Friday, July 27, 2012

Vancouver Vacation is a Perfect Winter Option

Now may be a good time to start thinking about your winter skiing last minute vacation.  Just thinking about the snow helps you cool down.   Skiing is one of the most remarkable winter sports activity and people flock to snowy mountains to enjoy the slopes. With the onrush of winter and the start of snowfall, snow lovers pack their bags and head for mountains in Europe, America or Asia to soar down the snow white slopes. Some tips and tricks will make your ski holiday a more memorable one.

 Anyone who likes the mountains and enjoys skiing searches for the perfect place for a ski vacation. Vancouver’s mountain ranges provide amazing snow seasons with some of the best skiing conditions. The largest ski resort in North America is only two hours north of Vancouver. Every year there will be more than 2 million ski enthusiasts who come to Whistler’s Ski Resort. Thousands of people come to Whistler to learn to ski following the 2010 winter Olympic alpine ski events which were hosted on the mountain. You can still enjoy the Olympic village and the many restaurants.  Why not also enjoy the beauty and the thrills from your last minute holiday rental.

The resort is busy during the snowy season with 5,000 new pairs of rental skis, snowboards and boots. Instruction is available for all ski levels beginner, intermediate or advanced. Whistler Ski Resort is made up of two mountains namely Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain.

 By getting the lift ticket you can ski on both mountains. You can even ride a peak-to-peak gondola at the top of the mountains. The gondola ride is amazing and the peak-to-peak trip will take you another 200 feet higher. If you don't ski or snowboard then you can turn your last minute vacation into another winter activity like snowmobiling, snowshoeing or enjoy a sleigh ride.

 The easiest and best way to get to Whistler from Vancouver is to take the Whistler shuttle bus. The shuttle has regular service straight from the airport up to Whistler. You could also take a greyhound bus from the bus terminal up to Whistler. If you prefer to go by car the drive is a scenic tour all the way to Whistler where you can escape on your last minute getaway.

Within 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain and Cypress Mountain offer an exciting snow season. The local mountains will have early dumps of snow which keep the tourists busy. The Vancouver ski season is expected to last well into late spring.  Vancouver is a wonderful city to visit and a great way to spend your last minute holiday.

                       
www.lastminuteusvacations.com

Thursday, July 26, 2012

US Mountain Biking Experience

Most of the mountain biking tours are filled with loads of fun and pleasure and they entertain your passion for adventure.  America is a great place to explore for real mountain biking experiences.

 Most mountain biking falls into the recreational XC and Trail Riding categories.  XC type mountain biking generally requires a different range of skills and a higher level of fitness than other types of mountain biking .The country sides can meet your wishes for more choices of trails.  You will have the opportunity to decide between hilly tracks, rough trails or regularly visited mountain bike trails. Your passion for thrills will be met biking on your last minute holiday.  

You have a choice of trails from the southwest, the Pacific Northwest to even the southeastern parts of the US. These mountain bike trials include Pinery Canyon Road in Arizona, the South Boundary Trail in New Mexico and Flume Trail in Nevada. These trails can take your breath away with the gorgeous views.  The remarkable trails on your last minute holiday getaway offer different levels of challenge and provide incredible experiences for the passionate biker. Three more famous trails are Surveyor's Ridge in Oregon, Mount Tamalpais in California and Methow Trail system in Washington.                                   

Every trail will have its own reputation among mountain bikers.  Each will have a specific thrill demand and holds a specific last minute vacation adventure.  Every biker seems to have their top five best trail list.  More choices of great trails include the Appalachian region, the Tsali Trail in North California or Bee Log Ridge which extends from North California to Tennessee for any cycling training schedule.

Don’t forget your helm cams because the views are amazing.  What a wonderful way to see the country!


Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Keep Healthy While You Travel

The following are a few tips which may help you to avoid putting on those extra pounds while you are on your last minute vacation.

Keep Healthy While You Travel:
Vacations help us maintain our health and are necessary for our piece of mind. It can be difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle while on the family vacation. By following the right tips you can ensure that your New Year's resolutions are followed on your last minute holiday.

Pack a Snack:
Travel may be synonymous with waiting. Flight cancellations, weather conditions, mechanical failures all play a part in the game of last minute vacations. The stress of waiting plays havoc with our hormone and sugar levels. It may induce us to choose the convenient foods instead of the healthier choices. These types of foods will trigger a spike in your blood sugar and insulin levels and stimulate your body to store more fat.  It may be healthier to carry some snacks which may prevent you from eating those high calorie, sugary and salty snacks at the airport.

