Venture Offshore to the Florida Keys

Sprinkled off the southwest coast of Florida, the sandy gems known as the Keys offer one exciting opportunity after another for vacationers in search of stimulation and relaxation. The islands stretch for 120 miles, and within that span you'll find art, history, music, wilderness, and as much natural beauty as your senses can handle. Each island has its own distinctive qualities, but you'll find that they all share the ability to impress and enthrall anyone wise enough to stray from the mainland.

Key Largo, the northernmost island, is a great place to start your tour of the Keys. Known as the Diving Capital of the World, this area of land and sea will provide underwater explorers access to North America's only living coral barrier reef, as well as Spiegel Grove, a 510 foot sunken navy ship. Sport fishing is also a popular attraction, so arrange for an experienced captain to take you out for a spin if you have your heart set on reeling in an exotic catch. Key Largo's close proximity to the Everglades make eco-tours exciting prospects, and kayakers with a love for the environment can be seen paddling all around the lush marshland.

Next in line is Islamorada. Though ocean fishing is an activity common in all the Keys, Islamorada claims the title of Sport Fishing Capital of the World. Reel in a sailfish, tuna, tarpon, or bonefish, or just watch the saltwater hunters do their thing. Diving, too, is popular here, as the coral reef winds its way all around this enchanting string of islands. Islamorada has a few state parks for your enjoyment, and plenty of shops and galleries that surely contain the perfect souvenir.

Marathon is the Heart of the Keys, and offers up plenty of reasons to make it a valuable addition to rest of its sisters. An airport and hospital give it a modern, practical feel, but there are lots of light-hearted diversions to keep you feeling mellow. Sombrero Reef is a haven for snorkelers, Crane Point Hammock holds 64 acres of museums and a nature center, and the Dolphin Research Center and Turtle Hospital take care of the marine animals that make their home in Marathon. Spend some time enjoying the wonderful conditions for ocean activities in Boot Key Harbor, and then continue your journey to the next blissful island.

The Lower Keys have a quieter appeal, but still offer plenty to see and do. Bahia Honda State Park on the Key of the same name is considered one of the most beautiful beaches around, and Little Duck Key is home to Veterans Memorial Park. Big Pine Key has the best shopping in the area, and it also exists as a refuge for Key Deer, the tiny and delicate creatures who add another fascinating detail to the already entrancing atmosphere of the Lower Keys. This is an ideal area to set up a tent or rent a vacation home, as its uncultivated land and stunning sunsets make it utterly appealing.

Finally, at the end of the line you'll find the biggest personality of all, Key West. Home to Ernest Hemingway, a healthy artistic community, and festivals galore, this fun-loving shelter from negativity is the place to be for anyone looking to enhance their lust for life. Whether you feel like sipping a margarita on Duval Street or raising your hands to the sunset on Mallory Square, you'll feel comfortable and embraced by the diverse population that inhabits and visits the most open-minded Key.
Anywhere you stop along the sprawling collection of cozy islands will welcome you to slow down for a while and listen to the sounds of sweet contentment. Stay active or stretch out on the sand, no one will be judging you for putting your own interests first and truly enjoying your hard-earned vacation. On this note, be sure to choose a place to stay that will reinforce the lessons of the Keys; treat yourself right and stay comfortable.

Renting a vacation home might be the perfect way to carry out these goals. Crowded resorts and bland hotel rooms might be unavoidable in some situations, but the Florida Keys have a number of different choices. Reserving an oceanfront condo in Key Largo or a secluded beach hut on its own little island will give you the chance to truly retreat from the outside world, reconnect with your traveling companion, and enjoy the glorious surroundings as they are meant to be enjoyed.

Go online to start searching for the Florida Keys Vacation Rental that will top off the undoubtedly marvelous experience you are sure to have as you head south to paradise.

by Caitlin Moore

"The Amazing Race" with a Twist of Reality

If you're one of the 9.3 million people who tune in to The Amazing Race, then chances are the explorer in you thinks "I could do that!", well, now you can - but more to your liking! If you don't watch, but consider yourself a traveler, rather than a tourist - read on!

Like the popular show, the Amazing Race, COMPETITOURS designed a travel experience where two people per team are sent on a secret trip to Europe to earn points by accomplishing a series of fun, quirky and interactive challenges, documented via their own video cam for the COMPETITOURS judges to score.
The company's judges will pick the winners based on the task recordings

And after a fun, fulfilling vacation, you may also win the prize? A worldwide travel spree grand prize of future airline tickets and hotel nights, which are valued at up to $16,000., featuring up to 40 nights at over 115 Starwood hotels spanning 51 exotic countries, plus airfare and spending money, makes the trip just THAT much more fun.

Creator Steve Belkin, notes this "Amazing Race for regular people" takes its participants throughout Europe lasting 8-14 days. Armed with a Eurail pass, a video camera and their own sense of creativity, these competitors compete in five offbeat challenges a day.

"Each team can determine their own mix of mainstream vs. niche daily itineraries. Some teams might be cynical about the Eiffel Tower while others consider it must-see. So, each team will customize their challenge choices to best meet their personal travel and touring preferences" explains Belkin.

"Competitasks"
MAINSTREAM - bustling big cities bursting with culture, food, shopping, must-see sites and must-do activities (think Rome, Stockholm, Budapest, London and everywhere in between)

NICHE - under the radar cool spots, too inconvenient for the package tours and too much research for the backpacker crowd (think ethnic enclaves in big cities, bleeding edge technology exhibits, KGB museums, poison beer recipes)

TIMELESS - rural village life where tradition and craftsmanship are still revered (think castle-lined rivers, 16th century Hatfeld & McCoys and other myths and legends, skulls as art, cuckoo clocks as passion)

AWE-INSPIRING - Europe is blessed with a diversity of natural assets (think summer skiing, river kayaking, biking through wine country, ice caving, hiking the Alps)
The CURIOUS:
Visit an African immigrant market while in Brussels and ask the locals to help you find:

Examples of Challenges:
- Head to the top of the Eiffel Tower and gather 15 tourists together to record them doing a 30-second version of the can-can.

- Visit a graffiti-filled remnant of the Berlin Wall and shoot a video as an art critic trying to provide a 'meaningful' interpretation to the graffiti...be serious, silly, sarcastic, whatever

- Visit a West African market to find a Church that conducts services in Swahili, learn and sing a hymn in the native tongue

This Editors Thoughts:

Having never watched the Amazing Race, when I first read about Producer and COMPETITOURS creator, Steve Belkin's new company, I was immediately intrigued. As a 15+ year veteran of the travel industry, I found the concept of traveling with a mission to discover or create the unexpected a brilliant way to enjoy the culture, history and nuances of a new destination. The challenges allow the competitors to discover places, history and mingle with locals, something they may not have done on their own.

Friends, family members, partners and new traveling companions will create memories and bonds that are priceless.

The brilliance is in the self discovery that takes place during such a competition in unknown destinations and cultures.

by Ilizabeth Sutera

Islip Hotels Near the MacArthur Airport

Islip has many fascinating things to offer to guests whether you're hear on a business trip or for a vacation. You'll find several Islip hotels near the MacArthur Airport and other attractions like the Splish Splash Water Park.

Islip is a small town in New York's Suffolk County. It is named after a community in Oxfordshire, England and is divided into different sections. This town is a popular stop over destination for those traveling through Mac Arthur Airport and going to Ronkinkoma or Bohemia, New York. For a comfortable stay, both leisure and business travelers can choose from the wide selection of Islip hotels like Econo Lodge, Courtyard Lodge as well as La Quinta Inn & Suites.

Econo Lodge MacArthur Airport - This Islip hotel is conveniently located near Long Island Railroad and the MacArthur Airport. It offers a nightly rate that starts at $74.99. Guestrooms in this hotel are equipped with hairdryers, refrigerators, microwave ovens and coffee makers. They also provide complimentary USA Today newspapers and Continental breakfast. Its exact address is 3055 Veterans Memorial Highway Ronkonkoma, New York.

Courtyard Long Island MacArthur Airport - This is a good choice among several Islip hotels near the MacArthur Airport. Its nightly rate ranges from $105.78 to $149. This 2-star hotel offers the most central location in Long Island. It is a favorite amongst business travelers. Guestrooms of this Courtyard hotel feature spacious granite bathrooms, refrigerators, microwave ovens, productive workspaces and more. They also have a fitness facility, business center and an indoor pool. Their Courtyard Café serves American breakfast buffets apart from their a la carte menu and American Home Style cuisine. The exact address of this Islip hotel is 5000 Express Drive South Ronkonkoma, New York.

La Quinta Inn & Suites - This is one of the best Islip hotels near the MacArthur Airport. It is conveniently located in Bohemia and offers 2-star accommodations. It is a stylishly designed hotel that assures maximum comfort to both leisure and business travelers. It is also a favorite of many families because it is near attractions and shopping venues like the Splish Splash Water Park, Tanger shops, wineries and golf courses. Business travelers love this hotel because of its closeness to the Rechler Business Park and some offices for Computer Associates. Its guestrooms are equipped with high speed Internet connectivity, refrigerators, coffee makers, microwave ovens, hairdryers and 32-inch flat screen TVs. They also have a business center, Spa, fitness center and meeting facilities. Free airport shuttle services and Bright Side breakfast is also provided. The nightly rate of La Quinta Inn & Suites ranges from $115 to $135. Their exact address is 10 Aero Road Bohemia, New York.

Islip Hotels,Information & Tourism

The Town of Islip, named after Islip in England, is situated in Suffolk County, New York state in US. Located on the south shore of Long Island it is a seaside resort area comprising of some 20 residential communities that includes Islip Village, the seat of the town government.

The region got settlers arriving in 1683 and was incorporated in 1710. Central Islip is home to New York Institute of Technology and the site of a community college at Brentwood.

