5 Must Visit Places In The US

Unravel America’s full potential as you visit some of the most amazing locations. The US boasts a number of fun places for tourists to check out, so why not look around for somewhere that suits you?

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The USA isn’t a location that appeals to a specific demographic; it’s more of a ‘one size fits all’. It has something for every group, young families can enjoy a beach holiday, or older couples can embrace Times Square.

1. Disney World

For those looking to keep little ones occupied, this is the number one choice. Known worldwide for its abundance of excitement, it’s worthy to turn adults into children. Meet all of the Disney characters as they walk around the theme park. There’s plenty for the whole family to-do with places to eat, drink and enjoy rollercoasters. Based in Orlando, Florida  has a list of other fun activities you can participate in too.

2. Mount Rushmore

Many of us wish to visit this monument at least once in our lifetime. Mount Rushmore showcases the sculptured faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. The artistic work is a breath-taking experience for tourists to enjoy. Tick this one off your must visit places with Mount Rushmore being one of the places we would all like to see.

3. South Beach

This Miami based beach is a famous holiday hot spot. Known for surfing, skateboarding and rollerblading it is a beach with a twist. The front stretches across the Atlantic and brandishes a variety of eating facilities plus more. You can take part in the beach activities as it encompasses a wide-range of things to do. Visit the beach gym or sit-back and relax in the beautiful weather.

4. MGM Grand

Apply for a US visa today and enjoy a break in Las Vegas, Nevada. Used in many films this location is portrayed as a crazy city of gambling, socialising and sporting events. Elite boxing takes to the stage in Las Vegas with the MGM Grand Casino hosting the world’s biggest sporting events.

5. Grand Canyon

Another scenic location of huge magnitude, this is one of those ‘bucket-list’ experiences that most wish to see. The American icon is based in Arizona and hosts natural views sure to astonish all sightseers. This 227-mile all-rounder is a truly impressive wonder that will inspire all that choose to take a trip.

The USA is a desirable place that visitors travel around the globe for, that American dream is something that pulls in all nationalities. It makes for a fantastic holiday and there’s more than just one destination to absorb. For anybody that enjoys adventures, this is the country for you. There are great places for sightseeing, theme parks, water parks and natural wonders. There are plenty more must-see locations too, take a look at other incredible places such as San Francisco, Boston and Times Square. You could embrace shopping in New York for the weekend or even venture further with options to apply for Camp America places as well as 30 day travelling trips that are available online.   

Planning A Group Trip To Florida With All Your Nearest & Dearest

I am a big travel lover, my family and I love to travel. Whenever we can, we like to hop on a plane and jet off to somewhere new. Recently, a friend of mine mentioned how her, her partner and children, and all of their extended family were planning a big group trip. This got me thinking about how I would go about planning a big family trip and where I would opt to go.

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While I’m not planning a big trip right now, I thought I would share with you how I would go about doing so, with my location of choice being Florida. The reason for this being it’s warm, has lots to see and do, and most importantly, is family-friendly. So, what is the best way to go about planning a big family trip to Florida or another location of your choice?

Get an idea of numbers

The first step is to find out who would like to come along. The best way to do this is by sending out a group email with a proposed date and period that the trip would last for. Ask everyone to let you know what they think, as well as what their budget would be for the trip.

This will then allow you to start planning while ensuring that it’s affordable for everyone. Email everyone back with an amount that you think the trip will cost, ask them to confirm if that’s okay so that you can start getting organized.

Think about how you’ll get there

Once you know who is coming along, the next step is to think about how you’ll get there. As well as how you’ll get around once you’re there.

If you all live in one area, a good option could be to charter a bus so that you can all travel together. While you could fly, renting a bus will be much cheaper. Plus, you can then use the bus to get around once you arrive in Florida, making transport easier while you’re there. If you like the idea of using a bus, you can rent one here.

However, if you all live in different states or areas, it might be best to all make your own way there. Perhaps for yourself and the others living near you, you could hire a minibus? Or maybe, flying would work out cheaper and easier?

