NewOutdoorAdventures

Ziplines & Via Ferrata through Trees, a Canyon

2010-10-03T00:16:00.001-04:00

Soar with the birds from treetop to treetop. Glide through a canyon over breathtaking waterfalls or climb a sheer rock face. I was first introduced to ziplining and rock climbing, via ferrata by Francois Guy Thivierge, up in Canyon Sainte-Anne, in Quebec, Canada.
Welcome to Parc des Chutes Coulonge Aerial Park, one of Quebec's awesome adventure parcs. Strap on a harness and lock your carabiners onto a steel cable, then hang on as you zip from tree to tree more than 30' off the ground. Take a slow breath as you get a bird's eye view of the parc and river. Enjoy eight ziplines and a 10 meter Himalayan foot bridge before embarking on the giant 805 feet long giant zip across the canyon. Look down at the Coulonge River and rapids, where logs used to float. This site is a tribute to the great log drives and a 3,000 feet wooden log slide. Explore the Coulonge Falls on pedestrian trails and footbridges with lookouts along the interpretation trail. Or, after gliding along the Canyon Zip, work your way back along prehistoric rock face, via ferrata, which is Latin for "iron roads". The Via Ferrata run 500 meters (1,640 ft) up the gorge towards a natural waterfall. Cross on a 46 m cable tightrope over the chasm, then exit through the steepest and sheerest section of the rock wall in a slanted forest. (www.chutescoulonge.ca)
Need another adrenaline rush? Visit Cap Jaseux in the woods along the Saguenay Fjord. (www.capjaseux.com) This is an adult, jungle gym, extreme, multi-sport destination. They offer rustic and developed camping, sea kayaking, sailing, via ferrata course, mountain biking, and you can spend the night in a tree house, 30+ feet above ground!

You may have done ropes courses, but not like these. They have an extreme course with 33 mentally and physically challenging puzzles and eight zip lines, so difficult, that no one has finished without grabbing for a safety rope. There are rope swings, suspension bridges that roll under your feet, trapeze bars and tight ropes. If that's not enough, at one puzzle you unclip from your safety-line belay and trust the net, just like Cirque du Soleil.

Looking for more adrenaline rushes? Follow this blog for more; white water rafting and bungee jumping!

Take Aim at Breast Cancer, Paintball Tournament

2010-10-01T23:03:00.000-04:00

Fantasy of Flight: "Take Aim at Breast Cancer"

Oct. 23-24, 2010 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

During the 2010 Paintball Sports Promotion (PSP) World Cup Paintball Tournament held at Fantasy of Flight, guests can contribute to the fight to find a cure for breast cancer. For a small donation, guests will be able to fire a round of pink paintballs at a canvas that will eventually become a work of art. A portion of the funds collected will be donated to the Orlando Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Local Winter Haven artist, Tony Trotti, has agreed to donate his talent to creating art out of the paintball splattered canvases which will be donated to the Cassidy Center at Winter Haven Hospital to be auctioned off at their annual gala on Nov. 4th, 2010. Community partners include Paintball Sports Promotion (PSP), Off the Wall Adventures, Inc., Procaps Direct and Artist Tony Trotti.

Cost: Spectators receive free entry to the PSP World Cup. $10 donation for each round.

Camping with the Caribou!

2010-09-21T22:59:00.000-04:00

Almost glamping. What an awesome adventure to be camping with Caribou. Come on a safari with me. Don't worry you don't have to go all the way to Africa. We're heading north to Canada, Saguenay in Quebec. Welcome to the Saint Felicien Zoo, they celebrated either 50th anniversary this year! http://www.zoosauvage.org
This probably isn't like other zoos you may have been to. The polar bear exhibit is very popular. Many people gather around to watch these aqua lovers play and eat. If you can't get away right now, they have live webcams so you can take a creativity or mental health break and just watch as these beautiful creatures roam and play. Their habitats are grande and as much of a natural habitat as possible.

Be introduced to their ecosystem with an interactive movie. Feel, touch, smell; awaken your senses through a marvelous movie that was filmed in the park!
Take a tram ride through the Nature Trail (natural habitat) where you can get up close and personal with black bears, wolves, Elk and Caribou! Guests can become VIP's, with their own personal guide for more than 24 hours on an adventure inside the park. Go moose hunting (tracking) and camp out with the Caribou. Enjoy a short hike through the Borealie. Paddle on Lake Montagnais and look for caribou and other animals on the islands amist the loggers camp. Partake in lunch at a Colonial Farm. Dine on a meal cooked over an open fire. Marvel as the caribou meander through your camp. Be sure and take your flashlight if you have to go anywhere at night, you don't want to accidentally bump into a caribou on your way to the outhouse, and you definitely don't want to step in any scat).
Kids and adults can even get a behind the scenes look at the large animal veterinary clinic as well as other educational opportunities, camps and water games.

They're friendly. Really they are! They are almost domesticated.

Wanna hear a secret? There's a rumor going around that in the near future, you may be able to run with the wolves! Okay, maybe not run with them, but.. something similar to Camping with the Caribou. sshhhh!

Fastest Indian and wheels through history

2010-09-19T19:00:00.000-04:00

I have a love/hate relationship with motorcycles. When I was younger I was in a minor motorcycle accident. Naturally, I tended to shy away from them after that. However, I still love to look at them and even ride as a passenger, with someone I trust, on the back of a Harley or Triumph.
I had the pleasure of visiting a wonderful garage, well actually its a museum. In Maggie Valley, NC, is an awesome place where there are more than 300 rare, classic and working motorcycles and a few vehicles. The founder, Dale, of Wheels Through Time (www.wheelsthroughtime.com) is very passionate about his motorcycles and the other vehicles in the collection. "Every motorcycle has a story. I didn't just go out and buy them," explains Dale. No matter where you stop on the floor, or the second floor, Dale or his son, are happy to explain the history behind the motorcycle.
Dale was recently featured in an interview with Jay Leno at Pebble Beach. http://www.jaylenosgarage.com/at-the-garage/motorcycles/motorcycles-of-pebble-beach-2010/#comments

Gulf Beaches, Mental Health Day, Sandpiper

2010-09-16T14:25:00.001-04:00

Life is busy. But it doesn't mean we can't escape for a day or two. In fact, it's imperative that you schedule regular mental-health days, or a creativity break. We need to debrief our brain and body from the organized chaos we live and breath from day to day.
Walk out your door, from the Sandpiper Inn (www.sandpiperinn.com) on Longboat Key, and you'll be stepping onto one of Florida's best kept secrets. A beach where the tide gently rolls in, proffering her treasures. Beachcomb, walk along the beach, jog or bring your beloved pet too. A beautiful sunset, calming breeze and fresh air beckon you to come back regularly. Sip cocktails on your private beach and make new friends, walk among the mangroves, bays or go birding with local resident egrets and more than 200 species of birds. A wonderful park is across the street for biking and walking, Joan M. Durante Community Park.
Rent or bring a bike to explore bike paths along Longboat Key and St. Armands Circle. (www.sarasotafl.org) Browse the unique stores and boutiques for the hard to shop for family and friends, or just for yourself! Hop aboard a fishing charter, enjoy eco-touring in local wild life habitats and reel in some fun (and memories) with your mackeral, grouper or giant flounder.

   Stroll through Motes Aquarium (www.mote.org), great for one, two, or the family! Learn about sharks and Florida's native species. There are touch pools for adults and kids. Kids can get a bucket of sand and pan for sharks tooth and more! Marvel at John & Mable's Ringling Museum of Art (www.ringling.org) and the Ca d'Zan mansion. A must see and experience from the private art collection to the beautifully maintained home to the International Arts Festival coming in October.
   The evening wouldn't be complete without a decadent meal in a relaxing atmosphere. Our personal favorites include: Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub. This charming, weathered beach house dates back to 1912 and is accessible by land or sea. The manager told me that most of his clients don't know how to come by land, they all arrive in their boats. The Sandbar, on Anna Maria Island is also a legend dating back to 1913, offers tropical music and fresh seafood. The website for these two and a third restaurant on the beach, is www.groupersandwich.com. We ate at mar Vista and the view as well as our meal was superb and our waitress did a wonderful job making sure my scallops were just right!
   We also enjoy Harry's. A very charming restaurant where you can get a delicious german pancake with apples and bananas. They are open for breakfast and lunch with a varied schedule during off seasons. They also offer catering.
   Revisit old Florida. Leave your cell phones, blackberries and laptops at home. Bring your camera and a pair of sandals as you will be swept away in Longboat Key's peaceful respite.

More photos and places to stay and visit in Longboat Key and Sarasota at www.newtraveladventures.com
Another one of my favorite places to stay ad I hope will be yours, is the Cypress Bed & Breakfast (www.cypressbb.com) in Sarasota, overlooking the bay! Their rooms are spacious, elegant, comfortable and the innkeepers will make sure you have everything you need, including a welcome glass of wine and light snacks before dinner on the town. You can walk to the historic art and theatre village only one block over. Only minutes from Sarasota's wonderful attractions including Selby Botanical Gardens, to boating and water sports, right from the marina across the street.

Myakka River State Park

2010-09-05T18:12:00.001-04:00

Step onto the trail. Do you hear it? The stillness in the air. It's relatively quiet. An occasional car might drive along the winding road, but it's you and nature. The rustle of leaves on the ground or maybe a few treetops waving a gentle breeze. Listen to the Pied-billed Grebe, Red-headed woodpecker and the Pileated woodpecker. Keep an eye out for the Snowy or Great Egret, the Great Blue Heron and a White ibis, among dozens of other species that are permanent residents at Myakka River State Park.
Myakka River State Park offers a beautiful Canopy Walkway that is suspended 25 feet above ground and is 100 feet long through the hammock. A tower is located at one end which reaches 74 feet high. A great observation deck with a coin-operated viewfinder to observe treetops, wetlands and the prairie among other wildlife.
The fresh pine smell is relaxing and refreshing. The Myakka River flows through 5 square miles of wetlands, prairies and woodlands. Go for a hike along part of the 39 miles of trails. Rent a bike or kayak and ride along the scenic drive through shady hammocks, grassy marshes and around the lake. The park also offers a guided, narrated airboat and tram ride for visitors to relax and learn about the parks special inhabitants and history.
Myakka River State Park offers trails, campsites, boating, kayaking, birdwatching and other fun, outdoor activities for individuals, families or couples.

Labor Day Events in Florida

2010-08-27T20:56:00.000-04:00

American Music Festival – (Daytona Beach, Sept. 1-5) Celebrate Labor Day with the stars! Legendary jazz crooner Tony Bennett, five-time Grammy award winner Usher and teen pop sensations the Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato will all be performing during Daytona Beach’s American Music Festival. Other musical acts performing during the weekend includeBuddy Guy, Taj Mahal and the Phantom Blues Band, Huey Lewis and the News, and Blake Shelton with special guest Jerrod Niemann. For ticket information or more details, visitwww.amf2010.com. As a Daytona Beach tradition, the seaside city will celebrate the end of summer with a festive Labor Day Block Party on Main Street and a spectacular fireworks show from the nearby historic /b>Daytona Beach Pier. Visit www.daytonabeach.com or call toll-free 1(800) 854-1234 for further details.
Read more here: www.NewTravelAdventures.com

Ringling, Baryshnikov Art at its' finest

2010-08-23T12:00:00.002-04:00

Five artistic, beautiful days and nights of music, theatre and dance will be presented at the Ringling International Arts Festival (RIAF) in partnership with Baryshnikov Arts Center for community enjoyment. This is the second year for this festival and demand for tickets and performances has been very demanding with early ticket sales and some performances already sold out. Baryshnikov himself will be offering a limited number of performances, however, I'm told they may already be sold out. But don't worry there are numerous other beautiful performances to come see and to bring your family out for. Tim Fain will be performing the world premiere of a Philip Glass composition commissioned expressly for the Festival. There will be 44 performances of 11 stage productions presented Oct. 13-17 in three theaters of the Ringling Center for the Arts in Sarasota.