Islip includes the villages of Brightwaters, Islandia, Ocean Beach and Saltaire as also numerous hamlets including Bayshore and Sayville which are ferry terminals for Fire Island.

Places of Attractions include Gardiner County Park, Islip Art Museum and Sagtikos Manor. The Manor built in 1697, served briefly as headquarters for British army during the Revolutionary War. Some of the best accommodations & hotels you can avail near to the McArthur Airport in Islip respect to convenience, comfort and cost.

by David H. Urmann

Must-Visit Places In Washington DC

Being the country's capital, naturally, there are plenty of wonderful, thought-provoking cultural and historically-rich sites to visit in a bus charter. Washington DC boasts of places like National Mall, a large park within the city center that has been attracting throngs of tourists from the world over for decades. Millions come for languid weekend afternoons walks, biking and picnics with family members too, so, it's not just for the tourists. Another amazing place to visit in the bus would be the Washington Monument. Just remember to charge your camera batteries up on full load and snap away.

What other places to visit in Washington DC in a bus charter? Washington DC is also the place where the famous Korean War Veterans Memorial is. On top of being beautiful, there is so much to learn too - the kids are going to go home smarter and wiser. Since there are so many places to visit, an amazing array of restaurants to experience and a wonderful number of malls to shop at, it is always a wiser option to rent a bus if you want to have a smoother traveling experience. After all, there isn't a point in joining in with the infamous traffic in and out of Washington DC when one is unfamiliar with the roads. In fact, that is why most people touring Washington DC in a group prefer to use bus charter.

Washington DC is also home to one of the largest reflecting pools in the country. You may have seen the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool used as backdrop or featured in films and TV series and not recognize it. It is a rectangular pool located at the National Mall, very near Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument. At different angles, you can see all three - the Monument, the Memorial and the trees - all together through the reflection in the pool. The reflecting pool was designed by Henry Bacon as a dedication to the Lincoln Memorial.

Another must-see site by bus charter - Washington DC Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. It is an art museum located nearby the National Mall too. The sculptures and exhibits are dedicated to the WWII period but has been classified as a museum for contemporary, as well as, modern art. Here, you get to see stuff from Willem de Koonig, Louise Nevelson, Henri Matisse, Mary Cassalt and many, many more! Art lovers, you will most definitely have the time of your life in this museum. Art organizations and photography enthusiasts, get together in a group and visit this museum using bus charter.

Washington DC is rich in art and culture, therefore, the National Symphony Orchestra, National Opera, Warner Theater and the Kennedy Center Honors are all good choices for original and world-famous performances alike.

With so many places to visit in a bus charter, Washington DC will surely leave you with wonderful memories to bring home.

by Pamela Lawson

Tourists attractions in Washington

Plan your vacations by traveling with Washington flights to the superb nation of staggering distinctions, from the elevated mountain ranges to the luxuriant strips.

United States is considered one of the most beautiful and powerful countries of the world and many of her destinations are absolutely very popular as well. So many different and new things are interesting facts for all the travelers and tourists visiting this country for the first time in their life. Washington D.C is the capital of this enormously popular state and reflects some measures of international quality for travel and tourism industry and grabs the attention of all the passengers who want to get on board to their cheap flights to Washington D.C. Travel to Washington D.C through American Airlines and many other top ranked airlines of the world to enjoy a quality air journey.
Some of the tourist's attractions in this vast beautiful and absolutely adored city are as follows;
City Segway Tours of Washington, DC
Bike and Roll Washington DC
DC Metro Food
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
DC by Foot - Free Walking Tours
Lincoln Memorial
Library of Congress
Newseum
Washington National Cathedral
Old Town Trolley Tours of Washington DC
National Air and Space Museum
Washington Monument
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
National Museum of Natural History

http://www.flightstowashingtondc.co.uk/

These all above mentioned places have a unique value and thus many of the travelers traveling through their cheap flights to Washington D.C love to explore all of these destinations and famous places.
Washington D.C is considered to have the world's most favorable traveling zone because of its climatic conditions as the temperature also drops down although in other cities of United States the temperature remains quite high. In winter season, there is also some snowfall throughout the city. People from hot and dry countries and region love to spend their time during the days of snowfalls in the city and buy their cheap flights to Washington D.C for this purpose. The northern suburbs of Washington D.C are considered the most suitable ones for having a family trip to Washington D.C. Apart from that the regular cold fronts pass over in winter brings very cold winds from southern part with usually clear skies.
There are many different shopping centers and plazas in the city widely open for customer services and offering the low prices by providing discounts as well. Some of those are absolutely popular all around the United States considered being a shopper's paradise. Many visitors who enjoyed their cheap flights to Washington D.C visit these plazas and purchase any kind of stuff needed and also buy things for their dear ones.

by Precious Dzanku

Itching To Get Away? Go For a Florida Beach Adventure!

When planning the ultimate getaway, most travelers envision a beach adventure. This is only natural of course, as nothing beats feeling the sand between one’s toes, breathing in the fresh sea breeze and getting a sun-kissed look. When choosing the perfect haven of sand and sea, there’s no better option than the best beaches Florida could offer.

The Florida Option

Being the Sunshine State of America, Florida features warm pleasant weather and miles upon miles of beaches. As a matter of fact, it serves as the home state of two national sea shores, the Canaveral National Seashore situated on the barrier island along the Atlantic Coast of the state, and the Gulf Island National Seashore, which is located in northwest region of Florida, near Mississippi. Attracting over 60 million visitors each year, it’s no surprise that Florida ranks among the top vacation destinations in the United States.

When it comes to naming the most idyllic beaches Florida could offer, Navarre Beach and Pensacola Beach instantly come to mind. These West Florida beaches boast of white-sand shores and pristine blue waters, two paradise destinations that await tourists who want to experience only the best beach vacation they could ever have.

Play with nature at Navarre Beach!

The great thing about touring Navarre Beach is that there are many diverse activities to do. Tourists could either grow butterflies at the Panhandle Butterfly House, or catch some big fish at the Navarre Pier. Spotting some sharks at the Souvenir City and Shark Museum is also a great option, especially for children.

This tourist destination is an ideal getaway not only for those who want a relaxing time away from a busy life, but also for families who want to make most out of their time together. Navarre Beach is located on Santa Rosa Island, and was the primary setting of the 1978 film, “Jaws 2.”

Attend a Music Party at Pensacola Beach!

Located near Navarre, Pensacola Beach is popular for having exceptionally white sand and an ideal climate. In the winter, the Pensacola temperature is comfortably warmer than most regions, while summers are breezy cool. The rich military history of the Pensacola area makes it a fun and educational tourist destination. Tourists may relive American history at Fort Barrancas and at the Veterans Memorial Park/Wall South. They may explore and learn about marine life at the Gulfarium, and afterwards head to The Pensacola Lighthouse for a good dose of ghost stories. Apart from these scenic and entertaining tours, Pensacola Beach offers great times at Chumuckla's Farmer's Opry House, where sumptuous American dinners are served with great country and gospel music. There’s nothing better to punctuate a day except for great company and the right combination of musical notes and delicious drinks, so that dropping by this laid-back Florida joint is definitely necessary for any tourist.

It’s hard to imagine a Florida vacation without Navarre Beach and Pensacola Beach topping the list, especially when these two tourist destinations are the best spots where to shake off stress gain newfound energy.

by Greg Schnoor

Things I Love about Branson Mo

Branson, Missouri can be an exciting destination to visit! There is certainly so much to do to keep everyone busy. It's tough to choose which usually activities would be best, but allow me to share 10 of the items I love regarding Branson. The weather throughout Branson is moderate with temperatures ranging from 22 to 44 degrees F in the winter by incorporating occasional snow. The average summertime temps vary from 67 for you to 89 certifications.

No visit to Branson would be full without traveling to Silver Greenback City. This kind of engaging theme park will transfer you returning to the 1880’s by having an assortment of routines, crafts, celebrations and fascinating rides.

If you love splashing close to in the water, then visit White Water and glide down one of many two 75-foot freefall drop lanes, or even speed along a 315-foot 4 mat racing lane. Then when you're finished, pop up to one of the Great Cabanas for your own exclusive getaway!

In the event you or a friend or acquaintance is a experienced, a tour throughout the Veterans Memorial Museum. is a memorable as well as emotional knowledge that you'll never forget. View World War II memorabilia while you’ve never seen this before.

Use your "Wacky Quakers" and Ride The Ducks! Choose between two adventures every offering a new stroll by way of town prior to a sprinkle in the water. That is fun for the whole family!

Cruise trip onto the Showboat Branson Belle to relish live leisure, music and also delicious food. Opt for a few private occasion on patio to enjoy the gorgeous scenery coming past, as well as socialize along with other visitors and get to know the locals.

Check out the Natural stone Hill Winery and require a tasting trip offering a number of the finest wine Branson has to offer. Or even learn about the Winery's German heritage throughout the citywide celebration of "See the World throughout Branson" when corporations adopt various countries on the planet.

If you've ever imagined meeting a favorite celebrity close up, then you need to prevent by the The show biz industry Wax Public and "meet" celebrities such as Lana turner or Michael Jackson. You will feel as if your current idol is standing beside you.

Golfing has never been as much fun as it will likely be when you experience Buccaneers Cove. Putt your way through falls and key caves together with abandoned vessels.

Vacationing with the family should be fun and exciting and it can be! Enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes associated with Branson while you help to make memories to last a lifetime.

by Sonny Stevens

THE OLD MEN

I used to frequent a restaurant on Saturday mornings, and there was a group of old men who sat in the corner and drank coffee together. It was usually the same bunch of ten to twelve although occasionally someone new would join and a regular would drop out. The old men liked to sit and solve the world’s problems over steaming cups of black coffee. You wouldn’t find these guys drinking flavors like Irish Mocha or French Vanilla or adding whipped cream to their drinks. These were men with nicotine stained fingers that sometimes bothered to shave the overnight stubble but just as likely would not. Their faces were deeply lined and their skin was leathery from years of hard work in the sun. None of these men had ever paid for a tan. They would discuss politics, religion and every other topic that is forbidden and occasionally the political talk would become heated, but eventually cooler heads would prevail and the local sports teams would become the unifying subject they could all agree on. Some of these men were obviously farmers. They proudly wore caps with the logo of their favorite farm machinery on them, and a couple wore overalls every week. Others had probably been businessmen, factory workers - almost anything.

