holiday

Skiing: A family holiday tradition

Skiing: A family holiday tradition
BEAVER CREEK, Colorado – John Phillips thinks skiing is one of the great all-time family activities – that’s why he’s set on making sure his children learn from the best and enjoy it as much as he does. Phillips is in town with his family from Des Moines, Iowa, and put his children in ski school at Beaver Creek, Colorado, last week. He said he learned the hard way that parents have no business …

Read more on Vail Daily

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Holiday generosity pleases charities

Holiday generosity pleases charities
By MICHELLE REITER

Read more on The Findlay Courier

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Holiday Travelers Face Tough Driving Conditions

Holiday Travelers Face Tough Driving Conditions
A major winter storm is promising to bring a white Christmas to parts of the West and Midwest, though countless holiday travelers faced tough driving conditions and scattered flight delays Wednesday that only looked to get worse. The storm was expected to dump more than a foot of snow on parts of Colorado and southern Utah by midday, and blow east into the Plains states through Christmas Day.

Read more on CBS4 Denver

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Here are 50 things to do over holiday break

Here are 50 things to do over holiday break
Whether you’re trying to find activities to keep your youngsters occupied during their school break or entertaining family and friends visiting from out of town, here are 50 fun ideas. Always call ahead. 1. Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum, 31005 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills, is bound to make young and old smile. Admission is free, but bring quarters to this historical and modern …

Read more on Westland Observer

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Cheap Holiday In Madrid

Have you thought about a vacation to Madrid? You can plan a cheap holiday in Madrid and enjoys days of sightseeing and relaxing. The nightlife is something to experience. La Venencia is a fun club to visit as well as La Fidula and Café Central. Oh yes, these are some great places to enjoy the culture of Spain. If you need something a little more hip and fast, the Club Joy Estava will settle your need for a fast night. The city of Madrid really comes to life after the sun goes down. It is a fantastic time and you meet some great people.

Although Madrid has many bars and clubs, it also has historical sites, flea markets, theaters, the Safari de Madrid Wildlife Park and Snow Park, which is a beautiful place to ski. If you are looking for a theme park, Faunia will fit the bill. It is a beautiful water park with rides and plenty of wildlife attractions. You could spend an entire day in this theme park and still want to go back for more. The history museum Museo de San Isidro is a great place to spend the day. You can see the historical exhibits and learn about the history of Madrid.

Your cheap holiday in Madrid does not stop there, you can visit the many specialty shops, famous neighborhoods and art galleries. The Royal Botanical gardens are a place to find peace and serenity. This area of Spain is a tourist town with more to do then anywhere else you could visit. They have a winery, palaces and beautiful parks to walk around and see the beautiful landscape. Your vacation will not end with that, the hotels have many activities and amenities and the restaurants are superb.

The restaurants you will find are serving French cuisine, vegetarian foods, German, Mexican, Asian, Mediterranean and African. You will fine many different styles of restaurants from casual to fine dining. You will even find a McDonald’s. Many of the hotels you will find in a cheap holiday in Madrid package have onsite restaurants or one just next door.

The Madrid Zoo is a day worth spending. You will see frogs, an insect leaf specimen, amazing and colorful fish as well as the dolphin. The zoo is truly unique from any other zoo for its unusual habitants. If you need more excitement, try a visit to the country. You will find that you have so much to do, it is always wise to spend a full week if not two weeks to see as much as you can. The best time to go is when the weather is just cooling off. During the hot summer months, many of the residents go somewhere cooler and come back when the weather cools.

If you want to a lot of exploring, go when the temperatures drop a bit. It will make your trip memorable and you can get out more instead of needing to be in an air-conditioned room or another type of building.

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There’s So Much More to a New Hampshire Skiing Holiday than Skiing

Renowned for its picturesque mountain views and spectacular selection of winter sports, New Hampshire is a stunning place to visit. Skiing is one of the area’s most popular pursuits and many people are drawn there eager to experience the wide variety of ski trails on offer, as well as the plethora of other recreational activities available, such as mountaineering and snowmobiling.

Located in the northeast of the US and positioned just two hours away from Boston, the area is also home to the White Mountains. Cited as the most rugged mountains in New England, they cover roughly a quarter of the land area in New Hampshire and house some of the most breathtaking ski resorts and lodges around.

