10 New Things to Try on a Cruise Ship

A cruise vacation can be the ultimate getaway - great food, unique destinations and spectacular entertainment are all combined on one floating resort. But how can you make the most of all the experiences your cruise has to offer? No matter what cruise line, ship or itinerary you choose, these vacations are far more than just food, ports and entertainment.

10 New Things to Try on a Cruise Ship

1. Try a New Drink

Cruise lines concoct a wide variety of signature beverages, and if you try a featured drink you just might discover your new favorite libation. If you want to be a bit more reserved, use the opportunity to try a drink you've always wondered about, sample a new beer or wine, or just enjoy drinks you wouldn't normally imbibe at home.

2. Try New Foods

All the main dining options are included with the cost of your cruise fare, so take advantage of that by selecting menu items to challenge your taste buds. While you can always get a familiar steak, salad, or pasta dish, a cruise also gives you the opportunity to experiment with unique gourmet selections such as regional soups and exotic desserts. Don't like what you chose? No one will mind if you ask for something else!

3. Learn a Line Dance

Line and group dances are the mainstay of cruise ship deck parties, and there will be more than one such party on your cruise. Join in the fun and follow the host's instructions to learn the Cupid Shuffle, Cha Cha Slide, Macarena, or or brush up on the crazy dances you forgot years ago.

4. Join a Contest

The daily activities on a cruise ship will include a wide range of contests, from low-key Sudoku puzzles to energetic trivia competitions, karaoke nights, and game show events. Join in a contest and you just might be coming home with a trophy, medal, or other prize for a memorable souvenir.

5. Explore the Ship

If all you learn on your cruise is the path from your stateroom to the buffet, you're missing out on the beautiful décor and elegant lines of the ship itself. Take time to wander around different decks and you might discover a stunning lounge, unique artwork, or amazing view to enjoy, and you'll feel more confident when you need to go from part of the ship to another to take part in ongoing activities.

6. Take a Shore Tour

Every port of call offers unique experiences, and the best way to enjoy those experiences is on a shore tour. These tours are selected by the cruise line for their value and safety, and by choosing a tour you get a unique perspective on the ports of call far beyond the port shopping plaza. Tours might include canopy adventures, dolphin encounters, cultural exhibits, local attractions, snorkeling and more, and there is a tour right for everyone.

7. Strike a Pose

Evening photo sessions are commonplace on cruise ships, when professional photographers are on hand with numerous backdrops. There is no obligation to purchase any photos, so why not take the opportunity to pose a few times and create a memorable memento? If you like one of the shots, the on board photo gallery can make prints of different sizes for you to frame or share.

8. Take Your Own Photos

Don't forget your camera on a cruise ship, and take as many photos as you can of the ship, the ports, and all the fun you've had. One especially memorable photo will be a shot of the water you see - the rich Pacific blue of a Mexican Riviera cruise or the Caribbean green of a tropical sailing can be stunning photos that will have you longing for another voyage every time you see them.

No matter how many cruises you have been on, there is always more to try, explore, and enjoy. By stretching out of your comfort zone, you'll find you're more relaxed and comfortable on a cruise ship than on any other vacation you've taken, and you won't be able to wait to set sail again.

Publisher: uuibbui - 06:36

7-tips-survive-move-emotionally

There is no doubt that all moves are stressful. Even if you are looking forward to your new home it can be hard to say goodbye to your old one. Moving under the difficult circumstances of a sudden job change or loss, foreclosure or other reasons can leave you emotionally drained.
If this sounds like you then this article may help. Is has some helpful tips on how to emotionally survive a move.

Tip #1 How to survive a move emotionally.
Gather your friends.
This is the time to have friends by your side. Invite them over to help you pack or help you decide what to keep or donate. Friends can also help you collect boxes, newspaper or other supplies.

Tip #2 How to survive a move emotionally.
Reserve time for yourself.
Even 5 minutes a day can help. Go for a short walk. Take a few extra minutes in the shower. Linger over a cup of coffee. These few minutes can help you get through the day.

Tip #3 How to survive a move emotionally.
Make a list.
Decide what room to pack first and make a list. You'll realize how much progress you've made as you cross items off.

Tip #4 How to survive a move emotionally.
Leave the knickknacks for last.
This is what makes a home feel like a home. Pack up closets and dresser drawers that you seldom use first. Knickknacks can often be saved until the last day of the move.

Tip #5 How to survive a move emotionally.
Get cleaning help.
From the moment you hear of the move start putting a few dollars back each week. Use this money to hire cleaning help. This will take much of the pressure off of moving.

Tip #6 How to survive a move emotionally.
Lighten other stresses in your life.
Do whatever you can to lighten the load in other areas of your life. Don't take on any new projects. Buy frozen or prepped entrees for easier cooking. Can a friend pick the kids up at school or take them to ball practice? Will your boss let you have time off from work? Try to simplify wherever you can.

Tip #7 How to survive a move emotionally.
It's ok to grieve.
For some people a move may be one of the hardest things that they ever have to do. It's ok to grieve and it's ok to cry. This is an overwhelming time. If you feel that you are developing depression you may need professional help. Talking with your doctor or a trained therapist can help.

Publisher: uuibbui - 05:01

7-tips-disney-first-timers

Your first time staying at Walt Disney World is a very exciting and new experience. The Walt Disney World Resort property is like no other resort on earth. Their customer service is top-notch and the 40+ square miles are opened for you to explore. Your experience begins and ends at your hotel of choice. Here are some tips for your first time at a Walt Disney World hotel to make the best out of your stay.
Manage your time well.
This could mean that you don't have to manage your time at all. Or, you could plan every day down to the minute. There is so much to do and go see at Walt Disney World. Choosing the "must do" for your trip before you go is a great way to ensure that you will be able to go to those places. Check the Walt Disney World website and attraction guides to find your "must do" attractions. Then, plan which days of your trip you will see each one.
Make good restaurant choices
When it comes to eating, make smart choices based on budget and time. Make sure your restaurant of choice coincides with where you are at on the property. For instance, you won't want to eat at Liberty Square if you are spending the day at Epcot Center. No matter which restaurant you choose, make sure you make reservations. Then, you are guaranteed a table no matter how crowded it is.


Pick a theme park on the right day
Each theme park at Walt Disney World has good days and bad days for crowds. Plenty of travel guides will tell you estimated crowds for the days you are going. If you are going over a holiday or peak time, most parks will be crowded but each park will have a peak day of the week. Try to avoid the parks on their highest crowd days and choose another park to see that day.
Make time for buses
The Walt Disney World Resort has a fantastic bus system that transports you from your hotel to theme parks and other areas on the property. However, there is no set schedule for your bus. You want to give yourself plenty of time to wait for your bus to pick you up and get transport to the theme park or area you are going to. Allow yourself at least one hour of travel time by bus whenever you are using the Walt Disney World bus transport system.
Take a day "off"
A vacation at Walt Disney World can get crazy. You can run from one place to another without stopping. It's enough to tire anyone out. Make sure you choose a day during your trip to do nothing but enjoy what your resort has to offer and relax. Or, choose one of Disney's many recreation options like fishing or boat rentals.


Be nice to the staff
This should be a no brainer but many people don't realize what kind of stress someone working in a tourist heavy industry is all about. The staff you encounter every day are very busy people who are doing their best to make everyone around them happy. Be nice to them and be patient with them during long lines or mix-ups. Walt Disney World staff have the power to help you and offer you extra help when there is a problem. Being kind to them is one of the best ways to ensure this happens.


Tip your housekeeping service
Many people don't know it is kind and customary to tip your housekeeping service. A tip of $5 a day is the least you should do. Just leave them a note with the tip in plain view. Make sure to include in your note that is a tip for them! Many times, well-tipped house keepers will leave you extra towels and items you need. Sometimes, they even make little shapes and characters out of the towels.

Publisher: uuibbui - 04:53

7-things-love-amelia-island

Amelia Island is a beautiful barrier island just north of Jacksonville, Florida. There are lots of things to see and do here, but this is a list of my favorite things about Amelia Island.
1. Time passed it by. Even though Amelia Island has miles of beautiful beaches, a temperate climate, and lots of beauty, it hasn't been overrun by mega-hotels and concrete. There are two state parks protecting the natural beauty of the island, one on the north end and one on the south end. There are plenty of hotels and places to eat, but the beach isn't crowded with them. There are tons of unspoiled and no so crowded beaches, lots of parks for the kids, nature trails, and so many quiet places just to sit and think.

2. Fernandina Beach. This little town has been in place for over a hundred years. The traffic is slow, the walkers are many, and it is full of shops, galleries, bars, and restaurants. The people are friendly and the sunsets are breathtaking.

3. The Beaches. The beaches aren't too crowded on Amelia Island. There are several major accesses, complete with restrooms, showers, and playgrounds. But there are many quiet little accesses with parking lots all along the beach, because of the aforementioned lack of mega resorts. These beaches are great places for walking and shell hunting. Though you will run into a few people no matter where you go, you won't be fighting for elbow room on Amelia Island.

4. The Restaurants. Despite being such a small community, Amelia Island is quite diverse in it's cuisine. From Japanese and Korean to Seafood and Fast food, you won't be hungry here. I recommend T-Rays for burgers, and the Surf is great if you want seafood with an ocean view. A great place for tourists is also Sliders, with great views of the Atlantic and a playground for kids.

