Bienvenidos a Miami

October 20, 2009 at 4:22 pm

The title is so cliche, I know, but I simply could not refuse. I apologize, anyway- but please do not hold it against me.

If CSI Miami does not make you want to visit this hoppin’ place, then maybe this article will. Miami would be a super fun (what is with the tacky language today???) place to go… especially for the college crowd. As a 20 year-old, I would definitely enjoy going to Miami with a bunch of friends. In fact, my friends and I are talking about going to Florida for spring break, and there are plenty of cheap and nice vacation rentals down south.

I am going to plan a trip as if I were going on it. Here goes…

For our Miami vacation rental, I chose a Biscayne Waterfront Rental. This particular two bedroom place sleeps six. Five friends of mine and I will enjoy seven days staying in this condo, fully equipped with a pool, hot tub, high speed internet, stove and refrigerator, ice machine, air conditioning, and of course, satellite tv. As if we are going to stay inside to enjoy the A/C and satellite!

We will wake up at approximately 9am and walk out of the condo onto the beach. We will lay for most of the day and soak up the sun. One day we will try windsurfing. The next day maybe go jet skiing, maybe go snorkeling or check out one of the nearby amusement parks. If I am feeling ambitious, I might wake up early one day and hit the gym before swimming and lounging around in the sand for the rest of the afternoon.

At night we will visit some of the best local restaurants, and maybe go clubbing a few times. Since we will be there without our parents, staying up most of the night might occur once or twice. After all, it is spring break, and we are in Miami. Gotta make the best of it! Of course it will not happen all week, though, because we would not want to sleep allll day!

Tan, eat, play, sleep, repeat. I guess that would be it. That is exactly what my friends and I would be looking for in a spring break, as I am sure most college kids would. As long as I come home with a tan and feeling refreshed, it was a successful vacation. This itinerary would allow for both of those!! Let’s do it…

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More on Florida…

October 18, 2009 at 10:14 am

After thinking about it a little more, I decided I did not give Disney World the attention it deserves. That is why I am now writing an additional post on vacationing in Orlando. Maybe at the end of this post or another one, everyone will realize how important a trip to Disney World is. Really, it is priceless.

There are so many Florida vacation rentals… plenty to choose from in every town, city, and around every beach. There are also a lot in and around Disney. You have to be careful though, as a lot of them can be pretty pricey. The best idea might be to look into lodging where you share a house or condo with a bunch of people. This is definitely the cheapest option.

I am going to tell you a little bit about Epcot, seeing as its my favorite place to go in Disney World. I think the reason I like this place best is because there were not a lot of scary rides… I am a bit of a wimp when it comes to rides. (I have a sensitive stomach.) But Epcot is a great place for little kids, or older ones who are not looking for death defying roller coasters. Epcot is divided into two sections, Future World and World Showcase. Future World has shows and other attractions central to the idea of science, innovation, and wonder. It is in Future World where you find the iconic “Spaceship Earth” ball. This can be seen from very far away, and is one of the first things that comes to my mind when I think of Disney. World Showcase was the one I liked better. It is made up of a bunch of Pavilions representing countries around the world. There are restaurants and gift shops in the Pavilions with cultural foods, candy, and gifts. Epcot is proof that everyone can find something they like at Disney World, including people who may not be brave enough for crazy coasters. For more information on Epcot and the other theme parks at Disney, check out the main website.

So with that said, I hope that everyone out there reading this will take their kids to Florida. And if you do not have kids, take your significant other. And if you do not have one of those, well then, take yourself.

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Last words on Disney

October 16, 2009 at 1:41 am

Ok I promise, this will be the last post on Disney World. I just want to make sure everyone knows how fun and affordable it can be to go there! Not to mention the fact that EVERYONE NEEDS TO GO AT LEAST ONCE BEFORE THEY DIE… possibly even twice… or three times…

The last post I wrote was on Epcot, the place for people like me who want to walk around and see things but does not necessarily want to go on frightening rides. Here I am going to tell you about a couple of the other theme parks at Disney. First I will start with the Magic Kingdom.