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Be smart about accommodation

When it comes to where you stay, there are lots of options to consider. From hotels to budget guesthouses, it all depends on yours’ and your group’s budget. If there’s a lot of you, the cheapest option is probably to rent a house or villa for your trip. This won’t only be cheaper, but also easier, as you’ll all be staying in one place.

If you don’t plan on staying in the same place for the duration of your trip, make sure to book the amount of accommodation that you need. So that when you arrive in each place, your accommodation is already sorted.

Create an itinerary beforehand

To prevent arguments from occurring about what you’re doing each day, it’s best to put together an itinerary beforehand. Research all of Florida’s best sights and attractions, as well as where they are located. And then put together an itinerary based on what everyone wants to see and do. From theme parks and studio tours to beaches and sports activities, Florida has a lot to offer. It’s just a case of working out what you and your group will enjoy and can afford.

So there you have it, how to plan an amazing group trip to Florida.

Planning A Staycation? The Best Places To Pitch Your Tent In The US

When you live in a country as vast and diverse as the US, it’s a shame to jump on a plane every time the opportunity arises. Often, you’ll find the most incredible vacation spots right on your doorstep. If you’re planning a staycation this summer, camping is a fantastic idea. Here are some of the best places to enjoy an all-American outdoor adventure.

Grand Canyon National Park

It seems implausible to start anywhere else but the Grand Canyon. This stunning natural wonder attracts visitors from all corners of the world, and it’s no surprise. You’ll get great views whenever you visit, but camping on-site enables you to beat the crowds at sunrise. The North Rim is the best spot to pitch a tent or park your RV. Don’t forget your camera and some warm layers.

Image from https://www.flickr.com/photos/grand_canyon_nps/9346181170

Crater Lake, Oregon

If you’re searching for peace and tranquility, head to Oregon’s famous Crater Lake. Spend your days taking in the views and watching the gentle rippling of the water. Go fishing, grab your walking boots and set off a hike, or climb aboard your bike. On a sunny day, you can appreciate the clarity of the bright blue water. The sunsets are also spectacular. If you’re staying for a few days, this is also a great base to explore Wizard Island.

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Assateague Island

Do you fancy being marooned on the sandy shores of a peaceful island for a few days? If you’re looking to escape it all, Assateague Island in the place to be. You’ll have wild horses for company, and you can sleep beneath the stars and enjoy your own island adventure. If you’re braving the elements in a tent, make sure you’ve got the right kit. Check out Outdoor Gear Boss to stock up on essentials before you set off.

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Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend is a vast national park surrounded by the domineering peaks of the Chisos Mountains. This is the site to choose if you’re interested in stargazing and astronomy. The clear, dark skies make this one of the US’ most noteworthy stargazing spots. By day, you can hike, cycle and climb. In the summer months, the mercury soars, so take plenty of water with you and shelter from the midday sun.

Image via https://www.goodfreephotos.com/places/texas/big-bend-national-park/texas-big-bend-national-park-basin-and-mountains-in-the-distance.jpg.php

Zion, Utah

If geographical features are your bag, look no further than Zion. This stunning national park is straight out of a glossy coffee table book or a geography textbook. Think emerald lakes, crystal-clear waterfalls, and vivid red cliffs. There’s also a hanging garden and some incredibly impressive canyons. This is the place to hone your photography skills and capture moments that will stay with you forever.

Image source: https://pixabay.com/en/photos/utah/

When you’re planning vacations, you may automatically think about sun, sea, and sand. But there are so many different options when it comes to taking time out. Why not switch things up this year and organize a staycation? Explore, discover and enjoy new experiences. Take advantage of the breathtaking scenery on your doorstep, and enjoy the freedom of sleeping under starry skies. An unforgettable adventure awaits!

Image courtesy of https://www.flickr.com/photos/paxson_woelber/8077900378

Back To Homebase...Back To Reality

And my vacation leave went so fast and it's over! Why does enjoyable, family time always end soon? I barely felt my vacation leave and here I am, back to the grind.

My daughter just had few hours here in Dubai to freshen up and we flew to Los Angeles last July 4. We arrived there with so much time to prepare to be able to watch the fireworks. We only watched from afar so I didn't get to see all the celebration in our relatives place in Upland, California. At least, a bucket list item has been ticked - to celebrate 4th of July in the US.