For more information: www.ringlingartsfestival.org

Also, more will be posted on our website: www.NewTravelAdventures.com

Oklahoma Honors Military

2010-08-23T10:03:00.000-04:00

State Park says Thank You with 25 percent discount.

Oklahoma State Parks are kicking off a special promotion to say "thank you" to U.S. troops both past and present. Now through February 28, 2011, active or retired military, as well as veterans are eligible for a 25 percent discount off of lodge rooms and cabin stays at any Oklahoma state park.

This discount is valid any day of the week, including weekends, based on availability and is redeemable at all five state park lodges, plus more than 300 newly renovated cabins statewide.

"This is a small way we can say thank you and show our support of the men, women and their families who give so much to our country," said Hardy Watkins, executive director, Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department. "We hope it provides an opportunity for well-deserved rest and relaxation to people who give us all so much. At the same time, we hope they can create some wonderful, lifelong memories at our state parks." www.TravelOK.com/state_parks

Read more here: www.NewTravelAdventures.com

Alaska Cruises

2010-08-10T17:10:00.000-04:00

Looking for an affordable cruises in Alaska? Whether you are looking for a 7 day, 10 day or 14 day adventure to see the beautiful glaciers and then some, visit our website, www.NewTravelAdventures.com
Travel from Vancouver to Ketchikan to Juneau, Skagway, then go sightseeing along Glacier Bay and College Fjord. After this breathtaking experience, hop onboard a luxury rail for a scenic trip of Denali and Mt. McKinley.

Summer, Fall Adventures in Big Bear

2010-07-10T23:29:00.000-04:00

Reward yourself with a weekend getaway or vacation where you can let the rod and reel do the work or a boat or bike! Immerse yourself in one of Earth's Garden of Edens at Big Bear Lake in California. Explore with soft or extreme adventure in the Rocky Mountains in the San Bernardino National Forest on mountain bike trails or on horseback.
Explore the back country hiking the alpine trails or birding for downtime or get some extreme adventure ziplining, water skiing, kayaking, parasailing and more. Allow the thrilling adventures get your feet off the ground and take your breath away.
Feed your inner soul, re-energize with a spa treatment and revitalize your energy.
Enjoy Big Bear in any season; from sparkling summers, to crisp autumn colors and the magic of winter on the slopes.
Find out more here, www.NewTravelAdventures.com or here, www.Bigbear.com
From romantic getaways to family vacations, Big Bear is just a short drive away and offers lodging packages with free pre-paid Visa card deals. Travel to Big Bear this spring, summer or fall and we'll help pay for your trip. Those who stay at a participating lodge one or two nights get a $25 Visa card three or four night stays are good for $50 and five or more nights receive a $100 Visa card. Guests can spend the pre-paid Visa cards freely at any place that accepts Visa, such as dinner at a nice restaurant, a pontoon boat rental, tickets to an event or a shopping spree in the Big Bear Village. The free pre-paid Visa card promotion ends November 22, 2010. Restrictions may apply.

Ghosts? Paranormal? at Fantasy of Flight?

2010-07-09T16:15:00.000-04:00

Fantasy of Flight's night Flight Paranormal Investigation

Back by popular demand, Fantasy of Flight invites guests to embark on this active, professional paranormal investigation led by Apollo Paranormal Investigations. Visitors will learn of the world's largest private aircraft collection’s haunted history, explore the unexplained occurrences throughout the halls and hangars of Fantasy of Flight, visit locations where encounters have been recorded and engage in the hands-on use of the tools of the ghost hunting trade. The event is Oct. 16th and 30th from 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.. Tickets are $75.00 (plus tax) per person. Guests must be 16 years of age or older and minors must be accompanied by an adult (parent or guardian). Reservations required. For more information please visit www.fantasyofflight.com/nightFlight or call 863-984-3500.

Albuquerque, NM Summer FUN Heats Up!

2010-06-09T11:50:00.001-04:00

Escape your everyday - plan your visit to Albuquerque today

Sign up to win a customized vacation to Albuquerque
Four people will win a three-night customized vacation to Albuquerque. Immerse yourself in all that Albuquerque has to offer with the help of a local Albuquerque expert to make your trip even more memorable.

Plan your summer getaway to AlbuquerqueAlbuquerque is blessed with a mild, dry climate, which makes summertime very comfortable. Enjoy an array of summer concerts, festivals and markets. Save with our lodging specials.

Southwest Airlines New Mexico Specials: June 8 - 14
Albuquerque is Southwest Airline's Featured Destination. Get great deals this week on Southwest Airlines flights, hotels and packages. See the link on ItsATrip.org or visit Southwest.com

Upcoming Events:Turner to Cezanne: Masterpieces from the Davies Collection, National Museum of Wales Now - August 8Features approximately 55 paintings and five important Impressionist works at the Albuquerque Museum of Art & History. Organized by the American Federation of Arts and The National Museum of Wales.
Summer Fun Now - September

Summertime offers an array of concerts, festivals, markets and fun. Experience Albuquerque's diverse and unique music scene on almost any given night of the week with: Zoo Music, Salsa, Jazz and Blues Under the Stars, Summerfest, Concert Band Summer series, Summer Nights concert series and much more.

Mariachi Spectacular July 7 - 11

Featuring the world's finest and most accomplished mariachi musicians.

"Hot Time in Old Town" Salsa Fiesta August 14

Salsa music and dance, a salsa tasting competition, and live entertainment throughout Old Town.

Albuquerque Film Festival August 25 - 29

Celebrating writers, filmmakers, musicians and artists from around the globe whose unique visions break rules and startle the imagination.

New Mexico Wine Festival September 4 - 6

Wine tastings, live entertainment, food, and arts and crafts in Bernalillo.

¡Globalquerque! World Music Festival September 24 - 25

A celebration that includes international performers, local artists, food and crafts from around the world, and more.

22nd Annual Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Festival October 1 - 3 & 8 - 10

Over 250 fine artists and craftsmen, entertaiment, artist demonstrations, food and fun.

Fall Indian Art Market October 2 - 3

Buy direct from Native American artists at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® October 2 - 10

More than 600 balloons participate in Mass Ascensions, eveningBalloon Glows, a Special Shape Rodeo and more.

Taste of New Mexico October 7 - 9

20-50 booths offering food in taste portion size, live performances, a wine and brew gallery, New Mexico cigars, New Mexico chile and desserts!

Georgia State Park July Calendar of Events

2010-06-09T07:36:00.000-04:00

Below is the July 2010 Calendar from Georgia's State Parks & Historic Sites. More information on events, including accommodations and facilities, can be found at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org or 1-800-864-7275. For an online calendar listing, visitwww.GeorgiaStateParks.org/events. You can also become a fan on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. Thank you for helping promote Georgia’s natural and historic resources!

July 2010 Events – Divided By Region

NORTHERN GEORGIA

Independence Day Celebration

Friday, July 2 through Sunday, July 4, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge – Dawsonville

A weekend of family fun to celebrate the nation’s independence! Join us for relay races, patriotic crafts, and the famous watermelon seed-spitting contest! $5 parking. (706) 265-1969.

July 4^th Mountain Style

Friday, July 2 through Sunday, July 4

Unicoi State Park and Lodge – Helen

The weekend will include fun such as a watermelon eatin’ seed spittin contest, sack races, music concert, hoedown, and fun for the entire family. This event starts at 8 PM on Friday and ends at 9 PM on Sunday. $5 parking. 800-573-9659 ext. 305.

Appalachian Jam

Saturdays, July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site – Dahlonega

Every Saturday starting April 17 until October 9, come listen to the sounds and songs of yesteryear. North Georgia's mountain music singers and pickers will appear on the grounds of the historic Dahlonega Gold Museum. Enjoy acoustic and old-time strings as the sounds of yesterday fill the air. (706) 864-3513.

Holiday Gorge Floor Hike

Saturday, July 3 through Monday, July 5, 10:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls

This guided hike will take you from rim to river while learning about the gorge's unique environments. Be sure to wear proper footwear (no flip-flops or crocs). This hike is strenuous and will involve rock hopping and getting wet. Bring a lunch and lots of water. For ages 10 and older. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. (706) 754-7981.

Old Fashioned Independence Day Celebration
Saturday, July 3
Tugaloo State Park - LavoniaEvents will begin with our 10 a.m. bicycle parade. Old-time games on the ballfield at 1 p.m. include sack races, three-legged races, relays, egg and water balloon tosses, and other events. At 3 p.m. we will hold our annual putt-putt torunament for ages 12 and younger. $3 for putt-putt tournament, plus $5 parking. (706) 356-4362.

Visiting Artist Series at Unicoi

Saturdays, July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sundays, July 4, 11, 18 and 25, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Unicoi State Park and Lodge – Helen

The program lasts each weekend from Memorial Day through mid-November. Several talented artists and craftspeople from Georgia and surrounding states will demonstrate and have samples of their work for sale. $5 parking. 800-573-9659 ext. 305.

Saturday Evening Concert Series

Saturdays, July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 8 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Unicoi State Park and Lodge – Helen

Every Saturday from Memorial Day through mid-November. Some of the best musicians in the area perform a variety of music, from Appalachian Mountain to bluegrass to Southern gospel. "Pass-the-hat" donations. $5 parking. 800-573-9659 ext. 305.

Independence Day at Vogel

Sunday, July 4, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Vogel State Park – Blairsville

Come to Vogel as we celebrate our independence with a special flag-raising ceremony. Also there will be a bicycle parade, pedal boat races, and sandcastle building competition, watermelon eating, sack races, egg tosses and greased pole climbing. $5 parking. (706) 745-2628.

Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals

Saturday, July 17, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Smithgall Woods Conservation Park – Helen

Children and their special "big person" can fish in a lake stocked with catfish, bass, and bream. Fish caught can be kept. Bring your own bait and rods. Some rods are available for loan. Call for directions to "Buck Shoals." $5 parking. (706) 878-3087.

Witch’s Head Excursion

Saturday, July 17, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Saturday, July 24, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls

This guided hike will take you to the bottom of the dam to view the witch's head rock and enjoy a relaxing lunch. Bring lots of water, lunch and proper foot wear. $5 plus $5 parking. (706) 754-7981.

Snakes Alive
Saturday, July 17, 8 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Tugaloo State Park - LavoniaThis reptile program includes live snakes to view up close and personal. Meet at the amphitheater to learn about venomous and non-venomous snakes found in north Georgia. $5 parking. (706) 356-4362.