The Magic Kingdom is 107 acres of fun and entertainment. This is the place at Disney World where you will find not only rides, but also Cinderella’s Castle and tons of Disney movie characters. There are also seven separate areas in the Magic Kingdom, including Adventureland, Liberty Square, and Mickey’s Toontown Fair. The Magic Kingdom is a great place to take little kids. Little girls especially love Cinderella’s Castle. I can remember going in there myself when I was young, and going up to meet Cinderella herself. All around this theme park you will find dozens of Disney characters. If you go here and take kids, be sure to get an autograph book. I think I still have my book, signed by Mickey and Minnie, Donald Duck, Alvin and the Chipmunks, Aladdin and Jasmine, and lots of others.

Hollywood Studios is also a must-see, as long as you have the time. It gives you a behind the scenes look at famous movies and how they were made. There are also lots of backstage tours that take you onto the sets of lots of movies and shows that everyone would be familiar with. There is also a new attraction called the American Idol Experience. Next to Epcot and the Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios makes for a great day at Disney World.

Tons of places are available for rent and lodging in Orlando. Florida vacation rentals can be cheap and also very nice if you do some research. Lucky for you, I already did some of the research. I found two villas that are on sale- a wopping 27% off between April and May. They are fully equipped with a refrigerator, pool, stove, and more. If that does not work for you, there are plenty of hotels and inns, just shop around and find what works for you. And don’t forget, get to Disney!

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When the weather goes below 10 degrees…

October 11, 2009 at 1:30 am

You know what I love? Having a 9am class on Friday mornings. And I love even more that it is 3 hours long. And most of all I love walking there when it’s FREEZING COLD.

Before I even got out of bed this morning I looked online to see what the weather was like outside my warm dorm room. I do not always look up the weather, but this morning I had to figure out which jacket I was going to wear. I almost laughed out loud when I saw that the temperatue said a mere 2 degrees Fahrenheit. HA! Are they serious? Oh New England…

So of course I got to thinking about wishing I was somewhere else. Namely, Florida. And more specifically, Daytona Beach. I do not even know why I teased myself but I looked up the weather in Daytona. Sixty degrees. What a life. Shorts and t-shirt weather. Instead, I am here in New England all bundled up with gloves, scarf, hat, jacket, boots… and I am still cold walking to class. I am going to Daytona.

And while I am there, I am going to get myself a nice vacation rental. Maybe this time I will take my mom, I think she could use a vacation, too. My Daytona Beach vacation rental is a beautiful condo right on the ocean. I can wake up in the morning and look out the window to the shining sun and sandy shores. It also has a pool and is very conveniently located. It is just a short walk to many attractions to keep me busy, such as shopping centers, amusement parks, etc. And the weather is definitely not going to be in the teens like in New England.

One other thing about Daytona Beach- since I am always looking for good places to eat, I found a useful article on 10Best.com. Of all the reviews I read, the place I would be most inclined to try would be this barbeque place called Hog Heaven. They supposedly have great burgers, barbeque chicken, and ribs. And better yet, the average meal price is under ten dollars. It is easy to get carried away with spending when you go on vacation, so it is always good to have a more economical option in mind.

If you are as fed up with this New England weather as I am, then book a trip… to Daytona Beach!

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From the Beach to the Mountains: Vacation Rental Options that Fit Any Budget

August 8, 2009 at 3:09 am

Escaping to a dream destination before saying goodbye to sunny days is still a possibility. From a luxury beach getaway to an affordable mountain retreat, options are unlimited and it is not that hard to find them with a little help from the Internet and lodging directories like Rentalo.com (http://www.rentalo.com). Possibilities to consider on the Rentalo web site include:

VILLA VENTANA, BAHIA BANDERAS VACATION VILLA — $900 PER NIGHT
If budget is not a concern, this villa will provide a vacation unlike any other. Set in a lush jungle mountainside eco-refuge surrounded by fabulous trees and wildlife, the villa can sleep up to eight people comfortably. Guests will enjoy breathtaking views of Bay of Banderas, professional design and decor, large spacious terraces, an extra large Jacuzzi and a pool lounge pergola among other amenities. Rentalo ID: 309037.

