Vacation Travel and Lodging

So I can’t say that I go on a lot of vacations, but when I do go it is usually to Florida. A few years ago, I was supposed to go on a vacation to Marco Island with some friends. I looked up the place and found a lot of cool information and was psyched to go. I told everyone that I was going there, and talked to some of my friends who had been there before. It seemed like it was an awesome place that was going to be the site of an unforgettable vacation.

That is… until the plans got messed up and we ended up not going. Yeah, I was really upset. I got over it, of course, but I never really let go of wanting to go to Marco Island! I still have yet to visit, but it is definitely on my list on top places to visit… when I have some more money. So I am going to let you know how you can go to Marco Island on a budget… listen up.

Vacation rentals on Marco Island are easy to find on a budget. I did some research and found a two bedroom beachfront condo for only around 800 dollars per week. This is perfect seeing as it can sleep six people. I could book it for myself and five of my best friends, and well, you do the math. It would be really cheap. If a condo is not for you, there are plenty of other options for Marco Island vacation rentals.

In terms of flights, you just have to book early and go at the right time. Of course everyone wants to go to Florida for Spring Break, but how about taking a trip a in, say, January or February? This would be the perfect time if you are from New England, since we are freezing our butts off in these long months.  

For information on some of the best places to go while vacationing, check out A Guide to Marco Island. It has information from where to eat to what to do to where to shop. It also has a bunch of great photos that will make your drool over this amazing island! If anyone is going and has an extra spot in their condo… give me a call.

Camping is no longer a pastime enjoyed only by outdoorsy families. Camping is actually a really fun vacation for people of all ages, but especially for the college aged kid. This past summer, I went camping on Martha’s Vineyard with some friends from school and it was one of the best weeks of my life. We ended up deciding on Martha’s Vineyard because one of my friends goes there every summer and knew of a good camp site, but while we were in the process of deciding where to go we looked into a lot of different places. One of the places we were investigating was Maine- which is a popular state when it comes to vacationing.

I am not saying you need go to camping as opposed to another type of lodging, but it is a great idea for college kids because it is cheap. Also, there is no better way of feeling connected to the environment and appreciating the world outside your door than by staying right out in the fresh air.

Maine has a lot to offer for outdoor activities. Many people enjoy swimming, biking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, golfing, and rafting. These are fun activities to do when the weather is warm, so plan your summer vacation according to what you enjoy best. Maine is also a great place to go in the Winter. Skiing, snowboarding, snow-mobiling, and hunting are things you can do when the weather is cold and snowy. Maine has some of the best mountains- both scenic and adventurous. Sunday River and Sugarloaf are both great mountains to ski at. My personal favorite is Sunday River- it is enormous and always has great snow. For a complete list of ski mountains in Maine, check out the list at Maine’s Office of Tourism.

If you are not into camping or are going in the winter when you prefer to be warm, there are some great houses and cottages for rent. Maine vacation rentals are definitely affordable and usually in really cute areas. Ogunquit, Maine is a really famous spot for vacationers, and has many different places to rent from water-front to small town houses.

For a great Mexican getaway without paying the high price of Cozumel, Playa del Carmen is the place to go. And conveniently, the pier at Playa del Carmen is the main dock for the ferry to Cozumel. This means if you want the great snorkeling experience of the coral reefs in Cozumel but do not want to pay the price, there is only one other place to go…

The main street in Playa is called Quinto Avenida- 5^th Avenue, and it runs parallel to the beach. Most of the hotels and vacation rentals are located right between Quinto Avenida and the ocean. On this main street you will find numerous restaurants, stores, and vendors. What is the must-have on Quinto Avenida? Glad you asked… Cuban cigars! Take a walk down this strip at night for entertainment- there is always something fun and interesting going on.

So you might be wondering what are the best Playa del Carmen vacation rentals. If I were going, I would probably say a hotel or penthouse. There are some great locations if you know what to look for. I would stay in a downtown Penthouse with an amazing view of the beach. I found a great one that sleeps six for only $165 per night. I was planning on taking my Spring Break vacation in Florida this year, but this deal sounds too good that I might have to switch. If you are a college kid like me, pick five of your best friends and book a flight to Mexico. Imagine that- relax all day on the beach, go snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea, and then enjoy the nightlife on Quinto Avenida for less than $30 per night per person! And as if that was not enough, the penthouse is fully equipped with a gas stove, refrigerator, and yes… a pool! Outdoor furniture, hammock, and thatched palapas… what else do you need? Does anyone want to accompany me?