Drink Water:
 Most people do not realize that the air inside of an airplane is extremely dry and can lead to dehydration. With less than 10% humidity, the air you are breathing is very drying to the body. To prevent dehydration during your last minute getaway, it is important to begin drinking water as soon as you get on the plane. Skip the soda and alcohol and stick to water or juice. You will feel fuller which will keep you from snacking and will also keep you from becoming dehydrated.

Working Out:
Exercise may be hard to continue while on a last minute getaway or business trip, but it is an important part of staying healthy. For convenience, check to see that your getaway rental has a gym for your use. Schedule your work outs for the day, and if you want a little extra push, splurge and hire a personal trainer for your vacation. If you don’t have time for the gym skip the taxi or bus and walk to every destination. Or you could use the swimming pool at your rental and enjoy the water as well as the exercise.


Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Hawaii Is A Perfect Destination

Hawaii is a perfect destination for all vacationers. Most people want to escape the hassles of city life on vacation. The Hawaiian Islands are the best last minute vacation destinations. Hawaii offers visitors natural, pristine beauty with the beaches, waterfalls, forests, and volcanoes to explore.

The serene beauty of Hawaii is hard to describe. It is like being in a dream to go there. Just imagine yourself sitting on a beautiful beach with a cool breeze blowing your hair while watching the sun become an eclectic hue of orange and red and falling into the lap of the ocean. A last minute vacation to Hawaii is precious. There are so many places filled with natural beauty to visit. The islands are filled with marvelous views like no other place in the world.

Hawaii vacations are simple to book and not as expensive you may think. You can book your last minute holiday rental and start relaxing. You can fly easily to Hawaii from the largest airports.

Do you enjoy resting on sunny beaches? Do you like stunning scenery, gorgeous sunrises, and exciting adventures? Do you enjoy physical activities like scuba diving or windsurfing? If your answer to any one of these questions is yes, you may want to consider a Maui last minute vacation. With its wide range of activities and perfect climate, Maui is a great vacation place. If you want to stand at the top of a 10,000 foot volcano or swim with dolphins under the sea, there's something for you in Maui.

We'd be making a mistake if we didn't mention Oahu. It's yet another island of Hawaii that you might enjoy. It features fresh, tropical winds and a view of the famous Diamond Head. You might consider an Oahu last minute getaway vacation which could include a trip to Pearl Harbor. All of the islands feature luxury hotels and amazing resorts with world class facilities. Think about soaking up the scenic beauty found in Hawaii on your next vacation.

www.lastminuteusvacations.com

Monday, July 23, 2012

Some of the Best Honeymoon Places in US

 Here are some of the top honeymoon destinations in America according to the results of user’s searches on the internet. Hawaii is the best honeymoon destination followed by New York, Niagara Falls, Florida, Vegas and California.

For this special last minute vacation in Hawaii you can walk the long white sand beaches and enjoy the endless velvet waters.  The perfect weather and natural wonders makes it a lovely place to spend your time.  World-class hotels as well as top-notch accommodations provide a great haven for a romantic time.  Explore the hidden coves, black sand beaches or scuba diving while you relax with each other.  The delicious cuisine and luaus are enough reasons for spending your honeymoon in Hawaii.
 
New York and Niagara Falls is a popular place for newlyweds to spend their honeymoon. With plenty of things to do on your last minute holiday including visiting the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, dining at fancy restaurants, shopping, and the Broadway theatre, New York City is one of the best destinations for honeymooners. There is always something going on in New York twenty- four hours a day.  A place that never sleeps and will keep you entertained.

 Niagara Falls is located almost 500 miles from New York City. The falls have several sites which offer affordable amenities. Both Canada and U.S residents spend their honeymoons here together with nature. The falls are a wonderful and majestic site to experience.

Florida is also a great place for a honeymoon getaway with stretches of beaches and wonderful city attractions. The State of Florida has something for everyone. In this honeymoon destination, this state offers vibrant beaches of Miami which offers a great experience.  Walt Disney World in Orlando is a perfect place for honeymooners. Walt Disney World promotes themselves as a honeymoon destination with honeymoon packages.  If you are looking for action, Florida has Daytona and Cape Kennedy. Last Minute vacations can provide a variety of accommodations to your Florida honeymoon.

