Search results matching tag 'Shopping'

Try the Kingdom of Breckenridge This Summer

Jennifer — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:52:00 GMT

Seduced by spectacular sunsets and enticed by exciting entertainment, I came to Breckenridge for the winters but stayed for the summers. In doing so, I discovered a small town with big city conveniences, such as free transportation, pedestrian friendly streets, and a plethora of exciting activities for the body, mind and soul. Some come to Breckenridge for a piece of the action; others, for piece of mind. Winter chills excite, but summer serenity entices. Come visit!

Welcome To My World

The Town of Breckenridge is committed to preserving its history and heritage. Victorian architecture remains Victorian, and ultra modern eyesores are, thankfully, strictly forbidden. Nothing labeled "historic" can be demolished. You see those run down shacks on Ridge Street? No, they're not the habitats of snowboard instructors who have recently broke up with their girlfriends and are now homeless! Each shack has its story, which you can learn by taking the Historic Walking Tour sponsored by the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance, or by taking a horse and buggy tour by Mountain Man Carriage Company. Aside from the shacks, you can explore some stunning Victorian homes on French and Harris Street. You can even arrange for a Victorian tea in one of the stately homes! Information regarding these tours can be found at the Breckenridge Visitor's Center on Main Street. There's an interactive museum in the rear, which features films and photos about Breckenridge's history as a mining that evolved into a popular ski area.

History comes to life in Breckenridge. This can be scary! Male visitors to the Prospector Restaurant on Main Street often report visions of a mysterious woman. Don't be afraid. She will not harm you. It's only the ghost of Sylvia, a former resident of The Prospector Inn. While the 1860s brought many men to Breckenridge is search of gold, Sylvia came prospecting for a husband. Sadly, her prospects were dim. Paraphrasing local writer Beth Jahnigan, "The odds were good, but the goods were odd." Plus que ca change, it's the same mishagosh. (Translation, with apologies to the French and Yiddish languages: The more things change, the more they remain crazy). However, the odds are changing. The male to female ratio is becoming equal, and many residents, while iconoclastic, are exciting, artistic and multi-faceted. Local iconoclasts hang out at the Gold Pan Saloon on Main Street. Built in 1879, the Gold Pan holds the most continuous liquor license west of the Mississippi. The upstairs of the Gold Pan was a "house of ill repute," which was once frequented by judges and lawyers from the nearby courthouse. There are rumors of a tunnel that ran from the courthouse to the Gold Pan, which assured the anonymity of these visits.

In June, we celebrate Breckenridge history at the Kingdom Days Festival. When Breckenridge was founded in 1859, it was inadvertently left off the map. The area became known as the Kingdom of Colorado. Each year, we celebrate this slight with free walking tours, historic reenactments, and, giving whole new meaning to the phrase, "gotta' go," outhouse races!

Drama Kings and Queens

Couldn't make it to the Cannes Film Festival? No worries! Come to the three-day Breckenridge Film Festival in June. Although some of the indie films might be, shall we say, esoteric, the parties are fantastic! Meanwhile, the Backstage Theatre on Ridge Street presents a fantastic repertory of summer performances, and the Riverwalk Center holds its annual music festival. Not the artsy type? Let's go out and play!

Are You Out of Your Mine?

Winter, visitors to Breckenridge ascend 3,000 feet to get to the top of the mountain. Summer, folks descend 1,000 feet to explore the 100 year old Country Boy Mine. If you miss that winter sliding experience, you can slide down the 55 foot ore chute. The Country Boy Mine does have alternatives for the claustrophobic. You can pan for gold at Eureka Creek, or spend time with the baby burros that roam the mining camp. But if you'd rather ride than snuggle, head for the horses!

