22 Posts are tagged with: vacations 1 2 Previous Next

Best Beach of the Week: Clearwater Beach, Gulf Coast, Florida

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Oct 15, 2009 by Lee S.

South Beach is not the only hoppin' beach in town: Florida's Gulf Coast responds with its own up and coming party on Clearwater Beach.

After a beautiful Gulf Coast sunset, the lights turn on and the music turns up at Clearwater Beach bars and clubs. And as day turns to night, party-goers trade in their flip-flops for stilettos and bikinis for a short summer dress. But don't wear yourself out dancing, because you'll want to be ready to rise and shine the next day.

If you prefer a more low-key celebration, don't worry, you can keep your flip-flops and head to one of many small bars and family-run restaurants on Clearwater Beach to eat, drink, and wait for the sun to come back up.

And when the sun does come up, Clearwater Beach doesn't disappoint. Sure, Clearwater Beach doesn't have the glitz or glam of South Beach...at least not yet, but it does have sand. Miles of wide, white sandy beaches stretch into the soft warm, waves of the Gulf. Visitors to the beach can lie back and soak in the sun, take a swim in the sandy-bottom waters, or go shopping. Mandalay Avenue is filled with boutique shops, gift shops, and plenty of restaurants.

But as the day comes to an end, you really have to head to the Pier for the nightly Sunsets at the Pier 60 Festival celebration. This can't-miss family event features artisans, crafters, street performers and live musical entertainment. And after the sun goes down, it's back to party time at this beautiful beach.

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Best Beach of the Week: Kure Beach, North Carolina

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Aug 13, 2009 by Lee S.

North Carolina is famous for mountains, rivers, the Wright brothers, and beaches! The best beaches are on the Outer Banks, sandy islands with the Atlantic on one side and a river on the other. Cape Fear is renowned for the movie of the same name, and is an extremely popular destination, but if you'd rather relax it may be too popular. Drive across Snow's Cut Bridge to Pleasure Island, and down to its southern tip. There you'll find Kure (pronounced CUR-ee) Beach, this week's best beach.

Kure Beach is both a town and a beach, and if you decide you want to stay longer than a day (and you probably will) you'll have no problem finding a beach cottage or ocean-front condo to rent, or a motel for a shorter stay. There are plenty of shops and great restaurants that range from 5 star to inexpensive, but always tasty, in this town of about 1,800. If they're not enough for you, it's a short trip back to Wilmington. But if you're a beach-lover, you'll just want to spread out your towel and stay.

The sands of Kure Beach are open and unspoiled, and you can sunbathe, amble along looking for shells, or just admire the ocean without constantly tripping over people. There are hiking trails and some fascinating vegetation, including the Venus flytrap. Kure Beach is also a great place for surfing or sailboarding, and it's one of the best spots along the Outer Banks for fishing. The town has a 700+ foot pier, one of the best on the east coast, and you're guaranteed to catch something. If you'd rather look at fish than catch them, visit the North Carolina Aquarium, also on Kure.

Carry all your beach needs in this spacious and stylish tote from JanSport. Keep your feet happy on sand, trail or water in these Sun Chill Thongs from Columbia. Catch everybody's eyes while you're catching rays in the shirred tubini with matching twist front hipster in Holly Berry from Tommy Bahama's Sunkissed collection. Pack water, sunscreen, and shades and you're ready to hit Kure Beach.

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Best Beach of the Week: Pass-a-Grille Beach

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Jun 25, 2009 by Lee S.

You may have heard of Pass-a-Grille when reading about St. Pete's beach in Florida. But perhaps against my better judgment, I'm going to let you know more about this little-known Florida beach secret. It's truly a little piece of paradise not far from some of Florida's most popular Gulf Coast beaches.

