Category Archives: U.S.A.

California, Diving News, Ideas for Traveling with Children, Music, Places to Travel, San Francisco, Santa Monica, Travel Savings, Travel SMART, U.S.A., Wedding Deals, weekend ideas

Travel News from California. May 2015 issue

California: Dream big in the Golden State. Warm summer months make for the perfect getaway to the Channel Islands, one of the most remote yet dramatic national parks. The park’s five islands off the Southern and Central California coast can only be accessed by boat or small plane. Once there, explore by hiking trails or paddling the calm waters. Revered for its endemic plants and plentiful wildlife, this “Galapagos of North America” has no lodging, stores, or restaurants for a real disconnection from everyday life. For families, the ultimate road trip awaits, cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway in Southern California. From Los Angeles, drive south through the Golden State’s sand-and-surf beach towns. Snag a surf lesson for the whole family or stop in at one of California’s iconic theme parks, such as SeaWorld San Diego and LEGOLAND California. More for parents, adventures in the Golden State continue into the fall with California Wine Month with special promotions at cellar doors and vineyards such as special tastings, festivals, wine immersion experiences, vineyard tours and live music concerts. For inspiration on a Californian adventure, the newly launched Dream365TV on VisitCalifornia.com provides an on-demand video programming portal filled with engaging, original content that fuels a visitor’s dreams of amazing escapes that only this destination can provide. Dream Big. www.visitcalifornia.com

Carlsbad, Calif.: Known as “The Village by the Sea,” the city of Carlsbad combines the charm of a European town with the conveniences of a metropolitan city. Located between Los Angeles and San Diego, Carlsbad is the ultimate summer vacation destination for those looking to strengthen a skill, try something new or have some fun. No other place offers a chance to compete in a triathlon, visit America’s first LEGOLAND® Theme Park, follow in the footsteps of skateboarding legends Tony Hawk and Shaun White at Alga Norte Skate Park, meet working artists at The Art Foundry At New Village Arts and learn to golf like a pro at the Golf Academy of America. Other signature attractions in Carlsbad include: the headquarters of the Gemological Institute of America; the Chopra Center for total wellbeing and the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. Where to go for fun. www.visitcarlsbad.com

Huntington Beach, Calif.: Enjoy the experience of a classic California beach town in Huntington Beach, Surf City USA. Visitors can explore the destination’s surf heritage of at the International Surfing Museum and the annual U.S. Open of Surfing, July 25 to August 2. Surf City USA is living up to its name on June 20 by attempting to break the Guinness World Record for both “World’s Largest Surfboard” and “Most People Riding a Surfboard at Once,” with 60+ surfers and local heroes piling onto a custom-made surfboard to ride one epic wave at the Huntington Beach Pier. Alongside the free spirit of Huntington Beach’s coastal lifestyle is a playful imagination highlighted through new cultural and tourism developments, including 4 hectares of new shops and dining at Pacific City. With 16 kilometres of broad sand beaches, abundant outdoor recreational opportunities and a vibrant downtown, Huntington Beach is a perfect family getaway – from parents to pooches! Surf City USA. www.surfcityusa.com

Long Beach, Calif.: Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, with 8 kilomtres of sandy beach front as well as kilometres of inland bays and waterways, Long Beach makes for an ideal SoCal getaway this summer. Catch the Catalina Express to picturesque Santa Catalina Island, embark on a whale watching cruise, or soak up the sun while watching the ASICS World Series of Beach Volleyball, August 18 to 23. One giant playground for kids and parents alike, Long Beach welcomes families to the Aquarium of the Pacific, and the fabulous worlds of Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland are within an hour’s drive. The city’s thriving, multi-faceted arts and culture scene comes to life with the debut of POW! WOW! Long Beach, June 21 to 28, a week-long celebration of culture, music, and art, changing the face of the city with large-scale mural installations. The celebration is accompanied by a new exhibition at the Long Beach Museum of Art, opening June 26. The Urban Waterfront Playground. www.visitlongbeach.com

Greater Palm Springs, Calif.: Nestled in Southern California’s Coachella Valley, Greater Palm Springs is located two hours east of Los Angeles and comprised of nine unique cities. Summer in this desert oasis means hotel rates drop, providing the ultimate place to “chill out” with pool parties, tropical drinks and distinctive events. Kick off the summer with Palm Springs Desert Resorts Restaurant Week May 29-June 7, for special pre-fixed menu offers at more than 100 local restaurants. In mid-June the world-acclaimed 22nd Annual Short Film Festival & Film Market features more than 300 short films from 50 countries. Partiers rock outdoor stages and pool parties twice this summer at Splash House, a three-day live music festival and pool party featuring some of the biggest names in SoCal music. Come fall, the active social and recreational season in Palm Springs commences with the Modernism Week “Fall Kick Off” celebration in October, complete with home tours, films and live music events. Pride Weekend in early November fills downtown Palm Springs with more than 35,000 people taking in live music, an assortment of food vendors from local eateries and an opportunity to engage with the destination’s LGBT community. www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com

Diving News, Events, Florida, Humour, Ideas for Traveling with Children, Miami, Music, Orlando, Places to Travel, Restaurant News, Shopping, Travel Savings, Travel SMART, U.S.A., Wedding Deals, weekend ideas

Giveaways from West Palm Beach, Florida

PalmBeachSummer.com Offers Free Night Stays at Hotels in The Palm Beaches, FL Enter the Sun & Fun Giveaway for a Chance to Win a Summer Escape

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (May 4, 2015) — Discover The Palm Beaches’ annual summer travel promotion returned Friday, May 1 with the launch of its all new online deal hub at PalmBeachSummer.com. Source and book summer travel for less at leading accommodations from across The Palm Beaches, with tailored packages offering seasonal savings and free night stays.

New in 2015, the Sun & Fun Giveaway provides a chance to win a getaway to The Palm Beaches. The prize package features a three-night stay at Delray Sands Resort, rental car provided by Sixt, a $100 restaurant gift certificate, a $100 Macy’s gift card, $500 AMEX gift card and a catamaran cruise with Palm Breeze Charters.

“Summer is the perfect time to enjoy an affordable escape to The Palm Beaches to take advantage of free night stays at many of our hotels and discounted rates at local attractions and restaurants,” said Jorge Pesquera, President and CEO of Discover The Palm Beaches. “PalmBeachSummer.com provides access to The Palm Beaches’ best summer travel discounts in one convenient place. The site eliminates the lengthy research phase to book a vacation, ensuring a ‘stress-free’ start to a summer vacation in The Palm Beaches.”

With a lively assortment of accommodations, activities and events, The Palm Beaches offer an ideal place for a summer getaway. Experience eco-tourism adventures at Loggerhead Marinelife Center and Loxahatchee Everglades Tours, paddle the calm waters of Jupiter Beach, tee off at the oceanfront Palm Beach Par 3 Golf Course, or just relax on the destination’s 47 miles of Florida beaches. After hours of fun in the sun, cool off at Rapids Water Park, shop at the new Palm Beach Outlets or rejuvenate the mind, body and soul at Eau Spa.

Several of the destination’s award-winning hotels and resorts have created “free nights” packages, only available at PalmBeachSummer.com. A sampling includes:

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa – American Express Cardholders Receive 4th Night FREE American Express cardholders who book four nights at Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, May 1 – September 30, 2015, will receive the fourth night free.

Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa – Jupiter Jaunt Stay two nights and receive the third night free at Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa. Promotion is valid May 1 – December 31, 2015, and is subject to availability.

The Seagate Hotel & Spa – Receive the 4th Night FREE When You Stay for Three Book three nights at The Seagate Hotel & Spa and receive the fourth night free. To book this offer, use the promo code STAY4. Valid on hotel stays June 1 – September 30, 2015.