A Horse is a Horse

Of course, a mountain town like Breckenridge would provide ample opportunities for horseback riding. At the Kingdom of Breckenridge Stables, your horse is your tour guide. He'll take you up a long and winding trail that leads to open mountain meadows and glorious scenery. There is also a sunrise breakfast ride, which features an all you can eat breakfast buffet. But before you over-indulge, keep in mind that Breckenridge subscribes to "leave no trace" rules on our mountain trail--if you get my drift!

By Bike or By Hike

If you're not a horse person, you can explore the mountains of Breckenridge by bicycle. In fact, if you don't want to schlep, the chairlifts are equipped to carry bicycles. Need an adrenaline fix? Consider the Breckenridge 100, an ultra endurance race that takes place in July.

Those who want to explore the mountains unencumbered by bicycles or horses can hike the peaks by foot. Quandary Peak is one of Colorado's 53 Fouteeners, whose elevation exceeds 14,000 feet. The Mail Run follows an old mail route past a ghost town and silver mine. The visitor's center can supply information about hiking and biking trails.

Rafts, Rods and Clubs

Come spring, as the snow melts from the Breckenridge mountaintops, it seeps into the rivers, which pulsate in gratitude. Breckenridge Whitewater, takes advantage of this phenomenon by offering whitewater rafting for all abilities. If you prefer a more serene activity, consider fishing in the unpolluted Blue River.

Fore!

The 27-hole Breckenridge Golf Course was designed by Jack Nicklaus. This award winning course has helped many golfers get their bragging rights. Since thinner air provides less resistance, golf balls hit at higher altitudes go further than a ball hit at a lower elevation. With average summer temperatures ranging between 65 and 80, you can be assured a hot game while staying cool.

Up, Up and Away

If you'd like to fly in a beautiful balloon, Colorado Hot Air Balloon Rides provides complimentary transportation from Breckenridge to their location near Wilkerson Pass. As you ascend into thin air, you will be entertained with classical music. Upon your return to earth, you'll enjoy a champagne toast, followed by a sit down breakfast.

Although Breckenridge summers offer a medley of exciting activities, an evening walk through the town is perhaps the most memorable. Observe the lights that illuminate the town and the mountain. "Behold, the Kingdom of Breckenridge!"

This guide to a Breckenridge summer was brought to you by Lisa Marie Mercer.

Stay at Shipwreck Plantation For an Amazing Hilton Head Getaway

Jennifer — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 02:53:00 GMT

Island resorts are typically luxurious, but Shipwreck Plantation, on Hilton Head Island, still managed to blow my expectations out of the water. My husband and I couldn't have planned a better weekend trip. Not only are we nature junkies, but we also happen to be (not-so-talented) sports fiends.

Golfers unite! The Shipyard Golf Club offers 27 championship-worthy holes. Putt-Putt is also on the menu. For those who would rather compete on the court, there is the Van der Meer Racquet Club, which is ranked among the best worldwide. Watersports such as kayaking, parasailing, and scuba diving are at the fingertips of the adventurous. Miles of bicycle paths are open to avid riders and joggers. These awe-inspiring nature trails are also great for hiking and bird-watching.

Wildlife is plentiful at the Shipwreck Plantation. Crocs may not lurk in the fresh water lagoons, but alligators certainly do. They also nap out in the open quite a bit. Ten pound bass and turtles are also swimming about. Dolphins playing in the Atlantic are visible from the beach, but the sight of them is exponentially better from a boat. The best view from the glimmering white sand is definitely sunset, though Shipwreck Plantation is a lovely setting altogether.

Wherever one wanders, the landscaping is impeccable, which is impressive for an 800 acre resort. Businesses have been built at a distance so the serenity of the resort is maintained. Wherever one chooses to stay overnight, birds will likely be heard chirping outside in the morning. Though the Crown Plaza Hotel and vacation homes are usually available, most guests choose to simply rent a villa. Villas come with kitchens, couches, peace and quiet. Renting one is like having another home for a short while. Besides, if a craving for a home-cooked meal hits, an oven is ready and waiting to help.