What makes Pass-A-Grille so special? Simple. Authenticity. For starters, it's a National Historic District, not something many beach communities can claim. In Pass-A-Grille, towering beach condos are traded for cozy beach bungalows. Walk the streets of Pass-A-Grille, and no matter where you are, the Gulf and the Intercoastal are a block away. You can't help but imagine you are back in Florida's Resort boom of the '20s, and when you look across the street at the sea oats on the sand dunes, you'll be sure you've been transported to a simpler time.

A vacation, or just an afternoon, at Pass-A-Grille really is simple. With ample parking right by the sand, it's easy to grab your gear and go spend some quality time with the dolphins and the seagulls. Several restaurants and a beach café are within walking distance, so you can easily spend your whole day here.

Day turns to night rather slowly at Pass-A-Grille, but you don't want to miss a minute of the breathtaking sunset. Many beachgoers climb up the stairs of the Hurricane Restaurant to watch the sunset from the rooftop bar. Slip on some beach sandals and a cover-up that doubles as a dress and you're ready to go for beach-style nightlife.

If you're heading to St. Pete's Beach in Florida, it's not far to get to Pass-A-Grille instead and the dividing line is the historic Don Cesar Hotel. Standing like a pink castle against the white sand of the Gulf Coast, you really can't miss it. In front of the Don, don't make that right turn for St. Pete's Beach; instead, turn left and go somewhere beautiful and unique. You'll be glad you did.

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Vacations for the Outdoorsy Type: Kick Back at "The Brac"

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Feb 23, 2009 by Steve Thompson

Most people know about Grand Cayman Island, both for its sandy beaches and its notorious offshore bank accounts. What most people don't realize, however, is that you can enjoy a more pleasant and secluded vacation on neighboring islands, such as Cayman Brac.

"The Brac", as locals call it, is a premier vacation destination for those who enjoy diving, snorkeling, walking the beach, collecting shells and generally having a good time. The relaxing and peaceful atmosphere on Cayman Brac draws thousands of people every year, but it is never as populated as the more visible Grand Cayman.

Many diving enthusiasts visit Cayman Brac every year so they can explore a frigate wreck. Since the wrecks stern is located in more shallow waters, even amateur divers can take a look, and this is a great opportunity to observe all of the marine life that make its home within the wreck. You can also dive all around the island, exploring the walls, swim-thrus and reefs that characterize this magical destination.

Most people who visit the Brac do not rent cars, instead traveling the island on scooters or bicycles. They are available to rent from several vendors throughout the island and are more convenient for exploring the territory without designated roads. However, you can also rent a car or SUV if you feel more comfortable.

Mountain climbers will also enjoy the Cayman Brac, as the bluffs on the west end of the island present varying degrees of difficulty. If you prefer, however, you can hike around the bluffs in hopes of seeing some of the unique wildlife that find their homes on the island.

Temperatures on Cayman Brac are mild, with summers hovering in the eighties and winters in the mid-seventies. You'll need your passport to travel to the Brac as well as any other identification you can bring, and you can learn about the current exchange rates at the Cayman airport.

Make sure, though, when visiting the Brac, that you bring a pair of hiking boots with high ankles. Hiking around the island will result in encounters with scrub and snakes, and foot protection is essential.

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Vacations for the Outdoorsy Type: Big Bear Lake

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Feb 2, 2009 by Steve Thompson

When you think of a vacation to southern California, you normally imagine sandy beaches and bright sunlight glinting off windows as you stroll through Los Angeles or San Diego or Riverside. However, one of the most beautiful destinations in this area of the country is Big Bear Lake, which is located in the San Bernardino Mountains and offers far more snow than sand.

Big Bear Lake is one of the most beautiful spots in the world and is secluded enough that you'll feel as though you've landed in paradise without having to deal with crowds or traffic. Many Southern Californians own cabins in the woods surrounding Big Bear Lake and visit in both the summer and the winter. If you travel to Big Bear Lake between November and March, you're likely to encounter plenty of snow drifts and snow-capped mountains. Skiing is popular here during the winter months, as are snowboarding and sledding.