Over the months I couldn’t help but notice that one of the men was a little quieter than the others. He seemed to have full acceptance within the group, but he caught my attention because he wasn’t as loud and didn’t laugh quite as much as the rest. I eventually learned his name was Pete. One morning the guys got to talking about how annoying their wives were, and they began throwing around the usual stereotypes that crop up when a group of men, who have been married to the same long-suffering woman for decades, feel the need to express their marital frustrations. However, I noticed that Pete didn’t say a word. He just sat silently staring into his coffee cup. It was at that point I noticed he wasn’t wearing a wedding ring like the others. After the joking and complaining about the wives subsided one of the men turned to Pete and gently asked, “How long has Louise been gone now?” Pete looked up with an expression that conveyed both weariness and pain and softly answered, “Three years, last month.” The old men sat silently for a time each contemplating what their days would be like if the woman they had shared a lifetime with was no longer by their side.

As I eventually learned, Pete had been a medic in the Korean War, and the horror he witnessed during that conflict affected him for the rest of his life. He had come home in a different mental state, and his outlook on the world had completely changed. He often disagreed with the other old men who always seemed gung-ho to bomb someone somewhere back into the Stone Age, however, he had witnessed so much death that he could no longer stomach the thought of it. But it was the fact that Pete had lost a son in Vietnam that made the others respect his opinions about peace. His boy had been killed by small arms fire just 6 weeks before his tour of duty was over. Pete and Louise had gone to Washington DC one summer to visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. Like so many others they had found their son’s name and made a tracing of it on a sheet of paper. Pete carried it in his wallet so that he was never without it…But there were also good things in his life. I found out Pete had two beautiful daughters who meant the world to him, and he loved to show off photos of his great-grandchildren. He didn’t travel to see them as much now that Louise was gone, but they still kept in touch and came to visit him whenever possible.

Over the next year or so I slowly learned that after returning home from the army Pete briefly considered using his medical training for some type of civilian work, but his nerves were frayed, and he knew he couldn’t handle anymore human suffering. Instead he took a job at a local manufacturing plant that produced tires for cars and trucks. He spent 46 years at the plant working his way up to management. When he retired, a small party was thrown for him and he was given a few simple gifts and a pat on the back for giving four decades of his life to the company. It was a few months after his retirement when Pete stumbled onto the group of men drinking coffee each morning at the restaurant near his home. Like him, many had been told their services were no longer needed, and they too had been cast aside after it was determined their ongoing usefulness to a particular organization was in doubt. Pete had felt lost without a job to go to each day, but now he discovered he wasn’t alone. It didn’t take long for Pete to become one of the regulars.

Over the next couple of years I had breakfast almost every Saturday morning at the restaurant while I listened to the old timers talk longingly about how things used to be. But my attention was always drawn to Pete. In the beginning I thought he was just another old man, the kind of person you see every day without giving a thought to, but the more I learned about him the more interesting he became. It was an odd thing because it seemed like I knew him fairly well and yet we never spoke. We had seen each other so often that each of us would nod when the other came into the building but that was it - just a quiet acknowledgement of the other’s existence - nothing more.

Finally one Saturday morning I came into the restaurant and noticed the old men sitting quietly. As I ate, I kept wondering when Pete would arrive but soon enough I understood that he was never again going to be part of the group. As I listened to the brief snatches of conversation the picture became clear. Pete had suffered a massive stroke earlier in the week. One of the men had spoken to Pete’s oldest daughter, and she had told him that the doctors said that her father would never recover. It was apparently now just a matter of time until he passed. Several of the men blustered about how they would never want to be kept alive in that condition, but it seemed that no one really had the heart to express their opinion on the pros and cons of extending life. The group soon fell silent as they sipped their coffee lost in their own thoughts.

It was a strange feeling that came over me when I realized I would never see Pete again. I wasn’t sure why I felt so sad. I didn’t even know his last name. But for some reason Pete remained in my thoughts over the next few months. I would think about him when I saw other elderly men. I would wonder if he was still alive, if he could recognize the face of a grandchild. About 6 months later the restaurant was closed and eventually it was torn down, but it had served its purpose. It had been a place of community for a group of men who had lived long hard lives, who had been patriotic with more than just words but also with deeds. These were men who had raised families and did their best to make the world a safe and prosperous place for their children. These were men who were now being passed by as younger generations ignored them and the sacrifices they had made.

I’m sure some of the old men scattered to new places to drink and solve the latest world crisis, while others just stayed home. But for a time they had shared their hopes, dreams and experiences. They had connected in a way that younger people do not. Their shared history of life created a bond that was difficult for someone of a different age to understand. Although their appreciation and sympathy for each other went unspoken, it was clearly understood. Each man valued the worth of the other because they were equals. They were survivors.

Pete had led an anonymous life. How many others were like me and had never bothered to learn his last name? But it would the worst kind of disrespect to say it was not a life of consequence. He had been married to someone he obviously loved deeply. He had brought three children into the world and he had been blessed with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He had fought for the country he loved and he had saved many lives in the process. It appeared that he had been a man of character and convictions, and yet he had endured the worst that life has to offer. Pete was just an ordinary man who had done the best he could, in the circumstances he found himself in. What more can anyone do?

How often do we look at older men or women without really seeing them? Do we realize the history that is represented by each of these lives? Many of them made extraordinary sacrifices that I can’t even imagine. They lived through the Great Depression and World War II. They survived marriages, divorces, the birth and deaths of loved ones. They have had a jobs and careers through the years and possibly lost them both. As they aged they have battled their own health problems and they may be bravely living with a disease or condition right now that will eventually claim their life. Everyone that is my age and younger owes a debt to those who came before us that we will never be able to repay. When you see an older person it is easy to forget that they were once the exact same age as you. When you look at them you are seeing your future. We must treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve because one day we will be in their place.

Who knows, maybe someday I’ll sit in the corner of a restaurant and drink coffee with a group of my contemporaries. Perhaps we will also trade lies, exaggerated stories and mindless conversation to pass the time. And if I do, I’m sure I’ll remember Pete and his friends. I will be fortunate to have what they had.

by Michael Crawley

Comfort Inn - Binghampton

Comfort Inn, a hotel in Binghamton NY near Binghamton University

The Comfort InnÃ,® hotel is conveniently located within minutes of downtown Binghamton, perfect for business and leisure travelers. This Binghamton, NY hotel is close to the Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena, NYSEG Stadium, the Binghamton Zoo at Ross Park, Binghamton University and Empire State College.

Additional points of interest less than 30 miles away include historic Owego and the Catskill Mountains. The Greater Binghamton Airport is 12 miles away. Several malls and a variety of restaurants and cocktail lounges are located in the surrounding area.Comfort Inn Binghamton has a fitness facility and a seasonal outdoor pool. Wireless Internet access is complimentary in public areas. There is a business center on site. A complimentary breakfast is available.

Additional amenities include coffee in the lobby, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a safe deposit box at the front desk. Guest parking is complimentary.

The 104 air-conditioned guestrooms at Comfort Inn Binghamton include coffee/tea makers and complimentary weekday newspapers. Guests can use the in-room complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access. Televisions are equipped with satellite channels. All accommodations provide phones along with free local calls (restrictions may apply).

Bathrooms offer hair dryers and complimentary toiletries.Business travelers will appreciate conveniences like the business center and access to copy and fax services. There are meeting facilities available on the premises.All warmly decorated guest rooms include irons, ironing boards, coffee makers and hair dryers. Non-smoking rooms are provided upon request.The hotel also has an ATM located on the property for added guest convenience.Next time you are visiting the Binghamton area, enjoy the great amenities and gracious hospitality of the Comfort Inn hotel.

Our friendly staff looks forward to serving you soon.Directions to Our Hotel:From I-81 North or South: Take exit 5, right on Front Street 1.3 miles, hotel on the right. From Route 17 East or West: Take I-81 North to exit 5, right on Front Street 1.3 miles, hotel on the right.

To view, change or cancel a reservation online, click on "My Reservations" at the top of the page. You can use this form to view reservations made online at choicehotels.com, or made by phone with a Choice Hotels reservations sales representative, as long as you have: Guest Last Name Confirmation number or the credit card number that you used to guarantee the reservation. A Netscape, Microsoft, or other security-enabled (SSL) web browser.

(If you made a reservation directly with a hotel, you will need to call the hotel directly to ask about the reservation.)

by Staff

Charter Bus: Washington, DC for a Tour of History

Washington, DC is the ultimate place for a tour of history where visitors can feel at one with the early beginnings of the United States by seeing and reading the original Constitution. One of the most notable memorials in Washington, DC is the 19-foot President Lincoln statue. Organize your group and travel by charter bus. Washington, DC is best seen with a large tour group, travelling together for glimpses of history.

Other Washington, DC memorials and museums include the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, National Museum of Natural History, National Air & Space Museum, National Museum of American History, National Zoological Park, Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, National Archives, the Arlington National Cemetery and the U.S. Capitol Building, all symbolic of significant events or persons in American history.

A tour of Washington, DC should start at the White House where there are lots of photo opportunities for visitors. Breakfast can be delightful at the White House Fresh Farm Market at Vermont Avenue where visitors can have a feast of fresh-baked breads and choices of healthy fruits. A visit to the Newseum should be next on the itinerary. This 250,000 sq.ft. museum is dedicated to news and its history. The Wolfgang Puck famous restaurant named The Source can be found next to the Newseum where visitors and tourists can have a sumptuous lunch. Another good place to have lunch is the Good Stuff Eatery, offering simple low-key burgers.

