Introducing StuffIt Deluxe® 2011 – New File Transfer Focus Provides Users with the Easiest Way to Send Files

ALISO VIEJO, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Smith Micro Software, Inc. (NASDAQ:SMSI) Productivity and Graphics Group today announced the availability of StuffIt Deluxe® 2011 for the Mac, which introduces StuffIt Destinations™, a new drag-and-drop toolbar application designed to help users securely transfer files quickly and easily. StuffIt Destinations helps users transfer videos, presentations and other large files from one location to another using a file compression workflow that is simple and intu

Read the original:
Introducing StuffIt Deluxe® 2011 – New File Transfer Focus Provides Users with the Easiest Way to Send Files

9 coastal wonders to see now

Heather Hansen and Kimberly Lisagor, authors of “Disappearing Destinations,” have traveled the world investigating coastal sites that are as stunning as they are endangered.

See the original post:
9 coastal wonders to see now

Who Dat? New Orleans Tops Priceline.com’s Annual List Of Top 50 Destinations For The Valentine’s Day/Presidents’ Day … (PR Newswire via Yahoo!…

With Mardi Gras coming right on the heels of Valentine’s Day and Presidents’ Day , it was no surprise to see New Orleans move to the top of priceline.com’s Top 50 Destinations list for the upcoming long weekend. Â In addition to being more popular this year than Las Vegas, which was last year’s winner, this was the highest ranking that New Orleans has received in a post-Katrina priceline.com Top …

More:
Who Dat? New Orleans Tops Priceline.com’s Annual List Of Top 50 Destinations For The Valentine’s Day/Presidents’ Day … (PR Newswire via Yahoo!…

United States Honeymoon Destinations

In today’s economy a lot of young couples are looking for honeymoons that don’t just fit their budget, but that are also romantic. If you are choosing to stay stateside, you may be wondering what kind of resorts or honeymoon locations are near you. Well here is a list of some great honeymoon destinations in the United States. You may be surprised how close some of them are to you!

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. While the name may ring a bell, and perhaps you vacationed there with you family one summer, you may not have thought of it as a honeymoon destination until now! This gorgeous location offers 60 miles of sandy beaches, some of the best golf courses, and even several amusement and water parks. Myrtle Beach offers several great resorts, including the Prince Resort that hosts the famous 985 feet long Cherry Grove Pier. Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Nestled in the heart of the Smokey Mountains, Gatlinburg is a beautiful and historic town. You can spend your honeymoon in a cozy cabin or mountain lodge and spend your days hiking the mountain trails or meandering around the town and all it has to offer, or if your honeymooning in the winter, maybe a ski date would be the perfect outing. Branson, Missouri. This is the ideal honeymoon location for seasoned adults. It offers several great hotels, including the Chateau of the Lake, which is a romantic four-diamond resort, or what about spending your honeymoon in a cozy cabin nestled in the Ozark Mountains? Branson has lots of attractions including musical shows like the Andy William’s Show, Amazing Acrobats of China, The Haygood’s, and Legends. You can also visit their local water park and amusement park for added entertainment, as well as some of the areas best golf courses. No matter what you are into, there is something in Branson for everyone. Napa Valley, California. If you are looking for a honeymoon location that has class, look no further than Napa Valley. This is a beautiful, romantic destination with its gorgeous views and wineries.  You can spend your honeymoon at a quaint little bed and breakfast or one the areas many hotels or resorts. You can enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting, a morning mud bath at Calistoga, or even a night on the town at one of their fine restaurants. No matter what you decide to do while you visit, Napa Valley is definitely a taste of the finer things in life. Breckenridge, Colorado. If you and your fiancée love skiing and winter sports, why not honeymoon during the winter months in Breckenridge where the skiing and snowboarding is some of the best in the world. This beautiful and historic mining town offers gorgeous hotels and resorts to spend your evenings, and a ski resort where you can play all day whether you are a beginner or an expert. When you want to take a break for the slopes, you can visit one of their neat downtown shops, have dinner at one of their fabulous restaurants, or indulge in a massage and facial at one of their luxurious spas. After you’ve experienced it, you will want to come back for your second honeymoon! San Antonio, Texas. This beautiful city offers more than just a glimpse of the Alamo; it offers a romantic honeymoon destination for those couples that like to stay busy. You and your sweetie can enjoy an afternoon on The River Walk, enjoy a night on the town at any of their wonderful restaurants and fun clubs, and yes, you can even spend a day at the Alamo and discovering the rest of San Antonio’s rich history.