Speaking of food, it doesn't hurt to know what restaurants are nearby. A grand selection of hundreds of shops and eateries means plenty of options. With so many different restaurant choices, it's a chance to experiment and take risks. Plantation Cafe has surefire breakfasts and lunches. Dinner is a great opportunity to try somewhere new. Whether it's for dining, shopping, or recreation, Shipwreck Plantation is the place to go!

This guide to a vacation at Shipwreck Plantation in Hilton Head was brought to you by Shannon Beineke

Autumn in Park City--A Hidden Gem of a Destination

Jennifer — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 01:36:00 GMT

Spending Autumn in Park City, Utah can feel like a guilty pleasure. It has the long days of the desert southwest but without its oppressive heat. While other places have the famed season changes, here you find only one difference: autumns are just as beautiful but no one seems to know about it

ABOUT PARK CITY

Few people know about the vast treasures minable in this resort town less than an hour away from downtown Salt Lake City. Park City is one of the two biggest resort towns in the state. Part of its resort image has grown through its famous snow and ski resorts, but the town itself has developed alongside its snowy identity, creating a separate destination image.

Not even many of the locals know that Park City was one of the few places in Utah not settled by explicitly Mormon parties. 27 saloons lined historic Main Street, contributing to the slogan "At the base of a 3100 ft vertical drop, you'll find an extraordinary place to land."

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Today's Park City is largely based on the area's reputation for all types of mountain recreation. In the 1950's skiing started to come to the area, growth was steady through the 1970's and then the boom started and hasn't sopped. Most attractions are the same in summer, only in much more color.

SPORTS AND RECREATION

Besides the fact that anywhere in Park City is a treat during fall, the infrastructure built up during the 2002 Winter Olympics crys out to be enjoyed. At the 389-acre Utah Olympic Park - site of the 2002 Olympic bobsled and home of current Olympic teams, luge, ski-jump, skeleton and other events - visitors can go behind the drivers of a bobsled down the Olympic course, try their own skills with lessons or on the track, or learn about all of it in the Olympics interactive museum.

SHOPPING

In addition to shops packing main street, a farmer's market offers produced, baked goods and crafts through early autum at Canyons Resort each Wednesday. Silly Sunday also transforms Park City's main street into a quirky outdoor shopper's paradise.

MUSEUMS AND ART

The Kimball Art Center reveals art as a big part of this special-interest town, hosting local artist and providing classes for art students. Park City Museum is one of the west's best small museums, located in the Old Park city Jail. In addition to the exhibits, local historians provide tours of Main Street and lead themed hikes through the surrounding areas.

HEBER VALLEY RAILROAD

The railroad line founded in 1899 still chuggs through the area. It uses two restored and fully-functional steam engine cars. The historic nature makes it perfect for theater rides and dinner cars.

FALL EVENTS

Oktoberfest and Swiss Days

Celebrated in many of the resorts in September, these traditional festival make great use of the open areas left behind by the skiers. Heber Valley's Midway hosts a traditional nod to its Swiss settlers with the annual September event, during which 300 gallons of sourkraut are consumed.

Miner's Day Parade

The end of the summer is signalled in style with this Labor Day event. Local organizations all pitch in for the effect of community in this event, including the "running of the balls" that features a release of tennis balls.

AUTUMN IN PARK CITY

In addition to these regularly-scheduled autumb events and attractions, visitors can be sure that the resort areas will all plan their own one-of-a-kind concerts and other events. Before paying to see the leaves in Boston next fall, remember that they change just as brilliantly in Park City, and this small western mountain town has plenty more than fantastic foliage to be cool to tourists during those awesome autumn months!

This guide to the fall in Park City was brought to you by Carol H. Morgan.