5. The Scenery. Call me old fashioned, but I love wondering around looking at historic homes and places. You won't lack any of that here. The houses near downtown are big and beautiful, and the downtown itself is historic. Historic Fernandina nearby current downtown is even older, and boasts the house used in the 1988 Pippi Longstocking movie. The cemetery is very photogenic, and of course, the old Spanish moss draped oak trees make a nice backdrop.

6. How Family Friendly It is. Amelia Island is super great for families. Tons of playgrounds and parks abound. The shops cater to kids with toys, clothes, and souvenirs. There are lots of great events, parades, and festivals all year long. And the beach makes the best natural playground. Not only does this place cater to your human family, but your furry one as well. Dogs are allowed on many of the beaches, as well as in many of the shops in Fernandina Beach. Amelia Island is fun for the whole family.

7. Amelia Island loves itself, in a good way. Amelia Island is proud of it's heritage and boasts that it is the only place in the US to have been under the rule of eight flags. The history of pirates is celebrated, as well as the past huge shrimping industry. Amelia Island tries to protect it's natural beauty. Two state parks are located on the island, protecting the fauna and the wildlife therein. Amelia Island is also big on recycling, and the residents try to keep the beaches clean and the wildlife safe. And that, Amelia Island, is something to be proud of.

Publisher: uuibbui - 04:53

7-humbling-days-hong-kong

Tom Carter Reporting Live from the Chungking Mansions - Hong Kong's Haunt for Anyone Who is No One.
Having spent over two-and-a-half straight years in the Chinese mainland without leave, it was with both anticipation and apprehension that I crossed the southern border into Asia's wealthiest city.

Despite its one-stop-shopping popularity with Mainland expats needing new clothes and a new visa, I truly had no idea what to expect in the former crown colony that supposedly makes even rich men feel poor. Rather terrified of exacting reverse culture shock, I hence saved English-speaking Hong Kong and its "One Country, Two Systems" self for the tail end of my journey across the 33 Chinese provinces.

And it is here I report that all my preconceptions and fears about Hong Kong were... true . To quote the under-appreciated American writer Thomas Carter (me!) upon his brief sojourn in the legendary Chinese city, "I've never felt more poor than when I was in Hong Kong... I've never felt more ugly than when I was in Hong Kong."

DAY 1: Cross the Shenzhen-Hong Kong border at Louhu and catch the immaculate KCR railway, immediately impressed that nobody is staring, shoving or spitting. Arrive in Kowloon's southern peninsula and emerge from the underground into the land of lights - Tsim Sha Tsui. Blinded with excitement, I have to ask a resplendent group of Indian women draped in saris where the Mirador Mansion is. They point their gold-ringed fingers straight up. A towering, rust-stained concrete block, and one of Hong Kong's only affordable accommodations. I check in to a claustrophobic dorm room (three times the price of a Mainland dorm and three times as small), then hit Nathan Road. Peering up into the neon lights, tripping in the crush of the crowds, I feel just like a migrant worker back in Beijing.

DAY 2: Awoken at 6am by one of my bunkmates stumbling in after a long night. His name is Pat, a young American backpacker with long red hair whose introduction is immediately followed by a long-winded narrative about his two-week romps in Hong Kong, including scoring with the mythical "Asian girls who LOOOVE foreign guys." When I counter that I never had any such luck, the fast-talking but likeable Pat proffers some off-the-cuff advise ("Dude, lose the beard") before launching into more useful information. "It's Sunday, okay, and there's gonna be, like, 120,000 Filipino nannies and maids on their only day off - and looking for boyfriends!" I'm a little dubious of Pat's generalizations, but sure enough his mobile rings continuously with calls from adoring cleaning ladies he met the Sunday before. An afternoon stroll around Statue Square indeed reveals a literal blanket of thousands of picnicking South Asian women (Hong Kong's largest migrant communities) whose collective chatter sounds just like a large flock of seagulls. When I attempt to candidly photograph one attractive young Filipino, she shouts "Hey! I klick jor azz!" So much for getting a date.

DAY 3: Fieldtrip to Shek O beach on Hong Kong Island's south side, savoring the soft sand and splashing in the subtropical South China Sea. Supposedly this place is packed out on the weekend, but that's what weekdays are for, no? It's one of those moments when I enjoy being unemployed. Chase my fun in the sun with a tram ride up Victoria Peak for a breathtaking evening vista of skyscrapers, which appear to be constructed entirely out of lights. Dafnit, an Israeli girl clearly in awe of the Hong Kong skyline, remarks, "We have no tall buildings in Israel. Oh wait... we have one!"

DAY 4: Spend the day traversing Kowloon, the fashion billboards of TST turning into seedy massage parlor billboards as I descend northwest down the Nathan Road side streets, the sun lost behind precipices of neon signs stretching horizontally over the streets. The markets of Mong Kok are mobbed with uniformed students on lunch break: long-haired boys with untucked white shirts and loosened ties, and made-up girls in little outfits out of a Japanese kogal/hentai fantasy: knee-high black stockings, short skirts and a Louis Vuitton bag to carry their pencils and books. They have tattoos, tongue piercings and smoke cigarettes. After commenting that they are the hippest students in China I've seen, one 15-year-old boy replies in perfect English, "Yes, so cool, but so young."

DAY 5: I want to see how the other half lives and spend the day in Central, Hong Kong Island's microcosm of capitalism. Cross Victoria Harbor by the centuries-old Star Ferry through a morning miasma of pollution and follow white-collared crowds of businessmen contending with cell phones, briefcases and lattés into their respective skyscrapers. Later observe as many women shopping in designer department stores - these must be the wives. I notice that they all clutch their purses as I walk by, then realize why as I catch a glimpse of myself in the reflective facade of the Bank of China tower. My head cast down in self-consciousness, I almost get rolled over by a Rolls (driving on the wrong side of the road, damn Brits!), then almost again by a double-decker cable car. Everyone in Central must be against me. My insecurities are firmed up that evening in Lan Kwai Fong, a gentrified neighborhood of upscale restaurants and bars on the Island's northern escarpment. The steep streets are congested with young, well-to-do westpats toasting yet another successful day of money-making. I can't believe there are so many white people in China who aren't English teachers! They are all smartly dressed and have well-groomed hair; I am wearing cutoff army pants, low-top fake Converse, an eight year old t-shirt that I bought used, nor have I shaved or cut my locks in the eight months I've been on the road. I want to belong, but I don't. It's one of those moments when I regret being unemployed.

DAY 6: I give the Island another chance and take the night ferry across the harbor to the north end's older and seedier nightspot, the infamous Wan Chai. Recall it is where Richard Mason penned his 1950's tale of forbidden love, "The World Of Suzie Wong," though a lot has changed since he wrote "take a minute's stroll from the center and you won't see a European." The pick-up bars still line the road, yum-yum girls luring passersby into their neon-lit dens, but these are the illegitimate daughters of Suzie Wong, not of Chinese but Thai dissent, wearing not elegant silk cheongsams but cheap miniskirts raised to immodest heights. And unlike the kindly ladies of the Nam Kok Hotel, these modern-day working girls are vicious, mercenary, cold. When a group of obviously disappointed white boys emerge from one venue exclaiming, "In Thailand they take off ALL their clothes," the brown-skinned door girl in plastic go-go boots is quick to shout back, "Then go to Thailand!" Further down Lockhart I follow a couple of older Europeans primed with drink and flirting heavily with a lovely bouquet of girls looking for generous company. After making their arrangements, one of the men leans on me and confides, "Wy mife, I mean my wife, thinks I'm *HICCUP* at a conference." The remaining girls give this poor writer a cursory glance then quickly cross the street away from me.

DAY 7: I wake up feeling dejected and classless; the expatriates of Central don't want me, nor do the waterfront girls of Wan Chai. Take a stroll around TST, passing by friendly knots of third-world hustlers hanging out in front of the Chungking Mansions, the immigrant ghetto of Kowloon that serves as temporary living quarters for Hong Kong's financially insolvent émigrés. A street corner tout from Kashmir says to me "The Mansions is where anyone not wearing pastel shorts or a suit stay." I realize this mad cauldron of multiculturalism is the only place I truly feel at home in Hong Kong. The Africans on the never-quiet front steps always high-five me, the Pakistanis all think I'm Muslim (must be the beard), and the Indians bat their eyelashes at me. The Chungking Mansions are the international haunt for anyone who is no one, and I am one of them. It is a peasant's epiphany - in Hong Kong, I am the 'nongmin.'

Publisher: uuibbui - 04:43

6-reasons-out-bed-today

Are you having trouble escaping the confines of your blanketed mattress? That's writer-speak for bed, and you're a lazy boo boo head for sleeping in so late! Here are six reasons why you should wake up, get dressed and do something with yourself today.
6. You've Got a Job To Do
There are people counting on you and that special brand of you-ness that you bring to the world. You may or may not have what some would call a "real" job, but that's cool. You do that thing, or you say that stuff. You might not get paid for it, but certainly you could find at least one person that enjoys the limited amount of regularity that you bring to their life. If nobody depends on you for anything that's particularly important, go ahead and do something nice for yourself today. You're like super important, and if you keep telling yourself that, you might convince others to believe the same!

5. Some People Don't Even Have a Bed
Did you know that if you search the Internet for a statistic about the percentage of people who own beds, there is little to no credible information about this subject at all? Society is too ashamed to even talk about it, much less research it in a lab setting. Sure, there are those who just happen to be "in-between" beds, or sleeping on the couch for a little while until Mommy gets over her issues. However, what about those living in poverty, including innocent children? Yet there you lay, warm and comfortable while others suffer. You are still comfortable, right?

