World-class champions like Nicklaus, Woods and Singh play Disney's Palm Golf Course. You can, too.

By Amy Drew Thompson

The PGA Merchandise Show comes to the Orange County Convention Center Jan. 25-28, along with the year’s best golfing weather. Mercifully, you don’t have to be Arnold Palmer — or even staying at Disney — to experience play at Walt Disney World’s phenomenal courses, so golfers booking cheap Orlando vacations need not settle. Cool quotient: Carts come equipped with the latest GPS technology. Plan accordingly and enjoy reduced late-afternoon rates for even more savings.

Magnolia: Smell that? It’s the heady fragrance of blossoming magnolias. Or maybe your fierce game is making your opponents sweat. Magnolia boasts wide fairways, shimmering water hazards and challenging play that hosts the final rounds of the annual Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic, last stop on the PGA Tour.

Palm: Immaculate, palm-studded golf in paradise. And if you’re having an off day on the fairway, sparkling water and tropical sand will remind you that a bad day at golf is often better than a good day at the office.

Osprey Ridge: Not only is this masterpiece ranked among the best courses in Florida, it’s also recognized as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary. Nature envelops all 18 holes and for those in search of a challenge, Osprey Ridge plays 7,101 yards from the back tees.

Lake Buena Vista: This course winds amid quaint pastel architecture, boats and a charming lighthouse with Bahamian sensibility. LBV has hosted PGA, LPGA and USGA events. Can you rise to the challenge of its seventh-hole island green? Come find out!

Oak Trail: Each of the above welcome players at all levels, but Oak Trail, a beautiful, nine-hole walking course, is ideal for watching youngsters fall in love with golf while challenging veterans with cleverly designed holes.

Where to stay: Hampton Inn Orlando: just a mile from the WDW resort area with free shuttle service to Epcot. Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista: free shuttles to virtually every theme park in the vicinity — and kids 11 and under eat free. Marriott Orlando World Center: Hawk’s Landing’s 18 holes are right outside.

Related resources

• Cheap flights to Orlando
• Family vacations

Freelance travel writer and former cart girl Amy Drew Thompson appreciates golf for its precision, grace and excellent tippers.

The Chinese New Year Parade is just part of the month-long celebrations in Honolulu. Credit: Valdezign.

By Erin Behan

Hear that roar? It’s a month of Chinese Lunar New Year festivities in Honolulu getting off to a good start. The year 2012, of course, is the Year of the Dragon, and the celebrations run from Jan. 6- Jan. 21 in Chinatown. The best part about entrance to each of the month’s Chinese New Year events (besides getting in touch with both Chinese and Hawaiian culture)? They’re all free.

Things kick off with the free Chinese New Year Festival Jan. 6 and 7 at the Chinatown Cultural Plaza, which is the place to celebrate the lunar New Year and see feng shui and martial arts demonstrations. Fabulous Chinese food, of course, is a given.

The celebrations continue on Jan. 13 and 14 at the Chinatown Cultural plaza with the Chinatown Open House. Foods to look out for include jin doi (Chinese doughnut), gau (steamed pudding) and jook (rice soup) — all are popular dishes for celebrating the New Year. Local music groups and dance troupes keep the mood light as stomachs get heavy.

A favorite and visually spectacular way to celebrate Chinese New Year — Choy Cheng, Traditional Lion Dance Blessings — happens on Jan. 13 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Beginning at 8 South King Street and continuing to Maunakea, Smith, Pauahi and Nuuanu streets, the Narcissus Queen and her court move from business to business granting New Year’s blessings. The streets light up with firecrackers, confetti rains down, and lions dance about — an impressive event to witness on your cheap Hawaii vacation.

There’s a street event on Jan. 14 as well, with the Night in Chinatown Parade. The parade starts at the State Capital on Hotel Street and runs to River Street, with more than 80 marching groups performing. A spectacular 150-foot dragon ends the parade. If you miss the first, there’s a second Chinese New Year Festival at the Chinatown Cultural Plaza on Jan. 20 and 21, with all the same food, gifts and singing and dancing.

