Nightclubs, restaurants, theaters and hotels make this young/old city one of the most exciting places in the British Isles.  There is a strong traditional Irish music scene where folk musicians and Gaelic-speaking regulars jam and swill until the wee hours.  Belfast used to be a music town, back in the 1960s.  Rock star Van Morrison came from East Belfast, as did a handful of successful session musicians who got their start playing alongside Irish fiddles for Guinness-sipping patrons.  One might say that, as Dublin leans towards becoming a global city, Belfast is the best place to find the authentic Ireland.

Much of the nightlife takes place in an area known as The Cathedral Quarter.  Here, former enemies drink together and enjoy traditional music.  Nearby, more rocking bars cater to the younger generation of the new Belfast.

There are also some very old bars in Belfast.  Music, camaraderie and alcohol are not a new combination in Ireland.  Kelly’s Cellars, on Bank Square, was built in the 1720s.  The nearby Maddens was built in 1751.  Both feature lively atmosphere and traditional music.

Belfast is not the easiest city to get to.  Continental Airlines flies directly there from Newark, and a handful of smaller airlines connect the city with London’s airports.  But, once you set foot in Belfast, the city can be walked easily, though an occasional short taxi ride might be required.

New Haven is a mid-sized city in Connecticut known primarily as the home of Yale University.  The city has East Coast flavor, but is unique because of its history and its blend of residential and commercial.  New Haven is densely populated for a city of its size.  Its proximity to New York makes it an attractive stopping off point and even the home of many well heeled, commuting professionals who work in the Big Apple.  As with New York, New Haven has recently experienced a huge drop in crime.  It was never much of a problem in the downtown and in University areas, but now most of the city is safe, at least during daytime and evening hours.

Its residential vibe makes New Haven an attractive and comfortable place to visit.  There are numerous neighborhood cafes and eateries.  In fact, New Haven has, arguably, some of the best independently owned pizzerias in the US.  Most of the city’s best are located along Wooster Street.  They include Sally’s Apizza and Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana.

The place to be on a weekend night is on Chapel Street or Crown Street in downtown New Haven.  There are plenty of Irish pubs and live music venues.  Delaney’s on Wooster is a good place for a pint, while modern jazz is always on tap at Firehouse12.  Nearby, Toad’s Place is great for those who appreciate quality indie rock and up-and-coming national acts.

Cyclists will find that New Haven is a pedal-friendly city.  Community bike rides between various venues (libraries, cafes, schools) are held almost daily.  Local bike shops offer rentals and can give you the low-down on what is happening when.

Of course, the ivy-covered buildings of Yale University are worth a visit.  But many people forget that New Haven is a seaside town.  The beaches are quite pleasant in summer and picturesque the cooler months.

Forbes Magazine recently released its annual list of the world’s best hotels.  The results are based on the research and opinions of a panel of travel “experts” and industry insiders.  The list leans towards the upscale end of the price spectrum.  You won’t find any mom-‘n-pop motels included because of their super-friendly service.  The list is strictly for the big boys.

That said, choosing to lay your head at one of the hotels on the list means you will be getting more than enough in terms of quality and luxury.

Here is a sampling of the best hotels and resorts in the US:

1.    The Arizona Biltmore is at once classic and luxurious.  The décor has been updated, I’m sure, but the broad strokes still have 1920s and 30s written all over them.  Patrons can relive the hotel’s heyday by taking in everything from the dark wood paneling to the classic lighting fixtures.  Once a haunt of famous movie stars taking a break from L.A., the Biltmore continues to be a classic.
2.    The Asian-influenced design at Setai South Beach in Miami is quite detailed.  The rooms are huge (600 square feet) and airy with pan-Asia décor and designer furnishings.  The spa and the three secluded swimming pools make this the best of the class in South Beach.
3.    The Hay Adams Hotel in Washington D.C. is another classic.  It was built early in the 20th century and was recently renovated.  Why stay here?  Aside from the classic atmosphere and the fact that the hotel is a favorite of visiting dignitaries, the views of the White House and the Washington Monument can’t be bettered by any venue in town.
4.    The St. Regis Hotel in San Francisco is one of a kind.  There is an endless pool and a garden where the resident chef grows organic produce for use in the hotels two restaurants.  In addition, the hotel boasts a multi-million dollar art collection that goes along nicely with its location in the hip SoMa district. 