Popular Spring Break Destinations

Spring break need not to be notorious. There are a lot of alternative trips and you can make the most of your vacation.

Spring break is a time most awaited by college students. This is because it is the occasion wherein they can have fun and enjoy with friends after long months of study. There are several ideas to make the most of your spring break trips memorable.

Spring break in schools and universities in countries like Canada, Taiwan, China, Korea, Japan, and the United States is a one week vacation. This is normally in early spring. In the United States, spring break is usually either end of February or last week of April. In New York City, spring break commences in April.

At the end of World War II until 1980, the Fort Lauderdale in Florida was well known as a spring break destination. According to the New York Times, Fort Lauderdale started to be a spring break destination for college students when the men’s swimming team of Colgate University practiced during their break in 1935. In later years, it had become more renowned because of the movie “Where the Boys Are” which was shown in 1960.

The common practice of college students during spring break includes too much drinking and wild sexual activities. Because of these wild exploits, residents of the area complained and it led to the passage of laws by the local government to disallow parties. Also, the National Minimum Drinking Age Act was enacted which upped the minimum age of drinking to 21 years old. With these restrictions, college students traveled outside the United States to spend their spring breaks.

Among the most popular destination for spring breaks outside the US are Cancún, Cabo San Lucas, and Acapulco. These are together with Mazatlán, Puerto Vallarta, Jamaica, and the Bahamas.

Cancun Mexico

Cancun is one of the most wonderful and favorite places ideal for spring break. It is a haven filled with many scenic places which you and your friends can indulge in. Cancun is a home to so many of beaches. In addition, lots of pool parties are being held and they feature great DJs and loads of bizarre competitions which you can get pleasure from. At night time, vacationers can join the parties at World Famous Night clubs such as Coco Bongo, Pat O ‘Briens, The City, Dady O, Basic, Bulldog and Senor Frogs.

Another exciting adventure in Cancun is to ride ATVs. Then, you can visit the primitive Mayan Ruins at Chichen Itza. You and your peers can also try snorkeling and see the stunning coral reefs and tropical fishes dwelling underwater. You can also have the opportunity to visit exquisite Cozumel, the place where you can find the earth’s second biggest coral reef.

Acapulco, Mexico

Acapulco is situated in between the mountains of Sierra Madre del Sur and Acapulco Bay. Pamper yourself with beautiful beaches, shopping centers, and high class night clubs. Clubs in Acapulco open at night and last until dawn. With numerous clubs and discos around, it is in fact a place that does not sleep.

Acapulco implements a standard dress code which prohibits wearing of shorts except at Disco Beaches. Vacationers go out all dressed up so you must have your wardrobe prepared when you visit the place. One can avail of VIP party packages for students. These packages offer students to join an all night party together with thousands of youngsters mostly coming from Canada and the United States.

After a long wild night of party, Acapulco’s day time offers guests to recover from hang over by relaxing on the beach while drinking fresh tropical drinks. You can also have the time of your life by snorkeling, fishing, and riding the Jet Ski. There are poolside parties and bullfights, as well. You may wish to visit the historical Fuerte de San Diego. After a day’s activity, you can dine and treat yourself in the open air restaurants around the beach. Acapulco was popularized by distinguished personalities like Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and John F. Kennedy. These famous people love to play music and party all night.

Nassau, Bahamas

The Bahamas has countless gorgeous, white sand beaches perfect for spring breaks. It is a home to old fortresses and resorts, too. The most famous and the largest beach in the area is the Cable Beach. Cable beach has scores of luxurious hotels and casinos. It also offers water sports for the delight of its tourists. This is too is a sanctuary from the stress of a busy life.

Top Ten Honeymoon Destinations to Choose From

If you are about to get married and are having a hard time deciding where to go on your honeymoon then you are not alone. A wedding adds plenty of stress to your life and trying to plan your honeymoon around all the other things you have going on can be difficult. If you are currently unsure of where you and your future spouse would like to go here are the top ten honeymoon destinations for those living in the United States.