4. The Spider Under the Covers
This isn't a clever metaphor. While you were sleeping a curious arachnid crawled up the side of your bed and is piggybacking off of all that sweet body heat to incubate the ripe satchel of babies that it carries on its back. In fact, it very well could have been two pregnant spiders. Where there's one spider there's probably two more, all of them about to give birth. If aren't interested in sharing your warmest crevasses with a bunch of tiny spider creatures, you should think about getting up. Obviously we don't even have the time to get into bedbugs, but they're there too.

3. People Are Judging You
Who cares, right? You're tired! You've got no responsibilities! Guess what? You're also highly unmotivated, and slightly unkempt. And that's not just coming from me. I love you, I seriously do. It's just that other people are beginning to talk and I don't want you to get your feelings hurt. Even if their opinion doesn't matter, word travels fast. Once it gets around that you're a lazy do-nothing, people will stop asking you for things, like love. People will stop wanting your love, and you will receive none in return. A thankless, loveless life you will lead if you decide to continue this barrage of resting.

2. You Probably Won't Die Today
Most people die while lying in a bed. That's a fact that you can't disprove no matter how hard you try. If you are able to make it out of the clutches of your bed, you're a survivor. There's actually only a 0.0039% chance that you'll be murdered at any given time, granted that you don't live in a major city with a higher than average crime rate. Also, if you've infuriated the wrong people your chances of being knocked off are increased considerably. You might not have much longer to live due to various other reasons like disease or hunger, but that doesn't necessarily mean today's the day! The fact that you're even reading this article means that you haven't died yet, and that accounts for something.

1. Breakfast Time!
Ding, ding ding! There's donuts, eggs, sausages. Of course there's bacon, assorted fruits and delicious exotic coffees - plus a wide selection of tiny boxes of popular cereal brands. It's like a continental breakfast up in here, and it's all for you. But no eating in bed! If you want to eat delicious pastries and succulent breakfast meats you'll have to go to the dining room. If your dining room does not already contain these things, you may have to go to the store to purchase the ingredients, or stay at a hotel for an actual free breakfast. Your delicious morning meal will only limited by your motivation to make it so. If you are hungry, get out of bed and go eat.

Publisher: uuibbui - 04:29

6 great reasons to live in a dorm

1. Connections - Living at a dorm means living in an area shared by tens, perhaps even hundreds, of other students just like you and odds are at least some of these other students will share some of your interests. Most of these people will be freshmen, but there will also be the occasional sophomore, junior and senior. Living in the dorms is the perfect opportunity to get to know people and make friends and create connections. This is one of the most important things you could do in college, as connections last for the rest of your life and can benefit you greatly further down the road. Many people advance through their careers due to connections that they forged while they were away at college.

2. Proximity - One of the main reasons people choose to live in a dorm is the fact that it is much closer to everything than opposed to living off campus. You will be generally be within walking distance of your classes, giving you more time to do other things which would otherwise be wasted on transportation. You will also be much closer to other important places on campus such as cafeterias, libraries and gyms. Living in a dorm will also put you closer to your college's support services and you will be able to get help much quicker if you need it. Living close to everything will work to make life in college less stressful and more convenient.

3. Cheaper - Living at a dorm usually means that you do not have to pay water, electric, cable or internet bills and it usually means only having to pay a fraction of what an off campus residence would cost. This will save you tons of money which you can then spend on other things you deem more important such as books, food and entertainment.

4. Security - Colleges generally have very good security measures set up in the dorms to ensure the safety of the students who live in them. Many dorms are routinely patrolled by campus police who make sure that the campus is safe. Many dorms also will have security cameras and secure check in areas which will not allow anyone unauthorized to enter the dorm. Rest assured, you will be very safe in your dorm and you will be able to sleep safe and sound.

5. Activities - Living in a dorm on a college campus is an excellent way to involve yourself in various activities going around your campus. People living in dorms are usually exposed to many different clubs and organizations and FREE entertainment possibilities. Many dorms also host intramural sports, so if that is your cup of tea living in a dorm can really make your college experience.

6. Living-Learning Communities - Some college's also offer special dorm areas designated Living-Learning Communities which consist of students pursuing a career in the same field also bunched up together. If you want to live with people who have the same interests as you and are working towards the same goals as you, then this is the perfect opportunity for you.



These are 6 great reasons to live in a dorm and I hope this article has helped you make your decision.

Publisher: uuibbui - 04:28

5-ways-escape-heat-dome

The oppressive heat and humidity is keeping people from going outside and having fun, but there are activities you could be doing to have fun and keep cool during the hot summer days.The following are five ways to stay cool during the heat wave and still have a good time:

Cool tip #1 -- Make a Splash!

Ask any child and they will tell you the most popular way to stay cool during the long hot summer days are to go to the pool. It is a great way to have fun, get exercise and most importantly stay cool. Most swimming pools are kept significantly cooler than the ambient temperature.

Cool tip #2 -- Go See a Movie

Have you ever been in a movie theater and found yourself shivering? That is because most theaters must keep their temperatures well regulated, otherwise their precious film may get ruined. That is why the movie theater is always a cool place to visit during the summer. After a long day in the heat, come inside and sit for a couple hours watching the latest summer movie and enjoying some refreshments.

Cool tip #3 -- Visit the Mall

The mall is not just for teenage girls. It is a great place to go with friends and socialize. It is of course a great place to shop; many stores are offering large sales to encourage customers to come out despite the heat. Most malls also offer a variety of places to dine--ranging from the fast-food joint to fancy restaurants.

Cool tip #4 -- Check Out the Library

If you are like me and can't get your hands on enough books, then this is the place for you. Many people often forget they even have a local library, but don't pass up this resource. Libraries have more than just books and newspapers. They also offer an air-conditioned place to use a computer, movie rentals, some have performance theaters, and of course a quiet place for those who just want to read a summer novel.

Cool tip #5 -- Play an Indoor Sport

Your mother wouldn't appreciate you playing sports inside her house, so check out local areas to play indoor sports. Most cities have indoor roller-skating rinks, tennis courts, bowling and much more. Most businesses are trying to get customers' attention by offering "hot" deals.

Additional articles by this author:

Tesla Motors: Blowing Away Misconceptions

First-Person Perspective from a Biker: 10 Reasons Why I Do Not Own a Car

5 Steps to Becoming a Doctor

Camping in Central Illinois: Three must visit parks

Publisher: uuibbui - 03:56

5-things-to-not-motorcycle-trip

Vacations create their own sort of stress, and bike trips are no exception. Some simple guidelines to a smooth trip can help keep your group together and happy. Here are the don'ts.

Be a diva.

Spending a lot of time on your hairdo will likely result in disappointment. We all take comfort in dry, snag-free tresses, but that gaga style isn't going to hold up to the wind, so swap the goo for conditioners. While we're at it, stay off the side mirrors, and stick with the wild child style.

Disrespect the rules of the road.

Just because you can fit into smaller spaces with your bike, doesn't mean that you must do so every chance you get. Squeezing next to an auto in a lane might look like an extreme sport moment, but it's just extremely bad form. This behavior makes driving more hazardous for everyone and, frankly, gives bikers a bad name. Also, obey the signs. They are posted for a reason, so don't find out why the rough way.

Get an attitude.

Long jaunts can become a pain for all, so there is no reason to add to it by creating a nervy situation. Here, the 'silence and smile' philosophy really pays off.

Wiggle, wiggle, or wiggle.

Passengers, those moves might look sassy on the dance floor, but they will undoubtedly shake your foundations--and give the driver a workout--on the road. So, please don't jump around on the seat (even if it's the size of a drink coaster) for every roadside attraction or yard sale. Relax and enjoy the ride.

Read the map or navigation system while operating motorcycle.

The GPS doesn't show obstacles, or recalculate for them. Motorcycles require a great deal of attention to operate and are dwarfed by most vehicles they share the road with. Stay alert while traveling, saving the directions and scenery for the stops.

Bonus Material: Since Michigan repealed the helmet law in April of 2012, this article's bonus material offers some lighthearted defenses for the remaining lid set.

8 Answers to the question, "Why do you still wear a helmet?"

It tames frizz.

Bug juice is bad for the scalp.

It makes my neck look thinner.

My decals are my identity.

It makes a great disguise.

Because I'm not about to wear yours.

It matches my tattoo.

A dirty mind is a terrible thing to waste.

Have a nice trip, and may the road gremlins fear your pipes.

Publisher: uuibbui - 08:38

5-things-leftover-turkey

Starting Friday morning the first thing friends and family will be looking for are the Thanksgiving turkey leftovers. No one wants to cook after that Thursday and most are tempted to buy food out as if you didn't cook for one hundred people. There must be something creative you can do with those turkey leftovers that will keep them coming back for more.
Try the following options:

1) Make great Panini sandwiches

All that's required will be bread, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and whatever other condiments you prefer on your turkey Panini. Heat up the bread in a skillet with a little olive oil (or butter if you don't have it). Let it toast on each side for about 2-3 minutes. While the bread is warming up shred turkey leftovers for your sandwich. Add condiments and warm meat and you have a quick sandwich that only took five to seven minutes to make.

2) Make a marinara sauce with the turkey leftovers

The traditional meat to add with pasta is meatballs, this Thanksgiving make it turkey. The pasta itself will take about 10 minutes to cook, and a pasta sauce can be anywhere from 10-20 minutes depending on what all you put in it. I like spinach and mushrooms with an assortment of Italian herbs and spices. Heat the turkey with the pasta sauce and in about 20 minutes you will have a pasta dish that even your children will love.

