Five Places to Meet the Presidents

With President’s Day coming up this weekend, many people may find it interesting to learn more about our former Presidents. For those interested in the life and history of the former presidents, visiting their former homes and libraries will offer an inside look into the lives of those who served as the nation’s leader.

According to CNN Travel, from simple log cabins to expansive estates, the presidential homes and the associated historic sites are open to the public. So, what are you waiting for? Visit these historic homes this President Day Weekend for an insight into lives of these former U.S. presidents.

Lincoln Birthplace in Hodgenville, Kentucky

1. Lincoln Birthplace

The Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Site in Hodgenville, Kentucky features a replica of the log cabin where Lincoln was born.

2. Reagan library

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California, houses all Reagan’s official presidential papers, records along with personal objects such as his sweater, movie memorabilia from his film career and even a glass jelly bean jar.

3. Mount Vernon

Visitors to Mount Vernon, Virginia can tour the carefully restored mansion, hike the nature trail or explore personal artifacts in a vast state-of-the-art museum on the grounds.

4. Jackson’s Hermitage

Visitors touring Jackson’s Hermitage can tour the mansion, stroll the formal gardens and see the original log cabin where the Jacksons lived for a time.

5. FDR’s home

The Franklin D. Roosevelt complex of sites in Hyde Park, New York features the lifelong home of a president, a museum and official presidential library all within walking distance of each other.

10 Best Romantic Islands Inns and Resorts

Looking for that ideal romantic hideaway this Valentine season? Whisk honey for that ideal romantic retreat at one of these lovey-dovey retreats.

Petit St. Vincent, Grenadines

The two hundred elegantly decorated cottages along the sun-kissed island in Caribbean offer an ideal setting and everything else that you need for that unforgettable romantic getaway.

The Inn on Peaks Island, Maine

The Inn is situated amidst all the fun and excitement of Casco Bay, two miles from downtown Portland. The Inn features six pleasantly furnished suites with fireplaces, private decks and spa tubs.

The Inn at Mama’s Fish House, Maui, Hawaii

Ideally located on Maui’s North Shore, the Inn has in store for couples a handful of cottages, equipped with great amenities.

The Collier Inn, Useppa Island, Florida

The 80-acre island on which the Inn is located is only accessible only by water and can be explored mostly by golf cart, contains neither cars nor roads. The Inn comprises seven antiques-filled suites.

Hotel del Coronado and Glorietta Bay Inn, Coronado Island, California

The beachfront hotel features thoughtfully appointed rooms in both the old and the new style.

English Country Garden B&B, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

The English Country Garden Bed & Breakfast provides comfortable and luxurious rooms which include a tiny, secluded log cottage with a porch overlooking a small lake.

Casita de Maya, Cozumel, Mexico

Casita de Maya provides the perfect headquarters for a getaway. The four rooms at the cottage feature beautifully appointed in earthy colors, open onto a pretty little courtyard with a pool.

MacKaye Harbor Inn, Lopez Island, Washington

The MacKaye Harbor Inn, in a huge restored farmhouse near the south end of the Lopez Island is a great place for your next romantic getaway.

A Water’s Edge Retreat, Kelleys Island, Ohio

The bed-and-breakfast features bright coral-and-aqua exteriors along with traditional and refined rooms.

Jekyll Island Club Hotel, Jekyll Island, Georgia

The Jekyll Island Club Hotel occupies the clubhouse and several other historic buildings, including a couple of the cottages, keeping up the standards splendidly.

The Greatest New Year’s Celebrations on Earth

2009 is just round the corner and you have yet another excuse to party and dance all night away! Are you one of those fun loving party crazy folks looking forward to have the evening of a lifetime this New Year’s Eve? Make your December 31st a night to remember by taking a trip to the most exciting, lively, and fun places on the planet. Here is just a sampler of what’s going on in the world at the close of the year, from wild concerts to ethereal, moonlit retreats.