At the National Portrait Gallery, the famous Obama print by Shepart Fairey is on display, together with portraits of the previous presidents of the United States. From here, visitors can just walk to see Madame Tussauds’ The Presidents Gallery and pose with lifelike figures of the First Couple in wax. After this itinerary, the group can now choose to board the charter bus. Washington DCs sports teams including the Washington Wizards basketball team can be seen at play at the Verizon Center if members of the group are into sports.

The National Museum of American History of the Smithsonian Institute is another must-see in Washington, DC. Many of the First Ladies’ gowns are on exhibit here. There is also the American Presidency exhibition for viewing. Cedar Hill, the former residence of Frederick Douglass, one of America’s most gifted orator and statesmen is another place to visit. Its location on top of a hill will give visitors a breathtaking view of the surrounding city.

The Washington National Cathedral, the site of President Obama’s Inaugural Prayer Service is another landmark that is worth a visit. Nearby is the Equinox where Todd Gray serves farm-to-table food for lunch. The Restaurant Nora is another eating place nearby featuring organically grown food. Georgetown can be the next stop of the charter bus. Washington, DC retailers, shops and boutiques are located in Georgetown Park where many young designers feature their creations. Watching a performance at the Kennedy Center can be a fitting end to a busy sightseeing day. Citronelle by Michel Richard is a recommended place to have dinner. Another stop at the Abe Lincoln Memorial will be inspiring to see at day’s end when it is illuminated by moonlight.

by Kim

Super 8 Urbandale/ Des Moines Area

Close to Adventureland and Cownie Sports Complex with Indoor Pool and Hot Tub

Super 8 Urbandale / Des Moines Area hotel offers value and conveniences to help you refuel for your travels. Our Urbandale, Iowa, hotel is located off Interstate 35 / 80 with easy access to bustling downtown Des Moines and scenic Saylorville Lake. Take advantage of handy amenities like free Wi-Fi, guest laundry, microwave, refrigerator and ample parking for any size vehicle. Wake up each morning to free SuperStart continental breakfast, then hit the road to enjoy our proximity to key attractions like Wells Fargo Arena, Adventureland Amusement Park and Des Moines International Airport. Unwind with a workout in the gym or a soak in the heated indoor pool and hot tub. Non-smoking and handicapped-accessible rooms are available, and kids 17 and under stay free with an adult at our pet-friendly hotel.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

Shop until you drop at Merle Hay Mall, or step back in time at Living History Farms. If you brought your clubs, hit the greens at Waveland Golf Course. When you travel with kids, take them to Blank Park Zoo or Adventureland Amusement Park. Attend a concert or live event at Iowa Events Center, like an Iowa Barnstormers football game or a Des Moines Dragons basketball game. Let loose at Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino. Head into downtown Des Moines, or get away from it all at Saylorville Lake. You can find something every traveler will enjoy near our Urbandale, Iowa, hotel.

DINING OPTIONS

Try Midwest favorites like Pagliai’s Pizza and Carlos O’Kelly’s Mexican Cafe, both within a half mile. Try the finger-licking ribs at When Pigs Fly BBQ, or stick to a familiar favorite like Bennigan’s, Perkins or Applebee’s, all within walking distance of our Urbandale, IA, hotel.

BUSINESS AND EVENT FACILITIES

Our Urbandale, IA, hotel offers free Wi-Fi as well as copy and fax services to help you stay connected to work.

Local Attractions
• Merle Hay Mall - 1 mi
• Living History Farms - 2 mi
• Waveland Golf Course - 3 mi
• Drake Relays - 4 mi
• Des Moines Art Center - 5 mi
• Dragons IBA - 5 mi
• Des Moines Botanical Center - 5 mi
• Convention Center - 5 mi
• Iowa Barnstormers AFL - 5 mi
• State Capital - 5 mi
• Valley Junction Collectables - 5 mi
• Veterans Memorial Auditorium - 5 mi
• World Pork Expo - 6 mi
• Blank Park Zoo - 9 mi
• Adventureland Park - 10 mi
• Iowa State Fairgrounds - 10 mi
• Saylorville Lake - 11 mi

by Representative

Applaud Your Beach Vacation Rental On Beautiful Shores Of Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, noted for its pristine beaches and world class surfing is an appealing vacation destination, with fascinating attractions and soothing atmosphere. Santa Cruz Beach Broadwalk is a famous oceanfront amusement park which sits on the coastline of the beautiful Pacific Ocean, with exciting and enthralling rides, making your getaway a real fun. Travelers from all over the world love to spend their vacations in this beautiful part of California, endeavoring one of the best vacation rentals with full comfort and leisure.

Santa Cruz is also known for its majestic giant redwood forest, which is now listed amongst the rarest flora in the world. There are number of ancient museums to make research about the history and cultural heritage of the place. The Santa Cruz City Museum of Natural History highlights some of the unique and rarest flora and fauna of the area. These museums have plenty of archaeological attractions that allures to adults, and is the perfect place to take children for some knowledge, giving a break from the beach.

Santa Cruz boasts some well known venues for all tastes, and for any age group. You will love to enjoy over 40 superb wineries, number of breweries, fine and awesome dining style of the area, and its lively and active night life. Nearby shops, restaurants, and entertaining venues along its historic Pacific Avenue are also great places to explore. Santa Cruz is an entertaining piece of land for outdoor enthusiasts who like to participate in enthralling water sports and activities like swimming, paddling, diving, sailing, mountain biking, hiking and many more. Santa Cruz is a perfect picturesque for spending one of the best beach side vacation with excellent beach rentals.

The city is brimming with places of historic significance, particularly the Glen Canyon Covered Bridge, the Octagon Building, Lime Kiln State Park, the Allan Brown Site and the Veterans Memorial Building. You can get an easy access to all these locations from your beach rentals along with fun on the beach. Travelers can also plan to make a romantic trip to the beautiful city of Monterey which attracts visitors from around the world. You can book one of the SC vacation rentals as your base to explore the outstanding beauty that this angelic city holds. 'Shakespeare Santa Cruz' is amongst the most awaited events, which presents wonderful plays from Shakespeare's collection along with other fascinating plays.

The Santa Cruz beach rentals are hence an ideal hideaway, close to shopping, restaurants along with unlimited fun on the sea shores. With AlwaysOnVacation you can plan your dream vacation and enjoy some lifetime moments with your loved ones. AlwaysOnVacation is a premiere online vacation rental marketplaces and distribution networks with more than 50,000 rentals listed in 120 countries.

AlwaysOnVacation features an extensive search technology, which searches out your dream vacation home from its database matching exactly to your requirements, making your getaway further memorable. So you can choose your vacation getaway at any of your favorite destinations across the globe, either it's your dream beachfront house, or cabin rentals, or any other lodging option. Search for vacation rental properties with deep discounts for last minute bookings, long stays, and early bird bookings

by Denis.walter

The Great Road Links of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is home to 121,770 miles (195,970 km) of roadway, with 39,861 miles (64,150 km) of it owned by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, (PennDOT) making it the fifth largest state highway system in the United States.

You’ll have a lot to see while on Charter Bus PA as the Pennsylvania Turnpike system (America’s first super highway) is 535 miles (861 km) long, with the mainline portion stretching from Ohio to Philadelphia and New Jersey. Driving around can be tiring so, instead of driving the distance on your own, give Cus a call to see if we can find you the charter bus, party bus, coach bus, mini bus, school us or entertainer coaches that is perfect for your trip.

The Allegheny Mountain Tunnel which carries traffic from the Pennsylvania Turnpike through the Allegheny Mountains is the longest of the five tunnels on the Pennsylvania Turnpike carrying interstate 70 and 76 consists of two tunnels that are approximately 6,070 feet (1,850 m) in length and are the longest tunnels still utilized by the turnpike. Our bus drivers know the routes like the back of their hands, just point them in the right direction and you will be well on your way.

Charter Bus PA customers may not know this but, the first tunnel was built in the 1930s at the cost of $2,672,188 while the second tunnel, which was necessary due to increasing traffic was built in the late 1950s at the cost of $8,237,272

Interstate 80, an major east - west route that runs from Ohio to New Jersey at the Delaware Water Gap while Interstate 90 links Ohio and New York through Erie County. Interstate 79 runs north-south from its terminus in Erie through Pittsburgh to West Virginia while Interstate 81 runs from New York through Scranton, Lackawanna County and Harrisburg to Maryland.

Meanwhile, Interstate 476, begins 7 miles (11 km) north of the Delaware border, in Chester, Delaware County and travels 132 miles (212 km) to Clarks Summit, Lackawanna County, where it joins Interstate 81. Just imagine yourself cruising along with your friends and family members, relaxing in the charter, coach, party, or passenger sleeper coaches provided by Charter Bus PA...it is simply luxurious.

PA is charming in a very personal and friendly level. The next time you’re traveling by coach with us on the highway south of the main line of the Pennsylvania Turnpike do take a look out of the window and take in the view as the stretch is officially called the "Veterans Memorial Highway", commonly known to by locals as the "Blue Route". Such an unforgettable road trip can last you for a long time to come.

by Bus Rental PA

Live your astronaut dreams at Kennedy Space Center

If you have ever dreamed of becoming an astronaut, why not bring that dream to life by visiting Kennedy Space Center in central Florida.

Just a short drive from Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers a unique opportunity for you to tour launch areas, meet a veteran astronaut, see actual rockets, train in a spaceflight simulator, or even view an actual rocket or shuttle launch. It's all part of the amazing adventure that awaits you.

The Shuttle Launch Experience provides an exciting journey that allows you to feel what it's like to launch yourself toward space. Strap yourself in and experience the sights, sounds and sensations of a real Space Shuttle launch.