Take the Family to Park City for Some Holiday Cheer

Jennifer — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 21:08:00 GMT

Has it been too long since you've had a white Christmas? Are you tired of spending an entire holiday season without so much as a small nose nibble from Jack Frost? If so, this might be a great year to spend the holidays in Park City, Utah. Park City has much to offer visiting families during the holidays. The world-class ski and snowboarding slopes of Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley Resort, and The Canyons Resort draw snow bunnies to Park City throughout the winter months. Why not start a new holiday tradition of belting out Christmas carols while dashing through the snow on skis?

If sliding down a mountain at breathtaking speed is not your cup of holiday cheer, a variety of other outdoor adventures await. Try walking in a winter wonderland on snowshoes; it's great exercise, and it's easy to enjoy the landscape when it plods past at a reasonable pace. A similarly peaceful experience can be had on cross-country skis. Gear for either of these activities can be rented from a number of shops in Park City, and some companies provide guided tours.

If you want a bit more speed and less chance of the outrageously sore quadriceps that plague most beginning snowshoers, try a dog sledding tour. There is nothing quite like feeling the wind in your face as a yelping pack of dogs gleefully hauls you and a sled through the snowy landscape. Attach some sleigh bells and bring a bag of toys and you might just pass for Santa Claus as the dogs fly across the frozen ground!

Park City can also keep the less-athletically inclined members of your family entertained over the holidays. A stroll up Main Street provides a chance to view the town's quaint Victorian architecture all dolled up for the holidays. Boutiques and fine restaurants cater to winter visitors, allowing for some unique last-minute gift buying opportunities and the chance to put on those extra holiday pounds in style.

Park City features some holiday traditions that can whip the young or the young at heart into a true frenzy of holiday excitement. In mid-December, Santa Claus descends into town via ski lift, complete with sleigh, reindeer, and presents. Visitors are invited to come see the jolly old elf and enjoy some hot cocoa and snacks.

Come Christmas Eve, Santa hits the slopes once again as he leads the torchlight parade down the PayDay ski run. The flowing, sparkling lights of this parade are sure to set visions of sugar plums dancing into the most humbuggy hearts.

However you plan to spend your Park City holiday, be sure to be prepared for sub-freezing temperatures and snowy conditions. Pack plenty of warm clothing, and make sure to wear layers that you can peal off as you work up a sweat on the slopes or in the shops. With its great variety of activities and its glorious natural scenery, Park City can offer holiday cheer to everyone in your family.

This guide to a Park City winter holiday was brought to you by Geraldine Bivens.

Holiday Vacationers Take Note--Your Dream Vacation Awaits You at the Magic Kingdom!

Jennifer — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 18:09:00 GMT

Though Bing Crosby often sung about the magic of a white Christmas, there's nothing like trading scarves and mittens for a magical holiday season at Walt Disney World in sunny Orlando, Florida. The Walt Disney World complex is immense and includes Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. Other Disney attractions include Downtown Disney and the nostalgic waterfront Boardwalk.

The average high temperature during Orlando's winter months is an inviting 72.9 degrees (Fahrenheit) with an average low of 51.3 degrees. However, if a cold front happens to swing through, you may see one or two days of upper 50s to mid-60s; so be sure to pack a sweater or light jacket.

Holiday festivities at Walt Disney World are filled with merriment and fun. Here is a brief rundown of just a few of the exciting things the magical theme park complex has to offer holiday vacationers:

Magic Kingdom
During the evening hours, park visitors are treated to a variety of holiday shows, fireworks and seasonal merriment. The entire park is decorated with a holiday theme, and amazing light shows dazzle the eye and touch the heart. Be sure to catch Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party where you'll hear holiday storytelling, live music, live appearances by Santa Goofy, and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Parade.

Epcot
Epcot's global theme is brought out with the world/candlelight processional. Hear a choir and orchestra with narrators telling the Christmas story. And of course, glimmering lights and Christmas trees abound.

Animal Kingdom
Don't miss Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade which combines the spirit of the holiday season with the deep jungle themes of Animal Kingdom. Take a stroll to Camp Minnie-Mickey and meet Disney characters in their colorful holiday costumes. Enjoy carolers, live entertainers, and holiday photo opportunities at Santa Goofy's Holiday Village.

