Ecuador - The Perfect Girlfriend's Getaway

The men go hunting without us, or watch motor sports, now is it our turn!

Ecuador is one of the smallest--but most diverse--countries in South America. This small country, lies at the northern South American Pacific coast, only 4 hours flight away from Miami. Your airplane will land in either Quito, the Capital City, or in Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city--located on the large Guayas River.

Starting in Quito, you should organize an easy first day, because Quito lies at 9202 ft (2800 m) above sea level--and, if possible, you should acclimatize yourself a bit to the altitude. It's probably much higher in elevation than what you're used to at home.

If you would like a variety of restaurants accessible on foot, stay in one of the beautiful hotels in the Mariscal district in Northern Quito. We especially recommend Hotels such as Cafe Cultura---or if you like fun-- try the brand new Boutique Hotel Nue House at the Quininde Place. If you like Museums and cultural tours, choose your hotel in the historical Center of Quito which has been designated as a UN Heritage Site.

In the Historical Center we recommend to you the Bed and Breakfast Villa Colonna, the Hotel Relicario del Carmen (3*), or the Hotel Patio Andaluz (4*).

A full day City-tour is an excellent first day activity to start your trip off right! Do an extensive visit through Quito's Center with its 26 churches.

Are you the type of person who has seen Churches after you have seen 2 or 3? Don't worry; there are plenty of other things to do!

Have you ever been interested in how coffee is roasted and how the different roasting levels taste? Find the answer in the old town of Quito.

Have fun walking through the colorful Ipiales market where the "Quitenos" find everything for their daily lives. The market is organized by goods. There is a shoe section with more shoes than you have ever seen in one place in your life...even in your closet at home, including those back corners you never visit--principally because you're not sure what's there.

Those more interested in culture should visit a wood carver in one of the monasteries where they produce crucifixes and Religious statues for the whole world. Get introduced to old painting techniques carried forward for hundreds of years-- and learn about Ecuadorians and their daily Ecuadorian lives.

If you and your girlfriends like shopping, you absolutely must travel to Otavalo. The Indian market at Otavalo is world-renowned, and is one of the largest of its kind in South America. Most every type of item is represented, and all different qualities of products are available.
For those of you who enjoy buying the highest quality textiles---from sweaters and blouses to wand carpets--don't spend too much time at the market, take a taxi to Peguche or Iluman and visit the weavers, personally. Many of them can be classified as real artists and produce spectacular handicrafts you will find nowhere else in the world.

Overnight, stay with your friends in one of the colonial haciendas in the area.

Here we will recommend to you the Haciendas Pinsaqui or Cusin.

If you want one of the most exclusive Spa experiences in South America, stay at the Hosteria La Mirage in Cotacachi.

In all these accommodations, you can enjoy a candlelight dinner with your friends, a good glass of wine, or a drink next to a warm chimney fire-- and have a great conversation. Friendships can bloom, and lives can change---overnight.

If your group is more active, or you seek a more spiritual encounter, why not spend four or five days in the Rainforest in one of the beautiful Jungle Lodges? You will take daily Jungle Expeditions, guided by a bilingual Naturalist---or you can plan spiritual activities at or near the lodge itself. During the daily Jungle Expedition, you will experience Nature as far away from civilization as you can get. Check out the La Selva Jungle Lodge, the Napo Wildlife Center or Sacha Lodge.

Especially for women travelers I recommend the city of Cuenca. This small city in southern Ecuador is also a UN World Heritage site, with many museums and with excellent places for shopping. Cuenca is especially known, worldwide, for both its ceramics, and for its jewelry artisans.

You can stay in one of the excellent colonial Hotels in the colonial center of Cuenca. One of the best options is the Hotel Mansion Alcazar. From here, you can reach the whole colonial center on foot... and don't forget to try the excellent food and atmosphere in Cuenca's many restaurants in the old town. The ambiance is unsurpassed, and the cuisine is first class!

A "must" is the travel from Cuenca through the Cajas National Park to Guayaquil. The Cajas National Park is said to be one of the best National Parks in all of South America, and Ecuadorians pride themselves in having "the best." This park has hundreds of lakes which reach out and embrace you--almost singing a siren song invitation for either hiking or trekking. When the road through the park reaches its highest point at about 13136 ft (4000m) above sea level, take a deep breath and realize that you are at the watershed between the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean. Everything west of this flows into the Pacific. Everything east of this flows into the Atlantic, hundreds and hundreds of miles to the East. From this altitude, the road winds down to the Pacific plain with its large Banana fields.

Who doesn't like Bananas? Visit a Banana Hacienda from Guayaquil.

You have a very interesting option in the Babahoyo area. Guayaquil itself is a tropical city. The "old town" of Guayaquil is called "Las Penas", and on the Santa Ana Hill, take a walk up to the Santa Ana Lighthouse. On the way up, stop and have a drink in one of the many local bars.

In Guayaquil stay at the Hotel Unipark, just opposite Seminario Park or the "Parque de las Iguanas"--in local parlance. It may not be necessary to say this, but--please, don't pet the Iguanas. Within this Park, Iguanas walk freely around--just like dogs or cats do at home.

Another wonderful option for lodging is the nearby--and less expensive--Grand Hotel de Guayaquil.

Guayaquil has also an International Airport where you either can start or end your trip to the Amazing Country of Ecuador, and all flights to the Galapagos Islands also go through Guayaquil.

You will see that Ecuador has something to offer for every taste and budget.

Don't wait, come and discover...Enjoy Ecuador--A Place for Friends, Food, and Fun!

Peter Lauffer, General Manager of TrueColors Travel in Quito - Your Expert Guide for Galapagos Cruise Travel at http://www.galapagostraveller.com.

Englewood Florida - Our Little Piece of Paradise

Have you dreamed of a vacation in paradise? Or, are you dreaming of that perfect retirement destination?

My wife and I have spent many years planning our retirement destination. Although we have traveled to many interesting places over the years, we always come back to the same community when we consider the best place to vacation and ultimately to retire.

Our perfect place is Englewood Florida!

Nestled on Florida's beautiful gulf coast, Englewood has four great beaches and is close to several other sun, sand and surf spots. You can spend a few hours reading a book, with the music of the waves washing ashore, while the sunshine brightens your day and the gulf breezes keep you comfortable.

If a more active time at the beach is to your liking, these great beaches offer excellent swimming, sailing and surfing fun. We often go to a beach just to walk along the shore enjoying the warm sand under our feet and feeling the gulf breeze on our faces.

Because Englewood is located on the coast, there are plenty of beachfront accommodations to own or to rent. Many people rent a beachfront condo for a few years and then as retirement approaches, they purchase their own beachfront accommodations. Actually, there are many vacation accommodation venues to choose from in the Englewood Florida area. After all, you are never very far from the water's edge, no matter where you choose to live in this great Florida vacation community!

There is a medley of shopping facilities in Englewood. But, if you are looking for a wider variety of shopping venues, the close proximity of larger centers like Sarasota and Fort Myers makes shopping excursions a fun and easy event.

Although it is not a large city, Englewood has good medical facilities to meet your needs. But, if more specialized treatment is necessary, once again the larger cities are an easy commute.

I am a golfer, not a good one, but a golfer. Florida is famous for its vast number of golf courses. It is not just the large numbers that are significant, but also the diversity of the Florida golf courses that make this region a golfer's paradise. And, the Englewood region is no exception when it comes to golfing venues. I like the challenge of playing different golf courses. Because of the large number of golf courses in the Englewood area, I am never at a loss to find a different golfing venue.

My wife is a nature lover. She loves to work in her garden and backyard bird feeding is her particular passion. But, she also loves to go for long walks taking in the rich tapestry that nature has painted on the Florida landscape.

She loves to visit the beaches during the nesting times for the sea turtles that visit the area. And, of course, the many nature trails with the rich vegetation and unique wildlife are constantly beckoning.

Not all of the activities in the Englewood area are oriented to the out-of-doors. The area offers many great historical and cultural entertainment venues. As well, many cultural and community centers offer recreational courses on topics as broad as the rainbow.

Florida offers an assortment of vacation opportunities for people of all walks of life. But, for us, there is nowhere like Englewood Florida.

Simply, stated, "We Enjoy Englewood Florida!"

I am a freelance writer specializing in travel and sports (golf, football and hockey). The door is always open at my website http://www.enjoy-englewood-florida.com where I share why we love this great vacation and retirement destination. You can also read my blog http://www.enjoygolfmore.blogspot.com

The Fastest Driving Route to Florida

Have you ever wondered what the fastest driving route to Florida is? Well, if you live in the northeastern United States or in the Canadian province of Ontario, read on! After many years of exploring the major north-south routes (and driving my wife crazy with noting travel times between various locations) we have determined that the following route gets you to Florida sunshine the fastest.

1/ If you are crossing the Canada/US border or live in northern Ohio or New York, Interstate #90 provides the best connection to Interstate #79, your first north-south highway on the Fastest Route to Florida. (Remember that I-90 in most of New York State is a toll route)

2/ Take I-90 to Erie Pennsylvania to connect with I-79.

3/ Follow I-79 south through the rolling hills of northern Pennsylvania. One caution, keep watch for deer, I have never seen so many deer (dead or alive) along one stretch of road anywhere else in North America.

4/ There are not many commercial service areas between Erie and Pittsburgh, but there are some clean rest stop areas (about every twenty minutes).

5/ Washington Pennsylvania, just south of Pittsburgh, offers some good accommodation, dining and shopping venues.