Wyndham Grand Jupiter at Harbourside Place – Book Three Nights & Receive the 4th Night FREE Use the promo code DISPCVB to get the fourth night free on bookings made for three nights at the Wyndham Grand Jupiter at Harbourside Place. Valid May 1 – December 23, 2015.

A sample of more great offers available at www.PalmBeachSummer.com, includes:

Best Western Palm Beach Lakes Inn – Get Paid $50 to Shop Book a two-night stay at Best Western Palm Beach Lakes Inn and receive a $50 AMEX gift card for shopping at the Palm Beach Outlets. Reservations must be made by calling the hotel directly at (561) 683-8810. Valid May 1 – September 30, 2015. Rates from $109 per night.

Boca Raton Resort & Club – Kids Eat Free Kids eat free with the purchase of a parent’s entrée at select Boca Raton Resort & Club restaurants, including Palm Court and SeaGrille for breakfast, as well as 501 East Kitchen Bar for lunch and dinner. This promotion is valid June 1 – August 8, 2015 for up to three children, ages 12 and under, per reservation.

The Breakers Palm Beach – Stay Two Nights or Longer Book The Breakers direct and receive a $50 Nightly Resort Credit when you stay two nights or longer. Credit applies to endless activities including dining, spa services, golf, tennis, valet parking and more. Plus, enjoy complimentary Everyday Summer Benefits. No Resort Fee.

Crane’s BeachHouse Boutique Hotel & Luxury Villas – Stay Longer & Save More Stay two nights at Crane’s BeachHouse Boutique Hotel & Luxury Villas and receive 20% off, or stay three nights and receive 25% off each night. Restrictions apply to this offer, which is valid May 1 – October 1, 2015 and subject to availability.

Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa – Beach Bum Water Sports OfferUse the promo code EWA when booking three or more nights at Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa and receive:

  • All-day Beach Cabana access per night stay, which includes one beach set up, two chairs, one umbrella and one table.
  • Unlimited use of water activities, including ocean kayaks, snorkel gear rental (mask, snorkel, vest and fins), surfboard, stand-up paddle board, boogie boards and inner tubes.

Rates for this offer begin at $329 per night. Valid May 1 – June 27, 2015.

Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa – Summer Save and Stay Package Offers Up to 30% Off Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa is offering up to 30% off reservations made May 1 – October 31, 2015. Guests will receive 20% off 3-4 night stays, 25% off 5-6 night stays and 30% off stays of seven or more nights. The resort is also offering complimentary valet and 20% off spa services.

Waterstone Resort & Marina – Summer Escape Package Book a minimum of two nights at Waterstone Resort & Marina and receive a $25 daily food and beverage credit, free overnight parking, 10% off watersport rentals and a free upgrade to premium Wi-Fi. Reservations must be made May 1 – October 31, 2015 using the promo code PK3. Rates are from $184 per night.

Find a packed event schedule in The Palm Beaches this summer. Signature events include:

Summer in Paradise – June 4 – August 28, 2015 Enjoy internationally renowned and interactive art, exciting community events, and Intracoastal watersports, along with dazzling light shows and glowing games and activities on the Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront. A full schedule of events and a breakdown of admission rates for each activity can be found on the City of West Palm Beach website.

Palm Beach Summer Beer Fest – July 25, 2015 Attend South Florida’s only indoor craft beer festival. Located inside the air-conditioned South Florida Expo Center, this annual Beer Fest features 150+ craft and local beers combined with an entire day of tunes.Advanced general admission tickets are available online from $35 per person. General admission the day of the event is $55 per person.

Flavor Palm Beach – September 1 – 30, 2015 Experience cuisine that defines the art of dining in South Florida. Choose from The Palm Beaches’ best restaurants and enjoy a three-course lunch for $20 or dinner from $30 per person. Discover new restaurants and savor a taste for the local culinary scene from Jupiter to Boca Raton.

For more information and a complete listing of special offers and events, visit PalmBeachSummer.com or visit Discover The Palm Beaches’ website, www.PalmBeachFL.com. Blackout dates and special restrictions may apply. See individual offers for complete details.

About Discover The Palm Beaches

Discover The Palm Beaches, formerly the Palm Beach County Convention and Visitors Bureau, is the official tourism marketing corporation that promotes the collection of 38 cities and towns and 15 tourism districts, commonly referred to as The Palm Beaches, Florida. Tourism is among Palm Beach County’s major industries generating an annual economic impact of nearly $7 billion in the local economy, producing $42 million in bed-tax revenue, lodging sales of approximately $623 million and supporting more than 60,000 jobs.

Social Posts:

Facebook:

@PalmBeachesFL jump-starts summer on May 1 with the launch of PalmBeachSummer.com, the one-stop-shop for travel savings this season!

Don’t forget to enter the Sun & Fun Giveaway for a chance to win a free summer getaway to The Palm Beaches! #summer #savings #PalmBeachesFL

Twitter:

@PalmBeachesFL jump-starts summer with new, seasonal savings website, PalmBeachSummer.com #summer #savings #PalmBeachesFL

Visit PalmBeachSummer.com for amazing travel deals and enter for a chance to win a free summer getaway to @PalmBeachesFL #summer #SunFunGiveaway

Events, Humour, Ideas for Traveling with Children, Music, New York, Places to Travel, Restaurant News, Shopping, Sport Events, Travel Savings, Travel SMART, U.S.A., weekend ideas

New attractions in Upstate New York. Spring/Summer News 2015

New Attractions:
* Roseland Wake Park: The first cable wake park in the Northeastern US.
Consisting of a 5-tower system and able to accommodate up to 9 wakeboarders,
waterskiers, kneeboarders, and etc. at a time.
* Corning Museum of Glass: The largest glass museum in the world is now even
bigger. The new Art & Contemporary Design Wing opened in March 2015 and
includes a 26,000 square ft art gallery, glass blowing demonstrations, live
glass design sessions, and more.
* Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures: A zipline canopy tour and big/little
sized ropes courses [uts you at the top of the trees on Bristol Mountain.
* Darien Lake Amusement Park: A family theme park, just 90 minutes from the
Canadian Border. This year with two new rides ­ the ³Rolling Thunder²
7-story coaster and the ³Brain Drain² waterslide.
* Seneca Art and Culture Center: Opening in July at Ganondagan Native
American Historic Site, fulfilling a 30-year vision of a permanent,
year-round interpretive facility to tell the more than 2,000-year-old story
of Seneca and Haudenosaunee contributions to art, culture, and society.
Special Offers (for Canadian Visitors only):
* BOGO during Victoria Day Weekend at Consesus Lake Campground.
* Book 2 nights, get one 50% off, and a free 4th night at Darien Lake
Amusement Park.
* Use Canadian dollars for admission at Sonnenburg Gardens & Mansion and
they will be accepted ³at Par² all summer long.
More deals and attractions listed on website www.awelcomesurprise.com
.

All of this and more is easily accessible at AWelcomeSurprise.com
<www.awelcomesurprise.com> under a program that was developed to help
Canadian visitors experience Upstate NY and understand what is available to
them just across the border. Our program features several attractions,
hotels, and destinations that offer deals specific to those visiting from
Canada.

California, Diving News, Events, Florida, Humour, Ideas for Traveling with Children, Massachusetts, Miami, Michigan, Music, Orlando, Philadelphia, Places to Travel, Restaurant News, San Francisco, Santa Monica, Shopping, Sport Events, U.S.A., Uncategorized, Villa Vacations, Wedding Deals, weekend ideas

Need new ideas while traveling to U.S.A.? Spring 2015 News

Some ideas for travellers to U.S.A.