Las Vegas

Any other day Las Vegas would be considered wild for most, but the evening of the 31st is like no other. Whether it’s the strip or downtown, every hotel and nightclub in Vegas is filled with celebration.  Over 400,000 people gather to celebrate, dance, the night away on the strip, including many celebrities. The culmination of the evening is best seen in front of Caesars Palace when a fantastic light and fireworks show explodes across the Nevada sky at the stroke of midnight.

Sydney, Australia

In Sydney, Australia, there really is only one thing to do on New Year’s Eve; watch the fireworks display over Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Fortunately, the city plans the event so well, it is one of the most enjoyable times to be had anywhere on earth. People start gathering in the prime waterside viewing spots as early as 9 a.m., but there’s usually plenty of room for everyone. The whole day almost becomes a city-wide festival. When the main event approaches a countdown is projected against the bridge and then an enormously huge fireworks show that simply must be seen to be believed rips across the sky.

London, England

The London Parade, held New Year’s Day, attracts visitors from all over Europe. It is a fantastic celebration featuring local heroes, marching bands, clowns and more. Of course, London has a variety of events for you to enjoy the evening as well. Make your way to the London Eye for a spectacular fireworks display.

Bangkok

New Year’s Eve takes place not once, not twice, but three times in Thailand, and its capital Bangkok.  First New Year’s Eve extravaganza takes place alongside the rest of the Western World on Dec. 31. Head to Bangkok’s Central World Plaza, where you can dance the night away alongside watching spectacular fireworks. The second New Year’s Eve is in mid-January when the Chinese New Year is celebrated in Bangkok’s Chinatown. Finally, third New Year’s Eve festivities happen in April with the Songkran festival: celebrate the Thai calendar with more parades, costumes and water balloon-throwing festivities.

New York City, New York

The epicenter of the jubilant event is the world-famous Times Square, a festival of lights, electric banners, and New York iconography in itself.  The main event, the famous New Year’s Eve Ball dropping from the flagpole on top of Number One, Times Square, is such an iconic heralding of the turning of the year that countries around the world tune in to watch NYC’s event any way they can. The symbolic act has been marking the New Year in New York for over a hundred years, and looks to be strong enough to last hundreds more.

Hopefully you’ll be inspired to seek out bigger and better parties, and welcome in the New Year with a bang. Have a promising and fulfilling New Year!!!

Spectacular Holiday Light Displays

Holiday season is the most joyous time of the year. It’s time to celebrate with friends, family and relatives. Some prefer it spending hosting parties at home, while others, the outdoorsy types love to spend holidays away from it all! But, whether its Christmas at home or outside, light displays are one of the most exciting part of holiday celebrations; they’re free, they’re enchanting, and they require nothing of us, other than that we take a few minutes to enjoy them. Here are some of the world’s most dazzling light displays for you to enjoy:

Walt Disney World: Orlando

The annual celebrations at Hollywood Studios—known as “The Osborne Dancing Christmas Lights”- is truly enchanting.

Town Hall Building: Brussels

The 15th-century building on Brussels’ Grand Place turns out to be even more spectacular when illuminated every night during the month of December. The lightings here are accompanied by soft music. The ambiance is intoxicating!

Silver Dollar City: Branson, Missouri

The theme park of Silver Dollar City is already decked out for holidays. But the most enchanting of all is the nightly light-and-music show of its five-story Special Effects Christmas Tree. The tree is lit with thousands of glittering lights making it appear as if a dazzling star in the night sky.

Tivoli Gardens: Copenhagen

Tivoli Gardens is one of the oldest amusement parks in Europe. The entire park is turned into a Christmas village during the holidays.  The rides, concert hall, market stalls and willow trees are all decorated with blinking lights.

Palacio de Comunicaciones: Madrid

Palacio de Comunicaciones is Madrid’s City Hall that hosts a light-show spectacle that rivals the July Fourth celebrations in the New York City.