6/ I-70 connects with I-79 at Washington, so if you live along the I-70 corridor you can easily connect with the fastest route to Florida.

7/ Continuing southward, it is not long before you enter the State of West Virginia. If you are a college football fan, the University of West Virginia football stadium can be seen in the distance to the east as you pass through Morgantown.

8/ As you approach Charleston, I-79 ends and you connect with I-77. (You could take I-77 all the way from I-90, just outside of Cleveland, Ohio, but we like the scenery of I-79 and it is a faster route.)

9/ Your route takes you right through Charleston, and although we have never spent much time in the area, the mix of southern architecture and modern structures provides for interesting scenery.

10/ Leaving Charleston, the mountains and valleys seem to engulf you as you make your way towards your destination, Englewood Florida.

11/ About an hour after leaving Charleston, you will reach Beckley. This town is known for its coal mining (if time is available check out the coal mining museum.) At each of the exits in the Beckley area you will find accommodations, food and fuel readily available.

12/ If you enjoy mountainous scenery, the next couple of hours will delight you! I-77 twists and turns through the mountains of West Virginia, then as you pass through a tunnel the panorama of the mountains of the State of Virginia literally explodes through your windshield as you exit from the tunnel.

13/ After passing through Wytheville with its numerous venues for food, fuel and accommodation, you will soon be in North Carolina.

14/ The State of North Carolina makes an equally dramatic entrance. As you pass by an exit announcing Fancy Gap, the highway begins a decent down the mountains. The view is spectacular, but the numerous run-away truck ramps serve as an ominous warning that the steepness of the hill can cause trucks to have trouble stopping.

15/ At the bottom of the hill, a beautiful rest area provides a great picnic location, or just a spot to take a leisurely stroll amongst the well-manicured gardens.

16/ I-77 continues on through Charlotte, North Carolina and on to Columbia, South Carolina. One of our favorite moments occurs as we enter the South Carolina Welcome Center. At the entrance we see our first palm tree, evidence that Florida and Englewood are not far away.

17/ A short distance from Columbia we connect with I-95 and continue southward, passing Savannah and then Brunswick until we reach the Florida Welcome Center.

18/ A few minutes south of Jacksonville is one of my favorite stops along the World Golf Village. Besides the great golf atmosphere at the shops and restaurants in the village, there is the World Golf Hall of Fame. Believe me, it is worth the visit!

19/ Continuing down I-95, we arrive at Daytona (try not to travel through this area around the time of any racing event, especially the Daytona 500, the traffic is crazy. But if you are a car racing fan, go for it!), where we connect with I-4.

20/ I-4 goes through Orlando (try to avoid weekday rush hours). You might want to plan a few days at any of the major theme parks in the area.

21/ Just east of Tampa take I-75 southbound.

22/ About an hour later, take the River Road exit and in 10-15 minutes you will be in Englewood Florida.

LET YOUR WINTER VACATION BEGIN! You can now truly forget about the cold weather and snow and just Enjoy Englewood Florida!

I am a freelance writer specializing in travel and sports (golf, football and hockey). The door is always open at my website http://www.enjoy-englewood-florida.com where I share why we love this great vacation and retirement destination. You can also read my blog http://www.enjoygolfmore.blogspot.com

Belize City - Perfect Place For History Lovers!

Belize is known around the world not only for its breathtaking natural beauty but also its ancient monuments. Belize City especially is seeped in history, its landscape liberally dotted with historical monuments and buildings.

In fact, there are many places in Belize City that need more than 2-3 hours to explore fully, such as:

Street Tourism Village

Specifically designed for ship passengers to experience Belize in a unique way, Fort Street Tourism Village is located near the Haulover Creek. Architecturally similar to an open-air Mini-Mall, the Village has three terminals and three courtyards with a house full of variety of stores and businesses, where tourists can enjoy best of both the worlds- air-conditioned facilities and fresh tropical breezes.

Baron Bliss Lighthouse Monument

The Baron Bliss Lighthouse Monument located at Fort George Point towers over the harbor entrance is one of the major attractions found in the Belize City. This beautiful monument is actually a tribute to Belize's greatest benefactor Henry Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, the 5th baron of Portugal. To fulfill his last wish, he was entombed in front of the lighthouse. The view of the lighthouse can be enjoyed from the high seawall which is referred to as "Fort Point" by the fishermen and boatmen.

St. John's Cathedral

Located at the south end of Albert Street, St. John's Cathedral is the oldest building in Belize. In fact, this is the oldest Anglican Church in the world outside of England where the crowning of several Kings of Mosquito Coast took place during 1812 to 1824. This beautiful church was built from red colored bricks brought to Belize as ballast by ships sailing from Europe.

House of Culture Museum

Once the residence of colonial governors, House of Culture Museum located in Belize City is a now a historical museum. It hosts a permanent exhibition of classic furniture, historical photos, authentic silverware and glassware collection. The building itself, built in the early 1800s, is a beautiful combination of Caribbean Vernacular and English Urban architecture.

Bliss Institute for the Performing Arts

Bliss Institute for the Performing Arts serves as the cultural center of Belize City. Initially it used to house the Belize Arts Council, library and a museum of Mayan artifact. However after a recent renovation, it has got a role as the primary performance arm of the Museum of Belize. It hosts a wide variety of events such as theater performances, film festivals, dance troops, and community events.

Museum of Belize

Initially designed as a colonial prison in the mid 1800s, this double storey historic brick building located on Gabourel Lane is today the Museum of Belize. It features a beautiful assortment of historical photographs, documents, and artifacts along a permanent exhibit of ancient Mayan pottery and other archaeological findings. The age old prison cells are being restored to their original condition today, to allow visitors to relive its stark past.

Supreme Court Building

Built in 1926, Supreme Court Building is another landmark of Belize City. Constructed of reinforced concrete in a classic British colonial style with a dome topped clock tower, the Supreme Court Building is a beautiful work of classic architecture. The building is located on the same site where the original courthouse was built in 1818.

Swing Bridge

The southern and northern side of Belize City is connected by the Swing Bridge. Built in 1922, this old bridge is the only functional manually operated swing bridge left in the world. Everyday it opens twice to make a passage for sailboats and other large boats to pass through the river.

Apart from these places, there are many more places of Belize City that might attract you. This is a paradise for history, anthropology and architecture buffs and the beauty of the place has even compelled many to think of moving to Belize City permanently.

For a memorable vacation in Belize, it is important to plan your holiday beforehand by consulting a reputed travel agency. A good Belize vacation rental package or Belize jungle vacation package can help you a lot in this regard.

Edward Wilson is a well-known travel journalist based in Belize Island. He has written extensively on various places in Belize which are a tourist's delight and has also given advice on vacation options in Belize including Belize jungle vacations Belize birding, Belize Cuisine and so on.

Holidays to Koh Samui

Just one hours flight from Bangkok, off the east coast of Thailand lays this beautiful island. Not as lively as some of the other Thai resorts, Koh Samui is an ideal island for a peaceful and relaxing holiday.

On holidays to Koh Samui the glorious beaches and clear waters are ideal for swimming and there are a lot of superb bars and local restaurants as well. Combine your beach holidays to Koh Samui with a stay in the bustling city of Bangkok or relax on another Thai beach.

The third-largest island in the Gulf of Thailand, Ko Samui dominates an idyllic 80-isle archipelago. On holidays to Koh Samui, although the irresistible tide of tourism has rolled in, the alluring expanses of soft white sand beaches still beckon.

On holidays to Koh Samui, inland, as far as the eye can see, graceful coconut palms take the sun like forests of slightly swaying green parasols. Coconuts fall from the sky here-mind your head!-and keep the economy ticking over. Ko Samui's coconuts, according to experts, are Thailand's best, and some two million of them are shipped to the mainland every month (Aside from food and drink, the bountiful palms provide thatch for roofing, fibre for rope or matting, and coconut oil for candles, soap and food products.)

You will see when on your holidays to Koh Samui when the islanders are not harvesting the coconuts, they're busy cultivating rice in the paddies, out at sea fishing or-more likely nowadays-exploiting the tourist business.

Ko Samui was "discovered" belatedly because of its relative remoteness. It lies some 560 km (350 miles) south of Bangkok, and about 80 km (50 miles) east of the provincial capital of Surat Thani. It's closer to Malaysia than to Bangkok. When they built the island's airport, the distance from the metropolis suddenly became manageable and the curtain rose on the era of mainline tourism. Holidays to Koh Samui are becoming more and more popular with people returning year after year.

On your holidays to Koh Samui you will find that Thai food can be so spicy that it's tempting to gulp a glass of cold water to put out the fire. Resist that urge! A few mouthfuls of plain boiled rice will prove much more effective. Actually, chilli peppers are only one of the ingredients that characterize Thai cuisine; the others are as varied and original as lemon grass, coconut milk, garlic, ginger and mint.

On your holidays to Koh Samui Island, cuisine is often built around the luscious local seafood. Some restaurants specialize in foreign cuisines - French, Italian, Spanish or all-purpose "international". Street stalls are full of delicious surprises, as well as refreshing fruits, exotic and familiar.

On your holidays to Koh Samui why not travel out and about? Only 14 km (9 miles) north of Ko Samui, the island of Ko Pha Ngan has some perfect beaches and refreshing waterfalls. The principal port is Thong Sala, but many excursion boats go to the village of Hat Rin, on the southeast coast, which is notorious for its uninhibited party atmosphere. Also on your holidays to Koh Samui visit Ko Tao which is as yet an unspoiled island with spectacular coral reefs. It's a two-hour trip from Ko Pha Ngan by express boat.