Hollywood Studios
Get in on all the movie-making action at Disney's Hollywood Studios. During the holiday season, be sure to visit the Streets of America backlot area to witness the awe-inspiring Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights. No, not Ozzy Osborune; as legend has it, businessman Jennings Osborne strung up 1000 red lights for his six year-old daughter in Little Rock, Arkansas circa 1986. Every year, the display grew to such a ridiculous degree that once it reached three million lights, the neighbors slapped a lawsuit on him. But the entire episode was a blessing in disguise; for Osborne's entire display moved to Walt Disney World. Now everyone can be dazzled, amazed, and inspired by over five million sparkling lights strung on trees, buildings, rides, and more. Enjoy choreographed light shows with angels and some Florida "snow flurries."

Downtown Disney
Downtown Disney is Disney World's adult alternative. Window shop as you enjoy Disney's Festival of the Seasons where numerous colorful displays celebrate holiday traditions from different cultures. Take your picture with Santa. Enjoy choirs, strolling musicians, and Tin Soldier stilt walkers. Walk under sparkling lights, enjoy festive holiday decorations, and stroll under enchanting trees. For adults 21 and over, celebrate New Year's Eve at Pleasure Island where you can enjoy live music, dancing, fine dining, drinks, and pirate parties (argh!)

From someone who honeymooned in Walt Disney World during the holiday season, I would return every year if it were possible. The warm weather, friendly crowds, and around-the-clock fun atmosphere of Disney's theme parks during the holidays is truly magical.

This guide to holidays at Disneyworld in Orlando, Florida was brought to you by Daniel J. Gansle.

Spend the Winter Holidays with Mickey & Minnie in Orlando!

Jennifer — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 17:52:00 GMT

So, you didn't take a family vacation this summer? Or, maybe you did, but it wasn't fun for the kids? Maybe you didn't even bring the kids. Here's your chance to redeem the whole year: Christmas at Disney World in Orlando, Florida. You will again rise to the rank of family hero.

Don't pack too heavily, since November and December usually stay in the mid 70's to 80's. Swimsuits and shorts--and be sure to save suitcase room for a few gifts and souvenirs to bring back!

Disney World is the epitome of holiday magic. A huge Christmas tree greets visitors on Main St. Each evening, Mickey Mouse hosts a tree lighting ceremony (and somehow teleports himself to get ready for the parade). Santa and Mrs. Claus are on hand for a meet and greet while holiday music fills the air. Wait, take a deep breath.smell the cinnamon and gingerbread? (Leave it to Disney to pipe in some holiday scents while you spend the cents!)

Call ahead to get tickets to "Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party." This extra-ticketed event features special fireworks, an early preview of the "Very Merry Christmas Parade," stage shows like "Celebrate the Season," and the Fantasyland Pavilion Cotillion. There are also meet and greets of beloved Disney characters. This is an after-hours event and the rides stay open. Although it sounds like an added expense, remember two things: There will be fewer people than during the rush of the day, and you are trying to regain family hero status. Cost of the tickets: priceless. Besides, they serve hot chocolate, cookies, provide a family photo and make "snow", which is no small feat in 70-degree weather! One last piece of advice--tickets sell out pretty quickly, so don't tell the kids until you land the tickets for this special celebration (Call 407-W-DISNEY).

Once Disney cycles through all the dates for this party, then the rest of the public gets the grand fireworks show and the "Very Merry Christmas Parade". (Check the dates this parades starts as it changes from year to year). "The Holiday Wish" stage show features 200,000 lights that twinkle on turret and tower, granting Cinderella her wish for all to share.

Staying through Sunday and looking for a religious service? The Contemporary Resort's Fantasia Ballroom offers both Catholic and Protestant services. Call ahead for current details.