3) Go Mexican and make quesadillas

Only two extra ingredients are needed after the leftover turkey... cheese and tortillas. To make a quick quesadilla, place meat and cheese on one side and transfer to a lightly oiled and heated skillet. Place second tortilla on top of combination. Flip the quesadilla when the cheese has adhered to the second tortilla, about five to seven minutes. Cook quesadilla another five minutes and there you have it. Add green onions, cilantro, sour cream and pico de gallo if you'd like. A simple salsa will work here as well.

4) Add to a soup of your choice

I'd recommend a cream-based or broth soup to add your turkey for a hearty soup meal. If you have leftover cornbread you can use that to dip into the soup as well to get rid of more of those Thanksgiving leftovers you may have.

5) Add to a salad for a healthier option

Most restaurants do it, why can't you? More than likely the turkey you have leftover is already shredded to pieces anyway and it probably has some flavor to it as well. The next time you decide to add a salad to a meal, kick it up a notch with some leftover turkey and you may get full quicker than you expected.

Publisher: uuibbui - 07:20

5-romantic-island-getaways-caribbean-west

Truly singular hideaways of the Caribbean and West Indies tend to be smaller, privately owned and managed, and are generally designed to compliment the landscape. If you want to capture the spirit of the islands a down-home plantation or cottage stay at one of these resorts will be just perfect. Popular with honeymooners and romantic couples the islands of the
Caribbean and West Indies are well liked and fashionable. Since many of the islands are private and secluded it is not uncommon to see famous faces and Hollywood starlets lying on the beach, eating in restaurants, or just relaxing. Here are five different island escapes that particularly stand out, each for their own reasons.

Between the islands of St. Vincent and Grenada lies Bequia. Bequia is just one of the islands among a 70 mile stretch of small islands called the Grenadines. There are only a few dozen outposts dotting the junctions of the Caribbean and Atlantic, and Bequia is one of them. Known for its exceptional cuisine and natural beauty the Hotel Frangipani is a popular resort with Yachters mostly, but there are other guests occasionally.

Don't be fooled by the cost of renting a room per night. The Hotel Frangipani is a private well staffed and catered resort. Whether you would like to have a late breakfast or drinks on the beach the Frangipani staff is there to meet each and every one of your needs. It is also extremely private and secluded being on of the few Grenadine Islands that has access to the land.

Hotel Frangipani is made up of traditional West Indian Guest Houses that were built for a sea captain during the 1930s and stonewalled bungalows. All of the Guest Houses are waterfront and are decorated with antiques. From the Bungalows you get a perfect view of Admiralty Bay. Hotel Frangipani also has a bar and on Thursdays a steel band from St. Vincent comes to entertain the guests. Fresh catches of ocean lobster and fish are served daily in the restaurant and is considered some of the best food available in the area. If you find yourself traveling the Grenadines make sure you at least stop for dinner and a drink in Bequia.



At 800 feet above sea level, the Island of Nevis is one of the most beautiful and serene islands of the Caribbean. Generally speaking, the temperature never falls below 75 degrees Fahrenheit and never goes above 85. The weather is beautiful and sunny almost everyday. The Hermitage Resort is nestled among mango trees and tropical plants and flowers on a 15 acre property. Vervet Monkeys also roam the grounds attracted by the fruit trees, as well as crickets and frogs.

The Hermitage is a converted sugar plantation from the 17th century. The Great House is the oldest wooden structure on the island, dating back to the 1670s. The 12 Cottages are all decorated with antiques and oriental rugs. Whether you want to relax by the freshwater pool, take a nap in one of the balcony hammocks, or go horseback riding there are plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure.

The Hermitage Inn raises all of its own livestock on site keeping pigs, rabbit, and lamb. There is an Equine themed bar, garden, stocked library, sitting room, and dining veranda as well as an 18 horse stable. At night you can go to the sitting room and watch an opera or movie musical or you can have room service brings drinks to your room. Room and board are both moderately priced and almost anyone can afford to stay here for a few nights. If you're in the area, you can't afford not to stay! It's so beautiful that you just have to go take a look.

Kura Hulanda - Curacao, ph. 877-264-3106 from $210 a night
http://www.kurahulanda.com

The words Kura Hulanda actually mean Dutch Courtyard. This hotel is nestled in the heart of historic Willemstad on the Dutch Caribbean. This busy city is only three miles from the beach and has over 65 historic buildings and the 80 room luxury hotel of Kura Hulanda is right in the middle of it all. The Kura Hulanda was rebuilt from the ruins of an old slave trading center on a home site and the hotel has its own historical museum detailing African history and the slave trade.

The Kura Hulanda has a meeting room, a business center, spa, beach club, casino, lodge, pool, golf course, and gym as well as a courtyard and gardens. There are usually busy morning coffee and lunch crowds at the hotel restaurant with the Jacob Dekker Institute just steps away. If you are interested in Dutch and African history a stay at the Kura Hulanda is the best option for you. The hotel does attract other crowds though such as the rich and well traveled, as well as yachters and sailors.

Anse Chastanet - St. Lucias, ph. 800-233-1108 from $225 a night
http://www.ansechastanet.com

The Anse Chastanet Resort is located on 600 acres just outside of the rundown fishing village of St. Lucias, and is also near Soufriere and the Piltons. The Anse Chastanet sits on a ridge overlooking the silver sands of St. Lucias Bay. The resort mainly attracts honeymooners and retired couples as well as the adventure seeking younger crowds. From mountain biking to kayaking, sailing, snorkeling, and horseback riding there are plenty of activities for the action seeker. There is also an extensive trails system for hiking enthusiasts.

The Anse Chastanet was rebuilt from the ruins of an 18th century Anse Mamin plantation and still has many mango and avocado trees. No two rooms are alike but they all incorporate the natural beauty of the island with brilliant views. The staff has been raved about because of their hospitality, great service, and willingness to help. The Anse Chastanet is semi-secluded and is the perfect mixture of ambiance and adventure.

Eden Rock - St. Barthelemy, ph. 877-563-7150 from $570 a night
http://www.edenrockhotel.com

If you are looking for a classic pampered island escape, a stay at Eden Rock is exactly what you are looking for. Eden Rock Hotel is located on the 8 square mile island of St. Barthelemy, also called St. Baths. This tropical escape has some of the finest beaches of the West Indies and also has two of the best French restaurants on the island. Eden Rock is located directly on the water and has water views on 3 sides, so matter where you stay in the hotel you will have an ocean view.

Eden Rock is made up of two French restaurants, cottages, suites, a beach house dubbed the Big Beach House, a private resort called the Diamond, fitness center, and spa. There is also an art gallery and studio called Jane's Gallery and a clothing store called the Rock Shop. The Rock Shop sports fashions that are traditional to the islands in color, fabric, and styles. Because the luxury resort is so private, it is a hot spot for the rich and famous. Stay here and you may get a chance to rub elbows with Stephen Spielberg or Gwen Steffani.

There are also plenty of beach front activities like snorkeling and Scuba diving, kayaking, deep sea fishing, boating day trips, and crewed sailing voyages. Or you can rest by the pool, work out in the brand new gym, or try Yoga and Pilates. You can also go to the spa for a facial, pedicure, or manicure as well as massage and other beauty practices.

Publisher: uuibbui - 06:44

5-reasons-consider-retiring-panama

Panama has long been an undiscovered gem in Central America until recently when Panama was recognized by several sources as a top place to live and retire. Modern Maturity Magazine rated Panama the #1 place to retire in the Americas, and for good reason; where else do you have access to pristine Caribbean and Pacific Ocean beaches, lavish rainforests and striking mountain landscapes? Panama also boasts an ultramodern capital city with a skyline so spectacular it looks like a scene from a futuristic movie. Here you can find world class restaurants and endless entertainment options. Panama is a melting pot of different cultures with a remarkable and rich history. Most people don't think of Panama first for a vacation destination, let alone a place to retire, but there are some huge benefits for foreigners who choose to retire here with Panama's "Turista Pensionado" program. Here are 5 reasons you may want to look further into spending your golden years here.

• 1. Huge benefits in purchasing a home - If you buy a home over $200,000 you have the right to a residency Visa. If you make Panama your exclusive residence you will receive a 100% property tax exemption (up to 20 years) and you will be given 50% off of the closing costs of your new home. Real estate in Panama is generally cheap. You can buy beach front property here for a fraction of the cost of what you would pay in the U.S.

2. Generous discounts on daily living expenses - You will get a 25% discount off of your monthly utilities such as energy, phone, and water bills. You will also receive a 25% discount on domestic and international airline tickets and restaurants (15% at fast food restaurants). Panama's cost of living is approximately 1/5 of the U.S, which makes Panama an appealing option with the current economy crisis.

3. Cheap Entertainment - You get a 50% discount off of most entertainment including movies, sports events, theatre and concerts. Most of these entertainment options are already low-priced to begin with, so your savings will be substantial.

4. Affordable Health Care - 10% to 20% discounts on medical needs such as prescriptions, dental and eye exams, and doctor visits. Panama has medical facilities comparable to the United States and a large amount of the physicians speak fluent English as many were trained in U.S. Many of the prescription medications you get in the U.S. are sold over the counter in Panama.