After entering the heart of Space Shuttle operations for a pre-launch briefing, you'll be guided by veteran Space Shuttle Commander Charlie Bolden as he you step-by-step through the shuttle launch sequence. Brilliant video screens spring to life on shuttle-like robotic arms. Anxious moments arise as atmospheric sound and lighting effects dramatize the moments before your space shuttle launch. Then hold on and enjoy the ride!

You can also travel back in time and history with a visit to the NASA Rocket Garden. Dramatic lighting brings historic NASA rockets back to life, including the Redstone, Atlas and Titan rockets that first put NASA astronauts in space. You can climb aboard Mercury, Gemini and Apollo capsules - and get an idea of the cramped quarters America's astronaut pioneers endured.

Then return to today's space age and climb aboard the International Space Station. This fascinating attraction gives you an up-close glimpse inside the actual facility where NASA prepares the real components of the International Space Station - the largest, most complex structure ever to be placed into orbit.

In an elevated observation room, you'll see the actual processing bay where each Space Station component is checked out, processed and readied for its trip into orbit.

After the observation room, you can enter a full-scale mock-up of the Habitation Module and see how Space Station crew members live, sleep and work.

In Space Shuttle Plaza, you'll find a full-sized NASA Space Shuttle replica - Explorer. See for yourself how astronauts live and work aboard real Space Shuttles. You'll also find other components needed to launch NASA Space Shuttles such as a huge external fuel tank and twin solid rocket boosters.
Next to the Space Shuttle Explorer is the Launch Status Center, where visitors receive live briefings on NASA's ongoing launch and space flight activity.

On a more somber note, the Space Mirror Memorial, designated as a national memorial by Congress and President George Bush and dedicated in 1991, honors the 24 U.S. astronauts who gave their lives for space exploration.

The names of the fallen astronauts from the Space Shuttle Columbia, the Space Shuttle Challenger and Apollo 1, as well as the astronauts from training and commercial airplane accidents are emblazoned on the monument's 42-1/2-foot-high-by-50-foot-wide black granite surface as if to be projected into the heavens.

For more information about Kennedy Space Center and all of the Orlando area theme parks and attractions, please visit http://www.OrlandoThemeParkVacations.com. For discount Orlando hotel and resort accommodations or discount Orlando vacation packages, go to http://www.WestgateReservations.com/sweepstakes.cfm.

by Gregory J Nelson

Top 5 Tourist Destinations in US You Must Visit

1. Times Square, N.Y.

Times Square in New York City attracts tourists from all over the world for its broadway theatre, cinemas and super signs. This community place in NY has been witness to a variety of fun activities over the decades--food festivals, water tours, ethnic programs, cultural events and other entertainment. A fantastic thing that attracts tourists to this well recognized site of the world is its electric billboards along with digital and animated advertisements. Times Square is the most bustling area of the city and is also the hub of the New Year's ball. New York City is the most popular urban area in the world that is well-connected by flights, buses, cars and metros. The city has a range of hotels, motels, resorts, privately owned cabins and campgrounds for tourists. iXiGO.com provides all the information on cheap flights and hotels rates.



2. National Mall and Memorial Parks, Washington D.C.


Tourists are attracted towards the National Mall and Memorial Parks at Washington D.C. for its public landmarks. Tourists visiting the place are allowed to honour the courage and sacrifice of famous presidents and war veterans within the National Mall. Icons one can visit here include Washington monument, Lincoln memorial, Jefferson memorials, and Franklin Roosevelt memorials. Washington D.C. is well connected with flights, trains and roads. They offer accommodation in five star hotels as well as one and two star hotels, motels and dormitories. For cheap flight rates and best accommodations, log on to iXiGO.com.



3. Disney World's Magic Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista, FL


Disney World is a family destination theme park that attracts children as well as adults. It is a magical theme park full of fantasy and imagination. The Disney Park captures the enchantment of fairy tales with exciting Disney characters such as Cinderella, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Aladdin and others along with entertainment and backstage tours. One of the most popular attractions for tourists, Disney Land is situated in Florida, USA. Florida is well connected with flights, trains and roads. There are various low and high budget hotels situated near Lake Buena. For more information on cheap flights and hotels log onto iXiGO.com.



4. Niagara Falls, N.Y.


The famously famous Niagara Falls are a popular tourist destination located on the US-Canada border. These massive and beautiful falls attract tourists from all over the world. There are various low and high budget hotels around this great geographic wonder of the world. This makes it easy for tourists to plan their holiday. When visiting this top tourist destination of the US, one must take the Maid of Mist boat ride that takes the tourists on a half an hour journey over the mystic waters of the river. New York is well connected with air routes, buses, cars and trains. iXiGO.com has all the information on cheap flights and hotels.



5. Grand Canyon, Arizona



One of the Seven Wonders of the World, Great Canyon is the most popular tourist destination situated in the United States of America. It is a steep-sided gorge carved by the Colorado River and is contained within the Great Canyon National Park. Tourists can book low and high budget hotels that are situated within the National Park. Attractions here include helicopter tours, Colorado River rafting, skywalks, the Grand Canyon railway and SUV and motor coach tours. A visit to these parks requires pre booking of vehicles because of its remote location. For more details and information on flights and hotel bookings, log on to iXiGO.com.

by iXiGO

Amazing Family Yoga in India

Ever thought about doing yoga with your kids? In addition to family meals and bedtime rituals, more and more families are adding yoga to their daily routines. If you have yet to establish a home practice with your kids, the benefits might surprise you. "Family yoga can become a way of life," says Amy Gabrielle Witmyer, owner of the Sacred Space Yoga and Wellness Center of West Orange, New Jersey, who has been practicing with her husband and their son, Juaquin, since the 9-year-old was in uterus.

In a world where cooking has become a once in a blue moon event and where fast food has dominated weekly meals, gaining weight has become an issue now more than ever. Kids are becoming over weight and obese, just as their parents are gaining weight as well.

Children of today would rather spend their time on the internet, their video games, and watch TV than go outside and play. Because lifestyles have changed over the years, weight gain and weight loss needs have changed too. Here is where amazing yoga may be of help.

The rewards of a family practice are long-lasting, including not only well-documented benefits like weight loss, increased concentration, muscle tone, and better school performance, but also stronger bonds among family members and better social skills in the world at large. If you have a good practice, you can't help but take it off the mat.

Remember though, if you really want family yoga to work for you, you also have to match it up with other important factors such as eating right, living healthy, doing your yoga routines regularly, maintaining positivism and enjoying your time on your mat - your sacred space. That brings up a key question: How can yoga compete against other enticements for children's attention? How do we keep from having to insist our kids practice with us? The answer, veterans agree, is modeling.

Practice yourself. Then yoga becomes part of the furniture for the kids. When the household is studying something deeply, the walls are vibrating with that knowledge.

So whenever people begin to practice yoga, all the people in the household are going to absorb some of that.
Stories, games, partner poses and massage are all likely elements in a family yoga class. Unlike adult classes that may include slow and sleepy sequences, too many props or sweaty aerobics, these classes are child-centered and built for fun.

Variations are given for each pose or activity to accommodate the students in class. For example, parents stand steady in tree pose (vrksasana), while children dance like the wind. Or, parents line up in downward-facing dog (adho mukha svanasana) to make a tunnel for the children to crawl through.

As the concept of Family Yoga gains popularity, it's not unusual for families to complement a family vacation with Yoga classes. What better place to learn and practice these wellness therapies than the land of its origin - India (where it originated more than 5000 years ago)? Yoga and Ayurveda are the most renowned therapies of India that have gained international popularity and repute.

Considering the growing demand of Spiritual Tourism in India and to cater to the specialized needs of discerning Spiritual travellers to India, Travel Spiritual India was established as a Strategic Business Unit of Pioneer Journeys Pvt. Ltd.

Travel Spiritual India specializes in ground arrangements for Yoga tours to India, Ayurveda Spa India, Meditation tours and vacations to Luxury Spa Retreats. Travel Spiritual India provides rejuvenating Yoga & Ayurveda tours, Customized Spa Vacation packages which help you restore balance into your life and take back more than just memories from your yoga Vacation India.

by Aman Sharma

Accessories to Consider When Buying a Digital Camera

Other than the main digital camera you are buying, you will most probably want to consider buying some useful accessories. Which accessories to buy? Here are some suggestions.

1. Camera cables - two types of cable are available, one which connects the camera directly to the computer using a USB port and the other connects to a TV or DVD player for viewing the photos on TV. The one that connects to the computer allows you to transfer the pictures to the computer for viewing and editing using a photo editing software.

2. Spare memory card - Buy at least one spare memory card with as high capacity as possible with your budget. This will come handy when you need to take large number of pictures. (Usually the internal memory or the memory card that come with the camera are of low capacity)

3. Battery charger and spare battery - When a you are traveling overseas or for extended period of time be sure to buy a suitable battery charger or at least an adapter to match the existing charger. Additional batteries (either rechargeable or one time use batteries) are a must.

4. Tripod stand - it is useful when taking picture with timer so that you could be in the picture as well. It is also useful for taking photo when in low light conditions or when performing zooming action. Generally there are two types: monopod (single-legged) and tripod (three-legged). Choose one which you prefer.

5. Camera bag - this is almost a must if you intend to put all your other accessories such as batteries, memory card, tripod stand, etc. in one place. Most bags have different compartments and well padded for added protection. It is usually come with a shoulder strap and handle.

6. Computer and printer - these are essential "accessories" as you could not edit the photos without a computer (even though some camera comes with very simple editing features built-in). A computer serves as link between the printer and the digital camera. In addition you can send you photos (either unedited or edited) to your friends and relative through the internet using the computer. There are all kinds of printers and computer available in the market. Choose the ones that fit your budget.

7. Photo editing software - if you want to do some touch up and produce special effects to your digital photos, a good photo editing software should be considered.