The most sensational sights are protected under the umbrella of the Ang Thong Marine National Park. These 40 islands, northwest of Ko Samui, have all the ingredients of tropical dreamscapes-crystal-clear seas, crescent beaches, coral reefs, rain forests, caves and limestone formations. Day trips from Ko Samui hit the high spots, or you might want to get off and stay forever.

More information about holidays to Koh Samui can be found out at the website of Global Travel Stourbridge.

Breckenridge Winter Activities

The Rocky Mountains provide an endless array of winter activities in Breckenridge, Colorado. While the town is most famous for its world-class Breckenridge Ski Resort, visitors will find that non-ski activities abound as well. With 300-plus inches of snow falling on the surrounding mountain peaks each winter, activities such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, Nordic skiing, ice skating, fly fishing, sledding and sleigh rides will keep your party active, while just scratching the surface of all that Breckenridge has to offer. Those looking for a bit "warmer" activities will find phenomenal day spas, shopping and cultural centers.

Breckenridge is a snowmobiler's paradise with an almost unfathomable amount of terrain to explore. Local outfitters provide both guided and unguided snowmobile tours and rental, allowing guests to choose their level of adventure. Snowmobiling provides motorized access to the backcountry glades and bowls that abound in the area, with opportunities for postcard-like photos at nearly every turn of the trail. Adventurous riders may opt for "high adventure" tours where guides will show you how the locals ride, accessing Breckenridge's deepest powder.

Those seeking a bit more seclusion and quiet can appreciate the wilderness via a guided dog sled tour. Dog sledding tours through the middle fork of the Swan River Valley allow you to explore some of Breckenridge's deepest forests as well as historic mining camps and ghost towns that once populated the area. Dog teams of Siberian huskies are eager to show you these places as they swiftly plod through the pines and aspens over rolling backcountry terrain.

The Breckenridge area is home to amazing Nordic skiing opportunities, a favorite local activity. Take in one of three local Nordic centers, or break your own trail on an excursion into the backcountry. The Army's 10th mountain division maintains several backcountry huts throughout the area that can be rented by the night or the week, providing a base of operations for your skiing excursion of choice.

Take in one of Breckenridge's three local ice rinks for a morning or afternoon of skating with your family in a winter wonderland. The Stephen C. West Ice Arena offers 2 NHL sized ice surfaces and hosts open skating daily. Maggie Pond, located in the Peak 9 base area, offers outdoor skating opportunities with phenomenal views of the Ten Mile Range and Bald Mountain. Skate rentals are available at both locations for skaters who haven't brought their own equipment along.

Winter doesn't mean the end of fly fishing season in the Breckenridge high country. The area is home to several gold medal rivers, streams and lakes where highly skilled guides can hook you up with trophy sized fish. Those brave enough to endure the chilly winter temperatures will find uncrowded fishing grounds, surrounded by amphitheaters of rugged snowcapped peaks. Massive, hungry trout are waiting to take your fly on almost every cast, with expert guides placing you in prime position to catch them.

Families looking for adventurous sledding options will find that the Breckenridge area offers several. While the Breckenridge Ski Resort does not offer and on-mountain tubing hill, its nearby sister resort does. Tubing at Keystone resort takes place in both the day and night time hours, meaning a tubing adventure doesn't have to cut into your ski day. The town of Breckenridge is home to Carter Park, a walk-up slide-down sledding hill with a generous slope and a long out run. Bring your own sled or pick one up at a local supermarket. This public park provides sledding free of charge while Keystone Resort charges for its hill.

Finally, dinner sleigh rides provide an evening event for the entire family, with hand build Santa-style sleighs and powerful Belgian draft horses. Sleigh rides take place on either Breckenridge's Jack Nicklaus designed golf course, or through the wilderness of the Swan River Valley, with a star filled sky overhead lighting the way. Hearty meals are served in lodges warmed by roaring fires and charming local mountain hospitality.

Whether you're an expert skier or a novice who's just learning to link turns, be sure you take in more than just the ski area when visiting Breckenridge. The area's winter activities are unsurpassed, with multiple opportunities to enjoy Colorado's famous champagne powder. Whether you're traveling with friends, family a corporate group or by yourself, Breckenridge Colorado Activities are well suited to the needs of any party.

Ben Kelly is the owner of Summit Vacation Concierge and can offer expert advice on Breckenridge activities as well as Breckenridge Colorado Lodging, transportation, travel services and more.

Breckenridge Winter Activities

The Rocky Mountains provide an endless array of winter activities in Breckenridge, Colorado. While the town is most famous for its world-class Breckenridge Ski Resort, visitors will find that non-ski activities abound as well. With 300-plus inches of snow falling on the surrounding mountain peaks each winter, activities such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, Nordic skiing, ice skating, fly fishing, sledding and sleigh rides will keep your party active, while just scratching the surface of all that Breckenridge has to offer. Those looking for a bit "warmer" activities will find phenomenal day spas, shopping and cultural centers.

Breckenridge is a snowmobiler's paradise with an almost unfathomable amount of terrain to explore. Local outfitters provide both guided and unguided snowmobile tours and rental, allowing guests to choose their level of adventure. Snowmobiling provides motorized access to the backcountry glades and bowls that abound in the area, with opportunities for postcard-like photos at nearly every turn of the trail. Adventurous riders may opt for "high adventure" tours where guides will show you how the locals ride, accessing Breckenridge's deepest powder.

Those seeking a bit more seclusion and quiet can appreciate the wilderness via a guided dog sled tour. Dog sledding tours through the middle fork of the Swan River Valley allow you to explore some of Breckenridge's deepest forests as well as historic mining camps and ghost towns that once populated the area. Dog teams of Siberian huskies are eager to show you these places as they swiftly plod through the pines and aspens over rolling backcountry terrain.

The Breckenridge area is home to amazing Nordic skiing opportunities, a favorite local activity. Take in one of three local Nordic centers, or break your own trail on an excursion into the backcountry. The Army's 10th mountain division maintains several backcountry huts throughout the area that can be rented by the night or the week, providing a base of operations for your skiing excursion of choice.

Take in one of Breckenridge's three local ice rinks for a morning or afternoon of skating with your family in a winter wonderland. The Stephen C. West Ice Arena offers 2 NHL sized ice surfaces and hosts open skating daily. Maggie Pond, located in the Peak 9 base area, offers outdoor skating opportunities with phenomenal views of the Ten Mile Range and Bald Mountain. Skate rentals are available at both locations for skaters who haven't brought their own equipment along.

Winter doesn't mean the end of fly fishing season in the Breckenridge high country. The area is home to several gold medal rivers, streams and lakes where highly skilled guides can hook you up with trophy sized fish. Those brave enough to endure the chilly winter temperatures will find uncrowded fishing grounds, surrounded by amphitheaters of rugged snowcapped peaks. Massive, hungry trout are waiting to take your fly on almost every cast, with expert guides placing you in prime position to catch them.

Families looking for adventurous sledding options will find that the Breckenridge area offers several. While the Breckenridge Ski Resort does not offer and on-mountain tubing hill, its nearby sister resort does. Tubing at Keystone resort takes place in both the day and night time hours, meaning a tubing adventure doesn't have to cut into your ski day. The town of Breckenridge is home to Carter Park, a walk-up slide-down sledding hill with a generous slope and a long out run. Bring your own sled or pick one up at a local supermarket. This public park provides sledding free of charge while Keystone Resort charges for its hill.

Finally, dinner sleigh rides provide an evening event for the entire family, with hand build Santa-style sleighs and powerful Belgian draft horses. Sleigh rides take place on either Breckenridge's Jack Nicklaus designed golf course, or through the wilderness of the Swan River Valley, with a star filled sky overhead lighting the way. Hearty meals are served in lodges warmed by roaring fires and charming local mountain hospitality.

Whether you're an expert skier or a novice who's just learning to link turns, be sure you take in more than just the ski area when visiting Breckenridge. The area's winter activities are unsurpassed, with multiple opportunities to enjoy Colorado's famous champagne powder. Whether you're traveling with friends, family a corporate group or by yourself, Breckenridge Colorado Activities are well suited to the needs of any party.

Ben Kelly is the owner of Summit Vacation Concierge and can offer expert advice on Breckenridge activities as well as Breckenridge Colorado Lodging, transportation, travel services and more.

5 Unsung Attractions of Paris

You know what the guidebooks tell you when you visit Paris - you must see The Louvre, The Eiffel Tower, The Arc de Triomphe... and yet there are many of us who need something a little less clichéd to see. For people who fit that description, I've made this list of 5 more obscure - but just as memorable - things to do having booked a hotel in France's city of culture.

Catacombs of Paris

This one isn't for the faint of heart, but offers a fascinating, if macabre, trip through history. Not one for a family holiday in France - the catacombs were created in the 18th century when the local cemeteries became overcrowded and disease due to improper burial was on the increase. This section of abandoned quarry became used, and now the centuries old piles of human bone that make up the catacombs are quite the tourist attraction. Although this may sound plain disturbing as a tourist draw, it's actually been the scene of many events throughout the city's history - including the deaths of monarchists at the hands of communards in 1871 and members of the French Resistance using the tunnels secretly during the Second World War. On top of this, the sinister nature of the construction has given it a good representation in popular culture, being referred to in literature by authors such as Umberto Eco, Edgar Allan Poe and Victor Hugo.