Philadelphia, despite being the 5th largest city in the US, has never been a huge tourist draw.  It has a lot of history, but usually falls behind Boston in terms of drawing tourists interested in the sites that hearken back to the early days of the nation.  Mostly, outsiders see Philadelphia as a city with hard-luck sports teams and poverty-stricken neighborhoods.  True, these are aspects of Philly.  But…

The Old City is where much of the history that Philly is famous for it located.  Visitors to this area will be able to view Liberty Bell and Constitution Hall.  The district also has a growing artist community and is the center of a vibrant nightlife scene.  Young professionals congregate in Old City’s bars.  Things get especially happening on the weekends.

South Street is a center for Italian food and nightlife.  There is a diverse range of activity here.  Visitors could spend a couple of days simply shopping and eating their way through the area.  At night, there are live music venues, nightclubs and bars.  South Philly is also home to the city’s largest parks and all of the pro sports venues (baseball, football, hockey and basketball) in the city.

Philadelphia has decent public transit in the form of trains and buses.  Driving is not impossible.  During the summer, the city’s tourist board operates a trolley bus called the Phlash that connects the city’s major historical sites.  It only costs $5 for an all day pass.

While Philadelphia has seen improvements over the past few years, it still has one of the worst murder rates in the nation.  Most of these killings are gang-related, but robbery and assault are not unknown.  However, most areas are safe, especially during daylight hours.  Using general precautions such as avoiding side streets at night and staying in well lit areas after dark will probably lead to a safe visit.

If you like it faster, bigger or just better then the new theme park rides for 2008 will definitely fill your needs.  These are some of the best rides that have ever been designed and they include everything from interactive elements to stomach dropping excitement. 

Silverwood Theme Park in northern Idaho is set to premier the Aftershock in July of 2008.  This is a 191 foot tall steel roller coaster that reaches speeds of 65 miles per hour and G-forces of 4.5.  It is definitely not for the weak at heart (or at stomach).

River Battle may not be the most heart stopping fun around, but this great family ride at Dollywood in Tennessee.  Not only do you get to shoot targets and other people on the ride, but you also have the ability to shoot the people watching the ride along the way!

Hershey Park in Pennsylvania is the top of the heap for vertical drops at present.  Fahrenheit, which premiers in 2008, drops an insane 97 degree drop for 121 feet.  It is high speed, high intensity and definitely one for the experience rollercoaster junkie.

Legoland offers great interactive opportunities for the whole family.  The new Lost Kingdom Adventure is set in the Land of Adventure and is sure to offer a new thrill every time you enter its domain. FireFall is another of ride for thrill seekers everywhere.  It takes riders up to 60 feet and then through 360 vertical arcs that twist, turn and spin through fire and water effects.

If you’re ready to head out for a summer vacation this year, don’t miss out on some of the latest trends in travel.  The green movement continues across the travel, resort and hotel industry, more venues are offering eco-inspired amenities and features.  Cruise ships are heading out to Europe this year as more people want to explore beyond the usual Caribbean and South American ports, and more dining options at destination cities mean every foodie can travel to their heart’s delight.  If you’re looking for a fresh new experience this summer, make sure you pick a vacation that’s right in line with these other five trends:

1. Luxury trekking.  Outdoor enthusiasts can embark on a rigorous journey to the mountains and cliffs, but bask in luxury when they head back to the cabin.  The latest trends in trekking offer sleeping bags inside deluxe accommodations; head off to luxurious cabins outfitted with hot tubs and down bedding.
2. National park adventures.  Since many people are choosing budget-friendly options to manage high gas and travel costs, heading out to camp sites and adventure tours at a National Park may be on the itinerary.  Look for exclusive vacation packages at several destinations across the U.S.
3. Spa lodging.  Head off to a spa for a pampering treatment, but extend your experience with an overnight stay.  More spas will be catering to the budget-conscious traveler this summer with extended stay vacation packages, freebies and discounts on treatments.
4. The classic American roadtrip.  If all else fails in your trip-planning, you can always head off on a roadtrip.  To curb increasing gas expenses, you can choose a city or town in your region for a semi-‘staycation’.
5. Water park mayhem.  Whether you’re traveling with the family or just want to feel like a kid again, heading to the water park can be a great way to spend a weekend or an extended stay. Water parks with lodging options make it easy to take advantage of package deals and enjoy a wealth of on-site activities and amenities.

With rising gas prices and the economic recession underway, travel plans and trips can quickly be put on the back burner for the average American family. Still, some people are continuing onward with summer vacations and excursions with some careful budgeting strategies. Instead of taking the usual cross-country trips or vacation to an exotic destination, many are turning to budget-friendly hotels, exploring local cities and towns, or booking up tours with group travel companies.

If you don’t want to miss out on a summer travel opportunity, consider these easy ways to cut back on expenses without cutting back on the experience:

1. Enjoy a ‘staycation.’ Staycations are the latest trend for the travel industry, a way to explore a local town or city without booking up a hotel room or enduring other general travel expenses. Choose a few attractions or activities in a neighboring city, pack a picnic and spend the entire day exploring – with home as your hotel of choice.

2. Get reduced rates with group tours. Group travel rates can be significantly lower than average prices, so you may be able to head out to the other side of the country after all. Look for group booking tours and companies that offer all-inclusive package deals for the best benefits.
3. Look for family packages at a resort. Many waterparks and resorts offer all-inclusive family packages and discounts for extended stays. Make the most of your time off by booking a 3 or 4-day stay with reduced rates, and cash in with resort ‘dollars’ and other freebies offered by the hotel.

4. Shop for off-season deals. There are several locations across the country that experience an ‘off peak’ season during the summer months. Consider heading out to the Caribbean or Fort Lauderdale where summer means some of the slowest tourism months.

5. Go camping. Camping can be a great adventure for all ages, and is an easy one to squeeze into your budget. Look for campsites in your local area, or consider a short roadtrip to a new destination.

There is probably nothing quite as peaceful as cruising up or down the river. The lull of the water lapping up against the boat hull, the calm air and amazing scenery will all come together to provide a once in a lifetime experience. Riverboats can take you where you never knew you wanted to go before.

1. Majestic America is one of the leading riverboat touring companies in the United States. The company offers tours up the Mighty Mississippi River, along the shores of the Tennessee and through the Ohio River Valley as well. The company currently has several ships that each offers a unique experience.

· The American Queen is the flagship of the Line. She offers 222 staterooms and suites, amazing architectural details and elegant entertainment spaces. You will even find a heated pool and athletic club on board.

· The Delta Queen is the oldest of the Line - built in 1926. Her decks gleam with teak and Tiffany-style stained-glass. It is a smaller vessel, but still offers wonderful entertainment (including a dance floor that was graced by Presidents Hoover, Truman, and Carter). Although the Delta Queen (the last of the over-night steam-powered sternwheelers) was designated a National Historic Landmark, it is in jeopardy of being retired unless Congressional measures are taken to ensure its continued voyage.

· The Mississippi Queen offers the amenities of the modern and the romance of the historic. You will find a stocked library, theater, pool and exercise room, amazing furnishings and excellent architectural features.

2. Viking River Cruises explore the world and are the leader in river cruises. There is a fleet of 18 deluxe ships that offer 35 unique cruises and more destinations than you will find anywhere else. The commitment is to make your vacation the best you have ever had.

3. Atlantis Cruises and Tours offers a wide range of river cruises through Europe. Danube River Cruises wind through central Europe and offers one of the most majestic ways to see this region of the world. The cruises are all-inclusive so you won’t have to worry about exchange rates, additional fees, hotels or meals.