5. Something for everyone - Whether you love unspoiled beaches, the solitude of the mountains, lush rainforests filled with exotic wild life, or the big city; Panama has a place for every imaginable type of lifestyle. It is easily accessible from the U.S. It is only a 2/12 hour flight from Miami, and less than 6 hours away from almost any other location in the United States. The dollar is the accepted form of currency here which makes life easier. The crime rate is low and the water is safe to drink. English is the second language and is widely spoken. The advantages to retiring here are endless!

Publisher: uuibbui - 06:11

5-most-overlooked-attractions-orlando

Orlando is home to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios and SeaWorld, but there are dozens more attractions to explore and enjoy beyond the major theme parks. Many of Orlando's most overlooked attractions are located within a short drive from the major Orlando hotels and resorts near the theme parks, so you can break away from the bulk of the tourist areas to enjoy them during your Orlando vacation. Here are just five of the most overlooked attractions in Orlando.

#1: Green Meadows Petting Farm 

Green Meadows Petting Farm one of the most overlooked attractions because it is located far from the major tourist areas. Green Meadows Petting Farm is tucked away in Kissimmee and home to over 300 animals including ducks, donkeys, turkeys, goats, sheep and cows. You can learn how to milk a cow, or explore the farm on a tractor-drawn hayride. Green Meadows Petting Farm is located at 1368 South Poinciana Boulevard; call (407) 846-0770 for more information.

#2: Titanic - The Experience 

The Titanic attraction is located on International Drive, and is another overlooked attraction in Orlando. The one-hour guided tour will take you through life-size recreations of parts of the Titanic so you can experience see the artifacts and furnishings of the legendary vessel firsthand. The narrated tour will share the details and stories about the final days aboard the Titanic, and the attraction covers over 20,000 square feet. Photography is permitted, and you can explore the Dive Area and other interactive exhibits on your own after your tour. Titanic - The Experience is located at 7324 International Drive; call (407) 248-1166 for more information.

#3: World's Largest McDonald's 

It might not be your conventional tourist attraction, but the World's Largest McDonald's is located off International Drive, and home to a 25,000 square-foot play place and a giant menu of all of the McDonald's classics plus the Bistro Gourmet menu that includes Panini sandwiches, gourmet desserts and pasta dishes. Tuck into a Big Mac then spend the afternoon playing one of the 100+ arcade games, see the 500-gallon fish aquarium, or relax with the kids in the designated toddler area. The World's Largest McDonald's is located at 6875 Sand Lake Road in Orlando, and the dining room is open 24 hours per day.

#4: Train Land International 

Spend an afternoon exploring the Train Land International exhibit, another one of the most overlooked attractions in Orlando. This museum houses 14 model trains traveling down 3,000 feet of track, and the tracks include miniature towns, mountains, hills, lakes and industrial zones. It's a must-stop for any model train enthusiast, and it's a short drive of the Pointe Orlando shopping mall at 8990 International Drive. Call (407) 354-1400 for more information.

#5: SkyVenture Orlando Indoor Skydiving 

If you can't get out to the coast for a skydiving adventure, you can enjoy it all at the indoor skydiving center, rain or shine. The skydiving instructors here will show you what it takes to freefall without a parachute or plane down a 125 mph wind tunnel. You have a choice of an introductory package that lasts an hour and includes the jump down the tunnel, or sports and family packages that allow for multiple flight rotations. SkyVenture Orlando is located at 6805 Visitors Circle; call (800) SKY FUN 1 for more information.

From the world's largest McDonald's to the Titanic attraction, you'll find plenty of ways to enjoy your Orlando vacation outside of the major theme parks. Map out your itinerary with any of these fun and interesting attractions for a memorable trip.

Publisher: uuibbui - 08:44

5-great-shopping-experiences-in-dubai

Dubai is rapidly becoming one of the most popular shopping destinations in the world. Visitors from all four corners are enchanted by the variety, extravagance, and fun of shopping in this desert marketplace. Dubai offers shoppers an experience not found anywhere else.
Here are some of the highlights of a trip to Dubai.

Dubai Mall

Sprawled at the base of the world's tallest building, the Dubai Mall overwhelms visitors with its size and variety. More than 1200 stores selling everything from haute couture to kitschy souvenir camels reinforce the claim that this is the largest shopping center on earth.
Wander through Fashion Avenue to see what the world's best designers are featuring. Check out the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo that features glass-bottom boat rides and scuba diving with sharks. It is hard to be bored in this expansive monument to shopping, dining, leisure and entertainment.

Mall of the Emirates

Snowboarding and skiing in the desert is the highlight of this large mall. The indoor ski slope offers desert visitors a refreshingly chilly diversion. Rent gear for a day of skiing and snowboarding or just to play in the snow. The Penguin Encounter offers a chance to learn about and interact with some of these friendly cold-loving creatures. With more than 500 stores, including an impressive lineup of high end fashion and luxury stores, it holds its own as a destination mall in Dubai.

Gold Souq

Located in the heart of Deira, one of the oldest areas of Dubai, the Gold Souq is a modern version of the traditional marketplaces and trading centers of the Middle East known as souqs. Small alleyways lined with stores entice shoppers with lavish displays. Gold jewelry of every size and price sparkles in display widows and relentless dealers clamor for visitors' attention. As in any traditional Middle East marketplace, bargaining on the price is a part of the shopping experience.

Ibn Battuta Mall

Smaller than many of the malls in Dubai, the Ibn Battuta Mall offers a great shopping experience none the less. The mall is named after an ancient Arab traveler who traveled thousands of miles in the 14th century and then wrote about all the exotic lands he had visited. Sections of the mall feature extravagant decorations that transport shoppers to those faraway lands. Walking from the China Court with its full-size Chinese Junk past the Persia Court, the Egypt Court, the Tunisia Court, and on the Andalusia Court gives one a sense of all the wonderful lands he encountered.

Bur Dubai Souq

For the atmosphere and feel of the traditional Middle East markets, visit the Bur Dubai Souq. Fend off pushy vendors hawking their merchandise as you wander through the crowded alleyways. There is no high-end fashion here. The savvy traveler knows to pick up pashmina scarves, colorful textiles, dried spices, and sequined pillows for holiday gift giving. Prices are cheap and bargaining is expected.

Publisher: uuibbui - 07:58

5-great-reasons-to-tour-state-capitol-buildings

Whenever our family visits another state, we make an effort to visit the State Capitol Building when possible. State Capitol Buildings are not just government offices, they are fantastic examples of public art and definitely worth touring. Here are five great reasons to include a trip to a State Capitol Building on your next road trip.
Unique architectural styles. I used to think that all Capitol buildings were patterned after the Capitol Building in DC. Was I ever wrong! Each of these beautiful buildings has its own architectural style which reflects the state where it found.

The Capitol Building in Wyoming, 

for example, has a Western flare right down to its checkerboard floors and a mounted Bison in the west hall. Iowa's Capitol Building is filled with 29 different types of marble with stunning mosaic patterns while the New Mexico Capitol has a distinctive Native American feel.

A storehouse of public art.

From murals to sculpture, stained glass, fine arts, and more, most State Capitols have amazing collections of local art on display for visitors to enjoy. This public art not only gives us a sense of the state's history and geography but also the kind of people who populate it.

A mini museum. 

Many of the State Capitols we visited on our trip were filled with historical murals, museum artifacts, battle flags, and other state treasures that brought a state's history alive for us. Some of the more unusual things we saw were fossils in the floor tiles in Wyoming, working oil derricks on the grounds of the Oklahoma State Capitol, and an amazing doll collection in Iowa outfitted in the inauguration gowns worn by each of the governor's wives.

Great open space.

 When my kids were small, I use to take them to our State Capitol building during the winter as a way for them to burn off some energy by climbing up stairs, sliding through the Rotunda, or by walking around. For families on a road trip, a Capitol building is a safe, sheltered place to stretch one's legs and give the kids some exercise. If the weather is nice, the grounds themselves are a nice place to take a walk.

It's free. 

Unlike art galleries and museums, there is never a charge to view a State Capitol Building which makes it a great and affordable attraction for families to enjoy. The buildings also tend to be open 7 days a week from 8:30-5 which means that when everything else in town might be closed, the Capitol Building is generally open. Most Capitols offer free guided tours or for those who like to explore on their own, offer self guided tours as well.

Publisher: uuibbui - 07:52

5-great-attractions-of-austin-texas-

Are you traveling to Austin, Texas for a meeting or special event at the Convention Center? Do you plan to be in the area and want to know some of the best things to see and do? Check out the following suggestions.

Texas Sate Capitol

Covering 22 acres and towering more than 300 feet high, the Texas State Capitol building is a magnificent landmark that should not be missed. Built in the 1880s with Texas pink granite and the beautiful Italian Renaissance Festival style of architecture, the capitol building makes for attractive eye candy.

• You can go inside and take a self-guided tour to admire the elaborate interior and see oil paintings depicting the state's major historical events as well as paintings of former Texas presidents and governors. 

Outside of the building, you can stroll along the sprawling grounds to check out sculptures and monuments like the Terry's Texas Rangers, the Heroes of the Alamo, the Volunteer Firemen and Confederate Soldiers. In addition, there are plenty of benches, open spaces and picnic tables to relax and enjoy lunch.

Austin Museum of Art

If you are an art lover, don't miss the Austin Museum of Art. Situated in a beautifully restored 1916 villa, the museum features a rotating collection of contemporary art works as well as lovely outdoor gardens and walking trails.

Zilker Botanical Garden

If you want a peaceful and scenic place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without actually leaving it, the Zilker Botanical Garden is just the place. Less than two miles away from the convention center, this garden complex features more than 30 acres of flowers and plants native to the Southwest. You can meander along butterfly trails and explore themed gardens like the rose, herb and Japanese gardens.