For a lot of valuable information on Playa, check out TravelYucatan.com’s Playa del Carmen homepage. There is even an interactive (and printable) map of the area. Make sure you check this out before leaving!

Orlando, Miami, Fort Lauderdale… these are all very popular and widely known tourist destinations in Florida. There is another city you may not be familiar with, though, but it is definitely just as fun and beautiful as the others. The city, which is found on the western coast of Florida, is called Indian Rocks Beach.

Indian Rocks Beach is a city on a barrier island between the Gulf of Mexico and the Intercoastal Waterway. There is no doubt that the city has an unusual name, and I bet you are wondering why it is called that. Well, legend has it that long ago a medicine man healed his chief with the water from a sulfur spring in the area which is now Indian Rocks Beach. When the later settlers would see the Indians going towards the rocks at the sulfur spring, they would say “the Indians are going the rocks.” And hence, Indian Rocks Beach got its name. This story and lots of other interesting information about the town can be found on the City of Indian Rocks Beach website.

This unique city has a lot to offer in terms of attractions. If you are the type of person who is into boats, you might want to visit the Marina to see hunreds of fishing boats and majestic cruise ships. A popular place for kids to visit is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. This aquarium specializes in helping injured sea animals return to the water- and is one of eight aquariums in the U.S. authorized to rescue and rehabilitate sea life. And of course for families, there is a boardwalk right on the water with a bunch of restaurants, shops, and sources of entertainment.

If you are looking for a vacation rental in Indian Rocks Beach, you should consider a quaint cottage or beach front villa. Indian Rocks Beach vacation rentals has cottages that sleep a family of 4 for only $895 per week. They are conveniently located right near the beach, and have a heated pool. There are also beautiful villas where you merely step out the door and you are on the beach. Indian Rocks Beach would be a fun place for a family vacation this year- book now and enjoy later!

Maybe this year you are not going somewhere tropical. You might be sick of the beach, and sick of traveling far. I bet you are considering going to Michigan… and if you are not, you definitely should. Michigan is a really nice state to visit if you haven’t already, with a lot of famous cities. Grand Rapids is quite the popular destination city in Michigan. This city has a lot to offer from museums to sports venues and is filled with natural beauty.

One of the most popular attractions to visit while in Grand Rapids is the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. There are 132 acres of outdoor sculptures, gardens, conservatories, and nature trails. You can visit the Meijer Gardens website for directions, a map of the gardens, and upcoming attractions. Some of the things going on presently at the park are horse-drawn carriage rides, the 2009 plan show series, and the seasonal “Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World.” This place is beautiful and a must-see if you are in Grand Rapids.

Vacation rentals are nice and easy to find for your destination city in Michigan. Michigan vacation rentals can be whatever you want them to be- a few nights in a comfy hotel or a longer rental in a cottage. If you do end up going to Grand Rapids, you need to decide whether your trip is going to be economical or more luxurious. If you, like a lot of Americans out there, are watching your money this year, there is a nice Radisson right on the banks of the grand river. If you have decided you want to take one special vacation and are going all out, you should consider the beautiful Amway Grand Plaza hotel. The rooms have high speed internet and satellite tv. There is also a sauna in the hotel. The Amway Grand Plaza hotel is beautiful and is West Michigan’s only four star hotel. It is conveniently located right in downtown Grand Rapids, and is connected to the Grand Rapids Convention center. If you are not looking for something as high-end as this hotel, there are plenty of others with many of the same benefits.

If you and your family are the type to annually return to that one, perfect place in Florida or California and are looking for a new and amazing place to go, I have just the destination. And don’t worry, you will not have to forfeit the hot sun and beautiful beaches for this place. Kailua-Kona, Hawaii is an amazing place to visit. If you have never been to Hawaii, you will be so amazed at how beautiful it is that you will never turn back!

Kailua-Kona is located at the bottom of the Hualalai Volcano. Hualalai is the third youngest AND the third most active volcano in Hawaii, and is a spectacular sight to see. Though the most recent eruption was in 1800 or 1801, it is considered a potentially dangerous volcano that is possibly going to erupt again within the next hundred years. This should not be too concerning though, as it has not stopped people from living and visiting this beautiful area.