River cruises are a wonderful way to see the world from a unique perspective. You have the convenience of an all-inclusive vacation and the ability to see a wide range of destinations. It is no wonder that these vacations are becoming more popular every day.

Edinburgh, Scotland was once a medieval powerhouse. With some planning (it was the regions first grid-planned modern cities) and hard work, Edinburgh has become the cultural and historical heart of the country. It is also one of the most entertaining cities in Europe. Where is once was known for its crowded streets, today it offers attractions and events that will keep you busy and entertained for several days.

When the weather cooperates, the city is perfect for touring on foot. Most of the major attractions are within walking distance to one another. There is also the Voluntary Guides Association that will offer free tours of the city.

Edinburgh Castle sits high above the city and has been both a fort and a royal residence. Most of the buildings still in existence come from its use as a military garrison. You will feel the 1300 years as you walk around this site. While you are here, be sure to take some time to visit the National War Museum of Scotland covers four centuries of military history. There are films, excerpts from letters, and plenty of weapons and uniforms to fill you visit.

St. Giles Cathedral is the most important church in Scotland. The ornate steeple (from the Scottish crown steeple from 1495) is a well known mark of the skyline. The inside is full of wonderful and interesting touches. Be sure to talk with the many guides inside to get their take on the history that the Cathedral holds.

The Museum of Scotland houses a large number of historic artifacts. It takes you from the birth of Scotland up to modern day life. It is well worth a few hours of your time. Next door is the Royal Museum (built in 1851) that houses natural science exhibits.

Sir Walter Scott monument was built in 1840 and honors the great Scottish author. It is a 200-foot monument that shelters a marble statue of Scott and his dog. He is surrounded by busts of other great Scottish authors and poets and also characters from his books. You can climb up the 287 steps of the monument to get an amazing view of Edinburgh.

There is some much to do when visiting the Edinburgh. History fills the streets and can pass the time all on its own. There are also amazing festivals, wonderful food, and regional entertainment that help to keep your interest piqued. One trip to Edinburgh is never enough to experience all this city has to offer.

Canada is a wide expanse of natural wonders and cultural experiences. It has a diverse and interesting history, complete with structures and buildings that will impress, intrigue and delight visitors. The natural creations that abound in Canada are also worth a visit. There is so much to see and do in the region that you will likely find yourself returning again and again.

The Bay of Fundy has the world’s highest tides. The water can rise as much as 48 feet in just six hours. The water comes in to the bay so fast and with such strong tides that have carved amazing shapes along the coastline. Visitors say that the water comes in so fast it actually produces a roar (called “the voice of the moon”). There is a 28 mile network of trails so that you can fully enjoy the experience.

Halifax is one of the oldest cities in Canada and is home to the Citadel, and enormous star-shaped defensive fort. The Citadel was completed in 1856 and was the forth in a series of forts that occupied the hill. There are plenty of defensive ditches, ramparts, and many more fortification structures that will give a more complete picture of life during the 19th century in the forts.

No trip to Canada could be complete without a tour of Niagara Falls. The Canadian side offers unique features from the American side. You can enjoy a “Journey Behind the Falls”, a wet ride to the base of Horseshoe Falls aboard the Maid of the Mist or experience the bird’s eye view of the falls on a helium balloon on the Flight of Angels.

Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario is the place to find Parliament Hill – the political epicenter of Canada. The structure are designed and built much like a castle, with steep towers and copper roofs drawing the eyes in their direction. The Changing of the Guard’s is a firm reminder of Canada’s continued place in the British Commonwealth.

Jasper National Park is home to Canada’s largest mountain park and offers 4,200 square miles of peaks and valleys. The Pyramid Mountain is one of the highlights of the park and well worth the climb.

Canada has offered great adventure and entertainment opportunities from its earliest moments of development. Today those opportunities continue to grow and expand. Be sure to visit many of the top tourist attractions as soon as you get a chance.