Barton Springs Pool

If you are visiting in the summer and need a respite from the Texas heat, head over to the Barton Springs Pool. Once regarded as a sacred place by Native Americans, this natural limestone pool stretches more than 1,000 feet long and is fed by underground springs. You can dip in the cool, crystal clear waters and sunbathe on the natural grassy slopes.

Texas Natural Science Center

At the Texas Natural Science Center, you can learn all about the natural history of Texas by seeing dinosaur fossils, minerals, precious gems and animals native to the state. In the gift shop, you can purchase a wide range of goods related to the museum like books, shirts, toys, jewelry and homemade crafts. You will find this museum on the campus of the University of Texas. Admission is free of charge.

Publisher: uuibbui - 07:42

5-fast-cheap-restaurants-of-barre-montpelier

Fast food doesn't have to mean just fast food shops like McDonalds and Taco Bell. Likewise, delicious food is not solely the domain of haute cuisine restaurants. Sometimes the two - fast and fabulous - go together in one dining establishment. Toss in relatively inexpensive and you have a great dinner-out or take-home food bargain right in the Vermont capitol area of Montpelier and its sister city, Barre.

• Starting in Barre, consider Del's Pizza and Pasta House at 248 North Main Street (476-6684).

 While you can get a very leisurely meal here as well, perfect to linger over with friends or your partner, Del's has quick service and a sturdy, tasty menu. Do yourself a huge favor and check out the daily specials; I've found some luscious surprises here, including the best sweet potato fries ever. Let your server know you're in a hurry - if you are - and you are almost guaranteed to both get your fill of rib-sticking deliciousness and get out in time for your next hop.

• Turn onto Barre-Montpelier Road from Main Street in Barre and take a drive up to Ming Moon Buffet, a Chinese restaurant with an almost magical selection. On any given day, you can order from the menu or load up on the buffet line which includes the usual suspects with a bit of Japanese, American, and yes, even pizza available as well. Their creamy coconut chicken, stuffed mushrooms, and chicken chow fun are my all-time favorites. Yet my mouth also waters at the crab rangoons, the plump dim sum, and even the waffle-cut roasted potatoes which serve as a fine bed for some of the spicy options. Take home or eat there, Ming Moon can be found at 1400 US Route 302 (aka Barre-Montpelier Road, 476-8880), in the same shopping center as Odd Lots!

• Go a bit farther up the same road and you come to something of the quintessential New England diner, the Wayside Restaurant & Bakery. Before you sit down, check out the baked goods at the counter; these are freshly made on premises. It's hard for me to resist taking a cookie or brownie back to the office while the breads and pies have called out to me more than once. Try one of the Wayside's private label old-time sodas or a fountain drink. Although their coffee is not bad, by any means, it is surprisingly average for their amount of business; but I'm a heavy-duty Columbian roast drinker so your tastes may be more in line with their brew. Next, peruse the menu which offers most of your hearty, standard Yankee fare. Like any good place, the burgers are delish, the fries quite tasty, and the pies dress up the coffee nicely. There are specials, too; one morning's breakfast menu featured venison sausage, for example. Find the Wayside on Route 302 in Montpelier, just over the Barre/Berlin town lines (223-6611). Just be prepared for a packed dining room; I rarely see the parking lot empty which may speak volumes about the place.

• Turn onto River Road/Route 2 from Barre/Montpelier Road, also known as Route 302, and head for downtown Montpelier. You have too many good choices here, but none of the bigger fast food restaurants since Vermont's capitol city has no McDonalds, Burger King, Wendy's, or Taco Bell. The closest you come to fast food chains is Subway and Quiznos sandwich shops. Instead of these, turn down onto State Street and take your pick of Positive Pie 2 (named actually for the math symbol, 22 State Street, 229-0453), the city extension of the popular Plainfield pizzeria, or Nini's Wrap Works (8 State Street, 229-6788). Eat there or take it home for fast food with quality. The chicken parmiagiana sandwich at the former is delightful while the latter has some extraordinarily tasty veggie wraps.

• Last but not hardly least is a marvelous place that serves only take-out orders but of a quality and ethnicity usually hard to find so far out in the boondocks. Susan's Kitchen, open 3-6 PM Tuesday through Friday, dishes up fantastic mostly vegetarian fare at very affordable prices. You usually have a few different choices on any given night, when you might select a mushroom version of spanakopita or a timbale or perhaps even something African or Egyptian. You can call ahead or simply stop by to see what's left of their everyday-made-fresh menu options; it's definitely worth the trip. Don't forget the good cookies or other desserts. Susan's Kitchen is located at 209 Barre Street in Montpelier (223-8646).

Publisher: uuibbui - 07:00

5-breathtaking-national-parks-southern-utah

The Southern half of Utah is littered with prehistoric rock formations and is also home to five of the nations most beautiful national parks. Utah national parks cover over 650 square miles of Utah desert land. Bryce Canyon and Zion are by far the most popular and so are the sandstone arches in National Park. Some lesser known parks like the Canyonlands National Park and Capitol Reef are also some of Utah's best kept secrets. To avoid the crowds, plan your visit to Utah's national parks in early spring or late fall.

Arches National Park 

Arches National Park is made up of slick rock and bald sandstone, and is a popular destination for bikers, hikers, and photographers. Three toed impressions left by dinosaurs cover the entire north end of the park. Trails leading up to Balanced Rock and the Double Arch are located on the southern end of Arches National Park. The Delicate Arch is by far one of the most popular attractions of Arches National Park, and is shaped like a horseshoe, and stands at approximately 45 feet tall.

Week long car passes are available to day visitors, campers, bikers, and hikers. To make reservations at Arches National Park, or to find out more information you can call the National Park Service at (435) 719-2219 or you can go online to http://www.nps.gov/arch.

Dead Horse Point State Park 

Just off route 313 lies Dead Horse Point State Park. Dead Horse State Park is located at the northern corner of the Canyonlands National Park and gives you a breathtaking view of the Canyonlands. Every bit of scenery here is just as good as the Grand Canyon and on rainy days the muddy Colorado River can be seen flowing through the valley. You can reach Dead Horse Point State Park by phone at (435) 259-2614 or online at http://www.stateparks.utah.gov. Day passes are $7 per person.

The Canyonlands National Park 

The Canyonlands National Park covers 527 square miles of remarkable Utah desert. The Canyonlands are divided into three sections. The southeast section called Needles ascends to overlook Big Springs Canyon. The Canyonlands provides a more intimate setting and Pygmy Juniper dot the grounds. Hundreds of layers of thin sandstone are stacked on top of each other like a phyllo dough crust.

Newspaper Rock, a huge black stone covered in petroglyph's is by far one of the most popular destinations in the Canyonlands National Park. Newspaper Rock is covered in an impressive collage of words and pictures created by the indigenous tribes that traveled the Utah deserts only a couple of hundred years ago. Canyonlands National Park offers visitors a $10 week long car pass. You can find out more information on the Canyonlands National Park by calling (435) 719-2313.

Capitol Reef National Park 

Capitol Reef National Park, although one of the largest in Utah is probably one of the least well known throughout the National Parks System. Just of Route 24, Capitol Reef National Park is made up of walls that rise hundreds of feet in the air. For the most part, the canyon is dry but when there are heavy rains the canyon becomes washed with the muddy waters of the Freemont River, and can rise hundreds of feet during flash flooding. You can see lizards scrambling through the narrow canyon, and supposedly the park was hiding grounds for Butch Cassidy and his gang. For more information you can call the Capitol Reef National Park directly at (435) 425-3791 or online at http://www.nps.gov/care. Car passes for the scenic drive are $5 and free for those on foot.

Dixie National Forrest 

Dixie National Forrest is actually part of the Capitol Reef National Park. Hundreds of tall firs cover the land and in the winter up to 8 foot drifts of snow come in between the trees. The snow can last until the late spring and then the land becomes covered with a span of red and yellow mesas. The grand staircase, or what is known as the Escalante National Monument is located within Dixie National Forrest and is a series of tight curves and 1000 foot or more ravines wrapped around a ridge line. It's called the grand staircase because that's what it looks like.

Bryce Canyon National Park 

If you want to see the largest and most beautiful hoodoos in the world then Bryce Canyon National Park is the place. Bryce Canyon is bar far one of the most popular National Parks in Utah because of the magnificent hoodoos. The orange and white striped spires of rock look the best at sunrise and sunset, and can appear to cast a purple haze during certain fragile moments when the sun is at an angle in the sky. Photographers especially love Bryce Canyon National Park and you will often see them sticking behind for one last striking shot of the hoodoos. Week long car passes are available for $10. For more information on Bryce Canyon National Park call (435) 834-5322 or log onto http://www.nps.gov/brca.

Zion National Park 

Zion National Park overlooks the Riverside Walk Trail that leads to the Narrows. The Narrows is a 16 mile trail that doubles as the bed of the Virgin River. Private vehicles used to be allowed in most of Zion National Park but now they are prohibited from entering north of the visitor's center. Week long car passes are only $20 and lodging is available near by. For more information on Zion National Park call (435) 772-3256 or log onto http://www.nps.gov/zion.

Publisher: uuibbui - 05:16

5-best-water-parks

Are you looking to travel inexpensively but still have access to a water park? Kansas may not seem a likely hot spot for vacationers, but its many national parks and historic sites beg to differ.