The world-famous Ironman Triathlon starts in this magnificent town. In case you are not familiar with the Ironman, participants start out by swimming 2.4 miles in the ocean, then move on to biking 112 miles, and finish off with none other than a 26.2 mile marathon. The next Ironman is going to be October 10, 2009. So if you were thinking of a fall vacation, make sure you are there to see some of the world’s most impressive athletes. Check out Professional Travel Guide’s guide to Kailua-Kona vacation for ideas.

Kailua-Kona is known for its beautiful sunsets. Conveniently, the main street in the town is right along the water. This means that as you sitting enjoying dinner at one of the spectacular restaurants or are window shopping down on Ali’i Drive, you will be sure to catch the sun setting on the ocean. You may want to bring a camera!

While lodging is probably not the most important component of your trip, you still want to be comfortable. That is why Kailua Kona vacation rentals are easy to find. There are convenient oceanfront condos that can sleep up to 8, fully equipped with a refrigerator, jacuzzi, covered parking, and more. Or if you do not have that many people, you can stay in an oceanview complex or golf condo! So book your trip, have fun, and soak up the Hawaii sun!

Panama City Beach, Florida has some of the best beaches in Florida. The snow-white sand and clear green waters are what you will be experiencing… and for over 27 miles. Its prime location on the Gulf of Mexico and Saint Andrews Bay makes Panama City Beach irresistable. So come check it out this year- what are you waiting for?

Panama City Beach is much like other destinations of its type, with wonderful shopping, fine dining, and a variety of beach sports and water activities to keep you busy on your stay. But this beach has one extra thing to offer this year… something that other destinations don’t. There is, however, a catch…

For your vacation to Panama City Beach this year, there is one specific time you need to go. That time is New Year’s. So whether you want to spend Christmas in Florida or pack your bags right after you open presents, be sure to ring in the New Year on this particular beach in Florida.

Why, you ask? Well, this year marks the FIRST ANNUAL Pier Park Beach Ball Drop in Panama City Beach! Try and control your excitement. Winter really is the perfect time of year to visit Florida if you are from New England or anywhere else where winter is plagued by ice, snow, and freezing temperatuers. It might be hard for you to get used to the fact that this year you won’t need a scarf, hat, and a pair of gloves to watch the ball drop. Actually, I have a feeling it won’t take you too long, seeing as you will be on the beach with a beautiful view.

New Year’s on Panama City Beach will have some of the major components that you are used to- lights, festivities, a countdown, and of course a spectacular display of fireworks. The party starts at 6:30pm and doesn’t stop until 2009… literally. So watch the sun rise, shower in your hotel or condo, and then be sure to set up camp on the beach by 9 to start the countdown with the rest of the party.

If you are worried about where to stay in Panama City Beach, do not. There are plenty of vacation rentals in the area. Panama City Beach vacation rentals range from luxurious golf villas to condos that can sleep 8 overlooking the water. Whether you are taking the family for a fun vacation, or bringing your girlfriend or boyfriend for a romantic getaway, you will have no trouble finding the perfect spot.

For a full list of activities to do while vacationing at Panama City Beach, check out Frommer’s Complete Guide to Panama City Beach and most of all, have a great time!

Yet another great spring break/summer getaway may be somewhere you have not yet considered, somewhere that may be closer than you think. It is not Florida, it is not Maine, it is not California. Today’s topic is Virginia Beach, Virginia. Located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia Beach is a popular destination among all during the spring and summer.

Miles of sandy beaches line the shores of the Virginia Beach area, along with hundreds of hotels, restaurants, and a variety of other stores. Also, one thing that makes Virginia Beach a little different from other local destinations is that it hosts a variety of annual sporting events. Virginia Beach is a great place to go and soak up the sun on the beach, or to watch some of the most thrilling athletic events of the season.

If you are a sports aficionado, you might want to visit Virginia Beach during the North American Sand Soccer Championship. This year, the soccer championship is going to be taking place from Friday, June 5 to Sunday June 7. The event runs all day long, from 8am to 10pm. There are around 30,000 people who play in this 3 day long event, and around 100,000 viewers each day. If you decide to be a player instead of a spectator this year, team application and fees have to be received by April 15, 2009. The cost is $425 per team, $500 per team for pro. You can check out their website for more information on where to send the application.