The vacation was brief but fun. We went shopping, meeting friends, and I met with my Aunt who lives in Moreno Valley in Riverside. We didn't get to visit Disneyland because the hubby and daughter got sick. Besides, the temperature during noon time towards the afternoon were unrelenting and I didn't want my hubby and daughter to relapse. They needed rest, so we all took a break from walking and driving around the town.

Our last day was spent in Glendale with my hubby's cousin. We didn't go out much, just had dinner at Cheesecake Factory in The Americanas.  I liked the place. It's like a mini Europe in the middle of Glendale. It's very inviting and cozy to stroll around. But again, time was not our ally. We had to head home in few hours so a decent sleep was required.

So, we all had to go back to reality. My daughter is back in Manila for her classes and hubby and I are back to reality. Reality bites...It bites hard.

How To Make Commuting In Texas Less Stressful

Photo by Travis Ruse

With all of the challenges in the job market, sometimes you need to make compromises. It could be that where you live right now doesn't have much in the way of well-paid jobs. Or perhaps you're qualified for a job that isn't widely available, and you need to look further for it. In either case, the truth is that more and more of us are having to commute to work. In Texas, as big as it is, that can mean long journeys. In sweltering heat.

Studies have shown that people who have to commute to work are, on balance, less happy than people who don't. And it makes sense. If you can just hop in your car and be at work in 15 to 30 minutes, that means more time in bed, quality time with your family and a better diet. Having to be up and out the door while it's still pitch black doesn't set anyone off to the best start.

But sometimes if you want the best job you have to be ready to travel, at least until it's practical to move or a similar position opens up nearer to you. In cases such as this, your commute should be as easy as possible. Windows down or up, it can get pretty hot on a cross-Texas commute. As such, it's handy to think about ways to make the commute from hell a little more heavenly.

1. Flexible Working Schedules

Not every employer is going to offer it, but if you have the chance to arrange it then sometimes a different schedule can help. If there is some work you can do from home, then you can spend more time with your family. For the time that you do have to spend in the office, you'll be much more serene.

2. Don't Drive, Leave It To Someone Else

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Driving for long periods of time is not a great way to get ready for work. The traffic is out of your control, and you can spend forever looking for a parking space. However, public transport links are improving all the time. If your job involves traveling from Dallas to Houston, it can be a lot better to avail of these improvements. Listen to some music, take your laptop and watch a film. Arrive in a good mood.

3. Stay Over From Time To Time

It may sound counter-intuitive for someone who wants to spend more time at home. However, sometimes there are advantages to staying overnight in a hotel in the city or town you're working in. If it means you can get to the office earlier and be done sooner, then you can get home at a civilized hour, eat dinner with your family and be more relaxed. Showing this ability to be flexible will also encourage your employer to be more flexible with you.

Chances are, you'd still rather have a more convenient job. And it is certainly important to bear in mind that your physical health and emotional well-being outrank everything else. However, these are ways to make commuting less stressful, not remove it entirely. And for as long as you've got to do it, you may as well do it in a more pleasant way.

Why Hawaii Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

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Planning your next holiday and looking for inspiration? The world is a big old place, and there is a lot to choose from. Well, how about Hawaii? It’s a far-flung destination for many, so you might not know much about it. Here are some reasons why it should be your next travel destination.

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First of all, if you’re looking for good weather and the sunshine, Hawaii is one place where your hunt will go well! Thanks to how close it is to the equator, it is hot! Sure, the winter is a wetter time, but temperatures here are still pretty steady. You should appreciate the rain also; it helps keep the island as lush and green as it is. In the summer months, you’ll enjoy the hot sunshine, long days and warm air. Lovely! http://www.govisithawaii.com/hawaii-weather/ will give you more of an insight into the weather.