If you want to open gifts at home, and then go on vacation for New Year's Eve, no problem. Disney provides a special New Year's Eve fireworks celebration that wraps around the visitors 360 degrees. This is especially orchestrated to music (some of which is holiday themed).

Insider tips: Take the family on the monorail (you don't have to stay at a Disney property to ride). Get off at each of the Polynesian, Contemporary and Grand Floridian Hotels to see their life-size gingerbread creations. (Don't go hungry.) Also, ask for dinner packages that include character meet and greets (just in case you don't land the tickets mentioned above). Above all, buy a silly Christmas ornament with the year on it (as soon as you get there, because the holiday stuff sells fast). That way, no one can ever dispute the dream vacation was a reality, and you really were/are a hero!

This guide to the "Happiest Holiday on Earth" at Disneyworld in Orlando was brought to you by Vikki Spencer.

Have a Down-Home Holiday in Pigeon Forge

Jennifer — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 02:24:00 GMT

For a real down-home country holiday season, Pigeon Forge and the Smokies are right on target! The residents go out of their way to make you feel welcome, and every member of the family is sure to get that wonderful holiday spirit.

The mountains themselves are spectacular in winter. The hardwoods are bare, which makes the white pines and other evergreens really sparkle. At some of the higher elevations, you might even see a dusting of early snow glistening on a few peaks. All along the roadsides, you'll find stands selling pumpkins, Indian corn, apple cider, and Christmas trees. The air will be crisp, with daytime highs in the forties. At night, you might want to find a cozy hearth. The lows in winter are usually in the upper twenties.

Pigeon Forge throws a huge Christmas celebration, starting the first week in November and continuing through February. The town is decked with 5 million lights, and visitors can take a Christmas tour on the town trolley. All sorts of events are held within the city limits, including seasonal music and activities for children. Be sure to check out the live holiday shows at one of Pigeon Forge's famous theaters!

If you haven't finished your shopping yet, you've come to the right place. In addition to plenty of small local specialty shops, the Forge boasts the largest outlet mall in the world, and the after-Thanksgiving sales are legendary! Downtown and at the malls are Christmas shops that specialize in unique ornaments, stockings, trees, and other decorations that can be purchased.

Dollywood gets in on the action, too. The theme park cranks up its holiday celebration on November 8. You'll enjoy the local crafts, foods, decorations, and special Christmas musical shows. You'll get a real feel for what a Smoky Mountain Christmas really means!

Many restaurants in and near Pigeon Forge are open on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, and they offer a wide variety of meals just for holiday diners. Several hotels, condos, and cabins have special package deals during the holidays, too.

While you're in the Smokies, make the drive to Biltmore House, America's largest home. Located in Asheville, North Carolina, this mansion is truly a fairytale castle at Christmas. Huge evergreens dot the front lawn, complete with thousands of twinkling lights. In the Winter Garden, graceful ballet dancers perform, and inside, visitors are taken on a candlelit tour to view the rare ornaments, fresh greenery, crackling fireplaces, and poinsettias that grace the splendid rooms. Choirs and carolers serenade with a host of tunes, including old European carols. A holiday visit to Biltmore House is an absolutely magical experience!

This guide to a Pigeon Forge Smoky Mountain Holiday was brought to you by Holle Abee.

Sea Pines Resort: The Perfect Way to Vacation in Hilton Head

Jennifer — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 03:36:00 GMT

It was all set! We had a babysitter (my parents) and my husband and I were off for a romantic three day getaway close to our Atlanta home. The destination? The stunning Sea Pines Resort in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Islands Magazine calls Sea Pines "real...timeless...and magnificent." As we drove in, the beautiful, colorful lighthouse was beckoning, the waves of the deep blue Atlantic ocean were rolling and we were enamored from the start.

