven. For those who love adventure, nothing compares to San Diego surfing. Here, the waves are just right to serve as a challenge to this ultra cool sport.

Golf lovers can find many places to play a round or two. San Diego has 92 golf courses. You can play a different course to your heart’s content.

Luxury resorts and spas are available for those who just want all out pampering. Indeed a lot of visitors go here just to get a good back rub and some real R & R. If you want to enrich your mind while travelling, you could opt for activities like bird watching and aquatic boat tours. These will surely feed you with wonderful knowledge about San Diego’s world renowned resources and delightful culture.

Photographers and sightseers will have their eyes popping when they visit Balboa Park, which is one of the most photographed places in the world. While nature enthusiasts will never forget a relaxing afternoon at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, where you will see numerous colourful flowers and just simply get in touch with nature. Whatever your interests are, there’s a place for you in San Diego.

Pensacola pier
Photo by: Ray Devlin, Creative Commons

Thinking of new things to do in future vacation getaways? Why not go to Pensacola, Florida and experience an awesome deep sea fishing experience? If you and your family love the beach and other water activities then this is a perfect destination for you.

The Beach Marina Fishing Fleet offers a wide range of choices for family or groups who would want to try out deep sea fishing expeditions. Your group will be provided with all the necessary gears needed and you can choose to take half day or a one whole day tour. Wouldn’t it be great to come home with wonderful stories of you catching snappers, mackerels or cobias?

If you want to go scuba diving, Scuba Shack can provide all the things that you need to make your experience a memorable one. An added bonus would be a video recording of your fishing expedition that you can show off to your friends and family who weren’t able to join your Pensacola trip.

When you want to enjoy the wonderful water in the Pensacola Bay Area you can also do so. You can enjoy the 52 miles coastline that never seems to end, the pristine rivers and even the amazing Gulf of Mexico.

You still do a lot in Pensacola: jet skiing in Santa Rosa Sound or even learn how to sail, go parasailing, and look for those elusive dolphins in Pensacola Bay.

There is still much to do in Pensacola aside from enjoying its beaches. The city has its share of a colorful historical background. A lot of historians and students love visiting the place because of its many historic buildings showcasing Spanish and French architecture. Places that you should visit are the Palafox Historic District, the North Hill Preservation District, and the Historic Pensacola Village.

There are also special events that you should see, like the Florida Spring Fest which is a festival of music.

Another must see when you visit the city is the National Museum of Naval Aviation where the Fort Barrancas is located; this famous fort was built in 1797. However, your visit to Pensacola will not be complete without seeing the Pensacola Lighthouse which was built in 1825.

If you enjoy the outdoors as much as history, Pensacola is definitely a must visit place for you!