This is also the place to go if you are fed up with the impersonal and sterile nature of hotels. There are dozens of cozy bed and breakfasts on Big Bear Lake, whether you prefer a sophisticated Swiss chalet or a romantic Victorian cottage. Many of these B&Bs offer your very own private cabin complete with kitchens, restrooms, satellite television and even hot tubs.

Summer trips are also fun at Big Bear Lake, particularly if you are a fan of fishing and boating. You can literally spend hours on the water every day and never see every nook and cranny of the lake, and there are numerous festivals held here every year so you can meet people and pick up goodies to bring back home to friends and family.

Since hiking is popular in Big Bear Lake, you'll want to bring a pair of comfortable athletic shoes. If you're visiting in winter, a warm jacket is necessary, and you might need to equip your car or SUV with snow tires and chains, particularly if your cabin or cottage is located in the mountains.

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Vacations for the Outdoorsy Type: Death Valley

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Dec 1, 2008 by Steve Thompson

Death Valley is a turnoff for many outdoor vacationers, and who could blame them? Miles of undeveloped desert, scalding heat and more than a few ways to injure yourself. Nevertheless, thousands of people travel to Death Valley National Park every year, so there must be something worth seeing.

In reality, Death Valley isn't much different from any other national park. It has campsites, inns, recreation, food and plenty of other ways to spend your days. The difference, of course, is that this outdoor vacation can be dangerous.

The main things you have to worry about in Death Valley are heat, dehydration, wildlife and flash floods. All four of these dangers can be avoided by simply staying smart and avoiding anything that could potentially get you killed. Don't touch the animals, bring plenty of drinking water, know your threshold for heat and stay away from arroyos and lowlands where flooding could potentially trap you.

When you visit Death Valley, you'll notice that just about every outdoor activity is different from anything you've ever seen or done before. The Golden Canyon is absolutely beautiful when the sun shines on the sand, reflecting individual particles and providing a hiker's dream. The half-mile Natural Bridge, a natural span of rock that crosses another beautiful canyon, is also exciting.

Photographers will definitely want to snap a few pictures of the sand dunes, where swirls in the sand mean every photograph is different. You'll also want to tour Scotty's Castle, visit the 700-foot Eureka Dunes and hike the Keane Wonder Mine Trail.

Before you go, however, make sure you have a detailed map of Death Valley for reference just in case you get lost. Bring a hydro pack rather than a regular backpack, such as the Outside Baby Hydro Pack, which comes with a 1.5-liter drinking system for constant hydration. This way, you won't be worried about replenishing bottles of water throughout your trip to Death Valley.

When planning a vacation in Death Valley, try to remember that the summer heat is unbearable for most people. The best times to visit are in autumn and winter, when the desert is moderately chilly and more conducive to exploration. The spring is also more pleasant than the summer, but ends before the start of May.

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Vacations For The Outdoorsy: Lake Okeechobee in Florida

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Nov 24, 2008 by Steve Thompson

Many of us are looking for the biggest and the boldest in our vacations, something that our friends haven't done or that will make for great stories when we get home. One option is Lake Okeechobee in Florida, which is the largest lake in the U.S. after Lake Michigan.

Lake Okeechobee is 750 square miles of beautiful water and sandy beaches. With nine islands and divided into five counties, you could spend three weeks here and never do everything available in the area. In fact, many Florida families (and people from all over the U.S.) spend their summers here.

One of the most attractive things about Lake Okeechobee is the wildlife. If you suffer from a debilitating fear of alligators, for example, this probably isn't the vacation spot for you. It is also home to a wide range of birds, fish, insects, plants and rodents. If you enjoy taking pictures of animals, you'd better bring your favorite camera.

Called the "Big O" by locals, Lake Okeechobee serves several small towns and villages where fishing is the largest attraction for tourists. From speckled perch to catfish, there is always something on the end of the fishing line, and camp grounds offer numerous outdoor fire pits on which to grill your catch.