The White Mountain National Forest can also be found nestled within the mountain range. In addition to being used for recreational purposes, a lot of commercial work like logging is carried out there. Add to the mix a staggering number of state parks, and it’s easy to see why so many people choose New Hampshire as their skiing destination of choice.

Home to New Hampshire’s famous state symbol, the Old Man of the Mountain – a rock formation that used to resemble the profile of a man’s face – Cannon Mountain is one of the most exciting ski resorts around. Positioned deep in the Franconia Notch State Park, it’s the perfect place for skiing with the whole family and contains a number of different ski trails and levels of expertise. There’s also a ski museum and two parks to discover.

Wildcat Mountain, on the other hand, offers up 225 acres of terrain to explore and 47 ski trails to choose from. Not only that, but it’s rated as having the most impressive scenery in the east, as well as ranking in the top ten for snow, terrain, challenge and value. A great place to ski, it’s also possible to soak up the panoramic views by taking to the impressive half mile long zip-line cable ride.

After a hard day of winter sporting activities, there are a number of attractive ski resorts scattered around the area, which offer up the very best in après-ski entertainment. From relaxing in the jacuzzi to sitting by an open fire, and exploring the surrounding areas, there’s a multitude of things to do and see. The Snowy Owl Inn, located in the village of Waterville Valley is an ideal lodge to visit, especially due to its proximity to the shops and restaurants, whilst Adair Country Inn is perfect for those looking to kick back and relax in tranquil surroundings.

With so much on offer, skiing holidays in New Hampshire are a great way to experience the very best in winter fun. Indeed, in addition to the world-class skiing opportunities, the selection of other activities to pursue and ski lodges to relax in, there’s something to excite and entertain even the most adventurous of people.

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Holiday Destination-New Zealand

New Zealand has a mix of cultures with the European, Maori, Asian and other ethnic groups calling these twin islands their home. Sports are very popular with rugby and the All Blacks having a huge fan following. Cricket is also popular with the Kiwis.

<b>Population of New Zealand:</b>

There are approximately 4.2 million people in New Zealand and of these around 3/4 live on the North Island. There is a mixing of many cultures here with the ethnic population being around 75.8% Europeans, Pacific Islanders-5.3%, Maori-13.8% and the Asian population is around 4.5%.

<b>Climate:</b>

If you are looking for New Zealand travel deals you need to know about the weather in the country.

• Winter Temp-May to August-0ºC to 18ºC (32ºF to 65ºF)

• Summer Temp- 9ºC to 26ºC (48ºF to 79ºF)

Note: the New Zealand weather is known for being erratic so it is advisable that you carry a light, but warm wind proof jacket at all times and in winter carry your thickest woollies. Due to the clear air it is very easy to get sun burnt so carry sunscreen and protective gear and wear UV protected sunglasses.

<b>Time Zone:</b>

New Zealand is 12 hours ahead of the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and is 19 hours ahead of the Pacific Standard Time (PST). Daylight Saving is GMT+13 and begins on the last Sunday in September and ends on the first Sunday in April.

<b>Accommodation:</b>

There are plenty of world class accommodation facilities in New Zealand. You can estimate the quality establishment by the star rating that they have and this will also let you know what facilities you can available here. Also it is important to check out the properties individually as there can be changes in standards. Also keep in mind that a 5 star motel is very different from a 5 star hotel.

• 2 stars Basic, well maintained standard

• 3 stars Comfortable, moderate rating but good standard

• 4 stars this exceptionally well maintained and appointed establishment

• 5 stars extensive range of services and superior standard.

There is a range of accommodation like motels, hotels, bed and breakfasts, caravan motor home parks, camping grounds, resorts, hostels, and at some places you can even stay on the sheep farms or one of the boutique hotels situated amidst the vineyards.

<b>Driving:</b>

If you want to hire a car in New Zealand then you could contact New Zealand Travels at

http://www.newzealandtravel.com.au. Some things to keep in mind while driving here are –

• A full and valid, New Zealand, Australian or an International License is required which has to be shown when making bookings.

• They drive on the left hand side in right hand drive vehicles.