California: Dream big in the Golden State. California provides the backdrop for dreamers like chefs, shopkeepers and wellness experts to follow their passion to find success. The new VisitCalifornia.com launched January 2015, inspiring Canadians to dream big when planning their vacation in the Golden State. For those that enjoy the finer things in life, superlative indulgences await in California for the ultimate bespoke vacation – from private vineyard experiences in Napa and cycle tours around Santa Barbara to chef dinners in San Francisco and glamping in A-framed huts in the San Jacinto Woods.
San Diego’s Balboa Park, the largest cultural urban park in the world, celebrates 100 years since the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, which lay the foundation to the park’s inception. To explore this legacy of pioneering inventions and ideas, visitors can purchase the Balboa Park Explorer pass and receive unlimited general admission to 17 of its attractions for one year. Dream Big www.visitcalifornia.com

Carlsbad, Calif.: Founded as a mineral spring in 1882, Carlsbad offers an unmatched standard of personal pampering for both women and men. Conveniently located between Los Angeles and San Diego, luxury resorts such as Hilton Carlsbad Oceanfront Resort & Spa, Omni La Costa Resort & Spa, Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Sheraton Carlsbad Resort and Spa and West Inn & Suites offer exquisite dining, service and world-class spas. Men looking for adventure can take advantage of Carlsbad’s sunny weather on its eleven kilometres of pristine beaches with a surf lesson, or tee up at four golf courses, including the recently renovated Omni La Costa Legends Course. Golf enthusiasts can also brush up their skills at the PGA Tour Academy and receive custom clubs as well as discounted gear straight from the source at Callaway, Cobra-Puma and TaylorMade. In May 2015, Carlsbad’s wellness month promotion returns with an expanded focus with special deals and packages at area resorts. Where to go for fun. www.visitcarlsbad.com

Chattanooga, Tenn.: Discover the “Scenic City,” a riverfront escape that’s big on arts and adventure. Chattanooga’s burgeoning music scene continues to develop as a new entertainment district is set to open in 2015 as part of an $8 million renovation to the iconic Chattanooga Choo Choo campus. Local artists go back to basics with glassblowing, letterpresses, calligraphy and more for visitors to experience firsthand. The Tennessee Aquarium, ranked the 2014 fourth best aquarium in the world by TripAdvisor, is set to expand in 2015 with a new freshwater conservation institute. Whether an avid rock climber or new to the sport, either can perfect their technique at High Point Climbing, Chattanooga’s newly-opened downtown indoor/outdoor rock climbing and fitness center. Uncommon lodging exists in many forms, from the carriages of the Chattanooga Choo Choo, to the LEED Platinum Certified Crash Pad Hostel and the de-commissioned Delta Queen riverboat. Also, the development of a new five-story, 90-room upscale boutique hotel has been announced, planned for the arts district near the Walnut Street Bridge. All this, plus year-round outdoor adventures such as biking, caving, paddling, rock climbing, trail running and hang gliding await! Take me there! www.ChattanoogaFun.com

Cincinnati, Ohio: The Queen City welcomes visitors with a magnitude of identities. The river town is home to professional sports teams, a ballet and symphony, a host of museums and cultural institutions, and a burgeoning culinary and libation scene. All eyes will be on Cincy this summer when the Cincinnati Reds host Major League Baseball’s 2015 All-Star Game and the 86th Midsummer Classic at Great American Ball Park. The city pays homage to its German roots with the annual Goetta Fest this August 6-9, 2015 – a celebration of the much-loved German breakfast sausage unique to Cincinnati in all culinary shapes and forms, from goetta balls and goetta nachos to the more traditional goetta sliders. www.CincyUSA.com

CityPASS: Save up to 50 per cent on attraction admissions in top North American destinations with CityPASS. Spring Break travel is a breeze with CityPASS, ticket booklet holders can bypass most main-entrance ticket lines – an extra-special perk with excited children in tow. CityPASS delivers deeply-discounted tickets to top attractions in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, Southern California, Tampa Bay and Toronto. All CityPASS products are available online and can also be purchased at any of the participating attractions, providing a foolproof city escape this spring and summer season. CityPASS: Save Money. Have Fun. www.CityPASS.com

Finger Lakes Wine Country, NY: Upstate New York’s Finger Lakes Wine Country offers four seasons of visitor experiences. Throughout the spring and summer, visitors can enjoy world-class wines from a selection of more than 100 area wineries situated along picturesque lakes in upstate New York. Summer is also a great time to explore the great outdoors, from hiking the trails of Watkins Glen State Park to sailing at Seneca Lake. In the Finger Lakes, not even the sky is the limit, with hang-gliding, ballooning, and glider planes in the soaring capital of America. The internationally-renowned Corning Museum of Glass
See the Beauty. Feel the History. Taste the Wine. www.fingerlakeswinecountry.com

Huntington Beach, Calif.: Enjoy the experience of a classic California beach town in Huntington Beach, Surf City USA. From the International Surfing Museum to the annual U.S. Open of Surfing, visitors can explore the destination’s surf heritage, or just immerse in Huntington Beach’s laid-back surfing attitude. Alongside the free spirit of Huntington Beach’s coastal lifestyle is a playful imagination highlighted through new cultural and tourism developments. Pacific City debuts in 2015 with 11 acres of shops and dining, including a public market called LOT 579 which will serve as an incubator for local artisans. The new Pasea Hotel and Spa is also slated to open doors in early 2016. Year-round stunning weather and ten miles of broad sand beaches make Huntington Beach an active, energetic town where life is lived outdoors. Owing to its outdoor recreational opportunities and a vibrant downtown, Huntington Beach is a perfect family getaway – from parents to pooches! Surf City USA. www.surfcityusa.com

Long Beach, Calif.: Located in the heart of Southern California, Long Beach blends the urban sophistication of a big city with the relaxed atmosphere of a beach resort. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, with 9 kilometres of sandy beach front, plus kilometres of inland bays and waterways, Long Beach basks in the warm glow from our year-round California sun. Visitors will also discover world-class attractions and cutting-edge museums, including the legendary Queen Mary ocean liner and WWII troopship; the Aquarium of the Pacific, boasting more than 11,000 animals; and the Long Beach Museum of Art, now featuring a pavilion with two new floor of gallery space. Long Beach Airport provides nonstop service to 13 destinations, and Los Angeles International Airport and Orange County’s John Wayne Airport are only 25 minutes from Long Beach, making a SoCal getaway just a short flight away! www.visitlongbeach.com

The Palm Beaches, Fla.: Located two hours south of Orlando and one hour north of Miami, The Palm Beaches offers visitors the best way to experience Florida®. Find an eclectic collection of 38 distinct cities and towns from the beaches of the Atlantic Ocean to the shores of Lake Okeechobee, from Boca Raton to Jupiter. Known as Florida’s Golf Capital, beyond its famous resort fairways discover acclaimed four dozen public courses. Play golf on the ocean at Palm Beaches’ Dick Johnson designed Par 3 or for a different kind of “birdie” at the Audubon International certified Osprey Point Golf Course. For shoppers, the destination’s affluent community keeps The Palm Beaches’ consignment stores filled with the latest designer and couture fashions for less. At Wellington’s International Polo Club Palm Beach the winter 2015 polo season crescendo’s with the US Open Polo Championships Sunday, April 19. Take this majestic game in over the weekly Sunday brunch or join the fun of International Gay Polo Week April 9 – 11. The Best Way to Experience Florida® www.palmbeachfl.com

Greater Palm Springs, Calif.: Nestled in Southern California’s Coachella Valley, Greater Palm Springs is located two hours east of Los Angeles and comprised of nine unique cities – Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio and Coachella.
Outdoor adventures await visitors during the winter and spring travel seasons. Trails around the Coachella Valley are waiting to be explored by foot, bike, ATV, horse or even hummer; which includes those in both Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Parks – a favourite for adventure junkies. The region continues to thrive with hotel openings and enhancements. Arrive, a 32-room boutique and restaurant, will open in Palm Springs’ Uptown Design District later in 2015. By the end of the year, Two Bunch Palms Spa Resort will add 26 rooms as a part of its ongoing multi-million renovation. The iconic Horizon Hotel, a prime example of midcentury modern architecture built by renowned architect William F. Cody 1952, is also currently undergoing enhancements. The new SilverRock Resort has been approved to be built in
La Quinta. This CA$520 million US project will include a 140-room, luxury hotel and spa with lobby and pool bars, fitness center and a restaurant, a 200-room “lifestyle” hotel with a spa, fitness center, lobby and pool bar. Go behind the scenes at the Coachella Valley’s windmill farms with new tours now available. A Brand New Day. www.visitgreaterpalmpsrings.com.