Nowadays all the above accessories come in different sizes and prices. Do shop around and ask around so as to get the best deals.

by Jimmy Talbet

Planning an Indian Vacation - Here’S How To Find A Tour Operator!

India is a beautiful country with immense potential for tourism. It's a wonder land that showcases diversity to its full. Traveling to India is the best way to acquaint with the eastern world. The magical land offers footprints of historical grandeur, snow-clad peaks, beaches, vast seas, lush green forests and much more.The panoramic experience of touring India will definitely leave you with memories that can be cherished throughout the life.

However the trip to India can be realized only after choosing a good tour operator. Quite a number of people face messy experiences while touring India, due to choosing wrong tour planner. Bad guides, poor services, non -guaranteed payments can all spoil your mood. Only a good travel agent can ensure that you get to see the real India with excellent hospitality. Besides, ensuring everlasting memories to you and your loved ones. Thus making true value for your money.

While on choosing your tour guide, opt for renowned names in the business. Even if they charge a few extra bucks, they won't be fooling around with you. Check the record of the tour operator by ensuring that the company is recognized by some national or international tourist bodies. Again, it can be ensured that is the particular tour operator is approved by the government. Try talking to few people who have already availed services the same holiday planner. Your India tour operator must have immense information about the region they specialize in. Now a day the quickest way to opt for a tour operator is surfing the internet. But one should also try looking out for the critique of particular tour operator on the internet.

In addition, operators who offer wide range tours are more reliable than the ones who don't. They can cater to your tastes and preferences in a better way. India as a tourist destination welcomes plethora of tourists from all corners of world. So tailor-made packages such as beach vacation, adventure tours, historical tours, cultural tours, festival tours, wildlife vacation, adventure tours, Ayurvedic and rejuvenation vacation can be availed. Or special tour packages can be carved out to make one feel special. Regimented schedules sometimes can be boring so flexibility should be looked for.

In a situation where you want to realize a particular trip e.g. wildlife trip, make sure that you avail services of the veteran tour planner that offer wildlife tours.

Another difference that distinguishes a genuine tour organizer from the rest is the services it offers. Make it sure that they takes every responsibility to make the trip comfortable. From flight bookings to arranging hotel accommodation, providing car rentals, and complete itinerary-a good tour planner takes care of everything. Besides, saving your time and money. Pricing is another essential that needs to be checked out. Prices of one tour operator should be compared with the other one, so that you don't feel cheated.

Using the above tips, touring India would be fun and an easy exercise. Choosing a good tour operator in India will help you to explore this magical land and return home with unforgettable memories.

by Aalia

Buying Throughout Retail Seasonal Revenue

Property enhancement objects, wallpaper and paint.

Common Main Purchases This Month: Lawn machines, swing sets, swimming pools, vacations to Europe.

May well
Mother's Day, Memorial Day, and Cinco de Mayo fall for the duration of May. This is also a time to seem for shoulder season journey bargains.

Normal Seasonal Revenue This Month: Gardening materials and house routine maintenance materials. New summer garments. Jewelry, watches, handbags, lingerie, and other gifts for mom. Outdoor barbeque objects. Bug sprays, sunscreens. Automobile maintenance.

Typical Main Purchases This Month: Tires, appliances, out of doors patio furnishings, seasonal journey.

June
Father's Day and National Basic safety Month drop throughout June. Scorching weather brings considerations for support operate on air conditioning models. Camping and out of doors sports activities are well-liked in the course of the next handful of months.

Common Seasonal Revenue This Month: Constructing resources and lumber. Insect repellant and sunscreen. Out of doors lawn games. Patio home furniture. Summer time clothing, dresses. Father's Day presents. Out of doors barbeque items.

Normal Significant Purchases This Month: TVs, air conditioners, refrigerators, computers, electronics.

July
The 4th of July holiday takes place. This is a massive month for family members vacations. Appear for clearances on summertime clothes and early revenue on again-to-school things.

Standard Seasonal Revenue This Month: Bathing suits and sportswear. Summertime sports activities gear. Sneakers, hiking boots, and summer clothes. Lawn mower clearances. Radios and stereo gear.

Normal Main Purchases This Month: Floor coverings, air conditioners, utilized vehicles, trip journey.

August
There need to be big back again-to-college promotions this month. Seem for clearances on summer season sporting goods and camping devices.

Normal Seasonal Product sales This Month: Barbeque and patio furnishings clearances. Summer season sporting items. Pre-year ski equipment sales. Back-to-school materials. Lawn and backyard clearances. College clothing and backpacks. Laptop computer personal computers and printers for school. White sale items, linens and towels.

Bicycles, paints, rugs, carpeting. Ski devices.

Normal Main Purchases This Month: New automobiles, computer systems.

October
Halloween events and sales arise this month. It is also a month to search for shoulder period travel bargains. Most retailers commence stocking Holiday getaway period decorations and gifts prior to Halloween now.

Common Seasonal Product sales This Month: Halloween candy and costumes. Drop and winter season clothing. Fishing gear. Closeouts on school materials and school clothes. Smoke detectors, fire extinguishers as this is Fire Prevention Month.

Common Main Purchases This Month: New autos, houses, appliances, journey bargains.

November
Veterans Day and Thanksgiving take place this month. The Vacation Time commences instantly following Halloween and formally begins after Thanksgiving. This is also a excellent journey shoulder year. It is sensible to store the pre-Thanksgiving and publish-Thanksgiving income for Christmas reward products.

Normal Seasonal Product sales This Month: Winter coats, boots, and gloves. Quilts and blankets. Space heaters. Thanksgiving foods, turkeys, and so on. Furnace providers. Vehicle tuning and vehicle antifreeze providers.

Normal Key Purchases This Month: Travel bargains, new automobiles, employed autos, appliances. Xmas present buying.

December
Holiday getaway Year is in complete swing. If merchants are greatly overstocked look for very last moment bargains just prior to Xmas. Appear for submit-Christmas product sales.

Standard Seasonal Income This Month: Christmas gifts, cards, wrapping. Getaway lights and decorations. Celebration meals and baking. Winter garments. Bicycles. Toys. Perfumes. Calendars and yearly planners. Candles.

by Joel Howard

Rocky Mountain Vacation -- Is It On Your Bucket List?

The Rocky Mountains provide some of the greatest recreational opportunities in the United States. In fact, ski resorts, in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, provide some of the world's best snowboarding and ski during the snow season. No matter what skill level you are at, these resorts will provide you with great downhill pleasure. There is a tremendous variety of terrain, so there is a slope when the greenest novice or the most seasoned veteran.

One of the most fun and inexpensive ways to visit one of these mountain hotels involves groups, including family and friends. Going on a vacation in the snow with people you know is usually the most enjoyable way to experience the adventure and excitement of winter sports. The best news is that you can probably get some really good deals if you go with an organized group. This includes lodging as well as travel expenses. It is well worth looking into. When you announce your plans for vacation in the Rockies, the excitement begins to build immediately. This is the type of vacation that is on everyone's bucket list. While adventure in the snow would be the first thing that comes to mind, winter is not the only season for visiting the upper altitudes of these western mountains. There are plenty of wonderful activities year round that will provide wonderful travel memories.

One of the best summer activities is backcountry wilderness hiking. You and your family or friends and explore the more remote areas of the Rockies. There are guides for hire, and you can even make the trip into a camping experience as well. But you do not have to walk; you can go on horseback. Either way, walking or riding, it will probably be one of the more memorable experiences for you, your family, and your friends.

Other ways to experience the beauty and glory of the Western mountain regions involves either air or water. See the majesty of the mountains from an airplane or helicopter. Make sure when you do that you take your camera along. Or, boating tours are another way to get your fill of the clean crisp mountain air. You can rent kayaks or canoes to explore the pristine mountain lakes or try your hand at Trout fishing. There are also party boats available on some of the larger lakes. Again, the digital camera is a must. Of course, it goes without saying that white water rafting is one of the most thrilling adventures you can experience in the summertime. You can book a tour for individuals or large groups, and you are only limited by your own apprehension. There are plenty of levels of difficulty available, from grade 1, which is very basic, all the way up to grade 6, but if you want to navigate grade 6 rapids, you will be on your own, because there is no guide or insurance plan that will cover you in this adventure.

Each season in the Rockies offers its own adventures. No matter which season you choose, you will enjoy clean fresh air, breathtaking views, and memorable experiences.

by Stewart Wrighter

Visit The Mind Blowing Beauty Of Taj Mahal In Morning Sun Rays

TajMahal is situated in Agra in the river banks of Yamuna is also considered as the tribute of Love of the great emperor Shah Jahan. Shah Jahan built it on the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died while delivering their fourteenth son. Even though TajMahal was built in 17th century it makes all Indian proud and stands as most attractive tourist spot ever in the world.

Historians estimated that more or less twenty thousand employees been worked about 22 years to complete the erection of the TajMahal and its environment. The complete evaluation of the TajMahal Agra is roughly estimated about 200 crores of Indian currency as of today. A lot of experienced professional veteran from many countries such as Persia, Italy and French were call for to construct his masterwork.

Additionally, well skilled calligraphers from various part of world were call upon to in carve calligraphy lettering in the tombstone. Mainly the calligraphers were summoned to Agra to in script 99 names of their god, Allah, around the tomb stone of Mumtaz Mahal in the pattern of calligraphic font.

When it comes to surroundings and ambience, the tomb stone of Mumtaz Mahal has a huge garden located in the backyard, nearby the river banks of Yamuna. TajMahal Agra has surrounded more or less 42 acres of land, which creates a pleasant feeling for the visitors and makes their tour enjoyable.

TajMahal Agra been visited by approximately 4 million visitors yearly, least amount of 2,00,000 visitors from foreign countries. The month of October and November were considered as the season time for the tourist and the maximum number of tourist is obtained by the time. Dual pricing system been introduced and followed by the state tourist department, mean costing more ticket for the foreign tourists than domestic visitors.

