Disney Hikes Prices—How Much You’ll Have to Spend to Visit Mickey

Getting into the House of Mouse is going to cost you more. New admission prices went into effect today at Disneyland in California and Disney World in Florida. Tickets for guests aged 10 and older to Walt Disney World in Orlando now cost $75 (up from $71), while tickets for children aged 3 to 9 are now priced at $63 (up from $60). At Disneyland in Anaheim, one-day prices are now selling for $69 (up from $66) for those aged 10 and older, and $59 (up from $56) for children aged 3 to 9. In addition, the park hopper option, … Continue reading

Traveling To Hawaii—Good News Bad News

Residents and travelers to the 49th and 50th states are dealing with some good news and bad news. Alaska Airlines just announced it plans to offer year-round direct flights between Hawaii and Anchorage—-that’s the good news. The bad news is that some Alaskans are worried that the lack of competition for the route could lead to higher fares in the long run. For years Hawaiian Vacations Inc. was the only company offering direct flights between Anchorage and Honolulu. When Alaska Airlines bought out Hawaiian Vacations Inc. it promised to offer roughly the same amount of flights per week that Hawaiian … Continue reading

More Places To Hike In Hawaii

In my previous blog I filled you in on some of the best places to hike in the “Land of Aloha.” While most tourist tend to gravitate towards Oahu’s landmarks, historical sites, world class shops, and universally famous beaches there are some who travel to paradise for the chance to explore nature at its finest. Personally, I can’t think of a better way to experience the 50th state’s most beautiful sites than by lacing up some comfortable shoes and taking a hike. Here now are a few more of Oahu’s most popular hiking trails: Manoa Falls Trail—Waterfall lovers this one … Continue reading

Where To Hike In Hawaii

It’s a great way to escape the crowds in Waikiki and an even better way to work off some of the extra calories you consume while diving into the tropical dishes (and libations) offered in paradise. I’m talking about hiking… and there’s no better place to take to the trails than in Hawaii. (Okay, I may be biased, but just a little.) The island of Oahu alone offers more than 80 trails to choose from. Each provides breathtaking views of the area’s lush rainforests, hidden waterfalls, and emerald green valleys. It also offers you the opportunity to learn about a … Continue reading

Hawaii–Visiting the Big Island’s Best Waterfalls

When you hear people say that Hawaii is “a nature lover’s paradise” don’t think of it as hyperbole. Each island is home to unique geologic wonders. I was born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii, home to the state’s only active volcano and a place where you can ski (the peaks of Mauna Kea) and scuba in the same day. But, a slightly less taxing activity is a trip to the Big Island’s most spectacular waterfalls. Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls Bring your camera when you visit Akaka and Kahuna Falls. Both are located in Akaka Falls State … Continue reading

How to Lose Weight on Vacation

How many times have you gone on vacation and returned home toting more than just your bags? For many Americans, it is a rite of passage to pack on a few pounds during a fun-filled trip. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. There’s a new trend in travel that turns the table on seasonal getaways and weight gain. Exer-cations are a hot ticket for people looking to stay fit or even shed a few pounds while they are away from home. Fortunately, you don’t have to travel too far to take advantage of these package deals. For example, … Continue reading

Hello Hiking!

Today kicks off National Park Week; time to lace up those boots, head outside, and reintroduce yourself to fresh air and sunshine. Hiking is also a great way to work off some of those unwanted pounds you may have packed on during your winter hibernation. What’s more, you can do so without breaking the bank as National Park Week yields free admission to more than 100 parks which typically change a fee to get in. If you are looking for the perfect spot to get your springtime hike on, consider the following: The Appalachian Trail: Known as the granddaddy of … Continue reading

Park It

Spring is the perfect time to become one with nature. After a long winter battling cabin fever, now is your chance to bond with family and friends in the great outdoors. The United States is teeming with picturesque parks that make for amazing vacation destinations, including: Shenandoah National Park Located in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park features uncompromising beauty that will take your breath away. Set within one of the country’s most famous natural playgrounds, the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park offers a plethora of family-friendly activities, including hiking, biking, fishing and camping. The park is especially noted for its … Continue reading

Outdoor Spring Adventures

Contrary to popular belief, the beach and the slopes are not the only places that attract spring breakers. If you are looking for a peaceful retreat that allows you to soak up all the splendors of the great outdoors, then consider taking part in a spring adventure that you won’t soon forget: hiking. The United States is home to thousands of miles of pristine hiking trails, including: YOSEMITE More than 3.5 million people from around the world travel to Yosemite National Park each year. The national treasure is home to some of the planet’s most stunning waterfalls, all accessible by … Continue reading

West Coast Camping

I grew up in Hawaii, where most people don’t plan too far in advance for a weekend camping trip. Rather, they simply pull up to a beach with a sheet and a packed cooler, and let the good times roll. When I moved to the mainland for college I was surprised by how the other-half camped. One of my first camping experiences took place in northern California, near Lake Tahoe. It was an incredible trip filled with hiking, kayaking and learning the finer points of cooking on an open fire. I’m told that people from different regions of the country … Continue reading