Chief Vann House Days

Saturday, July 24, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Chief Vann House Historic Site – Chatsworth

Watch 1800s crafts demonstrations at the 1804 mansion of Cherokee Indian plantation owner James Vann. Cherokee tribal members along with local demonstrators show the art of blacksmithing, soap making, weaving, spinning, quilting, doll making, chair and basket weaving, pottery, and much more. $3.50–$5. (706) 695-2598.

A Tribute To Georgia Authors

Saturday, July 24, 9 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site – Dahlonega

Meet local and national authors who will bring their newest releases and older favorites. They will be glad to sign copies and add personal notes. $3.50- $5. (706) 864-2257.

Introduction to Nature Journaling

Saturday, July 24, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Smithgall Woods Conservation Park – Helen

Make a simple saddle-stitched booklet and learn techniques for recording your close encounters with nature. Artist Linda Lindeborg will help participants explore ideas for themed journals, learn basic drawing techniques, and investigate nature prints and rubbings. Then take a walk in the woods and do some sketching. Register by July 16. $25 plus $5 parking. (706) 878-3087.

Bat Blitz
Sunday, July 25, 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Fort Mountain State Park - ChatsworthKids of all ages can learn about these aerobatic mammals that eat mosquitoes and other insects. Watch biologists as they net bats and teach about their fascinating wings and ears. Browse bat displays and make bat crafts. $5 parking. (770) 918-6792.

Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike

Sunday, July 25, 8:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Monday, July 26, 9 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls

Join Tallulah Rangers on a moonlit hike down into the gorge. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. (706) 754-7981.

Folk Life Traditions

Friday, July 30, 8 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Saturday, July 31, 10 a.m. – 9 a.m.

Unicoi State Park and Lodge – Helen

Watch demonstrations of everything from spinning to candle dipping, to butter churning. Concerts will feature traditional Appalachian and old-time mountain music. Festivities will include mountain skills displays, concerts, and Appalachian-style community dancing. $5 parking. 800-573-9659 ext. 305.

Birds of Prey
Saturday, July 31, 8 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Tugaloo State Park - LavoniaMeet at the amphitheater to learn about Georgia's owls, hawks and other birds of prey. $5 parking. (706) 356-4362.

COASTAL GEORGIA

Cannons Across the Marsh
Saturday, July 3, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Fort King George Historic Site - DarienJoin the garrison for a day of artillery drills, musket firings and soldier's life activities to honor Independence Day. Free watermelon and lemonade will be served. $3.50-$5. (912) 437-4770.

Independence Day Colonial Faire

Saturday, July 3, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Fort Morris Historic Site – Midway

Celebrate the 4th with colonial games, contests of skill, colonial music, musket firings, cannon firings and activities. Prizes will be awarded to all participants. Sponsored by the City of Flemington, Ga. (912) 884-5999.

Independence Day Celebration

Saturday, July 3 through Sunday, July 4

Skidaway Island State Park – Savannah

Celebrate good times with a patriotic decorating contest (pets, yourself, your bikes, etc), hayrides, crafts, a greased pole climb and other challanges, and join in a campfire! $5 parking. (912) 598-2300.

Kayak the Salt Marsh
Sunday, July 4, 8 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Crooked River State Park - St. Mary'sKayaking the marshes around Crooked River offers opportunities to look for birds and learn about the importance of the marsh ecosystem. Reservations are required and space is limited. $35 single, $45 tandem. Call for family rates of 3 or more. $5 parking. (912) 882-5256.

July Fourth Celebration at Fort McAllister

Sunday, July 4, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Fort McAllister Historic Park – Richmond Hill

Come and celebrate our nation's birthday with Civil War troops as they fire special salutes for those who have died so we may be free. Also join us for period games and a cool slice of melon. Pack a lunch and enjoy the day. $3.50 - $5. (912) 727-2339.

SOUTHERN & CENTRAL GEORGIA

July 4^th Celebration

Friday, July 2 through Sunday, July 4, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Florence Marina State Park – Omaha

Celebrate the Fourth with games, watermelon eating contest, and educational boat tours. $4 plus $5 parking. (229) 838-4706.

Ol’ Time 4^th at Jarrell Plantation

Saturday, July 3, 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Jarrell Plantation Historic Site – Juliette

Demonstrations of traditional crafts and skills. Competitions in 3-legged race, sack race, egg toss and tug-of-war. A reading of the Declaration of Independence will be at noon. $3.50-$5.00 (478) 986-5172.

200th Birthday of Robert Augustus Toombs
Saturday, July 3, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Robert Toombs House Historic Site - WashingtonThis living-history event will honor Rober Toombs' life from acts: Act 1 "The Formative Years," Act ll "Baron of Wilkes County," Act lll "Premier of the Confederacy," Act lV "A Man Without a Country." Refreshments will be served. Free. (706) 678-2226.

Fireworks on the Flint

Sunday, July 4, 9:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Georgia Veterans State Park – Cordele

A spectacular display of fireworks highlights the Fourth of July. $5 parking. (229) 276-2371.

Thunder Over Thurmond
Saturday, July 10
Elijah Clark State Park - LincolntonBring chairs, a blanket and the whole family for a picnic and swimming before the annual fireworks show, which is sponsored by Lincoln and McCormick counties. Fireworks begin at dark. $5 parking. (706) 359-3458.

Geology Hike
Saturday, July 17, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Providence Canyon State Park - LumpkinJoin Professor Rich McWilliams of Thomas University from Thomasville, Georgia as he conducts a hike into the canyons so visitors will see one of the geologic wonders of the southeastern United States. Pre-registration is required due to limitations on group size. $5 parking. (229) 838-4706.

Ice Cream Social

Saturday, July 31, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

General Coffee State Park – Nicholls

Celebrate summer with boat races, ice cream social, old-fashioned kids games and more. $5-$6 plus $5 parking. (912) 384-7082.

For more listings, visit us here: www.NewTravelAdventures.com

Touring the Everglades

2010-06-04T09:07:00.001-04:00

A visit to the Everglades in Florida, is a must for everyone. At least, just once; come see what the Everglades is all about. It's a mosaic of sawgrass marshes, pine rockland forests, tropical hardwoood hammocks, mangrove swamps and coastal estuaries, unlike anywhere else on Earth. Unfortunately only about half of the original Everglades ecosystem remains. You can drive around part of the Everglades and there is even a driving map with highlights, the Everglades Trail. You can view a list of the sites (20 in all) here and download a map to print and take with you (http://www.evergladestrail.org/trail_map.htm).
The headwaters of the Everglades actually begins in Orlando (near Shingle Creek) and meanders a slow, stream downward to the Gulf and the Keys. This area is known to the west as 10,000 Islands. There are actually several state and National parks that encompass parts of the Everglades; The Everglades National Park, Collier-Seminole State Park, Big Cypress National Preserve and Biscayne National Park.
Throughout this wonderful vast ecosystem you will find some trails for hiking and biking, as well as camping and of course, paddling. You can enjoy fishing, birding, photography and learning about the more than 300 birds that call the Everglades home. These places are great for visiting again and again for a long weekend, or a week at a time.
Accommodations come in the form of primitive camping, to campsites, hostels and of course, regular hotel rooms and other lodging. There are several places where you can get guided tours, in relation to paddling and fishing, or nature tours.
My personal favorite happens to be with Captain Charles Wright with Everglades Area Tours, you can find them via website and also on Facebook. www.Evergladesareatours.com or 239-695-3633. They are a wealth of information and offer a variety of excursions from; eco tours, bicycling, hiking, sea kayak tours, day trips, overnight camping, sunset tours and guided fishing trips. Please tell them Loretta Lynn sent you and says Hi! they are located south of Naples & Marco Island in Everglade City.
Although you might be hard pressed to find any guide during the summer for regular kayaking as the mosquitoes will carry you off, boat and all!
Be sure and spend some time just walking around the area to really get a sense of what a jewel we have here. Don't speed down Alligator Ally at 60 miles per hour, or you will miss what the Everglades is all about.

National Trails Day June 5th

2010-06-04T08:12:00.001-04:00

This Saturday, June 5th, is National Trails Day, with hundreds of events being held throughout the United States and here in Florida. Sandra Friend of Florida Hikes, offers some great guided hikes with maps and photos of trails in and around Florida. You can find more here and sign up for her blog, or ezine to keep you apprized of great hikes, www.floridahikes.com Find more info here and events near you, www.Americanhikingsociety.org
For example, Florida Trail Association/Choctawhatchee Chapter is hosting the Highest Point in Florida & lake Jackson Hikes, in Lakeview, FL, on June 5th from 8 am until 1:30 pm. This will be a guided hike/walk about four miles. The highest hikes in Florida are the short loop trails on Britton Hill (less than one mile) in North Walton County. At 345 feet Britton is Florida "NOSE BLEED" country. Later hike the Lake Jackson Loop Trail (four miles) in Florala, Alabama and then do lunch at a local restaurant.
Photo above is from the American Hiking Society website, from the First Annual Hike on the National mall.
Also, visit our website for more info on hikes, www.NewTravelAdventures.com

See Sea Turtles, Ft. Lauderdale

2010-06-04T07:35:00.000-04:00

Every year thousands of sea turtles make their way onto the beaches at night and lay their eggs deep in the sand. Weeks later , tiny hatchling turtles dig their way out and crawl to the sea. It is estimated there 1,900 nests and 150,000 hatchlings in the area of Ft. Lauderdale, just over 20 miles north of Miami.
There are guided trips visitors can go on in hopes of witnessing the awesome sight of a giant sea turtle making her nest. These trips fill up fast and only so many people can go due to protection of the sea turtles. There are no guarantees of sightings, but you can be pretty sure to see turtles during June, July and August. One tour lets visitors watch a hatchling release.
I have been to Ft. Lauderdale in the summer with my niece and we tried to get on one of the tours, but the week we were there, they were filled up. If you're planning to go, call ahead. Guided tours minimize disruption for the sea turtles and you can learn a lot.
With the moonlight you might get to see a 400-pound Loggerhead sea turtle emerge from the ocean and lay her eggs. The Museum of Discovery & Science offers a program about sea turtles on a guided tour. The museum has a resident female Loggerhead, Dulce. The program starts at the museum at 9 p.m. and ends at approximately 1 a.m. There is a fee, r.s.v.p is required. Learn more here: www.mods.org
The Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island offers rehabilitation for sea turtles and non-sea turtles. They have a wonderful education center and also have guided walking tours of nesting turtles. Visit them at www.georgiaseaturtlecenter.org
For more information about sea turtles and guided tours, visit our website; www.newtraveladventures.com

Canyoning & Biking Quebec Adventures!

2010-06-03T15:16:00.000-04:00

Thrill-seekers in search of adventure are sure to love the two spectacular new sites offered by Canyoning Québec in Bras-du-Nord Valley, a stunning natural gem in Saint-Raymond. One site features a one-and-a-half day package with meals and an overnight stay in a shelter. All sites in the valley are operated by a dynamic tourism co-operative.