Musée du Quai Branly

While The Louvre is undoubtedly the most famous art gallery in Paris, the Musée du Quai Branly offers a more niche proposition: focusing on indigenous art, culture and civilisation from Africa, Asia, Oceania and the Americas. Only opened 2 years ago, the museum has absorbed the collections of Musée national des Arts d'Afrique et d'Océanie and the ethnographic department of the Musée de l'Homme to contain 267,000 objects - of which 3,500 are on display. This is a fascinating day out for those who have exhausted The Louvre's offerings on their luxury holiday in France.

The Marais

If you wanted to be tempted into spending all your France holiday money in one go, the Marais is a good bet. It's a chic shopping area where charming boutiques of original clothing, accessories and home wares cohabit with intriguing artists' galleries. It's very easy to spend a whole day - and a whole lot of cash - here, so be sure to put aside the time it deserves.

Hotel de Sully

Despite the name, this isn't actually a hotel in France, but a "petit hotel" stately home. The reason it makes this list? Because of its wonderful hidden gardens! One of Paris' best guarded secrets and a brilliant way to spend a romantic afternoon with a partner, the 17^th century grounds boast ivy covered walls, historic buildings and a violinist playing live classical music. If you're in a couple, it's a must - if you're on your own or taking a family holiday in France, you may be better served elsewhere.

Canal St Martin

One of the greatest pleasures in Paris is watching the world go by, but as you'll have plenty of opportunities to do this in cafes and restaurants in your luxury holiday in France, this is something a little different. The Canal St Martin is a delightfully tranquil place to spend a Sunday when the quays are traffic free and pedestrianised. It's a splendid place to people watch, and many of the old warehouses have been bought by up and coming artists - no surprise, as any who spend some time here may find the creative muse grabbing them.

A hotel in France's glamorous capital needn't mean the traditional sights. All of these offer a unique insight into the city's culture, history and lifestyle and provide a splendid way to spend a luxury holiday in France.

Kieron Sellens is the marketing manager of the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AiTO). AITO's holidays in France can tailor-make the dream holiday - whether you want piste pleasure or family fun..

Costa Rica - Not For Everyone!

My wife and I moved to Costa Rica six years ago. We sold our business, our home, and almost everything we owned after 9/11 and relocated to Costa Rica's Central Valley near a sleepy coffee town named Grecia.

We knew no one in Costa Rica when we moved here ... and we spoke virtually no Spanish. The only time we had visited was ten years earlier...and then , to a different part of the country. And unfortunately, countless hours of reading and studying on the internet gained us absolutely nothing...because there is no substitute to actually being here...and reality is not the same as the printed word. ( or digital word, as the case may be!)

I don't know if my wife and I are different than most people that "retire" here or not. But what I can say...for an absolute certainty...is LIFE IN COSTA RICA IS DEFINITELY NOT THE SAME IN REAL LIFE AS IT IS PORTRAYED IN GUIDEBOOKS OR ON WEBSITES.

Costa Rica is a beautiful country...its diversity is astounding...the wildlife is amazing...and it is never boring. BUT, the differences between cultures can be huge...they can be frustrating...and ( and this is a big one...that the real estate salesmen or the Costa Rica Chamber of Tourism won't tell you ) that a great many "gringos" ( foreigners) who move to Costa Rica...simply cannot adapt to life here and move back after a short time.

Let me preface the next few paragraphs by saying this " my wife and I love it here in Costa Rica and there is no way that we could ever imagine having to move back to our previous life in the States." BUT...there are times when we are so frustrated that we want to scream. We have adopted that credo ( when talking about the frustrating part of life here...) "it is what it is."
It is one of the more common pastimes of expats here to continually bash the Costa Ricans and continually whine about all of the problems in the country. That is not our intent here as we believe that we are guests here and that our benefits far outweigh the negatives that we hear almost everyday. Many of these complaints are legitimate and we would like to focus upon the most common complaints and the inherent differences that drive many expats to leave after a short time.

Here are a few of the most common cultural differences and the "differences that drive most expats crazy":

• There is a "hidden marketplace" of commerce here in Costa Rica that visitors will never see. The entire country works on an unspoken marketplace of referrals and commissions. Why is this such a big deal?...because you will never really know if a recommendation or referral is being made because it really is a "good deal" or because there is a commission involved. There is nothing that says that a commission must be disclosed.
• There is a two tier marketplace in Costa Rica...one for local Costa Ricans and one for everyone else. And the differences are substantial. And if you think that this doesn't exist...call around yourself to different hotels and ask for the local price or the "gringo" price. It is illogical and illegal in the States or Canada...but not here.
• The common conception of the expat or "gringo" is that he or she has "money trees" back home... no matter that we have worked hard all of our lives...the perception is that we all have so much money that we will not even notice if we pay more. AND, believe it or not, it is actually taught that it is OK to relieve "gringos" of their excess funds because we have "so much more." I didn't believe this either when I moved here...now I do because I see examples of it everyday.
• Here is another that it took me a LONG time to accept: Ticos will tell you what they think you want to hear...instead of the truth ( or reality, if you prefer). This is maddening because you feel oftentimes that you are living with Alice in Wonderland and never really knowing what reality really is. Sound stupid? Yeah, it is. Don't believe it? Ask literally anyone who has lived here for more than a year... A good example is "when will my car be done?" , or "can you come for dinner?" or "can you clean my house tomorrow?" ... remember, this is not a character flaw...it is simply cultural. Commitments mean different things here.
• The bureaucracies here are maddening. You think that you had long lines back home in your local supermarket or bank? Wait until you have to spend three hours waiting in line to deposit money. Or you have to wait for three days to open a bank account to deposit ten grand...or you have to wait for six hours ( even though you have an appointment ) to get your car's annual mechanical checkup. We can all look at these things as "learning experiences that force us into a slower pace of life"...but for those of us that simply cannot abide wasting a great deal of time...this alone can be a deal breaker.
• We have a friend who swears that all appliances that are American made are "seconds". True or not, it is a fact that appliances and most things mechanical do not last as long here.
• Craftsmen and mechanics have a different attitude ( for the most part ) here than in the States. Many are competent , but sloppy. Carpenters and contractors do not cleanup after a job is complete. If 99% of the work is done...they are gone. If the new transmission is installed, it is not tested...it is pronounced "done"....all of which leads to frustration and wasted time. Mechanics are generally competent but sloppy...and then there is the situation where the mechanic will take two hours or his day to drive to you to fix your car that is broken down on a mountain road..."the good with the bad". Talk about a conflict!
• There is a fair amount of talk about corruption and graft...but we believe it is probably really no worse than any other country in the world. Sure, the traffic police will probably take a bribe of $20 or so to let you go...but you were speeding weren't you? And not everything can be solved with a few dollars. There are an awful lot of honest people here too. Don't make the mistake of assuming that everyone can be bought here.
• There is, despite the publicity, a fair amount of anti American feeling here. It is not overt and is more passive but there is still here. There is , of course, resentment over the simple fact that "gringos" almost invariably have more money. There is also resentment that a large number of developers have made huge amounts of money here without following the rules and regulations and have given literally nothing back. While part of the reasons are due to poor oversight and supervision by the Costa Rican government, it does not change the reality of the situation.
• Simple things such as making an emotional decision to buy a house or property near a beach...and not knowing precisely what beach living entails...makes many buyers ( statistics show over 50%) move back "home". Spend time looking at different areas of the country...there is more to Costa Rica than just beach living. We personally live in the mountains for the views AND for the more temperate year round climate. And we visit the beach when we want to see the ocean. There are literally dozens of different areas that you may want to examine. "look before you leap".
• As stupid as it may seem, please remember that Costa Rica is a foreign country...you are not in Kansas any more. In a great many ways, life is infinitely better here...but English is NOT spoken by everyone here and there is NOT highspeed internet everywhere and there is crime and poverty here ( yes, we know that YOU know it too...but it is NOT a Shangrila here all the time)

Both Rhonda and I firmly believe that everyone should know the "good, bad and ugly " about life in Costa Rica BEFORE moving here. We have seen a fair number of people that just simply could not adapt to live here...and usually it is not just one thing...it is a combination.

I wish to stress once again, that Rhonda and I have come to love Costa Rica and regard it as our home. But it is not for everyone.

Randy Berg and his wife moved to Costa Rica after selling their business and everything they owned...they knew no Spanish and not one single person when they arrived. Read about some of the things they have come to love...and a few that they don"t. "You ain't in Kansas anymore. "

Top 10 Beaches With WiFi Internet Access

The internet is all around us wherever we travel. Most airports now offer free internet access, as do many hotels, and you can even get online while flying to your destination. However, up until recently a major problem was that beaches with WiFi internet access where very hard to find. By reading this list of the top 10 beaches with WiFi internet access you will be able to plan a trip which allows you to relax on a beach, while still checking your email or surfing the web.

1. Clearwater Beach, FL
This gorgeous Florida beach has great WiFi coverage from multiple suppliers. So not only do you get to enjoy the clear Gulf waters, you also get to check all your emails at the same time!

2. Brighton Beach, UK
Brighton has been a favourite destination for years. It's famous nightlife scene starts early and finishes late. The beach is blanketed with WiFi access, so you will be able to email all the photos from the night before! The surrounding area also has excellent coverage, so finding a network shouldn't be a problem.

3. Patong Beach, Thailand
This beach is extremely popular in the backpacking scene, and now there's another excellent reason to visit. Enjoy the year round sun, and vibrant culture, while checking your email or instant messenger.

4. Sunset State Beach, CA
If you are looking for something a little more active than just sitting in the sun then Sunset State Beach is for you. There are many activities on offer from fishing to horse riding, and of course you can access wireless internet to share your adventures with your friends and family.