1. Hawaii – A Hawaiian honeymoon is one of the most desired and romantic destinations for those who are newly wed. Maui is normally the island of choice with its lush tropical hillsides, long white sand beaches, cloud covered mountains, and world class accommodations that cater to newlyweds. It is truly a honeymoon that will create a lifetime of memories.

2. Mexico – A Mexican honeymoon is a great choice as a destination. There are a number of world class resorts to choose from with a large majority of them being all inclusive. The people are warm and friendly and if you’re on a budget you can’t beat the prices. Plus it is easy to get there with many daily flights to choose from.

3. The Caribbean – A trip to a Caribbean island, or multiple islands if you choose a honeymoon cruise, is a truly romantic experience. The great thing about a Caribbean honeymoon is the sheer number of islands you can choose from, each with its own distinct cultural attractions.

4. Florida – The sunshine state has a little something for everyone. From long stretches of sandy beaches, to the night life of big cities and everything in between a Florida honeymoon is a truly memorable experience. Even Walt Disney World in Orlando has packages for the more adventurous honeymooners.

5. Key West – Technically this secluded little island is in the state of Florida but it deserves a mention all its own. With Anti-bellum homes that have been turned into cozy bed and breakfasts and its New Orleans atmosphere Key West is a well kept honeymoon destination secret.

6. Las Vegas – There is nothing quite like a honeymoon in Sin City. With many world class hotels to choose from your every want and whim will be catered to. And no matter the time of day or night there is always something to do, whether it’s eating at a five star restaurant, seeing a show on the strip, dancing the night away, or relaxing pool side.

7. California – The golden state offers many honeymoon choices. There are large cities such as San Diego, San Francisco, and Los Angeles that have first rate hotels and restaurants. You can spend time at the beach or in rustic mountain towns. And for a truly romantic experience the Napa Valley with its vineyards and small town atmosphere.

8. The U.S. Virgin Islands – With beautiful white sand beaches and warm tropical waters these three islands are true romantic paradise. And since they are a U.S. territory you don’t need a passport. In fact any of the three islands, St. Thomas, St. Croix, or St. John is the perfect destination for a white sand wedding and honeymoon.

9. Puerto Rico – Another US territory in the Caribbean Puerto Rico offers all manner of amenities to the honeymooning couple. Scuba diving, snorkeling, marling fishing, and many other activities for water enthusiasts abound. Then there is Rincon Beach and Resort, a 4 star resort known for its honeymoon packages.

10. New York City and Niagara Falls – The city that never sleeps and the great falls 500 miles to its north are both known as great honeymoon destinations. The city itself offers every amenity you can imagine with 5 star hotels and dining, Broadway shows, and shopping. A honeymoon in the Big Apple is hard to beat.

While you don’t have to go to one of these top ten honeymoon destinations be assured that you can’t go wrong if you do decide to visit anyone one of these destinations. In the end wherever you go with your loved one you will create a memory that will last for the rest of your lives together.

Honeymoon Ideas: Favorite Destinations for Lovebirds

The honeymoon is your time to relax and recuperate from frantic wedding preparations. And picking a place that both of you will enjoy is a must. Fortunately, the world presents countless honeymoon ideas that have something for both of you. Here are some of the more popular honeymoon destinations for couples of all types.

For the Couple on a Budget

The newest trend in honeymoon ideas this year is staying at home. In the U.S., for instance, couples are forgoing the expensive costs of acquiring passports, tickets, hotels, rental cars, and food – opting instead to save a few bucks, choose popular honeymoon destinations at home, and remain in their own backyards (so to speak).

St. Augustine, Florida, in particular, is one of the more popular honeymoon destinations that continue to attract visitors due to its year round temperate climate, proximity to beaches, quaint restaurants, and great shopping. Called the Oldest City in America, it was founded in 1565, and is the home of the Fountain of Youth, where visitors can drink its restoring waters. Other highlights of the town are Castillo de San Marcos, Fort Matanzas, and the Lightner Museum, all accessible by foot. Cozy honeymoon ideas are horse and carriage rides, theater shows, fishing, and parks, and there are romantic bed and breakfasts aplenty.