You should also take time to visit the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, which celebrates the Seminole American Indian tribe through ancient artifacts and finds. They have plenty of hands-on events, including a nature walk through the swamp, and kids will enjoy it just as much as their parents.

When you visit Lake Okeechobee, make sure to pack a pair of high-quality hiking shoes, such as the Timberland Sandowns, which come with Gore-Tex membranes for dry, comfortable feet while walking. You'll also want to bring jeans or long pants for hiking through tall grasses.

Make sure that your visit to Lake Okeechobee includes plenty of boat rides across the water, a few hours of lounging by the shore with a good book, and at least a day of antique shopping in Clewiston, one of the most popular lakeside towns. The best times to visit are in fall and spring, when the weather is mild, though many of the villages surrounding Lake Okeechobee have beautiful Christmas decorations in December.

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Vacations for the Outdoorsy Type: The Gulf Shores of Alabama

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Sep 29, 2008 by Steve Thompson

When you think about taking a beach vacation with the family, a number of destinations probably pop into your head: Palm Springs, Destin, Miami, Myrtle Beach, and the list goes on. The problem, of course, is that these well-known tourist magnets are as expensive as they are popular, which can really ruin a vacation if you're looking to have some fun.

A few years ago, my wife and I decided to take our first vacation in about ten years, and instead of running toward one of these famous beach vacation spots, we opted instead for the beautiful beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama. Most people don't think of the Yellowhammer State for its white sand and clear blue waters, but that is exactly what we found.

One of the most exciting things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama, is snorkeling. The water is so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom if you're anywhere near the shore, and you'll find that the best shells are actually in the water rather than on the beach.

You can also go kayaking, whale-watching, hiking, beach walking and participate in tons of other adventures that you'd find in any other beach-front community. Best of all, however, Gulf Shores is much cheaper than Palm Springs or Miami, and you get the same glorious views with about a quarter of the tourists. Just make sure you bring plenty of sun block and treat yourself to a new pair of Crocs for the occasion.

The best time to visit Gulf Shores is in the late summer when the meager tourist season dies out almost completely. You can score a beautiful condo on the beach for less than $900 for an entire week.

Since this local isn't as populated or popular as some of the other beach destinations in the U.S., there are fewer restaurants and businesses. However, if you rent a condo or beach house for your stay, you can use the full kitchen provided and cook your own meals to eat on the beach.

Gulf Shores, Alabama might not seem as exciting or exotic as some of the other beach vacation spots, but it's certainly just as much fun. And, if you find you can't keep busy enough, Florida is literally a few miles away, so you can always escape to more populated areas.

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Vacations for Outdoorsy Type: A Whale of an Adventure

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Sep 23, 2008 by Steve Thompson

Some people are simply more comfortable on the water than on dry land and feel pulled toward oceanic adventures, like a paper clip to a magnet. This is why, when looking for outdoor vacation ideas, it's important to consider destinations that include open water.

For example, whale watching is one of the most popular sea-faring adventures in the United States. Rather than challenging your physical strengths, it instead fulfills a sense of wonder and may even inspire a career in marine biology. Whenever I'm visiting friends on the east or west coast, this is an activity I try to fit into my schedule.

The best thing about whale watching is that no two trips are ever exactly the same. You might see six blue whales on one trip, and then see nothing but pods of dolphins on your next. Of course, there might be times when no sightings occur, but many whale-watching outfitters will give you free tickets for a future excursion if this happens.

The types of whales you see when whale watching will depend on which part of the country you are in. Blue whales, for example, are common off the west coast, while dolphins often make an appearance in Galveston Harbor.

Of course, you'll need to dress appropriately before you head out on a boat, whether it's a cruise ship or a dinghy. Even if the sun is hot on the beach, oceanic winds can leave you wishing you'd brought a jacket for your trip.

You'll also need a heavy-duty bag that won't be ruined if you have to set it on a wet boat deck. The Timbuk 2 Metro has a padded shoulder straps and a waterproof vinyl interior, which make it perfect for lugging around that expensive camera you bought for your whale-watching trip.