Santa Barbara, Calif.: Part of California’s Central Coast region, Santa Barbara spans 100 miles of pristine coastline, with dramatic mountain views, sparkling seas, lush gardens and white-washed buildings which have earned its distinction as “The American Riviera.” The destination has always been a haven for artists, artisans, wine makers and chefs. Many have located themselves into The Funk Zone. This inner city neighborhood has exploded with artisan shops, art galleries, award-winning microbreweries and even a craft distillery. Be Immersed in Santa Barbara’s art scene staying within the sophisticated design of the Hotel Indigo, or check out the affordable accommodations at new hostel The Wayfarer – a haven for art and wine enthusiasts and beach adventurers. Wine lovers will appreciate the region’s Urban Wine Trail, featuring the best of Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley. Santa Barbara’s year-round signature events also delight. This includes Old Spanish Days Fiesta, Summer Solstice Parade, Harbor & Seafood Festival, Vintners’ Festival and Earth Day Festival The American Riviera. www.santabarbaraca.com

Sunny Isles Beach, Fla.: Sunny Isles Beach is nestled between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, located on a three-kilometre expanse of white sand and glittering ocean. With beautiful weather year-round, Florida’s Riviera is the ultimate winter escape. The destination is home to some of South Florida’s most luxurious accommodations including Acqualina Resort & Spa, Trump International Beach Resort and Turnberry Isle Miami. This compact destination also provides the ultimate luxury pre- or post-cruise stay with mega ships such as the Carnival Breeze, Disney Oceania Cruises and Regent 7 Seas home ported in Miami. Visitors will enjoy festivals such as the 8th Annual Sunny Isles Beach Jazz Fest, returning in November, outdoor adventure at Oleta River State Park and the finest shopping opportunities. Discover a getaway beyond your expectations. www.sunnyislesbeachmiami.com

Greater Williamsburg, VA: Greater Williamsburg is ready to shatter their history-only reputation with a slew of new openings and cultural experiences. The first exhibition devoted to Leonardo da Vinci’s fascination with the beautiful and the ugly comes to Williamsburg’s Muscarelle Museum of Art Feb. 21-April 5 – making Williamsburg one of only two North American cities to host the exclusive exhibit. Williamsburg Distillery prepares to open this spring and will craft vodka, rum and bourbon using 18th-century recipes and techniques. Alewerks Brewing Company unveils a recreated 17th-century beer that can be tasted during tours or sold exclusively to Chowning’s Tavern when the restaurant re-opens in March 2015. The new Virginia Capital Trail currently offers 12 kilometres of historic hiking traversing 400 years of North American history. The trail will soon be a part of the larger 85 kilometre trail. Yorktown Victory Center’s brand new 7400 metre-squared facility opens spring 2015, featuring vibrant gallery exhibits and enhanced outdoor interpretive programming. www.visitwilliamsburg.com

Diving News, Florida, Miami, Orlando, Places to Travel, Restaurant News, Shopping, U.S.A., Uncategorized, Villa Vacations, Wedding Deals, weekend ideas

New Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa News!!!

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa

New-Fashioned Palm Beach Luxury!AAA Five Diamond resort has recently been named a Top 10 Resort in Florida and now has newly re-envisioned rooms by Jonathan Adler.

For more information about how you can experience New-Fashioned Luxury this winter, Spring Break and Easter, visit us online or call
877-741-6861 GDS Code: PH

Events, Florida, Miami, Music, Orlando, Places to Travel, Shopping, U.S.A., Uncategorized, weekend ideas

Headlines from VISIT FLORIDA…2013/14 News

Headlines from VISIT FLORIDA

Win a trip to Florida’s Space Coast

Florida’s Space Coast has it all: the closest beaches to Orlando; the unique Kennedy Space Centre experience with its new $100-million Atlantis space shuttle exhibit and more than 60 other interactive exhibits; plus vibrant Port Canaveral, which is more than just a cruise port, featuring brand new retail, restaurants, and entertainment area. Florida’s Space Coast Office of Tourism and its partners want you discover what all the fuss is about by offering the chance for one lucky travel (and companion) to visit. The winner will receive rround-trip tickets for two on Delta Airlines from Toronto or Montreal to Melbourne, Fla., compliments of Melbourne Orlando International Airport; seven days/six nights at a Space Coast beachfront hotel; two KSCVC Space Passes (incl. entrance, lunch with an astronaut, and more); two passes to Brevard Zoo and Tree Top Trek Zipline (named one of top 10 small zoos in the US by TripAdvisor); Victory Casino Lines complimentary boarding and buffet for two; plus a surf lesson for two from Ron Jon Surf School. Some blackout dates may apply and taxes and fees extra.

TO ENTER

Simply answer the following question – What is the closest beach area to Orlando? at: http://promo.baxter.net/contest/spacecoastflorida.asp or fax this ballot to 416-968-2377.
Deadline to enter is Dec. 20, 2013.


This Month’s Headlines

VISIT FLORIDA re-energizes state’s premier travel trade show
November 7, 2013 – Florida’sworld-renowned theme parks in Orlando will return in 2014 to the state’s premier travel trade show, Florida Huddle, now owned and operated by VISIT FLORIDA.

The expanded, redesigned show, set for Jan. 14-16, 2014, in Palm Beach County, is gaining new and former participants enthused about revised platforms allowing buyers and suppliers to schedule their meetings earlier and more effectively than ever before — a popular improvement implemented by VISIT FLORIDA.

Will Seccombe, VISIT FLORIDA President and CEO, announced recently that Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando will all be participating in Florida Huddle for the first time in several years. “With our reinvention of Florida Huddle, we’re proud to welcome back these three Strategic Alliance Partners to help showcase Florida to the world,” Seccombe said.

Since acquiring the trade show last year, VISIT FLORIDA has been assembling new functionality to better serve the needs of buyers, suppliers and travel media.
Key points about VISIT FLORIDA’s Florida Huddle:

  • Expanded opportunities for appointments, allowing two full days of one-on-one meetings between buyers and suppliers
  • Scheduling of appointments to begin weeks earlier than in years past, for more effective planning
  • New platform for media to schedule appointments with buyers and suppliers
  • Increased attention to niche buyers, such as destination weddings and incentive travel
  • State-of-the-art conference site at the Palm Beach County Convention Center
  • Full range of digital and support services provided by VISIT FLORIDA

Opening night festivities at The Breakers Palm Beach, a Florida icon built by tycoon Henry Flagler, father of Florida tourism For more information about Florida Huddle 2014, visit: www.FloridaHuddle.com 
    
