Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category

Memorials and Monuments

Tuesday, August 19th, 2008

The United States and the entire world are filled with memorials dedicated to people, events or actions.  Many people travel around the globe to pay respect at the different monuments.  While planning your next vacation, you might want to consider some of these memorials as the place to start your getaway.Washington, D.C. is packed with memorials.  One of the most impressive displays is the Arlington Cemetery.  “In Flanders Field where poppies grow between the crosses row on row . . .” the touching words are fitting for such a display of sacrifice.

The World War II Memorial was only dedicated in 2004 but is already one of the top visited memorial sites in the county.  It features a semicircle of 48 pillars (representing each of the states at the time) and arches adorned with eagles and wreathes.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial was designed by an undergraduate student at Yale in 1981.  It was created to look like a rip in the hillside and its modern, abstract form was not greeted kindly by everyone.  Today a bronze statue (The Three Soldiers) and the Vietnam Women’s Memorial are also part of the site.

The Lincoln Memorial is a reminder of all that the President stood for - the principles of the Declaration of Independence and a desire to see a united country.  It was his dedication to the Nation’s forefathers that brought a sudden end to his life.

The memorials and monuments that dot the world are more than tributes to fallen men or days gone by.  They are a reminder of what things were and where we should be headed today.

Visiting these amazing sites can make your ordinary vacation into an emotional, education and spiritual experience.  Making these monuments and memorials a part of your getaway will make them a part of your life.

5 Ways To Plan a Budget-Friendly Trip

Thursday, June 19th, 2008

If a tight budget is causing you to take travel plans off your calendar, you may not have to miss out on the season’s travel options just yet.  Despite the rising gas prices, increasing food costs and limited expense budgets, many people are still finding ways to squeeze in a travel opportunity.  Planning and preparation are all it takes to meet your budget requirements and enjoy an exciting new adventure; if you’re looking for an escape this season, plan ahead with these money-saving strategies:

 

  1. Skip the hotel room.  Think beyond the hotel when you’re thinking about accommodations so you can save on overall costs.  Consider renting a home for an extended stay, visiting a bed and breakfast, or even participating in a home exchange. If you do prefer a hotel room, make sure you’re getting the best rate by booking with the hotel directly; many third parties add fees and other charges.
  2. Look for group travel opportunities.  Are the neighbors interested in traveling to the same destination?  Consider rounding up a group of friends, relatives, neighbors, or even coworkers so you can book your vacation with group rates.  In some cases, you can cash in with discounts of up to 25% off regular rates.
  3. Look at maps.  Study maps of your selected area, or use Google Earth to track down your area and surrounding venues so you can prioritize what you want to see.  Using local guides to map out your route can be helpful, but you can easily cut costs on your visit when you pick and choose only what you want to see and do.
  4. Become a price hunter.  Today’s online travel tools make it easier than ever to review current prices, monitor rate increase and keep track of the average price.  Don’t settle for the first deal that comes your way; run side-by-side searches on similar flights and packages so you really are getting the best price.
  5. Review package vacations with a critical eye.  While some travel packages offer some valuable bargains, many can cost much more than you anticipated – especially after rolling in fees, surcharges and other booking requirements.  Make sure you read the fine print and fully understand what you’re getting into.

Dance Through Your Next Vacation

Friday, February 8th, 2008

The popularity of dancing has hit an all time high. With shows like “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing with the Stars” filling the airwaves, the people are filling the studios. There are more ways to learn how to dance and more places to do that dancing than you could ever imagine. Make your next vacation a dance extravaganza.

The sharp and intense movements of the Tango make this dance one that you can easily lose yourself in. Becka Tango Tours offer vacation packages that will immerse you in the amazing world of the Argentina Tango . You will have the chance to work with dance professors and staff of the Becka Tango House. There are also optional private lessons available as well.

Camp has always been a place to make new friends and learn new skills. Now dance has invaded the camp world. Enjoy a fun filled week at Ballroom Vermont. You will receive lessons in all the most popular American style dances. Class sizes will be small and you will remain with the same instructors for the entire session to insure the most personal attention possible. The camp ends with a formal dance where everyone has a chance to dress up and show off their skills.

Cruise ships have always been known for their dancing opportunities. “Let’s Dance” vacations takes it to a new level. Each cruise offers nightly dance parties, a private lesson with a Profession Dance Instructor, and other tradition cruise amenities. The ships have been chosen for their dance floors, dance music, and quality of services provided.

Las Vegas is a great place to find dance, entertainment and bright lights. It is also home to Dance Camp Las Vegas 2008. You will receive four full days of dance classes specializing in the most popular American style ballroom dances. There are over 120 different classes for you to choose from. Your registration will also include a reception dance, a grand banquet, and a super star show.

If you like your vacation to be hot and spicy then Salsa is your dance and Cuba is the place to learn. These vacations are all about the Cuban culture - which is full of energy and spontaneity. You will receive Salsa classes with teachers and dancers from Havana during the day. At night you will experience the ultimate in salsa dancing at the local clubs.

Dancing is a great way to energize your body and release your mind. With the popularity of couple dancing on the rise, the opportunities to participate are also growing. Take a break from your daily grind and go get your groove on.