No matter which event you check out on your cheap Hawaii vacation, you’ll want to check into a nearby Honolulu hotel, such as the Aston at the Executive Centre Hotel or the Pagoda Hotel.

Related resources

• Cheap Hawaii vacations
• Cheap Hawaii hotels

Erin Behan is a freelance writer and editor out of Brooklyn, N.Y., who counts good food, intoxicating drink and adventurous travel among her favorite things.

At this Santa sitting, Santa sits on you. Credit: Ripley's Believe It or Not! Times Square.

By Erin Behan

The tradition of sitting on Santa’s lap is so engrained in American culture that we hardly even question it: What adults don’t cherish that embarrassing childhood photo of themselves making an awkward face in a Christmas sweater on an ample Kris Kringle?

Well, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in New York has turned the tables on ye olde tradition — and it’s about time. Their Santa will sit on your lap, an endeavor Ripley’s is calling “Reverse Santa.” The family holiday portrait may never be the same. Take home a photo of the blessed event, whether as a print, on a key chain or on a magnet, and don’t forget one for Grandma.

Thrill-seekers can get sat on by Santa at Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! in Times Square on Saturdays from Dec. 3 to Dec. 24, as well as Dec. 26 and 29, from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets for entry to the attraction are available online at a 20 percent discount.

Of course, once you’re there, you might as well see some of the more famous items on display at the Odditorium, from the six-legged cow to the miniature matchstick Spanish Armada fleet to the pickled tourist heads (yes, they do have a rather active sense of humor here).

And, from Nov. 28 through Dec. 20, anyone can submit an embarrassing Santa’s lap photo on Facebook for a chance to win tickets into Ripley’s, prizes and more. See the New York Ripley’s Facebook page for details.

If you’re looking for a New York hotel in Times Square, try the nearby Westin New York at Times Square, the W New York Times Square or the Hotel 41 Times Square.

Related resources

• Cheap New York flights
• New York hotels

Erin Behan is a freelance writer and editor out of Brooklyn, N.Y., who counts good food, intoxicating drink and adventurous travel among her favorite things.

By Nancy Buczkiewicz

Having been to London twice before, it was time to be what I hadn’t been before: a true tourist. On previous trips I spent time with locals and coworkers, never having to worry about where I was eating, which tube I was taking, or what I’d be doing. This London vacation was going to be vastly different. This time I was going with my mom. When tasked with taking your mother on her first trip abroad to the place she holds dear to heart (via what she’s seen on BBC, of course), you need to make it memorable.

Challenge accepted.

I did the research and planned an amazing vacation. We booked tickets to one attraction per day  — book in advance, avoid the lines and often save money! — and spent the rest of the day exploring the surrounding neighborhood. This strategy could not have worked out better. We saw Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, the London Eye, Bath and Stonehenge – all in between eating at fantastic restaurants, such as Rules, London’s oldest restaurant known for its Sunday lunch.

Weeks later, mom is still talking about the trip …. and we didn’t break the bank. Don’t let London’s pricey image fool you. Adding stops like the Borough Market for a £3 sandwich can make your trip perfectly affordable.

Related resources

• Cheap London vacation packages
• Thistle Marble Arch hotel
• Shaftesbury Hyde Park International Hotel
• Cheap London hotels
  

Nancy Buczkiewicz, an executive assistant at Orbitz Worldwide, spent her trip to London this September frolicking in Buckingham, bathing in Bath and imbibing in pubs.

By Deborah Bowen

The question comes up time and again: “Can I – should I? – take a Disney cruise when I’m not traveling with children?” The savvy traveler is well aware of Disney Cruise Line’s reputation for world-class service, and understands that while Disney certainly means character interactions and kids’ dining options, it offers “a whole new world” of incredible options for grownups as well.