Harbour City: Kowloon, Hong Kong

Kowloon’s Harbour City is truly one of Asia’s best places to indulge in Christmas celebrations.  A shopper’s paradise with over 700-plus stores, Harbour City gets even more alluring during the Christmas when everything sparkles with thousands of twinkling lights.

Micronesia Mall: Dededo, Guam

The “Holiday Lights Experience” at Micronesia Mall is something that you shouldn’t miss. The show is centered around a 35-foot artificial tree, incorporating thousands of music-synched blinking lights.

Taking Flights this Holiday Season: It’s Good to be Prepared!

The Air Transport Association expects comparatively less number of holiday travelers to take flights this holiday season. But, if you are one of those intrepid holiday travelers, planning to get away from it all, it’s better to be prepared for every worse situation. Holiday travel itself means more rush at the airport and those usual flight delays. And if the weather goes bad, it’ll all get worse in a hurry.

According to FlightStats.com, the airlines’ on-time performance, which had topped 90 percent on Thursday and Friday, plunged to less than 50 percent on Sunday. Even the shrinking air-traffic remains affected by bad weather and those who are still flying this holiday season should be prepared for the worst and take the usual precautions – online check-in, reserving parking in advance, getting to the airport early alongside keeping yourself aware of the latest twists in air travel.  Read On

10 Great Places to Celebrate Christmas

Christmas is a busy time of year as many of us hitting the roads and taking to the skies. The holidays can be a time to visit family, but a few people will choose to get AWAY from it all! If you aren’t the sort who wants to spend Christmas Day hosting relatives or hanging out at a friend’s house, here is just a sampler of some of the top Christmas destinations for you to target:

Las Vegas: Vegas is undoubtedly one of the top places to celebrate till the heart’s desire. Will festivities full swing and entertainment attractions galore; you’ll have a blast celebrating here. To top it all, the hotels too offer visually stunning decorations.

Disneyland, Orlando: For families there is no better place than Disney to celebrate Christmas. With fantastic decorations all across the park and the hotels too decorate tastefully, Disney’s charm is truly magical!!!

New York: The Times Square, the spectacular Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center and the amazing Christmas window displays at Macy’s make New York one of the most desirable Christmas travel destinations.

Honolulu, Oahu: The island of Oahu is one of the best visited winter destinations, full of warm and welcoming traditional culture and scenic natural beauty. While festivities at Oahu include Concert, Parades and live performances, Honolulu dazzles with spectacular light displays and Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies.

Bay of Islands, New Zealand: The Bay of Islands comprises some of the world’s most breathtaking natural scenery with more than 150 different small islands and secluded beaches, and you can plan your stay at small and cozy villas overlooking the azure blue waters of the ocean.

Meran, Southern Tirol Italy: Meran ranks amongst the world’s most popular ski destinations. Meran’s old town center was built during the 13th century and is offers excellent and shopping and dining experiences over the Christmas break.

Mexico City: Mexico City celebrates Christmas in its own way. Christmas customs here are an eclectic mixture of the old and the new, including elements from Europe, others developed in Mexico, and in recent years elements borrowed from the U.S.A.

Goa, India: Goans celebrate the arrival of the Magi with nine days of fireworks and partying. Crowds congregate to watch three boys in glittering costumes chosen as kings make their way to church on white horses. The fun culminates in The Feast of the Three Kings (Jan. 6), which is celebrated enthusiastically by both Christians and Hindus.

Boston USA: Boston’s old world feel with historic architecture and cobblestoned streets make it a real treat celebrating Christmas here!

Edinburgh, Scotland: Edinburgh is one of the best places to watch Christmas festivities in its full swing. Indulge in Christmas shopping and dining and watch spectacular firework displays at night.