Whale-watching outfitters vary significantly in both price and amenities. Make sure you do your research before heading out on the water. If the boat crew provides champagne and snacks while you're aboard, you'll probably pay a steep price for those luxuries. Look for whale-watching trips where you can have fun looking at the marine life without blowing your entire vacation budget.

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Vacations for the Outdoorsy Type: Now Here's a Grand Idea

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Sep 1, 2008 by Steve Thompson

When writing this blog, I usually try to find obscure outdoor vacations that people wouldn't usually consider, but this week I'm going with an old favorite: The Grand Canyon. What would a blog about vacations be without mentioning this famous site?

This is one of my favorite places to go because, no matter my mood when I arrive, I always leave feeling humbled. It's nearly impossible to stand in front of a natural formation so massive and not feel inspired to greatness, and it's also a prime opportunity to get some physical exercise and commune with nature.

Before you go, make sure you pack a backpack large enough to carry at least three liters of water, such as the Oakley Flak backpack. You'll want to stay hydrated for your entire trip, and this backpack will leave you enough room for a camera, some snacks and maybe a spare pair of socks.

While you're there, make sure you check out some of the amazing programs offered by the Grand Canyon National Park rangers, such as the geological talks and the nature walks through the North Rim Visitor's Center. They even have ranger introduction programs for kids, which makes the Grand Canyon a perfect outdoor vacation for families.

For the more adventurous vacationers, you might also want to sign up for one of the three major river trips offered at the Grand Canyon. You'll get to see a few whitewater rapids while you observe some really amazing wildlife, and they usually last the full day.

If you plan to stay for a few days, and I recommend you do, there are plenty of places to stay at the Grand Canyon that won't break the bank. The Bright Angel Lodge, for example, is located on the South Rim, and is very affordable for the level of accommodations provided. Rooms start around $49, and private cabins will only cost you a little more than $100 per night.

The Grand Canyon might sound like a cliché, a boring way to spend your outdoor vacation, but I've been more times than I can count, and each trip is a new experience. So grab a few friends or pack up the minivan and head to Arizona.

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Vacations for the Outdoorsy Type - Be a Superhero

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Aug 25, 2008 by Steve Thompson


It seems like every time I turn around, I see an advertisement for yet another movie based on a comic book character. Why is this? From Spiderman to the Fantastic Four, it seems our culture is obsessed with super-human abilities, and why wouldn't we be?

I doubt there's a single man or woman in this world who hasn't imagined what it would be like to fly without the aid of an airplane or crush a tall building with our hands.

I can't help you with the crushing of tall buildings, but I can guide you to a place where you can fly just like Superman. Soaring Canopy Tours in Durango, Colorado is one of the best outdoor vacations you will ever embark upon.

The model is pretty ingenious, really: the entire adventure consists of five hours of riding various zip lines through a gorgeous, woodsy piece of property. You'll take the Durango & Silverton Railroad to the property itself and during your zip line adventure you'll get to stop for drinks and snacks, and the entire experience culminates in a gourmet feast for all guests.

This type of outdoorsy vacation is fun for the entire family, and although it might not be right for someone who is deathly afraid of heights, it's a one-of-a-kind experience. If you can't imagine yourself swinging from tree to tree like Tarzan, you can accompany your group on foot for a discounted price.

Tennis shoes or hiking boots are recommended for the Soaring Canopy course, so make sure you raid the stock at Zappos before you head out. You might want to try something with a high ankle, such as the Scarpa Barun GTXsScarpa Barun GTXs, which are equipped with bi-directional ankle flex.

The Soaring Canopy zip line adventure includes 22 lines and 28 platforms, making it the "largest, longest and safest" zip line course in the entire world. It operates seven days a week, rain or shine, and costs $339 per person for the entire adventure. You can visit their web site to make a reservation, or you can call 970.769.2357.

Who knows? This might be the unique outdoor vacation you've been looking for!

