posted by Charles H. Russo on Jan 29

Ask anybody and the typical answer you will get is that there is nothing in Alabama that is of special interest to the tourist. Yet tourism happens to be big business in the state and is, in fact, the state
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posted by Charles H. Russo on Jan 29

Ask anybody and the typical answer you will get is that there is nothing in Alabama that is of special interest to the tourist. Yet tourism happens to be big business in the state and is, in fact, the state
posted by Charles H. Russo on Jan 29

Park City lodging choices are numerous and diverse. Hotels, condos, private residence clubs and private homes are the most popular choices for travelers. Hotels can be found slope side or in the heart of the downtown area. Each hotel offers something a little bit different depending on how much you would like to spend. You will be able to find small budget hotels or very expensive high class luxury hotels. The high class hotels are well worth the money. From the moment you walk through the lobby doors, you will not have to worry about a thing. After staying at one of these types of hotels, you will never want to stay anywhere else. Another Park City lodging choice for large groups or families would be a condo rental or a private residence club. A condo rental can be a great choice for a family. Many times condo rentals don’t offer the full services of a hotel or a private residence club but offer full kitchens and all the main ingredients to make your family trip memorable and more affordable. Private Residence Clubs are becoming the lodging choice of the future. These clubs can offer 2, 3 and four bedrooms suites in large complexes. These can be quite luxuries with a full staff including concierge, bell staff, ski valet, and sometimes twice daily maid service. A private residence club can be a great choice for a family getaway.
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posted by Charles H. Russo on Jan 29
By Cassie Davis

If you need a true break and are looking for a getaway that is both serene and interesting, Saugatuck, Michigan is definitely the ideal destination. With the water lapping at your feet and a perfect balance of man-made and natural beauty, this town definitely offers all that you could ask for. Located on the bank of Kalamazoo River, Saugatuck is a perfect location to unwind and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
posted by Charles H. Russo on Jan 29

Taking the family on a winter skiing vacation can be a daunting task - sometimes finding a destination that everyone agrrees on is the hardest part. Use our ideas below to help you plan your next winter getaway!
Many resorts offer a plethora of activities for you and your family. While you are skiing fresh powder, your children can be supervised by a certified ski instructor while enrolled in ski school. After that lesson, you can meet up with them and they will be happy to show you what they learned. When the day ends, be sure to explore the town. Ski towns are notorious for some of the best shopping and fine dining. If you want to take a day off from skiing to catch your breath, try ice skating, toboggan runs or just sit by a fire with a good book. When it comes time to plan a ski vacation, try to plan at least 5 to 6 months ahead of time. This is when you can find the best deals and you shouldn’t have to worry about the hotel you want to stay in, completely booked. I have found that a little research goes a long way. After you choose your hotel, see if they have any packages or specials available. Most of the time hotels and resorts will offer a bit of a discount on lift tickets and other activities. If a special or package is not available, make sure to buy your lift tickets in bulk to save some money. Try to buy a 3 or 4 day pass versus buying individual tickets each day. Often times, these lift tickets will be good for more than 1 resort in the area.
posted by Charles H. Russo on Jan 29
Check out the newest Mendocino bed and breakfast at the historic Pt. Cabrillo Lighthouse - in fact, the Lightkeeper’s House has been compeltely remodeled into a charming bed and breakfast, complete with antiques and fabulous views.

The restoration of the Head Lightkeeper’s House into the bed and breakfast was a vision of the Point Cabrillo Lightkeepers Association(PCLK) for over six years. Now the 1909 Head Lightkeeper’s House (Inn) now provides guests with the unusual and magical opportunity to see the Light Station, Lighthouse, and working 3rd Order Fresnel lens at night. An evening’s stay at the Inn includes a private night time tour of the Lighthouse with the current Lightkeeper.
posted by Charles H. Russo on Jan 29
By Nancy Kinley

Who says that you can go to the beaches only during summer? At Galveston, with its semi-tropical climate, visitors enjoy year-round coastal bliss. Located 50 miles southeast of Houston, Galveston is an island in the Gulf of Mexico that offers visitors a unique blend of culture, history, beaches, as well as city ambiance.
On the north end of the island, the restored Victorian Strand district, resort hotels, and beachfront businesses provide a busy, commercial ambiance. If, however, you are seeking solitude and open beach access, then head south where you will find long stretches of private and rental residences.
posted by Charles H. Russo on Jan 29
Le Centre des Sciences de Montr?al, as it’s formally known, is one of the premier attractions in a city already filled with so many. Located along the length of King Edward Pier in Old Montreal, it’s also one of the newer sights. Chock full of the latest computer and video technology, along with hundreds of interactive science-related exhibits, the iSci is a wonder.
That wonder is not merely to behold, but to operate as well. Visitors can enjoy dozens of experiments that demonstrate the principles of electricity and magnetism. Or, they can use one of the many computers to explore the leading edge technology that may make its way into homes in the near future.
posted by Charles H. Russo on Jan 29
When I visited Key West, Florida, I was puzzled by their reference to themselves as The Conch Republic. So, I did a little research and thought I’d pass the amusing story behind this designation along.
In order to try to stem the flow of illegal aliens through the Keys to the mainland, the US Border Patrol set up a blockade of the Keys in 1982. This angered the free thinking populace into seceding from the Union.
After one minute of independence, the new Conch Republic surrendered to the US and demanded reparations. Keys residents consider themselves to have dual citizenship. The Republic has a flag, issues its own passports and heartily celebrates its independence each year.
posted by Charles H. Russo on Jan 29
Sundance Film Festival
If you plan to be in the Park City area in January, the Sundance Film Festival is not to be missed. It takes place January 19-29. The Sundance Film Festival was started in 1981 by Robert Redford and provides developing artist a place to showcase new and independent work. This is a great time to come to Park City to enjoy skiing, the festival and to do a little bit of celebrity site seeing. For more information please visit The Sundance Film Festival
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posted by Charles H. Russo on Jan 29

For many seniors, the golden years are a time to reward yourself after a life on the job or raising the kids at home. Many seniors follow their dream of travel in the retirement years. Whether it