Portneuf is becoming an increasingly popular biking destination, thanks to the new 87-km (52.2-mi.) long bike path winding through the western part of the region. The Auberge du Couventde Saint-Casimir gives its guests the opportunity to explore the region safely by following personalized bike routes. Upon making a reservation at this inn, you will receive a personalized bike route by e-mail. Over 500 tourists have visited Western Portneuf by bicycle.
For more info, visit their website: www.portneuf.com/

Fun Family Vacation Activities Your Kids Will Love

2010-05-18T15:05:00.000-04:00

Our family vacations are always fun! Whether we are waiting in the airport or sitting in a hotel, to playing on the beach or driving to historic Williamsburg, VA (which we did in June 2009), I try to plan a variety of activities they will enjoy. Since the kids are getting older, they get some say in our destination and I try to plan out the overall events, but allowing time for them to pick one big excursion per day. For example, they have a choice on one or two days of either: a water park or another popular attraction.
1. While holed up in a hotel, due to inclement weather, or an airport for that matter, we love scavenger games. I will usually scout out the directory and come up with a variety of questions and our kids have to find the answers by asking hotel personnel, but not bothering them, or finding out on their own. For example; say we're stuck at our hotel and it's raining outside, I will come up with about 10 items for them to find or gather information about. The kids are usually split into two team, boys versus the girls. I have the master list with my answers and they get pen and paper and off they go searching for helpful data. One of the questions may be: how many meeting rooms are in the hotel? What are the names of them? (this is good for a tie breaker too), what activities can kids participate in at the hotel? (i.e. anything from video arcade to swimming, to putt-putt golf, etc.) The winning team usually gets a prize from the gift shop. And everyone usually gets icecream.
2. While driving, there's always the popular game of finding something for each letter of the alphabet. For example, we start with A and look for either a sign, or license plate or some attraction that starts with the letter A and we continue until we get to Z. The hard part is finding the Q and Z, bonus points!
3. Another great challenge, for those who like scavenger or treasure hunts is Geocaching. Geocaching is a popular activity you can do by yourself, with friends, family or on teams. You will need a handheld GPS unit. Occasionally you can find a place that might rent these out. There are literally thousands of caches (booty, swag) hidden in a container, usually camouflaged. Go to Geocaching.com, and put in the zip code or coordinates of where you are, or where you are going. You can then choose from dozens of great caches to seek out. The website will tell you if this cache is small to large (container size), to the difficulty of the find and if their is something special about the cache, such as a travel bug! Or a geocoin! I'll let you search this fun site and see for yourself how addicting it can be! (Too much to explain here!)
3. We love to research our destinations now ahead of time to plan activities that everyone can enjoy. Sometimes the kids don't all agree, however, our rule is everyone has to participate, and surprisingly, even the "boring museum" turns into something memorable for them too! Kids can go online and find out something about where we're going and staying and offer up an activity. Sometimes they even find a great restaurant to dine at. We found a cozy spot near Williambsurg, VA, called "Food for Thought". Clever title, good service and food for the whole family. We always stop to pick up brochures too. On the way home we went through several states, our two girls decided they wanted their photo taken in front of each "Welcome to ..." state sign.
4. Naturally kids will gravitate to the theme parks for a day of fun, water parks, Walt Disney World, Sea World, Universal, etc. These are fun too. Sometimes hot, long days. We plan breakfast ahead of time, make sure everyone has their sunblock on and appropriate clothing, and we bring drinks, snacks if allowed. and cameras! And cell phones are charged! We usually always get the "attraction family photo" before leaving the park. We let the kids pick out the photo and the frame now. And since my husband and I both travel for work, we try to bring something memorable home to add to our plant shelves in our home.
5. Other fun activities we love: horseback riding, a hayride. Finding something local to the area is memorable as well; such as a hoe-down, rodeo, bonfire, or even karaoke at the ski lodge. Frieghtful photos are great scrapbooking and wall hanging memories. One year, the first Christmas after my mom passed away was difficult and we were out of town for the holidays, my two daughters and my husband stopped at a Lowes or Home Depot and picked up a small potted pine tree and ornaments and decorated it during the night. They placed it out in the living room of our rented townhome in Maggie Valley, so we could all enjoy Christmas. I even brought the tree back home to Florida, needless to say, it didnt last long in tropical climate. I also love taking the kids kayaking, hiking, to museums and sometimes, if they are good, the spa with me ;-). Even walking through a live historical town with re-enactments like Tombstone, AZ or other attractions, seem to garner the kids attention.
We usually have board game nights and video or movie rental night at our condo or hotel room too.
It's amazing how some small mundane things can not get your attention at first, only to discover that one small activity can be someone's best memory of the summer or holiday vacation. For other great family vacation activities, please look here: http://www.twittermoms.com/forum/topics/share-5-fun-family-vacation.
I wrote this blog post while participating in the Williamsburg Tourism and TwitterMoms blogging program for a chance to get a $50 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.” (include this link:http://www.twittermoms.com/forum/topics/share-5-fun-family-vacation)

Geocaching Challenge at Ft. Yargo State Park

2010-05-06T09:47:00.001-04:00

Geo-Challenge Kickoff at Fort Yargo State Park,

May 8th, 2010, from 10 am until 4 pm,

Ft. Yargo SP is in Winder, on GA Hwy. 81.

Georgia State parks 770-867-3489

More than 40 of Georgia’s state parks will soon join one of the largest treasure hunts on the planet. With the May 8 launch of the Georgia State Parks Geo-Challenge, the park system is inviting GPS-toting explorers to travel trails in search of hidden caches. Geocaching is thought to be one of the most popular games in the world, with more than 1 million caches registered on www.Geocaching.com.

The premise is fairly simple; adventure seekers use a GPS unit to find hidden treasures, then share their experiences online. Caches usually contain trinkets that geocachers can keep, replacing them with something else. Some trackable items, called travel bugs, make their way across the country and create a story as they go. With the Georgia State Park Geo-Challenge, players download a PassPort from www.GeorgiaStateParks.org, find hidden stamps in each cache to spell out the PassPort’s message, and collect custom geocoins.

“Geocaching can be enjoyed by all ages and is a creative way to explore your own state, and even the world,” said Georgia State Parks Director Becky Kelley. “The game is a fun excuse to get outdoors, and it introduces a whole new group of visitors to our state parks.”

Forty-two state parks have hidden caches with “first to find” prizes of a free night of camping. Three parks also have more elusive “bonus caches.” Players go to www.Geocaching.com to find the GPS coordinates for each hidden box. After their journey, players can talk about the parks and what they found.

Park officials see geocaching as the perfect blend of technology, trails and trees. The Geo-Challenge is crafted for younger players as a way to encourage them to get more exercise outdoors. Caches are hidden in public-access areas, so treasure hunters will not venture off trails or into remote locations.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources worked closely with the Georgia Geocaching Association (GGA) to create the new statewide program. Geo-Challenge’s official kickoff coincides with GGA’s May 8 meeting at Fort Yargo State Park in Winder.

“Anyone interested in geocaching is invited to the kickoff event,” said Kelley. “Experienced geocachers will help newcomers learn about GPS units and the more social aspects of the game. We’ll have extra caches hidden just for this event, plus animal programs and refreshments.”

Flying High, over the barrier islands of Georgia

2010-05-02T19:36:00.000-04:00

Being able to getaway from our usual four walls, responsibilities and expectations, even if only for a day, helps us mentally as well as physically. Most people joke about going to a private island somewhere to just "vegging", taking it easy with no responsibilities for a while with a fruity concoction and sand between your toes. For those who live on the Eastern seaboard, or even a few hours inland, America's barrier islands offer a pleasurable respite. And yes, you can rent an island!
Take the Golden Isles of Georgia; Jekyll, Cumberland, St. Simons and other barrier islands; as you drive across the Torras Causeway bridge, you literally feel the tension ebb and flow out of your body.
One of the many highlights I enjoyed while visiting St. Simon's and Sea Island, was an aerial view, via helicopter, DragonFly Copters through the expert flying of owner/operator, Angie Griffon.
Angie flew myself and two other ladies about 500 feet over St. Simon's, Sea Island and Little St. Simon's. It was a beautiful afternoon, around 78 degrees with mild winds, as we explored the southern barrier islands, from a historical and habitat point of view.
Call DragonFly Copters Tours up and soon you'll be flying over the King and the Prince, around the Lighthouse & Museum, towards Jekyll Island then back north, over marshes to Little St. Simon, a private island. Your pilot can give you a great overview of who's who on the island, some of the fascinating history to the flora and fauna and its' inhabitants. Whirl over alligators, birds and other critters foraging in the marshes.
Feel free as you whir overhead and get a real birds eye view of the Golden Isles and how beautiful these islands really are.

St. Simons and the Georgia Golden Isles

2010-04-25T19:21:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I've been on a road trip. I have been so looking forward to relaxing on the beach up here at St. Simons, I didn't even check the weather forecast. That's very unlike me. But even with the slight rain shower we've had today and the blustery winds, it's all worth it.
It was a beautiful drive up, traffic wasn't the usual unorganized chaos. I enjoyed watching the sun come up as I was crossing over another smaller body of water in Central Florida. I'm relishing sipping green tea and marveling at the sunrises over the next few mornings.
As I gaze out my balcony doors, the waves are crashing into the rocks. Literally. The wind has been steadily increasing with the threat of sever thunderstorms, I'm even more intrigued. When you see the enormous blue-gray body of water, whipped into a frenzy, it goes on as far as the eye can see.
Whether its balmy and warm or windy with a light rain, there's something romantic about the beach. Even Georgia's 100 miles of coast, beckon any rider on the road to stop and gaze. It's captivating. Drawing you into it's kaleidoscope of versatile cultures. Yes, cultures. From the beautiful creatures that call the sea their home to the storms and weather brought on or intensified by the warm or cold water, or even the lives made; from crab fishing to transportation. The ocean is a true treasure trove. The bounty may be buried with sunken ships, a rainbow of coral and mammals or the pleasure one derives from living or vacationing on liquid gold, the ocean and other bodies of water can be calming, intoxicating, romantic and yes, even intimidating or daunting.
From anglers and pirates, to merchant ships and search and rescue expeditions, many a men have heroic tales to entice us further into their cave, the lure.
(stay tuned for more)

Historic Homes of Kent

2010-04-07T21:32:00.001-04:00

Forty-eight historic homes and buildings from the 18th & 19th centuries will be open for public viewing as part of the 77th Dover Days Festival celebration May 1 & 2, 2010. Homeowners from the towns of Camden, Smyrna, Milford and Dover are excited to have the opportunity to showcase their historic properties. Hour tour participants will see Federal, Plank, Victorian, Georgian and Classic and Greek Revival style homes.
Held on The Green and Legislative Mall, two beautiful outdoor parks in the historic downtown district, Dover Days unites heritage, tradition and modern attractions into a 3-day festival that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Now in its 77th year, Dover Days is Delaware's longest running festival that celebrates First State history — with more than 15,000 people coming from all over the Mid-Atlantic states to celebrate the weekend's events, April 30 - May 2.
Get a glimpse of Delaware's enriching history, through huge parades, traditional Maypole dancing with children in Colonial attire, walking tours, a county-wide house tour with over 45 historical properties, Native American dancing, free admission to numerous museums, and more. Immerse yourself in the ages through costumed reenactments of the Renaissance, the Civil War and WWII. You can see the Governor's mansion first-hand. And enjoy all the excitement of the festival, with over 130 arts and crafts vendors, delicious foods, live entertainment, carnival rides and children's activities, a hot classic car show, and more.
http://www.doverdaysfestival.com/

Delmarva Birding Weekend

2010-04-07T21:25:00.000-04:00

The annual celebration of the return of warblers, shorebirds, raptors and waterfowl returns April 21 - 25, 2010 with many activities including boat trips, paddling treks and on foot expeditions.

