Summer Adventures in Asheville

For many, summer means visits to theme parks, beaches and baseball stadiums.  However, if you are looking to travel to a family-friendly place that offers more than coasters, crabs and Cracker Jacks, head to Asheville, North Carolina. Stroll through the picturesque downtown and you immediately sense that very few people have been able to resist the pull of this Blue Ridge beauty.  After all, it’s not every day that you can immerse yourself in a city that boasts an eccentric hodgepodge of architectural styles that change from block to block. Asheville features everything from traditional southern homes with grand sweeping … Continue reading

Save on a Sin City Seasonal Getaway

Did you know one of the most popular times to visit Las Vegas is Thanksgiving? Personally, I don’t see Sin City as the ideal backdrop for a multi-generational turkey feast, but that’s just me. And apparently I am in the minority because according to travel experts, Las Vegas is a hot spot during the November holiday. One of the reasons so many people flock to Vegas during autumn is the savings offered by the mammoth resorts that call Sin City home. Another major incentive besides the reduced hotel rates is the free entertainment offered to visitors of all ages. For … Continue reading

Late Summer Travel Bargains

Sometimes it pays to procrastinate. If you waited until the end of the summer to escape on a seasonal getaway, you’re in luck. Turns out the travel industry held out on some super savings for those willing to vacation in late August and early September. Among the best deals are: Colorado: Whether you are heading to Denver over the Labor Day weekend to gorge yourself during A Taste of Colorado or you are simply looking to explore the state’s amazing natural wonders, several hotels are offering outstanding late summer deals. For example, rates at the Denver Marriott City Center are … Continue reading

Warm Weather Escapes

After a taste of summer, we’re back shivering in the 30s with April less than 48 hours away. Such is life on the Frozen Tundra. The fickle weather is one of the reasons why so many families from around here head south this time of year. Spring break officially kicks off for schools in our area in just a few days, but many of my daughter’s classmates have already jetted off on warm weather escapes to: TEXAS Forget about South Padre and the sea of drunken college coeds that hang out there. Instead, enjoy a more relaxing getaway at family-friendly … Continue reading

Heading South

When you think of spring break what immediately comes to mind? Most people typically think South Padre, Fort Lauderdale, and Lake Havasu. However, if you are trying to avoid half-naked, drunk college coeds partying it up next to your sand castle-making kid, then you might consider heading south, minus the mayhem. South Carolina is an amazing spring break destination for families. The state is home to Myrtle Beach and miles of pristine shoreline. From para-sailing and jet-skiing to kayaking and surfing, the area’s waterways and ocean access are hard to beat. South Carolina also offers a plethora of land-based attractions, … Continue reading

Spring Break Survival Tips

Did you watch the news tonight? All three major networks led their shows with the scary news that we’ll likely be paying $5 per gallon for gas by the time Memorial Day weekend rolls around. If you are planning to take a road trip this year, now is the time to do it. Spring break is an ideal time to load up the family and hit the road to explore our great nation; however, if you don’t plan properly the adventure could turn into vacation purgatory. To help you survive what could be a very, very long trip, consider stocking … Continue reading

Affordable Winter Weekend Getaways

Are you looking for a way to chase away the winter blues? Maybe you just need an escape to cure a severe case of cabin fever. Regardless of the reason, the winter season can have you itching to jet-off to the sun, sand and surf. Unfortunately, if you are short on time and money a tropical getaway may not be possible. The good news is that there are a slew of other options available for those who only have the weekend to relax and unwind, including: Camping: There are nearly 400 National Parks in the United States, many of which … Continue reading

Heat Up Winter Travel

This winter’s wild weather has even the most seasoned meteorologists shaking their heads. Imagine what it’s doing to travel agents. According to industry experts, winter travel inquiries have nearly doubled in the last two weeks. Unexpected snow along the West Coast, wind storms across the Midwest and tornadoes down south have prompted many people to seek refuge in tropical locales. If you don’t have enough money to fund an escape to Hawaii or the Caribbean, then consider a more affordable jaunt to Florida. Miami has experienced a recent surge in budget-friendly hotel openings. Some decent options that provide comfort and … Continue reading

The Season’s Hottest Hotel Deals

Office Depot is offering rock bottom Black Friday deals each Friday from now until November 25th, while Carter’s is practically giving away select children’s outfits during its series of doorbuster sales that run through the end of the month. However, retailers are not the only ones looking to entice frugal shoppers during the countdown to Christmas. The travel industry, specifically, major hotels and resorts, are looking to drum up seasonal business as well by offering amazing deals at popular properties. Some of the hottest holiday-related deals include: IHG, the parent company of Holiday Inn, InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, and Staybridge Suites … Continue reading

Southern Comfort

I’ve been to plenty of places that fell into the better-to-visit-than-to-live category. However, Charleston, South Carolina, isn’t one of them. I lived in Atlanta, Georgia, for a bit after I graduated from college, and would make the trip over to Charleston whenever I got the chance. If you are looking to take an amazing family vacation this summer, then consider journeying back in time to explore Charleston’s historic landmarks, gorgeous beaches and sprawling plantations. The popular southern coastal city has something for everyone in your clan. Some can’t miss attractions include: Fort Sumter: This tourist hot spot is a must-visit … Continue reading