 Las Vegas is the Sin City and an exciting place for a honeymoon or a wedding. Last minute getaways provide accommodations for that special wedding and honeymoon package suitable for every budget. Stay at any one of the special world-class hotels and visit Downtown Las Vegas. During your stay experience Fremont Street, Fountain Shows at the Bellagio and dine at some of the fanciest restaurants. Try your hand with lady luck at one of the many casinos.



 California also offers some of the best packages suitable for a honeymoon destination. You can visit one of the top cities of the state like San Francisco, Sacramento, San Diego, or Los Angeles. You can spend your days visiting wineries as an exciting alternative. California has several world-class hotels, fancy restaurants, hundreds of last minute holiday spas, mountain lodges, and long beaches providing you with enough reasons to consider it as your honeymoon destination.



                    www.lastminuteusvacations.com

Friday, July 20, 2012

Experience An Adventure Vacation


     Family members who plan vacations together help to increase the bond between family members. Family last minute vacations can relieve stress. An adventure vacation will be unforgettable for you and your family for the rest of your lives. For your summer vacation, plan for some fun activities in the water and all of your favorite interests.

 Why not try windsurfing, brave the rapids or try skydiving?  Enhance your fun on your last minute holiday and try something you have never done.This will make your journey worth remembering. There are so many activities to enjoy on an adventure vacation.

 On your summer vacation the beach is always an option for most families. The beach is all about fun; the sand, sun, sea, and fishing. Other water activities to enjoy on your last minute vacation include boating, kayaking, surfing, scuba diving to name a few. Water activities are never ending and offer wonderful experiences to enjoy the true beauty of nature.

 One of the favorite water activities is whitewater rafting.  Challenge yourself to navigate the fast moving waters of a river. There are professionals to help you.

  For those who do not like water activity may choose camping as their last minute adventure vacation. Camping with your family and loved ones is a great experience. Watching the night sky as it turns from night to dawn is definitely something worth remembering. So select the best place for your camping experience.

 Hiking or biking with your family to take in the sights will be enjoyable as another adventure experience. Spend more time around the beautiful places and take a guide with you to get more information about the history of the places.

Adventure last minute vacations will present lots of opportunities for family fun when planned with everyone in mind.  Make the vacation a time for strengthening family bonds and broaden your experience.

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Special Features of an Alaskan Cruise


Many people prefer to go for a last minute cruise vacation.  Caribbean cruise vacations may be the first thing that comes to mind. Caribbean cruises are well known for its great weather, clear water, and an island atmosphere of music, food, and culture. The Caribbean is still the most popular cruise destination in the world because of their best sailings. Caribbean cruises have lists of ports for visiting like Alaskan cruises which are climbing the list as a new favorite. As for departure ports in the United States, Seattle is the main gateway for Alaska cruises and Vancouver, BC in Canada.

 Alaskan cruises are also popular and they offer some of the best coastal attractions, amazing scenery, sea and wildlife viewing opportunities. Two different routes are followed for last minute vacation cruises to Alaska from Seattle with seven day sailings departing Seattle weekly. The cruises travel through the islands sitting across from British Columbia and Alaska.


The other option is the glacier cruise route, the inner passage which offers more glaciers for the visitors to view for their pleasure and stops at more ports. The season for Seattle last minute holiday cruises to Alaska starts in late April and runs through mid-October. This is due to the warmer climate and additional daylight hours during this time of year.

Make sure to bring a camera as there will be plenty of amazing experiences to share when you get home. If you want to catch a glimpse of whales, the best time of year is June and July, as the water temperatures and feeding opportunities are much more suited for these beautiful creatures during the summer. Look for brown bears while you fly atop the fjords or take a train to the top of the mountain like the gold rush pioneers and watch black bears eat.  Lots of bald eagles to be seen flying in the skies over the waterways.

 Many land-based excursions in various locations impart fantastic experiences in Alaskan cruising. Seattle cruises to Alaska give the best opportunity to experience some of the most breathtaking natural events, some of the freshest air you'll ever breathe, and activities to suit all tastes. Book a Seattle last minute vacation cruise to Alaska and spend a few days in “coffee capital” of Seattle.

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Plan Your Perfect Hilton Head Vacation

One of the best and most popular vacation destinations in Southeast America is Hilton Head Island. This island offers twelve miles of sandy white beaches, athletic diversions like legendary golf courses and tennis courts with plenty of activities for the whole family. Kids will enjoy this last minute vacation spot with lots of entertainment.
 