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Camping in the Rain!

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Aug 11, 2008 by Steve Thompson

With Tropical Storm Edouardo drenching Houston, I got to thinking about how often rain can ruin fun family vacations. Whether you plan on hiking in the Adirondacks or riding the rapids in Tennessee, rain can put a halt to your plans and leave you staring through the windows of your hotel room until it's time to catch a plane back home.

Of course, every rain storm isn't as torrential as Tropical Storm Edouardo, and as my mother and I drove to San Antonio to visit family this afternoon, we brainstormed ways to keep the fun in your vacation regardless of the weather.

Hiking in the Rain

Just because the sky is leaking doesn't mean you can't go on that nature hike you were planning. Watch the weather forecast to make sure there isn't any thunder or lightening in the vicinity, then gear up for a hike in the rain.

You'll need sensible shoes that won't easily slip on mud or exposed rock, such as the Scarpa Barun GTX hiking boots. The Gore-Tex lining will make sure your socks and feet don't get wet, and the tread will keep you safe from falls.

Additionally, make sure you wear a rain slicker that will keep the rain out of your eyes and protect you should the weather turn ugly while you're climbing the side of a mountain or roaming deep in a forest. A padded lining with plenty of pockets will be perfect, and don't forget extra batteries for the flash lights.

Camping in the Rain

You don't have to seek out more cozy lodgings if the weather turns foul--a great tent and plenty of food that doesn't need to be cooked will suffice even in the wilderness. Make sure that your tent doesn't have any leaks before you start to pitch, and make sure to head indoors if you see lightening or hear thunder close by.

Games in the Rain

Visiting a state or national park during inclement weather can be almost as fun as when the skies are clear and blue. Send your family on a wet-weather scavenger hunt or take a jog through the trails in the rain. Again, as long as there isn't any thunder or lightening, you'll find that the rain is actually invigorating.

Rain doesn't have to spoil your next outdoor vacation. Just make sure you're geared for any type of weather with coats, sensible shoes and luggage that won't ruin if it gets soaked heading for the car.

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Vacations for the Outdoorsy-Type: Alaska!

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Aug 4, 2008 by Michael T.

Just because you love the great outdoors doesn't mean that you relish 100 degree heat and sun so bright you can't leave the house without sunglasses. August is the hottest and most miserable month of the year for some of us, particularly if you hail from Texas, California, Florida or any of the other southern states.

So what's the solution? Pack up the family and head somewhere cold ... like Alaska!

One of the most beautiful states in the U.S., Alaska is also a major tourist magnet, drawing thousands of visitors throughout the year. The south central area of the state, in particular, is perfect for the month of August, with highs in the 60s and about 15 hours of daylight. Anchorage, Seward, Talkeetna and Kenai are some of the most popular cities for travel at this time of year, and I can guarantee you'll never be bored.

Some of the most beautiful bald eagle sightings occur in Homer, Anchorage and Seward during August, and you can't miss a boat journey around Gull Island, where you'll see some of the most diverse populations of birds in the world.

Trails for both hiking and biking are plentiful in Alaska, and can be quite refreshing when you aren't dealing with summer heat. The Eagle River Nature Center is a great place to start if you're looking for guided tours or if you want to learn about the wildlife on Alaskan trails. Chugach State Park is also a lot of fun, encompassing more than 500,000 acres of trails and beautiful scenery.

Of course, if you'll be going to Alaska in the summer, you'll have to be prepared for the temperature change. Transitioning from 98 degree heat to mild weather can be a shock to the system. Bring a versatile coat, such as the Hurley Interpol Spy Coat for women, or the O'Neil Report Jacket for men. You might also want a windbreaker if you plan to go out on the water.

Summer vacations in Alaska are a lot of fun, and will provide you with immeasurable relief from the heat.

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Vacations for the Outdoorsy-Type: Agritourism!

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Aug 2, 2008 by Michael T.