Visit Orlando campaigns in Canada
Visit Orlando will launch an integrated marketing campaign in Ontario and Quebec this fall. The multifaceted campaign will include television, digital, radio and print advertising, promotions, publicity and partnerships with tourism operators. Historically, Visit Orlando campaigns have focused on the Ontario market, where a high percentage of Orlando’s Canadian visitors reside. Recognizing the growth potential and interest from Quebec consumers, Visit Orlando will expand its efforts in 2013 with a targeted advertising campaign in Quebec. For the first time ever, Visit Orlando will run French Canadian advertising on Quebec television, radio and online. The expanded efforts in Quebec are in addition to longstanding programs and partnerships with travel trade partners and publicity efforts. “The new campaign will reinforce the appeal of Orlando as a travel destination for all Canadians and assist our trade partners with generating more business from our No. 1 international market,” said Visit Orlando president George Aguel. The Ontario campaign, beginning Nov. 4 and running through Dec. 31, will drive consumers to VisitOrlando.ca. Orlando’s web site offers detailed information for itinerary planning, links to tour operator partners and the latest travel offers. The Quebec campaign, kicking off Oct. 14 and concluding Dec. 8, will drive to a refreshed French Canadian site VisitOrlando.com/Quebec, offering tailored information for Quebec travellers. In addition to the campaign, travel agents in Canada have a new and improved resource to boost their knowledge of the destination. Orlando Travel Academy (www.orlandotravelacademy.com) is an online education tool designed to increase travel agents’ knowledge of Orlando and help them provide value to their clients. Upon completion of the program, Orlando Travel Academy graduates receive the designation of “Orlando Travel Expert,” as well as earn two credits from the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies. (www.VisitOrlando.com/trade) 
   
Holiday fun in SeaWorld
Waves of holiday spirit splash over SeaWorld during SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration. In a “wintery, watery wonderland, guests of all ages will enjoy loads of frosty fun as they watch stunning live shows inspired by the natural world, journey to the North Pole on The Polar Express Experience, then share a smile with a playful penguin at the South Pole while visiting the park’s newest attraction, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin!” Christmas carols can be heard as guests encounter a sparkling Sea Of Trees and skaters dancing on ice. With everything from Santa to Shamu, presents to penguins, and elves to Elmo, SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is “where the season meets the sea.” Events take place on select dates Nov. 23 through December and are included with park admission. The best way for families to experience all the shows, lights and fun this season is with a SeaWorld Getaway. Those who visit SeaWorldGetAways.com can choose from a variety of getaway values, including a “Buy 2 Nights, Get 1 Free” package. Each paid ticket with this package includes a Quick-Queue-Unlimited wristband good for “front-of-the-line” access to SeaWorld’s newest attraction, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, and a meal voucher valid at participating SeaWorld restaurants. Plus, those who stay two nights at one of SeaWorld Parks & Resorts’ official hotels get the third night free. (www.SeaWorldOrlando.com) 
    
Bringing Keys’ underwater world to light
Visitors to Key West can experience the Florida Keys’ undersea wonders at night during “Nightboarding” excursions by stand-up paddleboard or two-person clear-bottom kayak. Launched by Ibis Bay Beach Resort in Key West, Nightboarding uses waterproof LED light bars to light up the water. During each excursion, participants paddle through areas including mangrove island rookeries that are home to ibis, herons, pelicans and their fledglings. Those interested are encouraged to book in advance. (www.ibisbayresort.com) 
   

The Insider

Jodi Mailander Farrell

Eight places to make you dance

So you think you can dance?
You’ll never truly know until you’ve tried salsa in Miami, shagged in Tampa Bay and waltzed in West Palm Beach. One of the best ways to explore Florida’s diverse places is to boogie woogie with their people. Dance is a universal language that conveys more about a place’s culture in a single hip thrust than a traveller’s guide can deliver in 100 pages. Florida dance schools and clubs welcome short-term visitors. They’re eager to teach you their moves. Here’s where to hustle with the best of them.

SALSA IN MIAMI
Salsa clubs are a fun way to explore Florida’s most Latin city, and Salsa Kings Dance Studios has multiple locations to help you find your eight-count rhythm in Cuban. One-hour classes spend part of the time divided into levels (beginner, intermediate and advanced), so you never have to feel overwhelmed or bored. Instructors are certified by the World Salsa Federation; group and private lessons are available. One group lesson is $10. Classes are offered at Florida International University, 1600 SW 107 Ave., in Miami, and IronFlower Fitness gym at 7300 Biscayne Blvd., also in Miami, with two new locations in South Miami and Florida City opening soon. Info: 888.40.SALSA, www.thesalsakings.com.

BACHATA IN ORLANDO
Bachata is an Afro-Latino genre of music and dance that originated in the Dominican Republic in the early 20th Century with African descendants in rural areas. Simple yet sensuous, it’s an eight-beat dance, similar to salsa. Orlando, which has seen its Hispanic population grow from just 4 percent in 1980 to more than 25 percent in 2010, now has one of the largest Dominican communities in the state, along with Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Bahhari Dance Center, 8865 Commodity Circle, in Orlando, is the hot spot to learn how, with classes averaging 35 to 50 students at a time, led by two teachers. No need to bring a partner; students rotate around the room so everyone gets the opportunity to dance together. A single class is $10. Info: 321-396-2399, sensualbachata.com.

LINE DANCING IN DAVIE
Cowboy town. That’s Davie, where the rodeo is the center of life, the mayor is a former barrel racer and it’s not unusual to see residents riding around on their horses. If you want to dance with the locals, get in line. Learn how at Round Up, one of the area’s best dance clubs and country bars at 9020 W. State Road 84, where there are free line dancing lessons for urban cowboys Wednesday through Sunday. (There’s a $5 cover charge at the door for ages 21 and older). Boot Scootin’ Boogie beginners are welcome. Info: 954-423-1990, www.roundupnightclub.com.

BALLROOM DANCING IN WEST PALM BEACH
American Smooth, International Standard, the Viennese Waltz and Quickstep – all the elegant moves can be found in classic Palm Beach County, home to the Annual Palm Beach Dance Challenge, held every October. You can practice your own moves for “Dancing With the Stars” at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio. The school, at 4603 Okeechobee Blvd., in West Palm Beach offers private lessons, group sessions and “practice parties.” Two sessions are $20. Info: 561-478-1400, www.fredastairewpb.com.

SWING LESSONS IN TAMPA BAY AREA
Swing dance came at us out of the jazz age in the 1920s, with African-American communities delivering the Lindy Hop, which fuses jazz, tap and Charleston, and white communities bringing us the Foxtrot and the Balboa. Every major city has its own style. Discover Tampa’s West Coast Swing at Gulfport Casino Swing Night. The retro-era, waterfront ballroom, at 5500 Shore Blvd. South, in Gulfport, near St. Petersburg, offers one-hour swing dance lessons at 6 p.m. before the party starts at 7 p.m. most Wednesdays. Admission is $7; no partner needed. Info: 813-840-3715, www.swingtime.info/gcsn.html.

BEACH BOP IN JACKSONVILLE
Beach Bop is a laid-back, southern adaptation of the old Jitterbug that they call Shag in the Carolinas, Lindy in the North and Whip or Push in the Mid-West. All of the dances have similar eight-count steps to six beats of music. In Jacksonville, the music of choice is “Beach Music” or R&B, the kind produced by black musicians and found in jukeboxes at the beach in the 1950s. The 300-member Florida Boppers dance club here has been bopping together since 1989. The club hosts parties on the second Saturday of every month at Club Savoy, 6354 Arlington Rd., from 8 p.m. to midnight. You can also find them dancing there most Thursday and Friday nights. Door fee is $10 for non-members. Info: 904-215-1613, clubsavoyatjax.com.

SQUARE DANCING IN MERRITT ISLAND
Allemande left and do-si-do on your way to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, and meet up with the Space Trackers Square Dance Club, which meets most Thursdays at the Merritt Island Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 155 Cone Road. The group offers square dance lessons at 6:30 p.m. prior to its 8 p.m. dance. Info: 321-427-7950, www.spacetrackers.com.

