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Articles for ‘Tips & Advice’ Category

Budget in Britain: Exploring London on the cheap

Thursday, November 10th, 2011


Created with Admarket’s flickrSLiDR.

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. (more…)

Date nights on the Disney Dream: Adults-only fun

Tuesday, November 1st, 2011


Created with Admarket’s flickrSLiDR.
Disney Dream photos by Preston Mack, Kent Phillips and Mark Stroshane

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. (more…)

Beach bars & bike paths: What to do this fall in the O.C.

Tuesday, October 25th, 2011

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. (more…)

Life is sweet in NoCal: An indian summer in Santa Cruz

Thursday, October 20th, 2011

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. (more…)

Mountains & mining towns: Things to do in Phoenix this fall

Tuesday, October 18th, 2011

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. (more…)

Fall harvest: Budget vacations in Branson

Wednesday, October 12th, 2011

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. (more…)

Stock up on style: Bring your hotel room home

Tuesday, August 9th, 2011

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). (more…)

Wet and wild: America’s top water parks

Thursday, July 28th, 2011

By Valerie Moloney

For some of us, nothing strikes more fear than parading around in a swimsuit — in public. Add a water park to the mix, and that’s downright fearless. (more…)

3 days of baseball, brats and beers

Tuesday, July 19th, 2011

U.S. Cellular Field in Chicago. Credit: FaceMePls.

By Derek Brown

Play ball!  The boys of summer might be all there’s to watch in August if the football lockout continues.   Grab your glove and head out on this tour of 3 Midwest baseball stadiums in 3 days and watch 6 teams play in these cities known for brats and beers. (more…)

Kitschy in Kentucky: Summer vacations in Louisville

Thursday, June 30th, 2011

The lovable 21c Museum Hotel hearts red penguins, some of the many pieces within these colorful digs.

By Kristin Dillon

Admit it. Your summer vacation wish list involves palm-studded beaches, swim-up bars, maybe even a theme park. That’s cool, but is there room to consider… Louisville, Kentucky? (more…)