Sunday, April 25, 2010

Washington D.C.


Washington D.C. is not only a beautiful place to visit, but it’s also fully enriched with history. Many people flock to this region to visit the White House, but there are also many other breathtaking sites to see. If you do decide to visit DC, the Lincoln Memorial is a definite must see, for no picture can fully capture the wonder of seeing this monument in person. While you’re there you should also walk over to the WWII memorial that recently was added in 2004. If that doesn’t suit you, there are many other wonderful historical monuments to visit such as the Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the White House.

However, if history is not your interest then there are other great attractions in the surrounding area. I would highly suggest the International Spy Museum if you are interested in national security. If that doesn’t catch your eye then the National Gallery of Art will hopefully interest you. These are just a few of the attractions you could visit on your trip! So good luck planning your visit!

Saturday, April 17, 2010

Oahu, Hawaii

Beautiful Hawaii is made up of eight main islands, each different with their own unique appeal. Each of the islands has a large variety of terrain that ranges from dry dessert to tropical rainforests. Many people tend to enjoy each of the islands for different reasons. The island I enjoyed most was Oahu, because of its large variety of activates this island accommodates.

Some of these activities include visiting the Dole Pineapple Plantation, where you can take a tour as well as enjoy some amazing pineapple ice cream. If the warm weather greatly influences your decision to travel to Hawaii then you should visit Oahu’s Waikiki Beach, which is also central to many other activities.

These include shopping, hiking, surfing, swimming with dolphins, and many more wonderfully breath-taking resorts just blocks from the sea. After the beautiful sunset you’re also able to take in the night life and live music in and around the town. These are just a few of the amazing places to experience in Hawaii.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

St. Thomas Island, US Virgin Islands

St. Thomas Island is a beautiful place to visit! It combines the natural beauty and serenity of a tropical island with the cosmopolitan atmosphere of a modern city. With a multitude of activities and attractions, there is always something to do or see on the island. You can enjoy delicious dining or stroll through the historic streets and alleyways of Charlotte Amalie amidst charming boutiques and sidewalk cafés.

One of the best perks of traveling to St. Thomas Island is the option to rent your very own villa. One place that offer this incredible opportunity is Kiwi Cliffs, situated cliff side on the north shoreline and within the gated grounds of Mahogany Run Golf Course. Imagine yourself here...


I know! I'll dream about it too! When you are not resting and relaxing, you could go fishing, kayaking, parasailing, golfing, hiking, horseback riding, snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, and more. Take your pick!

So do your research and pack your bags! Get ready for the trip of your life!

St. Thomas, here we come!

Monday, April 12, 2010

Victoria, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada


So if you haven't been to Vancouver Island, you need to go! There is an amazing culture and history to be experienced there. One of the most famous attractions is the Empress Hotel. Make sure you stop by the registration desk and ask about the free tours they offer on a daily basis.


Among the many restaurants around the City of Victoria is Red Fish Blue Fish and Il Terrazzo Ristorante. After eating your delicious meal at either of these two places, you can take a stroll down the Victoria Harbor Sea Walk which is just absolutely wonderful. Feel the breeze, take your time, take some pictures, sit and take it all in. When you are done with your leisurely walk around the Harbor, you can head into town. Around town, there are shops to roam and sidewalk painters and jugglers to see.


One attraction you must see while you are visiting the Island is the Buchart Gardens. It is breathtakingly gorgeous! Ever since I went, I am constantly trying to come up with excuses to travel up there again just so I can enter the wonderful realm of the Buchart Gardens once more and take in the extravagant beauty.

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Halong Bay is located in northeastern Vietnam, in the Quang Ninh providence. This area is simply breathtaking and an absolute "must see" if you are anywhere in Asia. This bay is surrounded by jutting limestone cliffs and countless islands waiting for you to explore them. It is no surprise that Halong Bay was one of the nominees for World's 7 Natural Wonders in 2009.

There are plenty of activities to do in Halong Bay including swimming, boating, fishing, snorkeling, kayaking and hiking. There also several grotto tours available where you are able to explore the caves around the bay. The seafood cuisine in this area is absolutely exquisite, and they are especially known for there excellent oysters and prawns.

I recommend taking a tour boat around Halong Bay as they are a very reasonable price and often include snorkeling and a seafood meal. There are also several hiking excursions available; which are a great way to meet people from around the world and learn about the area from a local tour guide.

The splendor of this landscape and the distinctive wildlife makes Halong Bay one of the most unique places in the world. This is a definite "must see."


Saturday, April 10, 2010

Cinque Terre, Italy


Located in the Italian Riveria you will find 5 villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, which are tucked away in the mountain side of the Ligurian Sea. These villages exude Italian charm and beauty like no other location in all of Italy.

If you enjoy hiking there is a 7 mile trail that goes through each village, a perfect excuse to grab some gelato or a tasty plate of pasta. On this hike you will experience moments that will leave you completely speechless. If you are more in the mood for a boat ride, ferries run several times a day from village to village- which is another wonderful way to see the sights at a cheap price.

My favorite town is Vernazza, characterized by its two towers that overlook the entire area. You can go atop the towers for a reasonable price, worth every penny. This village has a wonderful gelato stand and provides an excellent setting for a swim or reading a book by the sea.



Cinque Terre is a perfect location for those who enjoy hiking, cliff diving, kayaking, and sipping wine as the sunset encompasses the ocean. I recommend planning 2-3 days for exploring, as there are plenty of shops and outdoor activities. There are several hotels/hostels in each village so booking a room should be no problem as long as you book in advance during the high seasons.

It is no surprise that people all over the world flock to this area. Cinque Terre is one of the most stunning places in the entire world.

Playa Herradura, Puntarenas, Costa Rica



Costa Rica is one of those places that people don't typically think of when they are thinking of traveling to a beautiful coastal region. Most people think Hawaii, the Caribbean Islands or even the sunny beaches of California like Laguna or La Jolla. You would be surprised at the things you could experience in Costa Rica.


I was amazed when I went to Costa Rica. I stayed at the Los Suenos Marriot Ocean and Golf Resort in Playa Herradura, Puntarenas just 30 to 40 miles South West of San Jose. My stay there was phenomenal! Beyond the three pools they have there is the ocean. And in addition to the curious wildlife that roam the grounds, you can find other wildlife on some of the fantastic excursions the resort offers. You'll see monkeys swinging in the branches of trees, iguanas crawling by the pool, and birds conversing with each other and flying up above.

Nearby, there are many great places to eat. One such restaurant is El Pelicano which is located on beach front property and serves very delicious seafood.

I hope someday you get the chance to visit this beautiful place!