We relaxed the first day by doing a little crabbing, a favorite island past time. Once I got past the raw chicken bait, I actually enjoyed myself and got into the spirit of catching these blue-green guys in my own, resort provided bucket. I was not used to catching my own dinner but as the competition flared between me and my husband, I was determined to catch dinner for the entire resort. Six crabs later, I was exhausted and hungry but it is only catch and release at Sea Pines (I later learned) so we headed off to the Topside at the Quarterdeck for the freshest and most amazing seafood that I have ever had. My husband had a thick, huge steak and we both were ready for naps.

A horseback ride after dinner exposed us to the magnificent, untouched Low Country that Carolina is famous for. My horse lazily walked through a beautiful canopy provided by the old, moss covered trees and (I swear but my husband says it's not true) past an alligator or two. We passed a few historic sites and several families fishing (also a resort activity). We ended the evening sitting (ok, lazing) in the lounge chairs overlooking the amazing Atlantic Ocean and listening to snippets of live music coming from the Quarterdeck Cafe. What an evening!

We woke up early the next morning with an 8:00 AM tee time at the PGA tournament golf course. What could be better than teeing off overlooking the pristine Atlantic Ocean on the Harbour Town Golf Links? Maybe the service and the hotel provided caddy. These touches made this an unforgettable experience and a true luxury to play one of America's 100 Greatest Golf courses' as named by Golf Digest. After golf, we enjoyed lunch at the Harbour Town Grill overlooking the 9th hole of the course we just played. With an amazing wine list, we could have lingered all afternoon.

Late afternoon had us on the Alligator Boat Tour. This 'jungle safari' exposed us to the plants and animals of the inland freshwater lakes of the Sea Pines Resort Forest Preserve. Although we were a little tempted to tease these reptiles, we quickly learned that they are a forced to be reckoned with. Viewing the American Alligator in all its splendor is a surreal experience. They just stare and we, of course, broke eye contact first.

We dined outside that evening at the Sea Pines Resort Beach Club. We listened to the rolling waves of the ocean in between sets from the musicians. After dinner, my husband and I held hands which is a rare treat for us (with three kids we are always holding children's hands) and just strolled around the resort taking in the surroundings. We ended the evening with a fabulous dessert and luscious coffee drink at the Tartan Room Bar before heading up to the room and dropping into bed, exhausted yet relaxed.

The next morning we dined on savory French Toast at the Harbour Town Bakery and Cafe. We walked off this big breakfast by shopping in the boutiques on the property. With 40 stores to choose from, we found something for everyone and some great things for us as well. Since we were guests of the resort, we were given the Lighthouse Card which granted us an exclusive 10% discount at all of the shops which was an added bonus.

When it was time to depart, I found myself wishing that we had more time. We did not get to ride bikes, take a boat ride, play tennis or even leave the resort. Of course there was no need to leave the resort. We could have spent a week there and still not seen or done everything. Maybe next time we will!

This first-hand account of a Hilton Head Sea Pines vacation was brought to you by Stacie Haight Connerty.

Mi Casa es Su Casa: Casa Bacardi, Puerto Rico

Jennifer — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 17:24:00 GMT

"Wow, do you know what this goes for on the mainland?" Chase said looking at me, smiling, with a bottle of Bacardi 151 in one hand and a bottle of 12-year-old private stock in the other. "One for here, and one for home."

My brother's friends in the Coast Guard were stationed in Puerto Rico, so it was only typical of him to buy a plane ticket for me to go when he made his plans to see the beautiful island.

Two things ran through my head when I was packing. Pack lots of bikinis, and leave room in the suitcase to bring back Bacardi.

The 17,000 square feet of the Casa Bacardi compound is nestled away in the hills right outside of San Juan. It was our plan to go there first thing in the morning the day after we arrived. The factory was one of the main highlights of the trip.

First thing in the morning didn't happen until one o'clock in the afternoon after nursing the hangover for the night before, but when we finally made it to Casa Bacardi, we were relieved to find out that curing the hangover would be easier than we thought as they handed over drink coupons to us.