Ever heard of the Aloha spirit? This is what the locals regard their friendly natures and attitude towards life. It will come your way in the way they speak to you, and even serve you. It’s not just about how they act; is is so to be a way to achieve a strong state of mind. This can, in turn, help you achieve goals, sort out problems or just live a better life. You’ll get a real-life lesson in the Aloha spirit if you visit, as you’ll be able to witness it with your own eyes. You could pick up some tips for your own well-being, or habits to adopt for your return home. Learn more about the Aloha spirit at http://www.huna.org/html/deeper.html.

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Now, if you’re on the hunt for good weather, you’re probably on the hunt for a great beach. Well, Hawaii has loads! 400 public beaches, in fact, across 750 miles of Hawaiian shoreline. Don’t just expect goldens sands, either. There are also beaches made of black, red, white and even green sand! Find out more about the last one at http://www.greensandbeachhawaii.com/!

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Want to see something other than golden sea and turquoise sand? Happily, Hawaii has loads of culture and activities to enjoy. It may be the 50th state of the United States, but the culture is very different. Everyone in Hawaii is a minority, thanks to the fact that so many of the residents are from elsewhere. You’ll find Chinese, Japanese, Latinos and many more living here harmoniously alongside each other. This makes for a rich culture that seeps into every area of life. Expect a diverse range of food, music, architecture and more as a result. Find out more about culture in Hawaii over at http://bestinbeach.com/.

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Like to shop? Hawaii has its own designer collection of shops, including Yves St Laurent and Chanel, both of which are in Waikiki. Like to walk? Expect stunning canyons, volcanoes, sea cliffs and more. Hawaii Island, which is also known as Big Island, is home to waterfalls, tropical rainforests and a volcanic landscape. These can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from on foot to on horseback. Some places are so high and remote you can’t even access them on foot. Take Maui’s Honokohau Falls, for instance; the best way to see this incredible natural wonder is in a helicopter! Like to surf? You’re in luck! Whether you’re a novice or a professional, there will be a beach and waves for you. http://www.surfertoday.com/surfing/7056-the-best-hawaiian-surf-spots lists some of the island’s best surf spots.

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Birthday Travel for 2016

Last year was the first time I have ever ventured on a trip with a friend and not with my family. My travel has always been with my husband and daughter. Ever since my daughter went to the Philippines for her collegiate studies, her vacation schedule has become an issue when it comes to applying for vacation leaves in the office. Oftentimes, her off from school coincides with other colleagues vacation plans so I had to bargain and see if one will concede or not. Then, our plan just ends up getting cancelled.

My first time to travel to Amsterdam with a friend for our birthday (she is also a March celebrant) was really fun and exciting. I felt liberated in a way because I have always been bound to travel only with my husband and daughter. Since I managed to travel on my own, I am kind of yearning another birthday gift for myself. Will it be a possibility? I am not sure, depending on the budget of the "sponsor" (who happens to be my loving husband).

My husband was kind enough to know what really makes me happy, as in that ethereal feeling! Travel is the only activity in my list that really makes me giddy with excitement. I can't keep from smiling from ear to ear. From the moment we decide where to go, to the planning stage, to the packing of bags, to the actual trip, to the sightseeing and food binging, to enjoying the local scene, and to the flight back, my feeling is just a cycle of being happy and grateful for the blessings and opportunity to travel.

I am glad that my husband wants to treat me somewhere this year for my birthday. Not in Dubai but outside of UAE. He is actually choosing between traveling to the US on a weekend quick-trip or to nearby Georgia (the country) where we haven't been yet. I don't mind, as long as it's free and I'm taking a leave from work.

So, for my birthday this year, I would settle for a nice trip. I don't want to spend because I really don't have much money left to spare for any travel for the first quarter but if the "finance manager" says so, who am I to say no? :)

Great Tips For An American Road Trip

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America is a massive country with a vast amount of diversity – both in its different cultures and the raw geography. Visiting a few different cities can blow your mind, but for some travellers that’s simply not enough. To make sure you have the freedom to soak in as much as possible, I recommend a road trip. These are more flexible and in a lot of cases much more enjoyable than your standard American vacation. Here’s how to get the most from yours.