The Foreign Tourists were charged Rs.750, whereas the Citizens of SAARC countries were charged Rs.510 and Indian citizens were charged Rs.20 as the entry fees. The entry for the children below 15 years of age is free for both domestic and foreigner tourists. This income was used for the maintenance and preservation of TajMahal as well.

The government of Delhi controlled all polluting automobile around the TajMahal Agra and electric means of transportation were introduced and set up for the facilities of the visitor. This action is taken on the account to protect the world famous monument from pollution.

The Foreign Tourists were charged Rs.750, whereas the Citizens of SAARC countries were charged Rs.510 and Indian citizens were charged Rs.20 as the entry fees. The entry for the children below 15 years of age is free for both domestic and foreigner tourists. This income was used for the maintenance and preservation of TajMahal as well.

The government of Delhi controlled all polluting automobile around the TajMahal Agra and electric means of transportation were introduced and set up for the facilities of the visitor. This action is taken on the account to protect the world famous monument from pollution.

by Edna Purviance

Flights to Orlando: Book them Online & Get Discounts

Book your cheap flights to Orlando and enjoy great holidays in this city with your family and friends. You can easily find flights to Orlando from different parts of the world now.

Are you preparing for your next vacations in Orlando? Book your flights to Orlando right away and bring important things with you such as shady hat, comfortable shoes, and extra suitcase as this place offer different opportunities of shopping and pocket full of cash. Try to book your cheap flights to Orlando so that you can save good amount in your pocket to spend in the theme parks and shopping complexes. Overvalued up every day of the year, attractions of Orlando beat themselves into a tediously aggressive frenzy of joviality over the major festivals including Christmas and New Year, Halloween, Independence Day and Thanksgiving. In between, celebrate Silver Spurs Rodeo, Mardi Gras and Gay Day in month of June are few more excuses to enjoy party so just book your Orlando flights in advance so that you will not pay more at the end time as due to heavy rush you have to pay extra amount.

Public Holidays in which you can find more rush are New Year's Day, Washington's Birthday, Martin Luther King Day, Independence Day, Memorial Day, Columbus Day, Labor Day, Veterans' Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day and if you are visiting near to any of these festivals you should book your Orlando flights in advance so that you can avoid last minute rush. Many of the tourists book their flights to Orlando near to these festivals and most of the airline companies are full during this season. Now you can book cheap flights to Orlando from any part of the world easily just choose your dates of vacations and book your Orlando flights online.

Weather is quite pleasant throughout the year and that is why this is year around destination which offer sunny days generally but evenings here are really cool and you to avoid hot sunny days you can spend time in museums, art galleries and shopping malls of the city which are very popular among the tourists and you can explore more about the city through these places. Orlando flights are now available from different parts of the world and if you are living in London you can easily find direct London to Orlando flights.

Interesting activities which you can enjoy are theme parks such as Disney Land, Universal Studio and shopping complexes which offer different international brands. Orlando flights are easily available online so just grab cheap flights to Orlando for your next family vacations and have fun in the city.

by Shubhra Joshi

cabo san lucas places to stay

Cabo san lucas, Mexico's subsequent ideal beach front destination, depends on the heart with the Bahía environnant les Banderas these types of. Nearly all Puerto Vallarta's places to stay are usually grouped throughout Nuevo Vallarta, quite an tourist-oriented stretch out with coastline. Lower involving Nuevo Vallarta may be the lately built harbour in which the ample and also well-known who definitely have decided on Cabo san lucas as the holiday getaway home preserve the sailboats plus high-class ships. This municipality's conventional middle has got located it is lure in fact between a action for modernity -- it is usually the location with a almost all the actual town's sightseeing and tour as well as trips destinations. During the night, a lot of the townspeople talk with your zócalo, a municipality's ambience middle. The area inside of water, Isla Río Cuale, can be another well-known visitor vacation spot, split inside core coupled with high-end eating places and also galleries and museums.

Sightseeing and tour as well as organized excursions Destinations

Even though Puerto Vallarta's seaside areas keep on being it has the most vital sights, there are many special places that will make the spot unique. Going for a walk-through your municipality's center will give you site visitors an appearance associated with Puerto Vallarta's tradition, since its residents take holders of garments for the water to clean as well as look for the specific top deals inside market segments. Inside the facility, prospects will quickly realize these useful points of interest for the reason that Religious organization with Guadalupe, the particular Plaza AquilesSerdán, along with the seahorse statue. The actual Isla Río Cuale is another wonderful area for sightseeing and tours out-of-doors on the key tourist-oriented core. There does exist a great archeology memorial from the foot or so of your tropical isle which will demonstrates products that was locally-found, in addition to Sara Huston's sculpture is offered with the front door as a way to a new car park in which community females launder their particular clothes.

Out of doors Exercises

As being a mostly outdoor-oriented holiday getaway place, Cabo san lucas has lots of lawn pursuits designed for it truly is travelers. There are numerous lessons existing throughout the department. A number of the higher classes are A Mayan Construction Nuevo Vallarta Driver, Landscape Vallarta, along with La Harbour Vallarta. Windsurfing and also wine-tastings can be had by way of distributors having just about every seaside and also joint getting on. Nevertheless, the very best areas to be able to snorkel are gone for good the actual Shedd Arcos marine caverns and also Marietas Countries caverns. Banderas Fresh serves as a well-liked area for sportfishing as well as where you can a good per year doing some fishing contest. Last but not least, quite a few ranches in the area supply riding probabilities.

Party all night atmosphere

Cabo san lucas isn't most in-demand place to go for this feeling; in truth, nearly all of individuals you will discover for their groups, night clubs, as well as places to eat usually are travellers. Nevertheless, you'll find a good amount of taking in, ingesting, plus purchasing runs into on offer inside area. Virtually all these kind of locations is available grouped round the most in-demand seashores, over the town's centre, plus inside of middle from the Isla Río Cuale.

by Thomas Baldwin

5 Places to See in in The Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

Summary: The fast-developing business district of Fort Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, Philippines is also quickly establishing itself as a formidable shopping, dining and entertainment hub. Here are 5 of its most popular attractions.

On a business trip and staying for a while at a hotel in Taguig City, Philippines? Here are 5 favorite attractions that are sure to ease the stress of your visit and have you enjoying your stay more.

1) Bonifacio High Street. This is where you will find some high-end brand stores and restaurants. However, the best feature of the place is the lovely park that stretches all the way in the middle of this line of shops and dining venues. It often becomes the venue for art exhibits, concerts, and even fashion shows. On normal days, you will see families taking a stroll and playing with their pets there.

2) Market! Market! Mall. Located across the Serendra residences, this mall is perhaps the most accessible in the area for providing a healthy balance of upscale and bargain shopping options.

3) Philippine Veterans Museum. This museum is a library, archive, gallery, and theater complex that was built in honor of the soldiers of World War II. If you ever feel like learning a bit of local history, this is certainly a fitting place to start.

4) Libingan ng mga Bayani or Heroes' Cemetery. This is the final resting place and memorial ground for more than 33,500 Filipino soldiers who gave their lives fighting during the 2nd World War. It is also where Philippine presidents, national artists, and other highly respected Filipinos are laid to rest.

5) The Mind Museum. While it has yet to open in March 2012, this museum promises to be quite a spectacle for those who love science. Aiming to be the first world-class establishment of its kind in the country, it will be featuring over 250 stunning interactive exhibits that present the formidable subject in a fun, entertaining way. You can already start reserving tickets in advance for their opening in March.

These exciting destinations will be easier to explore if you stay in a place that is conveniently situated near them. Best Western Premier F1 is a hotel that enjoys a prime location proximate to all these attractions. It is found along 32nd Street in Bonifacio Global City and offers elegant accommodations that reflect its classy neighborhood. It is also currently offering 2 new packages that can be quite useful if you plan on being in town for a while. One is applicable to a minimum 14-night stay while the other to a minimum 30-night stay. Depending on which you pick, these Taguig accommodation promo deals offer 10% discounts each on laundry service, use of the hotel business center, and on food and beverage. They certainly help in easing accommodation expenses, and leave you with more leeway on your budget for other expenses. You can learn more about this hotel in Taguig by checking out its website.

by Janice Pelayo

A Salute to the Fallen in Virginia

There are some people who make it a point to make an annual pilgrimage to Virginia every year in large groups with the help of large ground transportation like charter bus, coach charter, party bus, double-decker coaches, smaller mini bus or even a school bus. The reason many of these people, many of them who are now getting on in age do so is because they go back to visit their loved ones and fallen comrades at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

If you’re one of these people making your way back in a rented charter bus, we salute you and would like to help you enjoy a more comfortable means of getting to Virginia. Book your charter bus from Bus Charter VA and we’ll honor with some of the best service you’ve ever enjoyed.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, serves as a cemetery and a memorial to America's war heroes and it is visited by more than four million people from all around the world every year, all of them attending graveside services and special ceremonies to pay tribute to veterans and historical figures.

The popular tourist attraction is actually a cemetery that remains open daily from April through September from 8:00am to 7:00 pm and from October through March from 8:00am to 5:00pm. It is also open on December 25.

If you’re a first time visitor to Arlington National Cemetery, you can take a walking tour, starting from the Cemetery’s Visitors Center where you will find maps, guidebooks, exhibits, a bookstore and restrooms. You may walk the grounds on your own or take the interpretative shuttles that run from the visitor center to Arlington House, located atop the Cemetery’s highest point, and back for a small fee.

Do allocate several hours to explore the grounds and be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes as entry to charter buses and other motorized vehicles is only allowed for handicapped visitors, or for those issued with a special permit for attending a burial or visiting a private grave site.

More than 330,000 American servicemen as well as many famous Americans are buried at the 624 acre national cemetery, amongst them, Presidents William Howard Taft and John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and Robert Kennedy.