 Family members most often choose the places near the ocean for enjoying fishing, wave running, kayaking, and parasailing. You can get up close with bottle nosed dolphins. If you prefer to stay inland, there are museums, concerts, and miniature golf courses to keep the visitors busy on their last minute holiday. Young adults may indulge in the nightlife with activities like karaoke, sports bars and clubs with live bands.                   

Last minute Condo rentals is the best option for a better fit for travelers who seek more space. Some will offer additional amenities like sports facilities, pools, and playgrounds. People who need more space and privacy than a condominium may consider a villa rental.  Condos for a couple or family provide luxurious living with plenty of space and enough privacy for everyone. Most villas offer access to private pools and golf courses which renters enjoy more.

There are many things to do around the island, but the selection of activities depends on the time of year. There are over 250 restaurants located on the island.  Some close for during the winter for renovations so it would be advisable to check to see if your favorite is open.  Water activities would be less than ideal during winter, but golf and tennis are offered all year long. The busiest season for vacationers is between Easter and Labor Day and at this time there are more crowds than any other time in the year. Hilton Head last minute vacation rentals will fill up very quickly those weeks. There are still lots of activities in the fall season as well and may be the best time to visit.

Hilton Head is a popular vacation destination and the demand is high. So why not try a fall vacation and plan for it now.

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Best Options For Your Stay in Orlando


Your vacation in Orlando should be a magical and memorable experience for the whole family and you want to stay someplace extra special on your last minute getaway. For a great family vacation you need spacious accommodations in Orlando so you will be more comfortable. You can find spacious condo units near the hottest theme parks and other great attractions. Many beautiful last minute vacation rentals in Orlando will give your family an extra special experience.

These condo rental properties offer many of the same amenities which are also be offered by hotels such as a pool, a clubhouse, or a fitness room. They can be found throughout the city near the most popular local attractions like Disney theme parks, Sea World, Universal Studios, Medieval Times, and the dozens of great shopping centers and golf courses in the area.

 Other popular destinations in Orlando include the Lake Buena Vista area and the Kissimmee area where you can find great last minute vacation condos and plenty of attractions. Condos provide amazing accommodations for your whole family and provide a spacious, comfortable lodging experience.

 Condos feature a living room, large patios or balcony, a dining room and more. This extra space adds more comfort on your last minute getaway to ensure that your whole family enjoys the feeling of home. You can find all the comforts of  home in a fabulous location near the attractions when you stay in an Orlando condo rental.

There are benefits when staying in a last minute vacation condo in Orlando because the condo combines the best aspects of a hotel with the best aspects of renting a full house. Many are located close to popular Orlando tourist destinations. A vacation condo is just perfect for your getaway in Orlando for a few days or a few weeks.


Monday, July 16, 2012

Kids Favorites in Chicago




Kid friendly last minute vacation destinations are located throughout the United States. One of the best family vacation destinations is Chicago. You can spend several days there and not be able to visit all of the sites. Here are a few favorite kid friendly vacation attractions that are more affordable and enjoyable.

 The Willis Tower:
        The (Sears)Willis Tower is one of the tallest buildings in the United States after the collapse of the World Trade Center.  It is a triumph of ingenuity and innovation and looks over the Chicago skyline. The elevator to the top is fast and unbelievable. Your ears will pop on the way up.
It is an opportunity to test your feelings on heights. You can look straight down 1,300 feet.  Now take a breath to continue your last minute holiday vacation. The Willis Tower is a definite on the list of places for kids to have fun in Chicago.

The Hancock Observatory and Tower:
       The Hancock building is the second tallest building and from the observation deck you can see the water front and Lake Shore Drive below.  View four states at once from the observatory, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin.  Kids will love it during the holidays as they venture into the Winter Wonderland.  Try skating from the highest rink in the world.  Children will enjoy the view from the Hancock Tower on their last minute weekend getaway.

The Navy Pier:
       This is a great shopping and dining complex located on Lake Michigan and most of the shopping area goes out into the water. The first stop is the huge 150 foot Ferris wheel. Kids will also enjoy the carousel, Wave Swinger and the remote control boats in Pier Park.  Your last minute getaway holiday will take you to a number of specialty shops and restaurants including a Children’s Museum and an IMAX theatre. Many of the restaurants provide outdoor seating in the summer time for your enjoyment.  