First of all, set a plan of the things you want to see, but don’t make this plan too rigid. Odds are you have a time limit on your road trip. Because of this, it’s a good idea to know which city or town you’re going to be sleeping in on which night. Try to keep your driving time under 8 hours per day, but aside from that keep your mind open. No matter which state you happen to be ploughing through, you’re bound to see little roadside curiosities. These will draw you in and give you some great memories. Research the areas you’ll cross, of course, but don’t trust the tourist guides too much.

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Another big pointer is to pack light. This will make your first few days of travelling more convenient and smooth, but also leave you a lot of room to collect. Believe me, you’ll need it! Sending all the things you want to take home with you can be very expensive. Wouldn’t it be a disappointment to find an awesome mounted alligator head in Florida, or a hand-woven Apache rug in New Mexico, and not have the space to bring it home with you? Remember that all this space won’t be used if you don’t bring a proper road trip attitude. You’ll find that America is full of strange signs. When you see “Smallest Bowling Alley On Earth” or “World’s Largest Artichoke”, don’t just point and giggle, investigate!

Get as much fun as you can out of your trip, but remember to stay safe during the process. Road trips are about being wild and free, but keep some channel of communication with the outside world. Text a trusted friend or your parents daily to let them know where you are and where your next planned destination is. The general rule in America is you’ll only have a real tragedy on your hands if your group are all smoking hot and in their early twenties. Still, better safe than sorry. In the very rare event that something bad happens, it’s best to have someone with a rough idea of where you are. Keep a good stock of medicine and first aid supplies too.

By keeping these tips in mind, your road trip’s bound to be one to remember. If you’re not used to this kind of travelling, the lack of structure can feel a bit daunting. Embrace that sense of chaos. Let loose, keep an open mind, and let your trip go wherever your whims take you. As a final tip, remember to take pictures!

My Tips For A Brilliant Trip To Florida

Are you planning a trip to Florida? While some people see the state as plastic others love the picturesque setting and gorgeous sandy beaches. Not to mention the theme parks that are fun-filled zones no matter how old you are. As you’ve probably guessed, I’m in the latter group. I love Florida and that’s why I want to make sure your trip there is the best it can be. So here are my tips on how to make the most of this wonderful vacation spot.

Book At The Right Time

Typically, people find that they have to counter the price of a Trip to Florida with the weather forecast. Ideally, you want to avoid the storm season while also not hitting the summer rush. That’s why despite the fact that October is the cheapest time to visit Florida I don’t recommend you head over during that time. This is when the chances of hurricanes are at their highest. It will certainly put a dampener on having a beach outside your window if you can’t go out and enjoy it. Also, you’ll find most of the theme park rides will be closed during a storm. However, you also don’t want to head over in July or August. The crowds are immense at this time of year, and you’ll be lucky to find a single spot of shade where you can sit down and relax. Instead, take my advice and head over in the spring. The weather isn’t too hot, the crowds haven’t arrived, and you’ll be in for a wonderful time.

Alternates To A Hotel

Hotels in Florida are wonderful, but it’s difficult to ignore how much they are for what you get. Even the resort hotels are ridiculously priced considering they often consist of one room and a bathroom. Instead, I recommend that you look into renting a privately owned accommodation. A vacation rental by owner offer will allow you to stay in a luxury apartment overlooking the beautiful sandy beaches of Florida. The price will be reasonable, and you will have the freedom you simply can’t get in a hotel. Enjoy Florida your way by skipping the hotel and getting a little more for your money.

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Beaches And Theme Parks

Obviously, one of Florida's biggest draws is the beautiful sandy beaches that stretch for miles along the coast. There, you can try your luck on the open waves with a surfboard. Or, you can relax staring up at a perfect velvet blue sky.

Then there are the theme parks of which there are now too many to name. If you’re heading over at the end of this year, I’m sure you’ll be checking out the magic of Disney at Christmas. There’s nothing quite like it, and it’s the only place that you’ll find snow in Florida

But don’t forget there’s a lot more to Florida than that. For instance, you should certainly take a hover boat ride across the swamps to see the natural habitat of the alligators. And don’t forget that you might be lucky enough to see a rocket blast enough at Kennedy Space Centre. There’s no question that there’s a lot more to Florida than first meets the eye. I hope you have a wonderful time.   

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