So where do travelers to the Sunflower State find the best water parks?

Kenwood Cove Aquatic Park -- Open Memorial Day to August 21 
701 Kenwood Park Drive in Salina, KS 67401 
785-826-7430 
Open daily from 12:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.; until 6 p.m. on Sundays

Children under 3 enter free; older kids pay $3.50. Adults pay $5.50. Enjoy the water obstacle course for older children or the Soggie Bottom Kiddie Area for the youngest visitors, who prefer water no deeper than 18 inches. Other attractions include a lazy river, wave pool, and seven different water slides.

Rock River Rapids -- Open Memorial Day to Mid-August 
1900 E. James St. in Derby, KS 67037 
316-788-9781 
Open daily from 12:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Pay $9 to get in; kids under the age of 18 pay $8. The boat-themed play structure and adjacent zero-depth pool are huge hits with younger children and their parents. The water walk and drop slides appeal to the older set. The Aqua Climb attraction puts a watery spin on rock climbing.

Schlitterbahn -- Open May 26 to September 3 
9400 State Ave. in Kansas City, KS 66112 
913-312-3110 
Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; until 8 p.m. during the height of the season

The Schlitterbahn is one of the best water parks nationwide, and the prices reflect this confidence. General admission prices for adults are $47, while children pay $39. Although this may seem steep, consider that the Kansas City water park is heavy on attractions. Kinderhaven is a splash area for the youngest visitors, while those in search of tube slides rave about the Bahnzai Pipeline. This year marks the debut of the Boogie Bahn surf ride, Cyclone mat slide, King Kaw Rapids River, and the Mighty Mo tube chute. Since plenty of rides do not feature height requirements, there is a little something for everyone at the Schlitterbahn.

McPherson Water Park -- Open May 27 to August 15 
511 Lakeside Drive in McPherson, KS 67460 
620-245-2578 
Open 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays through Thursdays; until 8 p.m. on Fridays

Plenty of parking, cheap admission costs, and the sound reputation enjoyed by the YMCA make the McPherson Water Park one of the least expensive Kansas water parks to visit. Children under the age of 4 enter free; kids between 4 and 7 years of age pay $2. Older kids pay $3, and adult admission costs $4. Larger families might want to visit on Fridays between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., when family admission only sets you back $7. Enjoy a 500-foot lazy river, the 188-foot giant water slide, a diving area, sunbathing, concessions, and floating features.

Great Wolf Lodge -- Indoor Water Park 
10401 Cabela Drive in Kansas City, KS 66111 
919-299-7001 
Open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Available only to guests of the Great Wolf Lodge resort, this is a more luxurious setting. Life jackets and towels are just a couple of the little extras that make this water park stand out. The Fort Mackenzie tree house is a famous feature of this water park; Kansas residents appreciate that the water is always warm -- no matter what the temperatures are outside. Undoubtedly one of the best water parks in Kansas, consider the resort a vacation or staycation destination.

Publisher: uuibbui - 05:05

5-best-day-trips-in-monterey-peninsula

The Monterey Peninsula is one of California's most beautiful and historic areas. Within Monterey and the nearby communities of Pebble Beach and Carmel are enough sights to keep the pickiest traveler busy.

In addition to the local sights, within a few hours' drive of the area you can experience most of the diversity that makes California such a great place to visit or -- for the fortunate few like me -- live.

Big Sur

There is no single place in California more beautiful and iconic than the Big Sur coastline. This scenic area starts just south of Carmel and extends 100 miles south to Cambria and is marked by dramatic cliffs and rock-strewn shorelines.

There are no less than five state parks along the route to give you an opportunity to stretch your legs and see the coast up close and personally. Along the way are the historic Point Sur Lighthouse and one of California's crowning jewels, Hearst Castle.

Salinas

Twenty-four miles east of Monterey and a million miles away culturally is Salinas. Salinas is the county seat of Monterey County and is situated within a major agricultural region providing California and the nation with much of its vegetable crop.

Besides vegetables, Salinas' most famous export is one of America's most renowned authors, John Steinbeck. To learn more about Steinbeck visit the National Steinbeck Center and the nearby Steinbeck House.

Pinnacles National Park

Ninety miles southeast of Monterey in the Gabilan Mountains is this area of soaring spires and crags created by the San Andreas Fault. The area is known for its rock climbing and hiking.

If you are lucky, this is also one of the few spots to see the endangered California condor in the wild. Thirty condors make the area in and around the park their home.

Elkhorn Slough

Midway up Monterey Bay is the Elkhorn Slough, a saltwater marsh created by the estuary of the Pajaro River. This unique habitat is a paradise for birders and a great place to spot sea otters. The best way to see the slough is by kayak. You can either rent a kayak from numerous local shops or book a guided tour.

Santa Cruz

On the northern end of Monterey is the surfer's paradise Santa Cruz. The city is known for having one of the best surf breaks on the California coast. If you're not a surfer, a few miles north of town you can see another California original at Henry Cowell Redwood State Park, a stand of centuries-old coastal redwoods along Falls Creek.

Publisher: uuibbui - 04:57

4-things-to-see-before-trip to-berlin

The capital of Germany, Berlin, has a rich history. Architectural treasures and momentous events color this city and give it its character. There are a number of things that you can do on a visit to Berlin, including entertainment, drinking, eating, drinking, and sightseeing. And drinking. But there are four things that you should not overlook on a visit to the city. Your trip will be greatly enhanced when you keep these things in mind.
Murdered Jews of Europe Memorial. The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe opened in May of 2005. It is near downtown, so it is easy to visit while you are taking care of other business or looking at other things. Plus, it is close to public transportation (this is the best way to travel, no matter where you are in Europe). A beautiful garden is one of the more serene features of the memorial. Stories and histories of the Jewish victims of World War II are displayed, some with photos. It serves to remind us of what we should not let happen again, to any race or people.

East Side Gallery. Another monument to Germany's painful past, the East Side Gallery is the name given to the longest stretch of what remains of the Berlin Wall. Artwork covers its length, much of it in bright colors (contrasting almost-jarringly with the bleak cityscape). Emotional and political statements are present, and some of the artwork is quite good.

St. Nicholas Church. This centuries-old church is an example of architectural work in progress. Some portions of St. Nicholas Church date back to before 1307. The church is one of the many edifices built in honor of the saint known for his giving, that later became the Santa Claus of legend. Ornamental towers and a presbytery are among the features added through the centuries. During World War II it was hit by bombs, and the ruined sections were not rebuilt. It is meant to testify of war's destruction.

Chartlottenburg Palace. For lovers of Baroque architecture, this palace is a must-see. Even for those who do not have a particular for love architecture, this immense building is well worth seeing. A guided tour is not necessary, and you can take in the grandiose rooms on your own. However, there are some opulent treasures that can only be viewed as part of the tour. Pick up an information sheet on your way in though (available in many languages), since the tour is only conducted in German.

Publisher: uuibbui - 00:26

4-secular-ways-celebrate-holidays

According to the Pew Forum on religion and public life, the non-religious demographic is the largest growing segment of society. This includes atheists, agnostics, humanists, and people who otherwise might be atheists but don't necessarily embrace the label. Many developed countries already have an atheist majority, and a recent study published by BBC News even predicts the future extinction of religion in nine countries, based on current trends.

Yet, there is ample consensus that an atheist would not be able to win an election in America. One would think that this portion of society would have more visibility and clout, but things are changing. Secularist funeral, marriage and baby naming ceremonies are becoming more commonplace, there are humanist chaplains in many universities, a humanist temple is being planned for London, and there's even a secular scripture that has been authored by philosopher A. C. Grayling.

But one of the main challenges of new secularists coming out of the closet is figuring out what to do with themselves during the holidays. There is at times huge social pressure to have some kind of winter solstice celebration, so much so that Hanukkah, which was previously not a very important celebration, became relevant as an alternative to Christmas in the US and now Hindus in the West have even proposed their own diasporic holiday, the Pancha Ganapati, so that their children may also not miss out on presents while remaining within their cultural context.

I offer you four possible ways to celebrate your secular holidays in community.

The HumanLight holiday was created some years back by members of the New Jersey Humanist Network as their specific alternative to other winter solstice festivals that celebrate the return of light during the darkest night of the year in the northern hemisphere. Humanism is a progressive ideology that focuses on human values rather than religious values and, although there are humanist Christian and Jewish groups, most humanist organizations are fiercely secular.

The ceremonial aspect of HumanLight is quite simple: three candles are thoughtfully lit in celebration of the three principles of Reason, Compassion and Hope. HumanLight celebrations are generally organized by local humanist organizations and feature food, music, a cultural program and, of course, gift giving.

A second alternative, for people of African ancestry, is to celebrate Kwanzaa, a modern cultural creation which focuses on African culture, continuity, and community. It incorporates gifts exchange but encourages the personal creation of these gifts rather than consumerism. Kwanzaa festivities that I've attended have featured theatrical performances, music and Ethiopian and other African food. Like other winter solstice festivals, the main feature is the lighting of candles which represent the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa: Unity, Self-determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith.
Another alternative is to participate in secular festivities that are rooted in religiously inspired variations. There are numerous humanist Jewish congregations which celebrate the cultural aspects of Judaism without affirming its supernatural claims, as well as Unitarian congregations which feel and act much like Christian churches and celebrate their Christian roots but place no emphasis on faith, and in fact embrace doubt and welcome atheists. These congregations dedicate themselves to building community rather than requiring the mental slavery of their adherents.