Delmarva is a unique area with upland fields, tidal wetlands, cypress swamps, barrier islands and primeval forests. All trips take place on lands and waterways that feed into the Delaware, Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays.

The Delmarva Birding Weekend is a unique opportunity for wild life enthusiasts to visit a region so rich in bird species - both local and migratory. This event was developed by a diverse group of non profits and local businesses to help promote eco-tourism on Delmarva.
For a list of activities see
www.delmarvabirdingweekend.org

JetBoil Helios

2010-03-15T19:47:00.004-04:00

I'm so excited, I just received my JetBoil Helios cookware and I'm looking forward to using it for the Americna Cancer Society's Relay for Life, coming up April 9-10, at Ocoee High School. We are excited, we have 48 teams registered for the West Orange County Relay! Our team, the West Orange Kiwanis Club has a tent where we will be offering complimentary spa facials and makeover for a donation to the ACS. Several of our members will be playing cards in between walking the track all night. We have quite a few teens from West Orange High School who will also be joining us for this Celebration!

it looks like my JetBoil Helios (cookware) is great for camping and hiking, is small, making it portable and very lightweight!

You can find out more here: www.jetboil.com

St. Simons Island - 75th Anniversary

2010-03-12T18:09:00.003-05:00

Come celebrate the 75^th Diamond Anniversary of The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort onSt. Simons Island. From Sunday, April 11 – April 15, 2020, enjoy a refreshing SPRING TO THE COAST GETAWAY for an amazing rate: $129/nt* for an Ocean Front/Ocean View Guest Room. (a savings of $170/nt).

Experience our newest luxury amenity, The Royal Treatment Cottage that offers 3 massage treatment rooms – Custom Cottage massage, Swedish massage and Sport-Specific massage:

$75 for 60-minute massage treatment (a savings of $20).

Play Golf at our newly-restored award winning King and Prince Golf Course which includes:

$40 greens fee and cart (a savings of $39).

Bonus ‘Getaway’ giveaway:

$75 Resort Credit for dining, massage therapy or golf IF YOU DRIVE 75 MILES OR MORE TO KING AND PRINCE RESORT and stay 2 nights!

Call our Reservations Team at 800-342-0212 to book your SPRING TO THE COAST GETAWAY any nights from April 11 – 15, 2010.

THE KING AND PRINCE HOTEL HISTORY: If walls could talk, The King and Prince, (on the National Register of Historic Places and a member of Historic Hotels of America), shares a rich legacy of its place in American history for 75 years. Originally opened as a private dance club, friends of owners Frank Horn and Morgan Wynn coined its name that befitted its regal atmosphere. This island beach resort has maintained a reputation for elegance and warm hospitality throughout each decade. The King and Prince has been a tranquil island haven for dignitaries, celebrities, discerning families and business travelers since pre WW II until today.

The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort

201 Arnold Road

St. Simons Island, Georgia 31522

www.kingandprince.com

Visit our Blogs!

2010-03-09T22:00:00.001-05:00

Allison Maslan	http://www.myblastoff.com/blog/	@AllisonMaslan
Beth Trissel	http://bethtrissel.blogspot.com/	@BethTrissel
Denise De Maras	http://blog.denisedemaras.com	@Ddemaras
Dennis Martin	http://iwritesome.blogspot.com	@dsmartin49
Karen Pierce Gonzalez	http://folkheartpressblog.blogspot.com	@Folkheartpress
Carolyn Howard-Johnson	http://warpeacetolerance.blogspot.com/	@frugalbookpromo
Janet Riehl	http://www.riehlife.com	@Riehlife
Linda Ballou	http://wwwlindaballouauthor.blogspot.com/	@lindaballou
Jessica Dockter	http://leedesign2.blogspot.com	@leedesign
Loretta Leda	http://www.newoutdooradventures.blogspot.com	@FloridaSpaGirls
Nancy Allen	http://nancykellyallen.blogspot.com/	@NancyKellyAllen
Penny Ehrenkranz	http://pennylockwoodehrenkranz.blogspot.com/	@pennyehrenkranz
Scott Lorenz	http://thebookpublicist.blogspot.com/	@aBookPublicist
Tom Vancel	http://tomvancel.blogspot.com/	no twitter.
Tisha Morris	http://www.mindbodyom.com/category/featured-articles/	@mindbodyom
Robert McCurley	http://wheelfixit.blogspot.com/	@WheelFixItNow
Yvonne Perry	http://deathdyingafterlife.blogspot.com/	@writersinthesky
James Ross	http://author-jamesross.blogspot.com/	@golfnovels
Donna B. Russell	http://creativemusejournal.blogspot.com	@dbrcreativemuse
Schall Adams	www.mygirlfriendmentors.com/blog	schalladams

Spring and summer break in Georgias State Parks

2010-03-08T16:45:00.001-05:00

Tight finances don’t mean families have to give up a spring break vacation. Parents who plan ahead can take advantage of affordable accommodations located throughout Georgia’s 48 state parks. Once settled in, they’ll find a mini-resort outside their door, with a range of amenities such as nature trails, playgrounds, fishing docks, ranger programs, disc golf and more.

For about $24 per night, families can pitch a tent under the stars and toast marshmallows by a campfire. All state park campgrounds have bathhouses with hot showers, and some even have laundry facilities. Campers at Stephen C. Foster State Park can rent kayaks or boats to explore well-marked trails in the Okefenokee Swamp, while those at Kolomoki Mounds Historic Park can learn about early Indian civilizations during their hikes.

Want more comforts? Fully equipped cottages with up to three bedrooms average around $100 to $140 per night, depending on park location. Families can save money by cooking their own meals in the cottage kitchens. Several state parks are on large lakes, such as Seminole and Clarks Hill, so cottages are perfect for families with boats. For great hiking, families can rent cottages at Cloudland Canyon, Hard Labor Creek, Fort Mountain, Vogel and several other state parks.

Finally, those who prefer hotel-style accommodations can still wake up surrounded by beautiful park scenery. Lodges with restaurants can be found at Amicalola Falls, Red Top Mountain and Unicoi in north Georgia, and George T. Bagby and Little Ocmulgee in south Georgia. Lodge rates begin at $69 during the week, and details can be found atwww.GeorgiaStateParks.org/springbreak.

Accommodations book quickly during spring break and summer, so reservations should be made in advance. Call 1-800-864-7275 or visit www.GeorgiaStateParks.org for more details.

Casa Marina Hotel, Jacksonville Beach

2010-03-08T16:03:00.002-05:00

The Casa Marina Hotel, at 85, is a grand old lady and still turning heads! Ever since it opened its doors onto the Jacksonville beaches in 1925, when every postcard of the era announced ‘world’s finest beach’, the Casa Marina has remained an alluring landmark of Florida history. There have been many forgotten moments in the vast drama of the 1920’s, but the mystery of the Casa Marina is that she must have seen it all.

Jacksonville Beach was originally known as the town of “Ruby” (circa 1884), named by W.E. Scull, a railroad surveyor with the Jacksonville and Atlantic Railway Company, for his daughter. By 1885, the railroad and depot were completed and ‘Ruby’ was transformed into a tent city as crowds of beachgoers arrived with tents in which to live. By then the town was renamed Pablo Beach, after the San Pablo River, a name it kept for nearly 30 years, before settling in as Jacksonville Beach in 1925.

The Grand Opening of the Casa Marina on Saturday June 6, 1925 was the height of Florida’s first land boom. That same day the town was renamed Jacksonville Beach, while 200 guests dined and danced in the grand ‘salon’. Its construction and Spanish-Mediterranean design brought a ‘first’ to the beach...a fireproof building composed of stucco, concrete, tile and an automatic sprinkler system.

The 1920’s in Jacksonville were Hot! The train terminal opened in 1919 and everybody who was anybody came southward to Florida, from the Duke and Duchess of Windsor to Al Capone. The movie industry boomed in Jacksonville long before Hollywood and the ‘greats’ like Chaplin and Pickford made appearances.

The Casa Marina was two stories tall and had 60 rooms. Jacksonville Beach was the most alluring tourist town in NE Florida: its boardwalk, dance casinos, dining, amusement rides and wide beaches were known throughout America.

During the War Years of World War II, the U.S. government appropriated the Casa Marina for military housing. A succession of owners followed who were passionate about restoring & remodeling the Casa Marina into private residences and an assortment of businesses...tearoom, clothing store, 37-room apartment building and restaurant.

The ‘grand lady’ finally took a well-deserved rest and closed until 1991. By this time, a verandah and 3^rd-story penthouse had been added to the original structure. Today, celebrating its 83^rd birthday, the Casa Marina Hotel & Restaurant offers 24 stunning bedrooms and parlor suites individually decorated to represent the distinctive and changing eras of its rich history. The Penthouse enjoys its own notoriety, with one of the most stunning views of the Florida coastline.

The Casa Marina brings a feeling of classic glamour to Jacksonville Beach, a sultry blend of history, natural beauty and sophisticated culture. One can still conjure up images of the ‘ghosts’ of the beach, the sounds of families and lovers laughing and a lineup of Model ‘T’ Fords as they enjoyed the best that life could imagine!

Top 10 tips for Enjoying Family Vacations

2010-02-09T12:56:00.010-05:00

I love to travel and so does my family. My husband and I both have the luxury of traveling for our careers. The kids like it when I plan our vacations because I usually plan some fun outings; from Universal VIP passes to dinner cruises. Here are a few tips, after you've decided on the dates and the venue:

1. Go online and start researching the events that will be happening in the area you are about to visit. This way you will know in advance if you want to attend an event that you may need to purchase tickets for in advance (dinner train, special show, etc.)

Start a paper folder or a folder on your computer's desktop and store websites, notes and activities, as well as hotel, travel information.

2. If you have time, and if you like hard copies like I do, call or go online to the chamber of commerce in the city/town you are visiting. They love to know when guests are coming and are invaluable to planning a wonderful vacation.

3. I look at how many days we are going to be, say, Sunday through Saturday. This gives me a good starting point. For example, our trip to Ft. Myers, we knew that my husband and I wanted to visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates (http://www.efwefla.org/), we also wanted to go kayaking (my favorite past time), and I also wanted to visit the state park for birding, hiking, biking and I believe there was another attraction we wanted to visit. So I called or went online and got ticket information, hours of operation, etc. From here I would pencil in a date for the visit.

4. I also learned early on not to book more than one or two events/attractions in one day, allowing for travel time, eating or just last minute drive-bys.

5. It's also a good idea to get coupon books, or tourist brochures, these are great for local maps, restaurants and coupons for restaurants and attractions. We also like to pack our favorite snacks.

6. By scheduling your activities for the week, the kids and you have something to look forward to and they still have time to hit the beach or limited video games, etc.

7. It's also fun to plan your meals if you are staying in a place where you have a kitchen. We usually try to eat dinners in, since they are more expensive than breakfast or lunch.