Out on the West Coast, there’s another hidden gem – Seattle, Washington. Mild in the summer, but a little chilly in the winter, this city is perfect for couples who are full of fun honeymoon ideas but don’t want to break the bank. There’s the Fish Market, where you can get a delicious meal, and the famous Space Needle. Even if these two honeymoon ideas don’t interest you, there are thousands of popular honeymoon destinations that offer unique experiences. But if you really want to go out of country, consider the benefits of staying at a youth hostel or monastery, which offer comfortable places to sleep at bargain-basement prices.

For the Outdoorsy Types

For the true outdoors couple, even simple honeymoon ideas like hiking or staying in a romantic cabin would be welcome. Odds are that you and your loved one like to travel without all the comforts of home. One of the more popular honeymoon destinations for outdoor lovers is a tour of the Amazon River. Visitors to the region will enjoy strolling along the Rainforest Canopy Walkway, a man-made bridge of wooden slats and ropes which overlooks the forest below, camping along the banks of the Amazon, allowing you to get up close and personal with the native animals and local flora and fauna, and exploring expansive wildlife parks. Should you book as part of a package, a number of hotel options are available, including forest lodges and other rustic accommodations

Another of the more popular honeymoon destinations for couples who enjoy travelling off the beaten track is an African safari, where locals take visitors out to the more remote areas in order to witness ‘the circle of life’ in action. You’ll see lions, tigers, cheetahs, zebras, and hyenas up close and in their natural habitat. Beautiful, pastoral African lodges add to the charm of the trip; at night, you and your sweetie can sip wine by African moonlight and talk the night away.

For the Thrill Seekers

These honeymoon ideas are not for the faint of heart. For couples who love an edge to their vacations, the following honeymoon ideas are meant just for you. One way to feel the rush is cage-diving with Great Whites off the coast of South Africa. On Seal Island, visitors get to experience the Great White shark in its natural element and watch it hunt the seals that inhabit the island. You’ll be able to dive into the blue Atlantic waters with a professional guide and interact with the sharks up close (protected by a sturdy steel cage of course).

One of the more thrilling, popular honeymoon destinations is Ireland; many companies offer motorcycle tours so you and your loved one can experience the beauty of the ‘Emerald Isle’ in a very unusual way. You’ll accelerate along the craggy cliffs, zigzagging on lonely roads, taking in the fresh Irish air. You’ll stop each night at a cozy B and B for some rest and start again the next day, averaging about five hours of riding time each day.

For the Laid-Back Lovers

Imagine lounging in a comfortable chair with a cold drink in your hand underneath a palm tree. Yes, for you laid-back lovers, your preferred honeymoon ideas center around the beach where you can sample delicious, homemade seafood platters and drink ice-cold tropical drinks while watching sail boats pass by. Though many islands in the Caribbean have resort rooms that are rather expensive, these popular honeymoon destinations are usually more well traveled than the rest.

To ensure that you and your loved one get some alone time, consider travelling to Turks and Caicos, Antigua, or St. Maarten, which are, on average, much more affordable honeymoon ideas and not as touristy. St. Maarten, in particular, is just one side of a dually governed island. It still retains much of its quaint Dutch charm and also features a butterfly farm, excellent hiking opportunities, and a long boardwalk. Many resorts and hotels offer special deals to honeymooners, so you can truly get a package deal at a great price.

For the History Buffs

Some of the more popular honeymoon destinations have become a little too frequently traveled for the serious history buffs. Couples who have a specific time period or country in mind should do a little research before putting their honeymoon ideas into action.

There are a few exciting, recently popular honeymoon destinations however, including the charming Eastern European city of Budapest, which has a number of honeymoon ideas and attractions right in town, such as the remarkable City Park which houses a restaurant, one of the oldest zoos in the world, a circus, an amusement park, swimming pools and medicinal baths, a castle, two museums, the Palace of Art, and Heroes’ Square, a well-known World Heritage Site. About an hour outside of the city is the start of the two centuries old Villany-Siklos wine route, which snakes around the countryside, allowing visitors to sample some of the best red wines in the world.

Another one of the more popular honeymoon destinations is a little closer to home – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. With all the attractions close together, you’ll be able to tour the city on foot, getting some great exercise while learning about America’s history. About two and a half hours away is Gettysburg, home to the famed battlefield and the site of Lincoln’s address to the nation. With a number of small hotels in the area, you may want to consider booking a package deal beforehand, so by the time you arrive, the concierge or housekeeper has set the scene with candles, champagne, flowers, and chocolates or other personalized honeymoon ideas.

