Archive for November, 2008

RV Travel

Thursday, November 20th, 2008

RV travel is a great way to see the country and spend some quality time with your family. Why not take advantage of gas prices coming down and start planning a family getaway.  Traveling by RV is less stressful than other forms of travel because you can control all of the departure and arrival times since you are not at the mercy of the airlines.  Depending on your location, you can also schedule your days to include sightseeing tours, or just go out on your own and find your own adventure.

When traveling with the family it is important to find family friendly sites to hitch up overnight.  The kids can go a little stir crazy if they don’t have some social outlet.  There are many RV parks and campgrounds that are family friendly and offer amenities for entertaining the children, and therefore attract many families. RV travel is quite the social outlet for some families. When you settle into these campgrounds, it is not uncommon to meet other families whom you form lifelong friendships with.  This is a great way for the kids to have some time to play with other kids and for the parents to swap ideas about entertainment in the area and exchange other RV travel ideas.

RV travel is also very popular with retirees. After retirement, many couples choose to sell everything they own and live in their RV’s and travel the country full time.  There are Senior RV clubs that offer social gatherings all over the U.S. and Canada for those who are full time travelers, as well as the weekend warriors. It is believed by many that RV-ing is the best way to see the country and a great way for empty nesters and retirees to reconnect with their spouses, after the hustle and bustle of raising a family and working 9-5 is behind you.

While RV-ing you may chose to “camp out” in campgrounds or off the beaten path somewhere secluded.  This decision may be easy for some that don’t like to “rough it”.  RV travel incorporates a few more conveniences than traditional camping. So many people find it fun and interesting.

You can plan a theme for your trip, like antique collecting, or touring the historic sites in the northeast, or all about the Wild West and rodeos.  There are unlimited possibilities when planning an RV excursion.  Let the road and your imagination be your guide.

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Posted in British Columbia, California, Canada, Children, Couples, Family, Family Vacations, Florida, Group Travel, Pet Travel, RV travel, Travel Tips | No Comments »

Traveling With Your Pet

Tuesday, November 4th, 2008

The decision to travel with your pet is one that should be taken seriously.  There are many considerations you will have to make before making this decision.  Traveling with your pet has become much easier on both you and the pet. Many more hotels and resorts are pet friendly now. There are more and more pet friendly locations and  destinations that include pet friendly beaches and parks to attend and enjoy with your furry friend.

First you must decide if your pet has the right temperament to handle your travel schedule.Does your pet travel well in the car?  Will your pet behave well in the hotel in your absence?  Does he or she suffer from separation anxiety.  Is your pet healthy enough to survive the trip?  Some ailing or elderly dogs are best left at home in the care of a relative, petsitter, or in a kennel? Check with your veterinarian before making any decision to travel with your pet.

Some airlines will allow a well behaved small dog to travel in an appropriate sized kennel under your seat, while others will only allow pets to travel with the other cargo. If you chose to travel by air, look into the airline  and their possible restrictions before you make any further arrangements. If your pet is used to a crate or kennel and does not struggle during normal transportation (car rides, to the vet) then he or she will probably fare well on this journey.

Once you have mad the decision to travel with your pet, you should also learn what the hotels requirements are for your pet’s stay.  Some hotels require mandatory babysitting, meaning your pet can never be left alone in the hotel room.  These babysitters are a good idea to provide companionship for your pet in your absence, however, they can cost about $50 an hour.  Be clear on the hotel’s policy before you arrive to avoid any expensive surprises.

A few more general tips to consider when you decide to take your beloved pet along, whether you travel by car or plane. Be certain your pet has proper identification with a current tag or a microchip. A microchip is preferred because obviously, the  possibility of  losing the tag. A travel ID tag is also a good idea for your pet. This will identify the location  where you will be staying, including your cell phone number so you can be reached immediately. Grooming before the trip is a must, as well as packing your pet’s favorite food, toys, and dishes to make him or her feel more comfortable. Be sure to have all current shot and health records available when crossing state or international borders. Also be sure to check with your Vet. Regarding your location and any particular insects or disease to be aware of and treated for.

Keep a close eye on your pet’s well being during your trip.  Monitor him or her for any difference in mood, appetite, or any other physical changes.  Contact a local veterinarian as soon as you notice anything unusual about your pet’s behavior or condition.

There is a wealth of information available from your vet and other travel resources regarding travel with pets. Do plenty of research before planning to avoid any surprises that can make or break your vacation.

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Romance Anyone?

Monday, November 3rd, 2008

Are you getting caught up in the shuffle of everyday life?  Are you losing touch with your spouse or significant other? Are you stressed out beyond belief and taking it out on each other?  Then what you need is a romantic getaway.  There are so many ideas for planning the perfect romantic getaway, from the very elaborate and expensive pampering spa weekend to a low-key weekend at the beach, there are numerous ways to plan and enjoy a romantic getaway.

Many of us get caught up in every day life and begin to take our significant others for granted.  If you feel this may be the case then plan a getaway for just the two of you.  First you must pick a date that is convenient for both of you to totally break away.  No work, no kids, no responsibilities of every day life to spoil the romance. This getaway should be entirely about the two of you. If possible leave all cell phones and laptops at home.

Plan your time and activities around being relaxed and pampered.  Most better hotels will provide a very private relaxing location as well as some little extras upon request.  If your budget only allows for one night at the hotel, make the most of it by requesting the latest possible checkout spending time at the pool or spa before and after your checkout time.  If there is a hot tub or sauna, plan some time enjoying that as well. Whenever possible take advantage of the complimentary breakfast to save a little money as well.

If budget is not a big factor in your planning, visit a spa resort.  You can partake in a couple’s massage in your room or possibly on the rooftop or balcony. Any spa services for two are a great idea for romance and relaxation. Room service is a must wherever possible, but an evening out in a fine dining establishment with drinks and dancing is sure to turn up the romance too. If you are not able to find a spa resort, check with the concierge for a possible massage therapist that will travel to your location. Beach weekends are also always a great way to relax and rekindle a romance that may be lost.

Whether your budget allows for one night away or a week of endless romance, the planning should revolve completely around romance and relaxation. No matter what your budget there is always room for romance.  Whatever you decide, be certain that the priority is time alone together to relax and talk and revive a relationship that was starting to feel a bit tired.

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