DREAM SILVERTHORNE, SILVERTHORNE VACATION LODGE — $395 PER NIGHT
An excellent option for big groups, this vacation lodge can sleep up to forty-five people comfortably. The lodge has twelve bedrooms and nine and a half bathrooms and is set in a residential area that borders on miles of wilderness trails in White River National Forest. Amenities include a Jacuzzi, hot tub, fireplace and free internet among others. Swimming, camping and fishing are all nearby attractions. Rentalo ID: 22519.

RASPBERRY HILL B&B, ASHEVILLE BED AND BREAKFAST — $100 PER NIGHT
If looking for a cozy experience in a quiet valley, Rentalo offers the Raspberry Hill B&B. This Western North Carolina bed and breakfast is an authentically restored early 1900’s homestead located in the tranquil Broad River valley. Amenities of this lovely rental include eat-until-you-are-full breakfasts, light lunches and private bath. Biking, camping and hiking can all be found nearby. Rentalo ID: 264323.

SANDCASTLE RESORT, OCHO RIOS VACATION RENTAL–$82 PER NIGHT
Located in Ocho Rios, Jamica, this beautiful resort offers guests a beautiful sea view and a colonial style design. The condo has one bedroom and one bathroom and can sleep up to four people comfortably. Guests can enjoy WiFi internet access, a pool, a bar and a restaurant and maid service. Nearby attractions include zip lining and river tubing among others. Rentalo ID:295900.

Regardless of preferences, would-be vacationers can log on to Rentalo.com and find lodging options like vacation rentals, hotels and bed and breakfasts in mountain destinations like North Carolina, beach destinations like Jamaica and cities like Houston among many others.

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A GOLF VACATION WITH FAMILY OR FRIENDS

July 23, 2009 at 12:04 am


 

Those looking to have a relaxing vacation, spend some time with the family and practice some golf don’t have to spend a fortune. Vacation rentals are an excellent way of saving in family or large group accommodations and at the same time enjoy some luxuries. Rentalo.com, a leading marketplace of vacation rentals, hotels and bed and breakfasts offers several alternatives to choose from.

EDISTO ISLAND BEACH AND GOLF GETAWAY, SOUTH CAROLINA RESORT – $95 PER NIGHT Located on the golf course of Ocean Ridge Resort, on Edisto Island, this spacious duplex has two bedrooms and an open sleeping loft. The property can comfortably accommodate up to six people and guests will enjoy two queen-size beds and two singles. There are two bathrooms — including a master bathroom with a Jacuzzi and special features of this vacation rental include ceiling fans in every room, vaulted ceilings, a fireplace, a screened porch surrounded by palm trees and a huge, lovely, old live oak that provides plenty of shade without obstructing the view of the golf course. Rentalo ID No. 265703.

POLO BEACH CLUB, WAILEA VACATION CONDO $495 PER NIGHT This beautiful condo is located on Sandy Polo Beach in front of Fairmont Kea Lani Resort Hotel and offers visitors four bedrooms and four bathrooms. The condo can comfortably accommodate up to twelve people and features all amenities including high speed internet and a heated pool. Guests of this vacation rental can enjoy a beautiful beach view, scuba diving, wind surfing, and jet skiing, parasailing, swimming, great shopping and golfing among other activities. There are also excellent dining alternatives nearby. Rentalo ID No.906.

ISLAND VACATION HOME, MANASOTA KEY VACATION HOME- $595 PER WEEK This beautiful two-bedroom, two-bath fully-furnished Manasota Key home offers many amenities including a fenced backyard complete with patio, table and benches, sundeck with chaises, and an outdoor shower for the return from the beach. Guests of this private vacation home can enjoy an easy walk to the Stump Pass Beach State Park and golfing at one of the fifty-one area golf courses. Biking, hiking and birdwatching is also possible along the thirty-nine miles of trails at Myakka River State Park. The home can accommodate up to six people. Rentalo ID No. 141419.