Special memorial services are held in the Arlington National Amphitheater on Easter, Memorial Day and Veterans Day and are sponsored by the U.S. Army Military District of Washington. Many military organizations also conduct other annual memorial services throughout the year. This tourist hotspot is popular with people from all walks of life and from all over the world because of the sacrifice made by these heroes.

If you’re traveling on your own, the best way to get to the cemetery is to take Metro to the Arlington National Cemetery Station, take the express bus from the National Mall, or walk in across the Memorial Bridge. Alternatively, for large groups, getting in touch with your preferred VA charter bus rental service provider would simply make more sense.

by Charter Bus VA

Meandering Through the Mall

As the nation’s capital, Washington D.C. is a great place to visit with a charter bus hired from Bus Charter Trips. A visit to the seat of the American government will give you and your group an insight into how this great nation of ours came to be.

Most sightseeing in Washington D.C. is centered on the National Mall. This unique national park is a huge green area in the center of Washington D.C. is the heart of the nation. Stretching for 2 miles from the White House in the south, to the U.S. Capitol Building in the east and the Abraham Lincoln Memorial in the west, the National Mall has been witness to some of the greatest moments in modern American history.

The National Mall features the greatest concentration of museums, monuments, memorials and government buildings of any city in the United States. Many of its attractions are close to each other, and within walking distance. However, limited parking areas, and security concerns over parked vehicles, means that any kind of public parking in the area is limited to those who work there, or severely time limited. This is where traveling with a charter bus comes in handy, allowing you and your group to be dropped off, and picked up, at your own schedule and location.

Walking through the National Mall, the visitor may get easily confused about what to see, and where. Pick up a handy visitor’s map from any museum or hotel, and plan out where you wish to go, and what you would like to see. It is very unlikely that you will be able to finish the Mall in a day. For instance, if you wish to visit the Smithsonian, do note it is 19 separate buildings, spread across the mall, each concentrating on a specific subject. A museum curator visiting the Air and Space Museum spent 5 days reading each individual exhibit label. This will give you an idea of the scale of some of the buildings on the National Mall.

Most visitors start with the main monuments and memorials. The Washington Memorial with its 555 foot obelisk stands tall over the Mall. The Lincoln Memorial is another firm tourist favorite, having been seen in the background of many a movie. For a sombre experience, visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, where it’s black granite walls etched with the names of U.S. servicemen who died in the conflict reflects on the sacrifice of war. You can pause by the Reflecting Pool, scene of many a protest and march by the people during the 60s.

As the day heats up, most visitors retreat into one of the many air conditioned museums along the Mall. Choices include the National Gallery of Art, the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of American History, the Air and Space Museum, the family friendly Museum of African Art, Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery which displays Asian art and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

Plan your visit to Washington D.C. with Bus Charter Trips by giving us a call and find out about our friendly, personalized service.

by Bus Rental PA

Bora Bora Island: Paradise for lovebirds

Bora Bora Island is unquestionably the most fabulous tourist destination and is a dream of many people in the world. Rising the charm of Pacific Islands, the Bora Bora Island offers magnificence to the fullest for which people in fact, throng here and grab all of the happiness for rest of their life. The island is the honeymooner's paradise, as the island offers romantic atmosphere along with spectacular natural beauty at every corner.


Bora Bora is an island belongs to the Leeward group of the Society Islands, which is of French Polynesia. It is an overseas collectivity of France that shimmer the beauty in Pacific Ocean. Located at a distance of nearly 230 kilometres towards the northwest of Papeete, the island is bordered by a lagoon as well as a barrier reef. Right at the meddle of the island, you can see the remnants of a wiped out volcano that mounts to two distinct peaks named Mount Pahia as well as Mount Otemanu. The highest point of the peak is at 727 metres. Suffered heavily during the World War II, the Bora Bora Island today is a nature's paradise, boasting most of the attractions in its bed.


The island offers beautiful beaches that entice people to explore more, various amazing resorts, and magnificent views that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. Truly, a vacation at Bora Bora Island will offer memories for the lifetime. Words will always be short to describe or explain the beauty of the island. Turn your eyes anywhere at the island, and you could see captivating views that soothe every people's eyes and mind. Being a part of France, this island offers almost everything to be called as a heaven. It is an ideal destination for the newlywed couples or for the newly found lovebirds. So if you are the one, do not waste time to plan for a destination. Just pack your bags and head for it.


Bora Bora Island will never let anyone down. Enjoy its serenity to the fullest; enjoy exploring the sights by walk and take pleasure as much as you can. The island has many leisure activities to offer you at the beaches that stretch out to offer cozy atmosphere. When the question of travel comes, the best answer to this depends upon the personal preferences. If you are the nature fanatic then the Bora Bora Islands no doubt, will take your breath away. Miraculously, the island has so much of charm and attractions that there will be no one in the entire world who could escape out of it. The best time to visit the islands will be the months of May through October when Polynesian winters brings its cool weather to lure everyone.


During the winter season, you will find the island is almost packed with many travelers who throng here from different parts of the world. You will get many different options to reach to your destination. You can choose the International Airlines from any other European high-up airports. Or else, the other option, which you can try is to reach first at France and then from there link to the Sailing or Cruising vessels, private charters, and smaller boats. To make you vacation unforgettable, everything will be served to you completely.


While exploring the sights, enjoy its outstanding hotels; Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, Le Meridien Bora Bora, which is the most attractive accommodation; and the Novotel Bora Bora Beach Resort.

by Emily Whale

Net Air Tickets to Washington & Attend Top Festivals and Events

The capital and a tourist Mecca of United States, Washington DC is a dream destination of millions of travellers around the globe. The utterly cosmopolitan city is ingrained with all the necessary ingredients for perfect holidays and has nothing to dismay the high spirits of holidaymakers.

Dotted with awe-inspiring sightseeing and offering plethora of recreational activities, Washington is decidedly one of the best holiday destinations in the USA. Although a vacation in the metropolis is welcome at any time, visiting during festivals and events make for an all the more rhapsodic affair.

National Cherry Blossom Festival

Travellers booking air tickets to Washington for the month of March can look forward to the National Cherry Blossom Festival. It is the best time to witness the blossoming of cluster of cherry tress on Tidal Basin in Washington. The two-week festival is all about cultural and culinary events like National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival and more.

National Memorial Day Celebration & Parade

National Memorial Day Celebration & Parade is another intriguing event and is held in the month of May. The Parade pays tribute to the veteran soldiers who have served the country and died to preserve the liberties of United States. Over 1,50,000 spectators behold the overwhelming parade of marching bands, on duty military units, youth groups and retired soldiers from World War II, Vietnam, Desert Storm and Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.

National Capital Barbecue Battle

If you love barbeque, then booking air tickets to Washington for National Capital Barbeque Battle in June is an absolute must. The annual contest between top BBQ restaurants of the country makes for the finest time to sample the delectable barbeque dishes and witness the cooking demonstrations. Besides, one can also take delight in live entertainment like jazz, blues and R&B performances.

Washington, DC International Food & Wine Festival

Washington, DC International Food & Wine Festival is a delightful festival for wine lovers. One of the largest events of Mid-Atlantic region, the festival features exquisite wines and luscious cuisine that highlight the entrancing culture of the place. Held in February at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Centre, the fascinating festival is a great reason to grab tickets to Washington.

National Book Festival

The annual event of National Book Festival is held each September on the National Mall between 7th and 14th Sts, Washington DC. Sponsored by Library of Congress, the book festival aims to promote the love of reading. Myriads of feature reading and book signing from several best-selling authors are organised at the event. National Book Festival is an enlightening event for one and all. Many pavilions are set up under different categories.

National Christmas Tree Lighting & Pageant of Peace

Booking airline tickets to Washington during Christmas can never be a bad decision. The Pageant of Peace includes performances by well-known artists and is highlighted with the first lighting of the National Christmas Tree by the President of the USA. Musical and dance programs are also organised near the spot during the weeks leading up to the festival.

by samwalker

Oahu One Day Tours: Whirlwind And Wonderful

In less than 24 hours a tourist can experience the glory and majesty of this tropical hot spot through Oahu on a one day tour. These tours generally can be enjoyed in one's own car, sometimes on foot (for shorter or smaller scale tours) or on a tour bus; personal tours also can be arranged for individuals, couples and small vacation parties.

In exploring the beauty of Oahu, every tourist will want to tour the sandy beaches that distinguish this area. Many tourists visit Oahu for its bronze-sanded beaches and picturesque coves, many of which--like Waikiki Beach and Pali Lookout--can be explored in one day. All of these picturesque sites offer the natural beauty and splendor of Hawaii at its finest; all of the scenes a tourist has spotted via picture postcards, he/she now can see firsthand! Other stops on a one day tour in Oahu will depend on the nature of the particular tour that one takes, and on the specific interests of the vacationers.

For years, Particularly when they visit the USS Arizona and USS Missouri memorials at Pearl Harbor, both of which are associated with the second World War, as well as the world-renowned Punchbowl Cemetery (National Memorial of the Pacific), Oahu visitors have enjoyed learning about the rich historical value and significance of this area. War veterans and current military personnel, history teachers, historical writers of both fiction and nonfiction, and historians fined these attractions particularly appealing. A first hand look at these landmarks to our nations history will tremendously benefit school kids at all levels.

Other one day tours in Oahu might involve a long visit to the world famous Polynesian Cultural Center, where a tourist can do everything from hear detailed cultural and historical presentations and classic, bouncy tropical music that captures this area, and see native dancing which brings this music fully and vibrantly to life.

Hawaiian vacations could include visits to Oahu historical cultural landmarks or (at the opposite end of the spectrum) popular night spots, or could center around guided activities like diving or snorkeling. What better way to explore the beautiful waters of Oahu than by diving in head first; embarking on what is sure to be a truly unforgettable underwater adventure?

A one day tour in Oahu will allow the tourist the rare opportunity to experience the beautiful and exciting sights this area has to offer.

by Gail Leino