5. Hermosa Beach, CA
This is a laid back beach mixing gorgeous scenery with classic California surf. There are plenty of restaurants and affordable accommodation, and what's more, you can happily roam the streets and beachfront area connected to the web via 802.11g, accessible through AT&T and iPass.

6. Cannes, France
Famous for the annual film festival also offers you a choice of 3 beaches all with wireless internet access. Plage L'evasion, Plage L'ondine and Plage Royale are all covered by at least 1 wireless provider.

7. Naples, Italy
The beach as Stabilimento Balneare Bagno Elena has a long history, over the years the long golden sands have attracted hundreds of thousands of sun seekers, and now because local authorities have blanketed the area with a wireless network, there is even more reason to plan a visit.

8. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Famed for a cosmopolitan, fast-paced lifestyle, Buenos Aires now offers several beaches which have free and open WiFi internet access.

9. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
If the white sands, clear warm water, and year round sunshine aren't enough of a reason to visit, then perhaps the WiFi access on Waikiki Beach is. Surely there isn't a more perfect spot to check your emails from!

10. Lake Ontario, Canada
This may not be an obvious choice, but it does have a wireless network dating from 2003. There are also plenty of activities to do once you've finished online, such as fishing, hiking, and sailing.

Conclusion
So you see it is possible to check your emails and surf the web, even while you are on holiday. This is the perfect solution if you still need to get work done, but want a location a bit more exciting than your boring office!

Gary Hendricks runs a website about laptops. Visit his website at Best-Laptop-Guide.com to learn more about selecting the best laptops and accessories to suit your needs.

Theme Parks in Tennessee - Discover These Great Tennessee Attractions

When it comes to Tennessee attractions, theme parks are probably not the first things on your list of places to visit. You might think about catching a country music show, watching a Tennessee Titans game or visiting Graceland in Memphis, but visiting theme parks in Tennessee is probably not the first thought that pops into your head.

The fact is that there are several parks, big and small, dotted all across the state that entice visitors from all parts of the world. With its mild climate and four distinct seasons, Tennessee hosts a constant stream of year-round entertainment that brings visitors back year after year.

As far as theme parks go, Tennessee is perhaps best known as being home to Dollywood, located in Pigeon Forge near Gatlinburg. Dollywood entertains thousands of guests everyday and is the second top tourist attraction in the state after the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is also one of the Top 50 most visited theme parks in the United States.

Nestled in the lush foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, this 125-acre park was opened in 1986 by country music legend, Dolly Parton. Dollywood offers a rags-to-riches tale and showcases the rich heritage of the Smoky Mountain area where Parton was born and raised before heading to Nashville and superstardom.

The park includes over 40 rides and family-oriented attractions, including the award-winning wooden roller coaster, "Thunderhead". If rides aren't your thing, Dollywood hosts several annual art and music festivals and the park's live shows are never ending. The live entertainment celebrates the very best in country, bluegrass, gospel and classic rock 'n' roll music presented by some of America's most talented performers.

Guests can also revisit the past and enjoy the famous craftsman displays and shops in Craftsman's Valley, with live demonstrations from many talented artists who make everything from candles and pottery to musical instruments. The park also features the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary, which houses the country's largest collection of non-releasable bald eagles.

Adjacent to Dollywood theme park, Dollywood's Splash Country offers 30-acres of summer vacation activities ranging from a relaxing tube float on the Lazy River to the thrilling Big Bear Plunge white-water rafting ride. With 23 water rides to choose from, you're sure to have a great time beating the summer heat at this Tennessee attraction.

The Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area also features several other small amusement parks scattered throughout where you can find go-karts, miniature golf, bumper boats, laser tag, water games and loads of family fun! At Wonder Works in Pigeon Forge, you might arrive thinking you know everything, and leave thinking a little more about everything. Touted as an amusement park for your mind, Wonder Works leaves a lot to the imagination for adults and children.

There are great Tennessee attractions for those of you planning a trip to the Chattanooga area. Lake Winnepesaukah, or Lake Winnie, is a 9-acre lake that features a small family amusement park that features over 35 carnival rides, an arcade, midway games and miniature golf. And although it's not a theme park, I would be remiss if I didn't mention the famous Tennessee Aquarium, the second largest freshwater aquarium in the world. The 12-story structure features birds, snakes, river otters and turtles in their natural habitats, and fish that are indigenous to the Tennessee River.

If you're planning a visit to Nashville, be sure to check out the water parks, Wave Country and Nashville Shores. Wave Country is the oldest and the smallest of the two parks and is conveniently located a mile from the famous Grand Ole Opry and Opryland Hotel. A few miles away from there is Nashville Shores, a 385-acre recreational park located on Percy Priest Lake that includes a water park and marina as well as a miniature golf course.

As you can plainly see, the theme parks in Tennessee have something to offer kids of all ages. Do yourself a favor and start making plans to visit one of these great Tennessee attractions today!

Kelley Falgout is the publisher of http://www.FamilyThemeParkVacations.com - a continuously growing database of all theme parks, amusement parks and water parks located across the United States. Be sure to stop by and enter our Photo Contest as well as find out more about theme parks in Tennessee.

Discover the Glistening Gold Coast

Having spent a decade living on the Gold Coast, I have a lot of favourite places. The best by far are the world class beaches sweeping the length of the coast. Imagine driving the beach strip in your own home on wheels, and once you have found a stretch you love, the freedom to set up for as long as you please. The Gold Coast has so much to offer, and a campervan is the ideal way to travel and see the sights.

There are a plenty of caravan parks to choose from, many located close to beautiful beaches and tourist attractions. One of my favourites is Treasure Island Holiday Park, located at Biggera Waters in close proximity to South Stradbroke Island. The waterways here are brimming with action and beauty. Dolphins are often seen frolicking at dawn,with humpback whale sightings common from June through to September.

Closer to Southport there are a myriad of child friendly parks and pools just waiting to be explored. Every water sport is available here, and you can either sit back and relax, hire a yacht or perhaps some parasailing. On a windy day its fun sitting on the edge of the water watching the skills of the wind surfers.

Another central location is the Main Beach Tourist Park, located just two minutes from the glitzy Surfers Paradise. Tedder Avenue is buzzing close by, with trendy cafes on every corner making it the ideal place to meet with new friends or just spend time together. Joggers are everywhere, and the beaches are lined with walking enthusiasts from dusk to dawn. This is a great location as a base to explore the rest of the coastline, including the gorgeous Cascade Gardens just further down the road.

Pacific Fair is located in Broadbeach, one of the main shopping centres on the coast. This has become a mega shopping complex over the years, and combined with the Oasis Shopping Centre on the beachfront, everything you need is here. Drive inland and you will experience the Gold Coast Hinterland at its best, and with Binna Burra rewarding you with spectacular mountainous views, its the perfect day trip.

One of my favourite locations on the coast is Currumbin Beach and Currumbin Alley. Perfect for the family with a choice of still waters or surfing beach, it's a good idea to pack a picnic lunch, sunscreen and bring your camera to capture the beauty here. You won't want to leave in a hurry. There are a number of walks for the more energetic, especially to Currumbin Rock which juts out of the beach waiting to be explored. The views from here are magnificent, sweeping north and south of the coast.

You can't say you've experienced the coast until you've visited the Theme Park strip at Oxenford. With so many to choose from you can buy a pass and visit them all, or take your pick. Dreamworld offers something for everyone, with rides galore, amazing wildlife experiences at Tiger Island and cuddly animal farm, a water park and plenty of attractions. Wet and Wild is just down the road, and a perfect choice for those long summer days. We recently piled the kids in the car for a day here enjoying the rides, wave pool and Buccaneer Bay for the kids. It's a great place for any age, including us big kids at heart!

Movie World is as huge as you could expect, with surprises at every corner. The Superman Escape is the best rollercoaster, reaching 100km in 2 seconds! Try the Batwing Spaceshot for some vertical thrills, or if you need some time to breathe head to Kids WB with all their favourite Looney Tunes Characters. You feel like you have walked right into the scene of a movie as you wander around the streets from one attraction to another. The Batman Adventure ride is another favourite that will keep you on the edge of your seats.

Right next door is a must see for every Australian and visitor alike, the famous Australian Outback Spectacular. We recently experienced the show and left feeling proud to be living in our amazing country. The visual experience is indescribable with so much jampacked into a few hours. Make sure you get there early as there is a lot to see and do before the show.

Seaworld combines attractions with marine education and development. Located at the end of Main Beach on Seaworld Drive this is a unique aquatic experience hard to beat anywhere else. Children will be fascinated by the sharks, diversity of fish, dolphins, seals, polar bears and penguins. The list goes on. My personal favourite is the Viking's Revenge Flume Ride. I was enjoying this ride thirty years ago, and still scream my heart out as we sail over the edge into the waters below.

Any time is a great time to enjoy the glistening Gold Coast and many attractions on offer. Be prepared to relax, soak in the sun and enjoy your home away from home as you experience the beauty of this city in paradise.

Jenny Brewer is a travel agent whose passion is writing. After spending her leisure time writing childrens stories, she now enjoys writing about travel destinations. For more of her articles visit Campervans Australia

Baja Peninsula - The Home of Sun, Sea and Sands

Sun filled vacations

Baja California, Mexico is simply divine. There are no words to express the free and non crowded beaches, the golden days filled with sunshine and the perfect weather that lasts the year around, cooled by the rich sea-laden breezes. There are just too many activities to do in the Baja peninsula, and appeals to just about everyone. So whether one is looking for a sports adventure or a quite trek through ancient ruins to, Baja peninsula has it all. The variety of water sports is mind boggling, with surfing and kayaking topping the list, along with other activities such as diving, snorkeling, sailing and fishing.