When we planned our trip to Williamsburg, VA last year, we called ahead and found out the hotel/resort where we were staying offered day trips to various places. We chose to go to Washington D.C., on one day, with their bus service. This allowed us to sit back and relax while being chauffered around and they are also good tour guides. And you don't have to worry about getting lost.

8. It's also a good idea to get the kids input on activities for the family to enjoy. For example if the kids know we're going skiing or to the beach, they also enjoy researching online and suggesting events, etc. With an active interest in the vacation plans, the kids get excited about the excursions and are more apt to help out where they are needed.

9. Kids can actually forget about being online and texting their friends all day because they are too busy having fun with their family.

10. Also, to help keep the distractions to a minimum, if you set the ground rules up early, and everyone knows what is expected they will do their part, chores, etc., and behave in order to enjoy the activities they want to participate in.

Everyone also has to agree that one person may not feel 100 percent about an event, but once they go, they may realize they enjoy that outing or event and will be glad they went. And everyone also needs to be nice to each other.

For more ideas, go here: http://www.twittermoms.com/forum/topics/share-10-tips-to-create-a-fun

Skiing Western Mountains in NC

2010-01-09T12:45:00.003-05:00

Looking for some great runs in North Carolina? Bring the family to this one: Sapphire Ski Resort, a four-season resort located in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This is a family-friendly resort, great for learning or relearning to ski and for quality time with the family. Sapphire Ski Resort offers skiing, snowboarding and a tube park. They have a 1,600 foot main run with a vertical drop of 200 feet and a bunny hill. The tube run is 700 feet long.

Grab your skis and head over to Cataloochee Ski Area. Come play in the snow: Founded in 1961, Cataloochee Ski Area (www.cataloochee.com) is the oldest ski resort in North Carolina and remains one of the most popular in the Southeast. It’s one of the most advanced, with state-of-the-art snowmaking capabilities extending the ski season each year. In fact, the 2008-2009 season spanned a record six months with 126 days (the second most in history) of great skiing. With 14 slopes and trails, Cataloochee Ski Area offers mountains of fun for everyone, from skiers to snowboarders, from novices to veterans. Beginners can get a feel for things on a couple of smooth, gentle slopes (classes and private lessons are also available), while the more adventurous can head to the ramps, rails and boxes at the Cat Cage Terrain Park. For those with a need for speed, there’s plenty of steepness on this mountain. Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, the surrounding views are as magical as the slopes are thrilling.

Ride the crest of the latest wave in outdoor winter fun: Perhaps sledding, not skiing or snowboarding, is more your speed. Then you’ll definitely want to stop at Tube World (www.tubemaggievalley.com), located just down the mountain from the ski area in Maggie Valley. The snow tube park offers fun for the entire family in the form a five-run slope and the slide of your life.

Haywood County (www.VisitNCSmokies.com) encompasses 554 scenic square miles of spectacular country, with beautiful mountains and valleys dotting the landscape. More than a dozen of its mountain peaks soar to elevations of at least 6,000 feet (more than any east of the Mississippi River), and the county is one of the highest, with a mean elevation of 3,600 feet, east of the Rockies. One of its most notable mountain peaks is Cold Mountain—the basis for the award-winning, best-selling novel by Charles Frazier and the ensuing 2003 major motion picture—at 6,030 feet. The county sits at the western edge of North Carolina, with 46 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway running along its southwestern border. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Pisgah National Forest are located in the northern section of the county. For those driving from points west via Interstate 40, several alternate routes (around the closed portion near the TN/NC border) are offered at VisitNCSmokies.com.

Wolf Ridge Ski Resort has expanded and offers 15 acres of additional ski slopes, a new quad lift, a new terrain park and so much more! Also a family-oriented resort with 82 acres of ski terrain. Enjoy tubing, skiing, snowshoe adventures and more! Stay at one of their luxurious cabins and enjoy walkig to all amenities and participating in one of the resorts planned events. Rustic three and four bedroom log cabins available high atop Wolf Ridge Mountain. Hot tubs and grills at each cabin with fireplaces inside and some offer rec rooms. Visit them at www.scenicwolfresort.com

With a peak elevation of 5,300 feet, a vertical drop of 1,200 feet a longest run of 1.5 miles and 115 skiable acres, Sugar Mountain Resort is the largest ski area in North Carolina. Sugar Mountain offers skiing, tubing, ice skating, and snowshoeing. Summer activities include Summer Lift Rides, hiking and biking and the Oktoberfest. Sugar's 20 slopes and trails are varied to accommodate beginners with the Magic Carpet area to the experts with the double black diamond Whoopdedoo. www.skisugar.com

Ski Beech at Beech Mountain Resort enters its fifth decade with a variety of improvements and new options for winter sports enthusiasts. The resort added a new tubing park, a second terrain park, new quad chairs on the Oz lift, two new grooming machines and 56 high-tech snow guns. Additionally, all reservoir lakes have been dredged to push the mountain's water capacity to eight million gallons. 828-387-2011 or 1-800-438-2093; www.skibeech.com

As a leader in snow tubing, Hawksnest has taken snow tubing to new levels of fun. Hawksnest's expanded snow tubing operation makes it the biggest snow tubing operation on the East Coast. Hawksnest Snow Tubing resort will now have four different areas to snow tube with more than 20 lanes of fun. Lanes are 400 to 1,000 feet long with two moving carpet lifts to return guests to the top. Hawksnest has 100 percent snowmaking and lighting on all lanes to provide the best possible conditions and fun for the whole family. 828-963-6561 or 800-822-4295; www.hawksnesttubing.com

Whale Watching & Glaciers in Quebec, Canada

2009-08-26T23:00:00.007-04:00

You might be wondering where in the world is Baie-Comeau. It's a quaint town on the Atlantic Shore in Quebec, Canada. Founded some 20,000 years ago by glaciers, Baie-Comeau is part of the whale route ensconced at the confluence of the Manicouagan and St. Lawrence rivers in Uapishka World Biosphere Reserve. Relax and enjoy the outdoors either hiking, biking, water sports from kayaking and whale watching to uncovering underwater treasures through scuba diving, to birding, golfing, to winter sports such as; skiing, snowmobiling and ice fishing.

Catch the Matane-Baie-Comeau ferry and respite at the Hotel Le Manoir, the only four star hotel east of Tadoussac. The Hotel Le Manoir was founded by Robert R. McCormick, owner of the Chicago Tribune, has 60 rooms and is great for both business and personal excursions. Beautiful views await you from your room or the balcony, even from the dining room. They offer; wireless high-speed internet, room service, a workout room, tennis courts, bicycle rentals, a relaxation center (day spa), laundry services, beach access and business centre.

They are located in the historic district near theatre, golf and skiing facilities. And only a few miles from the Jardin des Glaciers (www.jardindesglaciers.ca), a state of the art interpretive, exploration and research center. For the adventurous person, grab on at the Adrenaline Zone as you zipline across glacial lake and fjard; rappel down a rock face or kayak across a glacial lake or sea. Rustic campsites and Mongolian yurts are available for nightly rentals. Take a guided boat tour and learn about the impact of the Laurentian ice sheet; from glacial grooves, canyons, moraines, bays and fjard. Get up close in the Valley of the Seashells, in the heart of the boreal forest which are 90 percent shellfish from 8,000 years ago.

Glaciers and Baie-Comeau

2009-08-25T17:38:00.005-04:00

You might be wondering where in the world is Baie-Comeau. Its a quaint town on the Atlantic Shore in Quebec, Canada. In a quaint hotel, La Manoir Baie-Comeau, with relaxing views from your room, or the patio/balcony. Whether you come on business or pleasure, be sure to book your spa treatment and enjoy your leisure time in the dining room and walking downtown shopping.

Spend the day going back, 20,000 years to Jardin des Glaciers, a multi-media cyber center, glacier exploration station and maritime adventure park! Descend four kilometers under a glacier and understand the impacts of a giant perpetual movement, then facing a giant water screen be a privileged spectator of the rising sea level as the glacier melts, 8,000 years ago. enjoy a guided kayak tour or via ferrata (rock climbing) by the Sea or 35 kilometers of rustic pathways in the Adrenalin Zone.

How about some Ziplining across the river? Get your adrenalin going at the Adventure Park, for kids and adults to enjoy the day, and also great for groups who are looking for some team building exercises.

Farmer's Markets

2009-07-20T16:13:00.004-04:00

It was a beautiful summer morning in downtown Clinton with a rainbow of tents lining the parking lot. Local honey bee keepers, fresh from the garden, organic tomatoes, squash, corn, beans and other summer produce were proudly displayed on tables, in baskets and on the tailgates of trucks. One special vendor caught my eye.

Two long tables were lined together towards the front of the tent. On the table to your left were several pans, commercial kitchen size with several utensils on the table, a few spices, garlic cloves, olive oil and a few burners to your right with frying pans. Off to the side of the tent, flanking the tables were chairs where you can enjoy your biddles. Savory home fries, along with your favorite fresh egg omelette. Xavier Presley is at your service. He will gladly special order your breakfast for you at the market. Or, Presley comes to your home and prepares a meal at your request. You tell him what you want and he does the grocery shopping and cooks for your family and friends.

Local vendors and farmers will gladly supply some veggies to Xavier at the Farmer's Market and he brings most of the staples to cook for you, as a demonstration. He only accepts donations at the market. But will charge you accordingly for your dinner party or festive event. Xavier once cooked for President Jimmy Carter, while working in a major hotel chain. He was formerly trained at a Texas Cooking School while on scholarship. Xavier is originally from Miami.

Xavier's son helps him cook on the weekends. Today he was making fried green tomatoes. A wonderful corn meal or flour coating with fresh spices for seasoning then fried to perfection. Rupert also helped make a sweet potato casserole. After selecting your favorite toppings; cheese, onions, green peppers, etc., for your omelette, Xavier will show you how they make fire in the frying pan and then prepare your delightful breakfast or brunch. He expertly cooks your eggs and breakfast. Xavier also has some corn on the cob slowly cooking in a large pot of water. "This is how you should prepare your corn," suggests Presley. "People today are often in a hurry and want their food instantly. When we do that it doesn't taste as good."

Xavier should know, while working for the hotel, President Carter sent a letter to the General Manger telling him that his potatoes were the best he's ever had.

In addition to preparing food at the market, Xavier will give you tips and techniques from chopping vegetables to cooking eggplant parmesan, even which spices to purchase for the best flavor.

read more at: www.NewTravelAdventures.com

People, its about the people

2009-07-16T21:15:00.004-04:00

"I hold a strong conviction that the true breed of diminishing mountain folk of Southern Appalachia are among the most admirable people in the world. They are kind, gentle and compassionate, yet tough and resourceful," said John Rice Irwin, who founded the Museum of Appalachia, a Living Mountain Village in Norris, TN.

Irwin began collecting history, artifacts with human touch, when he was young. His grandfather told him to "start a museum of these old-timey things". His grandfather has an appreciation for his ancestors and an eclectic assortment of primitive items from three or four generations back.

"If you need something, what do you do?" asked Irwin of us. Looking around the dinner table at our faces, he explains, "With our parents and grandparents, they made the things, tools and resources they need. Today people just think about where to go to buy what they need."

According to Irwin, each generation is loosing more and more of their history, not even connecting with their ancestors.