TANGO IN HOLLYWOOD
More than 45 percent of the people in this South Florida city are Hispanic. You can find evidence of Hollywood’s Argentina community at local bakeries, restaurants, markets – and at the International Club of Argentine Tango of South Florida, which hosts one-hour dance lessons followed by a tango party, “Buenos Aires Milonga,” every Sunday night. The lessons and party, along with a dinner buffet, are held at 7 p.m. at the Italian-American Club, 700 S. Dixie Hwy. Admission is $15. Men and women of all ages, nationalities and ethnicities pour into the banquet hall to learn and practice their Argentine tango, which has a different rhythmic pattern from American tango, with couples dancing cheek-to-cheek and chest-to-chest. Info: 305-345-3662, www.citango.com.

About VISIT FLORIDA®
According to preliminary numbers released by VISIT FLORIDA, 23.4 million visitors came to Florida in the second quarter of 2013 (April-June), an increase of 2.6% over the same period in 2012, making Q2 2013 the largest second quarter for visitation in the state’s history. Through the first half of 2013, Florida welcomed 49.6 million visitors – an increase of 4.2%. Visitor spending in Florida for January-May 2013 (last reported month) was $33.2 billion, representing a year-over-year increase of 5.5% from the same period in 2012. An estimated 19.7 million domestic visitors came to Florida during the second quarter of 2013, representing a 1.6% increase from the same period in 2012. Florida welcomed 2.7 million overseas visitors in Q2 2013 representing a 9.3% increase over Q2 2012, and one million Canadian visitors during the same period represent a 4.9% increase.  As a public/private partnership, VISIT FLORIDA serves nearly 12,000 tourism industry businesses, including 2,700 invested Partners, 8,900 web affiliates and major strategic alliance partnerships with Disney Destinations, Dollar Rent A Car, The Hertz Corporation, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment and Universal Orlando. To learn more about VISIT FLORIDA, please go to www.VISITFLORIDA.org or www.VISITFLORIDA.com or follow our corporate blog at www.SunshineMatters.org.
Events, Florida, Humour, Miami, Music, Orlando, Places to Travel, Shopping, U.S.A., Wedding Deals, weekend ideas

Orlando Offers a Flurry of Festive Events This Holiday Season

For Immediate Release   Media Contact:
November 5, 2013
 		   Daina Astwood-George, APEX Public Relations
416-934-2104 / dgeorge@apexpr.com

Denise Spiegel
407-354-5586 / media@VisitOrlando.com
VisitOrlando.com/media

     
  Orlando Offers a Flurry of Festive Events This Holiday Season
 		  

ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando is offering visitors the gift that keeps on giving with 59 days of unique winter holiday celebrations throughout the entire destination. From Nov. 8 to Jan. 5, families can experience all the joy of the season while basking in Orlando’s year-round sunshine.  
 
To help visitors get the most fun out of their holiday vacation, Visit Orlando will be sharing ideas and tips at VisitOrlando.com/holidays.
Holidays at the Theme Parks
Home to seven of the world’s top theme parks, Orlando celebrates the holiday season like nowhere else. From spectacular fireworks displays to festive live entertainment, Orlando’s theme parks offer something for every member of the family.

  • Walt Disney World Resort offers some of the most elaborate of seasonal festivities, with more than 1,300 decorated trees and 8.5 million lights strung throughout the property. For several weeks around the holidays, guests celebrate the season with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom Park, Holidays Around the World at Epcot, and the dazzling Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Guests can also ring in the New Year with a variety of entertainment, including the Electrical Parade and special dining events across Disney.
  • Universal Orlando Resort celebrates the classic tale of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” with Grinchmas at Islands of Adventure, featuring live musical shows, meet and greets with the Whos of Who-ville and appearances by The Grinch himself. Guests can also visit Universal Studios to experience Macy’s Holiday Parade, presenting floats and balloons direct from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. On New Year’s Eve, CityWalk comes alive with performances by national acts, a gourmet buffet and nightclub entertainment.
  • SeaWorld Orlando’s annual Christmas Celebration runs for six weeks, beginning Nov. 23. SeaWorld offers special shows and attractions, including Shamu Christmas Miracles, Winter Wonderland on Ice and The Polar Express Experience. Guests can count down to New Year’s Day and enjoy live music and spectacular fireworks display. 
  • LEGOLAND Florida will feature Christmas Bricktacular, a celebration with daily appearances by Santa Claus, a 270,000-LEGO-brick Christmas tree and other seasonal creations. Kids can also participate in their very own countdown to 2014 during a giant, LEGO brick drop at “Kids Standard Time,” otherwise known as 7 p.m.  

Celebrations Outside the Theme Parks
From giant gingerbread creations to two million pounds of ice, Orlando’s seasonal celebrations extend beyond the theme parks. Visitors looking for unique ways to celebrate are sure to find new favorites in local traditions.
  • Leu’s Holiday House, part of Orlando’s downtown botanical garden Leu Gardens, gives visitors a unique look at the historic estate and gardens trimmed and decorated for the holidays.
  • The Festival of Trees at the Orlando Museum of Art showcases “All That Glitters,” featuring dozens of adorned trees, wreaths and gingerbread houses on display, as well as for purchase.
  • ICE! At Gaylord Palms, an award-winning attraction carved by a team of 40 skilled artisans, features more than two million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures, including Frosty the Snowman, four ice slides and a live ice-carving station.
  • The 15th Anniversary Gingerbread House, located in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, is a life-sized, 16-foot-high Victorian creation crafted by Disney pastry chefs.

 
For more information about vacation experiences in Orlando, to order a complimentary vacation planning kit that includes a comprehensive Official Visitors Guide and Orlando Magicard® or to purchase discount attraction tickets, visitors can log onto Orlando’s official website at VisitOrlando.com For real-time updates, follow us at Twitter.com/VisitOrlando and Facebook.com/VisitOrlando.

Arizona, Places to Travel, Restaurant News, Shopping, Sport Events, U.S.A., Uncategorized, Villa Vacations, Wedding Deals, weekend ideas

This is Arizona: Family Travel , Winter 2013-14 News

Friend on Facebook

ATTRACTIONS

Family-friendly attractions include everything from digging into Arizona’s past by going 1,500 feet underground to a turn-of-the-century locomotive (cowboys included)!

GRAND CANYON RAILROAD
The Grand Canyon Railway recreates the historic trip by rail to the Grand Canyon, covering 65 miles of classic Old West territory. Trip highlights include a daily Wild West shootout at the 1908 Williams Depot prior to departure, and entertainment and live action aboard the train, featuring roaming western singers, as well as the infamous Cataract Creek Gang. Passengers arrive at the Grand Canyon Depot, located in the heart of Grand Canyon National Park’s historic district, just 200 yards from the edge of the South Rim.

QUEEN MINE TOUR
Outfitted in hard hat, miner’s headlamp and a yellow slicker, visitors to Bisbee’s Copper Queen Mine Tour will head deep underground and back in time. Tour guides, retired Phelps Dodge employees, lead the group 1,500 feet into the mine and recount mining days, techniques, dangers and drama.

FAMILY FUN IN ARIZONA

The Grand Canyon State is the prefect place for a family getaway – for kids, parents and even grandparents! Connect with culture, combine family fun & capture the adventuresome spirit of Arizona. Across the vibrant state there are plenty of options to entice families with limitless excursions and fascinating discoveries. From Wild West towns, museums, outdoor activities and more, the Grand Canyon State has it all – the hard part will be deciding where to start.

We’ve included some highlights below of various family-friendly attractions and activities available – they’re great for the holiday season, March break or even summer vacation!