• Minimum 21 years

• Seatbelts are compulsory

• Speed limit is generally 100kph (60mph) on open roads and 50kph (30mph) in the city.

• Read your rental contract in detail so as to avoid any accidents or misunderstandings.

This is just some basic information about New Zealand. We are sure you will love this country as much as we do. Happy Holidaying!!

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Holiday in Iceland

The little European country is renowned as the country of fire and ice. It is situated between the mainland of Europe and Greenland. The capital city is Reykjavik.

Iceland is taken as the destination for lovebirds; there is folklore in Iceland, “if you have initiated your love in Paris then come Iceland to put the fire in it’. Home to numerous active volcanoes which have shiny ice caps; Iceland is inhabited by almost 0.3 million people who are spread around the coastal and urban areas of the country.

Iceland is a natural bequest as it has received a uniquely diversified geology. Its icecaps are the largest after Antarctica and Greenland and it is replete with hot water geysers, which offers panoramic view. Tour to Iceland is quite haute among young exhilarators nowadays. Comprised of fire and snow, the geologically young country calls you to enjoy the perfect blend of natural contrast.

It is considered as a paradise for hikers. National Parks and Conservation Areas around Iceland are quite appealing. Summers are supposed to best to spend holidays in Iceland. A holiday in Iceland can tempt you with numerous activities including Horse riding, fishing, sea-angling, water-rafting, kayaking, canoeing, snowmobile ride and many more.

If you are looking for more than you can take strolls in the scenic sanctuaries of the country; while spending holidays in Iceland, many people opt for boat trips. These are supposed to be the most pulsating activity for holidaymakers in Iceland. To take the complete pleasure of Iceland tourism, you can enjoy the speed of glacial torrents in the country. Whale watching and dolphin watching are another tantalizing activity in Iceland, which becomes breathtaking in mountainous backdrop.

If you are looking forward for a cultural enticement in Iceland, you can checkout local museums, turf farms, historical buildings of Reykjavik and local churches. These places have more than hundred sagas to tell.

What have you planned for this summer? You are going to board for which tourism destination? Confused? I have a suggestion; explore the bewilderment of snowy land. Iceland will be on high this summer, as travel agencies are offering the best deals on Iceland holiday packages. You can avail these Iceland tour packages either from your travel agent or from online Iceland Travel Guides. Apart from better deals in Iceland hotels, these travel assists in getting flight-tickets as well.

What are you looking for; get your package booked today only.

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Winter Festivals Light Up the Holiday Season

You’ll have no shortage of activities to add to your road trip planner if you plan it around a Winter Festival. While some are scenic drives through a myriad of animated lights, others include many activities for kids and adults alike.

The following Festivals stretch alphabetically from East to West and from November through February. Who knows, you might even find some shopping malls between home and there, making this a shop and play road trip.

CALGARY WINTER FESTIVAL IN CALGARY, ALBERTA: Curing the February blahs – Originally conceived in February 1989 as relief to the year-long hangover Calgarians were suffering after hosting the 1988 Winter Olympic Games, this 11-day festival has grown into one of Calgary’s favorite events. This celebration of everything snowy, frosty and cold, includes ice sculpture contests, human curling championships, music, clowns, winter crafts, snowboarding demonstrations and more. Most events are free and take place in various venues throughout the city. And in spite of the theme of the festival, many are held indoors or in heated tents.

WINTER FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS IN NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA: Making Light of Family Fun – Touted as Canada’s largest light festival, this annual event combines incredible landscape lighting with live concerts, parades, fireworks, and a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration shown live around the world all with the Falls as a backdrop. The festival kicks off with several weekend Disney shows, making this event a perfect family outing. As well, there’s the Annual Niagara Talent Showcase, Candles in the Park, and a Tribute to Elvis. BONUS: All these events are FREE from November though January.

WINTER FESTIVAL & PARADE OF LIGHTS IN GRAND JUNCTION, COLORADO: This annual December parade features floats, music, holiday fun and events, and thousands of sparkling holiday lights.

ELY WINTER FESTIVAL IN ELY, MINNESOTA: This annual festival is held in February and offers ten days of fun-filled activities, including snow sculpturing, dog sled rides, snowmobile rides, exhibits, the Mukluk Ball, a variety of great food, and a craft fair.

CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW IN PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA: Visit this famous light show which began in 1955 and has since become one of Philadelphia’s most cherished traditions. Originally created for Wanamaker’s, it’s continued to create the beautiful Grand Court displays that had helped make Wanamaker’s famous. A tradition that’s passed on from one generation to the next, visitors usually first come as children and look in awe at water fountains, 1000s of lights, animated figures while listening to a Christmas story with organ music throughout. The show runs continuously from the day after Thanksgiving through New Year’s and starts on the even hours while the store is open. The best part…it’s free!

NEWPORT WINTER FESTIVAL IN NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND: Ten-day festival – The American Bus Association awarded this one of the Top 100 Events in North America so you know this would be a great activity to add to your road trip planner. The Newport Winter Festival offers 10 days of fun, food, music and entertainment for the whole family. The festival features horse-drawn hayrides, sand sculptures, a chili and pizza cook-off, scavenger hunt, an ice sculpting competition, a children’s fair and the Annual Frosty 5K Run. Musical entertainment includes swing, pop and blues bands, as well as the United States Air Force Band, Liberty. Activities are held at various venues throughout the city.

WINTER FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS IN WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA: Lasting from November to January, this event has grown into the nation’s largest holiday light show and it attracts over a million visitors per year. It’s an amazing 6-mile drive including 50 displays and covering more than 300 acres and using over one million lights.

The holiday season is a busy one, filled with many “To Do” lists. We can sometimes fly past some of the wonders this season holds. So grab the mittens, beanies, and your Road Trip Planner and go get yourself some Winter Wonderland Fun.

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Top Holiday Destinations For July: Slovenia

With July just around the corner, and many of us realising we’re up for a well-deserved, last-minute holiday, where are the best places to go on a budget? The recession has shaken the tourism world up in the past year and although it may not be quite as easy as previously to find cheap flights and budget breaks, there is still a wealth of choice out there and some surprising deals.

Some of the best places to head off to in July are not destinations you would immediately think of, but this is part of their charm. While the rest of the world jets off to the typical tourist areas, you will be able to enjoy your little piece of heaven in relative peace!

In part two of this five-part series, I will show you some of the hottest holiday destinations for July.

Slovenia

One of the Croatia’s neighbours, Slovenia shares its beauty. Popular with tourists from Germany, Austria and Italy, but still relatively quiet, Slovenia is a sprawling land of mountains, lakes, forest and stunning countryside. The capital city is Ljubljana (not as hard to say as it looks!), setting of Paulo Coehlo’s best-selling book Veronika Decides to Die. In July, tourists can enjoy warm weather in the mid 20s (about 76 celcius). Like many historical capital cities, Ljubljana consists of an old town and a new town. In the old town, the beautifully-preserved buildings display a mix of architectural styles – most prominently Baroque and Art Nouveau.

Ljubljana Castle, built in the 12th century, dominates the hill over the river Ljubljanica. The city is also famed for its stunning Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, the Franciscan Church of the Annuncation, the Triple Bridge and the Dragon Bridge and Robba’s Fountain. Culturally, the city is blooming and has to date over 15 museums, 40 art galleries and 10 theatres. In July, you can also enjoy the Ljubljana Summer Festival, which attracts notable opera stars, as well as ballet and theatre performers and international jazz and rock musicians.

If you fancy getting out of the city, there is almost no end to what you can do. You could head into the Julian Alps, or West towards the Adriatic Coast. In the Winter, the Alps are fantastic for winter sports, but are no less stunning in the summer months. One of the top destinations in the area is the Triglav National Park, named after Mount Triglav. The landscape combines tumbling rivers and waterfalls with impressive rocky plateaus and mountains and deep virgin forests. Typical park animals are the chamois, ibex, red deer, brown bear, lynx, eagle, numerous bird and reptile species, and the endemic Marble trout.

One of the country’s most popular regions is Savinjska, famous for its thermal waters, the glacial valley of Logarska dolina and the breathtaking Snežna jama cave. Activities available range from walking, hiking, mountain biking, swimming, cycling and climbing and the area also boasts numerous health spas, as well as hundreds of charming villages.

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