Christmas Travel: Gift Ideas for Travelers

As a traveler you might have gifted your loved ones with something special that you have bought at your last destination. But, it’s time when you need to gift something really special – something that a fellow traveler will cherish forever. So, here are some gift ideas (from budget to little pricey) for all those pondering over, what to give away this Christmas:

GIFTS UNDER $25

Zagat Guide

Zagat guide combines all the valuable inputs, feedbacks and honest opinions on everything from restaurant ambience to quality of food, give travelers a great way to get to know a place before they spend their money there. Now Zagat is also coming up with reviews on hotels, resorts, spas and nightlife. Prices start from $4.95 each.

Space Bag

Space bags are ideal giveaways to those going out with lots of clothes in their luggage. These bags reduce the air between clothes and trim down the volume of sweaters, jeans and other soft objects by 75 percent. Price: $19.95

UNDER $50

Personal UV Germ Finder

This device from TravelSmith helps the hygiene- conscious travelers to detect even tiny traces of bacteria and viruses, allowing its user to “see” germs. Just turn off the lights, point the Germ Finder and then avoid all objects with soiled spots and stains. Price: $49.75.

UNDER $100

Magellan’s Gift Certificate

You can also give a gift certificate from Magellan’s that will a fellow traveler to choose from whatever he thinks is useful. Magellan’s has hundreds of options, from wrinkle-free clothes to language translators and luggage. Price from: $100.

UNDER $500

Track Your Travels Lighted World Map

Let your loved ones display their travel history with this world map. The map comes with 60 colorful pegs that are lit from behind by two 32-watt bulbs; the pegs light up as your recipient places them into each destination! Travelers can highlight where they’ve been or want to be! Price: $250

The ULTIMATE GIFT

What’s the best gift that you can give a traveler? It’s indeed a trip! You can check out the all inclusive deals less than $499 roundtrip at CheapOair and choose from destinations that you friend is planning of visiting. If you’re buying for a picky traveler and are reluctant to choose his or her destination, many airlines and hotels offer flexible gift cards.

Airport Employees Prepare to Deal with Stressed-out Travelers

Peak travel time is already here. And as expected travelers would have to face some delays, fuller  flights and packed airports. In such a situation, stranded traveler’s main target will be the poor airport  employees, who have to face their wrath and resentment. The employees at the Newark Liberty International Airport in Newark are undergoing a special a crash course to deal with such stressful moments.

‘Pressure causes people to behave in a certain manner’, says Belfon, a 27-year-old customer service representative for US Airways. And as the anger cools down, people didn’t believe that they actually acted that way. And later they apologize for their misbehavior. And this stress is even higher at the peak travel times including Thanksgiving and Christmas. To help employees cope, Newark Liberty is offering a customer service program called “Resiliency Edge”.

The program was designed by Tom Murphy, an experience aviation trainer and head of the Human Resiliency Institute in Fordham University’s Graduate School of Education. About two dozen people got a first look at his presentation Wednesday on the concourse inside Terminal B and around 500 other employees are scheduled to undergo this 90-minute training program.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: What’s in store this year?

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

One of the most vibrant and colorful festivals in the USA, Thanksgiving Day is a special occasion that marks the beginning of the holiday season. Celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November, Thanksgiving Day is celebrated to mark the end of the harvest season. The most important highlights of the festival is indeed the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade marked by spectacular displays, marching bands, celebrities and most importantly, the enormous crowd that gathers every year to be a part of this gala event.

Little History:

Started way back in 1924, when nobody had a hint, that the city’s first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade would turn out to be such an successful event that the organizers will declare to be an annual event. Completing its 82nd Anniversary this year, the parade will kick off from 77th Street and Central Park West of the New York City.  Marching down Broadway and turning west on 34th Street, the Parade will finish at 7th Avenue.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade: 2008 Highlights

The special guests participating in the parade this year include; Andy Williams, David Archuleta, the Clique Girls, Charise, Harajuku Girls, James Taylor, Kristen Chenowerth, Lang Lang (Chinese Pianist), teen pop sensation Miley Cyrus aka Hannah Montana, Oneida Indian Nation and special appearance by Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.