This unique living museum offers a respite for many. Stepping back in time, maybe a few dozen years or more than a hundred, depending on your history lesson. Irwin, a former School Superintendent, would spend weekends driving around several counties, meeting people, getting to know them and if they had something from the past, something he felt would tell a story, their story, he would offer to buy it from them. Irwin didn't want anything that he didn't know who it belonged to and the connection.

www.museumofappalachia.com

(more soon)

Secret City, Oak Ridge

2009-07-15T20:46:00.005-04:00

I first visited the Secret City, Oak Ridge, TN, a few years ago and was fascinated by the history and who the people were and what their life must have been like. May people are still unaware of the secret city. I have the wonderful opportunity to come back and learn some more about America's history and how it affects us everyday. I flew into Knoxville, just a few minutes down the interstate from Clinton and Oak Ridge.

We began our excursion at Norris Dam State Park with a picnic lunch and a great narration from our Park Ranger/Manager, Mark Morgan. Mark explained some of the history of the area to us including the park, its' uses, the river and the dam. The dam was built for flood control in 1936, and also brings efficient electrical power to East Tennessee. the dam is 265 feet high and stretches 1,860 feet across the Clinch River. The dam is surrounded by 4,000 acres of virgin forest complete with scenic nature trails.

Norris Dam State Park offers wonderful amenities for everyone to come out and enjoy, including; rustic cabins, a full-service marina, recreation areas and a swimming pool. Anglers will love the river with more than 50 different species of fish to reel in. The park offers 20 miles of trails for hiking, bike riding or horseback riding. Active lifestyles, getting outdoors is great for the body, mind and soul. Bringing families together is what it's all about.

www.tnstateparks.com

Photo above: At the American Museum of Science and Energy; this is what 300,000 volts of electricity will do to you. Gives you a nice tingly feeling.

(part one- more to follow, stay tuned for more history, colorful people and wonderful places to visit in Eastern TN).

Kids everywhere

2009-07-15T07:40:00.005-04:00

When you're pregnant you can't wait for your bundle of joy to be born. Then after they are you're lugging around diaper bags, bottles, toys, medicine, change of clothes-you basically need another set of luggage and then wish the little lanolium lizard (noun- baby or toddler who crawls on the floor) was back inside you, or perhaps older so they can tote their own toys and tools. Your little crumb snatcher, (noun) who grabs everything in site and attempts to maul it with their gums or little teeth are eating dirt and chasing animals in the wild, that are meant to stay in the wild. Can't find your keys? Check with the little rugrat, (noun) you know the one-running around taking things and hiding them. Or worse, your little peepot, (noun) yes that lovable child who pees all the time with or without a diaper on. And finally, snookums, (noun) your little devil who likes to snitch, or sneak thing when they think you aren't looking. Really, how dumb do they think we are. http://www.parentsconect.com/articles/mom-definitions.jhtml I'm not sure I'm happy my kids are older or wish I could send them off to grandma's until they are 24. Happy Trails! Also connect at: http://www.twittermoms.com/forum/topics/fun-easy-contest-write-5.

South Beach Adventure

2009-07-05T20:42:00.008-04:00

The beach beckons. Warm, soft sand and turquoise waters offer the perfect playground

for any age. Welcome to South Beach Miami. We're staying at the Z Ocean Hotel a few sandal-clad steps from one of America's Hottest Beaches.

Valet your vehicle and step into a new adventure.

Guests can enjoy jet skiing, para sailing, boating, biking and helicopter rides, to peek your adventure. Shopping alone is a sport not for the faint at heart. If you're going to visit Miami, South Beach is the place to be, and Z Ocean Hotel is in the heart of the action. Walk to great restaurants, whether you're looking for pasta, steak or sushi, you'll find plenty of choices along the beachfront, Ocean Drive, or on Collins Avenue one block over. Or, at the hotel's restaurant, Table 8, partake in a light or hearty fare with hundreds of candles, earthy plants and decor, watch a game on one of the large screen tv's or dine with friends over drinks with hip music.

After a hectic day playing in the surf or shopping, step into your Spa Suite, with a jacuzzi (for four) on the balcony, plush king-size beds with overstuffed pillows and an entertainment center to chill out. Bose surround sound both inside and out, on your private balcony.

We know men and women a like will enjoy the partitioned bath. With frosted glass and four wall sprays, a handheld spray and rain shower, a separate vanity area, you'll feel like you're in heaven.

Oh, did I mention the pool on the second floor? A great lap pool with lounge chairs in the sun and in the shade, a bar and even a few small waterfalls to help you forget the hustle and bustle around you.

Elegance surrounds you--both inside your suite and outside on the sizzling beach.

Geocaching Trail in Florida

2009-05-17T18:48:00.008-04:00

I've been geocaching a few times. For those of you that aren't familiar with this addictive hobby, its like a treasure or scavenger hunt, however we use a hand-held GPS device to help navigate our way to cache. You can find the waypoints, which are the coordinates either at websites like gecoaching.com, or from participating places (like state parks, CVB's, chambers of commerce, etc.).

Recently I enjoyed a five day journey with some old and new friends as we traversed from Micanopy, FL (near Gainesville) all the way up to Tallahassee. Geocaching is great for individuals, couples and families. You can enjoy it locally, or as you travel. Just plug in a zipcode to where you are (going) and give it a circumference like say 2 miles, give or take and you will be provided a list of "caches", with a clever clue and the waypoints (coordinates). Everyone signs on with their own code name and when you find a cache, there is a logbook in the container for you to write your name, date and what you took and left. Each cache usually has some trinkets, some local, some for fun and they get exciting with "travel bugs" and unique coins for each cache. Then you go back onto the geocaching site and log in where you've been or if you move someone's travel bug.

Back to geocache trip.

This charming town of Micanopy, which I'd only seen from the Interstate (I-75), offers a great venue for day trippers who like antiquing, with a few local restaurants, unique shops, a bookstore and even a history museum. This rural town made a great backdrop for the movie, Doc Hollywood, several years ago. I had the pleasure of staying at a wonderful historic home and B&B, the Herlong Mansion and Inn (www.herlong.com). Micanopy is a great weekend getaway and is near many other natural, recreational and historic places. After exploring the town and seeking out the cache, we meandered down the road, Old Florida Heritage Highway to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.

We ventured off the beaten path, a 21,000-acre prairie, marveling at the vast marsh and wet prairie vegetation. We hiked a little on the Le Chua Trail in search of the wild bison, horses, alligators, endangered sandhill cranes and bald eagles.

From here we continued on our scavenger hunt to another spectacular park, Devil's Millhopper State Park. Here we took a short hike to the large sinkhole. It's worth walking down the winding stairs (more than 200) to the bottom of the sinkhole, with the native flora and fauna and trickling waterfalls. After a good rain the waterfalls sound like they are rushing around you, as they spill out of the limestone.

After this wonder in Florida, we took a road trip up to Stephen Foster State Park (Cultural Center), in White Springs, FL. It's no wonder this amazing State Park is one of the Nation's pride and joys. Nestled in a quaint town, teaming with history and recreational activities, Stephen Foster State Park offers some wonderful riverside log cabins to rent. They also have hiking and biking trails, and the infamous Suwannee River. After a heavy rain the Suwannee River is swollen, oftentimes covering the hiking trails. Local guides would love to take you paddling down the river to show off their treasure. The State Park also offers a museum and Carillon Tower.

The town of White Springs Incorporated in 1885, however people lived around the sulphur springs for centuries. It is rumored the Paleoindians were the first to discover the springs, however the Timucuan Indians discovered the medicinal value of the sulphur water. They considered the area to be sacred. Later the Seminole Indians came to the area, although it was an American who capitalized on it. White Springs was a bustling town in the Twentieth Century, as a resort for the wealthy and business travelers.

Drive down the road to Big Shoals for a geocache hike along the Suwannee. There are several caches hidden in the park.

Haunted Places

2009-05-11T18:13:00.005-04:00

Not too long ago I visited Eureka Springs, Arkansas and was immersed in yesteryear. Puting aside the long, hot bus ride up the mountain, this charming town captured my attention, even to this day.

Most people are fascinated by spirits, or hauntings, something related to the supernatural. Whenever I travel I am usually always interested in haunted places as well. Eureka Springs, Ark., has their share of unusual events as any other, especially considering they have more than 2,000 pre-1900's structures. (Can you say haunts?)

One famous place is the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa. While on tour here myself, I felt and saw something unusual upstairs and in the basement. (Not for the faint at heart.)

The Crescent Hotel & Spa is the premier resort in Eureka Springs, and is recognized as one of America's Dozen Distinctive Destinations by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The Crescent is of Victorian period with modern-day amenities, including a full-service spa, and 15 acres of formal gardens and nature trails.

Tours are scheduled by appointment and often times, your guide will be in period costume. As I recall most of the tour was all conducted inside the hotel. Be prepared to stand or sit on steps, occasionally, if guests are present you will need to move. I believe the tour lasted more than an hour. An interesting history of the property will enlighten and surprise you.

Irish construction workers referred to the hotel as "The Grand Old Lady of the Ozarks". the newly completed railroad brought in thousands of tourists. There was even a stables with more than 100 horses, so everyone could ride.

At one time the palatial hotel was an all-girls school and later became a cancer hospital, before closing in 1940. It re-opened after World War II and in 1967 a fire destroyed most of the fourth floor including the center penthouse.

As for the spirits...

It is rumored that during the construction of the hotel one of the Irish stone masons fell to his death in what is now room 218. And not surprisingly, this room proves to be the most 'spiritually active" room in the hotel. Guests are reported to have seen "hands coming out of mirrors", cries of a falling man in the ceiling, the door opening and then slamming shut. Naturally, many guests request this room. (During our tour, it was occupied so we didn't get a peek or feel anything unusual.) Guests have reported seeing playful spirits dressed in Victorian garb and employees have seen packages and furniture in the dining room move from one place to another. Others have witnessed Victorian era apparitions and have seen them or heard them speak.

In a hallway upstairs, I thought I saw an apparition of a boy and a girl playing near a window.

The more eery feeling I felt, was in the basement where the morgue was, when the hotel was a cancer hospital during the 1930's. "Dr." Norman Baker, claiming to be a licensed physician, examined cancer patients while charging their families exorbitant fees. The stylish doctors apparition has been reported around the hotel too. The autopsy room was in the basement with a walk-in freezer, the braver of us walked in and around. I chose to stay outside the freezer as just being in the presence of the original autopsy table gave me the creeps, even as I think about it more than a year later.

A cancer patient is also reported as being seen in room 419, and has been known to talk to guests.