The Field Museum:
       This museum is found in the south of downtown adjacent to Soldier Field. This is the best museum with quality exhibits equal to the Smithsonian.
 Don’t miss the Mammals of Asia and Native American Halls or the Underground Adventure where you can view life from a bug’s perspective. One of the best features of the museum is a huge collection of stuffed animals from all over the world. The animals are placed in natural type environments which is the best part of the collection. On your last minute vacation you have got to see SUE, the world’s largest and most complete T Rex. The Grand Hall entrance of the museum has been featured in a fairly recent movie.

The Adler Planetarium:
       Check out the first Planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. Adler is located next to the Field Museum. Find out how much you would weigh on the moon on this last minute holiday. Take off on space adventure and get to feel what is like walking on the moon. 

Chicago is filled with many kid friendly vacation options. Use your imagination and soar. 


Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Pamper Yourself In Switzerland

Switzerland is a small country situated in the Central section of Europe with the beautiful Alps, the Central Plateau and the Jura inside the country. They are bordered by four countries France, Austria, Liechtenstein and Germany.  With three different languages including French, Italian and German, the Swiss enjoy a varied culture. Switzerland is a great last minute vacation destination with a large number of great vacation spots.


 When traveling to Switzerland you will need a legal passport and depending on the country where your travel originates you may need a Visa. Check with your country's Swiss embassy to receive all the necessary details for traveling there.

June, September or October are generally the best months for last minute holiday traveling and the best season for visits to Switzerland. However, this is high season for the country and it will be overcrowded with tourists.  High seasons are normally a bit more costly so when you are on a low budget it may be a better idea to choose some other times for a last minute getaway. You will have wider options for finding last minute holiday accommodations because you will not have to battle with so many patrons seeking lodging.

You will be able to enjoy the multi-faceted cuisine of Switzerland from your last minute vacation rental. While some dishes such as fondue, reaclette or rosti are present throughout the country, each region developed its own tastes according to the differences of climate and languages. Traditional Swiss cuisine uses ingredients similar to those in other European countries, as well as unique dairy products and cheeses. They are also known for their delight in chocolate which has been produced in Switzerland since the 18th century. A breakthrough for the Swiss was the invention of milk chocolate in 1875 by Daniel Peter. They are the world's largest consumers of chocolate.  In addition, they are known for their watches and Swiss army knives. 



Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Alaskan Denali Park Attracts All Tourists

Denali National Park in Alaska is one of the most picturesque tourist destinations in all of Alaska. The natural beauty is breathtaking and attracts more visitors from all over eager to partake of this sensory buffet. There are many more sites to see from Mt. McKinley to the majestic Wonder Lake.

When you plan to visit the Denali National Park for the first time the Denali Visitor Center offers great info to create a lasting impression. The scenery surrounding this center is absolutely beautiful and if you come between May and September you can take a lovely drive down Park road or a bus trip deep into the wilderness. If you plan a last minute vacation to the park in the winter months you can experience dog sledding or skiing.


In addition to the Visitor Center there are a number of other attractions in the Denali National Park. One of the more popular and attractions is Mt. McKinley which is the second highest peak in North America at 19,470 feet and attracts last minute holiday adventure seekers every year who attempt to conquer it.  Whether you are a mountaineer or simply out for a bit of sightseeing, Mt. McKinley is one of the most impressive sites you will find anywhere.  Mt. McKinley offers incredible photography opportunities.


Activities will be varied on your last minute vacation rental holiday and include real crowd pleasers like fishing, camping and white water rafting. There are several prime fishing spots in Denali and most are open to everyone. A couple of spots require a state license, but fishing is great at all of them. When it comes to camping there are over 290 sites and 7 campgrounds to choose from so camping enthusiasts are sure to get plenty of enjoyment out of this trip. And if adventure is your thing, the white water rafting is wild.


When you are going to do a bit of nature watching then Denali is the best place and there is no shortage of wildlife for naturalist enthusiasts. Bears, wolves, Dall sheep, caribou, pika, lynx, marten, lemmings and moose are some of the species which you will be likely to run across when viewing the natural landscape from your last minute getaway hotel. There are over 150 species of birds for those ornithologists and wildlife photographers.

To top off this magnificent place, there is nothing better than a last minute holiday weekend trip to Wonder Lake to watch the sunset. The beauty of this scene is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Spend the night drinking in this peaceful scene and experience the unforgettable wonder.