Affordable real estate lures immigrants

The magic of the free and unfettered lifestyle and simple lifestyle appeals to all people and thousands of immigrants flock the shores of Baja California Mexico. The inexpensive housing has sent the Baja California real estate flourishing, with many retirees and migrants seeking to own an apartment, a beach condo or a villa. Many wonderful options are available as the Baja peninsula boasts of beautiful sparsely populated beaches, coves and bays. Convenient oceanfront houses are available, open to the seas and sun, as well as villas and beach homes with all amenities like pool, play courts; club houses etc, in the Baja California real estate options.

There are timeshare options available to vacationers who prefer to share the ownership as they are only present in the vacations. There are about 200,000+ Americans living in Baja peninsula, some of them have jobs and have accepted this land as their home, other continue to hold American passports.

Vacation spots- easy to get there But no vacation in the Baja Peninsula is complete without a visit to Mexicali, the capital of Baja California, about 63 kms from the US border. In spite of its arid desert location Mexicali is watered through a system of aquifers in the valley, which was built to encourage agriculture. Mexicali Baja California now produces grapefruit, dates, vegetables, alfalfa, cotton, and cottonseed oil. Many US companies have set up base in Mexicali Baja California due to the availability of cheap labour.

Mexicali Baja California also relies on tourism and visitors cross by foot or car from Calexico in the United States every day. The welcoming atmosphere of Mexicali Baja California includes delicious food in Mexican restaurants, taco stands, music shows, bars and dance clubs attract tourists to this city. Shops selling Mexican crafts and souvenirs are also located in walking distance from the border.

Another attraction for the young students from many high school and colleges is the low drinking age of 18years in Baja California, Mexico, as opposed to 21 years in the United States.

Rosarito - Where the mountains meet the sea

Rosarito Baja California is another favorite vacation spot as it is conveniently located 20 minutes south of the border from San Diego, California; USA is a perfect weekend getaway. The proximity to the border and stunning location as the coastal foothills greets the Pacific Ocean, makes the Rosarito Beach one of the leading resort towns in Baja California Mexico.

Whatever be the reason, the enchantment of the Baja peninsula lures the tourist with its simple life and natural charisma. The dream vacation is closer than you think, and the way to it is inexpensive, so pack those bags and get moving!

Do you want to live or have a vacation home at a Baja beachfront condominium? If the answer is yes, come check out exciting online private tour! Go to the link http://sandsurfvillas.com and get more information on our pre-construction pricing.

Discover Some Classic Ski Resorts

Skiing may be an active sport, but that doesn't mean you won't have time to relax and enjoy the scenery every now and then. There are several countries to choose from when it comes to booking your skiing holiday, and it is worth finding out as much as you can about each one before making your decision.

Austria is a real favourite among many skiers, and it boasts some world famous locations that have a lot more than skiing to offer tourists as well. Take Innsbruck for example. Home to the Emperor Maximilian's Golden Roof, the city itself consists of a myriad of streets and alleys, all packed with shops and restaurants to help you while away the hours when you're not on the piste. When it is time for skiing you will head up into the mountains around the city and take your pick from the many slopes available to suit skiers of all standards.

If you want to go beyond Europe then Canada also has plenty to offer. Whistler in British Columbia, Canada has more than two hundred ski trails to follow - more than enough to keep even the keenest skier happy! It's also got plenty to offer when you take off your skis and look forward to relaxing for a while to rest your aching muscles. There is a spa nearby to help you unwind and get that pampered feeling, and plenty of restaurants and bars to pass away the evening hours while you look forward to the next day on the slopes again.

If America is more to your style, then you have got well over two hundred resorts to choose from including Crystal Mountain in Washington. This boasts 2,600 acres of white powder to ski on, and some amazing views to enjoy. As with many ski resorts it is set up to entertain in other ways too - make sure you visit Summit House to enjoy a delightful meal while gazing out at the stunning sight of Mount Rainier. After a day on the slopes this is the perfect way to unwind.

If you are new to skiing then you really are spoilt for choice, so you need to think about which country you would most like to visit. If you want to stay closer to home then the locations in Europe will be preferable to a long haul flight. But America and Canada both have a lot to offer and if you don't want the language barrier to be a problem they might just fit the bill.

That's why it's worth reading as many ski holiday reviews as you can before deciding on the right trip for you. If you do, you will be assured of the best skiing experience you can ever have, and a lot more besides.

Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

Tips For Writing a Ski Resort Review

If you have just returned from a great vacation at a ski resort, which might not be the best ski resort, but you had fun, you should write a review for that ski resort and pen down all your experiences, good or bad. Writing a ski resort review will help other people who want to plan a trip to ski. When they read your ski resort review, they will come to know what all to do when they reach the ski resort. Also, it will help increase future customers who based on your ski resort review will want to enjoy all the amenities and activities which you enjoyed. But while writing a ski resort review, you should take into account some points.

Note down the time of the year you visited the resort, its crucial.

If you want visited during a holiday, the resort might have been a little busy, and the customer service, amenities and waiting times might have been different than what they would have been had you visited during the quieter months, so, for a perfect review, it's very important to mention the time of the year you visited the ski resort. You shall not miss small details while writing a ski resort review and try to share all the moments with the readers who will read it. You might also write a negative ski resort review if you had problems with the place or if the waiting time was more even if the visitors were less.

How was your actual skiing experience?

A person spending a fortune on a ski resort would definitely be interested in skiing, so this is one aspect you just can't miss to add in your review. You should write about the slopes, the level of difficulty they offered, the kind of equipment, if the equipment was easily available at the resort itself, or you had to take yours along or rent it from a local vendor. The whole experience about how you felt while skiing needs to be penned down very carefully, therefore the most important thing while writing a ski resort review is the type of equipment and its availability. If you were no able to ski due to the faulty equipment then you should tell others about the possible problems they are bound to face.

About other amenities.

You should tell others about the crucial aspects of the resort. People reading your ski resort review should know if they have to come prepared for any circumstances such as bad quality food, or too much time wasted in a particular activity, try and add aspects like the educational relevance of the trip.

If you liked something, like an additional amenity, the quality of service, the kind of equipment, the dining area, children's recreational area or maybe the general ambience of the whole place, you should speak out.

Finally, the Ski resort review should contain the website and other official information regarding the resort.Remember, the ski resort review is not only your experience, but also a great vacation for a future traveler.

Looking to save time and money when traveling on your next Ski Vacation. Then you have to visit http://www.Skivacationresources.com to find out the different ways of traveling.

How to Choose a Ski Chalet For Your Ski Holiday

Resort

When you pick your resort - you should take your group's skiing experience into consideration: do you have lots of beginners? Intermediates? Experts? If you have a mixed ability group, then you need a resort with lots of options - something for everyone. Les Houches, for example, is a little known resort in itself - ideal for mixed groups as it is predominantly blues and red, with great beginners areas - however, it is also ideal placed in the Chamonix valley for experts to experience the blacks of Grands Montets and some of the best off-piste in Europe! If you are all expert, think about La Grave or Chamonix.

Budget

The country you choose to visit may depend upon your budget. The "newer" ski resorts in Bulgaria will be cheaper for accommodation, food, lift passes, etc. Though 37% of all skier still choose France. Switzerland and Austria hold some of the most expensive options - the price reflecting how well known the resort is: Davos, Gstadd, Klosters, Kitzbuhel.

Your budget will also affect the quality of the chalet available to you. Put simply: the more luxurious chalets cost more. If you find an amazing deal with flights and transfers included, in a chalet whose photos look amazing - be sure to check the photos were actually taken in that chalet, and are representative of it! Wide angle lens can make rooms look bigger than they are. Professional lighting may have been used to disguise the pokey room in the attic. Ask how big the actual rooms are! If food is photographed, ask whether it was a "stock" photo? - or did they take it themselves?

Self-catered chalets often cost less than being catered - but be careful about false economies. Ask the following questions: how far is the local supermarket? Is it within walking distance? If not, you may need a car or bus.

Owner-run vs managed chalets

Owner-run chalets tend to differ from managed chalets in that the chalet hosts will most probably care more for the chalet as it is their home and business. They may also care that you enjoy yourself on your holiday - as repeat clientele are very desirable - much more than some ski-bum just-out from college fancying one more year of the easy life before having to join the "real world".

The days of spag bol are long gone - these days, catered chalets can rival restaurants in terms of quality and diversity of food.

If the chalet offers a "professional chef", ask about their experience and qualifications. Did they run a top-notch restaurant in London or did they used to work as a sous-chef in the "White Horse" working mens club? Also, especially with the managed chalets, chefs work to a very closely-controlled budget. You also run the risk of them quitting immediately before you arrive having decided chalet-work was not the endless days of powder snow they imagined, but harder work than as a full-time chef in the UK!

If it is owner-run, ask about their cooking experience - how many years have they cooked for their guests? What is their favourite dish? Owner-run chalets may be more willing to alter menus to suit your groups dietary preferences. So, just because a chalet is owner-run does not mean the food will not be as good. Many owners have years of experience cooking 4 course meals for 10 people every night, or take courses to improve their culinary skills.