If you happen to be visiting Virginia Beach during the month of August, you might be just in time to see the East Coast Surfing Championship- yet another athletic event that takes place in Virginia Beach every year. Since 1963, more than 100 of the world’s best pro surfers have been known to come out each year to compete. Even more than 300 amateur surfers come out to catch the waves. Anyone can apply to participate, and there are even more events if you are not a surfer. Road races, volleyball games, and skimboarding competitions are some of the other things that will be going on this year. So why not make your vacation a little more active this year?

For lodging in Virginia Beach, there are many options. Virginia Beach vacation rentals range from quiet waterfront condos to victorian bed and breakfasts, and everything is affordable. But be sure to book early, especially if you plan on visiting the area during one of the sporting competitions.

When the winter weather gets tough, what better place to go than the Bahamas? The complete opposite of winter in New England… the Bahamas is sunny, warm, and fantastic. The best time to go to the Bahamas is the winter, as hurricanes can ravage the area in the summer and fall. And winter is of course the time where we New Englanders are searching for a tropical getaway, so where else would we go than the Bahamas???

The best thing to do before you plan your vacation is take a look at a map of the Bahamas and read up on the islands to see where you want to do. The Bahamas, you may or may not know, is actually about seven hundred islands. Search for “Districts of the Bahamas” or check out the Commonwealth of the Bahamas home site for a better idea of how the islands are distributed, and which islands are the best to visit.

You have probably heard of Nassau, Bahamas- and for good reason, as Nassau is the most visited island of the Bahamas. Nassau is also the capital of the Island of the Bahamas. Nassau is located on the island of New Providence, which is a unique location because it is connected by two bridges to Paradise Island.

There is a lot to do in Nassau, including beautiful beaches, casinos, and shopping. Paradise island, which again is connected to Nassau, is home of the world-famous Atlantic Resort. The Atlantis is composed of three separate, luxurious hotels and is in prime location.

There is a lot of other options for lodging in the Bahamas- many of which can fit a tight (or student-friendly) budget. The Bahamas vacation rentals are located on or just off of beautiful beaches. From studio condos to houses in prime locations (check out the 5 bedroom house in Elbow Cay!) there is every type of accomodation available to suit your needs and your vacation.

Though your vacation rental may be so spectacular that you won’t want to leave, there is so much to do in the Bahamas. You have to make sure you get out and experience the culture and take in the views. If there is one thing you must do while vacationing in the Bahamas, it would be to go diving. No where else can you see for over 200 feet below water. There are 25 diving destinations, so you have to hit at least one. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

For a vacation that is cheaper than flying into and staying in Florida but just as much fun, Ocean City is a great place. Ocean City is a popular destination for teens on “Senior Week” vacations and college break students. However, it is sure to be a good time for anyone, from kids to adults.

Ocean City has a boardwalk that ranges for three miles. Along the boardwalk there are hotels, shops, restaurants, stands, and bars. What is better than laying on the beach all day, and then just walking up the sand to the boardwalk to grab dinner and enjoy a night out?

Ocean City is really the perfect place to vacation without a rental car. Everything you need is within walking distance- and if you don’t feel like walking you can always rent bikes. It is a great destination for people on a budget since you don’t have to worry about taxis or car rentals. Also, it is relatively easy to find a hotel that fits your budget. These are perhaps the reasons why Ocean City is a popular place for college students.

Lodging is pretty much whatever you need it to be in Ocean City. You can rent a place on the boardwalk with 3 bedrooms- sleeps eight- for around one hundred dollars per night! And not to mention it is equipped with an electric stove, a refrigerator, a microwave, utensils, a pool, and a jacuzzi. This set-up is ideal for high school grads on “Senior Week” or for Spring Break college students. There are plenty of other Ocean City vacation rentals that will suit your needs along the beautiful boardwalk.

For a list of things to do while vacationing along the ten mile stretch of beaches, check out Frommer’s guide to Ocean City, Maryland where you will find a list of popular restaurants, attractions, and and maps. There are also guides to shopping, nightlife, and plenty of maps. There are amusement parks, golf courses, beach clubs, and more. For a spectacular view, you might want to take a ride on the ferris wheel at sunset for only a few dollars.

Ocean City has always been a popular destination for people of all ages- but especially for the younger crowd who are looking for a week or two away with friends.