 

“In the current economic downturn,” says Rentalo president Alfredo Purrinos, “vacation rentals make even more sense; they are a budget-friendly and affordable alternative to traditional lodging.” Rentalo’s inventory of more than 200,000 properties in the U.S., Caribbean, Mexico, Canada, Europe and around the world includes hotels, inns, lodges and bed and breakfasts in addition to vacation rental villas, condos and apartments. To book an affordable villa or apartment rental, log onto www.Rentalo.com.

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Caribbean: The Definition of Variety

May 15, 2009 at 8:14 pm

A region of the Americas that encloses the Caribbean Sea, its islands, and the surrounding coasts, the Caribbean or “Caribe”, is full of nature’s little secrets waiting to be discovered. Aruba, Anguilla, Curacao and Jamaica are just a few of the islands that compose this premiere vacation destination. If you are looking for a family vacation that combines relaxation and adventure the Caribbean is the way to go.

You can stay at luxury Caribbean vacation rentals in Bahamas and spoil yourself with beautiful beaches, friendly people and incredible dive spots or book Caribbean hotels in Curacao to experience the lively casinos and high quality shopping. There are, with no doubt, unlimited entertainment opportunities for you and your friends or family at this beautiful spot of the world.

If you are visiting with family a good idea is to go on an adventure deep sea fishing in Jamaica. You will be able to arrange your charter easily through major hotels and enjoy the beauty of the underwater world.

Other great spot for water adventures is Trinidad and Tobago. The place offers great sport fishing with fishes of multiple colors that inhabit the sea of this beautiful island. It is not hard to find Reefs full of fish where anglers make their dreams come true while having fun sport fishing.

If you are one of those people who appreciate a good dish you will love dinning French Style at Guadeloupe. The island offers real French style cuisine while enjoying the wonders of the Caribbean and enjoying the varied flavors that this town has to offer.

If you prefer adventure, then you can try swimming with Stingrays at Cayman Islands. Although most people are scared of the Stingray, this animal is completely harmless and you can swim alongside them and watch them mingle with you while they look for food at Cayman Islands.

Other of the most popular attractions of the Caribbean is the St. Lucia Jazz Festival. This festival attracts visitors from all over that enjoy listening to a jazz full of reggae influences.

And if you like risks then try one of Aruba’s numerous casinos. Just as if you were at Las Vegas, Aruba offers casinos for all tastes. The Royal Palm, the largest casino of the area attracts all kinds of gamblers and if you are serious about gambling and like elegance head to the Excelsior.

Aruba is one of the most entertaining and visited places of the Caribbean. While in Aruba make sure to visit the Airkok Park. A National protected area, the Airkok National Park is an untouched environment that encompasses 18% of the island’s land mass. Biking, walking and hiking trails allow visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and stunning views as well as the impressive cave and rock formations of this place.

Another great option while in Aruba is the the Bubali Bird Sanctuary which is home to a variety of birds that include the egrets, gulls, skimmers, coots, herons, cormorants and many species of ducks. A resting and breeding area of more than 80 species of migratory birds, this sanctuary should be on any bird lover list of things to do. And if you are not one of those there is also the donkey sanctuary. Although a donkey sanctuary might seem like a strange place to visit, this sanctuary welcomes visitors with a tour of the grounds and a fun environment to interact with the donkeys. Once a major way of transportation, donkeys were left aimless with modern times. This place, perfect for kids, has protected these lovely animals since 1997.

And as if this wasn’t enough, Aruba also offers a Butterfly farm. A colorful place that hosts a tropical garden with butterflies from around the world, Aruba’s butterfly farm allows guests to see the life cycle of these fascinating creatures and take guided tours that to learn all about butterfly habits and its metamorphosis.

If you are heading to Curacao then try a dolphin encounter. You will be able to share a pool with these beautiful creatures, by booking one of the several programs for adults and children offered in the area. A reservation is needed due to the popularity of this attraction.

So if you are thinking of escaping from the chilly weather of the north like most tourists do, you will find that the Caribbean is perfect to visit during the months of December through April. Sunny skies and warm temperatures will always await you during these months. For the best rates, September and October are the months to come.