Do you prefer to pick your own fruits and vegetables? Are you calmed and centered by the presence of animals? Does the idea of never-ending beautiful scenery fuel your desire for the ultimate vacation? Agritourism is almost as big as whitewater rafting and cross-country skiing, but not nearly as dangerous.

Working farms are scattered all over the Vermont countryside, some of which are geared toward crops and gardens, while others focus on animals. Regardless of the farms you visit, you'll feel like joining an Amish community after you stay in home-style bed-and-breakfasts and spend your mornings shelling green beans.

When you decide to go on an agritourism vacation, prepare to travel a lot, and make sure to research rental car agencies in the area before you arrive. You'll save money staying in small farm motels where everyone feels like family, and you'll also find that this is a great way to relieve stress and relax tension.

In Waitsfield, Vermont, the Mountain Valley Farm (802-496-9255) is about as close as you can get to the backdrop of a Christmas holiday card, and twice as enjoyable. Horse-drawn sleigh rides are popular for winter travelers, and those who visit in the summer will enjoy hay rides, long hikes through the mountains and valleys and cider-making classes.

You can stay in one of the Mountain Valley guest suites overnight, then continue your vacation in the great outdoors at nearby attractions, such as kayaking down the infamous Mad River.

For those who are charmed by endless acres of apple orchards, the Apple Barn (802-447-7780) in Bennington, Vermont gives you the opportunity to pick your own berries, apples, oranges and tomatoes-and don't forget to save some to bring home to friends and family. Or, if you prefer attractions of the four-legged variety, saddle up at the Denlore Morgan Horse Farm (802-763-2516) in Sharon.

As you can see, agritourism is flourishing in Vermont, and also in the rest of New England. The best thing about this type of outdoor vacation is that you can visit in any season of the year and still find things to do. Of course, if you want to bring home plenty of fresh produce, you're better off taking your vacation in the spring and summer months.

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Vacations for the Outdoorsy Type: Electronic Outdoor Thinking!

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Jul 28, 2008 by Steve Thompson

Sure, you love the great outdoors--but you also love your iPod! Check out these cool tips for hauling your tech gear up mountains and down rivers, regardless of your vacation destination.

Let's face it: we're all multi-layered human beings with a wide diversity of interests and passions. We're not just accountants or just mountain bikers, and sometimes our interests conflict with one another. This is the conundrum that active professionals face when they need a break from concrete sidewalks and high-rise office buildings. Sure, you want to go skiing or white-water rafting or hiking with the family, but you don't want to cut yourself off from the civilized world.

Taking an outdoor vacation means lightening the load of stress you carry on a daily basis and freeing yourself from worry. You shouldn't feel guilty about wanting to check your e-mail or answer your cell phone, but you'll need to be prepared if you want access to your gear on vacation.

Know the Itinerary

You'll need to plan differently for your vacation if you're going to be canoeing down a river than if you'll be climbing a mountain. Water, for example, is like kryptonite for your tech gear, so you'll want to pack sealable plastic bags to store your laptop, cell phone, PDA and other electronics.

Also, you'll want to think about comfort if you'll be on the move or cruising down a trail, so consider a roomy messenger bag with a shoulder strap for all your gear, such as the Patagonia Half-Mass Bag, which is padded to keep your gear extra safe.

Think Small

Big, bulky bags really don't cut it when you're trying to haul your tech gear around the wilderness-or even on a plane. The goal should be to find the smallest bag that will conceivably hold all of your equipment.

A compact backpack, for example, will allow you to safely store the majority of your gear without worrying about extra weight or volume. The Oakley Planet Pack 2.0 is the perfect solution-it even has a special compartment for your media player while you're on the go.

You'll also want to focus on security if you're going to bring expensive tech gear with you on vacation. Having a small, easy-to-access bag that holds all your stuff will allow you to keep a close eye on your belongings, and you won't be hunting through your luggage when you've got to get your Internet fix. So stay safe and allow yourself to enjoy the great outdoors and modern conveniences at the same time!

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