All the best,
Jennifer McGibbon
AOT – Canada
jennifer@cww.travel

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Photography Copyright © Arizona State Parks

Check out Arizona’s landscapes, habitat and night sky with outdoor adventures perfect for the whole family!
KARTCHNER CAVERNS STATE PARK (near Sierra Vista)
Brilliant colours, the result of natural chemical reactions, plus stalactites, stalagmites and whimsical geologic formations, have been created from hollowed-out limestone rock at Kartchner Caverns. See this stunning “live” limestone cave, which remained undiscovered until 1974, and its wide variety of unique minerals and formations. Tour guides will unveil this fascinating underground landscape during a memorable 1.5-hour tour.

SAN PEDRO VALLEY OBSERVATORY (Sierra Vista)
Celebrate astronomical events at the San Pedro Valley Observatory where visitors will discover a high-quality, educational experience tailored to the individual astronomer. Families can also book a telescope for a family lesson from an astronomer – they tailor the lesson to the family’s needs so it can be as challenging or amateur as needed.

GRAND CANYON FOR KIDS
The Grand Canyon stands at 277 river miles (446km) long, up to 18 miles (29km) wide, and a mile (1.6km) deep, and is decorated with unique combinations of geological colour and erosional forms. The Grand Canyon National Park (and many other of Arizona’s National Parks) offers various kids’ programs to visitors – from educational programs, a Junior Ranger Program and special summer expeditions.

FLAGSTAFF EXTREME ADVENTURE COURSE (Flagstaff)
Flagstaff Extreme is a series of exciting outdoor physical challenges. The Tree Top Adventure course is an elevated obstacle course set in the Ponderosa Pines, securely suspended between the trees at 15 to 60 feet off the ground. Features of course include suspended bridges, swings, slides, nets, ziplines and an aerial surf board.

ARIZONA-SONORAN DESERT MUSEUM (Tucson)
The Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum is actually a zoo featuring the animals found in the Sonoran Desert. Exhibits include rooms full of snakes, a prairie-dog town, enclosures that are home to bighorn sheep and mountain lions, and an aviary full of hummingbirds.

MUSEUMS


Family-friendly museums and tours of historical sites like mines and mining towns offer a great perspective into the history and culture of Arizona – many also offer educational, interactive programs for both kids and adults to enjoy!
HEARD MUSEUM (Phoenix)
Founded in 1929, the Heard Museum is dedicated to the sensitive and accurate portrayal of Native arts and cultures. Hands-on galleries offer interactive fun for children, and kids-at-heart, while many of the museum’s events offer unique cultural learning opportunities for parents and children.

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM (Phoenix)
The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) offers a shared experience of the history of musical instruments from around two hundred countries and territories in the world. MIM offers various kids’ activities plus education programs and workshops.

MUSEUM OF NORTHERN ARIZONA (Flagstaff)
The Museum of Northern Arizona is Flagstaff’s premier museum to learn about Native cultures, tribal life, natural sciences and arts from the Colorado Plateau region. The museum offers a variety of Discovery Programs throughout the year for all ages plus a number of Heritage Program Festivals that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the cultures of the Colorado Plateau.

BISBEE MINING & HISTORICAL MUSEUM (Bisbee)
A rural affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum tells about the history of copper mining in Bisbee and the impact of copper in today’s world. Visitors will also learn about the life in Bisbee when it was the largest city between St. Louis and San Francisco.

follow on Twitter | friend on Facebook | forward to a friend
Events, Montana, Places to Travel, Shopping, Sport Events, U.S.A., Villa Vacations, Wedding Deals, weekend ideas

Montana: Winter is Triple Creek Ranch’s Hidden Season

 

    

Winter is the Hidden Season at Montana’s Triple Creek Ranch

 

October 17, 2013. Darby, Montana – Winter is the hidden season at Triple Creek Ranch in Darby, Montana. From dogsledding and downhill skiing to the thrilling sport of skijoring, a winter stay at Triple Creek Ranch reveals the magic of a Rocky Mountain winter.

Going to the Dogs

The extraordinary winter activities at Triple Creek Ranch start with the Ranch’s resident professional musher, Jessie Royer. Royer has competed and finished in 11 Iditarod Races in Alaska and this March, she will compete in her 12th when she enters the 2014 Alaskan Iditarod Race. Guests of Triple Creek have the rare opportunity of learning how to drive a dog sled and handle sled dogs under Jessie’s private tutelage. They’ll learn how to harness and hitch a team of dogs to a sled, how to start and stop, and how to maneuver a sled as she does herself in the Iditarod. To celebrate Jessie’s upcoming Iditarod race, Triple Creek ranch is offering free dog sledding to its guests from January 4 to 19, 2014.

Across the Great Divide on Cross Country Skis

Thirty minutes from Triple Creek ranch, guests can go cross country skiing on the Continental Divide at Chief Joseph Pass, which has groomed trails, a welcome warming hut and endless Rocky Mountain vistas. Getting there via chauffeured transportation, with fresh baked cookies and a warm beverage, makes it even more fun. Triple Creek ranch has all of the cross country equipment that a guest might need, as well as groomed trails on ranch property.

Skijoring with a Horse

Triple Creek is one of the few places in the United States to try skijoring, a venerable Norwegian sport where a cross country skier is pulled by a mounted horse. Gliding through snowy meadows and along forest trails, skijoring is a sport that marries cross country with the exhilaration of water skiing. For those who prefer a horse without the skis, winter horseback riding is also on offer.

A Secret Montana Mountain

Locals have loved the classic “cowboy” skiing at Lost Trail Powder Mountain

since it opened in 1938, but for those outside of Montana, it’s a virtually undiscovered mountain.  Known for big powder dumps, hidden stashes, and a base area that’s mom-and-pop friendly, Lost Trail is located just half an hour from Triple Creek Ranch. With 1,800 feet of vertical, 1,800 acres of skiable terrain, 50 runs and an average of 300 inches of snow a year, it’s been nicknamed “Montana’s Greatest Snow Place.”

At the end of winter’s day in the outdoors, Triple Creek offers five-star comforts and personal service.  From the welcoming main lodge, the world-class restaurant and paramount wine cellar, to the 23 deluxe private guest cabins nestled in the trees throughout the property, it’s the attention to the smallest details that make this Relais & Châteaux property so memorable.

Rates at Triple Creek Ranch start at $950 per night, per couple and include accommodations in a luxurious private cabin, all meals, house wines and spirits, and most activities. Visit Triple Creek Ranch for more information.

About Triple Creek Ranch

Triple Creek Ranch lies in the Bitterroot Valley of western Montana, surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. A member of Relais & Châteaux, Triple Creek is for adult guests and has 23 luxurious western-style log cabins with wood burning fireplaces. Famed for its inventive cuisine, award winning wine cellar, and stellar service, Triple Creek is an Orvis-endorsed fly fishing lodge and resort. Activities range from fly fishing on the Bitterroot River to horseback riding, guided nature and birding outings, dog sledding, cross country skiing, cattle penning and roundups. Triple Creek Ranch is the world’s highest ranked hotel over the past 5 years, according to Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best” ratings and was rated the #1 inn/small lodge in the Continental US and #13 Hotel in the World in Travel + Leisure’s 2013 World’s Best reader’s poll. Travel + Leisure Magazine also singled out Triple Creek for a  2013 World’s Best Service, Readers’ Choice Awards, ranking it among the Top 10 Hotels Overall; Resorts, Inns, and Lodges (#4) and Top Hotels: Continental U.S. and Canada, Resorts and Inns (#1). Singled out by Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the best hotels in the West in 2013, Triple Creek has won nine Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence, including its second “Best of” Award in 2013.