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Mexico: The Perfect Weekend Getaway

May 11, 2009 at 10:31 pm

Yes, we all know about Mexico City, but Mexico offers so much more beyond its capital and the best part is that it is just around the corner for those of us who live in the U.S; making it the perfect weekend getaway. Places like Ensenada, Rosarito and San Jose del Cabo are ideal for a long or short break outside the U.S.

If you choose Ensenada then get ready to have fun. Located in Baja California, Ensenada is home to spectacular beaches, incredible fishing and many cultural attractions that will never allow you to get bored. Whether you are looking for a relaxed, slow-paced vacation or an outdoor adventure, Ensenada will always have something for you. And Ensenada has some of the most varied Mexico lodging alternatives. From spacious Mexico vacation rentals, luxurious hotels and charming Mexico bed and breakfasts the options are almost unlimited.

If you like Nature, you will have a blast when at Ensenada. The city offers a great variety of National Parks with scenic lakes, excellent and primitive campsites and lush forests. The “Parque Nacional Constitución de 1957″ and the “Parque Nacional Sierra de San Pedro Martir” are two of the most popular options.

Other popular attraction of the area is La Bufadora. Located twenty-two miles south of Ensenada, La Bufadora is a natural blowhole that spouts seawater 70 feet into the air. It was recently renovated and features a botanical and observation decks.

If you like Go Carts and video games, or are visiting with kids that do, Ensenada offers the Epocas Family Amusement Center with everything from video games, go-carts, playground, ice-cream and snacks. The center is opened daily from 11am to 10pm. And if you rather visit a museum the Ensenada option is the “Museo de Historia.” This museum features merous exhibition rooms that focus on the “Native People of Baja California.”

If your choice is Rosarito then expect real relaxation. From championship golf courses to luxurious spas and miles of sandy beaches, Rosarito has it all. Travelers from all ages and interests will truly enjoy a vacation in Rosarito. The city is ideal for water activities, amazing shopping, horseback riding and dining. It is also home to the Fox Studios, the place where movie sets for Titanic and Planet of Apes were built.

If you prefer outdoor activities Rosarito’s perfect weather year round is the setting you are looking for. The city is home to countless sports and activities. which include surfing, sunbathing and jet skiing. Horseback riding, biking and fishing are also very popular among locals and visitors alike.

If you visit with kids then a good option is the Fox Studios. Located on the 45 acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Fox Studios were originally built by James Cameron for the Titanic film. Since its opening in 1996, numerous other movies have been filmed in the studios including Pearl Harbor and Deep Blue Sea among others. Foxploration the studio’s attraction features movie sets, prop rooms and exhibits.

For a relaxing nature encounter you can head to the Rosarito Canyon. This mountainous region of Rosarito is a great place for biking and horseback riding. If you don’t have your own equipment you can rent professional motocross bikes to ride on an exciting dirt racetrack and if you are a fan of motocross you can also participate in tournaments which are held in Rosarito Canyon every year.

If heading to San Jose del Cabo get ready to relax at incredible beaches and mingle with friendly locals that will go out of their way to make you feel comfortable. The area is full of all inclusive Cabo resorts, natural wonders and many other things that will ensure you have the vacation of a lifetime. You can start by playing a golf game at one of Cabo’s courses. Considered by many as the golf capital of Mexico, San Jose del Cabo and its surroundings offer visitors more than six championship courses set among incredible surroundings.

If you prefer the beach then San Jose del Cabo is perfect. Beach life here is great with numerous snorkel rentals, and non-motorized water equipment available in the town’s main beach; the Medano. Less touristic beaches, the Santa Maria and Vista del Arco, are found somewhere between the two Cabos where you can practice a myriad of water sports. From snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking to surfing, sailing and jet-skis the alternatives are almost endless.

Other popular attraction in San Jose del Cabo is the Cacti Mundo Botanical garden. This unique garden allows travelers staying at a San Jose del Cabo vacation home to learn everything about cactus and appreciate the flora of the region.

So if you are looking for a different kind of getaway to spice up your life, that is not that far from home, consider visiting Mexico’s Baja California!