In February, I had the pleasure of sailing for four nights on the Dream. I spent a good part of a day in Senses, the blissful full-service spa. While I received only one service, a hot-stone massage, I managed to take advantage of the amenities for hours.  For a fee, guests can access a variety of indulgent facilities, such as a rainforest-themed wet/dry area, featuring a sauna, a steam room and a steam bath.

Another favorite? The incredible heated contour loungers overlooking the ocean. Oh, how I loved tucking into a book while stretched out on one of those amazing chairs! And of course, the Dream provides refreshments in Senses (or will bring you refreshments as you wish).

When the pampering ends (boo), don your date-night clothes and head upstairs to dine at one of the two adults-exclusive restaurants on board: Palo (Italian fare) or Remy (French cuisine). The elegant ambience is matched by the superb service, and is surpassed by the food. Please be advised that Remy and Palo do require advanced reservations and that each guest will incur a surcharge for dining in either of these two restaurants.

Dinner finished, what to do? A leisurely walk on deck? A first-run movie in the Walt Disney Theatre? How about getting your groove on at Evolution, an 18+ nightclub?  But if you want to enjoy cocktails before killing it on the floor, the Dream offers several options: I highly recommend the fabulous Pink, an incredible club that literally makes you feel like a bubble of the bubbly! And do yourself a favor: Make sure to try the signature pink champagne. The delicious fizziness will definitely get you in the mood to showcase your moves. And there’s also a sports bar, a karaoke bar, a club lounge …

For creative types, the cruise staff puts on a host of adults-only classes, including wine tastings, art lessons and cooking demonstrations. Of course, a cruise vacation beckons time at the adults-only pool, featuring separate whirlpools, a poolside bar and live entertainment.

Whether you’re traveling alone or with the tykes, Disney ensures that all guest are treated with the same set of rigorous standards. Just as children are provided with unbelievable activity rooms, Disney makes a strong statement in making sure that adults have play time, too. On the Disney Dream, there is truly no age limit on amazing!

Related resources

• Cheap Kissimmee hotels
• Cheap Orlando hotels
• Cheap Tampa hotels

Deborah Bowen, an English professor at the University of South Florida and member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel, has lived the majority of her life less than an hour from Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts.

A shore thing: The laidback charm of artist enclave Laguna Beach. Credit: Lavender Dreamer.

By Stephanie Toller Negrete

Seaside mansions. Tan, buff bodies. Convertibles and high-end boutiques. Sure, they’re all part of the California dream, but only part of the reality. In the O.C., embrace a more laidback lifestyle, especially in the fall when the summer crowds are gone and the weather is just gorgeous. Enticing lodging rates help, too, so that we can all coast to a cheap Orange County hotel during one of the best seasons of the year.

Check out my picks for things to do this fall in the O.C.:

1. Hang (10) with the surfers.
   Huntington Beach, aka Surf City USA, isn’t just for pro surfers. Hit the cool and quaint International Surfing Museum, shop for a new wet suit at Jack’s Surfboards and take lessons at Corky Carroll’s Surf School. I also always make time to kayak in Huntington Harbor, take in a bit of nature at the Bolsa Chica Wetlands and roast S’mores over a beach bonfire.
2. Hop on the bike path in Newport Beach.
   The gorgeous coastline is a constant companion for cruisers up this breezy path. If the tummy starts to rumble, stop at the Stuft Surfer at 15^th Street and the bike path for an awesome breakfast burrito right on the beach. Hop back on your bike and cruise through the rest of Newport, or all the way up to Huntington Beach if you’re feeling ambitious. Another tempting option:  the Balboa Island Ferry, a mere $1.25 for you and your bike.
3. Stroll Crystal Cove Park.
   It is so tucked away that even many of the locals have never been.This little jewel is particularly stunning in the Fall, when the summer crowds are nowhere to be found, and you have the beach and tide pools virtually to yourself. Keep your eyes peeled for schools of dolphins (I’ve spied them almost every time I’ve been down there), which are often gliding just off the beach. Also check out the 1930’s Craftsman-style cottages (in various states of repair), one of which houses a small, but lovely little store, aptly named “The Store.  Before hiking (or shuttling) back to your car, grab a bite at the lovely little truly-beachside restaurant called the Beachcomber Café.  A great place for breakfast, lunch or dinner – or a cocktail at the Bootlegger Bar out back.
4. Soak up the art scene in Laguna Beach.
   Laguna was cool long before Kristin Cavallari and Lauren Conrad put her on the TV map. Capture an incredible sunset, stroll through the shops and galleries in the pint-sized “downtown,” or stop in for a bite at any number of fabulous local cafes. My pick: First Thursday’s Art Walk, a cool way to meet artists in their own galleries, enjoy a beverage and maybe even pick up a piece of the O.C. to bring back to your living room.