 

www.TripleCreekRanch.com

Twitter @TripleCreekRanch

Facebook Triple Creek Ranch
Books, Events, Humour, Music, New York, Places to Travel, Shopping, U.S.A., Uncategorized, Wedding Deals, weekend ideas

NYC & COMPANY ANNOUNCES FESTIVITIES TAKING PLACE IN NYC THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

NYC & COMPANY ANNOUNCES FESTIVITIES TAKING PLACE THROUGHOUT CITY’S FIVE BOROUGHS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

—Events of All Sizes Will Bring New York City Alive with Holiday Spirit—

—Approximately 5 Million People Expected to Visit During Holiday Season—

New York City (September 19, 2013) — NYC & Company, the City’s official marketing, tourism and partnership organization, is encouraging visitors to book travel to New York City’s five boroughs in time for the 2013 holiday season. Celebrations will take place throughout the City starting in November, with both time-honoured and new events bringing the vibrant destination alive with holiday cheer. Visitors are encouraged to explore beyond the City’s classic holiday events and activities and see the hidden treasures that make the five boroughs unique during the holidays.

“There is no better place to be during the holiday season than New York City – it’s a time when visitors can experience first-hand the unique beauty, energy and vibrancy of one of the world’s most famous destinations,” said George Fertitta, CEO of NYC & Company. “We are forecasting approximately 5 million visitors will come to the City between Thanksgiving and New Year’s so we encourage visitors to make their travel plans in advance.”

Kicking off the joyous holiday season are the more than 8,000 participants in the 87th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 28. The festive march is quickly followed by the much-anticipated Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting on December 4. In the meantime, visitors can revel in the beauty of stunning holiday-inspired window decorations in some of the City’s famed stores and hotels. Equally as spectacular but lesser-known are the Louis Armstrong House Museum’s special guided holiday historic house tours, taking place from December 3 to 30 in Queens (louisarmstronghouse.org) and Wave Hill’s holiday craft activities on December 7 and 8 in the Bronx (wavehill.org).

Highlights of holiday events taking place in the five boroughs follows:

MANHATTAN

The 87th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (macys.com/parade) will march down the streets of New York City on November 28, 9am. Stepping off with its giant helium character balloons, fantasy-filled floats, marching bands, performance groups and gaggle of clowns, “America’s Parade” promises nonstop pomp and pageantry for spectators young and old. Fans will enjoy seeing returning giant balloons, including Hello Kitty, Papa Smurf, Kermit the Frog and The Elf on the Shelf. Debuting in the ballooning lineup this year will be the newest version of the iconic character Snoopy, Adventure Time’s Finn and Jake and new balloon-head characters from The Wizard of Oz; among other new stars. As before, the 2013 parade route will kick off at 77th Street and Central Park West. The parade will then march down to Columbus Circle, where it will turn onto Central Park South before making its way straight down Midtown Manhattan on Sixth Avenue from 59th to 34th Streets. The parade concludes with its final turn onto 34th Street in front of Macy’s Herald Square.

The famous Radio City Music Hall’s Radio City Christmas Spectacular will amaze locals and visitors from November 8 to December 30. This year’s show includes a new scene that will turn the stage into a glistening winter wonderland. To purchase tickets, visit radiocitychristmas.com.

Nominated for three Tony Awards in its 2012 season, A Christmas Story: The Musical is playing at the Theater at Madison Square Garden from December 11 to 29. To purchase tickets, visit theateratmsg.com.

Starting November 29, New York City Ballet will present one of the season’s favorite annual productions, George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, complete with marching toy soldiers, a one-ton Christmas tree that grows before the audience’s eyes and crystalline snowflakes. The show runs through January 4 (nycballet.com).

This holiday season, Carnegie Hall will come alive with Musica Sacra Chorus and Orchestra’s rendition of Handel’s Messiah. Performances will take place on December 12 and 15 (carnegiehall.org).

The American Museum of Natural History is celebrating the holiday season with two events this year: its famous Origami Holiday Tree, on display from November 25 to January 5, and a Kwanzaa Celebration on December 28.

A hidden gem in Upper Manhattan, the Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden will conduct candlelight tours on December 6 and 7. As December 6 is St. Nicholas Day, tours will kick off with a reading of Clement Clark Moore’s famous poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” The following day, visitors can enjoy music in the Upper Hall.

23 Days of Flatiron Cheer will take place in the Flatiron District this holiday season with events, promotions, giveaways and more. Don’t forget to take a photo next to the giant pop-up holiday card at the intersection of Broadway, 23rd Street and Fifth Avenue (flatironbid.com/holiday).

The Big Apple Circus is coming to Lincoln Center from October 25 to January 12. This annual show is a New York City holiday season favourite; this year’s show, Luminocity, is a brand-new spectacle that won’t disappoint (bigapplecircus.org).

The Lighting of the World’s Largest Hanukkah Menorah will take place at Grand Army Plaza, West 59th Street and Fifth Avenue, in front of The Plaza Hotel, from November 27 to December 5.

Le Parker Meridien will host its fourth annual Gingerbread Extravaganza from December 6 to January 6 with the theme “Quintessential New York.” Local bakeries and restaurants will create the gingerbread masterpieces, and visitors can vote for their favourite by purchasing one ticket at the hotel’s concierge for $1 or eight tickets for $5. Proceeds will go to City Harvest (parkermeridien.com).

THE BRONX

Family visitors will love the New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show, which features model trains travelling through more than 100 scaled replicas of NYC landmarks, including the Brooklyn Bridge and Yankee Stadium, made from natural materials such as bark, twig and seeds. The show will be on display between November 16 and January 12 (nybg.org).

The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum Annual Holiday Family Day will take place on December 6. Families will love the festively decorated 19th-century mansion and can participate in various kids’ activities, including photos with Santa Claus (bpmm.org).

BROOKLYN

Thousands of visitors travel from all over to behold the borough’s famed Dyker Heights Christmas Lights. Each year, the neighbourhood goes all out with spectacular lighting exhibits, complete with 30-foot toy soldiers and nativity scenes. For a guided experience, check out A Slice of Brooklyn’s Christmas Lights & Cannoli Tour, which also offers festive holiday music and old-time Christmas television variety specials on the bus, topped off with a taste of Brooklyn’s best cannoli and hot chocolate. Tours run from November 30 to December 31 (asliceofbrooklyn.com).

Brooklyn Borough Hall lights up with holiday spirit each year, with the lighting of this year’s Menorah of Brooklyn taking place at Columbus Park (right outside of Borough Hall) on December 3 at 5pm. The following week, a Christmas Tree Lighting will take place in Borough Hall Plaza on December 10 at 6pm (brooklyn-usa.org).

QUEENS

The Queens Historical Society presents the Annual Historic Holiday House Tour on December 8 from 1–5pm. The guided trolley tour includes stops at seven festively decorated museums and historical sites in Queens: the Kingsland Homestead, the Flushing Quaker Meeting House, Flushing Town Hall, the Voelker Orth Museum, Lewis H. Latimer House, Louis Armstrong House and Museum, and the Bowne House. Pre-sale tickets cost $10 for adults; tickets at the door cost $12. Free admission for children under 12 (queenshistoricalsociety.org).

Take a tour of the decorated Queens County Farm Museum during the Holiday Open House from December 26 to 28. Visitors can sip on mulled cider while children partake in winter craft activities. For more information, go to queensfarm.org.

STATEN ISLAND

Historic Richmond Town will hold its annual holiday favourite, Candlelight Tours, on December 14. The town will be ablaze with the light provided by candles, oil lamps and flickering fireplaces. Visitors can also expect a wassail bowl reception in the Courthouse. Prepaid reservations are required; call 718-351-1611, ext. 281, for tour times and reservations (historicrichmondtown.org).

For more information on planning your holiday visit to New York City, visit nycgo.com.

About NYC & Company:

NYC & Company is the official marketing, tourism and partnership organization for the City of New York, dedicated to maximizing travel and tourism opportunities throughout the five boroughs, building economic prosperity and spreading the positive image of New York City worldwide. For all there is to do and see in NYC, visit nycgo.com.