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New York: Simply Magical

May 7, 2009 at 8:54 pm

If you are planning to visit New York, let me start by saying that you have made a great choice. New York is, in my opinion, one of the country’s jewels, known for its contrast and variety. Its rich and fascinating history has made it one of the finest places to visit today and its numerous New York lodging alternatives that include New York vacation rentals, New York apartments and New York vacation condos among others, make it an ideal place to visit suitable for almost any budget.

Unofficially the “Empire State” is divided into “upstate” and “downstate.” Its varied and interesting geography includes lakes, an ocean and mountains that are home to many exciting outdoor activities and events. When visiting New York you can count on a varied vacation. From the spectacular Niagara Falls, the amazing mountains of Adirondacks, the mysterious Hudson River and the delightful Catskills to the breathtaking and magnificent New York City this state will never disappoint you.

When visiting Upstate, you will find natural state parks, Hudson valley wineries, Lake George, a series of caves of Howe Caverns and endless monuments and sightseeing. You can also head to the famous Niagara Falls. You can take a fun ride on the “Maid of the Mist” and feel the tremendous force of the water while admiring the falls from the underneath and behind. Stay at your NY hotel until the dusk and you will be delighted by the spectacular colorful lights that illuminate the falls.

The Howe Caverns are a must see if you enjoy adventure. You can explore the caverns by taking an hour guided tour. Most of the tour is by foot, but there is also a small boat trip through the enchanting Lake Venus. Be sure to take a warm sweater and a jacket as the temperature in the caves does not exceed 52 degrees year round.

If you are visiting with the family you can Plan an exciting weekend at Lake George while staying at a charming log cabin or lake cottage. Clear waters and mountain views are said to be some of the most beautiful in the country. You and your kids will enjoy boating, canoeing, movie watching in the park and river rafting among many other family activities.

If you rather experience the hassles of the city then New York City should be your destination. Featured in countless movies and photographs, New York City’s skyline is without doubt the most famous and breathtaking panorama of the world. The heart of New York City, the island of Manhattan, is the most populated and diverse area in the country. Starting at the busy financial district with its famous Wall Street, going through enchanting Little Italy and trendy Greenwich Village, hectic and always crowded bright Times Square and finishing with the relaxing lush nature of Central Park, New York City will provide you with all kinds of emotions and experiences in one day. World famous monuments, high skyscrapers, little charming parks, one of the best shopping scenes and the most famous restaurants in the world are all waiting for you in the Big Apple.

There is no better way to explore New York City than walking. Start your tour at downtown Manhattan and visit Wall Street with its famous New York City Stock Exchange. Just around the corner, on Broadway you will see the beautiful gothic Trinity Church with its surrounding churchyard full of monuments from American history. On your way out, take a look at the famous Wall Street Bull which symbolizes prosperity and financial optimism. Going south you will find leafy Battery Park, a perfect place to sit down and relax while looking at the Hudson River. You can also take a ferry and visit popular tourist sites – Staten and Ellis Islands featuring The Statue of Liberty and The Immigration Museum – once “a gate to freedom”.

Continuing your walk through Manhattan, do not miss the powerful Empire State building located at midtown. This 1250 feet tall legendary building will provide you with breathtaking views on the whole city and neighbor states. Roughly 10 blocks away towards uptown, you will find the biggest intersection in New York, Times Square. Bright animated commercials, huge television screens and numerous restaurants and brand stores have made this place an icon of New York City. Nearby Broadway theatres are a must see on your list. Pick from a wide variety of Broadway live shows and enjoy the fun of world famous musicals.

After a whole day of sightseeing, Central Park will be the perfect place to relax. Nestled in the middle of Manhattan, lush Central Park is home to unlimited activities, sports and events. Regardless of the season, you will always see people jogging, walking and having lunch on the Central Park’s hospitable grounds. While in the park, make sure to visit “The Met”, Metropolitan Museum of Art, home to world’s art masterpieces and spectacular exhibitions. Located around the Central Park you will also find The Guggenheim and The Museum of Natural history, although it is better to devote one full day for visiting those.