A fourth option, of course, would be to just have a small, intimate gathering of like-minded friends and family. In the progressive Epicurean tradition, one might embrace the simplicity of good cheese, good bread, good friends, wholesome philosophical conversation and good wine as the best way to spend the holidays.

The point is that it's no longer necessary for a non-religious person to spend the holidays in isolation, or to feel as if the holidays have to be a time to recede back into the atheist closet.

Publisher: uuibbui - 00:18

4-prohibited-items-cannot-pack

Most of us start packing as the first thing we do to prepare for a move. It is the one thing in a sea of unfamiliar activities that we know how to do. Many of us, however, do not realize that our homes are full of common items, like hairspray and bottled bleach, that are not safe to transport. Find out what your mover will and will not haul before you start packing. This will not only save you from having to unpack and remove these prohibited items, but it will give you time to find another way to get them to your new home, if possible.

Ask your salesperson for a list of prohibited items. These are generally called household hazardous materials, and include things like flammables, aerosols, corrosives and poisons. More simply put: gasoline, hairspray, lye/pool acid and bug spray. Some movers also will not haul liquids of any type, while others ask for the cartons containing them to be marked with an 'arrows up' symbol to prevent spillage. Every moving company has different rules regarding what they will carry, but most all of them will not cover damage caused by items that were Packed by Owner.

There is more likely to be damage caused by leakage of cleaning fluids -- like bleach -- than there is any violent explosion or fire. The problem lies in the fact that that leaking fluid is going to drip its way to the floor and spread out -- even in the short time span of a local move. Aerosols can explode in the summer heat as can propane BBQ tanks. Gasoline from lawnmowers and pesticide vapors expand in the heat and can permeate everything in the truck.

Some of the worst damage I have seen was caused by a fire extinguisher. The driver loaded it for the customer without giving it much thought because it was, after all, a fire extinguisher. Somehow the pin vibrated out or it shifted in the load and it emptied itself: everywhere. Because moving trucks are loaded so tightly, any compressed gas or foam has less free space to travel in so they can cover the length of the truck in no time, and then settle on and permeate everything they touch.

All of these things are better and safer being hauled in leak-proof plastic bins in your car.

Other items to consider before you move are live plants. If you plan to move your houseplants, ask your salesperson first, as some movers will move them, some will with size restrictions and some will not move them at all. Those that do agree to move them will generally not provide insurance coverage on them. Plants themselves are fragile enough, especially in the summer heat, but it is often the pots that case the most problems. Many leak or are weakened by the combination of water and sun and can break in transit. Some large, indoor tree-size pots can easily weigh in excess of 500 pounds, because the pot is like a 55 gallon drum of wet dirt. Plants can also carry bugs that tend to migrate once they are placed inside a moving vehicle, spreading out onto your furniture and your mover's pads.

I do not move larger plants or trees for all of those reasons, especially the bugs. If I hauled plants for one customer and got bugs in my moving pads or truck, everyone that I moved after them would be at risk of being infested with someone else's ants, aphids or whatever. I will, when pressured, haul small houseplants in a plastic trash bag tied off at the top inside a moving carton. This prevents leakage, breakage, bug migration and the box makes the plant more manageable to load and secure.

If possible, you may do better (and cheaper) with having a friend with a pickup truck, landscaper or the delivery service from the nursery where you bought your plants/trees, pick up and deliver them for you.

Publisher: uuibbui - 00:15

Ways to save money in hotels

If you're a frequent traveler, you know the hard lessons on booking hotels and saving money at the same time. Think you're still missing something? Try these tips:

Book direct

The math is simple: If you go call and book the hotel straight, there's a likelihood that you're getting the most accurate room rate. On the other hand, many travel sites offer deals that you just can't pass up. Usually these are offered on non-peak seasons. There's a virtue in knowing how to comparison shop. Many times you may get shocked for being a victim of switch and bait--you booked for a low price only to find out that you are relegated to the only room available which is one you didn't want.

Troubleshoot it by calling the hotel directly and tell them exactly what you want and what rate you're getting on a travel booking site. They will be happy to beat the price for you.

Become a club member

Becoming a hotel or resort club member is free, and comes with plenty of perks. If you're a frequent traveler, you should pick the hotels you always stay in and apply to be a member--most likely you'll get one or two nights free everytime you book a stay with them. In fact, whenever we would stay at MGM resorts, we always get offers in the mail for free rooms for at least three days in any of their property such as New York New York and Monte Carlo.

Resort fees? Do your research

Does the hotel offer free breakfast? Are pets allowed? Do they charge resort fees? Free breakfast obviously saves you money so you don't have to leave the hotel for the nearest IHOP. Many hotels charge you extra for pets if you didn't know they are off-limits, and you can only stay in specific rooms. Resort fees are fairly new: for the uninitiated, I have no idea what this covers. Ask any hotel staff and they don't know either. I'm just making an assumption that resort fees pretty much cover the internet use and the complimentary bottled water, wine and cheese crackers they send up to your room when you check in.

Publisher: uuibbui - 23:34

Las-vegas-attractions

MGM Resorts International just announced a great attraction promotion at several of their Las Vegas properties. Patrons can attend any three of seven optional attractions for a total of $54. This deal includes the following options as well as their original ticket prices (children-adult) if bought separately.

• Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay -- $12-$18
• 
  
• CSI : The Experience at MGM Grand -- $23-$30
• 
  
• Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden & Dolphin Habitat at Mirage -- $12-$17
• 
  
• The Roller Coaster at New York New York -- $14
• 
  
• Bodies...The Exhibition at Luxor -- $24-$32
• 
  
• Spongebob SquarePant 4D Ride at Excalibur -- $9.95
• 
  
• Titanic...The Artifact Exhibition at Luxor -- $21-28

Tickets for the above attractions can be purchased at each resort's box offices or by calling the number 866-606-7111. As of right now, there is not an expiration date for this promo. But just to be safe, you should definitely go experience soon.

This is truly a fantastic deal that could save you a lot of money! Amazing.

Publisher: uuibbui - 10:51

3 great san gennaro festivals los-angeles New-york and Las-vegas

The Feast of San Gennaro is an annual Italian tradition that has spread around the country to many American cities. Many cities hold their own Feast of San Gennaro festivals, and they are always filled with fun, music, and delicious Italian food. Here's my look at three of the best San Gennaro festivals to visit:

Los Angeles - Late September 

I'll be attending the Galbani Italian Feast of San Gennaro Los Angeles, which kicks off with a party hosted by Jimmy Kimmel and Adam Carolla. The Los Angeles event is from Friday through Sunday, September 28-30, in Hollywood just off Hollywood Boulevard. I went last year and had a great time. There are rides for the kids, great music and performances, cold beer, and great food.

New York City - Mid-September 

New York City's Little Italy presents one of the oldest (86 years) and one of the best Feast of San Gennaro festivals. It's an 11-day event virtually closing down the streets of the Little Italy neighborhood and worth a trip just for the experience. The 2012 event was September 13-23, and the 2013 feast will be around the same dates. Every day is filled with great music and entertainment and amazing Italian food.

Las Vegas - Early September 

The desert resort gets into the Italian spirit with their own six-day event. In 2012, the 33rd annual San Gennaro Feast Las Vegas was held at the Silverton Casino. Entertainment this year included Vegas legend Clint Holmes, along with the cast of "Jersey Boys," a great show about Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. The event included a huge vendor area with all kinds of Italian delights to eat.

History of San Gennaro 

The event is actually a Catholic religious festival celebrating the life of Saint Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples, Italy, who died a martyr in the year 305. In Naples, the Saint is celebrated twice a year on the first Sunday in May and on September 19, when worshipers carry an image of the saint through the streets of Naples in a procession. The early Italian immigrants in New York carried on the tradition in the early part of the 20th century, and the event has evolved into a huge street festival, party, and celebration of Italian culture.

Publisher: uuibbui - 10:47

Vacation ideas for new couples

If you and your significant other are newlyweds, you may already discussed the topic of budgeting. Budgeting can be thought of as a "dirty" word for most, but it is a necessary function of starting out for a majority of newlywed couples. Discussing how to use money wisely comes up for topics such as bills, food and other commonalities of life but there is a topic that most newlywed couples don't talk about at the very beginning: vacations. There are two ideas on vacationing with your honey for an enjoyable time inexpensively.

Have a Stay-Cation: Sure, staying at home doesn't sound like much of a vacation, but if you are creative, you'll be having fun in no time. Go to your local park, have a picnic and enjoy the scenery with your spouse. Better yet, you could plan an itinerary for the day. A template for your itinerary could be: Starting your day bright and early at your favorite coffee shop for a light breakfast and your favorite coffee, a mid-morning job in your local park, basking in the nice weather having a picnic with your honey, followed by a mid-afternoon nap at home. Later, you and your significant other could go to the movies and then go to a nice candlelight dinner for two at the fanciest restaurant in town.

Travel to a Destination in your home state: Its almost like a stay-cation, but a little more adventurous than staying at home. Although it will be more costly than developing an itinerary for enjoying your time together closer to home, you and your significant other can enjoy a nice get-away vacation, enjoying the sites and activities in a different city of your home state. Some activities that may spark your interest could be: Going to an amusement or water park, experiencing the scenery of an area downtown, shopping at the mall, or visiting the museum.

There are enough obstacles ahead for newlywed couples. Having a decent, enjoyable vacation shouldn't be one of them. Which ever destination that you and your spouse decide to go, be safe and remember to have fun.

Publisher: uuibbui - 10:19