Few Tips For Watching Live

Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade is a big event with a huge crowd including the native New Yorker’s that line-up along the tourist’s hordes. People start lining as early as 6:30 AM. So, if you want to get the best view, get there early and don’t forget to wrap yourself up with warm clothes especially if you are watching the parade outside. The best viewing area for the parade is Central Park West, between 66th and 77th Streets. This place is completely crowded, but it’ll be crowded everywhere along the route. It is the beginning of the route – the members of the parade (balloon handlers, marchers, etc) are at the height of their excitement and energy level.

Holiday Season Travel: Getting Out of the Airport Quickly

Holiday season has already set in and it’s time most of us will be getting out and traveling to meet our loved ones. Week after week the airports are getting crowded and the traffic getting heavier. As compared to earlier, getting through the airports quickly, specially during the holiday season is more of an ordeal than the flight itself.  So, how is possible to get through the airport easily. Here are a few tips that might be handy to help you steer through the airport much easily.

Packing Light: Almost a cliché. Packing light is important as ever. Try and pack the lighter objects in a small suitcase and heavy ones, for example books should be placed in a small bag. Moreover, pack neatly in layers so that you can easily get through the security check. Remember, more clutter means more delay.

Arriving the Airport: Domestic travelers should reach the airport at least two hours before the departure and international travelers should make it three to four hours ahead of time. Due to considerably huge number of people traveling during peak time, there are more chances of your luggage getting delayed or lost. Try to reach the airport on time and unwrap all your gifts so, it is easier to check them.

Ship your gifts: Another important tip for getting through easily is to ship your gifts in advance, preferably a two to three weeks before your travel date.

Keep a check on flight delays: Many airlines provide information on flight delays on their own site.

Avoid Peak Days Travel: Booking flight two days before the Christmas or on the day of Christmas might get you an emptier flight at better prices. Keeping travel schedule more flexible can help you save big money. If you book your trip in the week next to Christmas day you have better chances of getting a cheaper vacation deal.

Travel Insurance is a Must: Last but not the least, buy yourself travel insurance. In such a grim economic situation, there is greater risk of your flight getting canceled or the luggage being lost or delayed.

Keep a positive attitude but be ready for setbacks!

Spooky Hotels for a Ghoulish Halloween Treat!

Hotel Queen Mary, Long Beach

As the Halloween looms in and our thoughts turns scary, it’s time for yet another treat. For most of us Halloween celebration is the same routine every year; digging the closets to create scary costumes, partying ’til the dawn and eating lots of sweet stuff. But for those daring enough, it’s time to shake things up and try out something unusual and really spooky. Here is a list of some really scary hotel that you must check in for a spooky getaway.

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, USA

The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is considered to the home of Marilyn Monroe and Montgomery Clift. Marilyn reportedly haunts a full length mirror in a room she frequented and Clift has been heard rehearsing his lines.

Crescent Hotel, Eureka Springs

Guests have reported sightings, moving objects and some other odd happenings in several guest rooms, the lobby, dining room and on the grounds of this historic hotel in Haunted Eureka Springs.

Queen Mary Hotel, Long Beach

Docked permanently on the Port of Long Beach, the legendary Queen Mary was commissioned in 1936 and journeyed a thousand Atlantic crossings. Incidents of moving objects, scary voices, and ghostly figures walking the halls and stairs have been reported guests and the hotel staff.

The Langham Hilton Hotel, London

The Victorian-style Langham Hilton Hotel is known be to be the most ghostly hotels, been haunted by seven different ghosts at different point of time.

Breakfast Creek Inn, Australia

The hotel is the most popular scary hotel in entire Australia and was built by William Galloway, the former Lord Mayor of Brisbane in 1889. It is believed that the ghost of the owner haunts the old portion of the hotel. The owner once apparently drunk fell to his death from hotel’s second floor window.

So, leave aside the candy bowl and try out something really scary this Halloween!