Make It the Trip of a Lifetime

No matter which popular honeymoon destinations you choose, it should be the trip of a lifetime. It’s one of the most special events you’ll share with your loved one, so take lots of pictures, purchase a memorable souvenir to hang in your new home, and splurge on a leisurely dinner at a great restaurant. The hardest part is coming up with honeymoon ideas and choosing where you want to go; after that, it’s time to enjoy some quality time with your sweetie!

Top Five Beach Wedding Destinations

Weddings are undoubtedly the most memorable event for anyone. This is the one day that the happy couple finally seal their love for each other and look forward to many lasting years together. However, I am a realist and realise that this is unfortunately not always the case for some people. The wedding celebration is still remembered and this is the part the matters the most. A wedding ceremony is a celebration of a union of a couple in love, and the celebration can either be held in a traditional church or be barefoot on the beach of a Caribbean resort.

Beach weddings are probably the most popular and romantic way to celebrate two people uniting. For some this could be a dream come true, yet others prefer to stay indoors for a wedding keeping their garments clean and sand free. However, for me a wedding is celebrated in a way that the couple and the guests will remember for a long time. Therefore, the first most important decision to make is whether to have the wedding in warm Caribbean resort or closer to Europe on the Spanish holiday beach. The following are my top five beach wedding destinations, judged on by the aesthetic appeal of the area and its popularity.

At fifth place, I believe is a beautiful historical country, famous for its vineyards and relaxed warm climate. It is of course Tuscany, Italy. This is an ideal place for people looking to marry a little closer to home, with a touch of class and surrounding mountainous scenery. The cuisines are simple and exquisite. The greenery around are lush yet act as a blank canvas, free for you to be as creative as you like with your special day.

Fourth place would be the beautiful and ever popular Caribbean resort islands. The sands are almost crisp white and the ocean is as deep blue as they are portrayed in most films. The Caribbean islands are reputed to have the best service for all sized parties, full diverse guest list, personalised wedding planning agents and colourful exotic foods. The weather is warm most of the year so there is no worry of rainfall.

In third place is the ever more relaxing Maui in Hawaii. This is a very popular and old favourite for weddings, however it is not just the beaches that entice the couple to be hitched, it is the option of marrying on a plantation estate that provides a truly luxurious celebration. Add to that the option of sunrise nuptial or even go mad to wed on top of the Haleakala crater!

Second place falls to Riviera Maya in Mexico. Even though this great for a relaxing holiday, this also remains a popular destination for walking up the aisles with flowers in your hair. Mexico not only offers the stunning beaches, but there are numerous villas that make it possible to opt for a lavish indoor wedding, topped with spicy Mexican cuisine and a delightful traditional band.

Finally, my top beach wedding destination is Montego Bay, Jamaica. This is diverse in its guests list, allows ample creativity in the theme of your ceremony (namely bright, musical and colourful designs). The beach weddings attract friendly locals and can range from casual beach parties to elegant plantation celebrations. Add to this the wonderful light cuisines and the brilliant dancing, you will fulfil your dream of having a memorable day.

Three Destinations that Make the Perfect Beach Holiday

Beach holidays, it’s impossible to beat them. While other holidays – such as city breaks or adventure holidays – may be interesting, cultural and maybe possible even more exciting, a beach holiday is a well-deserved opportunity to relax, lie back and take in a much overdue annual dose of vitamin D. When choosing where in the world to visit for your beach holiday, three destinations stand out as easy contenders for this year’s holiday destination.

For those living within Europe – and not wanting to holiday outside of Europe – the Algarve is a destination to consider. Situated at the south of Portugal, the Algarve attracts millions of tourists every year, all looking to relax in its warm white sandy beaches and clear blue seas.

Easily accessible from Faro airport – an airport which has direct flights from many European cities – the Algarve is one of Europe’s most popular beach destinations and one that could be ideal for this year’s beach holiday.

Of course for those who wish to head further abroad, Barbados is a bright, sunny destination that has been the leader in beach holidays for a number of generations. Although Barbados is a very touristic destination, finding secluded beaches with clear, calm seas to swim in is never a problem.