Related resources

• Cheap Huntington Beach hotels
• Cheap Laguna Beach hotels
• Cheap Newport Beach hotels

Stephanie Toller Negrete is market manager for the O.C. and Palm Springs. She’s a Southern California native who loves to travel, but also thoroughly enjoys exploring her own backyard.

See why Santa Cruz consistently earns accolades for its seaside amusement park and boardwalk.

By Stacey Meyer

It wouldn’t be a proper California vacation without the beach, the boardwalk and a magnum of wine. But here’s a local secret: One of the best spots to live out that fantasy – minus the crowds from summer – is Santa Cruz, Calif.

With 29 miles of sun-drenched coastline, Santa Cruz offers some of the state’s best beaches – and an Indian Summer, which means the sunny days last longer. But the fun only starts at the beach. Here are 5 ways to enjoy the great fall weather in Santa Cruz.

1. Check out the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, voted “World’s Best Seaside Amusement Park” by Amusement Today. Piling down the beachfront Giant Dipper Coaster or circling ’round the Loof Carousel, you’ll feel like a kid again.
2. Ride into the past on 19^th Century Steam Trains. Travel over trestles, through towering redwood groves and never question why little kids are obsessed with trains. My son ate it up.
3. Rent a kayak from Venture Quest Kayaking at the Santa Cruz Wharf and paddle into the wildlife-rich waters of the Monterey Bay, near the Santa Cruz coast. We saw otters and sea lions within minutes of push-off.
4. Go wine tasting! The Santa Cruz region has a tradition of fine wines that dates back to the 1800′s.  Today, the County is home to 40-plus wineries.  Afterwards, spend the night at the only beachfront hotel in Santa Cruz, the Dream Inn.  
5. Learn to surf. Surfing has been part of the Santa Cruz culture for more than 50 years.  Some of the greatest surfers in the world call it home so if you’re new to shredding, head just north of the Santa Cruz Pier, the perfect place for beginners. We were able to rent boards right on the beach.

Related resources

• Cheap Santa Cruz hotels
• Cheap Los Angeles hotels
• Cheap Orange County hotels
• Cheap San Francisco hotels

Stacey Meyer is regional manager for Hawaii for Orbitz Worldwide.  She also oversees the Santa Cruz, Silicon Valley and East Bay markets.

Ain't no mountain high enough: Hike Pinnacle Peak Park for views of the valley and desert. Credit: Friends of Pinnacle Peak Park.

By Janet Bazan

Contrary to popular belief, strolling pumpkin patches and apple orchards aren’t the only things to do this fall. Head 2,700 miles west of New England to find one of the most brilliant color parades around: the trails in Phoenix.

With temps hanging out around 76 degrees, the city sports so much to enjoy outdoors. Start by taking a hike – literally. Considered one of National Geographic’s best hiking cities, Phoenix bursts with everything from steep summit climbs to secluded, meandering valley walks and everything in between. Use this handy map to plot your hikes in and around the Valley.

My personal favorite: Pinnacle Park in north Scottsdale. Soak in panoramic views of the surrounding desert  from the highest point – about 2,889 feet above the Valley. Expect an easy-to-moderate hike for the trail, which is about 3.5 miles roundtrip.