Facilities

For the best holidays, chalets where you can both ski in and ski out provide you with the most time on the piste, and the minimal amount of fuss and time wasted. You save time because you don't have to wait for transport to the lifts at the start of your day, nor hanging around for transport back to your chalet when you've finished. This is especially useful if you are a beginner or you get tired early

With ski in, ski out chalets, you also get to avoid those "short walk to the pistes" which in fact may turn out to be a much longer walk than you anticipated... Even a short five minute walk can be difficult when you are wearing ski boots, trying to drag the kids complaining about their ski boots being uncomfortable , whilst simultaneously trying to carry both their skis, poles and your own!

All in all it leads to much more stress-less holiday if you have the ability to ski in and out of the chalet. Plus it means if you forget anything - suncream, gloves, etc - you always have the option to easily return to fetch them.

Does the chalet have a hot-tub? For a little luxury, it is very pleasant to sit out under the stars sipping a glass of champers or a beer. If you are looking for a chalet in summer, don't forget to ask whether the hot tub is on and available? Some chalets empty their hot-tubs in the summer months.

Don't forget the log fire! Is the firewood included in the price? What entertainment is provided? Is there a television? Can you receive English tv? Is there a selection of DVD's? If so, how many? Can you plug your ipod in?

Are all the bedrooms ensuite? If not, how many bathrooms are there? How many showers? How is the water heated? Is there endless hot water? Do the bedrooms have views? If so, of what? Do all the rooms have a view, or only a few of them? These are the types of questions to ensure that you don't have any unpleasant surprises when you actually arrive. There is nothing worse than looking forward to your holiday only to be disappointed because your travel company neglects to tell you that it is a ten-person chalet with only enough hot water for six showers - and three of the five bedrooms are three times smaller than they appear in the photos and face the construction site next door!

Leighton Ellis runs a luxury ski chalet in Chamonix Valley and hopes you have a fantastic ski holiday

Colorado Discount Ski Package

When planning a trip to Colorado, you'll probably want to look for ski resorts. Planning a ski vacation doesn't have to be a big challenge. One can choose from among the most popular and crowded destinations, or opt for an uncluttered resort which does not have many skiers.

It is a unique experience skiing in the mountains of Colorado. The Colorado discount ski package usually includes lodging, transportation, airport departure, rental car and ski rental. There are many tour operators that provide and specialize in economic ski train vacations. Some of the tour operators have made outstanding contributions to revitalize rail service to passengers.

They are many who rely on the experience of these tour operators. Many tourists make use of their services and purchase ski packages to the finest resorts of the world. You can rely on tour operators for an excitement filled ski adventure. They have the right packages to suit every budget, and nearly every package includes car rentals and trip transfers during ones stay.

People always enjoy the pleasure of traveling in wide, spacious seats. And don't forget to taste the cuisine of the region. Colorado offers many culinary delights not found elsewhere. The entire trip you will revel watching the never-ending stunning winter scenery, which can be experienced only when traveling by train. They offer discounts for children below the age of 18. Sleeper compartments and longer stays are available on request.

Prices will vary during peak seasons and train fares largely depend on the availability of seats.

There is no place that can be compared to Colorado skiing. With a skiable terrain comprising of 29,460 acres and an annual snowfall of 4,241 inches, 13 top class resorts, 300 dining venues and 4000 lodging options it is a wonderland for ski enthusiasts. The outstanding and breathtaking Rocky Mountains provide superb skiing condition for all skiers.

Whatever the season there are thousands of property pieces to suit every budget. Many choose a complete package that covers airfare, lodging, ski rentals, transportation and extracurricular fun.

One of the greatest ski towns in Colorado is Crested Butte. Crested Butte offers an unusual combination of mountain skiing at a stunning location, with an ambience of mining camp. This place remains unspoiled and spectacular. It is a must go for all skiing enthusiasts.

Nothing can compare to the size of Snowmass. It is literally 36 times larger than Disneyland, and has vertical rise of 4500 feet. It is a great place for family skiing and fun. Summers here are fun too with biking, hiking, camping, fishing and golf. So no matter which season you visit Colorado, it will always offer you will outdoor fun, friendly people and good food.

Katie Appleby is an accomplished niche website developer and author.

To learn more about Colorado discount ski packages, please visit Skiing Colorado Guide for current articles and discussions

Packing it in For a Breckenridge Vacation

Packing for vacation is certainly not everyone's favorite thing to do. While the anticipation of the trip is quickly building and your mind is racing with the excitement of the fun in store, figuring out what to bring can not only be confusing, but can become stressful. Mix in an unfamiliar climate and weather that is constantly changing and you've got your work set out for you. This is certainly the case in Breckenridge, Colorado. Still, there are definitely a few tricks to packing just the right clothes to ensure you won't have to buy a whole new wardrobe once you arrive. Knowing the seasons is your first step to smart packing for your Breckenridge vacation.

• Summer: While Breckenridge is famous for its snow-packed mountains and glistening, white-lined winter streets, summer is a perfect time to plan a vacation as well. Blue skies and plenty of sunshine are sure to come your way in Breckenridge, mixed with the dry climate of the Rocky Mountains. With daytime temperatures averaging around 70 degrees, visitors enjoy calm sunny days that are mild enough to enjoy the outdoors without running for the nearest A/C. And, just when the weather seems to border on hot, evening averages around 50 roll in to cool things down for relaxing evenings. So, how should you pack for a summer vacation in Breckenridge? Think in layers. You'll want shorts and t-shirts, but long-sleeved shirts and pants will come in handy too. A jacket won't hurt and neither will a couple pairs of shoes (make one a pair of flip-flops). While Breckenridge generally stays dry, a light rain jacket is never a bad idea in any mountain town. Still, the sun normally reigns supreme, so you'll want to gear up with sun screen and other forms of protection, such as hats and sun glasses.

• Winter: The average temperature during the winter months in Breckenridge is 28 degrees. At just above freezing, you'll want to be sure to pack warm clothes to keep you dry and warm. If you're visiting Breckenridge in the winter, you're likely participating in some form of winter sport, whether it be skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or even ice skating. Consider clothes made of material other than 100% cotton. As you sweat, cotton garments will get wet and will dry slower than other materials. Wet clothes are not only dangerous to your body temperature, but will make you feel colder as well. Again, think in terms of layers. As you're out and about in the mid-day sun, you might want to strip the heavy coat, but you'll certainly put it right back on once the sun sets. A couple layers of shirts and even long underwear will certainly make it out of your suitcase with pleasure as well. Also be sure to keep your extremities warm. Hats, gloves, scarves, and wool socks are good choices.

• Fall and Spring: While summer and winter are certainly the more popular times to visit, Breckenridge is an all-year town. Fall brings the beauty of golden aspen trees and spring is welcomed by a colorful display of wildflowers. These seasons are just a bit less predictable, so even the latest weather forecast can easily be proven wrong. Snow storms can come as easily in the fall as they do in the spring, so always be prepared with snow gear as well as spring sandals!

As the old saying goes, if you don't like the weather in Colorado, just wait ten minutes and it will change. Still, you can rest assured that you're likely to see blue skies and sunshine on just about any visit to Breckenridge. With just the smallest bit of preparation while packing, you're well on your way to a fabulous getaway to one of Colorado's premier vacation spots.

Chris Cook lives in beautiful Breckenridge, Colorado and loves sharing her expertise on mountain safety and fun with visitors. If you're planning a trip to Summit County, make sure to book your Breckenridge lodging before you leave, and check out all of Chris's advice on the area in her other articles!

Ski Vacations - How to Score Great Prices on Your Ski Equipment

To get ready for those great ski vacations you want to take, plan ahead and begin looking around for the best prices you can find on ski equipment. There's no reason to spend more than you have to when it comes to quality ski equipment. Bargains abound if you are willing to spend just a little time and effort in looking for them.

Prices begin dipping right after the end of the ski season when the majority of ski vacations take place. Some shops start marking down ski equipment right after Christmas, especially if they are a multi-sport retail store. The reason why multi-sport stores begin their sales early in the year is to make room for other seasonal sports equipment that they will be bringing in - backpacks, tents, spring sports equipment, etc.

Specialty ski shops will usually hold out until after President's Day in February to begin putting their equipment on sale. But ski shops in resort towns will usually hold huge ski equipment sales the weekend of President's Day to capture the tourists and skiers who flood their towns on ski vacations during that long weekend.

You might also try calling resort shops that rent large amounts of ski equipment. After the season ends, they may have used equipment that they will offer at sale prices.

Sometimes there are opportunities to go into small ski shops who may have unsold ski equipment left after the ski season ends and negotiate a special deal. Your success will likely depend on where the ski shop is located and whether it is owned by an independent entrepreneur who would be glad to see last year's models walk out the door.

Don't forget to search online for new or used ski equipment dealers. There are also online auctions like Ebay who may have low-priced items, but the transportation charges may kill the deal for you. If you live near a ski area and you go onto the Ebay website, you can not only search for new or used ski equipment, you can also sort the on-screen list to show the sellers who live the closest to you. You may just get lucky and find someone who lives near you trying to sell off their used ski equipment. Using the same strategy, you could go to craigslist.org and search for ski equipment for sale or post an ad seeking someone who has ski equipment they'd be willing to sell. Seeing your posting just might jog someone into wanting to make some money off their skis that have been in their garage for a couple of years.

Pre-season Ski Swaps are also good places to pick up great deals. There is a lot of used stuff at these seasonal swaps, but there is usually new stuff too. Sometimes there are unused items that are a season or two old, but some companies only change their graphics from year to year and the equipment is perfectly fit to serve you well on your ski vacations.

Visit CORE now to get free access to advice and information on ski vacations

Ski Vacations - How to Rent Ski Equipment

Ski vacations will require ski equipment. But whether you buy your ski equipment or rent it will depend, for the most part, on whether you're a beginning skier or a pro on the slopes. If you're a beginner or just trying out the sport, it will probably make more sense for you to rent the equipment before investing your money in what can be an expensive purchase.