After a long flight to Barbados – which is made easy by the island’s international airport – you may want to just relax and lie down on the beach. After all, Barbados has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and the island’s caring approach to tourism ensures these are well-maintained and clean throughout the year.

If the Algarve or Barbados don’t reel you in, there is another destination which could tick all the right boxes. On the other side of the world, just off the coast of Thailand lies the world’s ultimate beach holiday destination, Ko Phi Phi.

Ko Phi Phi is such an amazing beach holiday destination that one of the islands was the central location of the blockbuster film The Beach – a film which focused on the world’s most beautiful beach.

The islands which make up Ko Phi Phi are made up of lush, tropical vegetation and clear blue seas. Visiting most of the islands is never a problem with many local boat or sea plane services taking tourists from island to island.

Those visiting Ko Phi Phi from outside of Thailand will most likely have to fly into Krabi International Airport – an airport with many direct flights to major Asian cities such as Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.

Whether visiting the Algarve, Barbados or one of the many islands that make up Ko Phi Phi, the important thing is to relax, enjoy the comforts of your luxury beach hotel and head on down to the beach to enjoy everything this holiday has to offer.

Top Five Destinations, Value for Your Money!

As a travel writer for a web based travel portal company, I come across quite a few travel destinations and deals and decided to share my top five travel destinations that offer the best deals including value. My focus is always value, not the lowest price. As we all have different budgets, I like to choose from a range of budget accommodations to deluxe. I sifted through everything from little known destinations for a quiet romantic getaway to all-inclusive resorts for the whole family to cruising.

The destinations and properties or cruise make my list when I see true value in the “deal”. For example, if someone says the sale price is $100 per night at 50% off, and I do my homework and realize that the property is always $100 and not really worth it – there is no value. It is when I see they are truly offering a deal that is rare, either a great price that is actually less than you would expect for the level of service and accommodations or if I see tons of added value, I want to recommend it to everyone!

My top destinations and the best deals that go with them:

1) Mexico: All-inclusive resorts continue to be a great value – you just have to be careful that it offers everything it says it does. A one price for all drinks, food, water sports (at most resorts) and activities can save hundreds on your vacation.

The Riu Palace Riviera Maya in Mexico is my first top pick for price-friendly getaway. The Riviera Maya is about 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Cancun and a 100-mile long stretch located along the coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula. The center of this beautiful area is Playa del Carmen, just across the ocean from Cozumel Island, and half way between Cancun and Tulum (amazing Mayan Ruins). Playa del Carmen is the perfect home base for exploring Mexico’s Caribbean Coast. The Caribbean reef off shore is a big attraction for travelers as well.

The Riu Palace offers a wide variety of suites on miles of white sandy beachfront property. With restaurants, bars, and snacks available to you 24 hours a day, this four star rated resort marks high when you’re counting pennies. Their current deal: Air & 4 nights from $606. Please note most air inclusive packages give you a sample price from Florida, assume it will be a bit more from other states – the pricing is right on the web site.

I actually found a number of great deals in Cancun as well, and yes, I checked them out through a number of sources. Just go to this site and you will see 50% off (for real) all inclusives in Cancun. During College and University school breaks, it is the Mecca of partying for 18-25yr olds, but during other times of the year it is a good place for everyone. Cancun is a big hotel strip, with tons of bars and restaurants, yes, it is very touristy. However, if you want the value we have been discussing, you will get it at a Cancun all inclusive. All inclusive deals on this page range from $69 per night, with kids free! Do the math on that one – your kids, eat, have activities and stay at the hotel free! For $69, expect a big hotel, many buffets, perhaps a few regular dining restaurants, a lot of people, but lots to do!

2) Europe: yes, Europe – I know, it is very expensive for the Americans to go there right now, but if you want to go during the Fall which is a very nice time to go – I did find some deals and steals! While gathering information for this article, I came across this economy friendly European getaway. If you have not been to Europe, having a taste of a few cities is usually a good idea. This way if you fall in love with one, you know to come back, rather than spending a long time in one place you may not end up liking. Finally experience the Eiffel Tower, London and make a wish to return to Rome at the Trevi Fountain. Starting at $805, airfare, 6 nights hotel, breakfast, inner-city flights are all included!

If you feel like avoiding the family during Thanksgiving or maybe taking them along and doing something special, I found a great deal to Italy over this time period. For food, weather, scenery and sightseeing galore, pay $819 including airfare to stay two nights in Rome, two nights in Florence and two nights in Venice including rail to each city!