Mint mojitos and classic Bacardi and Coke were offered to us. We took pictures in front of the distillery and gift shop while sipping on our concoctions and waited for the tour to begin.

The 45-minute guided tour took us through the process of Bacardi, from who the Bacardi family is, how it's made and why they use a bat as the symbol. While walking through, we used all of our senses while we sniffed flavored rum barrels, tasted different mixtures, and saw an "antique" bar scene with a bartender who lighted Bacardi on fire and told jokes to us. Then, at the end of the tour we sent digital e-postcards home to the family and were able to see all the Bacardi advertisements from over the years.

The tour ended at the gift shop, where Bacardi offers deals on rum and trinkets, as well as some bottles that can only be found at Casa Bacardi. Since anything over 150 proof is flammable and cannot be taken on a plane, the bottle of Bacardi 151 lasted us the rest of the week before we had to fly home.

**Casa Bacardi can be found right outside of San Juan for about a $5 taxi trip

This Puerto Rico travelogue was brought to you by Kristen Grimes.

Puerto Penasco: Thirteen Things to Experience on Your Vacation

Jennifer — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 17:13:00 GMT

Puerto Penasco, Mexico, better known to gringos as Rocky Point, is a beautiful getaway located between the Sonoran Desert and the Sea of Cortez. Mountain peaks and bluffs surround the area, and it enjoys great year-round weather, with warm temperatures and little rain. Physical, cultural, and historical attractions offer visitors an exciting array of options.

Hiking: Trails in the Pinacate Mountains provide breathtaking views and a great way to discover the area's geographical features. Hiking the volcanic craters is a truly unique experience, too.

ATV Rentals: Tour the surrounding desert on an ATV, or rent one to ride on selected beaches.

Oyster Tour: Visit the oyster farms at Las Conchas for an inside look at this interesting business.

CET-MAR Aquarium: Visitors of all ages will enjoy seeing the shrimp, sea horses, sea turtles, octopus, fish, and sea lions. Programs allow children to touch the sea creatures and learn about their habits.

Intercultural Center for the Study of Deserts and Oceans: Located in Las Conchas, this small museum provides information on Rocky Point's natural history, with outdoor explorations of desert craters, the local estuaries, and the intertidal zone.

Horseback Riding: Horses can be rented at Playa Bonita for a relaxing ride on the beach. The mounts are gentle and dependable. Even first-time riders will have a blast!

La Spa de Penasco: Guests can get a full spa treatment while gazing at the peaceful waters of the Sea of Cortez. Pampering includes pedicures, therapeutic massage, steam showers, facials, and relaxation rooms at this state-of-the art spa.

Pirate Cruise: Kids of all ages will thrill to the parrots, pirates, and priceless treasure aboard a pirate ship. The cruise includes games, dinner, and a rollicking show!

Shopping: Shopping in Puerto Penasco is an adventure in itself! Quaint little shops, beach vendors, and open-air markets sell souvenirs, handmade items, local art, and fresh produce. Head down to the docks to check out the daily catch of fish and shrimp, and prepare your own seafood feast!

Festivals: Local festivals are rich in the diverse cultures brought to Rocky Point from immigrants, along with a strong native Indian influence. These colorful festivities include parades, music, traditional dancing, and fascinating customs, with a dash of wild partying added for fun! Some of the most popular celebrations: Cinco de Mayo, Independence Day in September, Day of the Dead in November, and the Christmas Posadas.

Bird Island: Take a cruise to nearby Bird Island for some great bird watching and to see the island's population of playful seals.

Golfing: Several championship courses can be found in the area, with more on the way. Designers include Forrest Richardson, Greg Norman, Jack Nicklaus, and Jack Nicklaus, Jr.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument: Just a short drive from Rocky Point, this is a wonderful exhibit of rare animals and plants that have adapted for survival in the harsh desert conditions.

This guide to Puerto Penasco was brought to you by Holle Abee.