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Hawaii: A Paradise-Like Holiday Destination

May 4, 2009 at 8:12 am

Hawaii is located many miles away from the United States and it is surrounded entirely by the Ocean. It is a paradise-like holiday destination that attracts travelers with its beautiful landscapes, tropical weather and many fascinating traditions. It is made of more than 100 distinct islands but the most popular ones include: Kauai, Maui, Oahu and the Big Island.

It is dotted with beautiful Hawaii vacation rentals that suit every budget. Among the numerous Hawaii lodging options you will find luxurious HI vacation rentals, holiday houses and cozy Hawaii timeshare rentals.

As far as things to do, tropical greenery, pristine white sand beaches, steaming volcanoes and vibrant nightlife, can all be expected while traveling through this fascinating island. Depending on the destination, you will find activities that range from adventure sports, sightseeing or lazing on the beach in a beautiful beach cottage.

An excellent place to start your Hawaii exploration is the Big Island. Also known as Orchid Isle, Big Island is the largest island in the United States and larger than all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined. Its majestic mountains, steamy volcanoes and spectacular waterfalls make it one of the most desired vacation destinations of the planet.

While in Big Island make sure to stop by Hilo. Situated on the east side of the Big Island, Hilo is a charming coastal town that lures travelers with picturesque views on the rugged coast and the famous port of Hilo that stretches for over three miles. You can explore this beautiful plantation town and get to know its history.

Another popular tourist attraction in Big Island is the Akaka Falls. The Akaka Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls of the island offering many scenic hiking trails where tourists can admire banana plants, banyan trees and bamboo vines as well as another smaller waterfall, the Kahuna Falls.

If traveling to the Kona Coast which is located on the west side of the Big Island, you can count on wonderful beaches, some of Hawaii’s best resorts and popular Hawaii hotels. The Kona area offers such activities as deep-sea fishing, snorkeling and sailing. It is also famous for its white sandy beaches and numerous beach front vacation rentals that overlook the Pacific Ocean. An excellent way to explore this coast is to book one of the numerous tours available. These tours include snorkeling, scuba diving, whale watching and even helicopter journeys. Hiking, cycling and Big Island scenic drives are another great way to get to know the island and discover its amazing fauna and flora.

If you want some culture and arts then head to Kauai Island. While many cultural activities have roots in Kauai’s ancient history, the majority of them are inspired by the beauty of the island. Do not miss The Koloa Plantation Days and make sure you see hula dancing performances! You should definitely visit the charming town of Hanapepe and take a Friday night “Art Walk” through numerous art galleries located just steps from your Hawaii lodging.

Other popular activity in Kauai is golfing. There isn’t really a more idyllic scenery for golfing than Kauai. Scattered all around the island, all Kauai’s golf courses have breathtaking views; in fact some of them have been ranked amongst the best of the world.

And If you want to enjoy deep relaxation, Kauai has more than you are looking for. Besides a traditional Hawaiian healing massage, you can extend your spa experience with healthy meals, Pilates, yoga or personal chef services in the middle of unique tropical settings such as \ the sacred Wailua River. There is no more perfect place for honeymooners than a Kauai vacation home with Spa!

If you are looking for a souvenir, Kauai is also an ideal place. From little gift shops to big malls in Princeville and Hanalei – Kauai can be a true shopper’s paradise. Besides traditional items, you can also find handmade jewelry, vintage used clothing or original oriental rugs. You can even find the only candle and soap factory in Hawaii.

Regardless of the Hawaii destination you choose to get to know; no visit to Hawaii would be complete without experiencing an authentic Hawaii Luau. The Luau feast is an ancient traditional gathering that allows locals as well as visitors celebrate while eating, drinking and dancing traditional dances. Every Island has a Luau and some of them are held every week. One of the best ones is the Royal Cove Luau which takes place on Oahu Island.

If weather is a concern, stop worrying. When going to Hawaii, you can put all your strategic planning aside. In this tropical paradise, you will enjoy glorious weather every day, year-round. Even if it rains, it is very brief and often followed by spectacular rainbows. Most of the times however Hawaii will bring you only postcard-like blue skies!

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