Venture east to hit the AZ88/ Apache Trail, only an arm’s length of the Valley and about 145 miles roundtrip. If you start from the Apache Junction end, take Highway 60 east (from Phoenix) to Idaho Road, then follow the signs to AZ 88 (Apache Trail). 

Besides the towering Superstition Mountains on your right, the first attraction of note is the Goldfield Ghost Town, about 4.5 miles from Apache Junction. Walk down Main Street, explore the many shops and buildings, tour the mine, visit the Superstition Mountain/Lost Dutchman Museum, pan for gold, take a narrow gauge train ride or witness an old west gun fight.

And to think … this is only a teaser for spring.

Related resources

• Cheap Phoenix flights
• Cheap Phoenix hotels
• Cheap Scottsdale hotels

Janet Bazan is a market manager for Arizona and New Mexico for Orbitz Worldwide.

Budget in Branson: Save on villa rentals this fall at the Marriott Willow Ridge Lodge.

By Amy Carey-Dejanovich

The summer may be over, but the harvest is ripe for cheap fall vacations. In the Midwest, now is the best time to savor the fall’s rich colors along with piping-hot ciders and hayrides. Topping the list is Branson, Mo. My family and I vacationed there this summer and had a wonderful time. So much, I want to return this fall. Consider these money-saving tips on Branson hotels and activities.

Where to stay:
From B&Bs and motels to hotels, lodges and vacation rentals, the best Branson hotel deals can be found from fall through spring. For budget travelers that want great value (and an indoor pool), you can save up to 40 percent at The Suites at Fall Creek. If you need extra space, the Marriott Willow Ridge Lodge is offering villa rentals at 25 percent off.

What to do:
Beyond the musical shows, theatre and theme parks, Branson is also known for its outdoor activities. Spend afternoons kayaking on the lake, enjoying a peaceful hike, or screaming your heart out on a zip line. The 1,534-acre Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area brims with hiking trails, bird watching and a viewing tower atop Dewey Bald.

Take the family to National Harvest Festival (thru Oct. 29) at Silver Dollar City, where the autumnal attractions include the Timberworks Lumberjack Show, a professional pumpkin carver, and Missouri’s Largest Barn Dance. (And if you can’t make the fall festivities, Silver Dollar City has a huge line up of attractions at Christmas.)

Related resources

• Cheap Branson vacations
• Cheap Chicago hotels
• Cheap Kansas City travel

Amy Carey-Dejanovich lives in Chicago with her husband and two young children. Raised on travels with her parents, she loves to share vacation tips on kid-friendly destinations.

Sleep like a dream on the Westin Heavenly Bed? Bring one home.

By Derek Brown

There’s always a sense of anticipation after slipping your key card into your hotel room door. How cozy will that bed be? What stylish furniture awaits? Well here’s a little secret: Some of your favorite hotels — including major chains such as Hilton, Marriott and Kimpton — sell those linens, accent tables, and even mattresses so you can bring the luxury home. In fact, just about anything in the room is up for sale (and brand new, too).

We’ve rounded up some of the best hotel room decor, from Chicago to Miami.

If the 600-count luxury sheets at the Westin Chicago River North are better than the thread-bare sheets at home, buy yourself an upgrade. Or reward your pooch with a Safari Pet Bed from Kimpton’s pet-friendly FireSky Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Ariz. And the shower? You can rinse, lather and repeat with the Raindance Showerhead from the Miami Marriott Hotel Biscayne Bay. Of course, there’s also the mattress itself, one from Westin (Heavenly Bed) and another from the W.

Who needs Tarjay when you can also stock up on robes, lamps, towels, ottomans, chairs, soaps, duvets and a projection time clock?

Now if only they could wrap up the views from your hotel room.

Check out what is else for sale from:

Hyatt at Home, Westin at Home, Shop Marriott, Hilton to Home, Kimpton Style

Related resources

• Cheap Florida hotels
• Cheap San Diego hotels
• Cheap Caribbean vacation

Derek Brown, a member of the Orbitz editorial team, thinks he could pull from each of the collections to furnish an entire studio apartment.