Many more stories and apparitions can be seen or heard at the Crescent Hotel & Spa.

http://historichotels.org/hotel/1886_Crescent_Hotel_Spa/54

Winter Wonderland

2009-02-23T21:17:00.005-05:00

One of my favorite states in the union is North Carolina. They have an abundance of land just ripe for adventure lovers like myself. I enjoyed the barrier islands. Hang gliding in the dunes in teh Outer Banks, kayaking along the coast and now skiing the slopes in High Country. Be sure to bring your camera so you can take dozens of photos to remember and share all the exciting adventures on your next trip to North Carolina. I guarantee you'll want to come back again and again. Majestic mountains offer a winter wonderland of activities for the novice to the experienced double diamond skiers. North Carolina offers an array of slopes to accommodate thrill seekers. Haven't skied in a a while? Maybe never? Don't worry, these resorts have experienced instructors who are patient and will help you learn to walk, glide, parallel ski and you will be skiing like a pro by noon! The conditions are perfect. Try skiing, snowboarding and/or snow shoeing. Not only will you be impressed with the instructors, the slopes, blissful snow, but you will make new friends to share your adventures with! Try out Cataloochee, Sapphire Valley, both are great for families too! Rent a beautiful cabin at Wolf Ridge Ski Resort for couples or family get togethers, with twenty ski runs, lessons and more coming! And you won't want to miss Sugar and Beech Ski Resorts! Sugar has the highest run in the state at 5,300 feet, Whoodedoo! Awesome slopes, great instructors. They also have ice skating and tubing for couples and families to enjoy. There's still time! The conditions are perfect! These resorts know how to make the most of snow and the weather conditions. www.visitnc.com

Soar with the Eagles at Eagle Island

2009-01-16T22:02:00.008-05:00

Breathe deeply. Do you smell the fresh pine trees and smoke from cedar logs burning in the fireplace. Cold, damp air is refreshing. Energizing to both physique and mind. Total seclusion. No traffic coursing by. You're not at a resort with organized chaos outside your room. You are far removed, accessible only by boat. The Private Isles of Georgia. A slice of heaven is waiting your arrival. From the moment you board your vessel off the dock near Skippers Restaurant on the Altamaha River, you will be leaving your worries behind and embarking on a respite you deserve.

Bait your hook, step into a kayak or simply take a walk in the woods. Relax on a hammock in the southwest corner of the wooded area and read a novel. Free your mind to release your spirit on Eagle Island. Marvel at how quickly your senses will allow you to embrace your home away from home.

Don't worry about dinner, your meals can be prepared and brought to you or a chef can create your culinary delights upon your request, at the lodge. although it is recommended guests bring their own food to prepare as a family or couple, when they are ready for it. Enjoy the outdoor kitchen or the spacious lodge kitchen for fun, creative memories! The perfect anniversary, family reunion or girlfriends (or guys) getaway for a week, or weekend. Explore the many islands, drenched in history, with as much or as little adventure as you wish. Learn how to go crabbing, steam oysters, go birding and walk along a private beach.

http://www.privateislandsofgeorgia.com

Secrets Hotels Don't Tell You

2009-01-05T23:21:00.005-05:00

Want a few good tips about hotels (from booking to lost and found)?

1. You can get the best rate by calling the hotel's local number, not the 800 number. Ask to speak to the Manager on Duty, Director of Sales or the GM, they have the authority to negotiate room rates.

2. Rooms are more expensive in the morning. The best time of day to make a reservation by phone is right after 6 pm. This is when hotels wipe out all the no-show reservations that were unsecured by a credit card. They can offer those rooms at bargain rates.

3. Everything is negotiable. Think parking is overpriced? If the lot looks half empty, offer less than the daily rate. Planning to make a lot of local calls? Some hotels offer a per-day flat fee for long distance in the US and local calling (usually $9.95) but you may ask for it.

4. Rooms are available even when a hotel has no vacancies. In any large hotel, a few rooms are usually listed as "out of order" at any given time. The problems might be something as simple as a stain on the carpet or a chair that has been sent out for repairs. If you're desperate for a last-minute room in a hotel that claims to have non available, tell the manager you are willing to take an out-of-order room with a minor problem.

5. It pays to tip the housekeeper everyday. Exchange a few pleasant words with the housekeeper if you see him/her and leave a $2 or $3 tip each day. You'll get better service. Housekeepers are overworked, underpaid and underappreciated in hotels. Knowing the housekeeper also reduces the chances that your room will be burglarized. Dishonest housekeepers are less likely to target guests they have met. (more tips at www.NewTravelAdventures.com)

Mardi Gras in Lake Charles

2008-12-30T18:46:00.011-05:00

Colorful beads, beautiful sequenced costumes and lively music will welcome and surround you in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday, which comes before Ash Wednesday. A year ago I had the pleasure of being in Louisiana for Mardi Gras. I was directed to a great family town, Lake Charles, for parades, decorating a king cake, lively music, the Krewe of Krewes and delicious seafood; like gumbo. I've watched many unique and beautiful floats over the past few years, but it is nothing compared to actually being on a float in the parade and tossing beads to kids and adults along the street/parade route. It was a little chilly and raining the day we participated in the parade. If you aren't aware, they have a parade for each krewe, it's quite interesting. Mardi Gras has evolved from one day to week long celebrations. There's even a parade of boats on the lake. We were in the Red Hat Ladies parade (no, I'm not that old, not even quite), however there were men driving the floats and keeping the music going, and even a few kids onboard. I've never seen so many beads in one place! A rainbow of colorful beads draped on the nails inside the floats. We tossed to young children, to men and women, to people who used to be strangers, who are now friends. "Throw me something!" Was the chorus along the streets where tailgating came to a whole new meaning. There's symbology, or meaning to everything about Mardi Gras. The throwing of beads didn't actually start until the 1920's. The purple represents justice; the green symbolizes faith and the gold exemplifies power ad they come in a plethora of shapes and sizes. Krewes even give out their own unique trinket, or doubloons with their logo embossed. The King Cake for example, when you bite into a king cake and if you get the golden baby, means you are the king or queen of the party and it also means you have to bring the king cake to the next party. King Cake is traditionally oblong or oval shaped cinnamon dough, glazed and sprinkled! Most have fillings of strawberry, cream cheese or apple. King Cake season officially opens January 6, the feast of the Epiphany. this is only a small portion of what Mardi Gras means and has to offer. Millions of people participate and enjoy Mardi Gras around the globe, with various cultures coming together to celebrate the things that make them unique. For a list of events go to: www.visitlakecharles.org

Jekyll Island

2008-10-31T20:55:00.000-04:00

As you drive across the bridge, you can almost feel yourself stepping back in time. Don't be surprised when you witness men and women dressed in fine attire on the front lawn. They are partaking in the tournament play of croquet. As the mallet chucks the ball through metal rings, you can circle the lawn and admire the brick, old-style mansion. A playground for the rich, from a private hunting club to a state park gem. From tee time to tea time, this 240-acre, riverfront compound is a National Historic Landmark District and one of the largest ongoing restoration projects in the southeastern United States.

A romantic getaway for couples, a respite, or girl-friends or guy weekend retreat, you will never be bored with this line up: fishing, boating, kayaking, biking, tennis, golf, birdwatching, soccer, camps for kids and more! Feel as though you are one of the America's elite families on winter retreat when you visit. As you will be treated with the hospitality as royalty.

After a rousing game of tennis, or hiking on the trails, meander over to the Cafe on the Wharf for a fresh, fruity, frozen beverage. After a refreshing repast, explore the grounds in the Pier Roads shops or the Historic District for treasures for sale. Or seek out hidden cache with a high-tech GPS for geocaching on the island.

In addition to the beautiful grounds, also a resting place for migrating birds on the Atlantic Flyway, and architecture, I loved the loggerhead turtle rehab facility. The island is a major site for conservation and education.

Jekyll Island is also a superb location for business retreats with the only distractions coming from your participants anxious to enjoy Jekyll Islands paradise of sea fishing or sailing.

Visit them now.. while gas prices are still going down! Worth the drive! www.jekyllisland.com

Hit the Road

2008-10-27T22:34:00.000-04:00

Whenever I travel I always look for an opportunity to paddle a kayak or peddle on the trails. Not only is this a great way to stay in shape, its a great way to see parts of the city or town where you are visiting. Getting up an hour earlier or skipping the television in your hotel room for beautiful foliage, learning to identify birds and feeling great are worth the one-hour of less sleep.

While in Springfield, Missouri, I found a beautiful gathering place for people of all ages, River Bluff Cave House is just one of the cities beautiful areas for respite and recreation. This family-friendly park offers trails and a cave to explore. Other city parks offer playgrounds, rose gardens, rock walls and picnic/grilling areas.

The morning air is fresh and exhilarating along the bike/walking paths. Springfield parks offer a plethora of recreational opportunities as well; from skating rinks to rugby fields. Feel free to rent a bike and hit the trails all over the city and into the charming neighborhoods.

Another one of my favorite past times is fishing. Missouri has a wealth of lakes, rivers and streams to cast your bait or fly. If you need to practice your casting technique you might want to visit Dogwood Canyon where you can catch plenty of Rainbow Trout. There are 2,200 acres of beautiful paradise here in the Ozarks, to explore on foot, by bike, on horseback or with a guided tram tour.

The Ozarks are also a great place for paddling. Whether you enjoy pleasure kayaking or canoes, you wont be disappointed with the scenery, wildlife or tranquility of Missouri/Arkansas's Garden of Eden. Borrow a canoe or kayak at Lake Springfield Park where you can paddle James River Water Trail.

On the Flly (fishing)

2008-09-15T19:15:00.000-04:00

Casting a line in or around Springfield, or in the Ozarks is inspiring. Relax and reel 'em in at Dogwood Canyon. To get started you might need to brush up on which fish are biting and the bodies of water in the area from the pros at Bass pro, while you're there you can pick up some fishing and hunting tackle and perhaps some bug spray and sunscreen.

Do you need to practice your casting technique? Dogwood Canyon is the place to cast, hook and reel in beautiful trout. Snap your flies near attractive waterfalls, under bridges and along fast moving streams where you can catch and release or keep your prize. Novice anglers can take a private lesson from one of the guides and become a pro in no time. Bike paths meander through part of this beautiful 2,200 acres of nature park for kids of all ages. Explore a slice of paradise on a Guided Tram tour where you can see an Indian Burial Cave and the Great Spirit Rock Shelter, limestone bluffs and clear spring-fed waters and through the rugged canyon to see bison, elk and longhorn. Rustic, yet modern cabins are available for rental of groups (www.dogwoodcanyon.com)

I visited in early spring and all the colour was not yet flourishing, however you can easily visualize the beauty of the area. Best of all, I was finally learning to fly-fish. And yes, I caught those fish not my guide. He just brilliantly showed me where to fish and how to snap my wrist to cast where the trout can be found. Cool, crisp, clean water flows freely, tumbling over rocks and branches, under bridges and over falls spilling bright, colorful trout.

Bike Month

2008-03-28T15:32:00.000-04:00

Isn't it amazing how we have to have a special day, week or month to remind us of something? For instance did you know that there is a national procrastination day? Or frozen food month? Well March is National Bike month and obviously the idea is to get more people to get off their couch potato, glued to the computer behinds, and peddle! That's right. We want you to burn off some calories, make some new friends, don those bullet-looking helmets (you don't have to put on the spandex, please) and conserve our resources while cutting down on emissions. Thankfully our cities, states and national government understands this challenge we have, and appreciates what valuable land we have left.

I love our Rails-to-Trails system. You can ride from towns, through suburbs, admiring nature, various forms of architecture and feel great, both during and after your excursion. These trails can take you from Washington, D.C. to Pittsburgh, PA. Re-acquaint yourself with history, or learn something new along the route. Follow rolling rapids, see one of Frank Lloyd Wrights masterpieces. www.railstotrails.org

Maybe you want to make your next vacation (or mini-vacation) as a biking trip for the family or with friends. This will take a little planning, but will be a trip full of memories!