Many local ski shops rent ski equipment, and they may even have lease packages where you can lease everything you need for an entire season of skiing. This can be an excellent option of those who take several ski vacations a year. One advantage of renting at a local shop near you is that it'll probably be less expensive and you can pick up your equipment ahead of time instead of waiting in long lines and paying higher rental prices when you get to the ski resort. The downside of renting locally is transporting your ski equipment from home to the resort. Some ski resort shops allow their customers to store their equipment during the day or overnight for free, which is a nice benefit when you return from a tiring day on the slopes.

Most rental packages will include skis, boots and poles. You should have a choice of beginner or performance skis. Most shops have equipment for junior skiers. Skiing helmets may be available for an additional charge. That extra expense is well worth the safety you'll enjoy by wearing a helmet. Many parents make sure their children who are skiing wear helmets whether they want to or not. There is always a chance when the slopes are full that accidents and collisions will happen.

Keep in mind that when you sign up for ski lessons at a resort, many packages will include the price for equipment that you can use all day. Most instructors will make sure that you are completely outfitted before taking you out to the slopes. Ski vacations that include lessons for beginners can be fun for the whole family!

Rental equipment usually includes skis, ski boots, ski poles and helmets.

Skiers will usually have the option of renting items individually or as a package. Many resorts also offer combinations of different ski equipment items such as skis and boots, helmets and poles, skis and poles, etc. Some ski resorts will offer full-day prices or prices for afternoon-only skiing. Some packages will cost as little as $20 per day, others can cost $50 or more for 24 hours. Some ski resorts automatically add on damage insurance for a few dollars per day; it may be worthwhile to take the insurance if you are a beginning skier. If you refuse insurance, just a minor accident could cost you much more than it would have cost if you had paid for the insurance to begin with.

Plan ahead and reserve your ski rental equipment in advance, especially during peak season. That way you'll know for sure that the equipment you want is available and ready when you get there to pick it up.

Visit CORE now to get free access to advice and information on group ski vacations.

Ski Vacations - Favorite American Resorts

Ski vacations are an All-American favorite for rugged individuals, sporty couples and families who thrive on skiing and snowboarding on powdery white slopes. There is nothing more invigorating than planning to take a winter vacation, packing your snow gear and heading off with your loved ones to the mountains in the distance. Every snow-skier has their favorite place to go, so it may be a little arrogant to try to tell you where the best spots are, but these are premium winter destinations that many snow enthusiasts will tell you are hard to beat for the best ski vacations.

Aspen, Colorado

Renowned worldwide, Aspen is unbeatable in the United States for its skiing, and wherever you go at Aspen you are liable to see somebody rich or famous. The Aspen Mountain Powder Tours will test the skills of even the best skiers among us, and those still working on their expert status will find the intermediate slopes to be excitingly challenging. The backside of the mountain presents acres of powdery terrain that expert skiers love to return to again and again. Aspen's steep slopes are famous, and its four separate mountains offer unrivaled skiing opportunities for all ability levels. There are also opportunities at Aspen for snowboarding, paragliding and fly fishing, which is why Aspen remains a popular destination for ski vacations.

Stowe, Vermont

The two-century-old village of Stowe is also a favorite pick simply because of its New England charm. Stowe consists of the two areas of Spruce Peak and Mount Mansfield which is Vermont's highest mountain. It also has a lift-link to Smuggler's Notch, a full-family resort which makes Stow an excellent choice for families looking into destinations that are family-friendly. Stowe offers skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing, and for those who like the "tamer" sport of shopping, there are close to 100 unique shops to browse through after a day on the slopes.

Squaw Valley, California

Famous for its scenic views of Lake Tahoe, Squaw Valley is one of America's Olympic resorts; night skiing on the 3.2 mile mountain run is an experience you will not forget. There is also the Riviera Superpipe, and if you have members of your group who are not skiers, there is lots for them to do and see at the Ice Pavilion and Olympic Museum where they can enjoy reviewing the history of the 1960 Winter Olympics. Squaw Valley usually runs great family and group deals, and there is plenty of activity to offer everyone whether they are skiers or not, which makes Squaw Valley a great destination for ski vacations.

Alta, Utah

Just a 45 minute drive from Salt Lake City International Airport, this magnificent resort is great for skiers of all abilities. With a stunning 200 foot vertical drop, Alta has more than 115 runs with deep powder and a variety of terrain to challenge advanced skiers as well as beginners. The only negative (if there can be anything negative about such a fantasticly beautiful site) is that snowboarding is not allowed on Alta's slopes.

Visit CORE now to get free access to advice and information on luxury ski vacations

So You Are Considering Buying a Timeshare - You Ought to Read This!

Timeshares came about in Europe in the 1960's where a developer in the French Alps promoted his resort by encouraging prospective guests to buy the hotel instead of simply renting a room. The idea took off and developer's world wide started selling condominium style units as a timeshare concept.

Timeshare units work in basically the same way as a condominium, but the developer takes the individual housing units and further divides them into weekly time slots. These weekly time slots are then bought and sold. So there are multiple owners for each unit in the building who have a right of occupancy for a specific period every year. Theoretically there could be 52 owners each of whom can occupy that property for a week at a time every year.

The way these slots are allocated will depend on the developer selling the timeshare units. In some timeshare buildings, you purchase a specific week in a specific unit within the building, while other timeshare buildings sell floating time slots which merely promise you an available unit in the building during your particular week. These differences will absolutely have implications when you are trying to sell or trade your timeshare unit, so it pays to understand exactly what you're purchasing if you decide to buy a timeshare unit.

Timeshares have large up front fees and are also known to obligate purchasers to iron clad contracts, annual dues, maintenance fee's and other ongoing costs. Average fees range from $15,000- $16,000 but on top of this there are additional annual fees depending on what it is you are purchasing. Due to the ownership structure of Timeshares- there is limited flexibility in the dates in which you can travel.

Like many products in this world, Timeshares have their place but there are forms of alternative travel memberships that can save you the significant upfront acquisition costs and ongoing fees. Memberships which allow total freedom and flexibility to travel anytime, anywhere, worldwide, with a one-time membership fee and no other fees aside from the low weekly rates when you take a vacation.

As an owner of these membership- you have the ability to browse a catalogue of thousands of high end properties all over the world and select the destination of your choice.
You then have the ability to travel immediately without certificates to mail in, no black out dates, and no waiting. You can purchase the perfect vacation immediately or schedule it months later. Membership purchases an enormous amount of inventory every year in advance which means when you see the vacation you want, buy it and it's yours.

So before you purchase a time share, do your due diligence and establish whether these alternative style Travel memberships may be better suited to your needs.

Shanan Spearing is an internet marketing entrepreneur and a member of the Global Resorts Network.

To see what the Global Resorts Network has to offer as an alternative to a timeshare, please visit http://www.discountedresortaccommodation.com

Answering Your Timeshare Questions

There is just something about getting to go on vacation that has people antsy to get away from it all. To just leave behind work, the weather and just go and enjoy themselves but what do they do, where do they go? That is the problem. Many people seem to enjoy one vacation spot over another and do not want to have to continuously stay in a hotel each time they visit.

The answer to this dilemma may be a timeshare. Timeshares are great ways to get to visit different parts of the world each year and stay in comfortable settings that feel and look like home to you. There is no need to stay in a hotel or to rent a house while you are staying.

The best part is that you can count on taking the same vacation time each year. In this article you can lean the basics of a timeshare program and how it works for you along with the history and the benefits of owning a timeshare.

What is the history of timeshares?

Timeshares started in the 1960's in the French Alps. A ski resort developer decided to come up with an innovative concept of people owning the resort rather than just renting the room. People would pay for blocks of time each year that would be the same days each year.

This would provide a steady stream of income for the developer and provide the owners with a place to stay other than renting a room. It would give them more of a feeling of home or a vacation home than a mere hotel room could possibly give.

What kinds of timeshares are there?

There are several different kinds of timeshares. Just a few are: deeded, right to use, fixed week ownership, floating, rotating and vacation clubs. Each varies according to how often they can be used and how their schedule works out as far as when you can take your week of allotted time for vacation.

It is important to know the difference before you sign your paperwork on the timeshare. A decision made in haste without knowing the full details could come back and haunt you later down the road. Just make sure to ask any questions and do some researching before you sign the ownership papers or hand over any money.

Where are timeshares located?

Timeshares are located all over the world. Many people associate them with just tropical destinations but in reality they are usually wherever there is a tourist attraction. Some of the out of the way places you may not expect to find a timeshare is Hot Springs Village in Arkansas, Branson in Missouri and other resort areas. Of course tropical destinations such as Cabo san Lucas or Miami feature timeshares but if you are looking for something more reclusive then search for out of the way destinations.

Is there a set date that I can use my timeshare?

Yes, when you buy a timeshare you are usually given a set date or block of time that you can use the timeshare each year. Usually this is one week. Some timeshare programs allow you to rotate your time or there is the possibility of trading your block with someone else for a different allotment of time.

You will need to research your contract thoroughly before agreeing to sign any papers to ensure that your best interests are kept in mind. The goal is to be able to use your timeshare during the same period each year but things do come up and people need to change their vacation schedules. Ensuring that you are able to change that schedule is important.

Mike Selvon portal offers free articles on Timeshare. Find out more about how timeshare works, and leave a comment at the timeshare resorts blog where a free gift awaits you.