I can not discuss value in Europe without mentioning cruising. Right now, it is the best way to go considering the dollar. You can eat and play on the cruise (food and transportation is what will eat your dollars in Europe), then get off the ship and enjoy each city. One great deal is $549 per person for a 7 night cruise from Venice, Italy to the Greek Islands and Croatia! That is $78 a night for room, transportation, activities and all your food. All you have to do is enjoy yourself in the Greek Islands and be one of the first you know to explore Croatia!

One other European cruise I felt worth mentioning also departs Italy, but northern Italy and heads towards Spain and Morocco. $849 for 10 nights exploring Barcelona, Casablanca and more! To do the math again – $84 a night for all your food, activities and transportation to each European city, not to mention the outstanding views with Spain and Morocco’s dramatic coast lines to enjoy while cruisin.

3) Arizona: If playing golf and staying closer to home is more your idea of a vacation, then Arizona is a good choice, great prices for four to five star hotels. Arizona, already known for its courses, offers the world class Legacy Golf Course. This 6,908-yard par 71 course designed by Gary Panks was home to the 2000 LPGA PING tournament. Stay at the Phoenix Golf Resort for as little as $82. Spanish mission-style with rich wood cabinetry and jewel-toned fabrics, each suite features a full kitchen or kitchenette, spacious living area, and either a balcony or patio overlooking lush tropical courtyards and spectacular mountain vistas. The facility has golf lessons by PGA pros, activities programs for the whole family and so much more. Perfect for a romantic getaway, a place to re-connect with the family or a golf outing.

4) Colorado: A “Buy Two Get One Free” deal is always music to the ears, regardless of the state of the economy. Gunnison Crested Butte (otherwise known as the Colorado Rockies) in Colorado is offering a bonanza of a deal; offering a free airline ticket for every 2 purchased. If you have a group of people who like to do that yearly skiing tip or a family of three or more, this is it! Gunnison-Crested Butte is a little known destination, which makes it all the more worthwhile. The scenery is breathtaking, and there are so many things to do for adults and children alike. A small plane trip from Denver, even though it seems far, it can be easy to get to. Skiing is the ticket here, and beginning at $720 you can be sure to get your fill of it. $720 includes airfare, 5 nights lodging, 4 days lift tickets and ground transportation. Sound like something you can dig your ski poles in? How about one more deal; a baggage claim up to $30 per traveler! These deals are valid on Delta, United and American and travel must be between January 6, 2009 and March 8, 2009; right in time for fine skiing weather.

5) California: For the most part, great weather all year round, different landscapes and attractions through out the state, great values all around. Moving from the South, start with your Disneyland vacation in Anaheim. This is one of those destinations that most people need a hotel for a place to sleep as there is so much to do outside of the hotel. If you want to save some so you can spend the extra cash at the family attractions, check out Americas Best Value Inn and Suites near Disneyland. This is a budget hotel starting at $75 per night, but if you see the prices of other hotels in the area, you will see this is a deal.

Driving north, you hit Los Angeles, where you might want to hit Venice Beach for a different kind of beach experience, filled with surfers, drumming circles, entertainers and great cafes and shops. Or if curiosity about the home of the “stars” gets you, visit Hollywood, walk around famous Beverly Hills, you are sure to spot someone you have seen in the movies somewhere. If you decide this is also a location where you will be out of the hotel more than in it, and want just a place to sleep, then I would recommend Americas Best Value Inn Los Angeles as it starts from $69 per night – hard to find prices like that in this city!

I couldn’t put together a list of destinations in California and not include a trip to Napa Valley. A wine lover’s paradise right here in the good ol’ USA. Known for producing some of the worlds finest Pinot Noir, Syrah, Merlot and Chardonnay, Napa Valley is a world unto itself. The Vino Bello resort, the newest resort in Napa Valley captures the essence of what a wine country vacation is all about. Luxurious accommodations, fine amenities and gracious service is what you get here. What about the wine? Their partnership with the Meritage Resort gives you the green light to explore their remarkable selection of American wines and enjoy a fine wine country cuisine. The perfect spot to unwind is priced very nicely for $189. Salute to the wine gods!

Next Page »